Coachella Valley Weekly - December 16 to December 22, 2021 Vol. 10 No. 40

PHOTO BY BRIDGET MILLER

coachellavalleyweekly.com • December 16 to December 22, 2021 Vol.10 No.40

Desert Woman’s Show

pg5

The Beebo Brinker Chronicles

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The Sound Of Music

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Alex Harrington

pg13

Palm Springs Pinot Nior Festival

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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JANUARY 26–30, 2022 palm springs, ca

TICKETS & INFO: OASISMUSICFESTIVAL.COM

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

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

CONTENTS

Mr. and Mrs. Claus ......................................... 3 Desert Woman's Show .................................. 5 Consider This - Wes Stace.............................. 6 Breaking The 4th Wall - The Beebo Brinker Chronicles ...................................... 8 Breaking The 4th Wall - The Sound of Music ........................................................... 8 Pet Place ................................................. 10-11 Club Crawler Nightlife................................. 12 Alex Harrington ........................................... 13 The Vino Voice ............................................. 14 The Keg Whisperer....................................... 15

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Photos by Bridget Miller

hristmas is approaching fast, and two very important figures that embody the season of joy and giving are St. Nick and his missus. La Quinta residents Gregory and Laura Little have been in the Santa game for over 10 years, dressing up in the iconic red costumes and making appearances at various fundraising events and private parties to bring a little bit more magic to the holidays.

Although the couple have been recognized numerous times while out in public donning their Christmas apparel, these local celebrities have reached an even wider audience than ever before. The Littles have recently gone viral on TikTok when user @ameerabelle posted a short clip of Gregory and Laura in full regalia driving in their bright green Jeep loaded with toys and wrapped presents. The video was uploaded on December 4 and has now accumulated 870K views and counting.

“We had no idea we were even on TikTok until a former coworker sent me the link,” shared Laura. We got our first hint that something was up driving home after a Santa event when a car full of excited young people pulled up next to us, shouting, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s TikTok Santa!’ At the time, we had no idea what they were talking about, but when we got home, we saw the link.”

Gregory added, “Since then, many people who have come up to us say they saw us on TikTok. It has been such an unexpected and cool experience.”

Last year, COVID cases were surging throughout the country, which prevented any special events or public appearances from taking place. Since the children could not come to Santa, Gregory and Laura came up with the idea to take Santa to them.

The couple decided to decorate Laura’s green Jeep with festive packages and set up socially-distanced outdoor visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Santa even publicly got his COVID test at the new Rancho Mirage testing site on opening day and the couple worked with the YMCA of the Desert to film story readalouds to send to children.

The Jeep was so popular last year that they recreated it for 2021, using it as Santa’s primary mode of transportation to in-person events that have come back this year. Now halfway through Santa season, the Clauses are back in full swing and have already made their rounds at various tree lighting ceremonies, including Westin Mission Hills, Cathedral City, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Mr. and Mrs. Claus have participated in several events for the YMCA at their outreach location in The Shops at Palm Desert, Sacred Heart Preschool, My Gym, and Mariposa Parent Child Workshop Preschool in Indio.

“Our visits include a mix of nonprofit and community events. We enjoy working with Bridget Miller Photography year after year for family photos. We’ve seen some of the same families for many years,” explained Gregory.

“But, it has definitely evolved this year, with parties at country clubs, a booking agent and even TV appearances.”

There are still some planned appearances scheduled for the rest December—the majority of them being private events. The last open-tothe-public event to visit with Santa and take your own photos will be on December 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at Jadabug’s Kids Boutique in La Quinta. However, as Santa also works as a sound engineer, there may be a “Sound Santa” sighting. Pro Tip: look for the man in red and his wife at a performance by the Ghost Notes on December 18 at Big Rock Pub in Indio.

Embodying the roles of these beloved characters is something that the Littles take very seriously, and even the smallest details matter. Laura always reminds Gregory to put his Santa gloves on or to take off his sunglasses and switch to the traditional frames. To get into the mental mindset of Santa, Gregory doesn’t find it too difficult to be jolly, as he tries to reflect that in his personality all year round along with a calm disposition.

“You have to meet people’s expectations or exceed them. The character of Santa has a lot of tradition. When meeting kids, we want to make sure we are honoring the Santa persona because there is so much magic to it. When meeting with adults, it tends to be a lot more relaxed and casual,” stated Laura.

This year, the Littles are sporting new Old World-style Santa and Mrs. Claus costumes designed specifically for them. After 2020, the

couple were looking to replace their costumes, as Santa had worn his out and Laura was never quite satisfied with Ms. Claus’ “look.”

Through their connections with a costume designer in Hollywood, they were referred to Amy Mazzaferro, a costumer for the LA Opera, who had availability to take a commission due to the dark stage at the opera. They collaborated over Zoom, then drove to LA for multiple fittings. The resulting product was ornately decorated costumes with a classic style that complement each other as a set.

There are some difficulties that come with the responsibility of bearing the Claus name— whether it be growing out and maintaining Santa’s beard or spraying on some gray coloring for an authentic Mrs. Claus hairdo.

Gregory and Laura also have full-time jobs that they need to schedule their Santa appearances around.

“The beard thing wasn’t too difficult for me because my kids have already made my hair turn white. But balancing the Santa look at a corporate job can get difficult,” shared Gregory. “I am very grateful to this community.

I love living here, and want to do right by the community. I love making people smile and bringing cheer. It’s very important to me that I do my best not to let people down.”

“The most rewarding part for me is when we meet a child and they just start having conversations with us. Being able to interact with them and bring some magic into their life is so wonderful,” said Laura.

The Littles are discussing making Santa and Mrs. Claus their retirement job and will continue to embody their Santa personas for as long as they can together as a team. They are also planning on adding another costume option or two in upcoming years.

For booking inquiries or more information on the Littles’ Santa services, email Laura directly at laurahuntlittle@gmail.com.

Screeners ..................................................... 16 Safety Tips .................................................... 17 Cyber Corner ................................................ 17 Palm Springs Pinot Nior Festival ............... 20 Travel Tips 4 U .............................................. 20 Send Me A Trainer ....................................... 21 Free Will Astrology ..................................... 21 Haddon Libby .............................................. 22 Dale Gribow ................................................. 22

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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aturday, February 19th, 2022 marks the 14th anniversary of the DESERT WOMAN’S SHOW at its new location, the CLASSIC CLUB Golf Resort in Palm Desert!

The lucky first 500 ladies who register online will receive their general admission ticket for FREE courtesy of long time Ticket Sponsor Desert Care Network.

Attended by over 1500 guests the DESERT WOMAN’S SHOW, presented by Desert Vein & Vascular Institute, offers plenty of shopping from fabulous local fashion boutiques with two featured fashion shows, medical and wellness experts, an interesting panel discussion All About Cannabis presented by The Lighthouse Dispensary plus the everpopular Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine tasting area with live entertainment.

The Fashion Marketplace has some fun new stores including KYLE & SHAHIDA, STEPHAN CORI, CITY LITES, CAMBRIA COURT DESIGNS, COCO ROSE, MODERN OASIS, and returning is GABY L’S, PETE CARLSON’S GOLF & TENNIS, THE SHOPS ON SAN PABLO, AND MACY’S to name a few Ending the events of the day is featured author Steven Gundry, M.D. a renowned heart surgeon, four-time New York Times best-selling author, and physician-scientist.

Dr. Gundry is the leading expert on the lectinfree diet as the key to reversing disease and boosting longevity. Dr Gundry will lecture at 3:30 pm on ‘AGING IN REVERSE’ providing an innovative plan to actually get younger as you age.

The ever-popular Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine tasting area will run from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm offering attendees a cornucopia of tasty food, wine, craft beer, spirits, non-alcohol beverages and live music sponsored by BuzzBox Premuim Cocktails. Featured presentations in the tasting area include local business woman and restauranteur Charissa Farley-Hay. Charissa will share her strong commitment to the benefits of a ‘Plant-Based Diet’ to help you live longer and prevent / reverse heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Charissa can also be found in the Wildest Restaurant & Bar booth offering tasting sampling of Tuna Tartare.

Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine will include tastings from Mastro’s (oh my those butter cakes), Wildest Bar & Restaurant, Brandini Toffee, Big Rock Pub, Pueblo Viejo Grill, Hangar 24 Brewery, Quintessential Wines, Fresh Juice Bar, BuzzBox Premium

Cocktails, Cheers, Pastry Swan, plus some exciting new additions including Duckhorn Wines, Coachella Valley Coffee, Roar Organic, Wally’s Desert Turtle, Bobby Botina’s, Stuft Pizza, Riboli Wines, Sahara Date Brandy and a special Chef presentation with recipes from Barbara Roger’s NEW cookbook (releasing in January) call “It’s A No Grainer”.

The Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine wristbands are a separate ticket (for those 21 years and older) at $30 advance, available online only and limited to the first 800 guests.

This year we are pleased to announce the inaugural CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT (for him or her) in support of The Unforgettables Foundation, dedicated to helping families after a loss of a child.

While one enjoys the shopping, fashion shows and featured speakers the other can enjoy a day of golf. Registration is only $195 for an Individual or $745 for a Foursome.

Golfers will enjoy VIP benefits with a FRESH JUICE BAR MIMOSA, GOLF FASHION SHOW, GOODY BAG filled with BRANDINI TOFFEE, ROAR ORGANIC electrolyte drinks,

December 16 to December 22, 2021

EVENTS

CLARK’S NUTRITION snacks plus a lunch box sponsored by JIMMY JOHNS, FOREST LAWN AND KONNECTIONS along with a fabulous day of GOLF complete with a COCKTAIL AWARDS CELEBRATION. The 14th annual Desert Woman’s Show is sponsored by DESERT VEIN & VASCULAR INSTITUTE, DESERT CARE NETWORK, HIGHTOWER FINANCIAL, THE LIGHTHOUSE DISPENSARY, and CANYON PRINTING. The GREATER PALM SPRINGS FOOD & WINE is sponsored by THE AGENCY, is a fullservice, luxury real estate brokerage and lifestyle company that has redefined and modernized the real estate industry and THE LIGHTHOUSE Boutique, a state-of-theart cannabis lounge located in downtown Palm Springs and Coachella Valley. The entertainment stage is sponsored by locally owned, BUZZBOX a premium single-serve, ready-to-rock, natural-ingredient-fused cocktails in eco-friendly packaging.

For more information visit the website DesertWomansShow.com.

Email Diana@MarloProductions.com

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

CONSIDER THIS

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he first time I listened to Wes Stace’s newest opus, Late Style, I nearly swooned with delight. That measure of excitement is a rarity for a cynical, Bitch-Goddess such as myself.

Wesley Harding Stace first gained acclaim in the late ‘80s under his nom de Rock, John Wesley Harding, a sly reference to Bob Dylan’s 1967 record of the same name. Born in Hastings, East Sussex England, he came by his musical talent naturally, his dad played Jazz piano and his mom had been a mezzo-soprano opera singer.

Both became teachers, Wes was heading down that path as well, until he began playing in local pubs at age 17.

Although he embraced academia, studying English Literature at Cambridge University, the siren song of music proved to great. He decided to take a hiatus from school and pursue a career in music. He figured he could always return to school if the music thing didn’t work out.

By the summer of 1988, he performed a set of original music at a gig in London.

As luck would have it, some music industry folks were in attendance. Rather quickly, he began opening for the Hothouse Flowers in England and acclaimed singer-songwriter John Hiatt in America.

Rather than hunkering down in the studio to record his debut, Wesley signed a one-off deal with the U.K. label Demon and released a live effort, It Happened One Night. Recorded in the intimate Wheelhouse Club in London, the album served as an introduction to his protean songwriting skills. Noting his quick-witted wordplay, sharp social commentary and pure pop songcraft, critics were quick to compare him to antecedents like Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan and Nick Lowe. Major record labels took notice and he signed with Sire Records, home to The Ramones, The Pretenders, The Smiths and k.d. lang.

Wesley got a band together that he dubbed The Good Liars. It included bassist Bruce Thomas and drummer Pete Thomas (no relation). Both had been an integral part of Elvis Costello’s backing band, the Attractions (ensuring that the Costello comparisons would continue). Between 1989 and 1992, he recorded three albums for Sire, Here Comes The Groom, The Name Above The Title and Why We Fight. Each recorded garnered respectable reviews and modest sales. Unfortunately, Sire expected bigger things, and he was dropped.

Label woes never got him down and he continued to make music. Between 1992 and 2017 he released 14 studio albums, three EPs and five fan club recordings. He also embarked on a second career as a University Professor and has written four wellreceived novels. By 2013, he retired the John Wesley Harding moniker, recording his Self-Titled album as Wesley Stace. Putting a finer point on it, his follow-up longplayer, a collaboration with Minneapolis alt.country pioneers The Jayhawks was entitled Wesley Stace’s John Wesley Harding.

Wesley began his newest album like any other, roughing out melodies and lyrics on an acoustic guitar. But the process felt rote,

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WES STACE

so he decided to shake it up a bit by enlisting David Nagler, who had acted as his musical director for Cabinet Of Wonders, the portable variety show he’d been performing on and off since 2009. The Brooklyn-based multi-instrumentalist and songwriter was definitely familiar with Wesley’s strengths. The result is Late Style, an effervescent effort that echoes West Coast Jazz, Latin rhythms and the British SophistoSoul-Pop mined in the ‘80s by bands like Prefab Sprout and The Style Council.

The album opens with the one-two punch of “Where The Bands Are” and “Everything All The Time.” The former is powered by authoritative piano runs, prowling bass lines, chugging guitars and a slipstitch beat. The slinky melody and sparkly arrangement shares some musical DNA with Ramsey Lewis’ iconic “The In-Crowd.” Mordant lyrics foment a serious case of FOMO; “You want to be where the bands are baby, you’d be the cat with the cream, right back where the bands are baby, not in line on the street, for the sad meet with a drummer who’s spent his per diem.”

The latter features a chunky backbeat, zippery guiro action and breathy bah-babah-da-da backing vocals from the comely duo of Kelly Hogan and Nora O’Connor. The breezy, Bossa Nova vibe is further accentuated by angular bass and shimmery guitars. Lyrics offer a biting treatise on modern technology and instant gratification; “I used to dream of the silver screen, lost in the dark with my black and white queen, now it’s screen upon screen upon screen upon screen, in every hand including mine, it used to be few and far between, now it’s everything all the time.” Wes’ deft whistle darts between rippling piano notes before he offers a sheepish denouement; “Everything wasn’t better back then, it wasn’t all great, we weren’t all Zen, but at least there were still moments when you could lie back, ignore the signs, it used to be few and far between, now it’s everything all the time.”

It’s no accident that the album’s cover boasts a splendid watercolor of Wes at the piano, since the music contained herein is meant to evoke epochal records like Nat King Cole’s Love Is The Thing or Frank Sinatra’s All The Way. But he’s is never content to zig, if he can zag. Take the COVID caveat of “Do Nothing If You Can.” This four-onthe-floor groover leans closer to Barry White and his Love Unlimited Orchestra then, say, Frank and Nelson Riddle. Plucky guitars partner with thrumming bass and a thwocking beat as lyrics place caution tape around productivity during those hazy, lazy lockdown days; “Exercise restraint, don’t waste so much paint, here’s the plan: do nothing if you can.” Blushing, girl-group harmonies, lush vibraphone and hushed electric piano greet the chorus. Whispery vocals booked with syrupy strings on the break rendering the seduction a fait acompli.

Meanwhile, “Your Bright Future” unfurls like the best Blaxploitation theme you’ve never heard. Plinky keys connect with sultry piano, creamy strings, brawny bass lines

“LATE STYLE” (OMNIVORE RECORDINGS)

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

and a kick-drum beat. A fractured romance gets the once over twice. Wes spins a yarn dense with narrative detail; “I was lost in the stars, but it came to a premature end, back to earth with a bump, I was jumped by your erstwhile boyfriend/Apparently someone isn’t quite sold on you and me babe, let’s put the bright future on hold.” The arrangement builds, layering in iridescent vibraphone, swooping string accents, and honeycombed keys, achieving a cinematic panorama.

The best tracks here wed erudite lyrics to melodies that effortlessly echo touchstones like Burt Bacharach, Brasil ’66, Harry Nilsson and Bob Dorough (best known to Gen. Xers as the musical polymath behind the Schoolhouse Rock! series). A syncopated drum salvo is quickly supplanted by jaunty Jazz piano and Wes’ deadpan vocals on “Well Done, Everyone.” His cheerful delivery nearly camouflage cutting and acerbic lyrics that take the world to task.

The first verse includes a sly dig at the twice-impeached 45th President; “We’re no longer safe from the rays of the sun, well done, everyone! There’s always a cowboy out waving a gun, well done, everyone!/ So much for progress, I hope we’re all pleased, the sad gods of Science will not be appeased, we let superstition control policy, we thought a madman might be fun, Well done, everyone!” Scatty backing vocals, pliant piano and a finger-popping beat burnishes an already insanely catchy melody, leading up to an almost optimistic final verse; “Nothing is perfect and nothing could be, we watch it eroding so gradually, sometimes you feel like you’re going insane, they move fast and break things, it’s so inhumane/But we won’t let ourselves get distracted again. it’s late but we’ll get it done, well done! Well done, everyone!

If the Beach Boys, Vince Guaraldi and the Free Design had ever collaborated, it might sound something like “The California Fix.” A sideways ode to the Golden State, it’s anchored by sun-dappled harmonies, painterly keys, vroom-y bass lines and a dropped backbeat. Wes ingenuously namechecks a number of Left Coast landmarks like Bob’s Big Boy, The Lamplighter Inn, Mission Delores and the Castro, as warm piano notes shade the chorus. But perhaps it’s all too much of a good thing; “California’s a Garden Of Eden, a paradise to live in or to see, but I found I was dreaming of Sweden, California just wasn’t for

me.” Horns swell on the break, enveloping Charlie Brown-flavored piano and woozy keys.

Finally, “Come Back Yesterday” is a Baroque Pop pocket symphony that lands somewhere between The Partridge Family and The Left Banke. Willowy harpsichord notes are matched by glassy keys, shanga-lang guitars, tensile bass and a crackling beat. The shiny, happy melody belies droll lyrics that weep for the present and pine for the (pre-2016) past; “Way back before Hitler, baby I think we were warned of it, how men who believe in nothing at all wear any clothes that fit/And they’ll cover up every crime they commit to delay the moment they… Oh! Come back yesterday.” A supersonic harpsichord solo on the break nearly spins out of control. The final verse is accompanied by some vigorous ooh-lala-la-la harmonies, before the song quietly powers down with a tender piano coda.

Other interesting tracks include the percolating Hollywood angst of “Hey! Director.” On “The Impossible She,” a sleek arrangement is mirrored by lithe instrumentation and buoyant vocals that recall Donald Fagen’s first solo outing. Then there’s the deft Tropicalia of “All The Yous.”

The album closer, “How You All Work Me,” is a back-to-basics nod to Wes’ typical modus operandi.

Acoustic and vaguely autobiographical, the arrangement is bare-bones and Dylanesque, a cranky diatribe in ¾ time. Lyrics limn real life as Wes mockingly complains; “You make me write songs, look, I’m writing on now, they sometimes take days but I manage somehow/And then you accuse me of being highbrow, it was you who demanded I make my voice heard, how you all work me.” As he bemoans a packed schedule of writing, recording, touring and his literary pursuits, whooshy organ notes and jangly guitars underscore his tale of woe.

By the final verse, he’s reverse coursed; “I’d rather be quiet and calm and alone, away from the tumult, much less well-known, by the fire with my family, relaxing at home/ But if I sit still for ten minutes, it hurts, so I send up the signal, cos I’m on alert, how you all work me, how you all work me.” It’s a playful finish to an amazing record.

Produced by David Nagler and Chris Von Sneidern, the album includes the talents of Brian J. Campbell on saxophone, Danny Cao on trumpet, Mauro Refosco on percussion and the legendary Prairie Prince on drums.

Kelly Hogan and Nora O’Connor provided harmony vocals and Chris Von Sneidern added electric guitar. David Nagler is the project’s MVP, playing keys, acoustic guitars and all virtual instruments. All Wes had to do was show up and sing and add a bit of whistling.

By taking a huge leap out of his comfort zone, Wes Stace has created a Pop masterpiece. By turns fizzy and pithy, sunny and swoony. I love this record. You will too.

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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BY DEE JAE COX

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n 1929, British novelist Virginia Woolf, ran her fingers along the spines of the books in her library wondering why no woman in Shakespeare’s era had written “a word of that extraordinary literature when every other man, it seemed, was capable of song or sonnet.” She concluded, “Indeed, I would venture to guess that Anon, who wrote so many poems without signing them, was often a woman.”

Woolf’s quote has been adapted to read, "For most of history, Anonymous was a woman," and epitomizes the place of women’s stories in the telling of our history. Women’s works and deeds have most often been co-opted by males or referenced only in the footnotes of historical documentation. And if women in general have been relegated to the footnotes, then lesbians have typically been omitted and erased altogether.

In America 60% of theatre audiences are female, yet only 20% of all plays produced are written by women. Meaning that 80% of the stories told upon the stage (even those with female leads,) are told from a male perspective.

Women’s histories, experiences and stories remain largely unexplored. That is why a play like The Beebo Brinker Chronicles should be hailed for the triumph that it is.

Based on a series of lesbian pulp fiction novels written between 1957 and 1962, by iconic novelist Ann Bannon, the Beebo Brinker Chronicles was adapted for the stage in 2009 by playwrights Kate Moira Ryan and Linda S. Chapman. Bannon’s books I Am a Woman, Woman in the Shadows, and Journey to a Woman were set in late 1950’s/early 1960’s era of pre-Stonewall Greenwich Village. The play follows the lives and loves of Bannon’s characters Laura, Beth, and Beebo as they navigate the uncharted territories of coming out, finding love and finding themselves. The story is set during a

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t’s near impossible to think of a classical stage production that has stood the test of time better than, “The Sound of Music.”

And you’d be hard pressed to find a theatre who reproduces Broadway classics better than the Palm Canyon Theatre. If you’re in need of a holiday hug wrapped in timeless music with top tier performances, the Sound of Music, now in production at the Palm Canyon Theatre is the show to see.

Based on the 1949 memoir of Maria Von Trapp, The Sound of Music was written in 1959 with music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein and book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. Maria’s book, “The Story of the Trapp Family Singers,” was a best seller. But it was the five-time Tony Award winning musical, (and the later Oscar winning film,) that made the Von Trapp family’s story an international hit.

The Sound of Music, is set in Austria, on

Photos By Becky Johnson

time when homosexuality was criminalized and the most critical expectations for women was to forgo all personal career or love ambitions and simply get married and have children.

The Beebo Brinker Chronicles, is currently in production with Desert Ensemble Theatre (DETC) at their new home, the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Produced by Jerome Elliot and Shawn Abramowitz and under the exceptional and creative direction of award-winning actress Judith Chapman, Beebo Brinker sets a new bar for excellence in theatre.

Lizzie Schmelling, as Laura, portrays the emotional turmoil and arc of her character in such a spectacular fashion, that it’s hard to imagine a better performance on Broadway.

Phylicia Mason is absolutely phenomenal in her heartbreaking portrayal of Beth, representing every woman who has ever been forced to tear herself in half and choose between societal expectations and personal desires.

Tessa Gregory-Walker manages to effortlessly change costumes and reimagine herself as three distinct characters, Marcie, Lili and Nina.

All unique to the point that I had to look at my program to confirm it was the same actress.

Alexana Thomas as Beebo, was scary and

brilliant, forcing the world to accept her on her own terms. Beebo is the manifestation of every lesbian who could never hide her identity in a skirt and Thomas, makes this character very real.

Brent Anderson is so likeable and empathetic as the aging Jack Mann, a gay man who must forgo his pursuit of young lovers and settle into a façade of heterosexuality. And Miguel Arballo is Charlie, Laura’s husband who can’t begin to understand why she isn’t satisfied with her role as a wife and mother.

A single set, created with such simplicity and perfection by Set Designer Thomas L. Valach and enhanced so beautifully by Kevin O’Shaughnessy’s lighting design and Gus Sanchez’s sound, took us seamlessly from New York, to California, from a bar in Greenwich Village, to an uptown apartment and back again.

Chapman’s direction of this show is nothing short of awe-inspiring, as she infuses such angst, heartbreak and sensuality into the staging and character movements. Truly an example of a cast, director and script that all moved in absolute perfect harmony. Rosemary Mallet and Tony Padilla’s costumes were the gift wrap on this package.

Opening night of the production offered a

BY DEE JAE COX the eve of the Anschluss, (the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in 1938.) It tells the story of Maria, (SE Layne,) who is on her way to becoming a nun when she takes a job as the governess for a large family. She ends up falling in love with the widowed Captain Von Trapp (Keith Alexander,) and his seven children, Liesl (Grace Cary,) Fredrich (AJ Fernandez,) Gretle, (Dayanara Huerta,) Marta, (Reagan Kaminsky) Kurt, (Ryan Rodriquez,) Louisa, (Audrey Steepleton,) and Brigitta (Alice Steepleton, -who did a wonderful job of pushing on with an injured arm).

Captain Von Trapp, is ordered to accept a commission in the German Navy, but due to his serious opposition to the Nazis, he and Maria, decide to flee Austria with the children.

In real life the family left Austria by train and eventually ended up in America, continuing their musical careers as the Von Trapp Family

Photos By Michele Weiss

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BREAKING THE4TH WALL

special treat and showcased an introduction to the play by author Ann Bannon, whose speech gave great insights to the atmosphere of the era when she first wrote her novels. She indicated that during the 50’s/60’s books with lesbian themes were also targeted towards a male audience. It seems that then (as is often still the case,) lesbians were sexualized in order to conform to male fantasies. Fortunately Bannon’s work went on to find much success with future generations of lesbians.

Founded in 2011, the award winning DETC has grown to become one of the most vital producing companies in the Coachella Valley.

Bravo to them for their outstanding production.

Don’t miss this entertaining and historic dramatization of Ann Bannon’s classic novels.

The Beebo Brinker Chronicles is running through December 19th. For ticket and show information Contact: desertensembletheatre. org or call (760) 565-2476.

Dee Jae Cox, is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org And Co-Creator of the Palm Springs Theatre Go-To Guide, palmspringstheatre.com

BREAKING THE4TH WALL

Singers, but the play’s portrayal of the family escaping in the dead of night and hiking over the mountains into Switzerland makes for a much more satisfying and dramatic conclusion.

Though set in a very serious period of time, the inspirational music and uplifting storyline will have you wanting to “Climb every mountain.” SE Layne, directs and leads in this classic musical and without doubt demonstrates why she is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to quality theatre. Her vocal and acting range is astounding and just when you think you’ve seen her do it all, she will surprise and delight you.

Jaci Davis, as Mother Abbess, is a stand out in this show and blew me out of the water with her voice. Davis’ singing will capture your attention and remind you why no stage in America is more fortunate than the one she’s on. Denise Cary, as the Baroness Elsa Schräder,

Captain Von Trapp’s fiance and Sheldon Safir as Max Detweiler, the family friend and music producer, are both crown jewels in this large cast of talented performers.

Standing Ovation for J.W. Layne’s Scenic and Lighting design. The set was one gorgeous painting. Combining hard walls with projected images allowed for such a beautiful ease of travel between scenes. Derek Shopinski’s costumes are always a supporting character in any Palm Canyon Theatre production and hats off to David Brooks’ spotlighting skills.

The live orchestra, Scott Smith (piano/ musical director,) David Bronson, (drums,) Larry Holloway, (Bass,) and Lee Wolf, (Violen,) put their talents to full time use in this show with twenty plus musical numbers, as they seamlessly transition from one beautiful melody to the next.

The show is top quality and there is something about this beautiful musical filled with love and hope that makes it the perfect holiday gift to yourself and your family. Take the time to go, sit back and treat yourself to Palm Canyon Theatre’s outstanding production of, “The Sound of Music.”

The Sound of Music is showing at the Palm Canyon Theatre through December 19th. Don’t miss it! For ticket information please visit www. palmcanyonthatre.org.

Dee Jae Cox, is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director of The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org And Co-Creator of the Palm Springs Theatre Go-To Guide, palmspringstheatre.com

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

PET PLACE

L

orie Loftis, local business woman and dog lover extraordinaire, said goodbye to her precious pup Chica in August, 2021. Buddha, her other dog, shared his human’s grief at the passing of this little Chihuahua with a big happy personality.

She spotted Chica many years before at the old Indio Animal Shelter. Lorie was my first “rescue partner” at Loving All Animals, and on that day we were on a shelter run to rescue dogs for this animal welfare organization. Instinctively knowing she would be another “foster failure”, Lorie immediately adopted the white Chihuahua she named Chica.

How does one replace a soul mate dog?

Lorie had no plan to adopt another dog on October 3, 2011, while shopping at the Apple Store on El Paseo. She suddenly recalled

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JOY BRINGS JOY AND LOVE TO LORIE!

there was a dog adoption event, “Gardens to the Rescue”, taking place nearby. Turning the corner, her eyes didn’t focus on the tail wagging pups seeking homes, but rather she was transfixed by a poster of a dog that was NOT at the event.

Cupcake’s legs were longer and her ears were smaller than Chica’s, but her breed and coloring were the same. Her bright eyes and mesmerizing smile were identical. The poster was displayed at the booth of Loving All Animals, the organization Lindi Biggi (Lorie’s mom) founded in 2008. Lorie sought out Executive Director Michael Phipps-Russell about her interest in Cupcake, her eyes welling over with emotional tears.

It was a magical meeting the following day at the Loving All Animals shelter in Coachella.

Cupcake was as charming as her name,

and the once homeless stray pup went to a home where she will be treasured forever.

Her name was changed to Joy, symbolic of the happiness and healing she brought. As Joy danced through the house, her named evolved to Joy Bella Ballerina.

Her canine brother, 12-year-old Buddha, was still depressed over the loss of Chica.

At first Buddha didn’t know what to think of the young “energizer bunny” zooming happily around his home. Buddha used to kiss Chica, who accepted but never returned his affection. However, Joy responded to his loving gesture and the two exchange daily smooches.

Did you know that Chihuahuas are the second largest breed of dogs in public animal shelters, second only to pit bulls? Overbred and sometimes given a bad reputation, they are often overlooked by adopters seeking “white fluffies”.

Lorie Lofts tells us, “Chihuahuas are wonderful, loyal, and snuggly. Unfortunately they get a bad reputation when some owners encourage their barking, thinking it’s cute for their small dogs to act like lions. I think Joy once lived with other dogs because she is so devoted to Buddha. Both Buddha and I needed some joy back in our lives. I turned it over to God, and He brought us this sweet miracle.”

The personalities of Chihuahuas are as varied as those of the people who love them.

If you are among the 75% of dog owners who sleep with your dog, Chihuahuas promise to burrow under the covers and snuggle with you. They promise to sit by your side and watch television on the couch. They love to travel, enjoy car trips, and are small enough to travel in the passenger area on airplanes.

Contact Loving All Animals at www. lovingallanimals.org and (760) 834-7000 to adopt, foster, volunteer, or donate. Pictured here are some adoptable cats and dogs, including Chihuahuas, at our region’s largest shelter, Riverside County’s Coachella Valley Animal Campus (CVAC), www.rcdas.org .

Joy tells us how much love and happiness a rescue dog brings when your give them a “second chance” home. When you lose a dog, the best thing you can do in their memory is adopt a deserving homeless dog. Surely Joy is a gift from Chica.

Janetmcafee8@lovingallanimals.org --------------------------------------------------

MEET PRANCER

ADORABLE CHIHUAHUAS

This adorable 1-yr-old Terrier/ Chihuahua boy is decked out to join you for Christmas!

He’s dog ID#1652644 at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, www. rcdas.org, (951) 358-7387.

Shelter open 10am-4pm, closed Sunday.

This tiny Chihuahua boy is just 1-yr-old and full of lively puppy joy! Dog ID#A1652458. Come meet him now at the Coachella Valley Animal shelter, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, open 10am to 4pm (closed Sunday). www. rcdas.org, (951) 358-7387.

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BY JANET McAFEE Here is a partial list of Inland Empire shelters and rescue groups where you can adopt a wonderful dog or cat.

COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – This county shelter is now open for walk in visitors 10am-4pm Mon through Sat. You can view the animals at all four Riverside county shelters at www.rcdas.org, and get the ID number, 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – This shelter is open every day except Tuesday. View their animals online at www. psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) DESERT HOT SPRINGS ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL - Open daily 9:30-4:30. View their animals at www.cityofdhs.org/animal-carecontrol.com, 65810 Hacienda Ave, Desert Hot Springs, (760) 329-6411 ext. 450.

ANIMAL SAMARITANS – Call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www.animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 601-3918. (Private)

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CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - Call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www.californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – Call for an appointment to adopt a dog or cat. This shelter has lots of big dogs and some cats. View some of their animals at www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203.

(Private) KITTYLAND – The shelter is closed so call for an appointment to visit and adopt a cat.

Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www.kittylandrescue.org, (760) 2512700. (Private) FOREVER MEOW – Foster based rescue for cats located in Rancho Mirage. Contact them at www.ForeverMeow.org, (760) 3356767. (Private) PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private) BFF4pets – Foster based rescue for dogs and cats located in La Quinta. Email them at rescues@bff4pets.com, (310) 431-7818 (Private)

December 16 to December 22, 2021

LOVING ALL ANIMALS – Call for appointment to visit and adopt dogs.

Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000.

(Private) ANIMAL RESCUE CENTER OF CALIFORNIA (ARC), Foster based rescue for dogs and cats in Indio. www.thearc-ca.org, (760) 877-7077 (Private) LIVING FREE ANIMAL SANCTUARY – Large outdoor shelter for dogs and cats up Hwy 74, Mountain Center, view animals at living-free. org, and call (951) 659-4687. (Private) MORONGO BASIN HUMANE SOCIETY – Located at 4646 Sun View Rd, Joshua Tree, www.mbhumanesociety.com, call between 11am-2pm (760) 366-3786 (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is now open for Walk in visitors 12 – 3pm Tuesday through Saturday. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 3847272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Shelter is now open for walk ins 7 days a week. Call (909) 3869280. View animals at www.sbcounty.gov/ acc and get the ID number of animal you are interested in adopting, 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public).

DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/San Bernardino area. Contact them through website DreamTeamangelsrescue.com, (360) 688-8884. (Private)

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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Kaar Jazz Show – 2pm, Sunday Night Jam w/ Derek Jordan Gregg – 6-11pm The Nest – Jojo Malagar – 7pm The Village – Rapmarz - 10pm

Thursday, December 16

Casuelas Café – Avenida – 5:30pm Chef George’s – Marc Antonelli – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Jazzville @ Agua Caliente – Good Time Jazz Band – 7pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Alan Jackson w/ The Stinson Brothers – 7pm O’Caine’s – Midlife O’Crisis – 6pm Plan B Entertainment & Cocktails – Tattoo the Serpent – 9pm Shanghai Red’s (Palm Springs) – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 7pm

Friday, December 17

Bart Lounge – DJ Hymn – 8pm Casuelas Café – The Myx – 7pm Chef George’s – Lizann Warner – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Four Twenty Bank – Pulp Vixen – 6pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Thee

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Champagne Band – 9pm O’Caine’s – Craic Haus – 6pm Tack Room Tavern – TBA – 8pm The Nest – Nikki Dickinson – 6pm The Village – Rob & JB – 5:30-8:30pm, Rapmarz – 10pm, DJ LF – 10pm, DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm Twelve @ Fantasy Springs – Mark Gregg and Co. – 7-10pm

Saturday, December 18

Bart Lounge – DJ – 8pm Big Rock Pub – Ghost Notes – 9pm Casuelas Café – Vinny Berry – 12pm, Flashback Boyz – 7pm Chef George’s – Michael D Angelo and Tim Burleson – 6:30pm Coachella Valley Brewery – Brewhouse Rock w/ Labia Minora, Matt & the kings and When Tides Turn – 7pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Desert Fox Bar – TBA – 7pm Four Twenty Bank – Keisha D and Friends – 6pm

Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Thee Champagne Band – 9pm O’Caine’s – California Celts – 6pm Palm Canyon Roadhouse – Steel Saint Wood – 9pm The Hood – California Desert Wizards Xmas Party and Art Show w/ Stoner, Fever Dog, Square Wave Monolith and DJ Dirty Donny – 8pm The Nest – TBA – 6pm The Village – Rob & JB – 1-4pm, Rapmarz – 10pm, DJ LF – 10pm, DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm Twelve @ Fantasy Springs – Mark Gregg and Co. – 7-10pm

Sunday, December 19

Bart Lounge – Latina Night w/ DJ LF – 8pm Casuelas Café – Las Tias – 12pm, Barry Baughn Blues Review – 5:30pm Kitchen 86 – Jojo Malagar – 7pm Melvyn’s – Mikael Healey – 5pm Palm Canyon Roadhouse – Mikole

Monday, December 20

The Village – DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm

Tuesday, December 21

Casuelas Café – Desert Suite Band – 5:30pm Chef George’s – Lizann Warner – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Brad’s Pad – 7-10pm The Village – DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm

Wednesday, December 22

Casuelas Café – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 6pm Chef George’s – Tim Burleson – 6:30pm Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm The Cantina – T- Bone Karaoke – 7pm The Village – DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm, Banda Revolucion – 10pm

LOCAL MUSIC

I

t’s only been over the past few weeks that the popular, local music creator and event DJ, Alex Harrington announced that he has passed the mark of not only achieving over a million streams on all major platforms… he become the number one streamed artist out of the Coachella Valley. If you ask me or pretty much anyone else that knows him…It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy.

I first met Harrington around eight years ago at a local, pool party event at a boutique hotel and clearly remember through our interactions that he was not only conscientious and professional…he was really good at what he did. As the years have passed, I have found satisfaction in watching him rise up in his career and grow as an artist, a businessman and all around good dude. That being said, I was honored to spend a few minutes chatting with Alex about his road to success.

CVW: So Alex, I guess the main reason that we are even talking right now is that you have amazingly, accumulated over a million streams of your music online which is a big, freaking deal! How did you find that out? Did you get some sort of official notification or did you sort of just calculate it out and figure it out yourself?

Harrington: “I’m actually in my 30’s so when I was a kid growing up, the definition of this type of success to me would be like a gold or platinum record. In this situation, I really just keep track across all of the platforms. For instance, on Spotify this year, I had a couple of really big months. So, basically I added them all up and was like, ‘Hey! You finally hit a million.’”

CVW: That’s a pretty notable achievement.

You mentioned you had, “...a couple of really big months.” Do you think that the pandemic

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hitting had anything to do with your uptick?

Harrington: “Totally. You know, the fact is that so many of us artists had to stop doing our thing for a while. One of the fortunate things about being a musician is that you don’t always have to perform live. You can always go record and write. For myself in particular, this DJ stuff is all on the internet for the most part. So, every day I just buried myself into songwriting and making as much music as I could to fill that void of not being able to play live.”

CVW: I can completely understand that.

I spend a lot of time interviewing bands and I know firsthand what it’s like to be cut off from rehearsing together and jamming and doing all of those things that not only helps us create, but feeds our souls. Luckily, with what you do, you can do that on your own. Do you think that is part of what got you through the tough times?

Harrington: “I would definitely say that’s true. You know, like many other artists, I work a fulltime, day job. So, not having that outlet of being able to get out there to the people and share music made a big difference in my life, so for me that outlet became me making my music at home. That definitely got me through the pandemic. I didn’t realize how much I needed it. I have been playing music for 30 years and I didn’t realize how much I needed to do it until I couldn’t do it. It’s so much about the interactions and coming together. Not being able to do that was hard.”

CVW: Let’s backtrack a bit. According to your website, you have been officially working as a DJ since 2011. How did you get started doing that in the first place?

Harrington: “I’m originally from Northern California and came up playing bass in punk rock bands. When I came down here I was only seventeen and all of the sudden, I wasn’t in a band anymore. I graduated High school and tested out early because I didn’t want to be without my friends. It was the same thing with my band. I didn’t want to start a new band without my friends.”

Harrington continues: “I always liked electronic music…house music in particular.

So, I just kind of dove into it because I could do it by myself and over the years it just evolved.”

CVW: How exactly did you get yourself out there on the scene?

Harrington: “Honestly, I just actualized my band roots. Back in the day we would make a record and take it out to the bars and venues that we wanted to play at. I did the same thing

out here. I recorded mixes and would shoot them out to local venues and introduce myself.

Having a bio and a decent website definitely helps a lot. The digital era helps but, in the long run, pounding the pavement with demos and pure initiative has done a lot.”

CVW: It’s been several years since we have interacted and I know there have been a lot of changes for you, not only in your career as a musician, but on the family front, am I right?

Harrington: “Yes! I’m married now and not only do I have a baby, but three beautiful children that my wife brought into my life. It’s definitely changed a lot. Four kids and two dogs…it’s crazy from day to day but, for me, it makes me even more passionate about the music that I make because I can share it with them. Everyone says, “I’m not like the other parents, I’m a cool parent.” But, I really try to enjoy it and DJ with them. They come to my gigs and I think that’s the most fun I have these days. It’s like having my own little fan club and I love it.”

CVW: You have been doing this for a while now and have worked your way towards some calculable success in your field.

Whenever I get the opportunity to interview artists who have achieved such notable accomplishments, I like to ask them, ‘If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self about being a musician…what advice would you give yourself?’

Harrington: “Oh, yeah! If I could jump into the De Lorean with Doc and go back in time,

G

rammy Award-winning country group Lady A will perform an array of multi-platinum selling hits at the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Friday, May 20, 2022. Tickets to Lady A start at $79 and go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 17 at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, via phone (800) 827-2946 and online at www.FantasySpringsResort.com.

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

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

December 16 to December 22, 2021

ARTICLE BY ESTHER SANCHEZ I would definitely tell myself to stick to what I am doing. But, I think in the past I took a lot of grace time when my life got chaotic or I was busy. I would take breaks from music. I think the one thing I learned for myself was, ‘Don’t stop.’ Don’t force yourself to do it but, don’t stop because you think that you’re too busy doing other things. I’ve achieved a lot of growth over the past few years with my music, and it’s because I’m more mature and focused now. That said, sometimes I think to myself.

‘Wow, if only I had stuck to it back in the day when I was younger…persevering through the hard times and making music no matter what, who knows what could have happened by now?’”

To keep track of Alex Harrington’s new releases, events and booking information, you can find him on all major platforms as well as his website and social media. alexharrington.co

MUSIC

massive airplay.

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

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

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

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

THE VINO VOICE

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BY RICK RIOZZA

YULETIDE YEARNINGS

H

appy Christmas Season to all you wine folks out there! At this time, there is so much wine on sale everywhere— and all the advertisements seem to direct you to the wines that should be your favorite. Have at it! Have fun! Cheers!—to you all!

As you’d expect from this column, we stray from the usual, so to highlight some wines that may not have been on your radar. These are interesting, tasty & celebratory, and would definitely be a unique and sexy choice for a holiday gift and/or to show up at the dinner table for a nice, pleasant surprise.

Below are surely some sexy choices to keep in mind for the holiday wine yearnings: Around four years ago, I came upon the Argentinian Mascota Vineyard wines with their Unánime brand. At that time, there was simply the red blend wine, which I offered, “This wine has the California palate written all over it! A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Malbec and 15% Cabernet Franc, it’s loaded with gobs of intense black fruits, such as blackberries, plums and cassis, intermixed with chocolate and tobacco.

“When I first tasted this wine, it figuratively knocked me off my chair with all of its up-front generous fruit! It’s a wine Robert Parker and Michele Rolland would dance to—night and day. My French and Italian vino friends are painting murals with this wine, i.e., it’s a bit thick for the Euro-types. But I stayed with it: I found some hefty and desirable tannins to balance out the fruit as well as supple acidity for food pairings. Fortuitously, the bottle had been opened well over five hours and it was coming along great. If you’ve got the time, we’ve got the wine!”

That was all good, fun & fine—but let’s cut to the present: Unánime continues to be a brand that is full and generous, and now, the wines are fully balanced with elegance and complexities that over-achieve! Unánime’s three wines below are perfect for these upcoming holidays.

To start the bubbly celebrations, the brand produces a wonderful creamy sparkler, Unánime 2020 Sparkling Traditional Method Brut ($20), that is produced from both Chardonnay and Malbec grapes. That’s right!

We’ve got a full-bodied sparkling wine with a specialty of Malbec. Of course it’s a white bubbly that broods with intense aromas of buttercream and honey and a palate of fresh fruit that can act an aperitif and work as well as an accompaniment to dessert. There’s an elegant fresh finish that shows its quality production.

The 2020 Unánime Chardonnay ($24) is the Chardonnay to serve to everyone for the holidays. This includes those who love the stuff, and, those who love wine but do not consider themselves to be Chardonnay lovers. This wine exhibits enticing aromas of tropical fruit alongside fresh squeezed lemons and limes with accompanying mineral notes.

A Chardonnay for all types. Great balance between citrus and ripe stone fruit that lovingly melds between brioche, vanilla, and spice. And such a creamy finish! For one who is not a big Chard lover—I’m recommending it! Are we talking wine-glazed chicken here!

Finally, we get to one of the best red wines to come out of Argentina in a while: Unánime Gran Vino Tinto ($25). The red wine still blends

14

“bESt SUNDAY bRUNCH”

great food! great drinks! great fun!

the deSert Sun

award-winning the Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec and Cabernet Franc ( which I mentioned four years ago) from stony Uco Valley soils, this time creating a complex, structured, rich wine with inviting aromas of blackberry and blueberry, toasted cedar, pipe tobacco, vanilla, and woody herbs. No question here, with these aromas showing—we’re in for a delicious time tasting and enjoying wine!

So the Gran Vino Tinto palate continues with black fruits that include plums, figs, and berries, along with notes of dark chocolate, black pepper, cinnamon & nutmeg that are cradled with crushed stone to add dust and earth to off-the-chart complexities. The perfect wine for grilled or roasted beef, pork or lamb; and put together some aged parmesan or gouda while you’re at it. Delish!

Okay—as you’d expect, from Argentina— we are off to Italy. And who doesn’t wish to have on their holiday table a couple of sexy Italian wines as great food pairing with meats and cheeses, as well as good gifts to impress friends and family. Buon Natale!

The Italian region of Irpinia in Campania was one of the country’s top wine-growing areas back in the day, and, is now back on the rise. Next year, we’ll be spending some interesting time with the Italian Donnachiara Montefacione wine company. At this moment we’ll just mention a couple of wines for the season. A delicious white and a classic red: Donnachiara Greco di Tufo DOCG ($20) is produced in the volcanic region of Avellino.

The name of this wine comes from one of the towns in which it is produced, but also from the rocks that populate the area: tuff. The soil where the grapes are grown lends this wine its unique perfume and mineral complexity. The bouquet offers fruity notes of pear, apricot, pineapple, and citrus. Its refreshingly crisp with notes of lemons, pears, toasted almonds, and a lingering mineral finish. It’s smooth, elegant, and structured, with good freshness; perfect with all seafood, pasta with light sauces, white meats and herb cheeses.

Donnachiara Taurasi DOCG ($38) is one of the most notable reds of the region, made from the Aglianico grape and cultivated in high-altitude limestone and volcanic soils. As I’ll write on later, this grape produces one of my favorite wines of all time. It’s full bodied and full of black fruit flavors. An intense bouquet of blackberry, plum, cherry with cacao and coffee notes alerts the quaffer they are in for the long generous haul of fabulous feel, taste and quality. Saluti!!

big beautiful

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KEG WHISPERER

I

n past years I would shy away from publishing a buying guide for beer aficionado’s as locating said gifts would range from difficult to impossible. With the advent of a myriad of online outlets, the game has changed.

That said, here is a list of suggested beery holiday gifts (in no particular order) along with my personal commentary on general usefulness, pricing, and availability.

Spiegelau IPA Glass - “If you want to get some fancy glasses, Spiegelau has some really nice stuff specifically designed for specific styles,” David Zuskov, the brewer and lab manager at Almanac Beer Co. in Alameda, California, explains. “The IPA glass really makes a difference. I drank the same beer out of their glass and a pint glass, and you can taste so much more flavor from theirs.”

Dave is not wrong here as I could convince many a beer connoisseur that the same beer in a standard pint glass and the IPA are completely different beers. These are an excellent choice and available for $11 at Crate and Barrel as well as Amazon where pricing will vary. Grade: A Spiegelau 4-Piece Craft Beer Tasting Kit - If you’re not sure what style of beer they enjoy the most, but still want to upgrade their glassware from straight-sided pint glasses, give them a Spiegelau four-piece tasting set, which comes with the IPA glass, a glass for stouts, one for common ales, and one for American wheat beer. While I would still prefer a German Weizen glass for my wheat beer, this is a very nice set and would be enjoyed by a beer lover provided their cupboards are not already overflowing with glassware. Available for $37 at Kegworks as well as some Total Wine & More! locations.

Grade: B-

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BrüMate Hopsulator BOTT’L Stainless Steel Insulated Bottle Cooler - Strategist writer Dominique Pariso first turned the world on to Brümate’s stainless-steel coozies when she wrote that they kept her slender White Claw ice cold, even on a hot summer day.

Current ad copy states, “Luckily for the beer drinker in your life, BrüMate’s Hopsulator coozie comes in a standard size that’ll keep their favorite 12-ounce bottles of IPA ice cold, too.” This is pure balderdash in my book as most folks who are serious about their suds are not bottle babies and would much prefer to consume their beer from a glass. Grade: D Beer Across America Monthly Beer Club Subscription – One would believe the best gift you could give someone who loves beer is, well, beer. According to the folks from Beer Across America, “we offer a customizable monthly subscription of beer samples from all over the country your beer lover is sure to enjoy.” Each month, for however long you choose, Beer Across America delivers four varieties of award-winning beer from two independent craft breweries that have been curated by a panel of experts. If your beer enthusiast can’t hit the road discovering new brews on their own, this subscription might be their best bet.” This can be a hit or miss strategy depending on two factors. First, who is on this “panel of experts”? Second, many breweries (and some retailers) use beer clubs and assortment packages to rid themselves of brews which have or are close to their expiration date. My advice would be to start with a short subscription as a trial and then re-upping if the beer is of very good or better quality. Grade: C Kegco 24” Wide Triple Tap Stainless Steel Kegerator – According to The Strategist. com, this is “for the serious beer lover, we recommend a Kegerator — that is, a fridge for a keg. While definitely pricey, a Kegerator is a great way to spruce up a home-bar setup for your beer collector,”. She likes this 24-inch model from Kegco that can accommodate a

full-size keg; a quarter-size barrel; or three narrower slim kegs. It also comes with three taps and caster wheels for easy mobility, and can be converted into a regular refrigerator by adding the two included shelves. Andrew McNally, the founder and Brewmaster at Common Bond Brewers — Montgomery, Alabama’s only production brewery — agrees that “a kegerator makes a great gift,” adding, “You get to serve draft like the pros in the comfort of your very own (wo) man cave.” Well, I say hold on for a second bullseye. Before buying someone a keg box, you’d better be part of the family, otherwise this purchase is akin to giving your niece or nephew a drum set without parental approval. The Kegco is a solid residential unit, but having three taps at home is more than a little over the top…as is the price tag of $1,311 from Beverage Factory. Grade: CTasting Beer, 2nd Edition: An Insider’s Guide to the World’s Greatest Drink – I’d be hard pressed to not recommend Randy Mosher’s Tasting Beer for anyone who wants to develop and refine their palate and develop a better understanding of the sensory components of the beer they’re drinking.

Anyone who seriously drinks beer needs this book, as is evidenced by the dog-eared copy I keep on the bookshelf in my own brewery.

Randy was one of my instructors at Siebel Institute and conveys all aspects of beer in a very approachable manner. Available on Amazon for $18. Grade: A+ There you have it; a partial guide to beery gift giving for 2021. Should you be stumped

December 16 to December 22, 2021

BY BREWMASTER ED HEETHUIS and are looking for more personalized advice, simply hit me with an email at the address contained within the disclaimer below.

When Ed Heethuis isn’t brewing at Spotlight 29 Casino for 29 Brews, you will find the Certified Cicerone / Brewmaster out on his road bike, sampling the latest Holiday brews, or talking beer with the patrons at Taproom 29. He may be reached at: heethuis.ed@ gmail.com or wherever beer may be found in the wild.

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

C

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

No. 504

REBOOTS, SEQUELS, THREEQUELS & FOURQUELS

oming next year and already in the cinematic pipeline, are nearly twodozen films intended for theatrical release. Most of the main characters or themes are familiar to moviegoers by a few words.

Check this list out.

SCREAM (January 14), THE BATMAN (March 4), DOWNTON ABBEY, DOCTOR STRANGE, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, THOR, LEGALLY BLONDE (May 20), TOP GUN:

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS narrative that connects with our real lives and times.

Disappointed in this big, well-crafted but mostly empty piece of popular entertainment.

If you are a regular reader of this column, I like hearing from you. Have you seen WEST SIDE STORY? What did you think? Do you plan to see it in a theater or will wait to catch it on a streaming platform of 4K/UHD? robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com MAVERICK (May 27), JOHN WICK, JURASSIC WORLD, BLACK PANTHER, MINIONS, PUSS IN BOOTS, SPIDERMAN: INTO THE SPIDERVERSE, HALLOWEEN, CREED, AQUAMAN and AVATAR. Stephen Spielberg’s WEST-SIDE STORY the first of the reboots is already on the big theater screen and getting mostly positive reviews.

Was there a motivation for Spielberg to tackle an update of the Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise directed 1961 classic besides the challenge of doing a musical for the first time?

Spielberg is technically proficient, but besides the well-crafted product on display, where is the passion and urgency

16

to say noting of any deeper meaning, in this great looking movie so nicely timed for the holiday season.

The film’s story is Romeo & Juliet on the streets of New York City, but here it’s Tony and Maria whose romance further fuels the conflict between the rival gangs Jets and Sharks.

Shakespeare explored notions of love, violence, identity and death Spielberg does not step aside from incorporating these relevant notions.

Certainly any update of this potent material must put a lens (no pun intended) on racism itself.

Is that too much to expect in our turbulent times? We crave meaningful

SAFETY TIPS

I

always enjoy Harvey Mackay’s articles.

I thought this one was especially good, and the timing was right. Enjoy the article and share it, as it is a good reminder for all of us!

No matter how you celebrate the holidays, or even which holidays you celebrate, chances are you know about Santa Claus. The jolly old guy brings merriment to the season, but he also teaches us many valuable lessons.

Of course, the first is the value of giving.

Aside from milk and cookies, Santa doesn’t get anything in return for all the gifts he shares with others. That is the real spirit of giving: not expecting anything in return. The joy of giving is reward enough.

Santa is a genius in marketing and public relations. His image is everywhere, and I’m pretty sure he doesn’t pay a dime for the exposure. He attracts crowds wherever he goes. Businesses put him front and center in ads, decorations, even in big comfy chairs in prime locations in shopping malls. They practically beg him to show up!

He is recognizable and hasn’t changed his basic look since time began. More people can identify Santa than the president. His distinctive style of dress will never get him on a best-dressed list, but he doesn’t concern

CYBER CORNER

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LESSONS FROM SANTA

himself with that. His message has remained the same: a simple “Ho, Ho, Ho.” He doesn’t drive the latest model car. He is who he is and is content with that. What he does is more important than fad or fashion.

His attitude is contagious. He is always positive, reminding young and old alike to be good for goodness’ sake. How he keeps track of who is naughty or nice doesn’t really matter — he encourages everyone to be their best. He rewards good behavior. And who doesn’t like to be recognized for trying?

Santa respects deadlines. He knows from one Dec. 25 to the next that he has customers

December 16 to December 22, 2021

FROM THE CHIEF’S CORNER

to satisfy. He is beholden to the calendar. It wouldn’t work to try to stretch it into January or February. Reliability is an important trait.

Santa understands the value of tradition.

Most of us have family or cultural traditions that bind us together. Businesses have traditions that customers anticipate. But have you ever noticed what happens when someone tries to change a long-held tradition? Santa knows better.

Customer service is high on his priority list.

He aims to please, and he rarely disappoints.

I’m guessing he reads every letter written in a childish scrawl before he makes his list. If you happen to overhear a conversation between Santa and a child asking for the hottest toy of the year, you will likely hear a promise to do his best, but he has some other great ideas too. He won’t promise what he can’t deliver.

Teamwork is central to his operation.

The demands on him are enormous. He understands that he can’t do it alone. A workshop full of elves and a team of nine little reindeer help him accomplish an impossible task year after year. I’ve heard there is magic involved, but I have no evidence to support it.

In that same vein, he epitomizes leadership. He leads his team, but he also

T

he majority of today's successful businesses are well aware of typical data security risks and place a high level of confidence in their efforts to prevent a data security breach. However, as recent security breaches at Target, LivingSocial, Facebook, Gmail, and Twitter have revealed, no set of security measures is immune to a breach. According to Ponemon Institute statistics, "the average aggregated total cost of a data breach has risen from $3.8 million to $4 million" in recent years. Companies can limit the harm to themselves and their customers by taking the appropriate procedures following a data breach. What today's firms must consider is: what will you do if your security and data loss prevention procedures fail in the event of a data breach?

If your company has been the victim of a data breach and you're not sure what to do next, take these measures to assist limit the damage: 1: Determine the Source and the Scope of the Breach - The first step is to determine the source and scope of the breach so that it may be addressed as soon as possible. You should ideally have intrusion detection and/ or prevention systems (IDS and IPS) in place that can automatically log such security occurrences. Using these logs, you may determine the source of the breach, which files were accessed, and what actions the intruder performed. This information is critical for your future steps. If your network does not have IDS/IPS, gathering this information will take much more time and effort on the part of your IT team.

2. Address the Breach As Soon As Possible Your first objective in controlling a data breach should be to close all possible entry points for the breach and to halt traffic to the affected areas. This includes the following: • Network traffic rerouting

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA guides the rest of the believers toward the right path. He is consistent with his values.

He is patient. He works hard. He is forgiving of mistakes and loves what he does. And that brings me to my next point.

I’m fond of saying: “Love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” There can be no question that this guy wouldn’t want to do anything else. Santa couldn’t do what he has done for centuries without real enthusiasm for his efforts.

Santa takes his work very seriously, but he doesn’t take himself seriously. He loves to laugh, make people happy, bring surprises and spread good cheer. Santa understands that fun is good. In a world full of serious problems, bringing a little happiness is a welcome relief. We can all do something to brighten someone else’s day.

Thank you, Santa, thank you Harvey Mackay for a great reminder: https://lnkd. in/d_9Z58ei Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

BY DENNIS SHELLY

• Obtaining a clean backup copy of essential data and transferring it to a new network • Disregarding the already compromised network • All passwords must be changed You should also keep account of all fees and expenses associated with controlling the data breach since this will be required for filing a criminal complaint and a data breach insurance claim.

3. Notify the Authorities as Well as ALL Affected Customers - Once you've put a patch in place and verified that it works, notify the authorities and notify any customers who may have been impacted by the incident. Federal authorities may be able to assist you with critical instructions for complying with your industry's post-breach regulatory criteria.

Contacting consumers tells them that they may need to take steps to safeguard their identity, such as canceling credit cards and changing bank account details. This may be inconvenient for them, but it is preferable to be caught off guard by identity theft.

Three key parts of your notification when contacting consumers are: Time. Customers will have more time to

defend themselves from fraud if you notify them of a breach as soon as possible.

Information. Include as much information as possible regarding the type and scope of the breach. If client information has been compromised, notify them of the information that has been stolen.

Thoroughness. All impacted parties must be notified of the incident. If feasible, use more than one contact channel (email, phone, etc.) to ensure that all relevant parties are reached.

Be transparent and honest about the breach and the danger to your customers in your conversations with them.

4. Customer and Public Relations Management - How you communicate the breach to your customers, vendors, and the general public can have a significant impact on whether your company survives or fails. It's usual practice to send out an email, but it's also a good idea to set up a contact center to address any concerns that impacted people may have.

Accept responsibility, explain why the breach occurred, and the measures you are doing to set things right in your correspondence. It's also critical that you explain how you plan to avoid this from happening again in the future

and allow impacted persons to speak with your organization about the matter. Finally, include information on credit monitoring or any other service or special offer in your alerts.

5. Prepare for Damage Control and PostBreach Cleanup - A data breach can have long-term consequences even after the initial intrusion has been "fixed." Following a breach, there is typically a loss of customer confidence, and regaining the public's faith in your company may be challenging. You may decrease the cost of a breach by rapidly neutralizing it and reducing the impact of the breach. A small business data breach, on the other hand, can be costly and time-consuming to recover from.

A data breach may occur at any time, and small firms are frequently targeted. Don't let another day go by feeling unprepared because you know your company is exposed to cyberattacks. No doubt, a data breach is a difficult event for any organization, but it does not have to entirely impair your operations. You'll be far more likely to recover from a data breach and resume business as normal if you create a detailed data breach response plan and ensure you have the appropriate insurance coverage in place.

Have a suggestion for our next article or need help after a breach or ensuring it doesn’t happen to you? Our Eggsperts are eggspert’s in data and network security and are standing by to help. Please contact us by calling (760) 205-0105 or emailing us at tech@eggheadit. com and our Eggsperts are happy to help you with your questions or suggestions.

IT | Networks | Security | Phones | A/V | Integration

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

EVENTS

T

he second annual Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival, “A Passion 4 Pinot,” will return to the Coachella Valley on Saturday, January 8, at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert. There will be over 60 top-tier Pinot Noir producing wineries, offering a unique opportunity to engage with winery owners and winemakers while learning about winemaking practices and philosophies.

The Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival is the second largest Pinot Noir tasting event in the country, drawing attendees from around the country for an opportunity to learn about

TRAVEL TIPS4U

"This annual event includes a lit Hollywood-style movie set-themed as Main Street at Santa’s North Pole. hanks to the Cathedral City Public Arts Commission and the amazing work by the theatrical stage artists from the Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre

T

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this wine varietal as well as the artists and craft behind it. Sophisticated casual dress is suggested for the event.

David Fraschetti is the producer of the Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival. He also produces the 4th annual Rancho Mirage Wine and Food Festival and the 8th annual VinDiego Wine and Food Festival in San Diego. Both events have been put on hold until 2023. The first Pinot Noir Festival event was a total success that sold out at the Ritz Carlton’s ballroom in Rancho Mirage with attendees flying from 14 different states to visit. The Festival has moved over to the beautiful J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa, and Fraschetti is absolutely delighted to partner with the property and staff.

“We do things very differently than other events. First off, we never allow Beer or Spirits at our events. Our focus is on fine wine, first and foremost. Our event is not the typical ‘Drunk Fest’ unlike so many other events both here in the Coachella Valley and elsewhere in Southern California. We never allow other types of alcohol, because one shot of hard spirits, like vodka, whisky or tequila, numbs your taste buds so a person can never taste the unique nuances of the wonderful wines that are poured, which is a disservice to wineries,” explained Fraschetti.

The size and scope of the Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival is also limited to ensure a more intimate and enjoyable gathering of wine lovers. The event will feature 60 different wineries from all over the state of California.

Fraschetti himself does not have a favorite Pinot Noir, as that would be like picking a favorite child of his. He does, however, prefer California Pinots over Oregon Pinot Noir any day of the week.

“I learned many years ago that when it comes to wine festivals, bigger is not better.

In fact, it’s the complete opposite. Those who have attended my events before know that our event is a first class fun event that is designed for all types of wine lovers, from novices to expert Somms. It’s not snobbish; it’s a fun-filled afternoon that allows one to learn, taste and fall in love with amazing Pinot Noir from the best that California has to offer,” stated Fraschetti.

A silent auction will also be held at the event to benefit the nonprofit, Les Dames d’Escoffier International Palm Springs, which provides scholarships to women pursuing careers in the hospitality, culinary arts, and related fields, in which 100 percent of the money raised is donated to the organization.

“We have built very strong and lasting relationships with our partner wineries. I sent

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL out invitations to attend back in June and the response was immediate. Wineries that know me and are familiar with the type of event that I produce signed up within minutes. As word about the event rapidly spread within the wine industry, I had requests from some of the best Pinot Noir Producing wineries from all over California asking to partner with us for this high end- high class wine tasting event. Our partner wineries love the fact that we only allow top tier wine. Unlike other events, we are not trying to be everything to everyone; our focus is on great Pinot Noir,” said Fraschetti.

To comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines, fully vaccinated attendees, staff, volunteers, and winery personnel must present proof of vaccination to enter the event. For those who are not vaccinated or partially vaccinated, proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the festival that was performed by an FDA-authorized or CLIA certified lab must be presented.

A limited number of tickets are now on sale for the festival and can be purchased.

Early entry at 1:30 p.m. costs 150 dollars for attendees while general admission tickets will go for 125 dollars with a 2:30 p.m. start. Sixperson group rates are also available for 750 dollars for the 1:30 p.m. start time, and 660 dollars for the 2:30 p.m. start. The Pinot Noir Festival will conclude at 5:30 p.m.

For those attending the Festival, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is offering a special discount. To make reservations, visit palmspringspinotfest.com/travel-lodging. For additional information about the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, visit https://bit. ly/3xKc8KV. To purchase tickets to the Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival before they sell out, and to learn more about the Festival, go to the website palmspringspinotfest.com.

NORTH POLE VILLAGE 2021

and local artists, the 'North Pole Village' comes to life in front of City Hall. This Hollywoodstyle movie set depicts 'main street' at Santa’s North Pole – all lit with holiday lights. It is the ultimate backdrop for the family holiday pictures and selfies.

"The 'North Pole Village' features nearly

20 store fronts painted as if they came right out of a children’s book. Best of all, the 'North Pole Village' will remain as a static display all the way through the beginning of the New Year and ending on January 9, 2022.

Think Holiday season 2021 and Enjoy the all the Fun!

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY LYNNE TUCKER

SENDME ATRAINER

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BY NADIA POPOVA

G

oing to the gym isn’t the only way to get in a great workout.

Working out at home can be just as effective and so much more convenient.

While a gym provides a dedicated space, home workouts offer more flexibility and can be more efficient. It all depends on how you use your time and equipment to maximize your effort.

The first thing to realize about Home Workouts is that It’s convenient. You can skip traffic, and you don’t have to leave your house or work out during specific times.

It’s also cost-effective. You don’t have to pay gym membership fees, and there’s no need for fancy or expensive equipment to get a great workout.

What’s an Effective Home Workout?

An effective workout doesn’t have to take a long time or need equipment like heavy-duty weights. Intermittent intervals of working out for 10 minutes at a time, three times a day can be as effective as one 30-minute session.

The important thing is to get started.

Here are some ideas: Find sufficient space to do your workouts.

This could a spot in your bedroom, the den, a patio or even the backyard or front porch. Some of our clients exercise in their backyard, by the pool or in the living room.

At a minimum, it should have enough

space for a yoga mat and for you to stretch your arms in all directions without hitting anything.

Plan your workouts. Set days and times to exercise, and hold yourself accountable with an alarm or reminder on your smartphone. If you struggle with motivation, team up with a local professional who come to people’s homes like at cvsendmeatrainer.com.

Use your body weight. Body weight activities, when used correctly, can be as effective as weight-lifting for building muscle. By modifying your workouts and increasing the intensity or duration over time, you’ll make the most of it. Keep in mind: ● Try planks, lunges, squats, stairclimbing and pushups as great body weight exercises. ● Up the ante of your body weight circuits by increasing the number of repetitions per workout. ● Use proper form to prevent injury. Ask a professional to correct your form or watch a tutorial online before diving into new workouts.

You may not know the correct form for various exercises. This means you could injure yourself, so it’s best to stick to exercises you are already comfortable with or hire a professional that will come to you.

Please visit our website for more details.

December 16 to December 22, 2021

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

WEEK OF DECEMBER 16

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Key questions for you, beginning now and throughout 2022: 1.

What do you need to say, but have not yet said?

2. What is crucial for you to do, but you have not yet done? 3. What dream have you neglected and shouldn’t neglect any longer? 4. What sanctuary is essential for you to visit, but you have not yet visited? 5. What “sin” is it important for you to forgive yourself for, but you have not yet forgiven yourself? 6. What promise have you not yet fulfilled, even though it’s getting late (but not too late!) to fulfill? 7. What secret have you hidden so well that you have mostly concealed it even from yourself?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus novelist Anthony Trollope (1815–1882) took one of his manuscripts to a publishing company, hoping it would be made into a book and sold to the public.

A few weeks later, he got word by mail that his masterpiece had been rejected. He took a train to the publisher’s office and retrieved it. On the train ride home, he turned the manuscript over and began writing a new story on the back of each page. He spent no time moping. That’s the spirit I recommend you embody in the coming weeks, dear Taurus.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “John Coltrane was an addict,” wrote author Cornel West about the renowned jazz saxophonist and composer.

“Billie Holiday was an addict. [Nobel Prizewinning author] Eugene O’Neill was an addict.

What would America be without addicts and post-addicts who make such grand contributions to our society?” I welcome West’s sympathetic views toward addicts. Many of us who aren’t addicts understand how lucky we are not to have the genetic predisposition or the traumatic experiences that addicts often struggle with. We unaddicted people may also have been spared the bigotry and abuse that have contributed to and aggravated some addicts’ addictions.

Having acknowledged these truths, I nevertheless hope to do whatever I can to help you convert any addictive tendencies you might have into passionate obsessions. Now is an excellent time to launch a new phase of such work. Invitation: Make a list of three things you can do in the coming months to nurture the process.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Actor and model Kate Beckinsale unleashed a cryptic boast: “My best feature is unfortunately a private matter, although I’m told it is spectacular. But you can’t really walk it down the red carpet. What can I say?” Are you imagining what I’m imagining? I bring this oddity to your attention in the hope that I can convince you to be more forthright and expressive about your own wonderful qualities.

It’s time to be less shy about your beauty, less secretive about your deep assets. Show the world why you’re so lovable.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leo-born Edna Ferber (1885–1968) was a celebrated author who won a Pulitzer Prize. She was witty and outspoken. Her stories featured strong women and characters struggling against discrimination. “I never would just open a door and walk through,” she said about her career. “I had to bust it down for the hell of it. I just naturally liked doing things the hard way.” At least in the coming weeks, Leo, I urge you NOT to adopt Ferber’s attitude. In my view, you’ll be wise to do everything possible to open doors rather than bust them down. And the best way to do that is to solicit help. Cultivate your ability to ask for what you need. Refine your practice of the arts of collaboration, synergy, and interweaving.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “No one has ever written, painted, sculpted, modeled, built, or invented except literally to get out of hell,” wrote Virgo dramatist Antonin Artaud. That’s a ridiculous generalization, in my opinion. For example, I occasionally generate songs, stories, and horoscopes to help me escape from a momentary hell. But most of my creations are inspired by my love of life and a desire to inspire others. I’m very sure that in the coming weeks, your own motivations to produce good things will be far closer to mine than to Artaud’s. You’re in a phase when your quest for joy, generosity,

© Copyright 2021 Rob Brezsny

blessings, and fun could be fierce and productive.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Author Barbara Sher offered this wise counsel: “Imaginary obstacles are insurmountable. Real ones aren’t.” I bring this to your attention because I believe the coming weeks will be an excellent time to identify the imaginary obstacles you’ve erected in your inner world—and then smash them or burn them or dispose of them. Once you’re free of the illusory interference, I think you’ll find you have at least twice as much power to neutralize the real obstacles.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Prolific author Ray Bradbury liked to give advice to those with a strong need to express their imaginative originality.

Since I expect you will be a person like that in 2022, I’ll convey to you one of his exhortations.

He wrote, “If you want to create, you must be the most sublime fool that God ever turned out and sent rambling. I wish you a wrestling match with your Creative Muse that will last a lifetime. I wish craziness and foolishness and madness upon you.” Keep in mind that Bradbury was referring to constructive craziness, wise foolishness, and divine madness.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The coming months will be a favorable time for you to redefine the meaning of the term “sacred” and to deepen your relationship with sacredness. To spur your imagination, I offer four quotes: 1. “Recognizing the sacred begins when we are interested in every detail of our lives.” —Buddhist teacher Chögyam Trungpa 2. “When you notice something clearly and see it vividly, it then becomes sacred.” —poet Allen Ginsberg 3. “Holiness begins in recognizing the face of the other.” —philosopher Marc-Alain Ouaknin 4. “Modern culture, in its advertising of sex, is in a misguided fashion advertising its longing for the sacred.” —teacher Sobonfu Somé CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn author E. M. Forster wrote, “The only books that influence us are those for which we are ready, and which have gone a little further down our particular path than we have yet gone ourselves.”

I propose we universalize that statement: “The only people, information, and experiences that influence us are those for which we are ready, and which have gone a little further down our particular path than we have yet gone ourselves.”

I believe this principle will be especially fruitful for you to embrace during the next three months. Prepare yourself for lessons that are vital for you to learn—and on the frontier of your understanding AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Among America’s Founding Fathers was Aquarian William Whipple (1730-1785). He was one of 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, instigating war with Great Britain. Unlike many of his colleagues, however, Whipple believed it was hypocritical to enslave human beings while fighting for freedom. That’s why he emancipated the person who had been in bondage to him.

The coming months will be a favorable time to make comparable corrections, Aquarius. If there are discrepancies between your ideals and your actions, fix the problem.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): According to Piscean author Ryunosuke Akutagawa, “People sometimes devote their lives to a desire that they are not sure will ever be fulfilled.” So true! I can personally attest to that behavior. Is such a quest misguided? Delusional? Naive? Not in my view. I see it as glorious, brave, and heroic. Akutagawa did too. He said that those who refrain from having inspirational desires are “no more than mere spectators of life.” In any case, I recommend you think big in 2022, Pisces. From an astrological angle, this could be the year you home in on and refine and upgrade the single most important desire you will ever have.

Homework. Tell me your most important lesson of the year. https://Newsletter.

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

21

December 16 to December 22, 2021

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HADDON LIBBY

BOWLS GAMES AD NAUSEUM

W

hen you see the <put your name here> Bowl games this year, realize that it is part of a sporting complex that pays out over $500 million to the schools and conferences participating.

ESPN owns or has the broadcast rights to all but three games: the Holiday Bowl (Fox), the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on CBS (which I’m told should be great), and the Arizona Bowl by Barstool Sports.

Bowl games get started on December 17th in the Bahamas with the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and their middling 6-6 record playing the 7-5 Toledo Rockets. The payout on this game is a mere $225,000.

In comparison, five conferences have deals with the Orange, Rose, and Sugar Bowls where these conferences get $66 million each to split amongst its teams. These conferences get another $6 million for each team in the playoffs and an additional $4 million if a team plays in one of the other New Year’s Day games. This means that Alabama, Michigan, and Georgia will get $6 million for their appearances in the playoffs. As Cincinnati is not in one of these conferences, they will get $1.67 million. Each team will also receive nearly $2.5 million for travel expenses for each game.

Also on the 17th is the Tailgreeter Cure Bowl from Exploria Stadium in Orlando. This bowl pays out roughly $600K to Northern Illinois and Coastal Carolina. Breaking this one down a bit, Tailgreeter is an app that aims to making tailgating more accessible. How

BY HADDON LIBBY

one makes enough money from promoting tailgating is lost on me. This bowl game is owned by ESPN, which is in turn owned by Disney.

Looking over the rest of the ESPN Bowl Series, the 18th is busy with games starting when we wake up at 8a and ending more than twelve hours later after six games have been shown on Disney’s ESPN or ABC. After no games on Sunday the 19th, there is a bowl game every night through New Year’s Day when get five games.

The Championship semi-final games come on New Year’s Eve when #2 Michigan plays #3 Georgia in the Capital One Orange Bowl in Miami at the Hard Rock Stadium, and #1

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

Alabama plays #4 Cincinnati in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic near Dallas. The National Championship comes on January 10th in Indianapolis at the Lucas Oil Stadium For those needing just one more fix before that big game, 7-5 Kansas State plays 6-6 LSU on January 4th in the Texas Bowl in Houston at NRG Stadium.

Corporate sponsors pay big money for naming rights although some seem to be more valuable than others. For example, on the 18th, Northern Illinois plays Coastal Carolina in the RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl. The 18th also hosts late night host Jimmy Kimmel’s bowl appropriately named the Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl at SoFi Stadium.

Playing in SoFi Stadium should be an amazing experience for Eastern Michigan and Liberty and few others as few non-alums want watch these two 7-5 teams.

Truckers have their own bowl this year with the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans on the 18th. Even if the game stinks, there is always Bourbon Street.

It makes sense that the Idaho Potato Bowl is played in Albertson’s Stadium in Boise. This game happens on the 21st when the barely bowl eligible Kent State (7-6) plays an even weaker 6-6 Wyoming team. The only game with a weaker match-up is on Christmas Eve when a 6-6 Memphis team plays 6-7 Hawaii team in the EasyPost Hawaii Bowl in Honolulu.

Let the games begin!

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For more info, please visit WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

DON’T LET THESE HOLIDAY SCAMS HAPPEN TO YOU!

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hieves are very inventive during the Christmas Holiday Season. Here are some scams that take place.

Remember, if it SOUNDS too good to be true it is probably a SCAM. You did not win the lottery in Spain, The Netherlands, Canada or anywhere else. You didn’t buy a tix did you? A poor widow or bank manager does not need your help to move money from a dead person’s account to another place. The IRS is not electronically auditing you. The Jury Clerk never calls for your Social Security number. Bank and Credit Card companies do not email you to verify your information.

Scam artists use the information they obtain above to steal your identity. Don’t be a victim of the Scams below: CAR PURCHASE WITH HIGH INTEREST: You decide to buy a car and the dealer says they cannot accept your bank draft/ check to pay for the car. They say that although your account might be okay, your bank has a history of bouncing checks and they blame the banking system. They are saying this to get you to buy a car on credit at high interest rates……….walk away.

THE HOTEL RECEPTIONIST CALL: You would normally arrive at your hotel/ motel and check in at the front desk. You give the front desk your credit card for incidental room charges during your stay. When you get to your room you settle in.

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The SCAM is when someone calls the front desk and asks for (example) Room 620 - which happens to be your room. When the phone rings in your room you answer it and the person on the other end says ‘This is the front desk. We came across a problem with your credit card information when you checked into the hotel/motel. Would you please provide me with your credit card number and verify the last 3 digits numbers on the reverse side of your card.'

Thinking this is the front desk, you might give the caller your information. But actually, this is a scam where someone calls from outside the hotel/motel and asks for a random room number. They then ask you for your credit card and home address information. You provide the requested information because it sounds so professional and you think you are talking to the front desk.

If this happens to you, please tell the caller that you will be right down to the front desk to clear up any problems. When you get to the front desk ask if there was a problem.

If there was none, advise the hotel manager that someone called to Scam you out of your credit card information by acting as a front desk employee.

ANYONE traveling should be aware of this SCAM! JURY DUTY:

Someone calls pretending to be a court official who says a warrant has been issued for your arrest because you didn't show up for jury duty. Sometimes they even ask you for a credit card number so they can process the cancellation. If you give out any information …your identity has just been stolen!

PHONE OFFERS: If it sounds too good to be true……it is a scam. Don’t fall for the alleged relative/friend who has just had his wallet stolen in Europe and is contacting you for money to get back to the US. Anyone can set up a phony email account to contact you and pretend to be a friend or relative IN NEED. CHECKS: Never put your complete credit card account number on your check when paying a bill. You are better off using your work address and work number on your checks.

CREDIT CARDS: Always write on the back of your credit card “ASK FOR ID”. Always make copies of the front and back of all credit cards so you will have that information if they are lost or stolen.

LUGGAGE: Remove old airline tags from your bags and never list your home address on your luggage. That info makes it too easy for someone to know you are not home and

burglarize your home.

ID THEFT: If you think you are the victim of an ID Theft then cancel your credit cards ASAP, place a fraud alert on them and call the police to make a report.

REPORT POTENTIAL ID THEFT: Equifax: 800-525-6285. Fraud alert 888766-0008 Experian (formerly TRW) 888-397-3742 Trans Union: 800-680-7289 Social Security Administration: 800-2690271 DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER………THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN GETTING IN AN ACCIDENT OR ARRESTED AND CALLING ME. LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNS “DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER”.

Ideas for future columns contact Dale Gribow 760-837-7500 or dale@ dalegribowlaw.com.

DALE GRIBOW Representing the Injured and Criminally Accused “TOP LAWYER” - California’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 201122 “TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine 2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

December 16 to December 22, 2021

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December 16 to December 22, 2021

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