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Home My WebLink AboutMARAPR_2024BrightsideMARCH AND APRIL 2024 FASHION WEEK, FOOD AND WINE RETURN TO EL PASEO OFFICIAL PALM DESERT DISTRICT MAP CITY BUDGET – SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK LEARN HOW YOUR CITY WORKS: JOIN CIVIC ACADEMY RIVERSIDE COUNTY ARTS AND CULTURE MONTH DEBUTS LIBRARY PREPARES FOR TRANSITION WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL CELEBRATES SPRING PUBLIC ART FILM SERIES CONCLUDES INAUGURAL HOA COMMUNITY MEETING CITY SEEKS NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS LANTERNS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AT LIVING DESERT What’s Inside Anyone who lives here or visits Palm Desert quickly realizes that it has a unique feel and rhythm, but does it have a unique sound, as well? That is what California native, and L.A. based artist Windser set out to discover after a recent trip to the area last December. The singer/songwriter, named one of Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Artists to Watch in 2023, was struck by the stillness and beauty of the desert during his visit, and was inspired to capture that feeling in his latest single. But instead of just singing about the desert, Windser wanted to make it a part of the song itself in the most distinctive way possible, blending art and science to incorporate actual sounds generated by native Palm Desert plants. Using the latest technology developed by PlantWave, a device that translates plant biodata into musical notes, Windser sampled frequencies from a variety of local flora, including creosote, palo verde and California fan palm, and then weaved the resulting sounds into the fabric of his new song. The finished product, Desert Song, is set to be released March 5, and will also be included on Windser’s upcoming album. With a relaxed acoustic backbone accentuated by the atmospheric sounds of native plants, paired with lyrics that express a longing to share the experience with someone else, Windser feels the song captures the essence of Palm Desert. “When I think of Palm Desert, it’s a place to free your mind,” he said. “That warmth and freedom is important to this song.” Desert Song can be heard on all major streaming platforms, or you can experience it in person for yourself when Windser returns to Palm Desert to perform his new single live at a FREE concert, Thursday, April 18 at Civic Center Park! You’ll also be treated to a short film that tells the story of the song, and how Windser was able to turn desert plants into music. For details, visit: discoverpalmdesert.com. CALIFORNIA ARTIST WRITES SONG INSPIRED BY PALM DESERT Palm Desert offers a variety of opportunities to participate in local government and serve the community through City Council-appointed commissions, committees, and boards. Appointed members develop recommendations reflective of the community and provide the City Council with perspectives to make policy decisions that enrich Palm Desert. We are currently accepting applications for the upcoming term beginning July 1, 2024. With a few exceptions, appointed members must be full-time residents within Palm Desert city limits. Certain boards may also require specific experience in a technical field or have other qualifying criteria. Please review your preferred board to ensure eligibility, and you are encouraged to view or attend several meetings for boards you may be interested in joining, as well as reviewing associated agendas and staff reports. Applications are welcome year-round; those submitted by April 30 will be considered for the upcoming term. For more information regarding each board, including current vacancies, agendas and minutes, and to complete an application, please visit: palmdesert.gov/our-city/committees-and- commissions. Calendar Palm Desert City Council Meetings Thursdays, 4 p.m. March 14 and March 28 April 11 and April 25 St. Patrick’s Day March 17 Good Friday March 29 Easter March 31 Tax Day April 15 CITY CONTINUES PUBLIC EDUCATION EFFORT ON CITY BUDGET The City of Palm Desert is proud to be participating in the Inaugural Riverside County Arts and Culture Month, recognizing the rich history, sizeable cultural representation, and unique arts and cultural centers the County has to offer to residents and visitors. The program, which runs the entire month of March, is a collaboration by the Riverside County Office of Economic Development, the Riverside Arts Council, and the California Desert Arts Council, and looks to increase awareness of all the fantastic places that are fun, educational, and accessible throughout the County. Pick up a commemorative Exploration Pass at Palm Desert Visitor Services, and then get it stamped at more than 20 locations throughout Riverside County as you discover a variety of museums, parks, and cultural events, creating a lasting memento of your experiences. For more information and a list of participating locations, stop by Palm Desert Visitor Services, or visit RivCoArtsandCulture.org. ARTS AND CULTURE MONTH HIGHLIGHTS THE BEST OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY The Palm Desert Library will be closed between May 1 and June 30 for an interior refresh, and to allow for the transition of management from Riverside County to the City of Palm Desert. Online resources will remain available from the County, and residents will still be able to use their Riverside County Library System card at other branches during this time. The Palm Desert Library will reopen July 1. In the interim, pop-up services will be offered at various locations throughout the city. For more information and to give your input on future library services, visit engagepalmdesert.com/library. LIBRARY PREPARING FOR TRANSITION The City of Palm Desert has been making presentations to community groups in recent months and is asking residents to visit www.engagepalmdesert.com to share feedback as the City plans for its next budget. Despite cost-cutting measures taken in recent years, the City is still forecasting a deficit that will impact future budgets. Like local residents and businesses, the City is also facing pressures of rising costs for goods, labor, and services. Rising costs impact the City’s budget for services like public safety and emergency medical response, as well as the maintenance of streets, roads, parks, flood control, and other infrastructure. This year, the City is exploring ways to close its deficit, including considering the potential for new voter-approved tax revenues. Demands for service, especially in public safety, have been on the rise in recent years in Palm Desert. Over 80% of all calls to the Fire Department in Palm Desert are responses to medical emergencies, accidents, or rescues. One Fire Station in the City has been highlighted as among the busiest in Riverside County and a new station is being added to serve City residents and maintain response times. Burglaries, thefts, and other property crimes are also increasing throughout the Coachella Valley, and this has also impacted Palm Desert. In addition to these trends, the City is also facing increasing costs of dealing with winter storms. Current estimates of damage and clean-up from last year’s Tropical Storm Hilary exceed $6 million. For context, the annual General Fund of the City is roughly $75 million. Unforeseeable costs such as storm events can significantly impact the City’s budget and reserves. To prepare for these events in the future, the City is analyzing options to improve storm water control infrastructure in the areas that have been most impacted, which includes the addition of retention basins, neighborhood flood improvements, a proactive inspection and maintenance program, and stronger emergency management enhancements. Additional revenue could work to prepare the City’s infrastructure for such events, as well as maintain 911 emergency response times. To explain more about these issues, the City has launched a set of resources and a community survey at www.engagepalmdesert.com. This survey takes just 3 minutes to complete, and the page contains additional information about the City’s finances and services. Inside Story MARCH AND APRIL 2024 ARTISTS CENTER AT THE GALEN 72567 Highway 111 760-565-6130 artistscouncil.com Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Upcoming Exhibitions: Watercolor Society: Show and Sale March 5 – 9 Through the Lens: Juried Exhibition and Sale March 12 – April 6 Young Artists Exhibition and Community Sunday April 9 – 27 Casting Shadows: Dimensional Art Show and Sale April 30 – May 25 Workshops: Realistic Painting in Oil and Acrylic Thursdays, 1 – 3 p.m., Fridays, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Watercolor: Beginners and Beyond Fridays, 1 – 3:30 p.m. Take an Art Break: Bookbinding in Leather March 9, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Mixing It Up: An Intuitive Approach to Creating Abstract Art March 15 and 22, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. In and Around Town: Watercolor Sketching March 16 – 17, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Drawing and Painting the Human Head March 23 – 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Make a Splash with Watercolor: Textures with a Twist April 20, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The Figure in Cold Wax April 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. CSUSB PALM DESERT CAMPUS 37500 Cook Street 760-341-2883 pdc.csusb.edu Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CITY OF PALM DESERT Palm Desert Civic Center 73510 Fred Waring Drive 760-346-0611 Open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. palmdesert.gov DiscoverPalmDesert.com Visitor Services 760-568-1441 Short Term Rental Hotline 760-862-6900 Code Enforcement Hotline 760-776-6360 Report Graffiti 760-340-5776 Palm Desert Police Department Emergencies: Call 911 Non-emergencies: 760-836-1600 Palm Desert In Touch Get information on City meetings, parks, trails, and public art, plus identify issues, including graffiti and code violations, and report them directly to City staff. Information: palmdesert.gov/intouch EngagePalmDesert.com The City’s civic engagement platform allows residents a chance to ask questions, share comments, and contribute ideas on City projects. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, a doctorate in educational leadership, teaching credentials, and certificates. New programs include Hospitality Management, Entrepreneurship, Cybersecurity, Social Work, Kinesiology, and Child Development. Information: csusb.edu/pdc/our-programs Mature Adult Programs The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) offers non-credit, university-level courses for adults age 50+. Experience all the fun of learning with no homework, no tests, and no grades. Membership also includes fun events, interest groups, and travel opportunities. Information: www.csusb.edu/OLLI or call 909-537-8270 COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms 760-343-3644 rcdas.org Services include animal adoption and licensing. COACHELLA VALLEY ORIGINALCERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce parking lot 72559 Highway 111, Palm Desert certifiedfarmersmarkets.org Open Sundays from October through April, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. COLLEGE OF THE DESERT 43500 Monterey Avenue 760-346-8041 collegeofthedesert.edu Street Fair Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., October – May Information: 760-636-7957 or codaastreetfair.com COD Veterans Resource Center 760-773-2536 Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Provides critical services for veterans and their dependents to support their success, retention, and educational needs. Palm Desert Resident Cards Palm Desert Resident Cards for use at Desert Willow Golf Resort are issued by the Desert Recreation District at the Parkview Building (temporarily). Information: cityofpalmdesert org/ departments/special-programs/desert- willow-golf-resort Golf Center at Palm Desert 74945 Sheryl Avenue 760-779-1877 golfcenterpd.com Check the website for hours. Home of the First Tee of the Coachella Valley youth golf program includes a 9-hole par three course, driving range with chipping and putting greens, foot golf, and more. DESERT ROSE SOCIETY desertrosesociety.com The Desert Rose Society holds meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at the Portola Community Center. Social starts at 4:30 p.m., followed by a short meeting and guest speaker at 5 p.m. offering advice on growing roses in the Coachella Valley. The April 11 meeting features the annual springtime Little Rose Show. We are actively seeking new members! Visit: desertrosesociety.com DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 47950 Dune Palms Road La Quinta 760-777-4200 dsusd.us The DSUSD website lists contact information for each school. Parents are advised to contact schools directly with their questions. The Palm Desert High School Arts Academy Presents: Mama Mia! March 21 – 23, 7 p.m. March 24, 2 p.m. Palm Desert High School Performance Theater GA Tickets $15, students free. Information: pdhs.dsusd.us DUSUD Schools will be closed March 29 – April 8 for Spring Break. DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT 38995 Desert Willow Drive 760-346-0015 desertwillow.com Visit their website for current hours Easter Sunday Buffet Sunday, March 31, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Indulge in a lavish buffet while soaking in spectacular views of the Firecliff course. $74.99 for adults, $24.99 for children 6-12. Reservations required, call 760-346-7060, Ext 2. FAMILY YMCA OF THE DESERT 43930 San Pablo Avenue 760-341-9622 ymcaofthedesert.org CV Giving Day March 5 CV Giving Day brings the region together as one community, raising money and awareness for our local nonprofits during the 24-hour online giving challenge. Jean Benson Child Development Center 75433 Orange Blossom Lane 760-836-3336 Serving children 2 – 5 years of age by supporting their unique interests, skills, and needs. They focus on social, emotional, physical, and language development, which form the basis of their lifelong learning. Information: ymcaofthedesert.org/jean- benson-child-development-center/ THE GARDENS ON EL PASEO 73545 El Paseo 760-862-1990 thegardensonelpaseo.com 26th Annual Concert Series Saturdays through March 9, 4:30 – 7 p.m., Center Lawn March 2: Always Tina (Tina Turner) benefiting Voices for Children March 9: Paperback Writer (Beatles) benefiting Family YMCA Reservations: thegardensonelpaseo.com/events $25 - $35. HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PALM DESERT &FIREHOUSE MUSEUM 72861 El Paseo 760-346-6588 hspd.org Open Friday – Monday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Free Admission Friday Night Lectures Portola Community Center, 6 p.m. March 15: Francis Gary Powers, Jr. April 19: Steve and Sidetrack Adventures JOSLYN CENTER 73750 Catalina Way 760-340-3220 joslyncenter.org Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, 3 – 5 p.m. Sunday Cabaret Series Sundays, 3 – 5 p.m. in the Arthur Newman Theatre. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Onsite Programs Exercise classes, indoor pickleball, bridge, bingo, canasta, pinochle, mah-jongg, Scrabble, quilting, woodcarving, knitting, painting, table tennis, lawn bowling, art classes, New Joslyn Singers, Joslyn Strummers ukulele group, stringed instrument band, Joslyn Singles, book club, HI-CAP Q&A, and more. DESERT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive DesertHorticulturalSociety.org Desert Garden Tour March 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. A curated tour of five area gardens designed to educate participants about water conservation and desert adapted landscapes. Proceeds benefit the Mary Brent Wehrli Scholarship Fund. Information and tickets: DesertHorticulturalSociety.org DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT Palm Desert Community Center 43900 San Pablo Avenue 760-568-9697 myrecreationdistrict.com Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Closed Sundays PLEASE NOTE: The Community Center is closed for renovations. The offices and front desk have been relocated to the Parkview Building in the Civic Center parking lot at 73710 Fred Waring Drive. Check the website for details. Eggstravaganza Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Come and participate in our Eggstravaganza event at Palm Desert Civic Center Park. The day will feature an egg hunt, games, arts & crafts, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Tai Chi For Your Health Mondays, 12 p.m. Portola Community Center $55 per month Introduction to Tai Chi March 14 or 21 and April 4 or 11, 12 p.m. Portola Community Center $16 per class Beginning Guitar April 3 – May 1, 6 p.m. Portola Community Center $80 per session Second Level Guitar April 3 – May 1, 7 p.m. Portola Community Center $80 per session Ballroom Swing and Salsa Lessons Wednesdays, March 6 – March 27 or April 3 – April 24, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Palm Desert Amphitheater $52 per session or $18 daily drop in fee Line Dancing Wednesdays, March 6 – 27 or April 3 – 24, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Palm Desert Amphitheater $43 per session or $13 daily drop in fee Information: JoslynCenter.org/programsOnsite Programs with Partners Braille Institute/low vision classes, First Foundation Fraud Prevention, Eisenhower Health lectures, Health Expos, JFS Let’s Do Lunch, and more. Joslyn Wellness Center Programs Free and low-cost programs include Go4Life®, Aging Mastery Program®; Brain Boot Camp; Problem-Solving Strategies; Mindful Living; Bereavement Group; free Fitness Center, and more. Information: Alex Garcia at 760-340-3220, ext. 117 or AlexG@joslyncenter.org Nutrition Programs Meals on Wheels: Providing healthy meals Monday – Friday to seniors in Palm Desert, Sun City Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and Indian Wells. Penny’s Pantry Community Food Bank: First and third Fridays, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. Fresh produce and non-perishable food for low- income seniors. Farmers’ Market: Second and fourth Fridays, 9 – 10:30 a.m. (or until depleted). Free, fresh produce provided by FIND Food Bank. Information: joslyncenter.org/meals-on-wheels or contact Bob Elias at 760-340-3220, ext. 110 or bobe@joslyncenter.org. Josyln in Bloom Fashion Show Friday, April 12, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The 14th annual Josyln in Bloom Fashion Show, Luncheon and Fundraiser at Agua Caliente Casino Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage. Fashion show by Susan Stein. For tickets or silent auction donations, contact Tomm Belanich at 760-895-4654 or TommB@JosylnCenter.org. THE LIVING DESERT 47900 Portola Avenue 760-346-5694 livingdesert.org Through May 31, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Last admission 4 p.m.) Tours and Experiences Giraffe Feeding 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. $8 members; $10 non-members with paid park admission. An experience for a lifetime, giraffe feeding gives guests a one-on-one encounter with these graceful giants. Rhino Encounter Additional fee with paid park admission. This special opportunity offers guests the chance to meet a black rhino. Reservations recommended. Hoppy Hour Every Tuesday and Thursday 3 – 5 p.m. New at Kookaburra Café, join us for exclusive Hoppy Hour appetizers and 50% off the entire bar menu! Special Programs Me & You at the Zoo Tuesdays, 9 – 10 a.m. in the Hoover Learning & Impact Department Building. Meet each week for an hour of guided exploration designed for toddlers and their accompanying adults. Free with membership or paid park admission. No advance registration required. Glow in the Park Select Nights, March 16 – April 28, 6:30 – 10 p.m. The Zoo comes to life with hundreds of illuminated, hand-painted lanterns at this family-friendly, evening event. Advance reservations required, visit: LivingDesert.org/Glow Zoo Families: Planting Memories March 16, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Explore the wonderful world of gardens at The Living Desert. Includes an up-close animal experience, planting native seeds, tram tour, and admission to the Zoo. Visit: LivingDesert.org/Events ZooCamp April 2 – 4, registration now open ZooCamp offers kids, grades K-6, the opportunity to learn about wildlife through STEM activities, arts and crafts, up-close animal encounters, and more. Xerophilous: A Desert Botanical Festival April 6 – 7 Celebrate the Zoo’s 52 gardens during the first ever Xerophilous event! Enjoy special garden tours, purchase native California plants, and sample specialty food and drinks. Registration opens March 5 Visit: LivingDesert.org/Events LEARNING IN RETIREMENT The Shops at Palm Desert lirpalmdesert@gmail.com lirpalmdesert.com Spring Semester LIR continues to offer high value educational opportunities; take up to five courses for just $45. Registration opens February 5, classes run February 26 – April 5. Information: lirpalmdesert.com MCCALLUM THEATRE 73000 Fred Waring Drive 760-340-ARTS (2787) mccallumtheatre.com Tickets for the 2023-2024 season are now available on their website. Legends in Concert Tributes to The Carpenters, Rod Stewart, Elton John & Lionel Richie March 7, 7 p.m.; March 8, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Steve Solomon’s Cannoli, Latkes & Guilt March 11, 7 p.m.; March 12, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Mean Girls March 29, 8 p.m.; March 30, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; March 31, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Clint Holmes: Between the Moon and New York City The Songs of Peter Allen April 5, 8 p.m. PALM DESERT AQUATIC CENTER 73751 Magnesia Falls Drive 760-565-7467 pdpool.com Full facility rentals are available. Contact pdacprograms@desertymca.org for more information. Water exercise classes are offered Mondays through Saturdays. Private swim lessons for all ages are available upon request. Long course lap swimming all day on weekends. Please visit the website for hours of operation and detailed schedule information. PALM DESERT CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce parking lot 72559 Highway 111, Palm Desert cvcfm.org Open Wednesdays from October – May, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. PALM DESERT AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 72559 Highway 111 760-346-6111 pdacc.org El Paseo Cruise Night March 1 and 15, April 5 Cruse night has a new home – cars will now meet in the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce parking lot at 2 p.m., cruise starts at 4 p.m. Free for participants and spectators, everyone is welcome. Information: ElPaseoCruiseNight.com PALM DESERT PUBLIC LIBRARY 73300 Fred Waring Drive 760-346-6552 rivlib.net Open Monday – Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m. SUNDAY SOUNDS in the Park Concert Series Palm Desert Civic Park Amphitheater Sundays, 2 p.m. Free March 3: Fun with Dick & Jane March 17: The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Choir Adult Programs Adult Art Workshops All Programs in the Community Room Program information and reservations: rivlib.libcal.com Library Book Club Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., March 19 Mindful Tarot Workshops Tuesdays, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., March 12 and 26, April 9 Chinese Mah Jong Open Play Tuesdays, 1 – 3 p.m. The library will provide sets or bring your own. All levels are welcome. Knot Just Knitters Drop-In Knit/Crochet Group Monday, 4 – 6 p.m. March 4 and 18, April 1 and 15 Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – Noon Teen Programs Open to teens grades 6 – 12 All Programs in the Community Room Program Information: rivlib.libcal.com KPOP Club Wednesdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., March 27 Anime Alliance Club Thursdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., March 7 and 21 Teen Book Club Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., March 26 Teen Council Meeting Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., March 5 and 19 Crafternoon Tuesdays, 5 – 6 p.m., March 12 Children’s Programs Craft Corner, Wednesdays, 3 – 4 p.m. Miss Stephanie’s Story Time Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. Sensory Storytime Tuesdays, 11:40 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Sensory Storytime encourages children to move and interact with the environment through music, reading, and fun activities. VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Information and referrals for anyone who has served in the military. Walk-ins are welcome. Information: 760-346-6552 PEGASUS THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER 35-450 B Pegasus Ct 760-772-3057 PegasusRidingAcademy.org Offering therapeutic riding sessions for children and adults with special needs. Programming runs Wednesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. We are looking for volunteers! Information: PegasusRidingAcademy. org or call 760-772-3057. THE SHOPS AT PALM DESERT 72840 Highway 111 760-346-2121 shopsatpalmdesert.com UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIARIVERSIDE/PALM DESERT CAMPUS 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive 760-834-0800 palmdesert.ucr.edu Wild Coachella: Protecting a Naturally Dark Night Sky Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. Climate Change’s Bad Attitude: Study of Mammals in Chile Shows Dramatic Effects Thursday, March 14, 6 p.m. In Search of Strange New Worlds: Exoplanet Biosignatures and Prospects for Their Detection Wednesday, March 20, 6 p.m. Asthma & the Salton Sea: Studies on the Disparate Effects of Environmental Exposures & Health Impact Tuesday, March 26, 6 p.m. Two Biomedical Presentations: Promoting Lifelong Brain Health — It’s Not All in Your Genes! and Catalyzing Change: Advancing Health and Biotech Frontiers Through RNA Research at UCR Tuesday, April 2, 6 p.m. Wild Coachella: Fire in the Desert: A Study of Yucca Survival in the Mojave National Preserve Thursday, April 4, 6 p.m. UCR Osher In-person and virtual courses for lifelong learners on history, literature, natural and social sciences, fine arts and special events. Information: palmdesert.ucr.edu/welcome-ucr-osher VARIETY – THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY OF THE DESERT 42600 Cook Street, Ste 150 varietyofthedesert.org 760-773-9800, ext. 101 Caring Connections Program Free developmental screenings for children 0-5 years of age. Inclusive adaptive opportunities are available at no cost with registration required. Inclusive Art Class at Variety Palm Desert March 13, April 3 and 17, 3:30 p.m. Registration required: varietyofthedesert.org SANTA ROSA & SAN JACINTO MTNSNAT’L MONUMENT VISITOR CENTER/FRIENDS OF THE DESERT MOUNTAINS 51500 Highway 74 760-862-9984 DesertMountains.org Open Thursday – Monday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. A free event celebrating wellness, recreation, safety and the outdoors and Palm Desert Civic Center Park. Wildflower Nature Walks Various days, starting March 2 Learn about desert spring wildflowers during these hour-long walks on Henderson Trail. For specific dates and times, visit: DesertMountains.org Desert Mountains Art Fair Saturday, March 16, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Support local artists and find unique gifts while enjoying the beauty of our desert mountains. Free Guided Hikes Select Sundays through Saturdays from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Trails vary. Reservations required: DesertMountains.org/ calendar or call 760-862-9984 Randall Henderson Trail Hike March 7, 18 and 28, 8:30 – 11 a.m. Easy two-mile loop with excellent views of the Coachella Valley. Bird Walk-About (Desert Willow and Visitor Center) Select Mondays, 8 – 10 a.m. Trails vary. Reservations required: DesertMountains.org/ calendar or call 760-862-9984 Star Party at the Monument Saturday, March 30, 7 p.m. and April 13, 7:30 p.m. The Astronomical Society of the Desert conducts direct observations of the night sky through telescopes and giant binoculars. Reservations required: DesertMountains.org/ calendar or call 760-862-9984 Springs Bioblitz (Community Science) April 21 – 27 Join our ongoing efforts to find and document species found in the National Monument by participating in our week-long Bioblitz. Registration required for all Friends’ events: DesertMountains.org/calendar or call 760-862-9984 Experience Palm Desert from Art to Zoning. Apply to the Civic Academy Today! Are you ready to embark on a journey that delves deep into the inner workings of Palm Desert? Then apply today for the Civic Academy, a free and fun program provided by the city of Palm Desert. This dynamic multi-week program promises an insider’s view of the City through hands-on demonstrations, engaging presentations, and enlightening tours. Participants will analyze issues using data, connect with decision-makers, and learn how they can make a difference in our community. Program Highlights: Discover what makes Palm Desert unique through five enriching sessions each Monday of April from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dinner is provided for participants. April 1: Managing the City Uncover insights from the City Manager, City Clerk, and discuss topics of Homelessness & Disaster Management. April 8: Balancing & Promoting Palm Desert Explore the realms of Finance, Tourism, Marketing, along with our new Palm Desert Library service. April 15: Developing Palm Desert Interested in rail service to Los Angeles, housing issues, or what construction projects are in the works? Dive into Economic Development, Affordable Housing, & Development Services. April 22: Maintaining Palm Desert’s Charm Palm Desert is known for its many beautiful public spaces, art, and events. Learn how the City maintains these programs with demonstrations from our Public Art, Parks & Recreation, Environmental Programs, and Special Events staff. April 29: Keeping Palm Desert Moving Tour the City’s Corporate Yard facility and gain perspective on Public Works, Capital Projects, & Public Safety. How to Apply: Applications are open until March 15, 2024, and space is limited. Learn more about the program and apply at www.palmdesert.gov/ civicacademy. Celebrate health, wellness, and joy as the Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival returns to Palm Desert Civic Center Park for its 17th year of promoting recreation, the outdoors and – of course – California desert wildflowers on Saturday, March 2, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Presented by the Friends of the Desert Mountains, the annual festival is a day-long event featuring skilled local artisans, shopping and information booths, enchanting wildflower displays, an exciting raffle, great times and live music. The huge interactive Kids’ Zone and “Naturally Inspired” youth art contest will entertain and inspire fun and learning for the entire family. Local food trucks and beverage concessions will be available, along with a beer and wine garden for adults. This free event is great for all ages and helps promote education, environmental stewardship, land conservancy, and an appreciation of our fine Desert Mountains. Civic Center Park is located at 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. For more information about the Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival, visit desertmountains.org or call Friends of the Desert Mountains at 760-568-9918. WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL WELCOMES SPRING TO THE VALLEY The Public Art Documentary Film Series concludes its 2024 season with a pair of stories that highlight how public art can have an emotional and transformative impact on communities, both locally and around the globe. Wednesday, March 27, features a free 6 p.m. screening of The Barefoot Artist, a highly emotional documentary which explores the methods and motivations of Lily Yeh, whose revolutionary work has not only transformed communities in North America, Africa, China, and India, but also served as a conduit through which she has worked to repair her own fractured family. Following the showing, artist Lily Yeh will discuss the film and her work in a Q&A session. Then, just in time for festival season, the series concludes Wednesday, April 24, at 6 p.m. with a free showing of Burning Man: Art on Fire. This fascinating documentary tells the story of the amazing larger-than-life art installations created for Burning Man, the challenges of constructing them, and the personal connections they inspire among festivalgoers. A Q&A session with producer Jennifer Raiser will follow the screening. The film series is presented by the City of Palm Desert Public Art Department and the University of California, Riverside Palm Desert Center. Films screen in the auditorium at UCR Palm Desert, 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive. Admission is free, but registration is required. Visit palmdesert.ucr.edu or call 760-834-0800. DOCUMENTARY SERIES CONCLUDES WITH STORIES OF LIFE-CHANGING ART Engagement Did you know Palm Desert has over 170 Homeowner Associations (HOAs)? Ranging from three households to many hundreds of homes, HOAs contribute to the diverse tapestry of our city and play a vital role in shaping large sections of our community. The City of Palm Desert wants to deepen our collaboration with these important organizations at our first-ever HOA Community Meeting. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, March 26, from 2 to 4 p.m., and join us at the Palm Desert City Hall Council Chamber. All are welcome, including residents, HOA board members, and staff from HOA management companies. The meeting will feature informative sessions from City employees and our regional partners with updates on our short-term rental program, vector control measures, community relations, and much more. This will be an excellent opportunity to meet staff, learn about new programs and policies, and get answers to your questions and comments. We look forward to seeing you there! INAUGURAL HOA COMMUNITY MEETING ECRWSS Resident and/or Business Palm Desert, CA PRESORTED STANDARD US Postage PAID Palm Desert, CA Permit No. 160 73510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Phone 760-346-0611 Email info@palmdesert.gov Websites discoverpalmdesert.com palmdesert.gov n Watch City Council meetings live online at palmdesert.gov on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month at 4 p.m. n 2024 CITY COUNCIL Mayor: Karina Quintanilla Mayor Pro Tem: Jan Harnik COUNCIL MEMBERS: Gina Nestande Evan Trubee Kathleen Kelly MARCH AND APRIL 2024 Look what’s on the BrightSide... inside! Glow in the Park is back at The Living Desert for the third consecutive year, showing off an all-new experience filled with dazzling illuminated displays that create a dramatic and unique nighttime landscape. This one-of-a-kind event offers a captivating after-dark adventure, featuring more than a hundred hand-painted, larger-than-life lanterns. From interactive installations that transport you around the world to immersive hands-on displays, Glow in the Park offers more than just unique sights, but an experience for all the senses. This year’s event invites you to step into the colorful world of birds, delve deep into the prehistoric past, explore the Chinese zodiac, and revel at awe-inspiring displays showcasing the wonders of wildlife from across the globe. And the evening wouldn’t be complete without sampling Asian-inspired dishes, American-style favorites, and wild themed cocktails selected to compliment the displays. Guests of all ages will enjoy the stunning sights, interactive opportunities, and fantastic photo ops. The event opens March 15 for members, and then to the public on select nights from March 16 – April 28, 6:30 – 10 p.m. with last admission at 9 p.m. Advance reservations required, for information and tickets, visit livingdesert.org. SPECTACULAR LANTERNS LIGHT UP THE LIVING DESERT