Coachella Valley Weekly - June 30 to July 6, 2016 Vol. 5 No. 15

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coachellavalleyweekly.com • June 30 to July 6, 2016 Vol. 5 No. 15

PS ShortFest Winners

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Brian Regan

pg 8

Chase Huna

pg 8

Bri Cherry

pg 9

The Block

pg 16

June 30 to July 6, 2016

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Coachella Valley Weekly

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

June 30 to July 6, 2016

GET READY TO SUIT UP FOR THE FIRST EVER COMIC CON PALM SPRINGS AUGUST 26-28, 2016

BY TRACY DIETLIN

COVER PHOTO BY ERROL COLANDRO (EL3 PRODUCTIONS)

760.501.6228

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

CONTENTS Comic Con Palm Springs..........................3 July 4th Events..........................................5 PS ShortFest Winners...............................6 PS ShortFest Wrap Up..............................7 PS ShortFest Filmmakers Spotlight: "Sorry" by Sinisa Dragin...........................7 Comedy - Brian Regan..............................8 Backstage Jazz - Chase Huna...................8 Bri Cherry & The Boys...............................9 Consider This - The Monkees.................10 Art Scene - Linda Sibio...........................11 Pet Place..................................................12 The Vino Voice ........................................13 Club Crawler Nightlife............................14 Good Gub - The Block.............................16 Screeners ................................................18 Book Review............................................19 Free Tram Rides For Armed Forces .......19 Haddon Libby.........................................21 Dale Gribow............................................21 Safety Tips...............................................22 Health & Fitness......................................22 Sports Scene...........................................22 Free Will Astrology.................................23 Mind, Body & Spirit ................................23 Beauty with Dr. Maria Lombardo..........24 Life & Career Coach ................................24

Photo By Errol Colandro

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et ready to suit up Coachella Valley because the first ever Comic Con Palm Springs is just around the corner. Tickets are available now for all of the other events except the VIP Stan Lee dinner which has already SOLD OUT!! While the desert has many other large festivals and events that drive tourists to the desert, Comic Con Palm Springs promises to become one of the top annual events that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year.

Founder Christopher Spellman is pulling out all the stops for this first offering. When I first met Spellman back in February, I knew right away that he was focused and driven enough to put together something special and large-scale, I just didn’t realize how spectacular it would become in such a short time.

I say a short time, however, Spellman says he’s been planning this Comic Con for about 5 years. “I always knew I wanted to do it in Palm Springs,” he said. “Other places had come up, but here just made sense.”

Spellman is quite humble when asked if he is the owner, producer and founder of this event. “Well originally I had a couple partners way back, but they aren’t involved anymore so yes, it is just me, but because of this amazing team I have and all the love and support I’ve been shown here I like to refer to it as a group effort.”

I asked Spellman if he’s always been a comic book enthusiast. He replied, “I’m a major pop culture enthusiast. All my super heroes came from movies and TV shows. In 1977, “Superman” was a great movie to me, back when they made real motion pictures.

But before that there was a TV show called “The Electric Company” and one of the vignettes was Spider-Man. So my brother and I would always tune in to watch the live action Spider-Man segments. And also the “Kroft Super Show” and “The 6 Million Dollar Man,” shows where people had super powers.

The 70’s had a huge pop culture influence on me. I remember watching the Adam West “Batman” series in reruns.”

While there are so many exciting events that will take place during this Comic Con including: Symphony Pop Live with Lisa Harriton (Smashing Pumpkins), The Geek Film Festival, Virtual Reality Lounge, Geek Speed Dating, BB’s Costume Party, Zombie Escape Room, Zombie Walk, Guest Speaker Panels, Live Podcasts and much more, when I asked Spellman what he was most excited about he replied: “I’m really excited about the screening of the “Star Trek: Beyond” film that will take place at Pickford. First of all it is the 50th Anniversary of Star Trek period. Why it’s not in everyone’s face and on pizza boxes I don’t know. (laughing). That’s why I’m trying to do

Kellie Gerardi

Stan Lee

something special for it at this Comic Con and make it a real experience for those attending.”

The Mary Pickford Theatre reached out to Spellman about partnering with him as the movie will be shown on a brand new screen called the Barco’s Escape screen, which is a multi-screen, panoramic movie format that offers the ultimate immersive cinema experience. There are only 12 of these screens in the country and during the special screening there will be an additional 20 minutes of footage not seen in the original theatrical cut.

Spellman then reached out to Kellie Gerardi, who is one of the Mars 100, which means she has been selected as one of the people to go to and colonize Mars sometime in 2026, meaning a one-way ticket to another planet; basically a real-life Star Trek experience by taking the next step into the final frontier of space exploration.

“I wrote to Kellie and asked if she was a Star Trek fan and she said ‘yes, I’m a fanatic.’ So I told her I really wanted her to be involved in Comic Con and I asked her if she would come and host my Star Trek Experience,” shared an excited Spellman. “And she said ‘yes’. So she is going to do a 30 minute science fiction panel, with Q&A, before the screening of the movie. And the theatre is stepping up their adult beverages with a new line and for that continue to page 5

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

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COMIC CON PALM SPRINGS continued from page 3 event will be rebranding them with names like Romulan Ale, Federation this and Klingon that. So now it’s turning into something really special and an actual “experience” for Science fiction lovers.”

Spellman says that he is trying to be conservative with his numbers the first year out. He wants to build a solid foundation and offer a well-produced event where everyone who buys a ticket, even if it’s not a VIP, still has a “great experience”.

Andrew Neiderman

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All of the top tier VIP tickets are sold out, but Spellman says they will be doing an add on for the ultimate Stan Lee collector with an uber package that will include a lot of special one of a kind items, signings, and the potential to hang out with Stan Lee at his booth on Sunday.

Spellman says that Stan Lee announced this year at the Comic Con in New York that this was probably going to be his last year of doing the events. So this might be your last chance to see him right here at home. “This is the first time Stan has appeared at a first year Comic Con,” shared Spellman proudly.

During our interview, Spellman gave me an exclusive bit of news that just came through. As part of one of his industry panels with movie directors, writers and producers, Andrew Neiderman has been added to the panel. For those of you that don’t know, Neiderman took over for author VC Andrews, who was a famous writer of vampire novels, when she passed away about 25 years ago.

He also penned the movie “Devil’s Advocate” with Al Pacino and Keanu Reeves.

“For those familiar with V.C. Andrews and her vampire series you know she’s huge and he took over for her and having him here is

really exciting,” said Spellman.

I asked Spellman what inspired him to do a Comic Con in the first place.

“Being around Comic Con’s for the last 8 years and seeing that there was an explosion of this culture made it easy to make the creative and business decision to produce one myself,” he went on to say, “How tremendous it’s been to be involved with the best people in the city, to have been woven into the fabric of

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Summer event on July 2 is $10; $5 for kids 12 and under. Tickets are available for purchase on the Spa Resort Casino website at www. sparesortcasino.com or in person at the Paradise Rewards Club.

4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS & POWER BASEBALL GAME, JULY 4 Come celebrate Independence Day in Palm Springs at the City’s much loved “All American Fourth of July” Fireworks Spectacular, Pool Party and Power Baseball Extravaganza on Monday, July 4.

That’s right, to keep cool hop in the pool at Palm Springs Swim Center, 405 S. Pavilion Way. The pool party, featuring music, games and a large inflatable slide, starts at 2 p.m. until the fireworks conclude. Enjoy the fireworks show while relaxing in the pool!

Admission is $2 for children and $6 for adults.

Due to the fireworks fallout zone, parking for the pool party will be located in the parking lot off Ramon Road.

Don’t feel like swimming, residents can also head over to Sunrise Park for a picnic and then over to adjacent Palm Springs Stadium, 1901 E. Baristo Road to watch the Power take on Southern Nevada at 6:05 p.m. followed

the valley and to have gotten the appreciation and support from all of the right people and how we want to grow this event worthy of the reputation of Palm Springs.”

If you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, check out the coupon below for your CV Weekly discount. CV Weekly is proud to be a Title Sponsor of Comic Con Palm Springs. For updated info go to: www. comicconpalmsprings.com.

EVENTS

4TH OF JULY EVENTS IN PALM SPRINGS

his holiday weekend, enjoy all summer has to offer by lounging poolside in Palm Springs while watching the fireworks display or checkout the sand sculptors at the Spa Resort Casino’s beachside paradise. Every Thursday: Villagefest downtown Palm Springs, June 30 Spend the evening strolling down Palm Springs most famous street, Palm Canyon Drive as hundreds of vendors from around the region showcase one-of-a-kind goods ranging from fashion apparel to art galleries to home furnishings in downtown and the uptown design district. Villagefest hours are 7:00pm-10:00pm. www.villagefest.org DIVE-IN MOVIE AT WET ‘N’ WILD WATER PARK, JULY 1 With the purchase of the day’s admission, you can play during the day and stay late to enjoy Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pool side. Movie starts after dusk. Filled with 18 intense water rides and attractions, Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs is a 21-acre oasis that offers families hours of fun. Dive-in Movies at Wet ‘n’ Wild are every Friday in July. www. wetnwildpalmsprings.com SANDSATIONAL SUMMER AT SPA RESORT CASINO, JULY 2 On July 2, the world just steps outside the Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs will be transformed into a beachside paradise from 1-6 p.m. with food vendors, bar service, a live band, kid friendly attractions, shaded spots with misters, and the debut of a spectacular Sandscapes sculpture sure to inspire awe that will take three days to build.

Champion sculptors from Sandscapes will be at work building a large sand sculpture outside Spa Resort Casino during the three days leading up to the Sandsational Summer event. General admission to the Sandsational

June 30 to July 6, 2016

by patriotic fireworks at 9:15 p.m. FREE admission for the fireworks show begins at 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs and sit on the field.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION AND FIREWORKS VIEWING, JULY 4 AIDS Assistance Program is hosting a fundraising event at the Historic O’Donnell house in Palm Springs where attendees will celebrate the annual holiday by watching the City of Palm Springs fireworks and enjoy delicious hor d’oeuvres. The cost to attend is $125. More information about this event is available at aidsassistance.org/events.

For a complete list of upcoming events, go to the official Palm Springs visitor website, www.visitpalmsprings.com AGUA CALIENTE CASINO: CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH US! Join us for our second annual Fireworks Spectacular at AguaCaliente!

Synchronized music and fireworks to help you celebrate Independence Day the right way!

The south lot will be open for all guests, and admission is free! So bring your chairs and blankets, or park your vehicle in the parking

lot and tailgate it! Beverages and snacks will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Can’t make the show? KMIR News will be broadcasting the whole event live!

After the show, bring the celebration inside for your chance to win $1,000 CASH with our 4th of July Hot Seat Giveaway! Just play slots from 9:30-12am. If your card is in, you could win! One lucky winner every 15 minutes!

JW MARRIOTT DESERT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA For last-minute Fourth of July plans, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is offering three days of family-friendly activities and treats. From Tie Dye-DIY to bird talks with the resident feathered friends, there’s plenty to do without leaving the property. Below are a few additional holiday highlights – Dive-in” movie nights (July 2 and 3) by the pool, featuring “Zootopia” and “Kung Fu Panda,” accompanied by ice cream popsicles Boat Dock Delighter (July 2 and 3) Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream and S’mores are prepared at the resort’s gondola boat dock Tie Dye DIY (July 2) – swirl your favorite colors for a one of a king t-shirt design Morning Bird Talks (July 2, 3, 4) – visit the resort’s resident exotic birds and participate in a bird talk led by professional Fourth of July Fireworks Show (July 4) against a dramatic backdrop of towering palm trees and the Santa Rosa mountains Guests can also enjoy five spacious pools, gourmet meals prepared fresh with Coachella Valley produce, two championship golf courses, private tennis lessons, R&R at the Spa at Desert Springs, and much more.

Room rates start at $249. For more info call (760) 341-2211.

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

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2016 PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL SHORTFEST ANNOUNCES FESTIVAL WINNERS

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he 2016 Palm Springs International ShortFest, the largest short film festival and only short film market in North America, announced its Festival award winners on Sunday, June 26, 2016. 327 short films screened throughout the Festival along with more than 4,100 filmmaker submissions available in the film market. More than $115,000 in prizes, including $20,000 in cash awards were awarded in 21 categories.

“A common thread of immigration and compassion dominates our award winning films this year – echoing current issues around the world,” said Festival Director Helen du Toit. “After a stimulating and energizing week of storytelling and networking between the next generation of filmmakers, we leave with a sense of hope for a world that, despite some setbacks, does seem to be evolving slowly but surely.”

The 2016 Palm Springs International ShortFest award winners are: JURY AWARDS Jury Awards and awards in the non-student and student competition categories were selected

by ShortFest jury members David Ansen, Jeremy Boxer, Zorianna Kit (Huffington Post), Molly Parker (actress, House of Cards), Rachel Samuels (Condé Nast) and Alison Willmore (BuzzFeed).

BEST OF FESTIVAL AWARD – Winner received $5,000 cash prize courtesy of the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Final Cut Pro X courtesy of Apple. The winner of this award may be eligible to submit their film to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for Oscar® consideration.

Home (Kosovo), Daniel Mulloly A young, happy family seems to be going on holiday but is instead on a journey similar to millions of others in this speculative and provocative film.

Jury Statement: “The winner of the Best of the Fest Award goes to a film that devastated the jury with its portrayal of a family escaping danger.

This surprising and incredibly powerful film deftly elicits not just our compassion, but more importantly, our empathy.”

GRAND JURY AWARD – Winner received a $2,000 cash prize.

Minh Tâm (France), Vincent Maury At the age of 33, Minh Tâm has given up on love. Devoted to the education of her autistic son, overwhelmed by a domineering mother, she uses men just to escape briefly from daily life. Until the day she meets Olivier, who causes her to question her certainties.

Jury Statement: “For its honest, haunting and subtly devastating depiction of an emotionally damaged woman struggling to reconnect her body and her soul.”

PANAVISION BEST NORTH AMERICAN SHORT – The use of a camera package valued at $60,000 courtesy of Panavision.

La Laguna (Mexico), Aaron Schock Deep in the rainforest of southern Mexico, a young Mayan boy lives a life of freedom and joy until confronted by family problems and the realities of growing up that might push him out into the world.

Jury Statement: “This film really took the Jury on a gorgeous journey into another world. It is so beautifully photographed and edited, and shows an impressive level of intimacy with its subjects. It

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felt like a Terrence Malick film- to have this much aesthetic control in a documentary situation is truly impressive.”

FUTURE FILMMAKER AWARD – Winner received a $2,000 cash prize.

Limbo (Greece), Konstantina Kotzamani The leopard shall lie down with the goat. The wolves shall live with the lambs. And the young boy will lead them.

Jury Statement: “This haunting film displays a level of mastery in terms of directing that feels truly visionary. Every frame is exquisitely composed, and also perfectly expresses the film’s tone of deep mystery and otherworldliness.”

NON-STUDENT COMPETITION AWARDS All first place winners in the non-student categories received a cash award of $2,000. First place winners in the non-student Animation and Live Action categories may be eligible to submit their film to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for Oscar® consideration.

BEST AnimatED short Glove (US), Alexa Lim Haas & Bernardo Britto An astronaut loses a glove in space and contemplates where it will go.

Jury Statement: “In five deceptively simple minutes, this animated film takes us from a factory in Delaware to the farthest reaches of space, transforming a real event into a delightfully speculative meditation on our place in the universe.”

BEST Live Action short over 15 minutes Bon Voyage (Switzerland), Marc Wilkins A couple’s compassion is put to the test when they come across a sinking ship of refugees while on a pleasure trip across the Mediterranean.

Jury Statement: “A superbly directed thriller that explores the current dilemma of the refugee crisis. The film challenges the audience at every turn, implicating the viewer asking them to think what would they do if faced with the same situation.”

BEST Live Action short 15 MINUTES AND UNDER Filip (Sweden), Nathalie Álvarez Mesén A naturalistic story about a young boy and his older brother. Both are on journeys of selfdiscovery and revelation.

Jury Statement: “We loved the intimacy, sensitivity and delicacy of this family portrait, and were impressed by the nuanced performance of the young star; and we felt truly immersed in his point of view.”

BEST Documentary short Clínica de Migrantes: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness(US), Maxim Pozdorovkin Everyday, Puentes de Salud, a volunteer-run clinic in South Philadelphia, serves the uninsured Latino immigrants of the community. A moving and human examination of immigration and health care in America today.

Jury Statement: “For its immensely empathetic and measured approach to capturing

PS SHORTFEST

• HOME RECEIVES BEST OF THE FESTIVAL AWARD • LA LAGUNA, LIMBO & MINH TÂM RECEIVES TOP JURY AWARDS • THE CHOP, PHIL’S CAMINO AND TAKING FLIGHT RECEIVE AUDIENCE AWARDS the workings of a volunteer-run clinic servicing the uninsured and undocumented in Philadelphia.

It’s a film that’s both urgent in its timeliness and warmly human in its approach to the doctors and patients it follows.”

STUDENT COMPETITION AWARDS All first place winners in these categories received a $500 cash prize.

BEST STUDENT ANIMATION Mr. Madila (UK), Rory Waudby-Tolley This hilarious and creative gem of an animated documentary brings to life interviews with a highly opinionated spiritual healer. Not content with talking about his craft, he also has plenty to say about filmmaking.

Jury Statement: “We loved this highly inventive and imaginative film. We were completely drawn into Mr Madila’s hilarious and wild world.”

BEST STUDENT Live Action short over 15 minutes Peacock (Czech Republic), Ondrej Hudecek A twisted gay romance set in 19th-century Bohemia tells the true story of the birth of one of the nation’s most influential writers. Suspense, laughter, violence, hope, heart, nudity, sex and a mostly happy ending.

Jury Statement: “For its incredible style, visual élan, and droll sense of humor in telling the strange, funny, and true story of the early days of famous Czech writer. We had trouble believing that this was a student film, but we have no trouble at all believing that Ondrej Hudecek is the successor to Wes Anderson.”

BEST STUDENT Live Action short 15 MINUTES AND UNDER Gabber Lover (France), Anna CazenaveCambet Laurie doubles on the back of Mila’s motorbike to a lake where they dance with abandon. Her gaze harbors longing but will the friendship sustain this transition?

Jury Statement: ““Energetic and stylish, this film examines the fear and courage implicit in a proclamation of new love. The jury was stuck by this films pacing and use of color and music.

Clearly, this student is a filmmaker to watch” BEST STUDENT DOCUMENTARY short I, Destini (US), Nicholas Pilarski & Destini Riley In an animated diary, Destini Riley reflects on her life in Durham, N.C., a city divided by class and race. For Destini, whose brother is in prison, the carceral environment is difficult to escape.

Jury Statement: “This urgently timely story of incarceration and its effects on a family employs a spare animation style and an eloquent metaphor to transform a deeply personal tale into a cinematic language that speaks to us all.”

JURY SPECIAL MENTIONS Thunder Road (US), Jim Cummings Jimmy Arnaud eulogizes his mother.

Jury Statement: “The jury would also like to give a special mention to a film that in one breathtaking, surprising and hilarious take revealed the extraordinary talent of its writer director and star, Jim Cummings, a filmmaker and actor we are sure we’ll be seeing much more of.”

People of the Delta (Ethiopia), Joseph Lawrence In Ethiopia’s Lower Omo Valley, a young man comes of age in a harsh time.

Jury Statement: “Beautifully shot with a dual storyline that intersects, the film is made all the

more poignant by having real tribesmen, not actors, taking the viewer through this fictional narrative.”

AUDIENCE AWARDS The Chop (UK), Lewis Rose In this “kosher comedy,” a skilled and charming Jewish butcher must expand his horizons after he loses his job.

Runners-up: Millions of Tears, Bon Voyage, Thanks for Dancing, The Babysitter Murders and Zoya BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT Phil’s Camino(USA), Annie O’Neil and Jessica Lewis When a Stage 4 cancer patient is told he cannot accomplish his bucket-list goal to walk the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in Spain, he decides to create his own camino in his backyard.

Runners-up: Clinica de Migrantes: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, These C*cksucking Tears and Alzheimer’s: A Love Story BEST ANIMATION SHORT Taking Flight (USA), Brandon Oldenburg A bored child stuck with his grandfather for the day stumbles across a photo of his father in a magic wagon, unleashing an unforgettable adventure.

Runners-up: Violet and Alike SHORTFEST ONLINE AUDIENCE AWARD High Chaparral (USA), David Freid In this documentary, a theme park celebrating America’s mythic Wild West in wintery Sweden becomes a welcoming home for refugees fleeing the Syrian civil war.

ADDITIONAL PRIZES ALEXIS AWARD FOR BEST EMERGING STUDENT FILMMAKER – The Alexis Award is selected by the Festival’s programming team and was created in honor of Alexis Echavarria, whose talent as a budding filmmaker and gift for inspiring excellence among his fellow students were cut short suddenly in 2005 at age 16. The recipient received Final Cut Pro X courtesy of Apple.

Peacock (Czech Republic), Ondrej Hudecek A twisted gay romance set in 19th-century Bohemia tells the true story of the birth of one of the nation’s most influential writers. Suspense, laughter, violence, hope, heart, nudity, sex and a mostly happy ending.

HP BRIDGING THE BORDERS AWARD PRESENTED BY CINEMA WITHOUT BORDERS The winner received the award’s diploma and an HP ZBook 17 Mobile Workstation valued at $3,000.

French (France), Josza Anjembe Teenage Seyna faces unexpected obstacles on her mission to become a French citizen, from the disapproval of her Cameroonian father to the limitations of the camera lens.

YOUTH JURY AWARD – The winner received a $500 cash prize.

Taking Flight (US), Brandon Oldenburg A bored child stuck with his grandfather for the day stumbles across a photo of his father in a magic wagon, unleashing an unforgettable adventure.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival will be held January 5-16, 2017 and the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala will be held January 2, 2017.

For more information, call 760-322-2930 or 800-898-7256 or visit www.psfilmfest.org.

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THE 2016 PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL ENDS ON A HI-TECH NOTE

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ne week is not enough. There is so much more I wish I could see. It goes by too quickly,” said a visitor in line to enjoy an afternoon program of short films at the Camelot Theater in Palm Springs. Her frustration is not because she can’t get tickets, but a fear that she’s missing something – a treasure or a gem of a film that might change her worldview or tap into her deep emotional psyche.

This is what makes the Palm Springs International Short Film Festival so special. Once a year, during the summer, over seven days, emerging talent, young and old, from all over the globe come with their films, their stories and their visions of the world. And then, they and their films are gone: Many films may never to be seen again.

But the lasting beauty is, during the week of films, movie buffs get to look in on these worlds and travel to exotic destinations from the airconditioned comfort of a Palm Springs theater.

Ukraine, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Korea, Austria, Ethiopia, Estonia, Russia, Mauritius, Mexico and Morocco are just a few of the settings where human beings play out moments of their lives on the big screens in Palm Springs.

Concluding its 22nd year, the ShortFest delighted and entertained audiences with 50 plus provocative programs of nearly 400 fabulous films that included 46 World Premieres, 63 North

American Premieres and 13 US Premieres.

Equally important during the week, and what makes the ShortFest a favorite among filmmakers, is the attention the ShortFest pays to the educational component. Part of the mission of the Palm Springs International Film Society, the nonprofit behind both the January and June festivals, is to serve, nurture and inspire the filmmakers.

The film society takes pride in helping and encouraging filmmakers advance their careers.

Every June, ShortFest conducts Roundtables and Forums for attending filmmakers with industry professionals designed to address the art and craft of filmmaking and the business challenges that come with it.

PSISFF joined forces with the University of California, Riverside, this year with “Tech Talks.”

This component took a look at the changing nature of technology pertaining to filmmaking platforms and the technological tools used across the medium of film.

From “Virtual Reality, a How to Guide” to the “Changing Ways We Watch Content” and “The Creative Process of Video Game Development,” filmmakers and students enjoyed panel discussions and demonstrations.

A high point of the program, and the week, was the Virtual Reality Lounge. This event was open to the public for free and displayed the latest in virtual reality film technology.

The venue held three different Virtual Reality experiences: “The Visitor,” a short narrative film, “Inside Impact: East Africa” a documentary short and “Kismet” an interactive video game.

Throughout the day there was an ongoing line to experience all three examples of VR. “The Visitor” and “East Africa” both used Samsung smartphones with the lightweight Oculus Headset, which costs $99. The phone attaches to the headset directly in front of the eyes. Headphones provide the sound. On the

SHORTFEST 2016 FILMMAKER SPOTLIGHT:

“SORRY” BY SINISA DRAGIN

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his movie came from an idea I had when I was a student in film school,” said Sinisa Dragin, writer, director and editor of the short film “Sorry.” “I was working on a project that was postponed and thought, almost like a joke, I should go ahead and make the movie.”

Dragin is Serbian and lives in Romania. He has a duel citizenship. Dragin and his wife, Codruta Popescu, an eye doctor, traveled 13 hours to be in Palm Springs.

Sitting in the PSISFF Filmmakers Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel, Dragin was editing his movie on his Mac laptop, making last minute adjustments to the 12-minute film.

“It’s a long and painful process cutting favorite shots so only the essential story elements remain,” said Dragin. “The short film is a different way of thinking. To get it right is not so smooth and easy.”

This is Dragin’s second time to participate in a Palm Springs film festival. His feature film “Everyday God Kisses Us on the Mouth” was shown during the January 2002 PSIFF. The film went on to win many festival awards including the “Tiger Award” at the Rotterdam International Film Festival.

Dragin has made four feature narrative films

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and one feature documentary. “Sorry” is his first short film.

“In Romania, filmmaking is a hobby,” Dragin said. “There is no funding for films.” So, Dragin keeps his day job. He works for television, filming and editing news and feature stories. He has his own cameras, editing and film equipment.

Dragin has been to hundreds of festivals around the world with his films, but Palm Springs is special to him.

“I love to come to Palm Springs,” said Dragin.

“This is a favorite place for me because there is a Serbian community here and we enjoy getting together.” When Dragin came to the 2002 festival, local Serbians made an effort to see his movie and reached out to meet him.

“The origin of my name is very obviously Serbian,” said Dragin. “They [CV Serbians] read through the festival program and saw my name and my film and came to the screening.” Dragin

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

June 30 to July 6, 2016

PS SHORTFEST

virtual screen, just align a white light onto a green spot and the film is ready to play.

When the film starts, as in “The Visitor” you find yourself a floating observer in the world.

Anywhere and everywhere you look –- up, down, and around -- you are there observing the highdefinition scene. There is no 2D frame, empty space or pixilation.

“The Visitor” is the ultimate voyeuristic experience as a couple sorts out a bad dream from reality at a remote desert compound.

According to a PSISFF volunteer assisting viewers with “The Visitor,” a woman was so enthralled or scared she sprang up from her chair and screamed!

Produced by the Clinton Foundation, the VR experience “Inside Impact: East Africa” begins with sitting across from President Clinton in his New York office. In eight minutes, you experience sitting in an East African home, a slum, a bustling city and a classroom.

No matter where you look, 360 degrees, you are in the location. Instead of floating in the VR world, you are sitting alongside either President Clinton or East Africans. This high-quality film delivers a very visceral experience while creating awareness and empathy.

Perhaps the most popular of the VR demonstrations was “Kismet,” a new original interactive game developed by the Santa Monica

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

Company Psyop. The headset used for gaming is the Oculus Rift, which costs a big chunk of change at $500.

A tad heavier and more intense looking in black, than the other, white Oculus headset, the VR is interactive and requires a significant amount of computing power.

“Kismet” offers three games: Tarot cards, astrology – a reading of the stars, and an ancient Egyptian board game. With the help of a handheld controller, the user selects cards, dates and moves game pieces with an automaton fortuneteller.

According to one of the creators, the game allows for multiplayers to interact.

All three virtual reality experiences were fantastic! Hundreds of guests went through line all day and many revisited the fortuneteller -maybe hoping for a better outcome.

The VR imagery is breathtaking, thrilling and most certainly, highly engaging. The viewer enters the world with sharp clarity and it is simply amazing! The future of virtual reality is here. The only thing lacking, for now, is content and aroma.

The Venice, California, Company CTRL Me Robotics demonstrated custom performance drones for use in filmmaking and entertainment.

These machines are incredible at getting hidefinition, steady images and come in a size that is no bigger than a Frisbee. For indoor or outdoor use, this technology makes expensive crane shots obsolete and the images are contained on the smallest of memory cards the size of a pinky fingernail.

Virtual reality and hi-tech drones are part of the future in modern filmmaking. It was apropos that the PSISFF joined forces with the University of California, Riverside and brought this technology and information to the next generation of filmmakers.

And better yet, ShortFest made it available to the public, further showing their desire to share the love for films and filmmaking. Another great Fest!

PS SHORTFEST

has maintained his friendships with the locals and the community once again came out to support their friend and to see the World Premiere screening of “Sorry” during the “Awkward…!” program at the Camelot Theater.

“Sorry” was filmed in two days and Dragin paid for it himself. He hired two young actors who traveled hours to Romania to film in the city of Bucharest. Over the weekend, they shot the whole movie that included underwater, city and train scenes.

Dragin appreciated the challenge of making a short film. “Writing is okay, directing is a lot of work, but I find editing is most relaxing, at least for me,” Dragin said. Dragin shot the film with a Panasonic GH4 camera and Cooke Speed Panchro lenses. “My favorite lens set ever.”

When Dragin had assembled his first version of “Sorry,” he looked online for the best short film festivals and saw that Palm Springs was in the top

10. He sent it to a friend with festival connections who told him to submit “Sorry” to PSISFF right away.

Beautifully photographed, emotionally touching and told with nearly no dialogue, Dragin describes his film “Sorry” as a love story that happens between train stations. Refusing to say anything about the story, Dragin said: “I want the audience to discover what the movie is about.”

Without spoiling anything, “Sorry” tells the story of a teenage boy who is lost in his own universe but briefly connects to the world when he meets a beautiful teenage girl on a short train ride.

The big reveal at the end was such a surprise, the audience made an audible gasp and sigh at the screening.

Part of what makes the PSISFF such a pleasure, joy and unique experience is to encounter these memorable and poignant films and the fascinating people who make them. Hopefully “Sorry” and other great short films from the festival will find a way to reach a wider audience.

ShortFest programed over 300 films with thousands more in the film market, and most will never go beyond the festival setting. How fortunate the CV is to have the PSISFF.

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

COMEDY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY NOE GUTIERREZ CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS:

KORIE K. AND LARRY A.

BRIAN REGAN COMEDY AT THE SHOW

Photo By Friedman Bergman

O

n July 16th at 8 p.m. at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, California, Brian Regan will be performing his unique brand of stand-up storytelling and physical comedy to an expected sell-out crowd. There are still tickets available for purchase as low as $55.

You can purchase at www. hotwatercasino. com.

Coachella Valley Weekly caught up with Regan on the phone as he prepared for a show that same night with some comedic heavy hitters and his first big show in the Coachella Valley. Regan has been involved in stand-up comedy since the early 80’s. Jerry Seinfeld calls Regan one of his “favorite, favorite stand-up comedians.”

Stand-up comedy has developed over its life span to include diverse comics like Regan. “Music, movies and everything entertainment evolves. Comedy is like that.

It keeps changing over the years. When I was a kid, most comedians were one-liner types; Rodney Dangerfield, Joan Rivers, etc.

They told jokes that had nothing to do with their ‘real selves’. As comedy evolved it got much more personal. Who knows where it’s headed. It’s fun to watch the changes.”

Regan is gratified with his place in comedy history and enjoys helping others through his comedy.

Regan shared about his involvement in the ‘Comics Support Their Own’ event that raised money for comedian Bobby Slaton. “Bobby is a comedian who has been around a long time.

His wife passed away a couple of months ago.

Someone asked me if I would be interested in doing a benefit for Bobby and I said of course.

Then I found out a lot of other comedians are doing the same. There are about seven comedians on the show tonight and they’re all big names except for me, ha ha. On the bill is Jon Lovitz, Dana Carvey, Ray Romano, Bill Burr, Arsenio Hall. I’m looking at all their bios and most of them say ‘Emmy Award Winner’ and I’m like, what’s my intro gonna be, ‘our next act is the only guy on this stage who has not won an Emmy award.’” Despite having no Emmy, Regan has established himself as extraordinary.

Regan is well-known for his ability to use observational, sarcastic and self-deprecating

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humor in his show. “It’s tricky. The hard part of being a stand-up comedian is not the funny part, it’s the set-up.” When you walk on stage there’s nothing there. There are no pins set up. You gotta set up the pins and then you gotta knock ‘em down. That’s the hard part is being the pin setter.” Regan’s material frequently covers everyday experiences. “I split it up. Some of the stuff is true. I say that it’s true, which makes me wonder if I don’t say it’s true are people thinking it’s a bunch of B.S. ha ha. I think for comedy to work it has to be grounded in reality. There has to be some truth to it. That doesn’t mean you can’t get silly or goofy in a punch line.”

The use of body language and facial expressions make Regan’s stand-up act exceptionally physical. “I’m not as aware of my physicality as people might think.

My jokes, if you look at them, are like little vignettes. They’re pieces that I perform.

They’re tiny plays and I’m the only one in the play. It’s usually me and another character. I have to act it out and the only way it will work is if I throw some action into it. I’m aware of the physicality but I don’t pay too much attention.” Regan’s physical comedy has endured over three decades.

Regan’s first live appearance was on the ‘The Late Show with David Letterman’ in 1995. “The first time I was standing behind the curtain and my heart was pounding, David Letterman I have such strong feelings for. He was around a long time and he had me on his show several times. I’m happy he’s enjoying his retirement.” Regan has notched a total of 28 stand-up appearances on the ‘Late Show with David Letterman,’ the most of any comic.

“I just did the ‘Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon’ this past week. I’ve done a number of appearances over the years. I guess the difference for me is because I’ve done a number of them I don’t get quite as petrified as I used to. It’s a big deal. A lot of people are watching and you get to the point where you still get nervous. That’s what life is about, doing things that make you nervous. It’s not so debilitating and nervous these days.”

If you miss Regan’s performance at The Show, be sure to purchase ‘Brian Regan: Live from Radio City Music Hall.’ It’s available as a CD and a download.

BACKSTAGE JAZZ

CHASE HUNA

BY SLIM MAN

H

ave you ever made a joke and nobody laughed?

I have. But only once! I am normally incredibly funny—most of the time unintentionally. But I’ve launched a few bombs here and there. It happens.

About two years ago, I was introducing a young sax player at a Palm Springs jazz jam put on by Patte Purcell—who usually writes this column. This teenager was going to sit in with me and my band, and I introduced him as “The kid who everybody loves to hate.”

It sounds horrible, right? What I meant was…a lot of veterans get jealous when a kid with talent starts rising through the ranks, no matter if it’s sports or music or business.

That’s what I meant.

It didn’t come out that way. The crowd looked at me like I’d just grown another head.

The kid that sat in with me that day was Chase Huna. He was 15 at the time, and I was admittedly skeptical that any kid could play jazz—which is pretty complicated stuff—and play it well.

Chase played well that day. He didn’t blow me away, but I could see he definitely had talent. (I sent him an apology that night for my stupid joke.)

I had a concert a few weeks ago at a place called the Palm House in downtown Palm Springs. The day before the concert, I realized I didn’t have a sax player for the evening. I reached out to Chase. He agreed to sit in. He had just turned seventeen.

I sent him the charts and MP3s of the songs. He only had a day to prepare. Keep in mind, the music isn’t simple. There are lots of complicated chords, difficult arrangements, and it was music that Chase wasn’t familiar with.

He came onstage and killed—with no rehearsal. He did blow me away that evening. He had obviously been improving and practicing in the past 2 years, and it showed. I was impressed. Seriously!

How does a kid get into jazz these days?

It’s not a popular style of music. You don’t hear much on the radio these days. So, what gives?

“When I was 2 years-old, I heard a smooth jazz compilation CD, a bunch of different artists. My folks told me I made them play it over and over,” Chase told me on the phone as his dad was driving him home from a gig in Sacramento. We talked for a while.

When Chase was 7, his dad took him to see a friend play sax. Chase was intrigued.

He started playing recorder—those plastic flute-type things—and his dad heard some talent.

When Chase was 10, his dad got him a sax. Chase studied privately for 2 ½ years, and he played in the high school jazz band.

For his junior year, his folks decided to homeschool him so he could go out and jam with other musicians at night.

“Most of my friends are into pop and rap. Jazz doesn’t have the edge that tends to draw in younger people.”

Do they make fun? Does he get bullied?

“Most of the kids aren’t aware of what I’m doing. The ones that are, are cool with it,” shared Chase.

Chase started jamming with local jazz musicians, and people began to take notice.

Will Donato, a sax player in the Palm Springs area, took him under his wing.

Chase eventually hooked up with guitarist/producer Steve Oliver. Steve is producing a CD for Chase. They have written all the songs together—except the title track, which Steve wrote. The CD is scheduled for release in January, 2017. It’s called On the Chase.

I’m not in love with the title. Why not call it Cut to the Chase? It’s a cool expression, with a nice double entendre in this case.

In last week’s column, I suggested Marc Antoine call his new CD Laguna instead of Twice Upon a Time. Marc just changed the title to Laguna Beach. Will I go two-for-two?

Stay tuned.

Follow Chase Huna on FaceBook, Twitter, and Instagram. He’s going back to school— Palm Desert High—for his senior year.

Slim Man - slim@slimman.com Get the Slim Man Cooks cookbook at www.slimman.com

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

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BRI CHERRY & THE BOYS

BY MORGAN JAMES who believe in the bigger purpose than themselves. We will get into festivals worldwide, dropping in on magazines, media, playing at concert halls, stadiums, clubs and other major venues, shining a light on social issues. We must learn to break through the glass ceiling into a limitless sky.”

MJ: You shared that you are nearing a launching point. Where are you exactly in the process? Writing? Recording? Touring?

Promotion?

BC: “Well, we technically are always writing. Currently we are just finalizing arrangements, taking care of some preproduction steps like making videos, having photo shoots and enjoying every bit of that. As for promotion, a lot is still in the preparation stages. We should have our official logo from the graphic designer by the end of next week, papers are being signed with sponsors, website is in the final stages of development and uniforms are done. We are dropping in on open mic nights randomly like Symara Stone’s Music Mondays at the Scorpion room in Palm Springs, The Road House Bar & Grill on Sundays also in Palm Springs and there will be more revealed as our first official opener comes along. The hype alone has people constantly asking me when and where, almost like an underground scene. It’s great and we are so incredibly grateful!”

F

rom a simple violin accent player to a visionary musical movement founder, Bri Cherry hopes to be a spark that incites worldwide personal growth. Her new project, BRI CHERRY & The Boys, has not yet officially kicked off, but looks promising in fulfilling Bri’s goals of innovative inspiration. The band’s music is rooted in Bri’s powerfully vivid violin, driven with soulful bass and impactful drums, and lightly embellished with keyboard and occasional subtle vocals. As Bri blossoms through her own personal enlightened journey, this uplifting young woman hopes to guide listeners to invent their own personal best and establish a collective spirit of limitless bounds. I spoke with Bri about her progress and goals as the band surges ahead to its own prolific infinity.

MJ: Tell me about your new musical project BRI CHERRY & The Boys and the inspiration behind it?

BC: “BRI CHERRY & The Boys has actually been an idea slowly formulating over the years and became an inspiration from the people I surrounded myself with. It’s music from the soul. The overall vision is to inspire, always challenging us and those around us to become better versions of ourselves in any and every aspect of our lives. We hope to challenge our limitless ability to be creative and imaginative. The music itself is a fusion of multiple influences, mainly Dub Step, classical, gypsy, pop, then topped with a twist of Tim Burton. It has a mystical feel with beautiful underlying messages.”

MJ: In the past you have played supporting or small featured roles in bands.

This project, in contrast, is all about your own musical spirit. What are your feelings about exposing this much of yourself vs in the past?

BC: “Having my own band has always been an unfollowed dream due to my own

June 30 to July 6, 2016

MJ: Where can readers hear your music? Where can they next see you live?

The music is still in pre-production, a demo will certainly be available by the end of the year, however shooting for mid September. As far as our next appearance find us on Facebook and keep up with the action. My personal artist page has been pretty active for a while and we just started the band page yesterday which we are excited about getting going.” Here are the links: facebook.com/bricherryproject facebook.com/bricherryandtheboys MJ: Anything else that you would like to include?

BC: “Remember the sky is not the limit, it’s the process of figuring out how to make it even larger. The future can be bigger than the past and believe that even you can influence that future. Feel free to contact me regarding music, sponsors, merchandise production, photography, graphic design etc. We have room on the rest of the team to further inspire the world. Thank you Ms. Morgan James and the rest of the crew with CV Weekly!! I believe we will be crossing paths now more than ever.”

Photo By George Duchannes

insecurities of simply being only a pretty chick with a violin. I was always following, never leading, and accepted my ideas being shot down. I only recently realized that if I just close my eyes, stay open minded and allow music to take me on an adventure, “impossible is nothing.” This is a quote I keep very close to me that was introduced by an Adidas ad some time ago. I’m constantly learning what to implement in my life, how to give 100% to all that I do. The people who have jumped into this journey with me are all so willing and excited. The right group just keeps falling into place and growing!

Louis Alexander (Bass Player and Digital Audio Master) has been calling it the passion project. Erik Livingman on Drums has been pushing me, and has been supportive 110% every step of the way. Danny Gutierrez on keys is constantly striving to learn more every day. There are even more people involved and time will reveal their great contributions to our cause.”

MJ: What are your goals for the band and this movement you are hoping to create?

BC: “Inspiration and Growth are a huge part of what drives us as a band. As far as goals for the growth of the band in and of itself across the world, we are thinking big and we won’t get stuck. We will attend college campuses to raising awareness for the needy, getting sponsored by those

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

CONSIDER THIS

THE MONKEES

F

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

“GOOD TIMES!” (RHINO RECORDS)

ifty years after their debut, the Monkees’ new album, Good Times hit the Billboard charts at #8. Pretty good for a band that has been written off as pre-packaged and manufactured when they first arrived on the scene in 1966.

Inspired by the success of the Beatles, budding filmmakers Bob Rafelson and Burt Schneider (who went on to helm seminal movies like “Easy Rider” and “Five Easy Pieces”), pitched a television series that centered on the misadventures of a struggling young Rock group.

Screen Gems greenlit production and the duo began casting the band.

They settled pretty quickly on Davy Jones, a British actor-singer who had already made a splash on Broadway playing the Artful Dodger in the musical “Oliver.” Placing an ad in Daily Variety, the producers saw 437 hopefuls, (including future Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills & Nash member, Stephen Stills). In the end, they cast another actor-musician, Micky Dolenz and two musician-actors, Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork.

Micky Dolenz had grown up in a showbiz family, appearing as a kid in his own television show, “Circus Boy.” After high school, he fronted a garage band, the Missing Links. Texas native Mike Nesmith had moved to L.A. to make it as a musician. He had already written and recorded music as Michael Blessing and played in a trio called Mike & John & Bill. Peter Tork had grown up on the East Coast and was a part of the thriving Greenwich Village Folk scene. Ironically, he heard about the auditions from Stephen Stills.

“The Monkees” inaugural episode aired on CBS in September, 1966. The show was preceded by their first single, “Last Train To Clarksville,” which was already climbing the charts. Screen Gems had cannily hired producer Don Kirshner to supervise the music. In turn, he surrounded the band with sharp songwriters like Boyce & Hart, Neil Diamond and Goffin & King.

Although they sang on the self-titled album that arrived a month after the series debut, the guys weren’t allowed to play on any of the songs.

Mike managed to get one of his own songs, “Papa Gene’s Blues,” included alongside hits like “I Wanna Be Free” and “Take A Giant Step.”

The show was an immediate hit, combining the whimsy of the Beatles with slapstick and a hint of Marx Brothers-style subversive humor.

Micky, Davy, Mike and Peter grudgingly went along with Screen Gems’ dictatorial mandates.

Monkeemania was in full swing and the guys

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10

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were ushered back into the studio for More Monkees which arrived in January 1967.

Their second effort spent an astonishing 18 weeks at #1 and went on to sell 70 million records.

But the guys were starting to resent their limited roles in the studio. In addition to filming the show, recording music and endorsement deals, the band had actually begun to tour, proving that the four-piece were all proficient and credible musicians.

Luckily, Bob Rafelson and Burt Schneider took the band’s grievances seriously. After a particularly fractious meeting (wherein Mike Nesmith punched a wall and told Kirshner “that could have been your face”), the Monkees were given creative control. Their next two albums, Headquarters, and Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd (both released in 1967), were pretty great. Not only did they play their own instruments, Mike, Peter and Micky each contributed memorable original songs like “Sunny Girlfriend,” “For Pete’s Sake” and “Randy Scouse Git.” The critics refused to pay attention, still snottily referring to the Monkees as the “Pre-fab Four.” They willfully ignored the fact that bands like the Byrds and the Beach Boys also relied on studio musicians at the beginning of their careers.

But the little girls understood, so did the Beatles, who praised the Monkees’ music and befriended the band.

The Monkees continued to tour, (hand-picking one opener, Jimi Hendrix, who made his American concert debut under their aegis). They recorded more albums and the TV show remained popular, allowing the band a platform to champion new music by Frank Zappa, Tim Buckley and Charlie Smalls. They even made a feature film, “Head.”

Trippy and vaguely anti-war, it was co-written by future acting superstar Jack Nicholson.

But by the end of the ‘60s, the party was over.

Each of the Monkees managed to make their mark in the ensuing decades. Davy continued to sing and act, recording solo albums and appearing on television in live theatre. Micky did the same, but he truly began to thrive behind the camera, producing and directing programs in Great Britain.

Peter actually contributed to Beatle George Harrison’s Wonderwall album, he also wrote and recorded with a series of bands, acting occasionally and even teaching school. Mike was not only a progenitor (along with Rick Nelson and Gram Parsons) of the Country Rock style popularized by the Eagles, he also wrote classic songs like Linda Ronstadt’s first hit, “Different Drum.” He is probably best known as a pioneer in early video production. His multi-media production company, Pacific Arts produced cult classic films like “Repo Man” as well as cutting edge videos.

In 1986 MTV began playing blocks of Monkees reruns and a whole new generation discovered the timeless qualities of the Monkees’ music and their meta-comedy. Micky, Davy and Peter took advantage of their newfound popularity and toured as a trio. They also recorded a new album, Pool It, unfortunately, the songs hewed closer to the shiny, synthesized sounds of the day, rather than the jangly ‘60s style that made them famous.

They continued to tour sporadically, sans Mike coming together for milestone years.

They recorded Justus in 1996 and Mike acted as producer. It wasn’t unpleasant, but it didn’t match their ‘60s classics. They embarked on a

massive concert tour in 2011 to commemorate their 45th anniversary.

Sadly, Davy Jones suffered a heart attack and died rather suddenly in early 2012. As a tribute to their fallen comrade, Mike joined Micky and Peter for the first time, playing a series of concerts later that year. In 2013, Micky released Remember, a rueful solo album that paid homage to Davy, as well as the late Harry Nilsson. It was a droll trip down memory lane, revisiting Monkees classics and recasting tracks by the Beatles, Bread and even the Archies.

To mark their 50th anniversary the band and their label, Rhino Records, wanted to do something special. So they recruited Fountains Of Wayne bassist, Adam Schlesinger, and set about crafting an album that stayed true to their ‘60s roots, but wouldn’t feel anachronistic.

Aside from creating indelible Power Pop hits like “Radiation Vibe” and “Stacy’s Mom,” Schlesinger was responsible for creating the title track for Tom Hanks’ “That Thing You Do” movie.

An affectionate paean to one-hit-wonder bands from the ‘60s, the song felt like an authentic (albeit obscure), relic from that era.

The Monkees’ 12th album gets off to a rollicking start with the title track, a Harry Nilsson song the band considered recording in 1968. Here, they actually use Harry’s original demo featuring his vocals and piano. The tune is anchored by rickety percussion, stinging guitar notes from Mike and Adam, and choogling bass lines. Micky’s voice winds around Harry’s blustery tenor, perfectly complimenting the late songwriter’s playful, offthe-cuff performance.

Even though critics quibbled about the Monkees’ authenticity, musicians who came of age in the ‘60s and ‘70s appreciated the band on a more visceral level. When Adam asked a few famous fans to contribute songs to this project the results were electric.

First up is XTC architect Andy Partridge’s “You Bring The Summer.” An effervescent Power-Pop jangle, it’s the aural equivalent of a Charms Blow-Pop. Candy coated guitar riffs yield to a sugary bubblegum center. Micky’s lead vocals are appropriately starstruck as he catalogues his sweetheart’s attributes; “The birds and the bees will fly around me, even though we’re deep in January/When you come around you bring the summer.” Suitably Psychedelic sitar-y guitar snakes through the instrumental break.

Another contribution from across the pond is “Birth Of An Accidental Hipster.” A collaboration between the Modfather, Paul Weller and Oasis leader Noel Gallagher, it’s an acidic pastiche that feels like “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds”meets-“Glass Onion.” Mike handles lead vocal duties over a thumping beat, drony piano and modal guitar. Trippy lyrics like “I’m heading out in the sunshine baby, feeling to your knees, nobody else but my own sweet self” are positively

lysergic. Micky pipes up with a vaudevillian verse that is pure whimsy.

Weezer front-man Rivers Cuomo provides the sunshiny first single, “She Makes Me Laugh.” The track is powered by ringing 12-string arpeggios, Peter’s tart banjo and a clip-clop rhythm. Micky’s surprisingly agile tenor takes the lead as Mike and Peter provide subtle shades of harmony.

The biggest surprise comes from Death Cab For Cutie’s Ben Gibbard. “Me & Magdalena” is a soulful Country charmer perfectly suited to Mike’s tender croon. The arrangement is a delicate wash of burnished piano notes, dusty guitar and trapkit drums. All the elements coalesce along with Micky’s understated harmony vocal, cloaking the song in a lovely Laurel Canyon patina.

Digging deep in the Monkees music vault the band came up with a few old tracks that fell by the wayside back in the ‘60s. The instrumental track for Jeff Barry’s “Gotta Give It Time” is old enough to qualify for its own AARP card, yet, it sounds surprisingly fresh and urgent. Fuzz-tastic guitars and a swirly organ glide over a rubbery backbeat. Micky’s 21st century vocals send the song into interstellar overdrive.

They also revisit the Goffin and King classic, “Wasn’t Born To Follow.” Originally a Countrified hit for the Byrds in 1968, the Monkees took a pass at it a couple of months later. Here, the Wrecking Crew’s Folk-flavored instrumentation is vintage ’68 but Peter’s strong lead vocals were recorded just a couple months ago.

The sweetest revelation is “Love To Love,” a Neil Diamond tune that the boys toyed with in 1967 and 1969, but abandoned. (Perhaps intent on proving their Rock bona fides with their own compositions). In any case, it’s the perfect blend of Spaghetti Western guitar, sly organ colors and rattling tambourine. The lead vocals come from Davy Jones, adding an unexpected note of poignancy to the proceedings.

Always the consummate singer-songwriters, Peter and Mike each contribute a track. Peter’s “Little Girl” is a summery Country waltz originally wrote for Davy. In his absence Peter is front and center, the song’s gauzy tone is momentarily eclipsed by a spiky guitar solo.

Mike’s “I Know What I Know” is an aching piano ballad. His vocals are as delicate as gossamer over a lattice of piano, bass chamberlain and guitar. It’s an unambiguous love song, simple and succinct; “I know what I know, and what I know is- I know nothing without you.”

Other interesting tracks include Adam Schlesinger’s impossibly catchy “Our Own World.” The band also turns to their original hitmakers, Boyce & Hart for a swinging shag-a-delic version of “Whatever’s Right.” Here Micky takes the lead, Mike and Peter add harmony vocals, shang-a-lang guitar and stabby keys. Even Bobby Hart pops up adding back-up vocals.

The album closes with the Psychedelic-Funk of “I Was There (And I’m Told I Had A Good Time), co-written by Micky and Adam Schlesinger.

Propelled by Micky’s tribal beat and off-the-cuff lyrics, the title recalibrates the Paul Kantner quip, “if you remember the ‘60s, you probably weren’t there.” Sardonic and irreverent, the track is quintessential Micky.

Sure, the Monkees started as a way to cash in on the Beatles success. Pre-packaged as a television show, they somehow evolved into a real band. Half a century later, they are still here, and Good Times! is the best album of their career.

Somewhere Davy Jones is smiling.

ART SCENE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

June 30 to July 6, 2016

BY ANGELA ROMEO

THE POWER OF ART - LINDA CARMELLA SIBIO

T

o walk in the shoes of Artist Linda Carmella Sibio would be an artistic journey filled with self –awareness and self-acceptance.

Linda was born in West Virginia. After the death of her father and the institutionalization of her mother, Linda was sent to an orphanage.

Drawing became a coping mechanism for her. She attended Ohio University, where she earned her BFA in painting in 1975. While at Ohio State Linda was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. From this beginning the art of Linda Carmella Sibio took fold.

“My disability has affected my work both visually and philosophically. The perceptions I have are that ‘schizophrenia’ is a part of every work I create,” said Linda. “It is from this perspective that I am drawn to the fringes of society and how the fringes affect culture as a whole. My work combines strong social issues such as homelessness, mental illness, suicide, mass murder, gangs, drug addiction and prostitution with progressive elements in design and form thus creating my own sub-culture language. Madness has been a dominant theme in my work having been influenced by my own diagnosis as schizophrenic and my mother›s incarceration in mental hospitals for 15 years during my childhood.”

And while others with a similar disability may have felt defeat Linda saw a bigger picture.

Linda uses performance art, painting, sculpture, writing, in short any creative medium, to bring attention to the mentally ill. Art as therapy has been shown to be a powerful tool. Art as social commentary is no less powerful. Linda has shown how powerful art is in both areas.

“When I started my most recent artistic journey, I had just lost my cabin in Echo Park, Los Angeles, had just escaped being in a board and care facility for my disability and had moved to the Joshua Tree area. I adopted four dogs and had a cat. I was on 43 antipsychotic medications which had been given to me at the Glendale Memorial Hospital,” said Linda.

“I was switching between realities, shifting from hallucinations to delusions and hysteria, and was rapidly running the full gamut of symptoms related to schizophrenia. When I wasn’t lying in the sand having panic attacks, I was inside the cabin creating my art. It was in this state I found hidden within me millions of images. These images were intense. At this point I discovered I could control my “symptoms” if I could put them within the context of my art.”

“Using stream of consciousness, I discovered my ideas. They came from simple and complicated sketches that communicated with me, hallucinations, and dreams. I was in an altered state and my brain was operating differently. In this state, I truly discovered my own vision, my own mythology, and visual vocabulary.”

Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery will present Double Indemnity, the selected works of artist Linda Carmella Sibio. Double Indemnity opens July 2 with an artist reception July 2 from 5 pm to 8 pm.

Double Indemnity features several large works that reflect the intensity of the artist’s passion as well as her embracing the symptoms of her condition. “The fragmented thinking of the schizophrenic is actually a window into the placement of our culture. We are all living in a deconstructed world, no longer thinking linear thoughts. Television, Internet, video surveillance, and the media continually interrupt our perceptions. We no longer have single, isolated thoughts. We think in a multilayered complex pattern. In order for our culture to go forward, the darkness of the dismembered body needs to come into the light. We need to fragment in order to become whole again.”

Ms. Sibio is the recipient of numerous grants and prizes for her artwork and, performance work. She is the founder of Bezerk Productions, a non-profit that, through art, assists those with psychological issues to express themselves.

Her work has been shown domestically and internationally. Double Indemnity is part of Bezerk Productions, a 501( c)3 organization.

Linda was recently awarded a grant from The Tree of Life Foundation.

The exhibition is open 2 July 2016 at Colliding Worlds Fine Art Gallery, 68-895 Pérez Road, I 13, Cathedral City CA and runs through 16 July 2016.

For more information regarding Linda Sibio and Bezerk Productions, visit lindasibio.com.

11

June 30 to July 6, 2016

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY JANET McAFEE

JULY 4TH SAFETY FOR FIDO AND FLUFFY

W

e humans cheerfully celebrate our nation’s Independence Day this week with fun, food, and fireworks. As we barbeque in the backyard with friends, it might be tempting to include our four-legged family members. However, the 4th of July is the worst day of the year for our canine and feline friends. The loud noise from fireworks is extremely painful to dogs’ ears. The bangs, explosions, bright lights, and sirens create fear and confusion for both dogs and cats.

On July 5th every year, some of our highways look like war zones with dead and injured animals who escaped from homes in their fright. Many more end up as

strays in our public shelters. Dogs in their frenzy from fireworks will jump tall fences that ordinarily contain them. Sadly, many shelters euthanize more animals this week to create room for the anticipated holiday influx. Owner turn-ins are the first to be euthanized as they know no one is coming for them. Shelter workers are bracing for a large influx over the 3-day holiday weekend.

WALK YOUR DOGS BEFORE THE FIREWORKS BEGIN, AND KEEP ALL PETS SECURELY INSIDE THE HOUSE UNTIL THE NIGHT AND FIREWORKS ARE COMPLETELY OVER. Because the holiday falls on a Monday this year, revelers will set off fireworks during the long 3 day weekend.

When your pets are safely inside, play soft music, turn on the television, or put in a fan to create white noise that sooths them from the extreme sounds. Keep windows and curtains closed to further reduce noise and keep out the bright firework flashes.

Be careful when the front door opens. Your pet is already under stress and he is more likely to dart out an open door or window.

You may want to purchase rescue remedy or other calming supplements from a pet specialty shop.

Consider purchasing a Thundershirt for your pup, a gentle garment designed to reduce anxiety. Provide your pet with a new toy such as a Kong with their favorite treats inside.

YOUR PET SHOULD WEAR AN ID TAG ON HIS COLLAR AT ALL TIMES WITH YOUR CELL PHONE ENGRAVED. These inexpensive tags can be purchased at PetCo and PetSmart.

Your pet should be microchipped and contact information kept current. Make sure you have a current photo of all pets. These are the most important things you can do to ensure the safe return of a missing pet.

If your pup is outside as you prepare for the festivities, keep these curious creatures away from charcoal, fireworks, sparklers,

MEET DINAH Dinah will dazzle you with affection. Her sweet purring sounds like talking.

This 2-yr-old Silver Tabby was Rescued by ForeverMeow, www.forevermeow.org, call (760) 335-6767

MEET GIA Gia is the happiest dog in the world! 1-yr-old Gia is a 10-lb Terrier/Chi blend, but resembles a German Shepherd puppy. Rescued

by Loving All Animals, www.lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000.

12

and glow sticks. Don’t let guests give them “people food” treats. Foods such as onions, chocolate, avocado, grapes, raisins, and yeast dough can be toxic. Never leave unattended alcoholic drinks near your pets as they have the potential to poison them.

Similar precautions need to be taken by cat owners. Some cats are oblivious to fireworks, while others become very agitated. Keep all windows and blinds shut.

Offer needed reassurance. Allow them to hide under the bed or burrow under a blanket until they feel it’s safe to come out.

Looking for a missing pet? The Coachella Valley Animal Campus shelter, 72-050 Pet Land Place, in Thousand Palms houses stray animals from all Coachella Valley cities other than Palm Springs. You can contact then at (760) 343-3644 and www.rcdas.org.

The Palm Springs shelter is located at 4575 Mesquite in Palm Springs, (760) 416-5719 and www.psanimalshelter.org. Both shelters have wonderful animals seeking homes where they can celebrate every holiday with you.

I wish you and your 4-legged family members a happy and safe July 4th.

Jmcafee7@verizon.net

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE VINO VOICE

June 30 to July 6, 2016

BY RICK RIOZZA

MORE SUMMERTIME WINE MOVES

L

ast time we started a game plan to experience lesser known wines— particularly very refreshing whites, which are none-the-less an excellent buy, as they are reasonably priced and absolutely tasty.

This time around, let’s do some more delving as we throw in a little bubbly, and, even a red that can take a chill and still provide quaffing pleasure.

Sometime ago, we did it up with Moscato Madness. And it’s a good time to re-visit this Italian sparkler as it speaks to the bubbly lover, the Asian-fusion foodie, and the wine aficionado who have a yearning for and have learned that Moscato d’Asti from the Piemonte is world class.

Moscato is known for its surprising perfume-like fragrance, light-body, semisparkling spritzy character (frizzante), lower alcohol content (around 5-8%) and its dazzling fruit-forward palate profile with a welcoming sweet factor. Moscato’s inherent aromatics are simply splendid—orange blossom, honeysuckle, almonds, ginger and expressive fruit dominated by green grapes, citrus tones and ripe peach nuances.

On the palate, it’s a wonderful lineup of fresh, forward fruit along with medium acidity. The delicate cascade of bubbles, light body and that welcomed “light summer sweet” surprise climax to provide all sorts of wine lovers a quaff for all seasons—not just for the hot summer.

The notion of enjoying a “sweet” wine is often times dismissed by “real” wine lovers.

But c’mon, a delicious world class wine is always welcomed at the table. Even though Moscato has traditionally been thought as only a “dessert wine” vino enthusiasts are lovingly liberal; granted, there are still a few wine “haters” around.

While cheaper Moscato wines typically exhibit a fruity sweet focus, the higher quality Moscato steers clear of sugar-soaked fruit and brings a vivid spotlight to ripe stonefruit, with apricots, peaches and an intoxicating floral garden eager to impress “dessert wine doubters”. The light sweetness simply melds well with all of the other fruit complexities.

And again I point out: while Moscato d’Asti is downright delicious with apple desserts, fresh berries, summer salads, meringue pies,

peach cobbler, hazelnut desserts and lemonpoppy breads and cakes, it’s not simply a “dessert wine”.

Pairing Food with Moscato As I covered in Moscato Madness, this wine is the stealth bomber that simply soars when matched with all types of Asian-fusion dishes. If you had to choose just one wine for pairing with Szechuan, Hunan, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, or Indonesian dishes, the adroit, sexy and classy move here would be to grab a Moscato d’Asti. It handles spicy foods perfectly with the low alcohol levels, and, the aromatic sweetness of Moscato matches the aromatic spices like ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and chili peppers. It meets up well with lighter meats like chicken and light flaky fish and can stand up to Asianspiced pork.

Any fine dining Asian restaurant these days must have at least a couple Moscati on their wine list. And if not, then surely the establishment should waive any corkage fee when they see your Moscato on the table— because as the culinary world is learning, the wine will enhance the flavor of the meal just that much more. Of course when bringing in your Moscato d’Asti, do offer a pour to both the owner and the chef to surely win them over.

As one can tell, Moscato is very versatile— it’s an ideal aperitif candidate along with pairings of cheese courses, charcuterie or antipasto plates. Fun, festive, that summer touch of sweet flavor, it’s becoming fast the wine world’s most fashionable brunch-time guest and party starter.

Now here’s the deal: Ruffino Moscato d’Asti sells for around $12 a bottle. Generally that price gets you the sweeter stuff out there. With Ruffino, you’re getting a world class wine producer fashioning a quaff for all seasons and reasons: Refreshing with fragrances of peach and orange blossom, followed by a similar palate with a hint of rose, then a long, floral orange blossom finish. Low alcohol at 6%! Perfect for the hot day!

Okay, even though it’s as hot as can be outside, most of us still love a red wine around dinner time—all we need to do is chill it up a bit. A wine I can absolutely recommend is the 19 Crimes Red Blend that can literally handle both the heat and the cold. I can report this because I just experienced both temperatures with this wine.

Although it’s a great time for wine columnists all over to receive samples of wine for review, it’s the worst time for me being out in the desert here as the samples just get too hot in the transport. I have to alert the distributors to stop sending during the desert’s long hot season.

Well—the 19 Crimes found its way to my doorstep and the bottle was blazing hot! That’s death to most every wine. But just for kicks, I brought it down to room temperature to see how bad it “cooked”.

To my amazement, the wine was delicious!

A medium-full bodied red blend with a truly superb balance from start to finish—amazing after that long heat blast!

It’s basically a Shiraz wine with Grenache and Mourvèdre in the mix: A black cherry base over a blackberry-esque core. The nose was rich with slightly over-ripe black and blueberry notes. This is backed by undertones of cinnamon, vanilla and lightly toasted bread with blackberry, boysenberry and pomegranate undertones. Along with a finish of cacao, it’s a treat of a red wine.

And after leaving it in the freezer longer than I wished, the very chilled wine, although a bit muted, tasted just as delicious. Who knew! Although full of fruit, the wine is predominantly dry. Great with summer grilled ribs and meats of all kinds. Cheers!

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

­­­THUR JUNE 30

14

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co. 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Francesca Amari Jazz Trio 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ and Dancing 9pm THE BLOCK; CC; 760-832-7767 Reggae Thursdays 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHILL BAR: PS; 760-327-1079 The Flusters, Giselle Woo and Symara Stone 8pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-770-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766533 Barry Baughn and Bob Gross 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 T.B.A. 7:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760345-2450 Country Night w/ Hollywood Hillbillies 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 House of Hope Concert w/ Travis Meadows and Friends 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Dave and Phil Alvin w/ The Guilty Ones and Kevin Daly 9pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 The Epoch Momentous Presents: Legends Residency w/ Bonnie Blue, Drop Mob, Penvets, Solus Lupus, Million/Albertini and Higher Heights 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Sharon Sills 7pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Anthony DiGerlando Show 6:30pm

VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-9pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Laurie Morvan Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Blue 62 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Evidence Band 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 88819TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Dude 999-1995 DJ 9pm Jones 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm Dana Larson 6:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 The Full Karaoke 8-1:15am House Band w/ Nena Anderson 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 327-4080 Southbound & Co. 9pm The Gilmore & Bryan Show 7pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Fleet Easton 345-0222 TBA 6:30pm 7:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ Miacaela Anne 8pm and Dancing 9pm Open 6pm-2am PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 BISTRO 60 @TRILOGY; LQ; 760-501-0620 Karaoke 7:30pm The Carmens 6pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s 9pm Rockstar Karaoke 9pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760PLAYOFFS SPORTS BAR; DHS; 760-251775-5566 DJ Double A 8pm 2644 CIVX, Higher Heights, The Kathy’s and BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Joshua Cobos & The Repeat Offenders 8pm Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Bobbie CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT Burlesque Presents: We Like It Hot!! 7pm CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Live Music Wright 9-1am 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick ROCKYARD@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND ; Tuzzolino 5:30pm 800-827-2946 Crimson Crow and Wanted ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228- (Bon Jovi Tribute) 7:30pm 1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Brothers 8pm Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn 6533 Gina Carey 7pm Blues 8-11pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S House Band 8:45pm MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Carmens THE HARD ROCK; PS; 760-325-9676 Esjay 8-11pm & Friends w/ The Brosquitos and Right On SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK Right On 8pm Lobby, Flashback Fridays in CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Bardot w/ DJ Paparazzi and Alf Alpha 9pm Furgo 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 V8 SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Wankers 9pm Ron James 6pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez Latin Rock 10pm 6:30pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm 3560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760- TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm TBA 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Live DJ 8:30pm Pat Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm

FRI JULY 1

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TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE; MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 The Rick Whitfield Band 10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 T.B.A. 1:30-4:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar Hines 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 TBA 5:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-3285955 Michael Keeth 6-10pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 TBA 9pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallet 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm

SAT JULY 2 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev & Bill 6:30pm 19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 The Hive Minds 9pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ James Cerne 11am poolside, Stronghold Reggae 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 Open Mic 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Brightener 9pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 TBA 9pm 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 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; 760-7766533 Jack Ruvio 6:30pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm

June 30 to July 6, 2016

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 THE HARD ROCK; PS; 760-325-9676 Pool SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341Party w/ DJ Paparrazi & Hyphy 10am, DJ 3560 TBA 6pm Paparazzi and Hyphy at Bardot 9pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Reggae TBA 9pm Night w/ Tribe-O 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE Dennis Michael 6:30pm HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm 760-328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760- 6-10pm TRYST; PS; 760-832-6046 TBA 9pm 345-6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 DJ Hektik 10pm TBA 8:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Rob & JB 1:30-4:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar 7pm Hines 9-2am LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Chris Lomeli 8pm afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3455955 Michael Keeth noon-4pm 2450 Evidence Band 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888- WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Stanley Butler Trio 6:30pm 999-1995 TBA 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm Bob Garcia 6pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Dublab 327-4080 Bitter Honey Band 9pm DJs 11am poolside, DJ sets by Mereki’s PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760- Clubhouse 10pm 345-0222 TBA 6:30pm continue to page 20 PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Robert Rex Weller Jr. and Big Memphis Hair 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 Bobbie Burlesque presents: We Like It Hot!! 7pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Live Music 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 7-10pm ROCKYARD@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND ; 800-827-2946 Hollywood Blonde and Faux Fighters (Foo Fighters Tribute) 7:30pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Carmens 8-11pm

SUN JULY 3

15

June 30 to July 6, 2016

GOOD GRUB

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY MORGAN JAMES

THE BLOCK- NOT JUST A SPORTS BAR

A

s I’m sitting in a high comfy booth watching the game across multiple screens, a table of older gentlemen, lift their glasses as they smile across the room in camaraderie. A young couple strolls in the door waving at the gentlemen in recognition.

A middle aged group of patrons seated across the room laugh aloud with the server who just brought them drinks. The warm, friendly atmosphere invites several diverse patrons into the doors of The Block Sports Bar & Grill over the hour or so of my visit to this neighborhood hangout in the heart of Cathedral City. I am impressed by the clean, well-lit tables as the server happily turns to specifically requested games. I have heard from other patrons that the space has been nicely renovated with the new change in ownership last year, bringing in more natural light and a large, smooth, accommodating bar counter.

16

Saul Chavez, the owner, stops over to say hello and check on the service as the food arrives, burger steaming. We chat for just a minute about the daily happenings there including Reggae Nights on Thursdays, featuring popular bands like Higher Heights, a Coachella Valley reggae favorite; Rock Music on Saturdays, featuring entertaining bands like Ghost of Kelso and Alyce Bowie; Karaoke every Friday; Karaoke in Spanish every Tuesday; and even Jazz nights; Metal shows; and Top 40 DJs, have been thrown into the mix on occasion. Saul feels strongly about bringing in high quality musicians and treating them right. The music in the evenings frequently bring large crowds, energizing the surrounding neighborhood with great vibes in the short time that Saul has owned the place and he plans to keep that going, proud to host such a varied crowd on a regular basis.

I am elated as I bite into my very juicy burger,

bun crispy on the edges, and extremely soft and chewy throughout. This rivals any of the best burgers in town with absolute certainty.

The French fries are medium to thick steak fry style, delightfully crispy on the edges, yet perfectly fluffy inside. For American faire, this meal is wonderfully satisfying. I also tried the Daytona grilled wings at Saul’s suggestion as they have quickly become the most popular item on the menu and with good reason.

These wings do have an incredible burst of flavor without being overly spicy, truly fingerlicking tasty. Another item I decided to try was a simple house salad. I am always weary of ordering salads in most Sports Bars, but to my pleasant surprise, the lettuce, tomatoes, onions and croutons were fresh and crisp.

Saul recommends the chicken club as his

favorite item on the menu, a sandwich I will have to try on the next visit... if I can keep from ordering another dreamy burger at that time of course.

I recommend stopping in to say hello and join the happy family of patrons that frequent The Block Sports Bar & Grill in Cathedral City on the corner of Ramon and Date Palm and have a tasty meal. The service is friendly and the large eating area is warm, well-lit and clean. A pool table keeps things lively and a variety of live music and karaoke offers a fun time most nights of the week. Especially make sure to take advantage of popular specials like $1 Taco Tuesdays served from Noon to 11pm.

You can’t find a better deal than that! The Block offers 50 different beers, boasting 23 of those beers on tap. Prices range from a $5.99 generously large House Salad, $7.99 for a 10” Dodger Dog with all the fixings, $9.99 for that Fantastic Cheeseburger and Fries, to a huge portion Chicken or Beef Nachos for $12.99.

Tuesdays: $1 Tacos & Spanish Karaoke Wednesdays: Specials on Wines Thursdays: Live Reggae Fridays: Karaoke Saturdays: Live Rock theblocksportsbar.com facebook.com/theblocksportsbar

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

June 30 to July 6, 2016

17

June 30 to July 6, 2016

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 219

ULTIMATE ILLEGAL ALIEN INVASION

unanswerable questions of “are we alone?” and “what if we’re not?” will always get our attention in real life and in movies and novels. Maybe we all need to be reminded we are one species and this is the only home we have. Not a great movie, but a fun diversion on a hot summer day.

I’LL TAKE SWEDEN (1965)

NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER: APOINTMENT WITH CRIME (1947)

NOW PLAYING: INDEPENDENCE DAY: RESURGENCE As America’s Independence Day nears, it’s not all a celebration of fireworks, picnics and hot dogs. Thanks to satellite engineer Dave Larson (Jeff Goldblum in fine form), the big news is that a gargantuan, 3,000 mile-wide space ship is approaching earth.

This news is pretty much déjà vu for all the good but rightfully frightened citizens of our home planet. Who can forget that only 20 years earlier (my, how time flies) the nations of the world created a coalition to fight an alien invasion now, recovered extraterrestrial technology has been retro-fitted and adapted by a huge, global defense program. Some of the players from that 1996 battle are back and now as the the alien invaders attack with apocalyptic ferocity, the former U.S. President (Bill Pullman) makes an appearance but clearly the aliens have been messing with his brain.

Now teams of scientists and brave fighter pilots spring into action to try and rescue our planet from what appears to be a vicious and invincible enemy.

Co-writer (five writers are credited) and director Roland Emmerich is a master of creating big-screen end-of-the-world mayhem. I guess for 20 years now, we always

18

knew they’d come back. I loved the art of this film and the painterly chaotic images of fire and smoke and panic. The swift action is persistent and the alien creatures are menacing and huge. I see a lot of artist H. Giger in the design of the invaders but I was hoping there’d be more communication with them. One pretty young actress that stands out is Maika Monroe. Judd Hirsh is back spewing Yiddishisms and it’s nice to see Sela Ward as our current President. Ace pilot Will Smith is not back in this sequel but his character’s son is. The notion of extinction and “end of days” pervades religious and environmental issues and movies that give vividly crafted narration to this modern mythology connect with us on an almost spiritual level. The big,

This stylish often-overlooked British noir makes its Blu-ray debut this month.

While American film noir draws heavily from German expressionism, some cinema scholars have pointed to French poetic realism as the greater inspiration to the style of British film noir, almost a sub-genre unto itself, however small. The heightened aestheticism that defined poetic realism is vividly present in this 40’s film directed

by John Harlow, starring William Hartnell (the first actor to play “Dr. Who”), Beverly Beatty, Joyce Howard, Raymond Lovell and the always-watchable Herbert Lom (Peter Sellers police chief nemesis in the “Pink Panther” series). Olive Films. Blu-ray

This vintage Bob Hope feature from the 60s attempted to appeal to a younger demographic and at the same time create a “socially relevant” movie. As luck would have it, this was a well-meaning misfire in both of those categories. This film has gone down in cinema history as ultimate 1960’s camp. Among those attempts to be relevant, the film features former teen idols Tuesday Weld and Frankie Avalon as hip young people and at the same time push contemporary hot-button issues of premarital sex in a “free-love” culture.

Today’s audiences point to several of the film’s elements as prime sources of campy delight. I love how Bob Hope always appears either with a hat or under strategically cast shadows to conceal his receding hairline.

The locations are obviously not Swedish.

Recognizable California scenery is clearly front and center as are the visible boat registrations. But in the end, it’s really the accumulation of goofy one-liners and the corny musical numbers. But for some reason, this film retains a weird, albeit irresistible charm in spite of the out-oftouch themes. It’s fun to watch former PS resident Hope do his thing in this first time on Blu-ray title. And of course Tuesday Weld was never lovelier. Olive Films. Blu-ray.

Comments? RobinESimmons@aol.com

BOOK REVIEW

WHATEVER WORKS -----------------------------------------------------

“SOME POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS”

BY HELEN PHILLIPS STORIES ----------------------------------------------------veryday life is filled with challenges.

Too often we become jaded and our world is reduced to a simple routine with occasional drama now and then. Even with bumps in the road, we only want to quickly get back to “normal.” Some Possible Solutions by Helen Phillips (Henry Holt, 224 pages) shows how delicate life is, how crazy reality can be and a future of possibilities.

Many of you dear readers may know that I am a fanatic about the short story genre.

There is something magical about reading an author’s story collection. Something happens as you read one story and go to the next. There is a shift that takes place and the world slips away as each story brings a new life and universe.

With a short story, there is often no way to predict what a character will do or how

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

BY HEIDI SIMMONS a plot might twist and turn. A story may suddenly end with no reason or it may be pages longer arriving in a place you could have never imagined.

In 18 stories, author Phillips takes the reader to places where relationships and timeless roles (spouse, mother, siblings, etc.) are explored through the lens of an outsider, or alien who finds the customs and rituals, unfamiliar and jarring. Sometimes the outsider is you in your own home.

The title story “Some Possible Solutions” explores the changing nature of roles in society but those changes are not what you might think. A well-off professional woman chooses a hi-tech male doll as her sexual partner instead of an actual guy. For her it’s easier and mostly hassle free. How about a second wife to do the chores you don’t like or have the time for? Wonder what that would be like? Admit it, it’s a “possible solution.”

In “The Beekeeper,” young women are disappearing in the city and a rich family hires a babysitter to take their nearly adult daughter to the country farm where it’s safer. It is a beautiful and magical place where the girl’s grandparents were raised, but for the babysitter, it is a strange and alien world. The babysitter slowly falls in love with the innocence of the girl and the pristine land.

COMMUNITY

“The Knowers” will make you think about how you spend your time on this earth, especially if you knew exactly how long you have to live. After all, aren’t all our days numbered?

Motherhood today is filled with important things to know and do for children. Everyone wants the best start for his or her kids. In “Doppelgänger,” one mother starts to see herself and all the other mothers as the same woman.

“Flesh and Blood” reveals a world where everyone has stepped out of his or her skin.

This makes life even more of a challenge for the protagonist when she can’t stand the sight of blood or when someone masticates and swallows lunch.

Finding a mate is not always easy unless the world offers an opportunity to travel to

a planet that can provide the perfect match in “The Joined.”

This collection is hyper-imaginative yet it is set in a familiar reality. Whether a story takes place in a dystopian future or in a yuppie neighborhood, the foibles of our basic human nature remain dominant.

Author Phillips takes the mundane elements of being a wife, mother, sister, woman, human and plays out these roles in settings and situations that are emotionally familiar yet often disturbing and disorienting.

Intelligent, witty, subversive and selfdeprecating, Some Possible Solutions is about the angst of existence and the constant stress of surviving all that women are confronted with on a daily basis.

Whether some of Phillip’s stories are allegorical or metaphorical is unclear, but it certainly makes them all more provocative.

More often then not, “some possible solutions” are whatever works best with the least amount of conflict.

This is a fun book to share with friends or a reading group. Each story holds a potential conversation and an interesting discussion.

BY CRAIG MICHAELS

FREE TRAM RIDE FOR ARMED FORCES DURING JULY

T

he month of July is typically one of the hotter months of the year for the Coachella Valley. It’s also a month when we celebrate the independence of our country. What better way to say ‘Thank you’ to our military personal then a free to the top of the Palm Springs Arial Tramway to cool off. The 10 minute ride concludes at the mountain station at an elevation of 8,516 ft., where the temperature is some 20 to 30 degrees cooler then the desert floor.

For over a decade, the Palm Springs Arial Tramway has saluted the men and women who serve our country with “Military Days.”

For the entire month of July, all military personnel with valid military identification— active and retired—receive free admission to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway along with a special gift as part of Military Days.

In addition, up to six of their guests receive 25% off of their regular Tramway fares.

According to Tramway Vice President of Sales & Marketing Nancy Nichols, “Military Days has been our way of saying ‘Thank you’ to the dedicated men and women of the United States Armed Forces—along with their friends and families. We are delighted to welcome them back again this July.”

In addition to the cooler temperatures, visitors to the tram can take advantage of the picturesque hiking in the 50+ miles of pristine wilderness in the Mount San Jacinto State Park. Summer visitors can also joining guided nature walks free of charge on Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day Weekend. It’s a perfect location for a picnic in the beautiful pine forest. Guests will find dining options in either Peaks Restaurant, a fine dining experience, or Pines Café, a cafeteria-style restaurant.

Opened in 1963, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway now claims to have the world’s largest rotating tram cars. Military personnel and visitors can experience the natural

history museum where you can watch a documentary film on the history of the Tramway and State Park.

In observance of the Independence Day holiday, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will open early on Monday, July 4. The first tram car up that day will be 8:00 a.m., the last tram car up will be 8:00 p.m. and the last tram car down will be 9:45 p.m. For more information on Military Days or other yearround Tramway activities, please call 760325-1391, or visit www.pstramway.com.

Written by: Craig Michaels Productions (760) 880-3848

“ Thank you for your service.”

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

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CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15 AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Karaoke 9pm Jazz Brunch w/ TBA 11:30am SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show Gee 7pm 7:30pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ 341-3560 The Myx 6pm and Dancing 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Robert The Chris Gore Group Pro Jam 7pm O’Conner 6-10pm VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; TBA 6pm PS; 888-999-1995 Nash with Quinto WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Menguante 9pm The Smooth Brothers 5:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 & Friends 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm The Luminators 6pm THE HARD ROCK; PS; 760-325-9676 Pool AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Party w/ DJ Paparazzi 10am Bill Marx 6:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 345-6466 Ted Herman’s Big Band 6pm Mood Deep House Lounge 6pm-2am JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Open Jam 6pm Jaggi 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 2794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the 760-345-6466 Larry Capeloto 6pm afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 2794 Hot Rox 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 4-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Red’s Rockstar THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Karaoke 8pm-1:15am Henry 7pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 7:30pm Open Mic 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND The Sunday Band 7:30pm COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry PETE’S HIDEAWAY;PS; 760-322-6500 The Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close Evaro Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 The 341-3560 T.B.A. 6pm Judy Show 7pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ

MON JULY 4

Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Michael James & 3sum 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Tony Grandberry 6:30pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Trish Hatley & Barney McClure 6pm

TUE JULY 5 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Michael Lowe 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 TBA 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Open DJ Night text 760-799-8800 to sign up 6pm-2am THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke en Espanol 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766533 Chuck Alvarez 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm INDIAN CANYONS GOLF RESORT; PS; 760-833-8700 DJ Randy Johnson 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345-6466 Michael D’Angelo 6:15pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 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 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 Jethro BoDidley 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies Night 7pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760341-3560 Demetrious and Co. THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Douglas McDonald Duo 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Tequila Tuesdays 9pm VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Chris Lomeli 6pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 TBA 6pm

WED JULY 6 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Will Sturgeon (Brightener) 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Pro Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald Trio 7:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Beer Pong Contest 6pm-2am BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760228-1199 Karaoke 7:30pm

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

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760-404-6325

FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766533 Gina Carey 6pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345-6466 Open Mic w/ Rich Bono & Poupee Boccaccio 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Live Music KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic hosted by Amy Angel 6:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 “Sing Jam” w/ Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger Lemieux 5pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2881199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Michael Holmes Jazz Trio 6:30pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760341-3560 The Hive Minds Acoustic Duo 6:30pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Costley Band 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Nite Fixx 9-2am WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 TBA 6:30pm

HADDON LIBBY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

IN(TER)DEPENCE DAY I

nterdependence or independence?

This is the issue that the United Kingdom voted on June 23rd. While we all recognize the beneficial value to working as part of a group, giving up independence is a tough sacrifice for most of us. When those in control take actions that make our individual lives tougher, we often rebel.

After the American Revolution where the U.S. broke free of the United Kingdom, the state of Massachusetts ruled over what we now know as the State of Maine. It made sense at the start as Maine has less than 10,000 residents. Mainers did not like the situation as one had to travel to Boston to go to court. Additionally, Massachusetts would take more in taxes than they invested

in the state causing most Mainers to find the arrangement unfair.

By 1820, Maine won its independence so long as Missouri could become a state. These seemingly unrelated events were connected as those in leadership in Washington DC could not let the balance between free and slave states tip toward the side of freedom.

Fast forward 192 years to 2012 when San Fernando Valley tried to secede from Los Angeles. This effort was made as most of the Valley’s taxes were used to support the larger city to its south. While San Fernando Valley voters chose to leave the city by a 51-49 margin, the non-San Fernando Valley residents voted against the measure by a vote of 67-33.

Many have wondered why the Coachella Valley remains part of Riverside County.

Like Maine, our area as well as areas to our east used to be sparsely populated.

Like Los Angeles, our county is a sprawling, large area where residents east of the San Jacinto Mountains are underrepresented in our county capital which is more than one

hour away. Like San Fernando Valley, if we ever wanted to leave the County, it is highly unlikely that county residents to the west of us would support the secession.

One of the challenges to having a larger voice in Riverside County is that our valley is made up of nine cities that collectively represent only 15% of our county’s 2.3 million population. On the County Board, we only have one seat. Additionally, by having so many small cities that individually represent 1% to 3% of the county’s population, our voice is further muted. If we ever wanted a larger voice in the county, we need to find a way to combine the many cities of the valley into one voice. This would mean doing our own version of the European Union.

When the United Kingdom decided to break its ties with the European Union on June 23rd, the primary reasons appeared were due to the free flow of immigrants

June 30 to July 6, 2016

into the United Kingdom in recent years and an unelected government in Brussels that was taking more from the United Kingdom than it was giving back. As the middle class in the U.K. continued to shrink because of the effect of free trade and the free flow of workers between borders, the middle and lower class workers voted to break away from a system that was not benefitting them.

The situation in the U.K. sounds strikingly familiar to that in the United States where the middle class continues to shrink because of globalization and the free flow of undocumented workers into the United States. Most Americans are coming to a conclusion that those in Washington DC are doing things that do not benefit them.

This may be a key reason why Donald Trump crushed the GOP field and has a very real chance at becoming the next President.

Haddon Libby is an Investment Advisor at Winslow Drake and can be reached at 760.449.6349 or email HLibby@ WinslowDrake.com.

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

I FOUGHT THE LAW AND THE LAW WON! . . . .AND IT WINS EVERY TIME!

T

he law arguably wins every time. This is because whether you are found guilty or not guilty you still lose. A defendant loses time and money from: 1. Being arrested; 2.

Going to court multiple times; 3. Posting Bail; 4.

Retaining a lawyer; 5. Loss of earnings; 6. Dealing with the stress it places on your life.

Thus there is no way you can truly win when you are prosecuted. Because of the stress you are under with a criminal case the defendant often takes it out on their significant other/s. This leads to subsequent domestic violence arrests as well as divorces and disharmony with the family...... not to mention the interruption of business and the financial losses incurred therein.

The info above is equally applicable to Felonies, Misdemeanors and Infractions. The defendant is being prosecuted by the DA and once the DA decides to file they don’t usually give in. As a matter of fact, in the Indio Court there are a lot of young DA’s that are looking for notches on their belt which they acquire by trying cases and winning them. Many of these cases should never have been filed and even though defendants are not guilty some decide to enter plea rather than being subjected to the challenges herein.

A defendant loses a case for many reasons.

Usually it is because the facts are against them.

Sometimes it is because they cannot afford the best lawyer or the experts necessary to prevail.

Often a defendant is just unlikeable either because of his/her appearance such as tattoos.

Other factors I warn my DUI and PI clients

about when going to court are: 1. When you are within a few miles of the courthouse you need to become the most courteous driver on the road. You do not know if the driver you cut off or flipped off will be your judge, clerk or juror. You may not recognize that driver but they will remember you.

2. Park your car between the lines, do not take 2 spaces 3. Do NOT Smoke or spit 4. Do not walk on the grass if there is a sign not to do so 5. Hold the elevator door open for whoever is behind you 6. Be courteous to everyone in the courthouse 7. Dress professionally and cover tattoos with clothes if possible 8. Shoes should be shined 9. Nails should be clean 10. Belt should not be old and worn out 11. Ties should not be dirty 12. Clothes must be pressed & cleaned 13. Do not eat beans the night before Every juror and judge is different and looks for different things. As a young lawyer I tried a case against one of the most senior DA’s. I had to try the case because my client was charged with 5 counts and had a long record in addition to being on parole. If he pled he would go away for a long time. There was no chance of winning but the jury came back 12-0 not guilty on all counts.

He was found not guilty... however he was far from innocent.

I asked the jury if I could talk to them in

the hallway to see what convinced them of my client’s innocence. The answers totally surprised me. They commented that the DA was rude, had an old belt, dirty nails, clothes that needed pressing etc. All in all he was not well groomed.

All of this leads to defendants agreeing that the law wins every time and it is often not worth fighting “the law”.

IF you have any suggestions for future article contact me 760.837.7500/dale@dalegribowlaw. com.

DALE GRIBOW- AVVO Perfect 10.0 Peer Rating TOP LAWYER - Palm Springs Life 2011-2017 “Preeminent” Rating by Martindale Hubbell Legal Directory “Best Attorneys of America” Rue, (Limited to Top 100 Attorneys/State) Legal Eagle “Best and Brightest Legal Minds”

by Palm Springs Life- June 2016 Client Appreciation Award/ Martindale Hubbell Client Distinction Award- 2015 American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys- Founding Member August 2015 10 BEST ATTORNEYS for California for Client Satisfaction -DUI Law- Selected 2015.

Only Attorney Appointed to CVAG Public Safety and CLINTON Foundation (DUI) committees 2014-2016 “Though I am sometimes referred to as a DUI criminal defense lawyer, I choose to not view my clients as “criminals”. I prefer to view them and more importantly to treat them as good, honest people that have found themselves in a scary and unfortunate situation.”

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SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT NEEDS YOUR HELP!

I

t’s hot, it’s dry, it’s the 4th of July!

These words make fire officials cringe says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. It will be a long three-day 4th of July weekend and the fire department needs your help!

We have a lot of resources and personnel out fighting fires. Fire danger is extremely high and fire officials recommend everyone attend public fireworks shows, and leave the lighting to the professionals. Our call load significantly increase on the 4th of July and the days leading up to the 4th. Help us by attending a professional show and keep firework related fires and medical calls down.

Additionally, to help reduce the risk of fire, keep barbeque grills away from

anything that can burn. Don’t leave the grill unattended while it’s cooking.

Keep children and pets away from the grill and make sure coals are completely extinguished before disposing of them.

While outdoors, stay hydrated and consume lots of water.

Make sure your pets are kept indoors as loud noises such as fireworks can scare them and cause them to run away.

Contact your local fire department and visit www.fire.lacounty.gov/safetymessages/fire-safety-tips/ for additional safety information.

Don’t text and drive and have a Happy 4th of July!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

HEALTH&FITNESS

BABY IT’S HOT OUTSIDE

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ummer in the Coachella Valley has its charms, but once the temperature rises into the 110 degree area and beyond, there are some serious health issues that we need to be aware of. Heat exhaustion is an illness that can occur after you’ve been exposed to high temperatures, and often is accompanied by dehydration that causes excessive thirst, headache, and loss of consciousness, while salt depletion results in nausea, muscle cramps and dizziness.

Heat stroke, on the other hand, the most serious form of heat injury, is considered a medical emergency. The primary symptom of heat stroke is a core body temperature above 105 degrees, but other symptoms include a throbbing headache, lack of sweating despite the heat, hot skin, nausea, confusion, and dizziness. A young child may have seizures.

Heat stroke can cause damage to the brain and other internal organs and, while it mainly affects people over age 50, it also takes a toll on healthy young athletes. If you suspect that someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and cool the person with whatever is available — a tub of cool (not cold) water or a cool shower, or place ice packs or cold, wet towels on the person’s head, neck, armpits and groin.

Children especially need careful attention during the hot months. Between 1998 and 2011, at least 500 children in the United States died from being inside hot cars, and 75% of the victims were less than two years old. On

22

BY DOUG MORIN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORCV VOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE INDIO, CA

average, 38 children die annually from heatrelated deaths after being trapped inside vehicles. Even the best of parents or caregivers can unknowingly leave a sleeping baby in a car, and the end result can be injury or death.

Elderly adults and disabled individuals left alone in a vehicle are also at risk for heat stroke.

Among recent child deaths in hot cars, about half occurred because parents forgot that the child was in the car, 18% happened after parents intentionally left the child in the car without understanding how hot it could get, and 30% happened after the child climbed into the car to play. Legal prosecution of parents in these situations can vary greatly. “Forgotten baby syndrome” is a pseudo-medical term for the danger of adult caregivers forgetting about the presence of a young child and consequently subjecting the child to danger or death.

Pets are even more susceptible than humans to heat stroke since they have fur and feathers and can’t produce whole-body sweat to cool themselves. Some breeds of dogs—like boxers, pugs, shiatzus, and other dogs and cats with short muzzles—will have a much harder time breathing in extreme heat. Animals are prohibited in many places around the Valley, so leaving your pet at home with plenty of water and air conditioning on hot days is a healthier option.

And don’t forget: hydrate, hydrate, hydrate - preferably with non-alcoholic beverages.

SPORTS SCENE

BY FLINT WHEELER

EARLY NFL SEASON OVER UNDERS.. .

I

f for no other reason than the unpredictability of injuries, the NFL win total over/under props traditionally include a few misfires. Last year, for example, the Cowboys’ number was initially set by the Bovada sportsbook at 9.5 (they won four) and the Ravens at 9 (they won 5). It works the other way, too, when the league’s upstarts outperform expectations.

In 2015 Washington was predicted to win 6, covered easy at 9 and Cincinnati thought to win 9 crushed it with 12 wins.

So, which teams’ early projections seem a little too high or too low? Here is the full list of win totals, as of June 27, 2016: Like Money? Who Doesn’t, right? Here are some suggestions: Bears over 7.5 wins. The Bears’ offense will have to find its footing again without former offensive coordinator Adam Gase and longtime star running back Matt Forte— no easy task in either case. The real reason to believe Chicago can be .500 or better, though, lies on defense.

GM Ryan Pace and coordinator Vic Fangio combined to bring that unit back to respectability in 2015, and there are ample reasons to believe it can be above average this fall. The additions of Danny Trevathan and rookie Leonard Floyd completely rebuilt the linebacking corps around incumbent Pernell McPhee. Even if Floyd struggles through the expected growing pains, that’s a potentially dynamic group behind a line that will be anchored by rising star Eddie Goldman.

The schedule sets up well, too: Chicago plays back-to-back road games just once (Weeks 10 and 11), and those are winnable trips to the Buccaneers and Giants off a bye, followed by a home stretch featuring four of the final six games at Soldier Field.

49ers under 5.5 wins. Chip Kelly’s Eagles won just six games in 2015. This season the 49ers will win fewer. Who knows the impact Kelly will have, and how players will respond to his methods? But even if Kelly hits his ceiling this season, I don’t think the result

will be a lot of wins. This simply boils down to a 49ers roster that is significantly weaker top to bottom than almost every one of its opponents.

Versatile defensive lineman DeForest Buckner was a smart use of the No. 7 pick and should help that depleted unit. The offense line will get a boost from rookie guard Joshua Garnett. Overall, though, this roster lacks the type of firepower, particularly in key spots (Blaine Gabbert, anyone?) to do much.

A glance at the schedule and it’s hard to see how San Francisco gets to six wins.

Even if they beat the Rams twice and go 1–3 against the Cardinals and Seahawks, which I doubt, there are a multitude of treacherous remaining opponents (the Panthers, postBrady suspension Patriots, Cowboys and Jets) And unless the trajectory is drastically altered, the 49ers will be ‘dogs to everyone else as well.

Jaguars over 7.5 wins. Yes, folks—after all these years of rebuilding, it’s time to take the Jaguars seriously. Maybe not as a division winner or deep playoff contender, but as a team that is putting all the pieces in place over time. Blake Bortles has developed into one of the NFL’s better deep passers, Allen Hurns and Allen Robinson make for a formidable receiver tandem, and the combination of T.J. Yeldon and free-agent acquisition Chris Ivory puts power in the backfield. The offensive line still needs help, but the defense needed more, and the Jags responded with the signings of Malik Jackson, Prince Amukamara and Tashaun Gipson.

What doesn’t look quite as good is the schedule: Jacksonville has to tussle with the AFC West, the NFC North and an improved AFC South. But this is a franchise that has been building slowly and doing things the right way, and 2016 could be the year it really starts to pay off. Think of the Raiders in 2015, and this could be a similar track. The Jags may not win 10–12 games just yet, but take the over on 7.5.

Good Luck!

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of June 30

ARIES (March 21-April 19): During winter, some bears spend months hibernating. Their body temperatures and heart rates drop. They breathe drowsily. Their movements are minimal. Many hummingbirds engage in a similar slow-down -- but they do it every single night. By day they are among the most manic creatures on earth, flapping their wings and gathering sustenance with heroic zeal.

When the sun slips below the horizon, they rest with equal intensity. In my estimation, Aries, you don’t need a full-on immersion in idleness like the bears.

But you’d benefit from a shorter stint, akin to the hummingbird’s period of dormancy.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “Dear Dr. Brezsny: A psychic predicted that sometime this year I will fall in love with a convenience store clerk who’s secretly a down-on-his-luck prince of a small African country. She said that he and I have a unique destiny. Together we will break the world’s record for dancing without getting bitten in a pit of cobras while drunk on absinthe on our honeymoon. But there’s a problem. I didn’t have time to ask the psychic how I’ll meet my soulmate, and I can’t afford to pay $250 for another reading. Can you help?

- Mopey Taurus.” Dear Mopey: The psychic lied.

Neither she nor anyone else can see what the future will bring you. Why? Because what happens will be largely determined by your own actions. I suggest you celebrate this fact. It’s the perfect time to do so: July is Feed Your Willpower Month.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Of all the concert pianos in the world, 80 percent of them are made by Steinway. A former president of the company once remarked that in each piano, “243 taut strings exert a pull of 40,000 pounds on an iron frame.” He said it was “proof that out of great tension may come great harmony.” That will be a potential talent of yours in the coming weeks, Gemini. Like a Steinway piano, you will have the power to turn tension into beauty.

But will you actually accomplish this noble goal, or will your efforts be less melodious? It all depends on how much poised self-discipline you summon.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Once upon a time, weren’t you the master builder who never finished building your castle? Weren’t you the exile who wandered aimlessly while fantasizing about the perfect sanctuary of the past or the sweet safety zone of the future? Didn’t you perversely nurture the ache that arose from your sense of not feeling at home in the world? I hope that by now you have renounced all of those kinky inclinations. If you haven’t, now would be an excellent time to do so. How might you reinvest the mojo that will be liberated by the demise of those bad habits?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In accordance with the astrological omens, I have selected three aphorisms by poet James Richardson to guide you. Aphorism #1: “The worst helplessness is forgetting there is help.” My commentary: You have the power to avoid that fate. Start by identifying the sources of healing and assistance that are available to you.

Aphorism #2: “You do not have to be a fire to keep one burning.” My commentary: Generate all the heat and light you can, yes, but don’t torch yourself.

Aphorism #3: “Patience is not very different from courage. It just takes longer.” My commentary: But it may not take a whole lot longer.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may not know this, but I am the founder and CEO of Proud To Be Humble, an acclaimed organization devoted to minimizing vanity. It is my sworn duty to protest any ego that exceeds the acceptable limits as defined by the Geneva Convention on Narcissism. However, I now find myself conflicted. Because of the lyrical beauty and bighearted charisma that are currently emanating from your ego, I am unable, in good conscience, to ask you to tone yourself down. In fact, I hereby grant you a license to expand your selflove to unprecedented proportions. You may also feel free to unleash a series of lovely brags.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The next 28 days will not be a favorable period to sit around passively

© Copyright 2016 Rob Brezsny

wishing to be noticed. Nor will it be a good time to wait to be rescued or to trust in others to instigate desirable actions. On the other hand, it will be an excellent phase to be an initiator: to decide what needs to be done, to state your intentions concisely, and to carry out your master plan with alacrity and efficiency. To help ensure your success during the next 28 days, make this declaration each morning before breakfast: “I don’t want to OBSERVE the show. I want to BE the show.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “In life, as in bicycling, pedal when you have to, coast when you can.” So says author James Lough, and now I’m passing on his advice to you -- just in time for your transition from the heavy-pedaling season to the coasting-is-fun phase. I suspect that at this juncture in your life story you may be a bit addicted to the heavy pedaling. You could be so accustomed to the intensity that you’re inclined to be suspicious of an opportunity to enjoy ease and grace. Don’t be like that. Accept the gift with innocent gratitude.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “When a jet flies low overhead, every glass in the cupboard sings,” writes aphorist James Richardson. “Feelings are like that: choral, not single; mixed, never pure.”

That’s always true, but it will be intensely true for you in the coming weeks. I hope you can find a way to tolerate, even thrive on, the flood of ambiguous complexity. I hope you won’t chicken out and try to pretend that your feelings are one-dimensional and easily understandable. In my opinion, you are ripe to receive rich lessons in the beauty and power of mysterious emotions.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Pop artist Andy Warhol said that in the future, everyone would be famous for 15 minutes. His idea had a resonance with the phrase “nine days’ wonder,” which as far back as Elizabethan times referred to a person or event that captured the public’s fascination for a while. You Capricorns are entering a phase when you’re far more likely than usual to bask in the spotlight. Between now and September 2017, I bet you’ll garner at least a short burst of glory, acclaim, or stardom -- perhaps much more. Are you ready for your close-up? Have you prepped for the influx of attention that may be coming your way?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): One of my readers, Jay O’Dell, told me this story: “After my cancer surgery, a nurse said to me, ‘You may as well try magical thinking. Regular thinking hasn’t helped.’ I said to the nurse, ‘Well, why the hell not?’ That was seven years ago.” In bringing O’Dell’s testimony to your attention, I don’t mean to suggest you will have any health problems that warrant a strong dose of magical thinking. Not at all. But you may get wrapped up in a psychological twist or a spiritual riddle that would benefit from magical thinking. And what exactly is magical thinking? Here’s one definition: The stories that unfold in your imagination have important effects on what actually happens to you.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Let’s talk about X-factors and wild cards and strange attractors.

By their very nature, they are unpredictable and ephemeral, even when they offer benevolent breakthroughs. So you may not even notice their arrival if you’re entranced by your expectations and stuck in your habitual ways. But here’s the good news, Pisces: Right now you are not unduly entranced by your expectations or stuck in your habits. Odds are high that you will spy the sweet twists of fate -- the X-factors and wild cards and strange attractors -- as they float into view. You will pounce on them and put them to work while they’re still fresh. And then they will help you hike your ratings or get the funding you need or animate the kind of love that heals.

Homework: For one week, pretend to already be something you’re on your way to becoming.

Report results to Truthrooster@gmail.com.

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

June 30 to July 6, 2016

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

MOVING THROUGH, NOT STUCK!

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ften times we have heard someone say, “I’m just going through something right now.”

When we hear these words, we have a tendency to refrain from inquiring what the person in experiencing. Why? Generally, we believe the person must be going through something adverse.

Have you contemplated someone is going through something, translates into a poor experience?

Truly, we’re all going through something.

It’s called life. Positive progression is moving through and not remaining in a stagnant posture. A friend once shared with me she was so stressed due to what was transpiring in her life. She told me her daughter and son-in-law just had their first child. Her other daughter was getting married, plus, she was promoted in her job and this would require more responsibility.

She appeared excited and stressed simultaneously. You see affirmative progression can be stressful too.

Moving through and not being stagnant is an exceptional place to be in life. If you are seeking to move through life, you must be willing to take chances. Chances and change are often frightening. I believe

being static and in the same place year after year may be more frightening than the actual change and transformation you can affect in your life. If you are the type of person who is complaining about not progressing professionally, spiritually, or physically, there is only one person to be held responsible, YOU! Fortunately, I am experiencing abundant change at the present time. I had to put all into perspective. There isn’t one circumstance in my life that is negative. It just happens to be inundating at one time.

One thing for sure, I am not bored or stuck.

Are you moving through life? Or, are you immobilized? The difference boils down to, creating and affecting positive change.

Or, are you able to transition? Do you continue to make excuses? It may be time to commence an evaluation of self. Take a step back and evaluate yourself personally and professionally.

Position yourself in an honest space.

Recognize whether or not you are moving forward or remaining stagnant. Growth requires a kinetic commitment. Commence moving to you true destination.

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

BEAUTY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DR MARIA LOMBARDO

Dr. Maria Lombardo, Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery is located in Rancho Mirage.

She specializes in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures including (but not limited to) facial, body and breast surgery, Botox, Latisse, and hCG diet program.

For a consultation or more information, visit lombardocosmeticsurgery.com or call 760-610-8990. Dr. Lombardo will be writing a bi-weekly column for CV Weekly.

WHAT’S NEW IN SKIN CARE? (REALLY, THERE IS SOME NEW STUFF!)

W

hat is the best way to care for you skin? There are some time honored basics of good skin care that we should all be following: 1. Cleanse your skin: AM and PM – night time is the more important of the two because you want to wash the grime of the day off and have a nice, clean surface to apply….

2. Moisturizer: During the day we should all be using a moisturizer with SPF (sun protection) and at night use a different product. If you are over the age of ~35-40 you should be using something formulated for “aging skin” or for “night-time”. These products contain more nutrients and because our skin works to repair itself when we sleep, providing a good environment for it to do that will result in better skin.

3. Exfoliate: I recommend a light scrub (either a cleanser with gritty stuff in it, a “buff puff™” pad with your regular cleanser or a brush-type device) about three times per week! Your skin is naturally loosing cells every day – exfoliating helps that process along! Also, it will give you a more polished look AND allow the other products you use to penetrate deeper into the skin.

4. Sunscreen: Oh wait! I already mentioned that! It must be important!

5. Low level Acid: This can be a toner, a Vitamin C serum or a retinol-type product

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(like Retin-A™). These products encourage turnover of new skin cells – Don’t forget that a yearly, deeper chemical peel can be a great part of your skincare regimen if you are over the age of 40!

So what else? What if you are already doing all of this and taking great care of your skin? What’s NEW? Growth Factors! Okay, it’s not entirely new… but there are some new products that really have taken the growth factor concept to the next level! These products are designed to supplement the growth factors in skin that you have lost over time (read: “as you get older”). Scientific studies show that regular use improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduces the appearance of pores and helps even out skin tone to reveal a more radiant complexion! Well, that sounds pretty great!

So, you should consider adding a growth factor product to your daily regimen… And you are in luck! We are featuring the new Regenica™ product line which contains the latest generation of growth factors at Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery! Our July featured product is the Repair Complex at 25% off! Call today with any questions 760-610-8990 or to make a complimentary appointment to discuss your skincare and other needs!

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

ICE CREAM AND COLD PIZZA

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he other day I created this post on Facebook. “You are an adult to your inner child. Give yourself permission to eat ice cream for breakfast... in your cowgirl boots.” Judging by the likes and comments, this little ditty delighted a number of friends.

Like me, they probably sometimes tire of being an adult. Not only is it hard work, as grown-ups, we sometimes lack the creativity and spontaneity of the young.

Are you too wound up in the parameters of adulthood? I know I am much of the time.

When I need to step back, turn off the noise of the world and shake off my Ms Manners persona, I turn to my old friend Dr. Suess. I think he nailed it when he said “I like nonsense.

It wakes up the brain.”

I always cherish reading to children by delivering the sing-song verses written by Theodore Geisel, the real name of the man dubbed as the modern Mother Goose. We loved his characters because they embraced coloring outside the lines and rarely played by the rules. (Actually, Theodore was prone to breaking the rules too as evidenced by some trouble he got into at Dartmouth. Along with some buddies, he was caught drinking in his dorm room. I know, no big deal right? Well this was 1924 when prohibition reined so there

was a penalty.)

Embracing our inner child means sometimes looking at the world wearing glasses two prescriptions too strong. Perhaps Suess was doing this when he wrote: “From here to there, and there to here, funny things are everywhere.”

So jump on the bandwagon today and plan something fun. Break out of the constant mold of proper adult behavior. Head to the mall and buy some light-up shoes to wear to work on casual Friday. Hide a bottle of soap bubbles in your desk drawer and blow them over your cube when the boss isn’t looking. Get creative and mix it up a bit. As Suess reminded us, “There is fun to be done! There are points to be scored. There are games to be won.”

About breakfast…forget your morning Starbucks ritual of a non-fat decaf cappuccino or your skinny green tea latte. Stop at the nearest Ben and Jerry’s and opt for a scoop of one of their insane flavors like Coconuts for Caramel. As for me, I just might show up at the breakfast table wearing a pink tutu and munching on cold pizza my favorite wacky breakfast treat.

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

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June 30 to July 6, 2016

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