Desert Star Weekly June 7, 2023 issue!

desert STAR

Stars on Ice

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

The Acrisure Arena, located in the heart of the Desert, recently hosted a highly anticipated event showcasing the awe-inspiring talents of Professional Olympic Champion Medalists, US medalists,

and dance champions. The event was an unforgettable experience for Coachella Valley residents and anyone keen on witnessing Olympic skaters perform live. The show was thrilling, with the skaters effortlessly twirling at incredible

speeds while the dancing skaters were mesmerizing to watch. The event drew in over 3,000 attendees, including children, who were amazed by the skaters’ abilities and grace. This unforgettable performance was all part of

the 2023 Stars On Ice Tour.

During his final tour, Kurt Browning, a Canadian icon, wowed audiences with his impressive jumps and twirls. After 30 years and over 1000 performances, Browning demonstrated why he is so

highly regarded. The show began with all twelve skaters on the ice at once before each skater showcased their individual maneuvers and lined up together at the end.

Rehabilitation Ranch for Dogs Becoming a Reality

H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation presents $25,000 to California Paws Rescue

By Desert Star Staff

Palm Desert, Calif. – A

H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation grant will advance the creation and expansion of California Paws Rescue Ranch and Rehabilitation Center in Whitewater. When complete, the Ranch will accommodate up to 60 dogs with individual units and on-site caretakers.

“This Ranch is truly a dream come true,” said Lori Weiner, Founder of California Paws Rescue. “I am so grateful to the Berger Foundation, KESQ, and the

many donors and volunteers that have made this unique project possible so that California Paws Rescue can do its part to help with the current national shelter overcrowding crisis.”

Weiner founded California Paws Rescue in 2011, and since then, the organization has saved and adopted out 1,500 at-risk, deathrow dogs with the help of volunteers by providing safe environments, healthcare, and training. In addition, the

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Paul Poirer and Piper Gilles. Photo by Pat Krause.

Indycar Brings Motorsports to the Desert see page 5

MUSIC

BY ROBERT KINSLER

A Trio of Terrific Listens Await

In this column, I highlight two notable new releases as well as an important album title I somehow overlooked in 2022.

Artist: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

Title: Council Skies — Deluxe Edition (Sour Mash Record) You might like if you enjoy: Oasis, Blur, Johnny Marr

Tell me more: The Deluxe Edition of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ Council Skies is a true masterpiece; the marathonlength set runs approximately 100 minutes and includes 24 tracks — a mix of new studio recordings, instrumental versions, remixes and live radio sessions. Spectacular songcraft is at the heart of the collection, an uplifting listen even when Gallagher and company are captured amidst their most introspective and quiet forays (just listen to “There She Blows!” and “Don’t Stop...”). The aptly-titled “I’m Not Giving Up Tonight” is anthemic with a

rousing chorus and burgeoning arrangement that artfully builds across the song’s bewitching run. The melancholy-mining

“Dead To The World” showcases Gallagher’s signature vocals (including his tender falsetto) in an especially plaintive offering.

The glorious symphony-flavored

“Open The Door, See What You Find” and “Trying To Find A World That’s Been And Gone

Pt. 1,” soaring “Easy Now,”

Beatlesque rocker “Love Is A Rich Man” and reflective “Think Of A Number” are other gems on disc one of the set. The sumptuous melody-adorned

“We’re Gonna Get There In The End,” genuinely inspired version of John Lennon’s “Mind Games,” a Robert Smith-remix of “Pretty Boy” and live radio station performance of Bob Dylan’s “You Ain’t Going’ Nowhere” are among the riches on disc two.

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds is currently on tour with Garbage and Metric; the tour includes upcoming stops at the

Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on June 9, at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in San Diego on June 10, and at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre in Phoenix, AZ on June 11. Information: noelgallagher.com.

Artist: Metric

Title: Formentera (Metric Music Intl. / Thirty Tigers) You might like if you enjoy: The Album Leaf, Broken Social Scene, Chvrches, synthpop, indie rock

Tell me more: This writer somehow missed getting in a listen of Formentera around the time of its official release in July 2022, but with Metric headlining at Pappy & Harriet’s in Pioneertown at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 8 (as well as at a number of larger venues opening for Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and Garbage in the coming weeks), I wanted to catch up on the Toronto, Canada-spawned quartet’s latest album now. The eighth

studio release from Metric, the nine-track album challenges and rewards the listener at every turn. The ambitious electronica track “Doomscroller” — which clocks in at more than 10 minutes — is a particularly effective track, beginning with a haunting vibe before launching into a propulsive dance soundscape and then touching on other distinct sonic moodscapes along its creative path (including a pianoanchored break where Emily Haines’ wonderful soprano is purposefully poignant). The immersive “All Comes Crashing,” entrancing indie rocker “What Feels Like Eternity,” symphonicswept “Enemies of the Ocean” and ascending closer “Paths in the Sky” make for a magical and welcome introduction to the stellar talents of Haines (lead vocals, synthesizers, guitar), James Shaw (guitar, synthesizers, theremin, backing vocals), Joshua Winstead (bass, synthesizers, backing vocals) and Joules ScottKey (drums, percussion). Information: ilovemetric.com.

Artist: Jorma Kaukonen

Title: Live at the Bottom Line (Omnivore Recordings) You might like if you enjoy:

Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna, acoustic blues

Tell me more: Recorded live on Aug. 23, 2003, the new

Céline Dion cancels the world tour

By Desert Star Staff

All remaining dates of Céline Dion’s (55) “Courage World Tour” have been canceled today for this year and next.

The superstar cannot perform for health reasons. The press release from the concert promoter states, “Céline Dion continues to work hard on her recovery but is currently unable to prepare for the remainder of the tour adequately.”

She would have also given five concerts in Germany in

the spring of 2024. But the performances in Cologne, Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Mannheim are canceled!

“I am so sorry to disappoint you all once again. I’m working hard to regain my strength, but touring can be exhausting even when you’re 100% fit. It’s not fair to you guys to keep postponing shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best if we cancel everything now until I’m ready to be on stage again. I want

you all to know that I’m not giving up - and I can’t wait to see you again,” Dion explains.

The singer had performed the first 52 “Courage World Tour” concerts in North America until March 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic broke out. After that, the tour had to pause.

Already in December 2022, the singer postponed her tour then already once because of health problems. At the end of 2022, she announced in a moving video that she suffers

from a rare autoimmune disease, Stiff Person Syndrome. This neurological disease causes severe and persistent muscle spasms in the back and legs and is considered incurable.

Céline Dion is cared for and treated by a medical team, but the organizer’s

title Live at the Bottom Line is a fantastic concert recorded featuring legendary singerguitarist Jorma Kaukonen (Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna) accompanied by Barry Mitterhoff (mandolin, octave mandolin, tenor guitar, tenor banjo) and Cindy Cashdollar (steel guitar). Captured not long after the release of his 2002 Grammynominated album Blue Country Heart, this is truly a flawless mix of Americana, country, blues and folk music performed by a trio of virtuoso musicians. The buoyant “Blue Railroad Train” (which includes terrific mandolin playing from Mitterhoff), countrified Jimmie Rodgers nugget

“Waiting for a Train,” his beautiful original “Do Not Go Gentle” (written for Kaukonen’s father) and luxurious instrumental “Living in the Moment” are standouts on disc one. Disc two features an ambitious 11+ minute version of the traditional spiritual “Good Shepherd,” an uplifting country blues cover of Reverend Gary Davis’ “I Am the Light of This World” and masterful arrangement of the traditional “Hesitation Blues.” Two decades after this magical performance was staged at New York’s Bottom Line music venue, it’s great that a wider audience gets to hear the magic again. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

statements indicate concern. So what is the actual state of the singer’s health?

The press release says: “The promoter hopes that Céline will one day be able to visit all the planned tour cities in Europe to perform for her fantastic fans, but that time just hasn’t come yet.” This raises fears about whether Céline Dion will even be able to return to the stage. Let’s hope for the best!

This is how fans love Céline Dion when she sings “My heart will go on” on stage with her magnificent voice

Student Loan Program Benefits Low-Income Borrowers

By Desert Star Staff

A proposal from the federal government could provide a better path toward student loan debt repayment, but a new survey finds that many borrowers need to learn about this option.

While the fate of the Biden Administration’s debt erasure plan is in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court, income-driven repayment plans offer the next best option for former students. Through such programs, people pay based on their income rather than the amount they borrowed.

Lane Thompson, student loan ombuds for the Oregon Division of Financial

Regulation, said a U.S. Department of Education proposal would make this plan even more attractive.

“Let people keep a higher percentage of their earned income, be a smaller percentage of monthly income, and allow for forgiveness after ten years, rather than 20 or 25,” Thompson outlined.

However, a survey from New America found that the people who would benefit most from income-driven repayment plans do not know they exist. According to the report, more than 40% of low-income borrowers had not heard of the projects.

Thompson stressed

that it is a problem.

“It is an issue that more folks don’t know about these,” Thompson noted. “I think it would benefit everybody if we knew more about the income-driven repayment plans as borrowers.”

Thompson added that borrowers also should know about the Fresh Start program. The temporary program gets people out of default and removes the default from their credit report. Borrowers need to contact their loan provider to access the program.

Loan repayment is likely to begin later this summer.

Suing to Stop Robocall Scams

By Desert Star Staff Attorney General

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & MANAGING EDITOR

Max Liebermann

OFFICE MANAGER

Mindy Salas

ART DIRECTOR

Dina Rivera

CONTRIBUTORS

Beverly Cohn, Janice Gough, Kelly G. Richardson, Madeline Zuckerman, Pamela Price, Pat Krause, Risa D’Angeles, Richard Rowland, Robert Kinsler, Theda Kleinhans Reichman

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pat Krause

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES

Please Call 760-671-6604

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Arlette Capel Desert Star Weekly 13279 Palm Drive Suite 4 & 5, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 760-671-6604

Bonta Announces Lawsuit Against Telecommunications Company over Billions of Illegal Robocalls. An Estimated 577 Million Robocalls were Sent to California Telephone Numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is part of a group of 49 attorneys general suing Avid Telecom for facilitating billions of illegal robocalls, including scams related to Social Security, Medicare, and employment. This legal action is a result of the Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force launched by Bonta last year. Two examples of unlawful robocalls can be found on provided links.

Avid Telecom has been accused of delivering billions of robocalls, violating federal and state laws. The People’s Attorney is taking action to hold them accountable. Despite the National Do Not Call Registry, robocalls continue to harm consumers.

The Attorney General of the multistate coalition has filed a complaint against Avid Telecom for several misconducts. Attorney General Bonta has alleged that Avid Telecom violated multiple laws, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, Telemarketing Sales Rule, Truth in Caller ID Act, and California’s Unfair Competition Law. These violations include making calls using automated systems or prerecorded voices to cellular phones, engaging in abusive and deceptive practices, transmitting false caller-ID information, and sending many illegal robocalls to California.

In filing today’s complaint, Attorney General Bonta joined the attorneys general of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas,

Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia.

A copy of the lawsuit can be found (at https:// oag.ca.gov/system/

files/attachments/pressdocs/Conformed%20 Complaint_Avid.pdf)

We’re in a drought. We all need to reduce our water use by 15 percent. That’s about 12 gallons per person per day.

It’s easier than you think. Check with your water agency to see what rebates are available, to save water, money, and beautify your home!

For more ways to save, visit CVWaterCounts.com Counts.com.

PLANETS GUARDING & GUIDING

HUMANITY EACH DAY OF THE WEEK

We are in Gemini now, learning new things. Gemini is the sign of curiosity, of naming things, and learning what relates to what. In terms of things being related, there is a relationship between the planets and the days of the week.

Planets and stars carry frequencies that influence us. Each day of the week is named after a planet which offers us different and expanded experiences and opportunities. Therefore each day of the week, like each of us, is distinct and unique. The planets each day guard, direct and guide humanity. What are they?

Wednesday - Mercury’s day. With Mercury (Ray 4 of Harmony emerging out of conflict and chaos) we come upon new ideas, learn new things, talk a lot, apply discernment to all thoughts, words and actions.

Thursday is Jupiter’s day of Love/ Wisdom (Ray 2). Jupiter teaches us to be loving, expansive, wise and generous. The New Group of World Servers prepare in meditation for the Reappearance of Christ (Aquarian World Teacher whose precipitation begins 2025). Chaos and conflicts in the world always presage the appearance of a World Teacher, carrying a fiery sword and the Rule of Law.

Friday, Venus (Ray 5 of Truth, (unbiased) Science and Concrete Knowledge) guides us towards beauty and kindness. Venus unifies all separations. Our God came from Venus. (which begins to retrograde July 23 this year).

Saturday’s name is really Saturn (Ray 3 of Divine Intelligence), the Teacher, who guarded and guided the Jewish people through their 40 years

RISA’S STARS

in the desert. Saturn is the Dweller on the Threshold (karma) seeking the Angels of the Presence (Venus). We learn more, clarify all matters, complete our past week with gratitude under Saturn.

Sunday, the Sun’s Day. A golden day of rest, reflection, ease, comfort and contemplating the week ahead. We do the Sun Salutation (yoga).

Monday – the moon (Ray 4) watches over humanity calling us to nourish and nurture ourselves and others. Previously, Monday was wash day.

Tuesday – Mars (Ray 6) - all actions, hopes, dreams, wishes are expressed with kindness, and in a rhythmic regulatory way, creating Goodwill which uplifts and transforms all that it touches. Each day we contact these planets. They are actually Great Beings. At the end of each day, because of them, we see that our days were good. Note: Next Wednesday is Flag Day. Their symbols and colors represent the spirit, visions and aspirations of the people the flag flies over.

ARIES: Being creative is a selfidentity. Creativity seeks you every moment, calling you to initiate new endeavors that respond to all the changes coming your way in terms of work, how you’re recognized, relationships and self-identity, which is more than you think. Observe everything with calmness. Tend to health with a focus on proper digestion (probiotics, enzymes, green foods, etc.). Stand at the center of dispassion with heart aflame yet still.

TAURUS: Something at home and something about your relationship must hold your focused attention. There’s much to be done here. Ask

yourself what the bigger picture is concerning your life, home, geography, relationships, partnerships. Careful if working in the hot sun. You may not be absorbing enough water. Maintain proper and adequate electrolytes each day. Something challenges you, calling you to consider other realities. Cultivate joy. It changes others.

GEMINI: Mercury, the Messenger is your personal planet that guards and guides you. A line of love light streams directly into your mind and heart. It creates a framework within that unifies all dualities and polarities but only if you love (Ray 2) more, which happens when enough information has been gathered. Study and gather facts on finances, resources, gold and silver, land, gardens, and foods that sustain.

CANCER: Communication may be difficult and you may feel anger and frustration. Simultaneously others could be acting out those feelings for you. There’s a situation with money. Whatever you offer a gate opens. Always what you give is returned tenfold. That’s a cosmic law. Is there a wound or hurt occurring? Something you don’t understand and it’s limiting you? A cold laser light would help.

LEO: Sitting amidst your Sun is the past providing you with an opportunity to consider forgiveness as a healing path. Gratitude is walking hand in hand with forgiveness. These ask that you value every person, event and occurrence in your life. When you’re able to understand and work on these, a new breath of life fills you and anything that restricts and obstructs disappears.

VIRGO: As you begin new projects, navigate through them slowly, allowing yourself deep rest so your

physical body, emotions and mind can restructure, integrate fresh thoughts, ideas and new realities. We need this reorientation several times in our lives so new values and inner resources can emerge from spiritual sources. There is a deep gestation occurring within. It’s the Soul seeking to more fully direct your personality. Just say yes...and a magical transformation happens.

LIBRA: You jump between home and work, attempting to be fully present in both. Emotions pull you home for there is a deep need for rest. Both home and work offer comfort in different ways. Daily life seems complicated at times with relationships ever-shifting. Are you stretched out on a cross, attention called in multiple directions? Nothing’s consistent. You’re learning how to navigate the waters of change. Return to the foundations of your upbringing. Understanding slowly emerges.

SCORPIO: Try not to be careless when communicating about people’s lives. Maintain ethics within the constant variations of reality. Your values have shifted so now you’re evaluating interactions. This is good. Home is dissolving and coming together simultaneously, so you seek comfort within groups. A wound seems to come from the past/future settling in the present. Don’t worry about these strange occurrences. They are normal in times of reorientation.

SAGITTARIUS: There is a need to focus on finances, valuations, money and resources. Questions appear concerning what it is you truly value. It’s good to create a list of values and principles concerning all aspects of life; personal, professional, political, public, possessions, people. Who do you

value? And why? What do you value, in terms of relationships and communication? And why? Your inner self needs to be discovered more deeply and so these questions are posed. Pluto in Aquarius is asking.

CAPRICORN: An illumination, a fruition, a completion and then a new beginning occurs simultaneously. Do you (like Libra) feel stretched upon a cross, called in four directions? The direction of others, of partnerships, colleagues; of work and being recognized in the world, of home, family and daily realities, and finally yourself (where are you)? This can all feel very complex. Acknowledge all realities. Place an angel at each of the four directions in your home and garden. Stand at the center of the cross and willingly, intelligently and lovingly direct those angels to assist you.

AQUARIUS: Each day seems filled with responsibilities, tasks, errands, restorations, healing and strivings for the purpose of comfort, care and nurturance. On the other hand a dreaminess seems to permeate your days and nights. Your choices and relationships become more important and you wonder if you need to learn new and different communication skills. The answer is yes. Ones that are less strict and more conciliatory. Listen deeply to what others are saying. Reflect their words back to them. This has magical results.

PISCES: As you step more into the world, new abilities are called forth that awaken both your sense of selfidentity and your ability to direct, teach, work with and serve others. All of these “others” need nurturing. They are the “little ones” (seekers). And you’re the one recognized as having the needed teaching and nurturing qualities. You may feel a great tension and unease of not being in the right place. Yet you must continue forward. Something will change soon. Quietly and bravely carry on.

Be Prepared for the Possibility of Election By Acclamation

By Kelly G. Richardson, Esq. CCAL

Last year

HOAs received a very helpful new tool with the enactment of Civil Code Section 5103 – election by acclamation. This allows HOAs to cancel their balloting and declare the candidates to be elected to the board if certain qualifications are met. However, the acclamation procedure is not automatic, and the HOA must meet all of the requirements of this new statute.

Number of nominated candidates: The number of nominated candidates must be equal to or less than the number of open seats. So, for example, if 3 seats are up for election, and 1,2, or 3 members are nominated, then acclamation could be used.

At least 1 successful election in prior 3 years: Per Civil Code Section 5103(a), there must have been one completed election during the three years prior to the voting in the current election process. If the HOA meeting has failed for lack of quorum three or more years in a row, acclamation will unavailable until there is a successful election.

Two notifications to members (5103(b)): Two new notices must be given to the membership, each notice stating the number of open seats in the upcoming election, the nominations deadline, how nominations are submitted, and that the board might seat

the candidates by acclamation if the number of candidates does not exceed the number of open seats. The second notice to members must also list any candidates already nominated at the time of the second notice. Both notices must be individually sent to all membersso preserving the acclamation option requires two additional postal mailings (except for members who have consented to electronic communications). The first notice must be sent at least 90 days before the nominations deadline, so if your HOA usually allows a 30 day nominations period, the first notice must go out at least 60 days prior to the opening of nominations. The second notice is a reminder notice that must be sent between 7 and 30 days before nominations close, so if the HOA uses a 30 day nominations period, this notice could be combined with the call for candidates.

Notifications to nominators and nominees:

The HOA must respond by mail or email within 7 days with an acknowledgement to the nominator and an announcement to the nominee. If the nominee is ineligible, that must be explained to the nominee in the notification.

Acclamation is not automatic: Per Civil Code 5103(e), the board may vote to consider the candidates elected by acclamation. Acclamation still requires a board vote to complete the process, and the published agenda for

that meeting must include the name of each qualified candidate who will be seated if acclamation is approved.

HOAs should plan their election calendar at least six months before the annual election date, to preserve the option of election by acclamation. Counting backwards, the HOA needs at least: 30 days for voting, 30 days for nominated candidates announcement, 30 days for call for candidates, and 60 more days before the call for candidates for the first election announcement under Section 5103(b) – that is a total of 5 months. So, plan ahead to preserve the potential benefits of election by acclamation.

HOAs may also want to consider updating their election rules to add the acclamation process and deadlines.

Dusty Wings Presents Check to Tools For Tomorrow

By Desert Star Staff

Dusty Wings board president Carrie Coons and vice-president Althea Heagy presented an $8,000 check to Tools For Tomorrow’s board president Judith Antonio at their luncheon at Chaparral County Club. Antonio expressed gratitude for Dusty Wings’ support of TFT’s free after-school arts literacy program in Coachella Valley elementary schools.

Dusty Wing’s board president-elect Jean Carrus introduced TFT’s executive director Andrea Hecht, who spoke about how volunteers can assist teachers in the classrooms ensuring students feel “seen,” help with social media (especially by taking photos and videos), assemble

art kits, and more. In addition, TFT supporters can attend July 23 “Christmas in July” brunch or dinner concert at The Roost Lounge in Cathedral City and enter creative holiday wreaths for the contest/auction. Finally, on February 26, 2024, TFT will honor Joe Giarrusso at its annual Gala. For more info on Tools for Tomorrow, visit toolsfortomorrow.org or call 760-601-3954.

Dusty Wings is a fellowship of airline flight attendants. Since its founding in 1983, Dusty Wings has donated approximately one million dollars to charities in the desert. For more info on Dusty Wings, contact Jean Carrus at jcc42230@gmail.com.

Indycar Brings Motorsports to the Desert

By Desert Star Staff

THERMAL, Calif. —

Hidden behind 18-foot noisecanceling walls, the rich folks of The Thermal Club drive their Ferraris and Porsches around a private track that might shape the future of a desert town. A temple to motorsports crossed with a ritzy country club, the personal property is about 45 minutes southeast of Palm Springs, and its residents – who have paid up to a $175,000 initiation fee if they want to live here – have their private airport for private jets.

For the first time, the NTT IndyCar Series made a practice run last week at The Thermal Club, which is not your average racetrack. Choosing the desert oasis to host America’s premier open-wheel racing series for its two days of preseason practice was a bold move that has generated rave reviews and introduced IndyCar to an audience of wealthy automotive enthusiasts with decent

capital and some good taste.

The 17-turn, 3.067-mile circuit – known as the North and South Palm Circuits –is a tight and tricky layout, with some turns so narrow that drivers have to use their mirrors to see if they are clear before accelerating in. Each team was allowed eight sets of Firestone Firehawk tires for the two-day test, and rookies received an extra set.

The series’ top drivers had plenty to work on. “The track is pretty technical and tough,” said Ed Carpenter Racing driver Conor Daly, who ran four laps. “Many corners are very close together, and the esses are tight. So the track is very demanding, and I think it will be a great challenge for us.”

Attending a racetrack in person is a thrilling experience, but don’t worry if you can’t make it - watching the race on TV can be just as exciting! Plus, you can see an aerial perspective of the drivers’ experience.

Chris Metz, Jean Carrus, Judith Antonio, Althea Heagy, Carrie Coons, Andrea Hecht and Sue Fromkin celebrate Dusty Wings’ Tools For Tomorrow check; photo by Mary K. Dana

With members’ houses in the background, Romain Grosjean navigates the turns of The Thermal Club in his No. 28 Dallara-Honda

A Riveting Revival of the Pulitzer Prize-Winning “A Soldier’s Play”

Murder mysteries, whether cinematic or theatrical, are one of the most popular subjects. The list is quite long, from Agatha Christie’s series to James Crumley’s, The Last Good Kiss, ranked as perhaps the most influential crime novel of the past century. However, one of the most compelling murder mysteries is Charles Fuller’s military drama A Soldier’s Play, which premiered on Broadway in 1981. His brilliant work received the Pulitzer Prize in 1982, scoring a 2020 Tony for Best Revival of a Play.

The Roundabout Theatre Company’s production, helmed by Kenny Leon’s sharp, immaculate direction, begins inside a military barracks in Ft. Neal, Louisiana, set designed by Derek McClane. A spotlight by lighting designer Allen Lee Hughes hovers over each of the immaculate army cots. The action begins with a single voice softly singing a chain gang or a Mississippi “Negro Prison Song,” with its pulsating rhythms, grunts, and groans. Slowly, other voices join in, volume increases, and thus begins two hours of an intriguing hunt for the killer of Sergeant Vernon C. Waters, a black non-commissioned racist officer fabulously characterized by Eugene Lee. He hates his race and threatens the black soldiers with utter contempt and cruelty that many people might have killed him - from the Ku Klux Klan to one of his men.

Although you might say his wish for black people to hold better places in society is wonderful, his message is antagonistic. In one of his temper tantrums, he screams that every Black person should

set an example, “We need lawyers, doctors, generals, senators!” Since the murder occurred in the Jim Crow South in 1944, the first assumption was that the killing was at the hands of the KKK. However, one sign that something was amiss was that those white hooded killers always stripped the murdered black bodies of any military insignias, which, in this case, were all still intact on Waters’ body. Systemic racism was prevalent, but the black enlisted men, excellent baseball players from the Negro Leagues, were sent to play against local semipro and industrial teams. Despite their “standing,” they are not allowed weapons, and whatever their rank, they are forced to perform menial tasks. The story moves back and forth in time, and black-hating Waters has it out for one soldier in particular - a sweet, gentle guitar player and singer, Private C. J. Memphis, well-portrayed by Sheldon D. Brown. This gentle giant will tug at your heartstrings as he is framed for the murder by Waters, which lands him in the brig. This gentle soul is used to wide-open outdoor spaces, and his confinement has dire consequences. As was expected, the top brass wanted to bury the murderer. Still, white

Lieutenant Charles Taylor, wellplayed by William Connell, insists that there be an investigation and reports the incident to higher-ups.

Enter Captain Richard Davenport, magnificently played by superstar Norm Lewis. His mellifluous voice and onstage presence leap the footlights. As an audience member, you hang onto his every word. Now, Lieutenant Taylor, shocked

at Davenport’s race, faces this brilliant MP officer, who outranks and tries to talk him into assigning someone else to the investigation. However, he is a no-nonsense officer, pulls rank on Taylor, and, in short order, begins interviewing the men assigned to Waters. The actors playing the men on the baseball team are a tightly knit ensemble, each delivering an outstanding performance. They are Will Adams (Corporal Bernard Cobb,) Tarik Lowe (Private First Class Melvin Peterson,) Alex Michael Givens (Corporal Ellis,) Branden Davon Lindsay (Private Louis Henson,) Howard W. Overshown (Private James Wilkie,) Malik Esoj Childs (Private Tony Smalls,) Chattan Mayes Johnson (Lieutenant Byrd,) and Matthew Goodrich (Captain Wilcox). As

the investigation heats up, with unexpected twists and turns, the identity of the murderer will keep you in suspense as you navigate through the layered story until the ending dénouement.

Fuller’s play is what you might call a “chestnut” as it traveled through time well intact and currently Jermaine. Unfortunately, the racist issues illuminated in “A Soldier’s Play” still affect the African-American community, but the closing dialogue predicts a better future for black Americans. After Captain Davenport successfully concludes the murder investigation, Captain Taylor admits, “I was wrong about Negroes being in charge… I guess I’ll have to get used to it.” Putting on his sunglasses, Davenport replies, “Oh, you’ll

get used to it – you can bet your sweet ass on that, captain. You will get used to it.”

‘A Soldier’s Play

Ahmanson Theatre

135 N. Grand Avenue

Los Angeles: CA 90012

Written by: Charles Fuller

Starring: Norm Lewis

Directed by: Kenny Leon

Additional Production Team:

Costumes: Dede Ayite

Sound: Dan Moses Schreier

Tuesdays - Fridays:: 8:00 pm

Saturdays: 2:00 pm & 8:00 pm

Sundays: 1:00 pm & 6:30 pm

Closing: Sunday, June 25, 2023

Running Time: 2 Hours – one intermission

Tickets: $40 - $155 (213)972-4400 or centertheatregroup.org

Rehabilitation Ranch for Dogs Becoming a Reality

Continued from Page 1

organization reaches out to underserved shelters to help lost, abused, abandoned, special needs, and behavioral dogs, many of whom suffered traumatic experiences. The 6-acre rehabilitation space is a sanctuary for the animals and helps prepare them for adoption with socialization training.

“California Paws Rescue Ranch and Rehabilitation Center are saving dogs from euthanasia for the benefit of both the animals and the families that provide them forever homes,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. “Their program is very different from anything else in the area.”

So far, the organization has completed phase one of the Ranch, where ten dogs are currently living and receiving veterinary services and training. The completed project will include play yards, (60) 8x12-foot insulated dog cottages with air conditioners, agility equipment, and pools for exercise and mental and physical stimulation.

“California Paws Rescue is giving dogs a special space where they can recuperate after being rescued from poor living conditions or tight quarters at shelters,” said Jerry Upham, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3 and KPSP CBS Local 2.

California Paws Rescue was featured on News Channel 3’s “Eye on the

Desert” in public service announcements and on kesq. com throughout May. To learn

more about California Paws Rescue and its Ranch and Rehabilitation Center, go to

www.californiapawsrescue. org or call 760-656-3833.

(L-R) Sheldon D. Brown, Branden Davon Lindsay, and Will Adams in “A Soldier’s Play” on stage through June 25, 2023.

Stars on Ice

Continued from Page 1

A young skater made her debut on the tour with a beautiful routine. Following this was a performance by Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier as

dance partners, with impressive lifts and speed. Each routine was exciting to watch.

The atmosphere was electric as the crowd cheered on the skaters at the rink. Nathan Chen, the US Olympic Champion,

wowed everyone with his impressive twirls and double jumps and even amazed the audience with a back flip in midair. Another skater added to the excitement by tossing his partner while dancing. It was indeed a

thrilling spectacle to watch!

Skaters included Nathan Chen, Kurt Browning, Dance Champions Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier, Japanese Champion Satoko Miyahara, 2022 World Junior Champions

Ilia Malinin and Isabeau Levito, Olympic Medalists Alexa Knierim, Brandon Frazier, Madison Chock, Evan Bates, and Jason Brown. This is something everyone should see if they are asked to return.

Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week Opens with International Choices

Executive Chef of Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa and Sandy Josephson, V P of foods and beverages all the Agua Caliente Casinos.

By Pamela Price

Hungry for new flavors?

June 2 to 11 presents a culinary week of desert dining opportunities for “foodie” fans armed with knives, forks, and spoons. Over 80 dessert restaurants participated in Restaurant Week this year, offering custom lunch, dinner, or both menus. From the Backstreet Bistro on Palm Desert’s El Paseo to The Vue Grille & Bar and Waldo’s Ristorante, also in Palm Desert, participating restaurants are offering customized two-course menus at $15, $25, and $35 at lunch. Family Mexican recipes with a fresh and healthy twist define Chula Artisan Eatery. Their menu reveals madefrom-scratch tamales and gluten-free sweets at $25.

The breaking news for 2023 is a new category for breakfast and brunch plus a

category for “special offers,” such as enabling restaurants to present wine pairings and supplemental dishes at an additional charge. For example, The French Rotisserie Cafe specializes in artisanal, bistro-style French home cooking. Menus are $15/$35 for lunch and $39 for dinner.

The complete list of participating restaurants is available at dineGPS.com.

Diners can also use the website to book their reservations. For every reservation booked via the DineGPS website, one dollar will be donated to FIND Food Bank. In addition, more excellent Palm Springs Restaurant Week will be followed by the launch of the Summer Eats Pass, a free mobile pass providing even more ways for food lovers to enjoy summer dining with weekly prize drawings.

The Eats Pass is available June 12- September.

From beer-battered avocados on the menu at the Vue Grille and Bar to

Scallopini Marsala at Waldo’s Ristorante, this year’s delicious lineup in collaboration with presenting sponsor Agua Caliente Casinos reveals a

variety of dining experiences across Greater Palm Springs waiting to be discovered and savored. Bon appetit!

Paul Poirer and Piper Gilles. Photo by Pat Krause

Photo by Pat Krause

Nathan Chen. Photo by Pat Krause

Carlos Hernandez and Waldo Cesoni Owner of Waldos Restorante and Bar. Photo by Pat Krause

Gabriela Franco DHS’s Choice for Favorite Chef

By Desert Star Staff

The heat is on for culinary experts, professional chefs, and home cooks worldwide to sharpen their knives and compete for the ultimate prize. The 2023 Favorite Chef Competition will be powered by Colossal Management, LLC, a nationally registered professional fundraiser, and will benefit James Beard Foundation.

The upcoming Favorite Chef Competition under Colossal promises to be even more exciting than before. Notably, Carla Hall, a twotime ‘Top Chef’ contender, author, television host, and

advocate for child-hungerfocused charities, has joined as the Competition host. Her lively and candid personality will give contestants valuable industry insights and advice to improve their skills on their Favorite Chef journey.

The competition’s grand prize is an exclusive cooking experience with Hall at Platform by the James Beard Foundation, situated in the heart of New York City’s Pier 57. This one-on-one, in-person experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Additionally, the lucky winner will receive a substantial cash prize of $25,000 and will

Palm Springs

be prominently featured in a two-page Taste of Home Magazine advertorial.

Make Gabriela Franco your Favorite Chef!

Gabriela Franco is thrilled to have been chosen for the Favorite Chef Competition. She sees this as an opportunity to improve her skills and network with other chefs. In addition, winning would allow her to care for her disabled veteran husband as he undergoes additional surgeries. By voting for Gabriela Franco, Desert Hot Springs will gain recognition in the culinary world within the Coachella Valley.

LGBTQ Center Appoints Mike Thompson as CEO

By Desert Star Staff

Great news, everyone!

We wanted to share that Mike Thompson is back as the CEO of the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert. He was the CEO from 2014 to 2021 and did a fantastic job. He’s well-known in the Coachella Valley, and we’re excited to have him back.

During his time at The Center, Mike was pivotal in achieving the organization’s most prosperous and productive phase and overseeing the transition from The Sun Center to our

present location. This resulted in increased services for the eastern Coachella Valley and successful navigation through the pandemic. Mike is a proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma. He has also served on the national boards of GLAAD and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Before his current role, Mike was the Chief Impact Officer for CenterLink, a global network of LGBTQ centers.

During his last six years of leadership, Mike has crafted a diverse and well-trained staff

that he now returns to lead. He is a strategic thinker who understands how to transform policy into actionable, quantitative campaigns. He is an expert at mentoring and coaching people, resulting in seven who worked for him becoming executive directors. He is also an expert in nonprofit organizational development and fundraising.

The Center is ecstatic to have Mike on board, as he possesses the necessary skills and drive to lead us into a new era. His leadership style involves recognizing and

nurturing each employee’s strengths, enabling them to reach their full potential. Mike firmly believes that success can be achieved by harnessing one’s inner tenacity, ability to connect with others, and passion. His return to The Center and Coachella Valley has brought boundless joy to everyone involved. Mike is a highly valued community member, and we eagerly anticipate embarking on this exciting journey with him.

Palm Springs is considered one of the most LGBTQfriendly places in the world.

Teachers’ Union Calls for Social Media Investigation

By Desert Star Staff

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is brushing off calls to investigate its social media platforms’ effect on children’s mental health.

Last week shareholders rejected a proposal to hire an independent law firm to evaluate the effectiveness of Meta’s audit and risk oversight committee.

The resolution alleges that the company regularly breaks pledges to remove content harmful to children.

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten spoke out in favor of the resolution.

“In classrooms and communities across the country,” said Weingarten, “AFT members are witnessing firsthand the impact of students suffering from anxiety, bullying, trauma, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders - as a direct result of exposure to images on Instagram, as well as the violence glorified on Meta’s platforms.”

Meta’s proxy statement advised a “no” vote, saying the company already prohibits harmful content and provides parents tools to monitor their children’s activity online.

Last week the U.S. Surgeon General issued a 19page advisory on adolescent social media use, saying it predicts a decrease in life satisfaction for girls 11 to 13 years old and boys 14 to 15.

Weingarten is a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Council. The labor organization’s pension fund

holds significant shares in the company, and it introduced the resolution at last week’s Meta shareholder’s meeting.

She said we need more clarity on what Meta is doing to protect children.

“While Meta’s audit and risk oversight committee is charged with evaluating risks,” said Weingarten, “shareholders have no idea how the committee operates, what information it considers or whether it just cedes its authority entirely to CEO Mark Zuckerberg.”

But, despite its fame as a destination where LGBT people travel, vacation, and retire, some of the city’s most vulnerable residents do not have access to the programs and services that The Center offers.

The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert 1301 N Palm Canyon Dr #301, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-416-7790

Website: https:// thecentercv.org

The White House recently called for changes, alleging that Meta uses “manipulative design techniques embedded in their products to promote addictive and compulsive use by young people to generate more revenue.”

The Federal Trade Commission is calling for a ban on collecting young children’s data.

Disclosure: American Federation of Teachers contributes to our fund for reporting on Education, Health Issues, Livable Wages/Working Families, and Social Justice.

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PSWIFT Women in Film and Television

Story and Photos by Pat Krause Palm Springs Women in Film and Television, PSWIFT, brought Beverly Johnson, an American Icon in the modeling world, to the Stage at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, formerly the Camelot. PSWIFT offers several programs, events, and scholarships to the Coachella Valley, among other things. They have produced three short films and 6 Episodes of PS After Dark by empowering Men and Women. In addition, they promote those involved in the entertainment and media world. Kim Waltrip thanked the Palm Springs Cultural

Center for hosting the show. The Olympic Gold medalist, Dorothy Hamill, spoke to the crowd and introduced Beverly Johnson to the Stage. Beverly Johnson is more than a model who has graced the cover of more than 500 magazines. She is an actress, singer, author, businesswoman, fashion icon, entrepreneur, award winner, mother, and grandmother. She is the first woman of color to be on the cover of VOGUE magazine. Also the first of many bodies for a woman of color. Her show started by showing many firsts for women of color on

screen, including astronauts, pilots, writers, poets, lawyers, and judges. Other famous women’s photos are on the screen, like Rosa Parks, Maxine Waters, Mahalia Jackson, Oprah, Condolessa Rice, V P Kamala Harris, and First Lady Michelle Obama, to name a few.

Johnson also started her show with a photo on the screen of Bill Cosby and remarked with an expletive word for him. She accused Bill Cosby of spiking her drink and limping her body. She screamed and cursed at him, so he put her in a cab. She was luckier than some who

did not escape. She wrote her story in Vanity Fair magazine in hopes others would come forward about sexual abuse. She told her story in her show. She started her career as a model at 17, and her dream was to be on the cover of VOGUE when no one thought it would happen. It did in 1974. That was a turning point as most women on surfaces were blonde, blueeyed, and white. She told of meeting famous people like Arthur Ashe, Harry Belafonte, Elizabeth Taylor, and more. She was thrilled, excited, and nervous when meeting these famous people. Her show is

a biography of her life and rise to stardom. How she felt God had a hand in it.

The Mayor of Palm Springs, Christy Holstege, gave Johnson a proclamation that June 3rd would be Beverly Johnson Day. There was a meet and greet upstairs where fans met and took photos with her. Fans surrounded her and wished her well. She is still outstanding after five decades in her career; she was honored with the 405th Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars that was dedicated in 2016, and she is a resident in the Coachella Valley.

RMHS Teacher Named “2024 Teacher of the Year”

were all gathered to see her named as a 2024 Riverside County Teacher of the Year.

“Ms. Stevenson’s colleagues describe her as the lens that others look through to understand more of themselves,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, as he presented Ms. Stevenson with her award. “She builds relationships with others and makes connections to the real world for her students.”

Ms. Stevenson will join James Waedekin from Banning Unified School District, Lindsay Hill from Beaumont Unified School District, and Lorena Morales from Alvord Unified School District in representing Riverside County in the 2024 California State Teacher of the Year competition later this year.

“This is pretty awesome. But I do it for you. You guys are why,” Ms. Stevenson told the bleachers full of students immediately after receiving her award.”

About Marie Stevenson

approach to curbing “math anxiety” emanates from her experiences as a confused student who was afraid to participate in math class— even though she enjoyed the subject. As a result, she intentionally creates “lowpressure environments where mistakes are expected and valued, and creativity is lauded,” as she wrote in her application.

All four teachers of the year will represent Riverside County in the 2024 California Teacher of the Year competition, where at least one Riverside County teacher has been selected as a California Teacher of the Year in eight of the last ten years: 2022 – Nichi Aviña, Cielo Vista Charter School, Palm Springs USD

2021 – Keisa Brown, University Heights Middle School, Riverside USD, and Allison Cyr, Lyndon B. Johnson Elementary School, Desert Sands USD 2020 – Brenda ChavezBarreras, Good Hope Elementary School, Perris ESD 2019 – Dr. Angel Mejico, El Cerrito Middle School, Corona-Norco USD

2018 – Dr. Brian McDaniel, Painted Hills Middle School, Palm Springs USD 2017 – Shaun Bunn, Ethan A. Chase Middle School, Romoland School District 2016 – Michelle Cherland, Carrillo Ranch Elementary School, Desert Sands USD 2014 – Jessica Pack, James Workman Middle School, Palm Springs USD

By Desert Star Staff RANCHO

MIRAGE –

Rancho Mirage High School

math teacher Marie Stevenson agreed to volunteer as a judge for a lip sync battle in a colleague’s Friday morning dance class. Upon entering the

gymnasium, Ms. Stevenson discovered that the stage belonged to her as Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, and more than 100 students and Palm Springs Unified School District colleagues

Marie Stevenson is a 16-year veteran teaching mathematics to students from 8th through high school. An unyielding desire to help students feel like they can “do math” without fear drives her instructional methodology. This

Brian Milligan and Beverly Johnson. Photo by Pat Krause.

Marie Stevenson and Riverside County Supt of Schools Dr Edwin Gomez

Beverly Johnson receives her flowers. Photo by Pat Krause.