(KESQ) - Local Catholics continued to remember and honor Pope Francis on Friday evening at a special mass held at Sacred Heart church in Palm Desert
Father Ian Hollick says it was important to bring the different parishes of the area together for the special mass because people need to have an outlet to mourn in times of sadness
just enjoy life.' But there's a time to weep and there's a time to dance and so this is definitely a time for us to gather together and be sad together."
The Pontiff passed away at the age of 88 last week
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Seiders, 44, is charged with felony child pornography possession, a misdemeanor of annoying a child under 18, concealing a camera with intent to invade privacy and attempting to conceal a camera. He pleaded not guilty to the charges April 11, two days after he was taken into custody by Riverside County sheriff’s deputies.
In the aftermath of the arrest, the Canadian band announced that Seiders was no longer part of the group.
Seiders was taken into custody by deputies on April 9 shortly after 5 p.m. following a second incident in which he is alleged to have entered a Chick-fil-A restroom when juveniles were inside.
California
As tensions rise over immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border, a family is struggling to reunite an orphaned Mexican boy with his brother and sister in California.
Staff at the restaurant on Dinah Shore Drive in Palm Desert recognized him from the previous alleged incident and alerted deputies. Sheriff’s officials say that on April 7, an 11-year-old boy reported that “an unknown male adult recorded him on a cellphone while he was using the restroom at the location.” According to deputies, the staff later identified that man as Seiders.
Riverside County sheriff’s investigators said they served “search warrants for Seiders’ residence, vehicle and cellphone. Evidence was located implicating him in the two reported incidents, along with additional crimes, including possessing child pornography.”
Seiders was booked into the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio on suspicion of possession of child pornography, annoying/molesting a child, invasion of privacy and attempted invasion of privacy. Investigators said the investigation remains ongoing and “there may be additional victims.”
Riverside County Sheriff’s Office booking records show he remains in custody on $1-million bail. In a court filing, prosecutors describe the victim as “particularly vulnerable,” and “the crime indicates planning sophistication and professionalism.”
“Everyone in the band is absolutely shocked, horrified and devastated by the news of the charges of Joe Seiders — we have immediately severed all ties with him,” the band statement said. “Our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by his actions.”
Riverside County sheriff’s investigators are asking those with information to contact investigators at (760) 836–1600 or sheriff’s dispatch at (951) 776–1099.
Richard Winton is an investigative crime writer for the Los Angeles Times and part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for public service in 2011. Known as @lacrimes on Twitter, during almost 30 years at The Times he also has been part of the breaking news staff that won Pulitzers in 1998, 2004 and 2016.
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Corrections & Clarifications: A previous version of this story misstated the rainfall totals at Palm Springs International Airport and Cathedral Canyon
The Coachella Valley saw something it hasn't seen much of lately on Sunday: rain
Here's a look at how much precipitation fell across the region during the day Sunday and
Here are the National Weather Service's totals for sites across the Coachella Valley and its immediate surroundings as of about 8:40 a.m
National Weather Service forecaster Paul Steward said the much larger total near the Living Desert was a result of a storm cell that popped up right over the edge of the adjacent mountains around 1:30 p.m
While the storm brought rain to much of Southern California
the largest totals were reported in mountain areas
Panorama Point received 2.56 inches while Daley Spur and the San Bernardino County Yard each saw 2.20
Will we get more rain?National Weather Service meteorologist Sebastian Westerink said the chances for significant rain in the Coachella Valley and other lower desert areas was done for the most part by Monday morning
he said mountain areas could continue to see some rain and that it is possible that a shower or two could spill into areas of the valley and bring additional rain
with the most likely chance for showers coming around 3 p.m
Any rainfall should end by late Monday night
with a sunny and dry week ahead that will see the high climb from 79 degrees on Monday at Palm Springs International Airport to about 105 degrees on Saturday
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Pablo Enriquez/Courtesy Terra Palm SpringsSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors
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Just two hours from Los Angeles
Palm Springs feels like a completely different world than the urban sprawl
Wind turbines stretch across the desert beneath the San Jacinto Mountains
and everything here feels larger than life
From the sheer scale of the natural scenery to the bright
bold colors and iconic midcentury-modern aesthetic of the town
Palm Springs is a place that doesn’t just welcome you—it captivates you from the moment you arrive
Palm Springs’ proximity to Coachella Valley makes it an ideal spot for visitors coming to enjoy events like Coachella and Stagecoach, the BNP Paribas Open, or the big White Party. Outside of music festivals and sporting events, the historic city has a myriad of reasons to visit
It's home to trendsetting restaurants
sunny weather makes Palm Springs the ultimate spot to lounge by the pool in peace (or at a party)
As for where to stay, the best hotels in Palm Springs are as wide-ranging as the area’s visitors: You’ll find a variety of tranquil boutique hotels
we’ve curated a selection of standout properties across the city
Some are just steps from the heart of the city
while others promise a more secluded desert retreat
A few celebrate the area’s storied architectural legacy while others embrace modern
Whether you’re drawn to vibrant social scenes or quiet
there’s a property here to help you make the most of your stay
Read on to see our selection of the 17 best hotels in Palm Springs
How we choose the best hotels in Palm Springs
Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property
our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination
and sustainability credentials top of mind
rooms are sizable and come with private balconies or patios
you’ll get discounts at the local Brandini toffee and ice cream shop down the street and the BMW Performance Driving School in Thermal (about 45 minutes away)
in-room waters bottled in eco-friendly aluminum
Casa Cody still somehow feels like a hidden gem
Located just a stone’s throw from the center of Palm Springs
this historic property feels exceptionally private and quiet given its prime location
The 30 rooms—varying from traditional hotel rooms to private standalone cottages—are scattered throughout the one-and-a-half-acre property
and two turquoise pools (complete with resort-level chaises and umbrellas)
it’s the oldest operating hotel in Palm Springs
and oozes old-Hollywood glamour without any stuffiness
Grab a handcrafted cocktail from the bar or a meal from Harriet’s Bar & Lounge
and take in panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains
or enjoy a traditional massage or energy-restoring Reiki session in the private spa treatment room
none incorporate the experience into every aspect of the stay quite like Terra does
All guests at Terra can enjoy the detoxifying Himalayan salt sauna
and the immersive rain room with soothing thunderstorm sounds
Check into Terra and you’re in for a peaceful
private stay with a welcome focus on wellness
This adults-only hotel is the perfect place for those who feel overstimulated and drained by city living and are looking for a truly rejuvenating trip
The dreamy rooms are filled with wellness-themed goodies and amenities like outdoor soaking tubs
Take your stay to the next level by adding an Ayurvedic spa session
you’ll likely just want to hunker down here your entire stay and get your money’s worth
churns out craft cocktails and an innovative plant-forward menu with dishes like roasted sunchokes splashed with lemon yogurt and charred eggplant bruschetta
The property’s mountain views are visible from both the scattered seating and firepit on the main grassy courtyard
and the newly-built pool (cleverly equipped with two shallow ends) and hot tub area
opt for this Spanish hacienda-style property with just 18 private bungalows
The adults-only property won a Michelin Key in 2024 and draws mainly couples (of all ages) looking for R&R
along with locals who hit poolside restaurant Azucar and rooftop bar Sugar High for evening cocktails under the stars
thanks to vaulted ceilings with exposed beams
Every room category comes with its own private courtyard patio equipped with a firepit
and a clawfoot tub for soaking under the sky
and many also come with front porches boasting bamboo swings
The Rowan has more of a real-deal city vibe than most of the resort-inspired properties in town
drawing a crowd that varies in age and demographic
but often skews heavy on business travelers visiting for onsite meetings and conferences
It feels modern while still honoring the city’s midcentury roots and desert location
and the especially novel tiled walls serving as headboards
glass-enclosed showers accented by glossy subway tiles
All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows
and many have balconies—with corner rooms offering wraparound options
you’re mere yards from the city’s bustling main drag and within walking distance of most of Palm Springs’ highlights—shopping
off-the-beaten-path location will likely want to head elsewhere
Extra points for its pristine white facade
impressive art collection (including David Hockney and Roy Liechtenstein)
and gorgeous pool surrounded by mountains and towering palm trees—enough points to earn a Michelin Key in 2024
This is definitely an Instagram-worthy hotel
this modern and comfortable boutique property centers around its massive pool and plentiful communal spaces built for socializing—with firepit-flanked seating areas
and an indoor-outdoor bar—along with a fun-filled event calendar
The hotel is meant for mingling (making it a prime pick for solo travelers)
firepits encircled by low-slung seating where guests gather after sundown
The design gives a salute to Palm Springs' fabled mid-century style via clerestory windows and butterfly rooflines
which includes an open-air restaurant plus an ice-cream shop
is also surrounded by a few solid city hotspots: It's just a short drive (or a mile walk) from the retail-heavy Uptown Design District
Appreciated extras come in the form of Egyptian cotton linens
you simply choose between a studio room or one with a patio—worth the upgrade for its private outdoor seating and fireplace
The lobby and onsite restaurant feature unique geographic tile floors and plush
Firepits and private nooks are sprinkled throughout the property
palm-tree-lined pool shimmering below the San Jacinto Mountains
and plenty of greenery are the through lines across the room categories
with suites offering private verandas with garden seating
Each room is outfitted with Frette towels and linens
Chef Michael Hung has upped the ante for poolside dining at The Colony Club
where you’ll find excellent spins on California Mediterranean cooking
was also recommended by the Michelin Guide as one of their favorite Palm Springs restaurants
It does a veggie-heavy Cal-inspired lunch and dinner menu with offerings like a spiced cauliflower pita
service is mainly behind the scenes here: There’s no lobby
You can check in on your phone and text a digital concierge named Eve
you can request housekeeping for an additional fee
2024LA-based residential designer Steve Hermann spent two years (and millions of dollars) turning the historic William F
Cody–designed L’Horizon into a luxurious boutique hotel
He didn’t alter the footprint much—the main house and 25 bungalows were built in 1952—but he added an open-air spa and an alfresco restaurant and gut-renovated the interiors
Hermann wanted the decor to work with the mid-century architecture without creating a time warp
each bungalow is a mix of modern (custom hair-on-hide rugs
industrial-chic machined brass lighting and fixtures) and vintage (furniture from Percival Lafer
it’s also a place for quiet indulgences: The pool is guests-only; unexpected treats are brought to your room every afternoon (could be a scoop of ice cream
could be a shot of tequila); and roaming poolside therapists offer complimentary foot and shoulder massages
Request a west-facing bungalow with an outdoor shower and watch the sun go down over the San Jacinto Mountains while shampooing
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse
We understand that time is the greatest luxury
which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal
or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world
Meet the best realtors in Palm Springs and neighboring areas
The top-selling agents and teams propelling the Coachella Valley real estate market
The action-packed Coachella Valley real estate market saw remarkable contrasts and noteworthy achievements last year
and buyers propelled residential sales above the previous year’s mark
The relentless efforts of nearly 4,000 local real estate agents
all striving to secure the best listings and buyers in the Coachella Valley
In recognition of these dedicated professionals
Palm Springs Life presents its annual list of Top Realtors
honoring the agents and teams who excelled in residential sales from Jan
Palm Springs Life compiled the list with the assistance of brokers throughout the valley
verifying sales data through MLS and public records
for assisting with data that helped our editors verify sales
and country clubs whose transactions accounted for the highest dollar amounts and total number of units sold last year
Brady Sandahl Real Estate GroupKeller Williams LuxuryBrady Sandahl
Sandi Phillips & AssociatesCompassSandi Phillips
PS PropertiesBennion Deville HomesPatrick Jordan
DW & AssociatesEquity Union Real EstateAllison Renz
The following teams with four or more members achieved between $20 million and $83 million in sales
Encore Premier GroupBennion Deville HomesTom Bogle
The Bianco GroupColdwell BankerJames Bianco
Jelmberg TeamKW Coachella ValleyPenny Jelmberg
Bespoke Real Estate GroupEquity Union Real EstateRobert Downing
C Muldoon Luxury GroupEquity Union Real EstateCathy Muldoon
Zwemmer Realty GroupKeller Williams RealtyRob Zwemmer
Sheri Dettman & AssociatesEquity Union Real EstateSheri Dettman
Fredy Rodriguez Real Estate GroupeXp RealtyAnai Escudero
John White Real Estate GroupEquity Union Real EstateJohn White
Team SigneKeller Williams RealtySigne Beck
The Scrocco & Isaacs TeamDouglas Elliman Real EstateTom Scrocco
Halum Real Estate GroupCompassAmirah Halum
Brandy Nelson AssociatesEquity Union Real EstateBrandy Nelson
Team MichaelKeller Williams RealtyMichael Hilgenberg
John & Ryan Real Estate GroupSotheby’s International RealtyStephen Brennan
Richie Usher Realty GroupEquity Union Real EstateRichie Usher
Desert Homes With Overman & CroganEquity Union Real EstateJeff Overman
Ferretti Real Estate GroupEquity Union Real EstateDaniel Ferretti
Mark Wise GroupBennion Deville HomesMark Wise
The Morgner GroupEquity Union Real EstateBill Morgner
Scott James PropertiesHarcourts Desert HomesScott Palermo
Bomgardner Blenkinsop & AssociatesBennion Deville HomesJohn Bomgardner
Stanton Williams GroupCompassJacqulyn Stanton
Louise Hampton TeamBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA PropertiesLouise Hampton
Canavan Coit and AssociatesCompassSusan Canavan
Campbell-Crane TeamEquity Union Real EstateLindell Campbell
Caldwell & Linger GroupCompassPaul Linger
Rick Parnell & AssociatesCompassRick Parnell
Stonegate West Real Estate GroupHomeSmartLeslie McGrath
Craig Conley Real Estate TeamBennion Deville HomesCraig Conley
Team LarsonKeller Williams RealtyJeff Larson
Ahu Kocaballi Real Estate GroupeXp RealtyAhu Kocaballi
The Mike + Maria Patakas TeamDesert Sotheby’s International RealtyMike Patakas
Justin & Sayre SmithEquity Union Real EstateJustin Smith
The Commandeur GroupKeller Williams RealtyAnook Commandeur
The Leonardo GroupKeller Williams RealtyLeonardo Montenegro
The Briggs GroupColdwell BankerLaurie Briggs
The Hamilton GroupColdwell BankerDan Hamilton
Kamoei GroupBBS Brokers RealtyBahareh Kamoei
Krista Coyle TeamBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA PropertiesKrista Coyle
Gallaudet PropertiesWindermere Real EstateGail Gallaudet
Bergsma-Triscari GroupEquity Union Real EstateChris Bergsma
UR Palm Springs Real Estate GroupBennion Deville HomesJay Simmers
Bob and Sue Ellen RossGrand Luxury PropertiesBob Ross
Read Group Real EstateEquity Union Real EstateMike Read
The John Jay GroupBennion Deville HomesJohn Jay
these agents independently sold between $10 million and $51.7 million
Craig ChorpenningDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Dave KibbeyDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Cass Graff-RadfordEquity Union Real Estate
Kathleen GaligherCalifornia Lifestyle Realty
Niloo ShamsDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Holly Tait MarkasHolly’s Homes Desert Princess Inc
George Van Valkenburg Jr.Desert Sotheby’s International Realty
Tyson HawleyDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Timothy McTavishDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
John Buttemiller IIDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Janice HustonDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Jason CochranDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Rachel WillsVista Sotheby’s International Realty
Stephen ClarkDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Nyla PatznerDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Kelly TrembleyDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Dean SipeBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA Properties
David RiosEXP Realty of Southern California
Michael WaltonDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Bryan BoomershineBerkshire Hathaway California Home Services
Joe SidotiDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
Kristen MurphyDesert Sotheby’s International Realty
these clubs brought in between $34 million and $167.5 million in residential sales
BIGHORN Properties(On-site Sales Office)Lorna Ball
Toscana Country Club(On-site Sales Office)Andy Ford
Eldorado PropertiesBennion Deville HomesJohn O’Brien and Sandra Armando
Desert Horizons Country ClubZwemmer Realty Group
Rancho La Quinta Country ClubRancho La Quinta PropertiesRon Roisum
Ironwood Country Club(On-site Sales Office)
Andalusia Country Club(On-site Sales Office)Tom Angone
These 10 teams of four or more sold between 76 and 186 units
Brady Sandahl Real Estate GroupKeller Williams RealtyBrady Sandahl
The teams of two or three agents facilitated the sale of 39 to 81 units
The 10 individuals with the greatest number of transactions sold 32 to 74 units
recently had moved from her home in Desert Hot Springs into assisted living
Ted and Eric Zepeda were preparing the home’s contents for the estate sale they would conduct before the house was sold
they had seen some unusual items in their line of work
Discover the epitome of the Palm Springs lifestyle in this breathtaking midcentury modern home
designed in 1965 by the legendary architect Donald Wexler
nestled within the exclusive Tahquitz Creek Golf community
boasts original features that have been meticulously maintained
I’m not exactly sure what I expected as I pulled off Gerald Ford Drive into Cotino
the 618-acre Disney-branded development taking shape in Rancho Mirage between Monterey Avenue and Bob Hope Drive
The anticipation of experiencing a totally new piece of Disney land made me feel a bit like a kid again
Would I be joyfully greeted by a waving Mickey Mouse
Or hear The Lion King soundtrack blasting out of rock-shaped speakers
Ask any Sofa U Love customer who’s found the perfect furniture piece for their home or office
Sofa U love is a family business featuring custom-made furniture
As the novelty of booking a vacation home through popular rental companies wanes
with travelers sharing stories underscoring the hit-or-miss nature of homes for hire
is switching up the concept and setting new standards for comfort and quality
There are places you visit — and places you never want to leave
a sanctuary of luxury where breathtaking landscapes and world-class amenities create an unparalleled way of life
With a very limited number of homesites available
now is the time to design a one-of-a-kind estate in one of the most prestigious communities in the world
(KESQ) - Crews were on scene of a duplex fire in Palm Desert late Friday night
a community near Hovley Lane and Portola Avenue
Southern California Edison and SoCal Gas were called to the scene to assist
Investigators said crews knocked down flames
but they were expected to be on scene for an additional three hours
There was no word on displacements or injuries
Stay with News Channel 3 for the latest on this developing story
Looking for some live entertainment this weekend
Here are my picks for the latest can't-miss live performances in the Coachella Valley and surrounding communities
More: 12 things to do in the Coachella Valley this week, May 5-11
Diana Krall is not only a trailblazing female singer/pianist
she’s the only artist to debut eight albums at No
She’s won two Grammy Awards and has seven multi-platinum albums
Some of her prominent songs are her versions of the Burt Bacharach and Hal David song “Walk On By” made popular by Dionne Warwick
her duet with Michael Bublé on Gilbert O'Sullivan’s “Alone Again (Naturally)” and the Joni Mitchell hit “A Case of You.”
Krall will perform on Saturday at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa
If you go: 8 p.m. Saturday, Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. Tickets $69.50 to $129.50. aguacalientecasinos.com
BEST BETSFriday & SaturdayDance: Experience an unforgettable night of music and movement at this Dance Mojave show dubbed “The Planets.” Tickets to this outdoor dance performance — which takes place both Friday and Saturday — are $30 per car
so pack as many friends and family members into your ride as you'd like
then head over to Sky’s the Limit Observatory and Nature Center in Twentynine Palms to see the show and experience the center's telescopes afterwards
The 75-minute performance is set to Gutav Holst’s suite as well as original music arranged by Jeremie Levi Samson
"Planets" features choreography by local dancers
and each piece is inspired by a different planet
from Mercury through Neptune (as well as the Asteroid Belt and Pluto)
If you go: 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sky’s the Limit Observatory and Nature Center, 9697 Utah Trail, Twentynine Palms. Tickets start at $30. eventbrite.com
Tribute: When The Doors started playing in 1965 at venues around Los Angeles
lead singer Jim Morrison’s stage presence was viewed as both alluring and provocative
The Doors’ self-titled debut album was a hit
and the band continued to push the bar higher with every release until Morrison’s untimely death in 1971
will perform on Friday in The Rock Yard at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
If you go: 7 p.m. Friday, The Rock Yard at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway. Admission is free. fantasyspringsresort.com/rock-yard/
Alternative: Dean Wareham is a prominent figure in indie rock
and his 40-year music career includes co-founding the band Galaxie 500 with Damon Krukowski
then Luna and Dean & Britta with bassist and wife Britta Phillips
He began a solo career and released his first self-titled album in 2014
Wareham will perform on Saturday at Pappy and Harriet’s
If you go: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Pappy and Harriet’s, 53-688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown. Tickets are $39.54 presale and $46.59 day of show. pappyandharriets.com
Amanda Miguel attained notoriety and prominence in Mexican music for her piano playing and melodic pop hits
She also collaborated with her late husband
who was also an established figure in Latin music
See for yourself when Miguel performs on Saturday at Spotlight 29 Casino
If you go: 8 p.m. Saturday, Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Place, Coachella. Tickets start at $38.80. spotlight29.com
(KESQ) - Walmart is planning to remodel 57 California stores in 2025
"Walmart is proud to deepen its commitment to California by investing in local stores
empowering associates and enriching the communities it serves every day
Walmart unveiled details of 57 planned store remodels this year in California
and new investments focused on enhancing the associate experience and community engagement
These initiatives underscore Walmart’s goal of being California’s favorite place to shop."- Walmart news release
Officials said the remodels will feature big
"Our stores often serve as the heartbeat of the communities we operate in
and these remodels are a testament to our dedication to enhancing that role,” said Walmart Sr
“By investing in our stores and associates
we are not only improving the shopping experience but also reinforcing our commitment to being a vital part of the community’s fabric
helping to build a brighter future for all.”
The Palm Desert Walmart Neighborhood Market
What began as a campus built entirely through local partnerships will take a new turn Friday
when Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus breaks ground on its first state-funded building — a student services center designed to expand support for its growing student population
"This groundbreaking marks an exciting new chapter for our campus and the Coachella Valley," said Edna Martinez
the associate vice president and administrator in charge at CSUSB PDC
"The Student Services Building is set to transform the student experience and strengthen our ability to attract and retain local talent."
Also in this week's education roundup: Palm Springs Unified School District names new principal for Painted Hills Middle in Desert Hot Springs; College of the Desert students win first place at Inland Empire cybersecurity competition; Desert Mirage High School students take first place at film festival for their documentary on the Puente program
Did we miss a noteworthy education story? Raise your hand and send it my way: jennifer.cortez@desertsun.com
More: UCR Palm Desert brings storytelling to the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its new student services building at 9:30 a.m
marking a major step in the campus’s continued growth
The new facility, funded by a $79 million state budget allocation in 2022
was made possible in part through the support of former California State Assemblymembers Eduardo Garcia and Chad Mayes
as well as a recreation and wellness center
It is designed to support up to 4,000 full-time students
Painted Hills Middle School in Desert Hot Springs will welcome a new principal at the start of the 2025-26 school year
Sean Pendergraph has been appointed to lead the Panthers
Palm Springs Unified School District announced during its late April board meeting
Pendergraph began his career with the district in 2008 at Mt
He was named Teacher of the Year in both 2012 and 2018
and most recently served as assistant principal at Nellie Coffman Middle School and currently at Desert Hot Springs High School
More: What does the Palm Springs Unified community want from its next superintendent?
He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California
Irvine; a master’s degree in educational administration from California State University
San Bernardino; and earned his teaching credential from Chapman University and an administrative services credential from CSUSB
"I am really looking forward to and excited to support Painted Hills and the family
thanking his parents and daughter for their love and support
Desert Sands Unified School District is also expected to announce new principals for Amelia Earhart Elementary School in Indio and James Earl Carter Elementary School at its Tuesday
Team Tom and The Jerries proved they could be quick
Created in response to a 2018 challenge by the California State Assembly to address a critical shortage of cybersecurity workers
the Mayors Cup was developed by the Inland Economic Growth and Opportunity Collaborative to help fill 40,000 open positions across the state
offering a beginner-friendly platform that promotes equity and access to cybersecurity opportunities throughout the region
The following COD teams secured spots in the Mayor’s Cup rankings:
More: Superintendent finalists for College of the Desert share their visions at public forum
Two students from Desert Mirage High School in Thermal
Jocelyn Marcelo-Salvador and Valeria Rodriguez
were the real "scene stealers" at the Riverside High School Film Festival
taking home the best documentary film award in a countywide competition of cinematic talent
Their winning documentary was created last year as part of the Puente Program at the students' high school — in collaboration with the UCR Arts
a photography museum and contemporary arts center
the Puente Program supports underrepresented students in accessing higher education and becoming mentors and leaders in their communities
Marcelo-Salvador and Rodriguez are also part of the career technical education pathway at Desert Mirage High School, where they study digital film production with teacher Derek Ellingson. Previously, students in the class presented an original documentary about Gerald Clarke and his 2023 Desert X installation
Jennifer Cortez covers education in Coachella Valley
Reach her at jennifer.cortez@desertsun.com
deputies were dispatched to the 74000 block of De Anza Way in Palm Desert regarding an assault with a deadly weapon
Witnesses reported a man was shot by an unknown subject at the residence
they learned there had been a confrontation between the victim and the suspect before the suspect shot the victim
The victim was transported to a local hospital by a relative before deputies arrived and is now in critical condition
Witnesses at the residence also reported that the suspect fled the scene prior to deputies’ arrival
The investigation is ongoing as deputies are working to identify the suspect
Stay with News Channel 3 for any further developments on this story
A final-hole double bogey in a golf tournament generally is a bad thing
did take a 6 on the par-4 18th hole on the South Course at Shadow Hills Golf Club in Indio on Thursday
Ringkamp had surged to a 13-shot lead over the field in the Desert Empire League individual finals
so the double bogey only cut his winning margin to a record-setting 11 shots
so that was kind of good," Ringkamp said after finishing the 36-hole event at 9-under 133
Ringkamp's final-hole double bogey dropped his Thursday score to 4-under 67 on the par-71 South Course
Combined with his 66 in Tuesday's first round
11 shots better than his Palm Desert teammates Caden Breisch
Breisch started the day just one shot behind Ringkamp but struggled to a 79 on Thursday for a 144 total
while Householder shot 74 on Thursday for his 144 total and Margolis shot 75
but blazed into the second round with birdies on the first two holes
Ringkamp just missed the green to the right with his second shot
then holed a 60-degree wedge chip shot for an eagle
his third consecutive three to open the day
It started getting really windy for a couple of holes
More: Aiming high: Loaded Palm Desert boys' golf team focused on state playoff berth
Ringkamp led by six shots after a 3-under 33 on the front nine
but that grew on the back nine with birdies on the par-5s at the 11th and 13th hole
while Breisch fell back with a bogey on the 10th and a double bogey on the 12th
By the time Ringkamp teed off on the 18th hole
so the double bogey was almost meaningless
"I did believe in myself," Lanza said after a 6-over 77 gave him a 36-hole total of 9-over 151
I actually hit my driver a little bit better
having eight players make the first-day cut and seven players advance to individual CIF play is a good sign for his team heading into team postseason competition later this month
"We had 12 that qualified (for the DEL finals)
We had a couple that had pretty good years (that didn't advance)," Mazet said
Ava Otteson of Palm Desert and Jack Reardon of Xavier Prep were named the Desert Empire League MVPs
but it's possible that Palm Springs' Aidan Staton may have had the best day at the Palm Desert pool on Friday
picking up a pair of wins — the 50-yard title in 21.86 seconds and the 100-yard butterfly in 52.67 — but his smoothest move happened outside the water
He used the DEL meet as the forum for a promposal
As Palm Desert swimmer Riley Burnett was swimming the 200-IM
Staton and a few friends held up the letters P-R-O-M-
for Brunett to see as her head popped out of the pool during the breaststroke part of the event
He didn't have to worry too much about the answer
The two have been dating for 10 months and "she already got her dress," he said
"It's our first prom together so I was like might as well ask her at DEL," Staton said
"Some people from other teams helped me out
There was some dramatic action in the pool as well but for the MVPs Otteson and Reardon it was another record-breaking day which desert swim fans have become accustomed to from those two
who had set several DEL meet records as a freshman and sophomore at Xavier Prep
The change of scenery didn't change her unmatched speed in the pool
winning the shortest race and the longest race
Otteson won the 50-yard freestyle in 24.25 seconds
and then became the first girl to break the 5-minute mark in the 500-yard freestyle with a personal best and new DEL record time of 4:59.36
doing completely opposite events was challenging enough and to try to do both of them at a high level," said Otteson who has been going on some college visits as the Aztecs junior considers options for after high school
I don't know just excited to see where this journey takes me."
he was racing against his own time in the 200-IM
He bested 2024 Jack Reardon by half a second
becoming the first person to break the 2-minute mark in that race in DEL history with a time of 1:59.66 beating his own mark of 2:00.08
He added another DEL meet record in the 100-yard backstroke which he won in a blazing time of 54.66 seconds
both times were his fastest of the year in those events
who will be swimming at Biola University in the fall
said meets like the DEL meet inspire him to be at his fastest
"There was a lot of tough training leading up to this
but also such great competitors in this meet help me push past my limits," Reardon said
I love racing and these were great races."
One more DEL Meet record fell on Friday and that was due to the speedy swimming of Palm Desert's speedy freshman Lilyanna Smith
She became the first girl to break the 1-minute mark in the 100-yard backstroke
setting the new league mark with a time of 59.97 seconds
Double-winner: Shoutout to Xavier Prep's Mia Meyer who joined Otteson
Reardon and Staton in the individual double-winner club on Friday
Meyer won the 200-IM in 2:20.68 and the 100 butterfly in 1:06.21
Head-to-head drama: The best one-on-one matchup of the night was between Palm Desert teammates Declan Kelly and Aden Ward
it was Ward edging Kelly to win in 1:45.41
And then they put on a show in the longest race of the night
They were basically each other's shadow for all 20 laps of the race
but this time it was Kelly getting the win in 4:50.09
remarkably just 0.2 seconds faster than Ward's 4:50.29
Rattler on top: Rancho Mirage didn't have a lot of breakthrough moments at the meet
which made Nathanial Skelton's win in the 100-yard breaststroke reason to celebrate
Skelton edged Xavier Prep's Dylan Quaid by one seconds for a winning time of 1:06.58
he let out a yell and a fist pump as his Rancho Mirage teammates rooted him on
Charlie in charge: La Quinta's Charlie Graves
was the champion of a special event on Friday
the mixed 50-yard inclusive freestyle race
He had the pool to himself as he needed just 39.50 seconds to complete the race as the crowd rooted him on
Winning with a grin: La Quinta special-needs swimmer earns CIF-SS title
More winners: Other swimmers that earned victories on Friday included Alaina Vega of Palm Springs in the 200 freestyle (2:04.35)
Nadia Frutkin of Palm Desert in the 100 freestyle (54.24)
Violet David of Palm Desert in the 100 breaststroke (1:21.64) and Eyden Arce of Palm Desert in the boys' 100 freestyle (50.86)
The Palm Desert boys' and girls' teams were named league champions for having the most cumulative winners
2025 Desert Empire League swim meetGIRLS' RESULTS
(KESQ) - A Palm Desert resident is the winner of the 2025 St
is located in the La Quinta Cove and is valued at approximately $725,000
3.5-bath home is about 2,000 square feet and includes a two-car garage
It features a spacious single-story floor plan with an open-concept great room and an upgraded kitchen with an island and walk-in pantry
Prosecutors filed 21 felony charges against a third-grade teacher at Palm Valley School in Rancho Mirage Thursday at the San Bernardino Superior Court related to the alleged long-term sexual abuse of an underage girl
Stephen Michael (or Micheal, his middle name is spelled two different ways in court documents) Spurlock, 43, was arrested at his home in Yucca Valley this week after deputies with the San Bernardino Sheriff's Office were notified of the allegations on Monday via a 911 call
He was immediately placed on indefinite leave from the private K-12 school
Court records show that the charges against Spurlock span more than a year
The charges filed against Spurlock include:
In an email to the Palm Valley School community on Tuesday
the school said the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the incident did not involve a student and did not occur on school property
"We are not aware of any threat to any Palm Valley students," the email said
According to the mid-April archive of Palm Valley School’s website
Spurlock’s biography said he has more than 15 years of experience working with elementary and middle school students
Public records show he was previously employed by Desert Sands Unified School District
"Given the nature of this abuse by Spurlock and in his capacity as a school teacher and coach
detectives suspect there may be additional victims in both San Bernardino and Riverside counties," a San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department statement said
A video arraignment for Spurlock is set for 8 a.m
May 2 in Rancho Cucamonga before Judge Michael Lough
Previous reporting by Brian Day from the Victorville Daily Press was used in this report
Jennifer Cortez covers education in the Coachella Valley
Before the triple-digit temperatures creep in
let's all promise to avoid the comforting AC (if you've turned it on yet
that is) of our homes for at least a couple hours and enjoy a community event this week
There's plenty to do for both locals and tourists
from a theatrical premiere to a film festival
so this week's event roundup includes something for even the most picky member of your household
here's our picks for the top 12 things to do in the Coachella Valley and surrounding area Monday
(And if you'd like to submit an upcoming event of your own for a future roundup
see the bottom of this article for directions.)
See director Steven Spielberg's futuristic sci-fi classic "Ready Player One" on the self-described largest screen in the Coachella Valley
"a candy-colored dive into pop culture nostalgia and virtual freedom ..
(this) adaptation of the hit novel is both an homage to and a critique of the digital escape
it’s a film about connection in a disconnected world."
More info: eventbrite.com/e/
Palm Springs Backstreet Art District invites the public to come and enjoy an evening of fine art
food offerings and beverages while strolling through several unique galleries and art studios
Support the Coachella Valley art community while viewing the latest works by talented creatives
Come see why Backstreet Art District was voted a "Best of Coachella Valley
Corner of South Cherokee Way and Matthew Drive (behind Estate Sale) in Palm Springs
More info: backstreetartdistrict.com
premiere of "The Problem with Pink" presented by Le Petit Théâtre de Sherbrooke and La [parenthèse] / Christophe Garcia
This dynamic dance drama for which playwright Erika Tremblay Roy received the Louise-Lahaye Prize in 2020 will be performed for one night only on Wednesday
and features four performers who blend dance
and striking visuals in one unique production
More info: mccallumtheatre.org/productions/the-problem-with-pink/
Come watch "Carol," a film following aspiring photographer Therese spots the beautiful
elegant Carol perusing the doll displays in a 1950s Manhattan department store
The two women develop a fast bond that becomes a love with complicated consequences
More info: ticketing.uswest.veezi.com
Come celebrate local students and their original artwork this Thursday in Palm Desert
The Desert X Art Club Student Exhibition is a public presentation of artworks created by students in the 2024/2025 after school Expanded Learning Opportunities Program in Desert Sands Unified School District
as well as in the classroom and out in the field in all three Coachella Valley public school districts
It will showcase a wide range of solo and group pieces in a variety of media
and the opening night reception will be part of the Desert X 2025 exhibit's closing weekend programming
May 8; and the exhibit is on view May 9-21 (10 a.m.-5 p.m
More info: desertx.org/learn/programs/closing-weekend
Palm Desert’s Concerts in the Park series is back this May
offering five weeks of live music and entertainment at Civic Center Park
Every Thursday evening from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
the outdoor amphitheater will host a dynamic lineup of performers
With free admission and a welcoming community atmosphere
this is a way to enjoy a spring evening with family and friends
More info: discoverpalmdesert.com/spring-concerts-2024/
Who doesn't love a movie with a little intrigue and cynicism — and a lot of shadiness and moral ambiguity
How about a whole Palm Springs film festival dedicated to just that
The Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival returns for its 26th year this month
Rode is calling it the "best yet" for new discoveries and venerated classics
The festival will showcase an eclectic mix of black and white movies from the 1940s and 1950s as well as a special appearance by Academy Award winning director Guillermo Del Toro and screenwriter Kim Morgan
which grants entrance into all film screenings
More info: arthurlyonsfilmnoir.org
More: Director Guillermo Del Toro to screen 'Nightmare Alley' at Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival
check out an art exhibit that's all about the interplay between minimalism and maximalism
This group exhibition dives "into the innovative fusion of these two contrasting styles and perspectives
creates emotionally charged and unique visual experiences
juxtaposing the simplicity and restraint of minimalism with the complexity and richness of maximalism," as the press release states
how exploring opposing views can lead to more open communication
More info:musoniumgallery.com
The Bent will present the regional premiere of "The Inheritance Part I," the acclaimed
this "sweeping and deeply moving epic story explores love
and the lives of gay men in 21st-century New York
decades after the height of the AIDS crisis," as the press release states
When: May 9-25 (check website below for specific showtimes)
More info: thebent.org/buy-tickets/
The beloved Films in the Garden series returns to Sunnylands Center and Gardens this May with "a trio of films that transport viewers to wondrous new worlds," as the press release says
organizers will screen the popular 1991 film "Hook," which follows an adult Peter Pan who must return to Neverland to reclaim his youthful spirit in order to challenge enemy Captain James Hook as he begins kidnapping children
More info: sunnylands.org
Are you ready for the Coachella Valley's inaugural Asada Fest
Head to downtown Indio on Saturday to enjoy a day full of great food — specifically asada
from local favorites like Tacos A Mar O Tierra
Elowtitos and more — as well as live entertainment from La Sonora Dinamita
Mariachi Del Ayer and Ballet Folklórico Sol del Desierto
so all ages are welcome to come and enjoy activities like face painting
with food and beverages available for purchase
More info: indio.org/our-city/asada-fest
All of the Desert X 2025 exhibit's outdoor installations are open to the public
it's entirely free to experience the artwork
The latest exhibition includes pieces scattered around the valley
and reflects on — as the website says — "the desert’s deep time evolutions reframing ideas and wilderness and exploring themes of Indigenous futurism
the impress of humanity on the land and the role of emerging technologies in our contemporary society."
Where: The works of art are scattered between Desert Hot Springs and Palm Desert (check website below for exact locations of installations)
More info: desertx.org/visit/map
More: Desert X 2025: Here's your first look at the public artworks featured in the new exhibit
To submit an event for The Desert Sun's consideration in future 10 things to do stories
send an email to niki.kottmann@desertsun.com with the time
location and price of admission for your event
but are highly encouraged as part of the submission
Tip: Send your submission as early as possible to make sure we have it in time
and to make sure your event jumps out in our inbox
put "10 things to do submission" in the email subject line
This article includes previous reporting by Desert Sun journalist Ema Sasic
This week marks the end of festival season
but if you're not going to the Stagecoach country music festival — and I don't blame you
I'm not looking forward to inhaling all that dust ..
but I am looking forward to Lana Del Rey — we've got you covered
Below is a list of 10 non-Stagecoach events to check out this week in the desert
from art exhibits to a concert of Disney songs performed by the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus
If you'd like to submit an upcoming event of your own for a future roundup
go to the bottom of this article for directions
Here's our top picks for things to do in the valley and surrounding communities from Monday
Consider attending opening weekend of a play that promises to put a smile on your face
The latest Desert Ensemble Theatre production follows "the misadventures of Bruce and Prudence
two neurotic New Yorkers navigating the perils of modern romance through the lens of eccentric therapists
and their own unpredictable emotions," as the press release states
More info:desertensembletheatre.org
All of the Desert X 2025 exhibit's installations are now open to the public
When: Now through May 11 (during daylight hours)
Come see a Tony Award-winning musical right here in Palm Springs this week
"Falsettos" follows the story of a lovingly dysfunctional Jewish family in New York at the end of the 1970s — a tale set against the backdrop of the AIDS epidemic
Marvin (Tim Ewing) seems blessed with the perfect family; a caring wife
Trina (Stephanie Lynne Mason) and a young son
Jason (William Spitz) but the family is soon broken apart when Marvin leaves Trina for his lover
ends up romantically involved with the family psychiatrist
is stuck in the middle." Follow along as this family breaks apart and tries to find its way back to one another again
More info: dezartperforms.org/shows/falsettos
Looking to escape into someone else's drama
politics and family secrets opens this week at CV Rep
The show follows main character Brooke Wyeth as she returns home to Palm Springs after a long time away "to spend Christmas with her well-connected
In a stunning and entirely unexpected moment
Brooke announces that she is about to publish a memoir that dredges up a pivotal and tragic event in the family’s history — a wound her parents don’t want reopened," as the press release states
middle-aged daughter against her conservative parents
When: April 23-May 4 (check website for times)
More info: cvrep.org/events/
You could go see Luke Combs for several hundred dollars (if you get off the waitlist, that is) this weekend at Stagecoach OR you could go see rising stars who are from right here in the desert
The latter option is a Coachella Rising Showcase at Palm Springs Cultural Center that puts fresh
Where: VIP Lounge at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
More info: eventbrite.com
Just a handful of choruses in the whole country are getting the honor of presenting this concert
and the Palm Springs Gay Men's Chorus is one of them
Bring the whole family to this celebration of all things Disney
featuring many of your favorite songs from Disney films such as "Peter Pan," "The Little Mermaid," "The Lion King" and "Mary Poppins"; as well as modern Disney and Pixar movies such as "Coco," "Zootopia," "Wreck-It Ralph," and many more
Where: The Annenberg Theatre at the Palm Springs Art Museum
More info: psgmc.com
You may have read the book or seen the Academy Award-winning film
Come see the stage adaptation of Ken Kesey's celebrated novel
which explores "the brutality of life in a mental institution with humor
and unforgettable characters," as the theater website says
rebellious McMurphy after he's convicted of a petty crime and contrives to serve his short sentence in an institution rather than a prison — and realizes that wasn't a great idea
More info:palmcanyontheatre.net
If you're in the market for a night of live music
Attendees of this retro-inspired event can expect to be transported "straight to a 1950’s beach party
local favorites The Gand Band will dive into classic surf rock hits
and all the electrifying tunes that will have you out of your seat and onto the dance floor," as the website says
Chef Dave has crafted a secret multi-course menu inspired by old-school beach party fare
More info: eventbrite.com
More info: ticketmaster.com/event/
Come meet nine of the 18 talented artists whose work will be displayed in MAD.KAT Gallery's next exhibit "You Think I’m Psycho
Don’cha Mama," which is being billed as a "celebration of the surreal
unreal and hyperreal," opening on Saturday
Exhibiting artists include Joshua Tree multidisciplinary artist Ron Therrio
San Francisco painter Deirdre Ferrell White and many more
When: Opening reception will be held 5-9 p.m
More info: gallerymadkat.com/current-exhibit
This story features previous reporting by Desert Sun journalist Ema Sasic
One person is dead and another is in serious condition after an early morning house fire on Friday in Palm Desert
Firefighters responded at 1:12 a.m. in the 78-800 block of Tamarisk Flower Drive in Palm Desert to "heavy fire" showing from the front of the single-story, single family structure, the Riverside County Fire Department said on social media
Two people were rescued from inside the residence
A second person in serious condition was transported by ground ambulance to a nearby hospital
Fire Prevention and the Riverside County Coroner's Office are investigating the cause of the fire
Riverside County Building and Safety were also called to assess the structure
— One person is dead and another is in serious condition after a fire broke out early Friday morning in a Palm Desert home
Firefighters responded to reports of a house fire shortly after 1:00 a.m
The blaze engulfed a single-story residence on Tamarisk Flower Drive
crews found the home fully involved in flames
Firefighters found two individuals inside the burning structure
One was transported to a local hospital in serious condition
The other was pronounced dead at the scene
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation
Stay with News Channel 3 for new developments
A year after producing perhaps the most impressive moment of their 2024 boys' golf season with a win at the Champions Invitational tournament in Palm Springs, the Palm Desert High School team won the tournament again Tuesday. And this time the victory might have been more impressive.
“When you look at probably the top 10 teams in California
eight of them are here," Palm Desert head coach Chuck Mazet said after his Aztecs scored a 16-shot victory over Cathedral Catholic of San Diego in the two-day
52-team tournament at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort
Equally as impressive as the team’s victory was the individual win for Palm Desert junior Luke Ringkamp
With a Tuesday round of 6-under 65 on the Legends Course
Ringkamp finished the 54 holes at 18-under 196
four shots better than Luke Brandler of Stevenson School of Pebble Beach and one shot better than his own tournament record set last year
Ringkamp believes the field put together by tournament organizer Scott McGihon was one of the strongest seen in California this year
“It was in my mind coming down hole 18 for sure,” Ringkamp said of his record score
The tournament began Monday with teams playing one round each on the par-72 Resort Course and the par-71 Legend Course at Tahquitz Creek
with the top 24 teams after 36 holes playing the Legend Course on Tuesday
Palm Desert entered the final 18 holes with a seven-shot lead over Stevenson School
But Palm Desert shot a team score of 8-under 276 on the day
the best score of the day by five shots in the five-play
That left Palm Desert at an impressive 27-under 829 for the event
including a first round of 17-under 271 on the Resort Course on Monday
while Stevenson School slipped to third place at 846
finished 23rd in the team event with an 897 total
including a 303 on the final day on the Resort Course
Palm Desert’s win wasn’t just about Ringkamp’s strong play
which saw the junior open with a 68 on the Resort Course and an afternoon 8-under 63 on the Legend Course
He continued that hot play on the Legends Course on Tuesday
which like his 63 Monday was the best individual round of the day in the event
Other scores from Palm Desert included Austin Woods
who tied for fifth at 5-under 207 (66-73-68)
Caden Breisch tied for eighth at 209 (66-73-70)
while Landon Breisch shot a 221 total (71-73-77)
Benton Sullivan shot a 217 total (71-72-74)
followed by Tres Shalhoub at 236 and Leo Lanza at 241
The titles for the team and for Ringkamp certainly don't dull any of the high expectations for the Aztecs as the CIF-SS and other postseason events draw closer
We have played in some tough tournaments this year."
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Coachella Valley residents hunting for the best deals soon will gain a shopping option that’s new yet familiar
as Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries — a revived version of a long-time chain store in California — is opening in Palm Desert
The original Pic ‘N’ Save opened in Culver City in 1950
offering deals on products bought through closeout sales
and it expanded in California and other states in the following years
the stores were bought by another company in 1997 and converted into Big Lots in the early 2000s
CEO of Pic 'N' Save Bargains and a former president of Big Lots
is now reviving the stores with a new twist
In addition to its main selection of home goods
general merchandise and “treasure hunt” closeouts
the stores will also offer a variety of produce
"While we’re bringing back the same commitment to unbeatable bargains
we’re also offering a wider variety of products that will make Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries a true one-stop shop for everyday essentials,” Miller said in a prepared statement
we’re focused on creating community stores that are affordable
It's unclear precisely when the Palm Desert location will open
but a press release from Pic ‘N’ Save says it will be sometime this spring
The following Pic 'N' Save stores are also expected to open across Southern California in the coming months:
Tom Coulter covers the cities of Palm Desert
Local bookworms could have another go-to spot within a few years, as the city of Palm Desert — now split from Riverside County’s library system — is planning to build a gleaming new library in Civic Center Park
The Palm Desert City Council unanimously approved a $30 million conceptual design for the library during its meeting Thursday
The facility will be located near the park’s amphitheater
roughly a mile east of the current library’s location
and it will require the demolition of the Parkview Building
The vision for the new library “is to create a dynamic and inclusive space that provides equal access to resources and technologies for all residents,” according to a presentation to the council from Richärd Kennedy Architects
The library’s layout is inspired by regional palm groves
with a canopy-like shade area for outdoor programs
The new library will include several shared spaces to accommodate veterans’ services
and meetings of the Coachella Valley Association of Governments
The new facility will be 25,892 square feet — slightly larger than the 22,000-square-foot library the city currently shares with College of the Desert
a task force endorsed building the library at a Riverside County Sheriff’s Department substation that will soon be vacated
but city officials instead decided in March 2024 to demolish the Parkview Building and use the site for the library
The project is expected to be funded with $20 million in capital bonds, $4 million in funds the city gets from Riverside County and $6 million stemming from Measure G, a penny-per-dollar sales tax measure approved by the city’s voters last year
Palm Desert’s director of library services
noted the project’s costs could increase moving forward
In response to a question from the council
he also said the new library’s operational costs will be slightly higher
adding those increases are expected to be offset by upticks in property tax revenues
the existing Parkview Building will be demolished in early 2026
and the new library is slated to be built by the end of 2027
How we got hereThe city’s split from the county-led system was initiated by the city council in June 2023
with members saying the move would up more than $1 million annually in extra funding that currently goes to the county’s library fund and open the door for a new facility
The county spent approximately $1.5 million each year on the Palm Desert branch
the city is instead getting back $2.6 million a year that it previously sent to the county's library fund
Palm Desert’s current library, which has been on College of the Desert’s campus since 1996, was renovated last year and reopened in July 2024
officially marking the city’s break from the county
The city has also agreed to a temporary lease with College of the Desert to continue operating there until the new facility is built
Palm Desert joined Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage as the only Coachella Valley cities with standalone library systems
Palm Desert’s first library opened as part of the county system in 1962 — 11 years before the city incorporated — and was located at what’s now the Portola Community Center
as well as one resident who spoke during public comments
cheered the plans during the council’s meeting Thursday
Councilmember Joe Pradetto described the conceptual design as beautiful
noting the building will be oriented to maximize shade during the day
Councilmember Karina Quintanilla said the proposed library was a key reason that Measure G
“I think (to) the concern about ongoing costs
but the investment in our community is paramount,” Quintanilla said
“I think this is creating priceless opportunities for meeting space.”
who was the council’s liaison to a library advisory committee that first reviewed the plans
noted the current library building was modeled after a building in the Central Coast city of Monterey
“I think this is going to be the right building for our city,” Trubee said
the council also revisited whether to create a nonprofit
ultimately deciding to delay a decision until city staff conducts more research on such organizations
Robert and Janet Black were located Thursday
the CHP reported at 5:27 p.m.Additional details were not provided about when or where they were found
(KESQ) - California Highway Patrol is asking for the community's help in locating a Palm Desert couple reported missing on Wednesday
near Liolios Drive and Ascalon Avenue in Palm Desert
He was last seen wearing black pants and a light-colored shirt
She was last seen wearing black shorts and a black sweater
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Food + Drink
by Maggie Downs | Mar 27, 2025
Welcome to Palm Desert’s open secret, a fever dream of Moroccan-modernist grandeur, recently polished to a level of refinement that would make a Palm Springs socialite of yore sigh into her coupe glass at the sheer glamour of it all.
Marcie and John Cavanaugh prove pink is a way of life at Marrakesh Country Club — right down to their custom Fiat Jolly.
Dawson tapped Richard Harrison of the famed Palm Springs modernist firm Wexler & Harrison to conceptualize the clubhouse, while Ted Robinson, one of golf’s most celebrated course designers, sculpted the club’s pristine fairways.
After all, Marrakesh has never been a place for the golf-and-gin-rummy set who whisper at dinner. There’s no rigid social hierarchy, no 10-year vetting process before you’re allowed to call someone by their first name. It’s a country club, yes, but with the kind of insouciant energy that makes it feel more like an intimate gathering of old friends.
Gossip spills over a game of backgammon.
Marrakesh members Peggy and Jon Gordon, the Cavanaughs, Elizabeth Chamberlain, and Todd Warnock.
For the $15 million clubhouse renovation that was completed in 2023, acclaimed New York designer Tom Scheerer took the original vision and evolved it with a deft, contemporary sensibility. His touch seems effortless yet exacting, striking a balance between reverence and reinvention with a thoughtful expansion of gathering spaces.
“Some of the other clubs, you have to know someone, and that ends up feeding into more of a clique mentality,” he says. “But these are all homeowners who are invested in making friends and building organic relationships. None of this is simply about pumping up the coffers.”
Designer Tom Scheerer commissioned this custom wallpaper mural — a digitized rendition of an 18th-century engraving depicting the walled city of Marrakesh
The Marrakesh clubhouse perches on a hill will views of mountains on every side.
Outside, the club’s expansive new patio area — an architectural love letter to California cool — extends the night beyond the confines of the bar. Twinkling lights reflect off polished marble tabletops, and as the desert air turns brisk, guests reach for their wraps and jackets and continue their dialogues on design history and desert folklore.
Newlyweds Warnock and Chamberlain (standing) join Charles Tucker on the brand-new terrace
Once overlooked, a space off the dining room is now the most popular gathering spot, thanks to a new bar that opens onto the terrace.
It’s always happy hour at Marrakesh.
And it truly is a varied crowd. A retired FBI agent. A sex therapist. A sandwich shop mogul. Designers. Artists. Dreamers. Academics.
Conversations flow in the Marrakesh dining room.
A restored eight-panel folding screen by Robert Crowder was given new life by a decorative painter. To better align with Scheerer’s vision, its original turquoise hues were shifted to green.
This is the enduring appeal of Marrakesh. Not just a club, but a home. A place where architecture, art, and conversation collide. Where friendships are forged. Where no one ever really drinks alone.
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– Stanford men’s basketball was revealed as one of 12 teams to participate in the Acrisure Series during Feast Week (Nov
The multi-team event marks the second consecutive season that Stanford will play over Thanksgiving in Palm Desert
Stanford is one of 12 teams announced for the events
with additional teams set to play in the MTE including Utah
broadcast information and the rest of the field will be announced at a later date
The Cardinal finished the 2024-25 season, the first under Anne and Tony Joseph Director of Men’s Basketball Kyle Smith
marking its most victories since 2014-15 while matching a program record with 17 wins at Maples Pavilion
the Palm Desert High School boys' golf team has dealt with some of the highest expectations for any team in the state
only to have those seasons end in a variety of disappointments
with a team laden with four players already signed to Division 1 schools and a fifth player verbally committed to another Division 1 team
the expectations for a run to the CIF state tournament seem higher than ever
expectations are now part of the high school experience
but every year is still a journey,” said Max Margolis
one of the four seniors headed to Division 1 schools next fall
“We are only in March right now and we are trying to make it all the way to June.”
Those expectations have been stoked by how well the Aztecs have played in the opening two weeks of the season
Palm Desert won a tournament in Beaumont by 29 shots, then traveled to Northern California for two tournaments against stacked fields. Palm Desert won both events, one at the Black Course at Bayonet Course in Seaside, California, and the other, an 18-shot victory, at Diablo Country Club. The Aztecs were 8-under par as a team in the event
with Luke Ringcamp and Max Margolis each shooting 4-under par
twin brothers Caden and Landon Breisch tied for first
“Everybody just had their 'A' game,” said Palm Desert junior Ringcamp
everyone is capable of shooting very low numbers
Ringcamp has committed to play for Pepperdine in the fall of 2026
Margolis is heading to Santa Clara University this fall
while Austin Woods has signed with UC San Diego and Caden and Landon Breisch have signed with UC Riverside
More: Galleri Classic golf tournament 2025: Tickets, parking, schedule and more
With the Aztecs now heading into the heart of their season
including competing for the Desert Empire League title
first-year head coach Chuck Mazet knows what the expectations are
“From the first meeting I had with the parents
we talked about our goal was to go one step further,” Mazet said
To be one of the three Southern California teams to face three Northern California teams in the CIF state tournament in June at Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach
the Aztecs have to advance through CIF-Southern Sectional regional play
then advance out of an SCGA qualifying tournament against other top teams
then be one of the three teams to advance out of the SCGA-CIF championship featuring teams from the Southern
Los Angeles and San Diego sections of the CIF
the Aztecs have been tripped up at some point in that postseason journey
the Aztecs had perhaps their worst day of the year and fell one step short of the state tournament
“The team just didn’t have our best stuff at the wrong time,” Ringkamp said
We are right here and we are ready to make a run.”
but Mazet and the players know starting the Aztecs' top players – junior Cash Tompoles and senior Josh Householder are also in the mix for the Aztecs' top six players – doesn’t mean starting the top six players in each league match
Making sure his top players still get in school time during the busy spring between team and the player’s individual tournament schedules is a priority as well
“We have matches on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and so that’s just a lot of missed schools. So that’s one of the reasons that it is important for us to play more than just the top six,” Mazet said. “If we just played our top six, they are going to miss a crazy amount of school, and we will win by 60 or 70 strokes.”
That’s not to say the rest of the DEL doesn’t have strong players
Xavier Prep senior Benton Sullivan is capable of breaking par any round and recently shot a nine-hole 35 as the Saints beat La Quinta in a league match
while Tristan Tang is also a top-level player
sophomores Hunter Hanson and Carson Johnson have played well early in the year for La Quinta
Freshman Blake Ventura of Palm Springs should be one of the top players for the Indians as they battle with Rancho Mirage and Shadow Hills for fourth in the league
For the team closest to Palm Desert in the DEL
there is a reality that Palm Desert is powerful but also the need to enter each match with the idea of winning
That’s obviously a great measuring stick for us
to have one of the best teams not only in the state but in the country in our backyard
“That’s will definitely tell us where we are at and what we need to improve on
Whether we lose by 30 shots or three shots
The Aztecs still see a DEL championship as part of the process for winning in the postseason and eventually getting to state
But as for the expectations of a trip to the state championship
the Aztecs are trying to keep the competitiveness and the expectations in perspective
“We all want to play well at the end of the day,” Margolis said
we expect to play great golf and go out there and win
We go out there and play our hardest every time to do that.”
the Coachella Valley is a desert dream of verdant green golf courses
picture-perfect pools and (seemingly) endless days of sunshine
But to those who live here or frequently visit
this beloved oasis is also something else: a community that loves to eat and eat well
And how could desert dwellers not, given the sheer bounty of great restaurants they are blessed with? Whether you’re craving an epic burrito, one of the best sandwiches you’ve ever had or a multi-course, Michelin-recommended dining experience
you’ll find what you’re looking for here in the valley
the hardest part of dining out here is often simply narrowing down where to go
a team of reporters and editors from across The Desert Sun decided to do some real community service and put our appetites and combined decades of experience dining at local restaurants to good use by listing our favorite desert restaurants
The result is a dining to-do list that's meant for visitors and locals alike
Were there other delicious spots that didn't make this year's list
Join the conversation by emailing niki.kottmann@desertsun.com with "My essential restaurant" in the subject line
We'll be sharing readers' picks in a future story
More essentials: 15 Coachella Valley essentials: The best bars to try in 2025
RDRNNR is the type of place that could be described as an upscale sports bar
and it's conveniently located right in Old Town La Quinta
Meanwhile there are a lot of TVs playing the big game
and you wouldn’t be out of place letting out a little scream or a fist pump when your team scores
Pro tip: Go on your birthday for a great complimentary dessert
Details: 78-065 Main St., Suite 200, La Quinta. 442-400-3255, roadrunnerlq.com
This Mexican restaurant is courtesy of the same people behind Farm
and they’ve very much perfected the craft of operating a popular eatery
I almost always bring guests who are visiting me from out of town here because I know it’s guaranteed to be a hit
and it's right in downtown Palm Springs for them to explore the area before or after our meal
It’s got plenty of cocktail offerings but if you’re struggling to pick
The appetizers are always the highlight for me — beer tempura avocado bites
And you should know that even if you’re stuffed after your entrée that Tac/Quila isn’t the time or place to skip dessert
especially when it has something as crispy and creamy as a churro ice cream sandwich on the menu
Details: 415 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-417-4471, tacquila.com
This is a Palm Springs staple as Sherman Harris moved to Palm Springs in 1950 and opened this carbon copy of the classic New York City deli in 1953
That's more than 70 years of dishing up almost comically big portions and packed-to-the-gills sandwiches
lunch or dinner they have all the Big Apple deli classics: Bagel with lox and cream cheese
a stacked Reuben sandwich with a side of matzo ball soup
and in no way confined to the New York staples
And don't forget the bakery with breads and sweets galore
Sherman's is so popular the Sherman family had to open a second location in Palm Desert with the same premise
Details: 401 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. 760-325-1199 or the second location at 73-161 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. 760-568-1350, shermansdeli.com
This little cafe is located inside Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort
and offers a myriad of healthy foods and drinks
While I’m usually one to agree that healthy is just code for not very good
snacks and entree bowls — is delicious and the cafe offers the relaxing desert resort atmosphere that most people visiting the Greater Palm Springs area are looking for
Options for coffee in the west Coachella Valley can be surprisingly lacking if you’re not a fan of chains
but Azure Palms Cafe is one of the few independent cafes that knows how to make decent coffee
And if you get tempted by the delightfully relaxed resort guests clad in their bathrobes
looking like they’ve never had to respond to an email or ever even heard the evil little word that is “deadline” while munching on cheese plates
you can purchase a day pass to enjoy the resort’s spa amenities yourself since you’re already there
Details: 67-589 Hacienda Ave., Desert Hot Springs. 760-251-2005, azurepalmhotsprings.com/cafe
A sandwich-lover’s heaven must look something like TKB Bakery & Deli
It’ll make you repent for every other sandwich you’ve taken a bite out of
as well salads and sides like fries and onion rings
You’ve possibly seen its food truck roaming around
but its physical location is worth you driving to it for a change
It’s a large building with a trendy interior and lots of seating that could accommodate any group size
a meeting with colleagues or a place to work on assignments
TKB also has a bakery that serves sweet treats and drinks
Details: 45-334 Golf Center Parkway, Indio. 760-775-8330, tkbbakery.com
I like to think of this Palm Springs fixture as two restaurants in one
benedicts and other French favorites within its chic
FARM moves to a multi-course prix-fixed menu (which is presented on a large chalkboard that is brought to each table)
While the prix-fixe offerings change every few weeks
you can typically count on their being at least one beef entree
a seafood one and a vegetarian option (although the OpenTable page makes clear that vegans need look elsewhere)
Details: 6 La Plaza, Palm Springs. 760-322-2724, farmpalmsprings.com
This pink paradise is perhaps the most Instagrammable of all the eateries on this list
and that means you won't be able to go without seeing at least one bachelorette party on an impromptu photoshoot
But if you're like me and you enjoy eating in beautiful spaces where the vibes are joyful
The Pink Cabana is nestled inside the gorgeous
and is located just steps from the property's luxurious pool
The restaurant was designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard
who took inspiration from the iconic tennis and racquet clubs of Palm Springs in the 50s and 60s
so you'll feel like you just stepped off the court with Marilyn Monroe and went to the most stylish spot you could find for a refreshing post-game cocktail
All the drinks on the Pink Cabana's menu sound incredible
but I can personally recommend the Golden Hour
paired with truly any brunch item (but especially the
Details: 44-985 Province Way, Indian Wells. 760-321-3771, sandshotelandspa.com/dining-bar/
Paul Bar/Food is perhaps the perfect example of a “hole in the wall” in Palm Springs
It’s located inside a plaza with just a sign that simply says “bar/food” and curtains blocking your view indoors
You’d never assume that it's a quaint and somewhat posh bar that feels charmingly stuck in time
so plan accordingly as there may be a wait to get inside if you go at a popular time
Details: 3700 E. Vista Chino, Palm Springs. 760-656-4082, thepaulbarps.com
small spot indoors but also has outdoor seating if you get claustrophobic
The bar’s drinks range from the sophisticated
like espresso martinis and its take on an old fashioned dubbed a “bold fashioned,” to the more free-spirited
It is a casual bar sure to please the drinking habits of even the most eclectic friend group
including filling entrees like a cheeseburger and shareable bites like their filthy fries that are loaded with melted American cheese
grilled onions and special sauce (quite similar to In-N-Out’s animal style fries)
Details: 73-560 Palm Desert Drive North, Palm Desert. 760-565-1965, little-bar.com
The brainchild of chef Engen Onural who also has a popular sushi place on El Paseo in Palm Desert called Venue Sushi
this spot on the north end of Palm Canyon in downtown Palm Springs is unlike the average sushi joint in its refinement
You know in movies where a chef is using tweezers to apply the final delicate item to the top of a hand-crafted entrée
It feels like that is happening at Sandfish
Great for both a sushi snob or if someone is just sushi curious
And the modern décor adds to the experience as well
The outdoor patio includes seating areas inside what appear to be giant shipping containers
There are chef’s specials outside the sushi world
like shredded duck bao buns or braised and grilled Spanish octopus
a paired whiskey is an option as well with your meal
Details: 1556 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-537-1022, sandfishsushiwhiskey.com
You might be wondering why this is on our restaurant guide rather than the bar guide
and I'll tell you why: late-night eats (or at least "late-night" by our standards here in the desert
where almost nothing stays open past midnight)
I've been to the Indio Taphouse a couple times and have always enjoyed myself
but never has it come more in clutch than when I went to a show in Indio recently and was so hungry after
and this place was an oasis of pub fare in a literal and figurative late-night eats desert
which are best paired with one of the dozens of brews on the beverage menu (I personally paired mine with a Calidad Mexican-style lager and was a happy camper)
It should be noted that if you are looking for a quiet spot to grab dinner and catch up with a friend
but if you're looking for a high-energy bar/restaurant that plays loud music on the weekends and people are having a very good time
Details: 82-867 Miles Ave., Unit 1, Indio. 442-400-3480, indiotaphouse.com
Enzo's is the kind of homey old-school Italian place that immediately puts me at ease when I walk in
so of course it felt refreshing to be inside a cool restaurant
but I'll never forget being sat along one of the windows facing the mountains and thinking to myself that "this time of year
this view is best enjoyed with a glass of wine
The menu is large and has everything from a traditional pizza margherita to an elaborate fettuccine mare packed with four kinds of seafood
If you're not in the mood for pasta or pizza
there are plenty of piatti di pesce (seafood) and carni miste (mixed meat) options as well
Details: 356 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-832-6691, roosterandthepig.com
Everyone needs a solid “local”: A restaurant/bar/pub/tavern that’s close to home with solid food and drink day or night
A place where the waitstaff knows you by name and you can always grab a table in the dining room or bar
Those from the upper Midwest like me will recognize the vibe as soon as you roll up to the front door
Cheery hostesses will find you a spot in the often-bustling tavern side but reservations are recommended for the dining room
you can order off the classic dinner or robust bar menus from any table in the restaurant
Steaks or steak-adjacent sandwiches are the move here … the owners hail from Chicago and the beef here is some of the best served in the Coachella Valley
Prime rib lovers swear by Cactus Jack’s rendition
the French dip or sirloin steak sandwiches never disappoint
pasta and salad options round out the crowd-pleasing menu
Details: 74-450 Highway 111, Palm Desert. 760-346-1565, cactusjacks.net
Don and Sweet Sue’s Café is the quintessential small-town diner frequented by locals
chatting away with customers that they’ve seemingly known for years to check-in on their families
An old-fashioned interior that includes a round bar from which you can people-watch employees and other patrons
And the typical diner fare — breakfast served all day
such as cabbage rolls and Hungarian goulash
It’s the kind of endearing restaurant that still gives you a handwritten bill
You’d have to be a really committed pessimist to not enjoy a meal here
Details: 68-955 Ramon Road, #1, Cathedral City. 760-770-2760, donandsweetsues.com
One of the best parts of living in Southern California
I can confidently say as someone who grew up elsewhere
is the plethora of taquerias at our fingertips at any given moment
so I'm here to tell you that Olga's is one of the best in the desert
Every taco I've had here has been delicious (and yes
you should order it with all the usual toppings — the more
and they also have a great beverage menu with a wide selection of aguas frescas
Jarittos and both domestic and imported beers (which can be made into a michelada
it's super hard to find places to eat after the traditional 5-8 p.m
so Olga's is also one of those rare places where you can grab a late dinner after a long work day — they're open 8 a.m.-10 p.m
Details: 67-850 Vista Chino, Suite 105, Cathedral City and 49-625 Park Lane, Coachella. 760-832-8488, olgasrestaurant.com
If you walk through the doors of this restaurant and wonder if you took a wrong turn
You’ve just entered the jungle-like escape that is El Tranvia
From the pink flower-covered lighting fixtures with monkey figures clinging to them to the palm frond-covered throne at the front entrance
eating at this Mexican staple next to downtown Coachella is truly a unique experience
But grabbing a meal here is about so much more than the fun
you know from the moment you sit down that you’re in for an authentic experience
I’ll be the first to admit I’m a stereotypical white Midwesterner with a sensitive stomach
so I couldn’t handle the spice level on a couple of the offerings from the salsa bar
but the guacamole salsa was the perfect topping for my already flavorful burrito de pollo
and my husband absolutely loved his burrito mojado
Details: 1221 6th St., Coachella. 760-391-9772, facebook.com/tranviarestaurant
Yes, this is the place to take your visiting teenage nephews when they want to get a taste of Coachella festival glamor out of season — by which we mostly mean craning their necks trying to eke out a view of the "Spectra" tower from the parking lot
But “The Tack” also offers a great dining experience even for those who couldn’t care less about eating near hallowed musical ground
steaks and other barroom and steakhouse fare
wines and specialty cocktails (try the Polo Club Fizz made with cucumber mint vodka and pomegranate) means there is something for everyone to sip on
the saddles and other equestrian ephemera that decorate the joint provide a fitting callback to when the Empire Polo Club was actually focused on
Details: 81-800 51st Ave., Indio. 442-215-7184, tackroomtavern.com
Detroit is 2,265 miles away from Palm Desert — and it can sometimes feel even further than that. Luckily for Motor City expats, this strip mall pizza joint opened in late 2024 is helping to bridge the distance
While it’s still a newcomer to the local dining scene
the perfect balance between the crisp and chewiness of its Detroit-style pies — yes
that’s the square kind — have already made them among our local go-tos (we love the diavolo de miele
While you’ll want to split a 'za or two with your companions
desserts and a surprisingly varied selection of appetizers for a pizza parlor
where else are you going to find fried calamari
Buffalo wings and Brussel sprouts with pancetta on the same menu
Details: 72-795 Highway 111, Suite G-2, Palm Desert. 442-282-8019, instagram.com/blackcatpizza_pd
The Rancho Mirage location is perfect for meeting up with friends or holding business meetings thanks to the large outdoor patio
but there are also three locations in Palm Springs that this newsroom staff has been known to frequent
There's plenty to choose from if you're a coffee drinker
chai latte and iced tea fusions are all great picks
Come with an empty stomach so you can try the breakfast sandwiches
Details: 71-380 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage (check the website for addresses of the three Palm Springs locations, which we also recommend) 760-340-2444, kofficoffee.com
There are plenty of good sushi restaurants in the Coachella Valley
but one I return to time and time again is Cathedral City's Edoko Sushi
it's hard to pick what I want to eat because there are so many good options
and I'm happy to report that I've never left disappointed
Some of the sushi rolls I recommend are the Yami Yami (inside a California roll and topped with tuna and avocado)
the Baked Salmon (inside a California roll and topped with baked salmon) and the Three Amigo (inside a spicy tuna roll and topped with avocado
If you're looking to try a bunch of different items
Details: 69-195 Ramon Road, Suite C5, Cathedral City. 760-328-7770, edokosushicathedral.com
Si Bon has been serving up Belgian cuisine for brunch
lunch and dinner in the mid-valley in a charmingly casual environment for years
There's a distinct flair infused in the classics here
whether it's a mango-stuffed waffle that garners raves from brunch-goers
the papaya stuffed with chicken salad for lunch or a classic pot of steamed mussels for dinner
Extensive indoor and outdoor options for seating make this a crowd-pleaser no matter the time of day
Details: 40-101 Monterey Ave., Suite E5, Rancho Mirage. 760-837-0011, sibon-sogood.com
Whenever I need a taste of home, I head to Alps Village in Palm Desert, one of USA Today's Best Restaurants of 2024
The eatery serves traditional Bosnian and German cuisine just like how my mother makes it
so if you're in the mood for European food
The interior is also bursting with cozy charm
barrel-looking chairs and scenic photos of
Items that you must try include cevapcici (beef sausages)
the shopska Mediterranean salad and one of their many pizzas
Details: 77-734 Country Club Drive, Suite F, Palm Desert. 760-200-5400, alpsvillage.com
This trendy Rancho Mirage spot specializes in western Mediterranean cuisine from Spain
France and Italy and showcases a flavorful range of tapas
A visit to Catalan makes the perfect date night — it has a very romantic atmosphere inside with twinkling lights and a showstopping tree in the middle of the eatery — or a great spot to get a big group together for celebrations
And don't forget the dessert: Options include Basque cheesecake
Details: 70-026 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-770-9508, catalanrestaurants.com
When it comes to Greek food in the Coachella Valley
nothing comes close to the quality served at Nina’s Traditional Greek Cuisine & Pizzeria
The second you step foot inside the cozy café — with tables adorned with blue gingham tablecloths and a colorful wall mural — you'll feel as though you've been transported to the Balkans
and once you take a bite of the menu offerings
You can never go wrong by ordering the gyro
which features juicy beef and lamb on soft pita bread topped with onions
Other delicious bites include mousaka (similar to a lasagna
except it includes layers of eggplant and potato)
Greek salads and a unique selection of pizzas
Details: 555 S. Sunrise Way, Suite 401, Palm Springs. 760-323-8552, ninas-traditional-greek-cuisine-pizzeria.restaurants-world.com
The ambiance inside is beautiful and classy
with an outdoor courtyard and live musicians inside
and it's the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail or two
anniversary or just an elegant night on the town
this Rancho Mirage staple is the place to be
Details: 71-775 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. 760-568-9321, wallysdesertturtle.com
The taste of French cuisine is only a short drive away at Palm Springs' L'Atelier Café
Start your day right with a classic quiche Lorraine with ham and Gruyere cheese
sandwiches and paninis options give you plenty of offerings to chew on
including a goat cheese panini with tomatoes and honey
No trip to L'Atelier Café is complete without stocking up on an assortment of pastries
beignets and more are available to satisfy your cravings
Even tourists may have heard of Shield’s Date Garden the famous place in Indio with the famous giant armored soldier with his shield and sword pointing you toward the gift shop where you can get a date shake at the diner bar
and browse for mementos of your trip to the desert
What you might not know is that there is a great café in the back with fantastic breakfast and lunch options (it closes at 2 p.m
there are some fun date-centric menu items
date pancakes or how about their signature date burger
That’s a burger topped with sauteed Deglet Noor dates
It’s a family friendly place as well with plenty of kid-friendly options and there’s even a walking path and sculpture garden in the back for patrons to work off that date shake that you simply must try
Details: 80-225 Highway 111, Indio. 760-775-0902. cafe.shieldsdategarden.com
It’s not often that a city’s coolest restaurant is also one of it’s best
But that’s the case with this ever-so-hip hideway
which can be found tucked into the similarly atmospheric Villa Royale hotel
While the dark lighting and distinctive portraits of Hunter S
Eazy-E and other pop culture heavy weights certainly cultivate a *vibe*
the proverbial substance to match Del Rey’s style comes in the form of excellent renditions of beef and pork meatballs
Details: 1620 S. Indian Trail, Palm Springs. 760-327-2314, Villaroyale.com/delrey/
French delicacies can be found all throughout the valley
but there's something special about RM Coffee
Pastries and sweets are handmade every morning by the owner
go back to frequently because there's always something delicious to try
I recommend the ham and cheese or spinach and feta pastries
but the chocolate almond croissants and variety of Danishes are must-trys
Details: 70-020 Highway 111, Suite B, Rancho Mirage. 760-861-1563, instagram.com/rmc.offee
but brunch is The Tropicale's shining star
it features the primary reason to go to any brunch spot — bottomless mimosas — but It's so much more than that
The brunch menu has tasty glow-ups of your favorites: Jalapeno waffles and fried chicken
And the secret weapon of The Tropicale is its indoor-outdoor layout
The vast patio does give a tropical feel as your table will almost certainly be next to a banana tree or some other exotic vegetation
Or take it inside for a retro sort of Las Vegas-y feel evoking the famous casino of the same name
Details: 330 East Amado Road, Palm Springs. 760-866-1952. thetropicale.com
While the Coachella Valley has its fair share of culinary assets
Or at least so goes a common and understandable but most mistaken assumption that will quickly be put to rest after a few bites of the brisket served out of the kitchen of this Cat City staple
While it’d be silly to miss out on the mouthwatering smoked meats
the rather expansive menu also includes several burgers
plus a selection of fun and often decadent appetizers such as mac and cheese egg rolls and crispy wantons stuffed with sausage
There’s also a page long beer list and eight house cocktails to choose from
Details: 68-525 Ramon Road, Suite A101, Cathedral City. 760-699-7231, bubbasbonesandbrews.com
which celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean with its robust menu
and they're topped with crisp veggies and seasoned with a variety spices that make these dishes truly sing
there are plenty of platters that feature a variety of meats and sides
Details: 555 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A109, Palm Springs. 760-666-4700, wraphouz.net
soy garlic and even a creamy cheese mixture referred to here as “snow.” But this spot isn’t just for the bird; there’s also katsu
Details: 6755 E. Palm Canyon Drive, #A-105, Cathedral City. 760-202-0144, beechpleasecc.com
Azucar exemplifies so much of what I love about dining in Palm Springs
The space has a gorgeous artsy aesthetic with intricate patterns
plentiful Frida Kalo self-portraits and bursts of color galore
There’s a great setting inside the Spanish-style La Serena Villas hotel with large dining room doors that are usually open to provide a view of the perfectly Palm Springs pool
which can also be seen from the upstairs rooftop offering views of the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains
chicken and seafood main courses prepared with Latin flair
ineffable alchemy of how all those elements come together on a warm Palm Springs night as you sip a handcrafted margarita while the wind gently ruffles the poolside palms
Details: 339 S. Belardo Road, Palm Springs. 844-932-8044, azucarpalmsprings.com
this tapas spot in Indio works for any appetite
which makes Cork & Fork a great place to try new things and share them with your squad
The tapas menu includes standards like truffle mac and cheese
but also some outside-the-bun options like pickled Vietnamese cucumber
there are also full-plate options for those anti-tapas diners out there
And don’t forget about the “cork” part of Cork & Fork
They feature a wide selection of wines to pair with your meal
Details: 49-890 Jefferson St., Suite 100, Indio. 760-777-7555, corkandforkwinebar.com
With a wall of flowers near its entrance that begs for Instagram posing
a rainbow of fabrics adorning the ceiling and festive bright breeze blocks throughout
Delicia’s might just be the most colorful restaurant in the Coachella Valley
Delicia’s churns out a range of Mexican specialties ranging from enchiladas
fajitas and tacos to molcajetes and huaraches — and nearly everything I’ve tried has proved to be as tasty as it is beautifully-plated
which consists of four margaritas made with whatever fruits are currently in season
Details: 66-121 Pierson Blvd., Desert Hot Springs. 760-894-3400, ilovedeliciasmexicancuisine.com
Xuemei Cheng didn’t enjoy going to Chinese restaurants in the U.S. because she thought they were “too Americanized.” So, when her husband Brett Bennett retired and they relocated to the valley, the couple decided to take the plunge and open their own
CIE Sichuan Cuisine focuses on traditional Chinese food from the Sichuan province of China
duck and beef tongue are prevalent in the menu
And many of the hot pot meals and other offerings are big enough for sharing as a nod to traditional Chinese culture
If your group of friends feels the urge for some Chinese food
— Jose Alejandro Bastidas (previous Desert Sun food and drinks reporter)
Chula Artisan Eatery is a Mexican restaurant serving fresh food that includes some vegan and gluten-free options inside a cute interior
If you have a vegan in your group but aren’t thrilled about eating vegan food yourself
this is a good choice so both of you can leave happy and full
Its options for those who eat animal products include sticky bacon dates
Vegan options include its chula vegan pancakes and a vegan bowl that is filled with black beans
And don’t forget to grab one of Chula Artisan Eatery’s baked goods on your way out for a little treat at home
Details: 47-150 Washington St., Suite B, La Quinta. 760-227-6616, chulaeatery.com
Snagging a reservation at this spot on OpenTable can take careful planning or luck
but it is always worth the effort if you’re in town
You can’t really go wrong with what you order here
They are decadent pillows of dough that come with a side of sage butter to slather on and are perfect for soaking up the alcohol from all the cocktails you’ll want to try
This is a romantic place for a date or an enjoyable outing with girlfriends
If you’re not opposed to waiting a possibly exorbitant amount of time
you can try walking in to get a seat at the bar if you didn’t manage to reserve a table
Details: 1555 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Unit F, Palm Springs. 442-332-3800, barcecil.com
Head to Cunard's Sandbar in the heart of La Quinta when nothing but the old-school classics will do
You'll be transported back in time as you enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail and live piano music most nights
Deviled eggs for an appetizer is a solid choice
or try the shishito pepper for a bit of a kick
Entrees are laid-out as "from the land" and "from the sea" in true supper club style
with a few pastas to round out the options
Servers will steer you toward the brown-butter sauce preparation
several chicken preparations (including fried) and liver keep the carnivores happy
Details: 78-120 Calle Tampico, La Quinta. 760-564-3660, thesandbarlq.com
but Grill-A-Burger has more than 30 delicious and wildly unique burgers to choose from on its menu
you can sink your teeth into the Gagapalooza
which comes with frizzled imported Italian prosciutto
buttery Provolone cheese and homemade pesto mayo on a sourdough bun
Those with a taste for certain ingredients can scope out creative concoctions topped with avocados
Drive-Ins and Dives" host Guy Fieri's attention
salad and other options for those looking for non-burger fare
Details: 73-091 Country Club Drive, Suite A2, Palm Desert. 760-346-8170, grill-a-burger.com
Chef Tanya’s is a gourmet vegan restaurant serving sophisticated and healthy plant-based food
They have a saying at Chef Tanya’s — “Eat plants
look good in your pants!” — and it’s not hard to find something that will help you in that effort
all vegan-ed up with seitan or her patented tempeh providing the protein
Try any of your sandwiches with what they lovingly call “crack cheese” both for its addictive qualities and because it’s made out of cracked cashews
And don’t forget about the attached Kreamery
of course) soft-serve ice cream with special toppings as well as coffee options
There is also a Chef Tanya’s location in Palm Springs without the Kreamery
Details: 72-695 Highway 111, Suite A6, Palm Desert. 760-636-0863, cheftanyaskitchen.com
Don’t come to Chada Thai for a date or leisurely family meal: This restaurant
which has a mostly red exterior you’ll clock from the street
has been take-out only since the COVID-19 pandemic
But do come for the expertly made versions of Thai favorites like Panang curry and the Thai basil stir fry
as is the Combination Seafood dish that always features a generous helping of shrimp
mussels and fish in a just-spicy-enough curry paste
I’m also known for dialing Chada Thai when I'm too lazy to make lunch during the week; it’s hard to resist when you can order a lunch-sized portion of many of their most popular dishes and get a side salad with it for about the same price you now pay for a burger and some fries at McDonald’s
Details: 1418 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. 760-322-3992, chadathaipalmsprings.com
the enoteca bar and patio at Ristorante Mamma Gina is the place to be on El Paseo in Palm Desert
While the restaurant’s dining room is a splurge-worthy indulgence
the bar offers an extensive menu of Italian delicacies in smaller portions (and smaller prices) that are just perfect for a festive night out without breaking the bank — or your waistband
Specializing in authentic Florentine cuisine (there’s a sister restaurant in Florence
this is the place to indulge in spaghetti Bolognese (which bears little resemblance to “red sauce” … and that’s a good thing)
sublime risotto or a complex and lively puttanesca that’s studded with garlic
The cocktails are on-point and there’s always an interesting wine on special
Details: 73-705 El Paseo, Palm Desert. 760-568-9898, mammagina.com
Those of you who live in major metropolitan areas are lucky to be able to satisfy cravings for food from any corner of the world without much effort. Those of us in the Coachella Valley don't have as many options to choose from, but fortunately there are some gems among the few Middle Eastern restaurants found here
and felt like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow after I moved here from the Los Angeles area
which in contrast to the valley is rampant with shawarma restaurants
The Wrap Shack offers shawarma wraps and plates
as well as other popular Middle Eastern foods like falafel and tabbouleh
It’s a casual restaurant located inside a plaza and most people have gotten it to go when I’ve been there
but they do have tables inside if you can’t wait to get home to eat
Details: 40-100 Washington St., Suite 109, Bermuda Dunes. 760-360-8178, itsawrapshack.com
It may look a little unimpressive from the outside as part of a small strip mall
but when you step inside El Mexicali Cafe II
you are instantly transported to … CHILES GUERITOS RELLENOS de CAMARON
Was trying to get deeper into the description of this restaurant without mentioning it’s signature appetizer
You have to get the chiles gueritos rellenos de camaron
which are yellow peppers stuffed with shrimp
The rest of the menu includes all the traditional items you’d expect from an authentic Mexican restaurant including menudo
You can have your guacamole made tableside
When someone wants authentic Mexican in the desert
Details: 43-430 Monroe St., Suite A, Indio. 760-342-2333, elmexicalicafe2.com
Chinese food is the favorite of many for a reason
It’s tasty in any circumstance — whether you’re eating at a restaurant on a great first date or eating it on the floor of your living room crying over a break-up
from pot stickers and spring rolls to orange chicken and beef lo mein
as well as signature dishes such as fresh pineapple shrimp and kung pao delight
and you can order take-out from the restaurant directly on its website or from GrubHub
I recommend trying the sesame chicken for a tasty go-to meal
Details: 77-912 Country Club Drive, Suite 31, Palm Desert. 760-772-2291, eatmywok.com
Situated right along the tree-lined (notable and appreciated in the desert) main drag of Downtown Coachella is Sixth Street Coffee
a hip oasis featuring not only an impressive coffee
tea and light brunch menu but a beautifully curated gallery wall that I saw several people photograph during the two hours I sat there recently
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to get some work done or just want to kick back and read after grabbing a book at the library next door (there’s even a separate door for going between the two buildings)
Sixth Street is the best spot to unwind in Downtown Coachella
Their iced chai latte was perfectly cinnamon-y and just what I needed on an unseasonably hot spring day
and I look forward to coming back to try the lavender lemonade or any of the other refreshing beverages on the menu
Details: 1500 6th St., Coachella. 760-619-2221, sixthstreetcoffee.com
This French restaurant excels on several levels
whether you're looking for a special-occasion or holiday splurge
or need a convivial atmosphere for a spur-of-the-moment Wednesday night break from your own kitchen
The sprawling building offers an elevated dining experience indoors or outdoors
with a massive patio festooned with twinkle lights
caviar-topped deviled eggs and a cocktail or Belgian beer
Indulge in French onion soup and then progress to expertly prepared seafood or steak options
for something that gives a hint at the kitchen's Alsace flair
The smaller bar offers an intimate experience that's great for happy hour or a satisfyingly classic plate of steak frites
usually available in either appetizer or entree sizes
Details: 78-477 Highway 111, La Quinta. 760-771-4400, labrasserielaquinta.com
There were several remarks made at the Desert X 2025 Exhibition Preview March 7
"No matter who you are are or where you live in the Coachella Valley … wherever you're coming from
you have access," Perez said of the Desert X installations
Desert Hot Springs — don't have the money to go to a real nice museum
The public has been able to view nine Desert X installations since March 8, and after a few more opened later in March, all 11 are now open and will be on display through May 11. The map is available on Desert X's website
Here's your first look at all the 2025 Desert X exhibits throughout the Coachella Valley
New York City-based interdisciplinary artist Sanford Biggers wants you to look at the two tall pole structures — with sparkling clouds atop them — that make up "Unsui" and think about place and time
"'Unsui (Mirror)' is an opportunity to slow down and reflect on what it means to drift like clouds and flow like water," he told the Desert X team
That was certainly the case for viewers on Friday
who were lucky enough to watch the piece sway in the wind and catch the light in a way that made it truly sparkle against its backdrop of the Little San Bernardino Mountains
Location: North of the Palm Springs Visitor Center at Tramway Road
"Plotting Rest" is one of the last few Desert X pieces to be open to the public
Kiwanga brings to life a pavilion-like structure that features columns made of different shapes and materials (triangles
Architecture is a big part of Palm Springs' identity
though this structure offers very little protection from the elements
as there are no walls or closed ceilings to keep nature out
as the sun hits the piece throughout the day
ever-changing shadows are cast on the ground
"The Living Pyramid" by 94-year-old Hungarian-American artist Agnes Denes stands as a tall monument to architecture and the environment at Sunnylands
The pyramid will go through a few iterations while it's on display
and it is currently covered in live vegetation that is native to the area and was planted a couple months ago
The structure will be brought to life by the plants' life cycles that will showcase their growth
reminding us all of the beauty and preciousness of life
Location: Worsley Road between Pierson Boulevard & Painted Hills Road
Mexican multidisciplinary artist Jose Dávila told the Desert X team a simple message he'd like to convey to those viewing "The act of being together": "Look beyond what you see
and feel the silence between the objects." To fully appreciate Dávila's rock formations
it's best to approach them from various angles
Get up close to enjoy the views of Desert Hot Springs and the windmills
and explore the different perspectives that the installation provides
Although it may appear simple at first glance
there is much more to discover than meets the eye
Location: Pierson Boulevard between Foxdale Drive & Miracle Hill Road
Ride" in Desert Hot Springs should be prepared for a journey just under a mile into the canyons of Desert Hot Springs from the parking lot off Pierson Boulevard
the artwork speaks to the modern culture of "van life" and sustainability in rural areas
those parking and camping on Bureau of Land Management land and the open desert
The retro van features some accents that speak to his Mandan
Arikara and Lakota ancestry and the setting
'Five things you can’t wear on TV'Artist: Raphael Hefti
shiny line stretching from one side of Homme Adams Park to the other
"Five things you can’t wear on TV" by Zurich-based artist Raphael Hefti utilizes a black woven polymer fiber — originally designed for light
durable fire hoses — that is coated on one side with a reflective surface to form
and you might even hear a gentle vibration nearby too
Another installation featured at Desert X AlUla in 2024 and now in the Coachella Valley is "To Breathe," a circular structure with glass walls coated in a special film that makes the landscape of Desert Hot Springs seem to fade away
the sounds of your footsteps begin to echo louder
The experience of being outdoors in the desert changes throughout your journey in and out of the structure
including the view of people on the other side of the walls as they pass by
Sarah Meyohas’ sprawling "Truth Arrives in Slanted Beams" showcases "caustics," or light patterns formed by the refraction or reflection of light through curved surfaces
Visitors are greeted by a white pathway on the side of the road that leads them to the ribbon-like installation
words from the art piece's name are projected onto the white walls
Waves and other patterns (we promise they're not mirages) are seen projected as well
"Adobe Oasis" took about seven weeks to make
and it was assembled entirely by a 3D printer
Berkeley-based artist Ronald Rael told viewers on Friday that he wanted to create something out of adobe because it's a tactile material — which can be recycled if the piece
is destroyed — that we as humans are deeply connected to via heritage and genetics
"I see an adobe house the same way I see ancestors and grandparents
"This is the skin of our future ancestors."
Location: Pierson Boulevard between North Indian Canyon Drive & Desert Terrace Way
located off Pierson Boulevard in Desert Hot Springs
features several signs welcoming customers to the full-service experience that was once common at gas stations
Its small and rustic design blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape
you'll notice a peculiar figure standing behind the glass inside
If you pick up one of the conch shells attached to the single gas pump
When there is no place left that you can call home
Muhannad Shono's "What Remains" imagines what would be left behind in a sandy plot after a big windstorm
Long strips of fabric covered in sand are positioned throughout a field
appearing as if they've been mangled in bushes and are swaying in the wind
It's a staggering visual both on the ground and from a higher elevation
which uses the land to its advantage as it takes on the shape of nature
Brian Blueskye covers arts and entertainment for the Desert Sun
He can be reached at brian.blueskye@desertsun.com
Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley
Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com or on Twitter @ema_sasic
The Sessanta v2.0 Tour kicked off on April 24th just outside Palm Springs
CA and despite being in the middle of the desert
To give you a better grasp of the magnitude of this show
This same time last year was Maynard James Keenan’s 60th birthday and to celebrate
he put together an integrative production featuring two of his three bands
Sessanta is a 3-headliner concept unlike any conventional live show you’ve seen before
While most shows have bands staged out according to a lineup and scheduled set times
this show allows for all three bands to grace the stage in rotating order throughout the night
They take turns in 3-4 song increments with crossovers from each band coming out to play with one another
Last year the tour was sold out across its limited run and now
after seeing such success they decided to extend the tour into a 6-week trek across the U.S
with Sessanta 2.0 and kick it back off where it all began
“The Sessanta run was by far the most fun and delicious extended birthday party I’ve ever had thanks to all of the attendees and the master musicianship of Primus
“Decided we need to share this with people who missed the first round in places we couldn’t get to
The lights came up inside the arena and revealed the first act of the evening
he opened the show with his earnest request that all phones and devices be put away in an effort to detach from distractions and fully immerse oneself into the musical experience
For anyone who has been to one of his shows
knows that devices are not welcome except for the very last song of the evening
the crowd felt unified and connected while being actively engaged during every song; energies were high and the arena was singing along to every song
A Perfect Circle started off on a high note by playing one of their most impactful tracks
“Disillusioned” off their most recent 2018 release Eat The Elephant and the crowd went ecstatic
where they dove into deep cuts that turned into extended jam sessions
It felt as though this unique setup offered the bands a chance to divert from their usual setlists and just have fun on stage in front of devoted fans who would truly appreciate it
they couldn’t resist throwing the crowd a bone and eventually playing hits such as “My Name Is Mud” and “Jerry Was A Racecar Driver.”
Puscifer was the last band to perform during the first interval
and started things off with “Man Overboard,” however
when their first block of songs was over Maynard and co-vocalist Carina Round stayed on stage for the start of Act II where they offered backup vocals for the premier of Primus’ new single “Little Lord Fentanyl.” Another notable debut included the first live performance of Puscifer’s single “The Algorithm,” whose main theme centers around the idea of phone addictions and even refers to those constantly scrolling as ‘social mediots’
The song is basically a poster child for his empathic stance on the no-phone policy at his shows
The entire evening was broken up into three acts
a grand finale closing it all out with all three bands on stage to perform Puscifer’s “Grand Canyon” altogether
a tradition carried over from last year’s short Sessanta tour where the song first debuted
phones and photographers were allowed out for the final song
All three drum sets were occupied on the lifted platform
It was a flawless evening of performances and a birthday celebration of epic proportions
Issue 73 featuring Pinhead Gunpowder is available now
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Firefighters rescued a hiker with serious injuries from a popular trail in Palm Desert on Wednesday
on the Bump and Grind Trail in Palm Desert and southeast of Rancho Mirage
It was considered an inaccessible rescue due to the terrain
Cal Fire said a Riverside County Sheriff's Department helicopter transported the patient to a landing zone and then an ambulance drove them to a hospital
The fire department did not have an update on the hiker's condition around 4:20 p.m
Ani Gasparyan covers the western Coachella Valley cities of Desert Hot Springs and Cathedral City
2025 at 1:27 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}In Palm Desert
taxes went up as Measure G took effect on Tuesday
which voters approved in the November 2024 election
along with 123 other cities statewide just saw sales taxes rise on April 1
The 1 percent tax increase will push the current sales tax up from 7.75 percent to 8.75 percent
Officials expect the move to help generate an extra $25 million annually to support the Palm Desert's general fund
Measure G was implemented to update Palm Desert’s emergency services and improve local infrastructure by building a new fire station, increasing police patrols, improving flood control, increasing library staffing and more
The measure will also be used to accomplish the following:
The measure was authored by Mayor Pro Tem Jan Harnik and councilmembers Kathleen Kelly
medicine and rent are all exempt from sales tax
but consumers will notice the change when purchasing other goods and services
up to 70 percent of sales tax dollars collected in Palm Desert come from tourists and visitors
To find out more information about the tax increase, click here
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
This new year continues to bring plenty of entertainment options to the desert
so even if you're not a movie fan and haven't gotten in on the Palm Springs International Film Festival fun (which
is a shame for you — everyone can find a film they'll enjoy)
Scroll to the bottom to learn how to submit info to this roundup
Here's 10 things to do in the valley between Monday
The 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival isn't over yet
Monday is your last day to check out a screening at the 36th anniversary festival
and it just so happens to be the day when each film screened was one of the highest-rated films by audience members throughout the past 11 days
Best of Fest screenings aren't announced until the day before
so check the film festival's website Sunday and Monday so you can catch any films you didn't already get to see
Where: Various screening locations across Palm Springs
More info: psfilmfest.org
Start your 2025 with a full moon hike on the first mile of the Indio Badlands Trail
This family-friendly adventure offers a manageable 2-mile out and back hike with minimal elevation gain
Bring your hiking poles for stability getting up to the ridge
1-2 liters of water for each family member
the moonlight will cast beautiful shadows on the desert terrain as the sky lights up
so don't forget to soak in the scenery around you
because local astronomers will bring their telescopes
Note: RSVP is required and you must bring your ticket with you for check-in 15 minutes prior to start time
Where: Closest address: Indio Hills Badlands Trailhead
More info: Contact the Friends of the Desert Mountains at 760-568-9918 or view registration page at desertmountains.org/event/
Desert Cities Art Council presents 'Dining with Art: Picasso' exhibitPalm Desert Mayor Jan Harnik will administer the opening ceremony for this new "Dining with Art" exhibit at Picasso Restaurant in Bermuda Dunes on Tuesday
presented by the Desert Cities Art Council
is a traveling art exhibit series that involves showcasing art on the walls of local dining establishments for residents to enjoy
This latest exhibit features 11 talented valley artists showcasing original works across various two-dimensional mediums
"Embracing Picasso," a piece created by local artist Mardi De Veuve is just one of the remarkable artworks that will be on display at this exhibit
and a metal replica of the piece will be the main door prize to be drawn the last day of the exhibition
All visitors who register for the show qualify for drawing
and the show will be open every day except 3-10 p.m
More info: contactbeacon.com
magic and ventriloquism performances at this one-night-only event
Performers include "champion of magic" and "master of sleight of hand" Artem Shchukin; triple-threat comedian/actor/juggler Ron Pearson; McCallum Theatre Open Call Grand Prize winner and renowned Magic Castle performer Rob Watkins
and the hilarious Marvyn's Magic Theater host Jeff Hobson
More info: marvynsmagictheater.com
presents 'Spring Awakening'Looking for some live theater to get you through hump day
Consider heading to Revolution Stage Company to see the theater group's latest production
"Spring Awakening." Broadway's smash-hit musical tells the tale of a group of teenagers discovering the inner and outer tumult of adolescent sexuality
More info: revolutionstagecompany.com
Enjoy this performance by beloved actor-singer-dancer-psychic Ben Zook
who is back in Palm Springs with an all-new show full of raunchy songs
"Where the Bears Are," is bringing this New York Times-spotlighted show to Palm Springs for a run of Wednesday night shows for several weeks
so don't worry if you can't catch it quite yet
Note: Tickets include a complimentary adult beverage as well as admission to a pre-show and post-show party
More info: eventbrite.com/e/
In collaboration with the Desert Plein Air Association
the Artists Center in Palm Desert presents this anticipated event featuring three major show components
the Landscape/Skyscape show will showcase 75 juried works of art
19 renowned guest artists have been invited to participate
a thrilling competition will feature 50 participants painting en plein air just days before the show's opening
2 (The Artists Center is open from Wednesday through Sunday)
More info: www.artistscouncil.com
Whether you're a golf fan or you're just looking to witness one of the valley's biggest events of the year
consider heading to this tournament featuring many of the top PGA Tour stars
The event spans three Coachella Valley courses — the Pete Dye Stadium Course and the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West and the La Quinta Country Club — and all eyes will be on defending champion Nick Dunlap
who won the tournament as an amateur in 2024 to become the first amateur to win a tour event in 33 years
who is back in the field after finishing third each of the last two years in La Quinta
When: The official tournament begins Thursday, Jan. 16 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 19. Gates open at 7:30 a.m. First tee times are 8:30 a.m. (check website for information about the after-play concerts on Friday and Saturday)
Where: PGA West Private Clubhouse & Golf Courses
Cost: Daily grounds tickets – providing general admission to The American Express at all three courses – are $70 Thursday
$114 Friday or Saturday good for golf and concerts after play on the PGA West driving range
Clubhouse daily tickets are $135 for Thursday or Sunday and $165 for Friday or Saturday
All prices include the online purchase fee
More info: theamexgolf.com
Tommy Castro & The Painkillers are returning to the Palm Springs Cultural Center this week
King Entertainer Of The Year award winner) and his bandmates (also with many Blues Foundation awards under their belts) have been busy touring lately
but they've also been working on new album "Closer to the Bone," which is being dubbed one of the group's most personal albums to date
Come hear some of the new stuff along with the classics this week in Palm Springs
More info: eventbrite.com
Prepare to bend and snap your way home after this one
DTW's upcoming production of "Legally Blonde The Musical" will follow beloved movie character Elle Woods "as she takes on Harvard Law
fueled by the desire to win back her ex-boyfriend
the show captures Elle's journey of self-discovery and empowerment
she proves her resilience and determination," as the website states
Where: Indio Performing Arts Center 45175 Fargo Street
More info: dtworks.thundertix.com/events/
International Classical Concerts of the Desert presents as the opening concert of its 20th anniversary season the Miro String Quartet
One of America’s most celebrated ensembles
the Miró has been described as “furiously committed” and possessed of “interpretive intensity.” For over twenty-five years the Quartet has performed throughout the world on the most prestigious concert stages
earning accolades from critics and audiences alike
Handicapped accessible and ample free parking
Where: Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church
or $165 for a five-concert bundle (tickets available at the door)
The Gardens on El Paseo kicks off its Annual Concert Series this Saturday
The Gardens has brought the community together to support local nonprofits
relax and enjoy some live music while supporting your community every Saturday now through March 8
a Tina Turner tribute artist who has performed her celebrated singing and dancing shows all over the world
as well as on "Entertainment Tonight" and "The People's Choice Awards."
Where: The Gardens on El Paseo- Center Lawn
More info: thegardensonelpaseo.com/pages/27th-annual-concert
This story contains previous reporting by Desert Sun golf writer Larry Bohannan.
Palm Desert High School has just three seniors on its boys’ basketball roster
Head coach Justin Sobczyk has said that the future of the program is bright
And the Aztecs looked like a team that won’t go out easy in the CIF Southern Section playoffs
the Aztecs outscored Jordan High (Long Beach) by 19 points in the second half to roll to a 78-63 win in their 3AA Division first-round matchup
Palm Desert will now hit the road to face Linfield Christian on Friday
Palm Desert (21-8) made its first eight shots following the intermission and opened the third quarter on a 13-3 run that gave the Aztecs the lead for good
“We started playing a lot harder,” Sobczyk said
Junior guard Wil Wilson was 4-for-4 and drained a trio of 3-pointers in the third quarter and 6-foot-7 junior forward Jake Brande dunked the ball emphatically over a defender that sent the home crowd into a frenzy
Palm Desert outscored Jordan 23-11 in the quarter and then successfully navigated Jordan’s full-court press throughout the fourth quarter to seal the comeback win
rebound and just take care of the ball,” Wilson said
it was junior guard Jecory Jones who had the hot hand
He finished the quarter with seven points and junior point guard Paul Dreisbach made 4-of-5 free throws down the stretch to keep the Aztecs in front
even after Jordan cut the lead to 71-61 with two minutes remaining
Wilson finished the game with a team-high 20 points
but the Aztecs benefited from a balanced attack
Dreisbach had 14 and senior Diego Montes finished with 10
Palm Desert shared a Desert Empire League title with Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs
and the Rattlers and Indians will now face one another in the 2A playoffs after each team won on Wednesday
Rancho Mirage traveled three hours in the rain to Rio Mesa (Oxnard) to play its first-round game
and drive home with a 58-52 win.Senior captain Vincent Davis finished with 13 points
Sophomore captain Marcus Gragg-Buchanan scored 15 points
and freshman Cash Gervin led the Rattlers with 16 points in his first CIF playoff game.Syeed Baaree
Christian Perez and Roland Barnett each played solid defense
Coastal Christian 34: Tiffany Chang and Katelyn Gallagher both scored in double figures to spark the Aztecs to the road win in the Division 3A CIF-SS playoff opener
Chang finished with 16 points and three steals
Palm Desert (19-8) will either host Temescal Canyon or visit CSDR at 7 p.m
Andrew John covers sports for The Desert Sun and the USA TODAY Network
by Site Staff | Mar 4
Grand Tastings tickets are sold as single-day passes
Elevate your Saturday experience with a Carte Blanche pass
granting early access to Curtis Stone’s VIP demonstration — an intimate performance before the doors open to regular ticketholders
Nonalcoholic Options Abstaining from alcohol
Find a variety of zero-proof tasting options in the tents
Discover the secrets of perfect pairings as Afrim Pristine
a maître fromager (certified cheese master) and co-owner of Toronto’s renowned Cheese Boutique
takes you on a journey through the art of cheesemaking and wine pairing
Fellow Canadians may recognize Pristine from the Food Network Canada series Cheese: A Love Story
which follows the turophile around the world as he sniffs out the good stuff
Fourth Course: Stephanie Boswell Lemon tart with candied ginger meringue
paired with 2023 Bouchaine Vineyards Carneros Estate Selection Late Harvest Chardonnay
Pairing Champagne with caviar is a classic for a reason
Caviar expert Christina Jones will introduce Tsar Nicoulai’s standout selections
from California white sturgeon roe to Russian Osetra and Siberian Baerii sturgeon
explaining the subtle differences that create each distinct flavor profile
Champagne expert Eric Brehm will pop the cork on Louis Roederer’s best-loved wines
sharing insights into what makes these bubbles sing alongside the brininess of caviar
It’s an indulgent exploration of taste and texture that promises to be anything but ordinary
Break all the wine-pairing rules at this lively, unpretentious dinner hosted by Wildest chef Trilby Tatro and master sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji
flavor-packed evening pairs five gourmet tacos — highlighting meat
and plant-based ingredients — with a wine varietal
Discover unexpected combinations that challenge traditional pairings with a welcome dose of spice
you’ll enjoy an exclusive tequila from the Sierras of Northern Mexico — so rare
Napa Valley 2021Caymus Vineyards California Cabernet Sauvignon
The tour begins at The Gardens on El Paseo
departing from the upper-level parking deck and returning to the same location at the conclusion of the event
Turn up the heat as you dive into the wide world of chile peppers — from subtle and smoky to the kind that’ll make you break a sweat
James Beard Award–winning pastry chef Gale Gand steps out of the dessert lane to serve up a live demo of her Chile Sesame Noodles
Known for her confectionary genius on Food Network’s Sweet Dreams
Whether you’re a heat seeker or just chile-curious
this class will spark some inspiration for your next spicy culinary adventure
Party with the chefs you know and love from TV at this cocktail soirée set at a stunning private estate
Forget the stage — the stars of the culinary world will be mingling with a drink in hand
and share bites of their scratch-made appetizers
and Afrim Pristine — all poised to take the spotlight at demonstrations and events during Palm Desert Food & Wine
Stone will discuss the flavors and offer a glimpse into the inspirations that inform his cooking
this event pairs rich flavors with a stunning setting
Guests will receive a signed copy of Stone’s cookbook
Good Life: 130 Simple Recipes You’ll Love to Make and Eat
and lime namelaka with T’maro Moroccan Mocha Carajillo
This year marks a milestone for Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs as it celebrates 30 years of gaming on April 10
the property became the cornerstone of the Agua Caliente Casinos portfolio
paving the way for expansions to Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City
This anniversary highlights decades of entertainment
underscored by sponsorships of signature Greater Palm Springs events
2025 at 4:03 pm PT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Discover the Irresistible Charm of Korea’s Finest Fried Chicken
BB.q Chicken offers Korean-style fried chicken with bold
It is located at 74868 Country Club Dr #103
"If it’s your first time trying bb.q Chicken
The brand delivers an elevated fried chicken experience that keeps guests coming back for more," owner Ryan Kim told journalists on opening day
"Everyone is so excited to see a different kind of food in the desert," Kim told NBC Palm Springs
something different to share with the very friendly and sweet people here."
What sets bb.q Chicken apart is its signature cooking method
"Each piece is fried at a carefully controlled lower temperature and hand-tossed to order
a technique refined over years of culinary study to ensure the perfect crunch and flavor in every bite," the chain's website says
and bb.q Chicken has rapidly expanded across the country
the brand proudly earned the #7 spot on Yelp’s list of fastest-growing restaurant companies
a reflection of its rising popularity and loyal fanbase
Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying bb.q Chicken for the first time
welcoming atmosphere and crave-worthy flavors waiting for you
bb.q Chicken Lands In Palm Desert On April 22
Arts + Culture
by Steven Biller | Mar 14
The Guadalajara-based artist explores themes of presence and absence
transplanting and stacking massive blocks of marble from Mexico in formations evoking archaeological relics — a sculpture that
“could have been here thousands of years ago and could exist here a thousand years from now.”
The Los Angeles artist reimagines a gas station as a destination for spiritual replenishment — a sanctuary for healing and hope
“Ruby,” looks out to a repurposed gas pump that plays inspiring poetry
Garcia-Maestas says the experience “feels like a warm hug.”
Inspired by bottaris (fabric-encased bundles in Korean culture)
South Korean artist Kimsooja’s glass pavilion acts as a “bottari of light,” inviting the interplay of the sand
and Lakota) mobile installation extends his Future Ancestral Technologies series
repurposing a vehicle camouflaged in reflective vinyl and inviting us to reconsider our relationship with nature and learn from the desert’s enduring wisdom
The vehicle will move through the landscape
starting in Desert Hot Springs and continuing to locations in Palm Springs and Coachella
The structure supported by local palm fronds and imported stones symbolizes the complex legacies of migration and the differing promises of freedom throughout history
the Paris- and Berlin–based artist asserts midcentury architectural aspirations while questioning themes of shelter and freedom
“Flying geese” quilting motifs from the Underground Railroad inspired the lattice roof
you’ll drive about 20 minutes to RANCHO MIRAGE
you’ll encounter two installations in PALM DESERT
“Five things you can’t wear on TV” by Raphael Hefti
“Truth Arrives in Slanted Beams” by Sarah Meyohas
The final installation appears in THOUSAND PALMS
Wakefield aptly describes this Riyadh-based artist’s work as “anti-monumental,” as its sand-infused stretches of fabric depict land without fixed identity
This dynamic interaction evokes a transient and elusive sense of home
emphasizing the fluidity of the desert environment as well as themes of identity and memory.