special event
Excelsior!
Comic book legend Stan Lee comes to Comic Con Palm Springs
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omic Con Palm Springs hosts comic book legend, Stan Lee for his first appearance in the desert. One of the godfathers of comics, Stan Lee is a comic book writer, editor, publisher, media producer, television host, actor, and former president and chairman of Marvel Comics. He co-created Spider-Man, the Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Thor, the X-Men, and many other iconic characters. “Booking Stan Lee to come to Palm Springs for the first time has been the highlight of the entire planning process” says Christopher Spellman, founder and executive producer of Comic Con Palm Springs. “His exclusive VIP events sold out within days, but there will still be chances for his fans and admirers to catch a glimpse or even a meet and greet with the legend!” Lee led the expansion of Marvel Comics from a small division of a publishing house to a large multimedia corporation. His cameos in Marvel movies are a beloved
feature of every film. Lee was inducted into the comic book industry’s Will Eisner Award Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Jack Kirby Hall of Fame in 1995, and received a National Medal of Arts in 2008. Comic Con Palm Springs will also feature the original Incredible Hulk, Lou Ferrigno, Bob Gunton (Daredevil), James Hong (Big Trouble in Little China), Sam Jones (Flash Gordon) and many others! Comic Con Palm Springs kicks off the weekend on Thursday night, August 25 with a private VIP party. Signature events include the Zombie Walk, Cosplay Contest, GEEKFEST, Symphony Pop LIVE, and a special screening of the newest Star Trek installment, Beyond. VIP tickets, three day passes, and Costume Party tickets are still available. Be apart of the first annual Comic Con Palm Springs on August 26 - 28 at the Palm Springs Convention Center, 277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs. For more information including tickets and schedule visit www.comicconpalmsprings.com.
Stan Lee
This Week
5 Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival 6 Rodney Carrington at Spotlight 29 Casino 7 Calendar of Events & Performances 8 Crossword
10 Curtain Time 12 The Jennifer Leitham Trio at CVRep 13 Old Town La Quinta Labor Day Block Party 18 Off the Vine: Vino Ladies Talk Wine 19 Dining: Escena Lounge and Grill 20 Celebrate the Music of The Beatles at Spotlight 29 Casino 22 History: Celebrating 100 Years of the Desert Labor Day at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, page 4
23 Nightlife 27 Film Review: “Hell or High Water”
TELL OUR ADVERTISERS YOU SAW THEM IN THE DESERT ENTERTAINER! 2 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
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attraction
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Observes extended holiday hours on Labor Day
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he Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate extended holiday hours on Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day. That day, the first Tram up will be at 8 a.m., the
last Tram up will be 8 p.m. and last Tram down will be at 9:45 p.m. Trams depart at least every 30 minutes. The Tramway’s “Early Friday” program ends September 2 and the regular Friday
4 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
schedule resumes September 9 with the first Tram up at 10 a.m. Also, September 3 is the end of the Tramway’s “Summer Hours” on Friday’s and Saturdays. Beginning Friday, September 9, the Tramway’s last car up daily will again be 8 p.m. and the last car down will be 9:45 p.m. The Mt. San Jacinto State Park’s will conduct “Family Days” on Monday, September 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Activities include making your own cougar skull, paper cut-outs, coloring pages and identifying skulls, skins and tracks. Join the park rangers at the bottom of the concrete trail in Long Valley for this free event. Finally, the Tramway’s popular Summer Pass ends August 31, but the Annual
Pass is now available for purchase either online (www.pstramway.com) or at the Tram’s Valley Station. The price is $160 for adults and $90 for children and includes 365 days of fun! The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram car. Opened in 1963, the Tram’s 80-passenger cars travel along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon from the Valley Station (elevation 2,643 ft.) to the Mountain Station (elevation 8,516 ft.) in approximately 10 minutes. Tickets to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway are $25.95 for adults, $23.95 for seniors (65+) and $16.95 for children (3-12). For more information, call (888) 515-TRAM or (760) 325-1391, or visit www.pstramway.com.
www.desertentertainer.com
special event
Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival All Star line-up
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Ann Hampton Callaway
ver the past four years one of the most impressive aspects of the Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival has been the gathering of the Jazz All-Star musicians and artists performing throughout the weekend. Over 20 of today’s jazz greats and rising-stars will gather for the Labor Day Weekend, September 2 – 4, to perform at the Annenberg Theater, Indian Canyons Golf Resort and Hard Rock Hotel. Recently honored by the City of Los Angeles with a Living Jazz Legend Award, Sweet Baby J’ai brings a wealth of experience and focus to her role as the Festival’s Artistic Director. She is celebrated for her creative and daring programming. SBJ’s penchant for paring the world’s most visible jazz artists with top-notch female musicians from around the country for a multi-day festival makes for many delightful surprises and musical discoveries for audiences and performers alike. “We have crafted a collection of extraordinary musicians merging jazz, blues and funk who will descend on Palm Springs over the Labor Day Weekend for a compelling musical tapestry,” said Sweet Baby J’ai. Many of the all-stars have albums of
their own as well an impressive list of artists that they have performed with both live and in-studio. Joining headliners Dee Dee Bridgewater and Ann Hampton Callaway, at the 2016 Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival include: Sweet Baby J’ai, Sabine Pothier, Sherry Luchette, Paula Atherton, Mimi Jones, Tina Raymond, Pam Trotter, Sunnie Paxson, Karen Hammack, Linda Taylor, Sascha Dupont, Cathy Segal-Garcia, Lesa Terry, Jane Getz, Rosalia de Cuba, Chelsea Stevens, Gennine Jackson, Maria Martinez and Carol Chaikin. These artists and more are part of the multi-day music festival featuring an all female line up taking place Friday through Sunday, September 2-4. The Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival is a non-profit 501c3 founded to promote women in jazz through education and events. Since 2013, the festival has hosted over 100 jazz musicians and performers, bringing a worldwide audience of jazz fans to Palm Springs. For Information on the Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival, go to www.palmsspringswomensjazzfestival.org or call (760) 416-3545.
O
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 5
entertainment
Rodney Carrington
Comedian to perform at Spotlight 29 Casino
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potlight 29 Casino is proud to present comedian Rodney Carrington live on the Spotlight Showroom stage on Saturday, September 3 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at www.Spotlight29. com. Spotlight 29 Casino’s Spotlight Showroom offers the premier entertainment experience in the Coachella Valley. Carrington is a multi-talented comedian, actor, singer and writer who recorded
nine major record label comedy albums, which have sold millions of copies. He recently released three new albums on his brand new record label called Laughter’s Good Records. An album of songs and material entitled Laughter’s Good debuted at #1 on the Overall Comedy Charts. The same week, the re-release of “Rodney Carrington Live, C’mon Laugh You Bastards” debuted at #2 on the Overall Comedy Charts. Carrington has been one of the top ten highest grossing touring comedians for the last ten years and among the top four or five the last several years. He is on track to be in the top five again in 2016 as he regularly performs to sold out crowds across the U.S. and Canada. Tickets are $35, $45 and $55 and they are available at www.Spotlight29.com, Star Tickets (800) 585-3737, or the Spotlight 29 Box Office and Gift Shop. This show is for mature audiences only. Doors open at 7 p.m. The show starts at 8 p.m. Spotlight 29 Casino is only minutes from Palm Springs, located just off of Interstate 10 at Dillon Road.
6 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
calendar
Events & Performances August 25 thru September 10 ONGOING ACTIVITIES
8/25 - 8/28
Certified Farmers’ Markets IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas Smithsonian traveling exhibition focusing on the seldomviewed history and complex lives of people of dual African American and Native American ancestry. Fee admission and free parking. Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, 219 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. (760) 778-1079, www.accmuseum.org. Palm Springs Historical Walking Tours 7 different walking tours including tours of downtown Palm Springs, historic neighborhoods with high concentrations of celebrity homes, mid-century modern commercial properties as well as inns. Visit www.pshistoricalsociety.org for description of tours, days and times. 221 S. Palm Canyon Dr. in the Village Green, Call for more information (760) 323-8297. Reservations required.
Certified Farmers’ Markets Fruits, vegetables, artisan food vendors and other products from California certified farms. Locations: Palm Springs, Saturdays at 8 a.m., 2300 Baristo Road. La Quinta, Sundays at 8 a.m., Old Town La Quinta at 78100 Main Street. VillageFest Every Thursday, 7 to 10 p.m. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, food, farmers’ market, downtown Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive. Stores along the street stay open late. (760) 320-3781. Palm Springs Vintage Market First Sunday of the month, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Experience a diverse gathering of merchants selling vintage, retro and mid century merchandise. Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo, Palm Springs. Visit www.palmspringsvintagemarket.com for more details.
FOR BAR, LOUNGE ENTERTAINMENT, SEE NIGHTLIFE ON PAGE 23. FOR THEATER LISTINGS, SEE CURTAIN TIME ON PAGE 8.
www.desertentertainer.com
Free Entrance Days at Joshua Tree National Park Fee-free days in honor of the Centennial of the National Park Service, provide a great opportunity to plan a visit to Joshua Tree National Park, come celebrate! Joshua Tree National Park, 74-485 National Park Dr., Twentynine Palms. www.nps. gov/findapark.feefreeparks.
8/26
9/1
Notes from the Desert: Summer Lecture Series 7 p.m. Documentarian and academic Kim Stringfellow lectures on her transmedia documentary “The Mojave Project” which highlights the multifacted experience of the Mojave Desert. RSVP. Ace Hotel & Swim Club, 701 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. (760) 325-9900, www.acehotel.com/ palmsprings.
Sizzling Summer Film Series: ‘Do The Right Thing’ 7 to 9 p.m. On the hottest day of the year on a street in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, everyone’s hate and bigotry smolders and builds until it explodes into violence. Free and open to the public. Annenberg Theatrer, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. www.psfilmfest.org/events.
A Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival 8 p.m. Free concert series featuring a tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival by Creedence Relived. Tortoise Rock Casino, 73-829 Baseline Road, Twentynine Palms. (866) 377.6829, www.tortoiserockcasino.com.
9/2 A Tribute to Journey 8 p.m. Free tribute concerts featuring a tribute to Journey by Journey Unauthorized. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 7755566, www.spotlight29.com.
9/2-9/4
8/26 - 8/28
8/27
Comic Con Palm Springs Featuring the first appearance in the desert of comic book legend Stan Lee and the original Incredible Hulk, Lou Ferrigno. Celebrity artist, cosplays and special guests. Palm Springs Convention Center, 277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs. (760) 507-1383, www.comicconpalmsprings.com.
Open Cockpit: Corsair 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sit inside the cockpit of a vintage Corsair, inside an air conditioned hangar. Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. (760) 778-6262, www.palmspringsairmuseum.org.
8/26 A Tribute to Pink Floyd 8 p.m. Free tribute concerts featuring a tribute to Pink Floyd by House of Floyd. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 775-5566, www.spotlight29.com.
Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival Featuring Ann Hampton Callaway, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Pamela Williams, Paula Atherton, Mimi Jones, Linda Taylor, a tribute to the divas brunch and jazz masters awards and much more. For tickets, schedule and packages, (760) 416-3545 or www.lucyandgail.com.
8/31
9/3
Classic Hollywood Film Series ‘Seven Samurai’ 8 p.m. Love the movies that made Hollywood great? Now you can see them again! Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs. (760) 325-6565, www. camelottheatres.com.
Rodney Carrington 8 p.m. Multi-talented comedian, actor, singer and writer who recorded nine major record label comedy albums, which have sold millions of copies. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 7755566, www.spotlight29.com.
9/3 Main Street Block Party 6 to 10 p.m. Free admission. Entertainment includes stilt walker, music by Basson, Lisa Lynn and The Country Gentlemen, and The Refills. Event Lawn, 78100 Main Street, La Quinta.(760) 600-0758, www.oldtownlaquinta.com.
9/9 - 9/11 Banning Stagecoach Days Professional Rodeo, live entertainment, food, beer and wine garden. Dysart Park, 2107 Victory Ave., Banning. www.stagecoachdays.net.
9/10 A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles 8 p.m. LA Cast of Beatlemania (one of longest running Beatles’ tribute band in the world) celebrating the music of The Beatles. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 775-5566, www. spotlight29.com. Desert Film Society: “Don’t Call Me Son” 9 a.m. California premiere of Brazilian film “Don’t Call Me Son.” Camelot Theatres, 2300 E. Baristo Rd., Palm Springs. (760) 770-0507, www.desertfilmsociety.com.
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 7
Crossword
51 Comics canine
12 Malt beverage
52 Al of the ‘50s Indians
13 Became peeved
Across
54 Cabbagelike vegetable
18 Judge’s title
1 Kind of cycle
55 LBJ daughter
23 Night spot
6 Preliminary text
57 “Dear God” band
25 Made out
11 Director Lee
59 Door sign
27 Cadavers
14 Freight
60 Angsty punk
28 Bee movie name
15 Creepy
61 Cuban bodybuilder nicknamed “The Myth”
29 Dresses down 32 Eastern
66 Oysters ___ season
38 Like some pancakes
19 Dirty dog
67 Spring sign
39 Comprehensive
20 Continue
68 Passed bad checks
40 “Beetle Bailey” dog
21 London lav
69 Fire
41 Clock sound
22 Levels
70 Miller rival
42 Intestinal ailment
24 Dock
71 Justice Kagan
46 Supplied
“100”
16 Graphic intro? 17 Summer 2016 sports event
26 Full-length 30 Biblical peak 31 Take to one’s heart
Down 1 Row
34 To pieces
48 Grandson of Noah 49 One after another? 50 “Gracias” reply
33 Ornamental shrub
2 Stockpiled
35 Tough wood
3 Worn away
36 Take in
4 Kind of trip
58 Pepsi rival
37 Golf peg
5 Opinion tester
62 Prohibition ___
38 Ham
6 Fiend
63 Sticking point?
42 Animation frame
7 Kind of theater
64 Some appliances
43 Some queens
8 “Exodus” man
65 Rapper ___ Kim
44 ___ Lanka
9 Fan ___ (literary genre)
45 Music sheet mark
10 Try
47 Had a yen
11 OK’d
53 Take up space 56 “By yesterday!”
ANSWERS ON PAGE 16
8 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
www.desertentertainer.com
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 9
curtain time
‘Wheel of Fortune’
Performed by local favorite Ron Cohn at Arthur Newman Theatre By Gary Walker For Desert Entertainer
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ocal favorite Ron Cohn returns to Les Michaels’ Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series August 28, with pianist Denis Moreen at Palm Desert’s Joslyn Center. Known for his storytelling and canny selection of songs, Cohn has created “Wheel of Fortune” as his latest cabaret concert. His inclusion of personal stories and “fun facts” will intersperse the music of Johnny Mercer, Cy Coleman, Peggy Lee, John Lennon, Kandler and Ebb, Mel Brooks and many more. Moreen came to the desert to retire in 2006, but has established himself as a major musical director, lending his talents to the California Desert Chorale, Gay Men’s Chorus, Palm Canyon Theatre and many of the top singers around the Valley. Curtain Time: “Wheel of Fortune,” starring Ron Cohn, with pianist Denis Moreen, 2 p.m. Sunday, August 28, Les Michaels’ Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series, Arthur Newman Theatre, Joslyn Center, 73-750 Catalina Way, Palm Desert. Tickets: $11 cash at the door, info (760) 325-2731
Sydney Weisman Concert Les Michaels’ 20th show of the 7th season of Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series at Palm Desert’s Joslyn Center on Sept. 11 features the debut of recent Valley arrival Sydney Weisman when she performs “I Am What I Am,” a blend of stories and songs that tell how music has influenced her life, using standards from the Great American Songbook and Broadway. Pianist Barney McClure joins Weisman in this program of “fresh, sometimes surprising, as well as some lesser-known gems and more than a little humor,” according to Michaels. Broadway star Karen Morrow has said of Weisman: “What a joy to watch Sydney pull an audience right in with her charm, voice and songs that go right to the heart and funny bone.” TV and Broadway star and friend Nancy Dussault adds: “I always look forward to watching Sydney perform, and her material is interesting, surprising and fun.” Curtain Time: “I Am What I Am,” starring Sydney Weisman, with pianist Barney McClure, 2 p.m. Sunday, September 11, Arthur Newman Theatre, Joslyn Center, Les Michaels’ Sundays in Summer Cabaret Series, 73-750 Catalina Way, Palm Desert. Tickets: $11 cash at the door, (760) 3252731 or lesmichaels.com/Joslyn.
10 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
Ron Cohn
www.desertentertainer.com
curtain time the loss of his own true love, Uncle Archibald is distant and strange. “Cold, bleak Misselthwaite Manor is no place for a strong-willed and bravehearted little girl, who finds solace in a locked-up, hidden garden, and with it, a path to rebirth, proving that hope can bloom from the darkest places.” Curtain Time: “The Secret Garden,” August 26 - September 24, Theatre 29, Twentynine Palms. Tickets: $8-$15, (760) 361-4151 or www.theatre29.org.
Desert Rose New Season
Sydney Weisman
High Desert’s “Secret Garden” Award-winning director Kathryn Ferguson says Theatre 29’s upcoming “The Secret Garden” is “the redemptive family tale of love, loss and renewal.” The three-time Tony Award-winning Broadway musical runs from Friday, August 26 through Sunday September 24 at the Twentynine Palms venue. Ferguson adds: “The show is based on the beloved novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett and tells the story of how, after the sudden death of her parents in the cholera epidemic of 1905 in India, 10-year-old Mary Lennox is sent to live with an uncle she’s never met. Mourning
Desert Rose Playhouse, the Valley’s only theatre serving the LGBT and gayfriendly community, has announced its season for 2016-2017: • September 30 - October “Poz,” a stylish new comedy by Michael Aman • November 18 - December 18: “The Santaland Diaries,” by David Sedaris and Joe Mantello, based on Sedaris’ experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s Santaland display. • January 20 - February 12: “Vampire Lesbians of Sodom” and “Coma,” by “The Divine Sister” Charles Busch. • March 10-April 2: “Southern Baptist Sissies,” by “Sordid Lives” creator Del Shores. • April 28-May 21: “Clark Gable Slept Here,” an adult comedy of Hollywood by Michael McKeever. For ticket prices and information: (760) 202-3000 or www.desertroseplayhouse.org.
Box Office • The Jennifer Leitham Trio Jazz Concert, 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, August 25-27, Coachella Valley Rep, The Atrium, 69-930 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. Tickets: $30 which includes a post-show reception, (760) 296-2966 or www.cvrep.org. • Theatre 29’s “Halloween Haunt” auditions Monday, August 29, 6 p.m., for performances October 14-31. Info: (760) 361-4151 or email z1077fm@ gmail.com. • Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival: Ann Hampton Callaway, Friday, September 2; Dee Dee Bridgewater, Sat. Sept. 3, Palm Springs Women’s
Jazz Festival, Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum. Tickets and info: palmspringswomensjazzfestival.org. • “Noises Off,” September 15 - 18, 7 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m Sunday. Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. (760) 323-5123, www. palmcanyontheatre.org. • Dinner in the Canyons, Saturday, October 8, featuring Native performing artists Dark Water Rising and live auction, in celebration of Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s 25th Anniversary. Tickets: $300, (760) 778-1079 or www. accmuseum.org.
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 11
entertainment
The Jennifer Leitham Trio
At CVRep’s summer jazz series
T
he Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre (CVRep) in association with Bill Saitta will wind up its Summer Jazz Series with The Jennifer Leitham Trio featuring jazz bassist/composer/vocalist Jennifer Leitham along with Randy Drake on Drums, and pianists Andy Langham (Thursday, August 25 and Friday, August 26) and Rich Eames (Saturday, August 27.) Ms. Leitham, a career Jazz musician for over 40 years has shared the stage with many renowned performers including Mel Torme’, Peggy Lee, George Shearing, Woody Herman, Benny Carter, Louis Bellson, Doc Severinsen, k.d. lang and many others. As a recording artist, she has played on over 125 albums, including 10 albums of her own, (including her huge hit The Real Me) and is currently working on another. Named one of the 50 most interesting people of 2016 by L.A. Weekly Magazine, Jennifer’s bass lines have graced many movies and TV shows, and recently she was the subject of an award winning documentary, I Stand Corrected. She is a bassist, vocalist, composer, arranger, lyricist, producer, and an active educator. She has taught at every level, from beginners to grad students and working professionals across the country. Jennifer is cur-
Jennifer Leitham rently teaching private students globally in cyberspace via Skype. The Jennifer Leitham Trio is an active, working, creative force. Come on out and catch them at CVRep! The Jennifer Leitham Trio Jazz Concert will be presented on Thursday, August 25, Friday, August 26 and Saturday, August 27 at 7 p.m. at the Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre located at The Atrium, 69-930 Highway 111 in Rancho Mirage. Tickets are $30 and includes a post-show reception sponsored by Gelson’s Market. For more information, call (760) 2962966 or visit www.cvrep.org
The Living Desert to Host Three Pokemon Go Events
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he Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will host PikaZoo, three Saturday evening Pokemon Go events on August 27, September 3 and September 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per person and all proceeds go towards The Living Desert education and conservation programs. The Living Desert is home to more than 25 PokeStops and 4 Gyms. Plus, 15 lure modules will be dropped all around the park throughout the evening. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The event is open to people
of all ages, and participants aged 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available at the door or advanced tickets can be purchased at www.livingdesert.org/event/ pikazoo-pokemon-go-event/. The Living Desert recommends bringing a fully-charged mobile phone, portable charger pack, water bottle, comfortable shoes, sunscreen and a hat. Located at 47900 Portola Ave, in Palm Desert, The Living Desert is open daily 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call (760) 346-5694 or www.livingdesert.org.
12 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
special event
Labor Day Block Party
Held in Old Town La Quinta
Hiking & Biking Trails Hiking Palm Springs
Hiking La Quinta
Andreas Canyon Trail
Boo Hoff Trail to Lake
Tahquitz Canyon
Cahuilla Loop
Palm Springs Art Museum Trail
For directions, maps and information visit www.playinlaquinta.com.
Murray Canyon Trail Araby Trail South Lykken Trail North Lykken Trail For directions, maps and information visit www.visitpalmsprings.com.
Hiking Rancho Mirage Bighorn Overlook Trail Butler-Abrams Trail Chuckwalla Trail Clancy Lane Trail Jack Rabbit Trail
O
ld Town La Quinta will host their Labor Day Weekend Main Street Block Party on Saturday, September 3 from 6 to 10 p.m. on the Event Lawn. Admission is free and the event will provide an evening full of local entertainment including stilt walker Too Tall Tomm and live 80’s music from local bands, including Basson, Lisa Lynn and The Country Gentlemen, and The Refills. Complementing performances on both outdoor stages will be a variety of food and beverage offerings from select Old Town Restaurants, including Solano’s Bistro, La Rue Wine Bar, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, Old Town Coffee Company
Road Runner Trail and the La Quinta Brewing Company Old Town Tap Room. A portion of the event’s sponsorship proceeds will benefit Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine, whose mission is to provide no cost primary healthcare to underserved adults residing in the Coachella Valley. “We look forward to another great turnout, and seeing our community come together in celebration”, says Wells Marvin, owner of Old Town La Quinta. For more information regarding the Labor Day Block Party, visit www.OldTownLaQuinta.com fb.com/OldTownLaQuinta, or call (760) 600-0758.
For directions, maps and information visit www.ranchomirageca.gov.
Hiking Palm Desert Hopalong Cassidy Trail
T
he fifth annual weekend dedicated to worshipping at Ninkasi’s golden nectar altar, feasting with Bacchus and toasting King Gambrinus. Ace Hotel & Swim Club is kicking off the hoppy festivities with a threecourse beer pairing dinner in the Clubhouse on Friday, September 9 at 7 p.m. cost is $50. Spend an entire day’s worth of craft beer tastings by the pool on Saturday, September 10 starting at 11 a.m. Entrance cost is $10; $20 with tasting. There will be over eighteen craft brewers on hand along with live performances by James Supercave, Daniel
T., Marc Baker and Eli Glad. This year’s craft breweries at Saturday’s tasting include: Epic brewery, Wolf Creek, Three weavers, Schillings, La Quinta Brewery, Tiger Beer, Bootlegger Brewery, Ace Cider, Founders Brewery, Stone, Mother Earth, Pizza Port, Modern Times, Oskar Blues, Boulevard, Avery, Refuge, 21st Amendment and Merchant Du Vin. Ace Hotel & Swim Club is located at 701 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. For more information visit www.acehotel. com/palmsprings or call (760) 325-9900.
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 13
Las Palmas Loop Downtown Loop Citywide Loop Tahquitz Creek Loop Deepwelll Loop Canyon Country Club Loop Gene Autry Bikeway Whitewater Trail For directions, maps and information visit www.visitpalmsprings.com.
Biking La Quinta Bear Creek Trailhead Cove Oasis Trailhead Fritz Burns Park
Randall Henderson Trail
Fred Wolff Bear Creek Nature Preserve
Herb Jeffries Trail
La Quinta Library
For directions, maps and information visit www.cityofpalmdesert.org
La Quinta Park Sports Complex
Hiking La Quinta
Boys and Girls Club
Bear Creek Trailhead to Cave, Cave to Palm Oasis
For directions, maps and information visit www.playinlaquinta.com.
Cove to Lake Cahuilla
Craft Beer Weekend at Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Biking Palm Springs
astrology
Horoscopes
August 25 - September 7
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum History, culture of Cahuilla Indians, baskets, artifacts, photographs. Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 219 South Palm Canyon, Palm Springs. (760) 778-1079. www.accmuseum.org. The Best of the Best Tours. Call for the Lowest and Best Tours in the Valley. We have been in business for 20 years now. The original PS Windmill Tour Company. Tours daily, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The original Rich & Famous City Celebrity Tour, Tours daily, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., Indian Canyon Tour, Daily at 9 a.m. Also offering Combination Tours. Call for reservations at (760) 320-1365 or visit www.thebestofthebesttours.com. Palm Springs Air Museum. One of the world’s largest collections of flyable Worl War II aircrafts and memorabillia, vintage automobiles, large-scale model ships. Open daily year round 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., last admission at 4 p.m. 745 North Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, www.palmspringsairmuseum.org.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Sometimes you think things through, and other times it seems like the thoughts are thinking through you. A series of rapidfire thoughts will lead to a profound revelation that changes everything.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Someone has wronged you in the past. If only it were enough that this person has apologized and wants your forgiveness. It still seems a little too easy, doesn’t it? There’s more that will occur before you’ll be ready to let this one go.
Moorten Botanical Garden. 1701 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Wednesdays. For more information, (760) 327-6555 or visit www.moortengarden.com.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The people from your past are important to you, even if they don’t have a lot to do with where you’re headed. You’ll make efforts to keep in touch, not because you should, but because these contacts are part of who you are.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Not everything in the relationship will add up neatly. It’s a bit confusing, but so what? It’s a wonderland! You’re not supposed to understand those. If you did, there would be nothing to wonder at.
Coachella Valley History Museum. Open Thursday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio. For admission information call (760) 342-6651 or visit www.cvhm.org.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The task at hand is an awkward one. So, you’re not the best at this. You don’t have to be the best; all you have to be is your best. You’ll hit the pillow tonight knowing that you used this day to its full potential.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You can’t do A without tending to B, which relies on A being solidly in place. Your best bet is to recognize that this conundrum could go on forever unless you break out and find about 10 other options to try on.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ll act on the best idea that occurs to you in the moment. If you want better ideas to occur to you, don’t worry; they will. It’s a natural function of exposing yourself to such moments repeatedly.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Life leads you to do such funny, contradictory things, and then you’ll laugh as though you were merely a witness to this. Of course, you have to deal with consequences that a witness wouldn’t have to worry about.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. World’s largest rotating tram provides breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley as it ascends Mt. San Jacinto. Monday - Friday. First tram up 10 a.m. Last tram up Sunday - Thursday 8 p.m., last tram down 9:45 p.m. Last Tram up Friday - Saturday 9 p.m. and last tram down 10:30 p.m. Highway 111 and Tram Road, Palm Springs. For info, (760) 325-1391. www. pstramway.com. Cabot’s Pueblo Museum. 67616 East Desert View Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. For more information call (760) 329-7610 or visit www.cabotsmuseum.org.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Cheerlead and coach yourself. Tell yourself that you’re a champion, a hero, you got this. There’s no time to agonize over the situation, or even time to try and get it right. Just get it done.
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The situation has the potential to leave you in a state not unlike that of a disgruntled teen, sighing and full of argument. Don’t let it happen. The adult answers are the only ones that will work. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Objectively, you feel the situation won’t bring out your best and the crowd won’t be a good fit for you — and yet, inexplicably, you want to be included. The reasons are primal and hard to argue with. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Follow your curiosity and ask the meaningful questions. When you know a little about a person’s past, this person’s present status will delight you all the more.
16 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
Off theVine Vino Ladies Talk Wine
VINO LADY - JULES
vanilla flavor. Morning Fog was slightly tart but refreshing. All three wines were delightful with food and our dessert of sugar wafer cookies. I give all 3 corks. Suze is over 50 but feel 30. I sometimes enjoy a boxed wine, over ice, by the pool on a hot summer night or a smooth, not too dry red, during the winter cold. I usually prefer a semi sweet white. I love to read or play on the beach with my puppy dog.
3.5 OUT OF 5 CORKS
In the spirit of full disclosure, I tend to gravitate towards red wines over whites. So when presented with a trio of Chardonnays to taste my expectations were low, although the idea to compare and contrast three wines from the same wine maker was intriguing. We tasted the three wines on their own and then with food, preparing a chicken stir-fry and vegetable dish with rice that proved to be a great accompaniment to the wine. The three Wente Vineyard Chardonnays represented the gambit of today’s Chardonnay production. The small lot, unoaked 2014 Eric’s Chardonnay had a lemony nose with tastes of green apples and pineapples. The single vineyard 2014 Riva Ranch had light oak notes with aromas of peaches and vanilla, it was smoother in taste and was my favorite of the three. I thought it was enjoyable on its own but paired well with the Asian flavors of the stir-fry. Our final wine was the Estate Grown Morning Fog. The tropical fruits came through as well as apples and pears. This Chardonnay seems to represent the trends of today with 50% aging in stainless steel and the other 50% divided into American and French Oak. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable Chardonnay you can’t go wrong with one of these three Wente Vineyard creations. However, my favorite was Riva Ranch which I would give 3.5 corks for its initial stone fruit flavor with a creamy, smooth finish. Jules is a wine lover who appreciates the intricacies of different varietals, exploring how wines pair with food, and learning more about how the weather, land, and processing affects the taste. I enjoy going to tasting rooms and the actual wineries as much as possible and try to incorporate wine tasting into my travels. I am an educated novice who loves how wine is so personal to each persons palate and although I enjoy many types of wines I am partial to fullbodied, jammy reds with a smooth finish.
VINO LADY - CHER 4 OUT OF 5 CORKS
On a hot Palm Springs day, if I can’t have an ice cold beer, I sometimes enjoy a cool, crisp glass of Chardonnay. So I was
VINO LADY - DeANN
4 OUT OF 5 CORKS
Went Vineyards Morning Fog, Riva Ranch and Eric’s Chardonnay more than pleased for the opportunity to do head-to-head tastings of three different Chardonnays from Wente Vineyards. First up was Eric’s Chardonnay. This Chardonnay is sustainably grown and hand picked in Livermore. It is solely aged in stainless steel this gives Eric’s a bright, citrus nose and a light, golden hue. I must admit that I tend to prefer an oaky Chardonnay but Eric’s provided hints of lemon, apple, and pineapple which I found refreshing. Second up was the 2014 Riva Ranch Chardonnay. Riva Ranch is grown in the gravel soils of the Arroyo-Seco Monterrey area. It is 98% Chardonnay and 2% Gewürztraminer. This wine had creamy vanilla and stone fruit overtones. I enjoyed the way these rich flavors lingered. Last but not least was the Morning Fog Chardonnay grown in the overcast Livermore Valley. The Morning Fog like the Riva Ranch is 98% Chardonnay and 2% Gewürztraminer but it is aged in half French/American oak and half in stain-
18 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
less steel which gives it a crisp, tart apple and pineapple flavor. The Wente Vineyards lineup provides an enjoyable range of whites to beat the heat. My favorite is the Riva Ranch because of its creamy vanilla taste with a slight toasty oak finish. Overall I would give them four corks. Cher (not the famous one) is a weekend wine taster who prefers a good craft beer over anything! Cut my wine tasting teeth on Rieslings and other sweet wines but have evolved through the years and now gravitate towards the red wines more. Enjoy full-bodied wines with low tannins and a smooth finish. Love the adventure of trying new wines but look for a bargain that is drinkable now.
VINO LADY - SUZE 3 OUT OF 5 CORKS
I enjoyed all three wines with our dinner. Eric’s Chardonnay was light and crisp with some zest. Riva Ranch was fruity, sweet and creamy and had a light
Eric’s Chardonnay had a wonderful fruity smell and fruity flavor. It was a soft yellow-pale color that was light and crisp. It had a smooth finish and a hint of lemon. I would think a very good pairing with fish or teriyaki chicken. Riva Ranch Chardonnay had a strong fruity aroma, deep color with a hint of Apricot. Oaky to the taste with a strong finish. A great pairing with vanilla wafers. My favorite of the 3 wines was the Morning Fog. This wine had a fabulous oak and bouquet smell enhanced by a green apple – tropical taste. Smooth and dry with a cinnamon-cedar after taste. Again, a wonderful pairing with food and especially great with a sweet wafer. I give this wine a 4 out of 5 corks. I highly recommend all 3 wines. You will thoroughly enjoy them. DeAnn is a professional who has been in marketing management for many years. On occasion, I enjoy a sweeter wine such as White Zin, Chardonnay or Gewurztraminer. Now I really enjoy a good Cab or Pinot Noir as well.
About Wente Vineyards: Founded 130 years ago, Wente Vineyards is the country’s oldest, continuously operated family-owned winery. Today, the winery maintains its leadership role in California wine growing under ownership and management by the Fourth and Fifth Generations of the Wente family. Blending traditional and innovative wine making practices, the winery draws from approximately 3,000 acres of sustainable farmed Estate vineyards to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. For more information visit, www.wentevineyards.com.
www.desertentertainer.com
dining
Escena Lounge and Grill Food and views make a wining combination
By Lucinda Sue Crosby For Desert Entertainer
T
hanks to the fierce competition for dining dollars here in the Coachella Valley, the formula for success is extensive and demanding, great for us but tough on restaurateurs. It takes the confluence of knowing your clientele, the appropriate ambience, excellent service and a deliciously personalized menu to both tempt newcomers and then keep those newly minted fans coming back for more. Escena Lounge and Grill has earned a reputation as top tier since its opening and boasts a number of well-deserved awards, including an OpenTable Top 100 Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America (2015), a 2014 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence, a 2013 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Winner and a Palm Springs Life 2010 Top New Restaurant. A dramatic setting provides the perfect backdrop. The clubhouse is a modern structure with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame chiseled mountains, piercing blue sky and a lush championship golf course complete with a pond. Outside, a misted patio surrounded by colorful desertscape plantings invites. Inside, a rockwork fireplace complements an industrial-style ceiling complete with evident ductwork. The dining room is large and the décor crisply pleasant, leaving plenty of room for the food to shine.
www.desertentertainer.com
Sea Bass
Filet
Conversing about any cuisine-related topic with Restaurant Manager/Executive Chef Kelly Kidd is a pleasure. Born in Bakersfield, she grew up in several Southern Cal locales, including San Bernardino, Apple Valley and Redlands. She attended nursing school but decided it didn’t fulfill her as she had hoped. In her words, “I believe that we are all born to do a particular something and for me nursing was not it. However, I had always really enjoyed cooking so when a friend asked me why I hadn’t tried to make a living at it, I saw his point.” Apparently, a female chef was a rare bird in her town so she needed an unusual plan of attack. “I figured I’d walk into a high-end restaurant and talk my way into a job,” Kelly said. She was rejected several times but persevered because she knew she was capable.
Eventually, one manager gave her the opportunity she’d craved and she’s happily worked in kitchens ever since. “There is nothing in the world like it,” she told me. “Since I’m a pretty hyper person, it was the first thing that fit me. I love the tickets, the noise, the speed – even the long nights and quiet mornings before guests arrive. I am in love with food!” And it shows. Because even though Kelly has had no formal training, she has held almost every restaurant position imaginable over the past 14 years. No wonder her finished products display the consistency and confidence required for great food. It is my pleasure to recommend Escena’s freshly made “secret spice” potato chips alongside Chipotle Ranch dip. The following represents both fan favorites and Kelly’s picks:
Chicken Salad – mixed greens seasoned with fresh basil, fresh cilantro, accompanied by Heirloom tomatoes, raspberries, fresh jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, green onions and radish. The Cuban – grilled/braised ham sandwich (a four hour process) served with mustard and deli pickles on a sourdough baguette, with Swiss cheese. Pork Belly Tacos – Pork belly slow roasted for three hours to caramelize the fat; with watermelon, radish, thinly sliced jalapeno, red cabbage, whole grain mustard and hand crafted BBQ sauce. Salmon Nicoise – a combination of mixed greens, citrus vin, boiled fingering potatoes and blanched haricot verts garnished with hard-boiled egg, Kalamata olives and capers. Mustard Milanese – Chicken breast lightly breaded and served over smashed fingerlings underneath an arugula and fennel salad tossed in a Mustard vin. Besides the full bar, a well-researched wine list of hand-selected varietals will enhance your dining pleasure as will an ample beer menu that rotates celebrated craft brews. Consult Bar Manager Jose Bernal about flavorful classic drinks like the Gin Buck (gin, mint, lime, ginger beer, simple syrup) or the Brandy Alexander (brandy, vanilla bean ice cream, dark cocoa, nutmeg … a dessert in a glass!) Although Chef Kelly is a relative Coachella Valley newcomer, having moved here only four years ago, she says she loves the landscape, the people, and her job most of all. “It always feels like vacation here no matter what I’d doing,” she told me, “because food is my happy.” Attention gourmands … maybe you’re looking for a dining experience in which food is an expression of art or love, passion, some good ideas gone wrong, late nights and/or memories from childhood. If so, Escena may be YOUR happy. Escena Loung and Grill is located at 1100 Clubhouse View, Palm Springs (off Vista Chino). Open Sunday - Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner on Wednesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations available for lunch or dinner only by calling (760) 992-0002 or visiting www. escenagolf.com/dine.
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 19
entertainment
Beatlemania!
Celebrate the music of The Beatles at Spotlight 29
S
The LA Cast of Beatlemania
potlight 29 Casino is proud to present the LA Cast of Beatlemania celebrating the music of The Beatles on Saturday, September 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at www.Spotlight29. com. Spotlight 29 Casino’s Spotlight
Showroom offers the premier entertainment experience in the Coachella Valley. The LA Cast of Beatlemania is a U.S. Beatles’ tribute band formed in 1980. The LA Cast of Beatlemania is one of longest running Beatles’ tribute band in the
20 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
world. They recall the memories of that exciting era when the Fab Four ruled the world of rock ‘n’ roll, taking fans back in time, letting Beatles enthusiasts hear their favorite songs like “Penny Lane,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” and “All You Need is Love” and more. Don’t miss the chance to see the closest thing to seeing The Beatles perform live at Spotlight 29 Casino! All tickets are $10 and are available at www.Spotlight29.com, Star Tickets (800) 585-3737, or the Spotlight 29 Box Office and Gift Shop. Doors open at 7 p.m. The show starts at 8 p.m. Spotlight 29 Casino is only minutes from Palm Springs, located just off of Interstate 10 at Dillon Road.
Joshua Tree Celebrates 100 Birthday of the National Park Service
I
n honor of the centennial birthday, all units of the park service will offer free admission from Thursday, August 25 through Sunday, August 28. You are invited to come out and celebrate and Find your park by backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, nature walks, photography, rock climbing or stargazing among other things you can do. For more information, visit www.nps. gov/jotr or call (760) 367-5500.
www.desertentertainer.com
AMERICAN AJ’s on the Green 36-200 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com
AMERICAN Simon Kitchen + Bar at Hard Rock Hotel 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9676 www.hrhpalmsprings.com/simon
Jem Steakhouse at Spotlight 29 Casino 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella (760) 775-5566 www.spotlight29.com
Goody’s Cafe 72246 Varner Rd., Thousand Palms (760) 343-7710 www.goodyscafe.com
Escena Lounge & Grill 1100 Clubhouse View Dr., Palm Springs (760) 992-0002 www.escenagrill.com
Mélange at The Chateau 78-120 Caleo Bay, La Quinta (760) 564-7332 www.thechateaulakelaquinta.com
Rick’s Restaurant & Bakery 1937 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 416-0090 www.ricksrestaurant.biz
Trio 707 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs (760) 864-8746 www.triopalmsprings.com
The Palm House 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com La Rue Bistro 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruebistro.com Woody’s Palm House 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 230-0188 www.woodysburgersps.com Lost on 111 Grill 79-410 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 564-8601 www.loston111.com Rick’s Desert Grill 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs (760) 325-2127 www.ricksrestaurant.biz
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ITALIAN Riccio’s Steak and Seafood 495 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-3111 www.ricciossteakandseafood.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill 265 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Trilussa Ristorante 68718 E. Palm Canyon Dr, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com Nicolino’s Italian Restaurant 35-325 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 324-0411 www.nicolinos.com
Cuban Sandwich at Rick’s Desert Grill in Palm Springs
ITALIAN
INDIAN
Bucatini Tratoria 46-660 Washington St., La Quinta (760) 777-9007 www.bucatini.biz
Monsoon Indian Cuisine 555 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs (760) 325-2700 www.monsoonindiancuisine.com
Norma’s Italian Kitchen 42-418 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage (760) 834-8738 www.normasitaliankitchen.com
India Oven 35-875 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City (760) 770-3918 www.india-oven.com
MEXICAN El Ranchito 78-039 Calle Estado, La Quinta (760) 564-0061 Tortillas Restaurant 32-123 Cathedral Canyon Drive, Cathedral City (760) 324-8070 www.trilussarestaurant.com Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill 73325 Highway 111, Palm Desert (760) 836-9028 freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com
SEAFOOD Fisherman’s Market and Grill www.fishermans.com 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 327-1766 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6533 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 21
history
CELEBRATING
100 YEARS OF THE DESERT Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa
32-250 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage (760) 321-2000 | www.hotwatercasino.com
Augustine Casino
84-001 Avenue 54, Coachella (760) 391-9500 | www.augustinecasino.com
Cahuilla Casino
52-702 California 371, Anza (951) 763-1200 | www.cahuillacasino.com
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
Jacqueline Cochran
84-245 Indio Springs Dr., Indio (760) 342-5000 | www.fantasyspringsresort.com
Eisenhower Medical Center. Gerald Ford died in 2006 at the age of 93. Betty Ford died in 2011, also at the age of 93.
Morongo Casino Resort
1980
49-500 Seminole Dr., Cabazon (951) 849-3080 | www.morongocasinoresort.com
AVIATRIX JACQUELINE COCHRAN DIES IN INDIO
Red Earth Casino
3089 Norm Niver Road, Salton Sea Beach (760) 395-1200 | www.redearthcasino.com
Spa Resort Casino
401 E. Amado Rd., Palm Springs (760) 883-1000 | www.sparesortcasino.com
Spotlight 29 Casino
46-200 Harrison Pl., Coachella (760) 775-5566 | www.spotlight29.com
Tortoise Rock Casino
73-829 Baseline Road, Twentynine Palms (760) 367-9759 | www.tortoiserockcasino.com
Gerald and Betty Ford
1978
PRESIDENT FORD RETIRES TO THUNDERBIRD C.C.
W
hen President Gerald Ford’s term of office as President expired, he returned to the desert, which he had visited many times, and built a home next to Ambassador Leonard Firestone in the Thunderbird Country Club. The Fords continued to be active in many valley events, appearing at ground-breaking, hotel openings, charitable balls and, of course, all major golf tournaments. Betty Ford brought considerable recognition to the valley through the Betty Ford Center, an alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility at the
J
acqueline Cochran was one of the most prominent aviators of the 20th Century. Cochran earned her pilot’s license in 1932, and by 1934 was already participating in international air races. A contemporary and friend of Amelia Earhart, she tried to dissuade Earhart from attempting the 1937 round-the world flight that led to her demise. During World War II, Cochran was the director of Women’s Flying Training, and was the founder and director of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) Program. Following the war, she became a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. In 1953, she became the first woman pilot to break the sound barrier. Jacqueline Cochran held more speed, altitude and distance records than any other pilot, male or female. Cochran was enshrined in the Aviation Hall of Fame in 1971. A longtime resident of the Coachella Valley, Cochran died at her Indio home in 1980 and is buried in Coachella Valley Cemetery.
22 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
nightlife
Nightlife
August 25 thru September 7 Entertainment sometimes changes after press deadline. Please check with venue to confirm the evening’s entertainment.
THURSDAY - 8/25 AJ’s on the Green Jazz trio with Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug MacDonald, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com La Rue Bistro Slim Man at 6 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Smooth Brothers, 7 p.m. to closing 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Yve Evans at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
FRIDAY - 8/26 AJ’s on the Green Siobhan! from 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com
www.desertentertainer.com
Ace Hotel & Swim Club Bochum Welt, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Entertainment, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com La Rue Bistro Slim Man at 6 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill The Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Spotlight 29 Casino DJ Chase Martinez at Groove, 7 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius and Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Francesca Amari at AJ’s on the Green every Thursday Woody’s Palm House Rose Mallett at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
SATURDAY - 8/27 AJ’s on the Green Cabaret Open Mic with Les Michaels and Wayne Abravanel, 7:30 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Ace Hotel & Swim Club DJ Short Shorts, 11 a.m. DJ Day, 10 p.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings
Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com Indian Wells Resort Hotel Rich Bono & Pouppe Boccaccio, 6:30 p.m. 76-661 Highway 111, Indian Wells (760) 345-6466 www.indianwellsresort.com La Rue Bistro Slim Man at 6 p.m. 78-015 Main Street, La Quinta (760) 296-3420 www.laruewinebar.com
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 23
nightlife SATURDAY - 8/27 Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Barney Mcclure at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
TUESDAY - 8/30
Spotlight 29 Casino DJ at the Blue Bar, 8 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com
Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Woody’s Palm House John Bolivar at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
Woody’s Palm House Stanley Butler Band at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
SUNDAY - 8/28 Ace Hotel & Swim Club Induce (Dablab) DJ Set, 11 a.m. DJ Howie Pyro at 10 p.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Smooth Brothers at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
MONDAY - 8/29 AJ’s on the Green Bill Marx from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com
WEDNESDAY - 8/31 AJ’s on the Green Doug MacDonald Trio, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Ace Hotel & Swim Club Jordan Chini, 8 p.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Deanna Bogart at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
THURSDAY - 9/1 AJ’s on the Green Jazz trio with Francesca Amari, Bill Marx and Doug MacDonald, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com
24 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
nightlife Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Spotlight 29 Casino DJ Chase Martinez at Groove, 7 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com
Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com
Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius and Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Smooth Brothers, 7 p.m. to closing 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com
Woody’s Palm House John Carey Trio at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
Woody’s Palm House Entertainment at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
SATURDAY - 9/3
FRIDAY - 9/2 AJ’s on the Green The Gilmore & Bryan Show, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Ace Hotel & Swim Club Oklahoma Roots Revue, 9 p.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill The Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com
AJ’s on the Green Cabaret Open Mic with Les Michaels and Wayne Abravanel, 7:30 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Fisherman’s Market & Grill The Carmens, 7 p.m. to closing 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta (760) 777-1601 www.fishermans.com The Fisherman’s Grotto Live music from 4 to 7 p.m. 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert (760) 776-6534 www.fishermans.com Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Evaro Brothers from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill Barry Baughn Blues Band at 8 p.m. 235 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 322-9293 www.fishermans.com Spotlight 29 Casino DJ at the Blue Bar, 8 p.m. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella. (760) 775-5566 www.Spotlight29.com Trilussa Italian Restaurant Julius & Sylvia from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. 68-718 Highway 111, Cathedral City (760) 328-2300 www.trilussarestaurant.com
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 25
nightlife SATURDAY - 9/3 Woody’s Palm House Stanley Butler Band at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
PALM SPRINGS Ace Hotel & Swim Club, 701 E. Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 325-9900. Happy Hour Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Amigo Room. Shanghai Reds Bar & Grill ,235 S. Indian Canyon Dr. (760) 322-9293. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. All day Sunday. 8 p.m. to closing happy hour. Rick’s Desert Grill, 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr. (760) 325-2127. Daily happy hour, 3-10 p.m. all day Monday. Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill, 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 320-8041. Daily happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m. Woody’s Palm House, 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 230-0188. Daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Las Casulas Terraza, 222 S. Palm Canyon Dr., (760) 325-2794. Monday - Friday happy hour, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
LA QUINTA Fisherman’s Market & Grill, 78575 Highway 111. (760) 777-1601. Happy hour: Monday - Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. Late night happy hour 8 p.m. to close. All day Sunday. La Quinta Cliffhouse, 78-250 Highway 111, (760) 3605991, www.laquintacliffhouse.com. Daily happy hour, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. All day Sunday.
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, 78015 Main St Ste 100. (760) 777-9989, www. stuftpizzabarandgrill.com. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m.
INDIAN WELLS Vineyard Lounge, Miramonte Resort and Spa, 45-000 Indian Wells Lane. (760) 3341-2200. Drink and appetizer specials, Thursday 5-8 p.m. Agave Sunset at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, 44600 Indian Wells Lane. (760) 3411000. Daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m.
PALM DESERT Fresh Agave Mexican Bar and Grill , 73325 Highway 111. (760) 836-9028. Daily, 3-5 p.m.
COACHELLA Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place. (760) 775-5566. Happy hour at the Hot Spot inside Spotlight 29 from 2 - 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to closing.
CATHEDRAL CITY Trilussa Ristorante, 68-718 East Palm Canyon Drive. (760) 328-2300. Daily happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Bar area only.
SUNDAY - 9/4 Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Smooth Brothers at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
MONDAY - 9/5 AJ’s on the Green Bill Marx from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Ace Hotel & Swim Club Pleasure Principle (DJ Set), 11 a.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com
Woody’s Palm House Barney McClure at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
TUESDAY - 9/6 Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Randy Seymon from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House John Bolivar at 6 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
WEDNESDAY - 9/7 AJ’s on the Green Doug MacDonald Trio, 7 to 10 p.m. 36-200 Date Palm Dr, Cathedral City (760) 202-1111 www.ajsonthegreen.com Ace Hotel & Swim Club Johnny Ashby, 8 p.m. 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs (760) 325-9900 www.acehotel.com/palmsprings Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Eddie Gee in the lounge from 6 to 10 p.m. 265 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. (760) 320-8041 www.sammygsrestaurant.com Woody’s Palm House Chuck Alvarez at 6:30 p.m. 450 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs (760) 778-3520 www.palmhousepalmsprings.com
AJ’s on the Green, 36-200 Date Palm Drive, inside Date Palm Country Club. (760) 202-111. Happy hour , Monday, Wednesday - Saturday, 2 to 7 p.m., 9 to close in bar and lounge.
26 | Desert Entertainer | August 25 - September 7, 2016
film review
‘Hell or High Water’
Jeff Bridges pursues bank-robbing brothers tionship with his Comanche-Mexican deputy partner, Alberto (Gil Birmingham, who played Billy Black in the Twilight franchise), and the affectionately racist joshing that’s bonded them over the years. British-born director David Mackenzie has made more than a dozen films, but probably nothing you’ve seen on a big screen. Here he shows a keen grasp of 21st century America, especially the collision of the Old West and the new-world economy, gun culture, the devastating appetites of corporate greed and the painful, lasting scars of poverty. Cinematographer Giles Nuttgens, who sharpened his craft on BBC nature documentaries and independent fare, elevates the
look of practically every frame to artistry. “We’re like Comanches—raiding where we please, the whole of Texas. Lords of the plains!” gloats Tanner. A later encounter in an Oklahoma casino with a real-life, modern-day Comanche, however, casts an ominous pall over his proclamation. If you think you know where Hell or High Water is headed, you may be wrong. Or at least you probably won’t be totally right—which is just about right for this outstanding movie, which puts the line between right and wrong underneath a scorching, unforgiving Texas sun then stretches it out on a lonesome, steaming highway, toward a blurred horizon, with no clear end in sight.
“Hell or High Water” starring Chris Pine and Ben Foster By Neil Pond
T
wo masked men bumble and fumble their way through an early-morning bank robbery in an otherwise sleepy Texas town. They’ve got guns and they mean business, but they’ve shown up before the bank is open, before there’s any money in the cash drawers and before anyone can unlock the safe. “Y’all are new at this, I’m guessin’?” asks a hapless secretary, the only employee on the premises, suggesting they just turn around and leave before the situation escalates—or anyone gets hurt. “Right now, the only thing you’re guilty of is being stupid.”
Hell or High Water
Starring Chris Pine, Jeff Bridges, Ben Foster and Gil Birmingham Directed by David Mackenzie Rated: R Theaters: UltraStar Mary Pickford, Regal Cinemas Rancho Mirage Stadium 16, Regal Cinemas Indio Metro 8, Palm Desert 10 Cinemas, Regal Palm Springs Stadium 9, and Century Theatres La Quinta.
www.desertentertainer.com
“Stupid” isn’t the term, however, that comes to the mind of soon-to-retire Texas Ranger Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges), who sees something smarter developing in the string of heists spreading across the parched Texas midsection, always in the morning, always by a pair of men demanding bills of small denominations, and always hitting a small branch of the same bank, Texas Midland. That’s the terrific setup of Hell or High Water, in which two brothers, Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster), try to right wrongs of their past in a scheme that’s much more complex, and much more understandable, than it first seems. Pine, best known for playing Captain Kirk in the Star Trek movies, makes a powerful dramatic breakaway as a divorced dad desperate to hold onto the family farm for his kids. Foster, who’s had supporting roles in nearly 50 movies and TV shows, is galvanizing as his older sibling, an ex-con with rattlesnake-like anger-management issues stemming from childhood. Playing Texas Ranger Hamilton, Bridges is in somewhat of his True Grit Rooster Cogburn mode, seasoned by a pinch of Tommy Lee Jones from No Country For Old Men. As he closes in on the robbers and their plan, the movie becomes as much about Hamilton’s working rela-
August 25 - September 7, 2016 | Desert Entertainer | 27