happy new yearsdlnews dec. 31. 2010

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2010 2010 2010Pegasus Pages 14-15

Athena Awards Pages 24-27

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December 31, 2010 No. 52 ‘Happy New Year’

Desert Local News December 31, 2010 2

DESERT LOCAL NEWS • A New Beginning • January 5, 2010©©

FOR 24/7 Local News • Go to DesertLocalNews.com ~ US $ 1.95

Jackie Lee Houston Plaza unveiled

The city of Palm Springs held an unveiling of the Jackie Lee Houston Plaza on Friday, Jan. 4, 2009. The Plaza is directly across from the Palm Springs Convention Center on Amado Road.

~Photo by Pat Krause


The city of Palm Springs held an unveiling of the Jackie Lee Houston Plaza on Friday, Jan. 4, 2009. The Plaza is directly across from the Palm Springs Convention Center on Amado Road. The Plaza took one-and-one-half-years of planning. Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet said that meetings were held almost every week so that the Plaza could be done in time for this year’s 21st Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival. This is the start of the PSIFF that is held on Tuesday, Jan. 5-18. Jim Houston attended almost every meeting to add his input into the creation of the Plaza

In most cases, things like this take several years, but this moved very quickly, as it is such a welcome addition to the city of Palm Springs. Pougnet mentioned he Googled “Jackie Lee Houston” and found pages and pages of her accomplishments through the years.

Aqua Caliente Tribal Chairman Richard M. Milanovich spoke about a young lieutenant who came through the area in 1821 and found only 11 people as the original. Look at it now. He

stated that Jim and Jackie Lee came to the desert 40 years ago and became the bedrock to many charities. She is the mentor for giving. This Plaza is a public living legacy to honor her for her philanthropic work in the desert. She is always looking out for the underdog. It is a lasting tribute, a beautiful garden plaza for a beautiful lady whose beauty runs inside and out. Milanovich said he was honored to be her friend.

Marc Trost from Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack’s office gifted her with a flag that has flown over the White House. John Benoit, former state senator and current Riverside County Supervisor, gave her a proclamation from Riverside County to honor the occasion. Harold Matzner, Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) said there was no one he admired more than Jackie Lee Houston

Jackie Lee took the stage with tears in her eyes. She was overwhelmed by all the accolades. Hundreds of guests filled the chairs and stood for a standing ovation to this wonderful woman.

Speakers Marc Trost, Mayor Pougnet, Harold Matzner, Jackie Lee Houston, Jim Houston, Richard Milanovich, John Benoit and Kris Long

Story and photos by Pat Krause

Richard M. Milanovich speaks to the guests

Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and Jackie Lee Houston

Jackie Lee Houston Plaza Unveiled

Desert Local News December 31, 20104

Indio Performing Arts Center (IPAC) in Indio, Calif., hosted the debut performance of “Contempt of Court,” an audience-interactive, ruckus and irreverent courtroom comedy. What a delightful way to usher in 2010. Who couldn’t use a good laugh these days? “Contempt of Court,” a parody mixture that takes “Judge Judy” and the foibles of the cast members of the late sitcom, “Night Court” and whips them into a belly laughing, sight-gag filled performance with colorful, extremely flawed, yet likeable characters.

The best part of this interactive play is that audience members are not kept at arm’s length and are randomly selected to play supporting roles. No one is off limits for the hilarious hi-jinks of this devilishly playful and engaging cast.

The episode brought two staggeringly funny and cheeky lawyers together in the same court. The evening was clearly a battle of legal genius — well, maybe that is going just a bit too far … well truthfully, two “ambulance chasers” is a more accurate term, bound and determined to out-do each other in hilarious, mortal combat. Dueling with words, mugging and wacky body language as well as the most outrageous legal motions, attorney Melissa Cheatum (Jayne Maureen McKnight) took on fellow attorney Sydney Shyster (Dean Apple). Dueling over dollars and using no common sense, the two went head-to-head, toe-to-toe and then some, arguing their respective and irrelevant cases. Moderating this farce was the ever-sanguine Judge Judy of Indio, Judge Judy Koch (Jeanette Lyons).

The real power of the court, the man with the gun (Oh! I forgot, he left his gun home tonight), was Officer Duke Mondhill (Art Healey). Mondhill rules the court with iron humor and staunch near drunkenness that allows him to draw every laugh possible out of the jury (the audience) and even sometimes Judge Judy herself. The docket was filled to the brim with nonsense and absurd cases, but that didn’t matter. What the jury watched as the unique skills of Shyster and Cheatum to lie, prefabricate, pontificate and simply bluster until they could prove to the jury that their fees had been duly earned and that their clients were in the right (even if wrong).

The witnesses were as funny as the lawyers and the judge. There was Snitch Man, Richard Simmons (who was evidence) and Nurse Olga (all played by the hysterical, Lloyd Steel) who spiced up the cases with more lies, confabulation, and incongruous and irreverent testimony.

In the end, this ensemble cast joined together to pull, stuff, push and prod laughs and guffaws out of everyone in the audience (the jury). It could take an entire evening to recount the goings on in Judge Judy’s Night Court. The judge ruled with gavel, humor and a tad bit of larceny. The attorneys presented their cases and gave moving improbable and funny-bone tickling closing statements. Officer Mondhill — well, he just had too much rum and vodka. The audience was treated to an evening of well delivered frivolity and laugh out loud humor.

It is your civic duty as a resident (or visitor) to the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indian Wells, Indio, Coachella, Bermuda Dunes, Desert Hot Springs or Thousand Palms to accept this article as your Official Jury Duty Summons to Appear In Court and laugh your head off.

Tickets are available now, so call (760) 775-5200. (yes, in this new Contempt of Court, America, you have to pay to do jury duty).

Story by Allen and Lisa Robyn LawrencePhotos by Allen Lawrence

‘Contempt of Court,’ New Year’s EveShyster vs Cheatum

humor and a tad bit of larceny. The attorneys presented their cases and gave moving

delivered frivolity and laugh out

Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indian Wells, Indio, Coachella, Bermuda

Thousand Palms to accept this article as your Official Jury Duty Summons to Appear In Court and

Tickets are available now, so call (760) 775-5200. (yes, in this new Contempt of Court, America, you have

hysterical, Lloyd Steel) who

more lies, confabulation, and incongruous and irreverent

In the end, this ensemble cast joined together to pull, stuff, push and prod laughs and guffaws out of everyone in the audience (the jury). It could take an entire evening to recount the goings on in Judge Judy’s Night Court. The judge ruled with gavel, humor and a tad bit of larceny. The attorneys

Shyster vs Cheatum

Court. The judge ruled with gavel, humor and a tad bit of larceny. The attorneys


Photos by Allen Lawrence


Scholarship winners, Jenna Blinkinsop and Jasmin Del Castillo ~Photo Pat Krause

Wind is our Friend

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011

The ATHENA 24th annual awards ceremony was held at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel on Dec. 14th. The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce bestowed these awards to four extremely deserving women in the Coachella Valley. Two International Athena Awards were given along with Terra Awards. Honorees were Jackie Lee Houston, Martha Edgmon, Patty Delgado Service and Kim Klatchko.

7

DESERT LOCAL NEWS • January 11, 2010©©


Quentin Tarantino & Morgan Freeman, Clint Eastwood, Mariah Carey and others honored at the Palm Springs Festival ~Photo By Pat Krause Page 16-19

Palm Springs Palm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsPalm SpringsInternational Film Festival 2010


Desert Local News • January 11, 2010

Jason Reitman

Harold Matzner

T-Bone Burnett

Paul Giamatti

Michelle Pfeiffer

Marion Cotillard

Morgan Freeman Clint Eastwood

~ Photo Pat Krause

Elaine Paige Michael Childers

Mary Hart

17

The premiere showing of the film “The Last Station” was the official start of the 21st Annual Palm Springs Film Festival’s 14-day run. This film is about the life of Leo Tolstoy, the famous Russian author and revolutionary. The story encompasses the reflection on the last year of his life. Comments from moviegoers gave this film a huge review. One guest said it was the best film she had ever seen. Of course, when you have actors like Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren in the film, it can only be a hit. Their chemistry on film is so great that I expect they will be nominated for an Oscar or a Golden Globe award.

The evening turned out to be special as the one of the actors in the film, Paul Giamatti, walked the Red Carpet along with the director, Michael Hoffman and the producer, Bonnie Arnold. Photographers and interviewers kept them busy and TV crews filmed the event. Sponsors of the Festival, Jackie Lee Houston and Richard M. Milanovich and his family, also walked the Red Carpet along with the Palm Springs Film Festival Officials. Program Director Helen Du Toit, Festival

Director Darryl MacDonald and Carl Spence were on hand to greet the film celebrities.

Other notables attending were Arthur and Patty Newman, Helene Galen and Jamie Kabler, Leanna Bonamici and guest, songwriter Carol Connors, singer Elaine Paige and local celebrity photographer Michael Childers plus many others. Festival Chairman Harold Matzner and MacDonald spoke to the ticket holders prior to the showing of the film to give an update as to events occurring in recent days from the Awards Gala to the withdrawal of the Chinese films. One TV crew on the Red Carpet was there solely for the purpose of hearing comments on the Chinese withdrawal and the Festivals response.

The opening night event is always sold out early as a party after the film at the Palm Springs Art Museum makes tickets a premium. Buffet lines of gourmet foods served approximately 1,000 people. Filmgoers, sponsors, Festival producers, directors and other well-known local faces attended this kick-off party.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PAT KRAUSE

Opening Night at the Palm Springs

International Film Festival

Darryl McDonald and Jackie Lee Houston

Jeremy Renner

Anna Kendrick

Mariah Carey ~Photos by Pat Krause

Elaine Paige Michael Childers

Helen Mirren

Desert Local News • January 11, 2010

9


DESERT LOCAL NEWS • February 2, 2010©©


Yogi Berra at the 11th annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Desert Golf and Dinner Gala. The dinner was held at the Esmeralda Renaissance Resort and Spa in the Crystal Ballroom. ‘Yogi’Berra is widely regarded

as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, he was elected to the baseball Hall of Fame in 1972.~ Photo by Pat Krause

‘Yogi’ Berra

The truth about BIA meetings and development fees

with the city

DHS Chamber

Gets Platinum

Award For

Favorite

Snowbirding

Destination

Give gifts from the heart this

Valentine’s Day


The 11th annual Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Desert Golf and Dinner Gala was held on Monday, Jan. 25. The golf tournament was played at the Indian Wells Golf Resort, Players Course at 44-500 Indian Wells Lane in Indian Wells, near Palm Springs, Calif. The dinner was held at the Esmeralda Renaissance Resort and Spa in the Crystal Ballroom. A cocktail event and silent auction started at 5 p.m. Dinner buffet began at 6r.

Co-Chairmen for the event were Rich Warfield and Dr. Ed Stempler. Executive Director, Judy Rubin May started the program. President Jim Bruner introduced Julie Rethemeier. She traveled from Minnesota just for this dinner. She told of the Annexstad College Foundation in Minn.

Its founders, Al and Cathy Annexstad, came to the desert for a holiday and loved the area. They found out about the good work the Big Brother Big Sister group does here in the valley. They were so impressed that they donated $50,000 for a college fund to the local chapter. Judy May accepted this check with a huge smile.

2010 Honoree Ron Fairly was introduced by Jerry Jenko, who spoke of all Fairly’s accomplishments. Fairly is a two-time MLB All Star, played in four World Series games and is a USC Baseball Hall of Famer. He said Fairly was the oldest player at the age of 39. He played baseball for 21 seasons.

Former honorees included Johnny Bench, Amy Alcott, George Brett, Merlin Olson, Doug Sanders, Ken Venturi,

Tom Flores, Don Sutton, and locals Johnny LuJack and Yogi Berra.

Bench, LuJack and Berra were present at the dinner. They whole-heartedly support this cause. LuJack donated an autographed football for the Live Auction, which sold for $3,500. Other items were sold at a live auction. Autographed bats by Berra and Bench were in the Silent Action.

It costs $1,000 a year for each child in the program. The group needs volunteers to be a Big Brother or Big Sister. There are kids out there in need, and it only takes 1 hour a week. Some one could help keep a child off the street and away from drugs. There are approximately 75 children in the program.


Big Brothers Big Sisters hold 11th Annual Event

Co-Chairmen Rich Warfield and Ed Stempler

Tug Wilson, Johnny Bench and Denny Gallagher

Julie Rethemeier in back hands check to a smiling Judy May

Desert Local News December 31, 201012 Desert Local News December 31, 2010

DESERT LOCAL NEWS • Martin Luther King Day • January 18, 2010©©


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Indio Dog ShowPages 16 - 17

DLNews will now

be covering cities

in the Morongo Basin, from

Morongo Valley to

Twentynine Palms.

NEWS FLASH

tLady Trojans from Yucca Valley took on the DHS Golden Eagles girls team in basketball at Desert Hot Springs High School. ~ Photos by Bruce Montgomery. Page 14


On Friday night, the Lady Trojans from Yucca Valley took on the DHS Golden Eagles girls team in basketball at Desert Hot Springs High School.

The undefeated Yucca Valley team

trounced the Golden Eagles 58 to 17. I had mixed loyalties, normally cheering solely for our Desert Hot Springs teams, however I was proud of my great niece Victoria (Tori) Fowler, who scored several points for the Lady Trojans.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRUCE MONTGOMERY

Girls basketball Yucca Valley DHS 038 Lady Trojan bench waiting their turn to go in ~ Photos by Bruce Montgomery

Basketball Yucca Valley DHS 037 Golden Eagles bench waiting their turn to go in ~Photos by Bruce Montgomery

Bruce Montgomery and his great niece Maddy photo by Kiarra

14 Desert Local News December 31, 2010

Stella Inger and Todd Piro

Pegasus

15Desert Local News December 31, 2010 Desert Local News December 31, 2010

The Pegasus Riding Academy for the Handicapped held its annual awards luncheon on Dec. 12. 2010 at the Renais-sance Esmeralda Resort and Spa in the Crystal Ballroom. Over 660 people at-tended this award ceremony. Families and clients made up a large part of the guests.

Children in wheelchairs and others in need of a parents assistance flocked into the ballroom. On their way each client had an opportunity to choose a stuffed animal or toy to take with them. A large table full of these toys was overflowing at the start and was virtually empty when the lunch-eon ended.

Santa Claus walked among the chil-dren handing out gifts. The children were so excited to watch him dig into his sack of goodies for them. Sponge Bob

Square pants and Dora characters posed for photos with the children. A few of the children even wanted to hug the characters. Proud parents were busy with cameras taking photos of their youngsters.

This was such a special day for these children. Each child was escorted onto the stage to receive a gold medal for their efforts in the program. They just beamed when they walked off stage with a medal around their neck. They raised their hands in excitement and one girl even did a little

dance. Co-Chairs Chase Berke and Karen Renberg gave the “Rider Award” medals to the Children.

Entertainment was provided by Marilyn and Randy Tichauer “Rodeo Drive”. Other awards given were to special people in the program. President Lori Sarner gave the Pegasus “Family of the Year” award to Mr. & Mrs. Carron. They drove son Tyler to Pegasus every week from LA. They felt this program would help him achieve many physical benefits he could not get any-where else.

Emcees for the day were Todd Piro and Stella Inger, KPSP Channel 2 Morning anchors. Michael Hammond from Agua Caliente Museum hosted the Live auction. Winners of the silent auction and raffle tickets were announced at the end of the program.

Pegasus Riding academy for the Handicap provides medically approved equine therapy. Riding a horse exercises muscles and joints for mobility. There are also physchological and emotional benefits, everyone loves a horse. Therapy is for all ages and types of handicaps. The youngest in the program is age 4 and the oldest is age 87. The Academy believes that Miracles do Happen. This is a labor of love for everyone involved. WWW.Pegasus Riding Academy in Indio, CA.

Marilyn and Randy Tichauer, “Rodeo Drive” President, Lori Sarner.

Executive Director Robin Montgomery, seated and Council member Mary RochePegasus

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

Desert Local News December 31, 2010Desert Local News December 31, 201016


The Salton Sea lies about 40 miles south and east of Palm Springs, Calif. It is about 40-miles long and can provide a day or more of photography for a visitor. It was not my intended venue this trip.

A fellow photographer, Catherine Jardine, and I planned to visit Box Canyon just east of Mecca, Calif. The entrance to the canyon was closed due to road damage from a recent storm.

The north end of the Salton Sea is just south of Mecca by a couple of miles. I was driving and didn’t give Catherine much choice of where we were going. I went to the Marina at North Shore, which is now being refurbished by Riverside County. It is one of my favorite places for photography, and is now one of hers. I have used this location for several photo shoots for models and will include them in the slide show. In one photo of model Jessica Galvan, you will be able to see the old marina before refurbishing started.

Other models include Kearstin McClintock with the sword at Salton Sea and Brittney Hills with a sword in Box

Canyon, who I previously photographed.

Our first and only stop was just north of the Marina off Highway 111 at North Shore. We parked at the first jetty and simply enjoyed shooting in the soft magenta light of the setting sun.

We enjoyed and photographed the presence of pelicans, seagulls, great egrets and an eared grebe. That is just a pittance in regard to the 380 types of birds sighted at the Salton Sea in a year‘s time.

The ambient light was soft and cool. I used a Canon and a 55 to 250mm zoom lens and set my ISO at 1600. Catherine shot with a Nikon and an 18 to 200 zoom lens set at ISO 400.

My next trip with Catherine will be to the Morongo Canyon Reserve in Morongo, Calif on Highway 62. Catherine and I will let you know how this went.

For more about Renee Vargas and Cathy Jardine’s trip to the Salton Sea, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.com

Story by Renee VargasPhotos by Renee Vargas and Cathy JardineStory by Renee Vargas

Saline Serenity

Photos by Renee Vargas and Cathy Jardine



DESERT LOCAL NEWS • February 15, 2010©©


CONDIFormer Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was the featured speaker Friday, February 12, in part of the Desert Town Hall speaker series at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa Emerald Ballroom in Indian Wells, near

Palm Springs, California. ~Photo by Pat Krause

In the Desert

Dinner with Tony Curtis

Page 16-17

Vida Latina Magazine’s

Fourth Edition Presentation Party

Page 14-15

Where Deserts CollideJoshua Tree Ntl. Park

-19

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was the featured speaker Friday, February 12, in part of the Desert Town Hall speaker series at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa Emerald Ballroom in Indian Wells, near Palm Springs, California.

The ballroom was filled to capacity with listeners for Rice. The former Secretary of State gave a compelling speech. She was given a standing ovation when she came to the podium and an even greater standing ovation when she left. Many times she was interrupted when the audience felt the need to applaud her comments.

She mentioned a few names from history, such as former Secretary of State William Seward, who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. It was called “Seward’s Folly,” as no one at the time could under stand why anyone would want to buy Alaska.

Rice spoke of Seward and Abraham Lincoln as examples of the risk takers in our history.

Rice also spoke of national security. She stressed that we must defend against terrorists who are constantly planning attacks against us. Ominously, she mentioned that our security forces must always be right,

because of the potential consequences of a single failure. She said that today, we have a better sense of Al-Qaida with better intelligence and the aid of other countries. However, she said it’s not enough just to defend our country; we have to attack the terrorists wherever they are. According to Rice, Pakistan and Afghanistan are places where an American presence is needed to combat terrorism.

She pointed out that we left some of these weak and failed states alone in the past, and they fell into civil wars, which made for safe havens for terrorists to plan and organize attacks.

Rice noted that the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan is a rugged area, which makes it an ideal environment for terrorists to hide. This is where our counter-insurgency forces need to operate.

Two more speakers are scheduled for the Desert Town Hall series. They are former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf on March 2, and former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich on April 7.

For more about Condoleezza Rice’s speech at the Desert Town Hall, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com

Condoleezza Rice Speaks at Desert Town Hall


and the aid of other countries.

country; we have to attack the

is needed to combat terrorism.

failed states alone in the past,

scheduled for the Desert Town

19Desert Local News December 31, 2010


BY STAFF The Inaugural Desert Hot Springs Spa Tour was a huge success on Thursday as huge crowds from far and abroad came to Spa City USA to check out all that it has to offer.

Each person who attended took a bus to tour at least fourteen different spa hotels, which included the Miracle Springs, Desert Hot Springs Spa, El Morocco Inn and even the clothing-optional Living Waters Spa. The magic

began at the Cabot’s Museum where cocktails were served and the evening ended at the Playoff’s Bar, where prizes were handed out. The grand prize was worth well over $1,300.

A Sell-Out SuccessDHS Spa Tour


DLN

ews Staff Photos


2020

‘Last Call at Jilly’s’

Carol Channing

Frankie Randall

Patricia Welch

Lola Rossi

Herb JeffriesPeter Marshall, Hal Linden and Pat Rizzo

Dianna Martin

Last Call at Jilly’s


21

History was made Wednesday, Feb. 17, at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert near Palm Springs California. Musical legend Frankie Randall of recording, television and Big Screen fame masterfully orchestrated an evening that will forever be emblazoned in the hearts and memories of all who attended this historic and uplifting musical extravaganza.

The theme of the performance was to set the stage like the famous New York nightspot, Jilly’s, with a piano in the center and tables flanking it on both sides. Seated at each of the tables were many music industry notables of Broadway, movies and television.

When the curtain went up revealing the stage, Randall was seated at the magnificent concert grand piano in the center. Randall opened the act with an up-tempo “Come Fly With Me,” and boy did we ever. There was thunderous applause of appreciation from the audience.

Randall demonstrated his mastery of the piano and his marvelous voice in performance of song after song. Randall even accompanied several of his guests while they performed. Randall was backed up by Jim De Julio on bass, Steve Neilon on drums and Dennis Michaels on keyboard.

Well, I thought I’d never be a namedropper, but this night was too good not to share some of the big names who were seated at the tables on stage with Frankie. There was Carol Channing, Herb Jeffries, Hal Linden, Deana Martin, Patricia Welch, Bill Marx, Keely Smith, Pat Rizzo, Mike Costley and even our own Patrick Evans, head meteorologist for KPSP-Local 2.

Channing, looking stunning in all red, was invited to center stage to take a mike, and did she ever! Channing performed a jazzy rendition of “St. James Infirmary” in a way the only she could.

Her trademark growl and enunciations were entrancing. To see this musical and talented legend perform was frankly unbelievable. Channing then asked her husband Harry Kullijian who was seated at her table on stage, which song she should perform next. His enthusiastic response was her trademark song, “Hello Dolly” to a roaring thunderous cheer of the audience.

The next guest invited to perform was Patricia Welch, a very talented performer who has appeared on Broadway in “The King and I” with Yul Brynner, toured with Robert Goulet and also performed with Wayne Newton. Welch, who was wearing a red dress, commented how she hoped she looked as good as Carol Channing (also in red) when she is her age. Welch performed the ever-popular and soulful “Unchained Melody,” which perfectly showcased her four-octave range, earning her another ovation.

Randall performed the first song that he and Sinatra sang together after hours at Jilly’s, “Where or When.” Randall invited Pat Rizzo on sax to join in; it was fabulous with smiles everywhere.

Steve Rossi, of the very prominent comedy team of Allen and Rossi, took the stage cracking wise and then performed “More,” the song that he made famous from the film “Mondo Kane.” The audience ate it up.

A local, talented beauty, Lola Rossi, who has an angelic voice, brought out a cup from Jilly’s with water for Randall. Then she performed an enchanting version of “Over the Rainbow.”

Our own Patrick Evans, head meteorologist of KPSP-Local Channel 2, sang an Old Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra song as a tribute to his idol. Weatherkman Evans sang, what else, but “Summer Wind.” Randall was on piano and none other than Hal Linden, playing clarinet with Rizzo joining in, on sax.

The audience showed their enthusiastic appreciation with wild applause.

Next up was Peter Marshall, star of Broadway and the iconic television game show host of “Hollywood Squares.” Marshall took the mike and wowed the audience in song, accompanied by Randall, the band, Rizzo and Linden.

The beautiful and very talented singer and actress Deana Martin was sitting at a table on stage with her very handsome husband of 20 years, John Griffeth. Martin, daughter of the late Dean Martin, was invited up to center stage. She sang some familiar Dean Martin songs. Martin invited Randall to sing a duet of Dean Martin’s signature song, “Everybody Loves Somebody.” The audience made their delight known with thunderous applause and ovation.

Pianist Bill Marx, son of Harpo Marx, delighted the audience with his piano mastery backing Herb Jeffries, lead singer with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, singing “Flamingo.” Linden and Rizzo joined, in adding even more depth to the performance. Even at the tender age of 96, Jeffries has still got it! The audience got up on their feet to give Jeffries’ some love for his performance.

Pianist and singer Dennis Michaels treated the audience to a song. Michaels then accompanied his mother-in-law Keely Smith, who is a true jazz legend. What a spitfire she still is. Smith and Randall did some onstage banter, and she wouldn’t let Randall touch her exclaiming, “Every time an Italian touches, me I get pregnant!” Smith was going to sing “Tangerine,” but after a few bars she wanted to sing something more up-tempo, so she sang “That Old Black Magic.” The adoration of the crowd was palpable with their standing tribute to her.

The evening was the equivalent of several concerts all bundled up into an extraordinary extravaganza. Each artist’s mastery was showcased so perfectly.

Story by Lisa Robyn LawrencePhotos by Pat KrauseStory by Lisa Robyn Lawrence

‘Last Call at Jilly’s’ Frankie Randall and Friends



Athena Awards

Mayor Steve Pougnet, Martha Edgmon, Jackie Lee Houston, Patty Delgado Service and Kira Klatchko ~Photo by Pat Krause


T he ATHENA 24th annual awards ceremony was held at the Renais-sance Palm Springs Hotel on Dec.

14th. The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce bestowed these awards to four extremely deserving women in the Coachella Valley. Two International Athena Awards were given along with Terra Awards. Honorees were Jackie Lee Houston, Martha Edgmon, Patty Delgado Service and Kim Klatchko.

Valerie Zugates, Chair of the Athena Com-mittee welcomed the guests. Jeanne Reller RN lead the Pledge of allegiance before the luncheon was served. Dr. Sharon Stroud led the guests in the invocation. Remarks by Dan Jessup. President of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce and Steve Poutnet, Palm Springs Mayor spoke about the Athena organization. Mr. Jessup introduced former Athena hono-rees in the audience.

Mayor Pougnet read each honoree a proc-lamation from the Palm Springs City Council prior to the luncheon. He remarked the proc-lamations were very lengthy. The mayor said the best part of his job was when he got to honor special people and hand out awards.

Andy Jessup Sr. is considered the Found-ing Sponsor of our local Athena program. Jeanne Reller, RN annouced videos of each of the honorees. Andy Jessup presented the awards to each of these special women for their public service to the community.

The first to be honored was Jackie Lee Houston. This is her second Athena award. A video was shown of her life and there was a standing ovation when she received her award. She is considered the Angel to all chari-ties and our own Desert Angel.

Videos of each honoree was shown before the award was presented, The honorees spoke to the guests. These exceptional women were chosen for their community service, business expertise and their Principles of Athena.

Jasmin Del Castillo and Jenna Blinkinsop of Palm Springs High School were recipents of the 2010 Rosalyn Bronstein Scholarships. The award was presented to the girls by Lori McCune, Superintendent of Schools. Closing remarks were made by Valerie Zugates.


Patrick Service, Florence Delgado, Robert Delgado and Joaquin Delgado, Family of Patty Delgado Service.

Nona Watson, Valerie Zugates and Jeanne Reller ~Photos by Pat Krause

cholarship winners, Jenna Blinkinsop

and Jasmin Del CastilloLisa and Jim Houston Jr. Family of

Jackie Lee Houston


Athena

Awards

Mayor Steve Pougnet, Councilman Chris Mills, Councilman Rick Hutcheson and Mayor pro tem Lee Weigel in back with honoree Martha Edgman and Councilwoman Ginny Foat in front.

Jim Houston, Jaimi Houston and Mayor Steve Pougnet~Photos by Pat Krause

Lisa and Jim Houston Jr. Family of

Jackie Lee Houston

Palm Springs, CA.-For the first time in 17 years Palm Springs has a rodeo! During the day, March 12-14, there are carnival rides and live entertainment and vendors on the grounds - the rodeo itself are at night. Here are some pics I took during the day on March 12. Bruce

Report and photos by Bruce Montgomery

Theresa and Marvin O Dell cowboy song writers and performers

‘Sheriff’ Don Cook

The Frank Bogert Memorial Rodeo in Palm Springs

28 Desert Local News December 31, 2010 Desert Local News December 31, 2010

Report and photos by Bruce Montgomery

The Frank Bogert Memorial Rodeo in Palm Springs


It was truly raining men Saturday night, May 15, at Spotlight 29 Casino in Coachella, near Palm Springs, California. The screaming was so loud that it might have destabilized the San Andreas Fault in the Coachella Valley. This all male “hunk” review, Tony Valentines “Girls Night Out,” was formerly “Chippendale’s” and is produced by the original “Chippendale’s” creator, Tony Valentine. Most of the dancers had the “washboard” six- or eight-pack stomachs that made the women go crazy with every peek or ripped shirt being removed.

Women were offered the opportunity to join the male dancers on stage to have their photo taken before the show. The line started out with just a brave few, but gradually swelled into a line of excited and giggling girls out for a night of fun.

Some silver-haired women got in on the fun posing for photos with the guys too. There was even a group of women there celebrating a bachelorette party with the bride-to-be.

There were theme dances done either solo or with two or three dancers at a time. Jackets went flying off, multiple T-shirts were ripped off and tossed to the frenzied women, pants suggestively pulled down and up for a peek, and then off they flew. One dance sequence involved three of the men in dress white military uniforms. Ah there is something to be said about men in uniform that drives women crazy. The noise level amped up to ear piercing.

There were a couple of “up close and personal” dance sessions with these

hunks wandering through the audience, dancing and teasing the women. It was like a large private party and it was all in fun.

Some of the dancers on stage got down to the bare essentials and drove the women crazy. All of the women had a great time and at the end of the evening they were once again invited up on stage to have their photos taken with the entire cast. This time there was less hesitation and the line was quite a bit longer.

The cast invited anyone who was not ready to let the party end to attend a post event party in the Blue Bar at Spotlight 29 Casino.

For more about Girls Night Out, go to www.PalmSpringsGuides.Com

STORY BY LISA ROBYN LAWRENCE ~PHOTOS BY CATHERINE JARDINE

‘Girls Night Out’


‘Girls Night Out’Tony Valentines

31Desert Local News December 31, 2010 Desert Local News December 31, 2010 Photos By Cathy Jardine


TrinaTrinaTrina TurkTurkTurk


Diane Marlin-Dirkx,Johathan Skow, Trina Turk, Jackie Lee and Jim Houston ~Photo Pat Krause

34 Desert Local News December 31, 2010Jeffery Kobes with models wearing Trina Turk clothing, Jessica Drury, Terrah Holder, Krista Coyle ~Photo Pat Krause

Co-chair Tammy Lavin, Melissa Vargas and Co-chair Katherine Plake Hough

Co-chair Tammy Lavin, Melissa Vargas and Co-chair Katherine Plake Hough

Cindy Duffy, Eric Rodriguez and Susan Rosales from Saks on El Paseo


Fashion Group International of Palm Springs & Desert Communities Presented “Celebrate Style”. A Singu-lar Sensation Awards gala at the Art Museum in Palm Springs on Decem-ber 13th. Jackie Lee Houston was the Honorary Chair. Founders and Members of FGI, Katherine Hough and Tammy Lavin were co-chairs of the event. Diane Marlin-Dirkx, Regional Director, was the emcee of the program.

The FGI fundraiser celebrated its 20th year with a presentation of the annual Crystal Style Award. This years honoree was nationally known Trina Turk.

Trina is celebrating her 15th year in the fashion world and has a Trina Turk Boutique in Palm Springs. One of her many stores thru out the US.

The program began in the Annenberg Theatre with speakers telling about how FGI was formed 20 years ago. The Crystal Style Award is given to a man or woman that has made a huge impact in style. A short movie was shown on the life and ac-complishments of Trina Turk.

A video presentation on the works of famous photographer Richard Avedon showed how he incorporated style with action. One of his photographs with a model and elephants sold for over one million dollars. A collection of his photo-graphs is in the Art Museum for all to see. Docents were on hand to answer any questions about his photograph-ic art.

A former FGI four year scholar-ship winner Melissa Vargas spoke to the guests. She said the monies she received from FGI helped her live her dream of becoming a fashion de-signer. She got her Bachelor of Arts at U of California Riverside.

A cocktail party with music and dancing continued on the main level of the Art Museum with food from Spencers Restaurant in Palm Springs. Models showing designs by Trina Turk stood on podiums for the guests to see.

Trina is also into fashion designs for the home. Her designs are Califor-nia inspired. She uses vintage colorful fabrics and retro looks in modern clothes,purses, furniture, Jewelry and beach products. All her products have a unique label that says MADE in CA.

FGI is committed to sharing knowledge, experience and expertise locally and raising funds for the Foun-dation’s scholarship program. Fashion Group International was founded by women with a passion for fashion.

A “Night Before” party celebrated the Crystal Style Award Honoree Trina Turk. This “Special Evening” private party was hosted by Jackie Lee and Jim Houston at their fabulous home in Palm Springs. Approximately 60 guests were invited to meet Trina Turk in person and congratulate her on the award.


Trina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina TurkTrina Turk

Steve Nash, Lonna Wais, Donna McCMillanand Harold Meyerman ~Photo Pat Krause


The Desert Symphony


The Contours with local Actor Fred, The Hammer, Williamson ~Photo by Pat Krause


T he Desert Symphony held its annual Holiday Spectacu-lar at the Palm Springs Art Museum in the Annenberg

Theatre on Friday Dec. 17th. The concert brought Motown to the Desert with the quartet, The Contours, that featured the original member of the group, Sylvester Potts.

The contours are best known for their hit “Do You Love Me” from the movie “Dirty Dancing”. The movie renewed their vi-ability and started a national tour entitled the “Dirty Dancing Tour” and brought them back on the charts with millions of copies being sold of their CD, More Dirty Dancing. Other classic hits were “Shake Sherrie”, and “Just a Little Misunderstand-ing” to name just a few. They are know as Motowns #1 Party Group. A title they have held for over 40 years.

They came on stage with sparkly Red

Velvet jackets and white pants. The groups from their era always had some choreogra-phy along with each song. They didn’t just stand and sing. They moved to the music with Motown moves. You could see many of the audience swaying to the music or trying silently to hum to the song.

They sang well known Christmas Carols “Silent Night” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” plus many oth-ers. Some of the Carols were sung with a Motown influence and sound. They came off the stage and down into the audience for one song. Then they asked the audi-ence to sing along with “Jingle Bell Rock” and teased members of the audience that they weren’t singing along. Listening to this group with the Desert Symphony is just amazing.

The first half of the evening the Palm Springs Desert Symphony played more Christmas Music. They have their own

compositions for these classics. Music Director, Gary Berkson, took us on a tour with each song. We skated with “The Skat-ers Waltz”,and Went on a Caribbean Sleigh Ride”. We were in a storm with their ver-sion of the “Thunder and Lightning Polka”. During that song when the Lightning was supposed to happen, they flicked the lights in the Theatre on and off to rep-resent the lighting. OOOhs and AAAAhs could be heard from the audience when the lights went on and off. Then the loud banging of the drums created the thunder. Very effective. After the Intermission the Contours took the stage.

Future concerts will include The Texas Tenors on January 13, Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. on February 9th, The Music of Michael Jackson on March 16th and the American “G”enius with John Novacek on April 7th and Tito Puente Jr. on May 7th will conclude the series.

The Desert Symphony


Contours go into the audience


Contours on stage ~ Photo Pat Krause

The Desert Symphony and the new backdrop at the Annenberg Theatre~ Photo Pat Krause

Gary Berkson, Music DirectorEmcee Dan McGrath, Regina McGrath and Jeff Hocker,

Public Relations


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Palm Springs • Palm Desert • Indian Wells • Rancho Mirage • Indio • La Quinta • Morongo • Yucca Valley • 29 Palms • Desert Hot Springs • Cathedral City • Coachella

HEARTAt Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

For the band Heart’s third concert in the Palm Springs area, they choose the venue at the “Edge of the

Valley” Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California. The Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, kicked off

the night with the hit “Dreamboat Annie” from their debut album in 1976 of the same name.

~ Ann and Nancy Wilson Photo by Catherine Jardine

What’s Really

Happening At

Sea Mountain

Resort? Page 2

One Foot In The Grave: America’s Grand Old Band

Pages 12-13

Page 11

24/7 News & Entertainment News • Go to DesertLocalNews.com & Pa















































HEARTHEARTHEARTHEARTHEARTAt Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

At Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
























For the band Heart’s third concert in the Palm Springs area, th






























































Valley” Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California. The

































































the night with the hit “Dreamboat Annie” from their debut album





















































~ ~ Ann and Nancy Wilson Photo by Catherine Jardine

Ann and Nancy Wilson Photo by Catherine Jardine



















One Foot In The Grave: America’s Grand Old Band

Pages 12-13

MaxDesign 2010™

Desert Local NewsPublisher

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[email protected]

EditorialsJust the Fact’s Max

Matt WeyukerCONTRIBUTORS:

Jack LyonsDavid Mikelberg

Pat KrauseDr. Lisa Robyn Lawrence

Dr. Allen LawrenceBruce Montgomery

PHOTOGRAPHERSBruce Montgomery

Pat KrauseCatherine Jardine Max Liebermann

SPECIAL EDITORLeslie Andrews


Sequels to successful plays, movies, or TV series are often fraught with uncertainty and trepidation of not being able to live up to the original work. “Forever Plaid” creator, writer, choreographer, and director Stuart Ross, makes sure that his old fans and new fans alike, need not have worried about his sequel disappointing his audiences. This sparkling Christmas Holiday production continues the musical journey where the original show left off.

The story of “Plaid Tidings” continues the celestial journey of the 1950’s singing group whose lives were lost in an accident involving a busload of teens en route to see “The Ed Sullivan Show”. In the sequel, the Plaids are encouraged by a heavenly phone call from Rosemary Clooney, urging the high-spirited, four-part harmony boys of “Forever Plaid” – Frankie, Sparky, Jinx, and Smudge, to once more, return to Mother Earth from the ethereal cosmos, to stage a nostalgic musical singing extravaganza for world-weary inhabitants on our troubled planet.

The show is chock full of such standards as “Mr. Santa,” “Let it Snow”, “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, and “Home For The Holidays. These are among more than thirty-four songs, and musical numbers that are cleverly and freshly arranged by James Raitt, Brad Ellis, Raymond Berg, and David Snyder. Snyder’s fingerprints are all over this

wonderful Holiday show. He’s principally responsible for the superb musical continuity and vocal arrangements in the show, all under the watchful eye of director Stuart Ross.

“Forever Plaid” was presented at The Old Globe in the summer of 1991 and soon became the hottest show of that year. It was such an overwhelming success, the production returned for a second two-month engagement the following November. Fans kept pressing for a sequel to the ever-popular story of the Four Plaids. Ross, clever fellow that he is, understands that everything on earth has a season and a time for doing what all talented and successful creators do – they write a sequel.

“Plaid Tidings” may sport a new cast in this iteration, but the magic is still there. The cast of “Plaid Tidings – A Special Holiday Edition of Forever Plaid” stars four extremely talented singers, dancers, and actors: David Brannen as Sparky, Leo Daignault as Jinx, Jason Heil as Smudge, and Michael Winther as Frankie. The quartette is the epitome of a smooth-working ensemble who send-out the vibe that they really enjoy working together. Their production numbers highlighting various songs, such as “Jamaica Farewell”, “Kingston Market” “Moments To Remember” “Mele Kalikimaka”, “Let It Snow”, and “Carol of the Bells” (where they bring onstage an audience member to help

with the number), are splendidly clever and creatively staged. The musical selections in the show give each star an opportunity to show his individual stuff. And there’s plenty of “stuff” from this “fab four” to show their audience.

The state-of-the-art, 250-seat Sheryl and Harvey White venue is a good fit for this Holiday show. We get to see the entire stage area being used by Ross, as he put his energetic cast through their paces. There isn’t a dull moment in this musical valentine to four-part harmony groups. According to Ross, The Plaids perform in the style of the great 50’s and 60’s groups like: The Four Lads, the Hi Lo’s, The Four Freshmen, and The Four Aces.

“Plaid Tidings – A Special Holiday Edition of Forever Plaid” is a Holiday show for the entire family, but it really resonates with folks over 50. However, I did see some under-twelve year olds on opening night who seemed to be really involved with the on-stage antics of the four Plaids. The show runs through December 26th.

For reservations and ticket information go online to www.TheOldGlobe.org or call 619-234-5623.Theatre Review – “Plaid Tidings”Old Globe Theatre - Sheryl and Harvey White StageSan Diego, CA.

By Jack Lyons Theatre and Film/Reviewer

Leo Daignault, David Brannen, Jason Heil and Michael Winther in Plaid Tidings - A Special Holiday Edition of Forever Plaid, at The Old Globe Nov. 27

- Dec. 26, 2010. Photo by Henry DiRocco

Leo Daignault, David Brannen, Jason Heil and Michael Winther in Plaid


I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Bill Maher, the liberal, politically charged and loaded-with--social-commentary icon of our day. Our chat proved an informative and insightful view into Bill Maher the person and the come-dian.

Warning: This interview might evoke some emotional reactions due to its nakedly honest content. Readers may feel compelled to ask questions, even think a little more about a most serious issue that could irreversibly impact our society and maybe become inspired to make a difference in our global community. Yes, we even discussed religion.

Lisa: We recently viewed your film “Religu-lous” and I have so many questions for you, but I don’t know if we should go there.

Maher: Oh let’s go there!

Lisa: Okay. So what would you do if you were in the same position as Lot in the Bible, when two angels arrive at your door and the townspeople have threatened to rape them? What would you do with your daughters?

Maher: Of course I would protect them … What is so funny … we did that little scene in front of the cave at Sodom and Gomorrah … in the Bible, Lot is portrayed as a good man. One thing about the Bible that we found out in making “Religulous,” is that nobody … especially the religious people, have ever read it. They have no clue … And if they read it, I certainly hope they would be appalled ... the best part of it is, I guess, it occasionally stumbles upon morality, but most of it is either nonsense or sheer wick-edness.

Lisa: You do know that the Coachella Valley and many surrounding areas are a Republican domain?

Maher: Yes, but I play a lot of places that are predominantly Republican domain and … there are always a lot of progressive people. They may not be the majority … and when someone who thinks like them comes to their town, they’re thrilled. So, I love playing the “red” places.

Lisa: What format do you use for your live performances?

Maher: I work very hard on an act before I hit the stage … When I do a live show, I want people to leave the theater and say to them-selves, “WOW, that is something I cannot see on television.” I like to just make them laugh until they can’t breathe ... really, just run down the whole gambit of what’s going on in the world and in the country at the moment. So I just spiel for 90 minutes or two hours.

Lisa: When did you know that comedy was in your blood?

Maher: Early! I knew when I was, oh, God, 10 years old that I wanted to be a comedian. My father was funny, and I wanted to emulate him, and I loved people like Johnny Carson and Robert Klein and George Carlin and Don Rickles and Alan King. So, from very early, I was plotting in my little brain to be a comedian. I was too shy to tell anybody, but that was what I was plotting. I absolutely did not have the guts to say to some-body, “I’m going to be a comedian!” I just didn’t have that kind of self esteem.

Bill MaherStory by Lisa Robyn Lawrence


M usic icon, Gladys Knight (who needs Pips?), performed at Morongo

and she took us on a nostalgic musical sojourn of delight. We were treated to her most famous hit songs like ‘Midnight Train” and “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” which she reminded us was recorded by her first.

There was no evidence that Gladys has slowed down or her voice might have gotten a bit weaker. While singing Ms. Knight strutted and danced all over the stage, even doing a strobe light groove that had the audience on their feet applauding and cheering. Gladys still has the “stuff the voice and the pipes” and knows how to use them. Oh yes we heard it… yes we heard it!

The audience was standing up and giving her many standing-“o’s” with each song she performed. Her back-up singers, Neil, Rashida, Toni and Kenny and musicians, Walter on bass, Arthur on percussion, Daniel on Drums , James on lead guitar, Yuko on keyboard (Gladys said that sweetness comes from her) and Musical director Matthew Pender on keys, were each a special talent in their own right and really did each song justice.

Fred Three Feathers was there with his friends Yvonne and Frank, Fred’s sister Maxine, niece Karen. Fred also met up with his cousin Mary who said it was a great performance and can’t wait for Gladys Knight to come back again. I know that more than half of the audience would agree.

By Lisa Robyn LawrencePhotos by Catherine Jardine

Fred Three Feathers his friends Yvonne and Frank, Fred’s sister Maxine, niece Karen.

Gladys Night ‘Live’ at Morongo Casino Resort ~Photos by Catherine Jardine

45Desert Local News December 31, 2010 Desert Local News December 31, 2010Desert Local News November 12, 2010

Gladys Nightat Morongo Casino


Petula Clark at the Annenberg Theater


The Palm Springs Art Museum held its annual Annenbert TheaterOpening Night on Sat. November 6th. The Special Evening with Petula Clark is the largest fundraiser for the Annenberg Council and raised over 225,000 dollars for this sold out performance.

Monies raised will go to the Cabaret 88 series, The speakers series and other theatrical programs throughout the year.

Petula Clark is not only a fabulous singer but also an actress. She has been in the music business for over seven decades. Ms. Clark has sold Millions of records in is know worldwide. She was once touted as the British Shirley Temple. She has found fame as a singer, actress, songwriter, broadway star and television idol. She has played the role of Norma Desmond on Broadway more than any other actress. Her credits are just too numerous to list them all.

Some of her most famous songs are know by almost everyone. The song “Downtown” started her on her American career. On

Saturday night she sang such favorites as Moon River, With One Look, Rainbow, You and I and Couldn’t live without your love.

Thanks to the many presenting sponsors a night like this is one to remember. After her performance a meet and greet with refreshments was upstairs in the Art Museum. She greeted fans with the warmth and sincere appreciation befitting a great artist.

Upcoming events at the Annenberg Theater include a performance by Sam Harris on Nov. 17th, Davis Gaines on November 27th, Nita Whitaker on Dec. 12 and Loretta Divine on Jan. 19th. Speakers series include David Zippel and Friends on Nov. 14th, Kate Burton on Dec. 12th, Michael York on Jan 9th and Rex Reed on Jan 30th.

Other performances to look for will be Callaway Sisters on Jam 29th and Cheyenne Jackson on April 23rd. Put these events on your calender and more will be coming.


Harold and Dorothy Merriman, Petula Clark, Annette Block, Gary Hall and Jordan Bloom ~Photos by Pat Krause

Jamie Kabler, Helene Galen and Michael Childers

Wind is our friend!


happy new yearsdlnews dec. 31. 2010

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