Coachella Valley Weekly - December 20 to December 26, 2018 Vol. 7 No. 40

coachellavalleyweekly.com • December 20 to December 26, 2018 Vol. 7 No. 40

Staff Picks Best of 2018

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KCOD CoachellaFM

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He Films The Clouds

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Upper Crust Pizza

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Olga Rodriguez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Sunny Simon, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Denise Ortuno Neil, Dee Jae Cox, Patte Purcell, Angela Romeo,Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Elizabeth Scarcella, Aimee Mosco, Matt Claborn, Michelle Anne Rizzio Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS West Coast Cannabis Club.................. 3-5 CV Weekly Staff Picks for 2018.......... 5-7 KCOD CoachellaFM ................................ 8 'The Next Best Thing' at Spotlight 29.... 8 He Films The Clouds............................... 9 Consider This - David Bowie............... 10 Art Scene - Jeff Howe........................... 11 Pet Place ............................................... 12 The Vino Voice ...................................... 13

WEST COAST CANNABIS CLUB NOW OPEN IN PALM DESERT

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n Friday, December 7, the Palm Desert Chamber cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Palm Desert dispensary, the West Coast Cannabis Club. While dispensaries throughout the Coachella Valley abound, particularly in Cathedral City, this is among the first in Palm Desert. Located on Highway 111 and Deep Canyon, this 1,200 square foot retail store is the brainchild of owner Kenneth Churchill. Since opening in Cathedral City in 2016, WCCC has grown rapidly, first expanding to its Highway 111 location, with another 28,000 square foot space in the old KESQ building on Cook still being renovated which will hopefully be open in eight months. The second space will be a completely integrated business with everything from cultivation of marijuana to retail, and everything in between (aside from testing). There are even plans to possibly expand WCCC to San Luis Obispo, but for now, Churchill is loving the Coachella Valley and the West Coast Cannabis Club has found a perfect home here.

It’s fitting that owner, Kenneth Churchill, is from Colorado, the state that’s been at the very forefront of the legalization of medicinal and recreational. Growing up, Kenneth’s ambitions regarding cannabis were similar to most young Coloradans – smoking it. Through his entrepreneurial

December 20 to December 26, 2018

BY TRICIA WITKOWER PHOTOS BY ROBERT CHANCE

spirit, determination, and many sacrifices, he eventually turned that casual hobby into a thriving business he is passionate about.

After starting college at the University of Nebraska at Kearney to play football, Kenneth graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a business degree.

He’d been working in the restaurant business all throughout college and beyond, and was ready to leave the 80-hour a week grind for something more meaningful to him. He moved to San Diego and started doing cannabis delivery, which was an easy introductory way for him to get into the business. Said Churchill, “I’ve always wanted to have my own business, but didn’t really know what that would be. I just tried to hustle any way I could. Once I turned 26, I’d been working in corporate restaurants since college and knew that wasn’t at all what I saw for myself. So I had to ask what kind of a business could I start at 27 with no money…and cannabis gave us pretty interesting option. Unfortunately, I had experienced a lot of people close to me using cannabis and CBD oil to deal with cancer and other medical issues. The stories they told me about how these cannabis products helped them touched me. I saw an opportunity to make an impact on a new market and new industry.”

Churchill’s childhood friends helped out

to make his dream a reality. One friend opened his home – particularly his couch to him in the early San Diego days. Another friend scraped together the $10,000 Churchill needed to get his business started. “It’s been a completely emotional rollercoaster. The first year was rough! I had to stay with friends rent-free because they knew what I was doing and they believed in it, so they let me couch surf. My friend Josh, who gave me the loan, has a Master’s in business from the University of Denver. Tom, whose couch I slept on, has a construction background and has been a project manager on many large-scale jobs.

We’ve all also been smoking since we were younger. It’s unique in the regard that we can sit in a room of growers or financiers alike, we are well-versed in every aspect of the business.”

Since then, West Coast Cannabis Club has the distinct honor of having the first legal sale of recreational marijuana in California on January 1, 2018 at 6:00 am at their Cathedral City store. These are not simply cannabis retail stores in industrial areas, they work hard at being a part of the community in the Coachella Valley. They aim to be more of neighborhood stores.

Says Churchill, “We’re big sponsors for the Family YMCA of the Desert as well as a lot of continue to page 5

Club Crawler Nightlife ................... 14-15 Good Grub - Upper Crust Pizza........... 16 Brewtality ............................................. 17 Screeners ............................................. 18 Book Review........................................ 19 Safety Tips ............................................ 19 Haddon Libby ...................................... 21 Dale Gribow.......................................... 21 Sports Scene......................................... 22 Ask The Doctor..................................... 23 Mind, Body & Spirit.............................. 23 Free Will Astrology.............................. 24 Life & Career Coach............................. 24 Cannabis Corner.................................. 26

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JOHN GARCIA continued from page 3

local charities. We try to put our stores in the middle of neighborhoods. Our Cathedral City shop is right by Stater Bros. and in the heart of a neighborhood. A lot of other companies are really trying to focus on becoming a big brand and not as much focusing on the people who live in the communities they serve.”

Whether you have medical or recreational reasons to visit West Coast Cannabis Club, you’ll find more than just weed. As Churchill

tells it, “We have every kind of edible.

There are topicals and tinctures that focus on pain relief and sleep. We work hard to create environment where everyone feels comfortable. This is a mass retail product, no longer a niche stoner product.”

Their newly opened store is located at 74-426 Highway 111, on the corner of Deep Canyon, in Palm Desert. Their other store is located at 68828 Ramon Rd. A-2 in Cathedral City, CA 92234.

BEST OF 2018

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his year Phil and I decided to do something different and fun. As our readers know, we host 3 big events every year: The CV Music Awards, The CV Music Showcase preliminary rounds and Finals, and The Top Men & Women’s Charity Event. In our first 2 years of CV Weekly we did a Best of Awards Event for businesses, but after that, with so many other publications doing Best Of’s, we decided to focus on the other unique events that only our publication provides. But this year we thought it would be fun to have our CV Weekly team to offer up 5 of their favorite things in the CV. I told the team it could be anything: Restaurants, Bars, Events, Theatres, Casinos, Tattoo shops, Businesses, Medical, Fun things to do in town, etc. So here you go readers… “A Few of Our Favorite Things in the CV in 2018 from the CV Weekly Team.”

Tracy Dietlin - Owner/Publisher/Editor (Ok

so I went over the 5, but I wear several hats here so that makes it ok, right?)

Restaurants: Alps on Country Club in Palm Desert- This has become our favorite spot. The owner Blanca and her sister Zrinka always make us feel like we are part of their family. The food is delicious; I love the cucumber soup, chicken cabbage soup, pretzel and every entrée on the menu. They also have a cool bar that has my Cucumber Mint Ketel One vodka as well as a great wine selection.

Luna Grill on Highway 111 in Palm DesertWe eat here at least once a week, sometimes more. I love their chicken kabob plate and the prices are reasonable. Grubhub also delivers from there too.

Melange at Lake La Quinta on Caleo Bay in La Quinta- This is another cozy place with an upscale flair. I love their chicken piccatta and scallops.

Very cool atmosphere and bar inside where you

can even cozy up to the fireplace, but the outside dining and view are amazing.

Acqua California Bistro at The River in Rancho Mirage- I’ve never had a bad meal there.

The menu is so extensive that it’s hard to decide, but it reassures there is something for everyone.

And owner Jerry Keller is the best!

Bars: Desert Fox on San Pablo in Palm DesertThis small bar has a very cool vibe and I love to go there to hear acoustic performances. It’s different than any other watering holes in the valley. And they also have my Cucumber Mint Ketel One vodka. Score!! And owner Mark green is one cool cat!

Big Rock Pub on Jefferson in Indio- Phil and I spend entirely too much time there. We love all of the staff and feel like family there. It has that Cheers feeling for us. The food is great and we enjoy hearing our favorite bands perform there

as the sound is always good. Owner Ken Hanna is a great guy and our very own girl, Lisa Morgan, does a fantastic job booking the entertainment.

Miramonte Resort/The Well Spa- My favorite place in the valley to get a massage. I recommend Monica as she’s the best in town. The Citrus & Palm Restaurant is also a fave with Chef Paul always serving unique dishes. It’s a fun place to enjoy live music too. If you’re looking for a local Staycation this is your spot; it will make you feel like you’re in Tuscany.

My Little Flower Shop in Palm Springs- Owner Gregory Goodman always takes such good care of us and provides the most beautiful arrangements in the desert; very unique and artistic. I still have one of his almost 3 foot arrangements in my dining room from months ago. Yes the flowers are dead, but it still looks pretty cool.

Venus de Fido in Palm Desert- This place is amazing! Where else can you go to get a facial, massage, sit in the salt cave, workout, take a yoga class, have lunch, shop in their boutique, play a game of squash, have lunch or a glass of wine and enjoy live music AND be able to bring your dog with you for a spa treatment of their own or to run in the indoor dog park. They host events there too! Lorie Loftis is doing a great job running it.

Events: Concert for Autism Benefit at The Tack Room- This event is put on by Josh and Linda Heinz and it gets bigger and better every year.

It’s kind of like a mini local Coachella. They put a continue to page 6

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STAFF PICKS continued from page 5 lot of time and love into this event and it shows. nowhere near the gems in my record collection, All my favorite local bands at one event! And of 2018 being no exception (‘Blood Kisses’ 3xlp on course, the money raised goes to support the green and ‘Rocka Rolla’ LP on Cola Green). Not to Autism Foundation. mention countless band shirts (still have my first Jeff Bowman’s Mixed Up Music Party at band/Metallica shirt I got there back in ’93) and The Hood- This was such a great concept that other merch/collectables!

Jeff came up with, to have all these musicians Shipping/Mailbox Service: The UPS Store be put in bands by having their names drawn #4781- Although I have not been an employee randomly, then rehearsing with said bands and in the store for 4 years now, I still visit Beth and then performing a set of songs at this show. her team weekly in La Quinta for Mailbox service, There were 5 bands and they all gave worthy printing and other services! They are without performances like super groups. Can’t wait until question the best! next year when he does it again. And the money Concert/Event: Idyllwild Strong: Cranston raised at the door went to support the Desert Fire Benefit Festival- An amazing experience Cancer Foundation. not only to play, but more importantly to see Mai Hair Salon on El Paseo in Palm Desert- our local communities in almost no time at all, I absolutely love Maily. She gets my hair color come together to benefit those impacted by the done perfectly every time. She even talked me Cranston fire. A truly amazing event! Puke for into letting her cut a few inches off a couple Prez! months ago.

Tricia Witkower - Feature Writer Restaurant: Lavender Bistro - In my opinion, Phil Lacombe - Distribution Manager/Social this is an easy choice for best restaurant in the Media Guru/Club Crawler Editor Coachella Valley. Everyone from the owner to 2nd Amendment Sports - Just an awesome the busboys make you feel like you’re a part of place to shoot with a very knowledgeable staff. their Lavender family. The food is nothing short Stuft Pizza - I honestly have never had a bad of delicious. The outdoor patio is like a fairy meal there. wonderland of twinkling lights and rich ambience.

Laser Oasis - It just brings out the kid in me.

Bob Allen (the house musician) is always ready Miramonte - The massage therapists to play your favorite songs. An absolute gem for (Miranda in particular) is by far the best in the all occasions – I’ve had everything from a casual valley. dinner to my wedding rehearsal dinner for 30 Ralph’s in Bermuda Dunes - Great staff!! Love there. this grocery store.

La Fe Wine Bar- Such a cute, cozy addition to the El Paseo landscape. The staff and owners Robert Chance – Art Director are friendly and helpful, whether you need wine Mexican Restaurant – Pueblo Viejo Grill in suggestions or are trying to decide between the Indio. A place that my adorable wife lovingly short rib grits and the chicken tacos (try both). As refers to as “Pablo Pendejo” because she forgets soon as you enter, everyone learns your name. how to pronounce the real name. We frequent Consider La Fe your upscale version of Cheers. this quaint, hole in the wall often and have never Vet: Paws N Claws Urgent Care- What a find been disappointed. this was for me, at a time when I was driving all Movie Theater – TIE Between Mary Pickford the way back to San Diego to my old vet because is D’Place in Cathedral City and Century La I couldn’t find a good enough vet for my golden Quinta and XD. Both have reserved reclining bestie. Dr. Jameson and Dr. Rimbaud are both seats and serve alcohol. Pickford gets BONUS warm, personable, and make me feel like Fenway points for having DBOX seats and Century LQ gets is their favorite patient (but I do think he really BONUS points for proximity to my home. might be). When Fenway barges through their Local Attraction – Palm Springs Aerial doors, he’s greeted by name by everyone, who Tramway. Everything about it, from the ride all seemed legitimately delighted to see him. Vet experience to the mountain station to the brisk tech, Seth, is a dog whisperer of sorts and one environment. It’s one of my favorite places to be of the only people who I trust to really deal with in this whole valley.

Fenway’s ear problems. Paws N Claws prices are Event – Coachella Music & Arts Festival. shockingly reasonable, and they always find time As 13-year-old kid, I attended the very first one to fit in appointments on the fly. in ’99 and witnessed the crusade that is Rage Event: Swing ‘N Hops Street Party- I’m a little Against The Machine. Life changing shit. I went biased on this, since I’ve organized this fantastic from attending almost every year to working El Paseo event since its inception 4 years ago. But there every year. I still love the environment, the it really is a fun time! There’s swing dancing (with entertainment and witnessing the amassing of free lessons if you aren’t quite at expert level humanity. yet), craft beer and other cocktails (provided by Tamales – Arriola’s Tortilleria in Indio. This Trio Catering), tasty food trucks, art installations, gem of a business has been feeding my family for classic cars, live music, retail vendor booths, years. If you’ve never been there… Just go. You’re wonderful performances by those talented welcome.

AMP kids, everything you’d want from a street party! Swing ‘N Hops is the featured event for Bobby Taffolla - Website Manager February’s City of Palm Desert First Weekend Restaurant: Thai Smile (El Paseo)- Their celebration and is on Saturday, February 2 from szechwan style Kung Pao Chicken is my local 1-5 pm. favorite, quite possibly my all-time favorite.

Coachella Valley Entertainment Source: CV Awesome staff as well!

Weekly!- This one’s a gimme. Find out everything Dentist: Dr. Duane Nishikubo, DMD- Dr going on in this exciting valley in each week’s Duane Nishikubo and his team in Palm Desert are publication via exclusive interviews with the acts the best in general dentistry in the valley. They coming to town. And Tracy and Phil rock! are down to earth, honest and most importantly total professionals. Without them, my chiclets Aaron Ramson - Brewtality Column would be in dire straits right about now!

The Palm Springs Art Museum- An excellent Music Retail: The Record Alley- Without Jim collection of art that always displays thought and his crew’s help over the years, I would have provoking exhibits.

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Sunday’s at Wang’s of the Desert - Live music and all day happy hour prices!

Jalisco Restaurant- The best tacos in the entire Coachella valley in a tiny hole in the wall.

The Homestead Cross hiking trail- The best hiking spot in the Coachella valley that offers intense cardio and breathtaking views.

Coachellafest/Stagecoach festivals- The events that put the valley on the map are good for business and culture.

Bruce Cathcart - Real Estate Column Tomahawk Tuesday for two at Fleming’s in Rancho Mirage- 32 oz. prime Ribeye Tomahawk steak cooked to perfection plus two salads, two sides and two desserts for $120.00. Buy the 20% off gift cards at Costco and go when Flemings offers their $25 off promo and it is like they are paying you to eat like a king!

Stagecoach music festival 2018- seeing Garth Brooks and his wife and Keith Urban performances, but most of all seeing the festival spirit of the Las Vegas shooting survivors in attendance.

Pasta Thursday at the Cactus Grille at the Palm Desert Country Club- Pasta bar with a chef preparing your choice of pasta, sauce and fresh ingredients right in front of you plus soup, Caesar salad, garlic bread and homemade meatballs for $14.95. Beefy deal in the desert but sadly it has been discontinued this season.

2018 SOAR Mutts Margaritas fund raiser event- Society’s Outcast Animal Rescue. This nonprofit raises funds for spay and neuter clinics in the Coachella Valley.

Desert Dunes Animal Hospital in Bermuda Dunes- Dr. Eric Jackman and his staff.

Unfortunately, we spent way too much time there with our two Labrador retrievers this past year. They provide competent, compassionate care.

Eleni Austin - Consider This Music Column Whitewater Preserve- This beautiful spot is a few miles outside of Palm Springs and we love going there. The San Gorgonio Mountains surround the Whitewater River, it’s full of wildlife and beautiful flowers which kind of explode in the Springtime. Most important, our dog Denver, (the actual boss of us), loves to hit the trail, wade in the creeks, and sniff out exotic wild animal smells.

Greek Islands- I am half Greek (the other half doesn’t matter, except that it provided me with blonde hair and a small nose), and I grew up in a Greek restaurant in L.A., So, I am very hypercritical when it comes to Greek food. Therefore, I was super-stoked to discover Greek Islands restaurant about five years ago.

It’s located in downtown Palm Springs (139 E. Andreas Rd.), and pretty much everything on the

menu is amazing, from the appetizers and salads to the entrees and desserts. The owners and staff are kind and welcoming. If I don’t get in there at least once a month they send out a search party!

Rick Shelley Live- Rick Shelley and I have been pals for nearly 33 years, and I’ve watched him evolve as a musician with the bands RagTag and Woodshed. Following a 10-year hiatus he returned to writing, playing and performing as a solo artist in 2014. It’s been very exciting to witness the musical journey he’s been on these last few years. He’s been playing throughout Southern California this last year, so when he plays in the desert, I make sure I’m there.

Pappy & Harriet’s- I’ve been going to Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown since the early ‘90s.

When Robyn and Linda took over 15 years ago, it felt like the stars aligned and finally (finally) there was a music venue in the desert that featured local bands as well superstars like Rickie Lee Jones, X and Patty Griffin. (And local superstars like Victoria Williams and Teddy Quinn). They are currently experiencing a commercial renaissance, making it a little more complicated to get my favorite table by the window and stage, but that’s okay. They deserve that success, and as much as I go there for the music, I also love the food. Don’t get me started on their cheese fries….

Palm Springs Library- I love reading, but I don’t always want to own each book I read. I’ve been visiting the Palm Springs Library since the early ‘80s and that intensified when I moved from La Quinta to Palm Springs in 1991. The library provides myriad services with not a lot of funding. I will never be one of those people that reads a book on my tiny device. I like holding a Book in my hands. So I am very grateful for the library.

Denise Neil - Feature Writer/ Restaurant Reviews Counter Reformation at The ParkerSecluded, Sexy and Stunningly delicious.

India Oven-Intimate dining, Murgh Makhani, Muligatawany.

Fresh Agave-Cozy and colorful, sitting at the bar, massive Margarita on the rocks, Grilled Chicken Quesadilla...perfect!

Casa de Silvia-Home style Mexican comfort food, award winning Tamales, magnificent Mole, crack beans, Caramel Flan.

Stuft Pizza Old Town La Quinta- Favorite Happy Hour, White Pizza, spinach, mushrooms and onion, Goblet of Grigio.

Jason Hall - Music Writer Best bar: Tonga Hut is my pick for best bar.

The drinks are traditional tiki, the food is great, the staff is amazing, and “Tiki Taco Tuesday” is the best taco Tuesday in the Valley. A Mai Tai and 3 tacos for $12.

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Best new old place: Wally’s Desert Turtle with a new lounge menu designed to expose the menu to a new more casually oriented diner and a fully new crafted cocktail menu with something for every taste bud.

Best restaurant/music venue: Pappy & Harriet’s of course! The menu has something for everybody. A catfish sandwich which even nonfish fans will absolutely love is the best surprise on the menu. The ribs are the best I’ve had across the country. The bands who come through are the best in the business, and the vibe is magical.

It’s worth the 1-hour drive and possible 2 hour wait for food.

Beat vintage store: The high desert has no shortage of vintage stores, but the one which stands out the most is Black Luck Vintage.

Rachel, the owner, carefully curates the products and makes sure to keep her inventory fresh and fun. Black Luck also hosts maker’s markets and various workshops and artist’s work.

The best overall thing about the Coachella Valley: The music. We have the strongest and most distinct music scene. Throw a rock and you’ll hit a musician of some sort. This Valley has always attracted the most talented of musicians starting with the Rat Pack and people like Otis Redding playing The Chi Chi in the 50’s and 60’s.

Now our scene is stronger than ever. Guitarists like Mike Pygmie, Mario Lalli, and Arthur Seay are among the best in the business and it shows with their grueling international tour schedules.

Drummers like Jeff Bowman, Greg Saenz, and Alfredo Hernandez are among the best drummers in the business. The best thing about our music scene is how diverse it is. We have talented musicians in every genre from hip hop to country to blues to R&B to rock.

Esther Sanchez - Music Writer Favorite Happy hour, Fresh Agave, Palm Desert- Every day from 3:00-5:00, locals and visitors alike gather for what are hands down, the best margaritas you can get anywhere north of the border. In fact, Fresh Agave’s margaritas are so good that they sincerely ruined margaritas from anywhere else for me. During happy hour, the prices are great and the bar menu that accompanies the drink specials is as delicious as it is economical.

Favorite local podcast, Live at Uncle Ben’sLooking to laugh whilst passing the time? Straight outta Palm Springs... musician, and personality extraordinaire, Ben Crowson, (drummer for Right On Right On) along with his faithful sidekick, bandmate and BFF, Wes Gainey, spin words and perspectives into giggles and good times. I have joined these guys on the show more than once and my side hurt for a week.

Favorite fresh baked good, Wilma & Frieda’s, Palm Desert- I had no idea how truly magical a

scratch-made, English muffin could be until my boyfriend took me to brunch at this shabby-chic little spot tucked up in a corner at the Gardens on El Paseo. If there is such a thing as a baked good that could change your life, this is it. You can dine in or take out any of their awesome selection of goodies wrapped up in an elegant little package that makes you feel extra fancy.

Favorite, over-the-counter bites Carniceria San Miguel, Thousand Palms- Nestled directly next door to my absolute, favorite Mexican restaurant in the desert, Taqueria San Miguel, is my favorite meat-market/convenience store owned by the same family. This past year they installed a counter that serves up all kinds of delicious snacks from over-the-top, fruit salads to nachos to my beloved elotes. It’s comfort-food city for sure.

Favorite, funky store that’s also an NPO. Music Heals, Downtown Palm Springs- Looking for something unique? From vintage clothing and accessories to a great selection of vinyl and more, Music Heals is a kitschy boutique that was opened for the purpose of raising funds for music lessons and instruments for children and young adults in the Autism spectrum. Started by music teacher and supporter of local music, Jason Nutter, Music Heals is a great spot to pick up an out of the ordinary gift or donate your cool stuff to.

Sam DiGiovanna - Safety column The Grooves Concert Series at the Westin Rancho Mirage – Great venue, nice people, awesome music in a perfect setting – mostly because it’s a gift from a special friend!

Lord Fletchers in Rancho Mirage – Great hospitality with the staff from the moment you enter to when you leave, good food and nice people enjoying it…

World Gym Palm Desert – Have met some really nice (and eclectic) people, lots of healthoriented options and a great place to people watch!

The Omni Resort during hot summer Friday nights listening to the Stanley Butler Band. When the sun sets, it’s a perfect setting with wine and music!

Best Service – Ron Winkle at Roof Asset Management Roofing Co. Best customer service, honest, and they are great down to earth people!

Haddon Libby - Business / Politics Columnist / Music Writer Neighborhood: Upper Cathedral City Cove.

With views that match and exceed the Ritz Carlton in Rancho Mirage, lowly trafficked hiking and biking trails and a culturally diverse community that is actively involved in city planning and the arts, this neighborhood has fewer snowbirds than most areas of the desert.

Dentist: Lake Dental in Palm Springs. Started over 60 years ago by Dr. Lake, three generations have continued their patriarch’s focus on timely, reasonably priced dentistry that does not try and upcharge you like so many others in the valley.

Eyecare: Milauskas Eye Institute, numerous locations. An eye exam here is far more comprehensive than optometrists set up shop at any one of the big box stores yet at a comparable price. For eye health, go nowhere else.

Hair: Brush, Palm Springs. This is a oneperson salon run by hair stylist, Barry Nadeau on the northeastern corner of Palm Canyon and Tachevah. Be prepared to book months in advance as Barry is one of the most sought-after hair stylists in the Valley.

Food: Apongs Philly Steak. Located in Cathedral City next to Desert Showgirls and City of Dank, this hole in the wall makes the best philly cheesesteak in the Valley.

Sunny Simon - Life & Career Coach Column Favorite Business: Provident Bank - Where Everybody Knows Your Name. About a year ago I opened an account at Provident Bank. It still amazes me how I am not just an account number to the bank staff. Not only do they offer superior services, they know my name! Previously I did everything at the ATM window, but now I happily enter the bank and enjoy the friendly atmosphere while I make my transactions.

Event: Escape Room Palm Springs Challenging Fun. Whether it’s a Girl’s or Guy’s Night Out, a Birthday Bash or when your cousins arrive in town for a visit, a super cool thing to do is booking at game at Escape Room Palm Springs.

You’ll find interesting rooms that offer fun and challenge as you team up with your group to beat the clock and escape.

Shopping: Charming Charlie at Westfield Mall- Great gift items. When I’m in need of unique little gifts for my gal pals or fashion accessories for myself, I head over to Charming Charlie at Westfield Mall. Love the way everything is arranged by color!

Favorite Breakfast Venue: Bristol’s Farms Café- My go-to breakfast selection is always Bristol’s Farms Café. Food is great, service is excellent, and they serve up Peet’s Coffee with a smile.

Favorite Happy Hour: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar in Rancho Mirage- Love the cozy atmosphere and superior fish and chips at Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar in Rancho Mirage. They serve a supersize martini, so you’ll need a designated driver.

DeeJae Cox - Theatre Reviews Theatre! The Coachella Valley has some of the most amazing live theatre and performances.

I saw so many wonderful shows in 2018, but two shows that have lingered in my thoughts are the Desert Rose Playhouse’s, “The Sugar Witch.”

One of the best plays this season. Leanna Rodgers performance was just mind blowing. And Palm Canyon Theatre’s, “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf.” I’m still not sure if I actually like this play, but the performances were phenomenal. Yo Younger never fails to amaze.

Maracas Mexican Cantina & Grill in Palm Springs- It’s a simple, relaxing place on Highway 111 in downtown Palm Springs. Great Food! And my favorite thing is to sit on their outside patio, sip a White Russian, eat chips & salsa and people watch.

The Vagina Monologues- I can’t possible look back on 2018 without thinking about how much I absolutely loved Directing and Producing The Vagina Monologues in support of V Day’s

December 20 to December 26, 2018 international movement to end violence against women and girls. So many amazing women from the community were on stage for this wonderful performance.

Spa Resort Casino- One of my favorite places to play is the Spa Resort Casino located in downtown Palm Springs. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians owns this casino and they have worked so hard to make it a cultural spot in the desert. I love the buffet, playing games of chance on the nickel slots, concerts under the palms and the whole pleasurable environment.

The Coachella Valley Weekly- I could not write a list of my favorite things in the desert without adding The Coachella Valley Weekly. I have had the honor of working with Tracy Dietlin as a writer for this publication for several years now and this publication is without doubt one of the best things about the Coachella Valley.

Lynne Tucker - Travel Writer Sunnylands - So beautiful there and grounds are lovely.

The Living Desert - How great to have this wonderful soon in the desert.

Palm Springs Art Museum - They have amazing exhibits and lectures and two other museums. PS Art Museum Palm Desert and PS Art Museum Architecture and Design Center.

The Tram - How fun to be able to hike see amazing views and snow in the winter time.

Shields Date Gardens - Great restaurant there and beautiful grounds.

Tahquitz Waterfall Hike in Palm Springs - A wonderful hike to the waterfalls and great views as well.

Ruth Hill - Cannabis Column Dr. Pedram Ilbeigi DO Urologist Palm Desert Venus de Fido November Event: Palliative Care in Oncology and Cannabis Therapeutics The Kimpton Rowan Rooftop Restaurant in Palm Springs Stagecoach Festival My Breakfast Nook on my patio in Desert Greens Country Club Palm Desert Dale Gribow - Legal Column I love Nancy Tapick’s Desert Symphony Concerts at the McCallum. I love the music and seeing likeminded music aficionados at each event.

I love being the first male Guest Society Reporter for the Desert Sun and annually covering the spring Cancer fundraiser at my friend Dick Heckman’s. I enjoy the vast selection of restaurants represented and the musical entertainment. This charity hits home for me because my father passed from Cancer at a young age and I love seeing all the cancer survivors joining one another on the dance floor.

I love being a member of Eisenhower 365 and having Joseph Scherger MD and Sam Weiss MD being able to spend as much time as necessary to listen to and treat my ailments.... truly memorable doctors and service.

I love going to my 3 favorite Italian Restaurants, Mama Gina’s, Piero’s Pizza Vino and Castelli’s. I not only enjoy the food but love seeing my friends who work there.

I love the Larson Justice Center when I leave the court with a great result and see my client’s happy faces.

I love the annual Palm Springs Women in Film’s Breaking the Glass Ceiling Awards because I love seeing my wife’s positive efforts as the President or on the Red Carpet interviewing VIP’s.

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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MUSIC

EVENTS COLLEGE OF THE DESERT’S ‘THE NEXT BEST THING’ FRIDAY NIGHT TRIBUTE CONCERT SERIES, KICKING OFF JAN. 25 WITH QUEEN NATION STUDENT-RUN RADIO STATION KCOD HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR EIGHT AWARDS BY THE BY AVERY INTERCOLLEGIATE BROADCASTING SYSTEM WOOD

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ccording to a press release, KCOD is being considered for the following awards: Best Community College Radio Station in the Nation: KCOD 99.9 CoachellaFM Best Public Service Promotion: COD’s Play Charlie’s Aunt Public Service Announcement – Abraham Cervantes and Tyler McGahuey Best Overall On-Air Schedule: KCOD Team Best Station Playlist/Music Selection: KCOD Team Best Station Facilities: KCOD Station Facilities and College of the Desert Best Promo Series: KCOD Poolside Block Sweepers – Giselle Woo, Ariel Suarez and Manny Gomez Best Staff Newsletter/Email: Station Manager email to Staff – Giselle Woo Best Promotional Video: KCOD Talked to COD Students About Music – Spring 2018 RTV Class Both student station manager, Giselle Woo, and one of the faculty advisors, Toni Bakal, said that they are most proud to be considered for Best Community College Radio Station in the Nation. “It reflects the teamwork we have at KCOD. We truly listen to our students and community and try to satisfy everyone’s needs. It’s just super cool,” Woo says.

Bakal believes that part of what sets KCOD apart from the competition is the team’s passion for the community and featuring local artists. “We air student-run shows, community-hosted shows, and a lot of great music. We play a lot of local Coachella Valley artists and rising artists. We try very hard to hit one of our values of discovery. When people listen to KCOD we want them to not only discover new music and current news shows and rising artists and independent and alternative artists, we want them to be able to discover artists that have been around for a while that have songs that are amazing that people have never heard before… it’s just important that we have great sounding music that really provides a lot of discovery. We just want to bring new music and new sounds to the Coachella Valley,” she says, noting that local artists are featured on the station Monday through Friday from 10 am to 11 am and Saturday and Sunday from 5 pm to 6 pm.

The Radio Production course at COD, taught by Bakal, is the main resource where students learn to produce quality content.

According to Bakal, the students learn about broadcasting, podcasting, and production over the semester and then create a project that they can pitch to KCOD or use in an internship application. “What we think makes KCOD stand out and probably why we got nominated has a lot to do with our music playlists and the variety of music we play with that emphasis on discovery and the sounds feeling very rising-artist… something you’re

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not going to get necessarily on any other station because we are a variety station. But added to that, our programming schedule was nominated… our programming schedule was a collaborative effort with the whole KCOD team. So we sat and went block by block as a team about what we thought we should be playing,” she says.

The nomination for Best Station Facilities is also notable because they are a recent addition and Bakal thinks they greatly contribute to the team’s creativity. “The new facilities we’ve moved into are amazing, we are so thankful to College of the Desert for helping put together this facility for KCOD… to have all this space and recording studios and a classroom, it’s so amazing,” she says. “To get that recognition from the college is so great,” she says. “It’s got a classroom, two studios, offices, student worker office, and some space in the back for us to host events. Rhe amount of creativity and the collaboration and the moving across the rooms is fantastic... it provides this electric energy.”

KCOD is also gaining popularity within the community, according to Woo, who says, “A lot of people seem to really love it, we’re all trying our best to get the word out and have more involvement with COD and the community.” The station is available valleywide on 1450 AM and has recently expanded to 99.9 FM in the East Valley.

The winners of the awards will be announced in March. “We’re just excited to be nominated for any award and to get the big one, Best Community College Radio Station in the Nation, is such an honor,” Bakal says. The station can be accessed online at kcodcoachellafm.com or via the TuneIn app, as well as on 1450 AM and 99.9 FM.

SPOTLIGHT 29 CASINO ANNOUNCES

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potlight 29 Casino is proud to present The Next Best Thing, a Friday night tribute concert series launching January 25th with Queen Nation — A Tribute to the Music of Queen. Tickets are $10, on sale at the Casino Box Office and at Spotlight29.com.

Booths are also available for $102, including six seats and a bucket of beer; season passes for the entire series are $75.

All performances start at 8 p.m. in the Spotlight Showroom, which offers the premier entertainment experience in the Coachella Valley. The Next Best Thing schedule is as follows: January 25: Queen Nation — A Tribute to the Music of Queen. Formed in 2004, this 90-minute production of the band’s greatest hits (“Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” “We Will Rock You”) preserves the image, sound and stage persona of vintage Queen.

February 1: Fortunate Son — Celebrating 50 Years of Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Combining timeless CCR favorites and frontman John Fogerty hits (“Down on the Corner,” “Run Through the Jungle,” “Proud Mary”), Brad Ford and Fortunate Son personify the spirit and grit of America’s favorite rock ’n’ roll band.

February 8: House of Floyd — The Music of Pink Floyd. San Francisco’s immersive Pink Floyd tribute band focuses on the adventurous live arrangements (“Comfortably Numb,” “Money” and “Another Brick in the Wall”) and sonic explorations of their namesake.

February 15: Don’t Stop Believin’ — The Next Best Thing to Journey. Don’t Stop Believin’ captures the lush and signature sound (“Wheel in the Sky,” “Faithfully” and “Separate Way”) of renowned vocalist Steve Perry and Journey in their prime.

February 22: Adelaide — Latin Ladies Live.

Texas native offers an authentic tribute to some

of the most famous Latin female artists of all time, including Jennifer Lopez (“I’m Real”), Shakira (“Hips Don’t Lie”), Gloria Estefan (“Conga”), Celia Cruz (“Guantanamera”), and Selena (“Bidi Bidi Bom Bom”).

March 1: Desperado — The Nation’s Premier Eagles Tribute. Founded in 2002 by Aaron Broering, Desperado is one of the best and well-known Eagles tributes in the country, boasting a lineup of five lead singers and multiinstrumentalists. Hits include “Hotel California,” “Life in the Fast Lane” and “I Can’t Tell You Why.” March 8: Danny Vernon — Illusion of Elvis.

Vernon is known for his high-energy tribute to Elvis Presley, spanning all three decades of Elvis Presley’s career, from hillbilly hipcat of the 1950s (“Jailhouse Rock”), the sleek ’60s movie years (“Blue Hawaii”) and the ’70s jumpsuit era (“Burnin’ Love”).

March 15: Caravanserai — The Santana Tribute. Now in its 21st year, Caravanserai is the most acclaimed Santana tribute in the country, performing the biggest hits (“Black Magic Woman,” Oye Como Va” and “Evil Ways”) from the band’s classic era.

March 22: Bee Gees Gold Featuring John Acosta. Taking on the role of Barry Gibb, Acosta has performed in Bee Gees tributes all over the world with an unrivaled attention to detail on such hits as “Stayin’ Alive,” “Jive Talkin’ ” and “Never Fever.”

March 29: Moonwalker — The Reflection of Michael Jackson. Featuring live vocals, musicians and dancers, Moonwalker channels the Prince of Pop in an explosion of energetic perfection, featuring such hits as “Beat It,” “Bad” and “Man in the Mirror.”

All attendees must be 21 and up. For more information, visit Spotlight29.com.

MORE UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT December 29 – Gran Baile Grupo Maximo Grado Los Parras y ademas Grupo Zable February 2 – Felipe Esparza February 9 – Pancho Barraza

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

HE FILMS THE CLOUDS "GRACE PATTERNS" EP RELEASED 12/4/18! PERFORMING LOCAL MUSIC

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

THE ENTIRE EP LIVE AT THE HOOD ON SAT. 12/22!

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xtreme Metal and Hardcore Punk band He Films the Clouds will be performing at the Hood Bar and Pizza on Saturday, December 22, 2018 to commemorate the release of their new EP, Grace Patterns. The EP is available on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube and Bandcamp. Providing support for the show are Beckoner, When Tides Turn and FrankEatsTheFloor. THIS IS A FREE SHOW! Starts at 9 p.m.

HFTC’s use of “breakdowns,” the slow, intense passages conducive to moshing, in Grace Patterns will satisfy the most die-hard Metalcore fan. Metalcore is a portmanteau or a “fusion genre” combining elements of Extreme Metal and Hardcore Punk.

Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with the band about their EP, release show and all other things HFTC. CVW: Please introduce us to He Films The Clouds.

HFTC: “He Films The Clouds is a Progressive Metalcore band, currently consisting of four members. Our vocalist is Xavier Hernandez, we have Antonio Ocegueda on drums, Jacob Garcia on guitars, and Jordan Price on bass. We pride ourselves on having a DIY approach to everything we do; live sound, lighting, mixing, mastering, writing, artwork, and more are mostly done by one of the band members.”

CVW: HFTC is a one-of-a-kind name.

What’s the story behind the name?

HFT: “’He Films The Clouds’ is a song name from a band called Maybeshewill.

Jacob was listening a lot of post-rock in early 2011 and decided to start the band under that name. The song is symbolic in the way that during that time in his life he was questioning many things around him.”

CVW: The band is based in Riverside, CA and has some roots in the High Desert.

What is the metal scene like there and what connections do you have to the desert?

HFTC: “The band originally formed in Yucca Valley, but currently operates out of Riverside. All members in the current lineup met while being is different bands that were based in the Coachella Valley. As far as the metal scene goes in Riverside, it isn’t very active these days.”

PHOTOS BY JOSH WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

CVW: You’re performing at The Hood on Friday for your “Grace Patterns” EP release party. What can fans expect from your performance?

HFTC: “We will be playing the new EP in its entirety. Expect higher energy, great music, and good times.”

CVW: You have Beckoner, When Tides Turn and FrankEatsTheFloor on the bill.

What are your thoughts on each artist?

HFTC: “Each band brings their own unique style of rock and metal, and we are extremely privileged to be playing with all of them. These bands are full of great friends and incredible musicians.”

CVW: Give us some insight into the writing and recording process and tell us about any themes or concepts of the release.

HFTC: “The entire writing and recording process is done by the band. We write, mix, and master all of our music; even the artwork for Grace Patterns was photographed and edited ourselves. Primarily, Jacob writes most of the instrumentals while Xavier writes a majority of the lyrics. After the rough ideas are tracked, we all go over the material and change it until we are satisfied with the end result. Grace Patterns explores a theme of coming to terms with one’s shortcomings in the wake of realizing and being aware of the cost that comes with anything that is worth having on a personal

level. Whether it’s chasing your ambition, personal growth, or trying to mitigate the grey areas of both your faults and your redeeming qualities, there’s no simple way to carving out your own self-image. It paints a picture of the moment you seek redemption, not the end result. There’s beauty in the ugliness of life, and there’s ugliness in its beauty.”

CVW: The band has been through a lot

in the last several years and now the lineup appears solidified. What can you say about the journey from the beginning to now?

HFTC: “We have learned a lot about ourselves, being a band, and working as a group to get to the places we want to be.

These lineup changes have allowed us to grow and become more efficient in the way we do business and create music. We value and appreciate each person that has contributed to the band in the past.”

CVW: What are your short-term and long-term plans?

HFTC: “We do not have any more shows lined up as of now, but we do plan on doing a couple tours in 2019.”

CVW: Where can fans obtain your music?

HFTC: “Listeners can buy and stream our music on all major platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Bandcamp, and more.”

CVW: Anything else you feel is pertinent or would like to add?

HFTC: “We want to thank all of our listeners and friends for supporting us throughout our musical endeavors.” hefilmstheclouds.bandcamp.com

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

CONSIDER THIS

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hen David Bowie died in 2016, two days after his 69th birthday, it felt like a punch in the gut, to fans across the globe who saw him as a kind of Rock N’ Roll avatar. Nearly three years later, it’s still a raw and devastating loss. Like Elvis, like John Lennon, Joe Strummer (and later Prince), his work feels unfinished. He was an innovator and his music continues to resonate.

Born David Jones in Brixton, London England, like most post-war kids, his interest in music was sparked by technicolor American Rock N’ Roll and the darker hues of Rhythm & Blues. Elvis Presley and Little Richard were early touchstones, then his older brother introduced him to Jazz. He learned the saxophone and officially began his music career at age 13. Early bands included the Konrads, the King Bees, the Mannish Boys, The Lower Third, the Buzz and the Riot Squad.

By 1967 he became David Bowie, partly to lessen confusion with another British singer named Davy Jones who had achieved recent fame and notoriety as one of the Monkees.

By the dawn of the “Me Decade” Bowie had successfully shape-shifted from a Mod Dandy to an Anthony Newley-esque crooner to an effete hippie with Pre-Raphaelite ringlets. He had also had his first commercial success with his hit single “Space Oddity.” In a career that spanned nearly half a century, he hopscotched from one musical genre to the next. Rather than follow trends he anticipated them. He connected with producer Tony Visconti in 1970. Over the next two years he wrote and recorded his most enduring efforts, The Man Who Sold The World, Hunky Dory and The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust. Those records were a culmination of his myriad Influences.

Throughout the ‘70s, he created personas like Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane and the Thin White Duke. Married with a young son, he proudly proclaimed his bisexuality.

A devastating cocaine habit prompted him to retreat to Berlin and create an ambient triptych of albums with producer Brian Eno. Rehab’ed and revitalized by 1980, he made his Broadway debut as the lead character in “The Elephant Man.” He also released his 14th studio album, Scary Monsters a tensile combo-platter of Punk and Glam-Rock.

Three years later Bowie reached his commercial peak with his Let’s Dance album.

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www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

DAVID BOWIE

“GLASTONBURY 2000” (PARLOPHONE RECORDS)

Embracing the day-glo New Wave era on his own terms, the record featured the guitar stylings of Texas Blues purist, Stevie Ray Vaughan. Unfortunately, the synergy didn’t last and he spent the rest of the ‘80s in a creative slump. In an attempt to recharge his batteries, he formed the Noise Rock band Tin Machine. Their two albums were interesting, but commercial failures.

As the ‘90s dawned, and Grunge became the musical lingua Fraca, Bowie had finally found happiness when he met and married Somali Super Model, Iman. Musically, however, he seemed lost. He quickly championed emerging genres like Jungle, Drum & Bass and Industrial music. But, for the first time it felt as though he was pursuing trends rather than forging them. By the turn of the 21st century, David and Iman welcomed a daughter, Alexandria. Reconnecting with Tony Visconti in 2002 they collaborated on Heathen released that year, and Reality which arrived in 2003. Both found him embracing his legacy and receiving his best reviews in nearly 20 years.

While on tour in 2004 he suffered a heart attack on stage and received an emergency angioplasty. Cancelling his tour, he retreated from the public eye. Never officially retiring, he contributed to other artists’ projects like TV On The Radio and David Gilmour and in 2006, he received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy.

Finally, after a 10 year hiatus, he released 24th studio album, The Next Day in 2013. It was a critical triumph, a tour de force. Bowie was back and operating on all cylinders. Sadly, this momentum was not to last, a year later he was diagnosed with liver cancer.

He never made the news public, instead Bowie concentrated on his newest project; creating music for “Lazarus” an Off-Broadway show based on the character he played in Nicolas Roeg’s baroque Sci-Fi Film, “The Man Who Fell To Earth.” Collaborating with Irish playwright Enda Walsh, he wrote new songs and reconfigured some Bowie classics. Before the show opened, he quietly booked time at a recording studio, blocks away from his New York home. Relying on Tony Visconti, they enlisted a quintet of Jazz musicians and set about recording the music he had created for “Lazarus.” The result was an elegant seven song suite entitled Blackstar. His 25th studio album, it arrived on his birthday, two days before his death and served as an elegiac parting gift to his fans.

In the last couple of years, several posthumous collections have been popped up, mostly concentrating on live sets. Throughout his lifetime, he recorded numerous live efforts that have spotlighted different eras myriad musical genres. But there’s never been a live show that felt career defining. Perhaps this was because Bowie willfully closed the door on performing his “hits” following a 1990 tour devoted to fan favorites. Now Parlophone Records has bridged that gap by releasing Glastonbury 2000. Parts of this concert has been available on different media, But this two CD + DVD set, (which is also available as a 3 LP set), presents the entire 22 song concert.

The venerable British festival was in its infancy when he played there in 1971, for

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

maybe 3000 people. His career was beginning to gain traction, and he was resplendent in what Bowie termed his “Bippity Boppity” hat, flared bell-bottoms, cape and cane. For the 2000 show, which attracted 120,000, his flowing ensemble was inspired by that original outfit.

The album opens with a sentimental, albeit Jazzy take on “Greensleeves” from pianist Mike Garson (a Bowie sideman since 1973).

His light and airy version quickly quiets the crowd’s insistent chants of “Bowie..Bowie,” until the man himself hits the stage, as the drummer counts off and the band launches into a lush rendition of the Jazz standard, “Wild Is The Wind. The tender ache of his vocals, coupled with rippling piano notes and supple guitar, feel as revelatory as it did when it first appeared on his 1976 album, Station To Station.

Actually, it is the record he revisits the most in this set. That album, along with it’s predecessor, Young Americans, delved into a style Bowie dubbed “Plastic Soul,” it also ushered in his “Thin White Duke Persona.”

That svelte alabaster duke-iness reemerges on the suave seduction of “Stay.” The Metallic Funk of the melody is enhanced by the muscular riff-age of Earl Slick, the gunslinger glides around prowling bass lines and a stopstart rhythm. “Golden Years,” which closes out the first disc, has only been played live only a handful of times, which seems inexplicable.

From it’s opening, epochal power chords to the call-and-response between Bowie and His backing vocalists, and the ballast of rubbery bass and a whip-crack beat, it remains Infectious and authentically Soulful. Station’s ambitious title track gets it’s full 11 minute airing on disc two. The labyrinthine epic unfolds with dizzying pomp and circumstance accented by stuttery percussion, spiraling guitar pyrotechnics and a sultry wash of keys.

Midway through he proclaims “It’s not the side-effects of the cocaine, I’m thinking that it must be love.”

The rest of the ‘70s is well-represented.

“Hunky Dory” tracks include “Changes,” and “Life On Mars?” The former offers a cogent commentary on artistic reinvention. The irresistible melody Is buoyed by a staccato rhythm and Garson’s sparkling player-piano runs. Bowie’s vocal delivery is positively giddy as he proclaims “time may change me, but I can’t trace time.” Although the latter was originally written as a parody of Frank Sinatra’s defiant anthem, “My Way,” the song has taken on a life of it’s own. Surrealistic lyrics like “It’s

on America’s tortured brow, that Mickey Mouse has grown up a cow,” are swaddled in billowy piano notes that take on a Classical lilt.

Bowie’s Berlin trilogy is compressed into the tensile anthem “Heroes.” Written after he witnessed his friend Tony Visconti embracing a back-up vocalist by the Berlin Wall, it morphed into a tale of young lovers from East and West Berlin. The song would take on greater significance when he performed it following the terrorist attack on 9/11. Here it’s lean and stripped-down. “Fame” from Young Americans is a still a sly slice of Doo-Wop Funk.

Meanwhile, the dystopian Glam/Punk crunch of “Rebel Rebel” was a calculated farewell to his androgynous period. Powered by a hulking backbeat and that signature guitar riff, the tune simply crackles with authority.

Happily, this set makes some room for some of Bowie’s more outlier tracks like “Absolute Beginners,” “All The Young Dudes” and “Under Pressure.” It’s apropos that “…

Beginners” is beguilingly cinematic since it was written for The 1986 film that Bowie had a small part in. The movie is set in late ‘50s Great Britain, and the song is sweeping, Jazzy, and grandiloquent, thanks in part to His swoony vocals.

“All The Young Dudes” was originally written to revive the flagging fortunes of Mott The Hoople, who were set to break up. The band took the Glam Rock anthem to #3 on the British charts. Containing the classic couplet “Television man is crazy saying we’re juvenile delinquent wrecks, I don’t need TV when I got T.Rex,” this version feels both stately and shambolic. Finally, “Under Pressure,” a hit collaboration with Queen. It subtly matched Freddie Mercury’s stentorian grace with Bowie’s calculated cool. Freddie’s part is filled by bassist Gail Ann Dorsey, making it feel all the more heartbreaking.

His commercial twin peaks of Ziggy and Let’s Dance get two cuts a piece. The “Ziggy” title track is a Glam/Metal hybrid, while “Starman” soars to celestial heights. “China Girl” feels sleek and shiny and “Let’s Dance” begins with courtly Spanish guitar, locking into a seductive Samba groove on the first few verses before it truly kicks into gear. Both songs feature blistering guitar solos from Earl Slick, building on the late Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Bluesy blueprint.

Ironically, the only songs here that haven’t aged well, are the ‘90s entries; “Little Wonder,” “Hallo Spaceboy” and “I’m Afraid Of Americans,” which closes the show.

Throughout, Bowie is charming and flirty, offering up witty anecdotes and poking fun at his own vanity. His crack band follows along, hugging every hairpin turn.

Even after he’s gone, David Bowie still feels two steps ahead of the zeitgeist. All those years ago, when he insisted we “turn and face The strange” he didn’t tell us we’d be doing it alone. Listening to this album will make you miss him less, and then you’ll miss him all the more.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ARTSCENE RECLAIMING ART THE WORK OF JEFF HOWE

December 20 to December 26, 2018

BY ANGELA ROMEO

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eff Howe takes to creating something from nothing as easily as a duck takes to water. It is art that is at the very heart of his being. And what Jeff creates is wonderful.

Jeff was drawn to creating things at an early age. He joined the Army in 1995 as a helicopter mechanic for the 82ndAirborne Division.

While in service he began to make furniture.

His first art piece was an Artist Pallet Coffee Tablemade from rock maple and blood wood.

After leaving a distinguished military career in 2001 Jeff returned home and formed JC Howe Construction. Here he honed his craft in woodworking.

Jeff began using a variety of woods to create furniture that was both functional and beautiful.

It drew him many admirers and allowed him to explore his own artistry.

In 2010 a visit to the former Palm Springs home of Elvis Presley led to one of Jeff’s earliest art commissions. The finished piece, a silhouette of Presley, stood 9 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The piece was affixed to Presley estate chimney and drew both local and international attention for Howe.

Now, firmly entrenched in Palm Springs lore, Jeff continues to make unique art pieces. His work springs from recycled materials. “Does a discarded object lose its value?’ asked Jeff. “No. They may have lost their original functionality but that does not mean they have lost their value. I see a jobsite waste or a dumpster pile as an open invitation to create new and beautiful works of fine art. I’ll collect pieces and save random cutoffs that would otherwise be lost to a landfill, or pile metal in a corner until there’s enough for a new project. The materials guide me to the finished product; my skill and imagination transform what was once old into

new again. In my surrealistic view of the world a discarded object can only increase in its value.”

His ubiquitous ten foot sculpture, Don the Defender of the Arts, is constructed with an old elevator parts and various metal scraps. Don is not just a pretty face. Rather Don has toured in defense of keeping the arts in schools viable.

He made his first appearance at the Muezo Museum in Anaheim March of 2015.

Jeff’s art heart has philanthropic part. He often donates artworks to various charities. He believes in paying it forward and continues to dedicate his life to keeping the arts alive, not only for us but for future generations. Even his own home keeps that spirit alive. He created Reggi, the recycled dinosaur. Reggi has his share of admirers. Built from discarded metal, Reggi is a Howe ambassador of the joy art brings. “I had the best experience,” said Jeff. “A woman makes a special trip down my street every day so her grandson can see Reggi. The boy is so cute, and it puts the biggest smile on my face.”

Jeff continues to create works from seemingly nothing. His latest works are called River Tables.Using resins and North Carolina cherry wood, these tables are meant to be functional art to be enjoyed for generations.

“The River Tables are a fun thing I’ve wanted to do for a while. I decided to do it as collaboration with my oldest son. I have a source for this beautiful lumber. Using the resin was a learning experience. Resin is finicky and troublesome, but I have learned how to play with the material.”

But Jeff’s creativity is far from over. Noted Jeff, “I have a few other projects in mind with the resin and leftovers from the tree slabs.”

Long live the art of reclamation!

For more infor visit jchoweart.com.

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY JANET McAFEE

PINTO SEEKS A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

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is heart broken, dreaming of the life he once had, a dog waits. Pinto once had humans who loved him.

He lived with a happy family, a couple, their 30-year old son Rob, and Rob’s fiancé’. Pinto especially loved his brother Magnum, a 5-yrold Huskie, and the two dogs spent endless hours romping together in the sun. They moved together magically in synchronicity and slept securely side by side at night.

Ariel, a 12-yr-old cat, completed the happy group of animals.

In 2016, tragedy struck Pinto’s family when Rob suddenly passed away, and the light and joy in the home was gone. Shortly thereafter, the wife died from what friends described as a broken heart. The husband carried on, solemnly caring for the animals, but his loss was unfathomable. In 2018, Pinto’s “dad” died from a heart attack, leaving behind his pets without a plan for where they would go. The son’s fiancé’, now living in a small apartment in Montana, drove out to fetch the Huskie. She left her dog behind before, not wanting to break up the bonded brother dogs. But now her landlord would not permit a second dog, and Pinto was left behind.

MEET RILEY This handsome 5-yr-old Tuxedo boy would love to be Home 4 the Holidays with you! He prefers a home with adults where he is the only cat. Rescued by www.ForeverMeow.org, call (760) 335-6767.

MEET JOEY This precious Chihuahua/ Corgi fellow is still hoping to be Home 4 the Holidays! Injured and abandoned in the desert, 4-yr-old Joey is now happy and healthy. Contact www.lovingallanimals.org or call (760) 834-7000.

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Dogs grieve, and Pinto withdrew even further after Magnum left. Once a lively senior bouncing with joy, he became shy and withdrawn, as though he were waiting for the next loss. Except there was no one left to loose.

The couple’s remaining daughter was unable to take Pinto, and the dog’s fate was uncertain. It seemed Pinto would end up at the county shelter, a place where a dog of his age and size would not fare well. At this point his spirit was broken, unable to wag his tail to greet faces that might peer at him behind kennel bars. The odds of Pinto being adopted from a shelter were bleak.

Thankfully animal lover Kristy Bagwell stepped in to help. Operator of Kristy’s Kritter Sitters, she provided pet sitting care for the three animals when their humans traveled. Kristy arranged for her nephew to adopt the cat. Kristy networked to find Pinto a home, but most folks want a puppy or a younger dog. Pinto is an 8-yr-old Border Collie/Lab mix, 70 pounds of doggie love.

Kristy found a temporary foster home for Pinto, but his time there is now running short. He plays well with their 5-year-old boy. Gentle Pinto likes horses and dogs of

all sizes, he even loves the family’s goat that shares his backyard space. He would be a great match for just about any home, except for one with an “Alpha” dog who might intimidate him.

Folks adopting a dog often want a pup to greet them with a wagging tail and happy kisses. Hopefully, someone will understand Pinto’s initial shyness. Kristy explains, “When you meet a shy dog, or one who is scared, and then he finally gets to the point where he trusts you, something magical happens for you and that dog. Pinto is such a good boy. He needs someone to spend time with him and give him lots of love.”

Dogs are resilient, and they teach us to move forward in life, to march on in spite of tragedy and loss, to live in the moment seeking new experiences. In the right home, Pinto will become a happy fellow.

The holidays are here, and this sweet boy hopes to have a new family to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Pinto resides in Banning, a short 30 minute trip on the 10 freeway from Palm Springs. Contact Kristy at (909) 615-0099 if you are interested in giving this dog a loving home. This healthy, mix breed dog has many years left to bring joy to your home. Please share Pinto’s story to help him find a home. December is about the celebration of giving and holiday magic, and there is no better time than now to adopt a special rescue dog like Pinto.

Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

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THE VINO VOICE

TOP WINE PICKS FOR THE YEAR!

H

appy Holidays and Merry Christmas to everyone! I’d like thank you readers for your enlightening email responses and your continual support by sharing this column with your wine friends. And as your friendly neighborhood wine steward, you are always welcome over to my wide world of wine section at the Ralphs Market in Palm Springs on Sunrise Way. Come in and check out our new selections and let’s talk wine!

Each year the wine world witnesses more and more juice available at reasonable prices. And there is so much excellent vino to highlight and recommend that I’ll probably be mentioning several of my favorites throughout the next coming months in this column.

We regularly chime in on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the Year. Last year, we Californians agreed wholeheartedly when the Duckhorn Merlot Napa Valley from the Three Palms Vineyard came in as Numero Uno! Many of us remember enjoying that delicious Merlot from Three Palms when Sterling Vineyards produced it at under $20 a bottle.

Unfortunately, the cost of living has the current Duckhorn version at over a hundred bucks!

This year, I don’t know how many of our Californians have tasted Spectator’s Wine of the Year—which is an Italian wine, but anyone who typically enjoys wine will agree that this “Super Tuscan” definitely rates on top of any wine review guide.

The full name of this longtime renowned wine is Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia 2015. We simply know it as Sassicaia [Sassykie-ya]. It means “the place of many stones,” and refers to the region’s gravel soil. Toscana (aka Tuscany) is the center of the Italian wine

universe, and Bolgheri is less than an hour’s drive south from the city of Pisa—where your favorite tower leans.

This is Tuscany’s Mediterranean coast called the Maremma, where thousands of cinghiale take refuge in the sea scrub called macchia. Omnivorous and stealthy, the wild boar are known to like ripe wine grapes. Joe Bastianich has written, “...vintners often lament that boars are true grape connoisseurs, choosing on the best quality-fruit when they raid a vineyard.” Needless to say, but those boar certainly love the vineyards of Tenuta San Guido.

These days so many of you wine buyers know that a “Super Tuscan” wine is one that is produced not predominantly from the traditional Sangiovese grape, but from Italian Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc, and perhaps a touch of Pinot Noir. And we Californians, Americans, and the world love a good Cab. For those Americans who find a Chianti a bit on the acerbic herb-y side of things, the blend of Cabs and the like certainly round the flavors. The 2015 Sassicaia blend was around 85% Cab Sauv and 15% Cab Franc.

Wine Spectator recently wrote, “In the stellar vintage of 2015, Sasscicaia has everything: rich and concentrated black currant, blackberry, violet, mineral and spice flavors allied to a dense structure; vibrant acidity that drives the long aftertaste; and beautifully integrated oak, providing impeccable balance.”

I was fortunate to be at this year’s VinItaly’s week-long wine tasting event held in Verona Italy. The Toscana building held hundreds of chic and elaborate tasting rooms. By the time I got to the Tenuta San Guido tasting, I had

December 20 to December 26, 2018

BY RICK RIOZZA tasted through over 50 Chianti and Super Tuscans wines. One could say I had a tired tongue; but my taste buds perked right up when I slowly enjoyed the fantastic flavors and structure of the Sassacaia.

The downside to winning the Top Wine of the Year is that its bottle value will continue to rise. Right now, you can possibly find it for a couple of hundred dollars. Perhaps we can share—call me, maybe.

As the fates have had it, we were fortunate to have tasted through some other winning wines in the Top Hundred. Here are our comments: Coming in on the “Top Ten” is the classic 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Le Vieux Donjon, $70. For those who simply love that blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, known as a GSM in our neck-of-the-woods, “it offers a heavenly bouquet of blackcurrants, ground pepper, new saddle leather, garrigue (that’s the smell of lavender & herb around the south of France), and an assortment of exotic spices.

Deep, full-bodied, incredibly concentrated, yet with the purity, elegance, and finesse that makes this vintage so special, it can be drunk any time over the coming two decades or more.”

The 2007 Donjon was stellar; this 2016 is as well!

In the past six years or so of writing this column, I’ve pretty much hinted around at

my love for Vintage Port. Around the time I was getting into investment vintage wine in general, the auction houses were ablaze with 1963 vintage port that had finally come into the perfect bottle age of 21 years.

Taylor Fladgate, one of the famous Port houses, had their stellar ‘63 selling for around $160 a bottle. At an auction in San Francisco, a case (12 bottles) of 1963 Quarles Harris Vintage Port came on the block. Fortunately for me, no one in the bidding group had ever heard of Quarles Harris—and add to the fact that the opening bidding price started at $100! The people were scared; they backed off. I offered the opening bid and received the case with no objections. The 1963 vintage was stellar; all of the Port houses made fantastic Port! Now that was a wine deal I’ll always remember!

I’m hearing the 2016 Vintage Port is the best since 2011. The Port houses of Taylor Fladgate, $120, and Warres, $98, have both scored 98 points for their Vintage Port and are top shelf picks. These wines are powerful— which in Port terms means powerful, but at the same time are “elegant”. Can you wait 21 years to open that bottle? Good Luck!--Cheers!

Rick continues as your somm-about-town tasting around at our valley’s wine venues & events. He can be contacted at winespectrum@ aol.com

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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THUR DECEMBER 20

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 TBA 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill and Doug Duo 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Customer Appreciation Christmas Party w/ Beats by Touchtunes 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield and Brian Dennigan 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Industry Night 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 Johnny Meza and Co. 6-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Lipstick hosted by Bella Da Ball 8pm, DJs Banks and Ax 10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Jack Ruvio 5-8pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 Derek Jordan Gregg 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Barry Baughn Blues Band 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Patricia Welsh 6-9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm

HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 TBA 9pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 DJ 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Rye Brothers 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Christmas Party w/ DJ Femme A 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Cordovas, Davey Allen and Miranda Lee Richards 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 So Cal Comedy Night 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Merl Jagger 9pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Symara Stone 6-9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Cosley 6:30pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 CV Weekly’s Holiday Party w/ Vinny Berry, Krystofer Do and Michael Keeth w/ Martin Barrera and Josh Fimbres 5:30-9pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 4:40-6pm, The Steve Oliver Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Black Market Trio 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Banda Night w/ Banda Sin Nombre and DJ Markuz Area 9pm

FRI DECEMBER 21

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19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Live Music 8pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Old St. Shtick Comedy 8pm, DJ Beyondadoubt 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 TBA 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Sharon Sills 6:30pm AMERICAN LEGION; PS; 760-325-6229 TBA 5:30-7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Juicy Fruit w/ Vida Loca, Dxsko, Gallo Negro Recordmendations Twerp and C Four 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield, Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Grady James Band 8:30pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 DJ Double A 8pm

BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx 6:30-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Viva Friday’s w/ DJ Banks 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; Wyldsky 9pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Slim Man 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Gina Carey 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 California Celts 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Desert Reggae Night w/ Mozaiq, Decadent Shaman and Unity Frenzy 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 TBA 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Live Music 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 7:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 The Champagne Band 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 Finesse 6:3011pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MIRAMONTE; IW; 760-341-2200 Trio NV 5-9pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Eevaan Tre 6:30pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 The Refills 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Agave Blues Band 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Lola Kirke, Amber Coffman and Dana Williams 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Diane Schuur 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Ghosts of Kelso 9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 8pm

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SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Closet Queen 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 “Meet the Corwins” 5:30-7:30pm, The John Stanley King Show 8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 DJ Galaxy and the House Whores 5pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 5-7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Fantasy Friday w/ DJ LF and Cali Redd 9pm

SAT DECEMBER 22

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Michael Lowe 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Reverbnation Radio 11am, poolside, and 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Steppin’ Out 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Toy Drive and Ugly Sweater Contest w/ DJs Inglish, Captain Osiv, Dxsko and Hymn 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Barry Minniefield, Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Avenida 8:30pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-7755566 DJ 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gennine Francis 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx 6:30-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO.; TP; 760-343-5973 Laughs and Drafts Comedy Night 7-9pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Banks and Mr. Miami 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Philip Poe Epstein 5:30-9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm

ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Jack Ruvio 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 Higher Heights and guests 8pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 He Films the Clouds EP Release Party w/ Beckoner, When Tides Turn and Frankeatsthefloor 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-10pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm JC’S CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0733 Vinny Berry 3-7pm KILO’S CANTINA; TP; 760-835-1363 TBA 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Live Music 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company 1pm, Hot Roxx 8pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 The Champagne Band 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 TBA 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MIRAMONTE; IW; 760-341-2200 Trio NV 6-10pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan Gregg 6pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Gregg Aratin’s 60th Bday Bash Karaoke 7pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Meltdown 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Sie Sie Benhoff 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Diane Schuur 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Upper Class Poverty and Dirt Boys 9pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Lance Riebsomer 6-9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 7-10pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-

December 20 to December 26, 2018

3560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Barflys Acoustic 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Reggie “Vision” Alexander 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Johnny Meza’s Dance Night 6-9pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett and Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono and the Real Deal 7:30pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Calista Carradine 6:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Snapchat Saturdays w/DJ LF and Cali Redd 9pm

SUN DECEMBER 23

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJs Beyondadoubt and Tropical Storm Prins 11am poolside, DJ Howie Pyro 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Sunday Brunch w/ Barney McClure 11am BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Santa Hat Christmas Party w/ DJs LF, Contraz and Geo 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Patrice Morris 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Songwriter’s Spotlight Hosted by Lance Riebsomer 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 5pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm continue to page 20

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

GOOD GRUB

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or fresh quality pizza, calzones and salads with a family flare, Upper Crust in Cathedral City does it right.

It had been some time since I had been to Upper Crust Pizza in Cathedral City. Living on the east side of the valley, I have become a creature of getting my pizza fix nearby.

But a recent gathering that I took part of was held at the long standing family owned restaurant, re-introducing itself to me. In business since the early 80’s, Upper Crust has an inviting old school pizza parlor vibe to it. With cushioned square booths lining the windows, and tables spread out in the center ready to be occupied by large parties.

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TASTE THE FRESHNESS AT UPPER CRUST PIZZA

BY DENISE ORTUNO

They even have a small arcade in the back to keep the kids entertained between pizza slices. It was homey and familiar, and very busy on Saturday afternoon.

As I got up to order my pizza at the counter, I noticed the full view of their kitchen, which was buzzing with activity. All of the staff was engaged in the pizza making process, giving my experience there an extra sense of energy. I really just wanted a slice of pizza, as I didn’t want to commit to a full pie. But they didn’t offer single slices on the weekends so I went for their 8” Mini pizza option. It’s a pretty good deal starting at only $5.95 for the basic model with cheese and

sauce, and then goes up from there as you add toppings. I added pepperoni, pineapple and jalapenos, which satisfy my three S’s (savory, spicy and sweet). After no time at all, my pizza was delivered to me. The little guy was adorable, and very hot right out of the oven. With a few cool breaths to drop the temp, I took a bite. The crust had a subtle sweetness to it, and there was no denying the freshness of my toppings. Even though it was just a Mini, I was full after a couple slices and ended up taking the rest home to my grateful boyfriend.

Upper has more than just pizza. They also offer menu items such as their Calzones,

which many people in my group were ordering….did I miss something?? The dough for the Calzones, along with their pizzas are made in house, as well as their sauces. They looked massive, way bigger than my little Mini. Like the pizza’s, you can create your own Calzone, or choose from their creations such as the Hombre (ground beef, red onions, black olives, tomatoes and jalapenos), the Italiano (ham, red onions, black olives, and pepperoncini’s) or their Special (Italian salami, ham, red onions and mushrooms), plus others. Their salads are freshly made as well, and you know salad goes perfectly with pizza, like their Antipasto Salad (fresh greens with, salami, ham, mozzarella, tomatoes, red onions, black olives, artichoke hearts and pepperoncini’s with Italian dressing).

I always love to see Coachella Valley restaurants that have been around for decades still thriving, as in the case of Upper Crust Pizza in Cathedral City. With fresh ingredients and friendly family service, there’s no question why they’ve been around for so long, and will continue to be there for pizza lovers for years to come.

Upper Crust Pizza is located at Canyon Plaza South, 67-555 Hwy 111, Cathedral City-760-321-2583

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BREWTALITY

I

’m drinking a stout yesterday and it occurs to me that there may not be a category of beer with a wider range than the stout.

Temecula’s Ironfire Brewing makes the Killer Stout, a bitter and aggressive brew with just a hint of hazelnut flavor in it. It tastes nothing like one of my all-time favorite stouts, Belching Beaver’s Peanut Butter Milk Stout, which tastes nothing like another favorite stout of mine, Stone Brewing’s Woot Stout. With so many flavor profiles present under the same name, here’s a breakdown of the five most commonly found stouts on the market today.

DRY STOUT - In 18th century London, malted barley was heavily taxed, and brewers were keen on finding a loophole to escape the fines. Using unmalted barley in their beer gave the resulting brew a sharp and astringent character. Drinkers began to appreciate the dry finish of those beers, and Irish brewers began to use unmalted barley themselves, and held onto the practice after the English had deserted It. A signature style of beer was created, and the brewers of Ireland were given credit for its popularity.

Interchangeably called the Irish Stout, this beer is perfectly exemplified by Murphy’s and Guinness stouts. A black beer with a pronounced, roasted flavor that’s like coffee, usually with low carbonation and a creamy mouthfeel from the use of flaked barley (brewers switched from unmalted barley to the much more efficient flaked variety).

A style that is supposed to be between 4-4.5% ABV, a dry stout can have medium to high hop bitterness. The popularity of Guinness is what many people think of when generalizing a dry stout.

ALL STOUTS ALL DAY

SWEET STOUT (MILK STOUT) - While Irish stouts are embodied by a dry, black coffee-like flavor, milk stouts have a sweetness to them from the addition of lactose, which is unfermentable by yeast.

A surprisingly historic style, the first iconic milk stout, Makeson’s stout, was brewed in 1801 and was widely marketed at the time as nutritiouseven to nursing mothers. After World War I, The UK outlawed the use of the word and imagery for milk in association with beer, so many modern examples are labeled as sweet stouts.

The sweetness of this style comes from milk sugar, but also from a lower level of bitterness than found in other stouts. The roasted, astringent character is also lowered, resulting in the most approachable of the stout genres. Clocking in between 4-6% ABV, Belching Beaver, Left Hand Brewing, and Stone all make amazing milk stouts with varying flavors and levels of intensity.

OATMEAL STOUT - The unsweetened brother of the milk stout, this style was developed around the late 1800’s and was also marketed as being a

nutrient rich supplement for invalids and nursing mothers to enjoy. The use of oats gives a soft, creamy mouthfeel that can almost feel oily if the brewer went ham with the amount of oats used.

Somewhere between a dry and sweet stout in terms of balance, the oatmeal stout possesses a rich and nutty flavor that sets it apart from the other styles. Usually between 4.2-6% ABV, you’ll find this beer in the import section of your craft beer market, as it’s not very popular stateside, and very few breweries sell theirs commercially.

FOREIGN STOUT (EXTRA STOUT) - Back in the day, brewers would usually make three strengths of beer, denoted by an X (If you’ve ever seen an old liquor jug with XXX on it, now you know why.

Cuz that jug had the good-good in it, son). At the time, X meant light beer, XX meant the beer had heavier alcohol than the light, and XXX meant export. Unless a beer had a high alcohol content and was heavily hopped (hops acted as a natural preservative, as did higher alcohol), it wouldn’t survive the journey from England to its many colonies.

December 20 to December 26, 2018

BY AARON RAMSON The myth is that IPA’s were the only beer that could survive months at sea, but this fake news.

Export stouts were every bit as strong as IPA’s and were given a name just as reflective.

Like a bigger and stronger dry stout, exports clock in between 6-8% ABV, and is best exemplified

by Guinness Foreign Extra Stout.

IMPERIAL STOUT - Export Stouts weren’t just shipped to English colonies, they were shipped to the Baltics and Russia as well. The Russian monarchy in particular enjoyed the full and robust flavors of the brew, and English brewmasters began crafting the strongest extra stouts possible to appease the Imperials of Russia. The name stuck, and while the Imperial stout is somewhat of a novelty in Europe, it’s found its home in the good old US of A, where craft brewers have made it a favorite of those who crave intense flavor. Big and dark with a wide range of flavor balances, typical components of this beer are a roasty-burnt malt, dried fruit flavors, and a warming, bittersweet finish. This beer can be greatly enhanced with the technique of wood aging, particularly bourbon barrel aging. The vanilla, caramel, and charred flavors that come from a used oak barrel marry perfectly into the flavors present in a big imperial stout. Weighing in anywhere between 8-12% ABV with upwards of 90 IBU’s, this is a beer not for the faint of palate, but along with the IPA, are the reigning kings of the American craft beer scene.

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

SCREENERS

NOW PLAYING: OLD MAN ON THE MOVE

It’s not much of a stretch for octogenarian actor Clint Eastwood to play 90. But what is amazing is that he still has the energy and wits to also direct himself in this less-than-perfect but still engaging tale.

Based in part on the real life Leo Sharp, who was sentenced at age 90 for transporting more than a half ton of dope during his

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No. 348

TWO TO SEE OR NOT?

decade long career.

Eastwood plays Earl Stone, a man in his 80s who is broke, alone -- he has no family connections -- and facing foreclosure on his business when he is offered and accepts a job that simply requires him to drive. “You mean they pay you to just drive?” Which he already does, growing, selling and delivering daylilies.

But unbeknownst to him he has just become a drug courier for a Mexican drug cartel.

He’s a really good driver, so good in fact, that his illicit cargo is greatly increased regularly over time and Earl is assigned a “handler.” But he’s not the only one watching Earl. He’s come under the radar of hardboiled DEA agent Colin Bates. Soon enough, Earl’s money problems vanish, but old wrongs plague him. He wants to right those wrongs before the law or the drug cartel’s enforcers get him. And time is quickly running out for this old man who wants to face his failings.

Eastwood’s Stone may be one-dimensional character, but he makes him likable and we care for him although he is not truly heroic in the classic Eastwood mold. The movie’s message is that families matter.

This finally poignant film from a master filmmaker and movie icon is all the more remarkable as evidence of what an older artist is capable. For that alone it deserves to be seen and supported if for no other reason than to encourage Eastwood to continue on

his story-telling path during the time he has left.

A wise professor once said, “next to sustenance, humans crave story above all else.

Narrative is how we define and understand what it means to be human.” Let this not be Eastwood’s final story.

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER: SNOWFLAKE

MORTAL ENGINES

The main -- no, only -- reason to see this film is to experience a jaw-dropping world we have never before seen on the big screen.

After all, isn’t that one of the reasons we go to movies?

Mortal Engines is a post-apocalyptic epic adapted from a series of YA novels by British author Phillip Reed. It’s set in a future where mechanized steam-punk cities forage the world in search of resources.

The story takes place centuries after civilization has been destroyed by a cataclysmic event. Hester Shaw (Hera Hilmar), a mysterious feral young woman, emerges as the only one who can stop London, now a giant predator city on wheels, from devouring everything in its path. Fiercely driven by strong maternal memories, Hester joins forces with Tom Natsworthy (Robert Sheehan), an outcast from London, along with Anna Fang (Jihae), a dangerous outlaw with a bounty on her head. Hugo Weaving, the only recognizable actor, plays Thaddeus Valentine, the principle genius of London.

The lush and detailed special effects dominate film, but sadly, there’s a weak narrative thread and not much emotional resonance to connect us to the lead characters, their relationships, concerns and goals. Too bad, because this film is state-ofthe-art in all departments but story.

Christian Rivers, Peter Jackson’s protégé was still a teen when he first contacted Jackson almost 30 years ago, sending him sample story-board and concept art. The friendship and creative association finally paid off for Rivers with his directorial debut on this big budget ($100 million plus) epic.

Sometimes a flawed project is worth considering because of its lofty ambition and its ground-breaking artistry. This is one.

Hunting down the murderer of their families in an anarchic Berlin of the near future, the outlaws Tan and Javid find themselves ensnarled in a wicked fairytale of a mysterious screenplay that plunges them in a vicious cycle of revenge all written by a clueless dentist, (yes, it’s that weird). In their quest for justice, the two must contend with a myriad of crazy assassins, madmen, a blood-soaked angel and an electric powered superhero. Daily Grindhouse said: “a dizzying, hilarious film that combines post-Tarantino action/crime drama and Charlie Kaufman’s metafictional surrealism with exhilarating results.”

Adolfo Kolmerer’s bloody rollercoaster of a movie takes its audience on fast-paced series of violently witty misadventures. German with English subtitles. Artsploitation Films.

ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA (1972)

Charlton Heston’s long-standing dream project – he stars and directs – soars when the actors soliloquize.

After the murder of her lover Caesar, Egypt’s queen Cleopatra (Hildegard Neil) needs a new ally. She seduces his successor Marc Anthony. This develops into real love and slowly leads to a war with the other possible successor – Octavious.

This robust adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play has unexpected grand battle scenes shot in Spain on land and sea. Eric porter is terrific as Enobarbus. The supporting cast in addition to Hildegard Neil features a panoply of great character actors including Fernando Rey, Freddie Jones and Julien Glover among them. The evocative score – available on an isolated track – is from the singular John Scott. This limited edition title (only 3,000 units) is premiering on hi-def.

Twilight Time Movies. Recommended.

BOOK REVIEW

H

ow nice would it be if you could do all your holiday shopping at one fun store, where -- when you’re done -- all your gifts can be wrapped by volunteers!? There is such a store and it’s called Barnes & Noble. It is chuck-filled, wall-to-wall with treasured tomes containing knowledge, magic, people, places, ideas, wisdom, fools, beauty, heroes and villains, etcetera. If your list has people from nine months to 99, there is something for everyone.

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

BIOGRAPHIES deliver incredible worlds that provide insight into a person’s reality and show us how a life is shaped. What makes someone into hero? Why do they inspire us? How did they come to make an impact?

“The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers” by Maxwell King “Frederick Douglas: Profit of Freedom” by David W. Blight FICTION is so much fun! Men and women often have very different tastes in fiction reading so consider the recipient’s level of machismo or sensitivity.

“The Reckoning” by John Grisham “Asymmetry” by Lisa Halliday “Wolves of Eden” by Kevin McCarthy NONFICTION has never been written better.

There are so many amazing topics -- history, memoir, and science, to name a few. Consider what most intrigues the person on your list and take a look at the wide-range of books in this category.

“Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Startup” by John Carryrou “The Future of Humanity: Terraforming Mars, Interstellar Travel, Immortality, and Our Destiny Beyond Earth” by Michio Kaku “Sharp: The Women Who Made an Art of Having an Opinion” by Michelle Dean POLITICS can be a very sensitive topic, so whether you have a republican or a democrat on your list, a thoughtful book will make your recipient feel that he or she is appreciated regardless of differences.

“A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership”

by James Comy “The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels” by John Meacham SCIENCE FICTION offers some of the most poignant and timely reading today. Sci-fi literature(?) is a great way to better understand our future.

“Thin Air” by Richard Morgan “The Calculating Stars” by Mary Robinette Koweal GRAPHIC NOVELS are not just for kids these days; so don’t hesitate to think about the twenty-somethings who have a love for art and story. Some can be very serious, so consider if

the recipient has the maturity.

“The Electric State” by Simon Stalenhag “On a Sunbeam” by Tillie Walden HOLLYWOOD is always a fascinating subject.

Film buffs especially appreciate the movie-greats that have come before and forged a path for the popular and stunning art form.

“In Pieces” by Sally Field “Seduction: Sex, Lies, and Stardom in Howard Hughes’s Hollywood” by Karina Longworth NATURE and NATURAL SCIENCE provides a sense of wonder and appreciation for our place on this planet. Glossy photos and intelligent copy make for a lovely way to better understand our fellow creatures.

“National Geographic The Photo Ark: One Man’s Quest to Document the World’s Animals”

by Joel Sartore “How to Change Your Mind: What the

SAFETY TIPS

BY HEIDI SIMMONS New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence” by Michael Pollan SHORT STORIES are a terrific way to enjoy reading and getting to know an author.

“Property: A Collection” by Lionel Shriver “Some Trick: Thirteen Stories” by Helen Dewitt Consider comics and coloring books, which are now fun for adults as well.

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

Don’t forget to write and sign a short inscription in the front of the book with the date.

This adds a very special personal touch.

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

No frenzy, and you can enjoy a warm drink while you brose –makes shopping merry and bright.

May your holiday be filled with beautiful words, wonderful stories and amazing ideas.

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

SAFE HOLIDAY TRAVEL TIPS!

M

“

December 20 to December 26, 2018

illions of people will be hitting the road the next couple of weeks for the Christmas and New Year’s Holidays.

It’s important you are properly prepared to get to your destination safely,” reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.

Here are some travel safety tips before you hit the road: -Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained. If maintenance is not up to date, have your car and tires inspected before you take a long drive.

-Map your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads during the most popular times of the year. If possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic.

-Keep gifts and anything of value in the trunk or covered storage area.

-If you’re traveling with children, remind them not to talk to strangers. Go with them on bathroom breaks and give them whistles to be used only if the family gets separated -Have roadside assistance contact info on hand, in case an incident occurs on the road.

-In case of an emergency, keep a cell phone and charger with you at all times. Many companies offer smartphone applications that enable motorists to request help without making a phone call.

-Have a Designated Driver: Before heading out to holiday parties, choose a designated driver from your group who will lay off the egg nog and make sure everyone gets home safely. Help keep drunk drivers off the road.

-Keep an Emergency Kit: It’s wise to store some items in your vehicle so they’ll be available if you need them. Recommended winter items include a windshield brush, ice scraper, gloves, blankets, extra clothing, a flashlight, batteries, and water.

And in all seasons, keep tools and jumper cables in your trunk as well.

-Keep extra water and power/protein bars with you. Accidents or incidents can shut the freeways down for hours. Be prepared!

-Obey Traffic Laws: From speed limits to traffic lights, stop signs to right-of-way, traffic laws keep order on the road and safeguard a system that keeps travelers safe. Breaking traffic laws to save a few minutes isn’t worth your safety and certainly not the safety of other families this holiday season.

-Did I mention texting and driving? Don’t do it!

Despite the simplicity of these tips, hundreds of accidents occur each year because drivers failed to follow one or more of these safe-driving strategies. This winter, do your part to make sure all of us on the road get home safely for the holidays. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15 CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Tuzzolino 5:30pm John Carey and Friends 6:30pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Ted Luminators 6pm Herman 6-8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Comedy Bill Marx 6:30pm Night w/ Jaime Kennedy 8pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Closed HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Risque’ Drag BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Music Show 9:30pm Video Mondays 6pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Live Music 7pm Mighty Sweet Nothings 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick 2794 PS Sound Company noon, Hot Roxx Tuzzolino 5:30pm 6:30pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; Sergio Villegas 5:30-9pm 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Mikael Healy 8pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Larry NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Capeloto 6-9pm Karaoke 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Sunday Jam 2794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm Session 2-5pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm Sunday Band 7:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND Karaoke 8pm-1:15am COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Open Mic w/ THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Finesse 7pm Rockin’ Ray 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S Open Mic 7pm MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Jack Ruvio ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Michael Keeth 6-9pm 6-9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Jazz 3560 The Myx 6:30pm After Work w/ Doug MacDonald 5-7pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Darci Daniels and Reggie Vision 7pm Deanna Bogart and Friends 6:30-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Nick Sosa 7pm The John Stanley King Trio 6-9:30pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 5pm WILDEST GREENS; PD; 760-636-0441 Lance Motown Mondays 6:30pm Riebsomer 11-2:30pm

MON DECEMBER 24

TUE DECEMBER 25

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Bill and Bob Show 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Shelley Yoelin Group 9:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 White Elephant Christmas Gift Exchange Party w/ DJs 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Big Rockin’ Country Tuesdays 7-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 John Carey 5:30-9pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Terri Olsen and the Perfect Blend 6-9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic 7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Brad’s Pad 7pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm

PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Acoustic Open Mic 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Game Night w/ Luke 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Cinch 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John McCormick and The Shelly Scott Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Coachella Tuesday w/ DJ Jeezy and Cali Redd 9pm

WED DECEMBER 26

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Big Horn w/ Soul Jams 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Doug MacDonald & Friends 7pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Whiskey Wednesdays w/ Touchtunes 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli 7pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; 760343-5973 Open Mic 6-8pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJs Banks, John Paul and Ax 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm

DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Joe Baldino 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 S.I.N. w/ DJ Mirage 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Terri Olsen and Patricia Welsh 6:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Open Mic Hosted by Josh Heinz 8pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke 7:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic 8pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Latin Night 7pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Roger & Friends 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Katheryn White 6:30pm VENUE@VENUS; PD; 760-834-7070 Dry Bar Party w/ Special Guest 5-7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 The Slim Man Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Jeff Bonds 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Shelley Yoelin’s Jazz Showcase 6:30pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Calentura Nights w/ DJ LF 9pm

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HADDON LIBBY

A

good conscience is a continual Christmas.” – Benjamin Franklin Americans are expected to fork out $721 billion on holiday-related spending this year, up $33 billion from 2017 reports the National Retail Federation. This equates to a staggering $1,007 per person…or about the price of an iPhone.

“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing, but of reflection.” – Winston Churchill Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, those who dislike paying taxes need to do a final year-end checkup of their finances to make sure that tax deductions have been maximized. This is of particular importance to Californians as new federal regulations put a limit on the deductibility of state and local taxes. The IRS now limits state and local tax deductions on your Federal taxes to $10,000 for a single person or a married couple. This is a clear marriage penalty to the high tax states that also seem to be Democratically-controlled states. For most people who own a home and earn more than $75,000 a year, this means that you will be paying more in taxes this year.

In order to mute the impact of higher taxes, let’s make sure that tax deductions “

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

REMEMBER THE TAX BREAKS

are being maximized.

The simplest tax break is to put money into a Healthcare Spending Account (HSA).

Everyone can add $5,900 per year to their HSA. For those who are over 50 years of age, the limit is $7,900. While you are working, these funds can be used for any healthcare need. What makes these funds the most valuable tax break that you can get is that HSA funds are never taxed. Once you retire, these funds can be used for anything at all in addition to healthcare and remain tax-free.

The next best thing that you can do is to max out your 401(k) contribution if you can afford it. For those under 50 years of age, the maximum contribution this year is $18,500 ($6,000 higher for those over 50). If you are self-employed, think about starting a solo 401(k) plan where you can set aside up to $55,000 ($6,000 more if you are over 50) and let those funds grow tax-free.

If you have stock and bond investments held in a regular taxable investment account like a living trust, make sure that you realize losses of $3,000 this year. Given the volatility in the stock market this year, even the best run investment portfolio had losses in 2018. Now is the time to use those losses in order to reduce your tax bill. Even if you

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

must sell a stock that you really like, you can always buy the same position back after 30 days and not invalidate the write-off.

Lastly, charitable deductions are a way to help those in need while reducing your taxes.

“No man is a failure who has friends.” – It’s A Wonderful Life As we take time from our busy schedules to wish yule tidings to friends, family and business associates, let us take a moment to consider the words of Bob Hope, “My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others.

Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” Those words ring true whether said today or seventy years ago. In a politically polarized world where neighbors and relatives end relationships over political positions, try and use the spirit and well wishes of the holiday season to remember what is really important.

On behalf of everyone at CV Weekly, may your holiday season be filled with love, luck and prosperity.

Haddon Libby is a Fiduciary Investment Advisor and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management and can be reached at Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com.

For more information, please visit www.

WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

YOU BETTER WATCH OUT, YOU BETTER NOT CRY.. I’LL TELL YOU WHY

Y

ou might cry your eyes out from these 2018 Christmas Scams listed herein: We often read about the generous things people do for complete strangers during the Christmas Season. But the opposite is also true. This is the time of the year when crooks come out of the woodwork.

Merchants are most at risk. With crowds and it is easier to seal and not be noticed.

Booster Box/Bag: A larger hollow box or bag is placed down over a slightly smaller shopping bag, purse or product placed on the ground while looking in a showcase.

The spring loaded bottom secures the item about to be stolen. The thief then walks away without anyone seeing what happened.

RFID: Unfortunately your credit card information can also be stolen without taking the physical credit card. Thieves have an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device) which is half the size of a laptop.

When they walk by you in a restaurant, airport or department store the card reading device, costing less than $100, automatically steals your personal info off your credit card. The Radio Frequency Identification is a tiny chip in our credit and debit cards. If your card has the symbol of 4 waves )))) or says Pay Pass, Pay Wave or Blink it has RFID. Your personal information from the RFID can be instantaneously transferred onto a

hotel credit card sized room key. That room key is now a “ YOUR credit card” which can be used to swipe and charge things against your card account. To avoid this you can put your credit cards into a protective sleeve that has an aluminum lining. This type of theft can occur with your passport at an airport so you should buy protective sleeves for both.

Fake Shipping: For the last 4 months, I have received emails notifying me my package is on its way. Be careful and don’t click when you get this notice, as it may contain a link or attachment that will take you to a site that installs malware. If you didn’t order anything, don’t click on it.

Gift Cards: They can be the perfect gift...

IF not already opened. However, crooks go to stores and write down the numbers and pin on the back of the card. When they see someone purchase one they go online and use up the amount on the card. Thus you must be sure the wrapping on the card has not been disturbed, or the pin revealed.

Fraudulent Charities: During the holidays, and catastrophic fires, hurricanes and earthquakes, we are all more inclined to help our fellow man and may fall for one of dozens of phony charities. If you don’t recognize the charity don’t donate to them.

E-Cards: Many people now send holiday and birthday cards via email rather than through the mail. Be careful before you click on them if you don’t recognize the name of

the sender. These are often phishing scams, aimed at getting you to provide more personal information.

IF your credit card is stolen or compromised, report it to the major reporting agencies below: Equifax - 1-800-525-6285 to place a fraud alert 888 766 0008. To order a credit report call 800-685-1111.

Experian (formerly TRW)- 888-397-3742 to place fraud alert. To order a credit report call 888-397-3742.

Trans Union - 1-800-680-7289 to place a Fraud alert. To order a credit report call 800-888-4213.

Social Security Administration (fraud line) 1-800-269-0271.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com.

DALE GRIBOW - Representing The Injured and Criminally Accused “TOP LAWYER” - CA’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-19 “TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine 2016-19 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating “DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER....THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME”

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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SPORTS SCENE NFL PLAYOFF PICTURE 2019: THE BEARS WIN THE

NFC NORTH, WHILE VIKINGS ELIMINATE 5 TEAMS

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he Bears and Chargers were the only teams to clinch in Week 15. Seven more teams were officially knocked

out.

Week 15 is nearly complete. That said, there was a lot of eliminating going on this week. Seven more teams are done, while only two teams joined the playoff party. That at least sets up an exciting final two weeks of the season.

In the NFC, the playoff picture is narrowed down to three open spots for six potential teams. In the AFC, every division still up for grabs. On top of that, no first-round byes have been secured as of yet, though a few teams had opportunities to do so this week.

Let’s take a look at how Week 15 impacted the NFL playoff picture.

NFC playoff picture What stayed the same: The Cowboys were blanked by the Colts on Sunday, and thus missed their chance to clinch a playoff spot this week. They could have made it in with a win or losses by Philadelphia and Washington, but none of those outcomes happened. The Rams are still fighting for a first-round bye, but they failed to get it for the second week in a row. Like the Rams, the Saints won their division already and are hoping for a first-round bye, but they can’t grab it yet as a result of the Bears’ win. The

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Seahawks failed to lock down a postseason berth with a loss to the 49ers. The Eagles, on Sunday Night Football, managed to avoid being eliminated from NFC East contention with a win over the Rams.

What changed: The Bears downed the Packers, and in doing so became the third team in the NFC to clinch a playoff spot. Not only that, but they captured the NFC North for the first time since 2010. The Giants, Packers, Lions, and Buccaneers were all eliminated after a loss and a Minnesota win. That Minnesota win also bounced the Falcons, who won on Sunday, out of contention.

What to watch for moving forward: The Panthers remain in the hunt and play the Saints on Monday — they cannot be eliminated if they lose, but they really need the win to stay in the conversation. Washington managed

a win while the Cowboys lost, so the Josh Johnson-led team is not out of it yet. They have the Titans and Eagles remaining on their schedule, two other teams battling to stay alive. Philadelphia already owns a head-tohead win over Washington, though the series can be evened out in Week 17.

If the season ended today, these would be the NFC playoff seeds: *Clinched playoff berth; **Clinched division 1. Saints** (11-2), (8-2) 2. Rams** (11-3), (7-3) 3. Bears** (10-4), (8-2) NFC tiebreaker notes: The Eagles own a tiebreaker over Washington because they beat them earlier this season, though they play again in the final week of the season.

The Saints hold a tiebreaker over the Rams and will play on Monday.

AFC playoff picture What stayed the same: Shockingly, the Browns’ playoff hopes remain alive, ever so slightly. All of their elimination scenarios required a loss, and they beat the Broncos on Saturday. On Thursday, the Chiefs failed to claim the AFC West and a first-round bye in a loss to the Chargers, though they still hold the top spot in the conference. The Patriots couldn’t clinch a playoff berth because they lost to the Steelers. The Texans didn’t either, even though they won — they needed a

BY FLINT WHEELER couple others games to go their way to nab a playoff bid this week.

What changed: The Broncos became the fifth team eliminated in the AFC after losing to the Browns (and after the Titans bested the Giants). The Chargers clinched a playoff spot on Thursday with a win over the Chiefs, and they are still in AFC West contention. The Bengals were eliminated when the Steelers beat the Patriots in the Sunday afternoon game. With their win over the Jets and New England’s loss, the Texans took over the No. 2 spot in the AFC. What to watch for moving forward: It seemed like the Patriots were virtually guaranteed a playoff spot, but they’ve now lost two straight. They’ll still likely make it (their remaining games are against the Bills and Jets), but they could miss out on a firstround bye. The Steelers recovered from a nightmarish couple of weeks to get a win, but they have a tough game against the Saints next. The Titans and Colts could be embroiled in a battle for standing until Week 17, when they will face each other for the second time this season. The Chiefs will continue trying to nail down a first-round bye, while the Texans hope to clinch the AFC South, with the Eagles and Jaguars coming up.

ASK THE DOCTOR

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BY DR PETER KADILE

♫“IT’S THE MOST MUCOUSY TIME OF THE YEAR!”♫

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old and flu season is upon us. I’m starting to see patients for the cough, runny nose and sniffles associated with the common cold. Here are some pointers for battling a cold.

As I’ve repeatedly said, antibiotics do not work against the common cold, that includes a Zpack.

Vitamin C has demonstrated antiviral effects and plays a role in immune system function. Most studies have shown that treatment with large doses of vitamin C at the first sign of a cold reduced the duration and severity of symptoms. I generally recommend supplementing with vitamin C 6,000-10,000mg a day at the first sign of a cold.

Vitamin A plays a role in immune system function. In a study involving 147 preschool children, the group that received 1,500IU/ day of vitamin A for 11 months had 19% lower incidence of respiratory infections compared to the placebo group.

Vitamin D also plays an important role in immune system function. Most people who develop respiratory infections have low levels of vitamin D. I have observed less incidence of colds in patients when they are regularly supplementing with vitamin D 5,000IU a day. Taking higher doses at the first signs of a cold may abort the cold or decrease the severity.

The best chance of aborting or shortening the duration and severity of a cold is to start supplementing at the first sign of a cold. I recommend high doses of vitamin C (6,000-10,00mg/day) and vitamin D (10,000-20,000IU/day) at the first signs of a cold (fatigue, scratchy throat, sniffles).

Take the supplements for the first 1-2 days.

Along with adequate rest and hydration, you may be able to abort the development of more severe cold symptoms or shorten its duration.

What about the color of my mucus?

Usually if it’s green means I need antibiotics, right?

This subject regarding the color of one’s mucus or phlegm determining the need for antibiotics is another one of the most frustrating medical myths primary care physicians encounter in their practices.

Every cold and flu season, I deal with this type of question quite frequently in my own practice.

When you have cold symptoms and blow your nose or cough up phlegm that is green, this does not mean you have a bacterial infection which would need antibiotics.

The green color comes from enzymes released by your white blood cells used to fight off the infection. When your sinuses are clogged during a cold, the mucus in the sinuses will stagnate and appear green when you sneeze or blow your nose.

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

How long is a cold contagious?

A person who has a cold is considered to be contagious a day before he/she develops symptoms and then for another 5-7 days.

For someone who has the flu virus, he/ she is generally considered contagious a day before symptoms develop and then for another 1-2 weeks. Cold and flu viruses are spread by droplets from sneezing and coughing.

December 20 to December 26, 2018

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

WHEN IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE

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f something isn’t quite going your way you may wonder when things might turn around for you. You may have experienced some unfortunate circumstances in the past year. You know the saying, “when it rains it pours.” I’m certain we can all recollect some not so great moments in 2018. But, now we’re on the heels of a New Year. So often, people are ready to move on from the year before because they may have had more low’s than high’s. Perhaps, what you have been diligently pursuing in 2018 will soon come to pass in 2019. Put 2018 behind you because you’re absolutely coming into a new season.

Without a doubt, I’m so grateful for what 2018 brought for myself and my daughters.

Personally and professionally, I prospered.

Sure, there are always a few bumps along the way in life. Some are bigger than others.

Overall, it’s always good to be grateful and do your best to find the positive in any negative situation.

Beginning in August of 2018 through October, I had the privilege to attend three separate wellness conferences.

Fortunately, I was able to receive so much from each one that I attended. There were a plethora of well respected health and business professionals who attended as well. It was such a wonderful experience to be able to gain several new prospectives.

Most importantly, I made new friends, made some fabulous connections and I

became very clear about my professional and personal goals. With this being said, all is falling into place exactly how I’m envisioning.

It’s amazing how life unfolds. I’m sure you can relate. If you are goal oriented (and most of us are) then you’ve been able to experience the fruits of your labor. This isn’t another column about setting New Year’s resolutions. Most often, 92% of the time, resolutions are broken because they are unrealistic. More so than anything, I’d love to share that you begin to set new heights for yourself. Start with smaller goals and build your dreams.

Recently, I attended a business retreat in Scottsdale, Arizona. I walked in with a great vision but left with an incredible insight as to how I want to serve others. Sometimes collaborating with other great minds can help lead you to your goals. You may be able to gain greater clarity by working with others. You may be able to set greater goals that have true intentions to get you there in 2019.

In any event, my wish to you this holiday season is to set your sights on what you truly desire in 2019. Skies the limit and you’re the author to your story. Make it happen!

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga and the Founder of BronwynIson. com, Yoga On Demand & Better For It Now, a 7-Principle Program for Female Entrepreneurs, Single & Busy Moms. 760564-YOGA (9642)

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of December 20

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Consumer Reports says that between 1975 and 2008, the average number of products for sale in a supermarket rose from about 9,000 to nearly 47,000. The glut is holding steady. Years ago you selected from among three or four brands of soup and shampoo. Nowadays you may be faced with twenty varieties of each. I suspect that 2019 will bring a comparable expansion in some of your life choices, Aries—especially when you’re deciding what to do with your future and who your allies should be. This could be both a problem and a blessing. For best results, opt for choices that have all three of these qualities: fun, usefulness, and meaningfulness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): People have been trying to convert ordinary metals into gold since at least 300 AD. At that time, an Egyptian alchemist named Zosimos of Panopolis unsuccessfully mixed sulfur and mercury in the hope of performing such magic. Fourteen centuries later, seminal scientist Isaac Newton also failed in his efforts to produce gold from cheap metal. But now let’s fast forward to twentieth-century chemist Glenn T. Seaborg, a distinguished researcher who won a share of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1951. He and his team did an experiment with bismuth, an element that’s immediately adjacent to lead on the periodical table. By using a particle accelerator, they literally transmuted a small quantity of bismuth into gold. I propose that we make this your teaching story for 2019. May it inspire you to seek transformations that have never before been possible.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): United States President Donald Trump wants to build a concrete and fenced wall between Mexico and America, hoping to slow down the flow of immigrants across the border. Meanwhile, twelve Northern African countries are collaborating to build a 4,750-mile-long wall of drought-resistant trees at the border of the Sahara, hoping to stop the desert from swallowing up farmland. During the coming year, I’ll be rooting for you to draw inspiration from the latter, not the former. Erecting new boundaries will be healthy for you—if it’s done out of love and for the sake of your health, not out of fear and divisiveness.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian poet and filmmaker Jean Cocteau advised artists to notice the aspects of their work that critics didn’t like—and then cultivate those precise aspects. He regarded the disparaged or misconstrued elements as being key to an artist’s uniqueness and originality, even if they were as-yet immature. I’m expanding his suggestion and applying it to all of you Crabs during the next ten months, even if you’re not strictly an artist. Watch carefully what your community seems to misunderstand about the new trends you’re pursuing, and work hard to ripen them.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 1891, a 29-year-old British mother named Constance Garnett decided she would study the Russian language and become a translator. She learned fast. During the next forty years, she produced English translations of 71 Russian literary books, including works by Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Turgenev, and Chekhov. Many had never before been rendered in English. I see 2019 as a Constance Garnett-type year for you, Leo. Any lateblooming potential you might possess could enter a period of rapid maturation. Awash in enthusiasm and ambition, you’ll have the power to launch a new phase of development that could animate and motivate you for a long time.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I’ll be bold and predict that 2019 will be a nurturing chapter in your story; a time when you will feel loved and supported to a greater degree than usual; a phase when you will be more at home in your body and more at peace with your fate than you have in a long time. I have chosen an appropriate blessing to bestow upon you, written by the poet Claire Wahmanholm. Speak her words as if they were your own. “On Earth I am held, honeysuckled not just by honeysuckle but by everything—marigolds, bog after bog of small sundews, the cold smell of spruce.”

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© Copyright 2018 Rob Brezsny

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Be very, very careful what you put into that head, because you will never, ever get it out.” This advice is sometimes attributed to sixteenth-century politician and cardinal Thomas Wolsey. Now I’m offering it to you as one of your important themes in 2019. Here’s how you can best take it to heart. First, be extremely discerning about what ideas, theories, and opinions you allow to flow into your imagination. Make sure they’re based on objective facts and make sure they’re good for you. Second, be aggressive about purging old ideas, theories, and opinions from your head, especially if they’re outmoded, unfounded, or toxic.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Memorize this quote by author Peter Newton and keep it close to your awareness during the coming months: “No remorse. No if-onlys. Just the alertness of being.”

Here’s another useful maxim, this one from author Mignon McLaughlin: “Every day of our lives we are on the verge of making those slight changes that would make all the difference.” Shall we make it a lucky three mottoes to live by in 2019? This one’s by author A. A. Milne: “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Until 1920, most American women didn’t have the right to vote. For that matter, few had ever been candidates for public office. There were exceptions. In 1866, Elizabeth Cady Stanton was the first to seek a seat in Congress.

In 1875, Victoria Woodhull ran for president.

Susanna Salter became the first woman mayor in 1887. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, Sagittarius, 2019 will be a StantonWoodhull-Salter type of year for you. You’re likely to be ahead of your time and primed to innovate. You’ll have the courage and resourcefulness necessary to try seemingly unlikely and unprecedented feats, and you’ll have a knack for ushering the future into the present.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Studies show that the best possible solution to the problem of homelessness is to provide cheap or free living spaces for the homeless. Not only is it the most effective way of helping the people involved; in the long run, it’s also the least expensive. Is there a comparable problem in your personal life? A chronic difficulty that you keep putting band-aids on but that never gets much better? I’m happy to inform you that 2019 will be a favorable time to dig down to find deeper, more fundamental solutions; to finally fix a troublesome issue rather than just addressing its symptoms.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Many people in Iceland write poems, but only a few publish them. There’s even a term for those who put their creations away in a drawer rather than seeking an audience: skúffuskáld, literally translated as “drawer-poet.” Is there a comparable phenomenon in your life, Aquarius? Do you produce some good thing but never share it? Is there a part of you that you’re proud of but keep secret? Is there an aspect of your ongoing adventures that’s meaningful but mostly private? If so, 2019 will be the year you might want to change your mind about it.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Scientists at Goldsmiths University in London did a study to determine the catchiest pop song ever recorded.

After extensive research in which they evaluated an array of factors, they decided that Queen’s “We Are the Champions” is the song that more people love to sing than any other. This triumphant tune happens to be your theme song in 2019. I suggest you learn the lyrics and melody, and sing it once every day. It should help you build on the natural confidence-building influences that will be streaming into your life.

Homework: Write a parable or fairy tale that captures what your life has been like in 2018.

Testify at Freewillastrology.com.

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

LIFE & CAREER COACH

BY SUNNY SIMON

DON’T BAH HUMBUG YOUR JOB SEARCH

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lthough we are moving into a very hot job market, downsizing actions and buy-outs still occur leaving employees out of a job during the holiday season. Job loss and the need to find new employment conjures up emotions such as sadness and fear.

Although the timing might truly suck, there are many reasons to embrace the process and make your job search enjoyable. Follow along as I share the good news.

As a starting point, new jobs are being created. Companies have been busy reinventing themselves and need top-notch performers to assure a profitable future.

That’s where you come in. Don’t panic. Take time to thoroughly investigate opportunities.

Find a company that will leverage your career strengths and be delighted to have you join their team.

View your job search as an opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and meet new contacts. Since networking is responsible for how 80% of jobs are filled, you will be spending much of your time reconnecting with former colleagues who will be happy to hear from you. Moreover, your network expands when your contacts introduce you to their contacts. Making connections leads to your next career chapter.

Take stock of your many achievements.

When you were busy at your last job,

you didn’t have time to realize the many accomplishments you’ve racked up, or note the success you achieved. As you document those accomplishments in your resume, congratulate yourself for expanding your skill set and enhancing your knowledge base.

Think about how your job search is a welcomed venue for communicating the outstanding work you are capable of doing and the value you bring to a future employer.

There is something to be said for being in transition. As you embark on a search, chart your own course. Have you been thinking about relocating? Now is the time. Ready to move up the ladder or emphasize one area of your expertise over another? Now is the time.

Want to be self-employed? Now is the time to research options and assure your career destination matches your desired goals.

Nothing worthwhile ever comes easily. Put a solid effort into finding that ideal new job and experience professional growth. When the fruit you most desire is on the far end of the branch – reach for it! In doing so, you’ll reap the rewards of the job search you previously bah humbugged. In addition, you’ll develop a stronger character and realize you have reason for much optimism and hope.

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

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

CANNABIS CORNER

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BY MICHELLE ANN RIZZIO

CITY OF DANK IN CATHEDRAL CITY

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his is part one of a series showcasing the Cathedral City sister dispensaries, City of Dank and Dank Depot, their brand Cali Care, and an interview with their founder Sahak Ghaghian regarding their upcoming lounge and lab.

Nestled in the parking lot of Show Girls on Perez Road in Cathedral City is City of Dank.

When walking inside you are welcomed by reflecting mirror walls and a step and repeat to stand in front of to snap a selfie and tag @ cityofdankcc on IG. A friendly security guard checks you in to make sure you are 21+ and discern if you are medical or recreation and allows you into the door to the dispensary showroom. Inside a bright display of art from a Venice beach artist adorn the walls with images of familiar cartoons taking bong rips, tripping out, and watching TV. An educated staff waits to share their perspective on what can help you and an array of products for every type of consumer of cannabis grace the display cases. During month of December you can stop by any day of the week leading up to Christmas for City of Dank’s special promotion--12 Days of Kushmas! Vendors like Smoke Stacks, Papa and Barkley, and Flow Kana will be in the house to share about their brand and keep the holidays lit.

I caught up with Kate, the general manager of City of Dank, to discuss her origins with cannabis, what we can expect to see in the new year from City of Dank, and what her favorite brands are.

When did your journey in the cannabis industry begin, and what sparked it?

Kate: My relationship with cannabis goes back as far as I can remember but my interest in the uses of cannabis beyond just “Getting high” sparked in 2003 when my mother was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Seeing the pain relief and the overall ease it brought to her final months made me want to learn all there is to know about Mary Jane.

What are your goals for City of Dank in 2019 and what can we expect to see?

Kate: My goals for City of Dank in 2019 are to continue to grow with the amazing staff we have built and provide the best service and as much knowledge as we can to those just entering the world of cannabis. We want to help bring the medical benefits of this

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amazing plant to this brand new market of recreational users. Seeing the demographic switching from just stoners & potheads looking for the best highs, to people of all ages looking to just get relief from whatever ails them. The smile on the face of a sweet grandmother who can now play with her grandchildren again using CBD drops, or the sweet 17 year old K9 patient we have who is living a better quality of life in her last years using VetCBD dog drops.

How is City of Dank unique to other cannabis dispensaries?

Kate: At City of Dank you will be treated like family EVERY TIME you stop by. We firmly believe in treating others the way you would like to be treated and it reflects in our customer service! We will always take the time to go over any and all questions you may have and try to find the perfect remedy for whatever ails you. If you’re just looking to just get stoney and veg out on the couch all day we have that too! That’s the true beauty of City of Dank, bringing medical marijuana & its benefits to the recreational market with all the knowledge behind it to really make a difference.

How has cannabis influenced your own health and wellness?

Kate: Having ADHD and just a general wandering mind. Cannabis really helps ground me and makes my thoughts manageable. Sativas in particular work the best to really concentrate my thoughts and help focus me for my day.

What is your favorite way to use cannabis?

Kate: My favorite way to use cannabis has to be smoking a nice j. Just something about puffing on a doobie brings me back to the times of stoners in the 60’s. Besides the flavor of the buds are really showcased when rolled up as well as the abundant taste of the terpenes.

What are your top 5 favorite products?

Kate: VetCBD, Northern Lights #5 strain (anyway I can get my hands on it vape or buds), Foria, Ascnd Cart specifically Amnesia Haze and Papa & Barkley.

Visit City of Dank at 68444, Suites H-I Perez Rd in Cathedral City to see for yourself.

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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December 20 to December 26, 2018

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