Coachella Valley Weekly - April 6 to April 12, 2023 Vol. 12 No. 4

Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmions Noe Gutierrez, Tricia Witkower

Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Janet McAfee, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Rob Brezsny, Craig Michaels, Dee Jae Cox, Denise Ortuno Neil, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Ed Heethuis, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman, Daniel Paris, Michelle Borthwick, Nadia Popova, Merita Wheel-Zot, Dennis Shelly, DeAnn Lubell

Photographers

Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Esther Sanchez

Videographer

Kurt Schawacker

Website Editor

Bobby Taffolla

Distribution

Phil Lacombe, William Westley

If you’re looking for a luxurious day spa that will take you on a journey of healing, rejuvenation, and wellness, look no further than The Spa at Séc-he in Palm Springs, opening on April 4th. Located in the heart of downtown just minutes from Palm Springs International Airport, The Spa at Séc-he is part of the new Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, a cultural destination created by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.

The opening of The Spa at Séc-he is an important moment for both the Tribe and the community, as the Tribe once again shares its sacred hot mineral spring, Séc-he, with the public. Séc-he means “sounds of boiling water” in the Cahuilla language, and the Tribe has lived alongside this life-sustaining spring for generations. For the last 130 years, the Tribe has shared these sacred ancestral waters with the community as stewards of Séc-he, and guests could last experience these waters at the former Spa Resort Casino. Today, the Tribe will once again share its one-of-a-kind mineral water–with a mineral makeup unlike that found anywhere else in the world–with the public at The Spa at Séche.

Perhaps the best way to start a day of relaxation at The Spa at Séc-he is by booking a

soak at one of the 22 private mineral baths, where spa visitors can experience the traditional Taking of the Waters. These 15-minute soaks allow guests to immerse themselves in the sacred and healing waters of Séc-he, the perfect start to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.

And that’s not all–the Spa at Séc-he offers an immersive and experiential spa experience that truly sets it apart. Treatments span a wide range of spa offerings, including halotherapy at two salt caves, a cryotherapy chamber, magnesium-rich, zero-sensory floatation suites, and Gharieni Quartz beds with heated ground quartz and amber. Zerogravity conductive recliners are also offered to help guests balance electromagnetic fields in the body.

All this is an impressive list of offerings, and that’s before digging into the spa’s treatment menu. The menu includes an expansive lineup of massage therapies, facials, scrubs, wraps, and salon services. Enhancements like dry brushing, peels, and scalp treatments can also be added to certain services, and various wellness and couples packages are also available to meet your specific needs.

The Spa at Séc-he also offers plenty of ways to relax under the sun, with an impressive

BY MARISSA WILLMAN

pool area spanning nearly 17,000-squarefeet. Here, guests can dip their toes into the mineral water at the zero-edge pool or soak up the sun on the tanning deck with a fresh drink from the pool bar. The pool area also includes a waterfall feature and tranquil grotto, adding to the relaxing ambiance. Luxury cabanas are also available for those wanting to take their day of relaxation even further.

To nourish the body after a treatment, be sure to stop by Malmal Cafe, named for the Cahuilla word for “butterfly.” Offering a healthy menu of juices and Mediterraneaninspired dishes, Malmal Cafe is the perfect addition for a spa day to nourish your body both inside and out. And even if you’re not visiting the spa, Malmal Cafe is open to the public.

Overall, The Spa at Séc-he in Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a luxurious spa experience that focuses on wellness and offers an immersive and experiential journey of healing. To learn more, visit thespaatseche.com

Photos Courtesy of Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

The First Friday on El Paseo, April 7, consists of multiple events happening all along the famed shopping and dining avenue. The nine blocks are filled with over 200 delightful businesses just waiting to be explored. Parking is free, and there is a Courtesy Cart available for rides all along the avenue.

Art Walk El Paseo enables visitors to take a self-guided tour of over 15-plus fine art galleries and enjoy in-gallery artist receptions. Guests can also stroll the El Paseo Median Art Exhibition and take selfies with the many wall murals found along the avenue.

El Paseo Cruise Night lets guests enjoy a Classic Car Show atop the Gardens on El Paseo starting at 3 p.m., and then participate or watch the famed cruise with hundreds of cars from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Biennial Sculpture Exhibition includes El Paseo’s 18 newest median sculptures, now with scannable QR codes to learn more about the artists, medium and how they were selected as part of the 2023/24 El Paseo Sculpture Exhibition.

El Paseo Design District features everything from interior designers, and home decor to consignment shops. El Paseo offers a newly expanded range of over 20 shops to help create living spaces.

Visitors can also catch a free ride on the reimagined El Paseo Courtesy Carts operate daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing transportation all along the nine blocks of El Paseo. Park anywhere and catch a free ride to see all the galleries, the Median Art Exhibition, the wall murals, and more. Simply flag the cart down, or download the convenient app, “Circuit” to have the cart come to you.

There will be several special in-store events on April , where visitors can stop by these and other participating businesses for special First Friday and ArtWalkEvents.

Art 276 will feature Prosecco & Pop— with a large collection of vinyl record cover artworks by the masters of Pop and Street Art, such as Andy Warhol, Ray Lichtenstein, Keith Haring, Banksy and many more.

Chuck Jones Gallery will let guests enjoy wine and appetizers at a special First Friday print release party for Emmy Award® winning pop artist Alan Bodner. Meet Alan and celebrate the release of his latest work, “Rat Pack at the Copa.” Bulatova Fine Art will be showing off Lollipops, Punk Me Tender, and many other eye-catching exhibits.

Visit Between the Sheets between 3-7 p.m. for a specially created Stephen Wilson art installation fusing the designer’s sustainable style, traditional embroidery, and Hermès. CODA Gallery will have an artist reception with Michael Steirnagle,

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

featuring an exhibition of new paintings.

Grayse & Kitchen 86 will let guests enjoy a live performance from the kids at the Academy of Musical Performance from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Desert Wolff will be open for special viewings during sunset hours. Jones & Terwilliger will be offering refreshments and art, featuring a new collection by renowned desert artist Jackie Bowker and color field artist Bette Ridgeway, enjoyed with white wine and Prosecco.

Melissa Morgan Fine Art is letting visitors experience After Glow + ArtWalk with an opening reception for Lisa Bartleson, Pamela Beck, Shannon Belkin, Casper Brindle, Alex Couwenberg, Jimi Gleason, Shana Mabari, Carlos Ramirez and Steven Salzman, plus a special exhibition by TwinArt and a live music concert from Los Angeles band The Long Shadows in the sculpture garden at 6 p.m. Ramey Fine Art will be featuring Mark Yale Harris and Bob Joyce, along with live guitar and Prosecco.

Guests at von Wening Art can learn how to have a custom painting for your home and view it before it is made. Yellow Korner has extended hours until 8 p.m. to browse and sip Prosecco.

For a complete listing of businesses and more information, please visit ShopElPaseo. com

The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation announced that it will hold free Open House events at the theatre to display plans and renderings of the renovations to the historic building. The informal Open House events will take place every Tuesday from 7 – 8 pm March 21 through June 6 at the Theatre, located at 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. Foundation board members and other volunteers will greet attendees and answer questions about the project. The purpose of these free weekly events is to provide attendees with an opportunity to see firsthand the restoration plans for the iconic building as it enters its Next Act. Reservations are not necessary and the events are free and open to the public.

During the events, attendees will get a sneak peek at the exciting restoration plans created by Architectural Resources Group (ARG), the firm selected by the Foundation and the City of Palm Springs. Architectural Resources Group has completed a number of theater and other historic projects of similar scope including New Mission Theater in San Francisco and The Alameda Theater and has an Architectural Conservator on board who will be instrumental in the restoration of the Plaza Theatre.

“These open house events will provide an opportunity for anyone, especially those who have never had the chance to be inside the theatre before, to find out more about what it will take to bring this landmark back to its

SATURDAY

FREE WEEKLY EVENTS WILL SHOWCASE RESTORATION PLANS

former glory,” said Foundation President J.R. Roberts. “As the theatre enters its final phase of fundraising, it is important for all community members to see what exciting plans we have in store. The valley needs venues like the Plaza Theatre that are accessible and affordable for everyone.”

When restored, the Plaza Theatre will be an affordable community venue showcasing diverse programming for all people, local youth organizations, promoting multicultural programming in film, music, live theater, education, comedy, and entertainment for all. It will also support and serve nonprofit organizations like the Palm Springs International Film Festival, ONE-PS, Modernism Week, and many others.

The Foundation board formed in response to a $5 million challenge grant from David Lee to support the restoration effort. Along with other smaller donations, an anonymous donor pledged $2 million. Recently, the foundation board secured an additional $2 million from the City of Palm Springs, $2.5 million from the State of California, and $1 million in matching funds from Oak View Group (OVG), the owners and operators of Acrisure Arena. Designer Trina Turk donated $200,000 to the OVG matching funds challenge. The fundraising goal for the project is $16 million needed to restore the building to its original splendor and update it to meet the access, technology, and equity needs of today and tomorrow.

Please visit SaveThePlazaTheatrePS.org.

About the Plaza Theatre - Originally built in 1936, the building was used for film premieres and screenings, nationally broadcast radio theatre programs, and other performances. In its later years, the theater was home to the long running “The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies.” Over the decades, the building has deteriorated, so the City of Palm Springs initiated a capital campaign to restore the beloved structure to its former glory.

The comprehensive restoration and rehabilitation plan will provide essential infrastructure repairs, installation of new theatrical equipment, and structural improvements to ensure that the building meets today’s fire prevention and American Disabilities Act mandates. This historic theatre

has played an impressive role in Palm Springs much like the Radio City Music Hall has in New York. When the restoration is complete, the Plaza Theatre will be poised to continue to provide the city and its visitors with top notch entertainment for years to come.

There are many ways in which the public may play a significant role in the Plaza Theatre restoration, including becoming a Founder, securing a Naming Opportunity for seats or other areas of the building, or making a general donation. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

For more information or to make a donation contact Foundation President J.R. Roberts at 415-297-9309 or visit SaveThePlazaTheatrePS. org

EVENTS

APRIL 15, 2023 @6PM AT PEACE LABYRINTH, UUCOD IN RANCHO MIRAGE

Desert Movement Arts presents

“Baile Baleen,” a movement performance exploring whale life and the whale heart.

The collective has created choreography and improvisation, moving as seaweed, as whales, as imaginary water beings and as one very large heart.

The dancers, aged 41-72, embody the ecosomatic process of making movement art with freedom from the typical limitations of traditional dance training. Rather, the focus is on individual and collective instinctive emotional expressions which guide movement possibilities and aesthetics.

With an original and evocative sound score by Bonni Ross, the piece invites the audience to experience the slow and gentle beauty of cetaceans in a desert landscape.

“Baile Baleen” is choreographed by Desert

Movement Arts co-founder Constance ClareNewman and performers Andrea Stone, Eve Gradilla, Kitty Christensen, Bonni Ross and Jamie Grace Davis.

The April 15th performance is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.

At Peace Labyrinth, UUCOD. 72425 Vía Vail, Rancho Mirage

For more information, contact Constance Clare-Newman, 510-219-5097.

Constance@constanceclare.com

Artists’ Statement - Whales face many struggles as humans continue to do more damage to their habitat.

Climate disruptions, pollution and human activities such as mining, fishing, shipping and boating are diminishing our planet’s biodiversity. And biodiversity is what ensures that ecosystems are healthy. Whales are seriously affected by boats, ships and

underwater projects which affect their echolocation, and interferes with their “inner GPS,” causing them to beach or lose their bearings and become victims of boat strikes.

These magnificent beings have a unique form of intelligence, are matrilineal and altruistic and have their own syntax that uses sound units to build phrases that can be combined to form songs that last for hours.

Whales are among the longest living beings, some living up to 200 years. They play a vital role in the health of the oceans where they help provide up to 50% of our oxygen, combating ocean warming and sustaining

fish stocks. The way that whales feed, eliminate, migrate, and dive between the surface and the ocean depths (known as the ‘whale pump’) circulates essential nutrients throughout the ocean.

We all know that change must occur for whales and oceans to thrive, and Desert Movement Arts wishes to spark conversation about our interconnected planet—desert to sea, seaweed to tree, roadrunner to whale to human.

desertmovementarts.weebly.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100059881464944

Instagram: @DesertMovementArts

CYBERCORNER

It has been almost one year since my mother passed away, and every day I wish that I could have one more conversation with her, being able to say I love you just one more time. With AIbased Voice Cloning and a brief recording, it is possible to clone anyone’s voice. Now that is an example of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for good use, however, it also poses risks associated with this ever-developing technology. Black-hat hackers have been posing an increasing risk to both individuals and businesses using this AI-based technology. Now there have been attempts to control AI and this technology, however, Cybercriminals have been working hard to develop new, cutting-edge strategies for eluding the authorities. Their only aim is to engage in cyber-hacking activities in such a way that they are never identified by cyber experts. AI voice cloning is a type of ‘deep fake’ that can generate new audio content that resembles a person’s real voice relying only on a brief data set of recordings. AI voice cloning technology advancements will provide new opportunities for cybercriminals and other malicious actors. In this article, we will elaborate on what is AI-based voice cloning, how it works, and how it can lead to identity theft.

What is Voice Cloning using AI and how it works?

The concept of “voice cloning” involves simulating or “cloning” a person’s voice

artificially. Modern AI software techniques can produce synthetic speech that sounds very similar to a specific human voice. In most cases, the ordinary individual cannot tell the difference between the actual and a synthetically produced voice. With the help of voice cloning, cybercriminals can produce fake sound clips or vocal instructions that mimic a person’s voice, which can result in identity theft, spoofed calls, and phishing emails. It has already claimed its first victim as The Wall Street Journal reported that an anonymous CEO of a UK-based energy company was recently defrauded of €220,000 ($236,665) by an AI-powered deepfake

of the voice of his German boss. In three phone calls, the scammer imitated the parent company president’s accent using artificial intelligence (AI), persuading the victim to transfer money to a Hungarian supplier’s account.

How AI-enabled Voice Clones are created?

If you are familiar with the concept of a video deepfake, AI voice cloning software is the speech equivalent of it. Using an online voice cloning tool, almost anyone can create an audio voice clone with as little as a few minutes of speech recordings and then use the recordings to train an AI voice cloning tool that can read a created text in the cloned voice. The process is now considerably simpler thanks to a range of neural network-powered tools, such as Google’s Tacotron and Wavenet or Lyrebird, which enable almost any voice to be duplicated and used to “read” text input. The output’s quality is also gradually rising as neural network-based TTS models are highly effective at recognizing patterns in data because they mirror the way the brain works. While there are several methods for incorporating deep learning into synthetic voices, most improve word pronunciation while also capturing minute details like pace and intonation to produce speech that sounds more like a real person.

How Cybercriminals can use Voice Clones:

Voice-based biometric spoofing

Voice is a distinctive identity and trustworthy biometric security indicator, however, vocal biometric systems can be tricked into believing they are hearing the authentic, legitimate user. Cybercriminals can use presentation attacks, such as recorded voice, computer-altered voice, synthetic voice, or voice cloning, to get access to confidential data and financial accounts.

Fake News and Misinformation

Fake news and other types of misinformation represent a significant threat as most of us are aware of how manipulated videos may change the political situation. Text-to-speech technologies powered by AI will accelerate efforts to influence public opinion, collect fake contributions to campaigns, defame public figures, and other things. On the business side, think about how

BY DENNIS SHELLY

misrepresented remarks by public figures or executives could influence the stock market.

Phishing Scams

Online AI voice cloning software also makes it possible for a new type of phishing scam that takes advantage of the victim’s perception that they are speaking to a reliable source. These scams are an evolution of executive email spoofing schemes, in which the goal is to get the receiver to provide sensitive information such as passwords, bank account numbers, and credit card information. Scammers are now using voicemail and phone calls, armed with voice clones. And the attacks threaten individuals as well as companies. A new variation of the “grandma scam” involves fraudsters pretending to be relatives in need of emergency financial assistance.

Fake Evidence and Blackmailing

Deepfakes, such as synthetic voices, may be used to fabricate evidence that affects criminal prosecutions. Although precautions have been taken to verify audio and video evidence produced in court, it may be difficult to avoid these strategies from affecting testimony based on what witnesses claim to have seen or heard. Online bullying and threats to publish fake, embarrassing footage, if victims refuse to pay a fee, might also employ manipulated video and audio of people acting or saying things they didn’t act or say.

To Conclude

As voice technology improves, having technology that can detect and prevent the use of fake voices for fraud and deceit becomes increasingly important. Voice anti-spoofing, also known as voice liveness detection, is a technique that can distinguish between live voice and altered, or synthetic voice. Many of today’s fakes are undetectable to the human ear, but AI-based software trained to detect features that aren’t present in a live voice can detect them. Initially, technologies that identify AI voice cloning software were developed to address the issue of voice biometric spoofing. Anti-spoofing technology checks to ensure the voice is live where voice biometrics match a person’s voice to the voice template on file. The technology will continue to evolve to solve new challenges ad voice cloning fraud becomes more prevalent. Have more questions about AI, voice cloning, or protecting yourself from these new types of threats? We can help! Our Eggsperts are eggcellent in the newest technologies and are standing by. Please contact us by visiting our website at www. eggheadit.com, by calling (760) 205-0105, or by emailing us at tech@eggheadit.com with your questions or suggestions for our next article.

IT | Networks | Security | Voice | Data

THOSE PRETTY WRONGS “HOLIDAY CAMP” (CURATION RECORDS)

“Sometimes it’s a famine, sometimes it’s a feast, and sometimes we give out, but we don’t give up ‘til we’re released/ Sometimes what we reap, isn’t always what we sow, but these times are all times, and we look out for rainbows.”

That’s Those Pretty Wrongs looking for a little grace and salvation on “Always The Rainbow,” off their new record, Holiday Camp.

There’s a symbiotic musical chemistry that exists between Jody Stephens and Luther Russell that is simply undeniable. Although these guys first met in the early ‘90s, they didn’t play together until nearly 20 years later. But the spark was immediate, the songwriting collaboration felt equally effortless. So, they formed Those Pretty Wrongs, a moniker swiped from a Shakespeare sonnet.

Both of these guys have impressive musical pedigrees. Jody, of course, was the drummer for Big Star, the Memphis four-piece that included Alex Chilton and Chris Bell on vocals and guitar, along with bassist Andy Hummel. Between 1972 and 1978, they released three nearly perfect records that were hailed by critics and roundly ignored by radio and the public. (Mostly thanks to shoddy distribution and the usual music industry chicanery)

To a discerning segment of the population, Big Star is as magical as The Beatles, Bowie and The Stones. Even though commercial success eluded their grasp, by the ‘80s, bands like The Bangles, the Replacements and R.E.M. were covering their songs and singing their praises. There were periodic reunions (which included members of The Posies subbing for the late Chris Bell and the absent Andy Hummel), that kept their name alive. But their profile was raised exponentially when the television series That ‘70s Show used Cheap Trick’s cover of Big Star’s “Out In The Street,” as their theme song. It served as a gateway drug, an introduction for a whole new generation. Here was this brilliant American band, equal parts sunny and somber, piercing and accessible, that were simply abandoned by the music industry.

Luther’s storied genealogy is equally impressive. The scion of a successful musical family, his grandad, Bob Russell, co-wrote standards like “Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me,” “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” and even the fraternal Hippie anthem, He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.” His great uncle, Bud Green cowrote “Alabamy Bound” and “Sentimental Journey.” Although he grew up on California’s central coast, at age 17, he relocated to Los Angeles, intent on a music career.

By the late ‘80s, he formed The Bootheels with Jakob Dylan, Tobi Miller and Aaron A. Brooks. Although they never officially recorded an album, or scored a record deal, they gained a reputation as one of L.A.’s best unsigned bands. Since then, he’s successfully toggled between fronting bands like The Freewheelers and Federale, cultivating a critically acclaimed solo career and producing music for artists like Noah And The Whale, Sarabeth Tucek and Weezer.

When he wasn’t participating in Big Star reunions, Jody enjoyed a stint with Golden Smog, the alt.country super group that

included members of The Jayhawks and Wilco. He also maintained a 9-5 gig with Ardent recording studios in Memphis. By 2012, he was the only surviving member of Big Star. That year saw the release of a poignant documentary, Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me. When the filmmakers asked him to perform a few songs at select screenings, he enlisted Luther to accompany him and they immediately clicked.

Subsequently, they began writing music together and retreated to Ardent studios to record an album. Their self-titled debut arrived in 2015. Four years later, they followed up with Zed For Zulu. Both albums were met with rapturous reviews and respectable sales. Now they’ve returned with their third long-player.

The record kicks into gear with a dazzling trio of tracks. “New September Song” begins tentatively with shivery ambient amphibian sounds and Jody’s ageless croon. Rather quickly, chiming acoustic guitars intertwine with see-saw bass and a chunky back-beat. A simple evocation of seasonal change, the metaphor is subtle, but implicit. Following the salad days of of summer, life drifts into autumnal grace; “The sultry summer heat’s a drug that idles our imaginings, stills us to remembering and when I feel a need to unplug, and a bit overdrawn, the colors of autumn’s leaves turn on.” The analogy is buoyed by Jody and Luther’s shimmering harmonies. Guitars jangle and slash on the extended instrumental outro, accented by a hi-hat kick.

“Ride Along” is powered by sundappled acoustic guitars and stacked, celestial harmonies. Lyrics like “Years had passed and feelings pending, the countless times I looked at you, was high time to stop pretending and make a new breakthrough, high and lonely, dreams will fall and become harder to recall, harder to recall,” offer a tender carpe diem. Lush harmonies and trilling “la-la-las” give the song some heavenly heft.

Conversely, “Paper Cup” conjures up the specter of Phil Spector. The rippling castanets, stompy martial cadence, brittle bass lines, organ wash, ascending piano notes, twinkly glockenspiel and slinky guitars all echo that irresistible Wall Of Sound (sans the homicidal aftertaste). Nevertheless, the aural cornucopia never overshadows sly lyrics that yearn for mercy from an imperious lover; “A gentle stroke and a telling tug on this leash around my neck, at least I’m not so lonely, being led like a little pet, I guess I’ve just been suckin’ up just to keep you pacified and kept myself close to heel, not to get jerked aside.”

On a record stacked with superlative tracks, four stand out from the pack, lining up back-to-back, smack in the middle of the record, beginning with the aforementioned “Always The Rainbow.” Sparkly acoustic guitars partner with chroma-colored keys, wily bass and a kick-drum beat. Philosophical lyrics search for an antidote to these troubled times; “Sometimes in the quiet, we anticipate the noise, grateful for the laughter and the pain that it destroys.”

Jody and Luther’s honeyed harmonies are shadowed by moody Moog notes. If we’re lucky, amidst the din and chaos, peaceful

CONSIDERTHIS

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

coexistence can be achieved; “….When the clatter fades away and rainbows come into view, I look into the eyes of someone who believes, and there’s you.”

If AM Pop radio was still a thing, “Brother, My Brother” could sandwich nicely between Chicago’s “Wish You Were Here” and Led Zeppelin’s “Tangerine.” Cascading acoustic licks spark and spiral across a gorgeous melody. The arrangement expands to include fluttery flute, lowing cello, swooping violin and pastoral clarinet. It’s tempting to surmise that Jody is addressing his fallen, Big Star comrades, Chris, Andy and especially Alex, whose appetites were legendary; “Brother, my brother, this song is for you, and all those that loved you and helped to see you through, life, oh this life, you had a taste of it, but your invincibility got in the way of it/ Arm in arm, if not eye to eye, we didn’t fit like a glove, but we found common ground between us and worked it out with love.”

“I Will Remember” is a mid-tempo groover that seems to celebrate the Big Star days and pay homage to Jody and Luther’s budding musical kinship. Guitars phase and flange atop crushed velvet keys. sinewy bass lines and a propulsive beat. The opening verse paints a vivid scene, time-traveling half a century; “I will remember a song dawned with you and me, it was just the two of us, in the 20th century, I will remember how we could rise and see, and let the music flow, our lives awakening.” Guitars ping between verses with a sonar pulse, accompanied by thick, shang-a-lang keys. At the bridge, a tick-tock beat signifies the passage of time; “Oh we hold on, how we hold on, oh we hold on in this 21st century, philosophically analyzed, supersonically atomized, and we come realize, we aren’t all that we need, we need a world in unity, in this 21st century, in this 21st century.” It’s a bittersweet reverie.

Finally, “Something Beautiful” is slightly more contemplative and introspective. Melancholy acoustic chords lattice painterly piano, barely-there bass and hushed percussion. Lyrics tackle the tough questions; “Are we who we were, or who we’re meant to be, stuck inside that frame, or have we broken free/Is the dream alive, or is it walking dead, can the hope to revive and mistrust be shed, by something beautiful, by something beautiful.” Sighing harmonies wrap around pointillist piano, lissome guitars and lapping percussion on the break. The final verse shares something of an epiphany; “From mountain views of expectations, to inner questions and revelations, a bigger world to comprehend, just past where the sidewalk ends, it’s beautiful.”

Other interesting tracks include “The Painted Sky” and “Scream.” On the former, lithe acoustic arpeggios are bookended by flinty bass and a clickity beat. Mac Davis once urged us to stop and smell the roses, this song builds off that blueprint insisting we live in the moment; “We’ll dance and sing on this windy night, our silhouettes by the spectral light, a lemonade moon amidst the sparkling of galaxies and celestial queens,” before picking up the gauntlet; “We’ll wake tomorrow and fight the fight in the revelations of broad daylight, we’ll fan the forces of changing winds that carry us to that carry us to grace again.” A lilting slack key-ish guitar solo on the break manages to double-down on the song’s inherent beauty.

The latter seems to tap into the psychic malaise that has gripped the world in these post-pandemic days. Chiming guitars, percolating bass and gossamer keys are tethered to a clip-clop beat, quietly cocooning the lyrics’ inherent paranoia; “The dark side of midnight tapping at my door, a chilling breath I can’t ignore, is it fear recycling, rattling at my door, a blind imagining shakes me to my core…and I scream, scream, scream, scream, scream, oh….scream, scream, scream, scream.”

The album closes with “The Way.” Once again, the instrumentation is pared down to a pair of acoustic guitars. Glassy arpeggios cascade across a winsome melody that shares some musical DNA with Big Star’s “Watch The Sunrise.” Jody and Luther’s feathery harmonies wrap around lyrics that advocate love over hate, consensus over conflict; “Hate is fear, leads us to divisiveness, but love is brave, and celebrates us everyone, so hold the flame illuminated by the sun, darkness on the run and share the light with everyone.” By the bridge, a stutter-step beat and plumy percussion are salted in the mix. It’s a grateful, graceful end to a beautiful record.

While Jody and Luther are credited with writing all songs and making all sounds, they received some a little help from their friends: Danny De La Matyr provided backing vocals, legendary producer Mitch Easter added glockenspiel. Wilco’s Pat Sansone chimed in on Mellotron, tambourine and Moog and Jason Miller played some acoustic bass. The string and woodwind section, arranged by (renowned solo artist, ex-db and forever Big Star acolyte) Chris Stamey, featured Laura Thomas on violin, Leah Webster on cello and Matt Douglas on flute and clarinet.

Holiday Camp is a marvel, front to back, and it’s destined to land on plenty of 2023 Top 10 lists. While the legend of Big Star will never completely recede, Jody and Luther have forged a new musical path that is moody, melodic and melancholy. Hopeful and spiritual without being pedantic or preachy. There’s something kind of beautiful about that. two albums, the partnership is an equal 50/50 split. Still, Luther quietly takes a step back, allowing the spotlight to shine.

Thursday, April 6

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano

Bar – 3:30-6:30pm, Live Music – 7pm

Casuelas Café – Avenida – 5:30pm

Chef George’s – Marc Antonelli –6:30pm

Coachella Valley Brewery – Open Mic – 6pm

Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Christine

Love – 6pm

Jazzville @ Agua Caliente – Maria

Schafer Quintet – 7pm

Jolene’s – Rebecca Clark – 6pm

Lavender Bistro – Mark Guerrero, Scott

Carter on the Patio – 6pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

O’Caine’s – Ken O’Malley – 6pm

Old Town La Quinta – Live Music in the

Plaza – 5-8pm

Pappy and Harriet’s – Emily Nenni –

8pm

Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails

– Intimate Acoustics w/ Miguel Arballo, Kelsey Manning, The Sieve and the Saddle, Alan Ehrlich, Sean Brown and Mario Figueroa – 8pm

Pretty Faces Nightclub – Latina Night

w/ DJ LF – 9pm

Purple Room – Sharon Sills – 6:30pm

Runway – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm

Shanghai Red’s (PS) – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 6pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King

Trio – 6pm

The Village – DJ Cranberry – 9pm

Friday, April 7

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano Bar – 3:30-6:30pm, Tony Grandberry –7pm

Bart Lounge – DJ Femme A – 8pm

Casuelas Café – The Myx – 6:45pm

Chef George’s – Lizann Warner –

6:30pm

Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Marc

Antonelli – 6pm

Jolene’s – Patrice Morris – 7pm

Larkspur Grill – Live Music – 7pm

Lavender Bistro – Jeff Bonds, Scott

Carter on the Patio – 6pm

Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Remix – 9pm

Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 12-

2:30pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

O’Caine’s – Cillian’s Bridge – 6pm

Old Town La Quinta – Live Music in the Plaza – 6-9pm

Pappy and Harriet’s – King Tuff –8:30pm

Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails – Red’s Rockstar Karaoke –9pm

Pretty Faces Nightclub – Noa James – 9pm

Purple Room – Rose Mallett – 6pm

Sullivan’s – Hotwyre – 5:30pm

Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 5pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King

– 7:30pm

The Village – Rob & JB – 5:30pm, DJ Gio

the Ace – 9pm, DJ Cranberry – 9pm

Wildest – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm

Saturday, April 8

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano

Bar – 3:30-6:30pm, LA Band – 7pm

Bart Lounge – DJs Pico and Hymn –8pm

Big Rock Pub – Anthem Road – 8pm

Casuelas Café – Michael Keeth – noon, Flashback Boyz – 6:30pm

Chef George’s – TBA – 6:30pm

Coachella Valley Brewery – Laughs and Drafts – 8pm

Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Marc Antonelli – 6pm

Jolene’s – Fun with Dick and Jane – 7pm

Larkspur Grill – Live Music – 7pm

Lavender Bistro – Jeff Bonds, Scott Carter on the Patio – 6pm

Lit @ Fantasy Springs – Remix – 9pm

Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 122:30pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

O’Caine’s – California Celts – 6pm

Old Town La Quinta – Live Music in the Plaza – 6-9pm

Pappy and Harriet’s – X – 5pm, L.S.

Dunes – 9pm

Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails

– Red’s Rockstar Karaoke – 9pm

Pretty Faces Nightclub – Luna Negra

Presents: Creatures of the Night w/ Mizz

Bee Hiven, Sapphire, Bellamy Cain and Viviana Sangre – 9pm

Purple Room – The Judy Show – 6pm

Sullivan’s – Paul Villalobos – 5:30pm

Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana – 5pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Rose Mallett –

5-7pm, John Stanley King – 7:30pm

The Village – Rob & JB – 1pm, Dio DJ

the Ace – 9pm, DJ Cranberry – 9pm, DJ

Erika Starr – 9pm

Wildest – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm

Sunday, April 9

Babaloo Lounge – Tristen/Flamingo

Guitar – 1pm, Bob Corwin Piano Bar –

3:30pm, Tim Burleson – 6pm

Bart Lounge – Latina Night w/ DJ LF

– 8pm

Big Rock Pub – Cole Withers – 11:30am

Casuelas Café – El Mariachi Coachella –

1pm, Voices Carrie – 5:30pm

Fisherman’s Market, PS – Live Music

– 6pm

Jolene’s – Desert Crows – 6pm

Lavender Bistro – Scott Carter, Mark

Guerrero on the Patio – 6pm

Melvyn’s – Mikael Healey – 3:30-7:30pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails

– Inakaraoke Karaoke – 7pm

Tommy Bahamas – Alex Santana –

12pm

The Village – Gio the Ace - 9pm

Monday, April 10

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano

Bar – 3:30, Tim Burleson – 6pm

Casuelas Café – Lisa Lynn and the

Broken Hallelujahs – 5:30pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Larry

Copeleto – 6pm

Lavender Bistro – Abbie Perkins, Mark

Guerrero on the Patio – 6pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Richard “88

Fingers” Turner – 6pm

The Village – DJ Gio the Ace – 9pm

Wildest – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm

Tuesday, April 11

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano

Bar – 3:30-6:30pm, Roxy Avaro – 6:30pm

Casuelas Café – The Desert Suite Band – 5:30pm

Chef George’s – Lizann Warner – 6:30pm

Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Patrice Morris, Marc Antonelli and Christine

Love – 6pm

Lavender Bistro – Abbie Perkins, Mark Guerrero on the Patio – 6pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

Purple Room – Rose Mallett – 6:30pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – Slim Man Band – 6pm

The Village – DJ Erika Starr – 9pm

Wednesday, April 12

Babaloo Lounge – Bob Corwin Piano

Bar – 3:30-6:30pm, The Myx – 7pm

Bart Lounge – Karaoke – 8pm

Casuelas Café – Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – 5:30pm

Chef George’s – Tim Burleson – 6:30pm

Coachella Valley Brewing Co. – Trivia Night – 7pm

Cunard’s Sandbar – Bill Baker – 6pm

The Fix – Alex Santana – 5:30pm

Indian Wells Resort Hotel – Rebecca Clark – 6pm

Jolene’s – Open Mic – 6:30pm

Lavender Bistro – Mark Guerrero, Scott Carter on the Patio – 6pm

Lit @Fantasy Springs – Rebel Heart –7pm

Mitch’s on El Paseo – Alex Santana – 122:30pm

The Nest – Live Music – 6:30pm

Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails – Red’s Rockstar Karaoke – 9pm

Purple Room – Charles Herrera, Darci Daniels and Michael Holmes – 6:30pm

Tack Room Tavern – T-Bone Karaoke – 7pm

Vicky’s of Santa Fe – John Stanley King – 6pm

The Village – DJ Cranberry – 9pm, Banda Revolucion – 10pm

Wildest – Derek Jordan Gregg – 6pm

PALM SPRINGS, CA

Originally presented at the U.S. pavilion of the 2021 Venice Biennale of Architecture, Paul Andersen and Paul Preissner developed the exhibition American Framing to examine wood framing— one of the country’s most overlooked yet common construction systems.

Originating in the early 19th century, softwood construction was a pragmatic solution to a need for an accessible building system among settlers with limited resources of wealth, technical skills, and building traditions. It has been the dominant construction system ever since—more than 90% of new homes in the U.S. today are wood framed.

Despite its ubiquity, wood framing is also one of the country’s most under-appreciated contributions to architecture. Its lack of

disciplinary prestige stems from the same characteristics that make it so prevalent—ease of use, lightweight, and affordability. However, it is these very qualities that introduce a flexibility for form, labor, composition, class, sensibility, access, and style that expand the possibilities for architecture.

This exhibition presents models, furniture,

photographs, and a full-scale wood structure, which together argue that a profound and powerful future for design can be conceived out of an ordinary past.

Participating artists include Ania Jaworska, Norman Kelley, Daniel Shea, Chris Strong, and students from the University of Illinois Chicago.

ARTICLE & PHOTOS

BY LYNNE TUCKER

Admission $5. Memberships Available.

Hours: Mon-Wed – Closed

Thu – Noon-8:00pm

Fri – Sun – 10:00am-5:00pm Visit psmuseum.org/visit.

Think Architecture and Learn About Framing!

LOCAL ARTIST EXHIBITS ABSTRACT PIECES TO INSPIRE “ART CONSCIOUSNESS”

element. Alicia plans on making stickers from this series, with the first one being available on Etsy and her website.

ARTSCENE

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

Aneed to create has always existed within local artist Alicia (a.k.a. AREconsciousart). Throughout the years, her loved ones encouraged her to keep with it and she has been painting and drawing consistently for about 15 years. She began with ink drawings and later started to incorporate acrylic paint.

With her artistic pseudonym in the abstract genre, Alicia works with various mediums, tools, and techniques. Acrylics and ink are her go-to mediums—using a variety of tools that range from plastic dry cleaning bags, and rakes, to kitchen utensils. She repurposes and recycles items as often as possible. Alicia has also made Giclee prints on paper from her bigger acrylic pieces and started making stickers from some of the drawings.

“I derive inspiration from the belief that creativity has the power to connect all of us for the greater good of humanity. I want my art to be a beacon of hope for a New Earth. Creation is part of our human existence. It brings about innovation and the discovery of new connections between existing ideas to

effect progressive change. Truth be told, my need to create art is powerful and I would do it whether anyone saw it or not,” shared Alicia.

During the pandemic, Alicia recognized the need for joy and beauty amid trying times. She and her family created a pop-up called “Open Spaces from the Windmills to the Sea.” Alicia’s art pieces were set up in open spaces from the Windmills in Palm Springs to the Salton Sea. Spectators could view the art from their cars without having to be in large crowds in a “drive-thru gallery” of sorts. She received many inspirational messages of gratitude and hope from the community.

Alicia has lived in the Coachella Valley for 20 years, and she has developed a strong sense of care for her environment. In an effort to raise consciousness in the area, Alicia has performed “Earth Acupuncture” in open areas to promote peace and healing in the community. Currently, she is creating a series of mandalas that are inspired by the zodiac. The mandalas are ink on paper that include the zodiac symbol, planet, and

“My favorite piece is always the one I’m working on. I love playing with form, line, and color. In that space, there is no self seeking and I am lost in the process. It is a beautiful struggle to channel the energy that emerges onto a canvas or paper. When I create my artwork, I entangle with ideals of peace and universal consciousness. I transfer that energy into all the pieces that I create. The artwork serves as a portal to a deeper reality that we are One. This interconnectivity of art and community has the capacity to bring people of diverse backgrounds together. That energy is transferred into my artwork and the work takes on an organic quality,” expressed Alicia.

Alicia has a range of artistic influences that inspire her, ranging from Jean Michel Basquiat, Frida Kahlo, Wassily Kandinsky, Lee Krasner, and Alejandro Santiago among many others. Her spiritual influences are

Mooji, Alan Watts, Terrance McKenna, Eckhart Tolle, ancient wisdom traditions, quantum theory, and nature. She is also hoping to exhibit at the next LoveLocalCV event.

“I would advise artists to go inward for inspiration. Let the process flow through you and get lost in it. I believe that to evolve as an artist you need to create and experiment as often as possible. In this way, you can access a deeper level within yourself and the art,” said Alicia.

Alicia’s art can be viewed on her Instagram @areconsciousart, her Etsy @ AREconsciousart, and her official website: www.areconsciousart.com

NO GIRLS ALLOWED!! THE VINO VOICE

We don’t know if it’s politically correct or what, but please allow us to introduce No Girls. This is a wine label from one of our favorite wine regions in the world—seriously! And the area produces some seriously delicious Syrahs and Syrah-blend wines.: We’re talking about the wonderful wines of Walla Walla, Washington State.

And let’s allow the winery’s PR to speak: “No Girls celebrates the belief that empowered women create empowered wine—and champions the many talented and independent women of this profession and beyond.”

“The No Girls moniker is a nod to the city of Walla Walla’s colorful and vibrant history. As was common in the wild American west, bordellos (aka brothels) operated freely in the growing community. As times and people changed and the women’s suffrage movement began, the famed houses of ill repute began to close.

“In 2002 Christophe Baron purchased a downtown building that had once housed such a bordello. When he walked through the doors for the first time, he found the scene almost eerily preserved. At the top of a flight of wide, sweeping stairs, the words “No Girls” were still visible where they had been painted on a wall sometime in the 1960s— the wine label is an actual photograph.

“The unique phrase signifies the ending of an era that marginalized and compromised female empowerment, and represents the dawning of the age of women’s rights. So No Girls is far more than just wine—it’s powered by the strength of women, a sense of history, progressive thought and ‘Savoir Faire.’”

“Beyond the building and its colorful legacy, the name No Girls recognizes our rich history, and is a gesture of respect and appreciation to everyone who created the Walla Walla Valley we enjoy today.”

So any of you wine enthusiasts out there who relish their Syrah, know already the fame of Walla Walla’s preeminent wine maker Christophe Baron, the Frenchman who put Washington State Syrah & Cabs on the map.

“Perhaps you’ve heard the almost mythical story, how the brash, young French Vigneron visited the then little-known town called Walla Walla, and fell in love with a few acres of seemingly useless, stone-covered farmland. While the nay-sayers nayed, Christophe Baron deftly turned that field of stones into the acclaimed Cayuse Vineyards. And the rest, as they say, is history—and a whole lot of spectacular wine.

“Cayuse is a domaine located in the Stones of the Walla Walla Valley. Over the past 20 years, Christophe has made it his mission to craft foodfriendly wines of incredible depth, individuality and character—all from fruit grown entirely using biodynamic farming methods.

“Historically, women were excluded from the key stages of wine production, hampered by the prevailing societal belief that it was strictly “a man’s work.” No Girls offers a new narrative that’s driven by the strength and resilience of women. The wines are as modern, opinionated and powerful as the name suggests.

“Developing a style that is a true reflection of the uniqueness and character of La Paciencia Vineyard, Cayuse Vineyards’ Resident Vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier and Christophe Baron have worked together since the first release of No Girls in 2008.”

Elizabeth took over sole wine studio responsibility for the project with the 2011 vintage. And she has had carte blanche on all aspects of the wine creation. The wines have earned routinely high accolades, with Wine Spectator calling them “some of the best

BY RICK RIOZZA

Washington wines ever rated” by the magazine. Elizabeth Bourcier started in the wine industry at 18 as part of the first graduating class at Walla Walla Community College’s Center for Enology & Viticulture. After stints in Paso Robles and Mendoza, she was hired at high-flying Cayuse Vineyards. I remember the first time we visited Walla Walla to visit the community college. “I didn’t know a lot about winemaking or vineyards at all and yet I knew I wanted to do this after I went there.” Over the last decade, she has helped create more than 60 wines that have scored 95 points or above, while her own La Rata brand has earned cult status.

“The grapes come from the La Paciencia vineyard, which means patience in Spanish— appropriate since the project was ten years in the making. The tightly spaced vines, planted on an angle in the Stones of the Walla Walla Valley, give No Girls a personality all its own, and the wines are focused and pure. These are food friendly creations that reflect finesse, elegance, charm and character.”

And now—a quick review of some world class No Girls:

2019 No Girls Wines Double Lucky ($44) this wine is black and red-fruited, with a spicy note of cured meat and lavender flowing from the glass along with a delightful mineral essence. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is broadly layered and possesses fine-grained tannins and succulent acidity, making me crave charcuterie. The gorgeous wine will remain food-friendly for years and ends with a lingering, spicy grip. 93 points,” Anthony Mueller, The Wine Advocate 2017 No Girls La Paciencia Vineyard Syrah ($100). “Classic “Rocks” Syrah with its meaty, bloody blue fruits, ground black pepper, cured meats, violets, and spring flower aromas and flavors. Beautifully textured, concentrated, medium to full-bodied, and flawlessly balanced” —Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com

“Simply stunning. This immediately begins to impress as aromas of black raspberries and black cherries come together with a wonderful umami character of fresh mushrooms and soy, which are joined by wet stones, black olives and hints of potpourri nuances.

On the palate this is medium to full-bodied and structured with silky/polished tannins resulting in a seamless delivery. It goes on to impress with its outstanding concentration and beautiful acidity which provides excellent lift as well as a remarkable sense of freshness making it impossible to resist. The finish is long and expressive, echoing notes of juicy black raspberries, umami and savory characters that linger on. 97 points”—Jeremy Young, International Wine Report. Cheers!

ARTSCENE

BY DEANN LUBELL

Imagine your novels selling millions of copies, winning numerous literary awards, and being translated into 22 languages. This is exactly what Rancho Mirage resident, Andrew Kaplan, the author of two bestselling spy thriller book series Scorpion and Homeland, has accomplished in his long successful literary career. These were the prequel novels to the award-winning Homeland television series. Homeland: Saul’s Game won the Scribe Best Novel of the Year award. Three of Amazon’s top 20 mysteries and thrillers were the Scorpion books: Scorpion Betrayal, Scorpion Winter, and Scorpion Deception

“Kaplan matches the best work of the late Robert Ludlum and then surpasses it.” - Suspense Magazine.

Andrew Kaplan was born in Brooklyn. After dropping out of Brooklyn College and serving in the U.S. Army, he began his career as a journalist and war correspondent for the International Herald Tribune in Paris covering events during the Cold War in Europe and wars in Africa. He then worked for an ad agency in New York with high-profile clients like The Beatles. Andrew moved to Israel where he served in the Israeli Army during the Six Day War. He subsequently helped organize 100 volunteer students to start the University of the Negev in Beersheva, Israel - now known as the Ben Gurion University, a world-leading research university in nanotechnology, cyber security, and water technology. Returning to the U.S., Andrew started a successful communications company, providing technical documentation and consulting services to U.S. government agencies and Fortune 500 companies.

In addition to his popular Homeland and Scorpion novels, Andrew’s standalone novels include the New York Times bestseller Dragonfire, a spy thriller novel published by Warner Books in hardcover and softcover editions. It was an international best-seller and a main selection of the Book of the Month Club

in England. New York Times bestseller Hour of the Assassins is about the hunt for the Nazi war criminal, Joseph Mengele. War of the Raven was selected by the American Library Association as one of the 100 Best Books ever written about World War II. Andrew’s most recent novel, the fast-paced, high-octane spy thriller Blue Madagascar was a number one Amazon release. And to top it off, Andrew’s screenwriting career includes the James Bond hit film Goldeneye

“What inspires me,” said Andrew, “is good writing and good writing is writing that reveals truth. In an era when we’re drowning in a tsunami of lies, conspiracy theories, deep fakes, social media posturing, mediocrity, and sheer bullshit, I can think of nothing more valuable. A story well-told that lets us see ourselves for who we truly are can raise us from existing to living. When Buddha was questioned as to whether he was a man or a god, he answered, ‘I am awake.’ I like to entertain people, yes. But more importantly, I want to wake them up.”

You can buy Andrew Kaplan’s books through Amazon.

PET PL ACE EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS

to you should he escape for any reason.

2. Get your animals microchipped by a veterinarian or low cost spay clinic. A microchip is a tiny device the size of a grain of rice inserted near the pet’s base of the neck. It contains its owner’s address, phone, and all contact information. All shelters and veterinarians have scanners that can read this information. However, a significant percentage of microchips are not registered, so please be sure to do so and make sure you keep information updated.

3. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date in case he is exposed to contagious illnesses during an emergency. Keep copies of your pet’s medical records in your earthquake kit.

4. Pack bandages and other first aid items, pet food, bowls, emergency contact information, kitty litter, basic cleaning supplies, and favorite toys for comfort.

5. Have enough crates and carriers to contain all your pets should you need to evacuate.

6. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least ¾ full and keep sufficient cash on hand.

BY JANET McAFEE

get their quickly.

11. Locate “pet friendly” locations ahead of time, including hotels and out-of-town friends who would welcome your pets into their home during a crisis.

12. Take current photographs of your pets and store them on your cell phone.

If your pet goes missing during a natural disaster, or for any reason, check local shelters online and in person. Planning ahead brings peace of mind and could save your life and the lives of your 4-legged family members.

Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

California has been shaken by hundreds of mini quakes in recent years as scientists speculate about the timing of “The Big One” that could bring serious destruction. A major earthquake fault runs through the Coachella Valley. Preparing ahead of time is crucial, and those of us with pets must plan for them as well.

We recently witnessed the crisis of Southern California mountain residents running out of food due to heavy snowfall. Desperate people attempted to walk through heavy snow only to find that the small nearby grocery stores had closed. While the desert region need not worry about snow, we must be prepared for earthquakes.

The 10 freeway, our primary egress from the area, could become so crowded that there is no way to evacuate from the Coachella Valley. In addition to stocking up on food and water for our human family members, it is wise to have a month’s supply of dog and cat food on hand in case local businesses are closed or run out of merchandise. If your pet requires medication, have refills on hand.

Here are some additional tips to ensure that Fluffy and Fido are well cared for during

an emergency:

1. Make sure your pet wears a collar with an engraved ID tag containing your contact phone number. Petco and PetSmart can make personalized ID tags for a nominal cost. It’s best to use your cell phone rather than a land line number. Make sure you keep information up to date. An engraved ID tag is the quickest way to get your pet back

7. Again, have a month supply of food for you and your animals should you be unable to evacuate.

8. Have flashlights with extra batteries in case of power failures.

9. Have sufficient leashes and harnesses to contain all your dogs as you may have to walk them in unfamiliar areas.

10. Arrange with a neighbor to take in your pets should you be away from home when an emergency strikes and unable to

MEET LIL MEET DILL

This adorable large breed female puppy was rescued by Loving All Animals along with 3 siblings. They are 10 weeks old, very active, and need a yard for exercise and people with time to train and provide care. Call (760) 834-7000 for an appointment to meet them.

This adorable male large breed puppy and his siblings was rescued by Loving All Animals along with 3 siblings. They are 10 weeks old, very active, need a yard for exercise and people with the time to potty train & provide care. Call (760) 834-7000 for an appointment to meet them.

COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS –

Open 10:00-4:00 Monday through Saturday. View animals online at all 4 county shelters www.rcdas.org, 72-050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. (Public)

PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER –

Open to the public, closed Tuesday. View animals online at www.psanimalsshelter. org and complete application for the one you want to meet, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, Call (760) 416-5718. (Public)

DESERT HOT SPRINGS ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL - Open daily 9:30-4:30. www. cityofdhs.org/animal-care-control.com , View animals at www.petango.com/dhsacc 65810 Hacienda Ave, Desert Hot Springs, Call for appointment (760) 329-6411 ext. 450.

ANIMAL SAMARITANS – Open to the public. View their animals at www. animalsamaritans.org. Email volunteer@ animalsamaritans.org to foster or volunteer. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 601-3918. (Private)

CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - Call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www.californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-3833. (Private)

HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – Fill out an application online www.orphanpet.com and call for an appointment. This shelter has dogs of all sizes and cats, Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203. (Private)

KITTYLAND – Open to the public to adopt cats and kittens. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www. kittylandrescue.org, (760) 251-2700. (Private)

PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact

them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private)

LOVING ALL ANIMALS – Call for appointment to adopt dogs. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www. lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000. (Private)

ANIMAL RESCUE CENTER OF CALIFORNIA (ARC), Foster based rescue for dogs and cats in Indio. www.thearc-ca.org, (760) 877-7077. (Private)

FLUFFS & SCRUFFS – Foster based rescue for small dogs in Cathedral City. FLUFFSANDSCRUFFS@AOL.COM, (310) 980-3383. (Private)

SOCIETY’S OUTKAST ANIMAL RESCUE

– Foster based rescue for dogs in Rancho Mirage, www.societysoutkasts.com, (760) 832-0617. (Private)

LIVING FREE ANIMAL SANCTUARY –

Large outdoor shelter for dogs and cats up Hwy 74, Mountain Center, www.living-free. org, (951) 659-4687. (Private)

CITY OF BANNING ANIMAL SHELTER –

Open daily 10am-6pm. Located at 2050 E. Charles Street, Banning. Many beautiful animals of all sizes. View animals at www. arerecue.org/banning (951) 708-1280 Short staffed so don’t always answer phones. (Public)

CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL

SHELTER – Open 12:00 – 3pm Tues through Sat. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 3847272. (Public)

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL

SHELTER AT DEVORE – Open 7 days a week. Call (909) 386-9280, www.sbcounty.gov/ acc and get the ID number of animal you are interested in adopting, 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino. (Public)

It was truly a party with a purpose when Mama’s House Ministries hosted its highly-anticipated 2nd Annual Charity Golf Classic & Dinner Show at Indian Wells Country Club. There was certainly something for everyone who participated in a fun day of golf on the renowned Classic Course, and then returned to experience the not-to-bemissed Dinner Show, featuring OH WHAT A NIGHT! a musical tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. This winning event combination was the brainchild of three visionary Co-chairs, including Dr. Vincent Nola, Founding Board Member of Mama’s House, Jeroen Sparreboom, and Yin Tchen.

“Mama’s House has always dreamed of hosting its own Annual Charity Golf Classic” said Jan Lupia, Founder & Executive Director of Mama’s House. “We are thrilled with this new signature event, which raised over $140,000 for the Mama’s House mission, and also supported our organization’s Expansion Campaign to build and operate the new Anne Silverstein Campus for Mama’s House. On behalf of our residents, Board of Directors, staff and volunteers, I am most grateful for the outpouring of support from so many. I want to thank everyone for giving of their time, in-kind and financial donations, to further the good work of Mama’s House Ministries that sees lives changed and on track toward a brighter future.”

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary milestone, Mama’s House Ministries offers a safe, supportive, loving, and nurturing residential environment for women in crises, while pregnant and/or with an infant or small child, who are vulnerable with no place to go and no means of support. Mama’s House offers an extensive one-of-a-kind program of Hope. Due to the unwavering support for the organization over the past several years, a second residential property has been purchased, with construction presently underway to build a new safe and secure campus, which will encompass five new Casitas and the expansion and renovation of an existing house. This new campus has been named in honor of long time Mama’s House supporter Anne Thompson-Silverstein.

“With the success of the inaugural event last year, we strongly felt we would garner even more support and attendance, which was accomplished this year,” said Co-chair Jeroen Sparreboom. “Each child saved by Mama’s House is a part of the future of our beloved country.”

Added Co-chair Yin Tchen, “We want to thank everyone who came out to support this annual event. We are still overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and generosity for the Mama’s House mission.

The Friday evening soiree, attended by close to 200 guests, commenced with an elegant cocktail reception, followed by a scrumptious Italian-themed dinner. This year’s fun and highly-electrifying Dinner Show featured Oh What A Night! a musical tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Conceived and directed by award-winning Broadway Producer/ Director Michael Chapman, and written by Motown Producer & Creative Consultant,

George Solomon, this blockbuster musical performance featured many hits from the dynamic songbook of those boys from Jersey including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, Working My Way Back To You, Let’s Hang On, and Who Loves You. Oh What A Night! featured all the original hits, as well as many top 10 releases. This included Frankie Valli’s biggest solo hit from the movie Grease! In 1990, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

A field of 83 golfers played in the tournament on the renowned Classic Course. Taking home honors for the ladies in first, second and third place were Yin Chen, Karen Isaacs, and Sharon Peterson. Taking home honors for the men in first, second, and third place were Jeroen Sparreboom, Joe Garcia, and Pierce Hollan.

“We all worked hard to make this event an outstanding success,” said Cochair Dr. Vincent Nola. “I am certain that our goal of most memorable event

was accomplished through a lot of hard work and determination. We have set a precedence for golfers who played in the tournament and for guests who attended the Dinner Show.”

Major event sponsors included IFS Inforsure International, Wexler Insurance, Agency, Inc., DavidSW, JR Thomas Golf Carts, La Quinta Cadillac, Ben Bridge Jewelers, J.L. Endicott, Inc., Allen & Cindy Sabbag, John & Dori Anderson, Anne Silverstein, Bill & Lynn Poland, Schraft’s 2.0, and the John & Elizabeth Endicott Foundation.

This year’s Media Sponsors included Presenting Sponsor THE DESERT SUN & LOCALiQ, KESQ News Channel 3, and Alpha

BY MADELINE ZUCKERMAN

SOCIETYSCENE PHOTOS BY LORETTA VLACH

Media – Palm Springs.

Seen in the crowd of golfers and dinner guests were Dr. Vincent & Joyce Nola, Jeroen Sparreboom, Yin Chen, Art & Jan Lupia, Patricia & Jack McDonnell, Mary & Bob Siles, Bill & Lynn Poland, Maurae & Ryan Quigley, Desiree & Jared Portolesi, Frank DiSalvo, Addy Walker, Chuck & Jan Emanuele, Sandy & Floyd Rhoades, Suzy & Marc Homme, Butch & Judy Seal, JR Thomas, Brian & Julie Orr, Gerri & Walter Clark, Heather Partida Meaney, Angela Allen, Al & Gloria Infusino, Andy & Angelica Ford, and Ken & Nancy Camarella.

For more information on Mama’s House Ministries, its current Expansion Campaign, or to schedule a tour, please visit www. themamashouse.org or call 844-232-8622. Mama’s House Ministries is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization supported largely by donations, grants, and fundraising events.

(left to right) Dr. Chris Miller, Development Director of Mama’s House, Art Lupia, Vice Chairman of the Board of Mama’s House, Yin Tchen, Event Co-chair, and her husband Jeroen Sparreboom, Event Co-chair.

(left to right) Patricia McDonnell, Co-founder of Mama’s House, Allen Sabbag, Board Member of Mama’s House, and Cindy Sabbag.

(left to right) Jan Lupia, Founder & Executive Director of Mama’s House, Heather Partida Meaney, the First Resident of Mama’s House, and Art Lupia, Vice Chairman of the Board of Mama’s House.

(left to right) Suzy Homme, Board Member of Mama’s House, Sandy Rhoades, Floyd Rhoades, Board Member of Mama’s House, and Marc Homme.

Photo of Three Event Co-chairs (left to right) Jeroen Sparreboom, Yin Chen, and Dr. Vincent Nola, Founding Board Member of Mama’s House.

(left to right) Bob Siles, Mary Siles, Mama’s House Volunteer, Patricia McDonnell, Co-founder of Mama’s House, and Jack McDonnell.

PEEPS, EGGS & RABBITS

that the chicks mostly survived. Phenol is a commercial grade paint stripper that burns skin and flesh.

It is estimated that 2 billion Peeps are made each year.

Easter Eggs and Rabbits

Ever wonder why we celebrate Easter with rabbits leaving eggs around that are filled with sugary treats? Is it some holiday created by the American Dental Association to increase business? There is no mention of a rabbit or hare in the Bible. The Easter hare or Osterhase is from German folklore and would hop around laying multicolored eggs for children to find on Easter morning. Children would make nests to capture the eggs.

BY HADDON LIBBY

Easter is celebrated by 81% of Americans, says Matthew Shay of the National Retail Federation. The average spending per person is expected to be $192.00. Nearly 90% of all Easter baskets will include chocolate and candy. This makes Easter the second-best holiday for candy sales each year following only Halloween.

The National Confectioners Association says that 16 billion jelly beans are created for Easter alone. Besides jellybeans and chocolate, the marshmallow Peep remains the top-selling treat.

The Peep

This year, the Peep turns 70 years old. I for one swear that some of those original peeps continue to hit store shelves. The Peep is a creation of Sam Born. Born came to the United States from Russia in 1910 as he fled a spreading wave of antisemitism. Settling in Brooklyn, the 19-year-old Born came from a family of chocolatiers. When he was 25-year-old, he created the

Born Sucker machine. This is where the phrase ‘a sucker is born every minute’ came from as his machines would create a lollipop automatically. Seven years later he had earned enough to open his own confectionary shop. He named it Just Born. By the time that Born was 49 years old, he had purchased Mike & Ike and Hot Tamales. Peeps were born in 1953 after Born purchased the Rodda Candy Company. Before the purchase, Rodda would hand squeeze each Peep with wings. The process was so labor intensive that production was limited, and profits were thin. Sam’s son, Bob automated the process by removing the wings so that a 27-hour process took only six minutes.

Peeps are made from just sugar, corn syrup and gelatin. While they seem indestructible to you and me, scientific tests have proven that they are. About 20 years ago Emory University put Peeps in substances like sulfuric acid, Phenol, acetone and boiling water only to find

As German settlers came to America, the Easter Hare became a bunny and the eggs turned into chocolate. No one is sure why bunnies are laying eggs although some scholars believe it is part of the celebration of spring and the renewed fertility of the land. Others believe that it was because people fasted during Holy Week and were prohibited from eating eggs. As the chickens kept laying the eggs, the surplus of eggs made for great way to celebrate the holiday and gets kids to eat a heavy dose of eggs without complaint.

The original reason for Easter was to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The first Easter appears to have been celebrated 200 years after his death although historians believe that the celebration was noted in other ways prior to the formal holiday.

The word Easter appears to be derived from the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and fertility named Eostre.

Easter Week includes Maundy Thursday commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper with his Disciples. Good Friday is the day of his crucifixion while Holy Saturday was the day

I FOUGHT THE LAW AND THE LAW WON!

IFOUGHT THE LAW AND THE LAW WON!

This is more than a Bobby Fuller Four song from the 60’s. The law arguably wins every time. This is because whether you are found guilty or not guilty, you still lose. A defendant loses time and money from 1. being arrested; 2. going to court multiple times; 3. Posting Bail; 4. Retaining a lawyer; 5. Loss of earnings and 6. Dealing with the stress it places on your life.

Thus, there is no way you can truly win, when you are prosecuted FOR A CRIME, or when you have been in a PI accident and bring a case against the party at fault. Because of the stress you are under, with a criminal case or PI case, the defendant often takes it out on their significant other/s. This leads to subsequent domestic violence arrests as well as divorces and disharmony with the family……not to mention the interruption of business and the financial losses incurred therein.

The info above is equally applicable to Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Infractions. With all of these, the defendant is being prosecuted by the DA and once the DA decides to file they don’t usually give in. As a matter of fact, in the Indio Court, over the years there are a lot of young DA’s that are looking for notches on their belt, which they acquire by going to trial and winning cases. Many of these cases should never have been

filed and even though defendants are not guilty some decide to enter a plea rather than being subjected to the challenges listed herein.

A defendant loses a case for many reasons. Usually, it is because the facts are against them. Sometimes it is because they cannot afford the best lawyer or the experts necessary to prevail. Often a defendant is just unlikeable either because of his/her appearance such as tattoos.

Other factors I warn my DUI and PI clients about, when going to court, are:

1. When you are within a few miles of the courthouse, you need to become the most courteous driver on the road. You do not know if the driver you cut off or flipped off will be your judge, clerk or juror. You may not recognize that driver but they will remember you.

2. Park your car between the lines, do not take 2 spaces.

3. Do NOT Smoke or spit.

4. Do not walk on the grass if there is a sign not to do so.

5. Hold the elevator door open for whoever is behind you.

6. Be courteous to everyone in the courthouse.

7. Dress professionally and cover tattoos with clothes if possible.

8. Shoes should be shined.

9. Nails should be clean.

10. A belt should not be old and worn out.

11. Ties should not be dirty.

12. Clothes must be pressed & cleaned.

13. Do not eat beans the night before.

Every juror and judge is different and looks for different things. As a young lawyer, I tried a case against one of the most senior DA’s. I had to try the case because my client was charged with 5 counts and had a long record, in addition to being on parole. If he pled, he would go away for a long time. There was no chance of winning but the jury came back 12-0 not guilty on all counts. He was found not guilty… however, he was far from innocent. I just got lucky and so did my client.

I asked the jury if I could talk to them in the hallway to see what convinced them of

between crucifixion and resurrection. Whether you celebrate the reason for the holiday or not, I hope you have a happy Easter weekend.

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For more information, please visit www. WinslowDrake.com.

my client’s innocence. The answers totally surprised me. They commented that the DA was rude, had an old belt, dirty nails, clothes that needed pressing etc. All in all, he was not well groomed.

All of this leads to Criminal Defendants and PI Accident Victims, agreeing that the law wins every time and it is often not worth fighting “the law”...BUT YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT WILL SWAY A JUROR.

DALE GRIBOW - Representing the Injured and Criminally accused

“TOP LAWYER” - California’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-23

“TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine

PERFECT 10.0 AVVO 5 STAR Peer Rating

“Preeminent” Rating - Martindale Hubbell Legal Directory

Client Appreciation Award/ Martindale Hubbell Client Distinction Award

Only Attorney Selected to CVAG Public Safety and CLINTON Foundation committees

Hosted weekly legal Talk Show and Legal Column “ACCIDENTALLY YOURS”

WHO IS A ROLE MODEL?

Over the trajectory of the past thirty years it has, and it is becoming increasingly un-common to encounter a true role model within the world of entertainment. Many may disagree and debate this to be an unsubstantiated statement, yet all one must do is research any supposed entertainment “role model”, and the Truth will rapidly present the contrary. Consider professional wrestling’s “Stone Cold” Steve Austin - an anti-hero that drinks beer, cusses, speaks in a less-than-educated manner and hits people. At this juncture it may be safe to simply conclude this article and say, “Case closed. Until next time” - however, that would not suffice.

The way the “business” of “show” business is established provides creators a unique prostration of influence unlike any other and transmit ideas throughout a global landscape. Consider how one video, one article, one childish tweet, meme, or silly Facebook post can trailblaze [or spread like cancer] across the planet in a single hour. Such a sad state is the foolishness of some that can, within seconds cause global destruction. Weapons of war suddenly appear far less potent and far more primitive. Something to ponder.

A role model, as currently defined by the Oxford Dictionary describes them as: “A person that people admire and try to copy”. Examples: “We need positive role models for young women to aspire to. Parents are a child’s primary role models”. It’s safe to say that Oxford’s definitions have been significantly dumbed down, and apparently additionally support a form of plagiarism [“copy”]. Transcribing Oxford’s definition of a role model more truthful and accurately written would read: “An individual that you admire and attempt to emulate. Young women [and men] need respectful and morally decent role models. Parents are a child’s primary role models. Therefore, parents should behave in a morally decent and respectful manner whenever in the

presence of children”.

We see how over time even the very definition of the word “role model” has been dwindled and reduced to one or two adjectives that in no way support the heavyweight punch of what it means to be a true role model. Being “positive” is a wideopen statement. It could be interpreted as “someone who always laughs and jokes around”. It does not mean that said person is a role model. Some of the heftiest scumbags on this earth enjoy laughing and being merry, yet behind-the-scenes cheat, cuss, make lude remarks, backstab, lie, murder, and the list goes on.

Words are extremely valuable and poignant. Without words nothing on earth would ever get accomplished. Words can build up and can tear down in an instant. Many say that words are the greatest weapon. After all, “The tongue is a twoedged sword”.

Given these modern loose and highly

skewed definitions of the term “role model”, it does not require a mathematician to calculate that eventually these definitions will blur the reality of what humans perceive them to identify. If you repeat something long enough and aren’t strongwilled, eventually you may end up believing it. Over the last thirty years, humans have believed “the hype”. If they act “positively” and don’t complain about any moral or ethical issues that may cause arguments and be perceived as “negative”, they can be classified as role models. This could not be farther from the Truth.

Not suggesting or giving glory in any way whatsoever to what we are about to delve into, but during the late nineteen seventies and onward into the early nineteen eighties, role models created and displayed for film and television, unanimously acted like the traditional definition of a role model. These entertainment role models were not “always” positive. They did not “always”

LET’S HOP INTO SOME EASTER SAFETY TIPS!

Searching for a hidden Easter basket is an activity that children of all ages enjoys, however, there can be a few problems if parents are not careful,” says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.”

Candy & Toy Safety:

To prevent choking, avoid hard, round candy; thick or sticky candy; or candy with nuts. Caramel, sour balls and jaw breakers can be dangerous because children’s airways are higher and narrower than an adult’s, creating a choking hazard.

Fake grass is not digestible, so keep it away from little children.

Be sure that Easter toys and dolls (such as bunnies, chicks etc) are free of choking hazards. Pieces that can be removed from a doll or toy pose a potential choking danger to small children.

Egg Safety: Eggs are a potentially hazardous food, in the same category as meat, poultry, fish, and milk. In other words, they are capable of supporting the rapid growth of disease-causing bacteria like Salmonella.

Before boiling eggs for Easter decorating/ painting, they must be kept refrigerated. Discard dirty or broken eggs. Cool your eggs in cold water or just in the air. Be careful of hot water/scald accidents.

Egg Hunting:

Do not hide eggs in cupboards or drawers with dangerous products.

Do not hide eggs in, on or under glass.

Do not hide eggs in pre-existing holes in the ground or trees.

Do not hide eggs in any plant that have thorns or sharp stiff leaves, look potentially dangerous or poisonous.

Do not hide eggs in any animal’s home, food bowl or play area.

Do not hide eggs where pesticides or poisons have recently been sprayed.

Many will be having family get togethers outside, in parks or open areas. Always keep an eye on children and make sure the egg hunting is far away from the street as possible!

“If you keep these few simple tips in mind, you should be able to enjoy a fun,

problem-free Easter celebration,” says Chief DiGiovanna. Have a Happy Easter!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

BY TIAR’A LITERARY & ILLUSTRATION

agree with everyone’s opinion, they were not always loved, and they based their emphasis upon moral and ethical values. These role models presented life-long learning lessons to better the individual. These morals and ethics we speak of are buried deep within everyone’s core on a level that does not need to be taught.

Superman The Movie (1978), for example [and not glorifying the fictitious character, or its story in any way], was the beginning of what would be a series of Superman films. The fictitious title character Superman exuded moral and ethical decency. In fact, the character of Superman corrected himself in Superman 2 (1980) After forsaking his duty to help mankind to selfishly engage in a romance with Lois Lane. The character Superman apologized to his “father”, renounced his relationship to Lois, and went back to helping mankind. Thus, his character sacrificed his “self” for the greater good. Today’s fictitious Superman character would never do such a thing.

A true role model is never broadly considered cool or relevant. They may be admired [by a select few during their mortal lives], and those who observe find it exhaustingly difficult to emulate them. Often, true role models are outcasts.

Next time you hear someone say about a popular person, “That person is a role model”, think twice. The likelihood is that person is merely a people-pleaser or “yes” person. True role models, much like the 1978 film franchise expression of the fictitious Superman - but far better and far greater, still - the real-life Good Lord, Jesus Christ. Christ stands out not because He acted cool, made people laugh, or because of the way He dressed, or combed His hair. He was humble, held morals, ethics, and the needs of others above themselves, and above all else.

Media & Press Inquiries: tiarapublications@gmail.com

SAFETYTIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

KETO FOR WOMEN WHO KNOW AGE IS JUST A NUMBER

Are you a woman of a certain age? With some life behind you giving up on how you look isn’t an option and you know age is just a number. You may also have these inspirational attributes:

YOU are unashamed about going all out for yourself and having the body YOU want

It’s important for YOU to feel sexy and confident

YOU are goal-oriented and certainly haven’t given up on life. In fact, YOU are revving up more than ever

YOU won’t settle for less and constantly expand your goals

YOU are involved in life, your community, and socially active

YOU are outcome-oriented and are determined to get that last bit of weight off and keep it off

Keto is for You

If you’re ready to pivot and find a diet that meets your goals and works like a charm, then look no further. Keto has the potential to be your last diet ever.

However, you may be wondering about the effectiveness of Keto for “women of a certain age” and if you could abide by the diet and if it’s healthy. The beauty of Keto is that its science based and so different from other weight loss diet plans that sometimes it sparks concern, particularly regarding women’s health. The effects of Keto on women is often misunderstood. Keto has a positive impact on weight loss and hormones and is a win-win for women. With Keto you easily kick your metabolism into high gear and enjoy the many benefits of weight loss, health, better moods, energy, mental clarity, and vitality in a relatively short time.

HEALTH

BY MICHELLE BORTHWICK

The Standard American Diet (SAD) is not helping you age gracefully. It’s full of carbs and processed foods that don’t support your long-term goals for mental, emotional and physical health. A diet like Keto that is low in carbohydrates and rich in animal and plant fats is far better for managing insulin sensitivity, brain health, inflammation, and overall better quality of life.

Get Your Sexy Back No matter your age Keto will ensure that you lose that last bit of weight for good and get your body back. It’s never too late to feel sexy, confident and comfortable in your skin. You can live your best life and thrive on Keto and get the outcome you have been searching for. You can count on Keto to unlock your confidence, increase willpower, and guarantee weight loss. Especially when combined with coaching. Ask me more about how to get started and set a plan for your success. Book a complimentary 30 minute consult.

About Michelle Borthwick: Michelle is a Keto Lifestyle coach, a Seasoned expert on Customized Keto. Keto weight loss results can be improved with Coaching, Customization, accountability, and a trusted partner to guide you every step of the way. Michelle offers private sessions, proven Keto diet hacks, meal plans, proprietary customization, goal setting and more. If you are interested in customizing Keto for you and your lifestyle, book a complimentary private coaching session online at KetoIsEasyCoach.com

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries-born René Descartes (1596–1650) was instrumental in developing of modern science and philosophy. His famous motto, “I think, therefore I am” is an assertion that the analytical component of intelligence is primary and foremost. And yet, few history books mention the supernatural intervention that was pivotal in his evolution as a supreme rationalist. On the night of November 10, 1619, he had three mystical dreams that changed his life, revealing the contours of the quest to discern the “miraculous science” that would occupy him for the next 30 years. I suspect you are in store for a comparable experience or two, Aries. Brilliant ideas and marvelous solutions to your dilemmas will visit you as you bask in unusual and magical states of awareness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The dirty work is becoming milder and easier. It’s still a bit dirty, but is growing progressively less grungy and more rewarding. The command to “adjust, adjust, and adjust some more, you beast of burden” is giving way to “refine, refine, and refine some more, you beautiful animal.” At this pivotal moment, it’s crucial to remain consummately conscientious. If you stay in close touch with your shadowy side, it will never commandeer more than ten percent of your total personality. In other words, a bit of healthy distrust for your own motives will keep you trustworthy. (PS: Groaning and grousing, if done in righteous and constructive causes, will continue to be good therapy for now.)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “’Tis the good reader that makes the good book,” wrote Gemini philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. “In every book, he finds passages which seem confidences or asides hidden from all else and unmistakably meant for his ear.” In the coming weeks, a similar principle will apply to everything you encounter, Gemini—not just books. You will find rich meaning and entertainment wherever you go. From seemingly ordinary experiences, you’ll notice and pluck clues that will be wildly useful for you personally. For inspiration, read this quote from author Sam Keen: “Enter each day with the expectation that the happenings of the day may contain a clandestine message addressed to you personally. Expect omens, epiphanies, casual blessings, and teachers who unknowingly speak to your condition.”

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Traditional astrologers don’t regard the planet Mars as being a natural ally of you Crabs. But I suspect you will enjoy an invigorating relationship with the red planet during the next six weeks. For best results, tap into its rigorous vigor in the following ways: 1. Gather new wisdom about how to fight tenderly and fiercely for what’s yours. 2. Refine and energize your ambitions so they become more ingenious and beautiful. 3. Find out more about how to provide your physical body with exactly what it needs to be strong and lively on an ongoing basis. 4. Mediate on how to activate a boost in your willpower.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I won’t ask you to start heading back toward your comfort zone yet, Leo. I’d love to see you keep wandering out in the frontiers for a while longer. It’s healthy and wise to be extra fanciful, improvisatory, and imaginative. The more rigorous and daring your experiments, the better. Possible bonus: If you are willing to question at least some of your fixed opinions and dogmatic beliefs, you could very well outgrow the part of the Old You that has finished its mission.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The Supreme Deity with the most power may not be Jehovah or Allah or Brahman or Jesus’s Dad. There’s a good chance it’s actually Mammon, the God of Money. The devoted worship that humans offer to Mammon far surpasses the loyalty offered to all the other gods combined. His values and commandments rule civilization. I bring this to your attention, Virgo, because now is an excellent time for you to deliver extra intense prayers to Mammon. From what I can determine, this formidable Lord of Lords is far more likely to favor you than usual.

(PS: I’m only half-kidding. I really do believe your

WEEK OF APRIL 6

© Copyright 2023 Rob

Brezsny

financial luck will be a peak in the coming weeks.)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It’s an excellent time to give up depleted, used-up obsessions so you have plenty of room and energy to embrace fresh, succulent passions. I hope you will take advantage of the cosmic help that’s available as you try this fun experiment. You will get in touch with previously untapped resources as you wind down your attachments to old pleasures that have dissipated. You will activate dormant reserves of energy as you phase out connections that take more than they give.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “The best revenge is not to be like your enemy,” said ancient Roman philosopher Marcus Aurelius. I’m tempted to advise every Scorpio to get a tattoo of that motto. That way, you will forever keep in mind this excellent advice; As fun as it may initially feel to retaliate against those who have crossed you, it rarely generates redemptive grace or glorious rebirth, which are key Scorpio birthrights. I believe these thoughts should be prime meditations for you in the coming weeks.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sometimes love can be boring. We may become overly accustomed to feeling affection and tenderness for a special person or animal. What blazed like a fiery fountain in the early stages of our attraction might have subsided into a routine sensation of mild fondness. But here’s the good news, Sagittarius: Even if you have been ensconced in bland sweetness, I suspect you will soon transition into a phase of enhanced zeal. Are you ready to be immersed in a luscious lusty bloom of heartful yearning and adventure?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): What shall we call this latest chapter of your life story? How about “Stealthy Triumph over Lonely Fear” or maybe “Creating Rapport with the Holy Darkness.” Other choices might be “As Far Down into the Wild Rich Depths That I Dare to Go” or “My Roots Are Stronger and Deeper Than I Ever Imagined.” Congratulations on this quiet but amazing work you’ve been attending to. Some other possible descriptors: “I Didn’t Have to Slay the Dragon Because I Figured Out How to Harness It” or “The Unexpected Wealth I Discovered Amidst the Confusing Chaos.”

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It’s sway-swirlswivel time for you, Aquarius—a phase when you will be wise to gyrate and rollick and zigzag. This is a bouncy, shimmering interlude that will hopefully clean and clear your mind as it provides you with an abundance of reasons to utter “whee!” and “yahoo!” and “hooray!” My advice: Don’t expect the straight-and-narrow version of anything. Be sure you get more than minimal doses of twirling and swooping and cavorting. Your brain needs to be teased and tickled, and your heart requires regular encounters with improvised fun.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When I was growing up in suburban America, way back in the 20th century, many adults told me that I was wrong and bad to grow my hair really long. Really! It’s hard to believe now, but I endured ongoing assaults of criticism, ridicule, and threats because of how I shaped my physical appearance. Teachers, relatives, baseball coaches, neighbors, strangers in the grocery store—literally hundreds of people—warned me that sporting a big head of hair would cause the whole world to be prejudiced against me and sabotage my success. Decades later, I can safely say that all those critics were resoundingly wrong. My hair is still long, has always been so, and my ability to live the life I love has not been obstructed by it in the least. Telling you this story is my way of encouraging you to keep being who you really are, even in the face of people telling you that’s not who you really are. The astrological omens say it’s time for you to take a stand.

Homework: What do you love most about yourself? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com

Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

WHY DO YOU NEED TO STRETCH?

It’s probably safe to say that the most neglected aspect of your fitness routine is stretching.

Stretching is a simple and effective activity that helps to enhance athletic performance, decrease the likelihood of injury, and assist with injury rehabilitation.

The major benefit of a regular stretching program is improved range of motion and freedom of movement. As a result, a reduction in general muscle tension is achieved and our ability to bend, reach and turn is improved.

Regular stretching will also help to increase comfort, improve posture, develop body awareness, improve coordination, promote circulation, increase energy, and improve relaxation and stress relief.

Stretching complements and enhances everything else we do throughout the day.

How to start stretching.

So you’re ready to start your journey to increased flexibility. But where to begin? Simply stretching for five minutes each day can make a world of difference, and working in the basics (toe touch, quad stretch, and single-leg seated stretch) can, over time, help your muscles lengthen with more ease.

If you can’t touch your toes right away, try bending your knees or working to get farther to the ground with each passing day. It can also be useful to stretch with a yoga block handy or even a resistance band to loop around your feet or legs to deepen your stretches. It may be uncomfortable at first, but that means you’re on the road to progress.

Types of stretches:

Static Stretches

This type of stretching involves stretching a muscle to the end of its range of motion. Once you get to the end of the muscle’s range of motion, you are supposed to hold that position for about 30 seconds. Static stretches are essential when it comes to increasing the length of a muscle

Dynamic Stretches

This type of stretching involves the use of repetitive movements. They help improve the range of motion by working the muscles and joints that are going to be involved in the workout you are about to do or the sport you are about to take part in.

Ballistic Stretches

Ballistic stretches use repeated bouncing movements to stretch the targeted muscle

SENDMEATRAINER

BY COACH NADIA POPOVA

Benefits of Stretching:

Stretching Helps Increase Your Range of Motion and Flexibility

Stretching Promotes Better Posture

Stretching Helps Improve the Circulation of Blood Throughout Your Body

The Bottom Line

groups. Although the bouncing aspect of this particular type of stretching may cause an increased risk of getting injured, when done properly; this is doing them from a low-velocity to a high-velocity, and doing static stretches before, it helps reduce the likelihood of an injury occurring. This particular type of stretches is also referred to as bouncing stretches.

How often should you stretch? As long as you stretch at least six times a week, you are on the right track. Always remember that stretching is an important exercise that you should incorporate into your workout routine. If you need help with the stretching and would like to hire a stretching therapist we are here to help. At Send Me A Trainer we have qualified Stretching Therapists who can come to your house and perform Assisted Stretching and Myofascial Release therapy in the comfort of your own home. Please visit our website at www.cvsendmeatrainer.com or call (760)880-9904.

CANNABISCORNER

BY LANNY SWERDLOW FROM MAPP

Unfortunately, the retail price of cannabis in the legal dispensaries hasn’t come down as much as the wholesale price has. I really don’t know what the retail price the illegal sellers are peddling, but I am fairly confident that the price has not come down in proportion to the wholesale price either. No doubt, however, the illegal price is considerably less than the legal price with all its taxes and expensive onerous regulations.

The question that has been puzzling me is where all these illegal sales are taking place. I know in the Bay Area, there are “seshes” with vendors selling cannabis illegally that spring up in various locations for a couple days and then disappear only to open up somewhere else. I have spoken with people in Los Angeles and in the Inland Empire (IE) who should know where they might be operating, but no one seems to know.

Speaking of marijuana busts, when was the last time you heard of an illegal dealer being arrested? I am sure it happens, but considering how many illegal dealers must be out there to provide upwards of 2/3rds of all cannabis sales, a person dealing pot is probably safer from being arrested then a tax-cheating, philandering, corrupt billionaire.

The cannabis industry is on the ropes because of the competition from illegal sales of cannabis which do not pay the usurious taxes and don’t have to jump through all the legal hoops and pay all the outrageous license fees and other hassles that legal sellers must.

It is estimated that 2/3rds of all cannabis sales are illegal. Not surprising considering how much less it can be sold for. Another reason such a big criminal market is still in operation is because 75% of all the cities and counties in California have banned its commercial cultivation, manufacture, and distribution meaning that their residents must either drive a lot of miles to a locality that allows its sale or, more likely, continue to deal with criminals.

Buying from an illegal source has its perils as the product they sell is usually not tested which means the buyer has no idea of its THC and other cannabinoid percentages as well as pesticides and other contaminants. We didn’t worry about that when it wasn’t legal, so why start worrying about it now.

There is also the romance of it. Always had kind of an excitement dealing with

“criminals” – meeting in bars, homes, parks etc. Defying the powers that be - doing your own thing – giving the finger to the police and the puritans that goaded them to arrest us. You got what you wanted and then you would slink off with your prized purchase to enjoy your “taboo” substance.

Of course, there was always the chance of being arrested. Not that it was much of a traumatic experience after 1975 when California decriminalized marijuana with just a $100 fine if you were apprehended with less than an ounce in your possession. But if you had more and especially the dealers you bought from – lives were ruined with a criminal record.

So here we are almost 7 years after legalization and the criminal market is as strong as ever – maybe stronger as cannabis consumption has gone up since it was medically legalized in 1996 and fully legalized 20 years later in 2016 cannabis was selling for upwards of $2,000 a pound.

Now it is down to $500 a pound and even less. The only difference, and it is a big difference, is that the wholesale price of cannabis has plummeted.

There may be a dozen or so in the Bay Area. In Los Angeles, radio station KCRW released a story back in 2019 about a couple seshes, but no one seems to know where they are now. In any case even if there were dozens of seshes operating, there is no way they are capable of providing cannabis to the literally millions of cannabis consumers in the Bay Area and metropolitan Los Angeles. There has to be a thriving illegal market consisting of something like the pre-legalization dealer network if not the exact same old dealer network that never went away due to usurious taxation and regulatory system of the legal market as well as the bans on legal sales in most of the state that was set-up post Prop. 64 passed in 2016.

I have not seen any news articles about how the criminal network of dealers is operating. Are there seshes operating? I can’t believe for a minute that the police don’t know about them if they are operating especially with all their informants, and I am sure some very disgruntled neighboring businesses. That is why I feel they are not in the IE because I have never heard of single one being busted.

I have spoken with a number of cannabis movement folks and although they seem fairly well-versed on the illegal cultivation market, they don’t really know much about how the illegal market is operating. I have only spoken with one person who could tell me about seshes, and he is in the Bay Area where they appear to be pretty brazen. It is interesting to note that perhaps one of the reasons, at least for San Francisco, is because SF voters passed an initiative many years ago making cannabis enforcement the lowest priority for police so by law, they do not do much about seshes or dealers. As for other areas nobody else could tell me the location of a single sesh.

How and where are all these illegal sales to consumers being made? Is it the same old dealer network as before legalization or is it some new iteration? I have not seen any articles on how and where people are currently obtaining cannabis illegally. There is work to be done in the state legislature and with local county boards and city councils to solve the legal cannabis industry’s problems and it would be helpful to know just what is really going on in the criminal market. What do you think? What do you know?

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