Coachella Valley Weekly - December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017 Vol. 5 No. 41 by CV Weekly

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Community Events

coachellavalleyweekly.com • December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017 Vol. 5 No. 41

New Year’s Eve Events Gene Evaro Jr. Lia Shapiro Jazz at the Mansion Michael Petry pg 5

pg 8

pg 9

pg 11

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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Coachella Valley Weekly

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

760.501.6228

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

CONTENTS Empire Polo Club 2017 Season........... 3 New Year's Eve Events ......................... 5 CV Open Mic Competition.................. 8 Living Desert's Mildly Wild NYE.......... 8 Gene Evaro Jr - New Years Eve............ 8 Lia Shapiro of Alien Tribe.................... 9 Backstage Jazz - Jazz Mansion............9 Consider This - Neil Young................. 10 Art Scene - Michael Petry.................. 11 Art Scene - DiMora Vicci 6.2 & Matsers of Abstract Art Exhibits..... 11 Pet Place............................................. 12 The Vino Voice ................................... 13 Club Crawler Nightlife....................... 14 Screeners............................................ 18 Book Review....................................... 19 Safety Tips.......................................... 19 Haddon Libby.................................... 21 Dale Gribow....................................... 21 Sports Scene ...................................... 22 Free Will Astrology............................ 23 Mind, Body & Spirit ........................... 23 Beauty with Dr. Maria Lombardo..... 24 Life & Career Coach ........................... 24

EMPIRE POLO CLUB ANNOUNCES OPENING DAY OF THE 2017 POLO SEASON

unday Polo kicks off on Sunday, January 1st with two featured matches at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. The official “Opening Day & Hat Day” at Empire Polo Club is scheduled for Sunday, January 8th, 2017. What’s New This Season? This season Empire Polo Club has added two new VIP Terraces along the main Sunday Polo field with expanded seating areas. A selection of craft beers will be available for purchase in the VIP Sports Lounge along with a new Sunday Polo menu offering a variety of tasty appetizers and lunch entrees. Tailgaters will enjoy additional shade tents, available for the public to use in the General Admission area. The La Quinta Resort & Club has returned as the “Official Hotel” of the 2017 Polo Season. Empire Polo Club welcomes back sponsors Tito’s Handmade Vodka, BMW Performance Center West, Cambria, Lockton, Westin Mission Hills, Chandon and Paul Everett’s RV. The club is also excited to present this season’s new sponsors, The Classic Club, Leaskou Partners, Trilogy at Polo and Indigo Auto Group. SUNDAY POLO Sunday Polo games are scheduled every week from Jan. 1st through April 2nd, 2017. The polo club will be closed on Sunday, January 15th and again on Sunday, March 5th, 2017. General Admission is FREE with a $20 parking fee for all Sunday afternoon polo games. Tailgaters are welcome; space along the sidelines is available on a first come, first served basis. Bleacher seating is also available in the General Admission area. Spectators are welcome to bring their own food and beverages into the General Admission area. Food and beverage service is also available for purchase. VIP Admission is $25 per person and includes parking, VIP seating and a complimentary Champagne Divot Stomp. The VIP seating area is located in front of the Olympicpeaked tents on the west side of the main polo field and offers field-side covered seating.

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

SUNDAY, JANUARY 8, 2017 INDIO, CA

Spectators can also watch Sunday football games while enjoying polo at the VIP Sports Lounge and Bar, located adjacent to the VIP seating area. The Sports Lounge offers viewers three flat screens featuring Sunday football games and other popular sports. Reservations for VIP seating are highly recommended. Food and beverage service is available onsite during Sunday matches. For VIP reservations or group rates please call 760-393-7298 or email tonyschieffer@ empirepolo.com. No outside food or beverages are allowed into the VIP area. The entrance for Sunday games is on Ave. 50 between Monroe St. and Madison St. FRIDAY NIGHT POLO Empire Polo Club offers Friday night “Polo Under The Lights” on the third Friday of each month. Friday night polo features one polo match that typically lasts about an hour and a half. The Friday night game time is 5:30 PM in January and February, and 6:30 PM in March. Arrive early to get a good spot to tailgate. Bleacher seating is also available. Beverage service is available onsite during the Friday night games. Admission, tailgating and parking are free for Friday night games. Spectators are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to this event. Enter on Monroe St. at Ave. 51 for Friday Night Polo. 2017 Friday Night Game Schedule • Friday, January 20th at 5:30 PM • Friday, February 17th at 5:30 PM • Friday, March 17th at 6:30 PM GENERAL INFORMATION What to Wear? This is the one of the most frequently asked questions by spectators. We suggest “hats and flats,” as heels sink in the grass and the sun is always shining here in the desert. Polo is a casual affair at Empire Polo Club, so please wear whatever you feel comfortable in. You will see spectators wearing everything from shorts, jeans and flip-flops to sundresses, khakis and button-down shirts. If you plan to attend a Friday night “Polo Under The Lights” game, dress warmly. Why Watch Polo? It’s a great way to spend your Sunday afternoon. Imagine sitting field-side, overlooking a series of immaculate polo fields surrounded by majestic mountains in the distance, while watching one of the fastest team sports on earth. Polo is never boring. Eight players travel at speeds up to 30 miles per hour while ridingoff other players, hooking their opponent’s mallets and hitting the ball at full speed. It’s a great spectator sport and general admission is FREE. You can’t beat that! DIRECTIONS The entrance for Sunday Polo games is on Ave.50 between Madison St. and Monroe St. The entrance for Friday night “Under the Light” polo games in located on Monroe St. at Ave. 51.

Sunday Polo Entrance From Interstate 10 take the Monroe St. exit. Head south on Monroe St. Take a right on Ave. 50 and you will see the Empire entrance gates on the left side of the road. Use the middle gate for tailgating access and General Admission parking. If you are a cabana holder, have VIP reservations for a table or if you are part of a group with reservations, use the third gate to access the VIP parking area. Friday Night Polo Entrance From Interstate 10 take the Monroe St. Exit. Head south on Monroe St. The main entrance to Field #3 and Friday Night Polo is on Monroe St. at Ave. 51. ABOUT EMPIRE POLO CLUB Established in 1987, Empire Polo Club is one of the largest and most beautiful polo clubs in the country. Empire Polo Club’s facilities include 12 polo fields, stabling for more than 500 horses and an indoor arena and polo school. Empire hosts polo tournaments for all levels of play. ABOUT POLO Empire Polo Club is a world-class, international polo club. Players from Canada, Mexico, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, France, Germany, England and other countries travel to the desert to play polo at Empire Polo Club. Players’ ages range from young up-and-comers in their early teens to practiced seniors in their sixties. Polo is a pro-am sport and co-ed. Men and women compete together on teams that are handicapped by the total sum of its player’s handicaps. Each player has a handicap, similar to golf. Handicaps range from -2 to 10, with 10 being the best in the world. Teams compete in tournaments that are categorized by handicap level. Empire Polo Club Contact Information 81-800 Ave. 51, Indio, CA 92201. www.EmpirePolo.com General Info. Line 760-393-7298 VIP & Group Reservations 760-393-7298

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS

AGUA CALIENTE CASINO RESORT SPA I want my New Year’s Eve! Step back to the 80s and party like a video star on December 31st at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa in Rancho Mirage. Ring in the New Year big time this year at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. Watch your favorite 80s music videos all night long, with party favors aplenty to help you celebrate in style, and don’t miss the Top 20 Countdown to $25,000 Cash on the casino floor. Plus, Huey Lewis and The News live on stage in The Show. Live at The Show on New Year’s Eve, it’s Huey Lewis and The News. Celebrate MTVstyle all night at the most amped up party in the Coachella Valley. Huey Lewis and The News are truly one of America’s great rock ‘n’ roll bands. As they enter their 36th year together, their contagious brand of music has outlasted countless trends, and is as fresh today as ever. Formed from two rival Bay Area bands in 1979, they continue to thrill audiences worldwide, selling over 20 million albums in the process, earning them the right to mark their place on the pop history map.

Huey Lewis and The News take the stage in The Show at 10:30PM Tickets on sale online at HotWaterCasino.com or call (800) 585-3737. The Lounge in Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa at 32-250 Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage. New Year’s Eve * Free fun and entertainment from 9:00PM - 1:00AM The best dance hits of the 80s with the 80’z All Starz. Must be 21 or older. Ring in 2017 at Spa Resort Casino’s second annual community block party with entertainment, local restaurants, bar gardens, a multi-media presentation and fireworks. Spa Resort Casino – together with community partners including Alpha Media along with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Eisenhower Medical Center and PS Resorts – is gearing up for a second annual New Year’s celebration to rival Times Square. The block party has something for everyone whether you celebrate New Year’s by east or west coast time. SPA RESORT & CASINO For those who celebrate early, the event is scheduled to begin at 8PM and will broadcast the east coast Times Square celebration live on a giant digital display at 9PM Entertainment will be provided by

DJ Dense, noted Los Angeles DJ and Music Director for the LA Clippers, with plenty of room to dance. Local area restaurants and merchants will set up along a retail section of the party, which includes a full bar garden for the entire evening. Late night party goers will enjoy 70s disco sensation Village People as they take over the entertainment at 10:30PM with a staged concert. The open-air concert venue features ticketed seating for the concert and main event – a multi-media New Year’s Eve 2017 countdown celebration, Palm Springs style. 8PM – 1AM. Village People perform at 10:30PM Free to the public. Bar Garden, retail and food vendors will provide items for sale. General seating, $35; Premier VIP Pass, $75. Buy online at sparesortcasino. com or in person at the Paradise Rewards Club desk. Entrance to the event is from N. Indian Canyon and E. Andreas Road. Parking is available on the Spa Resort Casino north parking lot off of Alejo Road

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

EVENTS

sound and lighting experience in the desert. The ONLY true nightclub experience in all of Coachella Valley. Doors open at 8PM (Reserved Seating 8PM-9PM ONLY, Entire party must be present.)

$15. Ticket includes at midnight Champagne toast & Party Favors and Breakfast Buffet. Live Music by the Renowned Blackwater Band. Full menu available. For more information and Tickets call 760.327.4080 HI-DESERT CULTURAL CENTER - 9PM We wouldn’t want to spend New Year’s Eve any other way! Come join us for a unique New Year’s Eve at the Blak Box Theater in Joshua Tree. Live set from Gene Evaro Jr + a funky dance party! Doors at 9PM & Show at 10PM. Funky Dance Party till 12:30AM. ALL AGES ! Spread the word and get your tickets now, there is limited number and the event is sure to sell out! The Blak Box Theater will have a bar to buy drinks from, no outside alcohol will be permitted. Tickets: geneevarojr.com/ new-years-ticket.

CHILL BAR - MASQUERADE BALL AND NYE CELEBRATION 9PM Corday 6PM-9PM NEIL’S LOUNGE - NYE PARTY w/ Karaoke All Night No Cover 9PM PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB NYE Party w/ Marko Russell 6:30PM

PAPPY AND HARRIETS - HIGH DESERT OVERDOSE NEW YEAR’S EVE SHOW Performances by OFF!, The Melvins and Redd Kross 9PM ACE HOTEL - NYE 2017 PIE TOWN’S SUPERTEMPORAL SOUTHWESTERN SOCK HOP - FRIDAY DEC 30-SUNDAY JAN 01. $35 ONLINE /$40 AT DOOR /$75 WITH DINNER - PALM SPRINGS. www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

TACK ROOM TAVERN - NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 9PM. Desert DJ Entertainment Presents Open to the public. No cover charge. Party favors at the door. Champagne toast at midnight. Entertainment by: Dj Paul Z/Dj Jae Rawkwell ROCK & ROLL NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH @ THE WORLD FAMOUS PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE Downtown, Palm Springs Saturday, December 31 Start time 8PM and Band starts at 9PM. Advance pre-sale Tickets $10. At the Door

COPA NIGHTCLUB PRESENTS: EPIC NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 9PM $10 presale tickets. ZELDAS NIGHTCLUB PRESENTS: 2017 NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION Our 39th Annual NYE Celebration will be featuring our Resident DJ, The Bigster, while our Party Hosts Ron T of 97.7FM and David aka “The Reverend” will make sure you have the time of your lives! It is the longest running, and biggest NYE party in Palm Springs! Make sure to make your reservations now at our state of the art nightclub located in downtown Palm Springs. Countdown with us on our Gigantic one of a kind 60FT LED WALL and party with us to the premier

FANTASY SPRINGS The Dax Band kicks the party off at LIT Ultra Lounge at 9PM to get everyone warmed up for the main event. Starting at 11PM, the band Kalimba will hit the stage at LIT Ultra Lounge and will feature the music and spirit of Earth Wind and Fire. This is just one of the several fabulous ways you can celebrate the New Year at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. Slim Man will play songs from the American songbook inside the 12th Floor Cocktail Lounge and Wine Bar - a luxurious space featuring plush furniture, standard bar games and sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The New Year’s Eve parties in both LIT Lounge and the 12th Floor Cocktail Lounge and Wine Bar are free and open to the public and go from 9PM on New Year’s Eve to 1:30AMend either party. THE HOOD - NYE PARTY 9PM. w/Special Guest DJs and The California Celts and Free champagne toast at midnight $5.00 cover

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

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BY MORGAN JAMES

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

CV OPEN MIC COMPETITION AT THE BLOCK: WEEK 12 GENE EVARO, JR: EIGHT ALBUMS AND A DECADE LATER, THERE IS MUCH TO CELEBRATE

NEW YEAR’S EVE SHOW, HI-DESERT CULTURAL CENTER IN JOSHUA TREE: DOORS OPEN @ 9PM

he crowd went wild this week and they packed into The Block Sports Bar & Grill to hear contestants give their best performance hoping to be the last to qualify for the semi-finals January 4th. The CV Open Mic Competition was reeling with performers and enthusiastic onlookers, riled up by audience giveaways such as quality t-shirts from Brutal Bee Music Group. Celebrity judge, Brett McLaughlin of popular band Caxton had the tough job of scoring each performance. Once each of our talented musicians graced the stage and the votes were tallied, it was Jeremy Goodlander aka 5 Acre Dream who was awarded 1st place and decided to take home a $25 gift certificate to The Block. 5 Acre Dream will now move on to the Semi Finals January 4th. If he wins there, he will compete in the Grand Finals on January 11th for an MTV Quality Music Video Production from Desert C.A.M. Studios/Winmill Films and award winning Director Chip Miller, plus a $500 trip to Las Vegas from Crater Lake Spirits, as well as an Artist Development Session from Grammy nominated Producer Ronnie King, a Promotional Photo Shoot from Rav Holly, and a Boss RC-1 Loop Station Pedal from Guitar Center Palm Desert, and an artist merchandise package from Brutal Bee Music Group including logo design and 25 t-shirts, stickers and more! 2nd place was awarded to Brandon of Before the Funeral who took home a movie ticket for the Mary Pickford Theatre. 3rd place was a tie between MCKG who took home two tickets to Century Theatres and Wrist Lock who decided on a $25 gift certificate to The Block Sports Bar & Grill.

THANK YOU to ALL our performers at the CV Open Mic Competition for putting on a great show AND making the environment so supportive for all of the artists involved. Jeremy Goodlander aka 5 Acre Dream, Joe Montes aka Cino, Frankie Lopez aka Wrist Lock, Osmosis, Jim Holiday, LBoogie da Mann, Zack No Slack, Gabriel Reyes aka MCKG, Brandon of Before the Funeral, Rick Dame aka Warrior Spirit Falcon that Sings, Daniel Scopelitis aka Aviators, Oscar aka Fantasma Satanica, Desert Pirates. Also a big thanks to Johnny Carmona, our amazing sound technician. I hope to see you all next WEDNESDAY at THE BLOCK SPORTS BAR & GRILL in Cathedral City! Look for coverage of this week’s event and the announcement of winners in the next issue of CV Weekly! SPECIAL THANKS to all of our sponsors: Desert C.A.M. Studios/Winmill Films & Chip Miller, Ronnie King Music, Crater Lake Spirits, Rav Holly, Guitar Center, CV Weekly, Canyon Copy & Print, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, Brutal Bee Music Group, and The Block Sports Bar & Grill. Be sure to “LIKE” Facebook.com/ CVOpenMicCompetition for updates! ALL AGES ALLOWED and YOU may compete EVERY week! PLEASE NOTE: Due to our overwhelming number of interested performers, sign in starts at 7pm and will be closed at 7:45pm. BRING YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY and FANS to join the fun! The show runs about 8pm - 10:30pm. For questions or info about sign-up, please see Facebook.com/CVOpenMicCompetition or contact creator and host, Morgan Alise James at MorganAliseJames@gmail.com or (714) 651-1911.

THE LIVING DESERT’S MILDLY WILD EVENTS NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

ing in the new year with a roar at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens at the inaugural Mildly Wild New Year’s Eve

Party. The celebration includes a scrumptious surf and turf dinner followed by live entertainment and dancing. Guests will experience all of the fun and excitement of New Year’s Eve earlier, as The Living Desert will offer a complimentary champagne toast when the ball drops on the East coast at 9PM. The evening also features animal encounters and a special performance of the big band sounds of Dave Damiani and The No Vacancy Orchestra playing the styles of Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, Jamie Cullum, among other favorites.

Saturday, December 31. 5PM – 10PM (9PM East Coast Ball Drop Champagne Toast) at The Living Desert – Palm Garden 47-900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased online at: Livingdesert.org/event/ mildly-wild-new-years-eve. For more info (760) 346-5694.

ight self-produced albums and several self-booked and selfpromoted tours later, Gene Evaro Jr. and his road tested tribe of troubadours have seen their efforts pay off in a big way. While recently touring in support of their newest album, Too Good to Believe, the band enjoyed smashing debuts at the Hangtown Music Festival as well as in San Francisco. They played to a packed house in Santa Barbara’s beloved SOhO venue, and opened for bay-area band, Con Brio, in Sacramento and Chico. After playing more than a dozen shows throughout LA, San Francisco, Sacramento, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Chico, Tahoe and Nashville, Evaro and band returned home for a few weeks, but not without walking away with booking representation from Paradigm Talent Agency. Gene Evaro Jr. will be added to Paradigm Talent Agency’s deep list of artists and bands that include The Lumineers, Of Monsters and Men, NOFX, Andy Grammer, Dave Matthews Band, Aerosmith and more. With much to celebrate, Gene Evaro Jr. and band will be hosting a Joshua Tree New Year’s Eve Party, giving us all one more time to see them perform live before they head back out to a world that will most assuredly embrace them and their music. It doesn’t seem that long ago that I reached out the Evaro to talk about his band playing the 2015 NAMM Show after winning a national competition sponsored by the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Evaro had shared that he found the contest on Sonic Bids, and sent in an EPK, two songs, and his last $60 bucks. “We were either going to spend it on food or this,” he’d told me. “We went on our intuitive instincts and it paid off. The whole process is really about breaking down boundaries and insecurities. It’s so comfortable to say; ‘No.’ There’s nothing to do after that. When you say, ‘Yes,’ it takes more work. You start pushing down barriers and opening doors that are right in front of you really. It came down to this: Do we want the money or the opportunity.” Evaro had other words of advice that ring loud and true in light of the bands newest opportunity. “Keep adding new colors to your palette. Keep looking at things differently. Keep creating. Sticking to the same 10 songs and really plugging those may make sense from a marketing standpoint. But if you’re going to play those same 10 songs for a year straight, you’re going to get really sick of them. I have the most fun when I’m experimenting and showing people new songs. I definitely love it when people are singing along; that’s the best. But there’s a healthy balance between the past and the present.” Then he added with a smile, “We at least want to keep it exciting so everybody

comes to these rehearsals that nobody’s getting paid for.” The band is home for a few weeks and back in the studio but will be taking time out to celebrate with a New Year’s Eve party at the Blak Box Theater in Joshua Tree. “We want to celebrate the year with everyone that helped us get here so far!” The all-ages funky dance party will include a live set from Gene Evaro Jr. and band who have much to celebrate. “2017 is uncharted territory is all I can say,” shared Evaro. Along with an epic party launching the new year, friends and fans can look forward to the release of a brand new music video for the song, “California Is Burning,” which is about recognizing the beauty within a crazy, spinning, dynamic, heartbroken, yet passionate life,” shared Evaro. “It references of what it was like to have strangers working at the hospital tell me that I wasn’t going to see my sister, Natalie, again. The song mentions apparitions of seeing my sister in the crowds of our shows, and hearing her laughing from the crowd…feeling her spirit through the lives of other people. “California Is Burning” is an anthem dedicated to the chaotic beauty of being alive, eventually learning to surrender, and then allowing it to devour you in its inevitable trans-formative destruction. Let it burn!” There are a limited number of tickets still available for the band’s New Year’s Eve Party, and the event is likely to sell out. Tickets may be purchased online at geneevarojr.com/ new-years-ticket. Doors open at 9 p.m. The show starts at 10 p.m. with the “funky dance party” going on until 12:30 a.m. The Blak Box Theater located behind the Hi-Desert Cultural Center will have a bar to buy drinks from with proper I.D. and wrist band. No outside alcohol will be permitted. The HiDesert Cultural Center is located at 61231 29 Palms Highway in Joshua Tree. Follow Gene Evaro Jr. at geneevarojr.com

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

BY MORGAN JAMES

LIA SHAPIRO OF ALIEN TRIBE

nspiration surrounds us like a warm, dry blanket on a rainy day or like a bridge leading us through to a brighter road ahead. Lia Shapiro of Alien Tribe has channeled inspiration from years of living abroad, immersed in a multitude of cultures, which she pours into her music. This “one woman band” has followed a path in electronic music and successfully seen her music distributed and recognized globally in the last few years. From a medical scare twenty years ago to a fresh beginning in which the songstress “feels better than ever,” Lia shares her life, her inspiration, and opens up about her music. MJ: Tell me about your experiences living abroad and how they have influenced your music? LS: “I grew up in Washington DC and my dad was in the army so we traveled a lot. Then my husband had a government job and so I continued to travel. When I lived in the Persian Gulf all I heard was middle Eastern music. I have lived in Germany and Japan. I lived in Nairobe, Kenya- you can hear a lot of influence in my drums from there. They take on that tribal feeling, hence the ‘Tribe’ in Alien Tribe. I always felt like I lived in a tribe and not even necessarily in this world, you know? Hence the ‘Alien’ in Alien Tribe.” MJ: Tell me about your health scare twenty years ago and how that has changed your life now to focus on your new music process? LS: “It was Viral Meningitis. They say it’s not as deadly or damaging as Bacterial Meningitis, but sometimes it can be, and mine was quite terrible. I almost died and spent years reprogramming my brain. I came home from the hospital and had forgotten how to cook, drive a car and so many other things, but, it seems anything computer related, my brain took to it. I built a few websites, wrote a book, magazine articles, and started making and producing

music. I did eventually remember how to cook and drive again and all the other things, but since the meningitis, seems I went from cooking and mostly writing, to music. I love the track work, which some might find tedious, but chopping up tracks and re-shuffling all the track pieces is how I come up with my final songs, like a huge jigsaw puzzle. Instead of working with notes, I work with wave forms once I have all the music and vocals down. It’s called micro-engineering or micro-producing, and of course, sound engineering. I love to program and reprogram synth vocals and my vocals so you can’t even tell which ones are me. I use the tribal effect in my vocals too; lots of vocal layers.” MJ: With such a heavy emphasis on computer generated music and adding synthetic sounds, how has your music been received by audiences? LS: “I’ve been told that my music is an “emotional experience,” and have been asked if I intentionally make it that way. I’m an emotionally receptive and feeling sort of person, so it just turns out that way. But, I always want others to feel it as well. Good music means conveying the emotion, so when people tell me my music is emotional or passionate, that makes me happy, because that means they ‘feel it’ and can relate it to their own feelings and make it theirs. I want people to get that ‘emotional experience’ when they hear my music. They may not always be able to identify it, such as categorizing it or putting it into a specific genre, but, if it creates a feeling or makes them want to move, that’s all that counts. That’s what makes me happy. I make every song in the hopes of creating emotional impact and wanting to leave a lasting feeling so that people will remember. I’ve made music in over a dozen genres, that way, I feel I can at least

BACKSTAGE JAZZ

make something for everyone. Good music is what we all want, and these days there are so many options for finding music. If I can just keep creating, my hope is that people will find me. Although I create out of my own emotional depths, what gives me true joy and satisfaction is knowing that I can touch others and make the experience personal for them too.” MJ: Were you a live performing artist before you started producing music electronically? LS: “All my life I dabbled in music- singing lessons, keyboard, guitar, piano, etc., but no I never did much actual performing live other than a brief stint about 30 years ago. I was extremely shy. I performed at a few events in Seattle, but it was difficult for me to overcome the nerves. I was serious on keyboard for eighteen years until I met a gentleman in Sweden about fifteen years ago where I began singing on his electronic music. I’m what is called a ‘studio musician,’ and, I make ‘studio albums,’ although maybe one of these days, my hope is to perform live.” MJ: What other artists have you collaborated with? LS: “Besides collaborating with Pelle Handen, the Swedish guy, who also does his

own music, I also collaborate with Geoff Keogh, an Irish guy. I’ve also done a collaboration with my brother, Rob Langnas, and a gentleman from Iran.” MJ: Tell me how the Coachella Valley has influenced you in your music? LS: “I did a 3 song EP called, “Going To Coachella.” Two of the songs are instrumentals, called, “Coachella Daze,” and “Coachella Nights.” The one with my vocals is titled, “Going To Coachella.” I sing in sort of a “valley girl talk.” I live and work 2 miles from the Polo grounds and even though I didn’t attend the festival, I was totally inspired one weekend by the music floating through my windows. The “Going To Coachella” EP is my inspirational effort directly tied to the experience of being so close by. In the music, you can hear a helicopter. Yes, I found one in my keyboard! Out jogging at night in the community, the sky was filled with helicopters, airplanes and private jets bringing celebrities in, thus the helicopter in the music. You can hear all three songs at alientribe.bandcamp.com. MJ: What are you looking forward to in the future? LS: “My music was first heard on British radio and is slowly spidering its way around the world. I’ll be joining the Grammy’s next year. Although I’ve created over 20 genres, I’m best known for my dance music or EDM. The song “American Chick” is a good example.” (You could find shortened versions of the dance tunes at alientribe.com.) "My 'Deep Down' EP is totally non-dance and can be heard at alientribe.bandcamp. com." "Songs in progress, and some short released songs are at soundcloud.com/alientribe and alientribe.com."

BY PATTE PURCELL

JAZZ AT THE MANSION

he New Year is upon us and with it a new season of events here in the desert. In 2017 I plan to do a series of private jazz parties that are 420 friendly. Although we have a wonderful selection of big jazz events here in the desert, I enjoy a smaller venue where you’re one on one with the artists. I also prefer a party instead of a concert atmosphere where you can move around and dance. I wanted to do something different in that arena and with the suggestion by Lilly Barillari, we looked at a couple of estates for a party. Lilly showed me a mansion, a contemporary masterpiece with a discotheque upstairs, multi levels with decks, water features, fireplaces and views of Palm Springs below. Although it’s 6,000 square feet we are capping the attendance at 120. Liquor, wine, and food tastings will

also be included in the party. The party is both indoors and outdoors on the beautiful decks surrounding the home. Sunday, January 29 from 4:20 until 7:30 we will be having the first party, a sunset

soiree with great people, dancing, jazz, blues, R & B and some surprise guest artists. I’m calling it “Jazz at the Mansion”. We have Hans Zermuehlen on keys (performed with Rick Braun, Jeff Lorber,

Steve Oliver, Kirk Whalum, Dave Koz, Mindi Abair, Brian Simpson, Blake Aaron, Slim Man, Michael Lington), Andrew Ford on bass, (performed with Al Jarreau, Whitney Houston, Barry Manilow, George Duke, James Ingram, Dianne Reeves), Greg Vail on sax (over 2 million CDs sold) Keisha D on vocals (Mc Callum ‘Open Call’ winner), and Mark Gagliano on percussion. It’s going to be a private party, by invitation only. If you are interested in getting on the invited list text me at 702219-6777 with your name and email. Tickets will not be offered to the public. You will receive the address for the party with your ticket. Only 100 tickets are available. Happy New Year! Patte Purcell - Muze Muzic pattepurcell@yahoo.com 1-702-219-6777

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

CONSIDER THIS

NEIL YOUNG

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

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

“PEACE TRAIL” (REPRISE RECORDS)

ell, I can’t stop workin’ cause I like to work when nothin’ else is going on/ Well, it’s bad for the body but it’s good for the soul-might even keep you breathin’ when you lose control.” That’s Neil Young on “Can’t Stop (Workin’),” from his new album, Peace Trail. Neil Young has been a working musician for more than half a century, yet he shows no signs of slowing down. Born in Toronto, Ontario, in 1945, and raised mostly in Winnipeg, Manitoba, his interest in Rock N Roll escalated as his parents’ marriage came apart at the seams. After the divorce, his older brother, Bob, returned to Toronto with their father, Scott, who was a well-known sportswriter. Neil remained with his mother and immersed himself in the nascent sounds of Rock music. Rockabilly, DooWop, R&B and Country flowed from his tiny transistor radio. Pretty soon he picked up a plastic ukulele, then a banjo ukulele and finally a baritone ukulele; pretty much everything but an actual guitar. During his high school years, Neil cycled through a series of bands. The Jades and the Squires had the most longevity. Eschewing a college education, he went out on his own, armed with only his trusty acoustic guitar. He began making a name for himself, working his way through the Canadian coffee house/Folk club circuit. (It was there he first crossed paths with another aspiring singer-songwriter, Joni Mitchell). By the time he was 21, Neil was playing with future Super-Freak, Funk-meister Rick James in the Mynah Birds. The combo was even signed with Motown until it was discovered that James had been AWOL from the Army Reserve. Discouraged, he and Mynah Birds bassist Bruce Palmer decided to try their luck in Los Angeles. Driving down in Neil’s hearse, they hoped to hook up with guitarist Stephen Stills. Ironically, Stephen recognized the distinctive hearse as it cruised the Sunset Strip. Reconnecting, the trio recruited drummer Dewey Martin and second guitarist Richie Furay, becoming Buffalo Springfield. The quintet immediately signed with Atlantic Records. Playing clubs on the Sunset Strip they quickly distinguished themselves with a sound that combined Rock, Blues, Country and Psychedelic influences. From 1966-1968, they released three well-received and fairly popular records, but clashing egos almost guaranteed the

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band’s swift implosion. By late ’68, Neil embarked on a solo career. His self-titled debut arrived in January, 1969. Less than four months later, he released his second effort, Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere. At this point, he drafted a young four-piece called the Rockets as his backing band. Soon they became better known as Crazy Horse. (All told, Neil has made 16 records with Crazy Horse). In the midst of launching his solo career, ever unpredictable, he reconnected with Stephen Stills who was now part of the Rock world’s first super-group, Crosby, Stills & Nash. Their self-titled debut was already riding high on the charts, when they added Neil to their line-up. The day after their very first live performance, they headed to Woodstock, to play at that epochal event. Less than a year later, the album Déjà vu, was credited to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Another chart-topper, it spawned three hit singles. A restless spirit, Neil remained tangentially tethered to CSNY, but truly began nurturing his solo career. His After The Gold Rush album arrived in 1970 and two years later he hit his commercial apex with the Harvest album, which featured his only #1 single, “Heart Of Gold.” Rather than embrace his success, Neil almost willfully ran in the other direction. Dense and sorrowful records like On The Beach and Tonight’s The Night confounded expectations. It was a template he would employ for the rest of his career. By the end of the “me decade,” he hit another milestone with his Rust Never Sleeps album and tour. Rather than staying that course, Neil zigged where he might have zagged. During the ‘80s, he settled into his most non-commercial phase, recording a series of albums that explored Electronica, Rockabilly, Honky Tonk Country and Rhythm & Blues. Geffen Records (his label at the time), actually sued him for not sounding enough like Neil Young. Ironically, as the ‘90s dawned, Post-Punk tastemakers like Sonic Youth, Pixies, Dinosaur, Jr., Nick Cave and Pearl Jam began name-checking Neil Young as an influence. Suddenly, he was known as the “Godfather Of Grunge.” Naturally, he switched gears yet again, by revisited his mellow “Harvest” years by recording a follow-up, Harvest Moon with the same guys, Ben Keith, Tim Drummond and Kenny Buttrey, (dubbed the Gators), that played on the original album 20 years before. It was a critical and commercial success. For the last 25 years Neil has remained autonomous. Releasing albums and touring whenever it pleased him. He Grunged it up on albums like Sleeps With Angels and Mirrorball, crafted beautiful acoustic efforts like Silver & Gold and Prairie Wind. He made a convoluted concept album, Greendale, and paid homage to songwriting antecedents like Stephen Foster on Americana. Collaborations that seemed good on paper, like the Are You Passionate album with Booker T. & The MGs and Le Noise with producer Daniel Lanois fell flat. Consistently outspoken, he’s tackled topics like 9/11 and the Iraq War. His 2006 record, Living With War was a tart excoriation of George W. Bush’s rush to judgement and the absence of Weapons Of Mass Destruction. Something of an Eco-Warrior, he even entitled an album The Monsanto Years, as a not-so-subtle critique of the

monolithic agrochemical company. Wildly prolific, Neil has recorded 41 studio albums. In October, he was one of the headliners for Desert Trip in Indio. The six day music fest, spread over two weekends (dubbed “Oldchella”) featured British Invasion stalwarts like Rolling Stones and The Who, as well as Pink Floyd mastermind Roger Waters, archetypal singersongwriter (and Nobel Prize winner), Bob Dylan and Beatles’ co-architect, Paul McCartney. On the heels of that historic event, he has released his 42nd album, Peace Trail. Rather than use past backing bands like Crazy Horse, or the Gators, or even Promise Of The Real (an up-andcoming band that includes Willie Nelson’s sons, Micah and Lukas, who played on Monsanto Years and toured with him), Neil enlisted two session pros, drummer Jim Keltner and bassist Paul Bushnell. Jim Keltner has played with three out of four Beatles, James Taylor, Steely Dan, Traveling Wilburys, Elvis Costello and Warren Zevon, just to name a few. Meanwhile, Paul Bushnell is very much bassist’s bassist, working with a variety of disparate artists: everyone from Luciano Pavarotti and Sinead O’Connor to LL Cool J. and a shit ton of Top 10 Country musicians. The record opens tentatively with the title track. The lengthy instrumental intro is powered by a sturdy rhythm; walking bass lines quavery keys and skronky guitar. It’s a full minute before Neil’s feathery falsetto (nearly unchanged since the ‘60s), drops in. The lyrics make a case for continuing to make music and remaining socially conscious. Sunburst guitar riffs underscore sentiments like “Don’t think I’ll cash it in yet, don’t think I’ll put in my last bet…I think I’ll hit the peace trail, I think I like my chances now/I have to take good care, ‘cause something new is growing.” The first half of “Peace Trail” is great. The stellar title song is followed by the aforementioned “Can’t Stop (Workin’).” Over a scattered shufflerhythm, roiling bass, scratchy guitar and bluesy, almost fractious harp notes, Neil waxes rhapsodic about his protean work ethic. He periodically repeats the title like a mantra, as though just echoing words give him strength. The next two tracks, “Indian Givers” and “Show Me” make explicit that Neil stands with the Standing Rock protest, (a.k.a. the Dakota Access Pipeline protests.) The pipeline not only constitutes a threat to the region’s clean water, it also violates sacred Indian burial grounds. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe has peacefully protested construction for most of 2016, but only recently has it gained national attention. Over a tribal tattoo and loping guitar, the former offers a stinging indictment of the government’s continued rape and pillage of indigenous lands. He ominously intones “Big

money goin’ backwards and rippin’ the soil, where graves are scattered and blood is boiled/... yes our brave sons and beautiful daughters, we’re all here together fightin’ poison waters/Standin’ against the evil ways, that’s what we have at the end of days.” Sweet Spanish acoustic filigrees open the latter track, before locking into a relax-fit 12 bar Blues groove. Smoky, Home-On-The-Range harmonica trills buttress lyrics that not only reference Standing Rock, but also take swipe at the continued inequity of Women’s rights. Lines like “When the women of the world are free to stand up for themselves, and the promises made stop gatherin’ dust on the shelves show me, show me, show me,” received a huge response when he previewed the song at Desert Trip. So, it’s somewhat dismaying to report after four excellent songs the album kind of goes to shit. Perhaps that’s too harsh an assessment. More accurately, Neil seems to half-ass the remaining six songs. “Texas Rangers” employs a child-like nursery rhyme melody with lyrics that seem like a repetitive tone poem. On “My Pledge” he singspeaks a fractured rant that leap-frogs through a series of non sequitur thoughts. From ancestors on the Mayflower, (wait, isn’t he Canadian?), to the frustration of L.A. traffic, to a withering denunciation of millennials that are tethered to their iphones. He then goes on to reference Dion’s “Abraham, Martin And John” song along with the death of Buddy Holly. Labelling this song a mess is a bit of an understatement. More apropos is the Yiddish word mishegoss. At least “Terrorist Suicide Hang Gliders” and “John Oaks” attempt more linear stories. Over a “Hey-Hey, My-My” melody (Neil steals from the best, himself), hearth-fire acoustic guitar, a plonking back-beat and shards of splattery harmonica, “Terrorist..” takes aim at the casual bigotry and rampant jingoism that has gripped this country since 9/11. “I think I know who to blame, it’s all the people with funny names/ Movin’ into our neighborhood, how can I tell if they’re bad or good.” “John Oaks” offers a thumbnail sketch of a laid back hippie who becomes an agriculture activist. A cross between Jeff Lebowski (the Dude abides), and Caesar Chavez, he leads a farm worker rebellion and dies a martyr. The plodding melody is almost saved by wheezy harmonica and a blistering electric guitar solo. The final two tracks can barely be considered songs. Maybe there is a trenchant metaphor to be found in the lyrics of “Glass Accident,” but it really sounds as though Neil dropped his beverage and was too lazy to clean it up, so he left a note around the dangerous debris. Finally, “My New Robot” is about exactly that. “My life has been so lucky, the packages arrived/I got my new robot from amazon.com” The remainder of the song is devoted to robotic instructions for activating the robot. It’s the musical equivalent of being trapped in a dullsville conversation with a septuagenarian regarding gas mileage. Peace Trail is, at best, hit and miss. It’s admirable that Neil Young has such a rigorous work-ethic, but no one begrudges him a little time off. Maybe he should relax and play with his robot for a while.

ART SCENE

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BY ANGELA ROMEO

MICHAEL PETRY – THE ART OF BEING

hen British based artist Michael Petry comes to town the valley takes notice. Innovative and always pushing the envelope Michael was born in El Paso, Texas, in 1960 and has lived in London since 1981. He studied at Rice University, Houston (BA), London Guildhall University (MA), and has a Doctor in Arts from Middlesex University. He is an artist, author and curator. Michael’s latest show will open at Melissa Morgan Fine Art Gallery on January 6 and will run through February 6, 2017. Michael’s works are included in collections throughout the world including the Palm Springs Art Museum; Museum of Arts and Design, New York City; Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Toledo Museum of Art, the British Museum, London; The National Collection, UK, the Kunst und Ausstellungshalle der Bundesrepublick Deutschland, Bonn, the Bellerive Museum, Zurich, The New Art Gallery Walsall, UK, Rogaland Kunstmuseum, Stavanger, Norway, The Gallery of Art, Legnica, Poland and the Leopold Hoesch Museum, Düren, Germany. Lest We Forget the Gods continues his performance art work Libation to Eros that was shown at the Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Desert Campus in 2015. In the original performance Michael shot red arrows into a

wall of cork while telling the story of Eros, the Greek God of desire and love. He shot one arrow for each year of his life. Simultaneously he intoned a classical tale, mixed with his own story. The juxtaposition of the arrows and sound created a powerful performance that reinforced the arrow metaphor – that the arrow, like loves can bring with it pain and pleasure and that the arrow always brings about change. “It is this fear of the chaos of love that I hope to tap into,” noted Michael. Lest We Forget the Gods will include a series of large-scale Libation paintings that were made during a residency at the Coachella Valley Art Center. These works form a series called The Battle of the Gods and the

ART SCENE JANUARY 2017 WILL OPEN WITH A BIG BANG IN THE ART WORLD!

ir Alfred J. Dimora has teamed up with Rebecca Fine Art Gallery to create a spectacular Event on Sat., January 7, 2017. RFA Gallery will host the Opening of the Exhibition “Masters of Abstract Art” and will also be presenting the most recent super car from Dimora Motorcars -- the Vicci 6.2. Sir Alfred J. Dimora and Zen Master Lee Sun-Don collaborated to produce the epitome of rolling art, the Dimora Vicci 6.2 Emperor series of handcrafted automobiles. When introduced at the Art Revolution Taipei, the crowd was enthusiastic and the first two cars in the series sold for $1 million each. DiMora Vicci 6.2 incorporates the highest level of automotive technology, luxury, performance, safety and communications. On top of all that - it features an artwork by

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

highly sought-after Taiwanese artist Master Lee Sun-Don, reproduced on the hood and side panels. The artwork is transposed onto the automobile by skilled DiMora Motorcar artisans, requiring more than 700-man hours to replicate every exacting detail of the original. “There are no two car paintings alike. Our DiMora Vicci 6.2 is a very unique automobile with attention to detail and unmatched style and power,” says DiMora, a 40-year veteran of the custom car industry who for the first time is merging art and the art of the automobile. DiMora Vicci 6.2 is a lightweight 2,820 pounds. As a result, it can do 0-to-60 mph in around 4 seconds. The 430-hp/424 ft-lb torque model is equipped with the General Motors LS3 series all-aluminum V-8, at 6.2

Titans, and each one was made by Michael firing real arrows into the canvas. He will also present sculptural works in bronze and porcelain. A full life sized solid bronze arrow called Libation to Eros will accompany two libation bowls made for Michael in Jingdezhen, the 2000-year-old porcelain center of 2000 years. Libation to Apollo is a one meter (in diameter) gold bowl that will be filled with white wine and Libation to Selene (the moon goddess) will be filled with red wine. The exhibition will also be accompanied by porcelain wall work made up of 9 silver porcelain stars. It will also include Constellation; a series is based on the astrological signs based on the stars. What makes Michael’s work unique is his ability to work well with other artists and craftsman. Where some artist will take

create for the complete creation Michael has always acknowledged that some work does take a village. Michael’s book The Art of Not Making: The New Artist/Artisan Relationship looks at artists who have work produced for them by artisans. For more info visit michaelpetry.net or melissamorganfineart.com.

BY REBECCA PIKUS

liters, and the more powerful supercharged 556 hp/604 ft/lb option, on the same block with 9.1:1 compression ratio, is available for an additional $60,000. Designed by Sir Alfred J. DiMora using Carbon DiMora Fiber Design (Carbon DFD), the immaculately designed coach-built neoclassic automobile is offered at $1.2 million, and the price includes the coordinating Master Lee Sun-Don original artwork. Automobiles and art have been excellent investments throughout the collectors’ financial world, and without exception DiMora Vicci 6.2 has attracted both collector communities. The supercar will be showcasing for 2 days among other stellar contemporary artworks in the exhibition “Masters of Abstract Art” at RFA Gallery.”Masters of Abstract Art” will feature incredible new paintings by renowned, award-winning artists Joe Novak, Donald Spencer, Mario Pikus, Robert Tahar, and sculptor Robert Reeves. Abstract art

is complex, yet simple -- it is not literal or figurative, or representational. It is art created in the moment. The colors provoke emotions. Through brushstrokes, texture, scale, the artist leaves only the essence - with its symbolic reality. Abstract Art is powerful! This promises to be a masterpiece of an Exhibit. “Dimora’s Vicci 6.2” & “Masters of Abstract Art” - Opening Exhibit Sat. Jan. 7, 2017, 5-8PM - REBECCA FINE ART GALLERY, 68895 Perez Rd, #7, Cathedral City, CA (760)5345888 - Rebeccafineart.net - Open Bar, Music, Great Art - DiMora Vicci 6.2 will be on display and available for sale - Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017 from 5 - 8PM & Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017 from 11AM - 4PM -- “Masters of Abstract Art” will run through March 31, 2017.

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

PET PLACE

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BY JANET McAFEE

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

his week animal lovers and their four-legged companions ring in the New Year 2017. In 2016, our region made positive strides in the battle to reduce the rate of euthanasia of animals in our public county shelter. More low cost spay and neuter programs reduce the flow of unwanted pets coming into shelters. “Rescue” is becoming the favored route, as the public becomes more aware of the problems with pet stores and backyard breeders. But there is still much work to be done. Our dream is that one year soon, the Coachella Valley will join the communities across the nation that have become “no-kill”. While all cats and dogs provide affection and companionship, there is a special love and wisdom bestowed from rescued pets in their “second chance” home. These pets can help us enjoy keeping our New Year’s resolutions. Here are some ideas for your 2017 resolutions. 1. GET HEALTHY Having a pet will improve your health, including reducing your blood pressure, stress, and loneliness. If you decide to quit smoking this year, you are also taking a step

to improve the health of your fur friends who share your home. Obesity in pets and in their people is linked to cancer, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and decreased life expectancy of up to 14 years in humans and up to 2.5 years in their animals. As you select healthier foods, make sure to provide better nutrition for Fluffy and Fido. Avoid serving harmful human foods to pets. Fresh carrots, cooked green beans, steamed broccoli, banana slices, and apple slices are great diet options for both you and Fido. 2. GET FIT AND REDUCE STRESS Walking a dog keeps you both healthy, alert, and happy. Athletic folks can enjoy the outdoors jogging and hiking with their dog. There is a proven link between stress with obesity, depression, heart disease and many other human ailments. Scientific studies prove that a special pet can help reduce all these medical problems. Dogs help our combat veterans and others cope with stress and anxiety related conditions. Pet antics make us laugh, and laughter is the best medicine. 3. MEET NEW PEOPLE, MAYBE A SPECIAL PERSON? Having a domestic pet will open new

horizons you did not anticipate. Pets are natural ice breakers. That adorable dog you walk down the street or take to the dog park can result in your meeting new friends or even a new love interest. You score extra points when they learn your dog is a rescue dog. 4. VOLUNTEER IN THE NEW YEAR If you resolve to help other people in 2017, pets may also play a role. If you have a calm dog who likes strangers, consider

LOVELY LUNA Her sweet and gentle nature make this 3-yr-old female pit bull a Staff Favorite. Luna waits for a home at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus Shelter, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, Dog ID#A1166905. (760) 343-3644, rcdas.org.

MEET FLOWER Precious Flower, 5-monthold Tortoise Shell kitty, will blossom in your home. Cute & cuddly, she may be at Petco soon. Contact the Coachella Valley Animal Campus Shelter at (760) 343-3644 Cat ID#A1331219, rcdas.org.

getting him certified as a therapy dog and bring joy to hospital patients. Volunteer at a shelters or private animal welfare organization. Walk a dog for sick or elderly neighbors, or help with cat care for someone who is hospitalized. 5. ADOPT A RESCUE PET IN THE NEW YEAR The New Year is a time for new beginnings and second chances. If you are still “petless” as 2017 arrives, go visit the hundreds of wonderful animals waiting at our shelters and rescues. Adding a second or third dog usually works out well, as long as you thoughtfully plan and introduce them on neutral turf. Email me for a copy of my article on “How to Introduce a Second Cat”. Visit our largest public shelter, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus at 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. View their adoptable animals at www.rcdas.com. Call (760) 343-3644 for shelter hours. Call Loving All Animals lovingallanimals.org at (760) 834-7000 for a list of all local shelters and rescues. Happy New Year 2017 to you and your 4-legged family members! Jmcafee7@verizon.net

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THE VINO VOICE

FRANKIE’S FANTASTIC ITALIAN BAKERY & CAFÉ “

he story of Frankie’s Old World Biscotti begins in the hills of Calabria, Italy, in 1592, with a sacred family recipe. Biscotti were part of a local wedding custom, and made with only the freshest black anise, sun roasted almonds, stoneground flour, and other homegrown flavors. Priests blessed the dough before baking it in a brick oven, a process that took three days. The result was biscotti softer in texture, and unlike those made commercially today.” Well—first off, a very happy New Year’s to you all! I hope you’re enjoying the holiday season with some your favorite quaffs. As you can discern by the quotation marks in the first paragraph, the words above aren’t my mine, but Frankie’s. He goes on to say, “I am so happy to carry on my family’s tradition and present my biscotti to you. They are made with love, heart, and the soul of Old Calabria. Now we offer the tastes and textures of biscotti and breads from Old Calabria to neighbors in Palm Springs & Cathedral City, Southern California and friends throughout America. We look forward to sharing our family’s tradition with you.” For the casual on-looker, the modest café/ deli that is quietly situated off Perez Rd. (that connector street that joins Date Palm Drive to Hwy. 111 as it cuts through Cathedral Canyon Drive) appears unpretentious enough, but this is the place where the “Italian” in everyone longs to thrive and flourish in “la dolce vita di far niente”—the sweet life of tranquility. For those who do not yet know the coziness of this old world style bakery, this place will light up your new year. Freshly baked and beautifully prepared Italian pastries align while comforting wafts of sweet spice and cookies continually titillate your senses. A bakery before expanding to a deli and ultimately a café, the shop continues to offer panoply of confections prepared from some of Frankie’s fabulous old-world family recipes. If you can’t make it to Calabria on vacation this year, be comforted, you can still surround yourself with the sights, sounds, aromas and encompassing sway of the morning calabrese table. From a stellar selection of Italian cookies, pastries, tarts, cannoli, and biscotti, come the likes of Cuccidate- Fig Date Walnut Cookie, Apple

Crostata, Apricot Pineapple Squares, Vanilla Almond Biscotti with White Chocolate Topping, Sicilian Chocolate Chip Cookies (Hey!—Sicillians and Calabrese are practically Pisanos), Vanilla Almond Biscotti with Dark Chocolate Topping, Macadamia White Chocolate Cookies, and so much more. Are we waking-up to this tasty news or what? As Frankie’s Grandma, Nonna—used to say: “La Vita e Incerta…Mangiare Biscotti Prima”—“Life is Uncertain…Eat Cookies First” Because of the large request from his customers to expand to an authentic Italian deli, Frankie and fellow pasticcere associate, Luca, did indeed meet the community demand to provide the needed delicatessen. Subs, sandwiches, meatballs, and other scrumptious Italian delights are prepared fresh for dining, take-out, and catering. Find out everything you wish to know by going to their website: frankiesbiscotti.com. And did I mention the Italian vino available? Frankie always provides an enlightening and varied wine list that include Chianti, Rosso di Montalcino, Frascatti, Nero d’Avola, Prosecco, and our favorite, the authentic Moscato d’Asti. We’ve recently written about Moscato d’Asti, DOCG: It’s typically and fashionably Italian: mildly effervescent—frizzante, with aromas and flavors of sweet peach, apricot, orange blossom, honeysuckle, almonds, citrus tones, and ginger that is embraced with medium acidity to keep things fresh and lively. What’s so lovely about this wine besides being so aromatic, tasty, and, charismatic, is its low alcohol level. Generally around 5 to 7 percent, it’s the perfect all day quaffer on its own, and the impeccable pairing for breakfast, lunch and dinner. By the way—has anyone enjoyed a wine & cookie pairing lately for dessert? Enjoy a pairing menu at Frankies! For as quaint and homey as the store shop is, as depicted in the included photo, there is currently an entirely new side of things going on—quite literally! True to Frankie’s show biz and theatrical background, we now have “Dinner Show at Frankie’s”. Like the famed supper clubs of old, Frankie’s is providing top-notch Palm Springs entertainment, offering a one-of-a-kind dinner theater at his expanded location. It all works—the culinary and theatrical arts; it seems fitting that a venue like

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

BY RICK RIOZZA Frankie’s continues our tradition of the Great American Songbook. It’s All About Love! The next Dinner Show, titled “Sweethearts Thru the Ages” is scheduled for the 2017 Valentine’s Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, February 11th and 12th. The program will feature our valley’s famed entertainers including Frankie Mamone, Luca, the Italian Cowboy, Leslie Tinnaro, with musical director Dante Noto. Slated on the menu is a gorgeous five-course dinner to include, Italian Herbed Rice Cheese Balls, Romaine Lettuce and Red Pear Salad with Toasted Pecans, Chicken Cacciatore over Spiral Pasta, Roasted Califlower & Zucchini with Basil Pesto, and, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Torte. And as mentioned above, a wonderful wine list will be available to purchase from. The cost of the dinner-theatre event is

only $60 per person. Please call in advance for reservations, as these events sell-out quickly: 760.770.1300. Doors open at 5pm, with dinner being served at 6pm. Many more theatrical activities and plans are underway; and, I understand there is to be a Thursday Night Open Mike series starting soon. Such being the case, it’s easy to see the new expanded business name: Frankie’s Italian Bakery, Café & Supper Club, 68-845 Perez Rd. H30 Cathedral City, CA. 92234 Congratulazioni! Frankie & Luca, Arriverderla! Rick is your somm-about-town conducting and entertaining at wine events & tasting. Contact winespectrum@aol.com.

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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THUR DECEMBER 29

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Trio w/ Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug MacDonald 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ and Dancing 9pm THE BLOCK; CC; 760-832-7767 Reggae Thursdays 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 Symara Stone and Bob Hamilton 6:30pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Barry Baughn and Bob Gross 6:30pm GADI’S RESTAURANT AND BAR; YV; 760365-6633 Open Mic Night 7pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 T.B.A. 7:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Open Mic 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Punk Rock Night 9pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 TBA 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Rye Bothers 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Tony Marsico’s Band of Thieves 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The Deep Ones 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 STUFT PIZZA; PD; 760-777-9989 Acoustic Live w/ TBA 6pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 T-Bone Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Anthony DiGerlando Show 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 5-6pm, Carolyn Martinez Trio 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-9pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Derek Jordan Gregg 6pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Linda Peterson Jazz 6pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 8pm

FRI DECEMBER 30

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 TBA 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia Band 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 NYE Party w/ Pie Town’s Supertemporal Southwestern Sock Hop 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 The Carmens 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Fleet Easton 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ Sets by Rich Brandon, Contraz, Skyhigh and IMDEAD 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 9pm BISTRO 60 @TRILOGY; LQ; 760-501-0620 The Carmens 6pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke 9pm 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 CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 TBA 7pm CLUB 5 BAR; IND; 760-625-1719 TBA 8pm THE CONGO ROOM; PS; 760-322-7353 Guzman Jr. 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Gina Carey 6pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 The Myx 8:30pm THE HARD ROCK; PS; 760-325-9676 Esjay & Friends Acoustic Sessions w/ Bri Cherry and Rags & Bones Music 8pm Lobby THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 TBA 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez 6:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live DJ 8:30pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 The Whiskey Blues 8pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 Slim Man 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Palm Springs Sound Company in the afternoon, Hot Rox in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Dax Band 9pm

THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-9991995 DJ Jerry 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MITCH’S ON EL PASEO; PD; 760-779-9200 Michael Keeth 12-3pm 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 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760-3450222 Meltdown 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Paper Lanes and Mike Martt 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 Bruce Scot – Tribute to Elvis 8pm RANCHO LAS PALMAS; RM TBA 5:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 J Patron’s Bday Bash Kick Off 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 Carmens 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Crimson Crow 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Pat Rizzo & Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 TBA 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE; MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-755-5391 The Rick Whitfield Band 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Meet the Corwins 5:30pm, The John Stanley King Show 8pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 T.B.A. 1:304:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar Hines 9-2am VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 TBA 5:30pm WANG’S IN THE DESERT; PS; 760-325-9264 Karaoke 8:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 7-11pm

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December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 New Year’s Eve Party w/ DJ Paul Z and DJ Jae Rawkwell 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-3271773 Dennis Michael 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm TRYST; PS; 760-832-6046 TBA 10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-755THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; 5391 DJ Hektik 10pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 PS; 760-322-9000 Bill Ramirez 6:30pm Martinez and Todd Ashley ft. Lisa LaFaro Rose Mallett & Barney McClure 5pm, Kal David, Weselis 5-8:30pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345- Lauri Bono & The Real Deal 7:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Rob & Mallett 6:30pm 6466 Frank DiSalvo 6pm JB 1:30-4:30pm, Nite Fixx 9-2am, DJ Anwaar ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Hines 9-2am Teddy Quinn 5pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Abie Perkins and Bert Vela 7pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 TBA 9pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-32529 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev TBA 7-11pm 2794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in & Bill 6:30pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 New the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night 19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 TBA 9pm Year’s Eve Bash 6:30pm LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 NYE Party w/ ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 39th Annual New Entertainment 5:30pm Pie Town’s Supertemporal Southwestern Sock Year’s Exclusive w/ The Bigster & Ron T 9pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345Hop 11am poolside, pm, and 10pm 2450 TBA 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888760-674-4080 Art of Sax 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 New 999-1995 80z All Starz 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Year’s Eve Party w/ Eric Lindstrom & Friends 8pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; Garcia 6pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Denise Carter 7:30pm 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Drag Me To BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 New Year’s NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am Brunch 11am, Fleetmac Wood and Kaftan Eve Party w/ Alf Alpha, J Patron, Ocho Ojos, Discotheque 12pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Luthergates and more, $500 Balloon Drop, No Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202Cover 9pm 1111 11am PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760BEATNIK LOUNGE; JT; TBA 9pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 New Year’s 327-4080 Rock N Roll New Year’s Eve Bash w/ Blackwater 9pm Show 7:30pm Party 6pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ and THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 TBA 9pm 345-0222 New Year’s Eve Party w/ Marko Dancing 9pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760-775Russell 6:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 5566 DJ 9pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 High 6-10pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Desert Overdose New Year Eve Show w/ The CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888Carey 6-10pm Melvins, Red Kross and OFF 9pm 999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 continue to page 20 PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am Karaoke 7:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND Tuzzolino 5:30pm COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 New Year’s Eve nd CHILL BAR; PS; 760-327-1079 Chill Bar’s 2 Party w/Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm Anniversary & New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 New Year’s 9pm Eve party w/ Rose Mallett, Mark Kahny and CLUB 5 BAR; IND; 760-625-1719 TBA 9pm Sharon Sills 5pm THE CONGO ROOM; PS; 760-322-7353 RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 New Year’s Eve Guzman Jr. 6pm Party w/ The Hive Minds 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Bill Baker Show 6pm Keeth 7-10pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro 6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm Brothers 8pm DILLON’S BURGERS & BEER; DHS; 760-774SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S 7131 TBA 8pm MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228Blues 8-11pm 1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm Carmens 8-11pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK Jack Ruvio 6:30pm CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 TBA 8:30pm SIDEWINDER GRILL; DHS; 760-329-7929 THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; Karaoke w/ Milly G 6pm 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm SMOKIN’ BURGERS; PS; 760-883-5999 Ron James 6pm THE HARD ROCK; PS; 760-325-9676 BB’s 33rd Annual New Year’s Eve Masquerade SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Party 8:30pm Music 10pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 New Year’s Eve SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341party w/ California Celts and a DJ 9pm 3560 TBA 6pm

SAT DECEMBER 31

SUN JANUARY 1

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

SCREENERS

FAITH & FEAR

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BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

No. 245

A MONSTER CALLS

Director J.A. Bayona (“The Orphanage,” “The Impossible”) and screenwriter Patrick Ness adapt Ness’ own award-winning children’s book, which was a project left unfinished by the late Siobhan Dowd. The plot adheres to traditional fantasy fiction models. Conor (an extraordinary Lewis Macdougall) is a lonely, artistically inclined young boy bullied at school and alienated from both his absentee father (Toby Kebbell) and his overly strict grandmother (a disappointing less than effective Sigourney Weaver). Each night at 12:07 a.m., the “Monster” arrives and tells Conor a story that he implies will help him understand what’s happening to his family – his mum (Felicity Jones) is dying. The monster – a tree spirit also warns that once all the stories have been told, it’ll be Conor’s turn to tell one of his own—and that it has to be true, or else he’ll suffer through his worst nightmare. Although this wondrous film is embedded with heavy emotions it is not really a children’s movie, it is showcases

many sharply observed moments and unfolds with a welcome grace. Bayona is a supremely gifted visual stylist and his actors – with the exception of Weaver -- all balance the surface emotions of a scene and what lies beneath. The film abounds with mystery and wonder. I especially liked the locked room in Conor’s grandma’s house and the way the adults al seemed in on something out of his ken. At its heart, the movie is about loss, healing and coping with the weight of approaching adulthood. I saw this film with a sophisticated (?) industry heavy audience and the sound of sobbing, mine included, dominated the last act. The unpredictability of the story and the Monster’s twisted little morality tales that speak of witches and princes and ancient grudges, are the most memorable parts along with the hand-drawn animation designed to look like watercolors. Neeson’s beautifully narrated tales leaves Conor more bewildered than ever because the tales do not follow the traditional arc of good triumphing over evil. They describe a world that’s much darker and messier than even the brightest kid might comprehend. This film will certainly be among the nominated best films of 2016. Highest recommendation. Now playing.

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: REMO WILLIAMS: THE ADVENTURE BEGINS… (1985) Fred Ward stars as Remo, a New York City cop turned secret agent mentored by Zen master and martial arts expert played by a nearly unrecognizable but amusing Joel Grey. Based on “The Destroyer” series of novels. We meet Remo when he is shanghaied, given a new face and identity so he can better fight global industrial fat cats out to bring America to its knees. In this outing of a franchise that never got further developed, Remo’s new international secret agent personae battles an evil arms manufacturer (Charles Cioffi). I love this down-market spoof of the James Bond movies directed by Bond veteran Guy Hamilton (“Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever”). The effective score by Craig Safan is available on an isolated track plus there’s a nice array of new features courtesy of Ballyhoo Motion Pictures. This above-average thriller offers a fresh hero that almost immediately found a cult audience when it was released – probably because of Joel Grey’s great performance and the witty dialogue that LA Times’ movie critic thought was “some of funniest and brightest heard on screen

the year when it was originally released. Ward and Grey are a great team. They make this lost gem a slam-bang action adventure that’s loaded with surprises. Twilight Time. Blu-ray. Happy New Year! Comments? robinesimmons@aol.com

BOOK REVIEW

FAVORITE READS IN 2016

eading is a blast! At the end of the year, it’s very rewarding to take a look back and remember the books that made an impression on me. From my CVW 52 columns, here are the books I most enjoyed and remember. MEMOIR Life in Parts by Bryan Cranston – Cranston is a brilliant actor and a regular guy. His memoir is well written, honest and entertaining. With little self-analysis, Cranston shares his life as an actor and the events and roles that shaped him. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi - A powerful narrative on life as author Kalanithi writes about his impending death. His wife finished the book and it was published posthumously. Shoe Dog by Phil Knight - Nike founder Knight relates his experience starting and growing one of America’s greatest companies. Knight shares the challenges and close calls in business and life.

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December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

BY HEIDI SIMMONS NONFICTION The Voyeur’s Motel by Gay Talese Reminiscent of Psycho’s Norman Bates, author Talese writes about a man who buys a hotel to fulfill his weird obsession with voyeurism. H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald – Author Macdonald delves into the world of falconry and reveals the great love for her amazing bird. At The Existentialist Café by Sarah Bakewell – This book was a load of fun. Bakewell brings great philosophical characters to life and shows how they became the thinkers of the last century. FICTION Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig – A coming of age story, this narrative moved me to tears as a young boy is sent off to live with distant relatives. On the road, the boy learns a great deal about life and people. Everybody’s Fool by Richard Russo - Small communities can be a blessing and a challenge to live in, and author Russo captures life and relationships when difficulties arise. Barkskins by Annie Proulx - Epic stories allow the reader a greater understanding of

the literary narrative in books. Proulx delivers a story that begins with the earliest settlers as America is takes shape. Maestra by L. S. Hilton - This is a debut novel by Hilton and it is a doozy. This is women empowerment but not necessarily in a good way. I didn’t love the book, but it and its characters have stuck with me. It is the first in a trilogy. The Marauders by Tom Cooper – In this debut book, the setting plays a significant part and author Cooper captures the lives of Louisiana shrimpers and ne’er-do-wells brilliantly. STORIES The Fat Artist by Benjamin Hale – A wonderful cast of characters who more often than not find themselves in trouble rather than with things going their way. Author Hale delivers short stories where the universe appears to align itself almost literally to wreak havoc on desperate folks just trying to maintain. Some Possible Solutions by Helen Phillips - author Phillips takes the reader to places where relationships and timeless roles

(spouse, mother, siblings, etc.) are explored through the lens of an outsider, or alien who finds the customs and rituals, unfamiliar and jarring. Sometimes the outsider is you in your own home. It is always a challenge to read a book a week for this column. And there are times I just can’t figure out where or when I can just sit with a book. But it does happen. And it’s worth making the time. I find there is something provocative in every book. I encourage you, dear reader, to put reading books on the top of your list of resolutions. I’m looking forward to a new year exploring unseen worlds and crazy characters in the pages of books. Life is never dull when you read. My wish for you is to find an entertaining, interesting or intriguing book that engages you! Happy New Year! Questions or comments? Heidi@ coachellavelleyweekly.com

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

WHEN THE CLOCK STRIKES MIDNIGHT!

ew Year’s Eve is a night to have fun and celebrate the coming year says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. However, safety is a must when participating in the festivities. Following a few safety tips will ensure that you’re safe and sound ‘when the clock strikes midnight,’ ringing in the New Year! • Designate a Driver: If you are going to be driving New Years Eve, don’t drink and drive. If you have a friend who does not prefer to drink, make sure they take the wheel. • Be Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and how others are acting. Stay away from those who are out of control and might cause harm. Taking preventive measures is key. If someone is really intoxicated, prevent them from trying to drive or leaving with someone they do not know. • Don’t Drive: If you don’t have to go behind the wheel, avoid it. More people will be driving under the influence on this particular night, so avoid a potentially dangerous accident by staying off the road. Otherwise, be alert and drive defensively. Most importantly, wear your seatbelt! If taking a cab is too expensive, crashing at a friend’s place nearby is a convenient solution. • Stick Together: This way we can look out

for our friends and family. Going out to parties and nightclubs means a fast-paced, crazy night; so be sure to travel in groups. Having a safety net around you in this environment is imperative. • Monitor your Alcohol Intake: A majority of people will be drinking on New Year’s Eve, and there is nothing wrong with that. Just be sure to pay attention to how much you and others are consuming. Be responsible. • Don’t forget about your pets! They are just as much a part of the family as everyone else. • Be careful with open flames: If you’re burning candles, incense or oil burners, remember to extinguish them before you turn in or before you leave the room they are burning in. • Plain and simple, No Fireworks! Everyone wants to have an unforgettable night (in a good way!). By simply using some common sense, we can keep it that way. Happy New Year! Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 15 DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-34229 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Luminators 6pm 2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345- AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm 6466 Ted Herman’s Big Band 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Mood JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Deep House Lounge 6pm-2am Open Jam 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Palm Springs Sound Company, in the afternoon, 345-6466 Larry Capeloto 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325Hot Rox, in the night 2794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760- Entertainment 5:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347325-2323 Sunday Jam 4-8pm 1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Red’s Rockstar Karaoke Henry 7pm 8pm-1:15am PAPPY & HARRIET›S; PT; 760-365THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 5956 Open Mic 7pm 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Industry Sunday Band 7:30pm Night w/ DJ Tone 2pm-close PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 The Judy SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341Show 7pm 3560 T.B.A. 6pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Guy Worden VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-3459pm 9770 Mike Costley’s Showcase 6:30pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Eddie Gee 7pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-341-3560 Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Michael James & The Myx 6pm 3sum 9-2am THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 The VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 Chris Gore Group Pro Jam 7pm TBA 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Trish John Stanley King and Trio 6:30pm Hatley and Barney McClure Jazz 6pm VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 TBA 5pm WANG’S IN THE DESERT; PS; 760-325-9264 TBA 6pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The THE WINE EMPORIUM; LQ; 760-565-5512 Rob Bill & Bob Duo 6pm Martinez and Scott Carter 6-8pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 with Kiesha 9pm Smooth Brothers 6pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Linda Peterson 7pm

MON JANUARY 2

TUE JANUARY 3

AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ and Dancing 9pm-2am THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 Karaoke en Espanol 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm THE CONGO ROOM; PS; 760-322-7353 A Night of Soul w/ Rob Carter 6pm CORKTREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Michael Keeth 6-9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 Chuck Alvarez 6:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke hosted by Phillip Moore 9pm INDIAN CANYONS GOLF RESORT; PS; 760833-8700 DJ Randy Johnson 6pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Michael D’Angelo 6:15pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm 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 Jethro BoDidley 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Ladies

Night 7pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 6:30pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Douglas McDonald Duo 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Mike Costley Trio 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Tequila Tuesdays 9pm VUE GRILLE & BAR; IW; 760-834-3800 TBA 6pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 John Boliver Jazz 6pm

WED JANUARY 4

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Daniel Horn 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Johnny Ashby 8pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Jazz Jam w/ Shelley Yoelin Group 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Piano Bar 6pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 TBA 9pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The Smooth Brothers 8pm THE BLOCK; C.C.; 760-832-7767 CV Open Mic Competition Hosted By Morgan James 7pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm THE CONGO ROOM; PS; 760-322-7353 Jimmy Street 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 The Bill Baker Show 6pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 Karaoke 7:30pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6533 TBA 6pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Live VJ 9pm

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INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Open Mic w/ Rich Bono & Poupee Boccaccio 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Live Music KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Open Mic hosted by Amy Angel 6:30pm LA RUE BISTRO; LQ; 760-296-3420 Andy Cahan 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Live Entertainment 5:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 “Sing Jam” w/ Mikael Healey 8pm MITCH’S ON EL PASEO; PD; 760-779-9200 Michael Keeth 12-3pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Golden Era Karaoke 4-7pm, Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Roger Lemieux 5pm PJ’S SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-288-1199 Karaoke w/ KJ Ginger 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Michael Holmes Jazz Trio 6:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Myx 6:30pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Costley Band 6:30pm TJ’S; PD; 760-345-6744 Derek Jordan Gregg 9pm VICKY’S OF SANTE FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Barry Minniefield 6:30pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 DJ Khodi Rayne 4:30-2am, Nite Fixx 9-2am WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Chuck Alvarez 6:30pm

HADDON LIBBY

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

SEX, DRUGS, MONEY, CARS AND POLITICS

f 2017 is a New Year and we still have sex, drugs, money, cars and politicians, you can be sure that there will be new laws going into effect. Below are some of California’s latest and greatest laws on the books: Sex: People under 18 years of age who are prostitutes are no longer considered criminals, but instead classified as victims who cannot be arrested for prostitution. While this sounds compassionate to those victims, this seems like a law that will cause more prostitution amongst young adults. Mandatory minimum sentences for prostitution-related offenses have been removed. Instead, judges can apply sentencing guidelines as they see fit. Due to the Bill Cosby cases, California is lifting the statute of limitations on rape cases going forward. Now if you raped someone before this year, the state has to bring charges within ten years of the offense or the victim’s fortieth birthday. If you commit a sexual crime against an unconscious person, starting in 2017 you will have a minimum sentence. Even the possession of date rape drugs can be considered a felony. Drugs:

It will be easier for pharmacies to sell epi-pens to any place of congregation like a school or a sports facility so that they are prepared for allergic reactions. This was done in reaction to the outrageous price increases by epi-pen manufacturer Mylan. Starting this year, Californians who are at risk of dying from their ailments can try drugs that have not fully cleared the FDA vetting process. Money: The minimum wage for businesses with more than 26 employees becomes $10.50. If you have 25 or fewer, this wage increase does not begin until 2018. Women on welfare who get pregnant while on welfare will be able to get benefits for that new child. In the past, children born while on welfare were excluded. Law enforcement can no longer hold onto property taken in an arrest so long as it is under $40,000 in value. Termed “asset forfeiture”, law enforcement will need a conviction to hold onto the property. A new law bans most loans made to purchase guns. In an odd change, municipalities can finance elections. The idea is that this could eliminate the role of money-raising in elections. Without knowing the details, I

can say with certainty that this will not work and will probably cause more problems in the election process than it solves. Cars: While driving, you cannot touch your phone more than once and the phone needs to be mounted on your dash or window if you are going to do that. From now on, you essentially cannot touch or hold your

phone. The first infraction is a $20 fine followed by $50 fines for future offenses. Children under eight years of age must ride in the back seat while children under two years of age must be in rear-facing child seats. If you see a dog locked in a hot car, you can call the police and take action to free the animal. Politics: When voting by mail, if you choose to hand in your ballot, you can do this at any election office in the state. Also, if you take a picture of yourself voting in a ballot booth, that is no longer illegal. Starting this year, you can register to vote on the day of the election. Anyone who has been convicted of a felony who is not on jail or on probation can once again vote. If you work for the state, you are no longer required to attend events in states that allow discrimination. At present, this is limited to North Carolina, Tennessee and Mississippi. Haddon Libby is a Financial Advisor and Managing Partner at Winslow Drake and can be reached at 760.449.6349 or HLibby@ WinslowDrake.com.

6. Don’t touch any police officer. 7. Don’t resist even if you believe you are innocent. 8. Don’t complain at the scene or tell the police they are wrong and that you are going to file a complaint or that you know the Mayor etc. 9. Ask for a lawyer immediately upon your arrest. 10. Remember the officer’s badge and patrol car numbers. 11. Write everything down that you can remember immediately upon being released. 12. Try to find Witnesses and their names and phone numbers. 13. If you are injured TAKE Pix of the injuries as soon as possible, but make sure you seek medical attention first. Remember, Silence is Golden and Handcuffs are Silver so DON’T TALK to POLICE

without your lawyer’s permission. Though often referred to as a DUI criminal defense lawyer, I choose to not view my DUI clients as “criminals”. I prefer to view them, and more importantly to treat them, as good, honest people that have found themselves in a scary and unfortunate situation after screwing up. I look upon my job as protecting the Constitutional Rights of every American who drinks and drives and gets arrested for a DUI. I do however “Change Hats” when I SUE Drunk Drivers for damages to my Injured or Deceased (Wrongful Death) clients. DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER......THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME...LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNS “DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER” If you have any suggestions for future articles contact me 760-837-7500 or dale@ dalegribowlaw.com. DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - Palm Springs Life 20112017 (DUI) “TOP LAWYER” Inland Empire Magazine Nov 2016 10.0 AVVO Perfect Peer Rating

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

GOOD BYE SANTA AND WELCOME 2017

he holidays bring thousands of visitors to our desert and result in people drinking with abandon and meeting members of the Black and White Fraternity called the Riverside Sheriffs. The nervousness that results from this encounter causes drivers to develop Black and White Fever. We have all been driving during the day and seen an officer behind us and wondered if we did something wrong and questioning whether we were about to be stopped. When this happens the driver becomes the most careful driver on the road and starts to get nervous and sweat. If you are stopped Black and White fever will cause you to need multiple deodorant pads while you worry about being cited for speeding let alone a DUI if you had been drinking. Can you imagine what you would feel like if you were being followed by a Black & White Patrol Car and you HAD BEEN DRINKING..... even though you were not drunk? You start thinking of the consequences of an arrest, conviction and loss of your driver’s license. That is when the “fever” kicks in the most. Here in the Coachella Valley we have more DUI DEATHS per capita than anywhere else in the country. We have all read in the Desert Sun and heard on our local stations of the many recent fatal accidents. Unfortunately I

have represented many families pursuing a Wrongful Death against the DUI driver. Law enforcement is always on the lookout for Drivers who have been drinking. Police set up Checkpoints during the year but Riverside Sheriff is even more vigilant during the holidays that bring in so many visitors from all over the world. I have had DUI clients that I have never met from all over the States and Europe and Japan too. 13 THINGS YOU SHOULD DO IF YOU ARE STOPPED FOR A POSSIBLE DUI? 1. Think carefully about what you say, your movement, body language and emotions. Please understand that you have a right, in a courteous way, to NOT TALK. 2. You do not have to submit to a breath test at the scene or the Field Sobriety Tests. They are optional. Merely explain that you understand these tests are not mandatory and thus you elect not to take them. You would however agree to a blood test for which they will take you to the station or hospital. 3. Don’t get into an argument with the police. Remember anything you say or do can be used against you. 4. Keep your hands where the police can see them. 5. Don’t run.

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

SPORTS SCENE

BY FLINT WHEELER

NFL MVP RACE HEATING UP…

he annual discussion about who is the NFL’s MVP is heating up, but this season features a group of players with plenty of imperfections. Through all the imperfections, one must look at the player who has done the most to improve these faults and lead his team forward. That player is Matthew Stafford. Stafford has always been a gunslinger with a rocket arm, but his decision-making was routinely questioned. For years, he had Calvin Johnson to lean on and get him out of some bad spots, but the Detroit Lions quarterback has flourished without the sixtime Pro Bowler. Stafford’s numbers are basically on course to finish the same as last season in every category except interceptions. The signal-caller has realized that his receiving core isn’t full of sure things like Johnson and has learned to protect the football instead of just heaving it. Through 13 games, Stafford has thrown seven interceptions, which puts him on pace to throw just nine this season. Stafford has never thrown fewer than 12 picks in any season he has played, outside of 2010 when he made just three appearances. Stafford has also accomplished this with an anemic rushing game that provides him next to no support. This lack of runners has meant that teams have been able to pin back their ears and rush Stafford, which has been a huge mistake. Stafford has a 63.6 completion percentage with seven

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touchdowns and no interceptions while being blitzed this year. Maybe the most pivotal number? Eight. Stafford has led the Lions to eight fourthquarter comebacks this season. Detroit has nine wins. When the game is on the line and you need someone to put the team on his back, Stafford is above everyone else. The theoretical MVP field basically consists of quarterbacks and Ezekiel Elliott, which means that attention could be diverted away from Stafford, as voters who prefer QBs could be split between the likes of Tom Brady, Matt Ryan, Derek Carr, etc. Ezekiel Elliott has been the best running back in the NFL and it hasn’t even been close. Despite being a rookie, Zeke leads the league in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, rushes of 20-plus yards and first downs. Elliott has been a big reason why the Dallas Cowboys went from 4-12 with the 22nd-ranked offense in 2015 to 12-2 and the fifth-best offense this season. Elliott has cemented himself as the favorite to win the NFL MVP, as the running back is currently +190 to claim the prize. The +190 line makes him the biggest favorite any player has been this season to win the MVP. The only other player that is seemingly within striking distance of Elliott is Tom Brady. Despite missing the first four games of the season, the New England Patriots quarterback ranks in the top five in the NFL in yards per attempt, passer rating and passing yards per game. It is Brady’s efficiency that is otherworldly, as the 39-year-old has thrown just two picks in 372 passing attempts. The real darkhorse is Le’Veon Bell. In all honesty, Bell may be the most dominant player in the NFL when he is fully healthy and on the field. In Bell’s 11 appearances for the Pittsburgh Steelers this season, he is averaging 158.8 yards of offense. His lack of touchdowns (7) and his lack of games played make it hard to justify Bell winning the MVP, but he dominates like few other players in recent memory.

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Week of December 29

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Donatello was a renowned Italian sculptor. His favorite piece was “Lo Zuccone,” a marble statue of the Biblical prophet Habakkuk. As Donatello carved his work-in-progress, he addressed it. “Speak, damn you! Talk to me,” he was heard to say on more than a few occasions. Did the stone respond? Judging from the beauty of the final product, I’d have to say yes. One art critic testified that “Lo Zuccone” is a “sublimely harrowing” tour de force, a triumph of “forceful expression,” and “one of the most important marble sculptures of the 15th century.” I suspect you will have Donatello-like powers of conversation in 2017, Aries. If anyone can communicate creatively with stones -- and rivers and trees and animals and spirits and complicated humans, for that matter -- it’ll be you. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): According to Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami, “A certain type of perfection can only be realized through a limitless accumulation of the imperfect.” Let’s amend that thought so it’s exactly suitable for your use in 2017. Here’s the new, Taurus-specific version: “A messy, practical, beautiful type of perfection can be realized through a patient, faithful, dogged accumulation of the imperfect.” To live up to the promise of this motto, make damn good use of every partial success. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini gymnast Marisa Dick has created a signature move that has never been used by any other gymnast. To start her routine, she leaps up off a springboard and lands on the balance beam doing a full split. The technical term for this bold maneuver is “a change-leg leap to free-cross split sit,” although its informal name is “The Dick Move.” The International Federation of Gymnastics has certified it in its Code of Points, so it’s official. During the coming months, I expect that you will also produce one-of-a-kind innovations in your own sphere. CANCER (June 21-July 22): I hope you will be as well-grounded in 2017 as you have ever been -maybe even since your past life as a farmer. I trust you will go a long way toward mastering the arts of being earthy, practical, and stable. To do this right, however, you should also work on a seemingly paradoxical task: cultivating a vigorous and daring imagination -- as perhaps you did in one of your other past lives as an artist. In other words, your ability to succeed in the material world will thrive as you nurture your relationship with fantasy realms -- and vice versa. If you want to be the boss of reality, dream big and wild -- and vice versa. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Even if you don’t think of yourself as an artist, you are always working on a major art project: yourself. You may underestimate the creativity you call on as you shape the raw material of your experience into an epic story. Luckily, I’m here to impress upon you the power and the glory of this heroic effort. Is there anything more important? Not for you Leos. And I trust that in 2017 you will take your craftsmanship to the highest level ever. Keep this advice from author Nathan W. Morris in mind: “Edit your life frequently and ruthlessly. It’s your masterpiece, after all.” VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): French painter Henri Matisse (1869-1954) turned out to be one of the supremely influential artists of the 20th century. But he was still struggling to make a living well into his thirties. The public’s apathy toward his work demoralized him. At one point, he visited his dealer to reclaim one of his unsold paintings. It was time to give up on it, he felt, to take it off the market. But when he arrived at the gallery, his dealer informed him that it had finally been bought -- and not by just any art collector, either. Its new owner was Pablo Picasso, an artist whom Matisse revered. I think it’s quite possible you will have comparable experiences in 2017, Virgo. Therefore: Don’t give up on yourself! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “The self in exile remains the self, as a bell unstruck for years is still a bell,” writes poet Jane Hirshfield. I suspect that these words are important for you to hear as you

prepare for 2017. My sense is that in the past few months, your true self has been making its way back to the heart of life after a time of wandering on the outskirts. Any day now, a long-silent bell will start ringing to herald your full return. Welcome home! SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In accordance with your astrological omens for 2017, I’ve taken a poem that Shel Silverstein wrote for kids and made it into your horoscope. It’ll serve as a light-hearted emblem of a challenging but fun task you should attend to in the coming months. Here it is: “I’ve never washed my shadow out in all the time I’ve had it. It was absolutely filthy I supposed, so I peeled it off the wall where it was leaning and stuck it in the washtub with the clothes. I put in soap and bleach and stuff. I let it soak for hours. I wrung it out and hung it out to dry. And whoever would have thunk that it would have gone and shrunk, for now it’s so much littler than I.” SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Walk your wisdom walk in 2017, Sagittarius. Excite us with your wisdom songs and gaze out at our broken reality with your wisdom eyes. Play your wisdom tricks and crack your wisdom jokes and erupt with your wisdom cures. The world needs you to be a radiant swarm of lovable, unpredictable wisdom! Your future needs you to conjure up a steady stream of wisdom dreams and wisdom exploits! And please note: You don’t have to wait until the wisdom is perfect. You shouldn’t worry about whether it’s supremely practical. Your job is to trust your wisdom gut, to unleash your wisdom cry, to revel in your wisdom magic. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): As I was ruminating on your astrological omens for 2017, I came across a wildly relevant passage written by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. It conveys a message I encourage you to memorize and repeat at least once a day for the next 365 days. Here it is: “Nothing can hold you back -- not your childhood, not the history of a lifetime, not even the very last moment before now. In a moment you can abandon your past. And once abandoned, you can redefine it. If the past was a ring of futility, let it become a wheel of yearning that drives you forward. If the past was a brick wall, let it become a dam to unleash your power.” AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Naturalist John Muir regarded nature as his church. For weeks at a time he lived outdoors, communing with the wilderness. Of course he noticed that not many others shared his passion. “Most people are on the world, not in it,” he wrote, “having no conscious sympathy or relationship to anything about them -undiffused, separate, and rigidly alone like marbles of polished stone, touching but separate.” Is there anything about you that even partially fits that description, Aquarius? If so, I’m pleased to inform you that 2017 will be an excellent year to address the problem. You will have immense potential to become more intimate and tender with all of the component parts of the Great Mystery. What’s the opposite of loneliness? PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Seven Chilean poets were frustrated by their fellow citizens’ apathy toward the art of poetry. They sarcastically dramatized their chagrin by doing a performance for baboons. Authorities at the Santiago Zoo arranged for the poets’ safety, enclosing them in a protective cage within the baboons’ habitat. The audience seemed to be entertained, at times listening in rapt silence and at other times shrieking raucously. I’m sure you can empathize with the poets’ drastic action, Pisces. How many times have you felt you don’t get the appreciation you deserve? But I bet that will change in 2017. You won’t have to resort to performing for baboons. Homework: If you’d like to enjoy my books, music, and videos without spending any money, go here: http://bit.ly/LiberatedGifts. ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

BY BRONWYN ISON

STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS

o you find yourself falling into a seminal moment of comparing yourself to others? We are all guilty of this action. How is this working for you? Comparing yourself to others may be a source of motivation but it can also be dangerous. Social media lends us access to continuous material of what is transpiring in peoples lives. I have witnessed friends self-doubting who they are based upon what other people have posted. Yikes! A comparison and constant attempt to keep up with the Joneses will lead to selfdeprecation. Let’s take a look at why comparing yourself to others and what they may be thinking of you is damaging to your psyche. Research tells us comparing yourself to others reaps havoc on your self-esteem. If you are seeking downward growth, comparing yourself with others will be a sure-fire way to get there. Doing so can also lead to depression and envy of others. Remaining confident, appreciating your gifts and talents will be a friendly reminder of what you have been given in life. Be mindful not to compare yourself to others who are less fortunate. This can come at a price as well. Thinking you may be better than someone else may be a sign you are relishing in another’s misfortune. This creates jealousy, insensitivity and may result in a mean spirit. Truth be known, most people are selfabsorbed. While we may be looking at what

others have attained we fail to recognize they may not be as happy as we think. When asked, “how are you doing?” our response is generally positive in nature. Most of us do not respond with how we really feel. We have a tendency to distort information. However, it is at your discretion as to how you care to respond to people. Inefficiency in your day-to-day life will manifest if you are constantly wishing you looked better, had more friends, had a better car or home, had a better job, etc. Your motivation and zest for life will be exasperated if you continue on such a destructive path. Living a fulfilling life should be your goal. One actually decreases their goal attainment when comparing themselves with others. Take a look at your values, beliefs and what you really need in life. Reflect upon your achievements. Remind yourself that you are wonderful and have accomplished many if not most of your goals. Have you ever thought someone might want to be just like you? You will not reach your destiny if you are trying to emulate somebody else. I am firm believer that each of us has predetermined plan for our lives. If you continue to compare yourself with others you will always falter. You are meant to be who you are and not a version of someone else. Be the best version of you! Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA

December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

BEAUTY

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BY DR MARIA LOMBARDO

Dr. Maria Lombardo, Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery is located in Rancho Mirage. She specializes in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures including (but not limited to) facial, body and breast surgery, Botox, Latisse, and hCG diet program. For a consultation or more information, visit lombardocosmeticsurgery.com or call 760-610-8990. Dr. Lombardo will be writing a bi-weekly column for CV Weekly.

BRRRR! IT’S COLD OUT THERE!

he weather has certainly changed in the last few weeks and winter is upon us. My patients have been talking about how dry their skin is this time of year and wondering what can be done. The basics of good skin care apply all year round and include… Daily cleansing: Some people cleanse morning and night but night time is the more important time. You need to clean off the grime of the day, any makeup you may have applied and have a nice clean surface to receive the products you will use. Daily moisturizing: It’s important to apply moisturizer (with an SPF) during the day and again at bedtime. In the winter months it is especially important to use a richer moisturizer to lock in you skin’s natural moisture. Exfoliation: I usually recommend three times per week for a light exfoliation and that doesn’t change in the winter season. Just be sure to moisturize immediately afterward to prevent additional moisture loss. For the added boost, try growth factors! As we age we lose the ability to make youthful skin cells… A product with growth factors (usually only available at a

physician’s office) can be the extra step your skin is craving! Water: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water every day! Our desert climate means we have to drink more than the average. A good rule of thumb is divide your weight (in pounds) by 2 and that is the number of ounces of water you should be drinking per day. For example: a 150 pound woman should consume 75 ounces of water every day! And in the winter months that number should go up even more. Oils: Human beings need healthy fats in their diet! Olive oil, fish oil, avocados, etc… these are essential to our good health but are especially important to healthy skin! All of the cells in the body have a lipid bilayer (which means: made of fats) and without an adequate supply of dietary oils our cells can’t maintain a proper cell wall. In order for cells to function well we need to eat fats! So bundle up this season, stay warm, take good care of yourself and your skin. We are now offering the SkinMedica line of products as well as Reginica Skin care at Lombardo Cosmetic Surgery – with a full line of great products for all your skin care needs. Call today if you have any questions! 760-610-8990.

LIFE & CAREER COACH BY SUNNY SIMON

MOVING ON IN 2017

ou are looking forward to the New Year and have completed the following three steps, right? 1) Spent quiet time creating goals for the 2017. 2) Broke each goal down to bite-sized action steps. 3) Set timelines and milestones for each major goal. All good? Great! You’re off to a fine start. If you are committed to accomplishing goals you’re positioned for a successful year. But it takes more than just executing on plan to experience true joy and fulfillment in your life. Perhaps you’ve determined this is your year of flight. If so, a word of caution. Jumping through those hoops and grabbing the brass ring is exhilarating, but factor in another element. In addition to hard work, creativity and innovation, a fourth essential ingredient is caring. Want that promotion? Go for it, but not at the expense of your integrity. Treat others fairly as you climb the ladder. Be considerate of the team mates you leave behind. Offer up praise and credit to those who gave you a boost. Seek out ways to pay it back and continually create scenarios to pay if forward. A successful leader is a graceful winner. Be humble. A dose of humility is inspirational to those observing your movement up the ranks. Ready to leave your current employer and join that sexy, hot new start-up? If that

is your career plan, do so, but execute your termination with both grace and consideration. Once you’ve signed the offer letter, follow the proper protocol. Do not broadcast the good news and start collecting high-fives until you’ve met with your current manager and extended a proper notice period. Thank your leader both privately and publicly for all the opportunities provided. If you had a close relationship and you are so inclined, by all means present a parting gift. Even if your relationship was adversarial, rise above the inclination to be less than kind. Never burn a bridge, but if necessary, do burn the midnight oil tying up loose ends. Spend adequate time training your replacement or others who will be performing the function after you leave. Once you’ve departed, show that you care by keeping in touch. Don’t lose sight of trusted friends and colleagues. Wherever your goals, determination and hard work take you, plan to arrive at that destination with grace and humility. Acting in a caring and considerate manner will sweeten your successful journey. When the year is over and you reflect back, you’ll find 2017 was your best year yet! Sunny Simon is the owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching and the author of the blog, www.lifeonthesunnyside.net

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December 29, 2016 to January 4, 2017

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