Coachella Valley Times News


Palm Springs begins historical study on Section 14

The City of Palm Springs has commenced a Historical Context Study with the Southern California consultant Architectural Resources Group (ARG) to document the complex history of Section 14. This one-square-mile tract, adjacent to downtown Palm Springs, saw properties abated by burning and demolition from 1956-1969 due to health concerns from federal, state, and Riverside County officials, as well as ongoing development efforts.


Palm Springs officials to unveil new playground equipment at Victoria Park

Members of the Palm Springs City Council will be joined by members of the Measure J and Parks and Recreation commissions for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation of new playground equipment at Victoria Park. The event, scheduled for Wednesday, July 3 at 11 a.m., will take place at Victoria Park, located at 2744 N. Via Miraleste.


Living Desert Zoo offers new membership perks with local business discounts

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has introduced a series of new benefits for its members. Zoo members are now entitled to exclusive discounts at over 50 establishments throughout the Coachella Valley.


Palm Springs City Council to discuss key updates and measures

An update from Martha’s Village and Kitchen regarding the Palm Springs Navigation Center, an update from the Palm Springs Art Museum related to the City-sponsored “First Thursday Night Program,” consideration of the 2024 Slurry Seal Project, and discussion regarding a resolution to place a measure on the Nov. 5 General Municipal Election Ballot to extend the term of Measure J, a one-cent sales tax increase approved by voters in 2011, will be some of the noteworthy items on the agenda at Thursday night’s Palm Springs City Council meeting.


Blood drive at La Quinta Wellness Center offers chance to win Toyota

Join us at the La Quinta Wellness Center on Saturday, July 13, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM for a chance to save lives and win big. Donate blood and get entered to win a 2024 Toyota bz4x. Scan the QR code to book your appointment.


One-PS Lip Sync Battle returns with "Better Together" theme on July 7

Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) will host the return of the second annual ONE-PS Lip Sync Battle, produced by comedian and Palm Springs resident Shann Carr. The event is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 7 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, located at 2300 E. Baristo Road.


Grant opportunity available for independent restaurants in California

Independent restaurant owners in central and southern California may be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 to assist with operating expenses.


Military Days scheduled at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Over 50 miles of hiking trails are available in the Mount San Jacinto State Park. Guided nature walks are offered every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. through Labor Day Weekend. Visitors can dine along the skyline at Peaks Restaurant and Pines Café. Additionally, there is an opportunity to learn about the plants and animals in the state park at the Natural History Museum located on the lower level of the Mountain Station.


CalChamber opposes bill affecting broadband deployment

Legislation that could slow broadband deployment is being opposed by the California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) and associations committed to preventing digital discrimination of access to internet services. AB 2239 (Bonta; D-Alameda) is scheduled for consideration on June 24 by the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee.


Imperial Irrigation District issues conserve alert amid high demand

The Imperial Irrigation District has issued a Conserve Alert starting today through Tuesday, July 2. The alert aims to reduce stress on the energy grid, maintain reliable energy delivery service, and help avert rotating power outages.


City of Indio announces Independence Day block party with drone show

The City of Indio invites the community to its Independence Day Block Party in Downtown Indio on Friday, July 5, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This free, family-friendly event offers an evening filled with food, fun, and festivities for all ages.


Coachella Valley Volkswagen celebrates anniversary with car giveaway

Coachella Valley Volkswagen, located in the I-10 Automall, is celebrating its first anniversary under the leadership of Phil Alalouf and Todd Hewitt. As part of the PATH Auto Group, both leaders, along with their spouses Janine Hewitt and Corinne Alalouf, have focused on offering premier Volkswagen vehicles and community enrichment initiatives.


Palm Springs Aerial Tramway announces extended hours for Fourth of July

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate with extended hours on July 4 and 5 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. On Thursday, July 4, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 8:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 9:30 p.m. On Friday, July 5, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 9:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 10:30 p.m.


Indio hosts job fair for local employers and job seekers

The Indio Job Fair is scheduled to take place on June 27, 2024, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at 44199 Monroe St., Suite B, Indio, CA 92201. This event is free and open to both employers and job seekers.


Palm Springs Aerial Tramway extends hours for Fourth of July

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will operate with extended hours on July 4 and 5 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. On Thursday, July 4, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 8:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 9:30 p.m. On Friday, July 5, the first tramcar up will be at 8:00 a.m., the last tramcar up will be at 9:00 p.m., and the last tramcar down will be at 10:30 p.m.


Coachella resident: ‘I decided to set up a GoFundMe to help make Jeff [Garcia’s] medical journey easier for him and the family’

Coachella resident Lindsay Woznick announced she is raising funds through GoFundMe for local veteran and former business owner Jeff Garcia and his family after he was diagnosed with cancer and placed in home hospice care. Woznick shared her statement with Coachella Valley on June 21.


Mosquito control planned in La Quinta due to West Nile Virus activity

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has announced plans for adult mosquito control applications in La Quinta following increased West Nile Virus (WNV) activity in the area. The District will employ truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) applications to reduce mosquito populations and mitigate virus transmission risks.


Rep. Calvert announces 2024 military academy appointments

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) announced and congratulated the 2024 Service Academy Appointments from the 41st Congressional District. As a Member of Congress, Rep. Calvert has the privilege of nominating a select group of highly qualified young men and women for admission to the United States Service Academies – Army, Navy, and Air Force.



Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers free admission for U.S. Armed Forces in July

During the entire month of July, all U.S. military personnel with valid military identification—active, former, and retired—will receive free admission to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway as part of "Military Days." Spouses of deployed military members, as well as military widows and widowers, also qualify for the promotion. Military personnel are encouraged to bring friends and family and will receive 25% off regular Tram admission for up to four guests.