New Firebirds assistant coach Brennan Sonne balances career with family proximity

The Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS) in La Quinta has celebrated the graduation of six Coachella Valley high school students from its inaugural Aspiring Artists mentorship program. The program has equipped these students with enhanced creative skills and the knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a visual artist.

Renova Energy has announced the appointment of Matthew De La Torre as its new Chief Sales Officer for both the California and Arizona regions. With a 12-year tenure at Renova Energy, De La Torre brings considerable experience to strengthen the company's position in the clean energy sector.

In line with a jury's recommendation, a judge from the California Superior Court has decreed that Jose Vladimir Larin Garcia should face capital punishment for the murder of four individuals in Palm Springs five years prior. The severity of Larin Garcia's crime warranted his eligibility for the death penalty.

Last week, the Palm Springs Police Department commemorated Officer Gale Gene Eldridge, a member of their force who was tragically killed by an armed robber in 1961. Eldridge is one of four officers from the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Each month, the Chamber organizes a variety of events that include business mixers and ribbon cuttings. However, the organization emphasizes that nothing surpasses the importance of health. Therefore, it is pleased to announce that Life Line Screening will conduct a day of preventive health screenings at Miracle Springs Resort on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is inviting visitors to celebrate Palm Springs Restaurant Week from May 31 to June 9. Peaks Restaurant, located at the tramway, is offering a special dinner menu for guests as they enjoy panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and a ride on the world's largest rotating tramcar.

Brennan Sonne, a 37-year-old native of Maple Ridge, B.C., has joined the Firebirds as an assistant coach. His new role is seen as a homecoming after being hired by head coach Derek Laxdal in mid-July. Sonne's coaching career spans multiple continents, and he values the experiences gained from living in different cultures.

The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) has released new data indicating that inflation in the state is easing, with a recent figure of 2.4%. This marks a significant decrease from the peak levels experienced during the inflation crisis. The Federal Reserve's decision to lower interest rates reflects its confidence in achieving a balance between price stability and labor market strength.

The Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), in collaboration with Wells Fargo, has released a report highlighting the significant economic contributions of U.S. Latinos. If considered a standalone nation, U.S. Latinos would rank as the fifth largest GDP globally, surpassing major economies such as India and Russia. The report projects that by 2027, the U.S. Latino economy will exceed Germany's GDP.

Coachella Animal Network is set to host a low-cost clinic for pet owners in Indio. The event will take place at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, specifically at the Special Events Center, on October 11, 2024. Pet owners can bring their dogs and cats for licensing, vaccinations, and microchipping without needing an appointment.

A debut season flown upon feathers of destiny came to a close on Wednesday night, as the Hershey Bears beat the Coachella Valley Firebirds 3-2 in overtime in Game 7 of the Calder Cup Finals at Acrisure Arena.

In announcing their 2023-24 preseason schedule, the Lakers promised fans action at the newly constructed Acrisure Arena in Greater Palm Springs.

The Firebirds' inaugural season was marked by achievement and the sting of defeat as they lost Game 7 of the Calder Cup championship against the Hershey Bears.

Time for one final flight.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has released its fall 2024 issue of "foxpaws," providing insights into various projects and events at the zoo. The publication highlights several key initiatives, including conservation efforts for desert carnivores like the black-footed cat, sand cat, and fennec fox.

The San Jacinto Mountains are expected to be covered in snow soon, marking the start of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Annual Snow Guessing Contest. The event begins on October 1 and continues until the first measurable inch of snow falls at the Tramway’s Mountain Station, which is located at an elevation of 8,516 feet.

The City of Palm Desert has announced the acquisition of an $8 million grant from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). The funds will be allocated towards building infrastructure to support housing.

The city of Coachella is working in partnership with the Housing and Workforce Solutions of Riverside County to fund a grant program for improvements to home exteriors.

Greater Palm Springs Realtors has recently announced a disaster relief program aimed at assisting victims of Tropical Storm Hilary. The program, introduced in response to the damages caused by the storm, will offer financial support to those who have been affected by flooding disasters. Residents of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, or Desert Hot Springs who have experienced housing disruptions due to the storm may be eligible for assistance of up to $2,500.

Housing markets around the country continue to readjust to increased interest rates, and the Coachella Valley is not exempt from those effects.