February 14 to February 20, 2013 Vol. 1 No. 47

News

Music

Movies

Dining

Community Events

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com • February 14 to February 20, 2013 Vol. 1 No. 47

Valentine’s Couples

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Desert Hot Springs

pg 10

Escena Lounge & Grill

pg 18

February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Coachella Valley Weekly

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760.501.6228 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Oscar F Arbulu Sales Manager: Raymond Bill Sales Team Craig Michaels, Alberto Ruiz, Phyllis Gerstein Public Relations and Promotions Manager Lisa Morgan Classified Manager & Nightlife Editor Philip Lacombe Features Writer Lisa Morgan Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Diane Marlin-Dirkx, Lola Rossi-Meza, Craig Michaels, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Mike Livingston, Cara Pellegrino, Rachel Montoya, Angela Janus, Janet McAfee, Heidi Simmons, Dale Gribow, Kylie Knight, Raymond Bill, Jack St. Clair, Rob Brezny, Amanda Dorta, Eleni P. Austin, Phyllis Gerstein, Michael Brewer, Noe Gutierrez, Jill Coleman Distribution Jim Fox Distribution/ William Westley, Ivan Urias

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Modern Mid-Winter.....................3 Immerse in Modernism...............5 PS Modernism Week....................5 Patti & Dale Gribow.....................6 Darren & Kandie Worden............7 Greg & Laura Little.......................8 Lauri Bono & Kal David...............9 Donovan Letter............................9 Desert Hot Springs....................10 Local Music Spotlight................11 Consider This..............................12 Valley Rhythms..........................13 Pet Place.....................................14 The Vino Voice............................15 Club Crawler Nightlife...............16 The Pampered Palate................18 Screeners....................................20 Book Review...............................21 Restaurant Guide.......................22 It’s All Local................................23 Education...................................23 Dale Gribow on the Law............24 Safety Tips..................................25 ShareKitchen..............................25 Sport Scene................................26 Classifieds..................................26 Free Will Astrology....................27 Mind, Body & Spirit...................27 Desert DJ’s..................................28 Happy Hour Hot Spot................28

February 14 to February 20, 2013

A modern mid-winter celebration A

lbert Frey, Donald Wexler, William F. Cody, William Krisel and Stewart Williams all found a relatively blank architectural canvas when they arrived in the desert in the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s.

What they created in the arid climate is a landscape filled with beautiful examples of both commercial and residential buildings that espouse the concepts of midcentury modern living.

For the past eight years, Palm Springs Modernism Week has celebrated the work of these men and others with a yearly salute to midcentury architecture, design, furnishings and culture.

This year, Modernism Week runs today through Feb. 14, and will attract an international audience, said Palm Springs Modernism Executive Director Nickie McLaughlin and Jacques Caussin (cq), chairman of Modernism Week.

What started as a weekend of educational events for the valley eight years ago, “has grown into a love affair between the attendees and the preservations organizations in Palm Springs,” Caussin said on a recent sunny afternoon in Palm Springs. “And really, who doesn’t want to come and spend a week in Palm Springs in February?”

Caussin was one of the instigators of Modernism Week. In 2001, he brought a modernism show to Palm Springs and fell in love with the desert. He purchased a home here in 2003 and by 2004, Caussin was a permanent, living in a midcentury in the Twin Palms neighborhood, and an important proponent of preserving the iconic desert homes and building.

When Modernism Weekend started, “we definitely didn’t plan for this kind of growth,” McLaughlin said. “We had a staff that was all volunteers and we certainly couldn’t look at the future to see how it would affect the valley. We didn‘t know if there‘d even be a second year.”

They had to borrow $2,500 from each of Palm Springs’ preservation organizations to build their website. “They had no way of knowing if we would pay them back!”

Caussin said.

Of course, that was also before the event was discovered by midcentury enthusiasts around the country and the globe. Last year’s event logged more than 35,000 visitors to the valley from around the world, with a ratio of about 60/40 percent of new visitors to repeaters. “Which means, if you come once, you’re likely to keep coming

By Judith Salkin

back,” Caussin said.

McLaughlin knows of one group of nearly 40 from Australia who were due to land earlier this week. “They’ve all been before,” she said. “This year they’re all coming together for the first time.”

Caussin likens the growth of modernism in the valley to the similar growth of the appreciation of Art Deco movement in Miami. “It’s more than just architecture,” he said. “It’s the whole culture and the lifestyle, and people want to experience it all.”

Modernism Week doesn’t only look to the past. The debut last year of the Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase gave guests a current on modernism with homes that carry forward the modernism concepts of seamless indoor/outdoor living, products that update existing homes while maintaining their historical integrity, green technologies, style and furnishings.

There are free events and low-cost events like films and lectures (have you purchased your tickets for “Moby on Modernism?”

It’s only $20) that offer an education on architecture of the midcentury and those who are preserving that part of our cultural history.

One example is the Blu Homes prefab open house on both Sunday in Joshua Tree.

The three units that make up the desert home of Tim Disney is a living example of how the influences of modernism can be incorporated into 21st century lifestyles, while disturbing as little of the surrounding landscape as possible.

Looking to the future means encouraging the next generation to embrace the concepts and ideals of modernism. “This

year for the first time we have bus tours just for students,” McLaughlin said. “And scholarships funded by the proceeds of the week for future architecture and design students,” Caussin added.

One important overlap is the annual Architecture Symposium presented by the Palm Springs Art Museum. In past years the museum has presented a retrospective of the work of Donald Wexler and the development of Modernism movement around the world.

This year’s symposium looks at “The Public and the Modern House,” which brings together an international panel to discuss the delicate balance of public access to buildings that were not designed to withstand unlimited access. “It’s an important and exciting subject, especially given the iconic buildings and homes here in the desert,” said Sidney Williams, curator of Architecture and Design at the museum.

While the week is heavy on education, there are events that look more at the cultural influences of modernism like fashion shows, cocktail martini parties and concerts. “There’s really something for everybody,” McLaughlin said.

Information: Palm Springs Modernism Week Event locations include Palm Springs Convention Center; Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands; Marrakesh Country Club; Frey House II; Prairie Schooner Parking Lot; Hilton Hotel; Ace Hotel and Swim Club; Club Trinidad. General information and tickets: www.modernismweek.com

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Immerse yourself in Modernism O

ver the past eight years, what started as an event with the aim of educating Coachella Valley residents on the importance of the buildings designed by men like Albert Frey, Donald Wexler, William F. Cody and A. Quincy Jones, and how to live in a midcentury home, has captured an audience of enthusiasts from as far away as Germany and Australia.

The visitors come see architectural treasures that are rarely open to the public like the Sunnylands estate designed by A. Quincy Jones for Ambassador Walter Annenberg in Rancho Mirage that is now the Annenberg Retreat and is used as an international conference center; Temple Isaiah in Palm Springs that was designed by Stewart Williams shortly after the modern state of Israel was born, are opening their doors for tours to the general public; and the Frey House II, owned by the Palm Springs Art Museum, a one-bedroom house designed by the architect and built into the living rock high above the city.

Fortunately for the programs that benefit from the proceeds of Modernism Week, some events sell out long before the opening events. But there are still a number of events, including lectures, films, home tours

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and design events that have no limit on the number of tickets available or have space available on the day they take place.

Can’t decide what to take in? Begin your immersion in Modernism with these events: Palm Springs Modernism Show, Feb. 1618, Palm Springs Convention Center. Period art, décor pieces and furnishings in one of the most anticipated modernism shows of the year. $20; 277 N. Avenida Caballeros.

Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot. One of the hits of Modernism Week

2012, the expo and prefab showcase offers the latest in materials and green technology, furnishings, and eco-friendly trends, that fit in with a modernist lifestyle. $10; Calle El Segundo and Arenas Road.

Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; Marrakesh Country Club, Palm Desert.

Country club developer John Dawson brought in John Elgin Woolf to bring the Greek Revival and country French combined with modernism into a unique desert blend.

Tours, $25; additional luncheon, $20.

What started out as three-day weekend salute to the midcentury modern homes and buildings in Palm Springs just eight years ago, Palm Springs Modernism Week is now spans 11 days and dozens of events. From bus and walking tours of Palm Springs’ buildings to lectures and films, retro cocktail parties, pre-fad design house and expo, slide shows and the annual Palm Springs Art Museum’s Architecture and Design Council’s annual symposium, the week is an annual education on modernism. Check Palm Springs Modernism Week website (modermismweek.com) to see which events are still available to attend. Here’s the schedule of events on a day-by-day calendar:

Air Shopping n e p !

O 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday

By Judith Salkin

Tony Duquette: Wild Child of Hollywood Design, 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Hilton Hotel.

Hutton Wilkinson, who worked with Duquette for 28 years, will talk about the designer’s influence on the homes and films of Hollywood. $10; 400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. Symposium and Lecture: The Public and the Modern House, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 23, Palm Springs Art Museum. Experts from around the world will discuss public access to modern masterpieces while keeping the sites dynamic and serving the goals of the properties. $50; 101 Museum Drive. (760) 325-4490.

Moby on Modernism, 2 p.m. Feb. 24, Ace Hotel. The Grammy-nominated artist talks with KCRW “Design and Architecture” host Frances Anderton (cq) about his perspectives on Modernism, Los Angeles’ weird architecture and other topics. $20; 701 E. Palm Canyon Drive.

Paris Loves Palm Springs, 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Feb. 20, Club Trinidad. Forget “Mad Men,” Paris in the 1950s and ‘60s was the epitome of cool. Relive the music of Serge Gainsbourg (cq) and Brigitte Bardot with canapés and cocktails and all things French cool. $50; 1900 E. Palm Canyon Drive.

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Thursday, Feb. 14 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 4 p.m. Illuminated Modernism opening and reception 4:30 p.m. Celebrating the Mystique of Marrakesh - opening night tour and party 7 p.m. Kick-off of Modernism Week, Frank Sinatra Twin Palms estate Friday, Feb. 15 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 and 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. Guided tour of E. Stewart Williams original 1949 sanctuary, Temple Isaiah 10 a.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase 10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 2 p.m. A. Quincy Jones Walk of Stars Dedication 2 p.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 5 p.m. Stamberg Aferiat Architecture -- Q&A and book signing 6 p.m. 13th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show preview reception 8 p.m. m modern gallery reception Saturday, Feb. 16 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 a.m. Attack of the Dodo-Sapiens: Innovative Models for Sustainable Development 10 a.m. Charles Phoenix Retro Slideshow 10 a.m. 5th Annual Racquet Club Estates Walking Home Tour 10 to 11:30 a.m. Palm Springs Modern Committee Iconic Home Tour: William F. Cody Glass House (every 30 minutes) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 13th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show, Palm Springs Convention Center

10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 11:30 a.m. A. Quincy Jones: Building for Better Living 1:30 p.m. What is Californian about California Ceramics?

2 p.m. Vista Las Palmas Homes and Interior Tour 3 p.m. Marimekko: Behind the Scene 8 p.m. The Silver Factory: A Tribute to the Andy Warhol Era Sunday, Feb. 17 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 a.m. to noon Palm Springs Modern Committee Iconic Home Tour: William Krisel Twin Palms (every 30 minutes) 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Royal Hawaiian Estates Home Tour 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 13th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show, Palm Springs Convention Center 10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 11:30 a.m. A. Quincy Jones: Building for Better Living Noon to 4 p.m. Blu Homes Open House, Joshua Tree Noon Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction 12:30 p.m. Modernism Week Home Tour Week One 1:30 p.m. Art and Architecture 4 p.m. Flow Modern Design 4:30 p.m. Fashion Forward: A Vintage Clothing Retrospective 7 p.m. Que Sera: An Evening with Doris Day 7:30 p.m. Sacra/Profana: Contemporary modern classical choral group Monday, Feb. 18 8 a.m. Seven Lakes Country Club Walking Home Tour: President’s Circle Tour 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Frey House II Tours (every 45 minutes)

9 a.m. Seven Lakes Country Club Walking Home Tour: Front Nine tour 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 a.m. On a Wing and a Prayer: The Making of the 747 Wing House 10 and 11 a.m., 2 and 3 p.m. Guided tour of E. Stewart Williams original 1949 sanctuary, Temple Isaiah 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 13th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show, Palm Springs Convention Center 10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 11:30 a.m. Modern Landscape: Telling Our Story Noon Royal Hawaiian Estates Home Tour 1 p.m. Tony Duquette: Wild Child of Hollywood Design 1:30 p.m. Seven Lakes Country Club Walking Home Tour: Back Nine tour 3 p.m. Midcentury Moderns: The Homes That Define Palm Springs, 2012 4:45 p.m. Frey House II: Evening Tour and Cocktail Reception 5 p.m. Del Marcos Hotel Cocktail Party 5:30 p.m. Illuminated Modern Sunset Bus Tour 7 p.m. Dusty in the Desert: Celebrating Dusty Springfield 7:30 p.m. Sacra/Profana: Contemporary modern classical choral group Tuesday, Feb. 19 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Frey House II Tours (every 45 minutes) 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 a.m. UPA Studios: Modern Cartoon 10 and 11 a.m., 2 and 3 p.m. Guided tour of E. Stewart Williams original 1949 sanctuary, Temple Isaiah 10, 10:30, 11 and 11:30 a.m., noon Steel Modern After All These Years house tours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot

10 a.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 11:30 a.m. Modern Phoenix: Where Cantilever Meets Coyote 1:30 p.m. Esther McCoy: Writing Home 2 p.m. Albert Frey: Early Influences 3 p.m. Throwing Curves - Eva Zeisel: A Film by Jyll Johnstone (2002) 4:45 p.m. Frey House II: Evening Tour and Cocktail Reception 5 p.m. Viceroy Palm Springs Poolside reception 6 p.m. Martinis on the Mountain Wednesday, Feb. 20 8:30 a.m. Lost, Saved and Endangered: Modernist Architecture in Palm Springs 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Frey House II Tours (every 45 minutes) 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Premiere Architectural Bus Tour 9:30 a.m. Walking tour of Vista Las Palmas homes (exterior only) 9:30 a.m. Banking and Commerce Go Mod, Palm Springs Historical Society Walking Tour 10 a.m. New, Better, Different 10 and 11 a.m., 2 and 3 p.m. Guided tour of E. Stewart Williams original 1949 sanctuary, Temple Isaiah 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expo Tent and Prefab Showcase, Prairie Schooner Parking Lot 10 a.m. Express Architectural Bus Tour 10:30 a.m. Welcome Aboard -- The PanAm Experience, Saguaro Hotel 11 a.m. Ray Kappe: California Modern Master 11 a.m. The Bad and the Beautiful: Film Costumes of the Silver Screen Fashion Show 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Marrakesh Country Club Designer Showcase Luncheon (every 30 minutes) 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours of Sunnylands Center and Gardens (every 30 minutes) 11:30 a.m. Modern Phoenix: Where Cantilever Meets Coyote 1:30 p.m. Welton Becket: The Man Behind the Machine 2 p.m. Albert Frey: Early Influences 3 p.m. Throwing Curves - Eva Zeisel: A Film by Jyll Johnstone (2002) 4:45 p.m. Frey House II: Evening Tour and Cocktail Reception 5 p.m. Icons and Legends: Dazzling Photos and Tales of the Entertainment Greats 7:30 p.m. Paris Loves Palm Springs

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Patti and Dale Gribow T

his couple knew during the two hour phone call that preceded their “blind date” that theirs was going to be a special relationship. Patti Pivaar, a young singer/actress, captain of the Dean Martin Show’s Golddiggers and very eligible bachelorette, was set up with Dale Gribow, a prominent trial attorney, president of the Beverly Hills Men’s Charities singles group and confirmed bachelor, through a mutual friend. The match was made in heaven. They have been together since that first date and now, 30 years later, it is still divine.

“We went together for over two years,” Patti shared. “That Christmas night, I prepared dinner for my parents and Dale. I had made up my mind that if I didn’t receive a ring and a proposal, I was going to end the relationship and return to Cincinnati.

I’ll never forget that night. I gave Dale a beautiful Lalique sculpture. I opened my gift from Dale and it was a book that said, ‘To a Special Friend’. I was so mad! Then, to make matters worse, Dale looked at me and said ‘Patti, would you please bring me a carrot?’

I stormed into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator and took out a carrot and gave

it to Dale. ‘That’s not the right carrot,’ he said. ‘Go back and bring me another one.’

Then I really became angry, until I reopened the refrigerator and discovered a carrot with a large diamond ring on it. That’s Dale, always surprising me.” They were married the following September.

During their years in Beverly Hills, the Gribow’s were active in many charities.

Together, they’ve chaired two consecutive Thalian Balls, the organization headed by Debbie Reynolds and Ruta Lee, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Thalian’s Mental Health Clinic at Cedars Sinai. When the City of Hope presented Dale with the Spirit of Life, Man of the Year Award, Patti chaired the ball committee. At one time, Dale served on the boards of 17 different charities in Los Angeles and Patti worked on most of them with him. Dale initially had a 30 person firm in Beverly Hills, earlier working as a Los Angeles County Deputy Public Defender. Dale is listed in 50 “Who’s Who” and has been honored 7 times as “Man of the Year” and “Dale Gribow Day” has been declared 4 times. Dale was also recently listed in Palm Springs Life’s Top Lawyers selection for 2011 and 2012.

Mix 100.5 Lucky Break Talent Competition Continues The competition last week was crazy good. So good that instead of one winner being awarded 100.00 from Sponsor Crater Lake Vodka & Gin there was a tie with CV Weekly ponying up the other 100.00.

Singer Songwriter, Derek Jordan Gregg shared the winning title with 3-piece group Egoflow (see full article in next week’s issue).

Come on out this Thursday to Stadium Club in Rancho Mirage to compete or just to watch some amazing talent. Singers, musicians, dancers, comedians, etc. are all welcome. Sign- ups start at 7pm with show beginning around 8pm.

Derek Jordan Gregg

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Egoflow

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

30 Years after a Blind Date

by Lisa Morgan

After being drafted from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music to the Golddiggers, Patti appeared on 50 television movies and shows: Charlie’s Angels, Days of Our Lives and Quantum Leap. Her greatest thrill was singing for both President Reagan and Ford and performing at Reagan’s televised inaugural.

She is president of Gribow Entertainment/ Imprint Media Productions. She filmed the Patti Gribow show live with a studio audience at CBS studios in PS before doing 700+ interviews with celebrities and professionals. Patti’s advocacy for women has earned her numerous awards including the “Women Leaders Forum 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award”; an Athena Award from the City of Palm Desert; the Palm Desert Citizen of the Year; 2009 Making a Difference Award by the Soroptimist’s; 2011 Woman of Distinctions in the Arts”, from American Pen Women; 2012 Sycamore High School Distinguished Alumni Award, presented only 3 times previously and a 2012 Golden Halo Award. She now has as many awards as Dale. She is currently the president of Palm Springs Women in Film and TV as well being a founder of The Ophelia Project and president for 3 ½ years for Women Leaders Forum.

Even in the most charmed lives, a challenge can come along that can take your breath away. The Gibrow’s strength and faith were put to the test when their daughter Gina was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease at the age of 7. Patti and Dale were preparing to leave for the presidential

Darren and Kandie Worden

by Lisa Morgan

A Beacon of Love and Hope for Nearly 30 Years

I

inauguration the next day when Gina came down with her first fever. They immediately cancelled their plans refusing to leave town until they knew Gina was ok. When they received the unfamiliar diagnosis, Dale immediately called one of the members of his former bachelor’s group who was a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles. Dale was advised that Children’s Hospital was the West Coast Teaching Center for the disease.

Patti explained, “When you go through a crisis like this, you reevaluate your priorities.” Dale said, “I did not want my daughter to grow up as fast as some of our friend’s daughters who were wearing push up bras, lipstick and high heels at 9-12 years of age.” They decided that quality of life was more important than anything else and for those reasons, have since made their home in Palm Springs.

Dale likes to tease that it is his wife’s cooking, her Irish wit and attention to his Jewish traditions that make their marriage work. But then he adds seriously, “What really matters is that we are best friends as well as husband and wife.” Patti explains that her parents were like Ozzie and Harriet and they taught her to “never go to bed mad.” If there is an argument, Patti tells Dale, “Grow up and give me a kiss goodnight!”

Dale and Patti both confess they are still “in love and best friends” after meeting that fateful day, February 2nd, 30 years ago. Along with the advice to “never go to bed mad”, Dale has learned what every good husband learns: to say “You are right honey”.

February 14 to February 20, 2013

think there are perhaps more people like me than there are people like Darren and Kandie. I, like so many others, have experienced on more than one sad occasion the painful demise of a marriage and broken family and have struggled to pick up the pieces in the aftermath. The most painful part of these experiences, I think, is when you start to doubt the very foundation of not only the institution of marriage, but the ideal of love in general. The idea that a love can survive a lifetime; that the commitment to cherish, honor and protect can be upheld and can be done so without utter misery, becomes a lofty intangible thing. When you feel that part of your faith crumble, life can have an undercurrent of cynicism. In the last year or so, I have had the incredible blessing of sharing a home with these two people who have, unbeknownst to them, relit my faith in the beauty and possibility of true love.

I don’t suppose I ever saw such a thing up close before, so now, thanks to them, true love is no longer a whimsical fairytale. It is a tangible, obtainable, beautiful thing. For that reason, when my publisher approached me to research couples befitting of a Valentine’s Day Issue, Darren and Kandie Worden were the first two people to pop into my mind, and I would be remiss not to share their story with you.

“Honestly, we did not know each other in high school that well. We went to school together at Indio High School, but it was only by chance of fate that I happened to have his phone number and needed a ride somewhere. After that, he just started hanging around. I was a single mother at the time, and back in the early 80s, it wasn’t as accepted to be a single, unwed mother. I actually purchased myself a fake diamond at Safeway in Palm Desert to wear on my ring finger so that the older women would stop giving me dirty looks. I was on my sixth or seventh date with Darren the night after I purchased the ring. When he saw it on my finger he asked me about it, and I told him. We were on our way out to meet with two friends of ours to have a nice dinner and he thought it would be funny if he told them that he had asked me to be his wife. When he did, they got so excited that they went completely overboard. They bought champagne and our dinner and wanted to go out and party to celebrate!

We felt so guilty! Then, as we were sitting in the back of their car, Darren looked at me and said, “Well, why don’t we NOT make it a joke.” Then he proceeded to REALLY ask me to marry him! So that’s how it all started almost 30 years ago! Before the engagement, we were actually only just semi dating. I went away with my parents

during the summer and apparently, the last three weeks of that vacation, he would drive by my house every single day to see if I was home. He was always like that - very loving, very giving and very attentive. How could I not fall in love? How could he not have won my heart? And he won it fast! I was definitely a challenge.”

Darren’s heart was obviously won over early on as his pursuit of Kandie reveals.

The first time that he gave Kandie a ride home, “She kissed me on my cheek, turning down a kiss on the lips.” Most guys might feel a sense of rejection, but not Darren.

“That’s when I fell really hard for her.”

“I think we are very blessed. The reason I feel that we are so fortunate in our marriage, is that we both desire the same thing. To be successful at Marriage, I think you have the same goals in mind. We are huge believers in what we constantly refer to as ‘blessings’. Blessings are the things that you give to each other and to other people, be it emotionally, physically or financially. It is what you’re going to get back every time.

As with all things, you get back what you put into it. Sometimes it’s not immediate but you get it eventually! We want to be a united family. We want to be a loving and strong example for our children. We want to be able to help others, our friends our community and most of all, we want to have a great marriage! We want to be continually attracted to each other and keep stirring up that desire for each other. We want our blessings!”

“We have had some bumpy patches in our lives as well as our marriage. All marriages have bumpy roads; we sure as heck have! We’ve had the typical tiffs over disciplining the children and money issues the basic struggles. We’ve also shared the terrible sad moments of losing a parent. But we’ve learned how to support each other through all that because, like I said, that’s what we want for each other. Sometimes it’s hard to go outside yourself and give to another person when you’re sad or you’re feeling sorry for yourself, but it sure makes things better faster. It’s kind of like putting a smile on your face until you really are smiling.”

“The fact that we are now approaching 30 years of marriage is amazing. We even decided to see a therapist. We thought, ‘Why not have more tools in our toolbox as we approach another portion of our lives.’ We want more and more wins in our marriage and in our life goals. We want to keep on keeping on and let’s face it, life is just challenging. You have to learn, grow and not just expect things to work out just because you want them to.”

“I’m still finding out stuff about him, and

he’s finding out stuff about me - stuff you would think that we would’ve known a long time ago. It’s fascinating! It brings in a deeper level of compassion and appreciation as well as more softness to the marriage. Our lives can get quite hectic, both physically and emotionally, but we know that we can never be too busy for each other. And I can’t reiterate it enough; it’s because we both want the same thing. I truly feel that is why we are a success. And heck, it doesn’t hurt that I think he’s absolutely funny, adorable, sexy, witty, charming, and I want to rip his clothes off all the time!”

This is the part where the two of them look at each other with a mischievous, loving grin and say in unison, “We’re still on our honeymoon.”

And that my friends, is why I love these

two people and how they have breathed new hope into me and so many others who know them. I can assure you, that they are the “real deal”. And I’m not the only one who thinks so. “Rarely do you see a couple so in love and happy. It is that type of relationship that everyone hopes to have, but as many of us realize, aren’t a dime a dozen. I feel fortunate to have been surrounded by such amazing role models (my own parents included) that gave me the hope that love like that does exist. It taught me to hold on and wait until I found that same kind of love in my future bride, Brenda. Because of them, I know the love and respect and adoration we have for each other will also stand the test of time.” ~ Nick Balsamo, honorary son and business partner.

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Greg and Laura Little T

When One Plus One Equals Six

his is the love story for those experienced in both the hopefulness of marriage and the deep disappointment of divorce. It is a story for those struggling to be the best single parent they can be, while wondering if they will ever feel that sense of wholeness as an individual or a family again. This is a story that says, “YES! You can have a second chance at love!” This is the story of how a good mix of humor, desire, tenderness, hard work, patience, determination, unrelenting hope (and perhaps an occasional bottle of wine-optional of course) helped two unsuspecting soul mates successfully bring their four teenage boys together as a family and live to tell about it.

Greg and Laura were born in the same hospital in Philadelphia and raised only five miles apart. They worked the same venues and events. They had probably passed each other’s paths on several occasions. Still, they didn’t actually meet until they their sons were in the same Cub Scout pack here in the desert in 2003. The families lost touch for a time as each suffered divorces on their own accord. Five years later, Greg was on the verge of leaving the desert to return to Philadelphia permanently when he and Laura bumped into each other again. It was Laura who suggested that before Greg left, they should get together for dinner. Greg, awkward but willing said, “I don’t know... I haven’t done this in over 18 years.” Laura replied, “Well, then you must be really hungry.” Over that fateful, accidental first date, they began realizing a special connection and discovering their many commonalities.

As the writer assigned to translate their story to print, I had the opportunity to hear it from them first hand. I have to say their genuine joy in the telling of it was contagious. They both communicated the kind of true happiness that very naturally, lights a person up from the inside.

Both Laura and Greg have successful but demanding careers. Greg produces corporate events for a local production company and Laura is the Marketing Manager for the Miramonte Resort and Spa. But above and beyond that, they share four teenage sons: two from Laura’s “practice” marriage, and two from Greg’s “practice” marriage. When I asked them what their greatest challenge was, Greg eloquently described it as “the managed chaos of blending a family.”

“When we talk to other couples that are in similar circumstances, we share how difficult it can be, getting the kids to accept things and to work on being a blended family. It’s a full time job.”

“It’s a matter of meeting them (the kids)

8

where they are,” shared Laura. “In any postdivorce situation, kids are going to have a lot of feelings. The key is in recognizing and legitimizing those feelings and handling it as gently as possible. Not everybody goes at the same speed in relationships. When you’re just a couple, that sort of thing is easy to work out between the two of you.

It’s a very exponential thing when you add other people to it. Greg and I came up with some ground rules that we go back to consistently.”

Greg continued, “We’ve agreed to always communicate as adults first, and then deal with kid issues. We also have to be consistent. Consistency and communication is the best answer. The thing that threatened to break us up in the beginning was the fact that there were a lot of feelings going on between two adults and four teenage boys. It is a challenge at best.

It worked out because we have a bunch of strong kids. We talk through things. It wasn’t easy at first but over time, we got better at it.”

“Although we got together in 2008, we didn’t actually get married until August of 2011,” Laura shared. “We wanted to make sure that this would work for the sake of the kids and the family. Once it started to click we knew it was time to get a ceremony together. We wrote the kids’ participation into the ceremony. They were asked, ‘Will you support this marriage?’ They were involved. They were, and still are, an important part of our marriage coming together.”

“Greg and I immediately knew we were soul mates. He’s a little bit nuts. This guy next to me is not right!” Laura said laughing.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Lisa Morgan

“But I’m equally not right in a way that really blends really well together.”

“There were too many things that were

in common,” agreed Greg. “There were too many universal things for this relationship to not be right.”

So how do they keep the home fires burning? “We love live music and concerts.

We go to performances as often as we can.

We do a lot of fun stuff together, like playing Santa and Mrs. Claus for holiday events, throwing an annual Halloween carnival on our block with the kids and the neighbors and hosting big birthday parties at our house. We’re both geeky and techie. I fully appreciate the five surround sound zones Greg wired into our little house. I make music playlists. We cook together. Greg is amazing in the kitchen! We play pool, too.

I can actually beat him now,” Laura bragged.

“We make a conscious effort to do couple dates. Our kids are getting older so it’s getting harder to do things as a family now. Gasoline and perfume are starting to take over, if you know what I mean,” snickers Greg. “But there’s no way we are going to have empty nest syndrome. For us, it’s an opportunity to enjoy life and one another.”

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Lauri Bono and Her Man Kal David I

36 Years of Music and Love

love exceptions to the rule. I idealize people who win against the odds. I love this story and idealize the people in it: This is the love story of Lauri Bono and Kal David.

It was 1977 in Woodstock, New York.

Music was all the buzz in the artsy little community. Kal David was a rock and roller with a fan club and quite the following of groupies. He heard about a certain female vocalist, Lauri Bono who, unlike most of the other venues during that time, was performing jazz. All the jazz artists were lining up to sit in where Lauri was playing. Kal was “very taken with Lauri’s vocal prowess and her beauty.” They first came together musically when Kal asked her to work on a demo with him. But it wasn’t long before it turned into true love. At first Lauri thought, “No way. That’s not for me.” She was aware of his fanfare and after all, he was a rock and roll guy. But, as she shared, “We are soul mates, so it worked out for the good.” For 36 years they have been the exception to the rule in an industry that seems plagued with broken homes and hearts.

They “lived in sin” for their first 12 years together, according to their parents. Finally in 1989, mostly to appease their folks, Kal got down on one knee, inside the hot tub of all places, and proposed. Lauri laughed at him thinking he couldn’t be serious.

Eventually, he convinced her he was serious and she agreed. “I think it brought us closer,” she shared. “But we would have stayed together anyway.”

“Something happens when you get married and make that statement to the

world” says Kal. “I think it gets deeper. It was kind of whimsical actually.” It will be 36 years this July and Kal and Lauri are together pretty much 24/7. “Not only are we living in love together, we are working together all the time... that’s like 800 years compared to other people who leave each other to go to work,” he chuckles. “Music is really the thing that has totally bonded us together.

We have the same musical tastes.”

“We’ve had disagreements over the years,” Lauri shared. “You’d have to be a robot to not hit any walls in your relationship. We say what’s on our minds most of the time. We talk about everything.

It takes some work, but you’ve got to listen to each other. Once you get through those things, it makes you stronger.”

I asked Kal what it is like to “work on the relationship”. He answered, “You’ve got to pay attention to the signs. Fortunately, Lauri speaks her mind and doesn’t hold things in.

I usually know if something’s wrong - if I’m not holding up my end. When Lauri says something, then she is right.”

“That’s why it works!” laughed Lauri when Kal said that. “Kal is really open to listening to what I have to say. We discuss everything together. We really respect each other’s opinion.”

“Musically, I’m Lauri’s biggest fan and she’s mine. We can level with each other if we don’t think the other is performing up to par. We recently worked on a project called Crossroads of My Life. Lauri very strongly suggested that we do it. We co-produced it but she was the brains behind the project. I resisted on a few songs but because I know

by Lisa Morgan

she has my best interests at heart, I listened and agreed. It turned out to be a great project.” Crossroads of My Life was #89 of the top 100 blues CDs released in 2011 according to RMR. It was played on Sirius/ XM and on over 100 stations in the US and around the world. Kal and Lauri are now in the process of writing songs for a new album.

It was obvious in hearing them share about their relationship, that there were no insecurities between them. They have protected each other from those. “For Kal and me, it was really important for us to be secure in just being together. I don’t have

those fears. I’m happy when women in the audience find him attractive and love his music. Kal has always been very trustworthy and I am too.”

It is a real treat to see these two in action. You can follow them and get their updated event schedule at kaldavid.com.

You can even help add to their happiness by helping Kal win the chance to open for Eric Clapton by supporting him at http://www. playcrossroads.com/u/kaldavid. Also, be watching the website for an announcement of a big show with Lauri and The Brunettes in the spring!

A love letter to Molly from Donovan Dearest Molly, When we met six years ago in San Diego I never thought that someday we would be living and working in Palm Springs together. I am so thankful that we decided to move to Palm Springs and start a new chapter in our life three years ago.

Working together has been awesome, especially since Bar has been open. Not many couples get to work together, and I feel like not many would be even able to handle it, but that is why you’re so special.

We balance each other out and keep each other accountable. Your charisma and charm attracts everyone to you and that is so important in our business. That and the fact that you always give everything

100 percent and you work so hard are just a few of the qualities that make me love you so much. Thanks for being an amazing coworker and an even better wife. I love you so much, Happy Valentines Day, and cheers to many more baby!

Love, Donavan (Publisher’s note: I chose this young couple, Donavan and Molly Funkey, after watching them several times working together as co-owners of Bar in Palm Springs, because you can see that they truly adore each other. It’s not easy to start a business and work together as a couple much less when you’re in your 20s, but they make it seem effortless and work together as a team.)

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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Desert Hot Springs

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By H. Simmons

Cities of the CV

There are nine incorporated cities that make up the Coachella Valley. Over the next several weeks the CVW will take a look at each city and its unique qualities and contributions to the CV. To read about the cities already covered, go www.coachellavalleyweekly.com and click on archive.

O

n the north side of Interstate 10, the nearly 24 square miles of Desert Hot Springs sits on the valley’s west end. The city’s back is set against the vast Joshua Tree National Park.

It has its own water supply, both hot and cold. The city’s hillside views include the sparkling towns and spectacular mountains of the entire CV. Sitting pretty, Desert Hot Springs is a community that has a lot to celebrate.

The population of year-round residents is over 27,000. There is a dichotomy about this community. While it houses the poor and the working class it also has worldclass resorts and million dollar views. On the hills, in between single-family homes tucked into neighborhoods behind ornate gates and finished walls, are the amazing boutique spas of Desert Hot Springs.

There are 24 spas and hotels that have between six and 110 rooms. The owners are educated, sophisticated and committed to providing a place of wellness and relaxation, all with loads of style and character. Most spas have treatment rooms and massage therapists on site. The springs come directly from the city’s hot aquifer. It is odor free mineral water with temperatures between 85 and 185 degrees.

Whether you stay for the day or overnight, there is something for everybody. DogSpa is a small resort where you can vacation with your beloved pet dog. El Morocco Inn & Spa has round beds and Egyptian cotton sheets with 5000 thread count. Anahata Springs Spa and Retreat is clothing optional and operates with a Zen philosophy designed to “expand your heart.” Tuscan Springs Hotel & Spa provides Italian hospitality. The Springs is a chic award-winning destination.

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(760) 346-1818 10

Local Music Spotlight

The city is working on providing more medical facilities to serve the uninsured and under insured. UCR has a new facility on Palm Drive just south of Von’s and is nearly ready to provide additional care for the community.

The Desert Hot Springs Women’s Club will celebrate 50 years as a community service organization. Raising funds for scholarships, schools and local sports, they have given away nearly $350,000.

According to Josie Rizzio, First Vice President of the organization, the women will revive a past tradition and celebrate with an oldfashioned pig roast and picnic in March.

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is a Hopi-style pueblo on 160-acre property. The builder, Cabot Yerxa, is credited for discovering the city’s hot water. This funky 5,000 square foot building has 35 rooms, 150 windows and 65 doors and is a real step back in time.

Homesteaded in 1913, it celebrates100 years.

The City of Desert Hot Springs has seen some hard times and faced difficult challenges, but it has turned a corner.

According to Heather Coladonato, Desert Hot Springs’ Chamber of Commerce CEO, there are over 225 Chamber members.

That’s up from 165 since May 2012. It has 97 percent retention of members and is growing. “Our strongest chamber and city attribute is opportunity!” reports Coladonato. “Desert Hot springs is a city on the move in all the right directions.”

The Chamber runs the Visitor Center, which had over 4,000 walk-ins and 708 calls about the city and gave nearly 5,000 referrals in its last quarter. Desert Hot Springs residents spend over $220 million in retail revenue in other valley cities. But new businesses are on the horizon for the town.

In 2010, the city annexed the land from I-10 to Dillon Road and from Indian Trail to Palm Drive. Only 20 percent of Desert Hot Springs is developed, making it a city ready for growth.

City Manager Rick Daniels has been

on the job since 2007 and credits the City Council for setting priorities that put the city first. Public safety, fiscal stability, economic development and quality of life have been the task at hand.

With 45 officers, Desert Hot Springs’ Police Department reports all types of crime are down by 46 percent. There is a 24/7 hot line for graffiti removal: 760 288 0609.

Roads are 90 percent in good and very good condition. There is a renewed and remodeled downtown. The city maintains a balanced budget and has appropriate reserves.

“Now it’s finding the money to continue the progress that’s been made. We need to sustain what we’ve done. We need to continue to expand and to increase police protection,” said Daniels “The next step of evolution in the city is parks and recreation. That will enhance the fabric of the community and quality of life. We need to make the community kid friendly and kid active.”

Desert Hot Springs has six elementary schools (one under construction), two middle schools and a high school. The population’s median age is 33 and the majority of residents are families. Desert Hot Springs is a multi-generational, multiracial community with strong character and independence. The majority of the city’s workforce travels across the freeway everyday.

Mayor Yvonne Parks was on city council in 2005 and was elected Mayor in 2007.

“We have made mistakes. But we’ve learned from them. A lot of things fell through the cracks. But we’ve cleaned up and sealed the cracks,” said Parks. “We have it together today. We have our doors open and we are ready for business.”

The city was incorporated in 1963 and will celebrate its 50-year anniversary in October.

Cabot’s Pueblo is 100; the Mission Springs’ Water District is 60; and the Women’s Club is 50. But it is the city’s bright future that is real cause to celebrate.

by Lisa Morgan

Keep Your Eye on the R BUCKLE ROAD W

water system. For 18 hours the hot mineral water fills its pools using pressure and the water leaves under gravity.

The Aqua Soleil Hotel & Mineral Water Spa has rooms with large private spas.

Newly redone, it is beautifully appointed and also has full spa treatments available.

The Aqua Soleil, Miracle Springs Resort and Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel all have restaurants. Every year there is a spa tour that shows off the outstanding resorts.

Water is certainly an important component to any community. But it plays a significant role in the character of Desert Hot Springs. The community takes great pride in the Mission Springs Water District.

The citizens formed the district as a publicly owned water company in 1953. This year it celebrates 60 years of providing some of the best water in the world.

Desert Hot Springs sits on two deep aquifers. Divided by an earthquake fault, one side is hot and the other is cold. The district has 14 wells and 24 reservoirs and serves 135 square miles.

It is widely believed that Desert Hot Springs’ location is situated in a vortex that promotes health and wellness. The natural elements of mineral water, unspoiled desert expanse, mountain elevation, earthquake faults, wind and sunshine create a significant energy field. Some think vortexes are negative ion generators influenced by unusual magnetic forces.

The city has taken this important feature to heart. Recently completed, the Health and Wellness Center houses a 22,000 square foot Boy’s and Girl’s Club, an 8,200 square foot Health Center and a 2,000 square foot Aquatic Center with a competition-sized pool.

The beautiful building is located across from the high school and provides a teen center, learning and computer center, gymnasium and outdoor patio. The Health Center has a cardio gym, dental exam stations, medical exam rooms and an outdoor patio community room.

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Original Alternative Country Music

hen I first saw R Buckle Road perform at the Palm Canyon Road House, my impression was that of a group of guys having as much fun at their job as I do at mine. They seemed like a fun and easy going bunch armed with an arsenal of original songs that had a surprisingly, immediate likability in spite of the fact that I’d never heard any of them before. Professionally speaking, that’s not an easy accomplishment. Many venues opt to bring in bands that perform covers as opposed to local bands that play all originals; people/customers tend to like familiarity. They like songs they know the words to. But the songs these guys were putting out connected right away either via wit, attitude or because they were just fun and relatable. R Buckle Road’s lyrics are straightforward with catchy melodies and strong hooks, dynamic enough so that no one song sounds like the last. It was a good variety of country flavored ear candy with a nice, solid, rock and roll undertow. That combination is quite possibly enough for any band in Nashville to get a nod. But the musicianship supporting these songs... well, let me just say, the floor had to open up a little to make room for the depth displayed as I witnessed moments of greatness being performed during the instrumental solos. These guys didn’t even know I was watching them with consideration to write about them. They were just doing what they do and preparing for their upcoming performance at the International Date Festival Battle of the Bands.

Front man, Greg Vincent had given his go at the Nashville music scene back in the mid ‘90s. He had a couple of his songs cut by other signed bands and played about town here and there but nothing during his visits to the music city stuck. He was encouraged by a well-known publisher that he had the

potential to make a go of it if he committed to moving there, but having started a family in California and bearing the responsibilities that ensued, Greg chose to step away from music. It wasn’t until after Stagecoach a couple of years ago that Greg and his friend/ neighbor/drummer Dan Spriggel asked themselves, “Why aren’t we doing this?”

As Greg casually shared his story with me, Dan jumped in eager to give the bigger perspective on his talented friend and front man: “You’re such a sand bagger!” he referred to Greg. Then looking at me he said, “Like all truly talented people, they tend to sand bag. Greg and his wife supported me when I was in a local rock band. We were neighbors. We watched football together.

Then one day, all of a sudden he says, ‘I’ve written a song or two.’ So he goes and pulls a box out from under the bed with these old, multi-track, 2” tapes in it and a CD with these 12 remarkable songs on it!” For

Greg and Dan, the path of original music was the only way to go. They surrounded themselves with the quality musicianship of bass player, Ben Travis and brothers, Mike and Larry Pedersen.

The Pedersen brothers have been playing and performing music since they were 12 and 13 years old thus bringing those tenured moments of greatness that I referred to earlier. While Greg, Dan and Ben definitely bring that fresh contemporary edge to the R Buckle Road look and sound, Mike and Larry provide the polish that puts the shine on that “Buckle”.

Mike has a natural, experienced touch and tonality that makes the electric guitar quite literally sing. Larry’s acoustic guitar style and harmonica add truly rich, fullness and character to the music. To share the musical experiences between these two brothers would necessitate their own article, but let me just say this: You would be hard pressed to find this kind of musicianship anywhere, Nashville included. It’s the kind of skill that comes from a God given ability combined with decades of dedication and passion. It cannot be taught or learned; it can only be earned.

As fun loving and just really, really likeable as these guys are, they are tenaciously hard working as well. Greg literally dedicates hours of his day just in promoting and securing bookings for the band. Sadly, in this day and age and location, the venues that support original music are few and far between. “There’s a whole lot of foot work involved,” shared Greg. “I go to a website called Festivalnet; it’s an industry

site that posts all their events from parties of 50 to the large festivals and everything in between. I’ve submitted to over 70 events and several different original music venues throughout Southern California. You don’t get paid much. Maybe you’ll make gas money. I’ve also submitted to around 70 municipalities from here on up to central California for their summer concert series’.

Those pay better. We’ve got lots of irons in the fire and there’s a whole lot of back and forth intensive follow up involved. Basically, there’s a thousand hours we put into this thing with no particular payoff.” Then he added with a smile and a gleam in his eyes as he looked at his band mates, “Well, with the exception of tearing down the Red Barn last weekend, did we not?!”

R Buckle Road has bookings all the way through this year with weekly gigs scheduled at Dillon Road House and Palm Canyon Road house. They’re hoping to solidify a sponsorship agreement with two liquor distributors doing a weekly three bar rotation; a “hangin’ with the band kind of thing”. The partnership hopes to help build up business for a bar on a traditionally quiet night with drink specials and R Buckle’s live music. It will also provide the band with performance practice for those big bookings like the one coming up June 29th where they will be opening for a major act (say...like Snoop Dog) at the Canyon Theater in Agora.

The name of the major act (the likes of Snoop Dog) is to be revealed at a later date.

Revealing the name (Snoop Dog) would be pre-mature at this time, but CV Weekly will definitely make sure to announce it (Snoop Dog) as soon as it is confirmed.

What are the aspirations for R Buckle Road? “The sky’s the limit,” says Greg. “I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t dream to headline Stagecoach or any other major venue. Am I going to let that dream get in the way of reality? No, but I’m going to keep playing. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by these guys. I’m not satisfied with playing local clubs for the next three years. At the same time, if that’s all we do and it’s as fun as it was this last weekend at the Red Barn, that’s great; as long as we’re working toward a bigger stage.”

Follow R Buckle Road on Facebook or Reverb Nation to watch videos and listen to songs and get an updated schedule. The recordings are a little rough, the videos are fun, but the best way to hear them is live!

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Eleni P. Austin

A

Consider This

by Lola Rossi-Meza

RA RA RIOT “Beta Love”

re you yearning to time travel back to the early 80s? Rather than go to the effort and expense of building your own plutonium powered De Lorean/time machine all you need to do is purchase the new Ra Ra Riot album, Beta Love.

The band Ra Ra Riot formed in 2006.

Vocalist Wes Miles, bassist Mathieu Santos, guitarist Milo Bonacci, violinist Rebecca Zeller and drummer John Ryan Pike met at Syracuse University. Almost immediately their energetic live shows and eclectic Baroque pop stylings generated considerable buzz.

By 2007 the band secured a spot at the prestigious South By Southwest showcase in Austin, Texas. But tragedy struck when their drummer, John Ryan Pike drowned in Buzzards Bay, Massachussetts.

Ra Ra Riot soldiered on with new drummer Kenny Bernard. They released their critically acclaimed debut, The Rhumb Line, in 2008 and followed up in 2010 with their sophomore effort, The Orchard.

Their sound fit comfortably between bands like Arcade Fire, Death Cab For Cutie and Vampire Weekend and they easily blended in at Coachella and Lollapalooza.

With their new release, Beta Love, the band jettisons their quirky brand of Chamber pop, instead adopting an Electronica style that hews more closely with 80s synth stalwarts Depeche Mode and Yaz. The album opens with the sugary rush of “Dance With Me.” A thumping disco beat and bouncy keyboard fills conspire to make this the first party anthem of 2013.

But delve a little deeper and the lyrics reveal a sad undercurrent of loneliness that permeates the whole record.

The instrumentation and arrangements on both “Binary Mind” and the title track veer into “Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto”

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

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(Barsuk Records)

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territory. On the former, the lyrics subscribe to scientist Ray Kurzweil’s theory that one day computers and humans will merge and become indistinguishable… “I wanna reach you with this binary mind, cuz if I do I’m sure that we’ll be complete.”

“Beta Love” combines soaring falsetto vocals, synthesized sounds that plink, plunk, bloop and bleep with lyrics that yearn for love in a future age… “In this city of robot hearts, ours were made to beat.”

The best tracks on Beta Love blend real human emotions with arid, antiseptic instrumentation. On “Angel, Please,” the lines are blurred between substance abuse and love addiction.

“Is It Too Much” is a combo platter of heartbreak beats, squiggly guitar riffs, tinkling keyboard fills and sweet harmonies. Salted in the mix are lyrics that explore “Cats-In-The-Cradle” style Daddy issues. (It almost is too much!)

Finally, “That Much” threads an idiosyncratic drum pattern through lyrics that confront death…”Waiting for the day that she can rest/ I live waiting for that day.” The song really kicks into gear with an

honest to goodness guitar solo that skitters, scratches and sputters punching holes through the pristine melody.

Other highlights include the kinetic pep talk of “For Once,” and the minimalist “What I Do For You.” On “Wilderness” shimmery synths camouflage sorrowful lyrics… “Oh despair, I’ve had enough going through this

whole affair.” “When I Dream” is shot through with romantic recriminations mixing bravado and heartbreak.

The album closes with “I Shut Off.” Here the rhythm track echoes the throbbing pulse of 80s arcade game, “Space Invaders.” The tune locks into an infectious dance groove as the dour lyrics burrow deep into hopeless desolation.

Ra Ra Riot had some help crafting Beta Love. Production chores were handled by veteran Dennis Herring.

Herring actually has been around since the 80s, helming albums for artists as disparate as Elvis Costello, Modest Mouse, Concrete Blonde, Camper Van Beethoven, the Hives and Waaves. Not only did Herring record the album at his Sweet Tea studios in Oxford Mississippi, he also co-wrote five songs.

Stylistically, Beta Love references everyone from Devo to the Scissor Sisters.

The album is a heady, intoxicating brew that juxtaposes piquant melodies and somber themes.

Angst has never been this danceable!

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Valley Rhythms

Jeanette Harris to Headline the Second JAZZ TASTINGS™ Concert Series

mooth jazz saxophonist, composer and producer Jeanette Harris continues as the second top notch musician featured in the new music concert series JAZZ TASTINGS™ produced

by Patte Purcell of Muze Music on Saturday, February 23, from 6 until 9 p.m. at the Emerald Desert RV Resort Ballroom, 76000 Frank Sinatra Drive in Palm Desert.

Her band members include her brother drummer Michael Harris, lead vocalist and bassist Robert McDonald and pianist Kevin Flournoy. For tickets call (877) 624-4140 ext.

2. $25 general admission and byob or $40 for Mediterranean food tasting plate and three Crater Lake gin or vodka cocktails.

Born and raised with two brothers in Fresno, California, Jeanette Harris started playing piano when she was seven years old. “My parents wanted me to learn how to play piano,” said Harris. “They put me with a good private teacher so I could learn how to read music.” She attended Bullard Talent Elementary School, a public arts school, and started playing saxophone when she was ten years old. “The good thing about playing music in elementary school was, it kept me on top of all my studies like Math, English and History. It is very important for people to keep supporting music in schools.”

She continued to play lead alto saxophone in the jazz band, marching band and Latin band while attending Roosevelt High School. As a matter of fact, she kept up her piano chops by accepting an invitation to perform with the Fresno City College Latin Band during her junior year in high school. “We started doing combo jams and that’s where I learned how to improvise.”

After high school, she moved to Boston, Massachusetts where she attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Performance. In 2001, she returned to Fresno and decided to start her own band with her brother Michael, a drummer and percussionist who also attended Berklee.

Their good friend and bass player, Patrick Olvera, has been playing with them since high school, however, he was unavailable to perform at this concert.

In 2005, Harris was recognized as a “Shooting Star” and nominated for “Best Jazz Instrumentalist” by the LA Black Music Awards. She has opened for and/ or performed with such well known artists

330 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 778-1473

like The Rippingtons, Kirk Whalum, Veretta Hathaway, Phil Perry, Baby Face, Paul Jackson, Jr., Everette Harp, Andre Fischer, Denise Williams and Eric Marienthal, to name a few. She has performed in prominent jazz festivals all over the United States and in 2008, performed on tour in Japan. She was the featured saxophonist and flutist on tour with the late, legendary Teena Marie.

Harris and her brother formed their own company, J & M Records, and recorded two CDs under their label, “Reflections” and “Saxified” with their new CD “Summer Rain” set for release on April 2, 2013. Her songs reflect a good mixture of R & B, with the funkier side of jazz, creating what will

be known as her signature sound.

She became engaged during the holidays, on December 23, 2012, to Michael Madkins of St. Louis, Missouri who plans to move to California in May. He is not a musician. He works for a company called Sellers, which involves various areas of advertising. She met him after finishing an interview while on tour with Teena Marie in 2010. The interviewer and his wife, convinced her to meet her future husband because he “is a really good guy” as they put it. He arrived at the studio within five minutes and “I think it was ‘love at first sight’ for him, but for me, it took a minute. It was difficult having a long distance relationship, but I am glad it all worked out. It’s very exciting.”

Harris will be on tour this year, so wedding plans will be on hold until next year. They have lots of campaigning and touring ahead of them with the release of the new CD and the introduction of a new perfume fragrance appropriately named, “Summer Rain.” Her agent, Eric Talbert of the Agency Group, has arranged the touring schedule for the release of their new CD. “I am so excited to be returning to Boston for this tour in August. We will be performing at SKullers Jazz Club. I remember hearing about this place when I was in Berklee and it was always so packed, you could hardly get in.” Well jazz fans, this will be the time to see this up and coming super saxtress at the event at Emerald Desert, so it’s time to get your tickets. You can also see her on Sunday, February 24, from 6 until 9 p.m. at Golden Village Palms in Hemet. (866) 477-6154.

Visit her web-site: JeanetteHarrisBand.com.

Bronwyn Ison, Yoga Instructor RYT 200 Private, Group, and Classes Available Weekly Classes at Empire Polo Club Indio, California

BUY ONE SUSHI ROLL AT REGULAR PRICE AND GET THE SECOND ROLL AT HALF PRICE

(760) 564-YOGA (9642) www.e-volveyoga.com • Bronwyn@e-volveyoga.com

facebook.com/ yogawithbronwyn

Where your mind meets your mat

13

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

PET PLACE

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

by Rick Riozza

by Janet McAfee

Black Cats & Dogs Seek Love!

G

lorious black cats and dogs are waiting for you to adopt them!

Their shining ebony coats glisten in the winter sun, and their striking amber gold eyes peer at you longingly. Unfortunately, black cats and dogs are shrouded in negative superstitions, and have a harder time getting adopted than their light colored counterparts. Folks who visit a shelter to adopt a pet are more likely to leave with a light colored, multicolored, or animal with interesting markings. There are no scientific studies to confirm why this is true, although theories abound.

In kennels containing multiple animals, those with black fur are simply harder to see, particularly if the lighting is dim. People often fall in love with animals at first sight, and animals that are easier to see are more

Open Mon-Sat 8-5pm Sunday noon-4pm

73-200 El Paseo #3B Palm Desert, CA 92260

PET PSYCHIC

Cherie Vergini on 2/23/13 from 10:00-2:00

Appointments Recommended

Get your pooch

RED CARPET READY for the La Chien Fashion Show with couture by Linda Higgins

760-341-7297

www.cosmopawlitancafe.com

SEE

14

FOR DETAILS

likely to get picked up, played with, and adopted. People tend to love color and patterns. They favor fluffy white dogs and cats that have Siamese markings.

Black Animals are Hard to Photograph - Pet adoptions are often promoted by photographs on websites, Facebook, and other social media. Petfinder and Pet Harbor are popular websites that list photographs and biographies of rescue animals. The best of photographers must make a special effort to light a black cat or dog enough so that its facial characteristics can be seen. Without a clear view of its face and expression, potential adopters have a harder time relating to an animal’s personality. When the background is dark or multi colored, these animals cannot be clearly viewed and their beauty unappreciated.

Black Dogs in Movies - Think about your favorite dogs from movies and television.

The lighter colored ones get the leading roles as in Lassie, Old Yeller, and The Shaggy Dog. They are easier to film and their facial expressions are more obvious to audiences.

In the movie Beethoven, a brown and white St. Bernard played the happy family dog, while black colored Doberman Pinschers played the bad dogs that snarled and threatened our hero dog. Just like the villainous cowboys in old movies who wore black hats, black dogs in the media are portrayed as the aggressive bad guys.

Black Cat Superstitions - In the past, black cats were associated with witchcraft or evil. Today, they remain the poster pets for Halloween, portrayed as scary creatures that conjure fear and loathing.

Enchanting Ebony!

Here’s my biggest smile for the camera! I’m Ebony, full of love and eager to please! I’m a beautiful 1-yearold American Staffordshire Terrier weighing 30 pounds. I’m command trained, love my humans and fellow dogs. Adoption donation requested.

Call (760) 776-9397.

a nationwide “Back in Black” month of events during May to encourage adoptions.

Best Friends’ literature states, “Families are cheating themselves when they walk by these characters without getting to know their friendly, lovable, and sometimes goofy personalities.”

Owners of black animals can tell you they are just as wonderful as one of any other shade. Just ask Vicki Arrowood, pictured here with Spanky who she recently adopted from the Riverside county shelter, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus. “Spanky is the most engaging animal, he was all over the glass of his enclosure. When I got him into the visiting area, he was very curious and friendly. He seemed to be saying ‘don’t leave me’”.

This week our featured adoptable pet is a black dog named Ebony. Ebony is a joyful, active, gem of a dog who defies stereotypes of both color and breed as a black American Staffordshire Terrier. Call Loving All Animals at (760) 776-9397 to adopt Ebony.

Pay a visit to the largest local shelter, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus, 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. Take a look at some of the lovely black fur angels waiting there and find your faithful friend, whatever shade that might be!

THE VINO VOICE

Wine Food & Romance “

While everyone knows intellectually black animals have no association with evil, these stereotypes can unconsciously impact our preferences. Because they have no other markings, the eyes of black cats can appear ominous and glowing as they peer out from kennels.

Efforts to Promote Black Pets - Many rescue organizations feature special adoption events, including reduced adoption fees, for black pets during February. Best Friends Animal Society has

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Your words are my food, your breath my wine. You are everything to me.” ~ Sandra Bernhardt.

As the title proposes, there’s a trinity of endearment that appears eternal: we love wine, we love food and we love love.

So many of our well known restaurants in town are enjoying that special Valentine’s Day prix fixe romantic dinner such as Pinzimini, Vicky’s of Sante Fe, Lantana, the Cave Restaurant at the Renaissance Esmerelda, and Mikado at JW Mariott Desert Springs with their delicious line-up of courses.

The love explosion that still remains in the air after Valentine’s Day continues to be played out at a couple of venues in the desert. You can celebrate love all month long at the Miramonte Resort & Spa in their 28 Days of Love. There the flames of passion are being fanned by the Cupidapproved presentations and programs for the Body, Soul, and Palate.

The Body & Soul aspect is being warmed with couple’s massage packages and jazz music under the stars; and, as to the Palate, the artistic and artisanal Executive Chef, Robert Nyerick, has lovingly put together a heartthrob of a menu that continues until Sunday February 17th.

The “Amoré Menu” created by Chef Robert is fashioned to entice the taste buds and excite the senses. This menu features Lobster and Shrimp Ravioli with Basil Cream, Duet of Panko Seared Sea Bass and

Grilled Filet of Beef with Roasted baby Root Vegetables followed by Chocolate Decadence.

Both Chef Robert and myself propose a sweetheart of a wine suitor to this “Amoré Menu”: Provocative. Ahnfeldt Winery’s 2009 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is offered both by the glass or bottle. Now if the definition of provocative means “to deliberately arouse the interest and desires of the senses”, well then all aboard on this affectionate pairing!

This delicious Cab is blended with small amounts of Syrah, Merlot, and Cab Franc that is aged in 100% French Oak for 20 months. Provocative owns a bouquet and a flavor profile full of fruit, beautifully balanced, smooth, with a touch of earthiness, overlays of oak, soft tannins, and the perfect medium finish. Each course brings out some really charmed nuances from that ménage of grape varietals. An absolute darling of a match.

The “Amoré Menu” is $55 per person and reservations are recommended. Call (866) 642-9712 or book your reservation on Open Table.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar also continues until February 17th to serve their special Valentine Celebration Menu featuring your choice of entrées between Roasted Lobster Tail or Chateaubriand with Crab Glaçage. Included as an appetizer is an Heirloom Tomato and Housemade Burrata, with an amuse bouche of Citrus

Marinated Salmon Tartar. This Valentine menu is offered at $69.95 AND each dining couple will received a $25 Fleming’s gift card for a future rendezvous.

To accompany this Celebration of Love dinner, Fleming’s Wine Bar recommends a 2009 Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc North Coast at $10 a glass and/or the 2010 Catena Malbec at $11 a glass.

The Schramsberg sparkling wine is a fabulous choice with either entrée, especially with the Roasted Lobster Tail.

One hundred percent Chardonnay—from Napa & Sonoma Valleys, it offers bright aromas of crisp green apple, pineapple, and yeasty sweet bread dough and follows with expressive and generous tastes of white stone fruit, apple, pear, and tart grapefruit.

Look for a salty minerality and a complex

creamy palate. Who isn’t smitten by that description!

The Catena Malbec is rich and concentrated, with blueberry and blackberry notes and a touch of leather and cinnamon.

The finish presents well-integrated tannins with bright acidity and a flinty minerality that gives the wine exceptional length.

Quite an endearing choice to go with the Chateaubriand.

“We are all mortal until the first kiss and the second glass of wine.” ~Eduardo Galeano Here’s to romance! Cheers!

Rick Riozza is the desert’s romance sommelier-about-town conducting and entertaining at private and corporate wine events and tastings. He can be reached at winespectrum@aol.com

15

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Desert Fox Bar

Vino. Vodka.

Vixens.

• 14 flat screen televisions • NTN Trivia and poker with QB1

While you are here you can try one of our ten tap beer selections from a frosty cold glass or choose one of our 30 tequilas or vodkas to make your favorite cocktail.

PLAYOFFS I THE PLAC S E TO BE

Open Every Night till 2 am ‘Happy Hour’ Noon-6 pm (Mon - Fri)

Discounts on All Beer, Wine & Cocktails

224 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs. (across from the Hyatt)

www.desertfoxbar.com

12105 PALM DRIVE DESERT HOT SPRINGS

(760) 251-2644

Prix Fixe Dinner at King's Highway Doo Wop in the Desert Retro Dance Celery Hearts Romance

701 East Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs @acehotel acehotel.com/vday

16

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Club Clu luubb Crawler CCr Craw raaw wle wl w ler Nightlife Nig NNi iigggh ght httltlilliiifffee ht

World Famous Recipe

COME JOIN US FOR THE FUN!!

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

COUNTRY WESTERN(CW) VARIETY / DANCE(VD) ROCK N ROLL(RR) PIANO BAR(PB) JAZZ(JZ) POP ROCK(PR) BLUES(BL) CLASSIC ROCK(CR) CABARET(CB) LATIN ROCK(LR) REGGAE(RG) ACOUSTIC (AC) METAL(M)

THU FEBRUARY 14

29 PALMS INN; 29 PALMS ; 760-367-3505 Bev and Bill 6pm (JZ) ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Reunion w/ DJ Day in the Amigo Room 10pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Rudy de la Mor 7pm (PB) BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 The Gand Band 8pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party 6:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King Band 6pm CAFÉ PALETTE; PS; 760-322-9264 Jersey Shore & Friends 7pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 6pm (PB) CHARLI MARRONE’S; IND; 760-625-1500 Karaoke CLIFFHOUSE; LQ; 760-360-5991 Eddie Gee 7:30-10:30pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Johnny Morris 6pm (PB) DATE SHED; IND; 760-775-6699 DESERT FOX; PS; 760-325-9555 Special Musical Guest 7:30pm No Cover DESERT SAGE; LQ; 760-564-8744 Danny Sands 5-9pm Johnny Meza 10pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm DICKIE O’NEALS IRISH PUB; PS; 760325-2600 Bingo DILLON ROADHOUSE; DHS; 760-2511991 Karaoke ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-9920002 Lola Rossi-Meza & Johnny Meza 5-9pm (JZ) FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6-10pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 Mark Gregg 7:30pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 DJ Set Below Zero 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank Di Salvo 6-9:30pm LA BRASSERIE BISTRO; LQ; 760-7714400 Aubrey Tadman 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5:30pm LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Country Night w/ Joshua Paige 8pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 8-1am (LR) MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 T.B.A. 6-10pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm (PB)(VD) NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin

Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm (PB) O’LEARY’S; PS; 760-325-4913 Karaoke 9pm THE OUTPOST TAVERN; C.C.; 760-3289004 Karaoke w/ DJ Stuart 8pm OVER THE TOP; PS; 760-325-5100 Karaoke PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-3655956 Valentine’s Day w/ Solid Ray Woods 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Jam Session w/ Terry Williams 6:30-9:30pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 8pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-3278311 Rebecca Connelly, Sidebar 6:3010pm ROC’S FIREHOUSE; PD; 760-340-3222 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 Karaoke 9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 The Smooth Brothers (BL)(RG) TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8-12am THREESIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Costley 7:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Carolyn Martinez & The Trio 6:30-10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Nite Fixx 9pm DJ upstairs 9:30pm WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE; RM; 760-5689321 Bob Yetter 6-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Bill Saitta Jazz 7-11pm ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 Valentine’s Day w/ Candyman 9pm

FRI FEBRUARY 15

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Karaoke w/ T Bone 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Dana Larson 6pm (AC) ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 T.B.A. AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Karaoke w/ AJ The KJ 8-12am ARNOLD PALMER’S; LQ; 760-771-4653 Mark Gregg 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Gennine Jackson-Francis 8pm BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 You Me and Us 10pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party 6:30pm BLUE BAR, SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760775-5566 DJ PWee 8pm (VD) BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6pm CAFÉ PALETTE; PS; 760-322-9264 John Gallagher 7pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Dynamic Daze 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 6pm (PB)

CHARLI MARRONE’S; IND; 760-625-1500 Club Night w/ DJ 9pm 18+ CLIFFHOUSE; LQ; 760-360-5991 Eddie Gee 7:30-10:30pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Paul Patterson 6pm (PB) DATE SHED; IND; 760-775-6699 Sessions w/ Charlie Luthergates, DJ Sugarfree and JF//Discord 9pm DESERT SAGE; LQ; 760-564-8744 Danny Sands 5-9pm Johnny Meza 10pm DICKIE O’NEALS IRISH PUB; PS; 760325-2600 Lassie Jo’s Best Damn Karaoke 7pm DILLON ROADHOUSE; DHS; 760-2511991 EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6-10pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 Alternating groups 8-11pm (RR) THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Slipping Into Darkness, Colin L Orchestra and Residual Echoes 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank Di Salvo 6-9:30pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Live DJ 8:30pm (VD) LA BRASSERIE BISTRO; LQ; 760-7714400 Michael Bolivar 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Johnny Meza 6pm LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Tease 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-999-1995 80’s Allstars 9pm (VD) MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 Mark Guerrero & Dennis Alvarez 6:30pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm (PB)(VD) NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm (PB) O’LEARY’S; PS; 760-325-4913 9pm THE OUTPOST TAVERN; C.C.; 760-3289004 Karaoke w/ DJ Stuart 8pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Steve Ditullio 6-10pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-3655956 KCRW Presents Cold War Kids & Superhumanoids 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Karaoke w/ Amber Stream 8pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 The Gand Band 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Natural Heights 9pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-

8311 Rebecca Connelly Sidebar 6:3010pm, Lindsey Harper, Sidebar 10pm ROCK GARDEN BAR & EATERY; PS; 760327-8840 Smash Fridays 10pm ROC’S FIREHOUSE; PD; 760-340-3222 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 DJ Music 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The P.S. Blues w/ Gil Hansen and Tony Dean 8pm (BL) SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. (JZ)(RR) TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Alyce Bowie 9pm THREESIXTY NOR­­TH; PS; 760-327-1773 John McCormick 8pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE; MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951-7555391 Funky Fridays 10pm (VD) VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30-10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Nite Fixx 9pm DJ upstairs 9:30pm WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE; RM; 760-5689321 Bob Yetter 6-10pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-3285955 Michael Keeth 7pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Live entertainment 9pm THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760564-2201 Mark Linford 7-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 T.B.A. 7-11pm (CR) ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ’s 9pm

SAT FEBRUARY 16

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 The Caddies 10pm 29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Beverly & Bill 6-9pm (JZ) ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 T.B.A. AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Karaokie Jo 7pm ARNOLD PALMER’S; LQ; 760-771-4653 Mark Gregg 7pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Diva Denise Carter 7:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Jazz on the Patio w/ Linda Peterson 12:303:30pm (JZ) BAR; PS; 760-537-7337 The Social w/ DJ Aimlo & Pawn 10pm BLUE BAR; SPOTLIGHT 29; IND; 760775-5566 DJ PWee (VD) BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Steve Madeo 6pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Dynamic Daze 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 6pm (PB)

CHARLI MARRONE’S; IND; 760-625-1500 Live Bands 8pm CORK TREE; PD; 760-779-0123 Live Entertainment 6:30-9:30pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Paul Patterson 6pm (PB) DATE SHED; IND; 760-775-6699 Metal Night w/ Remnants of Man, In the Name of the Dead, and Redivider 8pm DESERT FOX; PS; 760-325-9555 DESERT SAGE; LQ; 760-564-8744 Danny Sands 5-9pm Johnny Meza 10pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm DICKIE O’NEALS IRISH PUB; PS; 760325-2600 T.B.A. 8pm DILLON ROADHOUSE; DHS; 760-2511991 EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6-10pm THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 Rob Martinez and JB 8-11pm (LR) THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 7pm HAMILTON’S; LQ; 760-698-8303 Roots Syndicate 8-10pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 The Hellions, Dime Runner and Accustomed to Nothing 9:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Frank Di Salvo 6-9:30pm LA BRASSERIE BISTRO; LQ; 760-7714400 Yve Evans 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Johnny Meza 6pm LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Tease 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-999-1995 80’s Allstars 9pm (VD) MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm (PB)(VD) MARGARITA’S; PS; 760-778-3500 Mark Guerrero & Dennis Alvarez 6:30pm MYSTIQUE LOUNGE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 888-MORONGO; T.B.A. 9pm (VD) NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm (PB) NYPD; PS; 760-778-6973 Live DJ O’LEARY’S; PS; 760-325-4913 T.B.A. 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 T.B.A. 9pm (RR) PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 212 Band 6-10pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-3655956 The Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, Whispering Pines 8pm PEABODY’S; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm

PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 The Ghostlight Trio 8pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 Live Music 8pm REILLY’S IRISH PUB; CC; 760-324-9600 George Momb 1pm RENAISSANCE PALM; PS; 760-322-6100 Art of Sax featuring Sax Man Will Donato & Eddie Reddick 7-10pm (JZ) RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The A-List 9pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-3278311 Will Champlin, Sidebar 6:30-10pm, Michael Keeth Duo, Sidebar 10:30pm Lindsey Harper Starlite Lounge 10-cl ROCK GARDEN BAR & EATERY; PS; 760327-8840 Organic Sol 6-9pm ROC’S FIREHOUSE; PD; 760-340-3222 Marty Lloyd 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SCHMIDY’S; PD; 760-837-3800 SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The P.S. Blues w/ Gil Hansen and Tony Dean 8pm (BL) SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Smooth Brothers (BL)(RG) TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 The Refills 9pm THREESIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Darci Daniels 7:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VIBE, MORONGO CASINO; CAB; 951755-5391 DJ Hektik 10pm (VD) VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30-10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Nite Fixx 9pm DJ upstairs 9:30pm WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE; RM; 760-5689321 Bob Yetter 6-10pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-3285955 Michael Keeth 7pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Karaoke Show 9-2am THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760564-2201 David & Olivia: An American Duo 7-10pm (AC) WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Damon Von Baun Jazz 7-11pm (JZ) ZELDA’S; PS; 760-325-2375 DJ PJ& DJ Bigster (VD)

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Fri ........ You Me and Us........... 10pm Sat ....... The Social with DJ Aimlo & Pawn

Food & Drinks Specials Open for Lunch Dinner until 11pm

760-537-7337

340 N Palm Canyon, Palm Springs

bar wastaken.com

continue to page 22

www.myplanBbar.com 32025 MONTEREY, THOUSAND PALMS

Corner of Monterey & Ramon

760.343.2115 K AR A OK 8 PM E E V E RY NIGH T

DESERT’S LONGEST HAPPY HOUR 10AM - 8PM EVERYDAY

Western Grill

Valentine’s Day Special Surf & Turf for Two

(Rib Eye Steak, Shrimp Scampi, Potato, Salad, Rolls)

ONLY $

SUN FEBRUARY 17

29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Bob & Allison Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Intoxica Radio Live w/ Howie Pyro 10pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 The Judy Show 7:30pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party

FRIDAY 8- 12 PM KARAOKE W/ AMBER STREAM SATURDAY 8PM THE GHOSTLIGHT TRIO

39

95

$5 menu open to close (all day) Hours 10 - 2 am Everyday

80956 Hwy 111, Indio

(760) 347-1522 17

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

the Pampered palate

Chapelli’s

by Raymond Bill

50949 Washington St, La Quinta CA 92253

Escena Lounge & Grill

February 14 to February 20, 2013

BackStreet Bistro Where Friends Meet Friends

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

• New and exciting contemporary cuisine • Exceptional ingredients including the best available local and organic products • Not just dinner, it is an experience

Fresh Fish, Soups & Pasta Daily Happy Hour • Martini Bar • Superb Wine Jazz Night Tuesday 7:30-10pm Saturday Jazz on The Patio with Linda Peterson 12:30 - 3:30pm

Ask Us About O New Get ur Fit Menu

73-820 El Paseo, Palm Desert • 760.346.6393

Open for dinner Tues.-Sat. 5:00 - 9:30 pm

A

fter dining in several restaurants this past week, there is one that stands out, deserving of some attention. I have heard the commercials and the buzz about Escena Lounge & Grill but finally had the chance to experience this place for myself. It is not the easiest place to find for the first time but once you do, you will never forget it. Tucked away from the tourist traffic, this mini paradise is on the east end of Palm Springs with majestic views of the mountains and their beautiful 18-hole golf course.

As I arrived for my reservation, I could not help but notice the spacious floor plan and over-sized fire places. We selected a seat by the fire and felt at home in their huge cozy chairs. There were many selections on the menu that it was nearly impossible to decide. Fortunately, our server, Alfonso, is quick to offer suggestions. Beginning with some starters, we were pleased with the Oysters Rockefeller and the Boursin Stuffed Portobello Mushroom. The oysters were warm and creamy with spinach and

hollandaise and the Portobello mushroom cap was meaty, with hints of fennel and sweet balsamic vinegar. The favorite starter at our table would be the Tuna Tataki, a martini glass of Ahi tuna, cubed and mixed with chunks of avocado and mango.

After our palates had been teased with these savory starters, we were impressed with the arrival of our entrees. Beautifully plated and garnished, our meals were photo-worthy! Sharing our entrees allowed for me to try a few items from the menu, getting a better idea of their culinary vision.

The Filet Mignon was tender enough to cut with a butter knife while having just the right amount of char to it. The potatoes were rich with flavor. This dish was a huge hit! Another favorite would be the fresh fish. A thick cut fillet of Sea Bass served with rice pilaf was placed in front of me. It melted in my mouth like butter. The entrees are simply superb.

Perhaps the best part of the meal was our dessert. I do not need to try every item on their dessert menu to know the

TEQUILA BAR

I LOVE U

BUT... (eat your hearts out)

I FRIDA MORE

760.832.6526 www.dishcreativecuisine.com

“The Cheer’s of La Quinta”

Chapellisrestaurant.com

760-564-9835 MONDAY

For Reservation

760-771-4400

www.labrasserielaquinta.com 78-477 Highway 111, La Quinta, CA 92253

TO SATURD

AY

9 ONLY $th3is .9 ad

SUBSTANCE. STYLE. ESCENA. DAY & NIGHT

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH

Dinner 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Reservations Required: Call 760.459.1681

LIVE MUSIC TUES WED THURS

JOHN STANLEY KING ROSE MALLET LOLA ROSSI & REGGIE VISION

HAPPY HOUR

SUNSETS, DRINK SPECIALS & SHARE-PLATES The perfect way to end your day and start your night.

A RTISAN

L AT I NO

C UISINE

.........................................................

Mexican Cuisine

Specials Sunday - Wednesday 5:00-6:00 pm Please visit our website for the specials

Two Egg Special Breakfast

NEW menus featuring eclectic California fusion dishes, undiscovered wines and craft ales.

INCLUDES: SOUP, SALAD, CHOICE OF ENTRÉE & DESSERT

www.guillermosrestaurante.com • 72-850 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA

18

Reservation are strongly suggested

“The local’s favorite!”

Mention

PLUS TAX & GRATUITY

• Seafood & Steaks • Private Room • Fresh Made Margaritas • Cocktails • Happy Hour

760.341.0980

breakfast and lunch and Sunday Brunch is available from 9am to 3pm. This restaurant is a must see, beautiful in the daytime or evening. Check out their menus online at www.escenagrill.com or call them at 760992-0002 for more information.

4 COURSE VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER

$ 36. per person

with more than 300 tequilas!!

Lunch: Monday - Saturday 11:30-2:30 Dinner: Monday to Sunday 4:30 - 9:30

best one was their warm chocolate cake, topped with crumbled Heath Bar and served with salted caramel ice cream. Overall, this was a comfortable, elegant and filling dining experience and I would definitely go again. Escena Lounge & Grill is also open for

68525 Ramon Ed., Ste. A-101 Cathedral City, CA 92234

Thank you to our wonderful customers who voted for BEST OF T us as the HE B FRENC EST RESTAURAH NT

COME JOIN OUR

LOVE FIESTA!

OPEN DAILY

SUN-THURS

FRI - SAT

6:30am - 9:00pm 6:30am - 10:00pm Make reservations online at escenagrill.com

450 S. PALM CANYON DRIVE • PALM SPRINGS • 760.459.1681 • CasadeFrida.com 760.992.0002 | ESCENAGRILL.COM 1100 CLUBHOUSE VIEW DRIVE | PALM SPRINGS

Golf Course & Restaurant Open to Public

GREAT NIGHTLY SPECIALS

Kitchen open until 9pm Monday - Saturday • Sunday until 2pm 5$ appetizers throughout the lounge

ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY NIGHT AJ the KJ 8-12 SATURDAY NIGHT Karaokie Jo 7-11pm “Classic Country Club Fair with a SPLASH! of fun” Outdoor Fireside Dinning

Cathedral City’s “Hottest New Spot”

Date Palm Country Club 36-200 Date Palm Drive Cathedral City, 92234 ajsonthegreen@gmail.com

760-202-1111

• Award Winning Pizza Voted “Best of the Valley” Two Years Straight • Over 100 Menus Items Ranging From Prime Steak to Fresh Seafood • Full Bar and 40 Wines by the Glass • Two Large Patios to Enjoy Views of the Santa Rosa Mountains • All Day Take Out and Catering Available

DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6PM

760.777.9989

Located in Old Town La Quinta

19

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Screeners No. 47

Movie Reviews with Robin E. Simmons

DRUGS, ZOMBIES, TRANSCENDENCE, SEX & 007!

by Heidi Simmons

FIVE COOL FLICKS CHALLENGE THE EXPECTED

SIDE EFFECTS

WARM BODIES

New for the home theater: SAMASARA

Like it or not, we are all part of the great cycle of birth, life and death. It is not an option. Ron Fricke’s stunning, at times transcendent film is named for the

20

SKYFALL

Sam Mendes brings Bond surging back with a smart, sexy, riveting, action thriller that qualifies as not only one of the best 007

n

r t a in me n te t

Zombie movies are everywhere these days – and more are on the way. Here’s a sweet, funny, ridiculous, ironic and clever twist on a genre and a premise that still has, uhm, life. Essentially a love story between a highly unusual zombie named R and a human named Julie who is rescued by R after a zombie epidemic. Their forbidden, exciting and comical romance not only makes R more human, but also “infects” the whole zombie world. This offbeat, zombiecom caught me off guard with its smart, hip humor and satisfyingly sweet ending.

Sanskrit word for “the ever turning wheel of life.” It is in fact a guided meditation that is a near immersive audio and visual dream that conjures the state of life on our home planet. Fricke and producer Mark Magidson, whose previous award-winning films BARAKA and CHRONOS also combined superb visual and aural artistry, have raised the bar with their new release. Shot in twenty-five countries over nearly five years on 65mm Super Panavision film and transferred to 8k digital files, the resulting film is breathtaking. Each frame is richly nuanced in with light, color and detail. It is perhaps the best-looking Blu-ray I have ever seen. The movie takes us on a journey that explores sacred spaces, religious rituals, disturbing industrial sites, places of waste, poverty and overwhelming natural beauty.

This sensory experience reminds we are all one family with the basic desires. We are wired to the mysterious rhythms and rituals that attempt to us meaning during our short stay in this dimension. For some, this may all be heavy handed, but I was hypnotized by the beautiful images and both provoked and comforted by the ideas embedded within. MPI. Blu-ray.

E

It’s hard to describe fully this twisty flick and not hurt the viewing experience for those who have yet to see it. Suffice it to say the surprises are so sneaky that it suddenly becomes a provocative thriller just when you least expected it. Certainly this is the best Stephen Soderbergh film in a very long time. The story’s about successful New York couple Emily and Martin (Rooney Mara and Channing Tatum) and how they deal with the unexpected side effects when Emily’s shrink (Jude Law) prescribes a new drug to treat anxiety. Too bad Alfred Hitchcock is no longer around because this is exactly the kind of story he would have shaped into one of his iconic films.

and their arrangement. The movie for the most part bypasses these unsettling (to me) elements. I liked the straightforward way in which sex is dealt as is the religious theme – both sensitive subjects, even in our so-called post-modern age. The movie is often unexpectedly funny as well as quite touching. Helen Hunt gives a brave, surprisingly restrained performance as the sex surrogate. John Hawkes, the incapacitated adult virgin who resides mostly in an iron lung, does all of his acting with his face. THE SESSIONS is based on California based poet and journalist Mark O’Brien’s autobiographical account of losing his virginity at the age of 38 with the help of a priest and a therapist. THE SESSIONS is an unorthodox love story about two human connecting on more than a physical level. Extras include deleted scenes and five fascinating featurettes on the production, acting process and “The Women Who Loved Mark O’Brien.” 20th Century Fox. Blu-ray.

Palm Springs

se r vice s

THE SESSIONS

When I read the recent article in the Los Angeles Times about the real sex surrogate on which Helen Hunt based her character, I was frankly a little put off. No offense to the principals, but it struck me as a strangely open marriage for profit. Therapy or not, there was a freak factor about the couple

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films but also among the best films of the year. After 50 years, this sleek 23rd entry in the franchise keeps it fresh, unpredictable, accessible and hugely satisfying. So far, the film has grossed over a billion bucks. And that’s before home video! Daniel Craig is the best Bond since Sean Connery. SKYFALL redefines Bond for our time in a relevant yet timeless manner. The storyline has Bond’s loyalty to M (Judi Dench) tested when her past returns to haunt her. With MI6 now compromised from within and without, M is left with only one ally she can trust: Bond.

007 retreats to the shadows – helped only by field agent Eve (Naomi Harris) – following a trail to the mysterious Silva (Javier Bardeem), whose lethal and hidden motives son reveal themselves in a final and deadly confrontation -- for both Bond and M. Brilliantly, state of the art production values on every level make this a superior and thrilling viewing experience. Generous extras include more than a dozen featurettes. The two commentaries are actually insightful and fascinating. MGM. Blu-ray. RobinESimmons@aol.com

EMAIL: RANDY@SIR-PS.COM

here are stories that weave a dramatic narrative with intensity and emotion.

Tawni O’Dell’s Back Roads (Viking, 338 pages) captures an authentic voice of suffering and confusion in this coming-of-age story set in the woods of Pennsylvania.

Back Roads is the story of nineteen yearold Harley Altmyer who must take care of his three sisters after his mother is convicted of killing his father. He might have gone to college, but instead Harley ends up the guardian of 16 year-old Amber, 10 year-old Misty and 6 year-old Jodi.

Harley works two crappy jobs to provide food and pay the mortgage. He is always short on funds and unsure he’ll be able to have the money to pay the property taxes.

He refuses to take welfare and is forced to see a mental health counselor. He struggles to understand the females who depend on him for everything.

The girls do not respect him as head of household and Amber challenges and

BECOME ONE OF OUR SALES TEAM info@coachellavalleyweekly.com

Book Review

Back Roads Tawni O’Dell A Novel

criticizes whatever he does. Misty wants to dress like her sister, wear make-up and go on the pill even though she’s only ten.

The three constantly butt heads and the girls take sides against Harley. It is an uber dysfunctional family as they try to understand and sort out their new lives without parents.

Troubled and lonely, Harley wears his father’s old jacket to be close to him. He seldom showers, likes beer and is easily aroused.

Harley has difficulty relating to girls his own age, but starts an affair with his neighbor, a married mother of two, whose daughter is best friends with little Jodi. It is a dangerous relationship doomed to fail in an ugly way.

Author O’Dell tells the story as a first person narrative from Harley’s point of

view. She aptly captures a teenage boy’s voice as well as his frustrations and desires.

Harley’s character is neither precocious nor sophisticated. He is a regular guy who is in way over his head with dark family secrets he desperately wants to understand. He does not always do the right thing or fully understand the consequences of his actions.

All the kids are real people -- sad, troubled and trying to cope in a complicated world.

It is through Harley’s painful growth and unfolding observations that the reader starts to grasp the horrors that brought the family to the place they are now. It is a book about abuse and incest. Harley must ultimately face his demons but the demons are under his roof and they are children suffering from the same evil.

Back Roads is O’Dell’s first book. It was published in 2000. Before it was printed Oprah’s people read an advance copy and Oprah wanted it for her Book Club. The subject matter is meaningful to Oprah.

Back Roads has sold two million copies and has been in development to be made into a movie by director Adrian Lyne (Fatal Attraction and Flashdance). O’Dell has since written three more novels.

Some way or some how we want to believe that Harley and his sister will finally be okay. It is a story about family and the intense challenges and sacrifices it takes to survive. O’Dell writes well and she weaves a layered story that is hard to put down.

Everybody Needs an Outlet!

The Desert’s ONLY Full-Line Music Store

SALES · RENTALS · REPAIRS SHEET MUSIC · GUITARS · AMPS DRUMS · KEYBOARDS & MORE MUSIC LESSONS TOO!!

A Simple Sound System to Full Concert Production NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL! 74830 Velie Drive, Palm Desert, CA

760-340-4864

T

Back Roads

February 14 to February 20, 2013

760-341-3171

44850 San Pablo, Palm Desert

760.501.6228 21

February 14 to February 20, 2013 continue from page 17

6:30pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888-999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm (LR) CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Paul Patterson 6pm (PB) DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke 9pm DILLON ROADHOUSE; DHS; 760-2511991 EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6-10pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Michael Keeth THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Reckless One w/ Rotten Rooster 9pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-345-6466 The Ted Herman 18 Pc. Big Band 6-8pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Open Jam 6pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company,in the afternoon,Hot Rox,in the night LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Robin Miller 6pm (PB) MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 4-8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm (PB) PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Longest Running Jam Session in the valley. Hosted by JB, Sign up 6pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 7pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 Kal David 7-11pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-327-

Farmer Boys 81951 California 111 Indio, CA 92201

4080 Art of Sax Trio 5-9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Smooth Brothers (RR)(LR) THREESIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Reggie Vision 6:30pm TWIN PALMS BISTRO; PS; 760-322-0700 Jazz Sundays w/ Tibor Lesko & Friends 112pm and 5-7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Linda Peterson 6:30-10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Sunday Skool 9pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Line Dancing w/ Tina 5:30-9pm THE WINE BAR AT OLD TOWN; LQ; 760564-2201 Michael Keeth 6-9pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Barry Baughn Blues Band 7-11pm

MON FEBRUARY 18

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Karaoke 9pm 29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Bonnie Scott 6pm (AC) ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Sissy Bingo w/ Linda Gerard 7-9pm DJ Alf Alpha 8pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party 6:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm DESERT FOX; PS; 760-325-9555 FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6-10pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 7pm (PB) NYPD; PS; 760-778-6973 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 Monte Oliver 7pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Randy

American

(760) 863-5050 www.farmerboys.com

Wine Bar

78015 Main Street #109 La Quinta, CA

Roc’s Firehouse 36891 Cook St # 10 Palm Desert, CA 92211

American

American

(760) 340-3222 www.rocsfirehouse.com

Tack Room 81800 Avenue 51 Indio, CA 92201

American

(760) 347-9985

www.tackroomtavern.com

Casey’s

42455 Washington Street Palm Desert, CA 92211

(760) 345-6503

www.caseysrestaurant.com

22

Sullivan’s 73505 El Paseo Palm Desert, CA

Seymon 6pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 3sum 9pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-3285955 Art of Sax 8-11pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Karaokie Jo 6-10pm

TUE FEBRUARY 19

29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Rojer & Bobby 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke with Kiesha 9pm AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Bella da Ball Dinner Revue w/ guest performers 7:30pm (CB) BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Jazz night 7:30-10pm BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party 6:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Joe Jaggi 6pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Johnny Morris 6pm (PB) DESERT SAGE; LQ; 760-564-8744 Steve Denny 5-9pm ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-9920002 John Stanley King 5-9pm (JZ)(BL) FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Hal Sweasey 6-10pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic Reality Show Jam 8pm (VD) LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Palm Springs Sound Company LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5:30pm LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45 (PB) PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS;

American

(760) 341-3560

(760) 564-2201

www.thewinebaratoldtown.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

American

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

760-327-4080 Eclectic Tuesdays. Singer/ songwriter night. All acts welcome. Hosted

by JB, Sign up 7pm PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 Monte Oliver 7pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Open Mic 8pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-3278311 Will Champlin 5-9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Dr. Paul 6pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. (RR)(JZ) TAQUERIA GUERRERO’S; TP; 760-3435971 DJ Keith 9pm THREESIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Reggie Vision 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Linda Tate’s CD Release Party 7pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 The King’s Town Trio 9pm WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE; RM; 760-5689321 Bob Yetter 6-10pm WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Michael Boliver 6:30-9pm

WED FEBRUARY 20

29 PALMS INN; 29P; 760-367-3505 Bobby And Randy (BL) ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 War Drum & Waxy 9pm, DJ Howie Pyro 10pm (VD) AZUL; PS; 760-325-5533 Rudy de la Mor 7pm (PB) BILLY REED’S; PS; 760-325-1946 DJ Party 6:30pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 6pm (PB) CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Johnny Morris 6pm (PB) DESERT SAGE; LQ; 760-564-8744 Steve Denny 5-9pm Industry Night w/ DJ Johnnie 10pm ESCENA LOUNGE & GRILL; PS; 760-9920002 Rose Mallet 5-9pm (JZ)(BL) FIRECLIFF; PD; 760-773-6565 Sonny Evaro 6-10pm

Babes Bar-B-Que American & Brewhouse

Charli Marrones

(760) 346-8738

(760) 625-1500

71800 Hwy 111, Rancho Mirage

42250 Jackson Street #101 Indio, CA

www.babesbbque.com

www.charlimarrones.com

AJ’s on the Green American

Dickie O’Neals

(760) 202-1111

(760) 325-2600

ajsonthegreen@gmail.com

Western Grill

Western (760) 347-1522 Grill Restaurant & Lounge 80956 Hwy 111 Indio, CA 92201

Lavender Bistro Continental 78073 Calle Barcelona La Quinta, CA 92253

(760) 564-5353 www.lavenderbistro.com

2155 North Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262

Italian

El Mexicali II 43-430 Monroe St. Indio, CA

Irish

78772 California 111 La Quinta, CA 92253 www.lamppostpizza.com

Crab Pot

70030 California 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Seafood

(760) 321-7635

www.crabpotranchomirage.com

Mexican

(760) 342-2333

Pacifica

73505 El Paseo # 2500 Palm Desert

Seafood

(760) 674-8666

www.elmexicalicafe2.com

San Miguel

Pizza

Lamppost

(760) 564-4568

www.dickieoneal.com

American

Haddon Libby: It’s all local

D

www.pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com

Mexican

35 320 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 328-9402 TAQUERIA SAN MIGUEL 72 450 Ramon Rd Mexican Restaurant Mariscos & Cantina 1000 Palms (760) 343-7340

35 320 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City

(760) 328-9402

72 450 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms

(760) 343-7340

List your Restaurant AD here. Call Philip at 760-501-6228 For Details.

Celebrate February 15th

id you know that Valentine’s Day began as St. Valentine’s Day, a liturgical celebration of the Christian saint, Valentinus. It is said that St. Valentinus or Valentine was jailed and executed by the Romans for performing weddings and ministering Christians.

The day began commemorating romantic love during the Middle Ages (14th century) after the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer, thought of by many as the father of English literature. Within a century, February 14th evolved into a day when lovers gave flowers, sweets and greeting cards called valentines.

Today, Americans send nearly 200 million valentines and spend nearly $100 each on this day. If you include digital e-cards, over 1 billion notes are expected to be sent this year in the United States alone. Many believe that the meaning of the holiday has been usurped by commercialization rendering the holiday hollow.

For those who choose to ignore Valentine’s Day or have the capacity for another celebration, I direct you February

15th. This day is in many ways far more important to the majority of all Americans.

February 15th is special in that it celebrates the emancipation of more than half of all Americans from a life that was deemed as less than equal in the United States as recently 1920.

A woman born on February 15th and at the age of 52 chose to vote in the 1872 Presidential Election. She voted Republican “straight down the ticket.” For that (the vote, not the party preference), she was arrested.

She argued that the 14th Amendment guaranteed all naturalized Americans the right to vote with no consideration given to gender. As such she reasonably concluded, woman should be allowed to vote.

When it came time to go to court regarding her “illegal” action, the judge hearing her case, the “Honorable” Ward Hunt, would not allow this woman to speak on her own behalf in while in court. As the jury prepared to retire and determine whether she was guilty or not, Judge Ward explicitly told the jury to find her guilty.

After returning with a guilty verdict, the woman in question said, “May it please your honor, I will never pay a dollar of your unjust penalty. All the stock in trade I possess is a debt of $10,000, incurred by publishing my paper ‘The Revolution’ the sole object of which was to educate all women to do precisely as I have done, rebel against your man-made, unjust, unconstitutional forms of law, which tax, fine, imprison and hang

T

women, while denying them the right of representation in the government; and I will work on with might and mine to pay every dollar of that honest debt, but not a penny shall go to this unjust claim. And I shall earnestly and persistently continue to urge all women to the practical recognition of the old Revolutionary maxim, “Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.” She remained true to her word and never paid that $100 fine. An embarrassed U.S. government never enforced the fine. In 1920 which was nearly fifty years later and fourteen years after her death, the 19th amendment was passed and woman finally had the right to vote.

Her name? Susan B. Anthony.

As you consider what to celebrate this weekend, I suggest that you recognize February 15th as much as we do February 14th. The celebration need not be with flowers, gifts or chocolates but with a time for reflection and the realization that the life we all enjoy would not be the same if not for Susan B. Anthony.

Education

by Curtis Hendricks

Restaurant guide

sullivanssteakhouse.com

36-200 Date Palm Dr Cathedral City

THE GRILL ON MAIN; LQ; 760-777-7773 Demetrius Houser 7-10pm HAMILTON’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL; LQ; 760-698-8303 Karaoke w/ T-Bone 8:3012:30am JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Live Music (RR) LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Rox LAVENDER BISTRO; LQ; 760-564-5353 Mark Gregg 5:30pm LE PAON; PD; 760-610-5320 Dennis Michaels 6pm (PB) MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 “Sing Jam” w/ Michael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm (PB) PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 PURPLE ROOM@CLUB TRINIDAD; PS; 760-327-1161 Karaokie Jo 7pm REILLY’S IRISH PUB; CC; 760-324-9600 George Momb 6pm RIVIERA RESORT & SPA; PS; 760-3278311 Will Champlin 5-9pm ROC’S FIREHOUSE; PD; 760-340-3222 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Dr. Paul 6pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Straight Ahead Jazz (JZ) THREESIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Shaken Not Stirred 7pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Pat Rizzo & All That Jazz Band 6:30-10pm VILLAGE PUB; PS; 760-323-3265 Nite Sixx 9pm WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE; RM; 760-5689321 Johnny Meza & Company 6-10pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-3285955 Art of Sax 7-10pm WILLIE BOYS; MV; 760-363-3343 Karaoke WOODY’S BURGER; PS; 760-230-0188 Mara Getz Jazz 6-10pm

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Coachella Valley Unified School District Uses iPads In The Classroom, Cathedral City Student Photography Competition, Palm Springs High School Holds “Community Thank You Event”

he Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) is currently hosting a pilot program, which integrates technology into the classroom via iPads. I am always excited to see schools and districts advancing the classroom through the use of technology.

The new generation of students is so ingrained with technology that many need it to stay interested, that is why I do my best to use online videos, practice problems, and my school’s computer lab in my math lessons.

According to CVUSD’s website, “Coachella Valley Unified School District principals, over 100 iPad pilot teachers, and 30 plus administrators have some new instructional and administrative tools to take back to their sites after attending professional development training from Apple.” Some of the training they received incorporates the Substitution, Augmentation, Modification

and Redefinition Model (SAMR). The SAMR model guides the teachers from substituting mini lessons to a more involved lesson using technology.

Teachers also received additional training in educational application, such as Keynote, Pages, Numbers and iMovie. The advances that CVUSD is making in their educational practice are beneficial to both the instructors and the students. Great job CVUSD! On the other side of the valley, Cathedral City will be hosting its 4th Annual Student Photography Contest May 16, at the Cathedral City’s City Hall. According to the Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD), “Cathedral City’s student photography competition spotlights some 50 elementary, middle, and high school students’ imagery. This year’s competition introduces a new component. Students will write a paragraph that tells the viewer, ‘Why this image is important.’” Also in

attendance will be Michael Childers, a well known and highly regarded celebrity photographer. Childers will have an exhibit of his work displayed in conjunction with the students’ photography. Art conjoined with education is a necessity in education.

I am happy to see that art is still alive and well in our valley’s education.

Also in the PSUSD, Palm Springs High School (PSHS) will be combining their “Spring Fling” event with a “Community Thank You Concert.” PSUSD’s website states, “The purpose of this concert is to thank the communities of the Coachella Valley for their overwhelming support of the band as they performed at the 57th Inaugural Parade in Washington DC last month.” This concert is a very classy display of appreciation on the part of PSHS. Here is a little more about the group’s accomplishments according to PSUSD: “The award-winning band has traveled around the world as America’s Youth

Ambassadors of Music. In April of 2012, the band performed in Wales and Scotland as part of the Edinburgh Spring Festival.

In June of 2009, the group completed a “trail blazing” performance tour to South Africa performing at the Capetown City Hall (home of the Capetown Symphony), Affies Theater in addition to the Guglethu and Soweto Townships. In 2007 they were televised to more than one billion people while performing on the Great Wall in China.” I will do my best to attend this event to further give my support to this hard working and accomplished music program that through all its recent success has been under the direction of Brian Ingelson, the PSHS Orchestra is under the direction of Jason Powell, and the Visual Corps is under the direction of Beverley Ingelson. Admission to the concert is free, although donations are always appreciated.

23

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Dale Gribow On The Law

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

Do I Need A Lawyer to Prepare A Will?

N

o, you do not need a lawyer to prepare a will. You can prepare what is called a Holographic Will by writing it out in your own handwriting with nothing else on the paper. You cannot use a letterhead from a business or hotel and you cannot use a stamp for the date let alone typing anything! Any of preceding items would make the proposed WILL invalid. A Holographic Will, has to be dated and signed and show that it was meant to be a will, in other words that it had TESTAMENTARY INTENT. Your holographic should state “This is My Last Will and Testament, dated February 14, 2013 in Palm Desert California.”

The question is not whether you can prepare a will on your own, but rather,

24

F

Part 1

whether you should hire a lawyer to prepare a will for you. The answer is a clear YES. You should not do it yourself. A Will is not that expensive to have an attorney prepare and the consequences of failing to prepare it right are very serious. For instance if you want to leave $1,000,000 to each of your two children and you give one a $1,000,000 bequest and the other a diamond or home worth a million, then what happens if the diamond or home is sold before you die.

The answer is that the son to whom you left the diamond or home gets nothing because it is no longer in existence. The other sons still get his $1,000,000.

In addition you may need estate planning that goes beyond the need for a will. You may want to put a home in a trust

by Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

by Dale Gribow Attorney at Law

or buy life insurance to pay the estate taxes.

Legal advice can be invaluable in those circumstances. A few years ago I had a radio program and I opened each show with the saying “People Don’t Plan to Fail, They Fail to Plan”. Many well educated and famous, people whose name you know did not plan ahead.

When U.S. Senator Robert Kerr of Oklahoma died he left an estate valued at $20,000,000. The IRS immediately demanded $9,000,000 from his astonished heirs. However market conditions at the time meant the family would have to sell various stocks and real estate at a substantial loss…just to pay the sudden taxes. They liquidated what they could but could only raise $3,000,000. Thus they had to borrow the other $6,000,000. In the end most of the estate went to interest payments and the IRS and not to the beloved family and very frustrated heirs. They went into debt.

If this can happen to the $20,000,000 fortune of a well-educated U.S. Senator (and long standing member of the Senate Finance Committee), then everyone is fair game. You know with a high profile case like this that thousands of “smaller fish” are getting fried. In addition, many famous people have died without Estate Planning and their estate was a mess. Walt Disney, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, J.P. Morgan and John D. Rockefeller are a few who did not plan ahead. They failed to plan.

When I have lectured and asked the question “Have you completed an estate plan?” I get answers as follows: Widow: “I don’t really have an estate; I only have some money in a checking

account, some personal jewelry and my dog Bella.”

Domestic Partner: “I don’t really have an estate. Kevin and I have a house in joint tenancy so, when I die, it will bypass Probate and pass directly to Bill... isn’t that right?.”

Grandparent: “I made a Will about 10 years ago before having grandkids. I’m sure it covers everything.”

Well, the good news is that, whoever you are, however old you are and regardless of how little or how much money or other assets you have, YOU DO HAVE AN ESTATE!!!

The bad news is that, UNLESS YOU TAKE THE TIME to ensure that both you and what you have is safely monitored; your community estate could be a mess.

What if you should become INCAPACITATED? Do you have an Advanced Health Care Directive? Is it on file at your hospital? In April 2012 I took my mother in law to Eisenhower and was surprised when they asked her if she had her Health Care Directive on File with the hospital. I had a copy in my office but not in the hospital. We didn’t then realize that it would help if you filed it at the hospital and then did not have to go home to get it. Eisenhower now has a health care directive on file for our entire family.

Every reader should put this Coachella Valley Weekly down and do the same…. today. A health care directive is VERY INEXPENSIVE in our office because we do not want to see our neighbors in the CV get in trouble because they have not have planned ahead and become terminally ill SO CALL TODAY at 760 341 4411.

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Safety Tips

February is Heart Month!

ebruary is American Heart Month, and unfortunately, most of us know someone who has had heart disease or stroke at one time or another says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; one in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke. These conditions are also leading causes of disability preventing people from working and enjoying family activities and living normal lives. Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, costs the United States $312.6 billion each year.

This total includes the cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

“Heart disease takes the lives of too many people in this country, depriving their families and communities of someone they love and care for—a father, a mother, a wife, a friend, a neighbor, a spouse DiGiovanna says.” One thing is certain, we can fight back against heart disease and stroke!

With more than 2 million heart attacks and strokes a year, and 800,000 deaths, it’s important you start taking some preventive measures one step at a time: 1. Stop smoking. Quitting smoking is the single most important thing a person can do to live longer. If you are a smoker, you are twice as likely to have a heart attack than a non-smoker. But from the moment you stop smoking, the risk of heart attack starts to reduce. With public smoking bans recently introduced, there has never been a better time to give up.

2. Cut down on salt. Too much salt can cause high blood pressure, which increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease. Avoid foods like crisps, salted nuts, canned and packet soups and sauces, baked beans and canned vegetables, pork pies, pizzas and ready meals. Many breakfast cereals and breads that appear healthy also contain high levels of salt, so keep your eye on these too.

3. Watch your diet. A healthy diet can help to reduce the risk of developing heart disease, and can also help increase the chances of survival after a heart attack. You should try to have a balanced diet, containing plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, oily fish, starchy foods such as wholegrain bread, pasta and rice. Avoid foods like biscuits, cakes, pastries and dairy products that are high in saturated fats and sugar.

4. Monitor your alcohol. Too much alcohol can damage the heart muscle, increase blood pressure and also lead to weight gain. Binge drinking will increase your risk of having a heart attack, so you

should aim to limit your intake to one to two units a day.

5. Get active. The heart is a muscle and it needs exercise to keep fit so that it can pump blood efficiently round your body with each heart beat. You should aim for 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a day. If this seems too daunting, start off gently and build up gradually. Keeping fit not only benefits your physical health - it improves your mental health and wellbeing too.

6. Manage your weight. The number of people who are overweight in Britain is rising fast - already more than half of the adult population is overweight or obese.

Carrying a lot of extra weight as fat can greatly affect your health and increases the risk of life-threatening conditions such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. If you are overweight or obese, start by making small, but healthy changes to what you eat, and try to become more active.

7. Get your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked by your GP. The higher your blood pressure, the shorter your life expectancy. People with high blood pressure run a higher risk of having a stroke or a heart attack. High levels of cholesterol in the blood - produced by the liver from saturated fats - can lead to fatty deposits in your coronary arteries that increase your risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and diseases that affect the circulation. You can help lower your cholesterol level by exercising and eating high-fiber foods such as porridge, beans, pulses, lentils, nuts, fruits and vegetables.

8. Learn to manage your stress levels.

If you find things are getting on top of you,

you may fail to eat properly, smoke and drink too much and this may increase your risk of a heart attack.

9. Check your family history . If a close relative is at risk of developing coronary heart disease from smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lack of physical activity, obesity and diabetes, then you could be at risk too.

10. Make sure you can recognize the early signs of coronary heart disease.

Tightness or discomfort in the chest, neck, arm or stomach which comes on when you exert yourself but goes away with rest may be the first sign of angina, which can lead to a heart attack if left untreated.

More information visit: http://www. heartconditions.com or test your heart knowledge at: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/ heart-disease-facts-quiz Here’s a great Valentine’s gift to give someone and yourself - Contact your physician for additional information on reducing yours and your loved one’s risk of a heart attack or stroke…

Happy Heart Month!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

ShareKitchen

H

ow many times have you attended a birthday party where a cake is brought out? It is typically decorated with a few candles for a young child to a near inferno for others. People then break into a verse of ‘Happy Birthday to You” or some other celebratory song. At the songs’ end, the celebrant acknowledges the well wishes and then blows out the candles.

While this custom has occurred for centuries, most of us never think about the health risks this celebratory custom creates. Australian Medical Association President Steve Hambleton says, “If you’re blowing out candles, how many organisms are transferred to a communal cake, for goodness sake?”

The simple act of blowing out the candles leaves microscopic droplets of spit covering the food. This means that every type of bacteria in the human mouth is spewed over the cake and consumed by most in the room. Leftover cake is then stored for consumption

later which gives bacteria on the cake additional time to grow.

Besides the obvious issues related to hygiene and the off-putting idea of eating such contaminated and unhygienic food, there is a real health issue. Cold and flu symptoms are not apparent in the first two days of illness.

In Australia, the National Health and Medical Research Council recently published guidelines on how to try and stop the spread of illnesses at birthday parties. They suggest that a companion cake or cupcake be used for the act of blowing out the candles. In this way, the celebration can continue while removing the potential health hazard.

So next time you are having a celebration, remember to make or buy another single serving cake for the guest of honor. By making this simple change, you are proactively helping to deter the spread of easily communicable illnesses.

25

February 14 to February 20, 2013

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

SPORTS SCENE

By Rachel Montoya

IMAGINE….

”BRAWN MEETS BEAUTY AND PRADA MEETS CIRQUE DU SOLEIL” ALL IN ONE!

T

he Palm Springs Classic will be held Saturday, February 16, 2013, at the Renaissance Esmeralda, in Indian Wells. This will be a unique, one of a kind event to the desert and one that you will be talking about long after.

This Bodybuilding, Physique, Figure, Bikini, and Fitness, show will not be your typical bodybuilding show! They will be featuring a Fit Expo throughout the day, which will feature all realms of health and fitness. Some of their top sponsors will be represented there….Swat Fuel, LBC Fit Fashion and Jackson Image, Bodybuilding. com, Gold’s Gym, and Max Muscle, just to name a few.

Also, in conjunction with the night show, DennisDennis Bodywear will be presenting a unique, one of a kind Fashion show, featuring some of the top WBFF Pros and Fitness Models wearing their unique designs of sports fashion.

The proceeds from the fashion show will benefit the Animal Samaritans SPCA, so

26

there is another reason not to miss this show!

Also, some of the top fitness photographers in the industry will also be represented at this amazing event… names such as Paul Marcos, Rob Sims, George Kontaxis, Jason Ellis, and Isaiah Mays. They will be doing impromptu photo shoots and taking photos of the fans with their favorite Fitness personality!

Lauren Powers, along with AJ and the rest of her film crew will be doing interviews and filming on the “Pink Carpet”.

This is an event you will not want to miss!!!

For more info contact Cathy Vega at 760-567-4983, or email fitnessforever@ gmail.com, Michael Dunn at 949-3555812. or email, palmspringsclassic@ yahoo.com.

Website is www.palm-springs-classic. com or Facebook is Palm Springs Classic.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Have you ever sent a torrent of smart and elegant love messages to a person you wanted to get closer to? Now would be an excellent time to try a stunt like that. Have you ever scoured the depths of your own psyche in search of any unconscious attitudes or bad habits that might be obstructing your ability to enjoy the kind of intimacy you long for? I highly recommend such a project right now. Have you ever embarked on a crusade to make yourself even more interesting and exciting than you already are? Do it now. Raise your irresistibility!

Happy Valentine Daze, Taurus!

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LIMITS OF LIABILITY

Please read your ad the first day of publication. Report any errors promptly. We accept responsibility only the first incorrect insertion.

No position guarantees are given. The publisher assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for omission of copy.

Liability shall not exceed the cost of that portion of space occupied of such error.

Deadlines for cancellation are identical to placement deadlines. Ads are subject to the approval if this shopper which reserves the right to edit or reject any ad even if we have published the ad in the past.

Week of February 14

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Afrikaner author Laurens van der Post told a story about a conversation between psychologist Carl Jung and Ochwiay Biano, a Pueblo Indian chief. Jung asked Biano to offer his views about white people. “White people must be crazy because they think with their heads,” said the chief, “and it is well-known that only crazy people do that.” Jung asked him what the alternative was.

Biano said that his people think with their hearts.

That’s your assignment for the week ahead, Aries: to think with your heart -- especially when it comes to love. For extra credit, you should feel with your head -- especially when it comes to love. Happy Valentine Daze, Aries!

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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

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Open Daily 10 am - 6 pm Sunday 12 - 5pm 44841 San Pablo (West Side of Street), Palm Desert, CA 92260

*** FREE STD TESTS *** ** FREE PREGNANCY TESTS ** Crisis Pregnancy Center 44750 San Pablo Avenue Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 568-2200 M-F 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FOR SALE SMOKER WITH TRAILER; A-130 MODEL. HAS NSF APPROVAL STICKER S-10120. HAS A SIDE GRILL. HAS A 24 X 24 FIRE BOX. COOKS 170 LBS. OF MEAT $3500.00

TRAIN TO BECOME A HVAC TECHNICIAN. Job placement assistance available.

Convenient classes. Call today Mayfield College.

Cathedral City. 888-799-6242 www. mayfieldcollege.edu

Musicians Wanted The ElPaseo Hillbilly’s are seeking a bass player/percussionist for a 50s-60s Rockabilly Gig! Call TJ 760-408-7720

HELP WANTED ! Make $1000 a Week mailing brochures from home.

Guaranteed income. FREE supplies ! No experience required. Start immediately ! www.theworkhub.net RESIDENTIAL COMPUTER REPAIR. FLAT FEE $65 FAST and Affordable. Call 760409-8776 FINISH CARPENTER Home repairs. Hang doors. Install Windows.

Tape. Drywall texture. Paint. Call Don:760-318-5870.

IMPERIAL FURNITURE , Cathedral City. Hot summer deals !!!

Huge selection !! Off Date Palm across from Stater Bros., 32275 Date Palm,#D. 760-324-0204

your Classified ad here starting at $25 a month.

Call Philip at 760-296-1972

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Happy Valentine Daze, Gemini! After careful meditation about what messages might purify and supercharge your love life, I decided to offer suggestions about what not to do. To that end, I’ll quote some lines from Kim Addonizio’s poem “Forms of Love.” Please don’t speak any of them out loud, or even get yourself into a position where it makes sense to say them. 1. “I love how emotionally unavailable you are.” 2. “I love you and feel a powerful spiritual connection to you, even though we’ve never met.” 3. “I love your pain, it’s so competitive.” 4. “I love you as long as you love me back.” 5. “I love you when you’re not getting drunk and stupid.” 6. “I love you but I’m married.” 7. “I love it when you tie me up with ropes using the knots you learned in Boy Scouts, and when you do the stoned Dennis Hopper rap from Apocalypse Now!” CANCER (June 21-July 22): This Valentine season, I suggest you consider trying an experiment like this: Go to the soulful ally you want to be closer to and take off at least some of your masks. Drop your pretenses, too. Shed your emotional armor and do without your psychological crutches. Take a chance on getting as psychologically and spiritually naked as you have ever dared. Are you brave enough to reveal the core truths about yourself that lie beneath the convenient truths and the expired truths and the pretend truths?

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “Sex is a substitute for God,” says writer Cathryn Michon. “When we desire another human being sexually, we are really only trying to fill our longing for ecstasy and union with the infinite.” I agree with her, and I think you might, too, after this week. Erotic encounters will have an even better chance than usual of connecting you to the Sublime Cosmic YumYum. If you can’t find a worthy collaborator to help you accomplish this miraculous feat, just fantasize about one. You need and deserve spiritual rapture. Happy Valentine Daze, Leo! VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Lately you’ve been doing exemplary work on your relationship with yourself, Virgo. You have half-convinced your inner critic to shut the frack up unless it has a truly important piece of wisdom to impart. Meanwhile, you’ve managed to provide a small but inspired dose of healing for the wounded part of your psyche, and you have gently exposed a self-deception that had been wreaking quiet havoc. Congratulations! I’ve got a hunch that all these fine efforts will render you extra sexy and charismatic in the coming week.

But it will probably be a subtle kind of sexiness and charisma that only the most emotionally intelligent people will recognize. So don’t expect to attract the

© Copyright 2012 Rob Brezsny

attention of superficial jerks who happen to have beautiful exteriors. Happy Valentine Daze!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The coming days could be an animalistic time for you, and I mean that in the best sense. I suspect you will generate lots of favorable responses from the universe if you honor the part of you that can best be described as a beautiful beast. Learn fun new truths about your instinctual nature. Explore the mysteries of your primal urges. See what you can decipher about your body’s secret language. May I also suggest that you be alert for and receptive to the beautiful beast in other people? Happy Valentine Daze, Libra!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): For the French Scorpio poet Paul Valéry, swimming had an erotic quality. He described it as fornication avec l’onde, which can be translated as “fornicating with the waves.” Your assignment this Valentine season, Scorpio, is to identify at least three activities that are like sex but not exactly sex -- and then do them with glee and abandon. The purpose of this exercise is to educate and cultivate your libido; to encourage your kundalini to branch out as it intensifies and expands your lust for life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): This Valentine season, meditate on the relentlessness of your yearning for love. Recognize the fact that your eternal longing will never leave you in peace. Accept that it will forever delight you, torment you, inspire you, and bewilder you -- whether you are alone or in the throes of a complicated relationship. Understand that your desire for love will just keep coming and coming and coming, keeping you slightly off-balance and pushing you to constantly revise your ideas about who you are. Now read this declaration from the poet Rilke and claim it as your own: “My blood is alive with many voices that tell me I am made of longing.”

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): According to physicists Yong Mao and Thomas Fink, you can tie a necktie in 85 different kinds of knots, but only 13 of those actually look good. I encourage you to apply that way of thinking to pretty much everything you do in the coming week. Total success will elude you if you settle on functional solutions that aren’t aesthetically pleasing. You should make sure that beauty and usefulness are thoroughly interwoven.

This is especially true in matters regarding your love life and close relationships. Togetherness needs a strong dose of lyrical pragmatism. Happy Valentine Daze, Capricorn!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “All these years I’ve been searching for an impossible love,” said French writer Marguerite Duras late in her life. The novels and films she created reflect that feeling. Her fictional characters are often engaged in obsessive quests for an ideal romance that would allow them to express their passion perfectly and fulfill their longing completely. In the meantime, their actual relationships in the real world suffer, even as their starry-eyed aspirations remain forever frustrated.

I invite you, Aquarius, to celebrate this Valentine season by taking a vow of renunciation. Summon the courage to forswear Duras’s doomed approach to love.

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Mind, body & Spirit

by Bronwyn Ison

LOVE EVOLVES

R

ed and pink, boxed chocolates, teddy bears, and ready made flower bouquets are omnipresent.

Love is in the air. If you are a hopeless romantic you are likely to love Valentine’s Day. Regardless of attitude, Valentines’ Day symbolizes love. As humans we need love. Sounds dramatic but a true statement.

Valentine’s Day is a catalyst to recognize who we love and care for in our lives.

Time with your spouse on Valentine’s Day should be special. Combined with work and children our lives can become routine and mundane. May I recommend spicing up your life with your spouse or significant other on February 14th. Therefore, time with your loved one is important. Dinner, a nice bottle of wine, good conversation, and perhaps a night away from home may provide a lovely ambience. Possibly you would like to display to your spouse or significant other a token of your love by giving she/he a gift.

The above may not pertain to you because you are single. Don’t allow Valentine’s Day to confuse you. Rather take advantage of all opportunities to mingle.

1. Consider hosting a party with several friends and encourage others to invite someone new. One never knows who may come to the party.

2. Single ladies it is time to gather

together. Reminisce and enjoy the moment.

Getting together with girlfriends creates beautiful bonding, laughter, and memories.

3. Enjoy your children and create a memory. Bake cookies together or create a decadent hot fudge sundae. Play games or watch a movie together. Time with your child or children is LOVE. 4. If you decide to be your own Valentine then treat your self to a spa day. One always deserves a day of relaxation and time away from the hustle and bustle.

Valentine’s Day can be daunting for those who are single. Rebuke negative thoughts and desire a better Valentine’s Day for your self. Spending time with self can be relaxing, healing, and much needed in our stressful society. Grab a book, head to the spa, and you might as well buy your self some flowers while you are at it.

If you are seeking an alternative to the above suggestions consider enjoying a Yoga workshop. Evolve Yoga presents, “Hearts Alive” with Johnny Yuhas, a two-hour Yoga workshop that is heart centered. February 17, 12:00pm-2:00pm, Cost $25.00 (a portion of the proceeds will benefit a local charity).

Visit, www.e-volveyoga.com for details and registration.

May your week be filled with love, gratitude and making a memory. Happy Valentine’s Day!

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): To avoid getting hacked, computer tech experts advise you to choose strong, hard-to-guess passwords for your online accounts. Among the worst choices to protect your security are “123456,” “iloveyou,” “qwerty,” and, of course, “password.” Judging by the current astrological omens, Pisces, I’m guessing that you should have a similar approach to your whole life in the coming days. It’s important that you be picky about who you allow into your heart, mind, and soul. Make sure that only the most trustworthy and sensitive people can gain access. Your metaphorical password might be something like this: m*y#s@t&e?r%y.

Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

Desert DJ’s

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

with Craig Michaels

Robb Roberts

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cosmos, appletini, or lemon drop for $6.95. This is a great price in a town where $15 cocktails are not uncommon. The bartender, Robert is delightful and sweet and pours a great drink.

Now let’s get down to business, the menu. In my humble opinion, if a Happy Hour doesn’t have entertainment then the food had better be great. Luckily, Cuistots’ food is amazing. Here’s the menu and all items are $9.50: • Award Winning Caesar Salad with Grana Padano • Seasonal Baby Field Greens with House Dressing • Cuistot’s “All Time Favorite” Farfalle Pasta with Fresh Tomato and Basil • Bar Cheese and Fruits: Gruyère, White Goat Cheese & Today’s Blue Cheese With Fresh Fruits, Candied Pecan and Quince Gelée • Black Truffle Pappardelle Pasta with Shaved Black Truffles, Parmesan Beurre Fondue with Chives • Angel Hair Pasta with Shrimp, Fresh Thyme and Fresh Tomato • Lamb Sliders with Arugula, Feta Cheese and Mint Remoulade • Antipasti Pasta Salad, Campanile, Fresh Mozzarella, Olives and Salami

E E FR

to make it his home for now while he continues to pursue his DJ career. Robb tries to squeeze in an occasional mobile job when he can but has been lucky enough to land a steady gig four nights a week at the Street Bar in Palm Springs. You can catch Robb every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday playing everything from Retro music to Show Tunes and Top 40, all on video. Another local hang out Robb spins at every other Friday is Wang’s In the Desert.

Future plans for Robb include learning to remix music and produce his own material while advancing as a high energy night club DJ. He also plans on exploring the world of event promotions for special events.

If you would like to contact Robb for your events you can e-mail him at: robb@ djrobbroberts.com Written by: Craig Michaels Musical Affair Entertainment (760) 619-3276

N A C C O R O M T M E N T! TREWAITH HAIRCUT lue

$25 Va

breaking the bank.

I have to admit we did break down and ordered one of their decadent deserts.

We split the Floating Island with Roasted Almonds, Soft Meringue, Vanilla “Crème Anglaise” and Hard Candy Glaze for 9.50.

This was a light and fluffy meringue with a sauce that was so wonderful that my friends and I wanted to order more.

Cuistot is tucked away at the far end of El Paseo the last left before hwy 111. 72595 El Paseo.

Call for a booth reservation or sit on the beautiful covered outdoor patio. 1-760340-1000, tell them you heard about it in Coachella Valley Weekly and enjoy!! Bon Appetit!

760.779.8066 72210 HWY 111, #E-5, PALM DESERT, CA 111

Parkview Dr

111

Fred Waring Dr

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By Patte Purcell • Asparagus and Lemon Risotto with Gruyère Cheese • Homemade Pâté with a Green Bean Salad and Cornichon and Dijon Mustard • Steamed Prince Edward Island Black Mussels over Spinach With Purple Shallots and Herb Jus • Seabass Feuilleté with Spinach and 7 Fresh Herbs Beurre Blanc Sauce Homemade Soup of the Day 7.95 Naturally, the Seabass Feuillete with spinach and 7 fresh herbs Beurre Blanc Sauce is my favorite (pictured). It’s in a flaky pastry with a delectable sauce. Every bite is succulent and I’ll have a hard time ordering anything else. My friend Paula ordered the black truffle Pappardelle pasta (pictured) which she said was amazing.

This is definitely a hearty portion for a bar menu. My friend Nadine ordered the steamed Prince Edward Island black mussels over spinach with purple shallots and herb jus. Cuistot serves you crusty french bread and sweet butter perfect for dipping into the sauce. She ate every drop of this sauce and the serving was substantial, hot and steamy. As you can see there are other delicious selections as well.

This is a well-rounded menu and you get the whole experience of Cuistot without

EUROPEAN HAIR DESIGN

Joshua Rd

Happy Hour Hot Spot

the DJ booth and play music and would eventually spend time teaching him how to beat mix songs. This was the beginning of his DJ career which would lead to him Djing full time in other clubs and working mobile DJ gigs around New York. “I was also networked with many DJ’s and worked their gigs when not working my own,” Robb emphasizes.

Robb continued to expand his music knowledge while playing hundreds of weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, sweet 16’s and high school reunions. After 25 years of DJing, Robb has learned how to entertain all types of crowds playing everything from Big Band and Britney Spears to Salsa and Show Tunes. Besides knowing how to manipulate a room through music, Robb also prides himself on being a New Yorker with a great personality.

Five years ago, Robb came out to the Coachella Valley to Visit his parents and fell in love with the Desert. He has decided

February 14 to February 20, 2013

Kick in the 3 new year 201

Brings His East Coast Attitude to the Desert

As a child, I had always dreamed of being a DJ. I’ve loved music since my first record player and 45 record collections at the age of 6,” Robb recalls.

Growing up on Staten Island in New York, Robb’s love of music was first fed by taking piano lessons as a young child. He would later find his passion when he began playing DJ at all the family parties. As a teenager, Rob admitted to sneaking out of his Parents house to go clubbing late at night where he would dance the night away and learn all the new music. Robb is one of the few entertainers who were given a nice sounding DJ name at birth.

Rob Roberts is actually his real name but he thought having two B’s in his first name would give it more of a showbiz feel.

At 22, Robb had just graduated from design school and was designing kitchens and bathrooms while at the same time, working weekends in a Staten Island Disco as a bartender. Rob’s boss at the club would frequently ask him to jump in

elcome back happy people, my next little gem for all of you “Happy Hour” fans is Cuistots.

This is an elegant room with a beautiful bar and some incredible food. I first heard about it from a local who recommended it. He raved about the ‘bar food’ which includes some smaller portions of their incredible French menu. He mentioned the price, $9.50 per item, and when he told me about the sea bass (one of my favorites) I just had to try it.

The bar is long and lushy lit with fringe shaded lamps which cast a warm glow over the room. There are a few booths (which you can reserve by calling in a reservation) and a few high tops. It’s warm and intimate, the perfect place to unwind and have a cocktail. It’s an early Happy Hour, the food menu pricing is available from 4-6 a little different than most. The drinks specials run from 4 pm to close and feature some decent prices for such an upscale restaurant. I chose the wine special which was one of two, a lovely pinot noir in a large elegant glass, which was delightful. House wines are $4.95 for chardonnay, cabernet or white zinfandel. Well drinks are $5.50 and house martinis run $5.95 each. There are daily drink specials too, and a house

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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VALENTINE’S SPECIALS

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DESERT CARE SOLUTIONS Desert Care Solutions, the premiere collective in the desert is now offering $40 top shelf 1/8’s weighed heavy!! 4.0++ Immense selection of edibles, tinctures, bubble hash, and many more great accessories. Also featuring the G-Pen and Dank Chocolate. Don’t miss out on our Valentines Day special- First 25 patients buy a top shelf 1/8 and get a free Velvet Cake Edible.

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February 14 to February 20, 2013

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