Coachella Valley Weekly - May 9 to May 15, 2019 Vol. 8 No. 8

coachellavalleyweekly.com • May 9 to May 15, 2019 Vol. 8 No. 8

CV Music Showcase Finals My Baby Barnett English Hollywood Vampires CONTACT pg4

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

publisher@coachellavalleyweekly.com coachellavalleyweekly.com facebook.com/cvweekly twitter.com/cvweekly1 Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby, Sheila Rosenthal, Dori Berry Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Noe Gutierrez, Avery Wood, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Crystal Harrell, Esther Sanchez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Dale Gribow, Laura Hunt Little, Sam DiGiovanna, Rob Brezny, Dr. Peter Kadile, Bruce Cathcart, Flint Wheeler, Dee Jae Cox, Denise Ortuno Neil, Angela Romeo, Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Elizabeth Scarcella, Aimee Mosco, Michelle Anne Rizzio Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS

Joshua Tree Music Festival...........3, 5 & 6 CV Music Showcase FINALS .................. 4 JTMF - My Baby....................................... 6 JTMF - Barnett English............................ 7 Breaking the 4th Wall - Review of "Good People".................................... 7 Hollywood Vampires ............................. 8 All Souls .................................................. 9 Consider This - Nils Lofgren................. 10 Art Scene................................................ 11 Pet Place ............................................... 12 The Vino Voice ...................................... 13 Club Crawler Nightlife .................... 14-15 Desert VegFest...................................... 16 Brewtality.............................................. 17 Screeners .............................................. 18 Book Review......................................... 19 Safety Tips ............................................. 19 Haddon Libby ....................................... 21 Dale Gribow........................................... 21 Local Business - Repair Lab................. 22 CONTACT In The Desert........................ 22 Free Will Astrology............................... 23 Swag For The Soul ............................... 23 Cannabis Corner................................... 24 Mai Beauty............................................ 25 Cannabis Corner................................... 26

May 9 to May 15, 2019

BY HADDON LIBBY

THE 17TH ANNUAL SPRING JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL IS SET FOR THURSDAY MAY 16TH THROUGH SUNDAY, MAY 19TH AT THE JOSHUA TREE RV AND CAMPGROUND.

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n easy drive from cultural hubs like LA, San Diego and Phoenix, the festival draws music lovers looking for a more intimate experience. Attendees will relish in the eclectic lineup featuring artists and inspiration from around the globe.

Expect to be taken on a musical journey over the course of this 4 day family friendly festival in the Mojave Desert.

The Joshua Tree Music Festival is known for hosting a variety of musical artists that do not adhere to any specific genre. What they do have in common, is that they deliver goose bump-inducing powerful, potent, compelling performances which leaves an impression on attendees.

“We aim to deliver a truly diverse, wellrounded line-up; one you won’t see at other festivals. A lot of these artists are on the rise.

They’re hungry, hustling and honing their craft; creating unique, progressive sounds,” says festival founder Barnett English.

Musical highlights include: The swaggering rock of Vintage Trouble, the roots driven trance dance of My Baby, dancefloor masters Dynohunter, renowned Berlin-based DJ Oliver Koletzki, Japanese avant-garde rock band Dachambo and many more.

The music starts at 7pm on Thursday May 16th along with Joshua Tree Music Festival’s routine kick-off party featuring free rice & bean dinner for guests plus free beer from Lagunitas (while supplies last!). Locals may argue that this is the most fun night of the festival with the relaxed feel and anticipation of the amazing weekend ahead. Starting Friday morning it’s full steam ahead with music, workshops, yoga, kids activities and plenty of other entertainment all day long.

Lower priced pre-sale tickets are available at joshuatreemusicfestival.com until Monday May 13. Tickets will also be available at the gate.

What makes the Joshua Tree Music

Festival (JTMF) different from other festivals like our world-renowned Coachella or Stagecoach festivals is that it relishes in its counter-culture, happy/hippy vibe. The ethos of this festival can be found on parking passes affixed to attendee car windows that remind you to ‘live/love like there is no tomorrow.’

Where the larger festivals team with tens of thousands of people, JTFM seems content with the few thousand kindred spirits ranging in age from seven to eighty-seven. These happy-hippies come together for a few days in Joshua Tree to relax and rejuvenate.

The line-up of acts includes twenty-three performers from around the world yet the festival is far more than just a music festival.

As Founder Barnett English is quick to point out, “This is a very kid friendly event.” As the father of school-aged child himself, English understands the plight of many families who want to attend other festivals but cannot because of their family commitments. Many publications including Fatherly Magazine and Trip Savvy list JTMF as one of the top music festivals in the United States for kids.

THE KIDS All children under 10 attend for free while those up to sixteen years of age are admitted at half price. Kidsville is opened from 10am to 6pm each day. Activities are varied and numerous including trash can or parasol painting. Kids get to put on their own circus

shows at the SchoolBus Stage. Musicians from the festival often come over for musical enrichment. One activity includes a cactus planting where the children get to bring home their very own cacti. Chime assembly, yoga, storytelling and more go on throughout the day. Just as important as the diversity of experiences, most activities are in heavily shaded areas with access to lots of water.

YOGA From 7am through 6pm each day, one can find a yoga class. In addition to more traditional yoga classes, Phillip Stamp holds Acro Play classes at 4:15pm on Friday and Saturday. Acro Play is a cross between acrobatics and gymnastics in the form of Acroyoga.

Positive Vibration Station This element of the festival holds classes like interactive dance, sonic dance, chakra balancing, playing a didgeridoo and Qi Qong, a self-healing technique that is meant to align the body, breath and mind for health while incorporating the martial arts for physical fitness. Qi Qong is taught at 8am each day,

by Walter Winfield. Following him at 9:15am is Pierette Baker who will lead a practice of meditation while using gongs, singing bowls and chimes as she leads early risers in a collective meditation meant to elevate each person’s positive energy for the new day. continue to page 5

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CV MUSIC SHOWCASE 4TH ANNUAL CV MUSIC SHOWCASE FINALS

CONGRATULATIONS TO GISELLE WOO AND THE NIGHT OWLS!

ARTICLE & PHOTOS

BY ESTHER SANCHEZ

GISELLE WOO & THE NIGHT OWLS

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fter months of grueling competition in the preliminary rounds, it came down to the final 6 and every single performer that was present came to win. And can you blame them? Up for grabs was a prize package including $2000 cash sponsored by CV Weekly and The Hood Bar and pizza. In addition to the cash prize the winners will receive, studio time with David Williams of Melrose Studios and a photo shoot package from Steven Young Photography.

With the fate of all the competitors in their hands, our all-star panel of judges who had the least enviable task in my opinion included, TK, Program Director for 93.7 KCLB; Esjay Jones, Musician & Producer; Arthur Seay, musician; and David Williams, owner of Melrose Studios.

Rocking the Hood in their last ditch efforts to impress the judges and the crowd were 6 truly fantastic performances by a diverse group of musicians. I would be remiss not to mention the fact that, excluding one solo artist, every group in the finals included females which is not only exciting, but unprecedented.

The 6 finalists included Cakes and the Assholes, Empty Seat, Jetta King, Ormus, Derek Jordan Greg and Giselle Woo and the Night Owls. An interesting fact is that Cakes and

the Assholes were brought in as a Wild Card, but only lost by one, measly point! It literally doesn’t get any closer than that.

Giselle Woo and the Night Owls not only snatched the grand prize, they have been on a hot streak lately! After winning a band competition earlier this year at Big Rock Pub, they were given the honor of performing at the Goldenvoice event, Chella, alongside Los Tucanes de Tijuana and Mon Laferte. At last year’s CV Music Awards, Woo & her Night Owls won for Best Live Performance Band right after

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taking the honor of winning Tachevah. Those of us who have been watching Ms. Woo grow and evolve as a performer over the years are not surprised at her success and have many times, known her to thank her family for their undying love and support for her following her dreams.

I asked some of the contestants about their journey in the showcase competition.

Erin, AKA, ‘Red’ Front woman from Empty Seat: “Nothing but good times, good people and great talent. Congrats to Giselle Woo and the Night Owls. See you all at the CV Music Awards!”

Martin Posada, Frontman for Ormus: “I had a great time playing the showcase as I did last year. The exposure one gets through these things, I feel, does more for a band or artist than actually winning. Sure, the prize is nothing to scoff at but getting people hyped is what it’s really all about. Congrats to Giselle Woo and the Night Owls and to everyone else who made

it to the Finals. And a big thanks to Phil, Tracy and The Hood for giving the opportunity for acts to show their stuff.”

Josh Fimbres, Drummer for Cakes and the Assholes: “If the community consistently comes together for dope shows with sick lineups and not just competitions, events would be sweeter and we would be headlining.”

Giselle Woo: “We are excited and humbled by the immense talent in the community and extremely grateful for the opportunity to be among great company. Winning 1st place is an honor and I couldn’t be more proud of us.”

Derek Jordan Gregg: “Tracy and Phil provide an opportunity for local artists to prove themselves. The entire community was in attendance. I’m lucky to be a part of this scene.”

Jetta King: “We had so much fun! Every single band stepped it up HARD! We are honored to share the stage with so many amazing artists!

And so grateful for Tracy and CV Weekly!!”

CAKES & THE ASSHOLES

JETTA KING & THE BAND

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JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL continued from page 3

THE ENVIRONMENT For children and adults alike, the festival has a robust offering of stimulating talks about the environment. As an example, JC Jaress holds a session titled, “From Sustainability to Regeneration and Restoration” on Saturday and Sunday while Jillian Sandell teaches you how to design, write and make a Zine – that is a little DIY booklet. Other classes teach children about the Joshua Tree National Park Junior Ranger program, Festival Trash Etiquette, protecting the desert tortoise and more.

THE ARTS Everywhere you turn, you will see the work of dozens of artists in creating the beauty and magic that is the Joshua Tree Music Festival experience. Visit the Sound Cave, a musical sculpture which houses thousands of strings. Lead artist Tyson Ayers will be there throughout the festival to help you understand how the placement of the strings was made so that anyone can sound like a maestro.

After visiting the Cave, look for Stephen Cohen who uses recycled materials in making musical sculptures.

Is poetry your thing? Find the Typewriter Troubadour, Jeremy Brownlowe, who might write one-of-a-kind poetry for you on his old typewriter. Just ask him nicely.

At some point, visit The Complimentary Bar. The bartenders here serve only compliments and jokes, not alcohol.

What is sure to be the hit of the Festival is Frick Frack Blackjack. What makes this game of blackjack different from that played in Las Vegas is that no money is allowed. So how does one ante up? What can you barter?

What will the dealer or the person next to you take? What are you willing to receive? Fun is sure to be had by all.

ARTISAN VENDORS Dozens of artisan vendors reside to the right of the main stage. Whether you are looking for hippie chic, jewelry, drums, a gong or a bong, unique offerings abound at reasonable prices in comparison with most festivals.

THE FOOD Those arriving on Thursday typically partake in the annual rice, beans and beer dinner offered to all at no additional charge at the back of the Boogaloo Stage. The funkedup beatscapes of Subko aka Jacob Pare begin at 5:30pm and continue well into the night.

Other food options available by the main stage include pizza, fish tacos, Indian, vegan, juices, coffee bars and more.

THE MUSIC This is a large part of why everyone is here.

As has been the case in past, festivalgoers get

to see tomorrow’s top acts near the start of their careers.

Thursday, 7:15pm: Diggin’ Dirt – “Funkacillus Groovidophius” which was released last month is the latest offering of this groovalicious seven-piece ensemble that hails from Humboldt Country. The current iteration of the band has been together since 2016 when vocalist Zach Alder joined. Like many of their NoCal predecessors, Diggin’ Dirt sports a powerful horn section that compliments Alder’s soulful vocals reminiscent of classics like the Funkadelics, Orgone and Tower of Power. The reggae-influenced “Peace of Mind” from their debut “Full Season” 2016 album or the just released “Superstar” are good examples of this band at its best.

Thursday, 9:30pm – Gene Evaro, Jr.: One of the desert’s best is featured on the stage opening night. Evaro, a Joshua Tree native, whose songs evoke comparisons to Prince and Bruno Mars. “Have You Heard?” and “Like It’s 1965” are two songs that show how us that Evaro seems destined for bigger things. Like a proverbial mayor, Evaro greets all to Joshua Tree with his energetic, joyful show.

The Next Morning Early risers can join in meditation or yoga as early as 7am each day while musical performances begin at 10am. This year, we have a trio of talented women starting off each day for us: Megan Hutch on Friday, Gabrielle Evaro on Saturday and Myshkin Warbler on Sunday.

MUST SEE: Myshkin Warbler, 10am Sunday. The Village Voice called Warbler “sad, smart and weird” while The Washington Post described her as “…both lyrical and politically pointed. A rich blend topped with her broadranging, keening voice.” Now a Joshua Tree resident, Warbler’s career spans more than 25 years with origins on the acoustic and alternative scenes of New Orleans. Her music has been described as electronic post-rock, gypsy-swing or desert-blues depending on the track.

At 11:30am each day, festivalgoers are treated to a rich blend of world music.

On Friday, Sahba Motallebi, the virtuoso of the tar and sitar performs. For those unfamiliar with either instrument, think of them as Persian sitars. From Iran but currently residing in Los Angeles, Motallebi was recognized as the best tar player at the Iranian Music Festival from 1995 through 1998. If Motallebi’s talent is not enough of a reason to hear her, it has long been believed that listening to the tar or sitar helps in relieving headaches and other nervous disorders. If you stay up too late Thursday night, be sure to get a dose of Motallebi Friday.

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On Saturday at 11:30am, Grammynominated Youssoupha Sidibe of Senegal, West Africa plays the kora. For those unfamiliar with the kora, think of it as a harp that looks like a primitive banjo. Sidibe likes to describe his music as a fusion of the traditional sounds of the kora with chanting from the Sufi community (note to self, brush up on Sufi issues). Sidibe has collaborated with the likes of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, India.Arie, Michael Kang of The String Cheese Incident and many others. Like Motallebi, Sidibe’s music is thought to have restorative powers as well. Listening to the kora is considered to be ideal accompaniment to contemplation and meditation.

As if following those two acts would be easy, the Paris-raised, Austin-based LouLou Ghelichkhani (vocals for Thievery Corporation) performs on Sunday at 11:30am as part of the “cinematic dream-pop prism” called Night Glitter. Ghelichklani typically sings in French as is the case with their March release, “Transparency”.

From 12:30pm to 2pm each day, various songwriters attending the festival will take their turn on the Boogaloo Stage, an area where many festival goers often gather to enjoy lunch at a table or on one of the rugs covering the desert sand.

Afternoons At 3pm each day, we get some of our most diverse music of the festival. On Friday, we get The Amritakripa Band which combines sacred dance and the tribal rhythms known to Joshua Tree. Saturday delivers The Cole Williams Band. Originally from Brooklyn but now at home in New Orleans, Williams is a funky jambalaya of music goodness.

MUST SEE: Be sure to stay for Baraka Moon at 3pm on Sunday. This San Franciscobased didgeridoo-oriented quartet blends the Australian Aboriginal didgeridoo as played

by Stephen Kent with the soulful Pakistani vocals and harmonium of Sukhawat Ali Khan, guitars of Anastasi Mavrides and drums of Peter Warren to create what should be one of the richest musical sets of the festival. It is worth remembering that festival founder Barnett English fell in love with the area after

serving coffee at a Didgeridoo festival on the same site nearly twenty years ago. Musically, Baraka Moon blends modern and ancestral sounds creating a hypnotic rhythm that helps festivalgoers in feeling some of the spiritual underpinnings of the festival. No matter your cultural background, this unique sound strikes a chord deep in your music subconscious as few popular artists can. The title track to the 2017 recording, “Wind Horse” captures Baraka Moon at their best.

Sundown The 6 o’clock hour is certain to be a party in the main stage area. Friday starts us off with the City of Trees Brass Band from New Orleans.

Must See: Dachambo, 6pm SAT – This is probably your only chance to see this band in the United States this year. From Japan, Dachambo uses a digeridoo like Baraka Moon but they take things in a decidedly different direction. Best described as a rock band, Dachambo seem as comfortable playing southern folk as they are incorporating electronica or rocking down the house.

Closing night plays host to what is sure to be the most fun performance of the festival.

Their name says it all – Thumpasaurus. You know you are in for a funky fun time with a name like that. This Los Angeles based band derives name from a George Clinton song, “Night of the Thumpasaurus” off “Mothership Connection.” The best way to explain this band is to imagine a music orgy between the Eagles of Death Metal, Frank Zappa and Devo. Thumpasaurus is essentially the musical offspring of that oddly compatible jambalaya of quirky catchiness. “You Are So Pretty” and “I’m Too Funky” from The Book of Thump capture their unique blend of musical gifts. If you get a chance, watch their video, “Mental Karate” – this song should be part of every child’s karate class given its pure silliness and its message that one can use mental karate to chop up bad thoughts. I’m not sure but I have to think that lead singer Lucas Tamaren…or at least his alter-ego, Sensei Boland had ADHD as a kid. For some fun, see stay Sunday to watch these guys. continue to page 6

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JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL continued from page 5

After Dark FRI, 8:15pm: After Funk. This Torontobased collective have performed with Stephan Marley, Lauryn Hill and The String Cheese Incident. With roots that date back to 2009, the band describes their sound as “post fusion” or “Canadian funk”. Expect a heavy dose of their 2019 release, Santa Barbara, as they get the festival dancing.

FRI, 10pm: Dynohunter - Hailing from Boulder, Colorado, Dynohunter’s recently released “Third Rock From the Sun” single is an exotically hypnotic electro dance track.

When performed live, pulsating energy will invade the carpeted floor of the festival as this livetronica act sets the rhythm for an amazing evening. Initially formed by college classmates, Clark Smith and Justin Elmer while at the University of Denver Lamont School of Music. Freddy Reisen (bass) joined the band after graduation when they moved to Boulder.

This trio calls their blend of electronica ‘rainforest tech’ most likely due to the active sampling of environmental sounds. This dynorific act they will have the desert dance floor energized and yabba dabba dancing the night away (awful, I’m sorry but I had to…it is like I challenged Gene Shalit for a second).

FRI, 11:30pm Trouble in the Streets – This Austin-based trio dub their style as “Electro Tribe”. Recognized as the best new band at

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DESERT RHYTHM PROJECT San Francisco, this band looks to blend the DJ culture with a live act to create an infinitely listenable and danceable soundtrack for festivalgoers to party the night away.

CLOSING NIGHT SUN, 7:45pm: Desert Rhythm Project – Locals Mikey Reyes & Bryanna Evaro fuse a folk-rock, funk and reggae in a style that is reminiscent of Mike Love. Having released their first album Mojave Roots last year, expect the Desert Rhythm Project to have the main stage area in full celebration mode as the festival nears its close.

SUN, 9:30pm: Moontricks – This British Columbia-based duo closes out the festival.

Nog Osiris plays the harmonica, computers and keyboards while Sean Roadman provides vocals, guitar and banjo. Moontricks music fits in perfectly with the festival as it is a fusion of roots Americana sounds with

‘MY BABY’ PERFORM AT JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Y BABY makes a rare trip to the United States as one of the headliners of the Joshua Tree Music Festival. We interviewed the New Zealand third of MY BABY, guitarist and cofounder, Daniel Johnson from his home in the Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The band is currently preparing for its 2019 world tour which starts in Switzerland this Friday at the Balelec Festival before making their JTMF debut on Saturday the 18th at 8pm on the main stage.

Johnson moved from New Zealand to Amsterdam in 2012 to form a band that his friend, Joost van Dijck was starting with his sister, Cato van Dijck. “We had played in bands together on and off over the last fifteen years and wanted to do a project together.” With this, Johnson took the plunge and moved from his home country of New Zealand to Amsterdam to begin the MY BABY musical journey.

The band’s unique name started as a joke, Johnson reminisces. While in the studio recording their first album, the phrase ‘My Baby Loves Voodoo,’ became a tongue-incheek working name for the band as well as their debut 2013 album. During those early

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the 2017 Austin Music Awards, Trouble in the Streets have opened for George Clinton as well as Grammy winners like Grupo Fantasma and the Rebirth Brass Band.

FRI, 11:30pm: Oliver Koletzki – From German, this internationally acclaimed DJ/ producer of electronic music has 700,000 monthly listeners, 135,000 followers and more than 15 million plays of track, “Hypnotized”.

Koletzki found almost immediate success after starting his own label in 2005 and releasing “Der Muckenschwarm”, a track that German music magazine readers chose as their ‘track of the year’. Listen to “The Arc of Tension” and “A Tribe Called Kotori” to get a feel for what you will be hearing Friday night.

SAT, 8:15pm: MY BABY – See feature article/interview in this issue.

SAT, 10pm: Vintage Trouble – A little closer to home, Los Angeles-based Vintage Trouble is a rock act that works classic blues, soul and rock into their contemporary offerings. Produced by the legendary Don Was, 1 Hopeful Rd. was the first rock record ever released on the Blue Note Records.

“Blues Hand Me Down” from their 2011 debut release, The Bomb Shelter Sessions has an impressive 3.7 million plays on Spotify while the band itself has 550,000 monthly listeners.

SAT, 11:30pm: Smoked Out Soul – From

days, the band had a distinct rhythm and blues focus. “The name is a blues reference,” offers Johnson. As fans of blues artists like John Lee Hooker, Daniel, Joost and Cato regularly heard the phrase “My Baby” in Hookers’ music. Johnson incorporates many of riffs learned from the great blues and jazz masters like Hooker into MY BABY songs. It is this ability to weave the old with the new that differentiates MY BABY and helps in creating their distinctive sound.

In short order, the band found that using a sentence like MY BABY LIKES VOODOO as the band’s name was a bit cumbersome and long…not to mention that their musical stylings were evolving as they gained more experience as a unit.

“MY BABY became a mystical muse, the central character that Cato would perform to.” By the time of their 2015 release,

Shamanaid, the band’s sound had begun its evolution. “While making Shamanaid, we began to fuse hypnotic, trance and EDM sounds with the older musical influences that we learned as children,” shares Johnson.

That led their sound to evolve into more of a roots-driven, hypnotic dance styling with heavy gospels, blue, folk and world melodies interspersed. Hits like “Uprising” and “Seeing Red” led to MY BABY winning the 2016 Edison (a Dutch Music Award) for Best Alternative Act. With the success of Shamanaid, the band continued their evolution with Prehistoric Rhythm in 2017 followed by 2018’s Mounaiki – By the Bright of Night. With each new album, the band incorporated more Moroccan, Indian and desert blues influences. Unlike many bands, MY BABY does not use sampling or computers to

MOONTRICKS modern production techniques. That unique mix brings traditional sounds together with contemporary electronica to create a sound that is new, inviting and haunting all at one.

Using loops, sampling and synthesizers, Moontricks sound is far more developed and complex than one would expect. We are certain to be treated to a heavy dose of their latest release Backwoods Bass which features an instant classic with “Wood For the Trees”.

This duo appears to be positioned for great things.

Moontricks are the perfect ending to an invigorating and soul filling weekend with kindred spirits in the magical shadow of Joshua Tree.

The 17th Annual Fall Joshua Tree Music Festival takes place May 16-19, 2019 at the Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, 2601 Sunfair Rd, Joshua Tree, CA.

BY HADDON LIBBY create their rich and intoxicating sound.

What can crowds expect of MY BABY? “Definitely a high energy, psychedelic, rock and roll show,” says Johnson. Over time, Cato’s performances have evolved to become the embodiment of the mystical muse whom they play for. “Cato narrates and performs in a more theatrical way,” say Johnson. By channeling their muse, lead singer Cato “feels freer” to perform, Johnson offers.

If past JTMFs are any indication, Cato and MY BABY should feel quite at home. While the band feels a responsibility to “create inclusiveness and togetherness” during their shows, those familiar with JTMF will know that the entire festival is meant to be a shared experience. This combination of kindred spirits with MY BABY should make for a one-of-a-kind experience for all.

Don’t be surprised if some songs performed at the festival make it to a live album that the band plans on releasing later this year. “The beats per minute live, is much higher than in the studio,” say Johnson.

Given that MY BABY spends approximately eight months of the year on the road and record as many of their shows as they can, the live recording will be a nice chance for those who have been to a show to relive the experience while exposing new fans to a little bit of what makes MY BABY a rising force in music.

For those who can make it to Bakersfield, MY BABY will be playing at Lightning in a Bottle in Bakersfield on Sunday the 12th in preparation for their performance at JTMF.

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“LIVE/LOVE LIKE THERE IS NO TOMORROW” – BARNETT ENGLISH

erriam-Webster defines an egalitarian as someone who believes in the removal of social inequalities amongst people whether it be related to social, political or economic affairs.

The way in which Barnett English, founder and curator of the Joshua Tree Music Festival, leads his life and the operation of the festival that he started is a true example of this philosophical approach in action. Even the slogan for the Festival says this, “Live/Love Like there is No Tomorrow”.

This festival is not about the money to English. “As long as I can put a roof over my head and have the ability to put my daughter through college, I’m good,” he professes.

English shares how he has lost money on the festival at times over its seventeen-year history but he is “cool with it” as the festival helps many of the High Desert’s finest performers by providing them with a venue that showcases their prodigious talents. It also provides a rare chance for festival-goers to see performers from around the world that would not normally tour the United States.

English is serious when he says that it isn’t about the money. It is about sharing the wonder, beauty and spirituality of Joshua Tree with an ever-growing community of kindred people. At least for a weekend, everyone at the Festival gets a chance to experience a communal society where love and positive vibrations are shared. Think of it as a Burning Man for people with children, the need for a shower and bathroom, the desire for a little

yoga or meditation and an interest in really good music without the annoyance of large crowds or commercial influences.

With no more than 1,500 attendees over the four-day festival, the spirit of the festival is unlike any other. Festival-goers can stay and camp, bring your own RV or rent an RV for a night or the entire festival at a cost that can be as little $45/day per adult while children 10 and under are free. For those who are tight on cash and cannot afford any amount yet wish to attend, English will put you to work as a volunteer at the festival.

Like many desert dwellers, English is a transplant from Kentucky. After graduating from the University of Indiana, English moved to California in 1986 where he worked in a number of sales roles in the advertising and graphic design field. On his 30th birthday,

A STAGE REVIEW OF ‘GOOD PEOPLE’

I feel like life is much greater than a hero or a villain; there’s good people that sometimes make mistakes. ----- Peter Dinklage erisimilitude, is a favorite word of mine.

It means the appearance of being true or real. It was a word that resonated and stuck with me when I began writing for theatre. Does this character, this story, this stage presentation ring true? Is it believable whether in the context of reality or fantasy? I have seen few plays that portrayed more verisimilitude than David Lindsay-Abaire’s, “Good People,” currently in production at Coachella Valley Repertory.

From curtain up until curtain down, LindsayAbaire’s script is packed with witty, funny, sad, insightful, dramatic, heartbreaking and honest dialogue. The authenticity of these characters resonated so profoundly that I found myself thinking that they could have been neighbors of mine growing up in Cleveland. Just like Chicago or New York or Boston, the setting for “Good People,” in most cities across America you will find those living on the wrong side of the tracks, struggling to find a way out, or accepting their fate and settling in for the long haul. Whether dreams deferred or dreams achieved, is it really just about the choices we make? Or does it all come down to lucky breaks and interventions at just the right moment in our lives?

“Good People,” tells the story of Margie, (Reamy Hall,) a ‘Southie,’ as those from the South side of Boston refer to themselves as.

A night at the Bingo Hall is the highlight of the

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he decided that more traditional jobs were not working for him and started a coffee cart business. At present, English attends 25 festivals a year with his business.

In 2002, while working at a Diggery Doo Festival at the Joshua Tree RV Campground, English fell in love with the Joshua Tree desert. Seeing the potential of the location, English suggested to the campground owner that he should start a music festival on the property.

Uninterested in doing it himself, the campground owner suggested to English that he found the festival. “Ignorance is bliss, I suppose,” says English. Within five months, the first Joshua Tree Music Festival happened. Three years later, English added the fall version of the festival which takes place this year from October 10th through the 13th.

The May 16-19 festival features an impression cross-section of artists from Electronica and Delta Blues to soulful jazz,

BY DEE JAE COX

week and everyone is just trying to figure out how to pay the rent and buy groceries at the same time.

As a pregnant High School teen dropout, Margie’s life took an irrevocable path that led her to her current predicament of being fired from another low paying job and wondering how she’s going to care for herself and her disabled adult child.

Her young boss, Stevie, (Erik Odom,) the manager of the dollar store where they both work, is a nice guy who agonizes over his duty to fire her for repeated tardiness, regardless of her reasons.

Hall’s slice of life performance is mesmerizing and as raw and real as it gets. She keeps the audience riveted and engaged from the first desperate plea to keep her job to her last effort to maintain dignity at the Bingo Hall.

Once upon a time, Margie, had a high school summer romance with Mike, (Michael Matthys,) who made his way out of the projects and is now a Doctor. Mike left town at a critical time for Margie, but in her desperation to find work she approaches her old flame for help. Long held secrets and resentments flare up when Margie and Mike confront their past. Each remembering things just a little differently and asking the crucial question, is life about the choices we make or the breaks we catch?

Matthys, wonderful portrayal of Mike, introduces us to a guy who made it out, but gives no acknowledgement to anyone but himself for his success. Mike isn’t very likable, but he is

BY HADDON LIBBY

rock, funk, alternative and world music including My Baby, Diggin Dirt and Vintage Trouble as well as local artists like Gene Evaro, Jr., Myshkin Warbler, Megan Hutch and the Desert Rhythm Project. All told, more than 30 performers take the stage from Thursday evening through Sunday.

English states that, “the Festival will never expand into multiple stages performing simultaneously,” as he “prefers that everyone get to share in the same experience.”

If you cannot make the May festival, the October festival is just around the corner. For those wanting to beat the heat of the desert this summer, English mentions the Guitarfish Music Festival from July 25-28 on the Yuba River near Truckee, California. Set in a forest one mile above sea level, the festival is a nice respite from summer’s heat.

For tickets or more information, visit joshuatreemusicfestival.com. To hear any of the performers, visit Spotify and type in Joshua Tree Music Festival.

BREAKING THE4TH WALL

PHOTO BY JIM COX

forthright in his approach to his life, and Matthys is truly authentic in his performance. Mike’s young wife, Kate, (Nadege August,) is beautiful, educated and successful. Not exactly how Margie sees herself and the resentment shows beneath the ‘good person’ façade that she wears like a badge of honor. August, is so sincere and relatable in her portrayal of a legitimately nice person who must dig deep to keep the ugliness from destroying her life and her marriage.

Dottie, (Barbara Gruen) and Jean, (Candy Milo) are so spot on perfect in their characterizations of Marge’s friends who try to encourage her, while showcasing the flaws that make them so real. These two had me laughing out loud every time they were on stage and created a wonderful soft blunting around the naked edges of this drama.

Michael Matthews, direction takes this script to the next level of wonderful. The seamless blocking utilizes the space and keeps the action flowing between scenes like a choreographed ballet. Jimmy Cuomo, long admired as a favorite

set designer, uses his talent and design skill to create a set that is authentic and fluid. Sliding walls and revolving sets flawlessly move the action from one scene to another. Moira Wilkie Whitaker’s lighting design, Rebecca Kessin’s sound and Chandler Smith’s costumes round out the professional quality and presentation of this production.

I can’t recommend this show strongly enough. It will make you think and feel and above all, the Verisimilitude, will resonate long after the curtain comes down.

“Good People,” is running through May 19th at CV Rep’s new location, 68510 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Cathedral City.

For Information on upcoming shows: call 760-296-2966, or visit www.cvrep.org Dee Jae Cox is a playwright, director and producer. She is the Cofounder and Artistic Director for The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Project. losangeleswomenstheatreproject.org palmspringstheatre.com

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

MUSIC

T

JOE PERRY OF THE HOLLYWOOD VAMPIRES

he Hollywood Vampires will be performing at Fantasy Springs Resort and Casino in Indio, CA on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at fantasysprings.com. Each ticket includes $10 in FREE slot play!

These ‘Monsters of Rock’ include Alice Cooper on lead/backing vocals and harmonica, Joe Perry (Aerosmith) on lead/ rhythm guitar, backing and lead vocals, Johnny Depp on slide, rhythm/lead guitar, backing vocals and keyboards, Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper) on drums, Chris Wyse (The Cult, OWL) on bass and backing vocals, Tommy Henriksen (Warlock) on rhythm/ lead guitar, keyboards and backing vocals and Buck Johnson (Aerosmith) keyboards, rhythm/lead guitars and backing vocals.

Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and co-founding member, principal songwriter, electrifying lead guitarist and co-producer of America’s Greatest Rock and Roll Band…

Aerosmith’s Joe Perry.

Perry has cemented his everlasting legacy in the history of rock and roll music.

Through three decades he has helped propel Aerosmith to sales of more than 150 million albums, four Grammy Awards, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, 12 MTV Video Awards, two People’s Choice Awards, six Billboard Music Awards, eight American Music Awards, 23 Boston Music Awards and an Academy Award nomination for ‘Best Song’ for I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.

Below is our Coachella Valley Weekly conversation.

CVW: Congratulations on the release of your single, “Who’s Laughing Now.” What a great groove and drive to the song. My first thought is for those who may not be familiar with The Hollywood Vampires sound, if they hear that song it’s a great introduction to what you’re about.

Perry: “We’re just starting to get some feedback on that. That song, just thinking about those couple of riffs that came together on the record, I can’t wait to play them live. Like most of the songs that I’ve tried to write, from the start, I think about how it would be to play them live. Again, with this band and having done a couple of tours, it kind of shifted my aim a little different being with this band. It’s a little bit darker and a little bit heavier, you could say, and a lot more wide open than some of the things I’ve done with Aerosmith.”

CVW: The Hollywood Vampires is a salute and throwback to the camaraderie of musicians of the 70’s. How special a group is it?

Perry: “I get the feeling, if we had all met each other back in 1968, this would be the band that would be playing in a garage getting complaints around the neighborhood. At this end of things, it’s that kind of a vibe, with all the miles and years we put in all doing what we do live and that includes Johnny ‘cause what he does, even though he’s in front of a camera he’s still performing and he’s doing it live and he plays guitar a lot. He sits in every

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BY NOE GUTIERREZ

chance he gets with all of his friends. We’re doing it because it’s fun. We play for each other as much as we play for the fans.”

CVW: The Hollywood Vampires will be releasing your new album Rise on June 21, 2019. How are you and the band feeling about the new material?

Perry: “We’re really excited about the new record, there’s no doubt. After the last one, we went out and played pretty much the whole record. It was a cover record kinda thing but we knew that the band, when we hit the stage, we knew the band had a lot more to it than just covering some great old songs and paying homage to some of our friends that have passed away. We were really excited about finally getting in the studio and writing some new stuff and then going out and playing it live. Alice is amazing to play with. Again, everybody has had tons of time in the studio. Johnny’s been working in and out of the studio for years, everybody has. Really, it’s about getting on stage and playing live. We actually played quite a few songs from the new record on the last tour.

We’ll probably play 7 or 8 songs off the new record for this tour.”

CVW: It’s had to be difficult to keep everyone on the same page and trying to schedule things. This album has to mean a lot to you.

Perry: “We’re really excited about getting out there. We’ve played everything from festivals to clubs it’s really a matter of lining up the shows. It’s so hard for us to get everybody together physically. Even with the record, there were times where there’d only be a couple of us in the studio we had about six weeks where we were all able to be together but then there were times where there would be just a couple of us. It’s a really special thing for us to get together and play.

We’re looking forward to it.”

CVW: What’s the bird’s-eye view of the band’s songwriting/recording process?

Perry: “Everybody does everything.

Everybody can write lyrics, everybody can write riffs, everybody can write songs in their

own right. Everybody got their chance to do that little thing that they like to do best. I know Johnny likes to write lyrics and poetry, he really digs down for that, Tommy is a great producer and engineer and helps tie things together and a great guitar player and writes songs too. I do a little of everything but main thing is writing riffs. When we’re sitting there in the room and we’re all thinking about the songs. I’m thinking, ‘how’s this going to go down?’ how’s this gonna to play live?’ and Johnny’s thinking, ‘where am I going to put these lyrics?’ Tommy is arranging where he’s going to put his guitar. There are some lyrics in there that when you start reading them, listening and digging in they are saying a lot too. The main thing is the power behind them. Alice, of course, is the icing on the cake when he puts his stamp on it. He’ll write lyrics if he feels like he wants to put something in there that he wants to say or very suited for his style and ultimately it’s about the energy that these songs are going to carry.”

CVW: There’s no doubt you and this band thrive when you play live. What are the feelings about this pre-album release tour coming up?

Perry: “The thing about this band is…it’s really about the live thing. Alice, the band and I have certainly put in enough time on the road. There’s gotta be some kind of world record there. We’ve all paid our dues so to speak.”

CVW: You have some big league bandmates in Glen, Chris, Tommy and Buck, not to mention the taken by surprise talent of Johnny Depp. In addition, of course, Alice Cooper goes without saying.

Perry: “Johnny is a great guitar player, that’s probably one of the big surprises when people come after the shock of seeing him out there then they realize why he’s in the band. He’s got a lot to say. He writes great lyrics and plays great guitar. Everybody in the band are world class and Alice is one of the best front men I’ve ever played with.

It’s really about the energy of the live show we’re all looking forward to.”

“It’s really a dream. There’s no pressure.

On the last tour we played Wembley Arena and it was voted the SSE Live Award for ‘Best Group’ to perform in 2018. It was a great show. We were really happy with it.

The band is probably the best-kept secret in rock and roll. I think if we had more time to tour, certainly more people would know about the band. Because it’s so hard to get out there and actually get on the boards and get everybody not doing their day job to get out and play. It’s really hard to get out. Every gig is like a treasure for us.”

CVW: How familiar are you with the Coachella Valley?

Perry: “Not as much as I’d like. I’m familiar with the whole southwest from Sedona. I spent a lot of time there; my mother lived there for 13 years. I’ve been all through the desert. We’ll be playing a residency in Las Vegas. I should probably get a Nevada driver’s license at this point with the Aerosmith residency coming up. That part of the country really fascinates me with what went on all through there. There’s an affinity for it.”

CVW: You recorded a really cool and bluesy track, “I’ll Do Happiness,” with our own ‘Super Lungs’ Terry Reid in 2016. What do you recall from that recording?

Perry: “It was great! We recorded four songs. One of them is waiting to be released.

Actually, that’s the one that he’s been playing live in his set from what I understand. We’re just waiting for a good time to put it out.

That was some of the most fun I had in the studio…working with him. He’s a great guy.

Not only in the studio, but in the gigs we did together, it just doesn’t get any better than that. There’s no doubt he’s a superstar and world-class singer and songwriter. He had a lot of big songs in the 60’s and 70’s. He’s a great artist. I remember, some of those early songs, back in the 60’s. When Jack Douglas suggested that he come and sing, I was really blown away. I was really honored to have him come in and sing.”

CVW: Another mutual friend is Jimmy Palmer of 111 Guitars. How’s your ‘111 Toxic Tele’ that he crafted five years ago?

Perry: “Actually, I was playing that guitar in the studio not too long ago. Please tell him ‘good work! and thank you for making it.’”

UPCOMING SHOWS: 5.10 – The Joint – Las Vegas 5.11 – Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre 5.12 – San Francisco, CA – The Warfield 5.14 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium 5.16 – Alburguque, NM – Sandia Casino 5.17 – Scottsdale, AZ – Talking Stick Resort 5.18 – Indio, CA – Fantasy Springs Casino hollywoodvampires.com joeperry.com aerosmith.com fantasyspringsresort.com

LOCAL MUSIC

I

t’s kind of crazy that within a year, we have gone from a club tour, to a theatre tour, to an arena tour!” Those are the words of ALL SOULS drummer Tony Tornay.

ALL SOULS are proof that dedication and persistence lead to progressive results. By the time you read this, ALL SOULS will be touring with TOOL playing in front of thousands of rock music fans. TOOL are poised to release their newest release in over a decade this year. This past weekend they debuted two new songs, Invincible and Descending at the Welcome to Rockville music festival. With ALL SOULS also prepping the release of their new album, 2019 is looking to be a banner year for rock.

In 1994, drummer Tony Tornay (Fatso Jetson, The Desert Sessions, Linda Perry) first met guitarist/vocalist Antonio Aguilar (Totimoshi, Alma Sangre) and bassist/vocalist Meg Castellanos (Totimoshi, Alma Sangre) by introduction from Erik Trammell guitars (Black Elk, Brothers Collateral).

In 2016, ALL SOULS recorded what would become their self-titled full-length debut at Sound of Sirens Studio in Los Angeles with producer Toshi Kasai (TOOL, The Melvins, Foo Fighters). Following tours with the likes of Red Fang, The Sword, Kvelertak, and Torche, the band released the album in 2018 via Sunyata, the label founded by iconic Screaming Trees and Mad Season drummer Barrett Martin.

The album is 45 minutes of unswerving, unabridged rock that consolidates the incalculable music experiences of ALL SOULS. Coachella Valley Weekly recently communicated with Tornay and Castellanos.

Below is our conversation.

CVW: Your self-titled album is killer. I listened to it when it was first released in early 2018 and then again more recently.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

ALL SOULS: FALLING INTO THEIR MUSIC

ALL SOULS

What do you all take away from that first recorded experience together?

Tornay: “We all put a lot of time and energy into what we were doing. We knew what we wanted to do, but we weren’t afraid to try things out once the foundation was there. I think all of us were happy to finally see the forest for the trees.”

Castellanos: “I think we all worked really well together in the studio. Everyone showed up prepared with lots of ideas. It’s exciting to hear the songs elevated from what we play in the practice studio. It’s like we are creating an art piece when we record. We have a lot of respect for the process and one another.

I’m really proud of that first record and the experience of making it was inspiring and fun.”

CVW: As of the end of 2018 you had begun recording your new album. What can you share about the direction of the album and where you are in the process?

Tornay: “The direction is forward. We write music as it comes to us. It isn’t so much about thinking, it’s a lot more about doing.

Someone will come in with an idea and we jump on it like wolves, always pushing the ball forward.”

Castellanos: “So far we have recorded and mixed three songs. We’re doing it in stages as they are written and as we can afford to.

We will go back in the studio to record four more songs at end of May. It sounds like ALL SOULS. It has a depth, and a darkness to it, but there is an inescapable pop element that we are always drawn to because we love hooks!”

CVW: You’re working again with Toshi Kasai (Tool, The Melvins, Foo Fighters) on the new material. What has that been like?

Castellanos: “Toshi is a mad genius. He’s got great ideas, is a total pro and knows how to get the best performance out of us. Plus he’s funny as hell. He can put anyone at ease, which helps when you’re recording. We all have a very good rapport. He is like family.”

CVW: You’ve created a Patreon crowdfunding membership page to give your fans special access to content. Can you tell us a little about that?

Castellanos: “We felt that we could build a special portal where we could share our story as it unfolds. I’m building an archive of videos that showcase us in the recording studio, and blogs that share our personal stories, documenting all the shows, etc. It’s for fans that want a glimpse into our creative process and our experience as working musicians.”

CVW: Your Coachella Valley and High Desert fans are stoked for you and your tour with TOOL. Your track, Sadist/Servant with TOOL drummer Danny Carey on Tabla drums is kick-ass. How did that relationship come to be?

Castellanos: “I think all of us have befriended Danny through mutual friends.

Toshi has worked with TOOL, and Erik and Danny are pretty close.”

CVW: You all have come a long way since you met in 1994. What have you learned about each other in that time?

Castellanos: “Antonio and I actually met Tony and Erik in the late 90’s/early 2000’s when Totimoshi would play with Fatso Jetson and Black Elk. I think the sacrifice and dedication that all of us share is what brought us together.”

CVW: The band was essentially developed prior to even picking up your instruments.

What was that initial connection like and what is most important now with respect to your kinship?

Tornay: “Sometimes it’s good to know what you are getting yourself into. I have always been the type of person to blindly jump off the cliff. With this band, I think we all wanted to peer over the ledge and make sure the pond wasn’t too shallow. Antonio and I had been kicking the idea of a band around for years. We jammed with Meg a few times but schedules kept getting in the way. Finally, at some point everything came together. Erik and Tony had been playing together as well and we were all able to make it happen.

May 9 to May 15, 2019

BY NOE GUTIERREZ We are really good a pushing each other to be better, and really, that’s all you need.

Someone helping you to believe in yourself.”

Castellanos: “All of us had been playing music with other projects for a long time when we had that first band meeting. We talked about how we wanted to present ourselves, musically and esthetically. We talked about how we wanted to tour in specifics...and what mistakes we did not want to repeat. There is a lot of learning as you go in music if you’re dealing with labels and touring... a lot can go horribly wrong. The fact that we are still here makes me think we are doing something right!”

CVW: We obviously know Tony from his work in Fatso Jetson. Does Erik, Meg or Antonio have any deep desert roots?

Castellanos: “Antonio is from the high desert, from a town called Tehachapi, near Mojave.”

CVW: Have you considered anything beyond the TOOL shows?

Castellanos: “No, we’re waiting to see what might come to us. We need to concentrate on finishing the record and getting that out.”

CVW: When do you anticipate releasing your sophomore album? Is there a working title?

Castellanos: “The tentative title is Songs for the End of the World. Let’s hope it comes out before then!”

CVW: Anything else you’d like to convey to our CV/High Desert readers?

Tornay: “It’s getting to be that time of year when the heat is horrible and seemingly impossible to escape. Go find the E & E Pel’s truck and knock yourself out!”

Castellanos: “Thank you for the love!”

TOOL + ALL SOULS Spring Tour 2019 May 7 – BIRMINGHAM, AL @ LEGACY ARENA AT THE BCC May 8 – LOUISVILLE, KY @ KFC YUM! CENTER May 10 – HAMPTON, VA @ HAMPTON COLISEUM May 11 – CONCORD, N.C. @ EPICENTER May 13 – ST. LOUIS, MO @ ENTERPRISE CENTER May 14 – KANSAS CITY, MO @ SPRINT CENTER May 16 – LINCOLN, NE @ PINNACLE BANK ARENA May 17 – DES MOINES, IA @ WELLS FARGO ARENA allsoulsband.com

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

CONSIDER THIS

L

ou’s Walk On The Wild Side, still profound and Profane, king of that street corner, his words slash and Lick the pain.” That’s Nils Lofgren paying homage to Lou Reed on the title track of his new album, Blue With Lou. Nils Lofgren cemented his place in the Rock N’ Roll history books when he accepted Bruce Springsteen’s invitation to join the E Street Band in 1984. As their new lead guitarist (taking the place of Steven Van Zandt, who was embarking on a solo career), he gained worldwide recognition. But to Rock fans in the know, Nils had begun making a splash in the late ‘60s.

Nils was born in Chicago in 1951 and grew up in the Washington D.C. suburb, Garrett Park, Maryland. He began studying music early on, playing Classical Accordion at age five. He switched gears from Classical and Jazz to Rock N’ Roll, swapping out accordion for piano and guitar. Early bands included Crystal Mesh, The Shot and Paul Dowell & The Dolphin. By age 17, he felt confident enough to turn pro.

After sneaking backstage at a Neil Young show, the future Godfather Of Grunge took him under his wing, inviting him to play on his After The Gold Rush album. At the same time, Nils was trying to get his own band, Grin, off the ground, raising his profile via his association with Neil, allowed him to leverage a record deal.

Throughout the early ‘70s, Nils toggled between Grin, establishing his solo career, playing with Neil on his 1975 album, Tonight’s The Night and as an intermittent member of Neil’s idiosyncratic baking band, Crazy Horse.

His self-titled, solo debut, received rave reviews and featured the Stonesy single “Keith Don’t Go (Ode To A Glimmer Twin),” which received regular rotation on free-form FM radio. Several solo records followed, garnering a loyal fan base. Toward the end of the “Me Decade,” Nils connected with another legend, Lou Reed.

The pair collaborated on several songs, three of which popped up on the album Nils, while three more were featured on Lou’s The Bells. Both efforts were released in 1979. By 1984, Nils had seven solo records to his name and had recently appeared on Neil Young’s Trans album. The call came from the Boss, and he played over 150 dates worldwide on the massive Born In The U.S.A. tour. He also played on Bruce’s Tunnel Of Love album and subsequent tour.

Although Bruce Springsteen sorta went solo for most of the ‘90s, Nils remained busy, playing in Ringo Starr’s All-Star Band, writing and recording myriad solo albums, recording with Neil Young and Branford Marsalis and creating a soundtrack for the Judd Nelson movie, “Every Breath.” When the Boss reactivated the E Street Band in 1999, both Nils and Little Steven hit the road with the band and that arrangement has continued for the last 20 years.

All told, Nils has released about 23 solo albums. After Lou Reed’s untimely passing in 2013, he began to dust off the songs they had co-written that remained mostly unrecorded.

During the Boss’ 2017 Australian tour, he revisited the tracks, reshaped them and wrote a few more songs. When he was satisfied, he

“

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NILS LOFGREN

“BLUE WITH LOU” (CATTLE TRACK ROAD RECORDS)

retreated to his home studio with drummer Andy Newmark (Carly Simon, Roxy Music, John Lennon, David Gilmour) and bassist Kevin McCormack (Jackson Browne, Melissa Etheridge, Don Henley, David Crosby). The result is his 24th record, Blue With Lou. The album kicks into gear with three killer collaborations from Nils and Lou. “Attitude City” is a sharp synthesis of streetwise swagger and tough-minded R&B. A walloping backbeat is bolstered by roiling bass, kinetic percussion, soul-shout backing vocals and shimmering guitar. The lyrics are a straight-up love letter to the city that never sleeps, depicting the good, the bad and the ugly; “There’s a presence that you sense everywhere in the street, you can’t quite put your finger on it/There’s a violence that keeps moving your feet, I know some people frown on it.” Guitars fracture and sway, ring and chime, slightly undercutting the lyrics’ menacing mien.

“Give” is a socially conscious call to arms wrapped in subterranean bass, a bonecrusher beat and stinging, serpentine guitar.

Rattlesnake-shake percussion bookends mordant lyrics that encourage us to give a leg up, so to speak, to others less fortunate; “Donate half your brain to science, preserve your eyes in alcohol, keep your balls refrigerated you never know who needs It most.” No one but Lou Reed would urge half of mankind to freeze gonads for the greater good. As the tempo ratchets up, Nils revs through the bridge before unleashing an extended guitar solo that scratches, scorches, and crackles with intensity.

Conversely, “Talk Thru The Tears” executes a stylistic backflip and sticks the landing. A Doo-Wop/Blues ballad, it features Gospelflavored backing vocals, stately piano, a rock steady beat, and King-size guitar riffs that echo Albert and B.B. Both the melody and the opening lines, “Smile, though your heart is breaking,” are a clear homage to Charlie Chaplin’s classic composition. The lyrical through-line follows suit; “People are often mistaken for objects that are just to be taken, don’t think that of yourself, don’t put yourself on a shelf, remember this rule/ Talk thru the tears, walk thru the tears, when the mad world tells you no.”

Both “Pretty Soon” and “Too Blue To Play” offer narratives from the perspective of enlisted men. The former is tethered to a galloping gait, jangly acoustic and sparkling electric riffs. Here, a newly deployed soldier reassures his sweetheart that he will be fine. At first he exhibits the brash confidence of youth; “Got this war to win, yeah, some fightin’ to do, gonna take my spoils buy blue shiny shoes and a happy suit to make you proud.” But pretty soon reality sets in; “Dear, your words been paintin’ Picassos on my soul, last night two friends died, I was there I know/Sarge was screamin’ at me, think I know what to do, take my damaged heart and run right back to you.”

The latter is a South Of The Border charmer that weds courtly Spanish guitar to a rock steady beat and simpatico backing vocals. The lyrics quietly unspool a saga of a battle-scarred Vet who has retreated from society, but manages to find love; “Sometimes lost deep in your smile girl, I simply cannot find my pain, in

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

your anxious arms real hope burns, sure feels awful close to grace, Let’s live the hurt off until there’s not a trace.”

The remaining Nils and Lou collaborations yield some interesting surprises. “City Lights” is a more explicit Charlie Chaplin tribute, as Lou’s lyrics specifically cite the Little Tramp’s enforced exile from America back in the early 1950s… “He was banished and his humor left forever.” Lou’s spare, bare bones version appeared 40 years ago, just a couple of years after Charlie died. Nils’ arrangement locks into a jaunty, Reggae riddim that is accented by plinky-plunky guitar, airy backing vocals and breezy sax runs from Branford Marsalis. Nils’ take pushes past injustice and feels intent on celebrating the motion picture icon.

“Cut Him Up” is a prickly sonic soundscape, primitive and terse one minute, Bluesy and soulful the next. Cascading piano connects with a tick-tock beat, barbed bass lines and razor wire guitar. The lyrics limn the Brutish cosmopolis of late ‘70s New York City, when slivers of beauty still shone through the decay. “Downtown in the heart of the city, Everybody’s fine and oh-so pretty…most days I brawl, crawl and never smile, way down in the heart of the city.”

Meanwhile, “Don’t Let Your Guard Down” is pleasingly angular, anchored by tensile bass lines, slashing guitars and a pile-driving beat.

Here fisticuffs provide a metaphor for the rigors of romance; “Keep your hands in front of your face, make sure your back’s straight/ Keep your fists above your waist, violent love’s a required taste.”

The balance of the album is given over

to heartfelt encomiums to fallen friends.

The title track relies on rumbling bass lines and a locomotive beat. The stripped-down arrangement allows Nils to fully rip on guitar.

Shapeshifting from sinewy riffs to gutbucket blue notes, growling power chords and rapid fire licks. The lyrics offer a sharp and succinct elegy to Lou, Punk Progenitor/Poetic Provocateur; “Sick of burying friends and Heroes, every fear I feel, gonna tango in the madness, find an Inner flame to burn or heal.”

It’s a brilliant tour de force.

“Dear Heartbreaker” is a wistful ode to Tom Petty, whose sudden death continues to reverberate. Chunky guitar riffs are reinforced by serrated bass lines and a chugging rhythm.

Lyrics include sly references to classic TP hits; “So the flesh and body’s gone in the wind, so it goes, still he’s not backin’ down and the music lights our souls/Oh our dear heartbreaker brother, keeps us singin’ makes us whole.”

The record closes with “Remember You,” a tender panegyric to Nils’ recently departed dog, Groucho. Soulful and elegiac, it unfolds slowly before a chugging rhythm and strumming acoustic guitar kick in. Lyrics paint a vivid portrait, familiar to anyone who knows what it means to give your whole heart to an animal; “That night you cried out in pain, limped right to my side, I took your paw in my mouth, with teeth, with all my heart, pulled that rough thorn from your body, eased your pain, spit it away/You gazed deep into me, knew forever we’d see my soul sister like no other, always there for me.” The grief is suffused with grace.

Blue With Lou is kind of a bolt out of the blue. It’s a powerful reminder of the protean talent that was Lou Reed. Happily, his work continues to resonate. Had the rest of the songs he collaborated on with Nils been released piece meal on a Lou record here or a Nils album there, the impact might have been blunted. Nils’ additional songs are equally nuanced, aided and abetted by his acrobatic guitar textures. Lou Reed may have been the catalyst for this album, but Nils Lofgren provides its heart and Soul.

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

May 9 to May 15, 2019

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

B

PET PLACE ROLEX, BRINGING LOVE TO SILVER & BILL

ill and Silver Martin are a wonderful example of how mutual love for animals creates a special bond between a couple. When they first met 47 years ago, their conversation quickly led to a discovery of how they both loved horses.

On their first date the following day, Silver sold Bill a horse and ended up giving riding lessons to her new beau. At the time of their wedding the following year, they owned two black lab dogs and five horses. Horses and dogs continued to be a part of their life together.

Bill and Silver rode horses with the Long Beach mounted police in ten Rose Parades and many other events. Their horses always included at least one rescue horse, as they were keenly aware that pets, including the majestic horses, were sometimes abused and discarded. Silver fondly recalls her special rescue horse, Galiano, who slowly came out of his shell to show love and gratitude after being horribly abused.

In 2007, the Martins moved to the Coachella Valley. Silver became active in Animal Samaritans where she met and befriended Lindi Biggi. In 2008, Silver became a founding member and Board Member for Loving All Animals, a charity Lindi formed to help homeless animals.

In 2010, the story of Duroville went viral in the local news. This dilapidated migrant

MEET MADELEINE This raven black beauty Bombay cat adores all humans, including the small ones. Madeleine also loves other cats!

Rescued by www.ForeverMeow.org, call (760) 335-6767.

MEET BABY This happy little character hopes for a home with you! Her owners became seriously ill and could no longer care for this 6-yr-old Chihuahua girl. At Loving All Animals Pet Rescue Center, 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, (760) 398-7722.

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worker trailer park in Thermal went into federal receivership due to the unsanitary living conditions for the people there.

Soon the media, looking for a new angle, reported on the hundreds of stray dogs in and near the complex. New housing plans were underway for the human residents, however the pet restrictions at the new complex would only increase the number of strays.

Loving All Animals was determined to help the dogs in and near Duroville. Seven wonderful local veterinarians eagerly signed up for the 3-day shifts in the Duroville church converted into a temporary vet clinic.

It was a magical weekend, despite the torrential rains that brought mud to the area. The dogs poured in, their humans grateful for the free services that included snacks and toys for the children. Some residents helped round up the strays who needed vaccinations, spaying, and other vet services, and animal welfare groups coordinated their rescue.

A resident walked up to Silver as the event was ending, and placed a matted white dog in her arms. He explained that the homeless animal lived underneath one of the trailers.

The pup was soaking wet, covered in mud, and had no less than 68 ticks imbedded in his fur. Silver felt an immediate bond with the pup, his condition tugging at her

heartstrings. Thom Daves, director of the old Save A Pet shelter, took the dog to his clinic for grooming and vetting. Three days later, the Martins picked up Rolex, now neutered, vaccinated, and looking gorgeous. It was an amazing transformation, and Rolex looked like a pure breed Bichon.

BY JANET McAFEE

The couple had three other dogs at the time, but Rolex fit perfectly into their pack.

Silver explains, “Bill is always there to walk our dogs, take them to the dog park, or do whatever they might need. One more dog just meant more love in our lives. They teach us so much about unconditional love.

In the days when we got the horses ready, the dogs always milled around, making sure they were part of the activity.”

Silver describes Rolex, “He is the best dog we’ve ever had. He’s always by our side, loyal and loving. Rolex is amazing with the other dogs that arrive for my pet sitting business. He knows which ones need comforting, and which ones are ready for play. He is patiently welcomes each new dog, helping them adjust to the new surroundings.”

Now a senior, 11-year-old Rolex is a poster dog for rescue. Rolex is part of the couple’s extended family, an integral part of all life’s events. Their love for dogs keeps this couple’s love even more special as they approach their fifth decade together. Bill and Silver’s theme is “Love Me, Love My Animals”.

Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

M

THE VINO VOICE

other’s Day is right around the corner and it’s that time again where get to seek out and review some of the better wines at reasonable prices which are in our local wine markets. As we always mention, here in the desert, ideal springtime weather quickly races to the heat.

This gives us a small window of time to still enjoy the reds but we all know we’re headed on to the rosés and whites.

But before we entertain with some timely quaffs, why not mention some fun quick history surrounding the generic term “May Wine”. Maybe forty years ago or so, more folks, wine lovers or not, were a bit familiar with the term. Perhaps the times were simpler then, or, maybe there were a lot less wines on the market to think about.

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

MAY WINE RELEASE PARTY

But like referring to or talking about the May Pole or May Wine or even May Day, may be, a thing of the past.

Anyway, back in the day, the plant/herb, Sweet Woodruff, with its whorls of emerald green leaves and white starry flowers, was a welcome sight in late spring, and the foliage was attractive all season long. Both its smileworthy four-petaled starry flowers, and the leaves, when dried, smell pleasantly of newmown hay, honey, and vanilla.

Particularly native to northern and central Europe, in the Middle Ages, this beautiful little flower was perfect to fragrance the fresh local white wines just being released. In Germany, the white Rhine wine so flavored with the Sweet Woodruff, in time, became known as the generic May Wine in Europe.

The idea certainly followed the immigrants to America, whether or not the wine recipe was followed. With May party celebrations, the drinking of fresh “May Wine”, and the dancing and prancing of the young girls around the May Pole in their pretty May dresses, it became an annual event.

And now—a few Mother’s Day wine recommendations that will brighten her day and get us through to the remaining springtime: So let’s start with the 2018 Smoking Loon Steelbird Rosé. We know rosés are the continuing party favorite for gatherings and

BY RICK RIOZZA

luncheons; and now with certain desert heat entering our kitchens and dining rooms, it appears to be rosé all day.

In a competitive field of rosés from about every winery around the block, I was absolutely impressed with the flavors and quality of this Steelbird Rosé. And at around $9, it’s a great buy for a very inviting and tasty wine at the table.

Most wine folks know of the Sebastiani Family and have enjoyed their wines for decades and more. The Smoking Loon brand is part of their wine portfolio and has amassed a large fan base for these reasonably priced wines.

This lively Steelbird Rosé is a blend of Barbera, Syrah, and Grenache, exhibiting flavors of strawberries and Bing cherries.

Its clean acidity is refreshing and bright, perfect for sipping and accompanying light to medium fare. We had this rosé with the classic plate of carnitas tacos, beans and rice, which worked wonderfully.

Looking to grab a world class Anderson Valley Pinot Noir for around $35? Do consider the 2015 Long Meadow Ranch Pinot Noir.

This pinot from an estate vineyard in the cool California region shows its fruit in a restrained manner that allows layers of complexities to impress at each quaff. Classic red cherry and pomegranate flavors with earth tones and violets are wound around the wine’s fine structure with a perfect balance of tannins and acidity. It’s the pinot for Pinot Noir lovers!

Talk about a Mother’s Day meal, this

pinot will pair well with duck breast & cherry mostarda, grilled quail with wild mushrooms or an artisanal charcuterie platter.

And speaking of Mother’s Day and beyond, I just tasted through three excellent wines which I thought I would write on in a coming article; but, why wait. Let’s talk about them now: 2018 Renaissance Rosé, (around $17).

From Tuscany, this bottle reeks of Italian art because it indeed uses Michelangelo’s Creation on its label! It owns aromas of strawberry and rose petals, and subtle hints of white pepper. On the palate, it is fresh and elegant with floral tastes, refined red fruit, a balanced acidity, and a crisp finish. A wine for all seasons and reasons: Pair it with seafood, cured meats, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, lightly spicy dishes—and while you’re at it, art, romance, and culture.

2017 Dos Almos Pinot Noir Gran Reserva, (around $15). One of the most impressive and reasonably priced wines to come from Chile.

This pinot has a fruity bouquet with notes of cherry, strawberries, and raspberries, intertwined with soft spicy notes and a touch of vanilla from the French oak ageing. It has a delicate body with good acidity and smooth tannins, adding freshness and a silky texture.

Good length, showing notes of red fruits, vanilla and spices; great to pair with oily fish, pasta and white meats.

2014 Feudo Principi di Buter Nero D’Avola DOC, (around $17). Nero D’Avola has become the Sicilian darling of millennials just coming on to the wine scene. Coming from the sunny hills of Sicily, the nose it is ample and persistent with intense, fruity notes of plum, cherries, and spice. The palate is dry and medium-bodied with mouthwatering red fruit. Hints of wild mushrooms and espresso lead to substantial, polished tannins, and beautiful graphite minerals linger on the long finish. I love the age on this wine!

Pairs beautifully with barbecued meats and engages aged pecorino cheese excellently!

Bon Appétit! & Cheers! Happy Mother’s Day!

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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THUR MAY 9

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ 9pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Tyler Simmons 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill and Doug Duo 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJ 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli Trio w/ Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7:30pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 CV Weekly Presents: Mother Stingray, Black Water Gospel and Waxy 8:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 Johnny Meza and Co. 6-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 6:30-9:30pm, DJ 9:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Lipstick hosted by Bella Da Ball 8pm, DJs Banks and Ax 10pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 TBA 5-8pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 TBA 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Barry Baughn Blues Band 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Patricia Welsh 6-9pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 DJ 10pm

THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Chris Lomeli 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Lisa LaFaro 7pm LA QUINTA RESORT; LQ; 760-564-4111 Steppin Out 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Country Night w/ Rye Brothers 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 Quinto Menguante 8-1am MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Church 8pm SOLD OUT PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Intimate Acoustics w/ Morgan Alise James 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Sharon Sills 6:30pm ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 TBA 6-9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 The Smooth Brothers 7pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Dude Jones 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 8pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Mike Cosley 6:30pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Robert Salisbury 4:30-6pm, Steve Oliver Band 6:30-10pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Aaron Alexander 5-8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Trio NV 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 An Evening of Jazz 6:30pm

FRI MAY 10

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19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 TBA 8pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Micha Schellhaas 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ noon, 10pm AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 760-674-4080 Avenida 7-11pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Live Music 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 “Proper” w/ DJs Zach Hayes and Paul Silva 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Bill Gulino 4-7:15pm, Horice Miller, Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7:30-11pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Rockaholics 8:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Chase Martinez 9-1am CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx 6:30-10pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD;

760-200-1768 Michael D’Angelo 6:30-9:30pm, DJ 9:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Viva Friday’s w/ DJ Banks 9pm CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill Baker 6pm DESERT FOX; PD; Bryan Zee 9:30pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Slim Man 5:30-9pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Gina Carey 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 30 Miles Out 8pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 Karaoke w/ KJ Marjovi 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Bradley’s Bday Bash w/ Captain Ghost, Ormus and The Decades 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-7pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Bob Allen 6pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-366-2250 Karaoke w/ Troy Michaels 7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Various Artists 7pm LA QUINTA RESORT; LQ; 760-564-4111 Steppin Out 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 Hot Roxx 7:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Dax Band 9pm THE LOUNGE; AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 DJ Jerry 9pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 TBA 6:3011pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Eevaan Tre 6-9pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 TBA 9pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760345-0222 Agave Bluesmasters 6:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Rose’s Pawn Shop 8pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke 7:30pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Brenna Whitaker 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 The Refills 9pm RENAISSANCE; PS; 760-322-6000 Matt Claborn 6-9pm RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 8-11pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm

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SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth Brothers 8-11pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SOLANO’S BISTRO; LQ; 760-771-6655 Michael Madden 6-9pm SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 E&J Movement 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 Dennis Michaels 6:30pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 “Meet the Corwins” 5:30-7:30pm, The John Stanley King Show 8pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 John Hopkins 7pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 DJ Galaxy and the House Whores 5pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 5-7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Rose Mallett 6:30pm

FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-776-6534 Jack Ruvio 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Frankie DiSalvo 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 TBA 8pm THE GROOVE LOUNGE; SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-775-5566 DJ 8pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760656-3444 DJ Ray 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 RowLow and Special Guests 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4-10pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; INDIO; 760-7755566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760-3456466 Bob Allen 6pm JC’S CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0733 Vinny Berry 3-7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Eevaan Tre 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-325-2794 PS Sound Company 1pm, Hot Roxx 8pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345-2450 Dax Band 9pm THE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888999-1995 TBA 9pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan Gregg 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev 6-9pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm and Bill 6:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ, poolside, 8pm Discoteca w/ DJ Victor Rodriguez 10pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; IW; 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm 760-674-4080 Steppin’ Out 7-11pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-327AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 4080 Journey Tribute 9pm Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB; PD; 760BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 345-0222 DysFunksion 6:30pm Linda Peterson 12:30-3:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 4 Year Shadow Mountain Band 5pm, The Creepy Anniversary Party w/ DJs Aaleem, Rich Brandon, Creeps, The Schizophonics and The Loons Mick Mac, Dxsko, Femme A, Hymn and Captain 8:30pm Osiv 7pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 Karaoke BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli, 7:30pm Brian Denigan and Leon Basquera 7:30-11pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Anthem COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Red’s Rockstar Road 8:30pm Karaoke 9pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gennine PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Scot Bruce Francis 6-10pm 8pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 50 Shades of PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael Wright 9-1am 60 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick ROWAN; PS; 760-904-5015 Lance Riebsomer Tuzzolino 5:30pm 6-9pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Myx SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 6:30-10pm 8pm CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S Christian 6-9pm MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; Blues 8-11pm 760-200-1768 Abie and Natasha 6:30-9:30pm, SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S DJ 9:30pm MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Brothers 8-11pm Banks and Mr. Miami 9pm SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CUNARD’S SANDBAR; LQ; 760-564-3660 Bill CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo Baker 6pm 9pm DESERT FOX; PD; Krystofer Do 9:30pm SONOMA GRILL; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm DESMOND’S @ THE S; RM; 760-328-2111 Philip Poe Epstein 5:30-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE; PD; 760-3413560 Demetrious and Co. 6:30pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-228JaFaith 9pm 1199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm THREE SIXTY NORTH; PS; 760-327-1773 EL MEXICALI CAFÉ 2; IND; 760-342-2333 Cesar Daniel Lopez on the harp 6-9pm Reggie “Vision” Alexander 6:30pm

SAT MAY 11

May 9 to May 15, 2019

TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 Rose Mallett and Co. 5-7pm, Kal David, Lauri Bono and the Real Deal 7:30pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Jeri Lynne & Company 7pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 6:30pm WESTIN MISSION HILLS; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 6pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm

SUN MAY 12

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Leillani Villamor 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ 12pm poolside, and 10pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Sunday Brunch w/ Live Music 11am BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Deeo House Sundays w/ DJ Tomas DeLa Noche 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Bill Gulino 12:30-3:30pm, Patrice Morris 6:30-10pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 Mother’s Day Brunch w/ The Cole Withers Acoustic Trio 12:30-3:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Michael Keeth 5-9pm CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888999-1995 Nash with Quinto Menguante 9pm CASTELLI’S; PD; 760-773-3365 Patrick Tuzzolino 5:30pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760-200-1768 Paul Douglas 6-9pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING; TP; 760-3435973 “Here’s to Mom” Mother’s Day Charity Event w/ 5th Town, Empty Seat, Symara Stone, Stevie Lee Jane, Jetta King, Courtney Chambers, Desert Queen, Lisa Lynn Morgan, Giselle Woo, Janine Rivera and The After Lashes 11am continue to page 20

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

EVENTS

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BY ESTHER SANCHEZ

DESERT VEGFEST

D

CELEBRATING COMPASSION

esert VegFest is a FREE outdoor event taking place on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at CSUSB Palm Desert Campus. Desert VegFest is having a variety of VEGAN food vendors, VEGAN products, VEGAN exhibitors, VEGAN speakers, live music, and more VEGAN stuff.

Calling all vegans, vegetarians, healthy eaters or those of us who just wish we could do better! Desert Veg Fest is the first event of its kind in the Coachella Valley and its creator and CSUSB student, Bryan Lopez is hoping to set a precedent for many more events like this in the future. Whether you are a hardcore vegan or are simply curious as to what it’s all about, there seems to be a lot in store for attendees.

CVW: Putting on an event like Desert Veg Fest is a pretty ambitious undertaking for such a young man. Tell us about what sparked that passion for you?

Lopez: “I think I was inspired because a lot of my friends don’t know much about veganism and I am the only one of my friends who is vegan and they give me a hard time saying things like, ‘What are you going to eat when we go out? Grass?’ They don’t believe that vegan food can be good so I wanted to prove them wrong. Besides, there are only 2 or 3 vegan restaurants in the valley so I really want to spread more awareness out here.”

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CVW: And what about you personally?

How did you come to the decision to live a vegan lifestyle?

Lopez: “I have been vegan since Nov, 2017.

I was in Hollywood and there was something going on called the, “Cube of Truth” where activists with laptops and masks engaged with the public. They showed videos and images of slaughterhouses and to be honest, it really didn’t bother me. I just figured that is just reality. A girl approached me and we had a dialogue and although I still wasn’t necessarily convinced of anything, I figured that since I like a challenge, I would take trying out veganism on as a challenge. Then, 20 minutes later I ate a double bacon cheeseburger and chili-cheese fries. But 3 days later I committed and haven’t gone back since.”

CVW: What can attendees expect at the festival?

Lopez: “We will have around 55 vendors including 17 food vendors who will have a variety of menus from tacos, to pizza, vegan wings and more. There is something for everyone, really. There will be lectures and live music performances as well. It’s free and family friendly so everyone should come check it out.” desertvegfest.com

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BREWTALITY

Y

ou know, for a product that is found almost exclusively in gas stations and dilapidated liquor stores, Miller High Life has some nerve calling itself the champagne of beers. The $7.49 per 12-pack price tag doesn’t exactly scream bourgeoisie (pronounced bo͝orZHwäˈ and is where we get the term “bougie” from), and one can only speculate that the champagne comparison in question is more Barefoot than Cristal. But have you ever wondered where Miller got that marketing idea from? No? Me neither, yet here we are.

In the late-1800’s, beer was almost exclusively draught (tapped from a keg and pumped using gas or air pressure) and enjoyed in saloons. If you really wanted to enjoy your beer outside of the pub, you’d have your bartender fill the small, galvanized pail that

May 9 to May 15, 2019

LET’S STUDY CHEAP BEER: MILLER HIGH LIFE

you brought him, and cover it with a lid. As you walked home, the CO2 would escape from under the lid as the beer sloshed, creating a growling sound, and that is where the name for beer growlers came from. Bottled beer was a rarity, namely because the beer had a propensity to undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle and explode like a grenade. This all changed in the 1870’s, when French scientist Louis Pasteur popularized the process of using heat to kill yeast and bacteria in bottled beer.

This process became known as pasteurization, and it made beer bottles shelf stable for the first time. With William Painter’s invention of the bottle cap in 1892, American breweries now had the means to sell single pints of beer in glass bottles with a pry-off lid, paving the success for brands like Budweiser, Coors, and Miller.

When the Miller Brewing Co started bottling in 1903, they decided that their marketing point would be to show off the color and clarity of their beer. Boasting a product with higher carbonation than was found in any draught beer, Miller began using the infamous champagne to highlight similarities of their beer to bight, sparkling wine, creating an air of class and luxury around their product. Calling it “High Life” beer cemented Miller’s claim to the bourgeoisie, and it had a reputation as one of the pricier beers on the market. Can you imagine?

The shape of Miller High Life’s bottle has evolved over the years, but the sloped shoulders and clear glass have remained consistent with the brand. Many craft beer fans look at prohibition as the catalyst that changed and watered down the production of American beer, but it was in fact WWII. Almost every resource became rationed and scare during the wartime effort, and barley was no exception.

Needed to bake enough bread to feed massive armies in a pre-GMO period, brewers no longer had unprecedented access to the grain from which their beers were made. Rice, corn, and other fermentables were incorporated in the recipes of every big brewery, altering the flavor and giving a much less robust taste. The unexpected upside for breweries was a lighter colored beer, which they liked, and a cheaper product to make, which they liked even more.

When the war ended, and barley was no longer a scarce material, almost every major brewery

BY AARON RAMSON continued with the corn and rice heavy recipes they’d created, and Miller was no exception.

In 2019, Miller High Life remains a favorite beer amongst college kids and urban hipsters alike who enjoy the kitsch and ironic appeal of a beer as uncool as high Life. Miller is fully aware of the zeitgeist we live in and makes no apologies for its beer. In a move of total transparency, Miller lists the ingredients for high Life on its website as “Water, Barley Malt, Corn Syrup (Maltose), Yeast, Hop Extract.” A blurb in front of the ingredient list informs us that the beer is made with “light stable galena hops from the Pacific Northwest,” which is Miller’s reassurance to us that their clear bottled beer resists being skunked thanks to the magical powers of Galena hop extract.

Miller smartly then lists the many awards won

by High Life, including a Silver medal at the 2016 World Beer Cup. I’m not going to review High Life here, if you’re familiar with it then you know that the flavor is the epitome of standard, massproduced lager. I prefer Coors Banquet to High Life, but I understand why this beer is enjoyable to so many. It’s blandly pleasant, with a grainy and almost cider-like dryness that’s not offset by any hop bitterness or character whatsoever.

Kinda like champagne.

17

May 9 to May 15, 2019

SCREENERS

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

No. 368

DARK FORCES

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

NOW SHOWING: CHERNOBYL

sequences is a tone poem about what’s real and the pleasure of solving that puzzle.

Recommended.

EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE

Screenwriter Craig Mazin is best known for his work in comedies. He wrote the last two movies in “The Hangover” franchise.

His extraordinary five-part mini-series about the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster is a gripping and terrifying, cautionary tale of a place and time in which state secrets are more important than the welfare of the people.

The immensity of the disaster in what is now Ukraine spread to Sweden. Hundreds of

thousands had to be evacuated. Estimates on the death toll ranged well into the thousands, although the “official” count was only 31.

At the time, the Soviet Union was desperate not to let the Americans know the extent of the damage. Same for the ineptness of its nuclear reactor set-up.

Mazin’s script makes it clear the multiplying mistakes and the numerous failed cover-ups are a metaphor for a corrupt empire in an age of deception and deceits. “We are now living in a global war on the truth. The debasement of the truth is the scariest thing of al. Scarier than the lies,” says Mazin Don’t miss this gripping and relevant film that left about 2,000 square miles uninhabitable and was one of the defining moments of the 20th Century. Now streaming on HBO.

SHADOW

Zhang Yimou’s visually stunning wuxiastyled action melodrama about an impetuous young king whose top commander poses an existential threat is complexly plotted and not always easy to follow, but, no matter, it is the gorgeous, stylized look of the film that makes it worth seeing. Not unlike the classical Chinese ink-brush art of great Chinese painters, the film incorporates a wonderful color palette of black, white and seemingly infinite shades of gray. The only colors are bright splashes of blood and the subtle hues of skin tones.

It’s difficult to lay out the plot in a linear and coherent manner. It’s about a king, his double, the commander and the commander’s musician wife Madam, who may be the only person who actually knows what’s going on.

Everything takes place in a magical realm.

But underneath it all, this intellectually challenging and breathtakingly beautiful film with it’s exquisitely choreographed action

18

Director Joe Berlinger’s absorbing true crime drama is based on Liz Kloepfer’s (writing under the name Elizabeth Kendall) 1981 memoir (The Phantom Prince: My Life with Ted Bundy) about her relationship with a handsome, charming too-good-to-be true boyfriend who was in fact a serial killer.

Although the movie leaves many questions unanswered, it does not totally glamourize Bundy, even though it sanitizes him just enough to make the story palatable and the narrative a tad more believable and relatable.

There’s no question that watching a psychopath we know is a murderer from his adoring girlfriend’s perspective is galvanizing.

Lily Collins is compelling and hugely sympathetic as Liz and Zac Efron is charismatic and chilling as Bundy.

It was Kloepfer who eventually tipped the police off regarding her boyfriend’s possible role in several murders; however, he was not considered a serious suspect.

Berlinger, who made his name as a truecrime documentarian is a great choice to helm this dark and intense story. Now streaming on Netflix. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

BOOK REVIEW

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"THE MOMENT OF LIFT"

BY MELINDA GATES NONFICTION

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unday we celebrate mothers and all they do for us. Our very existence begins with mom, and our future is often shaped by her efforts on our behalf. In Melinda Gates, The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World (Flatiron Books, 237 pages) men and women must overcome gender bias to improve the lives of all human beings.

Author Melinda Gates is the spouse of Microsoft co-founder and billionaire, Bill Gates. Before you pass judgment on her as a grandstanding, out-of-touch “one percenter,” this book reveals Mrs. Gates to be an incredibly humble, down to earth, and credible, hands-on leader determined to improve the way the world treats its female population.

Gates’ premise is simple – invest in women in order to create a better life for those in their care and the communities in which they reside -- and humanity is uplifted.

The Moment of Lift brings to light ways to combat poverty, which Gates has discovered through her work traveling all over the world with the billion dollar foundation that bears her name.

Throughout the book, Gates shares her personal journey as well: growing up a good Catholic girl, being hired at Microsoft, getting married, having kids and the challenges of finding her voice and equity in her relationship with her husband.

Gates studied computer science and has an MBA. She joined Microsoft when it was a small organization. She’s an intelligent, independent

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

A HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

thinker. The book reveals a woman who is not just satisfied to be told about a certain situation; but a woman who must directly study the data and see it for herself.

As a result, Gates discloses her experiences and what it takes to begin helping women and their families out of poverty.

The chapters outline core problems and give examples of working solutions.

An early chapter is about how important access is to contraceptives. When women can plan for children, they are more likely to get an education, earn an income, raise healthy children and have money to feed, educate and care for their kids, which lifts up the entire family.

Gates further discusses the issues of child marriages, educating girls, women in agriculture and the workplace, and the amount of unpaid work done by women. She discusses the #metoo movement and the need to end gender bias and harassment in the workplace by changing the male dominated culture. Gates believes by not speaking up, you are part of the problem.

When women support one another they have a stronger, more influential voice.

What’s remarkable about Gates is her ability to ask the right questions and find financial ways to apply support that can directly affect an outcome. The book is filled with terrible examples of abuse, but also hope and joy, as women escape from poverty and enslavement to find personal dignity and a fulfilling life.

I didn’t know anything about Gates and now I consider her a role model, mentor, humanitarian and hero. There are so many profound insights, thoughtful observations and meaningful quotes from Gates throughout the book. She is humble, wise and loving.

What surprised me most was Gates’ ability to

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

seek and understand the underlying culture that keeps women from having any agency.

Culture change is the biggest challenge for which women (and men) around the world must contend and overcome. Male dominance, hierarchy, and patriarchal religions keep women down all over the globe. According to Gates, there are no gender equal societies on earth!

To be clear, Gates is not man-hating whatsoever. She argues only for equality. She believes women need to be recognized and considered for their skills, efforts, talents, contributions and accomplishments to lift up both women and men in a “state of partnership.”

SAFETY TIPS

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

SNAKE, RATTLE AND RUN! “

W

It is acutely apparent that Gates has a passion for her mission. She acknowledges her privilege and the advantages it provides her and her family. As a Catholic, and spiritual person, she has reconciled her position on contraceptives as a major component in helping women out of poverty sometimes using scripture to support her position.

Around the world, Gates recognizes that there is a “…universal human desire to be happy, to develop our gifts, to contribute to others, to love and be loved --- we’re all the same.”

Studies show that when women are supported and lifted up, their families and communities directly benefit. Change is possible. But equality comes from removing gender bias.

This Mother’s Day let’s celebrate mothers and women, and the significant influence they have and can have in making our world a better place.

It’s time to further empower women and end gender bias. Happy Mother’s Day.

ith the coming of spring and warmer weather conditions, snakes of many species are through hunkering down, making human encounters with these elusive creatures more likely. Although most native snakes are harmless, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recommends giving the venomous rattlesnake a wide berth – and knowing what to do in the event of a strike,” reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.

Rattlesnakes are widespread in California and are found in a variety of habitat throughout the state from coastal to desert. They may also turn up around homes and yards in brushy areas and under wood piles. Generally not aggressive, rattlesnakes will likely retreat if given room or not deliberately provoked or threatened. Most bites occur when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing.

Rattlesnake bites have caused severe injury – even death. Firefighters have seen an increase in snakes bites this year.

The do’s and don’ts in snake country – Rattlesnakes are not confined to rural areas. They have been found in urban areas, on riverbanks and lakeside parks and at golf courses. The following safety precautions can be taken to reduce the likelihood of an encounter with a rattlesnake.

Be alert. Like all reptiles, rattlesnakes are sensitive to the ambient temperature and will adjust their behavior accordingly. After a cold or cool night, they will attempt to raise their body temperature by basking in the sun midmorning. To prevent overheating during hot days of spring and summer, they will become more active at dawn, dusk or night.

Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants.

Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through brushy, wild areas. Startled rattlesnakes may not rattle before striking defensively.

Children should not wear flip-flops while playing outdoors in snake country.

When hiking, stick to well-used trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day.

Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see. Step ON logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use.

Never grab “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in lakes and rivers. Rattlesnakes can swim.

Be careful when stepping over doorsteps as well. Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side.

Never hike alone. Always have someone with you who can assist in an emergency.

Do not handle a freshly killed snake, as it can still inject venom.

Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone.

Leash your dog when hiking in snake country.

Dogs are at increased risk of being bitten due to holding their nose to the ground while investigating the outdoors. Speak to your veterinarian about canine rattlesnake vaccines and what to do if your pet is bitten.

Keeping snakes out of the yard – The best protection against rattlesnakes in the yard is a “rattlesnake proof” fence. The fence should either be solid or with mesh no larger than one-quarter inch. It should be at least three feet high with the bottom buried a few inches in the ground. Slanting your snake fence outward about a 30-degree angle will help. Keep vegetation away from the fence and remove piles of boards or rocks around the home. Use caution when removing those piles – there may already be a snake there. Encourage and protect natural competitors like gopher snakes, kingsnakes and racers. Kingsnakes actually kill and eat rattlesnakes.

What to do in the event of a snake bite – Though uncommon, rattlesnake bites do occur, so have a plan in place for responding to any situation.

Carry a cell phone, hike with a companion who can assist in an emergency and make sure that family or friends know where you are going and when you will be checking in. In the event of a bite: Stay calm but act quickly.

Remove watches, rings, etc., which may constrict swelling.

Transport the victim to the nearest medical facility.

For more first aid information, please call the California Poison Control System at (800) 222-1222.

What you should NOT do after a rattlesnake bite DON’T apply a tourniquet.

DON’T pack the bite area in ice.

DON’T cut the wound with a knife or razor.

DON’T use your mouth to suck out the venom.

DON’T let the victim drink alcohol.

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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MON MAY 13

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TUE MAY 14

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MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Mikael Healey 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm-1:15am THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Tim Burleson 7:45pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760-3274080 Acoustic Music Lounge 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Game Night w/ Luke O 8pm PURPLE ROOM; PS; 760-322-4422 Rose Mallett 6:30pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Country Night 6pm VICKY’S OF SANTA FE; IW; 760-345-9770 John McCormick and The Shelly Scott Band 6:30-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-230-0188 Yve Evans and John Bolivar 6pm

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HADDON LIBBY

VACATIONLAND

H

ere in the Coachella Valley, tourism generates more than $5.5 billion annually for the local economy. On average, that works out to more than $100 million a week or more than $200 per day for each full time resident.

While this may be our high season for temperatures instead of tourists, it is also the time when many of us have made plans to beat the summer heat if only for a few days.

While our season for tourism is limited due to our toasty summer temperatures, other places are more inviting year round. US News and World Report recently sought to rank the best places to vacation in the United States.

The rankings took into account unbiased reviews by tourism experts as well as online independent reviewers.

Of the 25 cited cities, more than half were in the West, two-thirds if we include Hawaii.

The closest destination to the Coachella Valley came in at 11th on the list - San Diego.

It is easy to understand why this city without a good nickname like Lala Land or the City by the Bay is a tourism favorite. In addition to some of the best weather in the United States, its beautiful beaches, Gaslamp District and countless family activities including a zoo and aquarium make San Diego a city that has a little something for everyone. When visiting, a trip to Richard Walker’s Pancake House is a must.

Atop the US News list is a beautiful

but rather one dimensional experience: Yellowstone National Park and Old Faithful.

Without much nightlife, one had better be interested in nature for this to rank atop your list.

Maui comes in second and seems like a more natural choice for the top spot.

With its amazing beaches and vistas, scenic drives, hikes and exceptional food, Maui has something for everyone.

The Grand Canyon ranked third. If we package the scenic majesty of the Grand Canyon with the decadent fun of Las Vegas as many travelers are prone to do, this makes for a solid vacation choice that is within driving distance to the Coachella Valley.

Yosemite is fourth due to in part to its

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

proximity to San Francisco (which ranks sixth).

A trip to Northern California is certainly one of the best nearby options this summer for desert residents. Whether you are looking for culture, nature or exceptional food, San Francisco has something for everyone (except possibly hardcore MAGA fans).

The town that never sleeps is fifth - New York City. The sheer cost of a trip to the Big Apple should put this lower on the list. There is no doubt that NYC is one of the great cities in the world with something for everyone and then some.

Washington DC is seventh on the list for its rich history, museums and siting’s of Democrats and Republicans eating and drinking together.

May 9 to May 15, 2019

Like Maui, Honolulu is an idyllic vacation for most and eighth on the US News ranking.

Like DC, Boston is ranked ninth for its rich history and wicked big fans of the Sox and Tommy. Local clams and lobsters are amongst the best in the world each summer.

Lake Tahoe somehow came in tenth despite the existence of other places like Sedona, Seattle, Miami, Denver, Monterey and an exceptionally hot spot like Palm Springs. Okay, I can see why we were left off but somewhere like Portland (Maine or Oregon, it doesn’t matter although if might be worth noting that Maine is known as Vacationland) deserve a place before Lake Tahoe.

Looking around the world, US News ranked Paris, the City of Light, as the top vacation destination with its Eiffel Tower, ChampsÉlysées, Louvre, amazing food and rich culture.

Second on their global list was Yellowstone National Park.

I wonder...these US News guys must be into bears.

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. For more information, please visit WinslowDrake.com or email HLibby@ WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

TOO MUCH TEQUILA ON CINCO DE MAYO?

N

o-one wants to be arrested for a Cinco de Mayo DUI and dealing with jail, costs, stress, time wasted in court and classes etc. However to understand a DUI, please understand you do not have to be drunk. One Tequila shot won’t do it but several may.

The correct charge is a Driving Under The Influence (DUI). You merely have to be Impaired, Under the Influence or Buzzed from alcohol and or a drug. Depending on a number of factors, several Tequila drinks may do it. A DUI is determined by the Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) Test at the scene or the Breath or Blood test at the station.

A DUI has always been called a DEUCE. This is because the Vehicle Code violation has always ended in a 2 and thus Drunk Drivers are referred to as “deuced”. A DUI was initially called a 502 requiring a .15 reading and next was called a 23102 needing a .10 reading.

Some juries returned not guilty verdicts thinking the driver was not DRUNK because they drove without getting into an accident.

Defense lawyers argued to the jury that the driver complied and produced their driver’s license and insurance when asked and the driver did not fall down while exiting the car.

Today it’s a 23152 (a & b), allowing the DA to file the two counts. One is Driving

under the Influence and the second count is Driving with a BA level of .08 or more. Many juries now split the baby and find the driver innocent of one count and guilty of the other.

If there is a guilty verdict of either count, it is a DUI with the same sentence.

In California you are under the influence if your ability to drive is impaired. Impairment takes place when your blood alcohol reading is .08 or higher with either the Breath or Blood test at the station. Thus, if you are driving on a California road with .08 or higher the burden of proof almost reverts back to you, to show that you weren’t under the influence and/or your blood alcohol was not .08.

So, if you’re charged with a DUI, you don’t need some random 800 number lawyer. You need a hometown attorney; an attorney whose practice focuses on DUI law here in the CV. If you got a DUI, don’t take a chance with remote, out-of-town legal representation.

Choose Dale Gribow, based right here in Palm Desert for 24 years.

You may incorrectly think that once you blow into the breathalyzer the game’s over.

But it’s not. And with experienced legal defense, you can assert your rights. So if you’re looking at a bad DUI that could haunt you for the rest of your life, don’t gamble with some out-of-town 800 number attorney.

I look upon my job as protecting the Constitutional Rights of every American who drinks, drives and gets arrested for a DUI or has an ACCIDENT. I do however “Change Hats” when I SUE Drunk Drivers for damages to my Injured or Deceased (Wrongful Death) clients.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@dalegribowlaw.com.

DALE GRIBOW “TOP LAWYER” - California’s Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-19 “TOP LAWYER” - Inland Empire Magazine

2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating “PREEMINENT” Rating - Martindale Hubbell Legal Directory BEST Attorneys of America -”Rue” (Limited to Top 100 Attorneys per State) Legal Eagle “Best and Brightest Legal Minds” by Palm Springs Life- June 2016 “DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER....THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME”

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

LOCAL BUSINESS

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epair Lab was established in 2014 by local entrepreneur Mark VanderPol. With a last name like VanderPol you would think Mark grew up Holland but he was actually born in Palm Springs and raised in Yucca Valley. When growing up, Mark always liked being hands on and fixing things himself.

“A friend from high school had a broken shattered iPhone 4 and she gave it to me, so I fixed it, then sold it on craigslist” remembers Mark. He would continue to buy broken phones to fix them and resell for a profit.

Once Mark graduated from Yucca High in 2013, he moved to Palm Springs and started placing ads on Craigslist for phone repair. With a desire to learn how to fix more complex issues, Mark attended several different micro soldering classes all over the country. In his first year he gained quite a reputation for fixing phones and tablets. Starting out of his car offering mobile repair, Mark’s dream was to eventually have a store where he could service devices, and offer clients a place to get help when needed.

In 2017, that dream became a reality with the opening of his first store in Palm Springs

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REPAIR LAB OFFERS CUTTING EDGE CELL PHONE REPAIR

at 1512 S Palm Canyon Dr. Mark is very proud of the fact that Repair Lab is locally owned and operated offering many different services including screen and battery replacements, micro soldering, carrier unlocking and so much more.

BY CRAIG MICHAELS

What sets Repair Lab apart from other repair shops is the ability to diagnose and fix common and not so common issues with electronic devices. “I have learned a skill set that allows me to fix issues that are usually told are unfixable and you need a

new phone or tablet. This also allows us to recover important data from phones like contacts, pictures and notes, that may not have been backed up,” explains Mark. They also just added custom laser engraving for your devices or other items you would like to protect.

The team at Repair Lab is always trying to be up to date with new equipment and the most efficient and safest ways to repair your device. Due to their specialization in repair techniques, Repair Lab’s clientele has rapidly expanded. To meet the needs of its growing business the company decided to open a second store at 2018 located at 73540 Hwy 111 in Palm Desert. You can reach the Palm Desert store at (760) 423-6904 or the Palm Springs store at (760) 832-6658.

Written By: Craig Michaels craigmichaelsproductions#@gmail.com

AS INTEREST IN EXTRATERRESTRIAL REPORTS EXPLODES, CONTACT IN THE EVENTS DESERT ANNOUNCES BIGGEST LINE UP YET UFO SIGHTINGS HAPPENED 2016-18, WILL 2019 REVEAL MORE?

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he world’s largest UFO conference, Contact in the Desert (CITD), returns for its 7th year on May 31-June 3, 2019 in Indian Wells, California.

The most comprehensive lineup of experts ever assembled will lecture on the latest developments in UFO studies, government disclosure, ancient civilizations, crop circles, and more. The event grows exponentially every year, with attendees from all over the globe gathering for panel discussions, workshops, film screenings, speaker meet & greets, night sky gazing, and tours of the area’s historic UFO sites. Contact in the Desert 2019 will be held at the Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa and is expected to surpass 7,000 participants.

Hot topics at Contact in the Desert will include the controversial interstellar object Oumuamua, which was analyzed by the Astrophysics Department at Harvard University; the Department of Defense Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, discoveries in geothermal caverns in Antarctica; and a panel on History Channel’s new hit series, Project Blue

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Book. The conference offers 57 lectures, 42 workshops, 8 panels, 3 “conversations with,” and 14 intensives.

The all-star lineup includes veteran CITD speakers Erich von Daniken, author of ancient-astronaut classic Chariots of the Gods; George Noory, host of Coast to Coast AM Radio; Giorgio Tsoukalos, star of History Channel’s Ancient Aliens; South African researcher Michael Tellinger; British Government Ministry of Defense specialist Nick Pope; Whitley Strieber, best-selling author/screenwriter Communion, as well as FBI, NASA, military, and government officials, ancient alien researchers and scientists, archeologists and cosmologists.

Fifteen new speakers have been added to the 50+ speaker line up this year, which will also feature Linda Moulton Howe, David Wilcock, Michael Salla, David Adair, Jacques Vallee, Richard Dolan, Nassim Haramein, Emery Smith, James Gilliland, Stephen Bassett, Hugh Newman, Peter Levenda, Laura Eisenhower, Jimmy Church, Clyde Lewis, Yvonne Smith, Brien Foerster, John Desouza, Clifford Mahooty, Billy Carson,

Joel “Doc” Wallach, Steve Murillo, and many more.

The desert of southern California has a long history of ufology, and featured documentary Calling All Earthlings explores the Integratron, one most famous sites in

the area, which also may be seen during one of several off-site tours offered as an add-on to the weekend pass.

Advance prices on the weekend passes are $260 single, $470 double. Meal plans are also available, and some events have additional fees. For more information see contactinthedesert.com/tickets/passes.

Forbes Magazine named the Contact In The Desert as one of ‘The World’s 8 Best Places to Search For UFOs’, and USA Today calls it “The Woodstock of UFOs.” The conference is the most important educational gathering of its kind, at a time when “the need to know” is stronger than ever.

For more information, please contact Bonnie Burkert at bonnieburkert1@gmail. com; 213.200.0786.

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

Week of May 9

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Time to shake things up! In the next three weeks, I invite you to try at least three of the following experiments. 1. See unusual sights in familiar situations. 2. Seek out new music that both calms you and excites you. 3.

Get an inspiring statue or image of a favorite deity or hero. 4. Ask for a message from the person you will be three years from now. 5. Use your hands and tongue in ways you don’t usually use them. 6. Go in quest of a cathartic release that purges frustration and rouses holy passion. 7. Locate the sweet spot where deep feeling and deep thinking overlap.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): According to science writer Sarah Zielinski in Smithsonian magazine, fireflies produce the most efficient light on planet Earth. Nearly 100 percent of the energy produced by the chemical reaction inside the insect’s body is emitted as a brilliant glow. With that in mind, I propose that you regard the firefly as your spirit creature in the coming weeks. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you, too, will be a dynamic and proficient generator of luminosity.

For best results, don’t tone down your brilliance, even if it illuminates shadows people are trying to hide.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Here’s a message from author Susan J. Elliott: “This is not your week to run the Universe. Next week is not looking so good either.” Now here’s a message from me: Elliott’s revelation is very good news! Since you won’t have to worry about trying to manage and fine-tune the Universe, you can focus all your efforts on your own self-care. And the coming weeks will be a favorable time to do just that. You’re due to dramatically upgrade your understanding of what you need to feel healthy and happy, and then take the appropriate measures to put your new insights into action.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The next three weeks will be an excellent time to serve as your own visionary prophet and dynamic fortuneteller. The predictions and conjectures you make about your future destiny will have an 85-percent likelihood of being accurate. They will also be relatively free of fear and worries. So I urge you to give your imagination permission to engage in fun fantasies about what’s ahead for you. Be daringly optimistic and exuberantly hopeful and brazenly self-celebratory.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leo poet Stanley Kunitz told his students, “You must be very careful not to deprive the poem of its wild origin.” That’s useful advice for anyone who spawns anything, not just poets. There’s something unruly and unpredictable about every creative idea or fresh perspective that rises up in us. Do you remember when you first felt the urge to look for a new job or move to a new city or search for a new kind of relationship? Wildness was there at the inception. And you needed to stay in touch with the wildness so as to follow through with practical action. That’s what I encourage you to do now. Reconnect with the wild origins of the important changes you’re nurturing.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I have no complaints about the measures you’ve taken recently to push past unnecessary limits and to break outworn taboos. In fact, I celebrate them. Keep going! You’ll be better off without those decaying constraints.

Soon you’ll begin using all the energy you have liberated and the spaciousness you have made available. But I do have one concern: I wonder if part of you is worried that you have been too bold and have gone too far. To that part of you I say: No! You haven’t been too bold. You haven’t gone too far.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Dreamt of a past that frees its prisoners.” So wrote Meena Alexander in her poem “Question Time.” I’d love for you to have that experience in the coming weeks. I’d love for you be released from the karma of your history so that you no longer have to repeat old patterns or feel weighed down by what happened to you once upon a time. I’d love for you to no longer have to answer to decayed traditions and outmoded

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© Copyright 2019 Rob Brezsny

commitments and lost causes. I’d love for you to escape the pull of memories that tend to drag you back toward things that can’t be changed and don’t matter any more.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Desire is a profoundly upsetting force,” writes author Elspeth Probyn. “It may totally rearrange what we think we want. Desire skews plans and sets forth unthought-of possibilities.” In my opinion, Probyn’s statements are half-true. The other half of the truth is that desire can also be a profoundly healing and rejuvenating force, and for the same reasons: it rearranges what we think we want, alters plans, and unleashes unthought-of possibilities. How does all this relate to you? From what I can tell, you are now on the cusp of desire’s two overlapping powers. What happens next could be upsetting or healing, disorienting or rejuvenating. If you’d like to emphasize the healing and rejuvenating, I suggest you treat desire as a sacred gift and a blessing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “So much of what we learn about love is taught by people who never really loved us.” My Sagittarian friend Ellen made that sad observation. Is it true for you? Ellen added the following thoughts: so much of what we learn about love is taught by people who were too narcissistic or wounded to be able to love very well; and by people who didn’t have many listening skills and therefore didn’t know enough about us to love us for who we really are; and by people who love themselves poorly and so of course find it hard to love anyone else. Is any of this applicable to what you have experienced, Sagittarius? If so, here’s an antidote that I think you’ll find effective during the next seven weeks: identify the people who have loved you well and the people who might love you well in the future—and then vow to learn all you can from them.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn fantasy novelist Laini Taylor creates imaginary worlds where heroines use magic and wiles to follow their bliss while wrangling with gods and rascals.

In describing her writing process, she says, “Like a magpie, I am a scavenger of shiny things: fairy tales, dead languages, weird folk beliefs, and fascinating religions.” She adds, “I have plundered tidbits of history and lore to build something new, using only the parts that light my mind on fire.” I encourage you to adopt her strategies for your own use in the coming weeks. Be alert for gleaming goodies and tricky delicacies and alluring treats. Use them to create new experiences that thrill your imagination.

I believe the coming weeks will be an excellent time to use your magic and wiles to follow your bliss while wrangling with gods and rascals.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “I was always asking for the specific thing that wasn’t mine,” wrote poet Joanne Kyger. “I wanted a haven that wasn’t my own.” If there is any part of you that resonates with that defeatist perspective, Aquarius, now is an excellent time to begin outgrowing or transforming it. I guarantee you that you’ll have the potency you need to retrain yourself: so that you will more and more ask for specific things that can potentially be yours; so that you will more and more want a haven that can be your own.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I’m not a fan of nagging. I don’t like to be nagged and I scrupulously avoid nagging others. And yet now I will break my own rules so as to provide you with your most accurate and helpful horoscope. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, you aren’t likely to get what you truly need and deserve in the coming days unless you engage in some polite, diplomatic nagging. So see what you can do to employ nagging as a graceful, even charming art. For best results, infuse it with humor and playfulness.

Nietzsche said, “One must have chaos within oneself if one is to be a dancing star.” Are you a dancing star? Comment at FreeWillAstrology.com.

---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

SWAG FOR THESOUL

May 9 to May 15, 2019

BY AIMEE MOSCO

KNOW YOUR VALUE “Love of self has been misinterpreted as a function of ego for far too long.

The truth is, authentic self-love evolves from honest appreciation, not from the domain of ego which rests on fear and untruth.”

---- Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness by Aimee Mosco and Donald Ferguson, pg. 79 ave you ever studied your face in the mirror? What happens when you do this? You probably notice what you consider to be flaws as you look closely. This is a human practice but it is not your true spiritual nature to dwell on, or focus attention on imperfections.

We have been trained to believe that self-appreciation is egotistical and that it is acceptable, even honorable, to identify our deficiencies. While there is benefit in pinpointing elements of yourself to better, there is little benefit to you or anyone else to get caught in a loop of self-deprecating mind chatter. It is very difficult to honor your qualities worthy of appreciation if you are in the habit of seeking out your flaws.

The true and honest appreciation you feel for yourself is like a key that opens doors in front of you. Those doors open you to developing the ability to love others with greater depth and less judgment, to having greater confidence in yourself and to shining your brightest light in this world.

When you look at yourself in the mirror and notice your beautiful smile that lights up a room, or your eyes that convey compassion, you will be choosing to initiate a different journey going forward than if you notice first that you have bags under your eyes or a big nose. While these observations may seem insignificant, they are not. The observations that guide you toward true love of self will elevate the subtle energies of your energy field and the

H

other observations will have the opposite effect.

When your energy is vibrating high, you are influencing all of the energy around you in a favorable way. Therefore, every thought you have and every emotion you produce affects the quality of the energy you are emitting. The energy you emanate is powerful. Your energy is of great value to those around you. You are of great value to humanity.

If you have trouble transitioning into a practice that has you identify your glory as a first measure, start small. Pick one attribute that you appreciate about yourself and focus on that each day. Express gratitude to yourself for this attribute. Then let the repetition of the practice open you to connecting in a more expansive way with your true light.

In my pursuit to help you further awaken to your creativity as an enlightened being, I invite you to join Facebook group Evolve through Love hosted by Elizabeth Scarcella, BB Ingle and me. Go to facebook.com/ groups/evolvethroughlove Aimee Mosco is an Author, Intuitive Channel, Spiritual Teacher and Co-Founder of Intentional Healing Systems, LLC. Aimee’s passion for helping others inspired her book “Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness”. For more information, find Aimee at aimee@ihsunity.com

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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CANNABIS CORNER

BY MICHELLE ANN RIZZIO

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or the past 10,000 years on the planet, cannabis has been used amongst tribes and groups of humans. Whether for textiles, food, religious offerings to deities, medicine, or trade across cultures and history, cannabis has been a continuous staple in our human identity. As the indigenous plant, cannabis grows naturally on its own in eastern regions such as the highest peaks of the Himalayas, Mt Everest, Pakistan, and even in China. These weeds can grow to be many stories high and often produce very little THC percentage. The nature of feral cannabis leads one to wonder how community may have utilized this plant and its benefits.

In American culture in the early 1900’s after the Mexican Revolution, cannabis became prohibited. In Mexico, folks utilized cannabis as a medicine and a relaxant. But with the mass influx of Mexican immigration into America during this time, so came the use of cannabis as a “drug”. American’s demonized cannabis (surely for its association with immigrants), and in 1937 cannabis use and sales became illegal. Thus the beginning of our confusing American experience with cannabis.

This history is important to consider as America becomes a booming cannabis industry with it becoming such a commodity in our economy. As prohibition came into our sphere, “reefer madness” arrived with it.

Propaganda in our society painted this plant to be a menace to society although as we have discovered throughout the United States in the last 10 years it is the exact opposite.

With the launch of recreational laws and legislations throughout the United States the topic of community sits deep with me. How have the communities we have marginalized and demonized for cannabis in their culture been treated with the emergence of cannabis legality?

According to the ACLU, in 2010 52% of drug arrests were for cannabis with many of these arrests not being kingpins but rather people with small amounts of cannabis. Amidst the 8.2 million cannabis arrests made within the time frame of 2001 to 2010, 88% of the arrests were made for the individual simply having cannabis on them. Nationwide, the arrest data showcases significant racial bias.

During this time people of color, specifically black people, were 3.73 times more likely to be arrested for cannabis.

Those found guilty of nonviolent cannabis charges and their families still suffer today as the legal cannabis market thrives. Although in 2016 the numbers from arrest data dropped 10% for adults and 20% for minors, according to CA NORML, there is still work to be done.

Today there are over 14 times more prisoners for non-violent cannabis crimes than there were in 1980 and this does not count for federal prisoners who today are serving mandatory minimums of 5 years for medical cannabis.

As the legal market continues to grow, it is very important that we do not forget that there are still people serving unjust sentences for nonviolent cannabis crimes. As we continue to grow as an industry it is important to make sure that our laws and legislations reflect our booming cannabis economy and that those incarcerated are expunged of their sentences and felonies. I believe that as the BCC continues to grow they should create a program for expunged felons and nonviolent cannabis “criminals” to be able to enter the industry with financial support. Because of these men and women, we have the cannabis industry we are in now. It’s time to pay our respects.

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MAI BEAUTY

May 9 to May 15, 2019

BY MAILY O’NEIL

SUMMER HAIR CARE TIPS FROM MAI SALON

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londe it up! Summer bright blondes of any hue are in style from light copper to bleach blonde. No worries for lowlights they won’t last during summer sun and swimming and many showers from the heat. You must use a heat defense and sunscreen for hair before sun bathing or styling. Making sure you rinse your hair thoroughly after swimming in the pool.

Here are some examples of Colors of Blonde for summer of 2019:

Hair cut trends: Keep it really short for cooling off or keep it mid length to put in a ponytail.

Introducing to Mai Salon this Summer: The Mai Salon Color Bar Express.

Come in and get your base touch up starting at $29.00 (no blow dry).

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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CANNABIS CORNER

BY CAMERON HATTAN,

FOUNDERS OF FIDDLER’S GREENS

CANNABIS DOSING GUIDE

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T H E N E W S TA N D A R D I N

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inding the optimal dose of a cannabis product is a very individual and personal journey that involves some trial and error and a willingness to experiment until you find what works best for you. The levels of dosing are as vast as the differing cannabinoid ratios and methods of ingestion, but with a plan and clearly identified treatment goals even the novice cannabis consumer can find the minimal effective dose that will bring them the most beneficial result with the smallest dose and the least amount of undesirable side effects.

There is a wealth of anecdotal information on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and thousands of studies that provide a framework for which cannabinoids have been successful at treating certain conditions, but it is always a good idea to consult with a physician who is experienced in recommending cannabis and discuss your specific circumstances. As with most things on the internet, there is a ton of misinformation and bad online ‘advice’ provided by well-intentioned people, so it is always a good idea to ‘trust but verify’.

When starting out remember that less can be more. Higher doses don’t necessarily mean better results. There have been studies that show that cannabis can be biphasic in in its effects, energetic and uplifting at lower doses while higher doses can be sedating with more potential for psychoactive effects. Researchers are also seeing what is called a “bell curve dosing”. This means that as the dosage is increased, there is an increase in the therapeutic benefits but only up to a certain point. Once a dosage reaches a certain level for the individual, the benefits decrease as dosage increases and side effects may increase.

“Dosing cannabis is unlike any therapeutic agent to which I was exposed in my medical training,” says Dustin Sulak, D.O., the director of Integr8 Health, “Some patients effectively use tiny amounts of cannabis, while others use incredibly high doses. I’ve seen adult patients achieve therapeutic effects at 1 mg of total cannabinoids daily, while others consume over 2000 mgs daily without adverse effects.”

Most physicians generally agree that for new cannabis users, starting with a low dose of a more balanced ratio of CBD, CBDA, THC, and THCA is well tolerated by most and has been shown to have broad therapeutic effects.

Depending on the specific condition you are hoping to treat, your physician may recommend that your cannabis treatment focus on higher doses of specific cannabinoids.

If you are not treating a major health condition and your focus is more on overall wellness and quality of life, here are a few things to keep in mind: When managing chronic symptoms, a prolonged low dose therapy can be beneficial.

It is being observed that people who have been on long term cannabis treatment over half of them do not medicate every day and a majority of them only take cannabis at night.

If you are pursuing a THC remedy, 2.5 mg of THC is considered to be a “threshold dose” meaning that it is the dose that will cause some to start to feel the psychoactive effects.

Starting with a low dose 2x-3x per day can be more effective than taking one larger dose.

Gradually increase the dosage until the desired effects are achieved and then take it back down to find the minimum effective dose.

Many cannabis users take higher ratios of CBD, CBDA, or THCA in the daytime and save the higher doses of THC for the night time use.

As a guideline, THC exceeding 20-30mg per day or a single dose of more than 10 mg can have unwanted side effects.

Preclinical studies have shown that full spectrum CBD rich cannabis oil with a small amount of THC is effective at much lower doses and has a much wider therapeutic window than pure pharmaceutical grade CBD. And, remember…. cannabis is generally a safe and forgiving medicine.

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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May 9 to May 15, 2019

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