News from September 2023


Shelter dogs rescued, transferred to Wisconsin: ‘every day is critical for ensuring that the pets in our care will have a positive outcome’

After Tropical Storm Hilary, 20 shelter dogs from the Coachella Valley Animal Campus in Riverside County, California, have been rescued and transferred to the Dane County Humane Society in Wisconsin for adoption. The director of the Riverside County Department of Animal Services, Erin Gettis, expressed her hope that this transfer will increase the chances of these dogs finding their forever homes.


Increased West Nile Virus activity prompts mosquito control measures in Cathedral City, Palm Springs

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is taking proactive steps to address heightened West Nile Virus (WNV) activity in the region.


Supervisor Perez: 'I am hoping the Desert Healthcare District Board will reverse this decision'

Supervisor V. Manuel Perez expressed his opposition to the decision made by the Desert Healthcare District Board of Directors to terminate the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Conrado Bárzaga. In a statement, Supervisor Perez raised concerns about the lack of a clear reason for the change in Dr. Bárzaga's employment and emphasized the need to gather information to ensure it was based on performance rather than unfair reasons. He also expressed hope for a reversal of the decision by the Desert Healthcare District Board.


Supervisor Perez: 'We are pleased to learn the results and more importantly to know our residents were not in danger'

According to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, evacuation advisories for three mobile home parks near the Lawson Dump site in Thermal were lifted following rainwater sample tests that revealed no substantial health risks to residents. County departments collaborated to respond to the emergency and prioritize resident health and safety during the flooding.


Single-vehicle collision in Cathedral City leaves one dead, another critical

A single-vehicle collision in Cathedral City, California, has resulted in the death of one person and left another in critical condition. The incident occurred on September 26, 2023, at approximately 6:23 p.m. on Varner Road's eastbound lanes, near the intersection of Palm Drive.


Salton Sea Conservancy bill passes California Assembly: ‘These communities cannot afford more delay’

The California Assembly recently passed Senate Bill 583, co-authored by Sen. Steve Padilla and Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, which will accelerate efforts to restore the Salton Sea. Padilla believes this bill is much-needed and will have a major impact on helping the Salton Sea community.


IID Board President: 'Our commitment has always been to the well-being of our customers'

The Board of Directors of the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) has unanimously agreed to expand financial assistance to more customers through their Residential Energy Assistance Program (REAP). The decision comes as the district aims to provide relief to residents facing financial hardships in paying their electric bills.


Calvert announces nearly $9M for Riverside County Habitat Conservation

U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.) announced on Sept. 15 that the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) will receive an $8,971,625 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This grant aims to assist in acquiring habitat land to support the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP).


Coachella Valley High School recognized as one of 'America's Healthiest Schools'

Coachella Valley High School has been recognized as one of America's Healthiest Schools. The distinction was announced on September 26, and less than 0.05 percent of schools across the United States received this honor for the 2022-2023 academic year. The recognition is presented by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation (Healthier Generation), an organization dedicated to children's health.


Riverside County health officials spread rabies awareness as part of information campaign

According to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services, county health officials are working to spread awareness of the dangers of rabies to humans and animals as part of World Rabies Day on September 28.


California passes Padilla’s bill to close predatory loopholes

Sen. Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) announced on Sept. 14 that his Senate Bill 751, aimed at closing predatory loopholes in franchise agreements between municipalities and waste haulers, has been approved by the California Legislature. The legislation was prompted by an incident in 2022 when a waste hauler failed to reach an agreement with its workforce.


DAP Health announces Coachella Valley's first free harm reduction vending machine

On Sept. 14, DAP Health unveiled a vending machine that dispenses free harm reduction materials at Hunters Nightclub in Palm Springs. This vending machine is the first of its kind in the Coachella Valley, with similar machines appearing in various parts of California and other states, including New York City.


Coachella Valley High School named America’s Healthiest Schools

On Sept. 26, Coachella Valley High School (CVHS) announced it was named one of America’s Healthiest Schools by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for the 2022-23 academic year. This recognition is shared with less than .05% of schools across the U.S.


Tammy Gordon: 'The excessive rain and warm temperatures make this an ideal time for mosquitos'

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has reported that mosquito samples collected from Cathedral City and Indian Wells have tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first detection of WNV mosquitos in the region this year, raising concerns among local health authorities.


Del Shores: 'Leslie would love this honor'

In a recent press release, the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars announced late actor Leslie Jordan will be honored by the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce with the 462nd star on the Walk. Del Shores, a longtime friend of Jordan, expressed his excitement about the honor and shared his fond memories of their friendship.


Macy's ordered to pay Riverside County $1.6M in civil penalties

Macy's, the Ohio-based retail giant, has been ordered to pay $1.6 million in civil penalties and costs for environmental violations. The judgment comes after an investigation into Macy's improper handling of hazardous waste across its 98 California retail locations, including three in Riverside County. Instead of following proper protocols for storing, transporting, and disposing of hazardous waste, Macy's unlawfully discarded such materials in regular trash bins and transported them to local landfills ill-equipped to handle hazardous waste.


Riverside County correctional deputy arrested for drug trafficking, firearm possession

Riverside County Correctional Deputy Arrested for Drug Trafficking, Firearm Possession


Greater Palm Springs Realtors announces disaster relief program for Tropical Storm Hilary victims

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.


IndyCar Series to host $1M challenge race at The Thermal Club in 2024

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is set to host a thrilling racing exhibition at The Thermal Club in Southern California during the 2024 season. This special event will be tailor-made for television and will feature a $1 million prize for the winner. Race Day is scheduled for Sunday, March 24, with qualifications and an NTT INDYCAR SERIES Open Test taking place on March 22-23. The entire event will be broadcasted on NBC, giving fans the chance to witness the intense wheel-to-wheel action.


PSPD detectives seek community assistance identifying suspect involved in bar assault

PSPD Detectives Seek Community Assistance Identifying Suspect Involved in Bar Assault