By Crystal Harrell
The heart and soul of the Coachella Valley’s music nightlife is attributed to the locals who come together to give it that authentic feeling of homegrown talent and camaraderie. One such venue that has provided an outlet for laid-back vibes and heartfelt reunions of old and new friends is Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails in Thousand Palms. This desert favorite is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary on September 1st, and the community is all in to mark the occasion.
“The whole staff is extremely proud and excited for reaching this moment. Coming out of the COVID lockdown, the last two years have been very hard on myself, the staff, entertainers, and customers. So the fact that we are able to come together and celebrate 10 years is pretty amazing,” said Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails owner Jeannette Krehbiel.
Jeannette has always been in the service industry. She eventually branched into advertising and marketing, and after being laid off at a couple of those jobs, she came to the realization that she did not want to make money for other people, and would rather be part of something team-oriented. In collaboration with her late boyfriend Jared Arnold, he inspired her to pursue her plans and turn her dreams into reality. After receiving her liquor license, Jeanette sought to buy the bar that would be the future Plan B location.
“I just want to give a big, heartfelt congratulations to Jeanette for an amazing 10 years. I’ve been there for a good chunk of it and it’s been an amazing ride—ups and downs and everything in-between. Jeanette and the staff have become family over the years, and I for one, am blessed to have been accepted as a part of it. I’m looking forward to one hell of a celebration! To the next ten years of family, drinks and rock ’n roll!” stated Rob Lawrence, one of Jeannette’s closest friends and a regular at the venue.
Ten years ago, the music scene in the Coachella Valley was vastly different. Very rarely could you find live entertainment on a Tuesday or Wednesday night. Over the last decade, Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails has welcomed many performers on its stage—crowd favorites and new acts, all cementing the legacy of the venue as a top-notch nightlife spot.
“Plan B will always be in my heart, for they gave me my first opportunity in the Coachella Valley. I love how they follow their own path and do things their way. Plan B gave me the space to find myself, my true self, on stage, and the support they give musicians is given right back by the community,” said local musician Miguel Arballo.
Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails is also home to free shuffle board, three pool tables, a patio, daily drink specials, and Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night sing sessions with Red’s Rockstar Karaoke at 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
“I believe Plan B’s charm lies within its semi-hidden location, its undeniably great employees, and solid entertainment. It’s the whole package with a hint of intimacy!” praised desert-based artist Krystofer Do.
The actual 10-year anniversary celebration will take place on the first Saturday of the month, September 4th. While the lineup is still being determined, guests can expect awesome live bands, karaoke, drink specials, and delicious food.
“We’re a local spot and people feel comfortable being here. You can walk in with a suit or cut-off shorts and flip-flops, it doesn’t matter. People are always very nice and welcoming. Our bar tenders are super friendly and knowledgeable. Many local bands have had their first performance on Plan B’s stage. I am so grateful for everyone and our amazing staff. I love how the community has protected us and supported us from the very beginning,” said Jeannette.
So many memories come to mind for Jeannette when she thinks of all the people and moments that brought Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails to where it is today. From having her youngest son Josh, who has Down syndrome, sing karaoke with his brother “Kyle the singing bartender” to being eternally grateful for her sister Sharon, who gave her a loan to open the bar in the first place. Jeannette is grateful for the family dynamic present at Plan B, as her son Kyle has worked at the venue for eight years.
More of the wonderful staff that Jeannette wishes to thank: Josh Osborne, Randall Leifeit, Kim Beall, Teri Elison, Casey Keepers, Chelsea Erin, Red Ness, and Shastin Ness.
“In terms of the future, we are looking to continue supporting our musicians, our comedy acts, our staff, the arts, and our customers. I’ve built Plan B Live Entertainment & Cocktails up with the help of everybody. I am humbled by the love I am shown on a constant basis and thank you all from the bottom of my heart,” said Jeannette.
