Coachella Valley Weekly - October 29 to November 4, 2020 Vol. 9 No. 33 by CV Weekly

coachellavalleyweekly.com • October 29 to November 4, 2020 Vol.9 No.33

Wildlights at The Living Desert Throw The Goat Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar pg5

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Si Bon

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Lulu CA Bistro Thanksgiving

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October 29 to November 4, 2020

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

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

CONTENTS Mary Pickford Theatre is D'Place – The Drive In Experience ....................... 3 Travel Tips 4 U ......................................... 4 Safety Tips ............................................... 4 Wildlights at The Living Desert.............. 5 Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic... 5 Throw The Goat – ‘Capitol Hell’ .............. 6 Consider This - Suzzy and Lucy Roche... 9 Pet Place ................................................ 10 Free COVID Testing at the Palm Springs Convention Center ............................. 11 Screeners ............................................... 13

MARY PICKFORD THEATRE IS D’PLACE FOR DRIVE-IN MOVIES

ith Riverside County recently moving into the purple tier of its color-coded COVID county tracking system, movie theaters are not allowed to resume indoor operations, however, a vintage way of enjoying films has become in vogue in the midst of the pandemic. Mary Pickford Theatre is D’Place in Cathedral City is one of the local Coachella Valley theaters that has adapted a drive-in cinematic experience. General Manager of the theater, Ted Hane, is now also managing the Drive-In Experience. Hane had been approached by countless people over the course of pandemic who inquired about starting a drive-in. It wasn’t until June of this year that the Mary Pickford Theatre had begun a rapid succession of openings and closures with the rise in COVID cases that Hane had put the idea into action. “We did quite a bit of investigating to understand what we would need to make the drive-in a reality, mainly the site. We had to get land, so we applied for an area of land from the city and we got approval in August. As soon as we got approval, we moved to get containers and everything else we’d need,” explained Hane. The creation of the Drive-In Experience was a collaborative effort with other theater companies that have also been forced to expand outside of their walls and other fully established drive-ins that have reopened amid the pandemic. Opening the weekend of September 25, the Drive-In Experience has garnered a lot of foot traffic from curious passersby after seeing the lit marquee on the lot across the street from the original theater

location. “We continue to grow and people have become more interested in what we’re doing. I’ve already seen some people who’ve attended more than once. If I can get more and more people who keep coming back consistently, then that makes my job easy. But right now, everything is a learning process. We are constantly adapting and improving. So if someone comes to the drivein and shows up again two weeks later, we’re already doing things differently,” said Hane. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was never in the scope of the company’s reality that drive-in theaters would make as big a comeback in 2020, as they had previously been a dying art form. Now pop-up drive-ins are a necessity to keep theater franchises afloat in an age with so many business restrictions. The Drive-In Experience also provides families with a way to spend time together, since sporting events, theme parks, and other group activities are limited with the safety guidelines. Hane hopes that the longer the drive-in is in operation, the more new events and features will be added to the theater lineup. There are plans to add a “Musical Monday” and “Taco Tuesday,” courtesy of Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant, to the mix. The Drive-In Experience is currently operating seven days a week with at least one film being shown per night, and two films on Friday and Saturday. Concessions are also available onsite to be delivered to cars. “You don’t have to wait in line and we have a system in place. You just check in and tell us which spot you’re at, then we come and take your order, and you can just stay in

October 29 to November 4, 2020

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

your car and enjoy the movie. The popcorn is made at the theater across the street and transported to the drive-in via golf cart. All the other concessions are pre-packaged and sealed,” stated Hane. In the future, Hane hopes to expand the menu to include ice cream, caramel corn, and pizza prepared at the theater’s cafe. Concessions are a key component of how the drive-in generates revenue, especially since the Mary Pickford has suffered around three million dollars in losses from the pandemic this year. Regardless, the theater is hoping to give back to the community and has partnered with charities and organizations like the Boys & Girls Club for special screenings to support the cause. All tickets for the Drive-In Experience are $9.99 general admission and are only available online at dplaceentertainment.com. One ticket per person is required, but kids two years and younger are free. The drive-in will host a special Halloween Spooktacular on October 30, playing two classic horror films from the 80s for the price of one movie starting with Friday the 13th at 7 p.m. and Pet Sematary at 9:15 p.m. On Halloween night, the same double feature deal will take place with a showing of The Nightmare Before Christmas and the 2019 animated Addams Family film. On November 1, a showing of Coco will be presented to celebrate Dia de los Muertos with an admission price of only $5.99. Those who arrive dressed in costume on Halloween night and on November 1 will receive free candy. “Drive-ins are special because they have a nostalgic factor. Some of the older attendees get really excited because they had their first date with their spouse at a drive-in when they were younger and they get to relive that moment. Now we’re introducing driveins to a whole new generation who have never been to one before. We hope as COVID diminishes, we can allow people to come out of their cars and sit outside together. For now, we are happy to be up and running, and it is truly what keeps us going,” stated Hane.

Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar............... 14 Si Bon Bulgarian Restaurant................. 15 Palm Springs Halloween Events........... 15 12th Annual Rick Espinoza Award........ 15 The Vino Voice ...................................... 16 Lulu California Bistro Thanksgiving .... 17 Haddon Libby........................................ 18 Dale Gribow........................................... 18 Swag For The Soul ................................. 19 Free Will Astrology ............................... 19

October 29 to November 4, 2020

TRAVEL TIPS4U

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ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY LYNNE TUCKER

LOS RIOS RANCHO ORCHARDS – U-PICK APPLES OAK GLEN, CA

t’s Apple Season so don’t miss out. All apples picked are sold by weight. $3.50 per lb. Experience the charm of farm life in their dramatic orchards during select times of the year. What to Expect: As they use natural methods to grow their fruit, you will often need to prepare for a bit more time to find that perfect bite. They encourage all u-pickers to wear close toed shoes and long pants. Bring a sun hat and water. Even though they are at a beautiful 5,000+ foot elevation, even here you can experience warmer days over the Summer and early fall. They provide necessary picking implements and bags. Apple picking is paid for by the pound and instructions will be provided upon your arrival Many of their apple tress are more than 80 years old. Careful care and attention is given to each one to ensure their longevity. They

ask that all u-pickers be mindful of this as they enter the orchard. For more info visit losriosrancho.com. Think Healthy and Enjoy Apple Picking! Lynne Tucker - A Passion 4 Photography 818.298.7007 Contributing Writer and Photographer for: CV Weekly (Coachella Valley) The Tolucan Times (San Fernando Valley) Conservation Ambassador for The Living Desert

SAFETY TIPS FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA

THE LOW, MODERATE AND HIGH RISK OF HALLOWEEN!

any traditional Halloween activities can be high-risk for spreading viruses. There are several safer, alternative ways to participate in Halloween," says the CDC's website. "If you may have COVID-19 or you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should not participate in in-person Halloween festivities and should not give out candy to trick-or-treaters." Ahead, get a look at what the CDC considers to be low, moderate, and high-risk Halloween activities. Low-Risk Halloween Activities Understandably, parents should avoid having their children participate in activities that involve large groups or throwing their Halloween bash. Here is what the experts recommend kids do instead: Carving or decorating pumpkins as a family Carving or decorating pumpkins outside, at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends Decorating your home for the holiday Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house Virtual Halloween costume contest Halloween movie night with people you live with. (Here's a list of kid-friendly Halloween flicks to stream!) Having a scavenger hunt-style trick-or-treat search with your household members around your home Moderate-Risk Halloween Activities Socially-distanced outdoor activities are the name of the game this year. Here is what else falls into the moderate-risk category: Participating in one-way trick-or-treating where individually wrapped goodie bags are lined up for families to grab and go while continuing to social distance (like at the end of a driveway or at the edge of a yard). If you are preparing goodie bags, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 second before and after preparing the bags. Having a small outdoor costume parade where people are distanced more than six feet apart Attending an outdoor costume party where protective masks are used, and people can remain more than six feet apart. And FYI, parents: a Halloween costume mask is not a

substitute for a cloth mask. A mask that's part of your child's Halloween costume should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and does not leave gaps around the face. Additionally, no one should wear a Halloween mask over a cloth face mask, as it can be hard to breathe. Parents should use a "Halloweenthemed cloth mask" instead. Going to an open-air, one-way, walkthrough haunted forest where masks and social distancing are enforced Visiting pumpkin patches or orchards where people use hand sanitizer before touching pumpkins or picking apples, where masks and social distancing are enforced Having a socially-distanced outdoor Halloween movie night with local family friends Higher-Risk Halloween Activities Although some parents have come up with clever, contactless ways to hand out Halloween candy, the CDC says trick-ortreating might be difficult to do safely amid a global pandemic. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the CDC recommends avoiding the following Halloween activities this year: Participating in traditional trick-or-treating where treats are handed to children who go door to door Having trunk-or-treat where treats are handed out from trunks of cars in parking lots Attending crowded indoor costume parties Going to an indoor haunted house where people may be crowded together and screaming Going on hayrides or tractor rides with non-family members Traveling to a rural fall festival that is not in your community SOURCE: Center for Disease Control – lnkd. in/gFy2EXe. *Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.

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THE LIVING DESERT ZOO & GARDENS TO ILLUMINATE THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH WILDLIGHTS CELEBRATION

TICKETS GO ON SALE TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27, AT 9 A.M.

he Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will light up the desert this holiday season with WildLights, a spectacular light display presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation. Tickets go on sale to members and guests Tuesday, October 27 at 9 a.m. WildLights will be held select evenings Wednesday, November 25 through Sunday, December 27, from 6 to 9 p.m. Now celebrating its 28th year, WildLights will amaze guests with over a million twinkling LED lights and festive activities, transforming The Living Desert into a luminescent winter wonderland for all to enjoy. Advanced reservations are required for both members and guests, and tickets are limited to accommodate for health and safety precautions.

MUSIC

“The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a magical place and even more so in the glow of holiday lights,” said Allen Monroe, President/ CEO of The Living Desert. “The enchanting assortment of illuminated animal sculptures – many representing species found at the Zoo – sets this event apart from many other holiday traditions. We have worked diligently to provide a safe and socially-distanced experience for our guests to make special memories this holiday season.” Recognized as a 10Best Zoo Lights in the country by USA Today, WildLights invites guests to take in the festive lights and sights, while enjoying the sparkling tunnel of lights synchronized to music, gaze at the life-sized, illuminated animal lanterns, holiday-themed G-scale model train display, and animated light shows set to music around the Zoo. New this year, Santa will be available for souvenir photos. Perched high in his festive sleigh, to accommodate for social-distancing, guests of all ages will be able to step into the front of Santa’s sleigh to pose for pictures. Photos will be available for purchase onsite and online following the event. With a new route for 2020, WildLights pathways will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with vantages of select animal habitats including the emus of the new Australian Adventures. “We invite our community to join us for the desert’s favorite holiday tradition,” said

Mark Miller, Director of Park Services and Guest Relations at The Living Desert. “Tickets are limited and advanced reservations are required. We expect to sell out all dates this year, so guests are encouraged to get their tickets early.” Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Seasonal refreshments, holiday spirits, WildLights souvenirs, and zoo-themed holiday gifts also will be available for purchase. WildLights is presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation and is sponsored by HiTech Lights. WildLights takes place November 2728; and December 4-5, 11-12, 18-24, 26-27.

October 29 to November 4, 2020

EVENTS

Event hours are 6 - 9 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $14 per person; $12 for members, military (with ID); $10 for children ages 3-12 and free for those under 3. Some attractions require additional fees. Face coverings are required for guests over 3 years old. Tickets can be purchased online at LivingDesert.org beginning Tuesday, October 27, at 9 a.m. or by calling (760) 346-5694. For more information, visit LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694. The Living Desert is open daily from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., except December 25. With more than 80 acres of outdoor space, numerous safety precautions, and capacity limits, there is plenty of space to socially distance. Facial coverings are required for guests over 3 and advanced ticket reservations are required.

PALM SPRINGS FRIENDS OF PHILHARMONIC

alm Springs Friends of Philharmonic, a nonprofit organization serving the Coachella Valley for more than 45 years, has postponed its 2020-21 season due to Covid-19. Typically, PSFP presents six to seven live performances each season featuring international world-class orchestras at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert. The objective of the nonprofit Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic (PSFP) has been to offer residents and visitors of the Coachella Valley an annual series of worldclass symphonic concert appearances and to promote educational interest in classical music. In addition to this goal, the organization strives to provide scholarships, equipment, and assistance to promising local young musicians, as well as to offer financial grants to other nonprofit organizations with similar aspirations. The PSFP Board of Directors decided that in lieu of their typical season of worldclass concerts, they would instead create a one-time Emergency Music Grant Program. The purpose of the grant program is to help alleviate some of the financial burden that music-oriented nonprofits and local school music curriculums are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible schools in

BY DEANN LUBELL

From left to right: Dean Kauffman, PSFP Board of Directors and Chair of Youth Scholarships, Maestro Carl St. Clair, Music Director Pacific Symphony, Cathedral City High School music students Diego Becerra and Joshua Martinez. the Coachella Valley can be either public or private and must provide music education. Non-profit music art organizations that support these schools or have their own music programs must reside in the Coachella Valley, as well. The review committee is made up of PSFP Scholarship Chair Dean Kauffman and Board Members Ken Turner,

Dr. David Ko, John Fox and Carol Lewis. A list of the winning grant applicants will be announced in December. “We would like to thank our many donors and subscribers who have made this special onetime grant program possible,” said Executive Director Marnie Duke Mitze. “Since we have postponed our 2020-21

Photo by Marc Glassman

season, some of the resources typically used to sponsor symphony orchestra concerts will be redirected to young musicians throughout the Coachella Valley as they pursue their musical studies. Long term we believe this program, as well as our other arts education programs, will help ensure the next generation of classical music lovers.”

October 29 to November 4, 2020

LOCAL MUSIC

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THROW THE GOAT – ‘CAPITOL HELL’ ALBUM REVIEW RELEASE DATE OCTOBER 30, 2020

BY NOE GUTIERREZ

t times if seems that we are living in the center of purgatory with COVID-19, unchecked racial injustice and the political firestorm that is the election looming on November 3rd. With that being said, Throw The Goat will help liberate us from ‘Capitol Hell’ on Friday, October 30, 2020, with the release of their new full-length album by the same name on Regurgitation/ Combat Records, the legendary Metal label relaunched by Grammy-winning Megadeth bassist David Ellefson. According to the ever-trustworthy Wikipedia “goat throwing” was a practice celebrated by a festival held in Spain where a group of young men would throw a live goat from the top of a church based on local legend. A crowd below would then catch the falling goat with a canvas sheet. It’s since been banned but the legend states that a goat, which miraculously fed the poor with its milk, fell out of the tower, but landed safely. The band from Idyllwild, California, TTG, like the legend, is feeding its fans with its version of pasteurized pandemonium that continues to receive the appropriate praise and recognition. The triple threat ensemble that is TTG is making its own mythological saga through their inventive Thrash/Metal/ Punk sound. The raucous and socially conscious band includes Brian “Puke” Parnell lead vocals and guitar, Derek Wade Timmons bass and vocals, Troy Anthony Whitford drums and percussion/vocals. The album is as fierce as the album artwork, created by Jimbo Phillips, famed son of Jim Phillips (designer of iconic Santa Cruz Skateboards “Screaming Hand” logo) who has created original artwork for Metallica, Primus, Pennywise, Blink-182, Fu Manchu, TSOL and many others. His vibrant cover art reaffirms the band’s connection to their skater/tattoo-enthusiast fan base. To celebrate the release of ‘Capitol Hell’ there will be a private live stream that can only be accessed by pre-ordering the album at votegoat2020.com/pre-order or throwthegoat.bandcamp.com. On Halloween the band will have its Official ‘Capitol Hell’ Listening Party at Coachella Valley Brewing Co. in their CVB Beer Garden where you will have the opportunity to listen to the album in its entirely and meet the band! Costumes are encouraged and masks and social distancing are a requirement. CVB

Photo by Stevie Jane

and TTG will be presenting prizes for the ‘Best Costume’. Exclusive and delectable food will be available on-site from KUMA Catering. Also available on tap will be Capitol Helles, the joint effort brew between CVB and TTG. Before we get to the review, let me say that each member is feverish on ‘Capitol Hell’. There’s no need to indicate standout performances on each track as the entire album features each of the trio at their best. Here is the CV Weekly album review of ‘Capitol Hell’. Too High to Stay Home A toddler counting petals from a flower from 1 to 9, then an adult male counting backwards from 10 to 0 counting down to an atomic bomb explosion. This political commercial endorsing President Lyndon B. Johnson fittingly introduces us to ‘Capitol Hell’. PPL Like U The first single and video. In true TTG fashion, the video incorporates a message to the status quo that is politics. Dressed in superhero masks and capes, the band forge ahead to point out to those in power that, indeed, the power lies with the people; Parnell insists, “I’m one of the good guys!”. A majority of the video was filmed atop Highway 74 and features the Coachella Valley as a backdrop. The concept of the video is a reminder that we should all look beyond ourselves to see the true tragedies that are taking place. The song itself is a wonderful mix of Metal, Punk and Rock; just Heavy Music. Don’t Believe The second single and in my top 3 on the album. The video is something else. If you believe in the mystical relationship between numbers and the success of TTG, you are sadly mistaken. ‘Don’t Believe’ is a return to the birth, blood and sound of TTG that delves into the secret world of conspiracy theorists. The elaborate video for the song only confirms that TTG are imaginative and thought-provoking and not schizophrenic. Its seizure-inducing splicing of frames from FBI agents to Bigfoot to JFK to 9/11 to alien

autopsies to COVID-19 provide a confidential observation of the unglued stargazers we give heed to during unique occurrences. Four on the Floor My favorite song on the album thus far, a heavy Metal intro that could have been the theme to Headbanger’s Ball. I’m certain Mr. Ellefson undoubtedly put his rubber stamp on this one with pride and joy. “Drum kits And riffs galore, Heavy guitars, And fucked up vocal cords, We’ll never quit, This is a war, How ‘bout some more Four on the floor”. It’s a Ministry and Megadeth sounding collusion at their best. Know Your Worth Syncopated drum and bass intro leads to Blues guitar riffage. This song conveys the impression of a Tony Robbins-penned track; a song about self-esteem and instilling confidence in a kind of self-Coup d'état. “Because you don’t, Know your worth, It’s your curse, Love you first, You’re worth the time.” If you didn’t know TTG had a sensitive side, now you know. I Wanna Be Seditious You do not want to be sedated for this song. It’s as velocious as any song on the album. I love the chorus, “Anarchy, Finding peace in perfect perfidy, Anarchy, You and I will try to find a way”. For TTG the treachery within tranquility is real. Just Skating By You ever feel like a screw up and only able to do the minimum? “I’m a fuck up…Try as I might, can’t get it right…Living my life just skating by”. If you’ve never felt this way you’re probably not human. “Puke” delves into selfloathing through his cathartical lyrics. The man is genius in interlacing those elements of us we are fearful of confronting. Lecherous One of the more, dare I say it, “poppy” tunes on the album with serious subject matter. The pleasant bass and guitar parts provide an ambiguity to the cautionary narrative of a serial rapist whose lustful behavior leads to all-around devastation. Hot Truck Whisky Instrumental; the intro is Spaghetti

Western. Definitely a different recording process and welcome sound outcome. Deaths of Despair Such a keen guitar riff. One of those songs that signals we are near the end of the album. A couple of tempo changes make the song stick out, one of the album’s keepers. Nada No Mas ‘Nada No Mas’ is an extended headbanging intro. “And I’m so glad, To be all alone, Say you care, say you care, I don’t believe you anymore, And I’m so glad, To be on my own, You told me that you love me, Now I feel nothing anymore”. Punk and Metal can enunciate heartbreak just as effectively as Country can; heartache is multifarious. It’s Over An ode to a liar. The title says it all. Parnell can now express the bitterness of loss through his lyrics AND voice. Disease X My selection as the opener of their first live post-pandemic show. What a build up! Picture this, I’m in line for a beer at the Megadeth/ TTG show and after purchasing my $15 Coors Light, I’m running for the general admission/ pit area in front of the stage so I don’t miss a note of TTG. The lyrics seem to refer to the oppression of a self-seeking political system. The song features the glockenspiel, a percussion instrument having a set of tuned metal pieces mounted in a frame and struck with small hammers and the theremin, an electronic musical instrument controlled without physical contact. Listen closely. Good Morning A majority of the Maya Angelou poem ‘On the Pulse of Morning’ accompanied by Parnell on ukulele. TTG’s finale ends ‘Capitol Hell’ with a salutation of affection to the world. A memo of optimisms that with understanding, we can all participate in a unifying purpose for the world. “Here on the pulse of this new day You may have the grace to look up and out And into your sister’s eyes, and into Your brother’s face, your country And say simply Very simply With hope Good morning” Throw The Goat - PPL Like U (Official Music Video) : youtu.be/op4m6esrZDE Don’t Believe (Official Music Video): youtu.be/IOndnIGTBAc Visit Throw The Goat online: throwthegoat.net votegoat2020.com throwthegoat.bandcamp.com facebook.com/throwthegoat instagram.com/throwthegoatband twitter.com/ThrowTheGoat youtube.com/ThrowTheGoat1/videos combatrecs.com/artist/throwthegoat reverbnation.com/throwthegoat Find Throw The Goat on Spotify.

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October 29 to November 4, 2020

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CONSIDER THIS

uzzy and Lucy Roche have a new album out, but it almost didn’t happen. The mother-daughter duo began recording in Nashville when the pandemic hit and most of the country shut down. They were forced to return to their respective homes in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Luckily, they persevered and continued to work with producer Jordan Brooke Hamlin plus a dedicated crew. The result is their third collaboration, I Can Still See You. If you aren’t familiar with The Roches, the group Suzzy (it still rhymes with fuzzy), started with older sisters, Maggie and Terre. Stop reading this and go check them out on Youtube or spotify or something. (No, take your time, I’ll wait). See? Now buy some of their music. The trio burst on the scene in the late ‘70s, just as New York City was experiencing a musical renaissance that included Punk, PostPunk, New Wave, No Wave, Disco and Folk. Between 1979 and 2007 and they released a series of albums that were by turns sweet, sunny, funny, smartass and Folky. Within the narrow confines of the music industry, their sound was characterized as Folk, but this wasn’t that stripe-y shirt, sincere and humorless Michael rowing the boat ashore Folk. Songs like “We,” “The Death Of Suzzy Roche” and “Face Down At Folk City” displayed a wicked sense of humor. Meanwhile, tracks like “The Hammond Song,” “This Feminine Position” and “Losing True” revealed a keen and complex outlook on life. Most importantly, they wrapped each richly nuanced song in their trademark sororal harmonies. Not only did their brand of soulful audio verité had an immediate impact on artists like Linda Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow, they made a lasting impression on younger acts like indigo girls and Haim. As the daughter of Suzzy and Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Loudon Wainwright III, Lucy initially resisted joining the family business. She graduated from Oberlin College in 2003 and later received a master’s degree in general education. She worked as a teacher for a few years, but by 2007, she began pursuing music full time. After she released a couple of EPs, her first long-player, Lucy, appeared in 2010. She has performed with critically acclaimed artists like Dar Williams, Amos Lee and Neko Case, as well as her celebrated half-siblings, Rufus and Martha Wainwright. Lucy has recorded two more solo albums, as well as two collaborations with her mom and an album of lullabies recorded with her halfsister, Martha. In between the 11 albums she recorded with her sisters, Suzzy has recorded a couple solo albums and two as a duo with Maggie. She has also acted on stage with The Wooster Group and appeared in films like “Soup For One” and “Crossing Delancey.” In the latter, she stole every scene, holding her own against heavy-hitters like Peter Riegert and Amy Irving. She has also written a couple of books, the children’s story “Want To Be In A Band,” and the novel, “Wayward Saints.” Sadly, her sister Maggie died in 2017, at age 65, after a long battle with breast cancer. Not long after, her mother, Jude, passed away. Suzzy recently confided that she would

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October 29 to November 4, 2020

SUZZY ROCHE & LUCY ROCHE “I CAN STILL HEAR YOU”

have quit singing if it wasn’t for Lucy. She has always preferred harmonizing to singing alone. Following their fraught recording experience in Nashville and New York comes Suzzy and Lucy’s third collaboration, I Can Still Hear You. The album opens tentatively with the title track; braided acoustic guitars partner with plaintive piano, fluttery keys and a thumpy beat. Lucy goes it alone on the first verse, Suzzy chimes in on the second and their vocal blend is beatific. Painterly lyrics recall halcyon summer days and carousel horses, and winding up next to the people you love; “Around and around now, it’s just up and down now, I can still hear you/Between a few wild rides, surrounded on all sides, I can still hear you.” Suzzy has written the lion’s share of songs here. Three songs offer metaphors and allegories aimed at kids as well as adults. If Nora Ephron had ever collaborated with Dr. Seuss, it might sound something like “Swan Duck Song.” Stinging electric guitars dart and pivot around Suzzy and Lucy’s intertwined vocals, anchored by stately piano and a rock steady beat. The lyrics speaks to the twin tribulations of growing pains and old age. Deep in conversation with an ex-Swan who is now a duck, She offers some wry observations about the changes we face throughout life; “Feathers come and feathers go, there’s one thing you should know, birds of a feather together flow/From now on no swan’ll be your friend, there’ll be plenty of ducks around the bend, but only when you swim the muddy water with your two duck feet, your strange new heart doesn’t recognize it’s beat.” “Little” is an ode to E.B. White’s iconic mouse, “Stuart Little.” Suzzy and Lucy’s harmonies glide over strummy guitars, shadowy keys and a pulsating beat. The lyrics address the mouse-sized boy from the classic children’s book; “Parents so worried, you’re so strange, took you to the doctor, still no change/It’s looking like you fell in love with a bird, flew out the window, without a change.” Despite the cheerful vocals, the song hones in on the darker aspects of Stuart’s journey, noting “Life ain’t nothing but a tragic surprise.” Meanwhile, jangly electric riffs lattice over homespun acoustic notes, plangent piano and a subdued rhythm on “Ruins.” The soothing melody and arrangement, even the celestial harmonies can’t camouflage lyrics that sketch out a portrait of a budding Bad Seed; “A boy passed by an apple tree, stopped at the garden bed, flower faces stared at him, purple, black and red/I don’t want to ruin anything, he lifted up his leg and boot and stomped upon the roses, next he took the pansies out, crushed their eyes and his noses.” While cascading harmonies nearly blindside us with beauty, the lyrics ask us to examine our darker impulses. That theme continues on both “I Think I Am A Soul” and “Joseph D.” “I Think… ”matches prickly guitar notes, rubbery bass lines and burnished piano to a shuddery beat. The lyrics mix spirituality and moral ambiguity, but still manage to get some shopping done; “I think I am a soul, the same old soul I’ve always been, the soul I am never felt innocent/The soul I am, you can see right

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

through if you take a peek…never meant to go astray, floating around 14th Street every day/Shopping for tomatoes, stopping at the light, no one even knows me, still I turned out alright.” “Joseph D.” is a sullen saga of an abusive misanthrope. Over plucked guitars, thrumming bass, warm piano notes and a tip-toe beat, Suzzy and Lucy’s harmonies are feathery and lullaby sweet even as the lyrics decry the wanton cruelties implemented by a man-child who seems to have takes his childhood demons out on anyone who crosses his path; “Joseph D. his habits bad, he called his wife a little slut/Drinking whiskey making steaks, across his plate a shadows cast.” In the end, justice is meted out; “Joseph D. and me, his human punching bag/ My zipped suitcase shut, my purple bruise, skipped out the door at last.” (It’s tempting to assume Joseph sports a MAGA cap). The album’s best two tracks, “Jane” and “Get The Better” are cutting and sublime. The former is a previously unreleased song written by the late great Maggie Roche that Lucy has always wanted to record. This soaring ballad is powered by the kind of protean piano notes that were Maggie’s trademark, along with opalescent horns, willowy guitars, and subdued percussion. Lucy’s almost-soprano teases out the first verse and Suzzy slides underneath toward the end. Lyrics like “It’s like remembering rain in the sun or remembering sun in the rain/It’s down in a song that her hair’s brown and long, and her legs were strong,” conjure the enigma that was Maggie Roche. There’s a loneliness and an ache here that kind of takes your breath away.

The latter is the only song here written by both Lucy and Suzzy, and it’s equal parts diffident and somber, sincere and sly. Pulsating keys connect with slurry guitars and a heartbreak beat. Lucy starts it off, but once again, their harmonies magically coalesce. Cryptic lyrics seem to mirror their symbiotic, mother-daughter relationship; “Now the whole day long, we’re just killing time, burning all the candles down/She won’t leave my side, who takes care of who, all we do is hang around and I let her get the better of me, she’s an angel.” Guitars and keys fuse on the outro, before quietly fading away. Other interesting tracks include a fairly faithful take on the traditional Irish Folk song, “Factory Girl,” as well as a slanted version of Connie Converse’s “Talkin’ Like You (Two Tall Mountains).” It’s easy to see why Suzzy and Lucy might be fascinated by Connie Converse, a singer-songwriter well ahead of her time, whose disappearance in 1974 renders her music all the more poignant. The album closes with a wistful cover of “Bein’ Green.” This album was truly a labor of love, plenty of people pitched in to make sure this project reached fruition. That includes Scott Mulvahill on bass, Brian Griffin on drums and Eric Slick on drums and mellotron. Amy Ray and Emily Sailers of Indigo Girls added harmonies and guitar on a few tracks. Longtime Roches compadre Stewart Lerman handled post-production, editing and final touches. Suzzy played acoustic, electric and Teo Octave 12-string guitar, Lucy played acoustic guitars. Although it sounds as they their vocals were recorded together, due to the lockdown they each recorded vocals separately, at home. Producer Jordan Hamlin is the record’s MVP, tackling piano, drums, percussion programming, acoustic and electric guitars, plus bass, French horn, trumpet, banjo, cello, Mellotron, hammer dulcimer and accordion (phew). As usual, Roche music simply defies categorization. I Can Still Hear You finds Lucy providing ballast for Suzzy’s flights of fancy. Quirky, wry and reflective, it honors the trio’s legacy, while forging a new path.

October 29 to November 4, 2020

PET PLACE

ow has a dog’s presence in your life changed you forever? How did an amazing rescue dog named Astro change the life of Stefano Filippelli and his family in ways they could never anticipate? Hundreds of animal lovers following Astro’s story on Facebook collectively grieved when he left this world on October 21, 2020. The tributes poured in from those owning dogs Astro helped train. Tributes poured in from people who never met Astro, reporting how they learned and grew through following his journey. In September 2020, this 10 year old pit bull was diagnosed with Masticatory Muscle Myositis. He passed away from complications related to a twisted stomach after a valiant fight and supported by the best of veterinary care. His human left work to be with Astro on what turned out to be his last day on earth, by his side holding the animal

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ASTRO’S LEGACY, TRANSFORMING HIS FAMILY FOREVER! Astro showed aggression toward other dogs outside the home. One day when he escaped from the house, Stefano’s wife Michelle insisted unless the dog could change, Astro had to go. For Stefano, used to challenges as a firefighter with the Los Angeles City Fire Department, the ultimatum left only one option. Astro was his “go to” dog, his soul mate, and best buddy. Stefano recalls, “I was determined to fix him. My wife and my son Nikko loved Astro. Astro and I began training at Caesar Milan’s center with Jennifer Gray. I spent untold hours working with him and experiencing his transformation back to the dog he was meant to be. Soon I realized Astro could do even more, becoming an instrument to help train other dogs. I also learned how loving and helping a dog transform can change the trajectory of one’s life.” Knowing there was a lack of help for dogs with these behavior issues, Stefano became

who was his soul mate and inspiration. Stefano Filippelli had no thought of adopting another pet when he took his family to the holiday pumpkin patch on October 21, 2012. Fur and Feathers Animal Sanctuary was holding a dog adoption event. Stefano reports he felt an immediate bond upon spotting a handsome blue nose pit bull at the event. He recalls, “The deal was cinched when his blazing yellow eyes were locked with mine. Astro joyfully traveled home, and he was a happy addition to our home enjoying his two new sibling dogs.” (Strangely October 21 was Astro’s adoption day and the day he left his earthly family). One day two months later, a violent encounter changed the harmony in the home. Stefano’s buddy brought his dog over to their house, and the visiting dog attacked Astro who had to defend himself. Thereafter,

MEET BRUTUS

SWEET SKITTLES

This handsome blue nose Pit Bull Terrier waits for your phone call at the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley in N. Palm Springs, www.orphanpet.com. This 6 year old fellow is 70 lbs of gentle doggie love. You must call to make an appointment to meet and adopt Brutus at (760) 329-0203.

Look at this adorable face! Super sweet 6-yr-old Skittles dreams of getting a forever home. Call the Humane Society of the Coachella Valley in N. Palm Springs at (760) 329-0203 for an appointment to meet this girl. Check out their website at www.orphanpet.com.

BY JANET McAFEE a professional dog trainer. To accommodate their goal, the Filippeli family moved from their suburban Valencia home to a ranch in rural Acton. “We are learning to live on a farm, adding other animal species including cows and chickens, and building dog kennels. Astro and I launched K9 INTUITION, a training center to work with all types of canine issues as well as train their owners to be better with them. I specialize in aggression cases, taking on dogs other trainers gave up on, but if I can’t fix them I’ll say so. Astro was part of training the clients, and during my classes he would look so proud of the other dogs.” You can LIKE “K9 Intuition” on Facebook for great information and videos. Stefano may retire from the fire department sooner than planned in order to expand his training program. His program will include boarding and more classes.

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Every year in October, Stefano brought Astro back to the pumpkin patch where this handsome ambassador greeted visitors with a wide smile and wagging tail, breaking stereotypes about his breed. (Pit Bulls are the largest breed in public shelters, and millions are euthanized every year). National Pit Bull Awareness Day was this week, October 26, and we remember Astro and what can be possible for every dog and in turn, for each of us humans. Have an open heart and a receptive mind like a dog. Watch your dog closely, accept the lessons they have for you, and travel down the journey they take you on. Stefano explains, “Astro was my soulmate, teaching me how to live in the moment and how to quiet myself. He taught me that if we get stuck in our mistakes and live in the past, we cannot move forward. He helped me understand the true nature of dogs, he knew what I wanted and he did it. Everyone we met fell in love with him.” OCT 21, 2020, NANCY B. SAYLE, FACEBOOK POST Today we lost our Astro the Wonder Dog. We here at the Fur and Feathers Sanctuary are truly gutted…..Their trip to the pumpkin patch changed their lives forever. Astro turned into a highly reactive dog who challenged and created the Stefano we know today. Because of Astro’s antics and ways of testing every boundary Stefano ever had, he turned him from a dad and firefighter into one amazing dog trainer. Without Astro, there would be no K9 Intuition. Without K9 Intuition, there would be a lot of dogs who never received the help they needed. Oct 21, 2020, STEFANO FILIPPELI, FACEBOOK POST Eight years ago today you walked into my life, and with that my soul. You became my greatest teacher throughout our years together, inspiring me to help rehabilitate other dogs just like you……You went from the dog who wanted to kill every dog you saw to enjoying and helping other dogs in need. Your mere existence changed the lives of thousands of dogs and will change the lives of thousands more. You were more than my soulmate, you were my twin, showing me the good and bad within me and helping me move through them. Today, 8 years later, your work was finally completed and you left

me to walk this road alone. I need you to know I am forever you and you are forever me. I can’t breathe without you right now, but I can still see you running through our home. My heart breaks today, and with it my soul. I thank you for all that you were. My friend, my dog, my teacher, and most of all my twin. I loved you from the moment I met you in the pumpkin patch, and I will always love you until the day I too cross the rainbow ridge. Goodbye my boy. Be good and run free. Janetmcafee8@gmail.com -----------------------------Below is a partial list of shelters and rescues in the Inland Empire with animals for adoption. They are currently closed for walkins, and you must call for an appointment. You can view most of their animals online before calling. Thank you for rescuing! COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS – The county shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. You can view the animals at all four Riverside county shelters at www.rcdas.org, and get the ID number of the animal you want to adopt. Email them the animal’s ID number at shelterinfo@rivco.org, or schedule a virtual adoption appointment at www.rcdas. org, 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms, (760) 343-3644. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. They schedule appointments Wednesday through Monday. View their animals online at www. psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) ANIMAL SAMARITANS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at www. animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 601-3918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at www. californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-8833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt a dog or cat.

This shelter has lots of big dogs in addition to small dogs and cats. View some of their animals at www.orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203. (Private) KITTYLAND – The shelter is closed so call for an appointment to adopt a cat. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs, www.kittylandrescue.org, (760) 2512700. (Private) FOREVER MEOW – Foster based rescue for cats located in Rancho Mirage. Contact them at www.ForeverMeow.org, (760) 3356767. (Private) PRETTY GOOD CAT – Foster based rescue for cats located in La Quinta. Contact them at www.prettygoodcat.com, (760) 660-3414 (Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS – The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, www.lovingallanimals.org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) MORONGO BASIN HUMANE SOCIETY – Located at 4646 Sun View Rd, Joshua

October 29 to November 4, 2020 Tree, www.mbhumanesociety.com, call between 11am-4pm for updates (760) 3663786 (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER – Shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Hours for adoption 10am – 4pm Tuesday thru Sat. Google “City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter” for website to view animals and get the ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 3847272. (Public) SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT DEVORE – Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Call (909) 386-9280 daily. View animals at www. sbcounty.gov/acc and get the ID number of animal you want to meet. Located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (Public). DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/San Bernardino area. Contact them through website www.DreamTeamangelsrescue. com, (360) 688-8884. (Private)

COMMUNITY

THE PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION CENTER HOSTING FREE COVID TESTING NOVEMBER 3 - 4, 2020

ree COVID testing will be available at the Palm Springs Convention Center November 3 - 4 through the Riverside University Health System. Testing is free. If you are insured, insurance information will be collected and your insurance company will be billed. You will not be responsible for any co-pay or other charges. For information about the test please call 800-945-6171 or visit www.rivcoph.org/coronavirus. Testing is encouraged for those that do not have

symptoms, not just those with symptoms. Palm Springs Convention Center 277 N. Avenida Caballeros Free Parking – Lot is located off of N. Avenida Caballeros Dates & Times: Tuesday, November 3, 8 am – 3 pm Wednesday, November 4, 8 am – 3 pm By appointment only. No walk–ins accepted: http://bit.ly/PSConvCen113-420

October 29 to November 4, 2020

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SCREENERS

ith Halloween upon us this weekend, what better way to enjoy the spooky holiday than with a great selection of movies, courtesy of Digital Entertainment Guide’s DEG's “Watched at Home Top 20” list. Debuting on this week's chart is the Friday the 13th Collection (12-Film) at No. 1, along with Hocus Pocus at no. 4, Beetlejuice at no. 13 and The Nightmare Before Christmas at no. 20. Home theater fans interest in collections is also rising with the holiday shopping and a lingering lack of new releases. Below is the full list for the current ‘Watched at Home Top 20’ titles: 1. The Friday the 13th Collection (Paramount, 12-film) 2. Harry Potter: Complete 8-Film Collection (Warner) 3. Ava (Vertical Entertainment, 2020) 4. Hocus Pocus (Disney) 5. The Office: The Complete Series 1-9 (Universal) 6. Yellowstone: S3 (Paramount) 7. Yellowstone: S1 (Paramount) 8. Yellowstone: S2 (Paramount) 9. Middle Earth 6-Film Collection: Theatrical (Warner) 10. Trolls World Tour (Universal) 11. Friends: The Complete Series 1-10 (Universal) 12. The Secret: Dare to Dream (Lionsgate) 13. Beetlejuice (Warner) 14. Batman: Death in the Family (Warner) 15. Game of Thrones: The Complete Series 1-8 (Warner) 16. The Phenomenon (1091) 17. Star Trek: Picard: S1 (Paramount) 18. Alone (Magnolia Pictures, 2020) 19. The Tax Collector (RLJ Entertainment) 20. The Nightmare Before Christmas (Disney) NEW FOR THE HOME THEATER: TRAIN TO BUSAN Writer-director Sang ho Yeon’s terrific scary-funny and very smart Korean zombie flick is my top Halloween horror pick. You won’t be disappointed riding along with a man (Gong Yoo), his estranged daughter and other passengers when they become

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No. 445

October 29 to November 4, 2020

SPOOKY TALES BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS same time that the world's Grand High Witch is meeting her fellow cronies from around the globe -- under cover -- to carry out her nefarious plans. Anne Hathaway's literally bewitching performance makes this one worth the time. HBO Max

trapped in a speeding bullet train during a zombie outbreak in South Korea. This intense action and emotion packed movie is unquestionably among the best of the zombie genre. WELL GO USA. Blu-ray FATIMA Inspired by real-life (?) events in 1917, outside the parish of Fatima, Portugal, a 10year old girl and her two younger cousins witness multiple “visitations” of the Virgin Mary, who tells them that only prayer and suffering will bring an end to WWI. Word spreads across the country, inspiring religious pilgrims to flock to the site in hopes of witnessing a miracle. Written and directed by Marco Pontecorvo (“Game of Thrones”) the film has been hailed by some critics as a beautiful and uplifting story about the power of faith. The film stars Harvey Keitel and Sonia Braga and features an all-new original song performed by Andrea Bocelli. DVD. Universal.

finds herself confronting the shadow – or ghost -- of his first wife, Rebecca, whose presence lives on in the house long after her death. Netflix ROALD DAHL’S WITCHES Set in1967, a young orphan boy goes to live with his sweet grandmother in rural Demopolis, Alabama. When the boy and his grandmother encounter some glamorous but devilish witches, granny whisks him away to a seaside resort. As luck would have it, they arrive at the

BORAT SUBSEQUENT MOVIEFILM Borat Subsequent Moviefilm brings back Sacha Baron Cohen's blissfully and shockingly ignorant third world reporter who naively (?) exposes the ugliest pockets of American culture in a weirdly relevant and intermittently funny farce that’s difficult to turn away from. Amazon Prime THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7 Timely in so many ways, writer/director Aaron Sorkin’s powerful recreation of the1969 trail of seven people charged by the federal government with conspiracy and more, arising from their antiwar protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Netflix robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

COOL STREAMS TO CONSIDER: REBECCA Ben Wheatley's great looking remake (Hitchcock did it first in 1940) of Daphne du Maurier’s popular novel is eye candy to be sure. Although perfectly cast, it slightly mutes the dark source material, but otherwise delivers a satisfying romantic suspense movie. A young newlywed (Lily James) arrives at Manderlay, her husband's (Armie Hammer) imposing family estate on a windswept English coast (Is there any other kind?) and

October 29 to November 4, 2020

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THEPAMPEREDPALATE

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

PERSIMMON BISTRO & WINE BAR PERFECTS THE ART OF AL FRESCO DINING

ucked away in a private outdoor patio adjacent to the Palm Springs Art Museum, Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar exudes culinary authenticity merged with a modern Mediterranean flare. After being closed for seven month due to the coronavirus pandemic, the establishment is now reopened for business with atmospheric outdoor dining. This lunch restaurant is run by Art Vasquez, who has been at the helm of the restaurant since May of 2019. It had been a slow season at the start of his run and just as he was beginning to familiarize himself with his customer base, spring of 2020 had marked the beginning of COVID-related shutdowns. Persimmon Bistro had been at the same location previously since fall of 2017 before Vasquez became owner two years later. He had incorporated a Wine Bar and strives to make his eatery a true destination for connoisseurs of flavorful cuisine, and prioritizes building a relationship with his customers. “I have been in the desert for 19 years. I moved here November just after 9/11, and I spent 17 years operating Babe’s Bar-BQue and Brewhouse (in Rancho Mirage), so I’ve made a lot of friends and connections. I really value the friendships I have with the community, and how the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce has embraced the restaurant,” said Vasquez. Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar had the second largest ribbon cutting ceremony ever in Palm Springs, with over 220 people in attendance. Although it had a warm reception and eager welcoming, like many businesses during this time, Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar has had to adapt to the new regulations in the pandemic climate. The restaurant has expanded its outdoor seating capacity from eight tables on the patio before the pandemic to the 15 that are now rearranged there. Vasquez also postponed the reopening so

Photos by Kurt Schawacker

that it would be more enjoyable to sit outside and eat in the fall weather as opposed to the triple-degree summer heat. The lasting appeal of Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar is attributed to the harmonious menu with complementary textures and flavors. The newly added outdoor pizza oven provides a portal to zesty ingredients and the opportunity to expand the restaurant’s menu selections of artisan wood fire pies. Another main staple of the menu are the customizable charcuterie and cheese boards, consisting of artisan meats, cheeses, and a plethora of appetizing selections like housemade tapenade and hummus, flights of olives, fig jam, and mixed nuts and dried fruit. To compliment your entrée choices, Persimmon Bistro is home to an extensive Wine Bar that will not only enrich your taste palate, but also accentuate the natural flavors of the ingredients in your meal. The variety of drink options consists of lush red wines, white wine from Temecula to Italy, California Craft and Belgian beer, hard cider and kombucha, rosé, as well as sparkling and Prosecco options. “I’m not going to put food in front of someone that I wouldn’t eat myself. My whole menu consists of things I would eat. I really want people to discover this place. Even if not for the food, I want them to come back and enjoy the back patio with a glass of wine. Even though I’ve been cooking since the mid-80s, I don’t like to pigeonhole myself as a chef. I would rather people think of me as a mover and shaker in the hospitality industry because I am somebody that wants to give you the whole package. I want people to enjoy the whole experience, not just the food,” explained Vasquez. To make reservations at Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar, email persimmonpsmuseum@ gmail.com or visit the restaurant’s website at www.persimmonbistro.com.

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SI BON BELGIAN RESTAURANT IN RANCHO MIRAGE, CA

ocated in the Albertson’s Country Club Village, Si Bon has withstood the rotating COVID closures that have plagued the Coachella Valley restaurant scene. The chef/owners Edith and Philippe Caupain have expanded their outdoor seating options to accommodate diners to nearly pre-COVID capacity. During our unusually warm summer, they retrofitted their existing cooling system to feed directly out to their covered patio area to maintain a pleasant 70 to 80-degree temperature. Misting systems alone cannot handle 115 degrees. The Belgian-influenced menu will satisfy carnivores and vegans alike. Belgian restaurants are judged by their waffles, crepes, fries, and mussel dishes (moule frites). Si Bon excels at these and the many items on their ambitious menu. My favorites are on the breakfast and

brunch menus. Their array of eggs benedict recipes, many served on crispy waffles, are all worth trying. Omelets, savory and sweet crepes and waffles, all served with fresh fruit on crispy, cubed potatoes are highly recommended. The hollandaise sauce is exceptional. Order a dark, rich cup of Lavazza coffee. The soups are freshly made and include cold soups such as cucumber cream and vichyssoise. Salads are vibrant and crispy

PALM SPRINGS PARKS & RECREATION HOSTS COVID-FRIENDLY HALLOWEEN EVENTS FOR LOCAL CHILDREN

BY DANIEL PARIS

available. $5 per vehicle. To RSVP, call (760) 323-8272. • Haunted Halloween Drive-Thru “Trunk or Treat,” Friday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center, 480 Tramview Road. Music, games and treats. Wear your costume! First come, first served. This event is FREE. Face coverings are required at all events. For more information, email recinfo@palmspringsca.gov or visit www. palmspringsca.gov.

THEPAMPEREDPALATE

with the Salad Niçoise my favorite. The all-day menu includes many seafood dishes, steak, and European dishes such as schnitzel, stroganoff, filet mignon au Poivre, and comfort food favorites like meat loaf, fried chicken, and beer-braised short ribs. The chef/owners oversee every aspect of service to guarantee your dish will be beautifully garnished and at the correct temperature. The selection of cocktails,

wines, and Belgian beers is extensive and well presented. Service is timely and precise. Special requests are welcomed. Make sure you get some mayonnaise with those fries for the authentic Belgian experience. Si Bon lives up to its name. Si Bon 40101 Monterey Avenue, Suite E5 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Open 7 days a week 8a.m. – 9p.m.

EVENTS EL PASEO JEWELERS PRESENTS THE 12TH ANNUAL RICK ESPINOZA AWARD

he City of Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Department will host two ghoulishly fun and socially distanced COVID-friendly Halloween events for local children to enjoy on Thursday, Oct. 29 and on Friday, Oct. 30. The list of events include: • Halloween Drive-Boo Through “Haunted Bus,” Thursday, Oct. 29, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Palm Springs Leisure Center, 401 S. Pavilion Way. Music, games and treats. Wear your costume! Limited space is

October 29 to November 4, 2020

l Paseo Jewelers is proud to present the 12th Annual Rick Espinoza Award to a deserving officer from the Riverside Sheriff's Department, on November 6, 2020. Each year, the Mehta family, owners of the fine jewelry story located on El Paseo for the past 27 years, honors an officer who has gone above and beyond in the line of duty for their dedication, service, and contribution to reducing crime. In light of the pandemic, this year's ceremony will be held privately at El Paseo Jewelers. The Annual Rick Espinoza Award was named for Sergeant Rick Espinoza after he was shot while pursuing a drug dealer in Desert Hot Springs in 2008. Sergeant Espinoza was one of the police officers that responded to the robbery that occurred at El Paseo Jewelers in 2006. "Sergeant Espinoza always checked in on us, even after he was reassigned,” remembers owner Raju Mehta, “he was family.” The news of Sergeant Espinoza being shot came as a shock to El Paseo Jewelers, but what floored them was Sergeant Espinoza’s

willingness to return to service. Seeing this kind of dedication, El Paseo Jewelers started the award in Sergeant Espinoza’s honor in order to recognize the exemplary work that he and the Palm Desert/Riverside County Sheriff's Department does for the Coachella Valley and the community. The 2020 Annual Rick Espinoza Award honoree is Corporal Ruben Perez. Corporal Perez sustained multiple stab wounds to the neck and head when responding to a routine trespassing disturbance. The trespasser attacked Corporal Perez almost immediately upon his arrival. He was able to subdue his assailant, and was rushed to Desert Regional Medical, where he recovered from his injuries and significant blood loss. El Paseo Jewelers is looking forward to presenting Corporal Perez with the Rick Espinoza Award on November 6th in front of his family, peers, and the community he fearlessly serves. For more information, please contact Raju Mehta, El Paseo Jewelers at 760-773-1040.

October 29 to November 4, 2020

THE VINO VOICE

or so many, it’s already been one of the most scariest of years. This column through the past has done its damage with Halloween themed wine articles—some droll, some a little funny, some horrific! But this year we thought we’d approach the scariest elephant in the room—Stella Rosa. It’s a wine brand that sells as much as any other popular California wine—close to two million cases a year; the wine company is not based in Napa nor Sonoma, but in the shadow of Dodger Stadium in Lincoln Heights; it’s the No. 1 imported Italian wine brand in the U.S; and it’s a sweet fruity wine to boot! “Serious” wine folk glance at the assortment of the Italianesque designed bottles on the wine shelves while shopping—then grimace, huff & puff. One hears jokes all the time from the vino cognoscenti, aka, wine snobs: as in, “Hey, what kind of wine are you opening up?” “A Stella Rosa.” “That’s not a wine!” A popular wine critic wrote: “So how, you ask, does it taste? The Stella Rosa wines resemble wine, they’re reminiscent of wine, but no one who drinks wine regularly would mistake it for wine. To my palate they have at least as much in common with soft drinks—7Up or Dr. Pepper comes to mind.” Enter now, “the millennials, women, as well as Hispanic and Asian buyers.” These are the words of Anthony Riboli, head of sales for Stella Rosa. Los Angeles’ historic and famous San Antonio Winery, founded in the early 1900s, is the company that owns the Stella Rosa brand. Riboli continues, “at our famous tasting room at the winery, we see these particular wine

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STELLA ROSA BLACK!

lovers are just like the melting pot that is Los Angeles.” For more than a century, through four generations, the Riboli family has been making, importing and selling wine. Even through Prohibition, when they landed a contract to make sacramental wine for Roman Catholic masses, they’ve made wine — all kinds of wine, from jug wines to appellation wines; much of the latter now comes from estate vineyards on the Central Coast. I’ve personally known about this family; I was born in L.A., right down the street from that winery. My cousin Francesca worked at their tasting room in the late 70s. My friend Don Galleano, owner of the historic Galleano

Winery, grew up knowing all the wine-making Italian families in the area which include the Guasti, and Filippi, and De Philo. And I was fortunate to meet all these families back in the day. Indeed, about four years ago, Patriarch Santo Riboli was in our valley and I took him to meet Ralph Innuzzi and Jack Dixon, owners of the Wine Vault in Palm Desert. You wine collectors know this place. I’ve written on them often—it’s the place we all keep our wine properly chilled and stored in the desert heat. Anyway—almost twenty years ago, as the story goes, that the Riboli family had so many requests for the “Italian wine” that was sweet and fizzy, and could they get that in to their tasting room. The Ribolis had import partners in Piedmonte who were already making versions of such wines, like Brachetto d’Acqui, a light, fizzy red wine with sharp, bright aromatics. So, they ordered some prototypical blends and from those initial samples, Stella Rosa red was born. You see the wine brand all over the place and now there are 22 flavors to try. Stella Rosa wines are 5.5% alcohol by volume, that’s than half of the average bottle of wine. The arrested fermentation leaves plenty of residual sugar, and the wine is lightly frizzante—light bubbly, which gives it a really easy mouthfeel. And again, for you Italian wine lovers— as myself, you’ve got to give it to the Stella Rosa folks; the half-sweet, half bubbly is still produced in Piedmonte region of Italy. And at best, some of the Stella Rosa brands, especially the Rosso, do taste like a popular Lambrusco. Easy drinking for sure and a favorite for the

BY RICK RIOZZA

new wine enthusiast. One can tell the company especially targets the Hispanic community. Check out the back label which is written in English and translated into Spanish—not Italian. The original Stella Rosa was Moscato d’Asti, followed by the Stella Rosa Rosso red, but over the years, the Riboli family has put together a rainbow of Stella Rosa wines — with a variety of styles (the classic Moscato, Rosso, Rosé & the luxury Platinum variety) and flavors—Pineapple, Peach, Red Apple, Green Apple, Ruby Rosé Grapefruit, Watermelon, Blueberry, Orange, Tropical Mango. There’s even a Brachetto d’Acqui from its full-sparkling “Imperiale” lineup. Stay tuned, certainly, for new colorful flavors. Stella Rosa Black is our 2020 Halloween wine pick. The big 1.5 liter bottle ($22) is in limited release that features your usual “Day of the Dead” images of either a decorated skull or something along those lines. I think I’ll buy that bottle just for the kitch of it. The Black is a red wine made primarily from the Italian Brachetto grape, as well as other varietals. Fermentation at various intervals throughout the year allows the Stella Rosa Black wine to maintain its freshness and delicateness. The reviews keep coming: “in a good way— it’s like a blackberry Italian soda”. Allora! Will you “Stellabrate” for Halloween! A sweet Cheers to you!

THEPAMPEREDPALATE

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October 29 to November 4, 2020

THANKSGIVING DINING AT LULU CALIFORNIA BISTRO

JOIN US FOR THANKSGIVING DINNER WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS OR ORDER LULU’S THANKSGIVING DINNER TO GO

et the holiday season begin with family and friends by dining at Lulu California Bistro on Thanksgiving Day and enjoying a delicious four-course feast on Lulu’s heated covered patio or in the festive Bistro Garden! Thanksgiving dinner at Lulu is a holiday tradition with a four-course feast that includes your choice of 3 delicious soups, 3 beautiful salads, and 10 delectable entrées ranging from traditional oven roasted turkey and holiday ham, fresh Atlantic salmon, prime rib, filet mignon, gluten free and vegetarian options and more. The dessert course offers 6 sumptuous choices that include classic pumpkin and apple pies or Lulu’s own bread pudding. There’s always a party at Lulu in downtown Palm Springs and especially for a fun and festive Thanksgiving!

Lulu has room for everyone on Thanksgiving with decorated tables on the heated, covered patio or in the festive streetside Bistro garden and tables can be arranged for larger families. Please reserve early this year as seating is limited. Thanksgiving dinner at Lulu is served from 11 am - 8 pm. Reservations are strongly suggested and can be made at Lulu by calling 760-327-5858, or booking through our website at lulupalmsprings.com. Thanksgiving dinner is $49.99 for adults, and $24.99 for children under 12. Are you planning a family dinner at home this year? Lulu’s Thanksgiving feast can be packaged for intimate dinners or family gatherings. Ordering is easy online at lulupalmsprings.com or call us at 760-3275858.

October 29 to November 4, 2020

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

HADDON LIBBY

ssuming that the polls are correct, and President Trump loses the election to former Vice President Joe Biden, Twitter will lose one of its greatest producers of content and views. Most talked about tweeters. An unedited source of information from the thumbs of our President will be no more. Let’s take a moment and pay a homage to a few of the 50,0000+ tweets that our Tweeter-In-Chief, Donald Trump’s has shared with us over the years: 3:22am March 13, 2020: For decades the @CDCgov looked at, and studied, its testing system, but did nothing about it. It would always be inadequate and slow for a large scale pandemic, but a pandemic would never happen, they hoped. President Obama made changes that only complicated things further. Their response to H1N1 Swine Flu was a full scale disaster, with thousands dying, and nothing meaningful done to fix the testing

ALL HAIL, OUR TWEETER-IN-CHIEF

problem, until now. The changes have been made and testing will soon happen on a very large scale basis. All Red Tape has been cut, ready to go. (Comment: The Coachella Valley has only one testing site as of October 26th.) 4:08 am October 5, 2020: “PROTECT PREEXISTING CONDITIONS. VOTE!” (Comment: Unless Trump is canvassing for Biden, this tweet makes no sense as the President has yet to share his alternative to Obamacare as proven by Leslie Stahl of “60 Minutes.”) 4:27AM January 6, 2018: …Actually, throughout my life, my two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart. Crooked Hillary Clinton also played these cards very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star… 2:40PM November 24, 2017: Time

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

BY HADDON LIBBY detractors. 11:43AM October 14, 2012: I have never seen a thin person drinking Diet Coke. 11:15AM November 6, 2012: The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive. 12:09PM August 21, 2013: The hatchet job in @NYMag about Roger Ailes is total bullshit. He is the ultimate winner who is surrounded by a great team. 5:19PM September 9, 2014: Windmills are the greatest threat in the US to both bald and golden eagles. Media claims fictional ‘global warming’ is worse. 5:12P September 11, 2013: I would like to extend my best wishes to all, even the haters and losers, on this special date, September 11th. 8:53PM May 7, 2014: The global warming we should be worried about is the global warming caused by NUCLEAR WEAPONS in the hands of crazy or incompetent leaders! Given that many of the best tweets happened in the middle of the night for most people, we can assume that “Sleepy Joe” will not keep us informed like our current President. Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. He can be reached at Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com or www. WinslowDrake.com.

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

HALLOWEEN 2020 – BE AWARE!

o you think Halloween is just about kids and is synonymous with Candy? Did you realize other things happen on All Hallows Eve? Sure we all grew up trick or treating and bringing back bags of candy, but that is not all that happens on Halloween. Danger lurks and it is not just COVID. I remember as a kid mapping out the route so that we could go around the blocks in an organized fashion, and unload our bags as we passed our home. I would drop off a bag, empty it and hit the next set of blocks. Growing up in Toluca Lake we would always arrange to hit Bob Hope's home first and then again at the end of the evening. It was safer than most areas in those days. Bob Hope's butler initially came to the door with a sterling silver tray of Silver Dollars. Later, Chocolate Eclairs were on the tray when silver dollars went out of circulation. It was the one "treat" that never made it into the bag. It disappeared before we got to the sidewalk. But times have changed. Today, would you let your kids eat treats that were unwrapped? Of course not!

Magazine called to say that I was PROBABLY going to be named “Man (Person) of the Year,” like last year, but I would have to agree to an interview and a major phone shoot. I said probably is no good and took a pass. Thanks anyway! 4:48PM November 11, 2017 – from Vietnam: Why would Kim Jong-un insult me by calling me “old,” when I would NEVER call him “short and fat?” Oh well, I try so hard to be his friend – and maybe someday that will happen! 3:31AM September 1, 2016: Mexico will pay for the wall. 11:57AM May 5, 2016: Happy #CincoDeMayo! The best taco bowls are made in the Trump Tower Grill. I love Hispanics! Whether President, a presidential contender or a private citizen, Trump has used Twitter to the pleasure of his millions of followers and disgust and distain of his

And what about COVID 19? The one thing that has not changed is that people normally use the evening as an "excuse to party and drink", but so much this year. I remember families inviting us inside to check out our costumes... while they threw back a few brewski's. At some point these guests left to go home... and were drunk. They were an accident and or DUI "waiting to happen". With all the kids running/darting into the streets, it is more likely to be a very serious accident. Our society is more aware today, and we often take Uber or Lyft. However, here in the greater Palm Springs community, we have more DUI fatalities than anywhere else in California...Per Capita! So, if you are driving home after drinking, and hit a kid, two things take place. You will have to hire a lawyer, if arrested for a DUI with Great Bodily Injury, or when the victim sues you for damages for the death of their child. If the kid dies you will be charged with Murder 2 or Felony Manslaughter. In both instances you ask the question, "who do I hire to help me that will be both competent and honest... and who has the

experience to do a good job for me." For years I had a talk show entitled "Accidentally Yours" that answered that question. On each show I would suggest that "people don't plan to fail, they fail to plan". The last things you want is to have to make a major decision like that, under pressure. Thus I tell the readers of this weekly legal column...Plan Now! Decide now who you would call if you or a friend were arrested for a DUI or if you or a loved one was in an accident. We all keep the names and number of vendors to assist us in case of an emergency...a plumber, an electrician etc. Why not add to that list the lawyer you would call so you can make an intelligent decision now, and not when you're pressured! In both instances the best thing you can do is to Keep Silent. Silence is Golden and Handcuffs are Silver when it comes to interrogation on a DUI or Accident case. You want to talk to your lawyer first and to stay OFF of Facebook and SOCIAL MEDIA. Social media has made it very easy for police investigators and insurance adjusters to learn about YOU. It is not always what you say...but rather what the police or insurance

adjuster THOUGHT s/he heard you say. If you have been in an accident and tell the doctor you hurt everywhere and can't do anything, then you certainly do not want the wrong person to see you talking about playing golf or tennis. Likewise you do not want the wrong person to read your comments about the accident or your impaired driving. So the Moral of the story is... DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE, CALL A TAXI OR UBER......... IT IS A LOT CHEAPER THAN HAVING AN ACCIDENT OR DUI AND CALLING ME......... SO DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER DURING HALLOWEEN. For ideas for future articles contact me at 760-837-7500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com. DALE GRIBOW - LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED AND CRIMINALLY ACCUSED "TOP LAWYER" - California's Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 201120 "TOP LAWYER" - Inland Empire Magazine 2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating

SWAG FOR THESOUL

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY AIMEE MOSCO

CREATING NEW EXIT ROADS

any times, releasing the energy of destructive thoughts and emotions does not feel like a choice, but at the highest level of your existence, it always is. If you struggle to pull yourself out of a loop that brings you back to old destinations within your mind and heart, it may be helpful to look at the pathways you use to release the energy that is stuck. In other words, you may benefit from building new exit roads. Imagine you get stuck in a traffic jam on the freeway. Your options are limited. You can either stay stuck until the obstruction clears or you can get off at the next exit and take another route. When you are dealing with moving the energy of thoughts and emotions, your range of options is limited only by your creativity. You never have to stay stuck with them and you have many routes you can choose to take to move forward. For example, if you are the type of person who believes you can only move past an argument by speaking your mind and getting your feelings out on the table, but find that this option is not available to you without setting unfavorable consequences in motion, it may be helpful for you to try another way to release energy. You can, of course, choose to stay stuck with it, but it will likely call for your attention at some point down the road, and when it does, there is a good chance it will have turned into an angry beast! A creative outlet for that energy may be a meeting with your adversary in the ethers. You can say everything you need to say to release the energy without dire worldly consequences, particularly if you are mindful about the exchange. While it may sound silly to have an imaginary conversation, it is important to understand that you are still releasing energy, if you approach the event with intent.

It is important to keep in mind as you are using this creative exit route; thoughts become things. If you are throwing thought daggers at your adversary, make sure to visualize an energetic perimeter around your meeting spot. Have the intent to keep the energy of the thoughts as they leave your mind in the contained space. When you are finished releasing, invite your most trusted guides and angels to neutralize what is contained in the space with pure energies of love. You will likely feel better and be ready to move forward without having contributed the energy of chaos and anger to the shared collective atmosphere. In my pursuit to help human beings exercise creativity in a mindful way, I invite you to join Facebook group Evolve through Love hosted by Elizabeth Scarcella and me. Go to facebook.com/groups/ evolvethroughlove and share with us your joy. Aimee Mosco is an Author, Intuitive Channel, Spiritual Teacher and Co-Founder of Intentional Healing Systems, LLC. Aimee’s desire to help others inspired her book “Gratitude + Forgiveness x (LOVE) = Happiness”. Aimee is one of the founding members of World Game Changers and she serves on the Board of Directors of this charitable CIC based in the UK. Find Aimee at www.ihsunity.com.

October 29 to November 4, 2020

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

WEEK OF OCTOBER 29

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Reed Galen is an American political consultant who has worked long and hard for conservative causes. But in next week’s election, he opposes conservative Donald Trump, whom he regards as an authoritarian tyrant. He writes, “Democracy is on the ballot. It’s a binary choice between good/bad, honorable/ dishonorable, healthy/sick, forward/backward. There has been nothing like this in our lifetimes.” If you’ve read my words for a while, you know I’m a connoisseur of ambiguity and uncertainty. I try to see all sides of every story. But now I’m departing from my tradition: I agree with Reed Galen’s assessment. The American electorate really does face a binary choice between good and bad. I also suspect, Aries, that you may be dealing with a binary choice in your personal life. Don’t underestimate how important it is that you side with the forces of good. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus politician Dan Coats has belonged to the conservative Republican Party all his adult life. He served in the US Congress for 24 years, and later as President Donald Trump’s Director of National Intelligence. Since leaving that office, Coats has criticized his ex-boss. He has said, “Trump doesn’t know the difference between the truth and a lie.” In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to be fiercely non-Trump-like in the coming weeks. It’s crucial to the welfare of you and yours that you tell the whole truth. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Many stories that were popular long ago are still studied today. One example is the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, originally told during the first century BC. Another is Homer’s epic tale the Odyssey, which harkens back to the sixth century BC. I have no problem with learning from old tales like these. It’s important to know how people of previous eras experienced life. But for you in the coming months, I think it will be crucial to find and tell new stories— tales that illuminate the unique circumstances that you are living through right now. CANCER (June 21-July 22): I’m surprised when I hear that fans of Donald Trump enjoy my horoscopes. My political views, which are deeply aligned with my spiritual philosophy, have always been very progressive. And I’ve never hidden that fact. How can someone who appreciates my ideas also like Trump, a vile bully who has unleashed enormous cruelty and chaos? If you yourself are a Trump fan, I understand that after reading the preceding words, you may never read my words again. But I need to follow my own astrological advice for us Cancerians, which is: Be bold and clear in expressing your devotion to the ideals you hold precious. For me that means supporting Joe Biden, an imperfect candidate who will nevertheless be a far more compassionate and intelligent and fairminded leader than Trump. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Dionysus was the ancient Greek god of drunkenness and ecstasy and madness. His followers were inclined to immerse themselves in those states. Yet as historian Robert Parker points out, Dionysus himself “was seldom drunk, seldom mad.” His relationship with his consort Ariadne was “dignified and restrained,” and “smiling tranquility” was his common mood. I recommend that in the coming weeks you act more like Dionysus than his followers—no matter how unruly the world around you may become. The rest of us need you to be a bastion of calmness and strength. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo military expert Jim Mattis enlisted in the US Marine Corps when he was 19 years old. Forty-three years later, having been a Marine all his adult life and a general for six years, he retired. Later, he served under President Donald Trump as the US Secretary of Defense. After leaving that position, Mattis testified that Trump was “dangerous” and “unfit,” adding that Trump “has no moral compass.” Be inspired by Mattis, Virgo. Do your part to resist the harmful and unethical actions of powerful people who affect you. Be extra strong and clear in standing up for integrity. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Feeling too much is

a hell of a lot better than feeling nothing,” declares Libran author Nora Roberts. I trust you will see the wisdom of that perspective in the coming weeks. On the downside, there might be some prickly, disorienting feelings arriving along with the rich flood of splendor. But I’m convinced that most of the surge will be interesting, invigorating, and restorative—although it may take a while for the full effects to ripen. And even the prickly, disorienting stuff may ultimately turn out to be unexpectedly nurturing for your soul. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio politician Joe Biden wasn’t my first choice for President of the United States. During the selection process, I championed his opponents Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders. But now I support Biden wholeheartedly. He has several policies I don’t agree with, but on the other hand I know it’s critical that we Americans ensure he replaces the appalling, corrupt, incompetent Trump. In the coming days, I advise you Scorpios to also consider the value of wise and pragmatic compromise in your own sphere. Don’t allow a longing for impossible perfection to derail your commitment to doing what’s right. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The United States has suffered terribly from COVID-19. Of all the world’s countries, it has had more cases and more deaths. Why? One major reason is President Donald Trump. He has consistently downplayed the seriousness of the disease, has advocated many unscientific cures, and has been lax and erratic in supporting the therapeutic measures that virtually all epidemiological experts have recommended. It’s no exaggeration to assert that Americans will reduce their coronavirus misery by electing Joe Biden as president. In this spirit, and in accordance with astrological omens, I invite you to meditate on how you could reduce any and all of your own personal suffering. The time is right. Be ingenious! Be proactive! CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “By my love and hope I beseech you,” pleaded philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. “Do not cast away the hero in your soul! Hold holy your highest hope!” That’s always good advice, but it’s extra crucial for you now. You will generate good fortune for yourself by being in close connection with the part of you that is bravest and wisest. The people whose lives you touch will have a special need for you to express the vitalizing power of intelligent hopefulness. More than maybe ever before, you will be inspired to cultivate your heroic qualities. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): I’ve been writing my horoscope column for a long time, and it has evolved dramatically. One aspect that hasn’t changed is that every four years, I’ve endorsed a candidate for the president of my home country, the United States. Another unchanging aspect is that I regularly reveal my progressive views about political matters. Some people who have only recently discovered my writing express dismay about this. “I don’t want politics with my horoscopes!” they complain. But the fact is, politics have permeated my horoscopes since the beginning. Now I urge you to do what I just did, Aquarius, but in your own sphere: If there are people who are not clear about who you really are, educate them. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “The worse the state of the world grows, the more intensely I try for inner perfection and power,” wrote Piscean author Anais Nin during World War II. “I fight for a small world of humanity and tenderness.” I encourage you to adopt that perspective for the rest of 2020. It’s an excellent time to respond boldly to the outer chaos by building up your inner beauty. I also suggest this addition to Nin’s formula: Call on your resourceful compassion to bolster the resilience of your closest allies. Homework: To read more of my views on the US election, go here: bit.ly/voteforlifeandlove ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

October 29 to November 4, 2020