Coachella Valley Weekly - May 31 to June 6, 2018 Vol. 7 No. 11

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coachellavalleyweekly.com • May 31 to June 6, 2018 Vol. 7 No. 11

The Whizards Zelda’s Nightclub The Cancinos Bossfight Casa De Palmas pg5

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Stuft Pizza

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY TRACY DIETLIN

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 Domingo Winstead, Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Steve Brown, Kristen Elaine, Olga Rodriguez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Denise Ortuno Neil, Dee Jae Cox, Patte Purcell, Rebecca Pikus, Angela Romeo,Aaron Ramson, Elizabeth Scarcella, Jennifer Jank Photographers Robert Chance, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez, Laura Hunt Little Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

2018 CV Music Awards........................... 3 CV Music Awards Line Up...................... 3 Men's & Women's Event Recap.............. 4 The Whizards.......................................... 5 CV Music Awards Nominees.................. 6 Zelda's Nightclub................................... 7 The Cancino Family................................ 8 Bossfight................................................. 9 Urban Desert Cabaret & Rick Shelley... 10 Casa De Palma - Swanson & Bauer...... 11 Consider This - Tami Nielson................. 12 Art Scene - Raft & Sedway................... 13 Pet Place............................................... 14 The Vino Voice ...................................... 15 Club Crawler Nightlife ................... 16-17 Pampered Palate - Stuft Pizza LQ....... 18 Screeners ............................................. 20 Book Review ........................................ 21 Safety Tips .............................................21 Haddon Libby....................................... 23 Dale Gribow.......................................... 23 Sports Scene........................................ 24 Brewtality............................................ 24 Art Scene - Caleb Marie Cruz............... 25 Awaken - Renee Baribeau.................... 25 Cannabis Corner.................................. 26 Free Will Astrology............................... 27 Mind, Body & Spirit.............................. 27 Ask The Doctor.................................... 28 Life & Career Coach............................. 28

THE CV MUSIC AWARDS WILL RECOGNIZE THE BEST OF THE VALLEY’S LOCAL MUSICIANS AND BANDS WITH 2 AWARDS SHOWS THIS YEAR THURSDAY, MAY 31 - PRE-AWARDS CEREMONY @ BIG ROCK PUB FROM 6-10PM SUNDAY, JUNE 3 – MAIN AWARDS SHOW @ HOTEL ZOSO IN PS FROM 5-9PM THERE IS STILL TIME TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS!

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he CV Music Awards have continued to grow over the last 6 years warranting a Pre Awards Show to be added last year. We started with just a few categories six years ago and kept growing: in 2015 we had 28 categories in 2016 we had 32, last year we had 37 and now this year we have increased to 41. Our gracious sponsor, Big Rock Pub, will be hosting the Pre-Party Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 31 from 6-10pm, where we will announce winners in 16 of the 41 nominated categories. Nominees performing at the Pre Party event at Big Rock include: Keisha D, Alvin Taylor, Bob Gross, Andy Cahan, Philly Joe Little, Joe Balsino, Deanna Bogart, Kal David & Lauri Bono, Rick Shelley, Michael keeth, Courtney Chambers, Minor Emergency and The Woodys. The following categories/awards will be announced at Big Rock: Best Keyboards, Best Large Live Music Event, Best Jazz Instrumental, Best Club Promoter, Best Jazz Vocals, Best Photographer, Best Sound Engineer, Best Instrumental Band, Best Frontwoman, Best Male Vocalist, Best Blues, Best Country, Best Adult Contemporary, Best R&B, Best Cover Band and Best Individual Instrumental. Tickets for this event are $10.00. The remaining 25 categories will be given out at the main awards show at Hotel Zoso on Sunday, June 3:(Best Band, Best Rock Band, Best Alternative Band, Best Punk Band, Best Metal Band, Best Rap/Hip Hop

Artist, Best Reggae Artist, Best New Band, Best Youth Band, Best Live Performance Band, Best Duo, Best Female Vocalist, Best Bass , Best Frontman, Best Guitar, Best Drummer, Best Event DJ, Best Club DJ, Best Event Promoter, Best Live Performance Venue, Best Large Music Venue, Best Song, Best Unsigned Album, Best Producer, along with our special awards: Trailblazer Award recipients (The Whizards), Pioneer Award recipients (The Cancino Family), Lifetime Achievement Award for Venue recipient (Zelda’s Nightclub). Bands performing at Main Awards show at Hotel Zoso are: Trio NV, Willdabeast, Desert Rhythm Project, Black Water Gospel, 5th Town, Cakes, The After Lashes, Throw the Goat, In the Name of the Dead, Sunday Funeral, Mega Sun, Frank Eats the Floor, Giselle Woo & The Night Owls, Bohemio and DJ Guy Worden. Tickets for this event are $25.00 in advance and $35.00 at the door.

There will also be a very special VIP after party for the main awards at Hotel Zoso from 9:15 to midnight, which will feature Long Duk Dong, Sleazy Cortez and DJ Guy Worden. For those who have attended this in the past you know it’s an event not to be missed. So get your tickets now as the VIP party will have limited tickets this year. VIP tickets are $25.00 in advance and $35.00 at the door (if there are tickets still available). Thank you to our Title Sponsor: PSA Organica and our Emerald Sponsors: PS ComicXpo, Renova Solar, Big Rock Pub, Alpha Media and CV Weekly along with our Gold Sponsors: Lulu CA Bistro & Acqua Bistro, Crater Lake Vodka, La Quinta Brewery, Giuseppe’s Pizza, DarMar Awards, SIR, and Loving All Animals. For tickets to all 3 events go to www. coachellavalleyweekly.com and click on the ticket link.

2018 CV MUSIC AWARDS BAND AND AWARDS LINE UP

THURSDAY, MAY 31 – BIG ROCK PUB

6:00 – The Smooth Brothers perform 6:10 – Best Adult Contemporary Award 6:20 – Keisha D, Alvin Taylor, Bob Gross, Philly Joe Littel performs 6:35 – Andy Cahan performs 6:45 – Best Individual Instrumental Performance Best Instrumental Band Award 6:50 – Kal David & Lauri Bono perform

SUNDAY, JUNE 3 – HOTEL ZOSO

4:00 – Trio NV perform in the lobby 5:00 – Welcome everybody to the 6th Annual CV Music Awards Willdabeast performs Desert Rhythm Project performs 5:15 – Introduction of Haley Clawson & Craig Michaels as hosts 5:20 – Nominated for Best Youth Band and Best New Band please welcome Frank Eats the Floor Frank Eats the Floor Performs

Deanna Bogart performs 7:15 – Best Club Promoter Award Best Large Live Music Event Award 7:20 – Joe Baldino performs 7:35 – Best Sound Engineer Award Best Blues Award 7:45 – Rick Shelley performs 8:00 – Best Keyboards Award Best Jazz Instrumental Award Best Jazz Vocals Award 8:10 – Minor Emergency performs

5:25 – Announce Awards that were already given out on May 31 at Big Rock Best Keyboards; Best Blues; Best Frontwoman; Best R&B; Best Adult Contemporary; Best Jazz Vocals; Best Jazz Instrumental; Best Individual Instrumental Performance; Best Instrumental Band; Best Country; Best Club Promoter; Best Large Live Music Event; Best Male Vocalist; Best Cover Band; Best Sound Engineer; Best Photographer. Congratulations to all of you. 5:30 – Nominated for Best Alternative

8:25 – Best Photographer Award Best Frontwoman Award 8:35 – Michael Keeth performs 8:50 – Best Cover Band Award Best R&B Award 9:00 – Thank all Sponsors 9:10 – Courtney Chambers performs 9:25 – Best Male Vocalist Award Best Country Award 9:35 – The Woody’s perform

Band and Justin Ledesma for Best Male Vocalist Sunday Funeral performs 5:35 – Best Youth Band Best Guitar 5:40 – Present the “Pioneer Awards” to Zeldas 5:55 – Nominated for Best Frontwoman and Best R&B Cakes performs 6:00 – Best Reggae continue to page 5

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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CV WEEKLY’S TOP 10 MOST INTERESTING & INFLUENTIAL MEN & WOMEN OF 2018 CHARITY EVENT A SUCCESS

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his past Thursday, at Hotel Zoso, CV Weekly’s Most Interesting & Influential Men & Women of 2018 gathered to be honored and raise money for charities. One of the Top 10 Women’s name was drawn, Andie Hubka, owner of Cork & Fork and Craft Heirloom Kitchen restaurants, representing her charity Find Food Bank,

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and one of the Top Men’s name was drawn, Dougie VanSant, frontman for the bands The Flusters and Trio NV, representing his charity AMP (Academy of Musical Performance), with each charity receiving $1500.00 from the door money collected from the event. Also receiving $700.00 for her charity, C.A.N. (Coachella Animal Network), was Kim

Hardee who brought the most people to the event awarding her the raffle money for her charity. During his speech, Alex Haagen IV, owner of Empire Polo Club, Date Shed & RWB Festival (one of the Top 10 Men,) challenged the audience to dig into their pockets and give to his charity The American Cancer Foundation, saying that he would

PHOTOS BY ESTHER SANCHEZ match whatever was raised, resulting in a total of $1318.00 raised. Following in Alex’s charitable shoes, Joe Funkey, owner of Giuseppe’s Restaurant (also one of the Top Men), challenged the audience as well, collecting a total of $664.00 going to his charity, Variety Children’s Charity of the Desert. Thank you to everyone who came out to make this event a success.


CVMA 2018 LINE UP continued from page 3 Best Duo Best Bass 6:10 – Nominated for Best Metal Band In the Name of the Dead performs 6:15 – Best Live Music Venue Best Large Music Venue 6:20 – Nominated for Best Punk Band and Esther Sanchez for Best Frontwoman and Ali Saenz for Best Drummer The After Lashes perform 6:25 – Best Event DJ Best Club DJ 6:35 – Nominated in a few categories: Best Alternative Band, Chelsea Sugarbritches for Best Frontwoman, Josh Heinz for Best Male Vocalist, Linda Heinz for Best Instrumental, Martin Barrera for Best Guitar, Troy Whitford for Best Drummer and

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Armondo Flores for Best Bass 5th Town performs 6:40 – Best Rap Hip-Hop Best Event Promoter 6:50 – Introduce TK from 93.7 KCLB and Morgan James as hosts of second half of awards 7:00 – Nominated for Best Punk Band, Troy Whitford for Best Drummer Throw the Goat perform 7:10 – Best Metal Band Best Female Vocalist 7:15 – Present the Trailblazer Award to The Whizards (Presented by Jason Hall) 7:25 – Nominated for Best Band, Best Live Performance Band, Best Female Vocalist & Frontwoman (Giselle Woo), and Rob Peterson for Best Drummer

Giselle Woo & The Night Owls perform 7:30 – Best Punk Band Best Frontman 7:40 – Nominated for Best New Band, Best Rock Band and Tyler Ontiveros for Best Drummer Mega Sun perform 7:45 – Best Song Best Live Music Event 8:00 – Nominated for Best Rock Band, Best Band, Best Alternative Band, Best Blues Band, Lance Riebsomer for Best Male Vocalist & Best Frontman, Lance & David Morales for Best Duo, Dan Dillinger for Best Bass, David Morales for Best Guitar, 3 nominations for Best Song, and Best Album. Black Water Gospel perform 8:05 – Best New Band

THE WHIZARDS TO RECEIVE THE “TRAILBLAZER AWARD” AT THE 2018 CV MUSIC AWARDS THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 3

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he Whizards were a local powerhouse in our scene in the early 2000s. They were a much needed band after the days of Kyuss and Unsound had passed. Mike Pygmie fronted the band with Billy Cordell and Benny Cancino Jr. backing him. There was no way this band could be bad with these 3 involved. Mike played in numerous bands before and is a well-known guitarist. Billy was one of the most sought after bassists in the valley. Benny is a hard hitting, high energy drummer unlike anything this valley had seen. The trio together truly are wizards. The Whizards quickly gained notoriety. They would show up at an out of town venue as an opener and completely blow the crowd away. Their shows would make the headliners look like amateurs. They became the band that musicians had to go see. They were setting the bar. Just as they were set to release their album, the band split. Mike and Benny went on to play in Invitro with Snot guitarist Mikey Doling. Invitro’s touring schedule made it very difficult for The Whizards to hash out

their differences. So it seemed as quickly as they rose to the top, they were mostly forgotten. Every once in a while, you’d hear someone mention The Whizards and ears would perk up, but it would be over a decade before they would be brought back

to the forefront. In 2017, local vinyl only label, Ruined Vibes, finally brought the album to us. This sparked a new interest in the band. The band members started seriously talking about playing a show again. After nearly a

May 31 to June 6, 2018 Best Drummer 8:15 – “In Memory” to honor the local musicians we lost this past year: Alex Antonio Perez, Scotty Stone and Phil Franklin 8:25 – Best Alternative Band Best Live Performance band Best Rock Band 8:40 – Pioneer Award to The Cancino Family 8:45 – Nominated for Best Cover Band, Mike Cancino for Best Drummer Bohemio perform 8:50 – Tracy & Phil do thank you’s Best Album Best Band VIP after party to follow at 9:15 with DJ Guy Worden, Long Duk Dong and Sleazy Cortez

CVMAs year of conflicting schedules, Mike, Billy, and Benny started jamming again. On April 7, The Whizards had their reunion show. It was immediately apparent how much the scene needed to see them again. Even with Billy battling a 105 degree fever, they completely destroyed the stage. This solidified the band’s place in our storied history and assured that even if they never play again, The Whizards will not be forgotten. They are trailblazers for sure. “The Whizards were to me a miracle in the desert. This band was a force of musical energy and a big part of what desert rock is all about.” Miguel Santellanes “Three of the desert’s greatest musicians of all time, playing some kick ass rock n roll is what you see and hear at a Whizards show. I’m super stoked on their record and look forward to hopefully share the stage with my brothers again someday for another wicked show.” Jamie Hargate of The Hellions The CV Music Awards will honor this power trio on Sunday, June 3 at The 5th Annual CV Music Awards Show at Hotel Zoso in PS from 5-9pm. For tickets go to www.coachellavalleyweekly.com. Tickets are $25.00.

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

Best Reggae Desert Rhythm Project Higher Heights Mozaiq Irie Junctions Sacred Valley Best Jazz Vocals Barry Baughn Keisha D Gina Carey Chris Bennett Slim Man Yve Evans Francesca Amari John Stanley King Kate Campbell Alex Santana Best Jazz Instrumental Deanna Bogart Chase Huna Riz Orkestra Alex Santana Will Donato Joe Baldino Mikael Healy Shelley Yoelin Sergio Villegas John Carey Best Blues Barry Baughn Black Water Gospel Deanna Bogart Kal David, Lauri Bono and the Real Deal Jimi Fitz John Stanley King Bonethumpers Agave Bluesmasters Best Country Lisa & The Gents Rick Shelley Whiskey Tango Brian Scott Buck & Bo Roadshow Shadow Mountain Band R Buckle Road Terry Williams Band Best Adult Contemporary Eevaan Tre Smooth Brothers Keisha D Scott Carter Jimi Fitz Mark Gregg Kevin Henry Band Gina Carey Derek Jordan Gregg Calista Carradine

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Best R&B Eevaan Tre Smooth Brothers Porsia Camille Kate London Cakes Gina Carey Barry Minniefield Keisha D Best Duo Michael Keeth & Martin Barrera Lance Riebsomer & David Morales Mikey Reyes & Bryanna Evaro Kal David & Lauri Bono David Macias & Esjay Jones Josh Fimbres & Josh Hall The Sieve & The Saddle Her Hymns Best New Band Mega Sun Frank Eats the Floor Reborn by the Sunshine Trio NV Hundred Forms When Tides Turn Her Hymns Best Live Performance Band The Flusters 5th Town Bridger HOBP Jesika von Rabbit Drum Hall Thr3 Strykes Manuel the Band Giselle Woo & The Night Owls Blasting Echo Best Cover Band Long Duk Dong Dude Jones 30 Miles Out Kevin Henry Band Barflys Finesse 212 Band Shaken Not Stirred Flashback Boyz Bohemio Best Youth Band Minor Emergency D Tension Instigator Frank Eats The Floor Yip Yops Best Female Vocalist Courtney Chambers Chelsea Sugarbritches Giselle Woo

Christina Reyes Lisa Lynn Morgan Esjay Jones Porsia Camille Gabriella Evaro Symara Stone

Charlie Ellis Jesika von Rabbit Mari Brossfield Deanna Bogart Herb Lienau Will Sturgeon

Best Male Vocalist Michael Keeth Lance Riebsomer Mikey Reyes Justin Ledesma Derek Jordan Gregg Eevaan Tre Dougie VanSant Nicco Ysiano Rick Shelley

Best Instrumental Performance Linda Lemke Heinz (Flute) Chase Huna (Sax) Bri Cherry (Violin) John Robbins (Ukulele) Bobby Furgo (Fiddle) Alex Santana (Guitar)

Best Frontwoman Esther Sanchez Cakes Chelsea Sugarbritches Jesika von Rabbit Giselle Woo Courtney Chambers Lisa Lynn Morgan Christina Reyes Best Frontman Dougie VanSant Nico Flores Lance Riebsomer Michael Keeth Josh Heinz Ison Van Winkle Jim Cathcart Sean Wheeler Best Guitar Kal David John Carey Tom Edwards Nick Hales Arthur Seay Alex Santana Martin Barrera David Morales Razor J Luis Diaz Best Bass Dan Dillinger Bryanna Evaro Derek Wade Timmons Mondo Flores Joe Mora Joseph Mendoza Travis Rockwell Dylan Brown Best Drummer Mike Cancino Katie Cathcart Steve Hall Tyler Ontiveros Troy Whitford Rob Peterson Ali Saenz Jeff Bowman Erik Mouness Corwin Hendricks Best Keyboards Andy Cahan Linda Lemke Heinz

Best Instrumental Band The Woody’s Drum Hall Tribesman Penny Unniversity Best Club DJ DJ Day DJ Paparazzi DJ Guy Worden DJ Shasta DJ Alex Harrington DJ Femme A DJ Amavida DJ Imdead

The McCallum Spa Outdoor Concert Series Rancho Mirage Amphitheater Best Live Music Event Autism Benefit Warburton Grooves at the Westin Swing ‘N Hops Jimi Fitz and Friends Terrorfest Tachevah Best Large Live Music Event Coachella Stagecoach Joshua Tree Music Festival Desert Oasis Desert Daze NYE at Spa Casino RWB (Rhythm, Wine & Brew Experience) Best Producer Esjay Jones Ronnie King Mikey Doling Chris Unck Will Sturgeon J Patron

Best Event DJ DJ Alf Alpha DJ Guy Worden DJ Day Desert DJ Entertainment DJ Aaron C DJ Shasta DJ Journee DJ LF

Best Band Photographer Laura Hunt Little Chris Miller Steven Young Ceasar Rodriguez Orlando Welsh Iris Hall Marc Glassman Esther Sanchez

Best Club Promoter Esjay Jones (Hard Rock) Lisa Morgan (Big Rock Pub) Desert Noise (Plan B) Steve Johns (Palm Canyon Roadhouse) Kristen Reinhagen (Date Shed) Mr. Miami (Copa) Chris “Tiptoe” Stallone (Sol) The Seven/Six (Bart)

Best Sound Engineer Greg Little Jeff Mazur Nigel Dettelbach Jon Delaire Jon Ballard Rob Pickett

Best Event Promoter BB Ingle Noe Gutierrez Barnett English Kristen Reinhagen Phil Pirrone Jimi Fitz Desert DJ Entertainment RR Class Act Entertainment Best Live Performance Venue Date Shed The Hood Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs Pappy and Harriet’s Big Rock Pub Tack Room Tavern Palm Canyon Roadhouse Bart Best Large Music Venue Fantasy Springs Event Center Spotlight 29 Showroom The Show @ Agua Caliente

Best Unsigned Album Black Water Gospel - Self Titled Throw the Goat – The Joke’s On Us In the Name of the Dead – Chaotic Psychosis Chill Magnet – Surf Chica Bonita Atala – Labyrinth of Ashmedai J Patron – Ilegales en Ferraris Brain Vat – Multiverse Hundred Forms – Self Titled Best Song “Everybody Knows” – Black Water Gospel “Don’t Walk Away” – John Carey “High” – Throw the Goat “They Came With Machetes” – In the Name of the Dead “Take the Long Way Around” – Rick Shelley “Everyday Dreaming” – The Flusters “Cleaning Up the Mess” – Black Water Gospel “Alone” – Black Water Gospel


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ZELDA’S NIGHTCLUB TO BE HONORED WITH THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR VENUE

May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY DENISE ORTUNO

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or over 40 years, the synonym for dancing and entertainment in the desert has been Zelda’s Nightclub in Palm Springs. Well deserving of receiving the honor of Lifetime Achievement Award for Venue at the 2018 CV Music Awards. If you’ve ever gone out dancing in the Coachella Valley, chances are that you have done so at Zelda’s Nightclub in Palm Springs. Legions of club goers have traversed the doors at the legendary club, all with their own experiences and stories, most likely starting with the phrase, “I remember that epic night at Zelda’s,” or something to that effect. Zelda’s has withstood the test of nightclub time, and has come through not only still standing, but standing with a steel foundation of longevity that has insured them continued success. The year was 1977, tight satin pants, sequined halter tops and disco was all the rage as the movie Saturday Fever had just debuted. Nightlife in Palm Springs was going through a change and needed to be delivered into the modern trend, and Zelda’s would become the messenger. The club was an instant success, as the town was ready to embrace a new style of entertainment. Original owners Harvey Izen, Roger Gibson, Gerry Masoner, Jeff Boardman and Joe Gallager were elated at the public’s response. They had created, what would become, a Palm Springs nightclub icon. In the early 1980’s, Masoner and Boardman sold their interest in Zelda’s, and in the late 80’s, Mike McCormick became a partner when their sister club, Cecil’s on Sunrise, opened. The nightclub business was heating up with new clubs large and small competing for business, but the recipe

that Zelda’s has cooked up was still feeding the hungry nightclub crowd which enabled them to survive the ups and downs of the business. In 2002, longtime associate Rod Copeland became partners with McCormick, and they purchased Zelda’s from the previous owners. It is an ongoing perfect pairing, as the two consider one another family and have equal ambition for the club. Although they had always kept up with décor changes for the club, their desire to do some extensive remodeling was thwarted years later, when the landlord of the famous Indian Canyon address failed to make their lease long enough to warrant remodeling. As a result, they decided to relocate Zelda’s to the Sun Center shopping

area at 611 south Palm Canyon in 2010. There, they were able to establish a 20 year lease where they could continue their vision of being the best entertainment venue in Palm Springs, falling in line with their motto of, “Never, Never Give Up, and treat the customers as we would want to be treated, with Respect!” Where some clubs would find relocating from a long standing location daunting, the team at Zelda’s saw it as an opportunity, and the move has helped to re-energize the club. It is accurate to say, that it really didn’t matter where the club would move, because their loyal following of patrons, and pristine reputation as a leader in desert nightclubs, would move right with them. To help with their evolving success,

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are McCormick’s sons General Manager, Cody McCormick and Bar Manager, John McCormick, who elevate Zelda’s with their youth, energy and fresh forward thinking, “They have stepped up hugely this year and have helped out Rod and I immensely, even though Rod and I have a few years left in us”, says their proud father. McCormick is also extremely appreciative of the staff member’s that have stayed the course with the club throughout the years including, Rocky Soto, Lisa Villapando and Veronica Caserez, all who have worked for Zelda’s for over 18 years. To their benefit, they have brought onboard two hard working promoters who have helped to cultivate extremely popular weekly promotions. Ernesto Guiterrez with his Latin Nights, and Jesus Calderon-Jeezy with his Tuesday night events. And of course the talent of their music savvy DJ’s, keep their patrons bodies moving with Mario Nunez-The Bigster…DJLF and DJ Markus Area, all spinning the sounds and adding to Zelda’s nightly magic. McCormick and his team are grateful to receive this achievement award, regarding it as a boost to creating more lasting memories for club goers at the iconic Zelda’s, “We believe with the current management, Promoters, staff and DJ’s we have the formula to reach out to all our friends,local customers and tourists, and give Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley the enjoyment and fun they are looking for!! McCormick’s longtime friend, colleague and one of the recent picks for CV Weekly 2018 Ten Most Interesting & Influential Men of the Coachella Valley, Steve Johns, will be presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award.

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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THE CANCINOS TO RECEIVE THE 2018 PIONEER AWARD

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his year’s recipients of the 2018 Coachella Valley Music Award’s Pioneer Award are the Cancino family. Jacinto ‘Chad’ Cancino shared the collective expression of gratitude from the entire Cancino family, “On behalf of my family, it is a true honor to receive the Pioneer Award from the Coachella Valley Music Awards. We feel extremely lucky and blessed to have this recognition.” The Cancino family continues to permeate the world with their music. This legacy and tradition will no doubt carry on for future generations to come. “Every family attempts to express love for each other and fill the necessary roles to function properly. Every family must also experience conflict and cope with loss. The Cancino family is no different than our families in those capacities. One unique difference is the omnipresence of music within the family. With several generations immersed in the progression of music, the Cancino family continues to make music that shines a beaming light on its members and the Coachella Valley.” Ruben Cancino, Sr. first taught his children Pancho, Carlos, Benny, Maria, Jorge, Connie, Ruben, Chad and Mike how to play guitar and sing. “Dad taught us what he knew, guitar and voice,” Chad remembers. The elder Cancino performed with his group Trio Arco Iris and as a mariachi. “The music came from my dad. He was poor and had no means of making money. I recall hearing him talk about shining shoes to buy a guitar. He grew up during the Mexican version of the ‘Great Depression’. He had a passion for music because he taught himself how to play. He also sang, played the bass and accordion,” Mike reminisces. “Then we could choose any instrument we wanted. It’s like teaching your kid Spanish first. Because they knew we would learn English anyway.” The Cancino’s mother Julia was a vocalist in the church.

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With their parents departed for several years now the Cancinos have continued to blaze the trail their parents started in the early 1900’s. In speaking with the family, their love for each other is big as life. They appreciate that without the strong encouragement by their father they would not enjoy the enthusiasm they have for music today. Mike Cancino is a multiple 2018 CVMA nominee for Best Band, Best Metal Band, Best Live Performance Band and Best Drummer. As drummer for House of Broken Promises, Mike has toured the world and brought the deserved attention to his family and his community. Chad may be the second youngest but he is treasured by his siblings for his musical virtuosity. “I played bass first at 7 years old and then gravitated to drums at 9 where I for the most part stayed. I sang while I played drums with encouragement from Benny, my older brother.” Chad has played in Unplugged the Band with John Stanley King, Ray Camacho, Mister Moto with Ruben and Benny, who had a

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

recording deal with Warner Brothers Records, and Los Traviesos, who toured Korea three separate times. According to Mike, Chad was worth a king’s ransom to a band. “He would always play in different bands. He was always the lead singer. Having a great voice and being a great drummer made him invaluable.” In continuing the tradition, Chad’s son Pedro plays the drums and is a vocalist. He has also performed as a member of desert reggae powerhouse Soul Opus. Currently Chad plays bass, drums and sings in the multi-genre band Grupo Bohemio. The band also includes older brother Ruben Cancino on keyboards and vocals. Ruben began playing the accordion and later switched to keyboards. Jorge never stopped playing the guitar and Benny Sr. kept up his bass playing abilities. Carlos has played mariachi music all his life. He plays guitar, guitarron and also the Bihuela, a five-string guitar. With regards to their children, Jorge has his son Jacob on guitar, Benny Sr. has Benny Jr.

CVMAs

and Andrew on drums and Danny plays guitar and bass. Mike’s first memories of music in the home are at 3 years old. He lived with his mother in a four bedroom apartment in Mecca Vineyards (now Summer Field Apartments) in the mid70’s. He recollects drums, amplifiers, guitars, bass guitars, accordions and keyboards scattered around the apartment. “My brother Carlos played mariachi. He had credit at the long defunct Dean’s Music in Indio. He financed all the instruments and gear for everyone. At eight years old I was taught how to play drums by Benny (Sr.).” At ten years old Mike was asked by his stepfather Hilario if he wanted to play drums or guitar. Mike had recently listened to Rush’s Moving Pictures and rightfully chose the drums. His stepfather promptly purchased him a four piece Ludwig drum kit at Dean’s Music. Mike listened and played along to music from AC/DC to Billy Squier. He also gives credit where credit is due. “I learned by watching Chad play. I was and am still inspired by him. Chad was the forerunner.” Mike started playing alto sax in 4th grade. He played marching quads and snare drum in the high school drum line. He was also involved in symphonic and concert bands. He and his high school drum line were one of the first groups to implement a full drum set into a show. He first met HOBP guitarist Arthur Seay at Westside Elementary School in Thermal when he was approximately ten years old Benny Jr. was only three when he first picked up a set of drum sticks. He was introduced to the drums with a Junior Pro Tune series set that was yellow. “I remember taking it apart and not playing it very much. I wanted to learn how it worked. My parents were frustrated. Little did they know I was mastering the drums.” Benny Jr. has rightfully introduced his own child to the drums. “My son Austin is doing everything I used to do. He plays his set like a Cancino.” Benny Jr. looks back on his musical upbringing and the impact his father and uncles made. “We lived in Indio behind Roosevelt Elementary. I would come home after school every day and Mister Moto would be in the garage rehearsing. I would come home every day and there would be two drums sets, Mike’s and Chad’s. What does a kid do? He puts his homework in the closet and stomps the drum sets.” Benny Jr. currently performs with Kelly Derrickson and has played drums in the Kyle Turley Band. He has also plays in The Whizards,


EVENTS

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BOSSFIGHT – RAISING THE WATER LEVEL

f you like metal, punk and everything inbetween, you should get a hold of Gilly, Davey and Brian as soon as possible. BOSSFIGHT is a three-piece ‘reversecrossover’ rock band based out of San Diego by way of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear. On bass and vocals is Brian ‘Gilly’ Gilstrap, on guitars is Dave Settimi and on drums is newest member Brian Gaeta. Gilly described BOSSFIGHT as a “punk band with a metal edge”. Their sound can be described as both aggressive and melodic, combining sounds that have heavy rock overtones like Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and Van Halen with an aggressive punk rock foundation in the manner of Propaghandi, Bad Religion, and NOFX. On Friday, June 1st BOSSFIGHT will be performing with fellow ménage à trois bands THROW THE GOAT and SLEAZY CORTEZ at The Hood Bar & Pizza. There is NO COVER and the show begins at 9 p.m. Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with Gilly and Davey by phone as they aimlessly roamed the Punk Rock Bowling & Music Festival in Las Vegas. Suicidal Tendencies had just finished their set so the dudes were a bit fired up. On their 2017 release, Daze of Gray “Daze of Gray is 11 songs produced by Marcos Curiel, guitarist from P.O.D. Dave and I have been in bands together since junior high so it’s a lot of years of songwriting together putting our best stuff down and recording it the way it was supposed to be recorded. Ernie Longoria (Sprung Monkey) laid the drum tracks on the album. Ernie fucking ripped it and he brought us to a level we’d never thought we’d be at. The songs on the album are based on our life experiences and all of the lyrics were written by me and Dave.” ROOTS Gilly: “One of the first albums that I

who had a hugely successful return at The Hood earlier this year. And let’s not forget the ambitiously peculiar band InVitro, which included Mike Pygmie and Mikey Doling. “I always knew I had to do something. The drums did something for me. Early in 2003, I stopped messing around with little sets. Mike Pygmie called me to see if I wanted to check out his band The Whizards. When I started jamming with them it was definitely an introduction to musicians that made the music matter. I played with them for two years.” Music is both nature and nurture for the Cancino family. There are obvious examples to follow and there is also a heredity factor.

owned was Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All and early Megadeth. We also have roots in Iron Maiden. When Geraldo Rivera had his talk show about metal being satanic my mom took all my metal away so my only option was, ‘I’m into punk now’. I listened to the Sex Pistols and the Ramones. You can hear all of it from the metal to the punk influences in the music that we play. Being from the mountains is a different culture too. We grew up in the woods, drinking beers and using generators to play music.” SONGWRITING “We write some lyrics then we switch off and share lyrics and then we give ourselves 30 minutes to add to it or make it better. You want that off the top of your head ‘in the moment’ ideas. As soon as you start to try to dig and delve deeper you start to fuck with that inspiration so we keep them 30 minutes then we switch back so it’s a true collaboration. We’ve been writing music since we were 15 years old so the actual music part is really easy. I don’t write a song lyric complaining about my situation. We want to write a song so you could have a feeling and we can make it big enough where somebody can interpret those lyrics and get that same feeling that we’re trying to get out

there.” BOSSFIGHT “I’m a video game geek. At the end of each level there’s a boss you have to beat. I’ve played virtually every video game console invented. Our Gen X is squeezed between two huge generations so we have our own experiences that are different than what the others felt. Being in BOSSFIGHT is a true collaboration. I worked at Guitar Center for twenty years before they went private and Venture Capital came in and raped the company. I have songs about that. There’s lyrics related to Gilly’s situation with his divorce, our material is more mature than just about drinking beers and partying. Stuff is starting to open up for us. We feel really blessed and fortunate. After grinding it out for four years it’s starting to coalesce.” DESERT CONNECTIONS “I met Troy (Whitford) at A NAMM show party at the Doll Hut and they just shred. I thought, ‘we need to play with those guys’. THROW THE GOAT fucking rips! The Hood is the place to be. I saw Throw Rag there. We show up early and we stay late. This is our first time playing the desert. We have fans scattered all the way to Palm Desert. The

Benny Jr. identifies the propensities. “When they say it’s in the blood it’s no joke. My father remarried and had three children. They live in Oklahoma and they love to sing and dance. Music is innate for us, it doesn’t go away. I feel empathetic for people who don’t have an outlet. If I go too long without any musical experimentation there’s something missing. I find balance in music.” Andrew is Benny Jr.’s younger paternal half-brother. Although Andrew began utilizing music later in the game, he has demonstrated that the proverbial apple does not fall far from the tree. “I didn’t grow up with that side of the family. My lineage gave me an advantage and

having the genetic predisposition to music.” Andrew is fluent in guitar, bass and drums. I asked him, Why drums? His answer: “Fun!” Benny Jr. and Andrew have established a bond despite their prior estrangement. Benny speaks proudly of Andrew’s musicianship. “Andrew is a talented individual. He was playing guitar in a rock band for church. He was only 20 years old. I have seen Andrew perform several times and he crushes it”. Andrew displays veracity and bashes his drums with utter precision. He currently works full-time as an insurance agent and attends college part-time pursuing his Bachelor of Arts in economics. “I keep rudiments up by using my practice pad. I play

May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY NOE GUTIERREZ Hood has always had great bands, especially during Coachella.” SECOND SHIFT Gilly: “I have worked for a major beer distributor for 20 years. Music is my escape from the daily grind. It heals my depression and solitude. If I can play music, I’m good. I’ve been playing with Dave for so long we know how to click. Dave: I work for Paul Reed Smith Guitars. I’m the accessories product manager. After helping to build a chain of 27 music stores to 250 and in the end being disposed of and not having anything to show for it I asked myself, ‘Why didn’t I invest that in my passion and art?’ I’ll never do that again. You grow and you get better. We’ve been able to sit on some broad shoulders like Marcos and others in the industry. We are older. When you really try hard you’re gonna succeed no matter what. Those friends who look at it as a business and work hard are doing pretty well. We have to continue and put the work in and get some passive income. Those are dividends that pay you back.” NEW MUSIC “We’re currently writing new music with Marcos Curiel and plan to record a whole album of material. The newer stuff we’re writing is where we’ve wanted to be for the last 20 years” A MESSAGE FROM BOSSFIGHT “Music is important. Whether schools fund it or it’s given away for free on the internet eventually they’ll figure it out and one day hopefully we’ll be stuck with doing this for a living. Whatever you’re dealing with in life or what you’ve been through, we’ve been there and we’ve done that so we can relate. We’re all in this together. We’re about raising the water level, not building a bigger boat. That’s how you build a music scene.” Don’t miss this hat trick of a rock show as it starts promptly at 9 p.m. and is 21 and over. www.bossfight.band 8/4 Summ Music Festival – Queen Bees Art & Cultural Center - San Diego 8/26 Brick by Brick – San Diego - opening for T.S.O.L. when I go to my Uncle Mike’s house. It will never leave me. Once you get bit you are stuck with the virus.” The Cancinos are part of my family. I have known them since I was about 5 years old and as with any family there is strife…struggle… peace…understanding…and patience. This family has developed a purpose. That purpose is to bring other families closer together through the music they create. It’s a wonderful thing when we can stop and acknowledge a heritage as rich as the Cancino’s. From my family to yours, congratulations, thank you and we love you!

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

EVENTS

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URBAN DESERT CABARET & RICK SHELLEY AT LANDERS BREW CO.

he high and low desert music scenes are both pretty healthy, but almost feel mutually exclusive, managing to exist like parallel universes. Both scenes are super-insular. High Desert musicians stick close to home, plying their trade at the Joshua Tree Saloon, The Palms, Frontier Café and, of course, Pappy & Harriet’s on a regular basis. Meanwhile, Lo-Desert denizens float from The Hood to the Tack Room, Big Rock Pub and Plan B. Despite the fact that certain artists from each community share similar inspirations and styles, they rarely share the same stage. It’s not exactly a musical Mason-Dixon line, but it comes pretty close. Hopefully, that’s about to change with the pairing of Urban Desert Cabaret and Rick Shelley at Landers Brewing Company. Urban Desert Cabaret is the brainchild of Joe “City” Garcia. A Los Angeles

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transplant, he made his bones in bands like the Crawlers, Joe City & The Night Crawlers and Dream Army, before relocating to Joshua Tree at the end of the 20th century. UDC has released two albums and toured throughout Europe. In early 2017, Joe was preparing for a short North West/Northern California tour (to be followed by a lengthy European tour in June). He needed a live environment to hone his set. Phil, the owner of the Landers Brewing Company was happy to provide a venue. Coming off the road a few months later, Joe realized it was more fun to play a weekly gig at the same place, rather than scramble for shows at different clubs and performance spaces. So, with the blessing of Phil, that July he set up a weekly residence at Landers Brewing Company which included pop-up art exhibits from

noted artist (and Joe’s wife), Joanna Fodczuk. It started small, with sparse attendance, but by the end of 2017, the weekly event had garnered a healthy following. Along the way, UBC has shared the stage with HiDesert luminaries like Teddy Quinn, Adobe Collective, Robert Garson, Rags & Bones and Lisa Mednick-Powell. Out of town guests have included L.A.’s Dick & Jane Family Orchestra and Chasing Rainbows from Ventura, the Base from Austria and Kirsty McGee from the U.K. Much like Johnny Carson on the old “Tonight Show,” Joe has occasionally relinquished the reins of the residency. Back in November, Son Of the Velvet Rat acted as guest hosts for the month. In March, Pat Kearns held down the fort. For his first show in June, Joe invited Rick Shelley to co-headline. Originally from

BY ANASTASIA BEAVERHAUSEN

Walla Walla, Washington, Rick has been making music in the Lo-Desert for nearly 30 years. First, as lead singer for RagTag, a Glam-Metal/Punk hybrid that included hometown pals James Danielson (guitar) and Eric Turner (drums) along with bassist Nick Oliveri, (pre-Kyuss and QOTSA infamy). In the early ‘90s, Rick, James and Eric recruited Dean Oliveri on bass and reconvened as Woodshed. A Blues Rock four-piece, they recorded two studio albums and a live effort before going on hiatus in 2004. Rick took some time off for kids and family, after nearly 10 years, he began writing music again. He returned as a solo artist in 2014. He quickly created a backlog of about 60 new songs. He has since released a six-song EP, 1909 Miles, in 2015 and a full-length album, Hope Wrapped In Razor Wire, in 2017. He recently played sets at Stagecoach and the Joshua Tree Music Festival. Joe and Rick together, promise to be a magical evening of music. Hopefully, it will encourage more Hi-Desert/Lo Desert Pairings. Maybe Teddy Queen and Black Water Gospel will book a gig at the Tack Room. How about Adobe Collective and the Yip-Yops at The Hood? Joe and Rick have laid the groundwork, Time for a crosscultural exchange. (Urban Desert Cabaret and Rick Shelley Saturday, June 2 at Landers Brewing Company, 1388 Golden Slippers Lane, Landers, CA.)


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CASA DE PALMAS THE TAG TEAM OF CUB SWANSON & ANTHONY BAUER

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here is a new vacation rental located in Bermuda Dunes that caters to both outof-towners and any Desert Rat wanting the ultimate ‘stay-cation’. Not only is it unique in its own right, it is brought to you by the team of Bauer and Swanson. Power broker Anthony Bauer and UFC phenom Cub Swanson have been friends for a significant amount of time and have refined their rapport to become business partners. Swanson shared, “We met each other just being around. We’re kind of alike but also complete opposites. We’ve developed a friendship and we’ve collaborated on many things. He’s always trying to be successful and so am I, so we kind of always remained supportive of each other.” Bauer has supported Swanson in and out the octagon and Swanson has developed into quite the businessman with Bauer’s encouragement. Casa De Palmas opened just before Coachella 2018 and sold out in minutes! Casa De Palmas showcases three separate and one-of-a-kind themed 2-bedroom villas. There is the Coachella Suite, the Palm Springs Suite and the Joshua Tree Suite. In total, the compound can accommodate 16+ guests in 6 bedrooms and features a centralized pool, outdoor fireplace, barbecue, a game room that includes foosball and a billiards table. With 9 beds and 4 baths, anyone who wants to include their loved ones in a family getaway will have more than sufficient space for their in-laws. If you’re looking for a more romantic stay, you can also rent the individual units at a discounted price. Bauer and Swanson also offer the most supreme concierge options. They provide thoroughly screened CPR and First Aid certified child care through ‘Celebrity Sitters,’ create personalized gift baskets and welcome books, provide 24/7 on-call troubleshooting. In addition, they can furnish pet sitters, a stocked fridge upon request, in-home massage and facials and spray tans. After talking about their newest endeavor, Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with Swanson about his fight career and how things are going. Coming off a loss, Swanson was gracious enough to talk UFC and a little about himself. With a record of 25-9 and a consistent top 5 Ultimate Fighting Championship featherweight ranking, Swanson continues to be a top draw and a fine representative of the desert. On Bauer “The thing that really connects us is that we want things that a lot of people want but they don’t want to grind to get it. That’s something that’s missing in the desert. A lot of the mentality in the desert is just to ‘get by.’ I lived in Orange County for a while. I really saw that a lot of people are not like that in other places. It just gave me a different outlook and being with Bauer is refreshing so we’ll be doing big things together.” On Dreams and Drive “Being in high school, I saw my brother’s friends and my friends get into four year colleges

and say they’re gonna do this and do that and then they come back to the desert. It was always the joke, it always brings you back. They had these big dreams and just came back and settled. Part of me chasing my dreams is showing people that you can go out there and do it. If you want to settle and live your life and have a regular job or focus on your family then that’s cool too. But if you really want to be great at something then get after it.” On Mistakes and Change “I always thought that I would be successful at something when I was young. Then I got on a path where I stopped going to school and I started to hang out with people that didn’t really care and I thought that was cool. I started to think about what was best for me right now and not what was best for me down the road. I was completely able to block that out. I was just focused on the now. That took me to a place where I don’t know if I’m going to be able to afford my own place or car or the essentials in life and I was just disappointed in myself. So I decided to make a change. Once I found martial arts, which was by accident, I had such a drive to compete. If I give fighting my all I’d like to see how far I can take it.” On Cub the Inventor “What made me successful, without even realizing it, was that how I approached fighting was the same in business. That was a huge breakthrough to kind of realize all of these new things that I’m doing I’m learning so in the fight world every time I fail or fall short I didn’t see myself as a failure, well, maybe the first couple of times, but then I realized that it’s the person that I built to compete, the machine that I put together. I’m the inventor and I put my invention out there and it’s a prototype. I’m trying to chase that final piece. When I go out there and I don’t do so well I can look at it from an outsider perspective and say I did this, this and this wrong. When I go back to the drawing board I’m going to fix those things and I’ll come back stronger. That’s been able to make me successful and really be able to pick myself apart and be honest with myself and say, ‘OK, you have to better at these things.’”

May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

On Being an Ambassador “It’s been very important to me just to stand for something, that’s why I have ‘So Cal’ on my chest and palm trees on my stomach because I knew that one day I would be on television and I would represent where I’m from and this is the story of who I am.” “Now, when you see a car pass by with a Coachella sticker, it’s a 20 year old blonde girl but back in the day if it said ‘Coachella’ it was a ‘cholo.’” On Edgar vs. Swanson II: Unanimous Decision “I’ve been back it. Some small injuries have kept me from pushing too hard. I’ve been doing it a long time. This last fight was a difficult one just because I felt like I did a lot of good things. I got the biggest ass-kicking I’ve ever had in the first fight and I was able to completely nullify that in our second fight and I only had three weeks to prepare for it. I took a lot of pride in that but then everybody is still shitting on my performance. I understand I could have done better but I was happy with the things I accomplished and I realized there are things I could have done better. I figured with the time I had to prepare it wasn’t that killer for me. It’s not like I had a whole camp and he still beat me. It was a unique fight to have to deal with.” On His New UFC Contract “I have four fights left in this contract with UFC. I plan on fighting for a few more years. I kind of have a goal in mind of making a certain amount of money. I’ve been planning my retirement for a while. That’s why I’m doing these things with Bauer. I own a gym in Costa Mesa. I’m trying to do things all over the place. I’m trying to make sure when it’s all said and done that I’m taken care of. People assume that because I’m on TV that I’m a millionaire. That’s not the case at all. You’ve got to work hard for it. Sometimes when you lose you don’t get paid very much. When you do make good money you gotta make the right moves. That’s what I’m trying to do. I’m trying to set up my future. I just started a family and it’s my job to take care of them.” On Cub Swanson – The Brand “When you start to have name recognition and all these things start to happen, it’s funny because many say people change but everyone else changes too. People just treat you different. It can change the way you feel about yourself. The thing to remember that’s most important is to always remember who you are from the beginning and that’s gonna keep you from having

all the people that are there to take from you and not want you to succeed.” “I definitely think a lot of younger people could learn from me. As far as business, I have a lot to learn that’s why I’m doing it with people I like being around and people I trust and that’s how I’m learning so I’m not having to worry about being screwed over. Like the branding of my name, I had to dig deep because I’m not a talker. I’m not a huge personality. I’ve always believed that I just go out there and let my performance do the talking. People like those personalities. Instead of giving in and being somebody who I wasn’t I worked my way around it and I built a character, a logo and I pushed that and I was able to build a brand and make it unique and have built a bigger following instead of giving in and doing it their way. I found another way to do it and I’m proud of it. There’s ways to do things, you’ve just got to figure it out and be creative, be who you are. One thing I’ve always been is stubborn and I’ve made that one of my strengths not one of my weaknesses.” On the Truth “I told myself that if I was going to keep doing this, because I came close to stopping a couple of times with some bad injuries, I told myself that I was going to be 100% honest with people. It can be tough because it makes you vulnerable. You make yourself a bigger target to be attacked. But I felt I just want the fans to know what’s going through my head. I want them to know what I’m thinking at that moment. I want them to know if they ask me a direct question I want to answer it. I’m not the type of person to sugarcoat things or lie about things that’s just not in my nature. I just wanted to be who I was and be 100% honest. You realize how many people you are impacting and inspiring. I see myself with a niche of inspiring people. Just knowing that makes it worth it. They see me getting down and pushing forward trying to always get better.” The truth is, Cub Swanson and Anthony Bauer are two of the Coachella Valley’s finest CEOs and humanitarians. They present themselves with honor and validity because it’s ingrained. They continue to contribute to their community and recognize that initiative and resiliency will propel them and this area to prosperity. UFC.com psgolfhomes.com live2diegear.com

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

CONSIDER THIS

TAMI NEILSON I

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

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BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

“SASSAFRASS” (OUTSIDE MUSIC)

f it were possible for Shirley Bassey, Carmen Miranda and Wanda Jackson to have a musical love child, her name would be Tami Neilson. Tami was raised in Canada and grew up in a musical clan. The Neilson Family, parents Ron and Betty, plus younger brothers Joshua (“Jay”) and Todd toured Canada and the United States in a 34-foot motor-home, performing their own hybrid of Country and Gospel music. They rubbed elbows with the likes of Roy Orbison and shared stages with Loretta Lynn and Johnny Cash. When finances were tight, the kids busked in the streets, surviving on spare change and tips. During the ‘90s, the Neilson’s played state fairs, festivals and prisons. They also appeared regularly on radio and television. Their 1996 single, “Windows To The Past” was a Top 20 hit on Canada’s Country charts. The follow-up song, “We’ll Hold On” made it to the Top 40. That same year they released their selftitled debut album. In her early 20s, Tami visited New Zealand and fell in love. A long-distance romance ensued, and she racked up plenty frequent flyer miles in three years. Finally, she pulled up stakes and relocated there permanently. Country music wasn’t exactly at the forefront of the Auckland scene, but her new husband Grant had already established a career in law enforcement. Naturally she struggled for a bit, but by 2008, she had released her solo debut, Red Dirt Angel. Not only did it win a Tui (New Zealand’s equivalent to the Grammy) for Best Country Album in 2009, but she repeated that feat in 2010 and 2011 with The Kitchen Table Sessions, Volume One and Volume Two, respectively. Her 2014 effort, Dynamite! topped the NZ charts, garnering her fourth Tui and received distribution in North America. In between juggling marriage and motherhood, she also created music with her brother Jay, scoring “The Brokenwood Mysteries,” a popular Kiwi TV series. Her

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next album, Don’t Be Afraid, released in 2015, debuted at #3 on the charts, and netted yet another Tui. For the last 10 years, Tami has crafted a look, something like ‘50s Pin-Up Girlmeets-Cowboy Sweetheart, (think glamour girl Betty Page with a hint of early Loretta Lynn). But more importantly, she’s crafted a sound, wrapping her big voice around classic, yet disparate inspirations, from the holy trinity of Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly, to the Staple Singers, B.B. King, Etta James and Sun Records. With her new record, Sassafrass!, she has distilled those influences and also broadened her musical horizons. Heeding the infamous Canadian/Kiwi saying, “Go Big Or Go Home,” (What? That isn’t a Canadian/Kiwi saying? It should be), the album opens guns blazing with “Stay Outta My Business.” Bleating horns snappy hand-claps power this swiveling Soul-Shouter. But none of crack instrumentation can compete with Tami’s brassy vocal delivery. Trenchant lyrics build off the foundation of the classic Bessie Smith cut, “Tain’t Nobody’s Biz-ness.” Defiant and no-nonsense, the final verse points up gender politic hypocrisies and the perennial double standard; “A woman stay home to raise the babies, ‘must be nice to do nothing, must be lazy’/And so she go out to make the money, ‘How can you leave your babies you’re a bad, bad mummy’” Theremin-esque guitar riffs snake through the arrangement, adding a kitschy, ‘50s SciFi edge. Tami’s protean talent allows her to hopscotch from one genre to the next with casual aplomb. “Diamond Ring” is a fat slab of sanctified Funk. Serpentine guitars connect with spatial keys and a snap-back beat. The slink and syncopation nearly distracts from this gritty tale of heartbreak. Reeling from a broken relationship, Tami vows “If there’s a table for one, then I’m going to take it, won’t hand over my heart for some fool to break it/Don’t need the pain that lovin’ brings, Ain’t gonna wear no man’s other ring.” “Devil In A Dress” blends rippling guitar licks, pulsating horns, roiling bass guitar and a ricochet rhythm. It’s the best James Bond theme you’ve never heard. The lyrics unspool a femme fatale yarn rich with detail and some vaguely ecumenical imagery; “White smoke curling from her lips, rosary running through her fingertips/ Tight skirt wiggle when she walks, blessing on the children every time she talks.” On “Just One Thought Of You” she channels the post-WWII grandeur of Jo Stafford, Kay Starr, Dinah Washington and Keely Smith. Lazy guitar notes shang-a-lang over mournful pedal steel and the yearning in Tami’s voice is palpable. The purple emotion exhibited here; “Down the hall our shadows dance, stars uncross our star-

crossed romance/One more final chance to whisper all the things I should have said this time” wouldn’t seem out of place in a Douglas Sirk film. (Think “Magnificent Obsession” or “Written On The Wind.”) Finally, rumbling bass guitar, spitfire guitar riffs and a a rat-a-tat-tat backbeat accentuates the feline fun of “Kitty Cat.” A playful Rockabilly rave-up, it extends the whole fickle and finicky Woman-ascat metaphor. “She may wave her tail in your direction, show you a little love and affection/Lick and purr and give you a scratch, but that don’t mean she’s your Kitty Cat.” A couple of tracks, “Bananas” and “Smoking Gun” offer cogent commentaries the continued struggle for equality between the sexes. They also get ahead of the “#metoomovement.” The melody of the former mines the same Calypso style popularized by Harry Belafonte. The infectious Afro-Caribbean lilt, propelled by a canboulay beat, shimmery guitar, swooping pedal steel and honking baritone Sax, nearly camouflages a sharp treatise on that ever-present Glass ceiling. She notes “This is a big boys’ game,” women still have to work twice as hard and display a sweet (non-threatening) demeanor to get ahead in work and life. Of course, equating male genitalia to dangling yellow jungle fruit ensures that Tami’s sense of humor is at the forefront. The melody of the latter feels nocturnal and foreboding tensile guitar chords slither around a tumbling rhythm. Lyrics like “Skeletons rattle inside, dark and dirty secrets ‘neath the Hollywood sign/ Paid up their ransom in flesh to the piper with The power to destroy or bless” have a ripped from the headlines verisimilitude, especially in the light of Harvey Weinstein’s recent arrest. “Sassafrass!” is packed with dazzling songs, still, three tracks stand out. “A Woman’s Pain” mines the same Southern Gothic territory as Bobbie Gentry’s “Ode To Billie Joe” without tipping over into the melodrama Of Vicki Lawrence’s “The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia.” It’s a classic story-song cloaked in jangly acoustic guitars, a swooping string section, stately baritone guitar and high lonesome pedal steel. With a few deft strokes she

highlights the skewed power dynamic that exists between the sexes; “Partake of pleasure and reap the shame, the hand that holds the power assigns the blame/And this old world turns on a woman’s pain.” “Manitoba Sunrise At Motel 6” is equal parts torch and twang. A homesick ode told from life on the road, the rich imagery recalls the expansive beauty and inherent sadness of Jimmy Webb’s “Wichita Lineman.” Her narrative prowess is concise, yet evocative; “8000 miles from home, I just looked it up, this ain’t my bed, my TV or my coffee cup/Silence fills my head like the snow hits the ground, a line of pillows next to me that never make a sound.” Desolate, devastating and beautiful. Finally, “Miss Jones” is the album’s centerpiece. A Soul-Shake Boogaloo replete with rubbery bass lines, chickenscratch guitar, flashy horns and a bongo/ conga-riffic backbeat. A fiery homage to the late great soul-shouter Sharon Jones, the lyrics insist that even though she’s left this earthly plane her voice is still being heard; “Genuine real deal, girl has always kept it real, don’t you she’s still here, can’t you hear her sing/Heavens yes, hell no, this ain’t mama’s last show, teachin’ angels don’t you know to get up off their things.” The album closes with “Good Man,” a sweet encomium to her husband. Slow as molasses, it shares some musical DNA with Dorothy Moore’s ‘70s Soul classic, “Misty Blue.” Liquid guitar licks cascade over thudding percussion and incandescent strings. Tami’s compelling vocals are front and center as she acknowledges “I know I’m not easy, but getting things easy was never your style/And I love you like nobody else baby, the good and the hard times they’re just the same, when I got you by my side.” It’s a heartfelt and elegant end to a superlative record. The record was produced by Tami and Ben Edwards and features her Hot Rockin’ Band Of Rhythm; Joe McCallum on drums and percussion, bassist Mike Hall, guitarists Neil Watson and Brett Adams, plus Tami on acoustic guitar. The band was augmented by the string section of Dave Khan and Anita Clark, the horn section of Gwyn Reynolds, Cameron Pearce, Scott Taitoko and Reuben Derrick and the backing vocal talents of Nyree Huyser, Sarena Close and Georgie Clifford. All the songs were written by Tami, or co-written with her brother Jay. The world is currently an angry, divisive place. Sassafrass! feels like a breath of fresh air; topical and whimsical, soulful and sarcastic, sometimes danceable and often reflective. Tami Neilson is the real deal, she’s done all the hard work, all you need to do now is sit back and listen.


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ART AND THE UNION OF ART SCENE PARENT & CHILD: ANDREA RAFT & AARON SEDWAY

“Remember we are all born artists. What we do with that, shapes who we are” rt is not passive – whether one is the artist or the viewer. Art requires participation. Art is always a collaborative effort. For artists Andrea Raft and Aaron Sedway it is a deeper collaboration between parent and child. Andrea studied painting at the Brentwood Art Center in Los Angeles, California. “My studies took me to Giglio, Italy. It was there I developed an interest in earthen hues, and textures. I have since been experimenting with paint, texture, torn paper, photographs and found objects.” Aaron is recognized as a World Class Sports photographer, known for his action shots of extreme sports. Influenced by his love for nature and living in the Sierra Nevada region he began photographing trees, flora, fauna and landscapes. Not content to be a well-respected photographer Aaron began to explore mixed media by combining a love of photography with his skills, like his talented mother, for paint and texture. The story of this collaborating began on an organic trajectory. “While documenting photographs of my work, Aaron began to super-impose his own images upon my Asian infused mixed-media pieces. The juxtaposition of our two very disparate sensibilities led me to experiment with using his photos in my work,” explained Andrea. “As I worked I began to see a process taking place. Just as the individual human psyche has many layers, so too parts of our family history had masked other parts. Once removed a new layer was created, one of mutual inspiration and synergy.” It is the uniqueness of the parent-child relation that lends a sans soins feel to the collaborative work. The artists see a Yin/Yang dichotomy, yet the work radiates a feel of comfortable peace; the focus of pure joy of the moment rather than the process. “For me the joy was to becoming more respectful of our differences, and how those differences create a balance. Having completed the work, we came to appreciate how we have influenced each other’s love of color and texture,” said Andrea. How does Aaron view the collaboration? “For me it was just taking an interest in my

May 31 to June 6, 2018

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mother’s paintings as I myself was always documenting and photographing her paintings,” said Aaron. “We both started our interest in art around the same time. I took an interest in photography in high school and my mother started painting around the same time. It is funny to think where we are now, with the paintings and photography, who could have imagined the combination 30 years ago.” What is the most important thing to come from the collaboration? To Andrea “It is what we have discovered. Aaron and I have found a deeper layer of our love and spiritual connection.” Aaron continued, “I never would of thought of myself even trying to paint or using my photographs in paintings. But here we are - just two creative souls joining in an unexpected way.” Is there any better way to define art and collaboration?

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

PET PLACE

HELP YOUR PET LIVE LONGER

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ur pets are part of our family, and we want to do everything possible to help them live long and healthy lives. My special cat Isis lived for 24 years with good vet care that included homeopathy and healthy diet. Small dogs can easily live for 17 years or longer. Large breed dogs have a life span of 12 to 15 years. What are some of the things you can do to increase the time your treasured pet spends on this earth? 1. FEED A HIGH QUALITY DIET Pets that are fed a high quality pet food have shiny coats, healthy skin, and bright eyes. They have a stronger immune system, good intestinal health, better mental acuity, and healthier muscles and joints. Some pet owners are opting to make their own pet food. Healthy recipes are available on the internet by Googling “healthy pet food recipes”. Venus de Fido and Pet Oasis have knowledgeable staff who can direct you to the best brands for particular animals. PetSmart and PetCo carry a wide variety of the healthier brands. Some dog owners are switching to “grain free” products which they believe lessens the risk of food allergies. Grain free dog food more closely mimics a dog’s ancestral

MEET TIA & TAMARA Tia & Tamara Meowry are a Sister-Sister pair of Gray Tabbys who would love to fill your house with fun and companionship. Email graphicscvweekly@gmail. com or call 760.782.7067. Give one or both of these babies a great home.

MEET MISTY Misty, 75 lbs of doggie love, is still waiting for a phone call! She is one of the happiest, special dogs I’ve ever met. This Great Dane/ Lab girl was rescued from the county shelter by www.californiapawsrescue.com. Call (760) 656-3833.

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high protein diet. Avoid some of the multicolored “cheap grocery store” brands filled with dyes and unhealthy additives. 2. WATCH YOU PET’S WEIGHT! Overweight cats and dogs are at higher risk of disease and health issues. Obesity puts a strain on joints, and causes severe knee and back conditions. The risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other serious illnesses medical problems is increased for overweight animals. Don’t give in when Fluffy pleads for extra treats. 3. GET REGULAR VETERINARY CARE Ensure that your pets receive their annual vaccinations. An annual visit to your vet for a routine examination may uncover unknown health issues that need to be treated, and an early diagnosis will enhance your pet’s recovery. 4. KEEP YOUR PET’S MOUTH CLEAN Oral health issues can cause your pet pain and make it difficult for him to eat. Untreated oral issues can lead to heart and kidney disease. Teeth cleaning, performed under sedation by your veterinarian is an option if you can afford it. Meanwhile, pick up a toothpaste and brush kit made specially for cats or dogs and learn to brush their teeth.

BY JANET McAFEE 5. DON’T LET YOUR PET ROAM FREE The life expectancy of cats is greatly reduced if they are allowed outside. Pets that roam the neighborhood are susceptible to many dangers including predators, theft, automobile accidents, exposure to poisons, and exposure to contagious disease. PHOTO OF JOHN AND SCHOEP John Unger and his 19-yr-old shepherd mix dog Schoep became a Facebook sensation due to this lovely photo. Schoep loved his dips in Lake Superior, and the warmth and buoyancy of the water soothed his arthritis. This photo of Schoep in John’s arms touched the hearts of animal lovers everywhere, and donations poured in to provide Schoep with expensive laser treatment and daily glucosamine pills.

Scheop lived another 20 months, enjoying their walks through the Wisconsin woods. In July, 2013, John posted, “I breathe, but I can’t catch my breath. Schoep passed away yesterday.” John set up the Scheop Legacy Foundation to help low income pet owners with the remaining donations. State of the art medical care helped extend Schoep’s life. This dog’s longevity was also a result of the loving bond that John and Schoep shared. Provide your pet with loving attention, and the bond you share will nurture his spirit and keep his body healthy. Jmcafee7@verizon.net


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THE VINO VOICE

May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY RICK RIOZZA

THE DAYS OF WINE & ROSÉS

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ne may laugh and run away like a child at play—but in our valley’s summer season shortly upon us, you’ll be running into a crisp and refreshing bottle of rosé soon enough! And thank goodness, for so many of pale salmon copper colored wines are lovingly dry while showing lively fruit notes. And of course—everything’s coming up rosés—again! Last year we wrote about the new “American palate” that is now appreciating the Provençal-style dry or non-sweet blush wine; this type of rosé is quite often the answer to wine-pairing woes: if you can’t decide between a white or a red for lunch, appetizers, or dinner—or, for that up-coming dinner party, well then the new drier-style rosé is the choice whether you’re serving soup, salad, fish, poultry or meat. Led by the wines of Provence and followed by every winery in the universe, the American rosé “re-birth” with vino lovers is on with more than more than 1,000 new and different rosés on the market. Indeed! Here is a scattering of some delicious rosé we’re currently chilling & savoring: Chateau Minuty M de Minuty 2017 ($21) bottled in the traditional curvy Provençal bottle and fully decorated in chic design, this wine is the epitome of the classic Provence wines produced in the south of France. Any new wine lover who’s yet to taste a still rosé from this Mediterranean area will be brought up to speed enjoying this baby. It’s a vibrant but dry rosé with balanced white peach and candied orange peel aromas that meld into the palate with a smooth, round mouthfeel. For you musicians who are familiar with triplet beats or rhythms, this wine plays

out a similar sensory pattern of light strawberry, raspberry, and red currant flavors. Pale in color, very aromatic and marked by good acidity and a nice freshness. One of the original rosés from St. Tropez, it pairs perfectly with raw vegetables, grilled meat, shellfish, peach pie, and “the dreams of summer”. The last winery in Provence to pick all of their grapes by hand, M de Minuty is made in the traditional method for the purest expression of Grenache—the king (or queen) of rosé. Award-winning “rebel/rock-star” winemaker Charles Smith has introduced yet another highquality, eye-catching wine to the market: the 2017 Band of Roses Rosé ($13). This Washington State release is made from 100 percent Pinot Gris! Yep!—that’s why they call Smith a “rebel”. Okay—so many vino lovers already know that pinot grigio and pinot gris are of the same grape variety: one’s simply written in Italian, the other in French. Of course there’s more info: it gets geographic. Those wishing to sound and “feel” French, will utilize the pinot gris spelling— as with the wines from Oregon (after all, they do call their pinot noirs’ “Burgundian” in nature). However in Washington State, they’re spelling it pinot grigio. Anyway—but for those who know their familiar Pinot Grigio to be a white wine—well realize that normally, this grape has a grayish/ brownish pink skin (hence the name gris, or gray, in French). Leave the grape skins in the mix for a bit and your white wine will quickly reflect some sort of pinkish/copper hue. This Band of Roses is pale pink in color but plush in texture; this crisp wine features fresh flavors delivered of lilac, guava, tangerine, passion fruit and cut hay. This is new world pinot

gris. Another fun & fine wine with Smith’s usual artsy edgy label created with longtime friend, Danish designer extraordinaire Rikke Korff (who Smith met while touring in Europe). The PR states: “this new wine looks just as great as it tastes.” And how about this news: We’re all familiar with Traders Joe’s brand Charles Shaw, that originally sold for around two dollars, thus the name—Two Buck Chuck. The prices have gradually risen to only three or so bucks, but it’s original nickname stays. The real news is their new “organic grapes” line of wine— currently sells for $3.99. I asked the store clerk if the organic line-up will be known as Four Buck Chuck? He winced and casually corrected me with his terminology stating, “How about Thee Charles Shaw”. All right then! The news keeps going: The five wines in the new Organic Grapes line-up, actually simply called “Shaw”, are Cabernet

Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Rosé. We’ve just sampled them all and the Shaw Organic Grapes Rosé is the rousing winner as to quality for the price. At $3.99 a bottle, there is no better California dry rosé on the market. This is the bottle of wine to grab and chill for the quick picnic. And should you run short of sheckles for your luncheon or al fresco dinner plans, or unable to pick-up the higher priced spreads we wrote of above—well then again, this Shaw Rosé will not disappoint. (I’ve heard Target Stores offers a $5 California Roots Rosé—haven’t tried it.) The 2017 Shaw Rosé is dry and it owns some soft strawberry, cherry, raspberry flavors that keeps everyone sipping. And it’s ahead of the game with a no-corkscrew-needed twist-off, resealable cork: Known as the Helix cork: “it features a series of grooves that fit effortlessly with threads inside the neck of the Helix glass bottle, enabling the user to remove the cork effortlessly, simply by holding and twisting the top. After opening, the stopper can also be reinserted into the bottle in the same way, so that a bottle of white wine, for example, can be resealed and stored in the fridge for later use.” The 2018 French Open is afoot! Let’s do Parisian wine next time—à votre santé!

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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THUR MAY 31

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Solar Twin 8pm, Eric McEntee 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill and Doug Duo 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Touch Tunes Thursday 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 CV Music Awards Pre Show 6pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Kristy King 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 TBA 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 TBA 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Barry, Bob and Riz 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 TBA 9pm

LA QUINTA OLDTOWN TAPROOM; LQ; Right On Right On 8-11pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Rox LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ JB and the Big Circle Riders 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Rick the Piano Man 6pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Ruby Force and Jesse Daniel 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Desert Noise Presents: Hide Your Guns, Hover and Chris Williams 8pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Wayne Boyer 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-7pm, Steve Oliver 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Linda Peterson 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

FRI JUNE 1

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29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Wonder People 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Dear Nora and Jeffrey Brodsky 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Shelley Yoelin Group 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Friday Night Sour Hour w/ Pink Lemonade Drag Show 9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Death Club Presents: Alchemy, The No. 44, Spirit Mother and Killjoi 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Nothing But Flowers 8:30pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 DJ Double A 8pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm COACHELLA BAR: Coachella; Regaae Night w/ Mozaiq, Dubious Distinction and Mario Quintero 9pm

CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 6pm, Throw the Goat, Sleazy Cortez and Bossfight 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HOTEL ZOSO; PS; 760-325-9676 Esjay Jones Presents: Acoustic Sessions w/ Eevaan Tre and the Show 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 In the Name of the Dead, Departer, Drop Mob and Kill the Radio 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Six Hot Live 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Eevaan Tre 6:30pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Dude Jones 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Off Da Cuff 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Sara Petite and the Sugar Daddies 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Jasmine Tomasso and Lorenzo Grassi 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm


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SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Barflys 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Pat Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Salsa Dance of the Desert 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Meet the Corwins 5:30-7:30pm, John Stanley King Show 8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Boys Night Out w/ DJ House Whores 7pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 5-7pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Willie Boys 1st Anniversary Celebration w/ Bob Garcia 4-7pm, 30 Miles Out 7-11pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez, Todd Ashley and Lisa LaFaro Weselis 6:30-10pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm

SAT JUNE 2

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Set 11am poolside, Highlife w/ DJ Day 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Connecta w/ DJ Sets by CieloHigh, Rich Brandon and Guests 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Funk Attack 8:30pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Jack Ruvio 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 The Incredible Desert Kings 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm

HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-10pm HOTEL ZOSO; PS; 760-325-9676 Esjay Jones Presents: Global Sessions w/ David Macias and Dub 8 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 Los Nuevos Comandantes 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LA QUINTA BREWERY; PD; Down For Now 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Six Hot Live 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 TBA 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan Gregg 6pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Rockaholics 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 RoadRunners 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Sara Petite and the Sugar Daddies 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 AJ Lambert 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 TBA 6pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 TBA 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Alyce Bowie 8:30pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michael 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett & Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono & The Real Deal 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 6pm

May 31 to June 6, 2018

WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Willie 1st Anniversary Celebration w/ Bill and Bob 11am1pm, Rocky Zarp 1-3pm, Sterling Silver 2-6pm, Ghostlight Trio 4-8pm, John Bone Davis 6-9pm, Surprise Play 8-11pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Johnny Meza and Friends 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJs 9pm

SUN JUNE 3

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Set 11am poolside, TBA 10pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Brunch w/ Kevin Tokarz 11:30am AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Fusion Latin Night w/ DJ LF and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Brian Denigan 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Country Night 5pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Lori Yeary 6-9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm continue to page 22

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

THEPAMPERED PALATE

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ith the quaint area of Old Town La Quinta as its backdrop, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill offers up outstanding food, drinks, atmosphere and service. Part of a family franchise that started over forty years ago, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill has two desert locations, one at the Westfield Mall in Palm Desert (perfect for a bite while shopping), and the other in Old Town La Quinta. Unlike the other locations throughout California and Oregon, their restaurants in the Coachella Valley have a broader menu that expands past pizza, and also offers a full bar and full service, elevating the Stuft experience. Between the two locations here in the desert, my fave is the one in Old Town La Quinta. It’s partly because I love the cozy, small village feel of Old Town, and partly because I love the neighborhood vibe of that particular Stuft itself. On any given day, you most likely will find a carbon copy of the people you have seen the day before. To me, that is a huge compliment to the establishment, and encompasses an endearing quality. My boyfriend and I try to go to Stuft in Old Town as much as we can, as our cravings for their pizza seem to creep up on us more often than not. We tend to go for their Happy Hour which they generously have daily from 3pm-6pm. It is certainly one of the best Happy Hours in the Coachella Valley, for quality, pricing and all around value. We have our little preferred table, a two top in the corner of the bar area with a view of the TV for sports for my boyfriend, and a comfy view for me to people

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GET STUFT IN OLD TOWN!

watch. Usually when we go, there is the same group of men in their mature years, sitting together and chatting, just a table down from ours, which is part of the endearing aspect of the place. As I mentioned, their Happy Hour is a huge draw. The well drinks and house wines are only $4 (crazy 8oz wine pour), with 6oz draft beers for $3 and 25oz mugs for $5, it’s a heck of deal! For food, an array of menu selections come at discounted prices such as their Thai Noodles ( angel hair pasta, garlic, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cilantro, soy sauce and cashews-$4.49), Southwestern Eggrolls (chicken, Monterey Jack, black beans, corn, onion, bell peppers and jalapeno in a crisp flour tortilla with a chipotle ranch dipping sauce-$7.49), Rib Bites ($7.49), Volcano Wings ( mild, hot or hot as hell with blue or ranch dressing $8.99) and Ahi Tuna Stack (stacked diced Ahi Tuna, avocado, seaweed salad, green onions and soy reduction with a side of wasabi and ginger-$11.49) plus many more. Of course the main attraction, their pizza, is also a deal, offered at a discount of $2.50 off any of their small size pizzas (served with their thin crust). There are a myriad of signature pizzas selections, as well as building your own. As little creatures of habit that my boyfriend and I are, we pretty much always get

the same things. We will start out with either the Rib Bites, Volcano Wings or Southwestern Eggrolls, and then order our own small pizzas. My craving there is directed towards their White Pizza (deliciously rich Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, spinach mushrooms and caramelized onions). I mean, it is one my alltime favorite pizzas! The ingredients all work together, providing a melting of fabulous flavors, and the crust, the crust is the vessel delivering all of the yumminess into my mouth, one luscious bite after another. Tasty! Somehow, most likely because there are vegetables involved, it seems suspiciously healthy to me. But I’m sure that is just my internal negotiation that allows me to eat the whole thing alone. My boyfriend always gets the small Pepperoni. Now that may seem like a simplistic choice, but these are no ordinary pepperonis. They are smaller than the ones that are used on the larger pizza, and pack a wowza of zest. I end up stealing many of the little guys off of his pizza every time, they’re addicting. There are so many other menu options at Stuft besides pizza and Happy Hour glory. Their menu stretches to salads, sandwiches, pastas, steaks, chicken, and seafood as well as gluten free options. Of course leaving room for one their desserts is always a treat, such as diving into their Stuff This (vanilla, coffee and mocha almond fudge ice cream layered on an Oreo cookie crust) creation. Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill in Old Town La Quinta is a cozy nook, incorporating all of the components of one of the most delightful

BY DENISE ORTUNO places to relax and enjoy fantastic food,

drinks and inviting friendly service here in the Coachella Valley. I think I hear my White Pizza calling! Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill is located at 78-015 Main St. #100, La Quinta, 760-777-9989 www.stuftpizzabarandgrill.com


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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

SCREENERS

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No. 319

STAR WARS: AN ENDLESS SAGA?

NOW SHOWING: SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY

This month marks 40 years since the release of the first Star Wars films. Is Disney going to keep breeding and then beating to death the iconic Lucasverse scifi fantasy mythos until there’s no longer an audience that loves it? -- or worse, hates it? Word has it that Lucasfilm is developing a slew of movies around Star Wars characters including a Boba Fett story (James Mangold is already set to direct) and another one around Obi-Wan Kenobi. Will it ever end? Is enough ever enough? Is there an over-riding meta story or theme we’re still waiting to experience? I’m not sure where or even if this new chapter best fits in the chronology of previous SW films. My guess is that Solo takes place after Revenge of the Sith

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and before A New Hope. But there remain many paradoxes and a question regarding that gap in time between the aforementioned chapters, like how old is Solo in this latest episode? Memorable, finely crafted action sequences and new characters make this new trip to a somewhat familiar place far, far, away a fun ride if you don’t mind the recycled tropes and clichés. However, if you love all things Star Wars no matter what, then director Ron Howard’s nicely directed prequel of sorts will certainly be satisfying. Especially if you experience it on the biggest screen you can find. At it’s heart, this new adventure is the back story of how, during a series of daring escapades in a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, the beloved scoundrel Solo meets his future copilot Chewbacca and encounters the notorious Lando Calrissian (is he an Armenian?) The episode sets the course for what we already know is to come. But, that said, I miss the input of Lucas (he did visit a location and made a minor suggestion to director Howard), but

still, the difficulty of accepting Alden Ehrenreich as a young Han Solo/Harrison Ford is a stretch. However, the eye-catching production design and cool action set pieces, along with the fine cast (Emelia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Donald Glover, Joonas Suatomo and Tandie Newton) more than makes up for any disappointment in the casting of Solo. Now playing at Mary Pickford’s D’Place Entertainment.

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: HILDA CRANE (1956)

A classic and mostly forgotten “woman’s picture” about getting a second chance at finding love in spite of small-town – and small-minded – disapproval gets a shot at rediscovery on a gorgeous hi-def Blu-ray edition. Fiery Jean Simmons (a distant relation) stars and screenwriter Phillip Dunne directs (in stunning Cinemascope). Simmons is great and so sympathetic as a misunderstood, divorced, modern woman making a bid for romantic happiness. Evelyn Varden reprises her Broadway role as an interfering matriarch. This old school emotional drama about a surprisingly liberated, independent woman (for her time) returning from New York to her conservative home town – she’s got nowhere else to go. There she soon finds trouble ricocheting between an aggressive French lover (Jean-Pierre Aumont) and a nice local boy (Guy Madison) while the whole town gossips. I liked the delicious tension that rises due to the controlling mothers of the lovers. The beautiful score by David Raksin (Laura) is available on an isolated track. A watchable and welcome extra is an A&E “Biography” episode on the charismatic and beautiful Jean Simmons. Twilight Time Movies. Blu-ray (Limited Edition, only 3,000 units). BIRTH OF A NATION (1915) Debuting on North American hi-def Bluray in stunning, meticulous detail, showcased in an extraordinary 2-disc set with 4 hours of fascinating extras. D.W. Griffith’s controversial landmark film will astonish you with its visuals and possibly repulse you with its content. This incredible, disgustingly racist film is not to be missed since it is a record of what “once passed as history.” (Danny Perry, Guide for the film Fanatic.) It is also a foundation stone of cinematic realism, even though admittedly created to pass lies off as reality. This film of monumental scale and ambition is relevant today as a potent reminder that even our deepest convictions can be seduced by the power of the moving image.

Film scholars and social historians have called this film among “the most influential in history.” We can never really censor the past nor should we, now contemporary audiences can see and judge for themselves. The generous extras on Disc 2 includes, among additional featurettes and essays: Outtakes and original Camera Tests, Still and collections Gallery and several silent features (“The Coward”), “Stolen Glory” (directed by Mack Sennett), “The Drummer of the 8th Original Edit.” (Edition limited to 3,000 units.) Twilight Time Movies. Blu-ray. A perfect film to see and consider before watching Spike Lee’s BlackkKlansmen. Recommended. This is one for the digital library. ANNIHILATION (2018)

Alex Garland’s adaptation of Jeff VanderMeer’s novel stars Natalie Portman as a stressed scientist who joins/leads four other troubled women specialists to investigate an ominous bubble-like burst of energy -- the “Shimmer” -- that’s rippling across a remote part of the country. When the women penetrate it, they experience strange and violent hybrid mutant creatures as they each confront disturbing elements of their personal pasts. If you missed this terrific film in theaters, please don’t dismiss it for the home theater. It’s a treat that already has a significant cult following. It’s certainly among the best movies of the year. Smart, provocative and memorable. Paramount. Bluray. Also newly available: 30th anniversary editions of DIE HARD (20th Century Fox 4K Ultra HD) and COMING TO AMERICA Paramount. Comments? robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com


BOOK REVIEW

A

great American novel must come from a great American writer. As obvious as that may seem, great works of literature can often be obscured when one writes from an autobiographical experience. Philip Roth wrote about his personal world revealing insight, irony and angst of American life, east coast culture and coming of age sexuality, which made him a literary genius and icon. Arriving in 1933 Newark, New Jersey, Roth was a second-generation son born to Jewish immigrants. Raised in a middle class family, Roth was an astute observer. In high school, his yearbook described him as “A boy of real intelligence, combined with wit and common sense.” In college, Roth studied English and earned a graduate degree in literature. He served in the US Army for two years. Roth started his writing career with short fiction and as a literary and movie critic where he often included his own personal experiences. Published in 1959, his first book Goodbye, Columbus contained a novella and five short stories. It won the National Book Award a year later. Over his long award-winning career, Roth authored 30 books! Roth was considered part of a pre-eminent triumvirate of literary talent that included his white male contemporaries Saul Bellow and John Updike. Roth, Bellow and Eudora Welty are the only three authors to have their entire

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PHILIP ROTH 1933 – 2018

works placed in the Library of America. Portnoy’s Complaint, Roth’s fourth novel, published in 1969 was his first commercial and critical success. The main character, a young Jewish man, shares his story with his psychoanalyst trying to understand and overcome the source of his pain, guilt, shame, and lust. Sexually explicit and Jewish centric, Roth was admonished by Rabbis for exaggerating Jewish stereotypes. Writing about his Jewish experience and childhood reflected the nostalgia of the era, but Roth rejected the label of AmericanJewish writer. In an interview with The Guardian, Roth said: “I’m exactly the opposite of religious, I’m anti-religious... It’s not a neurotic thing, but the miserable record of religion—I

May 31 to June 6, 2018

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

don’t even want to talk about it. It’s not interesting to talk about the sheep referred to as believers. When I write, I’m alone. It’s filled with fear and loneliness and anxiety— and I never needed religion to save me.” Roth may be most well-known for his alter ego -- the admired writer Nathan Zuckerman -- who explores Jewish culture and American life during and after the Second World War. The Zuckerman stories are a collection of books published between 1979 to 2007. There is little doubt that the novels come directly from Roth’s personal experiences. Other popular novels by Roth include American Pastoral, I Married a Communist,

The Human Stain and The Great American Novel. Roth retired from writing in 2010. Beyond his Jewish identity and limited geographical literary landscape, Roth was a provocative and insightful purveyor of the struggles of men in a confusing and often nonsensical world with odd restrictions, unspoken rules and undefined guidelines. There is a misogyny that prevails in his work, but I choose to believe it is inherent to the character and setting rather than Roth himself -- although he certainly had “mother issues.” That might be illogical considering he is in so much of his work. However, his portrayal of women indeed comes from his time, place and experience. Roth’s humor, his ability to focus inward yet sees reality from the outside to unveil dark inner truths about his life and American culture. Without a doubt, he was a master at blending autobiography and fiction. He was an American first, more than his religious ethnicity. Prose and story are intimately connected as he drew from the complex self-centered universe we all inhabit to write more than one great American novel. Rest In Peace.

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

A NEW VISION FOR GOLF CARTS!

I

really appreciate the opportunity to write fire and life safety articles for the CV Weekly newspaper. It’s an honor to write and spread the message of safety to their readers. I also get the privilege to occasionally write about great customer service received from businesses in the CV. I recently had an issue with my golf cart. I called New Visions Golf Repair in Palm Desert. By that afternoon Felix Torres came out and took a look at my cart. Within 10 minutes he had my cart diagnosed and repairs done within thirty minutes. Not just with one cart but my second one as well. Why am I writing this? Before New Visions I had another guy/company come out. He said my computer needed replacement. The cart is a 1992. I questioned if it had a

computer and this “other guy” quoted me a $545.00 estimate and he would have to take the cart to his shop to replace the “computer board.” That’s when I called Felix from New Visions who was honest, friendly and straight forward and he fixed both carts for $75. Felix provided me some preventive maintenance tips and was on his way in no time. The point of my article is to share with you a company most all of us need here in the CV. Golf cart repair! A company who is honest and dependable. You can contact New Visions at 39-203 Leapord St. Palm Desert, CA 92211 (760) 899-7167. Thank you Felix and New Visions! Honesty is the best policy and I really appreciate you! Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 17

FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Jack Ruvio 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5-9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Dr. Dog and Steady Holiday 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Open Mic w/ Rockin’ Ray 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John Stanley King & Trio 6-9:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 6-9pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Willie Boys 1st Anniversary Celebration w/ Mark Engel 10-12pm, Buck and Bo Road Show 11-3pm, Petting Zoo 2-6pm, Calista Carradine 4-7pm, Gutter Candy 7-11pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Scott Carter 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 John Carey and Friends 6:30pm

MON JUNE 4

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

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AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Meh! Mondays 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5-9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Open Mic 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 T.B.A. 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley’s Jazz Show 6:30-10pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 The Mighty Sweet Nothings 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Motown Mondays 6:30pm

TUE JUNE 5

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bill and Bob Duo 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jessica Taylor 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm

BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Rewind Tuesdayz w/ DJ Richie Rich 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rock Big Blues Jam 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 7-10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co.

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

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760-404-6325

TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 8-12 VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John McCormick and Co. 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm

WED JUNE 6

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 7pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Lucid Wednesday w/ DJ Sugarfree 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Johnny Meza 7-10pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760-343-5973 Live and Local w/ TBA 5:308pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Jack Ruvio 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DRAUGHTSMAN;PS; 760-507-1644 Derek Jordan Gregg 8pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm

THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger & Friends 7pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Local Artist Spotlight 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Wine Down Wednesdays w/ Joe Baldino 4-6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barry Minniefield 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Mikole Kaar 5-8pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 Cinch 6pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Valerie Geason 6:30pm


HADDON LIBBY

T

he National Basketball Association finals are underway for the eighth consecutive year with LeBron James’ team in the finals and his seemingly perennial nemesis, the Golden State Warriors. Team ownership is now a billionaire’s game. Since the rise of the Warriors five years ago, the value of a NBA franchise has jumped three-fold to $1.65 billion. Only seven months ago, restauranteur Tilman Fertitta bought the Houston Rockets for $2.2 billion. Russian oligarch Mikhail Prokhorov is in the process of selling his 49% share of the Brooklyn Nets to Alibaba co-founder Joseph Tsai at a valuation of $2.3 billion. Looking at the rest of the NBA franchises, the New York Knicks are the most valuable team with an astounding $3.6 billion valuation despite years of poor play while the New Orleans Pelicans are the least valuable team at $1 billion. The Los Angeles Lakers are valued at $3.3 billion while the Golden State Warriors are worth $3.1 billion, the Boston Celtics $2.5 billion and the Los Angeles Clippers approximately $2.1 billion. Excluding revenue sharing agreements, the New York Knicks had the highest revenues in the league last year at $426

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

NBA: NATIONAL BILLIONAIRES ASSOCIATION

million while the Milwaukee Bucks had the lowest revenues at $179 million. On average, each NBA team had revenues of nearly $250 million. It is easy to understand why these franchises are worth so much. Besides ticket sales, concessions and merchandise, all teams share in revenues from national broadcast rights and international expansion of the league. The league recently signed a nine year deal with ESPN and TNT worth approximately $24 billion for just the U.S. rights to their games. This means that every team receives approximately $90 million a year. Meanwhile the NBA is growing internationally via NBA Europe and NBA China. Growth in China has far surpassed the best case estimates of league officials as nearly 300 million Chinese now play basketball while over 700 million watch the sport. Despite starting with only three employees in Hong Kong ten years ago, NBA China is now valued at $4 billion or more than $125 million per NBA franchise. As it relates to operations in China, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver says, “Our best days are definitely ahead of us…when additional

Chinese players enter the league…we’re going to have another growth spurt.” While the average NFL franchise value at $2.5 billion is significantly higher than most NBA franchises, sports experts believe that the NBA valuations will match and may surpass NFL valuations over the next decade. Globally, fans seem to be embracing the faster-paced NBA over the rule-heavy NFL with constant play stoppages. Growth has benefitted the players as well. With salaries set at 51% of basketballrelated revenues for each team, the average salary for the 600 players of the NBA last year was $5 million per player. This is the highest average salary for any sports league in the world. For comparison, the average major league baseball salary is $4.4 million while a NFL football player earns $2.1 million. The highest paid NBA player at present is Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors at $34.7 million followed by LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers at $33.3 million. Rounding out the top five are Paul Milsap of the Denver Nuggets at $31.3 million, Gordon Heyward of the Boston Celtics at $29.7 million and Blake Griffin of the Detroit Pistons at $29.5 million.

For comparison, Wilt Chamberlain who is arguably the greatest basketball player ever to play the game, earned $250,000 a year between 1968 and 1973. In current dollars, that would be $1.7 million per year. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. To contact Haddon, email HLibby@WinslowDrake. com. For more information, please visit WinslowDrake.com.

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

WHAT TO DO AFTER A MEMORIAL DAY ACCIDENT?

T

he chances are that you or a friend was involved in an auto accident over the Memorial Day Weekend when more tourists are on the roads. Accident lawyers/victims have a hard time finding a doctor with whom to treat. Many professionals arrange vacation schedules around long holiday weekends, and are out Thursday through Tuesday. Many foolish lawyers don’t answer calls until the next week, thus leaving victims at a loss to find medical treatment. Unfortunately, waiting two weeks to see a doctor hurts your case...a lot. The insurance company later argues “if the victim was really injured they would have treated at the ER, or Urgent Care Centers and not waited days or weeks to see a doctor.” Victims get frustrated when they cannot find a doctor or lawyer and often think they will be ok in a day or two. Many mistakenly talk to the insurance adjuster, not realizing they are damaging their case to the point that many lawyers will not accept their case. I explained this in a previous article “Mr. Gribow, Why Won’t You Accept My Accident Case?” (for a copy please contact me). Victims are often afraid of costs and thus don’t take an ambulance or see a doctor right after the accident. They don’t realize the defendant’s insurance company will pay for these cost. Most drivers have medical payments coverage or Health Insurance that will also cover these costs. It’s a shame that many clients don’t know their policy limits, because the other driver

may not have insurance. If so we present an Uninsured Motorist (UM) claim against our clients own policy...if s/he had UM coverage. A similar scenario occurs when the defendant driver has a minimum $15k policy but the injuries are more serious. Then we look to our clients Underinsured Motorist Provision, collecting $15,000 from the defendant and then collect from the underinsured portion of our driver’s $100,000 policy. We would get $15,000 from the defendant and $85,000 from our client’s policy. All this is tax free money. Medical providers are concerned about getting paid, as are hospitals and urgent care facilities. If the injured party cannot find their policies before they meet with us, they often pay using a credit card, whereas we try to get medical treatment on a lien. Insurance companies love holiday claims because claimants do not see a doctor and they do the wrong things that ultimately reduce the claims value. Sometimes claimants call the insurance company and say things they should not have said. Equally common is the adjuster writing down things they thought they heard the victim say. A victim should use their cell to take pictures of their injuries/cars and take video recordings of witnesses’ statements. In addition they should take pictures of the other driver’s insurance policy and license. Victims don’t know they should see a doctor asap to document injuries, let alone that they should prepare a summary of their injuries. Victims should write down their

symptoms/injuries by starting with the top of their head and moving to the bottom of their toes. Then they should bring that with them to every new doctor to be sure they remember to share every injury with every doctor. A victim should also see a medical provider they have not seen before, because their doctors have records documenting prior injuries, alcohol or drugs issues, psych referrals, SDT’s, abortions etc. These records have nothing to do with the accident so why make it easy for the insurance company to learn all this. During a trial many jurors will incorrectly think less of the victim because of a pre-existing issue. Clients should not post on social media following the accident because we don’t want the insurance company to find posts of clients playing tennis, golf, running in a marathon etc. Clients complain they can’t do anything because of the amount of pain they are encountering yet post pix of playing sports.

Because of the difficulty in getting medical treatment and the mistakes and challenges listed herein, it is harder to maximize the value of an accident case during the holidays. Unfortunately these cases often result in smaller settlements. Thus many lawyers are reluctant to accept these cases. DALE GRIBOW - Attorney at Law “TOP LAWYER” Palm Springs Life -(Accidents/DUI) 2011-19 “TOP LAWYER”- Inland Empire Magazine Nov 2016 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating 73-061 El Paseo, Suite 220 Palm Desert, CA 92260 Office - 760-837-7500 Fax - 760 837-7502 Dale@DaleGribowLaw.com www.dalegribowlaw.com

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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SPORTS SCENE

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hink you’ve had a tough week? I think not, when compared to Roger Goodell. It is a testament to the battered but enduring popularity of the NFL that America’s biggest sports machine somehow seems to roll on like a boulder on a slight incline despite a public relations mess bigger than concussions or the Ray Rice video. The league rolls on despite half of the country thinking its players are unpatriotic ingrates, and despite a Commissioner Who Couldn’t Shoot Straight seeming hapless and helpless to make anything better. Earlier this week Goodell announced a feckless new policy regarding players protesting by sitting or kneeling during the national anthem. It states that players on the field must stand or their teams will be fined, and that those who don’t want to stand must stay in the lockerroom during the anthem, their freedom of expression hidden from view. Things have gotten worse since. If Goodell’s new policy was supposed to be the compromise that brokered peace and satisfied everybody at least a little bit, it has crashed like the Hindenburg. Somewhere, Colin Kaepernick, founder of the protests aimed at shining light on social injustice and racial inequality, must be smiling. Because this new policy has served the opposite of

BREWTALITY

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its purpose, all but guaranteeing anthem protests will be a major NFL storyline for a third straight season. The negative fallout has been a torrent. First, the league’s claim of unanimous owners support for the new policy was grossly misleading. It has come out no formal vote was taken. At least two owners (Raiders, 49ers) abstained from the informal vote. One owner (Jets) already has sad his club will have no “fines, rules or restraints” against players who wish to protest on the field. Other owners including the Dolphins’ Stephen Ross have publicly supported players’ right to protest. So Goodell’s indication of strong owner consensus for the new policy seems a flat lie. Goodell also erred to not involve the NFL Players Association in forming the new policy, when to have done so may have helped prevent the tone-deaf effect of telling protesters (most of whom are African

American) to go hide in another room and not be seen. NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith accuses the NFL of trying to “squash” players’ freedom of speech, and one can envision this escalating into a court case that challenges the ability of leagues and teams to infringe on basic rights in this manner. The new policy also is vague in demanding players on the field “shall stand and show respect for the flag and the anthem.” What if a player stands but with head bowed? Or doesn’t face the flag? Does the NFL wish to be the police state that demands all players stand at attention with hands over hearts? All of this, of course, has been against the backdrop of President Donald Trump, Divider In Chief, doing what he does. It was Trump who last fall inflamed the situation by calling any player who kneels during the anthem a “son of a bitch.” This week, in praising the NFL’s new policy, Trump said, “You have to stand proudly for the national anthem or you shouldn’t be playing, you shouldn’t be there. Maybe you shouldn’t be in the country.” Perhaps it should be no surprise that a president seemingly bent on eroding American institutions (a free press, his own FBI) might be comfortable suggesting as an aside that not standing for the anthem might warrant deportation.

BY FLINT WHEELER It reminds me of those “Love It Or Leave It” bumper stickers against Vietnam War protesters in the late ‘60s. It reminds me of the conservative broadcaster whose recent reaction to LeBron James’ outspoken political views was to tell him to “shut up and dribble.” Broncos’ linebacker Brandon Marshall called Trump’s latest remarks “disgusting.” Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin noted the irony of as U.S. president “contradicting [the freedom] our country is really built on.” As a nod to the good intent of the anthem protests the NFL has committed almost $90 million to social and racial causes. That and raised awareness means the protests spawned in 2016 by Kaepernick have succeeded, though at palpable cost to the league. But if that monetary outlay was a genuine goodwill effort by the NFL, the new policy curtailing protests is the opposite. By trying to make the kneeling protesters go away, shunted out of view, Roger Goodell has assured that the players and their cause will remain out front as a talking point concurrent with the coming season. That isn’t good for the football, but it is good for things more important than football.

I WENT TO A VEGANFEST AND GOT PLANT BASED WASTED

ay back when the Roman Empire was what you were a part of if you lived in Europe, people liked to get drunk. They’d carry little bags of wine or beer around with them in animal skins, usually made from sheep stomachs or something equally hideous that I’d never want to drink my IPA out of. Like a fish bladder. See, the sturgeon is a pretty giant-ass fish; you should see the size of their swim bladders. Well ancient romans did, and someone had the bright idea to dry a fish air-bladder out and fill it with booze. And when this dude sat around with his buddies and shared beer from their skins, everyone noticed that Barry with the sturgeon-bladder bota-bag had super clear beer, while Keyshawn and Brad (Edit: Look people, I don’t know what these dude’s real names were. I mean, I’d like to think that Keyshawn, Brad and Barry were real Romans who figured this stuff out, but we’ll never know fasho, so their names are alleged at this point) with the goat-stomach beer flasks had beer that was still super cloudy (but at least it wasn’t fishy tasting). This was the beginning of beer brewers realizing that isinglass (fish bladder) was something you could clarify beer with. Most modern breweries have now switched over to using Irish moss and carrageenan instead of sturgeon bladders and horse hooves, and Babe’s Brewhouse of Rancho Mirage is one of them. For its fourth year in a row, Babes has represented craft beer from the Coachella Valley at “Eat Drink Vegan,” an

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NFL GETS PROTEST RULE WRONG…

LA festival that celebrates the plant based lifestyle. My relationship with Babe’s (former assistant brewer, current mooch of free beer) allowed me to head out with them for the second year in a row to “Eat Drink Vegan” to get tofu and bean curd wasted. Joining Operations Manager Art Vasquez, Babe’s pastry chef Dominique Medina and her husband Raul, we set out to Pasadena’s Rose Bowl in the wee early hours, armed with a British barrel each of Blackfin Lager and Palm Springs Belgique IPA. We arrived early and secured a spot in our assigned beer tent next to Firestone Walker, who had sent the tallest and lankiest Dutchman I’d ever seen as their representative. I could only pick out one in every three words he spoke (and that’s when everyone was still completely sober), but he shared his offerings of Helles Lager and

Luponic Distortion 009 with us, and both beers were excellent. Noon came around and the VIP entrance to the festival commenced. All kinds of hippies, wooks and soy boys trode through the gates on their cruelty-free Birkenstocks. They were here to chew bubblegum and wear man-buns, and they were all out of bubblegum. It didn’t take long for us to work up an appetite pouring pint after pint of beer from our kegs, and the first plant based food we put in our faces was from Monty’s Good Burger. Using vegan cheese and the “impossible” brand burger patty, Monty’s delivered the goods with a ton of flavor and texture. We’re back to slingin’ beers and quenching all kinds of vegan thirst, when Dominique goes “Hey, Isn’t that Kat Von D?” My eyes scoured the layout, past a sea of green tinted hair and #vegansdoitbetter tee-shirts, but all I could find was a massively pregnant, dark haired woman wearing aviator sunglasses and a black silk muumuu, holding hands with a skinny little 98 lb. fella in a leather jacket. Turns out that was totally Kat Von D and her baby daddy, Rafael Reyes. Art pointed just a few feet away from her, and there was Tony Kanal from No Doubt, hair still bleached blonde like it was 1997, with his wife and two children, enjoying the beautiful and cool day. With celebrity sightings checked off the list, Raul and I left our pouring station and went in search of more beer. We walked over to Yorkshire Square Brewery, and drank “The Jonathan,” a 4.2% AVB

BY AARON RAMSON

English porter served from an old fashioned beer engine that draws beer from a keg like a water pump. We moseyed on to Beachwood Brewing and imbibed “The Fogfather: Part 1,” a juicy, 6.8% AVB New England style IPA. We ambled about to Relentless Brewing Company, and knocked back “Sour Night,” a 6.4% ABV oatmeal stout that had been sour aged in wine barrels. We tottered about until we found First Water Brewing, and chugged their 7.2% ABV “Hazey Sage and Rye.” Raul and I drank vegan beer till the love of carne was wiped from our brains, then we moved onto more food. We ate plant-based nachos from Cena Vegan, meatless hotdogs and loaded tots from Sumo Dog; elote covered in vegetarian mayo and cojita. Eat Drink Vegan is as much about the food and kombucha as it is about the beer and wine. A feeling of peace and fun was in the air, and there was a positive energy that was palpable throughout the day. So that’s it. That’s my veganfest story. I didn’t even drink myself unconscious and get twerked on by hippie chicks like what happened last year. It was really chill, no one got in a fist fight or even had a good drunken cry. Eat Drink Vegan is a very fun, annual event that attracted over 10,000 people to the Rose Bowl this year, and you don’t have to be a hippie, wook, or soy boy to enjoy it.


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MINI PUP PAINTINGS BY CALEB MARIE CRUZ

ART SCENE

BY AVERY WOOD

May 31 to June 6, 2018

AWAKEN WITH LIZZY B

BY ELIZABETH SCARCELLA

“WHAT WE WANT NEVER COMES IN THE WAY WE THINK IT SHOULD.”

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new venture in the Coachella Valley can make you a custom portrait of your fur-babies. Mini Pup Paintings by Caleb Marie Cruz offers small paintings of your pet on easel stands, perfect for putting on a desk or dresser. “I came up with the idea probably about four or five months ago when I made each one of my coworkers a portrait of their dog,” Cruz says. “I work at Paws and Claws Urgent Care, I’m a registered vet tech there, and we had a work meeting one day and I presented that to them.” After receiving the gifts, many of Cruz’s coworkers put the portraits up at work, where they were noticed by clients. Kay, the owner of The Village Pup boarding facility in La Quinta, was among those who asked about portraits. “He basically got me started. He came into my work one day and saw the paintings and just thought they were really cool and we worked out a deal where I made a bunch of them for his clients… I kind of started it from there.” Cruz explains. “I’m getting pictures from people and I’m kind of creating either profiles or stencil-like paintings on mini canvases.” Now, Cruz works with The Village Pup to do portraits for their clients and still receives requests from clients of Paws and Claws Urgent Care, saying “I have a couple paintings in the lobby area… some people that are interested in my work will see what I can do just sitting on the front desk and then they can ask me to paint one of their dogs.” In addition to this, she’s decided to begin actively seeking clients. “I’m going to be going around various small businesses like… more boarding facilities… grooming facilities, and I’m going to have business cards,” she says. “They can email me a picture of their dog so I can kind of get their markings down at least. It doesn’t have to be a perfect picture… and then I can go from there.” Cruz is also open to painting portraits of pets and animals other than dogs. “I can do cats, I can do different types as well… I was thinking about doing even like different species… butterflies or something like that. The canvasses are only about 3X3 and they come with an easel attached to it,” she says. Although Cruz has been painting for a long time, this is her first attempt at creating a business from it. “I’ve been

painting for almost 10 years. A lot of it I just do as gifts for my friends. I’ve always been kind of nervous about getting out there and going to the street fairs and all that. My first painting that I actually sold was at the Benefit for the Homeless about three years ago and my painting was auctioned off at $200,” Cruz says. “I do a lot of colorful paintings… Day of the Dead… I’ve done Tree of Life, things like that,” she notes. For now, Cruz wants to continue doing her Mini Pup Paintings, saying “I think I would just stay simple for now because I think that’s the appeal to the Mini Pup Paintings is that they’re so simple but yet you’re getting an almost cartoon character of your own pet which is really cool. So even if the breed is like a boxer, if the boxer has certain markings that’s what makes it so special.” Cruz is passionate about her new venture, saying “I’m really excited and I can do a lot in a short amount of time.” In addition to giving people a portrait that’s special to them, Cruz is passionate about the process. “It’s really good for me to do, it helps me get out of my head,” she says. To further her business, Cruz hopes to get a booth at one or more of the local street fairs and continue building relationships with local businesses, such as other boarding facilities and grooming shops. In addition, Cruz hopes to build a steady client base as a freelancer. To contact Cruz about doing a Mini Pup Painting, email minipuppaintings@yahoo. com. Prices are $20 each or $15 each when you order 5 or more.

enee Baribeau knows this first hand. An author, wind whistler, soul coach, inspirational speaker and workshop leader; Renee learned thirty years ago that if she wanted her life to flow easily…and not be one catastrophe after another, she must honor and accept Spirit’s guidance. She recognized from a very early age, that her life is purpose driven and that her mission is to always be searching for something more. An early adopter to new concepts and theories, Renee prides herself in her burgeoning pioneer spirit. Raised in New York State by a single mother, Renee broke through gender boundaries and became a “first” in many areas of life. The first in her family to attend college, Renee held an executive role for General Electric in a typically male dominated field. Years later, she followed her dream to become a chef… becoming a pioneer for female culinarians… she opened the first Farm-to-Table concept restaurant in New York 30 years ago! While we were still eating boxed mac and cheese, Renee was sourcing local ingredients and creating avant-garde cuisine. Soon after, Renee sold her restaurants and followed a divine calling urging her to move across the country to the Southwest. With no specific plan in place, just a strong belief in “finding something more”…she settled in Tahoe, California and Taos, New Mexico. It was there that she experienced her first encounter with a “wind god”. Not sure what to make of this “vision”….Renee continued to enjoy her spiritual awakening until she became financially insolvent. Traditionally, a free spirt, Renee finally acquiesced and moved to Palm Desert, California, where she still resides. She had returned to her culinary background, working as a catering manager for the Hyatt. It wasn’t long, before the “wind gods” started pulling on her again. After spending some time at a sweat lodge in Indio, California…she discovered that she was to create the Desert Holistic Network, a first of it’s kind in the Coachella Valley. This network, born in 2005, was one of the only internet based memberships of holistic practitioners. She grew and developed this community based project to 110 paying participants until she ended this project just 3 years ago. Again, the wind gods beckoned her to continue spreading and teaching her followers how to become more grounded and utilize nature as a healing tool. She, and her family and friends, were stunned when she answered a call to become an author. Renee is now a best-selling author. Her book published by Hay House, entitled, Winds of Spirit, is the first of its kind in the category “Wind Based Religions”. You can purchase her book here, www.amazon.com/gp/

product/1401952755. Renee has demonstrated throughout her life that what we want never comes in the way we think it should. She has become masterful at tuning inward and listening for the “call” to awaken to her best self yet! To view an expanded video of my inspirational interview with Renee, head over to my You Tube channel at youtube. com/c/GogetyoungTv. And while you’re there…please subscribe to my Channel so you don’t miss out on more Awakening videos. Finally, if you have chosen to Awaken and have a story to share…please email me at info@gogetyoung.tv. I would love to hear from you! Until then…I hope you choose to Awaken to Your Best Self Yet! Renee Baribeau, AKA, The Practical Shaman, is a soul coach, speaker and author. Dedicating her life to teaching others about Wind Energy and its’ healing properties, she can be found at www.thepracticalshaman. com. Elizabeth Scarcella, author, actor and activist, is dedicated to helping others find health in all aspects of life. A lifestyle counselor and wellness expert, Elizabeth can help you awaken to your best self yet. For more information, find her at info@ gogetyoung.tv.

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

CANNABIS CORNER

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he Lighthouse Dispensary is the first licensed, recreational and medical Cannabis boutique in Coachella, with both a storefront and door-to-door delivery service throughout the desert. Located just three miles away from the Polo Fields, the Lighthouse Dispensary opened to the public right before the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in April 2018 and has been welcomed by festival-goers and local Coachella Valley residents alike. The Lighthouse Dispensary is blazing a new trail in Coachella Valley with the legalization of recreational cannabis in California in January and recently I had a chance to stop by to see what the cannabis craze was all about. My Lighthouse experience began as soon as I walked through the doors into the reception area where I was greeted by a friendly Cannabis consultant who guided me through a seamless check in process. I was impressed with the bright reception area, adorned with succulents and colorful artwork. The General Manager, Jennifer, walked me through a secure door to the retail area, which was bustling with patrons from all over the valley, each personally waited

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LIGHTHOUSE DISPENSARY OPENS IN COACHELLA

on by an enthusiastic Cannabis consultant. Jennifer paused in front of a display case full of cannabis-infused confections (from vendors like Dixie Brand, and Korova) and gave me a complete overview of the various options to help me find the perfect products to meet my enjoyable recreational goals. The Lighthouse provides top-shelf products from fully compliant vendors ranging from flower and concentrates, to cartridges and edibles. With a plethora of options to select from, Jennifer guided me through an amateur-friendly selection process. Using two different jars of Flow Kana premium flower to demonstrate, Jennifer taught me that selecting quality cannabis is similar to selecting fresh produce or flowers at your local supermarket— I was looking for cannabis that has good color and produces an enticing aroma. Though the flower in both jars looked similar to the naked eye, I learned that they were both different strains, Indica and Sativa, which have different effects on the body and result in a wide range of medical benefits. Cannabis Sativas have an uplifting effect, and are considered to produce a social, or daytime high, with added medical benefits in treating migraines, chronic pain and nausea. Cannabis Indicas result in a more relaxing, body-high and are typically used for their calming effects, often used to treat insomnia, anxiety or muscle soreness. For an on-the-go experience, the Lighthouse also offers a wide range of disposable cartridges from wrapped in bold Lichtenstein-inspired graphics by Pure Vape, or delectable

CANNABIS CORNER

chocolate chip cookies from Venice Cookie Co. With so much to learn about, I could easily have been overwhelmed, but I have to say that Jennifer took the time to explain everything, and made my first experience stress free. The Cannabis consultants were just as well-versed in the medical benefits of the dispensary’s offerings. Given that Cannabisbased products have taken the health and wellness industries by storm, I was delighted to see that the Lighthouse offers the premier selection of CBD-based topicals, including bath and beauty products. Jennifer explained that CBD, a cannabis compound that is nonpsychoactive, provides both medical and recreational users relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation and other medical conditions without the feeling of getting high. She introduced me to the cannabis-based health and wellness company, Apothecanna, that has created an accessible line of topicals and skincare products offering everything from muscle soreness relief for exercise enthusiasts to face oils that leave your skin feeling hydrated and dewy. I found myself

BY STEPHANIE GREENE

intrigued by the OM Body medicated bath salts in invigorating scents like lavender and rose-geranium to soothe the mind and relax the body. Not to mention, the packaging is fashionable and worthy of any high-end department store shelf. Thoroughly impressed and fully educated, I felt compelled to sign up for the Lighthouse V.I.P. Membership Rewards program which includes 10% off of the first purchase, 5% off of all on-going purchases, and an additional 5% off of daily deals. I also learned about special days like Topical Tuesdays and discounts on pre-packaged flower on Flower Fridays. Beyond daily deals, the Lighthouse Dispensary has a full calendar of monthly specials, in-store pop-ups ups and events, and special guest-appearances. And next up is the official Lighthouse Grand Opening Party on June 8th, 2018 complete with special promotions, music, food and special guest appearances throughout the weekend. Take my advice and head out to The Lighthouse Dispensary, which is certainly living up to its name by shining the light on all things Cannabis!

BY CRAIG MICHAELS

CVCAN TO HOST MONTHLY DINNERS AT DIFFERENT LOCATION EACH MONTH

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he Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network (CVCAN) which was originally called the Desert Hot Springs Cannabis Alliance Network (DHSCAN) has grown like a weed (pun intended.) Desert Hot Springs was the first city in the desert to embrace the cannabis industry. Cannabis related businesses quickly spouted and so did the need for representation. The DHSCAN was Founded in 2015 by Jason Elsasser, Brent Buhrman and Adrian Seldin. Last year in an effort to accommodate the growing industry and the cities who are now cannabis friendly, they decided to change the name to Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance

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Network. Members of the CVCAN have opportunities to gain exposure throughout the year at various events produced by the group. They have annual conventions at the Miracle Springs Resort where members can buy booth space to exhibit their products and services. There are also monthly dinners for both members and non-members. In the past, the monthly dinners which happen on the first Monday of each month, have been held at Miracle Springs Resort in DHS. These monthly receptions give members an opportunity to network with other cannabis industry professionals and local city

officials who support their industry. These networking dinners are free for members but non-members are welcome too. If you’re interested in attending a Monday night dinner the price is $29.99. You can attend once as a non-member to see if the group is the right fit for your business. Since the CVCAN has grown (no pun intended) the network has decided to move the monthly dinners around to different venues throughout the Coachella Valley in order to better serve all regions of the valley. The next mixer which is Monday June 4th is scheduled for Bonta Restaurant at 68510 E Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City. Registration/ networking begins at 5:30pm with the buffet opening at 6:00pm. The monthly dinners are about more than just having a nice meal with industry peers. There are also sponsorship opportunities at the meetings and guest speakers who give industry insight about the cannabis businesses. The May dinner saw 82 attendees, including DHS Mayor Scott Matas, Dave Brown running for Riverside county sheriff, and Andrew Kotyuk running for the 42nd district of the California state assembly, all of whom spoke on the cannabis industry and in support of CVCAN. The June dinner

will feature speaker Pat Milos, the Cathedral City Community Development director who will be joined by other city officials. Freevolt Energy and @work Personal Services will also be giving presentations on their companies with a Q & A to follow. If you would like more information about CVCAN membership or the monthly mixers you can go to their web site coachellavalleycan.org or call them at (760) 218-5447. Written by: Craig Michaels Productions (760) 880-3848


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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of May 31

ARIES (March 21-April 19): A critic described Leonardo da Vinci’s painting the Mona Lisa as “the most visited, most written about, most sung about, most parodied work of art in the world.” It hasn’t been sold recently, but is estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Today it’s kept in the world-renowned Louvre museum in Paris, where it’s viewed by millions of art-lovers. But for years after its creator’s death, it enjoyed little fanfare while hanging in the bathroom of the French King Francois. I’d love to see a similar evolution in your own efforts, Aries: a rise from humble placement and modest appreciation to a more interesting fate and greater approval. The astrological omens suggest that you have more power than usual to make this happen in the coming weeks and months. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): These days, many films use CGI, computer generated imagery. The technology is sophisticated and efficient. But in the early days of its use, producing such realistic fantasies was painstaking and time-intensive. For example, Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film Jurassic Park featured four minutes of CGI that required a year to create. I hope that in the coming weeks, you will summon equivalent levels of old-school tenacity and persistence and attention to detail as you devote yourself to a valuable task that you love. Your passion needs an infusion of discipline. Don’t be shy about grunting. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): On February 17, 1869, Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleyev had an appointment with a local cheese-making company to provide his expert consultation. But he never made it. A blast of inspiration overtook him soon after he awoke, and he stayed home to tend to the blessed intrusion. He spent that day as well as the next two perfecting his vision of the periodic table of the elements, which he had researched and thought about for a long time. Science was forever transformed by Mendeleyev’s breakthrough. I doubt your epiphanies in the coming weeks will have a similar power to remake the whole world, Gemini. But they could very well remake your world. When they arrive, honor them. Feed them. Give them enough room to show you everything they’ve got. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ninety-five percent of your fears have little or no objective validity. Some are delusions generated by the neurotic parts of your imagination. Others are delusions you’ve absorbed from the neurotic spew of other people’s imaginations. What I’ve just told you is both bad news and good news. On the one hand, it’s a damn shame you feel so much irrational and unfounded anxiety. On the other hand, hearing my assertion that so much of it is irrational and unfounded might mobilize you to free yourself from its grip. I’m pleased to inform you that the coming weeks will be an excellent time to wage a campaign to do just that. June can and should be Fighting for Your Freedom from Fear Month. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): During the next four weeks, I’ll celebrate if you search for and locate experiences that will heal the part of your heart that’s still a bit broken. My sleep at night will be extra deep and my dreams extra sweet if I know you’re drumming up practical support for your feisty ideals. I’ll literally jump for joy if you hunt down new teachings that will ultimately ensure you start making a daring dream come true in 2019. And my soul will soar if you gravitate toward the mind-expanding kind of hedonism rather than the mind-shrinking variety. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Everyone has a unique fate that’s interesting enough to write a book about. Each of us has at least one epic story to tell that would make people cry and laugh and adjust their thoughts about the meaning of life. What would your saga be like? Think about what’s unfolding right now, because I bet that would be a ripe place to start your meditations. The core themes of your destiny are currently on vivid display, with new plot twists taking your drama in novel directions. Want to get started? Compose the first two sentences of your memoir. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Dear Oracle: I find myself in the weird position of trying to decide

© Copyright 2018 Rob Brezsny

between doing the good thing and doing the right thing. If I opt to emphasize sympathy and kindness, I may look like an eager-to-please wimp with shaky principles. But if I push hard for justice and truth, I may seem rude and insensitive. Why is it so challenging to have integrity? - Vexed Libra.” Dear Libra: My advice is to avoid the all-or-nothing approach. Be willing to be half-good and half-right. Sometimes the highest forms of integrity require you to accept imperfect solutions. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You have waited long enough to retaliate against your adversaries. It’s high time to stop simmering with frustration and resentment. Take direct action! I suggest you arrange to have a box of elephant poop shipped to their addresses. You can order it here: tinyurl. com/ElephantManure. JUST KIDDING! I misled you with the preceding statements. It would in fact be a mistake for you to express such vulgar revenge. Here’s the truth: Now is an excellent time to seek retribution against those who have opposed you, but the best ways to do that would be by proving them wrong, surpassing their accomplishments, and totally forgiving them. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Marketing experts say that motivating a person to say yes to a big question is more likely if you first build momentum by asking them smaller questions to which it’s easy to say yes. I encourage you to adopt this slant for your own purposes in the coming weeks. It’s prime time to extend invitations and make requests that you’ve been waiting for the right moment to risk. People whom you need on your side will, I suspect, be more receptive than usual -- and with good reasons -- but you may still have to be smoothly strategic in your approach. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I bet you’ll be offered at least one valuable gift, and possibly more. But I’m concerned that you may not recognize them for their true nature. So I’ve created an exercise to enhance your ability to identify and claim these gifts-in-disguise. Please ruminate on the following concepts: 1. a pain that can heal; 2. a shadow that illuminates; 3. an unknown or anonymous ally; 4. a secret that nurtures intimacy; 5. a power akin to underground lightning; 6. an invigorating boost disguised as tough love. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When I was a kid attending elementary schools in the American Midwest, recess was a core part of my educational experience. For 45 minutes each day, we were excused from our studies so we could indulge in freeform play -- outdoors, if the weather was nice, or else in the gymnasium. But in recent years, schools in the U.S. have shrunk the time allotted for recess. Many schools have eliminated it altogether. Don’t they understand this is harmful to the social, emotional, and physical health of their students? In any case, Aquarius, I hope you move in the opposite direction during the coming weeks. You need more than your usual quota of time away from the grind. More fun and games, please! More messing around and merriment! More recess! PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): For many years, actor Mel Blanc provided the voice for Bugs Bunny, a cartoon character who regularly chowed down on raw carrots. But Blanc himself did not like raw carrots. In a related matter, actor John Wayne, who pretended to be a cowboy and horseman in many movies, did not like horses. And according to his leading ladies, charismatic macho film hunk Harrison Ford is not even close to being an expert kisser. What about you, Pisces? Is your public image in alignment with your true self? If there are discrepancies, the coming weeks will be an excellent time to make corrections. Homework: Each of us has a secret ignorance. Can you guess what yours is? What could you do about it? Freewillastrology.com. ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

May 31 to June 6, 2018

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

OPEN DOORS

“When one door closes, another door opens, but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” – Alexander Graham Bell hy do we spend so much time or thought on closed doors? Wondering what may have happened. Spinning your thoughts around something you cannot change or control. I’m grateful many years ago I accepted and learned not to dwell on closed doors. Even when all may be moving along smoothly don’t think that door cannot close. On a personal note, I recall fighting tooth and nail relocating to California from Arizona almost a decade ago. I’d built an entire life in Arizona, eleven years, and was under duress to move back to California. I was so upset about moving that I never gave thought about the potential possibilities that may be ahead for myself and my daughters. Little did I know I had an entire life full of beautiful surprises ahead of me. Often we get entangled about what we’re leaving behind rather than looking at what is on the horizon. So many years ago when adopting a yoga practice following physical therapy from a foot injury, I’d never would have imagined opening the doors to my own yoga studio. A seed was planted that I never imagined would blossom into a business that would help others as well as support my family.

BY BRONWYN ISON

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Now, when a door closes I wait patiently with excitement as to what door will open next. I’ve concluded any door that closes is meant to be closed. Someone may walk into your life and walk right out. You may be let go from job but another fabulous opportunity arises professionally. You may lose a great employee but another person comes along that has twice the experience. I’m a believer that all doors that close are meant to be closed. You may be surprised at the many thousands of open doors that await you. Be open, receptive, pay attention, be diligent and keep your eyes and heart open to all that awaits you. Incredible plans unbeknownst to you are waiting… be ready for greatness! Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga & BronwynIson.com 760-567-6716

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May 31 to June 6, 2018

ASK THE DOCTOR

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DR PETER KADILE

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

HICCUPS & HALITOSIS

Dr. Kadile, I frequently will have hiccups after drinking beer but not wine. The hiccups will usually last until I sleep them off and be gone by the morning. What exactly causes hiccups and is there a faster way to get rid of them? - John, La Quinta John, hiccups are caused by involuntary spasm of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and is responsible for respiration. Why hiccups actually occur and why certain people are more prone to them is unknown, but the condition has been associated with: • eating hot food • eating too much • eating spicy food • drinking carbonated beverages • drinking alcohol • heartburn or acid reflux • certain meds for pain and sedation • increased stress, excitement or anxiety There is no known 100% effective cure for hiccups, but several remedies are popular and may work, such as holding your breath or getting scared. When you hold your breath, your body retains carbon dioxide and causes your brain to focus on improving oxygen supply relieving the diaphragm spasm. Getting scared may restart your breathing pattern, thus relieving the hiccups. Other possible solutions: • slowly drink ice cold water • gargle with very cold water • bite a lemon • swallow a teaspoon of sugar • breathe into a paper bag Hiccups will generally go away on their on in less than two days, but if they persist any longer, then you should see your doctor for further evaluation since they can be associated with some serious medical conditions. There are prescription medications that may help, but in my experience these medications rarely work. Dr. Kadile, I’m always worried that I have bad breath. What is the best type of gum to prevent this? - Victor, Desert Hot Springs Victor, several preventive measures should be taken before using gum for bad breath (halitosis). A variety of things, including diet, medication, lifestyle and poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing will help prevent bad breath. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Obviously be aware that certain foods such as onions, garlic and curry can contribute to bad breath, Keep your mouth moist by drinking a lot of water. Add to the already long list of why smoking is bad because that disgusting habit obviously causes bad breath. Gum and breath mints were always thought to just mask a person’s bad breath, but a recent study funded by Wrigley, showed that certain flavored gum may actually eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath. Several plant essential oils kill the germs that cause cavities and bad breath. Some germs in the mouth produce hydrogen sulfite, which has a bad odor. The study found that unflavored gum had no effect. Chewing Big Red, decreased the odor causing germs by 50%, because the gum contains cinnamon oil, a known germ killer. Chewing a different flavor of gum, other than cinnamon, resulted in a 42% reduction

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in hydrogen-sulfite-emitting germs, probably because the different flavors used different types of plant essential oils. So Victor, go for the cinnamon flavored gum. Dr. Peter, I know I should avoid garlic or onions to prevent bad breath, but are there any foods I can eat to help reduce bad breath? - Julie, Palm Springs Julie, chewing on parsley or mint can prevent bad breath. Other herbs such as coriander, spearmint, tarragon, eucalyptus and rosemary are beneficial halitosis fighters. Yogurt with live cultures reduce odor causing bacteria in your mouth. Fiber rich fruits and vegetables such as, apples, carrots and celery increase saliva production which decreases halitosis. Vitamin C rich foods like berries and citrus fruits create an oral environment that limits bacteria growth, thus reducing bad breath.

LIFE & CAREER COACH BY SUNNY SIMON

WHEN YOU JUST DON’T FEEL LIKE ATTACKING A PROJECT

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esterday procrastination bit me big time. I dreaded starting a particular project. It wasn’t a distasteful task, I just felt rebellious about beginning. Cleaning the grill, scrubbing down the shower tiles, even sewing on a missing button (oh how I hate sewing) sounded more appealing. How do you solve a case of the blahs about a particular undertaking? At a loss I turned to my friend Google for an answer. When all else fails, ask the experts. There must be 365 ways to beat procrastination, right? Diving into my research I spied an appealing approach. Number three on the author’s list of 11 was, “Jump right in, no matter what.” That may sound counterintuitive when you’re procrastinating, but I promised myself if I made one small step on the project I would let myself off the hook for at least 20 minutes. Done. Although I struggled, I managed to compose the first paragraph of a guest blog I was asked to contribute to a friend’s website. Returning to my research I noticed another tidbit that resonated. “Work in the right environment.” Interesting, I was in my office, an ideal setting for writing however, the overtones of the ballgame my husband was watching filtered through the house. To top it off, my man cannot watch a game without shouting out advice to the batter or berating the umpire over a rotten call. Packing up my laptop I reconvened

to the patio. Worked for awhile until I was distracted by a couple of bunnies playing tag. Completing two paragraphs obviously wasn’t progress, so with a sense of urgency I returned to the drawing board. Another expert suggested I take a break to complete another more palatable item on my to-do list. The premise being accomplishing something would provide the momentum needed to work in earnest on the original task. Having the ideal just the job in mind, I returned to the house and slowly folded a large load of laundry. Relaxing into the task I allowed my mind to get creative about the message I wanted to convey in the blog. I poured myself a glass of lemonade, returned to the patio and spent the next 30 minutes polishing off the blog. My take-away from the bout with procrastination is two-fold. Number one, forgive yourself. We all slip up and succumb to dragging our feet on a project. Number two, let procrastination work for you. If I hadn’t taken a break, my laundry would still be in a large pile. Seems to me there is never one cure all, so next time procrastination gets the better of you, start the task, change your environment, take a break and then get the job done. It worked for me. Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com.


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May 31 to June 6, 2018

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