Coachella Valley Weekly - December 14 to December 20, 2017 Vol. 6 No. 39

coachellavalleyweekly.com • December 14 to December 20, 2017 Vol. 6 No. 39

CAKES Fu Manchu Mickey Thomas The Deadicateds Clothing Co. Paul Gurvitz pg4

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Domingo Winstead Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Denise Ortuno Neil, Morgan James, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Noe Gutierrez, Craig Michaels, Bronwyn Ison, Janet McAfee, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Jason Hall, Raymond Bill, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Dee Jae Cox, Patte Purcell, Rebecca Pikus, Esther Sanchez, Angela Romeo, Jenny Wallis Photographers Robert Chance, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez, Laura Hunt Little, Lani Garfield, Scott Pam, George Duchannes Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS P.S.A. Organica & Prop 64.................... 3 CAKES Art Exhibit 'Bipolar"................ 4 Breaking The 4th Wall - Mame............ 5 Breaking The 4th Wall - The Great American Trailer Park XMas Musical.. 5 SoCal Coyotes ...................................... 6 Fu Manchu............................................ 7 Rocking For Kids Charity Golf ............ 8 The Deadicateds Clothing Co.............. 8 Paul Gurvitz ......................................... 9 Consider This - Sharon Jones............ 10 Art Scene - Nichole Vikdal................. 11 Pet Place............................................. 12 The Vino Voice ................................... 13 Club Crawler Nightlife....................... 14 Good Grub - Bob's Twin Kitchen........16 Screeners ........................................... 18 Book Review ...................................... 19 Safety Tips ..........................................19 Haddon Libby.................................... 21 Dale Gribow....................................... 21 Sports Scene...................................... 22 Cannabis Corner................................ 22 Free Will Astrology............................ 23 Mind, Body & Spirit........................... 23 Ask The Doctor................................... 24 Life & Career Coach............................ 24

A CANNABIS NEW YEAR: ADULT CONSUMPTION “RECREATIONAL” SALES BEGIN JANUARY 1ST! “

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e are ready to provide the best and safest cannabis,” said Julie Montante, Owner, Palm Springs Associated Organica, (PSA Organica) in Palm Springs. “We will be open on January 1st at 6:00am, and we are excited to meet new clients and help them find the right cannabis product.”

PSA Organica has been permitted by the City of Palm Springs to sell cannabis to adult consumers in the New Year. “Recreational” cannabis can only be sold legally through a licensed dispensary.

Recreational Use Proposition 64, The Adult Use of Cannabis Act of 2016 allows adults 21 or older to possess, consume and cultivate cannabis in California beginning January 1, 2018. On the first, for the first time in California history, recreational use marijuana can be legally purchased.

“We have the widest variety of cannabis strains and largest inventory of cannabis related merchandise in the valley,” said Montante. “We are preparing to have ample supplies of cannabis to meet the demand, and I’m confident that new users and those returning to marijuana for the first time in years will find something they will feel comfortable using.”

At the time this article was written, PSA Organica was the only Palm Springs dispensary permitted by the city to sell to adult consumers starting January 1st.

Montante has secured a “Temporary State License” and is in full compliance.

The other five existing Palm Springs dispensaries were in the permitting process with an additional 10 businesses still applying.

Medicinal Use Dispensaries will continue selling medicinal marijuana and products without change.

Medicinal use cannabis will remain available to those with “medical cards” and its price and tax rate will remain the same, where as non-medicinal users will have a higher price point and be paying a higher tax rate.

Rolling With The Changes The State of California has been diligently preparing for this auspicious date, but has not yet completed the regulation and legislative process.

To meet the January start date, the State has put “emergency provisions” in place allowing cities to move forward with dispensary applicants who have demonstrated due diligence and State compliance.

For those dispensaries that have met necessary approvals and are consistent with all applicable State laws, and are in good standing with city licenses, a “Temporary License” can be issued by the State, which is good for 120 days with an option to renew while California continues to hone guidelines and hammer out the details related to adult consumption use and safety.

Cathedral City has issued licenses to 11

dispensaries, which allows the sale of both medicinal and adult use. However, each dispensary must obtain a State license to make “recreational” sales legal.

Desert Hot Springs City Counsel voted Tuesday on an “Urgency Ordinance” to allow all cannabis businesses – retail, cultivation, manufacturing, testing, etc., -- in good standing, permission to sell to adult consumers upon verification of a State license. Currently, DHS has eight dispensaries in operation.

To sell “recreational” cannabis legally on January 1, dispensaries must have appropriate verification/permission and licensing in hand.

Some valley dispensaries are not applying for adult consumption “recreational” licenses due to higher fees and tax regulations.

Getting Started Montante is thrilled to be able to serve adult consumers.

“If you are a new client trying cannabis for the first time, you are going to get the same quality product and care that we provide our medicinal users,” said Montante. “Our bud tenders are educated about cannabis, knowledgeable about its related products and friendly. We are happy to sit down with you, and help you get re-acquainted, or get started.”

PSA Organica is currently in the application process and has filed paperwork to open a dispensary in the City of Palm Desert, where Montante hopes to be able to sell both Adult and Medicinal cannabis. The dispensary will open next year.

Montante wants people to know that

December 14 to December 20, 2017

BY HEIDI SIMMONS while cannabis has many benefits, it can affect people differently and what works for one person might not work for another.

Genetics, biological sex, biochemistry, lifestyle, tolerance, and overall health can factor into how cannabis may affect users.

Quality Products Concerned that people may be purchasing cannabis oils off the internet or at street fairs where there is no way to know if the products are safe or lab tested, Montante believes people will now have direct access to quality, well-established cannabis products. PSA Organica sells cannabis oils like CBD and RSO, which are believed to help cancer patients and people with chronic pain.

“It is essential to know the product you are purchasing and its quality. We can help you find the right cannabis strain and a dosage to meet your needs,” said Montante. “It’s important to find what works best for you.

Some people are more sensitive than others, and there are different ways to consume cannabis. It’s very personal, and that’s why we are here to assist.”

Expanding Industry The cannabis industry has not been dormant over the past several decades.

If it has been awhile since you consumed marijuana, you will be surprised to see how much has changed.

There are a myriad of cannabis products from pre-packaged joints and electronic pipes, to candy bars and gourmet foods all with a professional look and feel of welldesigned and crafted merchandise with bar codes and “Nutrition Facts.”

“If you are concerned about your lungs, you don’t have to smoke cannabis to get the desired effect,” said Montante. “We have vape pens [vapor inhalers], edibles and topicals. There is such a wide variety of cannabis products, we want to make sure you get what you want, and feel comfortable with whatever you walk out with.”

Most valley dispensaries have closed off waiting areas, intimidating security guards, and a dispensary hidden behind plain walls and heavy doors as if shielding a clandestine club secret where patrons sit subdued and perhaps a little suspicious before being buzzed in one at a time. continue to page 4

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

RECREATIONAL CANNABIS continued from page 3

Welcoming Atmosphere While PSA Organica provides a safe and secure dispensary, the atmosphere is welcoming. The facility has a large lobby and lounge area that is open, inviting, and comfortable. There is a positive energy and pleasant hubbub as friendly people come and go.

“The Collective That Cares” is PSA Organica’s motto. The approachable, easygoing style was paramount to Montante when she designed the dispensary.

“We pride ourselves on making people feel comfortable. There is nothing to fear.

We are receptive to new customers,” said Montante. “We have worked with many of our patients since we opened in 2015. Our bud tenders know most of our clients by name. There should be nothing intimidating about purchasing cannabis.”

Motivated to Help

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Montante is passionate about helping and educating people about marijuana. Her interest in medical cannabis began when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. She wanted to find alternative ways to help her mom fight the disease. That interest led her to 15 years of cannabis research.

After her mother’s death, Montante continued to help friends and family.

“I learned so much, I knew I could help others. There are so many benefits, I wanted to open a safe place where people could come and ask questions about cannabis and try it without fear.”

Now that PSA Organica will be including adult consumption, along with medicinal cannabis use, Montante hopes people will continue to educate themselves about cannabis.

When Proposition 64 was on the ballot, Montante had mixed feelings about adult

consumption “recreational” use.

Montante became motivated to pursue her licensing for adult consumers so they would have access to the same quality and safe products as her medicinal users. Since its inception, PSA Organica has maintained strict guidelines and high standards.

“There is a lot of bad product out there.

I want to make sure people have access to quality cannabis that is bug and toxin free,” said Montante. “When you buy from a licensed dispensary, you should be getting a product that is certified, lab tested and chemically safe.”

Controlled Environment PSA Organica has its own 20,000 square foot cultivation site, which is a state-of-theart facility. Montante and her growers have developed a system so no water is wasted and can be reused and recycled eliminating sewer systems or septic tanks.

Having its own grow operation allows PSA Organica to maintain strict control of the cannabis strains they sell.

Private Use Adult non-medical consumers may possess one ounce of cannabis and cultivate up to six plants. It is illegal to smoke while driving and to drive under the influence of cannabis. For now, smoking cannabis is restricted to private property.

The State of California has been diligently preparing for this auspicious date, but has not yet completed the regulation and legislative process. Cannabis laws will continue to be shaped and formed as the industry matures.

FROM THE CONCERT STAGE TO GALLERY WALLS, CAKES UNLEASHES THE MANIA IN SOLO ART EXHIBIT ‘BIPOLAR’

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aturday December 16th, at Flat Black Art Gallery in Palm Desert, artist Cakes the Maniac will be hosting her second solo art show titled BIPOLAR with an all-female DJ lineup, 420 giveaways by local sponsor Bud Angels, and a taquero on deck, just because. Opening reception will be from 6-10 p.m. with a

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possible surprise performance by the artist herself.

With a title like BIPOLAR, CAKES wanted her new series to be manic, no clear cohesive theme, with art ranging in the abstract, typography, fine art, photography, and digital illustration. Originally from San Francisco, California, she has been painting

and dabbling in performance art since early 2002 with her aesthetic summed up in one word: raw. As a local female artist that goes unnoticed in the Coachella Valley, her goal was to bring together a female lineup, proving that women are indeed present in this community and what better way to show it by accepting the challenge of having a solo show with strong female DJ’s to tie it all together.

Starting the show off at 6 p.m. is artist IAMNOTADJ, “A roving durational performance series of open-format sound work with visual projections by multidisciplinary visual artist MLN17.” Next is DJ FEMME A, originally from the San Fernando Valley, who is heavily influenced

by EDM and who is also working as a promoter to bring more EDM influenced events to the valley. The valley’s golden girl AMA VIDA will be spinning at 8 p.m. Vida is a music-loving wellness advocate from Palm Springs, CA. She weaves sonic frequencies into palatable audio bliss for people to dance to. To close out the night she has DJ LAZY EYE from Downy, CA whose style is all about being herself.

The event will be at the Flat Black Art Supply Store that also doubles as a gallery.

They moved earlier this year from their tucked away store off of Cook St. to their more visible shopfront off of Hwy 111

To meet the January start date, the state has put “emergency provisions” in place allowing cities to move forward with dispensary applicants who have demonstrated due diligence and state compliance.

State licenses to sell to adult users “recreational” will be issued in January.

Whether you are an adult consumer or medicinal user of cannabis, Montante encourages keeping records of your purchases and notes so if you want to try a stronger strain or find something milder, bud tenders can be more helpful.

Giving Back Part of PSA Organica’s mission is to help the homeless in Palm Springs.

The dispensary collects canned goods, clothing, toys, blankets, jackets, etcetera, to give to local charities. Montante works year-round assisting those in need, but says during the holidays and winter the needs are greater. She always appreciates the generosity of those who bring useful items to the dispensary for donation.

“There is no longer a stigma around marijuana,” said Montante. “You don’t have to look over your shoulder any more or worry what someone might think. There are good cannabis products for your health and recreational use. If you are 21 or older and never tried cannabis, I encourage you to come in and see what the cannabis industry has to offer.”

PSA Organica is located at 400 E. Sunny Dunes in Palm Springs, CA 760-778-1053.

EVENTS

so that it would solidify their movement within the art community. They offer local Coachella Valley artists a place to display their art in hopes of building confidence and pushing them in the right direction as well as shining a positive light on the graffiti culture that’s been looked at in a negative way for years. Flat Black has been paving the path for local artists to have a voice and are an integral part of shaping the youth in this community.

Check out CAKES at facebook.com/ cakesfordayz.

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A STAGE REVIEW OF ‘MAME’

“Life is a banquet and most poor sons of bitches are starving to death.”

- Mame Dennis ame, a multi-Tony Award winning musical with book by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee and music and lyrics by Jerry Herman and originally based on the 1955 novel ‘Auntie Mame’ by Patrick Dennis, became a Broadway hit in 1966. Having since graced hundreds of stages and charmed multiple generations, it is currently in production at the Palm Canyon theatre in Palm Springs.

Directed and choreographed by the very accomplished Stephanie Eley, Mame, is a show that reminds us all to live, laugh, love and to be true to yourself.

Set in New York City, the story opens in the late 1920’s with the music and dance of the flappers and the decadence of a prosperous time. It focuses on eccentric free spirited Mame Dennis. Mame, performed by

BY DEE JAE COX

December 14 to December 20, 2017

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the gifted Se Layne in the title role, is a story that was written to showcase the talent of a singer/actress like Layne. The witty lines, the uplifting songs and dance all demand the skills of a multi-talented performer and Layne delivers in spades.

Mame’s free-style life is thrown for a loop when, Patrick, (performed by the adorable Ben Van Dijk), the young son of her late brother, arrives to live with her. But rather than alter her course, she takes him along

‘THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK CHRISTMAS MUSICAL’

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ed Neck humor can be very funny.

I’ve got relatives in Florida and West Virginia and I’m definitely related to a few bubbas who make me smile. Bill Engvall, (here’s your sign,) is one of my favorite comedians. But there are just some attempts at humor that cross a line even most White Trash aficionados would find tasteless and crass. Sadly that is the case with “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical,” currently in production at Desert TheatreWorks in Indio.

While the show does manage to offer up some witty one-liners, Betsy Kelso’s book and David Nehls Music and Lyrics, are just floundering juvenile high school attempts at humor. The only saving grace for this show

on her fabulous journey. Through the Great Depression and World War II, Mame holds tight to her lust for life.

Morgana Corelli shines as Mame’s best friend, Vera Charles. Her comedic timing and likeability in the role makes her duet with Mame, “Bosom Buddies,” a highlight of the show.

Elizabeth Schmelling, as Agnes Gooch, was absolutely stellar in her portrayal of a young naive woman who is encouraged to get off of her self imposed life diet and ends up sampling the whole banquet. Her rendition of “Gooch’s Song” was hysterical and had me laughing so hard that my sides hurt.

Derik Shopinski is one of the best costumer’s around. His costumes are the decadent desert in this show.

There were so many fun and entertaining performances and nuances within this

BY DEE JAE COX

is the cast who manages to form a cohesive ensemble and has the talent to rise above the bottom feeding script.

Trailer Park Christmas, loosely draws its plot from Dickens’, A Christmas Carol and its hick characters from Armadillo Acres Trailer Park in Florida, where the December temperature hits 102 and all the inhabitants eagerly compete in the Mobile Home and Gardens, annual Christmas decorating pageant. Betty, (Rebecca Hertsgaard) Linoleum, (Heidi Hapner) and Pickle, (Christine Michelle) open the show with tacky decorated mobile homes and high hopes for breaking the Armadillo Acres Christmas Curse and winning the pageant.

All of the park residents seem to be getting

production, that print space prevents me from naming them all. But it is now apparent that ‘Mame’ has become a favorite classic of mine.

The music, the dance and the upbeat storyline can’t help but make you want to belly up to the banquet and start taking larger portions.

If you’re looking for great theatre, and who isn’t? Mame is definitely the show to see. Running December 1-17, 2017.

The Palm Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.

For Reservations: Box Office: (760) 3235123 - www.palmcanyontheatre.org.

Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. www. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org.

BREAKING THE4TH WALL

in the holiday spirit except Darlene Seward, (Alisha Bates.) Bates is certainly the highlight of this production. She’s an exceptional actress and singer and shines in her role as the community’s Scrooge, who hates the holidays and refuses to adorn her trailer.

When she unplugs the illegal cable-stealing wire of her next-door neighbor Rufus (Adam Genesta), the shock erases her memory and Christmas-miracles her into a lovable Saint.

Darlene celebrates the twelve days before Christmas with amnesia and gives everyone else a glimmer of who she used to be before the ‘Christmas of the near past’ reveals the tragedy that struck her one Christmas eve. Rufus falls in love with the new and improved Darlene, but suffers heartbreak when Darlene’s memory returns. Genesta has a wonderful voice and his drunk Santa rendition of “Black and Blue on Christmas Eve,” was heartfelt and sympathetic.

Steve Fisher’s direction and Heidi Hapner’s choreography give this script some spark and energy, unfortunately not enough to save the show. ‘ Desert TheatreWorks has a history of quality and entertaining theatre, I look forward to their upcoming productions.

“The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical,” can be seen through December 17th, at The Indio Performing Arts Center, located at 45175 Fargo St, Indio, CA. For show and ticket information: www. dtworks.org Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director for The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. www.californiawoman411. com.

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

SPORTS

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BY LISA MORGAN

THE FIVE-TIME CHAMPIONS SOCAL COYOTES:

CHANGING THE COACHELLA VALLEY, FROM THE INSIDE OUT

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ew professional sports organizations have more passion for their community than the SoCal Coyotes. Not content with just winning championships, this nonprofit leadership organization has become a powerful force for good in the Coachella Valley.

On the field, the five-time champion Coyotes have been named America’s #1 Developmental Pro Football Program™ by NFL executives. Off the field, the faith-based Coyotes equip, educate, and empower more youth each year than arguably any other Coachella Valley non-profit in history.

On Friday, December 15, The Big Rock Pub will host the Big Rock - Coyote Classic at Indian Springs Golf Club to benefit this nonprofit’s massive valley outreach. This includes the Coyotes award-winning ‘Above the Line’ leadership curriculum, camps, clinics and symposiums, which affect more than 30,000 youth each year.

Military veterans, politicians, prominent businesses like Merrill Lynch, and former NFL personalities are among the Coyotes growing army of supporters. Many will be on hand for the 18-hole charity tournament and silent auction, which includes a coveted Rolling Stones-autographed guitar.

“The Coyotes see youth as our most precious resource,” says Joel Williams, who played for the Miami Dolphins, and served as program director of the National Football League Players Association.

Now a Coyotes board member, Williams says “we believe if young people are given opportunity, useful knowledge and skills, have their voice heard, and discover leadership, they will have a positive impact in their communities, and society.”

Building Champions, Building Men: A ‘Conveyor Belt to Manhood’ On the field, the Coyotes have no peers.

There is no second sentence. In 2017, SoCal shut out opponents 349-0, their third undefeated season. Under head coach J David Miller, the Coyotes are 80-13, and currently riding a 27-game win streak that dates back to 2015. The streak includes wins over 11 previously unbeaten teams, five league champions, and four Top 10 nationally ranked teams.

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Now the national standard of American developmental football, the Coyotes advance more players to NFL, CFL and Arena opportunities than any program in the country.

Each year, the team provides elite athletes a professional environment that refines and showcases their skills through trademarked processes, similar to the NBA’s D-league and MLB’s minor-league systems.

The Coyotes medical staff is led by two of the desert’s most prominent physicians Sydney Pardino, and Ben Wehrli. The front office is stocked with NFL and NCAA wisdom, including USC and Atlanta Falcons great Lynn Cain, and USC and Kansas City legend Brad Budde. Run ‘n’ Shoot godfather Darrel ‘Mouse’ Davis and NFL, NCAA and CFL trend-setter June Jones are friends and mentors of Coach Miller.

For their players, the Coyotes are a ‘conveyor belt to manhood.’ Talented athletes pour in from around the country for the opportunity to ‘Defend the Shield,’ which the Coyotes describe as ‘faith, family, football.’

Talent alone, however, is no replacement for leadership in the Coyote organization. The administration takes their mantra of ‘Building Champions, Building Men’ seriously.

Players are held to the highest levels of accountability, says Athletic Director Robert L. Cummings. This includes a strict code of conduct, and learning employable skills that meet the team’s job requirements.

“A man with a job is a man with a future,” says Coach Cummings, himself a 26-year Army veteran. “In this organization, we believe character is who you are when no one’s looking.”

Aside from football, the Coyotes guarantee every player will emerge a better father, a better husband, a better man. Make no mistake, football is merely a platform for the Coyotes to change hearts and lives, their real mission since 2012.

The Impact of Coyotes ‘Above the Line’ Youth Initiatives The Coyotes don’t measure leadership by stockpiling championships - but by how many young people they can take with them.

From Palm Springs to the East Valley, SVP Ron DiGrandi coordinates the team’s dynamic ‘Above the Line’ leadership programs, which are administered in area elementary, middle

and high schools by Coyotes players and staff.

In Coyote curriculum, skillful, intentional, on-purpose and driven always defeats blaming, complaining and excuses. Trust runs on character, competence and connection.

Educators from dozens of desert schools praise the Coyotes ‘Above the Line’ and strategies, which reinforce respect for authority, time management, and even making your bed to start your day. Schools as far as Colorado are now requesting their curriculum.

Tireless civic champions, the Coyotes not only mold and motivate, but also walk their talk. The non-profit organization supports dozens of local causes, and host events for at-risk, unprivileged, minority and displaced youth.

The Coyotes lead two annual camps each year for Riverside County law enforcement, and support the ‘Real Men Read’ program at the Indio Jail, led by Riverside County Deputy District Attorney Mike Tripp.

The Shield at 1 Coyote Way As the Coyotes grow their brand, they plan to change the landscape, too. Team officials are proposing The Shield at 1 Coyote Way, a world-class, multi-purpose stadium facility that will be a “beacon of hope, and a centrifuge of opportunity” for every valley child.

Watkins Landmark Construction, which did the $100 million expansion of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, are Coyote corporate partners and part of the development team. The Shield will feature festivals; pro, college and high school sporting events, including football, soccer, and boxing; concerts, conventions, cheer-leading, and a multitude of other indoor events, from equestrian competition to weddings.

Plans call for The Shield and its commercial district to generate 2,000 local jobs, with labor income of $3.8 billion in direct, indirect and induced economic output over 20 years.

Included in The Shield will be two publicuse fields and common areas; public-use training facilities and amphitheater; and a fresh vegetables farmer’s market, which will complement local Coachella Valley agriculture.

‘How Do I Get There From Here?’

In a recent Coachella Valley town hall, Coach Miller shared that furthering education, building opportunity and creating employment is the long-term mission of the Coyotes nonprofit organization.

“We bear the burden of every player and child who deserves to be heard, who deserves a career flight path, and who deserves an

answer to the simple question of ‘how do I get there from here?’” the coach said.

California State Senator Jeff Stone and Indio City Councilman Glenn Miller are vocal Coyote advocates. They have watched the Coyotes meteoric rise as one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports brands. With nearly 20,000 Facebook followers, the Coyotes and their success has been featured in national media around the country, including ESPN and The New York Times.

“The Coyotes are one of our greatest role models for youth,” says Councilman Miller, who in a formal proclamation, counted the Coyotes among the City of Indio’s “patriots and game-changers.”

“The Coyotes are carrying on our great traditions, especially the building of youth, and new generations of leaders and community servants,” he said.

(Visit the SoCal Coyotes at www. thesocalcoyotes.com. For information, email SVP Ron DiGrandi at ron@thesocalcoyotes. com).

More About the December 15 Big Rock – Coyote Christmas Classic The Big Rock Pub invites you to kick off your Christmas holiday at Indian Springs Golf Club on Friday, December 15, with 18 holes of golf, a silent auction that includes a Rolling Stonesautographed guitar and an evening of live entertainment - with proceeds benefiting the SoCal Coyotes non-profit organization.

The Big Rock Coyote Christmas Classic opens at 11 a.m., with shotgun start at noon.

I-10 Toyota will give away a free car for a holein-one, with more prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive. Participants will enjoy allday happy-hour prices from the award-winning Big Rock menu. The day will end with a silent auction featuring rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and a fun-filled evening of live entertainment.

Golf foursomes are $400, while Individual Play is $120. Remaining corporate tee sponsors are $150. To reserve your spot immediately, email Corey Milbrandt, Indian Springs GM and Director of Golf, at corey@indianspringsgc. com, or call 760.200.8988.

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

FU MANCHU AT PAPPY & HARRIET’S

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ong time heavy fuzz rock band FU MANCHU will be performing a SOLD OUT show at Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at 9:30 p.m. Scott Hill (vocals, guitar), Brad Davis (bass), Bob Balch (guitar) and Scott Reeder (drums & percussion) are preparing to release their new album, Clone of the Universe (At the Dojo Records), on February 9, 2018. Featured on the album is the prodigious 18 minute song “Il Mostro Atomico” which spotlights a guest appearance from RUSH guitarist Alex Lifeson. FU MANCHU will embark on a world tour beginning March 2, 2018 in Paris. Prior to their departure they will perform two album release shows on February 9th and 10th in Southern California. Given their history and affinity for the desert, the FU have blessed us with a warmup show at Pappy & Harriet’s.

In speaking with Balch and listening to snippets of the album on-line I get the feeling the album will be the next progressive step after the monstrous sound of GIGANTOID. I spoke with Bob about the sold out show, the album and upcoming tour. Not to mention some miscellaneous shit every ‘FuFan’ should know.

CVW: What do we need to know about your upcoming release Clone of the Universe and how fuckin’ stoked are you about Alex Lifeson’s (RUSH) contribution?

Bob Balch: “Super stoked! It’s the heaviest record we’ve ever recorded. I think playing together for 17 years as this lineup really helps solidify a sound. Then you introduce Lifeson from RUSH and have him play on an 18 minute song and you’ve got something special. Side two is that song.”

CVW: Dr. Fu Manchu was an archetype of the evil criminal genius. Who is the most corrupt & villainous in Fu Manchu?

BB: “Probably the collective ‘Fu Van Fart’.

Super villainous.”

CVW: And why don’t any of you sport the Fu Manchu mustache? Seems like a nobrainer.

BB: “That would be a little much. I think Reeder has had one from time to time. He did a half mustache for a day. That was killer.”

CVW: Your show at Pappy & Harriet’s is standing room only and your 2018 world tour is gaining copious momentum. How is the band preparing and are you doing anything different this time?

BB: “A new Marshall 800 for me. I also have to find some new pedals to get some of Lifeson’s sounds.”

CVW: Scott Hill has the longest tenure in Fu Manchu. Does he share with you any memories of the early days?

BB: “Sure, they had a van that was converted from an old folks home transportation van. It still looked the same and old ladies would run after Hill thinking they missed their rides.”

CVW: I was fortunate enough to see Fu Manchu perform in 1994 at Mario Lalli’s Rhythm & Brews in Indio, California. You’ve been a member since 1996. How does it feel to be a part of a band with such a huge legacy?

BB: “Pretty good. I don’t really reflect on it like that. Just try to address the matter at hand, be it ‘where’s the toilet?’ to ‘how long is our drive tonight?’ simple stuff like that.”

CVW: Your last album GIGANTOID was essential Fu Manchu; stripped down with fanatical fuzz. How would you review Clone of the Universe?

BB: “It’s like the next step sonically after GIGANTOID with fuzzier tones and heavier riffs. And then again....we got Lifeson!”

CVW: Your website PlayThisRiff.com (music lessons for fans by the very artists who perform the songs) continues to thrive.

You have interviewed and filmed lessons from artists like Adolescents, Anthrax, Clutch, Deicide, Every Time I Die, Exodus, Fatso Jetson, Gwar, Helmet, Kyuss, Obituary, Queens of the Stone Age, Trivium and 3 Inches of Blood. What keeps you providing these videos and giving private guitar lessons? In other words what type of fulfillment do you get out of it?

BB: “Money! Really! I teach 11 hours a day. I love my job. It’s made me a better player. I also love PlayThisRiff.com because I can bother bands I grew up listening to for

interviews and they usually say ‘yes.’ I just interviewed Wayne Kramer from MC5 and lifted a lot of his ideas for this new record; just ways of playing with two guitar players in a band and inverting chords and stuff to get bigger sounds.”

CVW: Anything else you want to add?

BB: “Come on out and see us rock an epic 18 min song. That’s once the record comes out Feb 9th. And check out PlayThisRiff.com if you play guitar!”

The Pappy’s show on 12/16 is sold out but you can catch the FU again on 2/9/18 at The Troubadour in L.A. or 2/10/18 at The Casbah in San Diego. Make sure to purchase the new album 2/9/18 and check out Bob’s website, PlayThisRiff.com! Visit fu-manchu.com.

Clone of the Universe track listing: 1. “Intelligent Worship” (3:08) 2. “(I’ve Been) Hexed” (2:48) 3. “Don’t Panic” (2:05) 4. “Slower Than Light” (3:26) 5. “Nowhere Left to Hide” (4:19) 6. “Clone of the Universe” (2:58) 7. “IL Mostro Atomico” (18:08) Fu Manchu 2018 World Tour Dates Feb 9 - Los Angeles, CA - The Troubadour Feb 10 - San Diego, CA - The Casbah Mar. 2 - Paris, France - Le Trabendo Mar 3 - Hengelo, Netherlands - Metropol Mar 5 - Berlin, Germany - Festsaal Kreuzberg Mar 6 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Pumpehuset Mar 7 - Oslo, Norway - Rockefeller Mar 8 - Stockholm, Sweden - Debaser Medis Mar 10 - Helsinki, Finland - Nosturi Mar 11 - Riga, Latvia - Meina Piekdiena Mar 13 - Warsaw, Poland - Poglos Mar 14 - Prague, Czech Republic - Klub 007 Mar 15 - Vienna, Austria - Arena Mar 16 - Budapest, Hungary - A38 Mar 18 - Zurich, Switzerland - Mascotte Mar 19 - Bern, Switzerland - Dachstock Mar 20 - Munich, Germany - Hansa 39 Mar 21 - Wiesbaden, Germany - Schlachthof Mar 23 - Hamburg, Germany - Markhalle Mar 24 - Cologne, Germany - Bürgerhaus Stollwerck Mar 25 - Haarlem, Netherlands - Patronaat Mar 26 - Leuven, Belgium - Depot Mar 27 - London, England - O2 Academy Islington May 1 - Phoenix, AZ - Rebel Lounge May 3 - Dallas, TX - Curtain Club May 4 - Austin, TX - Barracuda May 5 - Houston, TX - White Oak May 7 - Atlanta, GA - Vinyl May 8 - Raleigh, NC - Kings May 9 - Washington, DC - Rock & Roll Hotel May 11 - Philadelphia, PA - Underground Arts May 12 - New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom May 13 - Boston, MA - Brighton Music Hall May 15 - Cleveland, OH - Grog Shop May 16 - Columbus, OH - Ace of Cups May 17 - Detroit, MI - El Club May 19 - Chicago, IL - Bottom Lounge May 22 - Denver, CO - Streets of London Pub

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

EVENTS ROCKING FOR THE KIDS

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT HOSTED BY MICKEY THOMAS

B

efore speaking with Mickey Thomas on the phone, I was already familiar with much of his catalogue of music with Starship (and it’s previous iteration, Jefferson Starship). Given that, I knew his voice was silky smooth. What I didn’t know, but was delighted to find out, is he has a southern drawl as sweet as the peaches his home state boasts. Mickey is hosting a charity golf tournament, Rocking for the Kids Charity Golf Tournament, this Saturday, December 16. Presented by Q102.3 Classic Rock, this tournament is being held at Indian Springs Golf Club for the golf, with the dinner, awards ceremony, and live music entertainment at Big Rock Pub. All proceeds directly benefit the Family YMCA of the Desert childcare services and provide financial assistance to families in need. Joining Mickey Thomas to give golfers A-list entertainment Saturday night are Hendrix’s Gypsys, consisting of legendary drummer Alvin Taylor, Riki Hendrix (Jimi’s cousin), and Princeton Arnold (a Jimi Hendrix sound-alike). I caught up with Mickey and spoke to him about golf, the desert, and of course, his southern accent.

CVW: What was the driving force behind getting involved in a charity golf tournament to help kids in the community?

MT: “You know…Todd Marker from Q102.3 first approached me about the opportunity to do this. Then when I found out Family YMCA of the Desert was involved, I was even more interested.

I’ve lived here in Palm Desert for over twelve years.

This gives me an opportunity to give something back to a very worthy cause and to help kids.

CVW: I hear you’ll be playing with Hendrix’s

Gypsys. Tell me more about that. Do you know any of them?

MT: “I’ve heard of them but never personally met them, so I’m excited to on Saturday. They are going to be the house band and I will be MCing.

I’m going to have the opportunity to sit in and do 2 or 3 songs with them, though. I’ll probably sing “Jane,” maybe some later Starship, I haven’t decided yet.”

CVW: Maybe you’ll sing my personal favorite, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now?” That’s on my running playlist and when no one’s watching, I sometimes dance to it, too.

MT: (Chuckles) “It is an inspirational song and would surely fit the event as well! It’s a great site too – Big Rock Pub is really cool. Maybe it’ll warm up a little bit.”

CVW: If you think it needs to warm up, that proves you’re a true desert dweller now!

MT: “I know! When it’s 72° I need a jacket!”

CVW: Talk to me more about the golf tournament on December 16.

MT: “I’m going to be set up so we have the most interaction. I think they’ll set me up on a par 3 and I’ll be perched there for most of the golf tournament. That way I’ll be able to say hi to everyone who comes through, there will be a photo opportunity, and I’ll hit a ball with each foursome.”

CVW: Do you golf?

MT: “I do golf! A little bit. Not as much as I’d like to. I haven’t played in about 9 months or so.

Sometime before the event I’d better dust off the sticks and hit some balls so I don’t make a fool of myself!”

LOCAL BUSINESS

J

oe Rubio, Jr. is one dedicated individual.

His commitment to his most recent venture, The Deadicateds Clothing Co., cannot be denied. There is an obvious spirit noticeable in the products that are available now at thedeadicateds.com. The designs have original Hawaiian motifs with a mighty Polynesian influence. This year Rubio decided to activate the dream he has had since age 17. Rubio shared, “The thought to do a clothing line has been a goal of mine since 2003. I’ve been designing stuff the whole time but never pulled the trigger.

I studied the business, the competition and wanted to do something bigger with my line, to create something with substance.” Rubio is a combination of enthusiastic and hard-working.

Coachella Valley Weekly spoke to Rubio about his small business and the many other things he has his hands in.

CVW: What does “The Deadicateds” mean to you?

JR: “For me, to be dedicated is to be devoted to originality, not trends. The Deadicateds is for those who dance to a different beat, journey the road less traveled, dare to stand out, demand the best for themselves and inspire greatness in others. I wanted to create something that will move, motivate and uplift the people.

The Deadicateds Clothing Co. was created for everyone, it is my belief that all beings have a passion, be it sports, art, music, faith; you can be a surfer, guitar player, model, martial artist, a preacher, a husband, wife, son or daughter. With a little more devotion our worlds can be more.”

CVW: You are also involved in the martial arts. What drew you to this art form?

JR: “I grew up in it, my father being an

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BY TRICIA WITKOWER

CVW: I detect a southern accent. Are you from the South?

MT: “Yes! I am originally from Georgia, but I’ve been on the West Coast for 40 years. I think I’ve lost my accent a little, but when I go back to Georgia it comes back.”

CVW: What brought you to Palm Desert?

MT: “Twelve years ago, I was living in Lake Tahoe which was beautiful. My wife Rachel and I decided the time had come that we wanted to live in a warmer climate. We owned property in Florida so we considered going there, but it was so far away. We have kids here on the West Coast and roots here. My wife went on a scouting expedition and when she came to the desert, she fell in love immediately. She got back to Tahoe and told me I would love it. So we flew together and she was right, I did love it. We rented a place in Rancho Mirage for two years before we purchased our home in Palm Desert. I was tired of snow and ice – both literally and figuratively. I had an ex-wife living up the street in Tahoe, so it was a good time to move somewhere new. We’re really happy we landed here! We love it and plan to stay here. We

THE DEADICATEDS CLOTHING CO.

instructor he had all of us train. I started when I was four years old and I continue to teach, train and compete to this day.”

CVW: Additionally, you work for Empire Music Ventures. What are your duties with them and what is your favorite part of working for such a unique organization?

JR: “On paper, I’m the lighting director, but I do a lot more. I design show flyers, concert merch, DJ the festivals, yell at people and get yelled at…a lot, ha ha.”

CVW: One of the many hats you wear is DJ. Have we seen the last of “DJ Rawkwell”?

JR: “I don’t think I’ll ever stop being a DJ, only because I love music so much. I’m particular about the events I do. I love playing old school, 90’s, new jack, reggae and I am blessed to say I stay pretty busy doing so.”

CVW: You always seem so relaxed and

opened a new business. Todd Marker helped us with grand opening and that’s when the seeds were planted for hosting this golf tournament.

CVW: What was your new business you opened?

MT: “It’s called Bowl of Heaven. We make frozen acai bowls, smoothies, juices. Everything is very healthy and tasty and made with the finest organic ingredients. It’s located on Gerald Ford and Cook right next Roc’s Firehouse. If you like acai bowls, it’s the best one you’ll find down here.

Wife Rachel and I started the first one in Rancho Santa Margarita. Head and shoulders above others, fine craftsmanship.”

CVW: What do you love about this community?

MT: “Lots, even aside from the weather.

Even in the summer, I don’t mind the heat. The summers are the busiest time for me because I’m away a lot touring. It’s always fun to come back here. I love the culture here. I love the history.

I love the connection with the entertainment business. I love the restaurants and the people.

There’s a lot to offer here. It’s not that crowded. I love that there’s no traffic here!”

Join Mickey this Saturday at Indian Springs Golf Club and Big Rock Pub for the Rocking for the Kids Charity Golf Tournament! The cost is $150 per player and includes a round of golf, tri-tip lunch, on-course drinks, an awards dinner and auction hosted by Big Rock Pub, and live entertainment in a private show by Mickey Thomas and Hendrix’s Gypsys. All proceeds go to the Family YMCA of the Desert, which serves over 3,800 kids each day throughout the Valley. There is a 12 pm shotgun start and you can register by phone through the YMCA: (760) 341-9622. See you there!

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

unassuming when I see you. How do you remain cool and collected when you have so many irons in the fire?

JR: “HAKUNA MATATA! I do what I love to do. I’m very blessed and fortunate to be in the position I’m in because I know what it’s like to be on the opposing side. STAY HUMBLE AND KEEP IT ALOHA!” CVW: You are full of Polynesian pride. How does this self-confidence in your background translate to how you honor your approach to The Deadicateds or any endeavor?

JR: “A lot of my designs for The Deadicateds are Polynesian influenced, but the meanings are universal. The Polynesian culture is a strong one, heavy in their beliefs and strong on ‘ohana’ (family) as are many cultures. I pay tribute to my culture in some designs, it’s who I am, and it’s what I know. I wanna spread ‘aloha’ to the masses, and in this current state the world is in that’s not a bad thing to do.”

CVW: Walk me through the process of designing to implementation.

JR: “The process changes all the time for me. I design everything I do. Usually I’ll have the idea, lay it out. Mess with color ways. Once I personally like the design I’ll then send it to my review team for feedback. Occasionally I’ll put it on social media to see the response, which helps me determine my releases. After that I send that artwork to my vendor to print, then set up photo shoots with my models then get the product on the website.”

CVW: I had a conversation with Yesod Williams, drummer for Pepper, before their Rhythm Wine & Brews show last year about the term ‘ohana’. ‘Ohana’ means family

in Hawaiian. Yesod felt that it’s based on respect for your elders and who you consider your family. What is your understanding and interpretation of ‘ohana’?

JR: “I agree, ‘ohana’ is all we have, all we should need. Sometimes family comes from those not blood, but are just as close if not closer than blood. ‘Ohana’ is beautiful. I don’t keep a lot of company, but the ones I keep near are family, my ‘ohana’. If we’re not related in any way and I call you ‘braddah,’ ‘sis,’ ‘aunty,’ ‘unko,’ I’ll treat you as such. I see no difference. You’re my family. ‘Ohana’ over everything!”

Rubio is regularly developing new designs so check his website often and follow him on social media. If you see him at the Date Shed during the upcoming season give him an ‘aloha’! thedeadicateds.com dateshedmusic.com

EVENTS

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PAUL GURVITZ AND THE NEW ARMY

aul Gurvitz is one of those rare musicians who every musician needs to know, but is not a household name. His successful multiplatinum songwriting career spans decades and his bass work with THE GUN and the THE BAKER GURVITZ ARMY is celebrated to this day. Gurvitz and his band THE NEW ARMY will be performing at Willie Boys at 50048 29 Palms Highway in Morongo Valley on Saturday, December 16, 2018 at 7 p.m.

Cost is $10 and includes (1) well drink. An outdoor BBQ and a performance by the Voodoo Hustlers from 1 to 4 p.m. will kickoff the event.

Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with Gurvitz via phone from his home in Arizona.

CVW: Do you have any connections to the Coachella Valley/High Desert area?

Gurvitz: “Terry Reid and I go way back.

We toured together on a 1968 British tour.

He’s the only one I know in that desert area other than my ex-wife, but we won’t talk about her.”

CVW: What drew you to the Arizona desert?

Gurvitz: “I had lived in California since 1971, basically, and I was dating my wife at the time when I was living in LA and I finished a recording project just wondering what was gonna be next. She had family here and she said why don’t you come out and look at Phoenix, you might like it. That was about eight years ago that I decided to come out and I like it. I just like the slowness of everything. And I like the weather too. I like the heat and the summertime when it’s really hot.”

CVW: What’s your life like now?

Gurvitz: “The great thing about the family that I have is that I can do what I want. I do it when I want, how I want and nobody bugs me. Just great relationships.

My wife and my stepdaughter are on their way to China, that’s where they are from.

I’m now just here by myself and my guitar player just walked in. His name is ‘Father Christmas,’ I mean Simon P.C. Frost.“ CVW: Tell us about THE NEW ARMY. Gurvitz: “There’s five of us. We basically do one off shows when we feel like it. I’m not really into touring, I just like to play. But of course it has to be at a certain professional level so I have to have the same guys in the band. It’s how I like it. Everyone knows what to do. There’s no attitude, there’s no crazy stuff going on other than mine. THE NEW ARMY includes Eduardo Ardon on drums, Mark Klink on keyboards, Simon on guitar and Ken Ronk on vocals and harmonica. I haven’t booked anything for us after this show. I’m working on something else that’s gonna keep me and Simon very busy but I’ll share that with you another time.”

CVW: What keeps you inspired after over 50 years in music?

Gurvitz: “It’s either do music or be a postman. It’s just who I am really. If I’m recording or writing or making an album, I’m always doing something with music.

Playing is just…I love playing. I’ve always played since the mid-60’s and I still love it.

It’s great fun.”

CVW: Have you been back to England to perform?

Gurvitz: I’m not interested. I hate flying.

I don’t like boats.”

CVW: How about a Paul Gurvitz hologram?

Gurvitz: “Like my friend Ronnie James Dio?” CVW: What are your thoughts on the Ronnie James Dio hologram?

Gurvitz: “I would have to see a show to make a comment. To see how the interaction is between what they’ve got recorded of him and how it works with the audience. I think it would be pretty boring if it was just him singing song, song, song and there’s no talking with the crowd the way that Ronnie used to. I knew Ronnie, he was a good friend of mine for years. I don’t know what they have done to get that aspect across on stage. What they’re using is probably his image from shows he has done. The way that they get his mouth to move with the songs he is singing were obviously taken from previous shows. It’s a little tricky when you’re trying to talk to an audience when you’re not really there.

I reserve judgment. I’m good friends with DIO drummer Simon Wright. What I didn’t like was how it sounded, it didn’t seem like it was really live or it sounded like it was a studio recording. It didn’t seem like it married. But you know, I guess they’re on their way, I think for a lot of people, especially people who have never seen Ronnie it’s obviously going to be successful.

And knowing Wendy Dio, she’s such a business woman, it will probably do well. It initially started out with her just using the band and getting shows as Dio’s Disciples, which was one thing, with different singers and that was cool. I saw them a few times and it seemed to make sense.”

CVW: We’ve lost many influential musicians recently. Paying homage seems to be a necessity.

Gurvitz: “I don’t know the last time that you saw The Who. The way that they perform even though there’s only two of them left, the way they incorporate the other guys is just very clever and still seems like a great live show and when you see John Entwistle up on the screen and the way that they do it, it works because they’ve done it in a different way because

December 14 to December 20, 2017

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

when you’re doing these big shows and you’ve got the screen showing the band that’s playing and all of a sudden it shows a member of the band that’s been gone for quite a while but it seems to work because the way its portrayed onscreen seems to fit what’s going on in that particular show. Watching Keith Moon singing, that to me is amazing. The Who happens to be my favorite band. They can’t do any wrong as far as I’m concerned. It’s been a little different because I’ve grown up with them and seeing them over the course of so many years. And even the way they’ve added people without John and Keith it still seems to work and it is basically because of Daltrey’s voice and Townsend’s stage performance and the songs.”

CVW: What was it like writing music for other artists?

Gurvitz: “A lot of the music I’ve written for other people is a totally different genre.

I’ve written music for the bands that I’ve been in, but I was more prolific writing music for people I wasn’t in bands with. A lot of it was pop R&B music which was the biggest part of my writing success. That was just a different time that I was into doing that, not playing my own stuff just focusing as a writer. I wrote for artists like Jody Watley and Five Star, an English group whose second album was quadruple platinum.

I also wrote for Jellybean Benitez, who produced all the early Madonna records.

I wrote his biggest hit that was actually a

huge Billboard Dance hit song called ‘Who Found Who.’” CVW: THE GUN was a major influence on what we now know as heavy metal.

Your other bands have also had an impact on contemporary artists. What can you tell us about the bands you were in?

Gurvitz: “With THE GUN I had my first UK #1 hit “Race With the Devil” which has since been covered and recorded by Judas Priest, Black Oak Arkansas and Girlschool.

In 1971 THE GUN broke up and I started a group called PARRISH & GURVITZ, which was produced by George Martin.

There were three major bands I was in, THE GUN, THREE MAN ARMY and the BAKER GURVITZ ARMY, which featured probably one of the most famous rock drummers in music, Ginger Baker, who was the drummer for Cream. Ginger was probably the grandfather of drumming in all of rock and roll. Those three bands that I formed were probably my favorites.”

If you are anywhere near Willie Boys this Saturday, you should consider attending an extraordinary performance by PAUL GURVITZ AND THE NEW ARMY. paulgurvitz.com willieboysbbq.com

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

CONSIDER THIS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

OF A WOMAN” SHARON JONES & THE DAP-KINGS “SOUL (DAPTONE RECORDS)

T

he last couple of years have been pretty brutal for Rock N’ Roll fans. At the outset of 2016 we lost Lemmy from Motorhead and then David Bowie. In the Spring we lost Merle Haggard, and quite shockingly Prince. Then that autumn, Leonard Cohen, Leon Russell and George Michael all passed away.

This year, we have grudgingly bade farewell to Chuck Berry, Gregg Allman, Chris Cornell, Chester Bennington and Glen Campbell.

Tragically and rather suddenly, Tom Petty died in October following a fatal heart attack. In the last couple of weeks Fats Domino, Malcolm Young from AC/DC and Power Pop progenitor Tommy Keene each left the building.

Although it wasn’t shocking, it was no less heartbreaking when Sharon Jones passed away in late 2016, following a valiant battle with Pancreatic Cancer. It seemed like she had been fighting her entire life to gain recognition for her exceptional talent. After finally attaining a modicum of success, her terminal illness dealt a bitter blow.

Sharon Lafaye Jones was born May 4th, 1956 in Augusta, Georgia. The youngest of six kids, her mother, Ella, also raised her deceased sister’s children. At an early age, Sharon and her siblings would sing and perfectly replicate the stage moves of Augusta native and Godfather of Soul, James Brown. She also discovered her protean vocal talent, singing in church choir.

Ella relocated the family to the Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn when Sharon was a teenager. She quickly immersed herself in the Funk and Disco styles that were quickly gaining traction in the early ‘70s. After graduating high school, she attended Brooklyn College. Continued accolades from her church choir motivated her to consider a career in music.

She entered talent shows hoping to receive a recording contract. That didn’t happen, but the industry took notice and she began getting session work. Known then as Lafaye Jones, she sang back-up vocals on myriad recordings, often times uncredited. To make ends meet she worked as a corrections officer at Rikers Island and an armored car guard for Wells Fargo bank.

Nearly 20 years into her career she received a big break in 1996 when she was singing back-up for Deep Funk legend, Lee Fields. The recording was organized by Gabriel Roth (ne’ Bosco Mann). The Riverside, California native relocated to New York to attend College at NYU. Barely out of school, he had already co-founded

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

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his first record label, Desco.

Gabriel was quick to recognize her outsize talent, and immediately began recording a series of singles with Sharon. She was also a featured vocalist on songs by up and coming Soul/Funk aggregates like the Daktaris, the Mighty Imperials and the Soul Providers. The latter two bands broke up and reconvened as the Dap-Tones around the same time that Desco Records dissolved and re-emerged as Daptone Records. Their inaugural release was the 2002 debut of Sharon Jones & The DapKings entitled Dap Dippin’ With Sharon Jones And The Dap-Kings.

Critical praise was nearly unanimous.

Through relentless touring and exposure in television shows and films, the band began to build a faithful following; three years later they returned with their sophomore effort, Naturally. It featured a burnished, slow burn take on Woody Guthrie’s alternative national anthem, “This Land Is Your Land.” One new fan who was paying close attention was producer Mick Ronson.

Originally a musician, British born Mark was raised in New York and counted Sean Lennon as one of his childhood friends. He signed on to produce second album from an up-and-coming British chanteuse named Amy Winehouse.

Inspired by Sharon and the Dap-Kings’ sound, he tapped the band to back Amy on her now legendary Back To Black album. The record was a sensation and went on to win multiple awards, including three Grammys at the 50th ceremony in 2008.

Back To Black put the Dap-Kings on the map, now it was Sharon’s turn to display the original grit, grace and soul that had so inspired Amy. Their 2007 effort, 100 Days, 100 Nights, broke ground commercially, inching into Billboard’s Top 200. Released in 2010, their fourth record, I Learned The Hard Way, considerably upped the ante, debuting at #15 on the charts.

In 2013, Sharon and the Dap-Kings had already written and recorded what would be their fifth album, when she received devastating news. She had been diagnosed, initially with Bile Duct cancer and later stage 2 pancreatic cancer.

The album and tour were delayed and she endured a liver operation and chemotherapy.

She didn’t put her life on hold for long, and began scheduling live shows in between chemo treatments. She defiantly refused to wear wigs as her hair fell out from radiation, playing several dates completely bald and beautiful.

In early 2014, she was pronounced cancerfree and Give The People What They Want was finally released. It received rave reviews along with their first Grammy nomination. A year later they recorded a Yuletide effort, It’s A Holiday Soul Party, and Sharon was the subject of award-winning documentarian Barbara Kopple’s film, “Miss Sharon Jones!”

It was during the screening of that film that Sharon revealed her cancer had returned. Even so, she re-entered the studio with the band, hoping her talent could out run her disease.

Ironically, she suffered a stroke while watching the results of the 2016 Presidential election and a second one the following day. She remained lucid, even joking that outcome of the election caused the stroke. Eight days later she was gone.

Now a year and a day after her untimely passing comes her sixth album, Soul Of A

Woman. The opening two tracks “Matter Of Time” and “Sail On” set the tone for this excellent effort. “Matter…” saunters out of the speakers with a syncopated slink. Rumbling bass lines connect with wily Farfisa notes, peppery brass and rattlesnake shake guitar. Sharon’s powerhouse vocals dart and pivot through the arrangement, aided and abetted by back up vocalists Saun & Starr (a.k.a. the Dap-ettes).

The lyrics seem to anticipate the divisive climate that clouds 2017; “It’s a matter of time before justice will come, just a matter of time before all wars will be done/It’s a matter of time before wrongs will be righted, it’s a matter of time before all people will be united.” As the instrumentation powers down she notes, “It’s a matter of time, this is a song about peace, just a matter of time before freedom means FREE!/Unity for all people, I can’t wait too much longer, my frustration’s at it’s end, I can’t wait ‘til I am stronger….”

“Sail On” opens with a soul-shaking cri de Coeur as Sharon’s vocals crest over the melody. The instrumentation kicks in and the arrangement is so tight you could bounce a quarter off it. The effect is positively thrilling.

Rubbery bass lines and a rock steady beat add ballast to ricochet guitar riffs and pulsating horns. The lyrics spin out a tale of romantic comeuppance when an old beau turns up on her doorstep having fallen on hard times. She reminds him of his own cavalier behavior; “I don’t suppose that you recall when I came knockin’ at your door, you said ‘sail on.’” Given the same opportunity she turns the other cheek; “If I do to you what you did to me, tell me tell me, Where would we be/two people stranded without a helping hand, two people stranded, neither one a friend, come on in…you and me, we’re gonna sail on.”

The action slows on a couple tracks. “Just Give Me Your Time” opens with a brass salvo that recalls the melodrama of James Brown’s seminal “It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World.”

Plucked guitar chords intersect with spiky horns and a tick-tock beat that turns on a dime. Here, Sharon unspools a laundry list of what she isn’t looking for in a man, insisting “I just need your time.”

On “Pass Me By” lush organ colors ebb and flow over crisp percussion and sweetly soulful guitar. Her vocals remain deceptively dulcet, silky and supple, as she artfully calls bullshit on an Ex’s excuses; “The cost of my love for you is getting too high, I’m going to save myself and say I think you better pass me by.”

Sharon Jones has always worn her influences on her sleeve, from Ella Fitzgerald and Motown, James Brown, Stax-Volt and Ike & Tina Turner, to Prince, Michael Jackson, Erykah Badu and Beyonce. Three songs here obliquely

pay homage to the creamy Philadelphia International production of Thom Bell, Gamble & Huff and groups like the Delfonics and Stylistics, as well as the orchestral Soul of Barry White and Isaac Hayes.

On “These Tears (Are No Longer For You),” velvet-y strings and plush horns nearly cushion the blow as Sharon quietly lowers the boom on a selfish love. “These tears are no longer for you baby, I cried away the pain for so long, I sat there and played the fool/Farewell to what was wrong, No more do they belong to you.” As torchy as any Chanson from Edith Piaf, Sharon’s nuanced vocals are buttressed by Saun & Starr’s electrifying back-up vocals.

Propelled by stentorian French horn, cascading electric guitar, sawing strings and roiling timpani, the instrumentation and arrangement on “Girl! (You Got To Forgive Him)” might easily overpower a lesser singer, but Miss Jones simply nails it. She plaintively coaxes a friend to overlook her man’s myriad shortcomings, asking “are you going to let true love slip through your hands?”

Finally, “When I Saw Your Face” is slow and sultry, locking into a mid-tempo groove accented by fluttery strings and tart horns.

As she ponders the authenticity of love at first sight, her powerhouse vocals are never flamboyant or showy, but simply lithe and agile.

Saun & Starr match her note for note.

The best tracks here are “Rumors” and “Searching For A New Day.” The former is a brisk Afro-Cuban boogaloo that blends with biting Girl Group sass. Over sharp handclaps, prickly horns, chicken scratch guitar and a cutting conga rhythm, Sharon and the ladies interrogate a potential lover about his womanizing ways. It’s simply irresistible. (But not in a Robert Palmer way).

The latter, pivots on shang-a-lang guitar and a snapback beat that echoes the shimmery perfection of mid ‘60s Motown. On a quest for spiritual salvation and creative satisfaction the lyrics mirror her perseverance and formidable work ethic; “Through the hard times, can’t sit on the sidelines, you know we gotta get ahead/I’m gonna keep on tryin’.”

The album closes with “Call On God.” A stunning return to Sharon’s Gospel roots, it features churchy organ runs and rippling guitar riffs wrapped around thumpy insistent rhythm.

It’s pure ecclesiastic testimony, as she puts her fate in God’s hands and recommends we do the same. “Just call, call on God, and he’ll be a friend/Just call on God and he will carry you through…he will provide, yes he will.” It manages to be simultaneously heartbreaking and comforting.

Although Sharon receives top billing, the Dap-Kings don’t just accompany her, they write, arrange and produce all the songs. The band includes Joseph M. Crispiano and Binky Griptite on guitars Cochema Gastelum and Neal Sugarman on saxophones, Homer Steinweiss on drums, Fernando Velez handles percussion, Dave Guy plays trumpet and Bosco Mann anchors the low end on bass. Listening to Soul Of A Woman is a beautiful and bittersweet experience. Sharon Jones is gone, but her talent continues to console us, temporarily assuaging our collective grief.

ART SCENE

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

BY ANGELA ROMEO

NICHOLE VIKDAL – POTTERY IN CRYSTALS

P

ottery – the word conjures up many images. We think of ancient civilizations leaving behind pottery shards for us to image their lives. We think of our childhood – making that pinch clay pot for mother’s day. But Nichole Vikdal sees pottery in amazing new light.

“Nothing Gold Can Stay is a poem by Robert Frost. These lines have always captivated me, ‘Nature’s first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold. Her early leaf’s a flower; But only so an hour,’” said Nichole.

Many have debated the meaning of those lines but Nichole’s interpretation seems to be that nature beauty is unpredictable and often fleeting. Her work captures that fleeting beauty for eternity. “Nature is where I seek my inspiration. Its beauty is fascinating, it never remains the same for long,” continued Nichole.

Her ceramic work can be simple – such as plates, to complex, such as her vases. The work hinges on her unique use of Crystalline Glazing. Glazes are a form of glass that takes shape in the heat of the kiln. With a crystallize glaze, macro-crystals form around a nucleus of titanium oxide or zinc oxide crystal. In the perfect conditions, zinc and silica oxide molecules will attach to the nucleus crystal.

These bonds must form in a very specific arrangement to create crystals. How easy is that? Not. Her work is striking as the glazes create unique patterns that seem to be fireworks captured. Each design may have a similarity but the design is impossible to reproduce.

But that alone is not enough to describe the beauty of Nichole’s work. The complexity of a simple design is a skill few artists can master.

Nichole can take the mundane, a cup, a plate, and creates a work that elevates the simple sip of coffee into an epicurean delight. Her artistry is seeing more than the clay, she sees nature.

“About 10 years ago I began studying everything I could about this process. I begin by creating pottery on a wheel using porcelain clay. I mix my own glazes from raw materials.

I am constantly testing and searching for new glaze ‘recipes,’” laughed Nichole. “Success in the pottery world is very different from most medium. The work, once in the kiln, can take on its on life. There is always an element of surprise when the kiln door opens.”

“In the pottery world, the ‘success rate’ is much lower for this glaze than others. The glaze can fire with poor color, no crystals, or

breaking under the intense heat. Due to the lengthy time required to master the glaze, the great care that must be taken in its mixing and firing, and the small success rate, I am one of few potters today who use this glaze.”

Nichole calls Yucca Valley home. She is very active in the High Desert Art community.

“I enjoy living here. It is quiet with open space.

On beautiful days, I have the doors to my studio open. I hear are the sounds of nature.

I see are the animals going about their day. I smell fresh air. These sensations become part of my work.”

“The high desert is a secret artist community. The secret is no longer secret more artists are drawn here every year. I am honored to live among them. They are my friends and neighbors. They inspire and motivate me to be better through their support, encouragement, and friendship.”

As for her work, Nichole understands that just like in nature, there is no way to control the natural forces. “There is no way to predict where and how the crystals grow or what each piece will look like. It is that mystery that is also my greatest joy. When I am able to harmonize porcelain clay with the crystalline glaze in such a way that one cannot tell where the clay ends and the glaze begins then each piece then holds a depth and a life all of its own.”

Said Frost: “So dawn goes down to day.

Nothing gold can stay.”

Nichole has proven that is not true.

For more information visit www. crystalsbynichole.com.

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

PET PLACE

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HOME 4 THE HOLIDAYS!

I

t was once widely believed that the holiday season was a bad time to adopt a new dog or cat, and some private shelters and rescues actually closed down until the New Year arrived. There was concern that “impulse” adoptions, and in particular pets bought as “gifts” for other people would result in a large number of adoption returns.

While there is some truth to that concern, Michael Arms, CEO and President of the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, California, did some research that indicated this might be a great time of year to promote rescue animals.

With private shelter doors closed, would be adopters in December resorted to shopping at pet stores, puppy mills, and backyard breeders for a family pet. Arms realized that this increased the business of non-reputable puppy stores and backyard breeders. However, the staff at these “businesses” were rarely trained to make a successful animal to family match, resulting in an increase in the number of pets dumped in public open-admission shelters after the gift giving season ended.

Home 4 The Holidays is now an annual event, now on its 19th annual campaign, having helped adopt over 13 million orphan

MEET MINNIE This lovely 4-month old Tuxedo kitten will bring joy to your home on Christmas! Meet this Tuxedo girl at Petco on Hwy 111, Palm Desert.

Contact Rescued by www.ForeverMeow.org (760) 335-6767.

MEET GRACE & SHADOW This bonded brother and sister Cocker Spaniel pair hope for a home TOGETHER for the Holidays! Just 2 years old; 18 lbs and 20 lbs of doggie love. Rescued by Furry Angel Foundation, furryangelfoundation.org, (760)831-6166.

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pets into loving homes each holiday season.

This year, orphan puppies from New York based Paws Crossed Animal Rescue joined Michael Arms and Blue Buffalo CEO, Billy Bishop, in Times Square to ring in NASDAQ’s opening bell. This now nationally based campaign runs from October 1st, 2017, through January 2nd, 2018.

How does the campaign work? The Blue Buffalo Home 4 The Holidays nationwide effort encourages shelters and rescues to keep their doors open throughout the holiday season. They assist by offering these groups marketing assistance. Blue Buffalo distributes 600,000 pet adoption kits to participating shelters and rescue groups to help adopters

BY JANET McAFEE get off to a good start with their rescue pet. The kits include pet food coupons and a portfolio to record health and other pet information. National marketing support drives potential pet parents to adopt at participating organizations, and over 4,000 groups now take part.

Michael Arms reports, “The support that Blue Buffalo puts behind this program each year is an incredible gift. All of the participating adoption organizations benefit from months of campaign-messaging encouraging families to visit their local rescue groups or pet adoption center over the holiday season to give orphan pets a chance.”

Any time of the year, if you want give a pet to an adult, consider accompanying them to a shelter, let them select an animal, and then pay their adoption fee. Choosing a pet is a very individual and personal decision. Don’t surprise your mother-in-law with a large energetic puppy on Christmas morning. The only exception might be if you are a parent purchasing a holiday gift for your own young children, and the animal will be in your home.

Anytime of the year is the BEST time to open your heart and home to a homeless animal. Here at Loving All Animals we are blessed this season by the folks calling to foster and/or adopt one of our wonderful dogs or cats. Visit us at www.lovingallanimals. org or call (760) 834-7000 for information

about where to adopt a pet of any kind this season. View the animals at our large county shelter in Thousand Palms, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, at www.rcdas.org or call them at (760) 343-3644. There’s nothing like the warm, loving and grateful heart of a rescue dog or cat to bring you holiday joy.

Merry Christmas to you and your 4-legged family members!

Jmcafee7@verizon.net

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THE VINO VOICE

BY RICK RIOZZA

WALKING THROUGH A WINE WONDERLAND

M

erry Christmas everyone! And thank you readers for your enlightening email responses and your continual support by sharing this column with your wine friends.

As one can imagine, there is so much excellent wine to recommend for the holidays that I’ll probably be mentioning a few of my favorites throughout the month in this column. And then we have a bunch of bubblies for the New Year’s festivities to boot!! Cheers to that!

But before we walk into any wine recommendations from our local wine wise purveyors, let’s check out some grown-up toys for the wine holidays.

Hello Üllo!

So—one of my Christmas wine gadgets of the season is the Üllo sulfite purifier.

Fortunately, I do not have any sensitivity or bad reaction to sulfites in wine, but in the U.S. more than 3 million people or so do suffer degrees of and even major reactions, headaches, and problems when encountering sulfites in wine. Some folks have such serious consequences that they have to give up on enjoying wine completely.

Well Merry Christmas baby! The technology is here, bringing you back to good wine times! Their website at ullo.com, among other statements, offers, “Üllo is a Chicago startup with a simple mission to bring wine back to its natural state. Üllo is a revolutionary wine purifier that restores the natural taste of wine with Selective Sulfite Capture™ filter technology.” The device sells for around $80, with additional filters sold separately.

With all the good discussion about organic wines taking place, the subject of “sulfites” is also being considered with mixed reviews certainly. The more one gets into appreciating wine and learning the wine making progress, the more one learns about naturally forming sulfites and the usual process of particularly adding sulfites to keep the wines “fresh” and “preserved”.

The company contends that once your favorite bottle of wine is opened, you have

no need for any sulfites remaining in the wine. And the Üllo purifier does just that: “Proprietary polymer technology filters away free sulfites and their bitter taste, while allowing other compounds in wine to flow through unaffected. Through Selective Sulfite Capture™, free sulfites are reduced to a more naturally occurring level for most wines.”

As your friendly neighborhood sommat-large & steward at Total Wine & More, I can attest that many folks have told me the purifier works: those who’ve suffered headaches from wine consumption are not experiencing any problems when using the device.

Further, apart from the sulfite discussion, and more on the “flavor” dialogue, I personally tested the Üllo at the wine bar with customers and found the wine, both a white and a red, tasted a touch different, a bit fruitier and a nod tastier! For sure—this was a limited group with subjective tastes and unscientific comments, but six out of seven found a positive distinction.

After a few weeks off for knee surgery, I just came back to the wine store to find yet another product that works similarly. It’s called The Wand by PureWine and comes in packages of 3, 8 and 24 wands (presumably one wand works for one bottle) and starts at $16 for 3. I haven’t had the opportunity to try it.

Speaking about the world’s awareness to organic and “natural wines”, there is a brand new wine book for the wine lover’s holiday library right on point: Wine Revolution: The World’s Best Organic, Biodynamic and Craft Wines, $22, by Anne Anson. Those that have read it says it brings you up to speed on the broad topic and you’ll be able to discuss matters like a pro.

For you millennials and those similarly situated, Marissa Ross, who loves hating wine snobs and over-the-top wine reviews, has written, Wine. All The Time: The Casual Guide to Confident Drinking. Many a young (and hopefully elder) wine enthusiasts like the selfassured Marissa as she’s quick to emphasize

December 14 to December 20, 2017

that she’s had no formal wine education; her training is at the college dorm, so expect some fun writing. She too advocates for natural, less chemically manipulated wines. $20 Another book I’d recommend for adept wine comments is by acclaimed wine writer Jon Bonné who “explains everything you need to know in simple, beautifully illustrated, easy-to-digest tidbits.” The New Wine Rules: A Genuinely Helpful Guide to Everything You Need to Know. A hardcover at just around $11, it’s the perfect literary stocking stuffer.

So this is Christmas and we’re ready to walk through a nice festive lineup of tasty wines from both my Christmas list and those from local wine shops, when I see I’m running out of column space! Stay tuned for next week’s article!!

In the meanwhile, wine wise guy, Costa Nichols, owner of Palm Springs’ venerable and stellar Desert Wines and Spirits shop, heartily praises and commends the Balletto Pinot Noir at only $19.99. It won Best of Class at the 2016 Sonoma County Harvest Fair and received 93 points from Tasting Panel Magazine. (A publication for which I am their Palm Springs contributor) “This wine offers the essence of black cherry, blueberry and pomegranate fruit aromas and flavors accented with a pleasing hint of oak spice. A satiny texture and admirable harmony add to the enjoyment.”

Costa says however, that this wine is figuratively flying out the door, so please come by and pick it up soon!

My quick wine pick is Pecorino. I know— you foodies will correct me that Pecorino is a cheese! But let’s all get along and realize it’s a wonderful white wine from places like the Abruzzo region in Italy. Yes, “pecorino” means “little sheep”; the cheese made from ewe’s milk and the wine is from grapes both full of sugar & acidity and therefore makes a fullbodied dry white capable to be chilled up and served with holiday fare. It’s this year’s sexy choice: 2016 Niro Pecorino Terre di Chieti.

Buon Natale!—Cheers!

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

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THUR DECEMBER 14

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Rags and Bones 7pm, Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug MacDonald 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Jeezy’s Christmas Party w/ Cheeyo, Billie Dale, Lil Itchy and Jeezy in the Mix 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Barry, Bob and Riz 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm

LA QUINTA OLDTOWN TAPROOM; LQ; Lance Riebsomer, David Morales and Special Guest Matt Claborn 8-11pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Rox LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Rob Staley 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Charlie Overbey and The Broken Arrows, Rachel Dean and Tim Gray 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Intimate Acoustics hosted by Morgan James 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 DJ Worden 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Wayne Boyer 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-7pm, Tony Patler Project 7:30-11pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 DJ 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Elaine Woodard 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

DESERT FOX; PD; TBA 8pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-3259676 Esjay Jones Presents: Acoustic Sessions w/ Jack Ruvio, Derek Jordan Gregg and Tray Monroe 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 CVI’s Best Of Award Show w/ The Flusters 6pm Black Water Gospel, Sunday Funeral and Herbert 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Dana Larson 5-7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 The Bo & Buck Roadshow 8pm LA QUINTA BREWING CO.; PD; 760-200-2597 Lance Riebsomer and Hannah Mills 7-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 The Fave 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 TBA 5-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Southbound and Co. 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 Gennine Francis 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Earth Moon Earth and Claire Wadsworth 8pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Nigel PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke Thornbury 6:30pm 7:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Coven: Girls PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND Gone Vinyl DJ Sets 10pm COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; Karaoke 9pm 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 A Classic AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 The Purple Christmas 8pm Carmens Duo 6:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Friday Night Sour RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth Hour w/ Pink Lemonade Drag Show 9pm 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers Bricktoyaface Presents: Dessert R&B Party w/ Big 8pm Cali Dxsko, hosted by Noa James 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn 7pm Blues 8-11pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Andy SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S Cahan 8:30pm MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775Brothers 8-11pm 5566 DJ Double A 8pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo Butler Trio 6-10pm 9pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am James 6pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Tuzzolino 5:30pm Michael Madden 6-9pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Christian 6-9pm Rock 10pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341760-200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm 3560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 The Baker 6pm B & B Road Show 9pm

FRI DECEMBER 15

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

SUN DECEMBER 17

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Coven: Girls Gone Wild DJ Sets 11am, Mamabear DJ Set 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Pat AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm Brunch w/ Rose Mallett 11:30am HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345- AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm 6466 Bob Allen 6pm VENUS DE FIDO; PD; 760-834-7070 Michael BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Bartland D’Angelo 6-9pm, Carl Davis Dance Lesson 7pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 w/ DJ LF and Friends 7pm TBA 9pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Brian Denigan Meet the Corwins 5:30-7:30pm, John Stanley KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm King Show 8pm 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 6-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Boys Night Out w/ LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325DJ House Whores 7pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 8882794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the 999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night Michael Keeth 5-7pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 TBA 8pm The Fave 9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888760-200-1768 Lori Yeary 6-9pm Rob Martinez and Todd Ashley ft. Lisa LaFaro 999-1995 TBA 9pm Weselis 6:30-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 6-9pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm Rose Mallett 6:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm 8-1:15am EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 76029 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev 365-6633 Dana Larson 6-9pm 345-0222 TBA 6:30pm & Bill 6:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Acoustic Show PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Fu ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Coven: Girls w/ A.Lara, Michael Durazo, Cesar Flores, The Manchu 9pm Gone Wild DJ Sets 11am poolside, Victoria Gonz, John Gomez, Janine Rivera, Jose Ortiz PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke and Bizarro Darko w/ Music Spun by The No Rawlins DJ Set 10pm 7:30pm Miracle 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Open Jam 6pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Karaoke 9pm Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 A Classic Purple Christmas 8pm afternoon, Hot Rox, in the night BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Stevie continue to page 20 Crooks Album Release Party w/ DJ Sets by Jimbo RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The 60 Grit Band 9pm Jenkins and Addemup 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 TBA 6pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Lisa & The 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S Gents 8:30pm MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-775Blues 8-11pm 5566 DJ 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth 6-10pm Brothers 8-11pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick 9pm Tuzzolino 5:30pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760- SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm 200-1768 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 TBA 9pm Music 10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341Baker 6pm 3560 TBA 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; The Woody’s 9pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Lance Riebsomer Acoustic Sessions 9pm Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228Dennis Michael 6:30pm 1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-755FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 5391 DJ 10pm Jack Ruvio 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 FOX & THE FIDDLE; PD; 760-888-0111 Live Rose Mallett & Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono Music 7pm & The Real Deal 7:30-11pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Drag Battle 7pm 365-6633 Dana Larson 5-8pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA Michael Keeth 6pm 8:30pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 VooDoo THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; Hustlers 1-4pm, Paul Gurvitz and The New INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm Army 8pm THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PS; PS; 760-325THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 9676 Esjay Jones Presents: Global Sessions w/ Scott Hathaway and Mark Gregg 7pm David Macias and Sisster 8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Dali’s The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm Llama, Sleazy Cortez, Town Troubles and DieSineGration 9pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJs 9pm

SAT DECEMBER 16

15

December 14 to December 20, 2017

THE PAMPERED PALATE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DENISE ORTUNO

BOB’S TWIN KITCHEN GOODNESS!

H

omespun comfort food goodness, with a Mexican twist, and super friendly service, flows from Bob’s Twin Kitchen in Indio.

This funky joint off Jackson in Indio has been providing hearty menu items to their seriously satisfied customers for almost 40 years. If you’ve driven by the Indio DMV, you might have seen the red roofed spot not far from it, which cranks out some awesome food.

The restaurant was started back in 1978

by Bob Kiel, in a different location, across the street from what is now the Larson Justice Center. But shortly thereafter, Bob moved his restaurant to its current home on Jackson. Current owners Francisco and Javier Jauregui, were there with Kiel from almost the beginning, working in the kitchen as teenagers. The brothers eventually bought the restaurant from Kiel in 1994 when he retired, adding some of their own Mexican style specialties to the already popular menu.

When I asked Francisco why Bob added twin kitchen to the name of the restaurant, he explained that Bob had a twin… makes sense. The Jauregui brothers have continued the restaurants great success with homemade recipes, since they took it over 23 years ago. There is a clear sense

of loyalty to the spot from their customers, “Kids that I used to go to school with that would come here, are now bringing their kids and grandchildren here…3 generations,” said Francisco.

When you bite into one of their items at Bob’s, you will no doubt understand part of what nourishes that loyalty. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there are many items on the menu to choose from. Breakfast offers up classic pancakes, omelets, Chorizo an Eggs, Huevos Rancheros and robust Breakfast Burritos. For lunch and dinner, selections abound. Appetizers are offered including Nachos, Avocado Fries, Quesadilla’s, Asada Fries, and one of their most popular items, their Taquitos Deluxe topped with a creamy avocado sauce, lettuce and cheese. Other items cross over from lunch to dinner, such as their burgers (Bob’s Healy Burger seems to be a thing), sandwiches, salads, and an array of combo’s. They also have a weekend special of Menudo on Saturdays and Sundays.

On my trip to Bob’s, I went for the burrito combo that I’ve had there many times before. Their Bob’s Big Burrito Combo, with your choice of Asada Carnitas, Chicken, or succulent Shredded Beef, onion, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sauce, sour cream, beans and rice, is incredible! It comes with a

generous amount of fries and a 32 oz. drink for only $9.89. It is a bountiful deal!

With Bob’s menu, you really have to read it carefully, as not to miss any of the goodies that they have on it. Like their Extra’s category with Chile Rellenos, Bacon side, and Enchiladas, among other items.

They also are the place to go for over the top deliciously creamy shakes. Their Date and Banana flavors rank high on the tasty scale, made with real vanilla ice cream.

The restaurant’s menu is moderately priced, has cozy indoor and outdoor seating, a drive thru and even delivers to Indio and select parts of La Quinta and Coachella.

Bob’s Twin Kitchen is one of the valleys longest standing restaurants, giving our desert community comfort food goodness, with a friendly neighborhood feel.

*

diner’s choice Winner Top 100 Dining HoT SpoTS in the U.s.!

Bob’s Twin Kitchen is located at 44-325 Jackson St. Indio Ca 92201.

Call 760-347-2567 for take-out or delivery.

award-winning

breakfast 8am –11am lunch & dinner from 11am

the best all-day

Our award-winning

prix fixe

D OW N TOW N PA L M S P R I N G S 7 6 0 3 2 7- L U L U ( 5 8 5 8 )

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Lulu’s new sister restaurant in Rancho Mirage Same great menus and great fun!

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EvEry day, all day from 11am Early Bird spEcial

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4-course menus $2999 / $3999

& happy hour 11am – closing

“THE BEST BRUNCH in CALIFORNIA!” —— T R I P P I N G . C O M

sunday brunch from 11am–3pm 99

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* *

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

December 14 to December 20, 2017

17

December 14 to December 20, 2017

SCREENERS

WET ’N WILD NOW PLAYING: THE SHAPE OF WATER

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 295

Hawkins) works as a cleaning person in a secret government lab.

Her life changes forever when she and co-worker Zelda, (Octavia Spencer) discover the lab’s big secret: a strange, scaled creature from South America that lives in a water tank. Over time, Elisa develops a powerful bond with her friend. When she learns that its fate lies in the hands of a hostile government, Elisa takes him home to her apartment, where he lives in her bathtub until… But to say anything more would be an unforgiveable spoiler to this deeply romantic and surprisingly thoughtprovoking work of cinematic art.

It would be a shame to miss this strangely wondrous and sensual film that

is a celebration of love and beauty no matter where one finds it. Besides Hawkins and Spencer, the superb cast includes Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, Michael Stuhlbarg and Doug Jones as Amphibian Man. Surrender to the wonder and awe of this truly magical film. Strongest recommendation. Perfect for the holidays.

Writer/director Guillermo del Toro said that when he was a boy and saw “The Creature From the Black Lagoon,” he wondered why the creature never “got” the girl. Now we get a chance to see what Guillermo was thinking back then and why that vintage monster movie so inspired him.

No one does otherworldly adult fantasy fables like Guillermo del Toro. His latest work of wonder is set in 1962 Baltimore where lonely, mute, Elisa (a terrific Sally NEW BLU-RAY FOR HOME THEATER: VALERIAN AND THE CITY OF A THOUSAND PLANETS Based on the best-selling French comic series “Valerian and Laureline,” Visionary writer/director Luc Besson advances his iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic sci-fi saga.

Set 700 years in the future, special operatives Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) work together to maintain order throughout the human territories. Under assignment from the minister of defense, the duo embarks on a mission to Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis where diverse species gather to share knowledge and culture. When a dark force threatens the peaceful city, Valerian

18

and Laureline race against time to identify the menace that also jeopardizes the future of the known universe. This huge budget, eye-popping extravaganza may sometimes be hard to follow, but it never fails to evoke a sense of a place we have not visited.

This dazzling Ultra HD 4K fever dream of a movie is a wonder on a compatible TV. Also stars: Clive Owen, Ethan Hawk, John Goodman (voice) and Rihanna – the latter in a spectacular dance sequence.

Nice making-of extras explore the film’s extreme creativity and its gifted fabricators.

Lionsgate. Blu-ray 4K ULTRA HD. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

BOOK REVIEW

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

W

ouldn’t it be nice to do all your holiday shopping at one fun store? Well it is possible, and the store is called Barnes & Noble. And, it is chuck-filled, wall-to-wall with treasures, knowledge, magic, people, places, ideas, wisdom, fools, beauty, heroes and villains, etcetera. I could go on and on about the wonders that exist in books.

I encourage you to consider a book for those on your gift-giving list. Below are some titles to help you get started, and give you a way to think about just how appropriate a book is as a personal and thoughtful present.

BIOGRAPHIES deliver incredible worlds that provide insight into a person’s reality and show us how a life was shaped. What makes someone into hero? Why do they inspire us?

How did they come to make an impact?

“Leonardo Da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson “Bobby Kennedy: A Raging Spirit” by Chris Matthews FICTION is so much fun! Men and women often have very different tastes in fiction reading so consider the recipient’s level of machismo or sensitivity.

“A Legacy of Spies” by John le Carré “Sing, Unburied, Sing” by Jesmyn Ward NONFICTION has never been written better. There are so many amazing topics -history, memoir, and science, to name a few.

December 14 to December 20, 2017

Consider what most intrigues the person on your list and take a look at the books in that category.

“Do You Have to Say You Love Me: A Memoir” by Sherman Alexie “The Future is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia” by Masha Gessen SHORT STORIES are a terrific way to enjoy reading and getting to know an author.

“Uncommon Type: Some Stories” by Tom Hanks “Her Body and Other Parties” by Carmen Maria Machado POLITICS can be a very sensitive topic, so whether you have a republican or a democrat on your list, a thoughtful book will make your recipient feel that he or she are appreciated regardless of differences.

“We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy” by Ta-Nehisi Coates “What Happened” by Hillary Clinton

SCIENCE FICTION offers some of the most poignant and timely reading today. The name on your list that loves a philosophical debate and appreciates a colorful, provocative world will love these books.

“Void Star” by Zachary Mason “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch GRAPHIC NOVELS are not just for kids these days; so don’t hesitate to think about the twenty-somethings who have a love for art and story. Some are very dark, so consider if the recipient has the maturity.

“The Goddamned: Book One Before the Flood” by Jason Aaron, R.M. Guéra, Giulia Brusco “Black Hammer: Secret Origins” by Jeff Lemire HOLLYWOOD is always a fascinating subject. Film buffs especially appreciate the movie-greats that have come before and made a path for the stunning art form it is today.

“The Art of Horror Movie: An Illustrated History” edited by Stephen Jones “Easy Riders, Ranging Bulls: How the SexDrug-and-Rock ‘n’ Roll Generation Saved Hollywood” by Pete Biskind NATURE and NATURAL SCIENCE provides a sense of wonder and appreciation for our place on this planet. Glossy photos and

SAFETY TIPS

intelligent copy make for a lovely way to better understand our fellow creatures.

“The Enigma of the Owl: An Illustrated Natural History” by Mike Unwin and David Tipling “Earth Is My Witness” by Art Wolf Consider comics and coloring books, which are now fun for adults as well.

There is also fantastic Young Adult fiction. For the little ones on your list, try to remember the joy of having a book that was all your own.

Don’t forget to write and sign a short inscription in the front of the book with the date. This adds a very special personal touch.

Normally, I don’t envy the holiday shopper, but the idea of perusing a bookstore in search of thoughtful gifts for friends and family makes me excited for you. I’m even jealous of the wonderful time you’ll have looking over the bookshelves, searching and discovering the perfect gift books.

A new book always makes me happy. May your holiday be filled with beautiful words and amazing ideas.

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

“FOUR TO WATCH OUT FOR” CHRISTMAS SAFETY!

W

“

ith the recent winds and extremely low humidity live Christmas trees will be at an all-time risk for fires,” reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. “The winds and low humidity have zapped moisture from cut Christmas trees. Here are ‘Four to Watch Out For’ Christmas safety tips!”

1. Christmas Trees - According to the NFPA, between 2011 and 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average 200 home fires started with Christmas trees per year. And Christmas tree fires are more deadly than other fires. One of every 32 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 143 total reported home fires. · Consider an artificial tree. They’re not only safer, but more environmentally friendly—and you can select color, size and decorations easily. · Water fresh trees daily. Regular watering makes a huge difference. But don’t take my word for it.

Check out this video NFPA made showing a how a dried-out tree progresses to flashover in less than a minute, while a regularly watered tree burns at a much slower rate. · Inspect tree lights, cords and other electrical equipment carefully before using them on or near a tree. · Keep heat sources far away from Christmas trees.

2. Holiday Decorations - Decorating the house is a family tradition for many of us, but it can be deadly!

From 2011 to 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 840 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees. · Choose flame-resistant decorations. · Keep decorations far away from heat sources such as space heaters and candles

· Hang lights with clips, not nails, to reduce damage to the cords. · Don’t use indoor-only lights outdoors. · Hang decorations securely, and ensure they are out of the way of highly trafficked areas in your house. Decoration-related falls or trips accounted for 7,100 ER visits in November and December 2014.

Unplug all lights and electrical decorations before going to bed or leaving the house.

3. Candles - Candles are a risk any time of year, but the danger increases during the holidays, most likely because people are more likely to light them.

More than 55% of the December home decoration fires were started by candles, compared to 32% in other months. · Use flameless candles. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: If you frequently burn candles, it’s time to consider the flameless variety. They come in all sorts of styles and sizes, they last longer and they give you something priceless: The peace of mind that you’re not going to inadvertently cause a home fire with a candle.

4. Holiday Cooking - The December holidays pose similar risks. Cooking equipment causes an average of more than 500 civilian deaths per year.

Keep decorations away from the range. Cooking equipment was involved in 19% of home decoration fires. This can happen when a decoration is left on or too close to a stove or other cooking equipment.

When you’ve started cooking, stay in the kitchen.

Unattended cooking is by far the leading contributor to cooking equipment fires.

Here is some additional safety information with a video: www.fire.ca.gov/communications/ communications_firesafety_holiday Merry Christmas!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15

LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5-9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7:30pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Sunday Night Jam Session w/ Jos Burrell 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 7:30pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 The Judy Show 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John Stanley King & Trio 6-9:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Kevin Miller & Friends 6-9pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-932-4300 TBA 8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Martinez and Scott Carter 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 John Carey & Friends 6pm

MON DECEMBER 18

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Luminators 6pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 MEH, Monday 9pm

BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5-9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 T.B.A. 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley’s Jazz Show 6:30-10pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 The Mighty Sweet Nothings 6:30-9:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Motown Mondays 6pm

TUE DECEMBER 19

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Jeff Hafler and Caleb Winn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Casey Golden 7pm, Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm

S and G

PUMPING SERVICE

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

760-404-6325

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Strictly Vinyl w/ DJ Richie Rich and Friends 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rock Big Blues Jam 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 7-10pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies Night w/ Rock-A-Holics 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy Seymon 8pm

SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley’s Trio 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Acoustic Sessions w/ Lance & David 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm

WED DECEMBER 20

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Day Presents: Places and Spaces 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Womxn Cruch Wednesdays w/ Porsia Camille, Giselle Woo, Femme A and La Jefa 9pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; BD; 760-200-1768 Johnny Meza 7-10pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760-343-5973 Live and Local w/ TBA 5:308pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Jack Ruvio 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228-

1199 Karaoke 7:30pm FOX & THE FIDDLE; PD; 760-888-0111 Live Music 7pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live Music LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Roger & Friends 7pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 8pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Cinch 6pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 Derek Jordan Gregg 9pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barbara Morrison Piano 4:30-6pm, Barry Minniefield 6:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Mikole Kaar 5-8pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Dude Jones 6:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Valerie Geason 6:30pm

HADDON LIBBY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

December 14 to December 20, 2017

WILDFIRES

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ith fires consuming hundreds of thousands of acres and engulfing nearly 1,000 structures, the ferocity of this season’s fires in Southern California seem like something out of a movie. By the time that all of the embers of the current fires have been extinguished, these fires will have become the second or third worst in California history. If we look at all of the fires that have struck California this season, we have seen more destruction this autumn than any other in California’s history. The National Interagency Fire Center has kept track on the destruction caused by wildfires in California since 2000. On average, 8,116 fires occur each year and consuming 645,000 acres.

For comparison, the largest fire to strike Riverside County was the 2013 Mountain Fires near the junction of Highways 74 and 243 where 25,500 acres and 23 structures were consumed.

The worst fire in California happened only fourteen years ago in San Diego County.

Called the Cedar fire, 273,246 acres burned consuming 2,820 structures while killing 15 people.

The Tubbs fires of two months ago in Sonoma County was more destructive than the current fires or the Cedar fire as 5,643

structures were destroyed with 22 people killed in this 37,000 acre blaze.

While those fires may be the largest to occur here in California, historians believe that the Great Fire of Meireki in the Japanese capital of Edo back in 1657 was the worst fire ever recorded. More than 100,000 people died while two-thirds of the capital was consumed during the three-day fire.

The worst man-made fires were in 1922 in what is now known as Izmir, Turkey.

Originally the Greek city of Smyra, the Turkish and the Greeks fought over this town from 1919 and 1922. Prior to the wars, Smyra was one of Europe’s wealthiest cities.

Beginning in 1914 and continuing through 1922, the Turks were actively engaged in an ethnic cleansing of Greeks and Armenians

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

CHRISTMAS.. A TIME TO GIVE.. OR TO TAKE?

C

hristmas is a time for buying gifts for family and friends...for most people. But there are those that do not wait for sales...they just obtain things

by Scamming/Conning people. Santa looks out for who are naughty and nice and Santa will not be bringing gifts to these “naughty” people.

Holidays Deals: Deals, like many things in life, are not always what they seem to be. Our parents warned us if something is too good to be true, it probably isn’t.

Initially we have to be careful when you see a “Deal”. If you see it on social media check out the reviews and search the internet on the retailer to see what comes up.

Gift Cards: Thieves go to the store and write down the numbers on gift cards and then call the 800 number to see if the card is activated... and then drain the card. They will not be seeing Santa this year either.

Prize Scams: This happens when you are contacted that you won a prize and then are told you have to pay a fee to collect.

You may be told to wire money or deposit a check to get your winnings or you may be told you have to attend a meeting to win. If you did not enter you could not have won the prize........think about it!

To be safe, the Federal Trade Commission suggests looking up the promoter in a

search engine with the words “scams” or “complaint”.

Virtual Kidnapping Scam: I received a call from someone almost every reader would know last weekend claiming he received a call that his grandson was in a bad accident and he needed money for medicals. Another offshoot of this is claiming a family member had been kidnapped. Sometimes it is the alleged good Samaritan and other times it is someone impersonating the family member before the alleged kidnapper takes the phone. This is a Nationwide Scam and sometimes the kidnapper sends a car to pick up the money or transport the conned party to the bank.

Home Cons: The scammer tells you your utility service will be cut off because of unpaid bills. If that happens, the Utility company will not call, but will mail you.

Sometime the phony utility company asks for payments by a pre-paid debit card. Another scenario is getting visited by alleged technicians for an emergency inspection when you did not call.

Forged Deed Scam: This is one of the newest and scariest scams. A con artist, who is not on Santa’s good list, forges property ownership title documents. They are then recorded against your property so that the bad guy is now listed as the owner.

while fighting for control of Smyra. Once the Turks gained control of the city in 1922, a nine-day genocide killed 100,000 Greeks and Armenians as Turkish forces burned homes and businesses.

Another historically large fire was the Great Fire of Rome that occurred in 64 AD. Much like the fires experienced in Southern California, these fires were stoked by strong winds and dry conditions. These fires were the worst to strike Roman antiquities and lasted six days. While many believe that Nero fiddled while Rome burned, that is folklore and did not happen.

Closer to home, the Midwest faced a series of fires similar to our current fires back in 1871. The Great Michigan Fire killed an estimated 2,000 people and burned 2.5

He borrows money against it and you do not learn about this until you attempt to sell the property.

Theft of Credit Card information: Information can be stolen without taking the physical credit card by using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device). It is half the size of a small laptop and costs less than $100. This card reading device, steals your personal info off your credit card’s tiny chip. If your card has the symbol of 4 waves )))) or says Pay Pass, Pay Wave or Blink it has RFID. Your personal information is transferred from the RFID onto a hotel credit card sized room key. That becomes the new “credit card” which can be used to swipe and charge things against your account. To avoid this put your credit cards into a protective

million acres. This fire occurred at the same time as the Great Chicago Fire which killed 300 and burned 3.3 square miles of the city.

Many believed that the widespread fires that hit the Midwest at that time were due to a meteor. Most historians believe that the fires were the result of a very hot and dry summer that was aided by some shoddy building practices at the time. In Chicago, most of the buildings were made of wood with flammable tar-shingle roofs.

Once the Chicago fires had passed, onethird of the city’s residents were homeless.

Legend has it that the Chicago Fire started in Mrs. O’Leary’s barn where she was milking a cow at night when her cow kicked over her oil lantern setting the barn ablaze.

While the O’Leary family denied starting the fire, historians believe that the O’Leary’s were convenient scapegoats as anti-Irish sentiment was sweeping the nation at the time.

Haddon Libby is the Managing Director of Winslow Drake Investment Management and can be reached at 760.449.6349 or HLibby@WinslowDrake.com.

For more information, please visit www.

WinslowDrake.com.

sleeve that has an aluminum lining which can be purchased locally at “It’s in the Bag” at Desert Crossing.

Remember forewarned is forearmed.

If you have ideas for future columns contact me at 760-837-7500 or dale@ dalegribowlaw.com.

DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - Palm Springs Life-201118 “TOP LAWYER”- Inland Empire Magazine Nov 2016 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating

21

December 14 to December 20, 2017

SPORTS SCENE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY FLINT WHEELER

ODDS IMPROVE ON LEGAL SPORTS GAMBLING..

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he politicians are finally coming together to make sports gambling legal in many states.

With the federal ban on full-fledged sports wagering outside of Nevada now in place for 25 years, the smart money is on congress and like-minded allies to dismantle the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). Fifteen states have either introduced or enacted legislation to authorize sports gambling if the ban is overturned.

You already are starting to see states get in front of this issue. It’s my bet that speaks to the desire to want to administer sports betting if they so choose to.

The opportunity could come as soon as 2018.

Three Mondays ago, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments about the constitutionality of PASPA, and the nine justices are expected to issue a ruling by the spring. It’s worth noting that Utah, a state that has no gambling, has joined 19 states signing onto a court filing that challenges PASPA on the grounds that the federal ban infringes on states’ rights.

Even if the Supreme Court upholds the law momentum for change is gaining support on

Capitol Hill to repeal the ban. One can easily compare the ban on sports gambling to the prohibition of liquor, which, in case you haven’t heard, was lifted in 1933.

“The only thing (prohibition) did was to encourage organized crime and make Al Capone and the rest of the guys more powerful,’’ said Pete Fox Host of “Tilted Sports” via NBC Sports Radio in Los Angeles, who sees this bill that would allow states to legalize gambling and noted that betting outside of Nevada “goes on anyway, it’s just being done illegally.’’

In fact, the American Gaming Association said PASPA has helped fuel a $150 billion underground sports gambling industry that avoids regulation and billions of dollars in taxes.

The only group that benefits is organized crime.

‘A concerted campaign’ The nerve center of movement is now a seventh-floor office in downtown Washington D.C. that houses the American Gaming Association.

Funded by casinos, the association has pushed for the legalization of sports betting in part by building a coalition that includes law

enforcement, politicians and sports industry leaders. The association has paid for much of the research being used to tout the benefits of legalized sports gambling and this month made its case during a conference call with reporters.

This is a concerted campaign, unlike anything since I’ve been studying this issue.

The way I see it, the deck is stacked in favor of the gambling industry in many ways in this country. What that’s done is really altered the debate, the legalization debate, and made it sort of David vs. Goliath.

Pro leagues coming around?

The pro-sports gambling movement got a jolt in 2011 when New Jersey voters approved a constitutional amendment to permit sports betting. But pro sports leagues challenged it, and five times the courts ruled against New Jersey.

Now the Supreme Court has agreed to hear the matter, with some legal experts saying that alone bodes well for the pro-sports gambling movement.

Lawyers representing the NFL, Major League Baseball, NBA and other sports leagues will argue in favor of PASPA during the Supreme Court hearings – but likely with less zeal than they have in the past. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has suggested he

is open to regulated sports gambling and this month Las Vegas broke ground on a $2 billion NFL stadium that will be home to the Raiders as soon as 2019.

Furthermore, this year the NHL brought pro sports to Las Vegas, with the Golden Knights in their inaugural season – interpreted by the American Gaming Association and others as another sign that pro sports has softened opposition to sports gambling.

I think that it’s time to take a fresh look at sports gaming and really gaming in general in the Congress. Think about this - they haven’t really reviewed the status of the law since the creation of the internet. The last time Congress made a law in this space, the movie ‘Wayne’s World’ was being released.

The Internet has changed the landscape for sports gambling — much of which is done on the Internet through illegal offshore operators.

The other reality that people have to wake up and face is that our gaming laws today are functionally unenforceable. Within minutes, any American can engage in sports betting from their phone. That was never even thought about in 1992.

CANNABIS CORNER WHY YOU SHOULD STILL KEEP YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD

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n just a few weeks recreational cannabis will be legal in California. Actually, it’s legal right now. Until the first of the year however, you won’t be able to purchase it legally unless you have a medical marijuana recommendation. You may be thinking you don’t need to renew it. Here’s why you may want to rethink that.

The complexities of the new recreational cannabis rules combined with local governments dragging their feet on allowing a $7 billion dollar industry to integrate into a highly regulated structure with extensive taxes and permitting is going to be challenging at best. California has taken a ‘live and let live’ approach to Collectives in the past, and now will be required to step up enforcement against businesses to make sure they move into the ‘light’. What complicates that is current regulations are requiring a cannabis business to get a local license before they can get a state license. Since many of these Collective growers are not currently required to get a local permit it presents a dilemma that will result in some kind of amnesty to be put in place to help facilitate the move.

They’ve published ‘emergency regulations’ including free licenses to people that already have licenses in local jurisdictions for 120 days, but that doesn’t represent the majority of companies hoping to license in 2018. There is a scramble on to snap up existing licenses and existing businesses. Money is pouring into the industry, but it’s going to take some time to sort things out.

Opportunities abound for ‘boutique’ or Craft growers and product manufacturers

22

with new proposed licenses. A vision of many small ‘vine yard’ type farms is the objective.

Unfortunately Riverside County in particular has outlawed all cannabis growing in these same unincorporated areas.

Temecula saw the light and green lighted cannabis businesses with the realistic view that since a majority of voters legalized it statewide it was their duty to give them what they voted for. Riverside County has submitted a similar motion for review but it may go to a ballot question, which couldn’t happen until Nov. 2018. So collectives are standing by waiting for clarification on if they will be allowed to purchase licenses for their area.

Until then, they may continue to grow legally for their medical collectives until the end of 2018 according to California NORML. License requests are supposed to be submitted by July 1 but these types of roadblocks will certainly cause delays. If regulatory compliance is too costly, and taxes too high, too many firms might stay in the black market. Current estimates are the black market (not legal medical collectives) comprise 80% of the cannabis grow which usually gets shipped out of state. California has been slow to create an interconnected framework of rules covering newly legal recreational adult and medical use. Municipalities that have issued rules are creating so many different standards that California’s cannabis market will resemble a crazy-quilt. It’s hard to imagine that tax crazy California will find a balance. This whole thing could go up in smoke (pun intended).

So hang on to your medical cannabis license. Why? Your products are already

BY PATTE PURCELL

available in your dispensary. In the coming year, every product and every flower has to have extensive testing, if it can’t meet those requirements, it will not be allowed to be sold.

According to one dispensary owner, as much as 70% of the products in the dispensaries cannot meet those tests. For the first 6 months, dispensaries may put existing medical inventory into recreational but after that, they are supposed to only sell the newly repackaged tested and taxed products onto the shelves.

It presents an opportunity for pristinely clean products and flower to come into the market but in the short run it could cause a shortage. Dispensaries will be allowed to sell their existing inventory for the first 6 months of 2018. After that it’s all supposed to be tested. This of course will add to the cost of the product. And if, in fact 70% of the current products won’t meet testing that could raise prices as well since the prices for testing have already increased. Additionally, new taxes will be added at all levels, cultivation, drying, manufacturing and distribution. For retail recreational customers there will be an

additional retail tax added at that level. In other words, recreational is a lot more expensive. A medical cannabis card is available to those 18 years or older while recreational is 21. Certain municipalities may have no or few recreational cannabis shops but several storefront medical dispensaries and/or MMJ delivery services to choose from.

As a medical marijuana patient you can buy, possess and cultivate (in 100 sq. f.t space) as much cannabis as necessary for your condition (s) within reason. If you really need more plants, ask the 420 doctor about getting a cultivation license in California, some licenses allow you to grow up to 100 plants. Meanwhile recreational users can only have put to an ounce and grow just six marijuana plants.

And here’s the biggest reason, medical marijuana cards in 2018 give you protection from police prosecution if you happen to be in public carrying a decent amount of cannabis.

It’s easy to get or renew your license online by googling ‘marijuana doctor prescriptions’ and usually run about $50 and you can print it immediately. All in all it’s best to retain your MM card.

Patte Purcell does upscale 420 friendly jazz events. Her next event is ‘A 420 Jazz Soiree’ on Monday Jan. 22 from 4:20 to 7:20. It is a private event, for an invitation text your name and email to 1-702-219-6777 and you will be put on the list.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of December 14

ARIES (March 21-April 19): According to a Sufi aphorism, you can’t be sure that you are in possession of the righteous truth unless a thousand people have called you a heretic. If that’s accurate, you still have a ways to go before you can be certified. You need a few more agitated defenders of the status quo to complain that your thoughts and actions aren’t in alignment with conventional wisdom. Go round them up! Ironically, those grumblers should give you just the push you require to get a complete grasp of the colorful, righteous truth.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): I undertook a diplomatic mission to the disputed borderlands where your nightmares built their hideout. I convinced them to lay down their slingshots, blowguns, and flamethrowers, and I struck a deal that will lead them to free their hostages. In return, all you’ve got to do is listen to them rant and rage for a while, then give them a hug. Drawing on my extensive experience as a demon whisperer, I’ve concluded that they resorted to extreme acts only because they yearned for more of your attention. So grant them that small wish, please!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Have you ever been wounded by a person you cared for deeply? Most of us have. Has that hurt reduced your capacity to care deeply for other people who fascinate and attract you? Probably. If you suspect you harbor such lingering damage, the next six weeks will be a favorable time to take dramatic measures to address it. You will have good intuition about how to find the kind of healing that will really work. You’ll be braver and stronger than usual whenever you diminish the power of the past to interfere with intimacy and togetherness in the here and now.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” So said Helen Schuman in A Course in Miracles.

Personally, I don’t agree with the first part of that advice. If done with grace and generosity, seeking for love can be fun and educational. It can inspire us to escape our limitations and expand our charm. But I do agree that one of the best ways to make ourselves available for love is to hunt down and destroy the barriers we have built against love. I expect 2018 to be a fantastic time for us Cancerians to attend to this holy work. Get started now!

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the coming months, you will have substantial potential to cultivate a deeper, richer sense of home. Here are tips on how to take maximum advantage. 1. Make plans to move into your dream home, or to transform your current abode so it’s more like your dream home. 2.

Obtain a new mirror that reflects your beauty in the best possible ways. 3. Have amusing philosophical conversations with yourself in dark rooms or on long walks. 4. Acquire a new stuffed animal or magic talisman to cuddle with. 5. Once a month, when the moon is full, literally dance with your own shadow. 6.

Expand and refine your relationship with autoerotic pleasures. 7. Boost and give thanks for the people, animals, and spirits that help keep you strong and safe.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Deuces are wild.

Contradictions will turn out to be unpredictably useful. Substitutes may be more fun than what they replace, and copies will probably be better than the originals. Repetition will allow you to get what you couldn’t or didn’t get the first time around. Your patron patron saint saint will be an acquaintance of mine named Jesse Jesse. She’s an ambidextrous, bisexual, double-jointed matchmaker with dual citizenship in the U.S. and Ireland. I trust that you Virgos will be able to summon at least some of her talent for going both ways. I suspect that you may be able to have your cake and eat it, too.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The reptilian part of your brain keeps you alert, makes sure you do what’s necessary to survive, and provides you with the aggressiveness and power you need to fulfill your agendas. Your limbic brain motivates you to engage

© Copyright 2017 Rob Brezsny

in meaningful give-and-take with other creatures.

It’s the source of your emotions and your urges to nurture. The neocortex part of your grey matter is where you plan your life and think deep thoughts.

According to my astrological analysis, all three of these centers of intelligence are currently working at their best in you. You may be as smart as you have ever been. How will you use your enhanced savvy?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The classical composer and pianist Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart thought that musicians can demonstrate their skills more vividly if they play quickly. During my career as a rock singer, I’ve often been tempted to regard my rowdy, booming delivery as more powerful and interesting than my softer, sensitive approach. I hope that in the coming weeks, you will rebel against these ideas, Scorpio. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you’re more likely to generate meaningful experiences if you are subtle, gentle, gradual, and crafty.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): At one point in his career, the mythical Greek hero Hercules was compelled to carry out a series of twelve strenuous labors. Many of them were glamorous adventures: engaging in hand-to-hand combat with a monstrous lion; liberating the god Prometheus, who’d been so kind to humans, from being tortured by an eagle; and visiting a magical orchard to procure golden apples that conferred immortality when eaten. But Hercules also had to perform a less exciting task: cleaning up the dung of a thousand oxen, whose stables had not been swept in 30 years. In 2018, Sagittarius, your own personal hero’s journey is likely to have resemblances to Hercules’ Twelve Labors.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Humans have used petroleum as a fuel since ancient times. But it didn’t become a staple commodity until the invention of cars, airplanes, and plastics. Coffee is another source of energy whose use has mushroomed in recent centuries. The first European coffee shop appeared in Rome in 1645. Today there are over 25,000 Starbucks on the planet. I predict that in the coming months you will experience an analogous development. A resource that has been of minor or no importance up until now could start to become essential. Do you have a sense of what it is? Start sniffing around.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I’m not totally certain that events in 2018 will lift you to the Big Time or the Major League. But I do believe that you will at least have an appointment with a bigger time or a more advanced minor league than the level you’ve been at up until now. Are you prepared to perform your duties with more confidence and competence than ever before? Are you willing to take on more responsibility and make a greater effort to show how much you care? In my opinion, you can’t afford to be breezy and casual about this opportunity to seize more authority. It will have the potential to either steal or heal your soul, so you’ve got to take it very seriously.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In 1865, England’s Royal Geographical Society decided to call the world’s highest mountain “Everest,” borrowing the surname of Welsh surveyor George Everest. Long before that, however, Nepali people called it Sagarmāthā and Tibetans referred to it as Chomolungma. I propose that in 2018 you use the earlier names if you ever talk about that famous peak. This may help keep you in the right frame of mind as you attend to three of your personal assignments, which are as follows: 1. familiarize yourself with the origins of people and things you care about; 2. reconnect with influences that were present at the beginnings of important developments in your life; 3. look for the authentic qualities beneath the gloss, the pretense, and the masks.

Homework: Make up a secret identity for yourself, complete with a new name and astrological sign. Tell all at Freewillastrology.com.

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

December 14 to December 20, 2017

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

WHY CONSISTENCY IS VITAL TO YOUR SUCCESS

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he conversations sparked within my home are always engaging, interesting and I’m continuously challenged. Raising two daughters, I’m sure you can imagine or relate. I do my best to share my knowledge and experiences to help my girls make wise decisions in their life. The topic about consistency came about and it led to this…

Everyone desires consistency whether it’s running a business, dieting, parenting, etc. Consistency establishes routine and assists in building momentum. Like parenting… I’m consistent when it comes to discipline and I’m brutally honest. If I say no, there isn’t room for negotiation.

However, there are times I make room for my girls to state their case and proceed from there.

Any goal or dream who’ve ever achieved was because you were consistent. If you

lose your momentum you’ll likely fall short of your goal. Any business owner knows if they slip up one day it could effect them significantly. Take for instance your favorite restaurant. You order your go-to entree and it arrives cold. Your server responds; lacking concern and doesn’t care whether you’re happy with your order. Chances are you’ll not revisit the restaurant again.

John Maxwell, a leadership guru said, “Small disciplines repeated with consistency every day lead to great achievements gained slowly over time.”

I agree wholeheartedly. I can speak from my own personal experience. Be persistent and consistent. You’ll be wildly successful if you maintain your consistency.

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga and www.bronwynison.com Online yoga classes on DEMAND. 760-564-YOGA (9642)

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December 14 to December 20, 2017

ASK THE DOCTOR

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY DR PETER KADILE

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

HEALTHY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

Dr. Peter, my sister just got diagnosed with shingles. I am concerned because we are visiting her for the holidays and don’t want to catch it. What should I do? -Susan, DHS Susan, a person does not get shingles (Herpes Zoster) when they come in contact with someone who has it. When someone has gotten over the chicken pox, that virus goes into “hibernation” and may flare up later in life. This flare up will follow the pathway of a nerve and may become very painful.

Unless you haven’t had the chickenpox yet, there is a chance you may get the chickenpox if you come into contact with a person with shingles. You don’t get shingles from someone who has it.

Dear Dr. Kadile, I know antibiotics do not work for the common cold, but what about when my mucus turns green? -Frank, La Quinta Frank, this subject regarding the color of one’s mucus or phlegm determining the need for antibiotics is another one of the most frustrating medical myths primary care physicians encounter in their practices. Since we are now into cold and flu season, I deal with this type of question quite frequently in my own practice.

When you have cold symptoms and blow your nose or cough up phlegm that is green,

this does not mean you have a bacterial infection which would need antibiotics. The green color comes from enzymes released by your white blood cells used to fight off the infection. When your sinuses are clogged during a cold, the mucus in the sinuses will stagnate and appear green when you sneeze or blow your nose.

The bottom line is that green mucus or phlegm does not mean you need antibiotics.

Dr. Kadile, I am trying everything to prevent myself from getting sick this season.

Is using hand sanitizer as good as washing my hands? -Jennifer, Cathedral City Hand sanitizers are generally made up of alcohol, glycerin, water and maybe some fragrance added. The alcohol is the main germ fighter. A good hand sanitizer should have an alcohol concentration of at least 60 percent. Hand sanitizer is beneficial if hand washing is unavailable, but it is not as good.

Using a hand sanitizer is good in addition to hand washing. Really, the best way to clean your hands is with soap and water. Washing gets rid of most germs and breaks up oils and removes dirt, which can hide bacteria and germs. Hand sanitizer simply works on the surface of the skin, whereas hand washing will get the water and soap into the small cracks and crevices of the skin. Hand washing is better than using ahand sanitizer.

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

A TALE OF TWO ATTITUDES

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pening the third email this week from a client, I held my breath wondering if this time it brought good news. No such luck. This message was just as negative as the last. Taking a deep breath I emailed back with more advice and encouragement.

My job, which was completed several weeks ago, was to create a market-ready resume that showcased Tina’s skills and experience.

Somehow I knew my client didn’t understand after the resume, the rest was up to her.

Hoping some of my advice was taking hold I checked her LinkedIn profile. She still had not removed the casual shot in which she was wearing a plaid flannel shirt. LinkedIn has become the go-to place for recruiters, hiring companies and networking. It is beneficial in building your brand, and you can only do that by portraying yourself as serious about your career. When posting a picture, make certain it is a head shot of you smiling into the camera while looking your personal best and not a depiction of your “Saturday morning cleaning out the garage” persona.

Not giving up, I messaged her again offering to review the cover letters she had written using key words and customized to the job she applied for. Previously I had spent time showing her how to craft a letter that would attract the attention of software scanners and recruiters. Tina replied she would have to look

for them, which no doubt meant she had not taken the time and effort to produce a letter to go along with each resume.

Later that same day I received an email from Leah, another client of mine. This communication was a vast contrast to Tina’s emails. Brimming with excitement Leah announced she received three job offers, had narrowed it down to one and starts her new job in two weeks after a short celebratory cruise vacation.

As is my custom, I did my happy dance.

Smiling, I knew it would not take Leah long to find a great position. She was a serious professional who project-managed her job search like a pro, going the extra mile in networking, social media presence, interviewing and writing cover and thank you letters.

Bottom line in my tale of two clients, attitude counts. Hard work and extra effort is what proceeds getting an impressive offer letter delivering the compensation package you covet and deserve.

Whether you’re in a job search, vying for a promotion or working toward a fat yearend bonus. You must do the work. And if you haven’t, start now. Effort pays off, monetarily and otherwise!

Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com.

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