By Tracy Dietlin, Publisher
I have known Esjay Jones for many years now on many levels as a music producer, business woman, and as my personal friend. She is an incredible woman on all accounts.
Recently I had the chance to sit with Esjay and pick her very talented brain about several things: Her music, Producing multiple artists, and now, as...
Columns
Sunset Music & Education Foundation Presents: A Sunset Jazz Soirée: Music with a Mission
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A Fundraiser Artfully Curated by Sweet Baby J’ai | April 19th in Palm Springs
By Alex Samms
In a world moving faster than most of us can catch our breath, music remains one of the few things that bring us together. That’s exactly what the Sunset Music & Education Foundation (SMEF) is all about—creating access to comprehensive music education, supporting young musicians, and bringing...
“2011” (Sunset Blvd. Records)
By Eleni P. Austin
I came across the Smithereens first long-player, “Especially For You” in the fall of 1986 and listened to it incessantly. It got to the point where my cassette tape was making that squeaky mouse sound, a true indication that the tape was wearing out from constant play.
At this point in Rock & Roll...
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, the largest resort in Palm Desert, is hosting a family-oriented Easter Brunch at Rockwood Grill, offering breathtaking views of the property’s stunning lakes. Scheduled for Easter Sunday, April 20, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, reservations are necessary. The brunch menu includes a variety of specialty items such as Belgian Waffles, Grilled...
BIGHORN Golf Club Charities today announced that BIGHORN BAM (Behind a Miracle) raised more than $1 million for cancer care and treatment throughout the Coachella Valley for the third consecutive year.
The sweet announcement was made on Tuesday during BAM’s wildly imaginative Willy Wonkathemed golf awards luncheon — the grand finale of a spring fundraising season that included the ever-popular Game Day for...
By Crystal Harrell / PHOTO COURTESY OF DO LAB
As the desert dust settles from a wild Weekend 1, Coachella is getting ready to do it all over again. Weekend 2 of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is set to bring back the magic — and possibly crank it up a notch. Whether you’re heading to the Empire...
By Ruth Hill, R.N.
Here comes Peter Cottontail, tokin' down the bunny trail. In the past 40 years, Easter Sunday has fallen on April 20 exactly once: April 20, 2003. That year, the Paschal full moon occurred on April 16; the following Sunday was April 20, perfectly aligned with 4/20. This rare convergence means that cannabis enthusiasts share the date...
By Ruth Hill, R.N.
President Donald J Trump proclaimed, "On World Autism Awareness Day, we recognize the millions of Americans living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). heir proud perseverance in overcoming tremendous hurdles is emblematic of the strength and grit that makes America great. The First Lady and I extend our heartfelt appreciation to the families, friends, and communities aiding...
By Esther Sanchez
The time has come! It’s festival season in the iconic Coachella Valley where year after year, humans of all kinds migrate in droves to what has become the quintessential Mecca of coolness. It's widely recognized that the annual lineup of both emerging stars and legendary acts draws attention that can range from excitement to outright debate....
Sinners (2h 18m – Rated R) Drama, Horror, Thriller
Starring Michael B. Jordan
Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.
The Wedding Banquet (1h 42m – Rated R3) Comedy, Romance
Starring Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Han Gi-chan,...
By Rick Riozza
Hey sports fans! We know so much goes on in our desert surrounds as far as wine events, sports & wine combos and restaurant winemaker dinners—many of which we have covered in the first quarter of 2025. I know—it’s been a while since we simply directed our attention to just reviewing wine.
So—Easter dining is just around the...
By Janet McAfee
This week on Monday, April 14, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake rocked the San Diego area. The shaking was felt across the Coachella Valley as aftershocks continued to frighten local residents. What would happen to your pets in the event of a major earthquake, a hurricane, fire, or a flood? In California, our greatest concern is the possibility...
By Haddon Libby
After everything that has transpired in the stock and bond markets over the last few months, let's pause to reflect on the fundamental investment principles that guide us to protect and grow wealth effectively.
A study by RBC Wealth Management analyzed four hypothetical investors over the past twenty years. Each investor made $3,000 annual contributions over twenty years...
The correct answer to this, and most legal questions is, “it depends.” If your PI Trial Lawyer is experienced, s/he can get a lot of mileage from a victim who is already hurting from a prior injury. Of course, the insurance company will argue it’s a degeneration of the spine, and thus they are not responsible…as they refuse to...
Coachella Valley Inches Closer to Securing Home Ice in Postseason in OT Defeat to San Diego
The Coachella Valley Firebirds, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Seattle Kraken, fell to the San Diego Gulls in overtime on Sunday at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 4-3. Oscar Mølgaard recorded his AHL first goal and Ben Meyers notched...
Produced By Tiar’a Literary & Illustration
It’s coming to the Banning Community Center on Sunday, May 18th 5PM start time –
EWF Anniversary special. For wrestling fans of the Coachella Valley, this is your opportunity to experience professional wrestling (like you see on TV) LIVE!
Come witness the heroes and villains – the superstars of the future as they butt heads...
An Open Letter to the Woman Who Feels Worn Out
BY MICHELLE MCLAUGHLIN
Hey you.
Yes, you—the one quietly carrying the weight of the world. Trying to hold it all together while the economy shifts every day, your job may be unstable or unsatisfying and your peace feels like a distant memory. You wake up tired. You go to bed worried. And...
BY STAN POPOVICH
Almost everybody worries about what will happen in the future. The prospect of not knowing if something good or bad will happen can produce a lot of fear and anxiety.
As a result, here are seven ways on how to deal with the fear of the unknown.
No one can predict the future with one hundred percent...
By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
Jazz Appreciation Month (fondly known as "JAM") was created at the Smithsonian Institute in 2001 to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary heritage and history of jazz for the entire month of April.
JAM is intended to stimulate and encourage people of all ages to participate in jazz - to study the music, attend concerts, listen to...
Columns
Nadia Popova, Resident of Palm Desert, Empowers Women to Prioritize Health During Women’s History Month on KUSI News
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BY COACH NADIA POPOVA, PRESENTER OF THE HOLLYWOOD NATURAL BODYBUILDING & FITNESS AWARDS, RESIDENT OF COACHELLA VALLEY
In a powerful segment aired on KUSI News San Diego during Women's History Month, Nadia Popova shared invaluable insights on the challenges women face and the crucial role of prioritizing health. Popova's message resonated deeply with viewers, emphasizing the multifaceted lives women lead...
BY TRACY DIETLIN, PUBLISHER
And in the blink of the eye, it’s been 13 years since I started Coachella Valley Weekly on March 29, 2012. I had big dreams for CV Weekly, but never did I imagine it would become what it has.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many amazing business people, philanthropists, charities in need of support, and...
Coachella
Do LaB Announces Lineup for 2025 Stage at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
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By Crystal Harrell
Immersive experience curators Do LaB unveil the artist lineup for its 2025 stage at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Marking two decades at the forefront of Coachella’s creative and cultural evolution, Do LaB has transformed from a niche, experimental stage into a cornerstone of the festival’s ecosystem and a driving force in interactive music experiences.
For 20...
By Crystal Harrell
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Sonic Desert returns for its third year, offering an exclusive, invitation-only soirée amidst the serene beauty of the Coachella Desert. On Saturday, April 12, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, this opulent event will once again bring together celebrities, influencers, and trendsetters against the stunning desert landscape, offering a sensory...
Free Concert to be held on Wednesday, April 16
The City of Indio is proud to announce the exciting return of Chella, a dynamic community music event presented in partnership with Goldenvoice. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Center Stage (82881 Miles Avenue) in the heart of Downtown Indio.
Perfectly...
Columns
Studio B Launches in Indio, Bringing Next-Level Dolby Atmos Mixing to the Coachella Valley
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Studio B debuts in Indio, CA, as the Coachella Valley’s only destination for Dolby Atmos mixing, celebrating its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 9, 2025.
Studio B, the Coachella Valley’s newest premiere recording and mixing facility featuring Dolby Atmos mixing, will celebrate its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 3:00...
By Madeline Zuckerman
PHOTOS BY LAURA HALL & REGGIE ROVER SPERBER
Played on an absolutely glorious day on the links, Xavier College Preparatory High School hosted its 16th Annual Fairway To Heaven Golf Tournament at the Classic Club in Palm Desert recently. This year’s tournament, themed Cheeseburger in PARadise, was completely sold out with 140 golfers participating, and 150 guests attending...
By Marissa Willman
For the last decade, Knott’s Berry Farm has turned spring into a berry-filled extravaganza with its annual Boysenberry Festival—and 2025 marks the festival’s 10th anniversary! What started as a small tribute to the park’s boysenberry roots has grown into a beloved Southern California tradition, drawing food lovers and theme park fans alike.
Running on select dates through May...
By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
April is National Distracted Driver Awareness Month. You’ve seen it and there is a good chance you’ve done it reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. This is a good time to read and share with others because “if you’re texting, who’s driving?
Distracted driving—your first thought may be of cell phone use, but many other circumstances can...
“Long After The Fire” (Label 51 Records)
By Eleni P. Austin
“Reminisce about all the nice things we do, and what I meant to you, and what life standed for then, and what it stands for now.”
That’s Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill on “Don’t Look Back, a track from their new album, Long After The Fire. The couple, who have...
The Amateur (2h 3m – Rated PG-13) Action, Thriller
Starring Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, Danny Sapani, Laurence Fishburne
Charlie Heller is a brilliant, but deeply introverted decoder for the CIA working out of a basement office at headquarters in Langley whose life is turned upside down when his wife...
By Rick Riozza
The official, unofficial white wine here in the desert is no doubt Sauvignon Blanc.
Because our climate is so sunny, we enthusiasts—almost out of necessity, but more-so out of love, cherish our Sauv Blancs because they are so refreshing and lively. The wines are such a savvy pick for the season as they pair wonderfully with the light...
By Janet McAfee
Dog parks are a place where people and their dogs can gather and have a great time. The humans get to socialize while the dogs meet and exercise with other dogs. They are a venue that allows a person and their dog to improve their mental and physical health. People talk to one another, allowing connections and...
By Haddon Libby
On April 2, 2025, the day after April Fool's Day, President Trump announced the most significant change in global trade in nearly a century. In the two days following his announcement, stocks fell by 10%, marking one of the worst periods in the history of U.S. stock markets.
What should you do now? Sell everything and stockpile toilet...
Almost $50 billion was stolen in 2024 through ID fraud and scams. Thus, we all have to use stronger passwords and multifactor authentication… and, of course, diligently review credit reports. Updating your antivirus software is essential, especially when new systems come out. When possible, set up your device to update automatically.
We all get unsolicited contacts, calls, texts, emails, and...
Coachella Valley is Postseason Bound for Third Straight Season
The Coachella Valley Firebirds, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Seattle Kraken, have clinched a spot in the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs following the conclusion of today's game between the Bakersfield Condors and the Tucson Roadrunners. The Firebirds will participate in the postseason for the third consecutive year. Coachella...
By Aimee Mosco
Transition into the new paradigm aligns with the ending of a long Universal cycle. Even if you are not familiar with disciplines that recognize or track energy markers which tell us that a mega-shift is in progress, you are likely still feeling some dramatic changes in our shared world. These worldly changes cause confusion and sometimes make...
BY STAN POPOVICH
Sometime or another we will experience a time when we are alone. Some people fear being alone for various reasons.
The first step is to become comfortable with yourself and have the self-confidence that you will be able to manage being by yourself.
With this in mind, here are eight suggestions that a person can use so that the...
Columns
Celebrating Natural Strength and Inspiration at the Hollywood Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Awards
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By Nadia Popova, Presenter of the Hollywood Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Awards, resident of Coachella Valley
The energy in Beverly Hills on Saturday, March 29th, was absolutely electric. As the presenter of the inaugural Hollywood Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Awards, I had the distinct honor of witnessing firsthand the incredible display of dedication, discipline, and inspiring journeys that unfolded throughout...
By Ruth Hill R.N.
A new study from an industry advocacy group in California examines the content of dozens of unregulated intoxicating “hemp” products that are easily available in the Golden State despite being banned by state law. The study, entitled “The Great Hemp Hoax,” was released on February 13th by the San Diego/Imperial Counties Joint Labor Management Cannabis Committee....
Written by Esther Sanchez, Photos by Esther Sanchez
On Sunday, March 30th, a dynamic group of passionate advocates converged in Coachella to raise awareness and support for women's rights on both a local and global scale. Before hitting the streets, the gathering commenced at noon at the Danza Azteca Citlatonic Center, where attendees engaged in enlightening discussions and listened to...
By DeAnn Lubell
Twenty-five years ago, I met the beautiful inside and out Lindi Biggi at her Biggi Gardens in Palm Desert. To this day, it is a haven for exotic birds and rescued animals. Biggi became one of the biggest advocates for animal rights, adoptions, no-kill shelters, microchipping, and most importantly, spaying and neutering. Her dream is to live...
By Marissa Willman
For Star Wars fans, Disneyland's Season of the Force is more than just an event—it’s a hyperspace jump into the galaxy far, far away. Running from March 28 through May 11, 2025, this limited-time celebration brings new experiences, exclusive merchandise, and deliciously themed food to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Tomorrowland.
This year, there’s even more reason to...
Monday, April 14 at Palm Desert Resorter County Club
The Ranch Recovery Centers is holding its 20th Annual Luncheon on Monday, April 14, from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at Palm Desert Resort Country Club. The fundraiser will support the nonprofit organization’s residential alcohol and drug program services with its “Runway to Recovery.” The professionally produced fashion show will feature styles by Grayseful...
Columns
Step Into Style for a Cause: The 11th Annual “Put Your Best Shoe Forward” Fundraiser
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By Craig Michaels
Fashion meets philanthropy at the 11th Annual "Put Your Best Shoe Forward" Luncheon & Fashion Show, an event that promises an afternoon of fabulous fashion, inspiring stories, and community support. Hosted by Desert Best Friend’s Closet (DBFC), this annual gathering is more than just a stylish affair—it’s a powerful movement to uplift job seekers in the Coachella...
“Live In Bergen” (Ocean Omen Records)
By Eleni P. Austin
SBT, or Sarabeth Tucek, if you’re not into that whole brevity thing, is an artist whose music isn’t readily characterized or pigeon-holed. I think she’s pretty okay with that distinction. Still, her albums would easily fit into any record collection that includes Joni Mitchell, the Velvet Underground, Laura Marling, Patti Smith...
Crowd Crushes Can Be Catastrophic!
By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
With the Coachella Festival concerts coming up the first few weeks in April, people from throughout not only California, but from the world will be attending. “We live in an age where tragedy can strike unexpectedly reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.” But there are some preparation tips to keep in mind.
Thinking of on...
Columns
PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PARTNERS WITH DESERT ARC TO SUPPORT INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT
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By Madeline Zuckerman
Palm Springs International Airport is proud to announce a new partnership with Desert Arc, a local nonprofit organization that creates meaningful job opportunities for adults with disabilities. Under a new five-year agreement, Desert Arc will provide key services at the airport, including ground maintenance, landscaping, and trash removal – – reinforcing the airport’s commitment to inclusivity and...
A Minecraft Movie (1h 41m – Rated PG) Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Starring Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Danielle Brooks, Emma Myers, Sebastian Hansen
Welcome to the world of Minecraft, where creativity doesn’t just help you craft, it’s essential to one’s survival! Four misfits—Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison, Henry, Natalie and Dawn—find themselves struggling with ordinary problems when they are suddenly pulled through...
By Rick Riozza
I guess it’s the sign of the times, but have you noticed how many lawsuits have been filed lately against sommeliers and wine stewards? The stats are in: over two thousand causes of action are currently pending in our local, state, and even Federal District courts.
In layman terms, these causes of action have to do with damages...
By Janet McAfee
Marie Marcinko, pictured here, has fostered over 160 dogs for Loving All Animals. Many of the animals she fostered were orphan puppies or mothers with young litters. Marie is a huge advocate for pet fostering and hopes to inspire others to join her in this life saving venture. She recently welcomed a homeless mother dog and her...