coachellavalleyweekly.com • August 20 to August 26, 2020
iLLusionists - Youth Dance Group
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Greenroom Theatre Co.
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Vol.9 No.23
Nicholas Sosa-Face Facts-Giselle Woo
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Ferro
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
CV HARVEST BOX UNITES PALM SPRINGS & THERMAL
Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228
publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Head Music Writer Noe Gutierrez Head Feature Writer Crystal Harrell Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Esther Sanchez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Denise Ortuno Neil, Rob Brezny, Dr. Peter Kadile, Dee Jae Cox, Angela Romeo, Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Michelle Anne Rizzio, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Videographer Kurt Schawacker Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley
CONTENTS CV Harvest Box ......................................... 3 iLLusionists - Youth Dance Group ........... 5 Breaking The 4th Wall - Greenroom Theatre Company Youth Program....... 5 Desert Music Happenings: Nicholas Sosa– Face Facts – Giselle Woo ................... 6-7 Consider This - The Pretenders................ 8 Pet Place ................................................. 10 Travel Tips & Local Happening 4 U ........11 Safety Tips .............................................. 11 The Vino Voice ....................................... 12
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hat happens when a date farmer in Thermal, CA meets with a restaurateur in Palm Springs, CA and they both realize the impact COVID-19 shutdowns have had on their businesses? They do what entrepreneurs do best- they identify a problem and then find a solution. Even in the midst of the uncertainty and tremendous financial losses, the coronavirus shutdowns have caused businesses, organizations, families, and individuals, problems- social, financial, psychological that must be solved. Entrepreneurs are uniquely wired to thrive in times of adversity and often charter new pathways through the fog of unknown challenges in search of a remedy to a problem that should not exist. Mark Tadros, of Aziz Farms, a secondgeneration family-run date farm in Thermal, says “Problems exist because there is a solution.” So, when the country, state, and county shutdowns due to coronavirus, sent a ripple effect and closed critical markets and distribution channels, such as the historic L.A. Terminal Market (now 7th Street Produce Market), Tadros no longer had a place to sell his world-class dates. His buyers sold to restaurants and cruise lines and those industries were also shut down. This meant that other farmers were facing the same reality- without a market to sell goods, crops could be lost. The cost of planting seeds, the equipment to farm, and the labor to plant and harvest could collapse a farm without the ability to sell produce and recoup the investment. Tadros recognized that Coachella Valley farmers faced a decision to either “till in” their crops and wait for a better year or risk the expense to harvest and not be able to find buyers for their produce. Meanwhile, in Palm Springs, restaurateur and owner of TRIO, Tony Marchese, who was honored a couple of years ago by Palm Springs Pride as an influential individual who exemplifies the spirit of equality and opportunity for all, faced the challenges of his own. “We did everything we could to be COVID safe but still had to close (our restaurant) and now are limited to outdoor dining only,” Marchese says he estimates his losses to be 1-2 million from the shutdown. “We’ve gone from 66 staff members to 25 now. It’s hard but it’s what we have to do,” he says with sincerity. In searching for answers to move the business forward, Marchese says his business coach told him he would need to “pivot.” He laughed a little confessing his lack of familiarity with the term. “What’s a pivot?”
He knew he would have to find another way to position his knowledge and relationships in the restaurant business to keep afloat. When Tadros spoke with Tony about the impending doom that faced a green bean farmer on the brink of destroying his crops, Marchese suggested a model similar to a farm he knew about in Virginia that was delivering fresh produce directly to consumers. “He told me I should do it. I liked the idea but told Tony that we should do it together,” says the date farmer. So, East and West united to create www.CVHarvestBox.com, a produce delivery service that sources vegetables and fruits from local Coachella Valley and area farmers. They even helped the bean farmer from going under and started reaching out to other farmers as well. “It really gave me a boost,” exclaims the restaurateur. They are now attracting a steady loyal following as they add 20-50 new customers per week. “The early items we included may have been to exotic for some so we are finding out what people want, working with our farmers as well, and making improvements to our service daily,” says Tadros. The boxes will include special recipes (Mark Tadros is also a chef) on how to prepare the varieties of produce and lookout for a lot more updates to come on their website and through social media. In addition to uniting the valley with locally grown produce, the duo confesses that they are ardent champions of creating a viable agritourism industry in the Coachella Valley. “Ninety-Five percent of the dates in our country come from this Valley but it’s not easy to schedule a tour of a date farm,” says an impassioned date advocate. The two unlikely partners have found a pathway forward by working together for a common interest to help a community they love to succeed. They believe the CV Harvest Box is just the beginning of a great partnership that is uplifting the farmers and drawing attention to an incredible resource for economic development in the region. Their initiative
BY RICH HENRICH
to solve an immediate problem for farmers has not only created jobs for those who were previously out of work but also will create a long term solution to diversifying tourism. In the challenging times that so many faces in the wake of COVID-19, Mark Tadros and Tony Marchese are an inspiration to our beloved Valley. We hope you will support local farmers and businesses as we continue to grow and evolve through the pandemic of 2020. For more information on how you can have fresh, locally grown produce delivered to your house, go to www.CVHarvestBox.com and stop by TRIO to enjoy outdoor dining or order no-contact delivery or takeout at www. triopalmsprings.com. Don’t forget, dates are good for you so visit www.yellowdates.com and stay healthy!
Good Grub - Ferro ................................. 13 Brewtality .............................................. 14 Screeners ............................................... 15 Haddon Libby ........................................ 16 Dale Gribow ........................................... 16 Health - Keto ........................................... 17 Free Will Astrology................................. 17
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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COMMUNITY
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fter months of staying indoors this pandemic season, many are itching to get out and exercise in a way that coincides with California’s social distance guidelines. One recreational activity that raises the spirit and promotes mental and physical wellness is dancing. The Coachella Valley-based youth dance group, iLLusionists, held their first practice workshop on August 13 at La Quinta Park. The event was open to the public and those looking to learn contemporary dance styles while keeping distance from one another and wearing masks. Leading the workshop was co-director Alan Lezama, who not only holds that position on the youth team iLLusionists, but on the accompanying adult team as well called Animazing. "I came on the iLLusionists team as a beginner in 2017 and moved my way up since then. We never push anyone away. We always welcome everyone, but stage time does depend on their own work ethic,” said Lezama. Both dance groups have gained a faithful following and credible reputation of dance instruction for all ages, even participating in dance competitions, including the SoCal Chapkis Dance Competition and the NorCal Chapkis Dance Competition in 2018. The Chapkis Dance Family is known to have some of the best dancers in the
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YOUTH DANCE MAKES A COMEBACK DURING PANDEMIC BY CRYSTAL HARRELL
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maintaining motivation to do something and keeping negative emotions in check. Dancing is a positive way to feel rejuvenated and to get into a healthy mindset. “In the future, I hope more people start coming and joining our classes because we are truly trying to create a good platform where everyone can go and take class. There’s no need to be nervous; everyone has got rhythm, you just have to put in some work,” said Lezama, whose only dance experience before joining the group was dancing at family parties. Those interested in participating in future workshops and lessons can stay updated with social media. Lezama’s personal instagram is @alanlezama_ for questions or the official dance page, which is @illustionstsdancefam. In addition to running the dance company, Lezama also hosts his own podcast, which you can follow on Instagram as well, @box760_. “I’m always posting all things relating to dance and events happening in the Coachella Valley. We like to meet with local artists and build each other up by creating together. That is what we stand for, and we’re hoping to create a new platform for the Valley,” explained Lezama.
world being featured on television shows, movies, commercials, and choreographing international artists’ tours, award shows, and music videos in the entertainment industry. “Our company was really based on giving everyone the highest level of training for the lowest cost in the entire Coachella Valley, and we wanted to provide these free sessions because everyone is struggling during these times and you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket,” stated Carlos Curley, who started iLLusionists in 2015 and took over the Animazing adult team in 2012. The different styles of dance that the companies have been focused on teaching are popping and housing. Popping is a dance
THE GREENROOM THEATRE COMPANY – EMPOWERING YOUTH IN THE DESERT
here is something about a creative partnership that inspires magic when it’s the right duo. Paul McCartney and John Lennon, were highly competitive song writing partners who frequently challenged one another to reach new creative heights. Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, used their magic to give us timeless classic musical theatre that has been and will continue to be enjoyed by generations. Orville and Wilber Wright, two genius brothers who combined their ingenuity and gave us wings. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield made life taste a little sweeter. And Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are not only the creative minds behind some very exciting comedy, their chemistry together amplifies their individual success. The combined energy of some duos can take their accomplishments to astonishing heights. Such is the case for Greenroom Theatre Company Co-founders, Board President Karen Lin and Artistic Director David Catanzarite. The husband and wife team were originally asked by the College of the Desert, to initiate a summer youth theatre program. They wrote a proposal for a middle school program, but due to economics, COD abandoned the idea. Karen and David, were excited about the new youth theatre program they had designed and decided to move forward on their own. Their initial name was Palm Desert Theatre Academy, but eventually settled on the Greenroom Theatre Company. Their goals were to make top quality, rigorous training available to children and youth regardless of ability to pay and devote the
August 20 to August 26, 2020
BY DEE JAE COX
budget to the classroom by keeping studentteacher ratios small, since students often don't get that in the public schools. The Greenroom, would pay for quality instruction first and worry about fancy costumes and sets secondarily. They originally envisioned the program for middle schoolers because so many of the middle school theatre programs in the desert were being dismantled due to budget cuts. As soon as the program launched, they were approached by many parents asking if their elementary kids and high school kids could participate. So they decided to open the academy to ages 8-18 and divide instruction into two groups, kids 8-11 and teens 12-18. When starting out they provided financial aid any way they could, often bartering with parents who couldn't afford to pay tuition but could provide support services and because of their great relationship with CSUSB Palm Desert Campus they were able to work out a mutually agreeable rental deal for several classrooms on campus. Initially they presented melodramas, Shakespeare, and scene studies with lots of singing. The program kept growing by leaps and bounds and in order to cover all the scholarships they applied for their 501c3 nonprofit in order to be able be eligible for donations and grants. Karen, worked on getting the approval for their State and Federal nonprofit status and recruiting the Board of Directors, while David developed and executed the programming. For the first few years they presented melodramas, Shakespeare, and scene studies with lots of singing and by their 4th year they
BREAKING THE4TH WALL
had grown to offer fall, winter, and summer programs. While using the rehearsal spaces at the Palm Desert Campus they mounted their first summer musical, You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Cal State University San Bernardino (CSUSB) Palm Desert Campus offered them summer rental of the Indian Wells Theatre, which enabled the staging of large musicals and their first show in the new space was Fiddler on the Roof. In order to ensure that every kid participated in the production, they staged 30-minute curtain warmers with the younger actors performing scenes and songs from a combination of Broadway shows and original creative drama pieces which preceded the main production. They began working toward becoming an Equity Small Professional Theatre with staged readings of one-hour adaptations of great plays, including Shakespeare, in order to attract the best actors and directors in the area. Part of David and Karen’s artistic vision was to take these small free shows to where people were,
such as Barnes & Noble, public libraries, the La Quinta Brewpub, art galleries, and more. In addition they produced a touring production of Gift of the Magi with an all-Black cast and sold out shows at six historically Black churches across the valley. Greenroom, then launched the Coachella Valley Shakespeare Festival which proved to be very successful and they now plan a fully professional production of a Shakespeare play by 2021. Greenroom’s seasons now start with large summer musicals, followed by staged readings and various small creative projects in fall, winter, and spring. They continue to provide programing virtually. David, plans to soon retire from his full-time teaching profession and exclusively devote his time and energy to shaping the company into the Coachella Valley's next fully professional producing theatre. The Greenroom, has continued to find creative ways to fulfill their mission of empowering young people in the performing arts. In this critical time of social isolation and with so many children not able to return to classrooms, it is programs such as the Greenroom Theatre, that have become even more vital to the well-being of our nation’s youth. For more information on the Greenroom Theatre Company and their ongoing programs, check out their website. greenroomtheatrecompany.org Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org palmspringstheatre.com
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
LOCAL MUSIC
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ICHOLAS SOSA Palm Springs based performing and studio guitarist Nicholas Sosa is poised to release his debut album ‘Protocol’ a mix of original Jazz, Blues and Fusion featuring some of the best musicians in the Coachella Valley. In 2019 he was nominated for ‘Best Instrumental Performance’ at the Coachella Valley Music Awards. With influences from Jimi Hendrix to Joe Pass to Paco De Lucia to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Sosa has a bit of everything in his repertoire. Sosa has had a passion for music for as long as he can remember. He began with the violin at the age of 7 and started playing guitar in his early teens with a beloved Fender Telecaster. Sosa reminisced, “I was hooked! As soon as I started playing I knew music was what I wanted to dedicate my life to. I've been blessed as an adult to be able to fulfill my dream of becoming a fulltime professional musician.” Sosa is a 2012 graduate of Musician's Institute College of Contemporary Music (MIT) in Los Angeles. After a brief stint of playing and working in his home state of Maine he returned to California, this time settling in sunny Palm Springs. Sosa has collaborated with studio producers in the Los Angeles area, including individuals who are Grammy award winners. He has also done online session work with several producers from Europe. His catalogue includes a diverse repertoire of styles including Classical guitar, but he always return to his roots of Rock, Jazz and Blues as he demonstrates in ‘Protocol’. ‘Protocol’ is an all-original studio recording and is currently in the final stages of production and will be released soon. You can help support Sosa’s completion of the album
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DESERT MUSIC HAPPENINGS
and reserve your copy at his Kickstarter campaign here: http://kck.st/2XPCjiJ. One of the reasons for this Kickstarter campaign is the unanticipated setback of live music bookings, his livelihood, and being placed on hiatus due to mandatory COVID-19 restrictions. As you may be aware, the crisis has been especially hard on gig workers and musicians/entertainers such as Sosa and he needs our help. Sosa has been working on this project for a significant time prior to the pandemic. He shared about the album, “For the past year I've dedicated myself to writing and producing my debut solo project titled ‘Protocol’, a unique and distinctive blend of Jazz, Rock and Blues. ‘Protocol’ is the expression of my art in its rawest form. I've always believed great music should transport the listener and this music will take you on a sonic journey you will be sure to enjoy!” Kickstarter exists to help artists bring their creative projects to life. Sosa is determined to finish and emphasizes the need for support. “With your help, I can finish this collection of original music that means so much to me! Your pledge will go to reserving your physical copies of the album, financing the remaining recording sessions (these guys deserve it for their tremendous work), acquiring the distribution rights for the only cover-song on the album (a wild version of Paul Desmond's ‘Take Five’) as well as funding the production/ mastering and manufacturing of CDs. It will also assist in promotion and getting the music heard on digital playlists, streaming services and radio!” Sosa has financed a majority of the production and sessions himself. “This project is about 95% wrapped, however, this Kickstarter campaign is crucial to its completion. I am excited and proud of how this album is turning out and I cannot wait to share it with you!” Prior to the Corona virus, he was regularly booked at numerous live venues throughout the Coachella Valley and played with a variety of talented musicians, including one of his favorite groups, Slim Man. The band recently released a double live album that Sosa coproduced. The studio musicians on ‘Protocol’ are some of the same professionals. Sosa is proud of the collaboration with his peers and his new digs. He shared, “I wanted to capture the energy and talent of these musicians and our chemistry together as live performers. Living in the California desert has been inspiring, there is a sort ineffable, mystical quality about the desert and the vastness of the land and sky that I feel has entered my
musical soul.” Here's a bit from Sosa about the talented musicians who helped make this record happen: Sosa on Chase Huna (sax): “I was lucky to have the young phenom Chase Huna on sax. Chase plays and records as a solo artist and with major musicians throughout California. He is also my bandmate from the Slim Man group. So smooth!” Sosa on Craig Davis Chesnut (coproducer/percussion) “Craig Davis Chesnut was co-producer and recorded the percussion for the entire album. To say Craig was indispensable would be an understatement! He plays with fantastic feel and passion.” Sosa on David ‘Compa’ Morales: “David ‘Compa' Morales lays down some heavy bass on our version of ‘Take Five’ taking a classic standard to a Hip-Hop vibe that is fresh. The album version really gets wild.” Sosa on Alfonso Olachea (co-writer/ keyboards): "Alfonoso Olachea co-wrote and recorded keys. He's the only other writer on the album contributing one of my favorite songs, ‘Tropic of Cancer’. Such a cool piece! Alfonso's keys are across the entire recording. Alfonso is also a founding member of the outstanding Jazz group Black Market Jazz with bassist James Gastelum.” Sosa on Sam Campbell (drums): “Sam Campbell recorded the smooth, funky pop drums on the grooving track ‘Elvie Baby’. Sam is a studio and touring drummer and musical director in Los Angeles.” Sosa on Matt Ingelson (trumpet): “Matt Ingelson laid down one of the coolest things on the album; the Big Band section on the track ‘The Walk’. I mapped out a whole Swing band part and Matt and Chase executed it so well. 12 horn/sax tracks in total! It is a must hear. Matt also recently completed his Master's program at Berklee College of Music.” Sosa on James Gastelum (bass): “James Gastelum played standup bass on the title track, a melodic Jazz ballad. James is an absolute artist of a musician. I couldn't think of a better fit to breathe the emotion of the standup bass into this track. James also jams the upright in Black Market Jazz. His original band Ocho Ojos recently played the 2019 Coachella Music & Arts Festival.” Sosa on Johnny Meza (piano): “Johnny Meza played a beautiful piano arrangement and solo on the title track ‘Protocol’ reminiscent of the classic age Jazz style and brought the hipness to the ‘Protocol’ B-Side remix with the Fender Rhodes piano, an awesome, late night club groove alternate version, one of my favorites on the record. Johnny is a veteran musician and one of the heaviest cats in the valley.” Sosa on Will Caviness (trumpet): “Will Caviness laid down gorgeous muted horns on ‘Protocol’ and ‘Protocol’ B-side, breathing life into the track. Will and I gig together frequently and he's a fantastic player. He recently came to California from the Jazz clubs of New York City.”
BY NOE GUTIERREZ Sosa on Sean Poe (drums): “Sean Poe, ‘the percussionist of many faces,’ played the refined Jazz brush drums on ‘Protocol’ and it really makes the song flow. Sean is a pro, playing in several successful bands throughout the valley including several we collaborate in often. He can adapt and switch into so many styles, all with expertise. Players like him are hard to find!” Sosa on ‘Protocol’: Sosa, “This album takes my influences and expresses them as my own signature sound. ‘Protocol’ is mysterious and dark, funky and even psychedelic, but also lends itself to beauty, catharsis and relaxation. I tried to capture my guitar playing in its most organic and emotional form. On this album I am expressing what I love about the guitar and music. I am venturing to take you along with me in my musical thoughts and I'm pushing the boundaries of my songwriting and technical skill like never before. I've worked harder on this album than any project I've ever undertaken and I am excited to share it with the world. If we don't make our goal, the funds are returned and we don't move forward…with that being said I so appreciate your help in making this project happen!” Please consider contributing to the completion of ‘Protocol' at http://kck. st/2XPCjiJ. FACE FACTS A two-ton rock band from Coachella, California, Face Facts initially bombarded me with guitar, bass, drums and nearly indecipherable lyrics. I loved it! Their Face Facts Demo 20’ EP includes the songs ‘No Control’, ‘Waiting Room’ and ‘Felt Before’. It has that Pantera meets Sepultura in the pit vibe. Sage Jackson (vocals), Andy Rivera (guitar), Sergio Rivera (bass) and Pichu Baltierra (drums) have a great deal to boast about. The first song I heard from the band was ‘Five’ released in November 2019. The first thing that captured me was that guitar tone…clean and precise. Second were the death vocals. Third was the rigorous synching of drums and bass. There are so many tempo changes and breakdowns in ‘Five’ that lend themselves to a mosh pit and live performance. The lay-music fan may not be able to easily translate the lyrics at first listen but it’s more about the aggression and ‘disposition’ of the vocals in conjunction with the instrumentation to release that pent up anger built up from a week of Armageddon.
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Here are the lyrics to ‘Five’ to help you amateurs: The awful guidance Brought by your hand Has lead another person To their End You take and you take But never give a shit Step on others just to Get your Fix Lie to yourself Dismiss what you’ve done Beg for my help Always been this fucking way Stuck in your ways so people view the same Deceitful motherfucker with greed in your veins Take what you want no matter what the cost Don’t ever wonder about the friends you’ve lost Build your life around disease and disguise Reveal the face Your mask can’t hide Such a pathetic Waste of time Always keep your life On stand by A man too caught up in himself To care about anyone Or anything else A man full of excuse That’ll always turn to abuse A man that will ache through his life Forever changed to his vice How could you ever Spend twenty bucks On a feeling that love couldn’t fix
It won’t ever Won’t ever fix You, you son of a bitch Shit Another person That tops off the plate That’ll always remind me what I can’t save Fuck You beg You fucking son of a bitch Beg Through the mud see less Find Face Facts music on Spotify and at facefactshc.bandcamp.com/merch
of the United States Constitution for all and expand the reach of its guarantees” (www. aclu.org). Their support of the ACLU shows the mindfulness that with artistry comes responsibility. Woo has never recoiled in her love for music. This song and its sound are a culmination of her years of tough grind and progression. She shared, “This song has been on quite a journey, and we are more than happy to finally be setting her free into the world. She's out to capture your heart.” Woo is also honest about the difficult undertaking of being an artist during the pandemic. She opened up, “History has been unfolding itself right before our very eyes. In the beginning it was a lot to take in, but staying focused on making the best decisions for our band, for ourselves and for our families and loved ones in these unprecedented times has helped us stay grounded. We have been listening as well as learning how to be better allies and how to stay true in our advocacy for a more
August 20 to August 26, 2020 just world for all. A heartfelt shout-out to everyone getting into that.” Woo and band model the stoic behavior for all struggling artists. Through it all, Woo has plugged in herself and the band to where they can make the most impact…the music. She concludes, “It’s easy to get lost in the madness, easy to forget who you are and where you were going. I think it’s safe to say, we’ve all been shook to our core and we’re having to re-learn how to live our lives. I’m trying to take all of this as a blessing in disguise. We will persevere and we will become stronger and faithful to our purpose in life. Music, my sweet girl, I’ve been in limbo with you, but you have never left my side, thank you for saving me, time and time again. Thanks for your time fam. We hope you like this beautiful love song and we hope it brings peace, love and joy into your hearts.” Purchase the song online at gisellewooandthenightowls.bandcamp.com.
GISELLE WOO AND THE NIGHT OWLS Giselle Woo and The Night Owls’ newest single, ‘¿Qué Harás?’ featuring Verzo Loko was recorded and engineered at DRP Studios by the Mikey Reyes and mixed and mastered at The Sound Hub by Frank Michel. From the opening you’ll be on the dance floor. Woo’s layered vocals are more spellbinding than I’ve ever heard her. ‘¿Qué Harás?’ translates to “what will you do?” My guess is most will answer, “¡Vamos a bailar!” “Let’s dance.” The lyrical flow of Verzo LoKo infiltrates easily and without disturbing the structure of the song. The recording is mixed skillfully thanks to The Sound Hub in Cathedral City, California, Woo’s hometown. The Cumbia backbeat and melody is well personified by the Night Owls. The song is now available on Bandcamp and the band will donate a portion of the profits to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).“The ACLU dares to create a more perfect union — beyond one person, party, or side. Our mission is to realize this promise
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
CONSIDER THIS
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ave you ever put a record on the turntable and it’s brilliant from start to finish? From the second the needle hits the groove, each song hits you like an amphetamine rush and you can’t wait to hear the next one. That rare experience awaits you with the new Pretenders effort, Hate For Sale. It’s been 40 years since the band burst on the scene, but even that arrival was decades in the making. Born in 1951, Chrissie Hynde grew up in Akron, Ohio, an avowed Anglophile from the minute the British Invasion hit, she spent her teen years obsessed with the Beatles, the Stones and the Kinks. She didn’t exactly want to date these idols, as much as become them. She always found the action. She became a committed vegan and animal rights activist during high school. She also became a devotee of Vaishnavism, a branch of Hinduism. Her first band included future members of DEVO. While attending art school at Kent State, she was there when the National Guard fired 67 rounds in 13 seconds, killing four students and wounding nine more in attending a peaceful protest. Neil Young wrote the song, but Chrissie was there. She saved her money and moved to London in 1973. Thanks to her art school studies, she landed a job at an architecture firm. Not long after her arrival, she began writing for England’s coolest music mag, the New Musical Express. In between magazine assignments she got a job behind the counter at the infamous SEX boutique co-owned by (future Sex Pistols manager) Malcolm McLaren and (future fashion designer) Vivienne Westwood. For a few years she led a peripatetic existence, ping-ponging between Paris, Akron and London. At one point, before they were Sex Pistols, Sid Vicious and Johnny Rotten offered (separately) to marry her so she could remain in England legally. Intent on pursuing a career in music, she placed an ad in Melody Maker, looking to find like-minded musicians. Pretty soon she was collaborating in nascent bands with future Punk progenitors like Clash guitarist, Mick Jones and Generation X bassist, Tony James. By 1978, she hired a manager and started demoing her songs. Finally, she connected with bassist Pete Farndon, guitarist James Honeyman-Scott and drummer Martin Chambers. The chemistry was instantaneous. Choosing the band name, Pretenders, partly inspired by the Platters’ classic hit, “The Great Pretender,” they signed with Sire Records. They recorded their first single, “Stop Your Sobbing” under the watchful eye of musician/ producer, Nick Lowe. Released in late 1979, the obscure Kinks cover was a hit on both sides of the pond. Their self-titled debut arrived in early 1980. The album was a revelation. The Pretenders sound was stripped-down, spiky and endlessly melodic, a sharp hybrid of Punk, British Invasion and New Wave. Songs like “Kid,” “Brass In Pocket” and “The Wait” guaranteed the album went to #1 on the British charts, and hit the Billboard Top 10 in America. Chrissie was front and center, forever flipping the script for the next generation of female Rockers. She wasn’t a shambolic Blues belter like Janis, she wasn’t a Punk-Poet androgyne like Patti Smith, nor was she a gypsy nymph swathed in velvet and patchouli like Stevie Nicks. Taking her cues from her ‘60s heroes, she swaggered like Jagger in her (faux) leather pants. Much like Jim Morrison, she radiated charisma. But she wasn’t afraid to be both tough and tender, occasionally wearing
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PRETENDERS
her vulnerability on her sleeve. The band released a five-song EP in the Spring of 1981 and then a second long-player, Pretenders II later that fall. Despite their commercial success, some members fell prey to substance abuse. Pete’s heroin addiction became so serious he was fired from the band in early 1982. Two days later, James died from heart failure, as a result of cocaine intolerance. (The following year, Pete was discovered dead in the bath tub, having overdosed on heroin). Although half their band was gone, Chrissie and Martin didn’t give up. They recruited guitarist Robbie McIntosh and bassist Malcolm Foster and roared back with their third effort, aptly entitled Learning To Crawl. It was triumph in the face of tragedy, featuring explicitly autobiographical songs like “Back On The Chain Gang,” “My City Was Gone” and “2,000 Miles,” an uncharacteristically sentimental song addressed to Chrissie’s new paramour, Kinks front man, Ray Davies. By 1986, Martin had left the band. Chrissie was now the only original Pretender. Beginning with the fourth album, Get Close, which yielded hits like “Don’t Get Me Wrong” and “My Baby,” and continuing through 1990’s “Packed!” and 1994’s “Last Of The Independents,” it was basically Chrissie and a rotating cast of musicians. The Pretenders released three more studio albums, Viva El Amor in 1999, Loose Screw in 2002 and Break Up The Concrete in 2008. Martin Chambers drifted in and out, mostly touring with the band. At this point, it was essentially the Chrissie Hynde Experience. In 2010, the Pretenders took a hiatus, but the last decade has been a whirlwind of activity. The same year saw the release of Fidelity! Chrissie’s collaboration with JP & The Fairground Boys. In 2014 she officially went it alone, displaying her mellower side on her solo debut, Stockholm. The following year, her long-anticipated autobiography was published. Reckless: My Life As A Pretender, chronicled the years leading up to her first taste of success in the early ‘80s. Written with her typically confrontational style, she courted controversy and garnered rave reviews. In 2016, she reconvened another version of the Pretenders and recruited Black Keys’ front man (and fellow Akron-ite), Dan Auerbach to produce the band’s 10th studio album, Alone. Her second solo effort, 2019’s Valve Bone Woe found Chrissie covering Pop and Jazz favorites like the Beach Boys’ “Caroline, No,” Billie Holiday’s “I Get Along Without You Very Well” and Nick Drake’s “River Man.” The record actually reached #2 on Billboard’s Jazz chart. Now a new-ish incarnation of the Pretenders is back, this time out featuring original drummer Martin Chambers, longtime touring guitarist, James Walbourne (he played on the last two Pretenders’ efforts and has recorded with everyone from the Pernice Brothers, Son Volt, Folk chanteuse Linda Thompson, the Pogues and the Killer, Jerry Lee Lewis), and bassist Nick Wilkerson, who was on hand for Alone. The album kicks into gear with the title track. After a shambolic false start (it’s all so Punk Rock), “Hate For Sale” blasts out of the speakers, all blitzkrieg beat, wailing harmonica, tensile bass lines and shards of guitar. The take-no-prisoners melody is buttressed by Chrissie’s churlish sneer, as she spits out some eloquent invective. Lyrics like “Call it luck or inherited title, a guy like that is arrogant, idle,
“HATE FOR SALE” (BMG RECORDS) BY ELENI P. AUSTIN
he takes whatever he likes….he dines on calves butchered and bled, tankards of wine burgundy red/Handmade suits and shoes and socks, ooh, his breath could stop the clocks,” seem aimed at the despot-in-chief, who traffics in racist imagery and dog whistle politics. The next three tracks evince an urgency the band hasn’t displayed since their debut. “The Buzz” is a jangly waltz powered by a slip-stitch beat, wiry bass and a spiraling guitar figure that pays sly homage to James Honeyman-Scott’s transcendent playing on Kid. Chrissie wraps her warm contralto around lyrics that acknowledge Roxy Music got it right, Love is the drug. It’s a shot to the system as potent as an opiate, once it’s gone you’re desperate to experience that same ephemeral rush; “For the buzz I can’t get no relief, You’ve reduced me to a liar, a liar and a thief/Love oh love, I can only prove you’re real by scratching the fever, proof for a believer is how a shot of love makes you feel.” Guitars fuzz, chime and twang on the break, awash in reverb. Anchored by a thwoking, concentric beat, gamboling bass lines and splayed guitars, “Lightning Man” splits the difference between a Punky Reggae riddim and expansive Spaghetti Western vistas. Whistle-y harmonica and jagged guitar riffs lock into a jittery pas de deux. Meanwhile, Chrissie expressive vocals are beguiling and hypnotic as she unspools a cryptic Crossroads saga between dark forces and ambition; “It was always in the cards, no use denying it, Devil offered something, you were up for trying it/Stashed in the grooves, now we’re dancing to the beat.” “Turf Accountant Daddy” is an instant classic, blending Garage Rock crunch and pure Punk attitude. Slash-and-burn guitar partners with search-and-destroy bass over jaunty handclaps and a pile-driving beat. Chrissie is her confrontational best as she calls the bluff of a louche lothario slightly off his game; “See you duck and dive, so you don’t get hit, that’s how you stay alive, but just a little bit.” Apropos of nothing, she asks “Hey, baby, you wanna dance, come here,” and the effect is positively thrilling. Guitars shimmer and strafe over chilly New Wave synths, before chunky riffs unfurl, bringing the track to a satisfying close. The band cycles through their tried and true bag of tricks and it all feels remarkably fresh and exhilarating. “Didn’t Want To Be This Lonely” is a rollicking Rockabilly rave-up fueled by a Bo Diddley beat, throbbing bass lines and stuttery guitars. Here Chrissie rethinks her decision to dump her deadbeat guy; “Well I didn’t want to be this lonely, thought losing you was a relief, from a life with one man only, devoid of morals or belief.” By the time James unleashes a scorching solo, she’s more at peace with her
resolution; “You’ll find somebody else to suffer, and get to know your selfish ways, and I’ll feel pity for the next one, when you start to ruin her days.” There’s a scuzzy elegance to “Junkie’s Walk” that echoes the demimonde verisimilitude so thoroughly explored by Iggy and the Stooges and Lou Reed. Over a stompy rhythm, roiling bass and guttural guitars, Chrissie’s mien is subtly sardonic as she notes drug addiction is a full-time job; “Thank you for your dedication, cross the street in the dirty rain…Here’s the list, place your bet, no a loser won’t regret, don’t you fret or deny every junkie has to die.” Clangorous guitar, smoky harmonica and wily bass are paired with a scattershot beat on “I Didn’t Know When To Stop.” Intent on capturing a paramour’s true colors, Chrissie puts paint to canvas, and the results are unsettling; “Well, you see a fraud and no one else knows, a catwalk phenomenon, the emperor’s clothes/ Our faithful lightnings, but something ain’t right, I painted over you and kept me in blue lights.” On the break a wash of oooky keys are accompanied by blistering guitar, banshee harmonica and a pummeling Keith Moon-tastic tattoo. Meanwhile, guitars sweetly jingle-jangle, latticing swirly keys and elastic bass over a pendulous rhythm on “Maybe Love Is In NYC.” Much like real estate, finding love is all about location, location, location. On a chorus that shares some musical DNA with the Clovers’ classic, “Love Potion No. 9,” Chrissie ruefully notes “Maybe love is in New York City, fluorescent lights might lead me to it/I’ve been to Barcelona, Lima and Hong Kong, if it was here, I never knew it, if it was here all along.” Swirly keys collide with ricochet riffs and the bridge before unpacking an incendiary guitar solo on the break. Still, real love remains elusive. The action only slows on the wistful “You Can’t Hurt A Fool” and the album’s closer, “Crying In Public.” The former is a slice of Soulful slink powered by sugar rush guitar, sinewy bass and a rock steady beat. Each verse is bookended by rippling guitar riffs, but front and center is Chrissie’s melismatic croon. Although it’s all third person, the lyrics offer a bit of self-reflection; “See how she enters the room like a diva/If you said she was damaged, I wouldn’t believe ya, laughing and joking a real superstar.” The latter is a pensive piano ballad; strippeddown to stately ivories and subdued strings. The lyrics offer some cautionary advice for approaching a distraught woman (like her?); “She might look like a million, or only ten cents, when mascara runs, there’s no recompense/ Aristocrat, popper, or the ourgeoisie, all know what it feels like when life’s misery, means crying in public, crying in public.” It’s a nakedly emotional finish to an electrifying album. Produced by Stephen Street (the Smiths, the Cranberries, Morrissey and Blur), all the songs on the record were co-written by Chrissie Hynde and James Walbourne. The Pretenders have had their moments over the last four decades, but nothing has ever managed to equal the rough and ready perfection of their 1980 debut. Hate For Sale comes pretty damn close.
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
PET PLACE
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spotted an adorable Pomeranian mix pup at the San Bernardino County Shelter at Devore during a shelter run in 2013. It was surprising such a cute dog was not scheduled for an upcoming off site adoption event. It was even more surprising no one had yet adopted her. We noticed the dog’s head was shaking, a sign of possible underlying medical problems. Many people don’t want to adopt a dog with health issues that can bring veterinary bills. Loving All Animals had recently rescued another dog that was shaking her head, and it turned out to be from an imbedded foxtail in her ear. We knew that a simple surgical procedure can usually remove foxtails. We named the spunky 5-pound dog Deliliah on the joyful freedom ride to the Coachella Valley. A trip to the vet revealed Deliliah did indeed have 5 foxtails deep inside one ear which could cause serious medical problems if not removed. Foxtails grow unchecked in many of the San Bernardino county fields. The number and depth of the foxtails suggested that this stray dog roamed the streets and fields for some time. How did Deliliah survive outdoors where such a tiny dog would be easy prey for predators including large dogs, coyotes, and birds of prey? It soon became apparent that Deliliah was an amazing little dog with a giant Alpha attitude that rivaled none. She quickly established her place as “leader of the pack” in the hierarchy when in the company of other dogs. Her Alpha attitude and “tough girl” body language would have served to protect her in a community full of stray dogs and other dangers. Maybe her time in the streets helped Deliliah become an Alpha dog when toughness became a requirement for survival. Deliliah “rounded up” my Mom’s 40-pound Cattle dog during our visits there. Deliliah was never aggressive, but much larger dog Jessie would run under a bed when she saw Deliliah arrive. At Loving All Animals’ adoption events Deliliah warmed up to the humans, but had a defiant stance toward their other dogs. Preferring the company of people, Deliliahh is a precious gem who would melt lovingly into your arms. Finally it was recommended Deliliah would do best in an “only dog” household, but one dog experienced adopter was convinced Deliliah would do well with her other two rescue pups. Two days later, Deliliah was returned when she
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HAPPY UPDATE FROM SUPERSTARS MILISSA AND DELILIAH
did not do well with her new siblings. Meanwhile, local resident Milissa Meyer was still grieving after the passing of her dog Amy. An ardent dog lover, Milissa attended a Loving All Animals “Yappy Hour” at the Draft Horse Ranch in Morongo Valley. Adoptable dogs being showcased were a focal point of the festivities. A volunteer handed Deliliah to Milissa even as Milissa protested she was not yet in the market for another dog. Milissa recalls, “When I held Deliliah, she wrapped her arms around my neck and looked at me as if to say ‘please take me home’. Now when I wake up in the morning and look into her eyes, all my disappointments go away and I’m filled with joy. Deliliah and I were meant to be together.” More good things were in store for this perfectly matched pair. Milissa went on a casting call for Altura Credit Union, naming Loving All Animals as her favorite charity if she and Deliliah were selected. This gorgeous duo was featured in Altura’s televised commercials across the country promoting Loving All Animals and Altura’s business services. Deliliah and Milissa beamed down from billboards throughout Riverside County, and Altura presented Loving All Animals a check for $5,000 to help them rescue more homeless dogs like Deliliah. In August, 2020, Milissa Meyer sent me this email: “I want to thank you so much for convincing me to adopt my sweet little Deliliah. She is the best thing, other than my children, that ever happened to me. During this Corona Virus pandemic, we’ve got to know each other even better. We eat together, we walk together,
and we sleep together. I wake up every morning very happy, and never depressed. I’m not lonely when I wake up to Deliliah looking at me as if she’s saying ‘Mom, thank you for saving my life.’ And I say back to her, ‘thank you for saving my life.’” Contact Loving All Animals at (760) 8347000, www.lovingallanimals.org. Experience the joy of adopting a rescue dog or cat at one of the shelters or private rescue organizations listed below. Janetmcafee8@gmail.com ----------------------COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – The county shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. You can view the animals at all 4 Riverside county shelters at www.rcdas.org, and get the ID number of the animal you want to meet. Email them the animal’s ID number at shelterinfo@rivco.org, (760) 343-3644. Located at 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. They schedule appointments Wednesday through Monday, closed on Tuesday. View their animals online at www.psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) ANIMAL SAMARITANS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www.animalsamaritans. org. Email acorrow@animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 601-3918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore,
MEET MAMA NONNIE
MEET MAX
This precious kitty loves to spin on the giant wheel at the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley. She waits for a home there with 42 other cats & kittens in their beautiful cattery. Call (760) 329-0203 for an appointment to meet/adopt Mama Nonnie. www.orphanpet.com
This handsome big fellow is command trained and ready to go home with you! Max was rescued by the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley in N. Palm Springs. Call (760) 329-0203 for an appointment to meet/adopt this special dog. www.orphanpet.com
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BY JANET McAFEE Palm Desert. View their animals at www. californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt a dog or cat. View their animals at www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203. (Private) KITTYLAND – The shelter is closed so call for an appointment to adopt a cat. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www. kittylandrescue.org, (760) 251-2700. (Private) FOREVER MEOW – Foster based rescue for cats located in Rancho Mirage. Contact them at www.ForeverMeow.org, (760) 335-6767. (Private) PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) MORONGO BASIN HUMANE SOCIETY – Located at 4646 Sun View Rd, Joshua Tree, www. mbhumanesociety.com, call between 11am4pm for updates (760) 366-3786 (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – Shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Hours for adoption 10am – 4pm Tuesday thru Sat. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 384-7272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Call (909) 386-9280 daily. View animals at www.sbcounty. gov/acc and get the ID number of animal you want to meet. Located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public). DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/ San Bernardino area. Contact them through website www.DreamTeamangelsrescue.com, (360) 688-8884. (Private)
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TRAVELTIPS&LOCAL HAPPENINGS4U
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY LYNNE TUCKER
DESCANSO GARDENS LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE, CA
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HEIR MISSION Descanso Gardens is a unique Southern California landscape distinguished by its specialized botanic collections, historical significance, and rare natural beauty. Their mission is to practice exemplary stewardship of Descanso’s distinctive character and assets; offer people an experience close to nature; and cultivate understanding of the natural world and people’s place in it through inspiration, education and example.” WHO THEY ARE They are an urban retreat located 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Descanso Gardens is a place of year-round natural beauty, with internationally renowned botanical collections and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums as a museum of living collections, Descanso Gardens welcomes more than 500,000 visitors annually. The principal collections include California native plants and oak woodlands; one of the largest collections of camellias in the Western Hemisphere; a rose garden with specimens from all corners of the globe; and significant presentations of lilacs, maple trees, cherry trees and iris. Descanso Gardens has been designated an International Camellia Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society. The Gardens are operated by the Descanso Gardens Guild, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in a public-private partnership with Los Angeles County. Their annual budget of $6.4 million is
SAFETY TIPS
LET’S GIVE IT A SHOT!
H
ealth authorities and vaccine developers are currently partnering to support the technology needed to produce a Covid-19 vaccine. With hope they can find something soon! But we still have other vaccinations to deal with and August is National Immunization Month. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could immune yourself from traffic? How about those rude or obnoxious people? How about the complainers in your organization? Wouldn’t it be nice if we could “vaccinate” ourselves against specific things or people? Unfortunately, these toxic people and situations are the association dues we must pay for being alive. Although vaccinating ourselves against the less-pleasant people in life is beyond the realm of modern medical science, what our current vaccines can do is still pretty powerful. But here’s the thing about vaccination success: It can lead to complacency. Recently, we’ve seen outbreaks of measles and many
be spread out over longer times (The gardens will be open daily from 9am–8pm. The memberonly hour is 8am–9am) The entry is reconfigured to make social distancing easier Hand sanitizing stations can be found in the courtyard All staff and visitors will wear face coverings The Sturt Haaga Gallery, Boddy House, and Enchanted Railroad are closed All drinking fountains are closed Restrooms will be cleaned every half hour There will be no programs or walks during this time. We will bring programming back as soon as it is safe. Wheelchair rental will not be available They will not be honoring reciprocal memberships The Kitchen at Descanso will be open for limited hours. You can purchase drinks, which can be taken into the garden, or food, which must be eaten in the picnic area or taken home. Tickets for non-members are released weekly: Tickets from today through August 21 are available now (Free Tuesday on August 18 is sold out) August 22–28 tickets will be released at 10am on Tuesday, August 18 August 29–September 4 tickets will be released at 10am on Tuesday, August 25 September 5–11 tickets will be released at 10am on Tuesday, September 1 For more info visit descansogardens.org Think Nature & Enjoy Their Gardens!
funded by memberships, philanthropic gifts, fees and support from Los Angeles County. THEIR HISTORY Descanso Gardens is a story of plants and the people who loved them for their life-giving utility and their great natural beauty. While the tale unfolds over centuries, the connecting thread – from the tribal people who relied on the plentiful oaks for food and their way of life to the 20th century entrepreneur who sowed the seeds of a cultural institution – is a deepseated love for this evocative and distinctive place. Its evolution into a botanic garden, open to the public and nationally accredited as a “museum of living collections,” is but the most recent chapter in the rich history of this landscape. Today Descanso Gardens remains an oasis of beauty, both rugged and refined. In its eloquent landscapes, vignettes and vistas we can experience firsthand moments in the epic story of humans’ relationships with the natural world and enjoy a refuge of stunning beauty. OPEN 9AM-8PM – 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER
August 20 to August 26, 2020
BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA
DID YOU NOW THAT AUGUST IS NATIONAL IMMUNIZATION MONTH? experts believe that these spikes are caused by parents refusing to vaccinate their children. When this happens it can threaten the health of the unvaccinated child and other children in the community. That’s why we can’t let our guard down, and why the Center for Disease Control recognizes August as National Immunization Month. Just In Time Before School Resumes… Reach out to the schools in your community to ensure children are up to date on vaccines as they head back to school. School-age children, from preschoolers to college students, need vaccines. Shots may hurt a little, but the diseases they can prevent are a lot worse. Immunization is not just for children either… Those over 60 should receive the shingles vaccine. Those over 65, as well as those with certain medical conditions, should get the
pneumonia (PCV13) vaccine. And everyone who is healthy enough should receive an annual flu vaccine! Washing Your Hands... The best “do it yourself vaccination” against germs! Finally, remember that hand-washing is like a “do-it-yourself” vaccine. It involves five simple and effective steps — wet, lather, scrub, rinse, dry — to keep you healthy.
Regular hand-washing, particularly before and after certain calls or activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of germs to others. Now if we could just make a soap that could wash away annoying people…!
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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THE VINO VOICE
ust a couple of weeks ago, we wrote on “wine in a box”, whose popularity has driven sales of over 50% from last year. And over a year ago—prior to any realization of what was to come in 2020, we did a column “Doing the Can-Can at Coachella” where we discussed the craze of enjoying “wine in a can”—their sales increasing an amazing 68% this year! Now—we’re talking about “wine in a bubble”. And I’m amazed at the amount of wine that is currently being consumed in the Bubble—who knew? Well—I guess those of you who are both following the restart of the professional basketball season, and are devoted fans of its sports celebrities on the court and off. The truth seems to be in, that restricted campus-like environments, offer one of the safest venues in which to play professional sports in the shadow of the Coronavirus. And, so far so good! The National Basketball League Players have sequestered themselves to the surrounds of Walt Disney World, in the protective bubble, to play through their abbreviated season. And we also come to find out that many of the big names in and around the hoops are not only drinking wine on their days off, but are drinking high-end, high-cost, world class wine with their fellow quaffers and spending quality time discussing the stuff. Cheers to
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WINE IN A BUBBLE BY RICK RIOZZA
that news! I’m not particularly a big basketball fan but I find the playoffs very exciting. (I know—true hoop fans roll their eyes when hearing that!) So I don’t know a bunch of the player’s names. But through my recent research on this bubble thing, I’ve become more cognizant. Check out below some of the stories and quotes of the latest drinking craze taking basketball by leaps and bounds: Winespectator.com has recently written: “As the NBA remains under a prolonged timeout, players are using quarantine life to indulge in basketballs favorite hobby: wine. And now some are taking to social media to gab about it. Portland Trail Blazers star Carmelo Anthony and Miami Heat guard Jimmy Butler were social distancing last week as they discussed wine on “What’s in Your Glass?” the weekly Instagram lives-stream between host Melo and wine lovers around the world. For the hour-long conversation,
Anthony selected a 2011 William Fèvre Chablis, and Butler brought out a Sassacaia 2010”. “As Butler's on-court star has risen, he's also reached the elite oenophile tier attained by the likes of LeBron James and Dwayne Wade. He told Carmelo and viewers that it all started in 2013 when his pal Mark Wahlberg invited Butler to the set of Transformers, which was being filmed in Chicago; Butler played for the Bulls at the time. Wahlberg gave Butler his first sip of wine that day: the Sassicaia 2010. He liked it so much, he now has between 500 and 600 bottles of the super Tuscan in his cellar. (Bordeaux's Château Lynch-Bages is a close second-favorite, he said.)” Hey!—that now explains why the cost of a case of 2010 Sass has gone sky high! Geez! If these rich ballplayers—in any sport—begin to really appreciate wine and simply dig into playing the wine game, we regular joes are hit again. We experienced that twenty-five years ago when Silicon Valley made so much money, bought gobs of world class wine, and catapulted wine prices to the heavens! Theundefeated.com sports website recently reported, “...in the age of 200 million dollar contracts, it’s not surprising players’ tastes have gotten more expensive. And the players aren’t just consuming high-end wines, they’re beginning to produce them. The projects run the gamut from Chris Paul’s one-off charity partnership with ONEHOPE in 2015 to Yao Ming’s established Napa winery, which recently crushed its ninth vintage of grapes. Meanwhile, Wade has partnered with Pahlmeyer to produce two wines bearing his name, and former Los Angeles Laker Sasha Vujacic’s family owns a vineyard in Paso Robles along California’s Central Coast.”
What we particularly like about this coverage, is that there is really nothing new under the sun about wine and its appreciation; but there’s always a fresh take when playing the game. That’s why the wine game is so much fun. We’ve all been there—we’ve all experienced those epiphany moments when a glass of wine causes us to be aware and so grateful for the gift of life. “The reason that I enjoy wine so much is … you can never know everything about wine," Butler told Anthony on an episode of the Instagram live-stream. "And every person has their story and every bottle of wine has its story, so it’s interesting to me that the more you learn about it, the more you realize how much more you have to figure out and learn. It’s infinite.” Speaking of Anthony, his “wow” wine was a bottle of 1986 Petrus, the iconic Bordeaux. Timberwolves guard Jimmy Butler, mentioned previously, travels with a wine case, bringing along bottles of Pinot Noir to the bubble. Warriors point guard Stephen Curry, a fan of Bordeaux, made the hour trek to Napa to unwind earlier in the year, though he wishes he'd started doing so nine years ago, when he arrived in the Bay Area. ("I don't know if I appreciated what was in my backyard," Curry says today.) Riesling was the gateway wine for Dwayne Wade, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony. But as usual, the game goes on and the three are knee-deep into Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. New Orleans Pelicans up-and-comer Josh Hart has teamed with online retailer Wine Access to create a cellar of personal bests like Bordeaux's Pontet-Canet and Napa's Harlan. “Josh told us who some of his favorite producers are, so we started to introduce him to similar producers that we thought he'd like,” Wine Access head of wine Vanessa Conlin commented. “Josh loves Bordeaux and Napa especially, but also white Burgundy, so we helped him delve deeper into those regions.” The game’s afoot!—Cheers!
GOOD GRUB
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good antidote to our prolonged steamy summer meltdown is a trip to an area where you can walk outside and not be bathed in sweat within minutes. Someplace cooler, with completely different scenery; green trees with leaves quaking in a light, refreshing breeze. And wouldn’t it be nice to sit down to enjoy a meal without the constant hiss of a misting system
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FERRO – ITALIAN ELEVATED
that never quite cools you down enough to be comfortable? Ferro restaurant in Idyllwild is such a place and is only a little over an hour away from the Coachella Valley. Ferro has a spacious picturesque outdoor dining area in its backyard with an herb garden, a small performance stage, and a semi-circular bar surrounding a massive outdoor pizza oven.
Frank and Lori Ferro opened their restaurant over five years ago with an Italian country cuisine menu that pays tribute to the classics. Frank was the head chef at the highly regarded Aroma restaurant, but fortunately, followed his vision to develop his own interpretation of recipes found in the home kitchens of the Italian countryside. Homemade breads, pastas, hand-stretched pizza, fresh vegetables and greens from local farms, fresh seafood, and house-cured charcuterie all finished with herbs from the backyard garden. I have eaten here several times since their opening and am always impressed by respect shown to the individual ingredients and the thoughtful combined flavors presented in the finished plate. The same consideration appears in the appetizers, salads, mains, and
August 20 to August 26, 2020
BY DANIEL PARIS desserts. On a recent Sunday evening visit, we were joined by others with the requisite six-foot spacing in place and the atmosphere almost seemed like a normal evening out. The wait staff and owners warmly welcomed guests and thanked them for their patronage. There are no bad choices on the menu. My favorites are any fresh pasta dishes and the perfectly-crusted pepperoni mushroom pizza. In addition to the excellent food, the wine list, beers, and cocktails show the same attention to detail and diversity. I encourage you to make reservation well in advance of your long-overdue date night as Ferro is a deservedly popular place. Ferro - 25840 Cedar St. Idyllwild, CA 92549 951-659-0700 Hours: Friday – Monday 3pm to 9pm
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
BREWTALITY
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HOW TO GRILL THE BEST BRATS EVER BY AARON RAMSON
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ust for entertainment, go ahead and search for “worst chef on YouTube”. If you want to exit this page to search it now, I’ll wait. I’m just folding laundry tonight anyway; I’ll totally be here when you get back. Did you find the videos? Was it the buxom Englishwoman with the Iron Maiden shirt, who manages to both burn and undercook every single depressing thing she attempts, or was it the chubby American guy with the goatee and glasses, the one who the comment section calls, “The Master of Mayonnaise,
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The Sultan of Salmonella, The Fuhrer of Food poisoning?” At least the Englishwoman seems to be trolling when she creates the culinary abominations that populate her videos. The chubby, bespectacled, goateed American really believes that he’s a chef. It’s a soft-headed imbecile like him that probably popularized the method of grilling a sausage before boiling it. Yes folks, cretins, halfwits and dullards from county to coast actually believe that you should grill a hotdog or bratwurst before bathing it in beer. Anytime you question the judgement of our elected officials and wonder just who the hell voted for them, remember that stupid people who can’t cook are on YouTube, trying to show you how to cook. If texture, flavor, and self-respect are things that matter to you, there’s only one way to cook a ‘dog or a brat. Here’s an easy reminder of the order of operations: grill then simmer, terrible dinner. Simmer then grill,
brats are chill. Look, there’s no magic at play here, this is pure science we’re talking about. Bratwurst, frankfurters, knockwurst and serdelki are all fresh, emulsified sausage; meaning that they’re made from a mixture of finely ground meat, fat, and water. Whether fried in cast iron or grilled over open flame, direct heat renders the fat, melting it to a liquid while simultaneously denaturing the proteins in the meat and causing the water to push out of the muscle fibers. This causes the inside of the sausage to expand while the direct heat simultaneously causes the elastic casing of the sausage to rapidly contract. These actions cause the sausage casing to come under sudden, intense pressure until it bursts, splitting the sausage open and releasing all of the rendered juices. Your grilled or fried sausage is browned and crispy, with a split down it’s side, all of its juices spilled out. Now look at you, sitting there with a dry-ass sausage on your plate. This is where people think that throwing the split open sausage in boiling beer will replace lost moisture in their lunch. If you enjoy cooking your steaks well-done before drowning them in A1 steak sauce, I can’t help you. Frankly, I’m surprised you can read. But if you want to cook the most tender and delicious sausages ever, read this shit I’m about to share. HOW TO GRILL THE BEST BRATS EVER (serves 2) 2-4 fresh bratwurst sausages. Most grocery stores will carry a selection of sausages in their meat department; some are made fresh in store, while others are previously frozen. If you’re in the mood for a hotdog instead, this recipe works just the same for those. I prefer deli-style frankfurters over packaged hotdogs. 1 can or bottle pilsner beer. Sure, sure you can get all bespoke if you want, and simmer your sausages in an IPA or Saison or a Belgian Tripel. Craft beer is full of people who think that tradition is boring and unimaginative, and it’s these same people who find so much satisfaction in gimmickry and extraneous steps for the sake of being sOoOo DiFfErEnT. I say, use a quality craft pilsner if you want to chase beer clout, and quit trying to use beer to cover up your lack of personality (also, your beard isn’t a personality, it’s just a coverup for your recessive chin. You don’t fool me). You want the beer to compliment the flavors in the meat, not cover up or clash with them. Me, I kept it simple and went with Coors Banquet beer.
1 medium yellow onion. 2 tablespoons cooking oil. Uncap your bottle of beer and pour the whole thing into a pan big enough fit all of your sausages in. Set your burner to medium heat, and once your beer is just under a boil, gently lower your sausages into the beer to avoid splashing. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked thoroughly, turning halfway through to cook evenly. Low and slow is the name of the game here. When simmering food, the temperature is kept between 180-200 degrees, that’s lower than a boil, but hotter than poaching. This temperature allows the fat and meat to slowly denature without rending or toughening. The resulting sausages will be soft and tender, complimented by the grainy, malty, lightly herbal aspects of your pilsner beer that was absorbed into the meat while cooking. While your sausages are cooking, peel and chop your onion into rings or slices. The midwestern way is to simmer the onions in the same pan with your brats or dogs, but I prefer the taste and texture of caramelized onions. So, in a separate pan, add your cooking oil, set your burner to medium heat, and add your onions when the oil just starts to smoke. Reduce heat to medium low if you find your onions are beginning to burn. Your bratwurst should be done cooking, but your onions are still caramelizing, and this is exactly what we want. Take your bratwurst out of the beer, and put into your pan with the onions. All we want to do here is brown the outsides of the sausage and get them to crisp up a bit, and the same heat you’re cooking your onions on will work perfectly. Once your sausages have a crispy brown outside, your meal is ready (I didn’t follow my own advice, and boiled my brats in beer instead of simmering them, causing the casing to split). Serve on a bun with the caramelized onions, or on a plate with potato salad, and enjoy eating your delicious meal with a beer of your choice. Guten appetit!
EMPEROR
SCREENERS
Witness the story of a man who defied impossible odds to chnge the course of his life and the fate of the nation in beautifully in this composed and shot action-packed drama. Inspired by a true legend, the thrilling film arrives on Digital, DVD and On Demand on August 18 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.
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No. 435
August 20 to August 26, 2020
A REAL-LIFE LEGEND
Based on the harrowing and inspirational journey of Shields Green, one of the many brave men in history, who risked his life to fight against the horrors of slavery and save his family, EMPEROR is a stirring account of an extraordinary uprising in the pre-Civil War South. A captivating and emotional story of courage, the film is based on the icoic American Freedom Fighter and legend Shields “Emperor” Green (Dayo Okeniyi), a descendant of African kings turned outlaw slave. The film tells the astonishing tale of Green’s escape from slavery and his transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Seeking freedom for his
BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS family, Emperor fights his way north, joining the daring raid on Harper’s Ferry, the key battle of the abolitionist movement which helped spark the beginning of the Civil War and alter the course of American history. Okeniyi leads the cast with an exceptionally powerful performance as the titular character EMPEROR, alongside academy award® nominee James Cromwell, Bruce Dern. EMPEROR is smoothly directed by Mark Amin from a script by Pat Charles and Amin. Universal. DVD Recommended. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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HADDON LIBBY
PPP LOANS – LOCAL FACTS
W
hen the U.S. Government approved the Paycheck Protection Program for Small Business, the intent was that these funds would be used to protect businesses without access to the capital markets like America’s largest corporations. As some of these funds were forgivable loans, businesses of all sizes, shapes and financial needs applied for these loans. In the beginning, much of the money went to businesses with the best relationships, or presenting the most risk, to their respective banks. It makes sense that banks were going to look after their most important relationships first as government funding was first come, first served. Banks also remembered past government emergency programs where the banks were left liable for some loans following the Great Recession. When those loans went bad and borrowers stopped paying, the government worked at getting as many of those loans government guaranteed loans put back to the banks so that the banks would take the loss instead of the government. If we look at this from a bank’s standpoint, once bitten, twice shy. During this first round of PPP lending, the Coachella Valley was largely excluded by the largest depository and small business banks serving the Coachella Valley. Things worked out better for many local businesses during the second round of PPP lending. According to US Treasury and Small Business Administration statistics from the end of June, 1,016 loans were made to Coachella Valley businesses during the 1st round of PPP for $39 million. 70% of these loans were
made by banks with a local branch presence. One-third of all loans were made by only two loans banks: FirstBank with 203 loans and Bank of Southern California with 106 loans. Stated differently, FirstBank made one out of five loans while Bank of Southern California made one in ten loans. Combined, they made one in three loans locally. For this level of support, these two banks should be considered the Coachella Valley’s Most Reliable. If we include Pacific Premier and Mechanic’s Bank (formerly Rabobank) which made 80 and 79 loans, respectively, these Local 4 represented 66% of 1st round PPP loans. If we add banks with no local presence, nine in ten loans made during the first round were made by an out of town bank or one of the Local 4. For comparison, the Valley’s two largest banks to small business – Wells Fargo and
DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW
Bank of America – made a total of five loans to locals. Where Wells and BofA represent x% of local deposits, they made only 0.5% of 1st round PPP loans. If we add Chase and Citibank to comprise the National 4, this mighty group made a total of 29 loans or nearly 3% of the 1,016 loans made to Coachella Valley businesses. Once the 2nd round of relief got here, government loan programs were better understood by the banks and the ability of local businesses to get relief came more easily. Through June 30th, more than 5,400 loans have been made injecting $390 million to the local economy. Bank of America which made only four loans locally during the 1st round had made more than 800 loans. This equates to 15% of all loans.
Wells Fargo which was rightly criticized for making only one loan locally during the first round is doing a better job now with nearly loans 600, or 10.5% of PPP loans originated. Pacific Premier Bank has lent the most at $39 million with Bank of America second at $24 million. As the purpose of these loans was to protect jobs, California Bank & Trust did that better than anyone. California Bank & Trust clients were lent 6% of all funds yet protected 20% of all jobs. At the other end of the spectrum, BBVA loans protected 1.5% of all jobs yet cost 3% of all funds. As this experience in getting PPP loans has shown, businesses and individuals alike need to consider whether they want a national bank for convenience or a local bank for reliability in hard times. A local economy does better when locals do business with locals who keep and spend their profits locally. As the Coachella Valley looks to recover from a financial hit of Depression-era magnitude, try keeping your business local whether it is a bank, a restaurant, or some other business (like an investment advisor… hint, hint). That is one of the best things you can do for our local economy. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For more information, please visit www.WinslowDrake.com or email Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com.
LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED
HOW TO PREVENT YOUR TEEN FROM DRIVING DRUNK
T
he legal drinking age in California is 18. Unfortunately, many teens get access to alcohol at a much earlier age. Alarming statistics show: * A recent study revealed over 60% of teens admitted to binge drinking * Another recent study showed that almost 40% of students admitted to binge drinking while in college * Teens drink and drive as much as 2.4 million times each month * About 10% of teenagers in high school will drink and drive * About 85% of teens in high school will binge drink While courts often mandate an ignition interlock device (IID) for DUI offenders, a growing number of parents chose to install an ignition interlock device on their own. They believe it will allow them to oversee what their minor children are doing and to be sure their loved ones are always sober when behind the wheel. What is a DUI? Driving under the influence is a legal citation given to someone caught driving under the influence of a mind-altering substance such as alcohol. The ramifications of driving under the influence are grave, and those convicted will face serious legal consequences. What happens if your teen gets a DUI?
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Typically, DUIs are issued when an accident has taken place or during traffic stops. When underage drivers are pulled over, and the police suspect they are driving under the influence, they will undergo a blood alcohol content (BAC) breath test or blood test. If alcohol is detected, they will be taken into custody, and the vehicle will be towed. California has a zero-tolerance law for DUI's by a minor. The Indio Court will slap hefty penalties on teenagers under 18 years of age who drive with alcohol in their bloodstream. What are the legal repercussions of underage DUI? There are several legal penalties for teens that drive under the influence, IN ADDITION TO A JUVENILE COURT APPEARANCE WHICH COULDE INCLUDE: * Probation * Fines * Loss of driver's license for an entire year * Community service * Mandatory alcohol education * Jail time What can you do to help ensure your teenagers will not drink and drive? Set clear rules A study of over 1,000 teens revealed that those with "hands-on" parents are four times less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking and driving. At all times, be very clear
that they are not allowed to drink any alcohol if they plan to drive. Ensure they are aware that it is illegal for anyone under 18 to drive when under the influence. Layout all the unpleasant consequences of driving drunk, including jail time, losing their license, being denied college acceptance, or worst, being involved in a fatal car crash. Set rules and expectations clearly and be strict without feeling guilty. Equip your teens to handle peer pressure. Most teenage drinking occurs because of peer pressure. Sit down with your teens and talk about possible scenarios they'll encounter that will involve alcohol. Give guidance on what they need to do if they were offered a drink at a party. Also, remind them to always turn down rides from friends who have been drinking. Reassure your teens they can always call on you if they need a ride. Set a good example. Ensure you practice what you preach. Don't drink excessively, especially when your teenage children are around. Refrain from making jokes about drinking as well so they won't think alcohol use is glamorous or funny. Avoid implying alcohol can solve any of your problems by saying you need a drink after a long day. Get to know the people they hang out with.
It would be a good idea to help your teens establish friendships with those who don't drink. If you notice they're hanging out with friends who are known to use alcohol, limit their time together. Also, implement strict rules on how they'll spend after school time and the people they'll spend it with. Final Thoughts Sometimes, despite your best efforts, teenagers can still end up driving while under the influence. In line with this, make sure you know what the legal consequences are. Better yet, consider interlock installation for your peace of mind. DALE GRIBOW Representing the Injured and Criminally Accused "TOP LAWYER" - California's Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-20 "TOP LAWYER" - Inland Empire Magazine 2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating "DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER....THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME" Suggestion for future article? Call 760-8377500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com.
SWAG FOR THESOUL
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BY AIMEE MOSCO
STEPPING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD
“A person who has the genuine ability to feel grateful for each and every thing they experience, whether he or she (or society) considers those things to be good or bad, is a highly conscious, evolved being.” Daily Agreements, Guidelines & Intentions, by Aimee Mosco and Donald L. Ferguson, p.65. ppreciation and thankfulness are different words for the same concept – gratitude, which generates highly magnetic energy. The gratitude you put out there is delivered back to you as goodness in equal measure. To experience gratitude with effectiveness and authenticity requires that you first look beyond your ego self. Ironically, the way to look beyond yourself from the highest perspective, is to step back and connect deeply with your inner-self. When you take the time to explore and embrace who you are on the inside - your inner spirit, your view of the outside world changes. When you have a strong sense of spirit or inner-self, you are better able to observe what is going on around you with fewer judgments and move forward without getting stuck in the mud. Why is this? Often times the reason you have judgments that keep you stuck is because of insecurities and parts of self that are unfulfilled. Without realizing it, you expect others to fill these voids by giving you attention, agreeing with your point of view, or engaging in actions that are acceptable to you. When others do not comply and your expectations are not met, unreasonable as they may be, you are let down. That is when the opportunity is born to cast judgment and get stuck. When you shift your focus inward with the intent to know yourself deeply, you see extraordinary things that are shielded from your view when you only look outward. You come to realize that what you have within you is a treasure more valuable than anything anyone else can ever give you. The support you are able to give yourself is always greater and more fitting than what comes from
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others. As this realization takes a foothold, you begin to let go of the expectations you have of others because you are building yourself up. When these expectations are taken off the table, so are the opportunities to experience disappointment and a host of other emotional reactions that follow unmet expectations. When unfavorable emotions are stripped away, judgement has no foundation. As the ego story is dismantled and judgements are laid to rest, you gain the ability to observe each and every experience from a higher perspective. From that vantage point you will see the learning opportunity worthy of your gratitude with greater clarity. With gratitude in your pocket, you move onward and upward with ease! In my pursuit to help humanity move forward with grace and ease, I invite you to join Facebook group Evolve through Love hosted by Elizabeth Scarcella, BB Ingle, and me. Go to facebook.com/groups/evolvethroughlove and share with us your joy. Aimee Mosco is an Author, Intuitive Channel, Spiritual Teacher and Co-Founder of Intentional Healing Systems, LLC. Aimee’s passion for helping others inspired her book “Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness”. Find Aimee at www.ihsunity.com
August 20 to August 26, 2020
FREEWILL ASTROLOGY
WEEK OF AUGUST 20
ARIES (March 21-April 19): “We never know what is enough until we know what’s more than enough,” said Aries singer Billie Holiday. I don’t think that applies to everyone, although it’s more likely to be true about the Aries tribe than maybe any other sign of the zodiac. And I’m guessing that the coming weeks could be a time when you will indeed be vivid proof of its validity. That’s why I’m issuing a “Too Much of a Good Thing” alert for you. I don’t think it’ll be harmful to go a bit too far and get a little too much of the good things; it may even be wise and healthy to do so. But please don’t go waaayyyy too far and get waaayyyy too much of the good things. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus author Honoré de Balzac (1799–1850) took many years to write The Human Comedy, an amalgam of 91 intertwined novels, stories, and essays. For this vast enterprise, he dreamed up the personalities of more than 2,000 characters, many of whom appeared in multiple volumes. I bring this to your attention, Taurus, because I believe that the next 15 months will be an excellent time for you to imagine and carry out a Balzac-like project of your own. Do you have an inkling of what that might be? Now’s a good time to start ruminating. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Not until the 19th century did humans begin to take organized actions to protect animals from cruelty. Even those were sparse. The latter part of the 20th century brought more concerted efforts to promote animal welfare, but the rise of factory farms, toxic slaughterhouses, zoos, circuses, and cosmetic testing has shunted us into a Dark Age of animal abuse. I suspect our descendants will look back with horror at our barbarism. This problem incurs psychological wounds in us all in ways that aren’t totally conscious. And I think this is an especially key issue for you right now. I beg you, for your own sake as well as for the animals’, to upgrade your practical love and compassion for animals. I bet you’ll find it inspires you to treat your own body with more reverence. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian literary critic Harold Bloom bragged to The New York Times that his speed-reading skills were so advanced that he could finish a 500-page book in an hour. While I believe he has indeed devoured thousand of books, I also wonder if he lied about his quickness. Nonetheless, I’ll offer him up as an inspirational role model for you in the coming weeks. Why? Because you’re likely to be able to absorb and integrate far more new information and fresh experiences than usual—and at a rapid pace. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “Magic lies in challenging what seems impossible,” says Leo politician Carol Moseley Braun. I agree with her, but will also suggest there’s an even higher magic: when you devise a detailed plan for achieving success by challenging the impossible, and then actually carry out that plan. Judging from the current astrological omens, I suspect you’re in an unusually favorable position to do just that in the coming weeks. Be bold in rising to the challenge; be practical and strategic in winning the challenge. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Joy is a mystery because it can happen anywhere, anytime, even under the most unpromising circumstances,” writes author Frederick Buechner. What he doesn’t say is that you must be receptive and open to the possibility of joy arriving anywhere and anytime. If you’re shut down to its surprising influx, if you’re convinced that joy is out of reach, it won’t break through the barriers you’ve put up; it won’t be able to land in your midst. I think this is especially important counsel for you in the coming weeks, Virgo. PLEASE make yourself available for joy. P.S. Here’s another clue from Buechner: “Joy is where the whole being is pointed in one direction.” LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “I transformed stillnesses and darknesses into words,” wrote Libran poet Arthur Rimbaud. “What was unspeakable, I named. I made the whirling world pause.” In accordance with current astrological potentials, I have turned his thoughts into a message for you.
© Copyright 2020 Rob Brezsny
In the coming weeks, I hope you will translate silences and mysteries into clear language. What is unfathomable and inaccessible, you will convert into understandings and revelations. Gently, without force or violence, you will help heal the inarticulate agitation around you with the power of your smooth, resonant tenderness. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Your desires, whether or not you achieve them, will determine who you become,” wrote author Octavia E. Butler. Now is a fertile time for you to meditate on that truth. So I dare you to take an inventory of all your major desires, from the noblest to the most trivial. Be honest. If one of your burning yearnings is to have 100,000 followers on Instagram or to eat chocolate-covered bacon that is served to you in bed, admit it. After you’re through tallying up the wonders you want most, the next step is to decide if they are essential to you becoming the person you truly want to be. If some aren’t, consider replacing them with desires that will be a better influence on you as you evolve. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): If you can manage it, I recommend taking a break from business-as-usual. I’d love to see you give yourself the gift of amusement and play—a luxurious sabbatical that will help you feel free of every burden, excused from every duty, and exempt from every fixation. The spirit I hope you will embody is captured well in this passage from author Okakura Kakuzo: “Let us have a sip of tea. The afternoon glow is brightening the bamboos, the fountains are bubbling with delight, the soughing of the pines is heard in our kettle. Let us dream of evanescence, and linger in the beautiful foolishness of things.” CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Rapper Eminem advises us, “Never take ecstasy, beer, Bacardi, weed, Pepto-Bismol, Vivarin, Tums, Tagamet HB, Xanax, and Valium in the same day.” What’s his rationale? That quaffing this toxic mix might kill us or make us psychotic? No. He says you shouldn’t do that because “It makes it difficult to sleep at night.” I’m going to suggest that you abide by his counsel for yet another reason: According to my analysis, you have the potential to experience some wondrous and abundant natural highs in the coming weeks. Your capacity for beautiful perceptions, exhilarating thoughts, and breakthrough epiphanies will be at a peak. But none of that is likely to happen if you’re loaded up with inebriants. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Everyone who has ever built a new heaven first found the power to do so in his own hell,” declared philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. That’s a rather histrionic statement! But then Nietzsche was a Maestro of Melodrama. He was inclined to portray human life as a heroic struggle for boldness and liberation. He imagined us as being engaged in an epic quest to express our highest nature. In accordance with your astrological potentials, I propose that you regard Nietzsche as your power creature during the coming weeks. You have a mandate to adopt his lion-hearted perspective. And yes, you also have a poetic license to build a new heaven based on the lessons you learned and the power you gained in your own hell. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Here’s some knowledge from author John le Carré: “In every operation there is an above the line and a below the line. Above the line is what you do by the book. Below the line is how you do the job.” According to my analysis, you have, at least for now, done all you can in your work above the line. That’s great! It was crucial for you to follow the rules and honor tradition. But now it’s time for a shift in emphasis. In the coming weeks, I hope you will specialize in finessing the details and massaging the nuances below the line. Homework: Meditate on the possibility that you could gain personal power through an act of surrender. FreeWillAstrology.com ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com
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August 20 to August 26, 2020
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