Palm Springs Guides Sept. 14, 2010

PalmSpringsGuides.com • September 14, 2010 Issue 2

Weekly

Humperdinck

Engelbert Humperdinck is still a charmer and he proved it once again to the sold out crowd at the Morongo Casino Showroom in Cabazon, CA. The King of Romance owned the hearts of his audience of adoring fans with his first step onto the stage. There were cheers, squeals and shouts of approval too. ~Photos by Mark Ostrom

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Grand Opening

Welcome to Palm Springs Guides ‘Weekly” Entertainment Magazine Contents Engelbert Humperdinck ‘Get Low’ Theatre & Cinema Critic/Reviewer Jack Lyons Master Mealtime in Minutes ‘On the Porch’ Theatre & Cinema Critic/Reviewer Jack Lyons Don’t Ask, don’t Tell’ Dance Teachers hit the Books Expecting Mary ‘China Wind Power Market Outlook 2014’ LIT Grand Opening Melissa Etheridge at Morongo Casino Mary J. Blige at Fantasy Springs Casino Xenophobia in Yucca Valley -Part Two ‘Satisfaction’ at the Rock Yard Economic Amateur Hour for Washington Politicians

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Eng elb ert

e r d p m i n u c k H

Photo by Mark Ostrom Desert Local News September 12, 2010

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Engelbert Humperdinck: “A Night of Love and Romance” Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos by Mark Ostrom Engelbert Humperdinck is still a charmer and he proved it once again to the sold out crowd at the Morongo Casino Showroom in Cabazon, CA. The King of Romance owned the hearts of his audience of adoring fans with his first step onto the stage. There were cheers, squeals and shouts of approval too. At age 74, Engelbert still has that sultry, sexy charisma going on and remains the heart throb of his fans. “Enge” had the audience going crazy with delight at his delivery of each of his hit love songs to which he had some sexy dance moves as well as some bumps and grinds.

end of the song, Enge presented Gracie with one of his trademark red scarves, infused with his cologne, which he tenderly tied around her neck and gave her one last kiss. Gracie was floating from her Enge encounter; her feet never touched the ground as she left the stage.

About halfway through the night’s show, one man from the front row of the audience got up to go out of the showroom. Humpy asked the name of the man, it was ”Three Feathers,” and with an expletive Humperdinck said he was in deep trouble so he would wait for Three Feathers to return before continuing the show. The audience was in stitches. Minutes later, Three Feathers returned with a CD and Engelbert had the audience cheering.

Engelbert Humperdincks musical talents transcend all music styles from rock, to disco, gospel and country and his appeal is very broad and multigenerational. There were fans of all ages clapping and singing along with the songs. Humperdincks band and backup singers were a fantastic and rich compliment to his velvety voice.

Enge selected one very lucky lady, named Gracie, from the audience to join him on stage for a song. Gracie was seated on a chair and given a sheet of words to hold up while Engelbert sang You Dont Know Me. Gracie was star-struck with a grin from ear to ear.

During the song Humpy straddled Gracie’s lap and sang into her ear and then kissed her a couple of times. The crowd screamed out of control. At the

Humperdinck continued to woo the audience with songs like After the Loving, Quando Quando Quando, A Man Without Love, Spanish Eyes, Im on Fire, a beautiful rendition of James Blunts Goodbye My Lover and The Last Waltz.

Legacy of Love, Engelbert’s newly released 80th album, has many of the songs he sang tonight and more. The adoring fans became increasingly excited until they rushed the stage with flowers and hands up in the air to try to catch one of the several red scarves Enge threw into the audience at the night’s end. Some things dont change even after 40+ years.

Engelbert was very gracious about acknowledging the fan’s adoration. The

PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

show ended with a medley of Humperdinck’s most famous songs. He donned a red robe, shadow-boxed around the stage and tossed more red scarves to his wild audience. Engelbert said, “Applause is the food of an artist and you haven’t starved me tonight.” After delivering the final song, “My Way,” Humperdinck left the stage with one final salute to his adoring fans who were standing, screaming and applauding.

Manuela and Jesse from San Bernardino came tonight to celebrate Jesse’s birthday. They love Engelbert’s music. Gracie, wearing her red scarf from Humpy, was with her two sisters, Vanessa and Sally (from Arizona). They were overwhelmed with Engelbert’s performance tonight.

After 43 years, Engelbert Humperdinck, The King of Romance proved he can still enthrall, give the audience what they want and make them beg for more, after the loving! What an electric evening.

Read the full article at; www.PalmSpringsGuides.com.

Look for Engelbert Humperdincks newest album Legacy of Love or download his newest single, from his official website; www.engelbert.com More information about upcoming events at Morongo Resort Casino; www.morongocasinoresort.com

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‘Get Low’

Early Oscar Forecasts Should Include Duvall, Murray and the Film as Well Starring Robert Duvall and Bill Murray Review by Palm Springs Guides Theatre & Cinema Critic/Reviewer Jack Lyons

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lthough it’s only September, and it’s way before the ubiquitous blitzkrieg of Oscar-hype “For Your Consideration” ads hit the movie industry magazines and newspapers, let me suggest a most worthy and a terrific Trifecta wager. For Best Film, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, put this one down with your favorite bookie, that is, if you have a favorite bookie, the outstanding film “Get Low,” Now playing at The Regal Stadium Nine in Palm Springs and also at Cinemark’s Century Theatre at The River in Rancho Mirage, the film is a perfect respite from what Hollywood calls the “summer movie season” bulging with films about inane teenage angst, or car chases and explosions.

The mystery/drama for adults or anyone 30 or older, features a brilliant and understated performance by Robert Duvall, and an equally stunning and somewhat sardonic turn by America’s favorite comedian turned splendid dramatic actor, Bill Murray.

In this richly layered and carefully crafted film, directed by Aaron Schneider, the story revolves around Felix Bush (Duvall), a much-feared reclusive, backwoods Tennessee hermit who has been living alone on his 300-acre farm for the last 40 years. One day without warning, he suddenly comes to town with a wad of rolled up cash and announces his intention to preside over his own funeral.

Local mortician Frank Quinn (Mur-

ray) has been lamenting to his young assistant Buddy Robinson about the lack of business of late. “People are dying all the time. Why not in my town?”

When word of this impending funeral request reaches the ears of quick-thinking mortician Quinn, visions of a windfall payday in his future bring a smile and a twinkle to his eye. Quinn and his young and principled assistant Buddy (earnestly played by Lucas Black) see to it that Felix Bush gets his wish — for a fee, of course. As the day of the unusual funeral approaches, Buddy (the conscience of the Quinn Funeral Home) uncovers a long-held secret involving Felix, a local widow (Sissy Spacek in a small but pivotal role) and an Illinois preacher (Bill Cobbs).

The story is spare but powerful when it comes to elucidating the fundamental truths and rules that society places on each of us. Story content will always trump technique in films, at least for me, and what we have here with ”Get Low” is a script that pays sharp attention to detail and boasts an outstanding ensemble cast in the bargain.

Great actors can really shine with great material. Screenwriters C. Gaby Mitchell and Chris Provenzano, and director/writer Schneider have given the multitalented Duvall a gem of a script with which to perform his special magic — roles revolving around crusty, old, crotchety characters. I believe his performance as Felix Bush outshines his Oscar winning portrayal as Mac Sledge in “Tender Mercies” back in 1983.

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Actors had better be on their toes when they find themselves in a movie with Murray. He has a knack for stealing scenes with deft and insightful skills, be it drama or comedy. His Frank Quinn portrayal is another winner in a long line of finely judged performances and should earn him another Oscar nomination.

It is good to see Oscar-winner Spacek back on the big screen, albeit in a small but important role. Young Black is in some pretty heavy-duty company in “Get Low” but he holds his own. He and Murray have nice chemistry going for them in their moments together.

And the ever-reliable Cobbs (I miss seeing his wonderfully expressive movie face) turns in another fine journeyman performance, as does Gerald McRainey, he of the old TV series “Simon & Simon.”

This small but important indie film was produced — outside the studio system — by a committee of investors, Duvall being one, along with Hollywood royalty like Richard Zanuck and his son Harrison.

“Get Low” may be low on the Oscar radar screen at the moment, but come nomination time, I expect to see “the Trifecta” I mentioned earlier, shoot off the radar scope both with audiences and the Oscar voters.

Don’t miss this excellent film.

For more “Get Low” information, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com 7

Grilled Chicken with Watermelon Salsa Nothing screams summer like grilled chicken and watermelon!

While the chicken is heating, prepare the salsa in seconds.

Serves 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 6-7 minutes

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frozen Tyson® Grilled & Ready™ Whole Breast Fillets tablespoons (1/4 cup) Hoisin sauce 2 cups chopped watermelon 1/2 cup chopped red onion 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 1/4 cup reduced fat feta cheese 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar 1 teaspoon olive oil 1. Coat each chicken breast with Hoisin sauce and place in microwave safe dish. Follow microwave directions on Grilled & Ready packaging to heat.

2. In small bowl, mix together watermelon, red onion, mint, feta, seasoned rice vinegar and olive oil.

Place salsa on top of chicken breast and serve.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with corn on the cob or quick couscous cooked in orange juice and tossed with green onions.

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Lemon Dijon Chicken Everyone of all ages adores this simple zesty sauce on the chicken, creating an effortless dish with gourmet appeal.

Serves 4 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 6-7 minutes

Recipes courtesy of Holly Clegg and Tyson Foods

MASTER MEALTIME ...in Minutes ECES

While many moms enjoy

creating quality, home-cooked meals for their families, it can be hard to fit cooking into their busy schedules. “You can spend less time in the kitchen and cut down on meal preparation time by simply using pre-cooked recipe-ready proteins when preparing meals,” said Holly Clegg, culinary expert and working mom. To master mealtime in minutes, Clegg suggests preparing delicious meals such as Grilled Chicken with Watermelon Salsa and Rainy Day Honey Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches when running against the clock.

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Don’t Pout, Leave It Out: If you’re in a time crunch and can’t run to the store to grab an ingredient, leave it out or adapt the recipe.

Cooking should be a creative process, so take the stress out of your kitchen and substitute or skip an ingredient you don’t have (or like!). If you don’t have sesame oil when making Sesame Ginger Chicken, just use olive or canola oil instead — no one will know the difference because it will taste just as great!

Pick Pre-packaged Products: Embrace recipe-ready ingredients that will eliminate kitchen stress and prep time. Use items such as bread mixes that only require water, canned soups and bases, frozen and pre-chopped veggies and pre-cooked protein that are tender and juicy and ready in minutes straight from the microwave. You can put a creative spin on these items by adding your own spices, sauce or cooking method to make a quick and delicious original meal.

Seal in Freshness: Love using fresh herbs but don’t always have time to clean and chop? Buy fresh herbs in bulk the next time you are at the store. Then, chop and freeze them to use when needed.

This will not only save prep time, but will bring a quick and easy boost of flavor to favorite dishes.

Get Snazzy with Sauce: If your dish calls for sauce, make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it. Then, when you’re ready to cook, place it in the microwave or stovetop to thaw.

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tablespoon olive oil cup chicken broth tablespoons lemon juice teaspoon Dijon mustard teaspoon minced garlic teaspoon dried basil leaves cup chopped green onions tablespoon minced parsley frozen Tyson® Grilled & Ready™ Whole Breast Fillets 1. In microwave safe dish, combine all ingredients except chicken breasts.

Add chicken breasts, spooning sauce on top.

2, Follow microwave directions on Grilled & Ready packaging to heat.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with angel hair pasta tossed with sautéed garlic, parsley and olive oil. Serve with leftover sauce.

Rainy Day Honey Barbecue Chicken Sandwich Nothing beats a good barbecue sandwich and fries except when it takes only minutes to prepare and you do it all in the comfort of indoors.

Serves 4 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 6-7 minutes

Sauce: 1/2 cup ketchup 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon minced garlic Sandwich: 4 frozen Tyson® Grilled & Ready™ Whole Breast Fillets 4 thin red onion slices 4 sandwich buns, toasted 4 thin tomato slices Pickle slices 1. In small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients.

2. Place chicken in microwave safe dish, top with red onion slices and cover with sauce. Follow microwave directions on Grilled & Ready packaging to heat.

3. Pile chicken and sauce on bottom half of sandwich bun and top with tomato, pickles and top of sandwich bun.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with ovenbaked sweet potato fries made by roasting julienned sweet potatoes in the oven at 450°F for about 40 minutes.

For more recipe ideas, visit grilledandready.com

‘On The Porch’ Poetry Reading Dezart One Gallery to Host an Evening of Poetry Readings

By Palm Springs Guides Theatre & Cinema Critic/Reviewer Jack Lyons

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ne of Palm Springs’ busiest art galleries, Dezart One, located at 2688 Cherokee Way, does more than its fair share of cultural events separate from just presenting outstanding painters and sculptors at their gallery.

They are, among other things, the home venue of the performing theatre group “Dezart Performs.” But creative artists come in all shapes, sizes and disciplines.

Poets, who are philosophers as well, are among the most insightful and evocative group of creative artists around.

Local poet and creative artist Carolyn Rude will be paying tribute to her grandmother, the late Lorraine Frankenfield Rude, who was born in Milwaukee in 1897, but was raised in Los Angeles. Growing up in Los Angeles in the early 1900s, Lorraine passed the time away by sitting on her parents’ front porch, reading and writing poetry, and observing the passing parade of daily living.

Her first poem, appropriately titled “On The Porch,” was written in 1910 at the age of 13. She continued writing poetry throughout her high school days and into her college years at Stanford University, where she was graduated in 1919, ultimately earning an M.B.A. from the University of Washington in 1921.

While teaching a remedial English class for students at the University of Washington, Lorraine met and fell in love with Chester Rude, a student who was attending the university. With her marriage and the raising of three children back in Los Angeles, her poetry output dwindled, and her last known poem was written in 1922.

ter, was recently contacted by a cousin who said she discovered an old trunk in the family attic containing the collected poems of Carolyn’s grandmother, and felt Carolyn was the proper person to possess them. As a performing artist and poet herself, Carolyn decided to curate the collection, and then to perform them for the public.

When I asked Carolyn if she plans on reading a few of her own poems, she demurred with a sly smile, “Well, maybe a couple of my own. But this is my grandmother’s night.” She said, however, that she has definite plans to share family anecdotes about poetry and life in turnof-the-century Los Angeles.

The poems of Lorraine Frankenfield Rude will be read by her granddaughter Carolyn Rude, at the Dezart One Gallery at 7 p.m., Saturday, September 18.

For poetry lovers, the evening is perfect for those who do enjoy and relish emotions that stir the soul and make the heart sing and soar. Tickets are only $ 8 at the door. For reservations and additional information call 760-328-1440.

For more about this story, go to www.

PalmSpringsGuides.Com

Debbie McGowan

760-774-3557

DebbMcGowan@aol.com

Saturday, September 18, 2010 Dezart One Gallery Palm Springs, California

Carolyn Rude, Lorraine’s granddaughPalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

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“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

Publishers: Lisa and Allen Lawrence Executive Editor: Max Liebermann Managing Editor: Kip Allen Director of Operations: Allen Lawrence Advertisement 760-660-8080 Ads@ PalmSpringsGuides.Com

News Room

Leslie Andrews

Contributors: Lisa Robyn Lawrence Pat Krause Vanessa Likens Laurie Hirth Tom Grossman Neal Rouzier David Mikelberg Denise Ortuno Neil Janet Walker Jeanne Noel Chalfont Elayna Freiberg Photographers: Pat Krause Cathy Jardine Allen Lawrence

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Ruled Unconstitutional

By Vicki Lawson

RIVERSIDE, CA- A federal judge this past week has officially ruled the United States Armed Forces’ policy regarding gays unconstitutional.

U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Phillips ruled in a federal courtroom in Riverside, California that the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” greatly affects services and how things are operating in the armed forces. The ruling is expected to make an immediate impact.

So far, President Barack Obama has declared DADT as a threat to national security and has promised to end it as soon as he could.

The Log Cabin Republicans (LCR), a national organization of lesbian and gay Republicans, brought a challenge to the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law on October 12, 2004. Following years of tackling procedural questions and preliminary motions, the district court heard LCR’s challenge this summer, where the testimony of six discharged service members and seven expert witnesses was presented to the trial court by LCR. After considering this evidence, Judge Phillips determined that DADT violates the due process and free speech rights of LCR’s membership. Judge Phillips will issue a final judgment, which may block enforcement of the DADT law nationwide, in the next few

weeks. The government may appeal her decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. HRC applauds LCR for its commitment to overturning the unconstitutional and discriminatory DADT law.

While the constitutionality of DADT continues to be litigated in the courts, Congress is moving forward with repeal legislation. On May 27th, 2010, with support of the President, the Senate Armed Services Committee adopted an amendment to the Senate FY 2011 Defense Authorization bill to repeal DADT. The amendment was offered by Sens.

Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and Carl Levin (D-MI).

Later that same day, Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-PA) offered an identical amendment to the House FY 2011 Defense Authorization bill that was adopted by the House of Representatives by a vote of 234 to 194. The House passed its Defense Authorization bill on May 28th, 2010.

The Human Rights Commission members and supporters from across the country are calling for the Senate to vote on its Defense Authorization bill before the November elections and send the DADT repeal language to the President’s desk for signature.

The Senate is expected to vote on its Defense Authorization bill before the November elections, and the President has committed to signing repeal legislation into law.

Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce names new Chief Executive Officer

PALM SPRINGS, CA, September 8 – Chamber President Dan Jessup announced today that Nona Watson will assume the position of Chief Executive Officer, effective Monday, September 13.

Watson has more than 20 years of experience with Chambers of Commerce. She started her chamber career in

Victorville, California as the Administrative Assistant for the Victorville Chamber of Commerce. After serving five years in that position, she was selected as Executive Director of the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce in 1995. Four years later, she accepted the position of Executive Director for the Brea Chamber of Commerce

where she served almost ten years.

For more information call the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce at 760/325-1577.

Nona Watson

Dance Teachers Hit the Books Red Hot Ballroom Dancing

Story By Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos By Renee Vargas Red Hot Ballroom Dancing teaches Ballroom Dancing to 4th, 5th and 6th graders in the Desert Sands, Coachella and Palm Springs Unified School District schools. However, before the students can be taught the teachers have to hit the books and also learn the dance steps.

The instructors are usually referred to as Dance Amigos, and they must all meet and hit the books to learn the steps involved to teach the students for this year’s Red Hot Ballroom Dancing program.

For some, dancing might come easy.

This is often true for the Dance Amigos and the professional dance teachers who are responsible for instructing the students in the Red Hot Ballroom Dance program .The truth is more than 1,500 students will be instructed in this program during the next 28 weeks. Each instructor has to learn how to teach their students so that all students learn the same steps and dances. This is important because without some consistency it would be impossible to make sure that all of the students are properly taught.

One thing the founders of Red Hot Ballroom Dancing, Bob and Nancy Horn, are clear about is that all of the students have to learn to dance correctly. Professional dancers themselves, Bob and Nancy have watched thousands of students grow and blossom in social graces while they learn to dance over the past two years.

The RHBD program teaches the children how to dance but in the process the children are also taught manners, mutual courtesy, how to deal with the opposite sex, coordination and of course teamwork. Another welcome byproduct of this program is that the children are introduced to a fun way to increase their physical fitness and at the same time feel

a sense of pride and increased self value and esteem. Parents have been telling Bob and Nancy Horn that being in the program has made a noticeable difference in their children. Students who previously were bored in school now take a greater interest in their studies. Many students who did not complete their homework are now turning in completed assignments and no longer complaining about having to do homework.

While the program is not a panacea, it is making a positive difference that parents and teachers confirm over and over again. The key, says Bob Horn, Is that the kids are succeeding because they like themselves more. This program raises their self esteem and allows them to see themselves as winners. In fact, Nancy Horn adds, everybody wins, the kids, their parents, the teachers, the Amigos, the school and our entire community.

Bob Horn concludes, In the end the kids like dancing and they feel successful. Our Red Hot Ballroom Dancing program is designed to make sure they do succeed.

Everyone wins!

Red Hot Ballroom, Inc is a 501(c)3 non profit California corporation and relies on grants and the generous donations and sponsorship from local businesses and our community members to produce this program every year for students in all three of our local unified school districts. The majority of the students in these school districts fall within the Title 1 designation due to financial hardship. Just $75 to $100 provides the tuition necessary for one student to participate in this 28 week program and compete in the Dance Finals in May. For more information about how to support this program go to the website www.redhotdancing.com PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

Barbara Mueller (Amigo) and Carl Davis

Orientation meeting conducted by Bob

Donna Darling (Amigo) Stephanie

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A Movie that Delivers

Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos By Pat Krause

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It has been a very long time since I sat for an hour and a half and enjoyed every moment of the time. Thursday night I did. A beautifully touching independent film, “Expecting Mary,” premiered with a celebrity reception to benefit the Desert AIDS Project. Integrated Wealth Management sponsored the event. The Camelot Theatres in Palm Springs, California, were filled to capacity. I can say with a great deal of conviction that no one left disappointed or without being touched in some way.

ies can be fun, meaningful and entertaining. There were no murders, no demons, no villains and no shootouts.

“Expecting Mary” is a well-paced story of a pregnant 16-year-old girl from an affluent family who is searching for love and a true sense of family. She found she could not count on her own family so quite by accident, if accidents really happen, she found family, love and acceptance with an “eclectic” group of people living in a “down on your luck” trailer park in New Mexico.

“Expecting Mary” is a breath of fresh air that shows us once again mov-

The young, very talented and believable, Olesya Rulin plays the plucky,

16-year-old Mary. You can’t help but fall in love with her. The rest of the cast is a veritable “Who’s Who” of acting: Linda Gray, Lainie Kazan, Cloris Leachman and the indomitable Della Reese are central characters in this amazing cast with Cybill Shepherd, Elliot Gould, Gene Simmons, Fred Willard and a host of other wonderful supporting actors and actresses who gave great performances.

The subject is serious; a pregnant, unmarried, 16 year old hitchhiking from

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Continues on Page 13

EXPECTING MARY

Continued from Page 12 New York to Los Angeles to search for acceptance and love from her father. Yet the movie evokes a gamut of emotions from gentle laughs to laugh-out-loud funny — the site gags are hysterical. This is balanced with some very poignant and touching scenes that even threaten to bring a tear or two. Most of all the film’s action keeps weaving forward into the fabric of the storyline.

My inclination is to tell the whole movie scene by scene to relive the fun and pleasure. My experience as a writer tells me to simply say, “Go see it, you’ll love it.”

The credit for this movie goes to two local people, producer Kim Waltrip and executive producer Jim Casey. The inside story is that the script came to Gray who loved it and brought it to Casey who also loved it. Casey partnered up with Waltrip to produce this film.

After the movie, Gloria Greer moderated a panel of some of the actors and both producers that included Gray, Kazan, Reese, Waltrip and Casey. After some insightful questions directed to the panel by Greer, audience members were invited to ask some questions. Waltrip told the audience that she and Casey drew up their “wish list” of actors for this film, and each and every one of them accepted immediately after reading the script.

Kim Waltrip, Lady Kazan, Linda Gray, Jim Casey

Casey,Waltrip, Kazan, Reese, Gray and Gloria Greer

When asked how long it took to shoot the film, Waltrip’s answer stunned the audience.

Amazingly the whole film was shot in 18 days in the Los Angeles area. This made it easy for the cast to commute to the set every day from their homes.

Following the Q&A, an outdoor, champagne reception for the cast and audience was held in front of the Camelot Theatres. Sweets with printed images from the movie on cookies and cupcakes were all the talk of those who attended. What are you waiting for an invitation?

Kazan, Reese, Gray

Kazan, Reese, Gray

Okay, you are invited to go see “Expecting Mary,” now go!

For more about the “Expecting Mary” premiere, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com

Jim Casey, Kim Waltrip PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

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By Karan Chechi Favourable economic and operating environment coupled with focus on offshore wind power development to result in phenomenal growth of wind power installations in China.

According to the research report “China Wind Power Market Outlook 2014” by TechSci Research, The wind power installation in China has been experiencing exponential growth in recent years due to favourable economic and operating environment. The cumulative installed capacity of wind power in China surpassed 25 GW by the end of 2009 as compared to a capacity of around 1.3 GW in 2005. China added more than 13 GW of new wind power installed capacity in 2009, thereby accounting for almost onethird of new capacity additions globally. By dominating the new wind power capacity additions globally in 2009, China has now emerged as the third largest wind power market, just behind U.S and Germany.

China Appetite for Renewable Energy to Drive Wind Power Installation Capacity: TechSci Research

The report further says that China is expected to lead the global wind power market in coming years, driven by the government appetite for renewable energy. Chinese government commitment to derive 20% of energy from renewable sources by 2020 will result in the desired thrust towards the future growth of wind power market in the coming years. Driven by rising level of investment and government support, the cumulative installed capacity of wind power is expected to surpass the Chinese Government target’s way ahead of its schedule.

In the opinion of TechSci Research, the shifting focus on offshore wind farm development will result in the next level of growth for Chinese wind power market in the coming years. The offshore wind power development is still in a nascent stage, despite the fact that its potential is thrice as that of onshore wind power resources. “China Wind Power Market Outlook 2014” gives an unbiased overview on the Chinese wind power market and associated segments. It will help the reader get familiar with current and expected future trends with respect to Chinese Wind power market.

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About The Author For reports and research related queries please contact us at info@techsciresearch.com or visit www.techsciresearch.com - http://www.techsciresearch.com PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

B u i l d a B et t er B r u n ch &

a Better You ECES

Heart disease is the no. 1 killer of women in America, and research shows that 80 percent of cardiac events in women are linked to poor lifestyle choices, including what you eat! While brunch evokes images of leisurely weekends and dining al Fresco, for many, it also includes foods that threaten to derail your heart-healthy diet. That’s why the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women® has partnered with Macy’s Culinary Council chef, Gale Gand, to create a brunch menu of easy-to-make, delicious and heart-healthy selections that will kick your weekend off right.

Once you’re done with your brunch makeover, be sure to register for Go Red For Women’s free, 12-week online makeover program, Go Red BetterU. BetterU isn’t about fad diets; it’s about helping you make small, simple choice to improve your diet and overall health.

By offering diet tips and delicious recipes for every day and every occasion, BetterU focuses on skills and information, based on science from the American Heart Association, that help today’s busy women lead their lives, only better.

Choose to be a BetterU and download recipes for a Better Brunch at GoRedForWomen.org.

Poached Salm on w ith C ucum berYogurtTopping

Makes 4 1-cup per serving

Serves: 6

1 medium lemon, cut into 8 slices 1 ⁄2 medium lime, cut into 4 slices 2 cups pomegranate-blueberry juice 1 cup 100% cranberry juice 1 cup diet tonic water Fill four tall glasses with ice. Put 2 lemon slices and 1 lime slice in each glass.

In a small pitcher, gently stir together the juices and tonic water. Pour 1 cup into each glass. Serve immediately for peak flavor.

6 4-ounce salmon fillets about 1-inch thick, skin off For the poaching liquid: 1½ cups dry white wine 1 cup water 1 carrots, sliced thinly into coins 1 small onion sliced 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced 3 strips of lemon rind 10 black pepper corns 1 bay leaf ¼ teaspoon salt For the topping: 1½ cups plain yogurt, preferably Greek yogurt ½ seedless or English cucumber, peeled 1 tablespoon snipped fresh dill ¼ teaspoon Salt fresh ground black pepper In a sauce pan, combine the poaching liquid ingredients and bring it to a boil over high heat, then turn to a simmer

and cook 6 minutes till the carrots are tender. Remove from the heat and cover to keep warm.

In a 10 inch sauté pan, place the salmon fillets without touching each other. Pour the hot poaching liquid over the salmon and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for just 3-4 minutes. The salmon will still be pink and rare.

Turn off the heat and let sit in the liquid about 10 minutes to gently finish cooking. Chill in the poaching liquid for at least an hour, then transfer the salmon carefully (I use a fish spatula which is slotted and pretty thin) to a serving platter and keep covered and chilled till ready to serve.

To prepare the topping, julienne or shred the cucumber, use a Japanese mandoline if you have one. Otherwise shred it trough the blade of a food processor or box grater on the biggest holes. You want to end up with about 2 cups shredded. In a bowl combine it with the yogurt, fresh dill and season it to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon that on top of the salmon and serve.

C ranberry Angelfood M uffins Recipe provided by Macy’s Culinary Council chef, Gale Gand Makes 12 muffins

1 1 11⁄2 11⁄4 1 ⁄2 1 1 ⁄2 1

Pom egranate Splash

Recipe provided by Macy’s Culinary Council chef, Gale Gand

cup 2 tablespoons cake flour cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar cups egg whites teaspoons cream of tartar teaspoon salt teaspoon vanilla extract orange, grated rind only cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped in a food processor by pulsing Preheat oven to 375. Line a muffin pan with 12 cupcake liners.

Sift the flour with 2 tablespoons of the sugar, three times.

In a mixer with a whisk attachment begin to whip the whites on low until they are foamy and look a little like a bubble bath. Add the cream of tartar and salt and then continue whipping on medium speed, then start to gradually add the remaining cup of sugar and whip till soft peaks form when you remove the whisk. With a rubber spatula fold in the sifted flour/sugar mixture until almost incorporated then fold in the vanilla and grated orange rind, and the chopped cranberries.

Fill the cupcake liners 3/4 full with batter. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

Learn more healthy eating tips at GoRedForWomen.org

NUTRITION ANALYSIS (per serving): Calories 65; Total Fat 0.5 g; Saturated Fat 0.0 g; Trans Fat 0.0 g; Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0 g; Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g; Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 2 mg; Carbohydrates 16 g; Fiber 1 g; Sugars 14 g; Protein 1 g

This recipe is reprinted with permission from Light & Easy Recipes, Copyright © 2008 by the American Heart Association. Available at ShopHeart.org while supplies last.

This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association's Face The Fats program. Recipe copyright © 2007 by the American Heart Association. Look for other delicious recipes in American Heart Association cookbooks, available from booksellers everywhere.

Easy as 1-2-3 Heart-Healthy Diet A heart-healthy diet starts with the small, simple choices you make every day. New York University cardiologist and Go Red For Women spokesperson, Dr. Jennifer Mieres, recommends women start by:

1 Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables 2 Cutting down on sugar-sweetened beverages

3 Reducing sodium in your diet,

including added salt and the “hidden” salt in processed foods

PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

TM Go Red trademark of AHA, Red Dress trademark of DHHS.

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Photos by Cathy Jardine 2010 17

PHOTOS BY CAYHY JARDINE 2010

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LIT Ignites Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos by Catherine Jardine

LIT, the newest casino bar lounge, officially opened Friday, September 3, at Fantasy Springs Casino Spa in Indio near Palm Springs, California. Filled to capacity, LIT opened its doors, turned on the music and emcee Don Casper introduced David Roosevelt, chairman of the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians.

The evening got under way with a ribbon cutting ceremony. First, Chairman Roosevelt thanked the tribal members for support, and the Business and the Executive Committees that were responsible for designing, refurbishing and upgrading the nightclub bar area that is now LIT. All of the work was done “in-house” and in less than two months.

The chairman also thanked the Gaming and the Marketing Departments for their part as well. The ribbon was cut as onlookers cheered and made ready to party. General Manager Paul Ryan proposed a toast and ignited LIT. Immediately after the ceremony six vivacious and very beautiful “Playboy Playmate Dancers” took the stage performing several dance numbers for the attentive audience.

LIT, according to Ryan, is part of Fantasy Springs’ commitment to the public to provide the most exciting entertainment, music and dancing so the residents and visitors to the Coachella Valley can have a great time. If having a great time was the goal, there was no question — everyone who attended had a great time.

No sooner did the beautiful Playboy Dancers clear the stage than the Casper started giving away money and lots of it, from $50 to $500. If that was not enough, Ryan announced that Roosevelt wanted Casper to draw one more lucky winner and give away $1,000.

Fifteen lucky people left with healthy slot play credits on their player’s cards.

Our own photographer Cathy Jardine won $500 in slot play credits.

LIT offers plush seating, video poker and four huge big screen TVs for sports events. There are two downstairs bars and one upstairs staffed with a bevy of beautiful bar servers. There are six signature drinks: the DR made with Blue Curacao, Veev Acai, Rock Candy,

PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

Soda, fresh lime juice, on the rocks. The Raspberry Mojito, The Chairman, Jim Peachy and the LIT; a shot of Patron Silver Tequila and Kahlua. The menu is simple but offers lots of mouthwatering festive foods like burgers, hot dogs, tacos, smokin’ hot wings, French fries and chili fries, vacho asada and chips with salsa!

The evening wasn’t over, even after the lucky winners of free slot play dollars were selected. A favorite band from the Rock Yard, “New Breed,” took the stage and played some sizzling R&B music to dance to until 1:30 a.m. We had a great time. Cathy was rightfully jazzed, too.

If you like partying, with great drinks, delicious party food and fantastic music, or to get together to watch the best pay-per-view sports events in an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, you’ll love LIT. For more about the new LIT nightclub, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com

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Lisa Robyn Lawrence and her friend Michelle a great fan of Etheridge

Melissa Etheridge Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photos by Catherine Jardine Melissa Etheridge, the Academy Awardand two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician, took the stage with grace and flair at the Morongo Casino Resort in Cabazon near Palm Springs, California.

The house lights went out, as the audience was bathed with the sound of a beautiful Native American chant with drum. All I could see were twinkling multicolored lights. It was the band members, skipping and dancing down the aisles, shaking feathered, gourd rattles to welcome the audience with blessings.

The music ended and suddenly, and I heard the voice of Melissa Etheridge, warmly welcoming the audience reciting the phrases, “We are one, we are the light.” Everyone was on their feet looking to the back of the concert room. Illuminated only by a small flashlight, Etheridge made her grand entrance from the back of the ballroom down the center aisle and gently patted hands with and welcomed her adoring fans. It was a stunning and very touching scene. Excited squeals of appreciation echoed throughout the hall.

When Etheridge finally took the stage, the crowd went wild. She sang her heart out in familiar song after song, and the audience couldn’t stay in their seats. When she sang, “I Want to Come Over,” people rushed the stage and sat there on their knees for almost the entire concert. By the concert’s end, everyone was on their feet dancing and singing along. In the excitement of it all, one audience member had what looked like a seizure in the aisle.

Morongo’s security and a paramedic assisted the woman until she insisted that she was fine.

Etheridge slowed the tempo of her performance for a bit, without detracting from her excellent delivery of songs and even asked

shortly afterward, “Are we okay?”

Etheridge is the consummate performer.

She engages her audience, has her own unique and incomparable singing style, as well as being a theatrical and amazing musician. She had the audience singing with her, shouting with her, and then she was sitting on the floor of the stage with Peter her lead guitarist wrapping her arms around him and both of them playing the guitar together. This was a truly spectacular sight. The band was one of the most cohesive and tight bands, each performer a star in his own right, a perfect match to Etheridge’s personal style. When she sang, “Bring Me Some Water,” an earthquake-like tremor was created as the crowd began jumping in time to the music and shouting the words.

It is a well-known fact that Etheridge allows her band members to improvise during the songs and it lends to each performance she gives being different that the others on the same tour. During her two hour, nonstop performance, Etheridge made the audience feel special. The audience insisted on an encore where Etheridge performed “Tell Me That You Love Me,” as well as a most goosebump-raising version of Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” in a medley with Steve Miller’s “The Joker.”

Everyone went crazy and each person went away craving more at the night’s end.

Michelle was up in the front dancing and singing along with Etheridge. She exclaimed, “I’ve loved her forever; this is my third concert (of Etheridge’s).”

For more about the Melissa Etheridge “Fearless Love” concert, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.

Com

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Desert Local News September 9, 2010

Mary J. Blige Story by Lisa Robyn Lawrence Photographs by Catherine Jardine

Mary J. Blige, one of the best known female hip hop recording artists, took the stage at the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center to a packed house of screaming admirers.

Mary J is a 9 time Grammy award winner and has 8 multi-platinum records to date. Her unique style of fusing soul and hip hop won her, her first Grammy Award and a World Music Legends Award in the early 1990’s. To date Mary J Blige has sold over 50 million records worldwide. Blige created her own record label in 2004 and recently released her won perfume, “My Life” on HSN and donates $1 per sale to her non-profit organization, FFAWN. Not only is MJB a singer-rapper, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur and actress, but in 2008 Blige became a philanthropist, launching The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now, Inc. (FFAWN) at Roosevelt High School in Yonkers, New York.

Tonight Mary J. Blige proved that she is the consummate performer taking command of the stage and hitting her fans with song after song. The energy in the house was contagious; the audience jumped to their feet and couldn’t sit down. MJB loved the audience’s singing along with her, she even showcased some great moves which only kicked the excitement higher. Her

band and backup singers just added to the whole experience. The energy increased with each song and there were many screaming, standing ovations as the crowd demanded more. Blige obliged but her fans just could not get enough.

After the concert my photographer and I bumped into four, look out Tyra Banks, “model-hot” ladies, Jasmine, Natalie, Joyce and Brandy. They were over the moon exhilarated from the concert but lamented the concert wasn’t long enough. They hailed from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Chicago, IL and Las Vegas, NV. Joyce from Chicago said that tonight’s concert alone made it all worth the trip, Brandy, from Las Vegas agreed.

Natalie confessed that she “only has five MJB albums.” They all really love Mary J Blige and said that her concert was “aaaah-some,” definitely MJB fans for life.

Thank you Mary J. Blige for giving a concert that everyone will remember for the rest of their lives. http://www. mjblige.com/ Thank you Fantasy Springs for bringing the best quality entertainment to our valley. Don’t miss Chickenfoot on September 10. http://www. fantasyspringsresort.com/

More Photos by Cathy Jardine on pages 24-25

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Mary J. Blige Jasmine, Natalie, Joyce and Brandy.

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The War Against Xenophobia in Yucca Valley - Part Two

By Leslie Andrews Fritz Koenig YUCCA VALLEY, CA- In last week’s issue, Desert Local News spoke to one Fritz Koenig, a Yucca Valley resident caught in the crossfire of one neighbor’s animosity, which has led to years of legal battles and a fight to help clear his name. This week, Desert Local News speaks to Koenig face to face at his home in the hills, getting a hawk’s eye view of all that is going on.

withheld for security reasons, has been known by a few others as being “weird”. He and his wife have many children together and are raising them with their fundamentally religious views. They ended up being home schooled because their religious school was said to be liberal when it came to teaching of the subject of homosexuality.

Koenig and his partner, Tom Holman first came to Yucca Valley in 2004 to escape the ruckus of the big city and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Mojave Desert. At first, he got along with his neighbor to the southeast.

But when he wanted to restructure the driveway, all hell broke loose.

Since being acquitted of criminal charges that could have sent him to prison, Koenig has been spending time away from Yucca Valley in an undisclosed location to prevent retaliation from his neighbor, whom he claims has been falsifying information to the court to discredit him. Amongst these false claims are that Koenig is a pedophile and has been distributing photos of their children online through a child pornography website. All of which Koenig denies, stating that these alleged videos and photos are all a setup on the neighbor’s part.

“They would yell at me ‘Get off that hill’ and ‘Stop staring at my children’ all of the time,” he explained as he was simply surveying his own property one day. Koenig believes that his own actions were simply misinterpreted by this particular neighbor as being threatening. His intentions all along were simply to measure the property for future building expansion, as he and his partner planned to build a theater.

“This went on for five years. What they finally did was to add it all up and take it to court. We had to defend ourselves against 25 different incidents,” he explained.

The neighbor, whose name is 26

“Apparently, the neighbor’s daughter was washing her father’s car wearing a skimpy outfit. The father started filming us. Then they go around saying that Tom and I are making pornographic videos for child porn sites on the internet,” Koenig added. “These images were created by the father himself and they brought it in, showed it to the judge. The daughter claimed that we were filming her bending over.”

Desert Local News did attempt to contact the neighbor himself to hear his side of the story. Phone calls left to his home remain unanswered. Also, it is noted that the neighbor’s personal website (which promotes his artwork) also requires a password for viewing.

“These people are rich and spoiled.

They are used to getting their way all of the time,” Koenig concluded. Now thanks to all of these unexpected legal troubles, Koenig and his partner could not afford to expand their property the way they wish to and no longer feel at home on the lands they have owned for a long time. So many of their hardearned dollars were spent fighting indefinite restraining orders, hiring $25/ hour attorneys and paying for other miscellaneous legal expenses.

Koenig has posted the actions of the court cases against him online over time and has been ordered by the court to remove those postings. He believes that such information is already public record.

In our concluding article next week, Koenig discusses the other similar cases that have stirred up in the Morongo Basin involving gay citizens and how greatly an injustice they have been served.

PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

Entertaining Party Fare THOUGHTS

ON CASUAL

ECES

Everyone loves spending time with family and friends.

Having a laugh or two, reliving special moments and creating new ones, what’s not to love?

Don’t let the three C’s get in the way (coordination, cost and clean up) and make you feel like giving up before you even start! It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but keep in mind, the best parties are not full blown extravaganzas.

They’re those comfortable,

Recipe and photo courtesy of Ocean Spray and Heinz.

easy get togethers where you call folks to come by, everyone brings their favorite dish, you throw on some music and let the good times roll. The trick is being ready and flexible for whatever comes your way.

Ultimate Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Wieners 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz® Chili Sauce 1 14-ounce can Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce 1 cup Maple syrup, divided 2 12 to 14-ounce packages cocktail wieners or smoked cocktail wieners 1 1-pound package bacon, cut into thirds and large pieces cut in half lengthwise Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a large baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir together Chili Sauce, Cranberry Sauce and 1/2 cup of syrup until smooth. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, and set aside.

Meanwhile, wrap each wiener with a piece of bacon and place seam side down on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining wieners. Drizzle wieners with remaining 1/2 cup of syrup. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until bacon is crispy. Serve with warm cranberry sauce mixture for dipping sauce.

Makes 24 appetizer servings (2 cocktail wieners per serving) TIP: If desired, secure bacon with toothpicks before baking.

Sweet & Spicy Cheeseburger Nachos 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 1

lb. Lean ground beef tsp. Minced garlic 23-ounce jar of salsa con queso Tbsp. Finely chopped jalapeño pepper tsp. Crushed red pepper flakes tsp. Hot pepper sauce 12-ounce bottle Heinz® Chili Sauce 14-ounce can Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce 2 8 to 11-ounce bags tortilla chips 1/2 cup Sliced green onions In a large saucepan over medium high heat, cook beef and garlic for 6 to 8 minutes, or until cooked through, stirring frequently. Drain fat if needed. Reduce heat to medium, and stir in salsa con queso, jalapeño, red pepper flakes and hot pepper sauce. Cover and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through, stirring frequently.

Meanwhile, combine Cranberry Sauce and Chili Sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat, and simmer until smooth, about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

To serve, arrange tortilla chips on plates. Spoon cheese mixture on top of tortillas and drizzle with cranberry mixture. Sprinkle onions on top and serve immediately.

Serves 6 TIP: If desired, add additional toppings such as sliced black olives, chopped onions or chopped tomatoes.

When you think of it, party planning can be “entertaining.” Here are a few tips on lightening the load with an easy, lighthearted approach:

Ultimate Party Meatballs 1 14-ounce can Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz® Chili Sauce 1 2-pound bag frozen, pre-cooked, cocktail-size meatballs Combine sauces in a large saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth. Add meatballs. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally.

Makes 30 appetizers.

Slow Cooker Preparation: Place meatballs in a slow cooker. Combine sauces and pour over meatballs.

Cover and cook 4 hours on HIGH.

Slow-Cooker Sweet and Smokey Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Ultimate Baked Brie 1 14-ounce can Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz® Chili Sauce 1/3 cup Ocean Spray® Craisins® Dried Cranberries 2 7 to 8-inch wheels Brie cheese 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds, optional Preheat oven to 300°F. Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and dried cranberries in medium saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until smooth.

Using warm, sharp knife, cut 1 wheel of cheese in half horizontally. Place bottom half on ovensafe serving plate. Spread 1/3 cup cranberry sauce mixture on cheese on plate. Top with remaining half of cheese, pressing lightly. Repeat with remaining wheel of cheese and 1/3 cup cranberry sauce mixture. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until cheese is softened. Spoon remaining cranberry sauce mixture over cheese. Sprinkle with almonds, if using. Serve warm with crackers or bread.

Makes 16 to 20 appetizers.

1 1 1 1/2 1 1

tablespoon vegetable oil 3 ⁄ -pound boneless pork shoulder roast teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper cup chopped onion 14-ounce can Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce 1 12-ounce bottle Heinz® Chili Sauce 2 tablespoons minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 12 to 16 hamburger buns, split Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle pork with salt and black pepper. Add pork to skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until browned on both sides. Place pork and onion in 4 to 5-quart slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours or until pork is tender. Remove pork and onion with slotted spoon; place on plate, reserving 1 cup liquid. Discard remaining liquid.

Return reserved liquid, cranberry sauce, chili sauce and chipotle peppers to slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Shred pork; stir shredded pork and onion into sauce in slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. Divide pork mixture evenly among buns.

Makes 12 to 16 sandwiches.

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• Think of your favorite recipe as a little black dress – a wardrobe staple if you will. Add a flowing scarf, sparkling jewels or a decorative belt and you’ve turned basic into beautiful. Keep colorful plates, napkins, hors d'oeuvre picks and platter decorations at the ready.

• That triple blast mocha sundae sounded good at the time, but once you’ve finished, all the flavors were a bit overwhelming.

Less is definitely more. Choose your menu wisely by offering fewer, great tasting items.

• Work, meetings, school, homework, sports, play dates, appointments – oh my! You wouldn’t dare tackle your day without a PDA or calendar of some sort, right? Organization is the key. Keep your list of “impressive yet easy” recipes handy and stock your pantry with all the necessary ingredients, so no matter which recipe you choose, you’re ready to cook at a moment’s notice.

For more easy entertaining tips and recipes, join “the party” at UltimatePartyMeatballs.com 27

‘Satisfaction’ at the Rock Yard Story and photos by Mark Ostrom The Rock Yard is rocking at Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio near Palm Springs, California. The Rock Yard brings music fans free rock shows every weekend. It is the desert’s premier concert venue starting at 7 p.m. The live music continues through midnight.

Many tribute bands and house bands have played here; not to mention many top-name recording artists.

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Admission is free to those 18 years and older.

Pictured here is the tribute band Satisfaction the International Rolling Stones Show. It was standing room only while the band played every ones favorite Stones hits.

For more, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com

PalmSpringsGuides.com September 14, 2010

Rolling Stones Tribute Show by ‘Satisfaction’ Photos by Mark Ostrom

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Economic Amateur Hour For Washington Politicians

By Walter “Bruno” Korschek A new round of bad economic news has been spewing forth this week, ranging from the poor housing market to the stagnant stock market to rising first time unemployment claims.

After two years of very uneven and unpredictable economic performance, it makes you wonder whether it truly is economic amateur hour in Washington.

Consider what we have endured from Washington over the past few years: - Cash For Clunkers - we have reviewed this program a number of times, pointing out how it was a failure in so many ways. The major bottom line is that the program did nothing to incrementally spur sales in the downtrodden new car market. All it did was cause prospective new car buyers to advance their purchase in order to get the free government rebate money. Once the Clunker rebates ended, the car market tanked for several months since the sales that would have occurred in those later months just occurred a few months early. Thus, there were little, if any, increment sales and all the program did was provide free taxpayer money to people who were going to buy a new car anyway. In addition to this one obvious and fatal flaw were the other mini disasters. These included people using the program to buy low gas mileage trucks and low gas mileage cars, contrary to the other objective of Clunkers which was to increase gas mileage of the U.S. car fleet and that perfectly good used cars, that were traded in under the program, were destroyed, robbing the less affluent citizens of our country the opportunity to purchase a good used car at a reasonable price.

- A similar experience occurred with the government’s attempt to 30

spur the housing market. Until the spring of this year, first time buyers of homes could get a cash rebate from the government if they signed a home purchase by a certain day and closed within a few months of signing that contract. Well guess what happened, once that program ended? The National Association of Realtors announced this week that sales of existing homes fell by more than 27% in July. It was the largest monthly drop on record since 1968, resulting in an annualized total home sales estimate of just 3.83 million, the lowest annual number in 15 years.

A quote from the article reads: “The weakness follows a strong spring, when now-expired government tax credits sparked sales, especially among first time buyers of lower priced homes.”

Thus, the same economic principle that happened with Cash For Clunkers happened here: all the government program did was accelerate forward some home sales without incrementally growing the market. Once the incentive went away, sales dipped dramatically, resulting in a net effect of virtually no incremental business. All the program did was give away taxpayer dollars to people who were going to buy a home anyway.

August 27, 2010, it was reported that recent monthly foreclosure levels are up year over year and that over a million more homes will be foreclosed on in 2010 vs. 2009.) The article quoted Mark Zandl, chief economist at Moody Analytics, as predicting that the program will eventually help out only about 500,000 homeowners even though another 1.5 million homes will likely fall into foreclosure in 2011. If Zandl is right and the $75 billion program will only help out 500,000 homeowners, then the government would have spent about $150,000 per successful homeowner saved ($75 billion divided by 500,000), certainly a pathetic return on investment from an economic perspective.

More bad news from another Washington housing industry program came to light this week, this one relative to the Obama administration’s mortgage relief program. According to an Associated Press article, almost half of the homeowners enrolled in the program to help avoid foreclosure have fallen out of the program. The AP reported that the $75 billion program to help owners lower their monthly payments is failing to stem the flow of foreclosures in the country (in a separate article in The Week magazine from

- The Obama administration warned us two years ago that unless the administration’s economic stimulus plan was passed, unemployment could go as high as 8%. Well, the econ mic stimulus plan was passed and we have not seen unemployment less than 9.5% or so for lord knows how long. Does that mean if we had not passed the economic stimulus plan that unemployment would be 8%, 15-20% lower than it is today?

- Another government program, Cash For Appliances, was supposed to be designed to incrementally increase the sale of energy efficient appliances for the home. Since absolutely no one in any part of the government is talking about how successful this program was, one has to assume that it performed as badly as Cash For Clunkers and the first time home buyer credits: it likely resulted in no incremental sales and just wasted more taxpayer dollars.

Continues on Page 31

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Continued from Page 30 -

Economic Amateur Hour

- Many times we have spoken about Washington’s inability to foresee the gathering economic storm clouds even though there were tens of thousands Federal employees working in economic related government entities including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Treasury department, the federal reserve, HUD, FDIC, Senate and House banking and finance committees, etc.

Of all these people and all these organizations, no one saw the economic mess that has engulfed us until it hit them in the face.

- The current administration has introduced so much economic uncertainly into the market, e.g. what will the health care reform bill actually cost business and consumers, will the Bush tax cuts go away or be renewed, will other taxes be raised and how much, will it be inflation or deflation that we all have to deal with, etc., that both businesses and consumers have reduced their from spending due to this uncertainty/fear factor, with the uncertainty locking up the economy.

- Combine these failures with the fact that the political class is spending so much money that our national debt is approaching alarming levels, having just exceeded $13 TRILLION, you really have to wonder what economic novices are running the country today.

Economic programs that do not increase economic activity, economic programs that are wasteful and inefficient, and government economic resources that do not see economic trouble before it occurs: certainly looks like amateur hour in Washington.

Obviously, a few major steps and changes have to occur in order to get

the amateurs out of Washington: Step 1 - start downsizing government functions by 10% a year for five years. This step would reduce the number of insane and wasteful program such as Cash For Clunkers and get the political class focused on fewer but more impactful economic policies and programs. In other words, less people and less bureaucracy should result in less stupid economic policies that government entities launch to protect their turf and justify their existence, all of which are failures.

Step 2 - systematically but fairly relieve all Congressional members of their committee posts if those committees fail to execute their jobs satisfactorily. In this area, all Congressional members sitting on House and Senate committees responsible for housing, finance, and Treasury should have been relieved of their committee posts for their amateurish handling of the recent economic crisis.

- Step 3 - term limits, as provided under this step, would ensure that the same economic hacks currently sitting in Congress would be gone in a relatively short time and not be allowed to continually perpetrate these stupid and failed economic programs and policies on the American taxpayer.

While ‘American Idol”, for this generation, and “Ted Mack’s Original Amateur Hour”, for the older generation, may prove entertainment, the economic amateurs in Washington are not entertainment, they are economically destructive and wasteful. Time to get some pros involved and dump the incumbents in November.

About The Author Walter “Bruno” Korschek is the author of the book, “Love My Country, Loathe My Government Fifty First Steps To Restoring Our Freedom and Destroying The American Poloitical Class,” which is available at www.loathemygovernment.com or online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Our daily dialog on freedom in America can be joined at www.loathemygovernment.blogspot.com.

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