(KESQ) - Palm Springs reached a settlement with Grit Development that includes a $1 million payment related to a patio issue delaying the multi-million-dollar Plaza Theatre renovation project filed a lawsuit over the issue in December as well as a cross-complaint against the city in November Palm Springs announced a settlement agreement with Grit Development where the city will pay $986,500 as well as work on a new replacement patio within the portion of a public sidewalk in front of Kalura "The City of Palm Springs is pleased to have reached a positive resolution with Grit Development regarding access rights to the historic Plaza Theatre the City's focus has been on ensuring public safety while preserving one of Palm Springs' most iconic cultural landmarks With the resolution of issues surrounding the patio and easement the City is looking forward to finishing the project and restoring the Theatre to its original glory it will once again host world-class performers and contribute significantly to the vitality of our downtown The restored Theatre will serve as a cornerstone to the City's Downtown Revitalization delivering millions of dollars in economic impact and enriching Palm Springs' vibrant arts and culture scene.  We thank Grit Development for their collaboration and ongoing investment in our community we look forward to a revitalized Plaza Theatre that will benefit residents The Plaza Theatre is one of Palm Springs' oldest and most iconic venues, and it is currently being restored in a multi-million-dollar project For more on the Plaza Theatre, visit: palmspringsplazatheatre.com and savetheplazatheatreps.com Luis Avila joined KESQ News Channel 3 as a multimedia journalist in June 2024. Learn more about Luis here News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Community Guidelines KESQ-TV FCC Public File | KPSP-TV FCC Public File | KDFX-TV FCC Public File | EEO Report | FCC Applications | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Armstrong Williams takes on the news of the week and asks the questions you want answered. Don’t miss our weekly town hall. Delta announces new nonstop flights from Austin to Palm Springsby Tara Brolley AUSTIN, Texas — Delta Air Lines will introduce nonstop flights between Austin and Palm Springs beginning this fall According to officials with Austin-Bergstrom International Airport the new seasonal service will operate from November 8 offering travelers a direct connection the California city "We're so grateful to our partners at Delta for supporting our community's air service needs through another new nonstop route," said AUS CEO Ghizlane Badawi "This new destination expands travel opportunities for both business and leisure travelers and we are excited to offer more convenient options for our passengers." ALSO | Delta Air Lines to launch flights from Austin to Cancun this December The Saturday-only service will be operated by Delta Connection regional flight services local time and arrivals in Palm Springs at 1 p.m Return flights will depart Palm Springs at 12:07 p.m This route marks the first nonstop service between Austin and Palm Springs in over a year just in time for Palm Springs' peak fall travel season Delta recently announced several college football season nonstop flights from Austin for fall 2025 Georgia for University of Texas away games The airline will also offer nonstop service to Austin from Benton County 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 The Coachella Valley Firebirds' Jacob Melanson looks like a hockey player straight out of central casting He has a line of horizontal stitches across his right ear that looks like the top half is sewn onto the bottom half His nose is twice its normal size and there are bruises to go along with it but it's kind of hard to tell where they stop and start after scoring the game-winning goal in a season-saving win for the Firebirds He told the media after the game that it was the first time he'd scored an overtime goal in juniors or pro hockey set up by a gritty defensive play from original Firebird Luke Henman allowed the team to escape with a win on a night when a loss would've been devastating Not just in the way blowing a three-goal lead hurts more than a garden-variety loss but also in the amount of history the Firebirds would've had to overcome to keep their playoffs going Firebirds survive! Coachella Valley wins again in overtime after fumbling three-goal lead I asked Jason Chaimovitch at the AHL communications department for some statistics about digging out of an 0-2 hole Only 13 teams in the long history of the AHL have won a five-game playoff series after losing the first two games Only three of those teams did so after losing the first two at home and none of those three had to win three road games to do it the Firebirds would've had to do something no team in the history of the AHL He did score that goal and those ominous statistics are moot because the Firebirds aren't in an 0-2 hole They are tied 1-1 and heading to Abbotsford for Game 3 on Wednesday with a skip in their skate And winning playoff series is a bit of a tradition in these parts The Firebirds have played in 10 playoff series in two-plus seasons and won eight of them Does the fact that the Firebirds fans and franchise have only known deep playoff runs add any pressure to this year's group but there's a clear precedent that has been set here we have a lot of photos around the locker room and around this building kind of just shows what we've done here and we want to do," Olofsson said "And that's kind of the standard we have is to be playing playoff hockey here and scoring goals at home there's nothing better here with our crowd said for a guy like him who just joined the team this year those lofty expectations and the history of success is not lost on him it's great to see what these guys have done the past two years but I think we have a great team and I'm excited for this playoff run." said the postseason itself brings with it some pressure but he doesn't feel like the ghosts of playoff runs past are haunting this year's team we've had pretty good success here the last two years but there's pressure everywhere when you're in the playoffs," Winterton said we kind of live for pressure and live for these moments so I'd say there's pressure no matter what in the playoffs So these Firebirds aren't burdened by expectations but motivated by them And Firebirds fans understand that this year's team is not composed in the same way the veteran-heavy teams of the first two seasons were And I think Firebirds fans understand that they've been spoiled by the past two seasons And Firebirds fans understand that Abbotsford finished with the better record and is the favorite in this series But that doesn't mean a second-round exit is going to sting any less were it to happen I made eye contact with a woman wearing a Max McCormick jersey walking out after Saturday's win and she said to me "Whew And then she said what everyone was thinking "I really hope it's not the last home game of the year." it won't take a never-before-accomplished feat to make that happen all this team needs to do is win two of three games in Abbotsford The Firebirds are 2-0 already in Abbotsford this year and have a better road record than they do home record this season Until proven otherwise — and they've tried to prove it twice already these playoffs by blowing three-goal leads — winning playoff games is simply part of this team's DNA And that's a good enough reason to believe that the woman in the McCormick jersey will get to see her Firebirds at Acrisure Arena again this year Shad Powers is a columnist for The Desert Sun KXAN Austin AUSTIN (KXAN) — Delta Air Lines will launch a new nonstop route between Austin and Palm Springs Returning flights leave Palm Springs at 12:07 p.m Rival American Airlines previously flew the AUS-PSP route but canceled it in October 2024 as part of wider cuts at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport “We’re so grateful to our partners at Delta for supporting our community’s air service needs through another new nonstop route,” Ghizlane Badawi “This new destination expands travel opportunities for both business and leisure travelers and we are excited to offer more convenient options for our passengers.” Palm Springs is the 11th new route announced by Delta this year Jacksonville and Memphis will launch this Wednesday Delta is currently the third-largest airline operating at AUS in terms of passenger traffic The airline flew more than 3.3 million passengers in and out of Austin in 2024 accounting for about 15.3% of all passengers especially after American cut more than 30 routes in late 2023 and 2024 Delta is expected to surpass American to become Austin’s second-largest carrier by the summer Delta will also offer the following nonstop flights from Austin for the 2025 college football season: these are the actual most popular baby names so far in 2025 Whether it’s a short vacation or they’re jetting off to begin their career show the future traveler you care with a meaningful graduation gift National Teacher Appreciation Week begins May 5 take advantage of these freebies and deals The dispute centered on the city's need to remove the patio to ensure enough space for people to exit the theater in an emergency The city announced on Friday afternoon it had agreed to pay Grit Development $986,500 to settle the case That resolution comes months before the theater "The City of Palm Springs is pleased to have reached a positive resolution with Grit Development regarding access rights to the historic Plaza Theatre," city spokesperson Amy Blaisdell said in a statement the City is looking forward to finishing the project and restoring the Theatre to its original glory." An outdoor patio for the Italian restaurant currently stands within the entranceway to the theater and the city has been in a legal dispute with both the restaurant and building owners over the area The California building code requires 20 feet of space for patrons to walk into and out of the theater but only 10 feet of space are currently open The city had initiated eminent domain proceedings to take over the patio and free up more space a move that both Kalura and the building's owner The city has already agreed to move the patio to the front of the restaurant and pay Kalura $500,000 for "loss of goodwill." However Grit Development said the agreement was arranged without its involvement GRIT is grateful to have reached a positive resolution with the City regarding our downtown property," Grit President Michael Braun said in a text to The Desert Sun we respect the City's vision - and the leadership of JR Roberts - in restoring the iconic Plaza Theatre a future landmark for the entire community." The city will also pay Grit $15,000 in legal fees The settlement of the lawsuit clears the way for the theater's opening in December Billy Porter and John Waters have already been scheduled as the first acts The dispute over the walkway threatened the city's plans for the $26.3 million restoration which proponents argue will bring hundreds of people downtown each week says the venue will have a $40 million annual economic impact on the city generating up to $4 million in tax revenue each year it will once again host world-class performers and contribute significantly to the vitality of our downtown," Blaisdell said "The restored Theatre will serve as a cornerstone to the City's Downtown Revitalization delivering millions of dollars in economic impact and enriching Palm Springs' vibrant arts and culture scene." (This story has been updated to add a quote) Sam Morgen covers the city of Palm Springs for The Desert Sun dozens of people will rush to the online booking platform OpenTable to try to get seats at a restaurant whose exclusivity has almost become a thing of legend Almost every night for the past four years all reservations are taken by the following morning LA Times food critic Bill Addison named it the best restaurant in Palm Springs If there's any mystery left, the destination in question is Bar Cecil, the cheekily retro American and French restaurant that has made waves ever since it opened in 2021, with Gabriel Woo at the helm as executive chef it’s just a happy place," said Tracy McCrory the owner of the local fashion store Cabana Luxury I don’t think anybody in Palm Springs can compete Bar Cecil has quickly established itself as one of the premier dining options in Palm Springs Its owners say some customers travel across the country just to dine at the restaurant but are so quickly taken that some people resort to standing in line for up to an hour and a half just to snag one of the seats at the bar Named after British photographer and fashion designer Cecil Beaton the restaurant takes on his eclectic taste The walls are lined with artwork from the private collection of owners Richard Crisman and Jeff Brock including an original piece by Andy Warhol The menu contains eye-catching options like a $50 martini for which you receive a plaque on the wall if you order fake lines of cocaine lay hidden away in the bathrooms The props proved so popular the restaurateurs had to glue them to their spots to prevent them from being stolen “Richard said that if we opened a restaurant we would want it to feel like we were throwing a party at our house," said John Janulis "It always stuck with me because no one ever says that when they open a restaurant.” Janulis moved to Palm Springs from Portland He joined forces with Crisman and Brock — who also own the Sparrow Lodge and Holiday House hotels — for Bar Cecil which he calls the coolest restaurant he's been a part of The owners pride themselves on the attention to detail which they say creates a festive atmosphere that continuously draws in both locals and tourists checking for first timers or repeat visitors The owners greet each table when they are around “The main focus here is to make people feel special That atmosphere might be the secret to the restaurant's success "With sumptuous design that straddles garish and chic boasting walls splashed with an impressive private collection of modern art (including pieces by Calder and Warhol) here you'll find a visual feast—as well as the hottest table in town," The Michelin Guide wrote of Bar Cecil in a posting about eight restaurants in Palm Springs the restaurant's success came as a surprise which marked its four-year anniversary on April 20 "I'm honestly still shocked by it," Janulis said while admitting that the whole production is not as effortless as it might appear The effort that the owners and the staff put into this is immense." And how long will it be before anyone can book a reservation during waking hours Bar Cecil will maintain its place at the top for a long time to come "They’ve never dropped the ball," McCrory said (This story has been updated to correct a typo) (KESQ) - Construction on South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs is set to begin next week and city officials advised commuters to prepare for long-term lane closures.   with a bridge demolition scheduled for May 12 Long-term traffic control will be installed ahead of the demolition and remain in place for eight to 10 months commuters can expect the following traffic changes:   -- One lane open for traffic in each direction -- The southbound lane on South Palm Canyon Drive will provide business access and serve as an alternate route via East Sunny Dunes;   -- Only right turns will be permitted at East Sunny Dunes;    -- The west-side sidewalk will be closed for the duration of the project;    -- SunLine bus stops 630 and 492 on Route One West Valley near South Palm Canyon Drive and East Sunny Dunes will be closed throughout construction; and -- The speed limit will be reduced to 40 mph in the construction zone Officials urged the public to plan ahead and use alternate routes to avoid delays Palm Springs police reopened North Indian Canyon Drive through the Whitewater Wash on Monday afternoon a few hours after they did the same with Gene Autry Trail Both roads had been closed Sunday because of strong winds that created blowing sand a frequent occurrence in recent weeks that has led to several such closures While conditions were deemed safe enough for the roads to reopen more windy weather was expected in the Whitewater Wash area Monday afternoon and Tuesday The National Weather Service predicted winds in the 25 to 30 mph range and gusts of up to 40 mph Monday afternoon and evening around Whitewater with similar conditions and stronger gusts of up to 45 mph expected on Tuesday the winds are expected to die down by late Tuesday with a stretch of calmer conditions to follow (This story has been updated with new information and a video.) Three Coachella Valley eateries failed their most recent inspections this week The deli inside Cardenas Markets in Coachella closed temporarily due to a sewage backup the violations were corrected and inspectors approved the facility to operate Olga's Tacos in Cathedral City and La Noria Restaurant in Coachella were also downgraded due to a number of violations including improper hot and cold food holding temperatures while La Noria will be revisited by inspectors at a later date Here are the restaurants that were inspected in the Coachella Valley April 25 through May 2: means a restaurant passed an inspection and met minimum health standards Note: No restaurant inspections were reported for businesses in the cities of Desert Hot Springs Indian Wells and La Quinta for the week of April 25 through May 2 Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com or on Twitter @ema_sasic Indian Canyon Drive through the wash in Palm Springs is now closed due to weather conditions (KESQ) A portion of North Gene Autry Trail in Palm Springs was closed due to blowing sand and low visibility Palm Springs Police said in a Sunday morning press release The closure affects North Gene Autry Trail between Salvia Road and Via Escuela according to the Palm Springs Police Department Drivers are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes It’s unclear how long the closure will remain in effect (KESQ) — Today marks Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Day an observance drawing attention to the ongoing crisis of violence against Native communities and community allies gathered in downtown Palm Springs at The Center for a march aimed at raising awareness and demanding change and recognition of the thousands of Indigenous people who have gone missing or been murdered Many of those missing and murdered are lost to the shadows of underreporting and systemic neglect Organizers hope today’s march will highlight the urgent need for stronger legal protections and increased resources for families still seeking answers The crisis is deeply rooted in disturbing statistics According to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, 5,712 Indigenous women and girls were reported missing in 2016 alone yet only 116 of those cases were logged in federal databases Indigenous women face violence at 1.7 times the rate of white women and homicide is the third leading cause of death for Native women Native American women are murdered at nearly ten times the national average according to the California Courts Newsroom Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from event organizers about how they are raising awareness and calling for change 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 The first-ever Retro Palm Springs Con has officially wrapped—and fans are already hoping it won’t be the last the convention celebrated the best of pop culture from the ’70s and beloved celebrities for a nostalgic blast from the past reliving childhood memories through iconic franchises like Star Wars The convention floor was buzzing with excitement as fans browsed a vibrant vintage marketplace filled with rare toys Local vendors had booths set up throughout the venue benefiting from the extra foot traffic and exposure “There’s something for everybody here,” said one guest marveling at the range of items on display “From the toys I played with as a kid to stuff my own children love now—it's all here.” Adding to the excitement was a star-studded guest list that included fan-favorite celebrities and industry legends Saved by the Bell star Mario Lopez reunited with several castmates “The fact that now their kids—and even grandkids—are watching the show makes me feel old,” Lopez joked best known for his role as Mike Barnes in The Karate Kid Part III reflected on his return to the franchise through Cobra Kai “You just don’t think after 35 years you’ll get another bite at the apple,” he said Also in attendance was Disney legend Bob Gurr who worked alongside Walt Disney himself on attractions like the Matterhorn and the Haunted Mansion a longtime visitor to the Coachella Valley shared his appreciation for the local Disney fan community “I remember being a 7- or 8-year-old kid here,” he said “It’s amazing to see how many Disney fans call this place home.” Retro Palm Springs Con offered photo opportunities and story-filled sessions that pulled back the curtain on decades of pop culture history Fans young and old found themselves caught up in the joy of rediscovery as generations connected over shared memories “This convention brought so much nostalgia to so many people,” said a local business owner we’ve had better luck here than at some of the larger shows.” and heartfelt moments shared by stars and attendees alike the inaugural Retro Palm Springs Con proved to be one of the most memorable events of the season If the excitement surrounding this year's event is any indication this nostalgic celebration may just become a new Coachella Valley tradition Although the title to the little book alluded only to the distinctive verdure Don Admiral’s “Desert of the Palms” included all sorts of natural history Admiral himself was a naturalist and likely couldn’t resist expounding on all things desert Admiral had followed in the footsteps of biologist Edmund C Jaeger who arrived on the desert in 1915 to teach school The enthusiasts formed “The Nature Club,” meeting at the home of Pearl McCallum McManus Jaeger moved on to Riverside and to publishing numerous books about the desert environment Theodore Zschokke took up the desert cause 16 years later patterned after one he had seen in New York It started within the exotic cactus and palm nursery maintained by the owners of the town’s only blacksmith shop The trail meandered through the nursery itself and continued for a third of a mile up Tahquitz Canyon Zschokke hoped the trail would attract devoted desert enthusiasts who could help him build a permanent natural history museum.” Visitor contributions were not meeting Zschokke’s expenses he kept the trail open one more season and even added a trail-side zoo and museum Zschokke’s health and enthusiasm were failing “Building on the foundation laid by his predecessors and using his skills as a promoter and developer Palm Springs Desert Museum opened in La Plaza on Palm Canyon Drive in January of 1938 and quickly became a popular spot for browsing and chatting it featured lectures by Admiral and weekly excursions into the desert dubbed ‘Admiral’s Auto Caravan Field Trips.’ By March people were being turned away from lectures and the field trips even at the then high admission of $1 per adult At a time when lunch cost 75¢ and a good seafood dinner $1.25 But of all the wonders he described therein it was the notion he promoted with the title that caused the most attention even a stir: Admiral wanted to abolish the use of the term “Colorado Desert” for the area and replace it with “Desert of the Palms.” The campaign to supplant “Colorado Desert” started in earnest in 1935 and caused lots of discussion in the newspaper “New Name for Desert Gains Wide Approval” the editorial board wrote “If The Desert Sun attempted to reprint all the newspaper comment that has appeared in newspapers throughout the state regarding the name ‘Desert of the Palms’ now being used generally to replace the inappropriate name ‘Colorado Desert,’ there would be no space for other local news.” newspaper comments coming to this editor’s desk “’You might explain to some of our newcomers how the name Coachella Valley was given to this area the natural water supply of which comes NOT FROM THE COLORADO RIVER “Desert of the Palms” may be appreciated by those who exploit Palm Springs but certainly will not appeal to the inhabitants of Coachella Valley who make their homes here and who are rapidly transforming it from a desert into a rich cultivated region From a commercial standpoint the present name has a very real and potential advertising value for our product Prices are regularly quotes for Coachella grapes the naturalist publisher of Admiral’s book and Desert Magazine decided to answer Postlethwaite’s opposition for the reason that he evidently misunderstood Don Admiral’s proposal He assumed that the name ‘Coachella Valley’ was to be changed to ‘Desert of the Palms.’ As a matter of fact there was no thought on the part of those sponsoring the change to eliminate either Coachella or Imperial as the local names of valleys within the general boundaries of the Colorado River Desert.” “who has great influence and is widely quoted in newspapers throughout the West as evidenced by his editorial in a recent issue of his newspaper or even deserts does not appeal to us as a generally thing that the desert area in the eastern portion of Riverside county be called ‘Desert of the Palms’ is a good one ‘Colorado Desert’ has no local significance the only excuse for such a name being the fact that the Colorado river runs along one side of it.” “The proposed name is the suggestion of Don Admiral which newspaper points out that this name is truly descriptive of the desert area because of the location of groups of native palms at such places as Palm Springs “Such a euphonious title will without doubt be accepted not only by residents of the area which will be affected by the change There is some undefinable charm which lures people to this wonderful productive area of Riverside County desert The romance of the native palms as well as the interest in the palms propagated for profit in the Coachella Valley should be given its share of credit for enticing folks there the name proposed by Don Admiral is hereby indorsed (sic) by this editor as admirably fitted for the area ‘Desert of the Palms’ would be a most appropriate and descriptive name for one of the most alluring sections of Riverside County.” “And so adoption of the new name gains momentum until ‘Desert of the Palms’ will be better known throughout the world than ‘Colorado desert’ ever has been In the past there has been no particular reason to mention ‘Colorado desert’ because of the misleading nature of the name consequently our desert has been referred to only as ‘the desert,’ which might be located anywhere America will learn that our desert is the only one in this country where native palm trees grow for it is called ‘The Desert of the Palms.’” Piddington would be proved wrong by posterity and Posthelthwaite would prevail despite the paper’s prediction Tracy Conrad is president of the Palm Springs Historical Society. The Thanks for the Memories column appears Sundays in The Desert Sun. Write to her at pshstracy@gmail.com at a stunning former estate of entertainer Liberace the generous current homeowner opened her amazing home to host about 70 book lovers authors and Palm Springs Library Foundation members and board members as they held a fundraiser to assist with the new improved and extended Palm Springs Public Library building currently about to begin construction and renovation There was a hosted bar and appetizers as the guests mixed and mingled to the musicality of Jason Weber coming from the beautiful white piano nestled in the corner allowed us to see not only her art on display but her studio while the manicured gardens offered unparalleled views of the mountains and the weather behaved impeccably president of the Palm Springs Public Library Foundation board explaining the purpose of the get-together and what was happening with the library Major reservations are going to be in phase 1; phase 2 will include heating and all new vents which will be refurbished and fitted with desert landscaping and lighting Wylie explained that the library is not only a cooling center in the summer it's a place where guests from out of town can enjoy books He also said that in the summer the staff gives out baby wipes twice a month to visitors There are also naming opportunities for different sections of the new library and at the bottom of this article will be the phone number to contact if you're interested in having your name proudly displayed for generations to come in exchange for a donation After the interesting updates on the library's future Wylie passed the microphone to Corey Roskin "Margo's Got Money Troubles," is available now and is in the works to become a series produced by Apple guests made their way to the large kitchen for some one-on-one chit-chat and book signing while I downloaded the novel's Audible version so I could start listening right away in the car The Palm Springs Public Library Foundation board consists of Wylie; Smalley executive director; Joe Agati; Franklin Cappadora; Maggie Downs; David Engen; Jack Fitzsimmons; Jim Gray; Ed McBride; Robin Meltzer; Laura Mitchell; Jeffrey Norman; Roger Neustadter; Rebecca Olarte; Joel Preston; Duane Ratleff; Roskin; Peter Schireson; Bruce Stout; Carol Tallichet; and Evan Tucker Jeannie Kays is the Palm Springs Public Library's director of library services and Julie Warren is its library services and public relations manager Nancy Morrison represents Friends of the Palm Springs Public Library and Al Jones and Deb Schwartz are on the board of trustees To make a donation, go to pslibraryfoundation.org where there is a lot of information and perhaps a committee that you would like to serve on for opening her beautiful home and being such a gracious host We all look forward to the new library in the coming year Carole Stephen-Smith began writing in Scotland for a women's weekly at the age of 15 and later covered American celebrities for the London Evening Echo Stephen-Smith focuses on charities that assist women medical causes — especially breast cancer awareness — and all aspects of child abuse Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Print PALM SPRINGS — Christopher Climie was supposed to be hosting visitors from his native Canada this week Ten friends — all gay men, like Climie — had planned to fly in from Toronto. They were going to trade the cold and rain for a hot desert weekend at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival where their beloved Lady Gaga is set to perform But because of tensions between Canada and President Trump moved to Palm Springs with his American husband last year He is caught in immigration limbo and has had Canadian friends cancel planned vacations to the Coachella Valley Chun/Los Angeles Times) “They were like “For a gaggle of gays to say Gaga is not worth it The Coachella Valley has long been a favorite destination for Canadian snowbirds who pump millions of dollars into the local economy every year its desert towns are bracing for a major financial blow as northerners — citing Trump’s aggression toward Canada — cancel flights ditch hotel and Airbnb reservations and put their second homes up for sale Climie’s Canadian cousin also nixed an upcoming trip with his wife and baby because of Trump bound for the Stagecoach music festival in Indio this month “But it’s good to see that Canada is banding together I have never seen Canadians act so American — so patriotic and so together and so in it and ready to fight.” the city of Palm Springs hung red streetlight banners in its downtown business district proclaiming “Palm Springs ♥ Canada.” And Mayor Ron deHarte said city officials are anxiously monitoring sales tax and hotel occupancy figures Now that the peak snowbird season — roughly January through April — is wrapping up there is growing concern about the wave of cancellations for next winter “If this is something that lasts for a long time we have to start working today to counter any negatives that may be coming from actions in Washington Canada is consistently our number one travel source.” whose population of 40 million is about the same as California’s World & Nation As markets plunged and world leaders expressed anger and dismay over Trump’s tariffs Mexico took a more measured and hopeful approach After Trump’s separate 25% tariff on imported automobiles went into effect last week, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who called the levies a “direct attack” on his country slapped a 25% retaliatory levy on vehicles imported from the United States In Canada, hockey and basketball fans have been booing “The Star-Spangled Banner” before NHL and NBA games. Retailers have been removing American liquor and California wine from their shelves And elected officials have been encouraging residents to “buy Canadian.” the snowbirds who were already here before Trump took office are leaving for the season Palm tree-lined Rose Avenue in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood in Palm Springs Chun / Los Angeles Times) Two Canadian airlines this spring ended their seasonal service to and from Palm Springs International Airport earlier than initially planned airport spokesman Jake Ingrassia said in a statement to The Times “Flair Airlines and WestJet have slightly shortened their seasonal service to Vancouver and Winnipeg “The airlines have advised the airport that these adjustments are in response to the current operating environment and shifts in demand.” director of business development for Acme House Co. which manages vacation rental properties in Palm Springs said Canadians often book stays of one to three months a full year in advance “But when it comes to rebooking for next year who also is a board member for Visit Greater Palm Springs a tourism marketing agency for the Coachella Valley Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte says Canadians have a big impact on the local economy Chun / Los Angeles Times) “It’s going to be most noticeable come next season It could have a ripple effect beyond guests not booking to come back and spending rental dollars they’re also not going to restaurants and buying other services.” accounting manager for the Vancouver-based travel agency the Travel Group travel agents with her company would be busy booking spring break and summer vacations to the West Coast — especially to Las Vegas And instead of vacations in the American West A view of South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs Chun / Los Angeles Times) Mezzacapo said many Canadian travelers do not feel safe going to the U.S And LGBTQ+ travelers — especially transgender and nonbinary people who have the gender marker “X” on their passport — worry about harassment On Friday, the Canadian government updated its guidance for travel to the U.S., telling its citizens to “expect scrutiny” when crossing the border. The government warned that U.S border agents have the authority to request passwords and search electronic devices — including laptops phones and tablets — without providing a reason Mezzacapo herself had planned to travel to Palm Springs at the end of April ‘Let’s go somewhere where we can just chill “We feel disrespected,” she said of Canadians And then you treat us like you don’t need us for anything?” “Canadians will flock back to the States as soon as we feel respected again and a partner and an ally.” Paul Kaplan, a Palm Springs real estate agent, said that, as of February, he and his team started getting calls from snowbirds looking to sell their second homes He has at least five listings from Canadians and expects more in the coming weeks as the so-called high season for tourists comes to a close ‘We just don’t feel welcome any more,’” Kaplan said Among the snowbirds considering leaving for good is Shirley Parchoma, a retired insurance broker from British Columbia. For the last six years, she and her husband have leased a lot in a Desert Hot Springs recreational vehicle and mobile home park. They keep their fifth-wheel parked there year-round and typically stay in it from late November through early April, she said. “It’s not a vacation. It’s a lifestyle. It’s our winter home,” said Parchoma, 68. The Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) But in February, they put up a For Sale sign outside their RV because of “the uncertainty of what’s coming” with the Trump administration. They considered spending winters in Mexico or Costa Rica instead of the Coachella Valley. They returned to Canada in mid-March, a few weeks earlier than usual. They did not sell, in part because they had already summerized the RV and could not show it while they were away. “It’s a wait-and-see kind of thing,” Parchoma said about returning. “A lot of Canadians in our park actually sold.” Parchoma knows the local economy will feel the sting. She was surprised, during one trip, when a grocery store clerk asked her when Canadians typically leave, saying, “I want to know how soon I’m going to get my layoff notice.” “When the snowbirds leave the Valley, things quiet down,” Parchoma said. “It’s an economic downturn for those employed during the snowbird season.” Climie, a real estate agent and interior designer, moved to Palm Springs from the Toronto area last year with his Los Angeles-born husband, who has dual Canadian and American citizenship. They had fallen in love with Palm Springs’ sunshine and arts scene and vibrant LGBTQ+ community. They rented a house, and Climie applied for a work permit and green card. Climie got his authorization to work last week. But he has been in immigration limbo for more than a year. Climie and his husband live in a condominium community, where many of his neighbors are Canadian snowbirds who started leaving “as soon as the election hit.” The city of Palm Springs funded banners to that show support for Canadians. They were hung downtown in April. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) He said his friends in Canada worry about him facing harassment in the U.S. for many reasons: because he’s Canadian. Because he’s an immigrant. Because he’s gay. Because he and his husband, who is of Guatemalan descent, are an interracial couple. He tries to reassure them by saying California — Palm Springs in particular — is a liberal bubble. He tries to get them to come visit anyway, despite the uncertainty. But, for now, they won’t. “I keep trying to tell people: ‘Come down and visit. We’re a bubble. Don’t worry. You’re safe and sound down here.’ And they’re like: ‘No. It’s still America.’” Hailey Branson-Potts is a Metro reporter who joined the Los Angeles Times in 2011. She reports on a wide range of issues and people, with a special focus on communities along the coast. She grew up in the small town of Perry, Okla., and graduated from the University of Oklahoma. California Subscribe for unlimited accessSite Map An estimated 300,000 Canadians visit Palm Springs each year and Trump’s levies threaten tourism in the region Worried that Donald Trump’s policies are scaring away Canadians a California resort city has put up “Palm Springs Loves Canada” signs across its downtown “It was a gesture to let our Canadian visitors know that what happens in Washington DC, is not the way that Palm Springs is looking at Canada,” Ron deHarte, the city’s mayor, said of the signs, which were installed on Friday. An estimated 300,000 Canadians each year visit the Palm Springs region, DeHarte said, some of them staying for months at a time as they trade Canada’s harsh winters for southern California’s reliable warmth. But the mayor said he had been hearing from some Canadians that the US government’s tariffs, and its rhetoric about Canada, were unacceptable to them, and that they were responding by cancelling their annual trips, pledging they were “not spending a dime in Palm Springs”. DeHarte said he understood that perspective, but he and other local officials were sending a “positive message” and hoping Canadians would reconsider. Read moreCanadian visitors spend an estimated $300m annually in the region and “represent about 2,000 jobs in the hospitality industry” “So when we have a group of visitors who are leaving early everyone is touched by the economic impact Canadians choosing not to come back to Palm Springs next winter would have more than just a financial impact You see Canadians at our functions and events They’re getting involved any way they possibly can,” deHarte said “It’s not just a visitor coming to sit and hang out by the pool These are really people who are part of our community.” The new pro-Canada signs were first reported by the Palm Springs Post had installed a large “We Love Canada” sign even before city officials had taken action “The Canadian business is 30% of my business in the winter It’s essential we do something significant,” Bob Smiland In early April, the Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney, announced a 25% tax on US cars calling Trump’s tariffs on Canadian steel and automobiles “unjustified” As Canadian sports fans have started booing the US national anthem and some Canadians have adopted the phrase “elbows up” to show their combative attitude towards US aggression there are some signs that the political conflict may also be influencing Canadian tourism to the US have reduced their flights between western Canada and Palm Springs in recent weeks “As a result of the current political environment we have seen a downward shift in demand for trans-border bookings between Canada and the US,” Josh Yates we are seeing increased demand for sun destinations across Mexico and the Caribbean Multiple local real estate agents in the Palm Springs area have spoken out about Canadians contacting them about selling their California vacation homes in response to Trump’s agenda “Within the first two weeks of tariffs talks, I had sellers calling and saying, ‘We’re out of here, Trump has irrevocably damaged the relationship between Canada and the United States,” the Palm Springs realtor Sherri Dettman told Fast Company Another Palm Springs realtor, Paul Kaplan, published a blog post outlining the financial factors Canadians should consider when selling a US vacation home A Canadian-American who lives in Palm Springs told the Los Angeles Times that a group of his gay Canadian friends had cancelled their spring trip to Coachella to see Lady Gaga because of Trump’s policies Local officials are paying close attention to these indicators though they said the full impact of Canadians cancelling trips to Palm Springs was not likely to be felt until the coming winter season but where we’re really going to feel it is if this turmoil continues into next year,” said deHarte “We do have to hope that this turmoil in DC is going to be short-lived and that everybody can get back to their daily lives and not be in fear of how our pocketbooks and livelihoods are going to be affected,” the mayor said 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 The Abbotsford Canucks lead the series against the Coachella Valley with the next two matchups on May 2nd and May 4th The teams play each other again for Game 2 on Saturday the Coachella Valley Firebirds survived once again on Saturday For the second time in four 2025 Calder Cup Playoff games the Firebirds needed overtime to emerge victoriously in a game that they had once led by three goals Jacob Melanson scored the game-winning goal at the 4:45 mark of the overtime to give the Firebirds the 5-4 win Canucks goalie Nikita Tolopilo went behind the goal to retrieve the puck and Firebirds' forward Luke Henman stole the puck on the forecheck and dished it to Melanson The home crowd of 6,257 inside Acrisure Arena erupted "Henny was on that forecheck hard and I was right there," Melanson said "We didn't have that goal without Henny being on that forecheck that hard." The victory gives the Firebirds a major boost of momentum in their best-of-five Pacific Division semifinal series against the Abbotsford Canucks that moves north of the border for the remainder of the series Coachella Valley must win two of the three games in Abbotsford to avoid elimination If we keep playing like we did in the first and the third there The Firebirds won both of the games they played in Abbotsford this season The Firebirds are looking to three-peat as Pacific Division and Western Conference champions in the American Hockey League they would have had to make history in order for those things to happen no team that lost the first two games of a five-game series has ever then won three consecutive on the road to win the series All three of the Firebirds’ first-period goals came from defensemen Ty Nelson scored the second and Max Lajoie recorded the third Abbotsford replaced goalie Artūrs Šilovs with Tolopilo Coachella Valley entered the first intermission with a 3-0 lead and it looked like they would cruise to victory But the reminder that the Firebirds had already squandered a three-goal lead in their opening series against the Calgary Wranglers lingered The Canucks crawled back into the game with two quick goals in the second period Abbotsford scored two goals to take the lead before Ben Meyers tied the game with four minutes remaining to help send the game to overtime Despite allowing Abbotsford to find its way back into the game Firebirds head coach Derek Laxdal said that he was pleased with the way his team defended "Our defense played great tonight," Laxdal said Now we've just got to get ready to go on the road now it's a three-game series in Abbotsford." Nikke Kokko (3-1 in the postseason) made 26 saves for Coachella Valley The Firebirds were 0-for-1 on the power play and 2-for-2 on the penalty kill They have not allowed or scored a power play goal this postseason 1-0: Olofsson scored the first goal off the game on a set-up after Ben Meyers won a faceoff at the 3:02 mark in the period The goal came just moments after forward Ian McKinnon won a fight to get the home crowd into the game and perhaps shift the momentum the Firebirds' way which came on assists by forwards Logan Morrison and Jagger Firkus occurred on a shot that fired off Nelson's stick like a cannon 3-0: Lajoie scored with just 38 seconds remaining in the period to bring the crowd to life once again The goal came after forward John Hayden skated with the puck behind the net and passed it off to Lajoie but the puck made it through and bounced into the back of the net 3-1: Abbotsford cut the lead at the 2:55 mark of the period on a goal by Phillip Di Giuseppe 3-2: Nate Smith then scored again for the Canucks just a minute and 23 seconds later to cut the deficit once again 3-3: Jujhar Khaira scored the game-tying goal at the 6:17 mark of the third 4-3: Khaira then scored the go-ahead goal with under seven minutes to play 4-4: Meyers scored with 4:02 remaining to tie the game on an assist from forward Jacob Melanson 5-4: Melanson's goal was his first of the postseason the Firebirds improved to 6-4 all-time in playoff overtime games The Canucks dropped to 1-5 in franchise overtime playoff  games Melanson's first overtime game-winner: Melason told reporters after the game that not only was that his first overtime game-winner as a pro He said that he'll take until midnight to celebrate and then "flush that out" and move onto preparing for Game 3 we need to build on that and remember how we played and take that momentum in." [This story has been updated to add new information.] Andrew John covers the Firebirds for The Desert Sun and the USA TODAY Network Email him about the game or general questions about the team at andrew.john@desertsun.com The teams head north for the remainder of the series beginning with Game 3 in Abbotsford on Wednesday The Canucks dropped to 1-5 all-time in playoff overtime games; the Firebirds improved to 5-5 with their second OT win this postseason You will receive mail with link to set new password Submit your event to the Palm Springs Life calendar to be featured in the desert’s premier events guide loading.. Copyright © 2025 Entravision – All rights reserved