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Kenya's Wild Snake Project promotes snake conservation through education

Conservationists face significant challenges in changing public attitudes and behaviors toward snakes. The Wild Snake Project in Kenya is one such initiative dedicated to this cause. During a visit to Kenya for The Living Desert’s Building Community Conservation Success workshops, conservation social scientist Katie Shaw took the opportunity to meet with partners at The Wild Snake Project.


Lawmakers question Cleveland National Forest's refusal of staffing help

Today, Representatives Ken Calvert (CA-41) and Young Kim (CA-40) led a bipartisan letter to the Supervisor of the Cleveland National Forest (CNF), raising concerns about staffing shortfalls. The letter was also signed by Representatives Darrell Issa (CA-48), Mike Levin (CA-49), and Lou Correa (CA-46). The lawmakers questioned the CNF management's decision not to accept staffing assistance from the Orange County Fire Authority earlier this year.


Forest Lawn announces Día de los Muertos events in Southern California

Forest Lawn will host traditional Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) events across four Southern California locations. These community celebrations aim to honor the memories of the deceased and highlight the rich history of the Mexican holiday with various activities including vibrant altars, large Catrina and alebrijes artworks, folkloric dance, Mariachi performances, arts and crafts, face painting, and refreshments. The free events are scheduled for Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 12:00-3:00 PM at Forest Lawn’s Cypress, Covina Hills, and Glendale locations. The event at...


Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopening delayed until October 12

The reopening date for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has been moved from October 7 to October 12 due to maintenance delays.


Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reschedules reopening to October 12

The reopening of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has been postponed from October 7 to October 12 due to maintenance delays. Chris Bartsch, Vice President of Tramway Systems, stated, "Due to a one-day weather delay and projects taking longer than anticipated, we had to make the unfortunate decision to delay our reopening by five days."


CalChamber supports Proposition 2 to fund repairs for schools

The California Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced its support for Proposition 2, a measure on the November ballot. This proposition authorizes a $10 billion general obligation bond aimed at funding the construction and rehabilitation of facilities for public schools and community colleges.


Motown legends The Temptations and The Four Tops to perform in January

The Temptations and The Four Tops, two legendary bands, will return to the Special Events Center at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. This marks their twelfth performance at the venue.


House passes bill to improve VA phone system

The House of Representatives has passed the Stuck On Hold Act, H.R. 6656, introduced by Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). The bill mandates the Veterans’ Administration (VA) to implement a new customer service telephone system. This system will inform callers of their estimated wait times and offer an automated callback option if the wait exceeds 10 minutes.


La Quinta holds State of the City event with business awards

The La Quinta State of the City, Business Awards, and Expo took place recently, gathering speakers, sponsors, and attendees for an event that highlighted notable contributions to the community.


Living Desert aids Big Bear Alpine Zoo amid Line Fire crisis

The Living Desert has stepped in to support the Big Bear Alpine Zoo by providing temporary shelter for approximately 50 animals and their staff during the Line Fire.


Illegal pet trade threatens wildlife; how you can help

The illegal pet trade poses a significant threat to wildlife by disrupting ecosystems and endangering species. High global demand for exotic pets fuels the illicit capture and trade of millions of animals.


Friends of the Children seek directors for new Coachella Valley location

Friends of the Children are hiring for two positions in the Coachella Valley.


Calvert secures $9 million for Riverside County water infrastructure projects

Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) has announced the allocation of more than $9 million in federal funding for three water infrastructure projects in Riverside County. The funding, included at his request in the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill, was approved by a majority vote in the House of Representatives last week. According to Rep. Calvert, this funding will not increase the overall spending level of the bill as it is allocated within respective agency program accounts.


Living Desert partners with brewery to aid Mexican wolf conservation

The Living Desert has announced a new collaboration with Luchador Brewing Company to support the conservation of the Mexican wolf, a species once on the verge of extinction. The partnership has resulted in the creation of El Lobo Mexican Lager, with $1 from every pint sold being directed towards The Living Desert's conservation initiatives.


Dezart Performs announces diverse lineup for its upcoming Season

Michael Shaw, Artistic Director of Dezart Performs, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming 2024/25 season, which promises a diverse range of theatrical experiences. "I am thrilled about the upcoming 2024/25 season as it promises to offer a diverse range of experiences, from moments of laughter and intense drama to introspective reflection and impactful storytelling," Shaw stated. "After a successful past season where we saw a significant number of first-time attendees, we eagerly look forward to sharing these exceptional performances with our dedicated longtime supporters and...


West Nile virus detected in Indian Wells mosquitoes for first time in 2024

Mosquito samples from a routine collection site in Indian Wells, California, have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) for the first time this year. The sample was located near the intersections of Fred Waring Drive and Eldorado Drive. This marks the 182nd sample from the Coachella Valley to test positive for WNV in 2024.


Palm Springs announces relocation plan for Forever Marilyn sculpture

The City of Palm Springs has announced an agreement in principle to relocate the Forever Marilyn sculpture. During a closed session, the City Council reached this decision in collaboration with P.S. Resorts and CReMa. The new location for the sculpture will be within Downtown Park, with finalization expected within 30 days.


South Perris groundwater desalination program receives $100 million boost

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) and Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) announced the inclusion of a $100 million authorization for the South Perris Groundwater Desalination program in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), H.R. 8812. This represents a $50 million increase in authorization from the previous 2020 WRDA bill. The bill was drafted by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO). The authorization was requested by Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) to construct Stage II of this desalination program which is expected to add...


Rep. Calvert supports Netanyahu's address on US-Israel relations

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) issued a statement regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to a joint meeting of Congress.


Governor signs bill making family leave mediation permanent

Legislation sponsored by the California Chamber of Commerce to make permanent the small employer family leave mediation program has been signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.