I live here in Palm Springs. It's like living in Disneyland sometimes because of the tourists and snow birds. People stop in the middle of intersections to take pictures of the mountain or the sunsets regardless of traffic around them. Pedestrians just walk out in front of cars downtown because they're sure we'll all stop and they're sure they have the right of way. So, yeah, it's like Disneyland with the gawking and pointing and pictures (oh my).
Sadly, we have our issues too. I've been to this restaurant, albeit only once as a customer, a few decades ago. More recently (about ten years ago) a friend had her wedding reception there and I was part of the entertainment, meaning we weren't fed. Heck, getting water was an issue for a while, if that gives you any clues. So these headlines made me curious and I wondered how much the local media was hyping the word 'attack'?
See for yourself:
http://www.kesq.com/...
This was also published on YouTube, which is where I first saw it. https://www.youtube.com/...
I get that not everyone loves the PETA and I'm aware that they've been accused of some horrific stuff. I'm not a vegan or a vegetarian. I like meat. I know where it comes from and how it ends up on my plate. That said, foie gras is disgusting and that's the only reason these protesters were there. Until recently, California had a ban on it. I understand Le Vallauris began serving it again as soon as they could get their hands on it
This demonstration took place on private property ~ the parking area is private and clearly marked as such. I understand from the Direct Action Everywhere folks (DxE SoCal) that they are an 'in your face' organization. I get that those tactics are considered necessary sometimes. They were loud, but they were not violent.
The actions of the manager who attacks them with what looks like a length of closet dowel rod? I don't even have adequate words to describe how horrified I am. I've walked up on down this area dozens of times in my years here. Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen in my little neighbourhood.
11:13 PM PT: So, it's hard to mention the 'PETA' word without people assuming you're a part of it. Perhaps I should have been clearer. Perhaps I shouldn't have written this after a ten hour day spent drafting declarations either.
To be clear: I support some of their work like signing petitions to free elephants and tigers from roadside zoos. I've also written them nasty letters when they called me a murderer because I eat meat.
When did we all become so used to violence that the attacking manager seems to be the least of anyone's concerns?