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David Williams Green Room Theatre Co–Sister Act pg5

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Michael Felci

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CAKES & THE ASSHOLES PERFORMING LIVE AT MELROSE RECORDS ‘THE BEST OF THE DESERT SHOWCASE’ 2019 CVMA WINNERS FOR ‘BEST NEW BAND’, ‘BEST LIVE PERFORMANCE BAND’ & ‘BEST R&B’

Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

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

Cakes & The Assholes ............................. 3 David Williams - Melrose Music............ 5 Theatre - Green Room Theatre – Sister Act: A Diven Musical Comedy... 6 Business Profile - Michael Felci.............. 7 Consider This - The Sheepdogs............. 8 Art Scene - 'Spirit Messages'.................. 9 Travel Tips 4 U ........................................ 9 Pet Place ............................................... 10 The Vino Voice ....................................... 11 Club Crawler Nightlife .................... 12-13 Good Grub - Swirlyz Frozen Yogurt.... 14 Brewtality .............................................. 15 Screeners .............................................. 16 Book Review.......................................... 17 Safety Tips ............................................. 17 Haddon Libby ....................................... 19 Dale Gribow.......................................... 19 Free Will Astrology............................... 20 Ask The Doctor..................................... 20 Cannabis Corner................................... 22

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n Saturday, July 20 the first ‘The Best of the Desert Showcase’ at Palm Canyon Roadhouse in downtown Palm Springs will feature live performances from CAKES & The Assholes, Empty Seat, Giselle Woo & The Night Owls, CMF’s, Jetta King and Krystofer Do. The event is presented by Melrose Records CEO David Williams, who also owns Melrose Music Studios in Hollywood and Palm Springs. We spoke with (CAKES) Monica Morones (vocals), (The Assholes) Joshua Fimbres (drums), Aaron Ramson (bass & background vocals), Nick Hales (guitars & background vocals) and Rene Almodovar, Sr. (percussion) about their participation in the show and their collective pie in the sky. Let the THC and ‘shrooms flow. CVW: Hey everyone. Congratulations on your 2019 CVMA wins for Best New Band, Best R&B and Best Live Performance Band. What are your thoughts on performing at Palm Canyon Roadhouse for David William’s first local artist showcase? Morones: “Thank you! I’m stoked to play with the line-up that’s performing. It always feels good to get asked to play. Thank you to David Williams for including us and we are looking forward to making love to people’s faces and ears with our ‘Pussy Poppin’ music. It’s basically, everyone from the CV Weekly showcase but this time I get to roll around on the ground and grab myself for fun. Contests are always so serious. I’ve never played at the Roadhouse though, so I plan on taking plenty of drugs to mask my disappointment just th

in case the sound is horrible which in most ‘music’ venues in the desert it is. It always feels good to be asked to play so I’m looking forward to giving people something new to hear on the west side of the valley.” Hales: “I’ve never played the Roadhouse. I guess we’ll just see how it goes!” Fimbres: “We first met David at the first CV Weekly showcase. He told us he loved what we were doing. He compared me and Nick to Jimi Hendrix and Experience drummer Mitch Mitchell.” CVW: You’ve come a long way in a short time and have developed a following that expects the unexpected. What should we be looking forward to for this upcoming show, any special appearances? Morones: “I mean...we always put on a good show so maybe some new music and a titty popping out?” Hales: “I can’t wait to really experiment with some new trippy sounds. It’s gonna be a great experience really putting our studio sound together right. Room 9 studios is what I would recommend for this outfit, but whoever we end up with will be rad.” CVW: If I remember correctly, you have a song with the word “pussy” in the title. What’s the status on your new music? Morones: “We are working on new songs every week. That song you asked about is “Pussy Poppin’ Blues.” We have our solid set we’re cleaning up and since we added Shannon Technohillbilly on keys, our sound has evolved into something glorious. I don’t

just want to be another desert rock band; that shit’s played out, I want to be that new ‘new’. We’re currently shopping around for recording studios. We hired local artist Anta to make our band logo and then we’ll make merch and then record. We are funding everything ourselves, so might take a couple more months because GoFundMe is kinda tacky don’t you think? And we only play shows we get paid for so might be a minute because promoters and venues still think it’s cute to make money off of bands and pay them in exposure.” Fimbres: “Off the wall music from an off the wall band with an obvious off the wall leader. As soon as we can find an off the wall producer to make it sound off the wall and not basic; NEW MUSIC!” CVW: Early on some of you joked about how you don’t take yourselves too seriously and, in my opinion, really minimized the talent in that rehearsal room. After all the attention, how are rehearsals going now? Morones: “Rehearsals are rad AF! We rent out The Flusters’ studio in Palm Desert and practice as much as our schedules allow us and whenever Nicky, with his 17 bands, tells us he can practice. Can you please tell him to stop saying yes to other bands?” Hales: “Ha Ha! I’m still working my way through them.” CVW: (The band played a couple of snippets of new music for me) The seemingly Eastern-influenced song is very catchy. That’s some snake-charming shit right there. I think Monica should ascend in slithery fashion from a woven basket for this one. Ramson: “Monica makes all the ‘snakes’ stand up. We’ve been messing around with Jefferson Airplane and getting a cover together. CAKES & The Assholes are here to ‘Make Mushrooms Great Again.’” CVW: You’ve accomplished great things in your first year. What does the next year look like for you? Morones: “It’s the Assholes’ time. We’ve put in the work, we’re actually good. We don’t give a shit about the social stigmas and desert norm. We play music because we love it, everything else is a bonus. We will continue to page 5

DISCLAIMER & ADDEMDUM

to CV Weekly Vol. 8 No. 15: The cover article was paid for and approved by Alan “Alfie” Pettit for his campaign to run for Palm Springs City Council.

July 18 to July 24, 2019

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CAKES & THE ASSHOLES continued from page 3

put out an album, do some more local shit, do plenty of drugs, all organic and from the earth, I promise, and then book shows out of town. Book some good shows for fuck sake! Probably look for a booking agent. Do some more organic drugs and then Nick’s fingers are going to fall off from all that playing in all those bands and we will all die. The end.” Morones: “Was that all too weird? I ate an edible and I’m feeling myself in outer space right now.” Despite the clowning and seemingly irresponsible nature of CAKES & The Assholes, they take this art thing seriously and would rather you reach your own conclusions than have to illustrate it for you. In true “asshole” fashion, Fimbres took over the interview and asked his bandmates a couple of questions: Fimbres: “We’re spicin’ this article up ‘Goof Troop’ style! Hey Aaron, why do they call her CAKES?”

Ramson: “I’m just here for the sex and drugs.” Fimbres: “Hey Rene, what’s it like playing percussion with a wild ass drummer?” Almodovar: “It’s cool playing percussion with Josh because of all the different styles of music the band is playing. He gets show his skills and gives me space to do my thing!” Fimbres: “Hey Nick, what’s a key ingredient that makes this band different than the others you play in?” Hales: “The chemistry is what I love the most. You got Josh, nuff said. Sir Aaron ‘Cramson’ who never ceases to amaze or surprise me. Rene on some sneaky percussion and always suggesting good arrangements for songs (ALREADY A GREAT FOUNDATION!). Monica, our fearless leader, is great with literally every logistical thing having to do with CAKES & The Assholes. She’s a great businesswoman and she’s chill AF. Playing in this band has taught me a lot of painful

DAVID WILLIAMS

avid Williams, CEO of Melrose Music Records and owner and operator of Melrose Music Studios in Hollywood and Palm Springs brings you his first ‘The Best of the Desert Showcase’ at Palm Canyon Roadhouse in downtown P.S. The show begins at 7 p.m. and is FREE to everyone 21+. The event will feature live performances from some of the desert’s best like CMF’s, Jetta King and Krystofer Do as well as Coachella Valley Music Award winners like Best Rock Band victors Giselle Woo & The Night Owls, Best R&B, Best New Band and Best Live Performance Band heroes CAKES & The Assholes, Best Frontwoman and Best Alternative Band champs Empty Seat. Coachella Valley Weekly met with the immensely talented audio engineer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Williams at his P.S. studios to get a more profound understanding of he and his dominion. On his move to the Coachella Valley, relationship with Palm Canyon Roadhouse and our blossoming music scene: “When I moved to P.S., I discovered the venue quickly since it’s less than a mile from my house. I started out jamming with local musicians there and quickly made friends with many. I became good friends with local promoter Steve Johns and told him about my ten-year run of showcases in Los Angeles, the Melrose Music Review. He suggested I bring the show to the

restraint, and I’m still learning a lot in general by virtue of just being in this band. I had to hold back A LOT more once Shannon jumped in! Shannon is a force to be reckoned with and surprisingly enough, we mesh really well

together. I don’t see myself dropping out of this band anytime soon! The winds of change are heading my way pretty soon here and I will probably be downsizing. Things are lookin’ up for ‘ole ‘Nick the Slick’!”

MELROSE MUSIC RECORDS – MELROSE MUSIC STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD & PALM SPRINGS

Roadhouse and feature up and coming L.A. bands. I went for it and we had some really memorable shows over the past two years. After diving headfirst into the scene, I told Steve I wanted to showcase local bands. I’ve been in L.A. for years actively performing, recording producing and promoting. I decided after many trips out to the desert that the music scene here is so very promising with amazing talented original artists. After judging many CV Weekly Music Showcases, I really got a full example of the scene here. I’ve been hosting many shows over the three years I’ve been here featuring L.A. bands. I realized the bands in the C.V. were the real driving force I’ve been searching for. When I came out here, I loved the vibe. I realized there’s such a great musical family out here with great artists. The immense

amount of talent out here really excited me, so I decided I wanted to focus as much as I could on Palm Springs. I feel it. There are great players out here. There’s a great vibe out here because everyone is not so commercial. Everyone out here is trying to support the love for music. I feel out here there’s some undiscovered talent and that’s why I’m drawn to this area.” On his artist/band choices for The Best of the Desert Showcase #1. “I chose the six bands for my first local showcase from the CV Weekly shows I judged and from the list of nominees and winners from the CVMAs. This upcoming showcase is new and extremely exciting to me. I feel very fortunate that Phil Lacombe and Tracy Dietlin gave me the chance to meet all these artists beforehand. I got to meet the artists and they would come up to me after the show to ask questions and further inquire about why I said what I said and my thoughts on their performance. They all seem excited. I want them to eventually work with me. They’re promoting themselves; I’m promoting the studio.” On Brad Parker and the desert becoming the next big thing. “Brad Parker is a well-known recording artist, songwriter, producer and musician who facilitates showcases at Pappy & Harriet’s. He and I feel strongly about this area. He’s lived in a lot of the different scenes, Athens, Georgia; Austin, Texas;

Asheville, North Carolina; and Bowling Green, Kentucky. We both feel this is the next big scene. He helped me open my eyes to see what’s going on. We see there is a community here. In L.A., if you want to get a band together, you go hire the people, it’s very commercial. Here, everyone knows everybody. There’s a camaraderie. That’s what excited me.” A look back on his beginnings and new lease on life. “I’m originally from North Carolina and headed to the West Coast working the Sunset Strip as a guitarist straight out of college. I am a guitarist first and foremost. I went on the road playing guitar in bands. I do a lot of overdubbing with mandolin and steel guitar for my clients. Once I settled in L.A. I decided to stop the journey. In the mid-90’s I had kidney failure and received a transplant at UCLA. 25 years later, all is going great. That experience was a life-changer which led me to establishing my first L.A. studio. I had always been into recording. So, this was very exciting and fresh for me. From three initial locations, I finally ended up building my present studio in Hollywood at Raleigh Studios film lot. I’ve recorded mixed and mastered countless artists there for the past 14 years.” On the love of his life and Melrose Music Palm Springs. “In 2016 I was looking in L.A. for a new continue to page 6

July 18 to July 24, 2019

DAVID WILLIAMS continued from page 5

residence. I had met Mary Kathryn Brown, my fiancée, and wanted a home together. I found a listing I loved and after reading further I realized it was in P.S. I decided to take a look and we made a move. At first, we split our residences between L.A. and P.S. but as I realized the potential and lack of recording facilities here, I decided to build Melrose Music Palm Springs. I now have a permanent residence in P.S. and still split my week between both studios.” On the new Palm Springs Recording Studios and what he’s working on currently. “I am working on some very exciting recordings in both L.A. and P.S. now. I’ve also just partnered up with some great friends, Leanne McNeil and Kid Tarri, both formerly of Capitol Records. She came knocking on my door one day and said, ‘we want to know what’s going on in here.’ They are owners and operators of Bantam Studios in Joshua Tree. Our new coop is called Palm Springs Recording Studios. It also includes Mark Fry

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and his Bass Emperor Studios in Sky Valley. Between the four studios, we have the facilities to handle all recording possibilities. Also, I have just added a live piano tracking room in P.S. with 14-foot ceilings and a Baldwin Grand Piano. I plan to do intimate house concerts at this new location. Bottom line, we have facilities in L.A. and the C.V. to bring any production from inception to final mastering.” On popular and Coachella Valley/High Desert artists he has worked with: “I’ve worked with Heart, Def Leppard, The Pointer Sisters, Taylor Dayne, Jodeci, Brian Holland, Kevin Bacon, Tony Kaye, Clay Aiken, members of Bob Dylan’s band, Steve Miller and Bruce Springsteen’s band, as well as the cast of the hit musical Riverdance. I’ve also mixed and mastered recordings for musical pioneers such as George Clinton, Carmine Appice, Rick Derringer, and Pat Travers. The local artists I’m working with include Jesika Von

Rabbit, Courtney Chambers, Jason Nutter, Krystofer Do, Nolan Moore and Bri Cherry, and I’ve worked with and been impressed with Esjay Jones, Robert Poole, Brad Mercer, Giselle Woo and Peter Sutter to name a few.” On the recording studio equipment utilized at Melrose Music: “I believe in using world-class gear to bring the sounds into the computer to create top hit records. I believe in capturing the recorded signals by way of analog with classic gear and transferring that into the computer to produce contemporary, state-of-the-art records. At Melrose we mix, master and record final production masters.” His message to possible clients: “If you come to any Palm Springs Recording Studio you will walk into a professional environment with experienced producers who are going to listen to you and cater to your songs and try to bring out the best from your songs and direct those

songs to become mass-marketable records. We can work with any genre; Pop, Rock, Country, Hip-Hop, Rap, Big-Band, Jazz, Singer-Songwriter Acoustic. We are happy with a hard-core rapper or a beautiful love song coming in. We don’t criticize or judge; we try to bring out the best in anyone who walks through our doors no matter the genre.” Melrose Music Studios 5254 Melrose Ave. Hollywood, CA 90038 121 S. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 melrosemusicstudios.com (818) 216-5409 Email: melrosemusic@mac.com Bantam Studios- (760) 567-9802 bantamstudios.com Bass Emperor Studio - Contact Mark Fry youtu.be/rXytf-SdqhE JOSHUA TREE by Jason Nutter & Jesika von Rabbit – Song produced by David Williams & Jesika von Rabbit at Melrose Music, Palm Springs

including “Best Musical.” The opening night performance on Wednesday, July 24, features a “Green Carpet” Gala from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and is open to all ticket holders. The lively celebration will include appetizers and beverages, music, a step-and-repeat photo opportunity, and a silent auction. The special featured guest is Keanna Garcia, named Queen Scheherazade for the 2018 Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival and this year elected College of the Desert’s Student Trustee. Keanna began her burgeoning performing career with Green Room Conservatory in 2009 at the age of ten, when she played the heroine in the melodrama Desperate Desmond’s Dastardly Deed. She was a featured actor in ten other Green Room productions including Fiddler on the Roof; Oliver!; Mary Poppins; Thirteen the Musical; and You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. Keanna is also lead dancer for COD’s Ballet Folklorico Troupe. Directing Sister Act is Founding Artistic

Director David Catanzarite, an award-winning director and expert theatre educator with thirty-five years of teaching experience. Catanzarite has directed more than 100 professional and college productions in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Toronto, as well as in Europe and Africa. He is currently on the theatre faculty at California State University, San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus. Tickets are now on sale at the website greenroomtheatrecompany.org. Tickets are $20 for adults and $13 for students and seniors 63 years and over. In addition, two-for-one matinee tickets are available for July 25 by calling the box office at (760) 696-2546. Indio High School Auditorium is located at 81750 Avenue 46 in Indio. Parents should note that Green Room is a family friendly theatre company, but never admits children 4 years and under to mainstage performances. About Green Room Theatre Company Green Room Theatre Company is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit theatre founded in 2009 by Board President Karen Lin and Artistic Director David Catanzarite to bring theatre, Broadway musicals, and non-traditional theatre performances to under-served communities throughout the Coachella Valley. In 2017 the company added Shakespeare to its repertory by founding Coachella Valley Shakespeare, which has now presented three successful festivals. The company has produced a myriad of innovative projects in the decade since its creation, and works with adult performers and youth to bring first-quality theatre and education to our desert communities, including touring productions, staged readings, “site-specific” performances, and a thriving Shakespeare festival. Due to the continued growth of the company, this year the conservatory’s performances have moved from the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus’s Indian Wells Theatre to the newly renovated,

state-of-the-art theatre at Indio High School Performing Arts Center. The 10th Anniversary Season After the big summer musical, Green Room’s tenth season continues with a lineup of Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway dramas featuring many of the desert’s finest adult actors and directors. The regular season begins in October with recent Pulitzer Prize winner Sweat, by Lynn Nottage, followed in November by Paula Vogel’s How I Learned to Drive and then August Wilson’s Fences during February for Black History Month. The season will conclude with a new one-act play festival in March, and the fourth annual Coachella Valley Shakespeare Festival in April. The Conservatory training program will continue to offer classes throughout the year. This unique program is led by a core of teaching artists who are credentialed professional educators with strong theatre, dance, and music backgrounds. Training is aligned with the California State Visual and Performing Arts Standards and the National Common Core Standards. Marking another milestone, this year the conservatory was selected by Elite Academic Academy of Southern California to offer its remarkable summer program in partnership with Elite’s new Coachella Branch. As a result, for the first time all Conservatory students are eligible to receive full-tuition scholarships to the summer program. Additional funding has also enabled the company to offer numerous paid internships for college and advanced high school students. This season the Conservatory is also launching a technical theatre training program with hands-on experience in makeup, costumes, lighting, sound, projections, and set design. The Green Room Conservatory program provides an unrivaled opportunity for students in our desert communities to grow with the guidance of expert teachers who are as passionate about the arts as they are knowledgeable.

THEATRE GREEN ROOM THEATRE COMPANY CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH SUMMER CONSERVATORY PERFORMANCE SISTER ACT: A DIVINE MUSICAL COMEDY BY CHRIS CLEMENS

reen Room Theatre Company’s Summer Conservatory will open its 10th Anniversary season with the Broadway and West End smash hit musical comedy Sister Act: A Divine Musical Comedy, directed by David Catanzarite, at Indio High School Auditorium. Four lavishly-staged public performances run July 24, 25 and 26 at 6:30 p.m., with a special two-for-one ticket matinee at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 25. Filled with exuberant musical numbers, from 1970s disco to Motown to gospel choir, Sister Act is a fast paced, inspirational, and fun-filled musical perfect for the entire family. A truly moving production, Sister Act sings and dances its way through a story about love, cops-and-robbers, friendship, commitment, and the wisdom to make the right choices in life. Featuring original music by Tony- and eight-time Oscar winner, Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), this uplifting musical was nominated for five Tony Awards,

BUSINESS PROFILE

or Michael Felci, music and writing are two of his passions and now he’s found his perfect groove at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino as the Public Relations Manager - a position where he can showcase both of those loves. Fantasy Springs, he believes, is a place he was always interested in working but couldn’t get the timing right to make it happen, until he started there this past spring. Says Felci: “It’s an incredible property and we have a great story to tell. The supportive, positive atmosphere starts at the top and permeates down. In my role, I’m implementing forwardthinking approaches to PR. My background in journalism and agency experience has provided me with unique insights into what works and why.” In addition to writing, he’s able to work directly with many different (and diverse) entertainers touring through Fantasy Springs, taking them around to TV and radio stations to talk about their upcoming appearance. For him, it’s a dream job coming to concerts and events and using his writing skills not only to showcase the variety of entertainers coming to Fantasy, but also finding unique and different ways to get media coverage by finding stories that haven’t been told. Says his boss, Mandi Witkower: “He looks for something more than just a basic story. He likes to bring the stories to life to ensure they get picked up. He asks questions that may seem outside the box, but they get people talking and they are memorable. He does his research and carefully crafts his words. He is a talented writer with a lot to say. He’s a

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MICHAEL FELCI

wordsmith and writing flows easily for him. I’m so glad to have him on my team.” Felci’s long path that led him to marketing started 41 years ago in New York City, where his dad was an officer with the NYPD and his mother was a first grade teacher. The family moved to Orange County when he was 9, and though he first experienced culture shock, he can no longer see himself living anywhere but California after having moved to the Coachella Valley 3 years later. Growing up, he did well in school and excelled in sports as much as he enjoyed extracurricular activities like drama. One of his favorite memories from his school days was getting a big hit in a baseball game during the day and starring in a play

that same night. He later attended college in Santa Barbara, where he gravitated towards film, music, and the arts. Inspired by Hunter S. Thompson, Jack Kerouac, Joan Didion, and others, he realized his love (and greatest skill) was writing and decided to pursue journalism. His love for music is also evident – Michael is father to 6-year Arlo (named after Arlo Guthrie) and 16-month old Levon (named after Levon Helm of The Band). His family, which also includes his live-in girlfriend of almost three years, Eunice, makes him incredibly happy. After college he knew he wanted to write, but wasn’t sure in what capacity. He was stacking books at Borders when he got a parttime offer from The Desert Sun to be an agate clerk. This involved working nights in the sports department, taking calls of high school games, and manually coding box scores of pro sports games and standings. Says Felci: “It was pretty much the bottom of the totem pole, but I had generous colleagues who taught me the ins and outs of the newspaper industry. People like Bruce Fessier, Larry Bohannan and Patty Meyers, showed me the ropes.” He eventually became an assistant editor and entertainment columnist whose first big project was overseeing coverage of Merv Griffith’s funeral. Journalism was not without its perks – he recalls attending incredible events, like Coachella in its early years, and Tom Petty when he played the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. “When Michael Jackson died, we found a way into his funeral. I interviewed everyone from Andre Agassi to Yoko Ono. Essentially what I tried to do was articulate why things matter, and why you should care,” Felci shared. He stayed at The Desert Sun for 12 years and oversaw the Features Department by the end of his tenure. At that point, he felt ready for new challenges and accepted a position at Cord Media, where he stayed for almost five years before moving into his current role. Before he started at Cord, marketing was a completely new industry for him, so landing at one of the valley’s premier agencies was a crash course. Says Felci: “I think the best relationships between PR professionals and journalists are

July 18 to July 24, 2019

BY TRICIA WITKOWER collaborative. It’s my job to understand their coverage needs, not just pitch things I wanted covered. That means understanding news cycles, coverage areas and the specific beats. If you don’t, you’re wasting everyone’s time. I also understand that a lot of media outlets are spread pretty thin these days, which is where content creation comes in. I’m fortunate that I am able to do the interview and then write the story. If you can use it, great! The idea is to generate compelling content that promotes our concerts and events, while positioning Fantasy Springs as the incredible destination that it is. I have one client, and I love it.” And his one client loves him as well. Advertising Director Mandi Witkower says, “He’s is smart and personable and very in tune with what’s going on around him.” It’s not only his team in the Advertising Department who has nice things to say about Michael Felci. Says Chef Freddy: “He looks like Jesus.”

July 18 to July 24, 2019

CONSIDER THIS

rop the needle on any track off The Sheepdogs’ latest long-player and you will be instantly transported back to the era of 8-Tracks, shag carpet, shag haircuts and bell-bottoms. Ah, the ‘70s, with a flip of the radio dial, one was treated to the Southern Boogie style of bands like The Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Outlaws, Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, Black Oak Arkansas and the Dixie Dregs. The Sheepdogs are hell bent on reviving that sound. Ironically, the band is straight outta’ Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Founder and front-man Ewan Currie is something of a renaissance man. A music nerd, drama geek and jock, all rolled into one. His family moved from Australia to Canada just before puberty struck, and he quickly connected with Ryan Gullen. Although they each went to different schools, both played clarinet and were involved in a regional music program. By the time they attended high school together, they had become close friends. Each began playing guitar, even as Ewan played on the football team and performed in a number of theatrical productions. The pair met Sam Corbett while attending college and the trio decided to form a band. Woodshedding in Sam’s parents’ basement, they concentrated on mastering a plethora of Classic Rock songs, along with newer tracks from the Black Keys and Kings Of Leon. They also began writing their own music and released an EP as The Breaks. In 2006, a chance meeting with guitarist Leot Hanson led to an invitation to join the band and the fourpiece changed their name to The Sheepdogs. Less than a year after Leot joined, the band self-released their debut, Trying To Grow. Following a year of non-stop touring, their second effort, Big Stand, arrived in 2008. Both albums were recorded locally at Cosmic Pad Studios, as was their 2010 release, Learn & Burn. All three hewed closely to the classic Southern Boogie paradigm, a swampy blend Jazz, Blues, Country and Bluegrass. The Sheepdogs achieved critical and commercial success pretty quickly in Canada. In fact, Learn… won three Juno awards (the Canadian equivalent of a Grammy), for Best New Artist, Rock Album Of The Year and Best Single. By this time, they had played all over the world, most recently opening for John Fogerty in Australia. But the band had yet to break through in America. They had already made an expensive trip to Los Angeles to play for a gathering of industry weasels, but nothing came of it. Their luck began to change when an agent they’d met back in Toronto sent a demo to Rolling Stone’s “Choose The Cover” competition. Eventually, they competed against 15 bands and won, the first unsigned band to do so. That exposure led to a performance on “Late Night With Jimmy Fallon,” appearances at festivals like Bonaroo and Osheaga in Montreal, as well as an introduction to Black Keys’ drummer Patrick Carney. Legendary label Atlantic Records signed The Sheepdogs and they headed down to Nashville and to make an album with Patrick Carney producing. The result was 2012’s The Sheepdogs, it shot to #1 in Canada, and the boys continued to gain traction in the states. Suddenly, their

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THE SHEEPDOGS

music was heard at sporting events like NASCAR, Toronto Maple Leafs’ games and the 2014 Winter Olympics, as well as a nationally televised Cadillac commercial. By 2014, Leot had left the band, opting to open Capitol Music Club, a bar and concert venue in Saskatoon. Ex-Imaginary Cities guitarist, Rusty Matyas, took his place on the road. Not long after, they returned to the studio and recorded Future Nostalgia. Released in 2015, it followed the ballsy blueprint of its predecessor, leaning toward a muscularity favored by the Black Keys. Rusty became a full-time member, as did Ewan’s brother Shamus, adding all manner of keys, trombone and percussion to the mix. Guitar virtuoso Jimmy Bowskill joined the touring line-up. Somewhere down the line Rusty left and Jimmy took his place. The newly minted five-piece headed into the studio, the result is their sixth long-player, Changing Colours. The first three songs, set a good-timey vibe that permeates the whole record. “Nobody” is anchored by stripped-down rhythm Guitar, cascading lead riffs and a kickdrum beat. Ewan’s vocals are as sweet as honey and as smooth as molasses but this Good Time Charlie is trying to outrun the blues; “Across the desert on a mission tonight, we hit the city limits with the sun in our eyes, we got James Brown on the radio, I turn it up just as loud as it goes/I got the feeling that I can’t be beat, I got a pretty mamma in the passenger seat, she said I don’t know how you live so fast, well, I don’t slow down cause it might be the last.” Organ notes wash over the chorus as guitars intertwine, adding some bottleneck grit to the sweet soul-salvation. Muscular guitar riffs lattice over fluttery organ runs and a stop-start rhythm on “I’ve Got A Hole Where My Heart Should Be.” The lyrics offer a sketchy portrait of a bounder with an Urge For Going, offering up the typical rationale for man-slut behavior; “Hard luck woman meets an overzealous guy, it’s alright, said if you dig me, baby won’t you give me a try? Come on, I got my late night fever and perpetual high, you wanna go, I need to keep on moving so I never run dry.” Synchronized guitar solos on the break recall the harmonic convergence the band Boston perfected on their self-titled debut. As the song begins to fade, strafing power chords signal the opening notes of “Saturday Night.” Sinewy lead guitar layers over chiming rhythm licks, quixotic piano notes give the track a caffeinated twitch. Shimmery organ, rock-ribbed bass lines, a pounding beat and stacked harmonies achieve lift-off. Easy-going lyrics look for any excuse to cut loose, because, well, it’s Saturday night. It’s not all guitarmony on the break, as prowling riffs give the song a soupcon of Punky danger. This album finds The Sheepdogs coloring outside the lines on several tracks. Both “The Big Nowhere” and “Cherries Jubilee” confirm these beardy Canadian blokes have got Soul. The former locks into a meandering Samba Groove that calls up ‘70s antecedents like, War, Santana, Malo and Curtis Mayfield. Simmering keys lap over a relaxed conga beat as guitars echo and sway. Socially conscious lyrics remind us “The crack in the world has

“CHANGING COLOURS” (ATLANTIC RECORDS) BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

split way too far, but you can’t observe from back where you are/Protect and to serve, the system’s a lie, you did what’s deserved, it’s the will to survive.” Spiky horns and sinuous organ, mellotron and omnichord give the song a supple grace. The latter is propelled by a handclap rhythm, bubbling keys and prickly guitars. The melody seems to pay sideways homage to the Dusty Springfield classic “Son Of A Preacher Man,” adding some extra snap, crackle and pop. Spitfire licks give way to tightly concentric guitar riffs that are leavened by some downhome pedal steel. The lyrics are limited to two cryptic verses that feel like a haiku extolling life on the road. If ‘70s stalwarts like Chicago and Bread ever collaborated, it might sound like “I Ain’t Cool.” The song opens with a brassy fanfare before scaling back to just feathery keys, rubbery bass and rippling guitar. Confessing some deepseated dorkiness (a Canadian form of humble brag?), the lyrics insist all that will change with the right woman. Soaring horn charts crest over playful organ notes on the break, giving the song a sharp shot of exuberance. Finally, “I’m Just Waiting For My Time” shapeshifts from a Ye Olde English Folk ballad to dense Prog Rock. It opens tentatively with strummy acoustic guitar and vestured vocals. As the arrangement gathers steam, viola and fiddle are added along with quavery mandolin, twinkly keys, a wash of guitars and a dropped beat. Subsequently, the instrumentation powers down, everything feels stealthy and subterranean, the interplay between piano and guitar echoing the sleek Jazz-Rock pioneered by Steely Dan, as it fades to a close.

Other interesting tracks include the nearly instrumental twin guitar attack of “Kiss The Brass Ring,” the technicolor chiaroscuro of “Cool Down,” the down-home Country Comfort of “Let It Roll” and the crunchy machismo of “You’ve Got To Be A Man.” The final cut on the album is a six-song suite ambitious enough to sandwich between the Who’s “A Quick One, While He’s Away” and the final section of the Beatles’ “Abbey Road.” It opens with the rustic sing-a-long of “Born A Restless Man.” Guitars are nearly supplanted by frisky banjos, mandolins and Ringing harmonies. Spare lyrics tell the tale of a homesteading couple withstanding the elements before segueing into “The Bailieboro Turnaround.” This intricate instrumental easily showcases the band’s nonpareil style. Honky Tonk piano connects with wily guitars, high lonesome pedal steel see-saw fiddle and a thumpy beat. This song wouldn’t seem out of place on a Flying Burritos record, as it rolls into “Up In Canada,” a sharp, yet sincere ode to their place of origin. Two more instrumentals unspool, fleet fretwork from tandem guitars, percussive piano runs and a martial cadence drive “H.M.S. Buffalo.” That military precision carries over to “Esprit Des Corps.” Both give way to the closing track, “Run Baby Run.” Here, honeyed harmonies beg comparisons to precursors like the Beach Boys and Crosby, Stills and Nash. Buoyed by a chugging conga beat, handclap percussion, footloose bass, ringing rhythm riffs and Spanish-flavored lead guitar, it’s a breezy and effervescent finish to a deft and accomplished record. Changing Colours crosses musical borders and boundaries without breaking a sweat. While the instrumentation and arrangements are dense and substantial, the music never feels cluttered or precious. In fact, the vibe is loose-limbed and playful. the sunshiny ‘70s are alive and well here. The Sheepdogs have delivered the perfect record to chase away the summertime blahs.

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‘SPIRIT MESSAGES’

ARTSCENE

SIX ARTISTS WITH A POWERFUL INTERPRETATIVE EXPRESSION OF THIS VERY PERSONAL SUBJECT AT GALLERY 500, PALM SPRINGS

here is something to be learned about the way humans have approached the spiritual realm throughout history. Do you worship a person, an animal, a concept? Is your worship a dance, a song, an act, a thought or silence? Is it based in Love or Fear? All too often people simply adopt the religion they were born into without exploring the world and their spiritual beliefs. This is but a small sample of artists showcasing their thoughts of an inherent part of being human. Award winning Artists Council members Eduardo Carriazo, Terry Hastings, Carole Hatcher, Andrea Raft, Meridy Volz, and Ulrike, have worked together in several art shows throughout the Coachella Valley and beyond. For this show each artist tackled the subject from different cultures, whether it be Native American, African, Asian, Inuit, Greek, or cultures long disappeared. “We wanted to do something different. Something not so predictable,” they say with a grin on their faces. Columbian born artist Eduardo Carriazo has spent years as a naturalist guide and field illustrator in the Galapagos Islands. He similarly spent months as a naturalist and illustrator in the Ecuadorian Amazon Region. He has a Master of Fine Arts degree from FSU and moved to Palm Springs in 2012 where he focuses on painting and ceramics. Eduardo is the recipient of the Karen and Tony Barone Sculpture award given at the Palm Springs Art Museum in 2018. Meridy Volz’s strong, vibrant oil paintings are created with knifes and her fingers. “My spiritual art includes themes which showcase the Afro-Carribean culture, celebrations of Chango, Ochun and Yemaya, Native American and Mardi Gras Indian works.” As a symphonic violinist, with a quest for culinary adventure and a vivid imagination for found objects, artist Carole Hatcher interprets African and other cultural art. Her unique

flair for sculptural assemblage includes bells, percussion, antique artifacts, findings and trade beads combined to call attention to the Spirit Gods. Carole’s assemblages have been exhibited at the Palm Springs Art Museum and The Galen in Palm Desert. Throughout her life, Andrea’s travels to Asia have inspired her artistic perceptions and further enabled her to paint and study. Found objects, collage papers, and metal leaf are often used within her mixed media pieces. Her work reveals a preference for the abstract and canvas’ often express a quiet serene meditative quality. Terry Hastings is a well-known local photographer and artist. In this show, Terry continues to explore “Crazy Things People Believe In”. His sculptures and photos delve into the mind of man and how they attempt to control others with “religion”. Terry won Best of Show 2017 at the Palm Springs Arts Museum, Artists Council Exhibition. “What’s better than your animal friends?” states Austrian born Ulrike, known for her cheerful and colorful Magical Realism animal paintings, loves the Coachella Valley Art world. “I’m having the time of my life,” she exclaims. After working most of her life in the Entertainment Industry she can relax in the Desert and do what she likes best; painting, working with likeminded people, and enjoying her creative journey under the sun. She is one of the artists chosen for the Idyllwild Deer Project and was also elected to be an artist for the Heart for Hope Fundraiser, at Loma Linda Children’s Hospital, which was exhibited at Heather James Gallery and CODA Gallery, Palm Desert. Location: Gallery 500 500 Palm Canyon, Palm Springs Reception: Thursday, August 1, 5pm to 7pm Run of show: July 31 – September 15

TRAVEL TIPS4U

July 18 to July 24, 2019

BY LYNNE TUCKER

BOB’S BIG BOY® CLASSIC CAR NIGHT

BURBANK, CA

ob’s Big Boy® restaurant was built in 1949 by local residents Scott MacDonald and Ward Albert, and is the oldest remaining Bob’s Big Boy® in America. It was designed by renowned architect Wayne McAllister, incorporating the 1940’s transitional design of streamline modern style while anticipating the freeform 50’s coffee shop architecture. The towering Bob’s® sign is an integral part of the building design and its most prominent feature. The restaurant was honored, receiving the designation as a “Point of Historical Interest” by the state of California. The current owner, the MacDonald Family, acquired control of the restaurant in 1993 and began to restore it to its past glory. An exterior patio was added; the tower sign was rehabilitated; the dining room was remodeled; “Car Hop” service was reintroduced on Saturday and Sunday nights; and on Friday nights a “Classic Car Show” reverberates in the parking lot. Many resources were spent to restore the quality of food, service, and hospitality which made Bob’s® a tradition and your meal the very best value in Southern California. Bob’s Big Boy® 4211 Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505 For more information and directions visit: www.bobs.net Think Travel and Enjoy their Milkshakes! Lynne Tucker is a Travel Writer and Photojournalist based in Palm Desert

July 18 to July 24, 2019

PET PLACE

n the morning of July 4, Coachella Valley residents were shaken by an earthquake centered in Ridgecrest that was felt throughout much of Southern California. Since then, our state has been shaken by hundreds of foreshocks and aftershocks as scientists speculate about the timing of “The Big One” that could bring widespread destruction. Preparing ahead of time is crucial, and those of us with pets must plan for them as well. The 10 freeway, our only egress from the area by automobile, could become so crowded that evacuation from the Coachella Valley would be almost impossible. In addition to stocking up on food and water for our human family members, it is wise to have a two week supply of dog and cat food on hand. Local businesses may be closed or run out of merchandise. If your pet requires medication, have refills on hand. Here are some additional tips to ensure that Fluffy and Fido are well cared for during an emergency: Make sure your pet wears a collar with an engraved ID tag containing your contact phone number. Petco and PetSmart can make personalized ID tags for a nominal cost. It’s best to use your cell phone Make sure you keep information up to date. An engraved ID tag is the quickest way to get your pet back to you should he escape for

MEET OREO KITTENS, KITTENS, KITTENS...The Coachella Valley Animal Campus has lots of adorable kittens and cats right now. Come in and meet adorable 5-month old tabby boy Oreo (Cat ID#A1528432) and his buddies. Shelter located at 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, www.rcdas.org, (760) 343-3644.

MEET CADEN Caden has waited at the shelter for 5 months, not giving up on getting a home. Sweet with a heart of gold, Caden is being passed over because of the scars on his face. Come meet this happy angel boy! Dog ID#A1501434 at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus shelter, 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. rcdas.org

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EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS

any reason. Get your animal microchipped by a veterinarian or low cost spay clinic. A microchip is a tiny device the size of a grain of rice inserted near the pet’s base of the neck. It contains its owner’s address, phone, and all contact information. All shelters and veterinarians have scanners that can read this information. However, a significant percentage of microchips are not registered, so please be sure to do so and make sure you keep information updated. Make sure the rescue organization where you adopted your pet is not still listed as the contact. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date in case he is exposed to contagious illnesses during an emergency. Keep copies of your pet’s medical records in your earthquake kit. Pack bandages, cotton gauze squares, triple antibiotic ointment and other first aid items, pet food, bowls, emergency contact information, kitty litter, and basic cleaning supplies. Favorite toys can comfort pets. Playthings containing silver vine have been shown to attract cats more than catnip, and it is said to have a calming effect. A toy or item that allows a dog or cat to hide is also helpful when they are stressed. Have enough crates and carriers to

BY JANET McAFEE

contain all your pets should you need to evacuate. Have sufficient leashes and harnesses to contain all your dogs as you may have to walk them in unfamiliar areas. Locate “pet friendly” locations ahead of time, including hotels and out-of-town friends who would welcome your pets into their home during a crisis. Take current photographs of your pets and store them on your cell phone. Make

sure the photos are up close and clearly identify the animals. A photo also helps identify you as the owner should you need to prove this. Keep a familiar blanket or towel in your emergency kit. These comfort your animals, and can become a bed or line a cage in a pinch. If your dog doesn’t always get along with other dogs, particularly if he’s frightened in a disaster, make sure you have a muzzle. If your pet goes missing during a natural disaster, or for any reason, check local animal shelters online and in person. Check Craig’s List, Facebook, and www. NextDoor.com which post missing pets. Many communities have a Facebook page devoted to the return of missing cats and dogs. You can easily create an account on www.NextDoor.com, post your dog’s photo with your contact information and it is distributed to hundreds of residents in your community. Post flyers in strategic areas. As pet lovers, we must include our fourlegged family members in disaster plans. Plan ahead, and keep Fido and Fluffy safe and sound! Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

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July 18 to July 24, 2019

THE VINO VOICE COSTCO TAKES TOTAL WINE DOWNTOWN

he numbers are astonishing! With more than $4.4 billion in beverage alcohol sales last year, Costco Wholesale Corporation continues to see steady annual growth; and this year, everyone in the industry will expects those numbers to go even higher. Here in the Coachella Valley, wine buyers have the option to shop at around four or five mega-sized wine and liquor stores. You know the usual suspects: Costco, BevMo!, Total Wine, and the wine & liquor departments in the large grocery store chains such as Ralphs, Albertsons/Vons, and Stater Bros. As you loyal readers well know, I am currently the wine steward at the Palm Springs Ralphs Markets on Sunrise & Ramon; and, just right down the street, there is yet another Ralphs Market. Between the two stores, we probably sell more wine and liquor than any other beverage store on the west side of our valley. Now once you go east—towards Palm Desert and the neighboring cities, there’s another set of mega-stores and large grocery stores that also sell a beaucoup of liquor: Costco in Rancho Mirage/Palm Desert and in La Quint, BevMo! in La Quinta, Total Wine in Palm Desert, and the Ralphs in Indio, Bermuda Dunes & Palm Desert, and, Albertsons in Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage. This valley is known for our drinking prowess; indeed,

BY RICK RIOZZA

geographically, more wine and liquor is sold proportionally in Coachella Valley than in most places in the nation. And pretty much everyone is looking to get a bargain on their purchases. No one I know buys all their wine from just one store. Most people have a strategy—generally a weekly or monthly strategy. They continually monitor and search the ads to get the best price for their beloved Kendall Jackson, Meiomi, or many of the national brands who have throngs of devotees. And as you can see by the competition above, going here or going there to buy their wine isn’t a problem. With your large grocery store chains, we are all familiar with their “buy so many bottles and get a percentage off them all” type of sale. For instance, I think Stater Bros.

sometimes has the sale of “buy four—get 20% off, and, Albertsons/Vons occasionally has the “buy six—get 30% percent off”. At Ralphs—the good thing for me, as the wine steward, is the “mix or match—buy six bottles or more and get 30% off” sale that continually runs all the time. Thus I see a lot of happy shoppers buying lots of wine and smiling and talking to me while they shop about. Now whether I work at Ralphs or not, it’s absolutely clear: if you’re planning to buy half a case or more of wine for yourself or for events—this is the place! Also, most people around town know that they can get a good deal on a bottle or two of wine, either national brand or international, at their local Trader Joe’s market in Palm Desert or in Cathedral City. Generally, Trader Joe’s customers plan to drink that bottle or two that very day or evening. That being said, most wine buyers know about Costco’s selection of wine; that the 94 million membership based company store, can offer some great deals on some certain wines; and, they indeed have bought wine from that mega-store as it’s one of their go-to wine stops. The few times I go into Costco— sometimes the heat and the crowd deter my venture, I do enjoy checking out their selection and seeing what’s on sale. A lot of their national brand wines are generally on par with most stores around town. Generally, a very good or great bottle of wine from Napa or Italy or France costs around the same price I can find it elsewhere. Of course, there will be a very good sale on a lot of wines, as you’d

expect—to get in the valley’s wine business. What I’m particularly impressed with is Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature. I have bought some very tasty Spanish Rioja, Italian Chianti, and French Bordeaux wine at around $8.99, or under, a bottle. The wine is excellent and a good buy—and I’ll often get half a case because, the concern for a bunch of local wine buyers that I talk to is that so many of the “special sale wines” or even the Kirkland Signature wines, will sell out and may or may not be re-stocked back to the store. Costco is straight forward with their sales picture, stating, “The company developed its first Kirkland Signature wine in 2003 and added spirits to the portfolio in 2007. Today, Kirkland has 30 wines and 20 spirits offerings, though many are only available at certain times of the year. Our members are loyal and have a high trust level for Kirkland products. We’re proud of the quality and value we develop with our supply partners.” As you’d imagine, I speak to a lot of wine enthusiasts all over this valley and I like to keep a pulse on the wine community—especially as to where they shop. Interestingly, there appears to be a wine rivalry I hear spoken about between shopping at Costco and at Total Wine. Just last week, a seasoned wine buyer came in my department and we got into the Costco/Total Wine conversation. We both agreed that Total Wine has a very large selection of wine and spirits; but he said he’s tired of having their sales personal constantly suggesting he try their “Winery Direct” wine over the wine he came in the store to purchase in the first place! He finds it annoying and he’d rather shop quietly at Costco. As you readers know, I really enjoyed my stint at Total Wine while conducting their monthly wine tasting seminars. It was fun to interact with you wine folk and many of you keep up with this column. But as to sales, I always respected your desires. Cheers!

July 18 to July 24, 2019

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THUR JULY 18

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bobby Furgo & Co 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ noon, TBA 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill and Doug Duo 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 TBA 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli Trio w/ Brian Dennigan and Leon Bisquera 7:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 John Stanley King 6-10pm THE CASCADE LOUNGE, AGUA CALIENTE; RM; 888-999-1995 Ladies Night w/ Bianca from 92.7 9pm 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 6:309:30pm, DJ 9:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 MOD Squad Variety Show w/ Francesca Amari, Jeff Stewart and Wayne Abravanel 5:30-7:30pm, Lipstick hosted by Bella Da Ball 8pm, DJs Banks and Ax 10pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm EUREKA; IW; 760-834-7700 Live Music 8-10pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766534 Barry Baughn Blues Band 5:308:30pm

HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760-656-3444 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; TBA 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; 760-3252794 Hot Roxx 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Country Night w/ Rob Staley 9pm 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 Blank Tapes and Paige Calico 8pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-343-2115 Comedy Night hosted by Dacoda Miracle 8pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 Gutter Candy 9pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 7:30pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 VooDoo Hustlers 7pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Karaoke 8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Trio Envy 5-8pm

FRI JULY 19

19TH HOLE; PD; 760-772-6696 Live Music 8pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Dana Larson 6:30pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Heat-Wave (DJ Sets) noon poolside 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 TBA 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 Long Duk Dong 8:30pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 The Stanley Butler Trio 6-10pm THE CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Chase Martinez 9pm 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 6:309:30pm, DJ 9:30pm

COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 Viva Friday’s w/ DJ Banks 9pm DESERT FOX; PD; Sunday Funeral 9:30pm, Upper Class Poverty 11pm 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; 760-7766534 Gina Carey 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Rebecca Clark 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 TBA 8pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760-656-3444 Karaoke w/ KJ Marjovi 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Giselle Woo and the Night Owls 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 Keisha D 7pm HOTEL PASEO; PD; Michael Keeth 4pm7pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; Coachella; 760-775-5566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 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 BREWERY; PD; 760-200-2597 Lonnie Castro 7pm LA QUINTA RESORT; LQ; 760-564-4111 Steppin Out 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 Hot Roxx 7:30pm LE FE WINE BAR; PD; 760-565-1430 Lance Riebsomer 9:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Remix 9pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 TBA 6:3011pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm MIRAMONTE; IW; 760-341-2200 Trio Envy 5-9pm 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 O’CAINES; RM; 760-202-3311 DJ Tone 10pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 The Refills 9pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Regrettes and Hot Flash Heat Wave 9pm 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 RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm RENAISSANCE; PS; 760-322-6000 Live Music 6-9pm

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RIVIERA; PS; 760-327-8311 Michael Keeth 8-11pm SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro Brothers 8:30pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm 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 GRILLE@EMBASSY SUITES; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Rock 10pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Derek Jordan Gregg 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Vinny Berry 7-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 DJ Galaxy and the House Whores 5pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 An Evening of Jazz 6:30pm

DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm ELECTRIC SPORTS LOUNGE; YV; 760-2281199 DJ Ceddy Cedd 9pm EN VIVO@SPOTLIGHT 29; Coachella; 760-775-5566 Banda Sinaloense El Vendillo 9:30pm FISHERMAN’S GROTTO; PD; 760-7766534 Jack Ruvio 5:30-8:30pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Rebecca Clark 6-9pm GADI’S BAR & GRILL; YV; 760-820-1213 Sarah Bethe Nelson and Jess Cornelius 8pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760-656-3444 DJ Ray 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Israel's Arcade 9pm HOODOO COCKTAIL GARDEN @ THE HYATT; PS; 760-322-9000 The Carmens 7pm HOT SPOT@SPOTLIGHT 29; Coachella; 760-775-5566 Nacho Bustillos 8:30pm INDIAN WELLS RESORT HOTEL; IW; 760345-6466 Bob Allen 6pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Eevaan Tre 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 PS Sound Company 1pm, Hot Roxx 8pm LE FE WINE BAR; PD; 760-565-1430 Vinny Berry 9:30pm 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bev and Bill 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-345ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Heat-Wave 2450 Remix 9pm (DJ Sets) noon, poolside and 10pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; AGAVE LOUNGE@THE HYATT REGENCY; 760-325-2323 Ron Greenip 8pm IW; 760-674-4080 Steppin’ Out 7-11pm MIRAMONTE; IW; 760-341-2200 Trio Envy 6-10pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Cabaret on the Green Open Mic 7:30pm MOXIE; PS; 760-318-9900 Derek Jordan BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Gregg 6-9pm, DJ Pedro Le Bass 9:30pm Linda Peterson 12:30-3:30pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 TBA 7pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Kevin Henry BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Chris Lomeli, 6-8pm Tim Burleson 8pm Brian Denigan and Leon Basquera 7:30O’CAINES; RM; 760-202-3311 DJ Tone 11pm 10pm BIG ROCK PUB; IND; 706-200-8988 The PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760Christie Huff Band 8:30pm 327-4080 Melrose Music Presents: Best of BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 Gina Carey the Desert Showcase w/ Giselle Woo and the Night Owls, Jetta King, Cakes and the 6-10pm Assholes, Empty Seat, Krystofer Do and The CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT CMF’s 9pm CASINO; PS; 888-999-1995 DJ Michael PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Wright 9pm Gethen Hawkins and Ruben Levi Rhodes CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The 9pm Myx 6:30-10pm PEABODY’S CAFÉ; PS; 760-322-1877 CATALAN; RM; 760-770-9508 George Karaoke 7:30pm Christian 6-9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Red’s 760-200-1768 Abie and Natasha 6:30Rockstar Karaoke 9pm 9:30pm, DJ 9:30pm RED BARN; PD; 760-346-0191 TBA 9pm COACHELLA VALLEY BREWING CO; TP; SAMMY G’s; PS; 760-320-8041 Evaro 760-343-5973 Acoustic Evening Kickoff Brothers 8:30pm w/ Lance Riebsomer, David Saba, Wendy Rolfe, JR, Rob Lawrence and Mario Quintero SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S 6-9pm MARKET; PS; 760-322-9293 Barry Baughn Blues 8-11pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Banks and Mr. Miami 9pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 The Smooth DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Brothers 8-11pm Karaoke w/ DJ Scott 9pm

SAT JULY 20

July 18 to July 24, 2019

SHELLY’S LOUNGE@TORTOISE ROCK CASINO; 29 Palms; Rojer Arnold & Bobby Furgo 9pm SONOMA GRILLE@EMBASSY SUITES; PD; 760-340-6600 Denny Pezzin 6-9pm SOUL OF MEXICO; IND; 760-200-8787 Latin Music 10pm TACK ROOM TAVERN; IND; 760-347-9985 Off Da Cuff 9pm TRILUSSA ITALIAN RISTORANTE; PS; 760-328-2300 Julius & Sylvia Music Duo 6-10pm THE VINE WINE BAR; PD; 760-341-9463 Fun with Dick and Jane 7-10pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 6:30pm WESTIN; RM; 760-328-5955 Michael Keeth 11-3pm poolside WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 The Stanley Butler Band 6:30pm

SUN JULY 21

29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 Bob Garcia 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 DJ Pedro Le Bass noon, poolside, Intoxica Radio Live w/ Howie Pyro 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Sunday Brunch w/ Live Music 11am BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Deep House Sunday’s w/ TBA 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Bill Gulino 12:30-3:30pm, Patrice Morris 6:30-10pm BLUEMBER; RM; 760-862-4581 TBA 5-9pm continue to page 18

July 18 to July 24, 2019

GOOD GRUB

or a fun and flavorful Frozen Yogurt experience that will make you want to twirl in delight, it’s got to be Swirlyz in Palm Desert. Can Frozen Yogurt make you want to twirl? Well sure it can, especially if you load it up with a multitude of sugary toppings, but even if you don’t, there’s something about watching yogurt ooze out of a machine in a swirly fashion that actually can make you want to do a jig. It could also be the slice of Americana that Swirlyz serves up that makes you feel like you’ve been sprinkled with a touch of whimsy. Located in the Palms to Pines Plaza in the heart of Palm Desert, Swirlyz is run by the Marshall family and has been swirling to the pleasure of their customers for well over three years. The spot is prime, right across from

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FEELING TWIRLY AT SWIRLYZ

the Westfield Shopping Center. The Palms to Pines shopping center has been a staple in Palm Desert for well over 45 years. I actually grew up around the center, as my parents had a restaurant there during the eighties. I recall

playing with my childhood friend in the back allies behind McDonalds, watching the tipsy patrons stumble out of the original Village Lounge, and sneaking into the movie theater when no one was watching. It was way before cell phones and what not, so we had to be creative, and it was a blast! Swirlyz has a tasty spectrum of Fro-yo flavors, from Strawberry Tart, to Espresso. Hunter Marshall, who helped guide through the shop, shared that one of their best sellers is the Sea Salt Caramel, and after tasting it, I could understand why. It was smooth, sweet, and just a tad bit salty, excellent! Other flavors include Orange Creamsicle (which is super refreshing), Coconut and Peanut Butter Cup, among others. Of course, a Fro-yo experience would not

BY DENISE ORTUNO be complete without some joyful toppings, and Swirlyz certainly has that department covered with everything from fresh fruit, candies, and even Strawberry or Mango Boba. You can enjoy all these goodies at a moderate weight price of only fifty three cents an ounce, which is a great deal! Swirlyz is a fun and delicious way to take the edge off of the desert summer heat, or anytime throughout the year, and might even make you twirl in Fro-yo bliss. Swirlyz is located at 72-795 Hwy 111 G3, Palm Desert 92260

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BREWTALITY

hange is always constant. Yesterdays fresh ideas are todays trends, eventually to be last years fads. This is as true in craft beer as it is in anything pop culture; the same way brewers want to haze and fruit everything in 2019, they wanted to over-hop and bitter everything in 1994. The mid-90’s were a time of ska bands, Doc Martins, mom jeans, and the birth of the SoCal-style, West Coast IPA. Very dry and exceedingly bitter, an icon was born in the city of Temecula, which eventually found another home up north; Vinnie Cilurzo’s Blind Pig IPA. We live in a time when many small breweries offer several IPAs; I personally brew four different IPA’s over at Brewcaipa. But in 1994, the style had not yet caught on, and IPAs still were seen as something of a novelty. Vinnie Cilurzo had been homebrewing his recipe for Blind Pig a few years before opening the Blind Pig Brewery in Temecula, CA. Cilurzo claims that he had no idea how to scale up his recipe from a 5-gallon batch to 7 BBLs (British Barrels; the standard unit for production measurement, each of which is equal to 31 American gallons), so his friend over at San Diego’s Pizza Port Brewing, Vince Marsaglia, actually gave him a copy of his entire recipe for Swami IPA (a hugely underrated and incredibly tasty beverage) to use as reference. Blind Pig IPA debuted to the public at 6.2% ABV and 92 IBU, a staggeringly high number. To understand

July 18 to July 24, 2019

ANATOMY OF A CLASSIC: BLIND PIG IPA BY AARON RAMSON

the significance of the IBU, we should break down what this abbreviation stands for; and that’s International Bitterness Units. In the same way that we measure a chili’s heat intensity in Scoville units, the IBU tells us how much bitterness to expect in a beer. A bottle of Bud Light contains 6 IBU, while a Heineken has 19. As intense as it is, Firestone Walker’ Union Jack IPA has 70 IBU, and that should give you the best idea of what 1994’s Blind Pig was like. Cilurzo eventually left Temecula and the Blind Pig Brewery,

heading north to head the Russian River Brewing Co, where he reworked the recipe into the version we’re familiar with today. Still aggressively hopped, still a testament to the citrusy flavors of Cascade, Amarillo, and Simcoe, Blind Pig IPA might enjoy the same iconic status as Ballast Point’s Sculpin and Stone’s Enjoy By series if it weren’t overshadowed by another IPA released by the Russian River Brewery. Pliny the Elder. Both Pliny the Elder and Blind Pig are

have found limited distribution here in the Coachella Valley; Bristol Farms, Total Wine, and Jensen’s Food Markets have all been known to carry both beers side by side, always selling out within days, if not hours of a shipment. While Pliny has become the standard of excellence, it’s older brother Blind Pig has been relegated more to the role of gate keeper, an also-ran that you discover on the way to figuring out what your favorite IPA really is. It’s when placed side by side next to other classics of the west coast style that Blind Pig’s unique character shines. Bright and lively, the grapefruit pith and orange zest tones that have become a cliché of IPA flavor taste fresh and new. Lightly toasted malt flavors give a barely perceptible sweetness to offset the hop-dominant profile. Flavors that are similar to most every other IPA you’ve tried, somehow taste fresh in Blind Pig. There are fans of this beer to claim to prefer it to Pliny the Elder, and I would actually listen to their arguments as to why. Russian River’s Blind Pig is an IPA firmly stuck in the trappings of the classic west coast style, never to be updated or rebuilt, leaving it to be an iconic example of the style.

July 18 to July 24, 2019

SCREENERS

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No. 378

TOUR DE FORCE

NOW SHOWING: STUBER

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS SHAZAM

The best things about this middling buddy action adventure are the two leads: Kumail Nanjiani and Dave Bautista. However, the movie fails to blend its contrasting genres instead settling for a surprisingly violent and moderately entertaining diversion that’s an okay escape in a cool theater on a hot summer day. When Mild mannered Uber driver Stu (Nanjiani) picks up a passenger (Bautista) who just happens to be a cop on the trail of

a brutal killer, he’s thrust into a harrowing ordeal in which he desperately tries to hold onto his wits, his life and his five-star rating. Sometimes dumb fun, ludicrous violence, lame humor, bonehead plot twists - and of course excellent central air -- are enough to be grateful for on a blazing hot day in the CV. NEW BLU OR THE HOME THEATER: THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD A truly masterful technical achievement with a powerful emotional impact, They Shall Not Grow Old is a brilliant and timeless cinematic tribute to the sacrifice of a generation. Utilizing never-before-seen century-old footage, Peter Jackson directs this poignant homage to the British troops of the First World War with of soldiers as they faced the fear and uncertainty of frontline battle in Belgium. Digitally restored, remastered and colorized, the footage was scrupulously studied by forensic lip reading experts whose transcripts were recorded by voice actors and used as audio for the film. Overlaid by an authentic narrative from interviews made in the 1960s and 1970s from those who partook in the war, this extraordinary tribute to those who fought and sacrificed in the “Great War” deserves to be seen by all as a reminder of the human cost. I was especially moved by the palpable tension and the look of fear on the faces of the soldiers. Strongest recommendation. A great extra in Director Jackson’s on-screen narration of how the film was crafted and why. Warner Bros. Home Ent.

We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson’s (Asher Angel) case, by shouting out one word – SHAZAM! – this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can turn into the adult superhero Shazam (Zachery Levi), courtesy of an ancient wizard. Still a kid at heart still a kid at heart, but now inside a ripped, godlike body, Shazam revels in this adult version of himself by doing what any teen would do with superpowers: have fun with them! Can he skip his social studies test? Shazam sets out to test the limits of his abilities with the joyful recklessness (and innocence?) of a kid. But he’ll need to master these powers quickly in order to fight the deadly forces of evil controlled by Dr. Thaddeus Sivana (Mark Strong. The new DC comic universe really takes flight with this latest entry. The 4K UHD Bluray combo pack includes seven featurettes including Deleted Scenes and a Gag Reel. Recommended. Warner Bros. Home Ent. HIGH LIFE

An A-list cast (Robert Pattison, Juliette Binoche, André Benjamin and Mia Goth) stars in the sometimes haunting, intermittently thrilling and visually inventive space odyssey about Monte (Pattison) and his baby daughter who are the last survivors of a damned and dangerous mission to the outer reaches of our solar system. The crew – death row inmates led by a doctor (Binoche) with less than honorable motives – has vanished. As the mystery of what happened unravels, father and daughter must now rely solely on each other if they are to survive. Two interesting making-of featurettes explore the look of this audacious, absurd and improbable sci-fi horror space movie. LIONSGATE. robin@coachllavalleyweekly.com

BOOK REVIEW

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"VACUUM IN THE DARK" BY JEN BEAGIN FICTION

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t can be hard to clean up your act when you don’t know what it is yet. The midtwenties is a time of self-discovery, individuation and personal autonomy. In Jen Beagin’s novel Vacuum in the Dark (Scribner, 240 pages) a young woman must come to terms with her adulthood. Mona is 26 years old and lives alone in Taos, New Mexico. She makes her living as a cleaning lady. She’s meticulous at it and takes pride in her skill set. But, to combat the boredom of her job, she takes photographs of odd household things and poses nude on her client’s furniture. It doesn’t help that Mona has an eccentric clientele. While working for a blind therapist and her husband, she discovers unusual things around the house that fascinate her -- a name secretly carved into furniture, and someone is leaving human excrement in soap dishes. Where most cleaning ladies would quit, this intrigues Mona. She enjoys considering the mystery of why and who is doing these strange and provocative things. In her head, Mona has created a best

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July 18 to July 24, 2019

A FRESH START

friend with whom she regularly speaks. Her imaginary friend is wise, pragmatic and renders good advice, although Mona rarely takes it. Mona finds herself in sexually charged relationships with her clients, which creates conflict in more ways than one. The affairs are complicated and Mona prefers the women to the men. But when Mona returns home to Los Angeles for her estranged mother’s vow-renewal ceremony, she gets a fresh perspective on her childhood, and her life as an adult. Author Beagin writes a compelling psychological narrative about a woman who must confront her past, recognize her demons, and accept responsibility for her future. There is an authentic voice to Mona’s character. Mona is a victim, but more importantly, she is also a survivor. I liked that Beagin does not spend too much time on the details of Mona’s childhood and young adult abuses, which are horrible. Rather, she gives the reader just enough background to let us know what shaped Mona into the brave woman she has become. Mona is bright, independent and creative. Somehow, she made it to adulthood with the odds against her. She has certainly suffered a great deal in her short lifetime. Beagin writes with a lean clarity, sharp wit and a gifted storyteller’s insightfulness. At first, I wanted to put the book down. The poop part – the first chapter -- is hard to

BY HEIDI SIMMONS

take and seems over-the-top and gratuitous until we get to know Mona, her curiosities and creative thought processes. The sexual encounters are also very descriptive. Although Mona is damaged, she is not self-destructive nor does she dwell on the past or blame those responsible for the dysfunction in her life. She is remarkably present. And that makes Mona a provocative and memorable character. In fact, all of the characters in the story exhibit unique characteristics and personal damage. I especially appreciate the Yoko

SAFETY TIPS

and Yoko couple. Mona likes to assign pseudonyms to the people in her life. I also appreciated that, in the end, Mona figures out what is best for her. She discovers that there are people in her life who love her and genuinely care. Perhaps that’s what being an adult is all about. Finally, Mona makes a good choice and the reader knows that her future will be rewarding and she may contribute something beautiful to the world because of her difficult upbringing. Yet, it is just as possible – and perhaps much more likely -- for her to regress. The twenties can be an ordeal for everybody as they find their own way. But being a woman from an abusive, dysfunctional family alone in the world can be even more challenging to navigate into a healthy, happy, productive adult existence.

FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

CHEAP SUNGLASSES – JULY IS UV SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH!

hen you wake up in the morning and the light hurts your head – The first thing you do when you get up out of bed – Is hit that streets a-runnin’ and try to beat the masses – Now go get yourself some good sunglasses…” During the summer we put a lot of emphasis on protecting skin from UV rays. But one must not forget about protecting the eyes – the most exposure to bright sunlight increases the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye including cancer. July is UV safety awareness month. However, eyes are at risk to UV rays all year round. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Ophthalmology: • Check for 100 percent UV protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 100 percent of UV-A rays and UV-B rays. • Choose wrap-around styles: Ideally, your sunglasses should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun’s rays can’t enter from the side. • Wear a hat: In addition to your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect your eyes. • Don’t be fooled by clouds: The sun’s rays can pass through haze and thin clouds. Sun damage to eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summertime. • Protect your eyes during peak sun times: Sunglasses should be worn whenever you’re outside, and it’s especially important to wear sunglasses in the early afternoon “

and at higher altitudes, where UV light is more intense. • Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can lead to solar retinopathy, damage to the eye’s retina from solar radiation. • Don’t forget the kids: Everyone is at risk, including children. “Now, go out and get yourself some big black frames – With the glass so dark, they won’t even know your name – And the choice is up to you ‘cause they come in two classes – Rhinestone shades or cheap sunglasses…. Get the good ones!” Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

July 18 to July 24, 2019

CLUB CRAWLER NIGHTLIFE continued from page 13

CASCADE LOUNGE, SPA RESORT; PS; 888-999-1995 Latin Night w/ Nacho Bustillos and Quinto Menguante 9pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760-200-1768 Paul Douglas 6-9pm DHS SPA LOUNGE; DHS; 760-329-6787 Radio 60 3-6pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 Lisa and the Gents 1-5pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Ted Herman 6-8pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Comedy Night 8pm LANDMARK LOUNGE; LQ; 760-289-6736 Scott Carter 7pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 PS Sound Company noon, Hot Roxx 6:30pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 Finesse 6:30-10pm MELVYN’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE; PS; 760-325-2323 Sunday Jam 3:30-7:30pm, Mikael Healy 8pm NEIL’S LOUNGE; IND; 760-347-1522 Karaoke 8pm THE NEST; PD; 760-346-2314 Sunday Jam Session 2-5pm, Kevin Henry 7:30pm PALM CANYON ROADHOUSE; PS; 760327-4080 Sunday Jam Session 7pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 The Sunday Band 7:30pm SHANGHAI RED’S @ THE FISHERMAN’S MARKET; LQ; 760-777-1601 Jack Ruvio 6-9pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Live Music 5pm

WESTIN; RM; 760-328-5955 Lance Riebsomer 12-4pm poolside WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 John Carey and Friends 6:30pm

MON JULY 22 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Luminators 6pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Bill Marx 6:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Johnny Morris 5:30-9pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 Music by Touchtunes 7pm CASUELAS CAFÉ; PD; 760-568-0011 The Mighty Sweet Nothings 5:30pm COPA NIGHTCLUB; PS; 760-866-0021 DJ Banks and Mr. Miami 8pm DRINGK; RM; 760-888-0111 DJ Journee 9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Larry Capeloto 6-9pm LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 Finesse 6:30-10:30pm 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 Kevin Henry 7:30pm PAPPY & HARRIET’S; PT; 760-365-5956 Open Mic 7pm

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Nick Sosa 7pm WOODY’S PALMHOUSE; PS; 760-2300188 Elaine Woodward 7pm

TUE JULY 23 29 PALMS INN; 29 Palms; 760-367-3505 The Bill and Bob Duo 6pm ACE HOTEL; PS; 760-325-9900 Ace Karaoke 9pm AJ’S ON THE GREEN; C.C.; 760-202-1111 Shelley Yoelin Group 9:30pm BACKSTREET BISTRO; PD; 760-346-6393 Live Jazz 6:30pm BART LOUNGE; C.C.; 760-799-8800 DJs Ax, Tanner and John Paul 7pm BERNIE’S; RM; 760-202 4499 Horice Miller, Leon Basquera and Brian Denigan 6:30-10pm CHEF GEORGE’S PICASSO LOUNGE; PD; 760-200-1768 Lizann Warner 6:309:30pm, DJ 9:30pm FIRESIDE LOUNGE; PS; 760-327-1700 Red’s Rockstar Karaoke 9pm FRANK’S PLACE; IW; 760-797-8700 Terri Olsen and the Perfect Blend 6-9pm HENRY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL; CC; 760-656-3444 Karaoke w/ KJ Danny 9pm THE HOOD; PD; 760-636-5220 Drag Queen Bingo 9pm HUNTER’S; PS; 760-323-0700 Karaoke 9pm JOSHUA TREE SALOON; JT; 760-3662250 Ted Quinn’s Open Mic 7pm KOKOPELLI’S; YV; 760-228-2589 Karaoke 7pm

LAS CASUELAS TERRAZA; PS; 760-3252794 PS Sound Company 6:30pm LIT@FANTASY SPRINGS; IND; 760-3452450 Brad’s Pad 7pm MASTRO’S; PD; 760-776-6777 Finesse 6:30-10:30pm 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; 760327-4080 Acoustic Music Lounge 7pm PLAN B LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND COCKTAILS; TP; 760-3432115 Game Night w/ Luke O 8pm WANG’S; PS; 760-325-9264 Alex Santana 5-8pm

WED JULY 24

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REALLY HOT STUFF

hat can be hotter than the Coachella Valley in the summertime? While we were reaching the 115 levels last week, the hottest place on Earth was a mere 5 degrees higher in Iran at 120 degrees. In return for living in paradise for months on end, we get to live in the devil’s oven for a few weeks every year. In comparison, the people of Iran don’t have recreational cannabis, Instagram or freedom of speech. Want to visit somewhere hotter than here this summer? Better yet, there must be someone you’d like to send there. Have them visit sunny Death Valley (population 320), 240 miles to our north and home to the hottest place on Earth. While we spend most of our days hiding from the afternoon heat, Dome A in Antarctica have a larger challenge. When we were hitting nighttime lows in the mid80s, their nighttime lows were 171 degrees below us at 91 below zero! While the world’s average temperature was 60 degrees, the high and low temperatures spanned 211 degrees. According to the National Center for Environmental Information, the month of June was the fourth hottest since 1880 at 60 degrees which was 1.5 degrees above normal. The four hottest Junes on record

have all occurred since 2015. Moving beyond the weather, what is the hottest thing to ever to exist on Earth? For comparison, scientists estimate that the surface of the sun is 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit while is center is a toasty 27 million degrees Fahrenheit. Seven years ago in San Mateo, scientists heated a piece of aluminum to 3.6 million degrees Fahrenheit at which point it evaporated. They did this as part of a study of plasmas at the National Accelerator Laboratory.

DALE GRIBOW ON THE LAW

The center of a nuclear explosion gets to a very uncomfortable 212 million degrees Fahrenheit or nearly 8 times the temperature found at the middle of the Sun. As hot as all of that is, nothing compares to the heat created at the CERN Large Hadron Collider near Geneva, Switzerland. It was here that scientists smashed lead ions together creating what they believe was a recreation of the first elements of the universe following the Big Bang. The temperature created by this ionic collision was 9.9 trillion degrees. While I trust their number, this really seems like the kind of exaggerated statement you might get from an evil supervillain. Given that it happened in the mountains outside of Geneva… For those unfamiliar with the Big Bang Theory, it not only refers to one of the most successful US television shows in history, but it also refers to theory as to how the universe got started. Scientists theorize that everything in the universe was once crushed so tightly together that it was no bigger in space than the size of the period at the end of this sentence. I’m not kidding. I don’t think that they’ve figured out why everything would be so tight. I’m also not sure if they were experimenting with LSD or magic mushrooms but it is a bit of a crazy thought to think that one lonely speck on the end of

July 18 to July 24, 2019

a sentence was once everything. That kind of says it all and nothing all at once. Anyhow, with everything being packed so tightly, it got really, really hot and one day just exploded. About 13.7 billion years later, here we are. No summer discussion of heat is complete without an homage to the chile. The hottest pepper in the world is 200 times hotter than a jalapeno and twice as hot as the Ghost Pepper. Called the Carolina Reaper, it lives up to its name as this nasty little chile has a 2 million SHUs or Scoville Heat Units rating. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Winslow Drake Investment Management, a FiduciaryOnly Investment Advisory firm. For more information, please visit WinslowDrake.com or email Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE WARNING: DISCRETION IS ADVISED

ot every Domestic Violence (DV) police call and subsequent arrest has merit. Sometimes there are false accusations made by a spouse to gain leverage in a soon to be filed or already filed divorce / child custody case. The accusations are usually made by the wife and sometimes they are just used as “banked” leverage for a possible future contest. Most DV claims have merit and I by no means condone domestic violence. However we must be aware that this happens. I had a case where a couple had rented at Marriott Desert Springs Villas and arrived with their two kids and nanny. They had reservations across the street at Morton’s at 6pm. They ordered a pizza across the street and checked on it 3 times and it had not arrived when they left for dinner 400 yards away. They ordered the large “bone in” steak for two. Aggravated from the pizza disappointment, the husband did not eat much and asked for a doggy bag. He then ordered a shot of Louis 13 which was $125 and his wife complained “how can you spend $125 on one shot.” He chugged the drink and left his card for his wife to sign. He waited in the car. His wife opened the door and said “I bet you forgot the friggin doggy bag.” He reached down by his right foot and picked up the doggy bag. He intended to show her the bag but instead hit her in the left eye with the “bone in” bag. Her eye began to swell and he kissed it and apologized as they returned to the villa where he went to bed. His wife put ice on her eye and called her

best friend who was married to a lawyer. She said “in case you ever want to file for divorce it would be nice to have a record of your husband hitting you,” and suggested the wife call the police to make a report. She told the front desk she wanted to contact the police to make a report but not have the police come out. The wife explained she just wanted a report and not have him arrested. Once the police are called they must arrest and bail is automatically set at $50,000. After getting declarations that I presented to the DA the case was not filed. Ever since the OJ Simpson case the police have automatically arrested the defendant when they are called on a domestic battery. Nicole Simpson had called West LA police many times and when they saw it was OJ they let him go back in the house. Now police worry that if they let the abusive spouse back in the house and s/he harms the spouse again they could be sued for negligence in not doing their job and thus causing injury or death. Another similar case of mine was a wellrespected woman, who was a “cutter” and worked for a large company in the CV. She told the police her husband hit her over the head and showed the police the red mark. She said she did not want him arrested but just wanted him out of the house. Again he was arrested and $50,000 bail was set. The next morning the husband and wife showed up in my office. The wife explained she is a cutter and abuses herself and just wanted her husband out of the home that night and thus hit herself over the head with a frying pan.

She was going to pay his legal fees out of her business account. I asked her to provide a declaration and she agreed. I called my paralegal in and she took down the info from the wife and typed it up. The wife read it and said it was correct but she wanted to take it home to sleep on it. The next morning she called and said if this confession that she was a cutter surfaced she would be fired from her job. I presented the DA with the unsigned declaration my paralegal had typed up along with my paralegal’s declaration that the victim gave this info to us. I included a copy of the wife’s retainer check. My declaration along with that of the paralegal explained, under oath as an officer of the court, that the wife had read it and agreed the info was correct but wanted to sleep on it. I convinced the DA not to file the case.

These are examples but clearly not the majority of the cases that are righteous DV cases. DALE GRIBOW - REPRESENTING THE INJURED AND CRIMINALLY ACCUSED “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 DON’T DRINK & DRIVE OR TEXT & CRASH. CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER. THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME. SO DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLE? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@ dalegribowlaw.com.

July 18 to July 24, 2019

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

Week of July 18

ARIES (March 21-April 19): An Aries reader sent me a boisterous email. “I was afraid I was getting too bogged down by my duties,” he said, “too hypnotized by routine, too serious about my problems. So I took drastic action.” He then described the ways he broke out of his slump. Here’s an excerpt: “I gave laughing lessons to a cat. I ate a spider. I conducted a sneezing contest. I smashed an alarm clock with a hammer. Whenever an elderly woman walked by, I called out ‘Hail to the Queen!’ and did a backflip. I gave names to my spoon (Hortense), the table (Beatrice), a fly that was buzzing around (Fallon), and a toothpick (Arturo).” According to my analysis of the astrological omens, Aries, you’d be wise to stage a comparable uprising. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Welcome home, homegirls and homeboys. After observing all your homesteading in homes away from home, I’m pleased to see you getting curious about the real home brew again. I wonder how many times I’ll say the word “home” before you register the message that it’s high time for you to home in on some homemade, homegrown homework? Now here’s a special note to any of you who may be feeling psychologically homeless or exiled from your spiritual home: the coming weeks will be a favorable time to address that ache and remedy that problem. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The world is full of eternally restless people who seethe with confused desires they don’t understand. Fueled by such unfathomable urges, they are driven in unknown directions to accomplish fuzzy goals. They may be obsessed in ways that make them appear to be highly focused, but the objects of their obsession are impossible to attain or unite with. Those objects don’t truly exist! I have described this phenomenon in detail, Gemini, because the coming months will offer you all the help and support you could ever need to make sure you’re forever free of any inclination to be like that. CANCER (June 21-July 22): What would you say if I asked you to tell me who you truly are? I wouldn’t want to hear so much about your titles and awards. I’d be curious about your sacred mysteries, not your literal history. I’d want to know the treasured secrets you talk about with yourself before you fall asleep. I’d ask you to sing the songs you love and describe the allies who make you feel real. I’d urge you to riff on the future possibilities that both scare you and thrill you. What else? What are some other ways you might show me core truths about your irrepressible soul? Now is a good time to meditate on these riddles. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Isaac Asimov wrote a science fiction story about a physicist who masters time travel and summons William Shakespeare into the present time. The Bard enrolls in a night school class about his own plays—and proceeds to flunk the course. Modern ideas and modes of discourse are simply too disorienting to him. He is unable to grasp the theories that centuries’ worth of critics have developed about his work. With this as a cautionary tale, I invite you to time-travel not four centuries into the future, but just ten years. From that vantage point, look back at the life you’re living now. How would you evaluate and understand it? Do you have any constructive criticism to offer? Any insights that could help you plan better for your long-term future? VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to buy yourself toys, change your image for no rational reason, and indulge in an interesting pleasure that you have been denying yourself for no good reason. In addition, I hope you will engage in at least two heart-to-heart talks with yourself, preferably using funny voices and comical body language. You could also align yourself gracefully with cosmic rhythms by dancing more than usual, and by goofing off more than usual, and by wandering in the wilderness and seeking to recapture your lost innocence more than usual.

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Although you’ll never find an advertisement for Toyota or Coca Cola or Apple within my horoscope column, you will find hype for spiritual commodities like creativity, love, and freedom. Like everyone else, I’m a huckster. My flackery may be more ethical and uplifting than others’, but the fact is that I still try to persuade you to “buy” my ideas. The moral of the story: Everyone, even the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, is selling something. I hope that what I’m saying here purges any reluctance you might have about presenting yourself and your ideas in the most favorable light. It’s high time for you to hone your sales pitch; to explain why your approach to life is so wise; to be a forceful spokesperson and role model for the values you hold dear. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You are growing almost too fast, but that won’t necessarily be a problem—as long as you don’t expect everyone around you to grow as fast as you. I suspect that you also know almost too much—but I don’t anticipate that will spawn envy and resistance as long as you cultivate a bit of humility. I have an additional duty to report that you’re on the verge of being too attractive for your own good—although you have not yet actually reached the tipping point, so maybe your hyper-attractiveness will serve you rather than undermine you. In conclusion, Scorpio, I invite you to celebrate your abundance, but don’t flaunt it. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The snow leopards of Central Asia crave a lot of room to wander. Zoologists say that each male prefers its territory to be about 84 square miles, and each female likes to have 44 square miles. I don’t think you’ll require quite that vast a turf in the coming weeks, Sagittarius. But on the other hand, it will be important not to underestimate the spaciousness you’ll need in order to thrive. Give yourself permission to be expansive. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “I want to do things so wild with you that I don’t know how to say them.” Author Anaïs Nin wrote that in a letter to her Capricorn lover Henry Miller. Is there anyone you could or should or want to say something like that? If your answer is yes, now is a good time to be so candid and bold. If the answer is no, now would be a good time to scout around for a person to whom you could or should or want to say such a thing. And if you’d like to throw in a bit more enticement, here’s another seductive lyric from Anaïs: “Only the united beat of sex and heart together can create ecstasy.” AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Did you hear the story about the California mom who started a series of forest fires so as to boost her son’s career as a firefighter? She is an apt role model for behavior you should diligently avoid in the coming weeks. It’s unwise and unprofitable for you and yours to stir up a certain kind of trouble simply because it’s trouble that you and yours have become skilled at solving. So how should you use your problem-solving energy, which I suspect will be at a peak? I suggest you go hunting for some very interesting and potentially productive trouble that you haven’t wrangled with before—some rousing challenge that will make you even smarter than you already are. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The heroine of Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass is curious, adventurous, and brave. First she follows a well-dressed rabbit down a rabbit hole into an alternate universe. Later she slips through a mirror into yet another parallel reality. Both times, with great composure, she navigates her way through many odd, paranormal, and unpredictable events. She enjoys herself immensely as she deals with a series of unusual characters and unfamiliar situations. I’m going to speculate that Alice is a Pisces. Are you ready for your very own Alice-inWonderland phase? Here it comes! Homework: Name something you could change about yourself that might enhance your love life. Testify at FreeWillAstrology.com. ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

ASK THE DOCTOR

BY DR PETER KADILE

THE HEAT IS HERE! BE CAREFUL!

ome important things to remember… Second Degree Burns: This type of burn causes significant skin damage and forms blisters. I have treated several cases of second degree burns to the feet in my practice. This injury commonly occurs when a person is walking barefoot outside on the grass and then will walk onto the hot pavement. Another common scenario is when a person is barefoot in the house and just “stepped out to get the mail”. Hot asphalt or pavement can reach temperatures of up to 140 degrees and can instantly burn the skin in just a few seconds. Severe burns of the skin require medical attention, so do not take any chances and protect your feet! Wear shoes, slippers, flip flops, etc…. I have also seen contact burns on the hands from car door handles and outside door handles on a store. You have to constantly be aware that our desert sun during the summer not only raises the outside temperature but also heats many outdoor surfaces we commonly come in contact with. I usually recommend carrying a small towel or handkerchief with you to open metal door handles, or else use a piece of your clothing. Hydration: I have mentioned the importance of adequate hydration in previous articles. Poor fluid intake, especially in the summer heat, increases one’s chance of dehydration. A person can be dehydrated without feeling thirsty, so it is important to drink water throughout the day and especially if outdoors. A good gauge to assess hydration status is the color of your urine; the clearer your urine the better, dark urine is a sign of poor hydration status. Coffee, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages don’t count as good fluid intake because they actually cause dehydration. Heat Cramps/ Heat Exhaustion/ Heat Stroke: Poor hydration habits along with prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can cause different types of heat related illness. For all these illnesses, treatment should include a cool place, rest and proper hydration with water or sports drinks.

Heat Cramps are the mildest form of heat injury and present as very painful and severe muscle cramps and spasms. Stretch cramped muscles slowly. Heat Exhaustion is more severe and can include nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness, pale and moist skin and fever. One should remove excess clothing and place cool clothes on the skin. If the symptoms don’t resolve, then medical attention with IV hydration may be needed or else the condition can progress to heat stroke. Heat Stroke is the most severe form of heat illness. It has the symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion but includes neurological signs and symptoms of confusion or agitation and possibly seizures or coma. The skin in heat stroke is warm and dry. Heat stroke is a life threatening emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Use Sunscreen: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and ranges from 2 to as high as 50. It refers to the sunscreen’s ability to screen or block out the sun’s harmful rays. The number stands for the length of time one can stay in the sun using the sunscreen before burning compared to when not wearing a sunscreen. For example, if a person uses a sunscreen with an SPF 15, that person can be in the sun 15 times longer than without sunscreen before burning. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater, higher SPF if you are lighter or fair skinned. Choose a sunscreen that protects against UVB and UVA radiation. If you plan on doing a lot of swimming or water activity, then I would recommend a “waterproof” sunscreen over a “water resistant” brand. A waterproof sunscreen maintains its SPF level twice as long as a water resistant product when exposed to water. Don’t forget to reapply the sunscreen because they will sweat off, so follow the directions on the bottle on how frequently you need to reapply. Sunscreen should be applied to dry skin 30 minutes before going outside.

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July 18 to July 24, 2019

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July 18 to July 24, 2019

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MICHELLE ANN RIZZIO CANNABIS CORNER BY KEYVA KING: ROYAL HIGHNESS DISPENSARY

eyva King opened up her delivery dispensary, Earth Essentials, in 2014 after watching her sister fight lupus and succumb to opiate based medication instead of getting the help she needed. She had to be a part of the solution to the opiate epidemic in our country. Earth Essentials offered clean meds to their consumer base throughout the Coachella Valley until legalization of recreational cannabis became legal in November 2017. Her experience of serving the medical population inspired her to truly dedicate herself to providing safe access to cannabis and education for all as well. She and her partners then made plans to open Royal Highness in Palm Desert, an upscale boutique cannabis dispensary that offers an array of high end indoor and outdoor flower, premium edibles, and sleek vape cartridges. She now stands as a figurehead in her community. Not only is King a dispensary owner but she is also the only African American female dispensary CEO in the Coachella Valley. The conversation around social equity and social justice in the cannabis industry is one that she intends to speak about during the upcoming Taboo Talks series in Los Angeles on Sunday, July 28th. The cannabis industry is currently a male dominated world, with major racial injustices occurring. As the legal industry has been flourishing, still in California today there are inmates of color in jail for non-violent cannabis offenses. Since the opening of Royal Highness in early

2019, Keyva King has been able to see her dream become a reality. Many of her patrons are elderly, new to cannabis, and seeking medical relief from their ailments. Her and her team of educated cannabis consultants are able to explore their patrons needs and provide clear instructions on what to use and how to use it. From salves, to flower, to vapes their dispensary prides themselves on being able to welcome everyone to the cannabis world. Royal Highness is located off of El Paseo in Palm Desert on Lupine Lane. Their location is upstairs from Paws and Claws Urgent Care. And yes-they do carry cannabis for pets. If you are interested in learning more about Keyva King of Royal Higness be sure to visit @ TabooTalkSeries on Facebook to join her and other speakers raise awareness of social equity in the cannabis industry in Los Angeles on Sunday, July 28th.

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