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Home My WebLink AboutCPD049 Brightside Newsletter SEP OCT 2023DIGITAL FINAL 1SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023 NEW GALLERY SHOW AWAKENS THE SENSES ROADWORKS UNDERWAY ON FRED WARING SERVE YOUR CITY ON A COMMITTEE OR COMMISSION ANNUAL BUDGET INVESTS IN PALM DESERT’S FUTURE PALM DESERT HOSTS ELECTRONIC WASTE AND SHREDDING EVENTS GOLF CART PARADE PROMISES TIME TRAVEL THRILLS This October promises to be a month of unforgettable melodies and delightful memories with the return of the City’s free Fall Concerts in the Park series. On stage at the Civic Center Park amphitheater from 6 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday in October, these concerts are designed to captivate audiences of all ages and tastes. The excitement kicks off on Thursday, October 5 with a performance by Classic Journey, a tribute to Journey’s iconic anthems and ballads from the late 70s and 80s, accompanied by additional hits from TOTO, REO, Jefferson Starship, and Kansas, to name a few. Classic Journey guarantees to deliver a unique concert experience. The series continues on October 12 with a performance by The Mighty Untouchables. They’ve crafted a show that is like no other—part dance party and part concert experience. They’re a band that does it all—Top 40 Dance, Motown, Disco, Classic Rock, Jazz, Pop Hits, and more—and does it well! Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of bossa nova when Leanna and Miguel, a vocalist and her conga sensation husband, take to the stage on October 19. These local legends will deliver a show that’s a magical mix of jazz, Latin, pop, and soft rock. Prepare to groove to the electrifying beats of the 80s when the concert season closes out on October 26 with a show by 80s Ladies. From rock to dance, New Wave to Top 40 hits, they’ll keep the energy pumping. Get ready for an 80s-themed spectacle with dazzling costumes and choreography that will transport you to a bygone era. The Fall Concerts in the Park series also acts as the official launch party for Palm Desert’s 50th Anniversary. As we gear up for the City’s special event on Saturday, November 18, be sure to visit the Palm Desert pop- up tent before each of the concerts. You’ll find special giveaways and festive promotions that will undoubtedly put you in a golden mood. In addition to live music under the stars, concertgoers will find food trucks at Civic Center Park at each of the shows. Treat your taste buds to the mouthwatering culinary creations offered by these mobile eateries or bring your picnic baskets along with your blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the shows. Alcoholic beverages and smoking are prohibited. The City extends its thanks to the Desert Recreation District for its support of this year’s Fall Concert Series. Thanks also go out to the members of Palm Desert’s Citizens on Patrol (COPS) for volunteering to patrol Civic Center Park during the concerts. Civic Center Park is located on the northeast corner of San Pablo Avenue and Fred Waring Drive. For more information on the concert series, please call 760-568-1441. FREE FALL CONCERTS RETURN TO CIVIC CENTER PARK What’s Inside September is Hunger Action Month, and Palm Desert City Hall will “Go Orange” in support of FIND Food Bank. Food insecurity is on the rise due to inflation and the escalated cost of living. FIND Food Bank helps feed 150,000 people each month struggling to make ends meet. If you are in a position to help FIND in their mission to make sure no locals go hungry, visit their website to learn how you can get involved. Information: findfoodbank.org/ hungeractionmonth All City of Palm Desert dog parks will be closed from Monday, October 2 through Tuesday, October 31 for overseeding, tree trimming, and yearly maintenance. All other City parks will be renovated and overseeded during this time as well but will remain open. Information: 760-776-6450 Lower-income homeowners with homes that need emergency repairs are encouraged to apply for the City of Palm Desert’s Home Improvement Program. Examples of the types of repairs that could be eligible for assistance under the program include water damage repairs, HVAC repairs, water heater replacement, and repairs to damaged roofs. Information: 760-346-0611, ext. 412 or email palmdesert.gov/housing Calendar Palm Desert City Council Meetings Thursdays, 4 p.m. September 14 and 28 October 12 and 26 Labor Day Monday, September 4 I City Hall Closed E-Waste Recycling Event Saturday, September 16 See story in this issue Coffee with the Mayor Wednesday, September 20, 10:30 a.m. The Living Desert Administration Building 47900 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert Enjoy free coffee and conversation with Palm Desert’s Mayor. Information: www.palmdesert.gov/news Shedding Event Friday and Saturday, October 20 and 21 See story in this issue Save the Date! City of Palm Desert 50th Anniversary Celebration Saturday, November 18 Palm Desert Civic Center Park Major construction continues on Fred Waring Drive, one of Palm Desert’s most heavily traveled thoroughfares. A complete rehabilitation of the pavement on Fred Waring between Monterey Avenue and Highway 111 was necessary because the street surface was exhibiting signs of failure. Like last year’s work on Cook Street, the project entails pulverizing the existing street, compacting the base, and paving it with new asphalt concrete. The project will also repair storm drain lines and bring curb ramps and sidewalks into compliance with ADA requirements. The rehabilitation project began in August and is expected to take 75 – 90 calendar days to complete. Work will be staged in sections so that at least one lane of Fred Waring will remain open in each direction. Access to businesses will be maintained during construction. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes including Highway 111, Park View Drive and Country Club Drive. When traveling on Fred Waring, drive with caution in construction zones and prepare for significant delays. For more information on the Fred Waring Paving Rehabilitation project, visit its project page on EngagePalmDesert.com. ROADWORKS UNDERWAY ON FRED WARING DRIVE SERVE YOUR CITY ON A COMMITTEE OR COMMISSION NEW GALLERY SHOW AWAKENS THE SENSES Filled with vivid and colorful artworks that reflect the faces and places that the artists have visited, the Palm Desert Community Gallery has reopened with a new exhibition, “Awakening.” The exhibition features artwork by Richard Bocanegra and Steven Frazier and runs through October 6. When Richard Bocanegra was five, his mother told him he was an artist. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay area, he studied theater, music, and dance, which deepened his understanding of art and brought about a more intimate means of self-expression. He performed in various theater productions, but in the early 1990s Richard shifted his focus to visual art. When he sold a painting in his first exhibit, his life took on a whole new meaning. Steven Frazier was born in America but traveled the world with his military family, collecting a lifetime of visual study and visceral experience of art, sculpture, and poetry. After retiring from a career as a computer scientist programming satellites for the government and private industry, Steven dedicated his life to poetry and artistic pursuits. His art focuses on the significance of space, not as a void but as charged with energy. The Palm Desert Community Gallery is located inside the North Wing of Palm Desert City Hall, and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, please call 760-776-6346 or visit www.palmdesertart.org. The City of Palm Desert offers diverse opportunities for its residents to serve their community as a member of a Council-appointed commission, committee, or board. Appointed members develop recommendations reflective of the community and provide the City Council with perspectives to make policy decisions that enrich Palm Desert. Applications are welcome year-round. With 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 carefully review your preferred board to ensure eligibility. For more information regarding each board, including current vacancies, agendas and minutes, and to complete an application, please visit: www.palmdesert.gov/our-city/ committees-and-commissions. Inside Story SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2023 ARTISTS CENTER AT THE GALEN 72567 Highway 111 760-565-6130 artistscouncil.com Reopening Thursday, September 7 Wednesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Upcoming Exhibitions: Hot Times – Cool Art, September 7 – October 8 Opening Reception: Friday, September 8, 4 – 6 p.m. Earth, October 11 – November 12 Opening Reception: Friday, October 13, 5 – 7 p.m. Each show houses approximately 100 paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed media works. Artists Council Gift Store Opens Friday, September 15 Handcrafted works including jewelry, cards, prints, wearables, and gift items by local member artists. CSUSB PALM DESERT CAMPUS 37500 Cook Street 760-341-2883 pdc.csusb.edu Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Labor Day, September 4 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 aged 50-plus. 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 Campus Organizations Join the Cal State University Associates and become a member of a premier organization of campus supporters. Enjoy monthly educational and enlightening speaker events throughout the season. Most of the membership 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: cityofpalmdesert.org/intouch EngagePalmDesert.com The City’s civic engagement platform allows residents a chance to ask questions, share comments, and contribute ideas on City projects. What’s new on EngagePalmDesert.com: • San Pablo Roundabout Project• Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study• Fred Waring Paving Rehabilitation dues support student scholarships. Information: CalStateUniversityAssociates.com COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms 760-343-3644 rcdas.org Services include animal adoption and licensing. COACHELLA VALLEY ORIGINAL CERTIFIEDFARMERS’ 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 Sunsets at The Street Fair September 23: 6:30 – 10:30 p.m. Information: 760-636-7957 or codaastreetfair.com 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. 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 Dining The Terrace at Desert Willow Golf Resort Unique, tasteful, handcrafted cuisine paired with one of the most scenic outdoor dining venues in Palm Desert. Open daily for breakfast and lunch. View menus and hours of operation online. Information: desertwillow.com/ terracerestaurant Golf Enjoy award-winning championship golf at Desert Willow Golf Resort. Contact the pro shop or go online to book your tee times. Information: 760-346-7060, ext. 1 or desertwillow.com/teetimes 2023 Overseeding Dates Desert Willow Golf Resort will be overseeding its courses and facilities on the following dates: Firecliff, Practice Facility, and Golf Academy Monday, September 25 – Thursday, October 26 Mountain View Monday, November 6 – Monday, December 25 FAMILY YMCA OF THE DESERT 43930 San Pablo Avenue 760-341-9622 ymcaofthedesert.org Parent Night Out Saturdays, 5 – 9 p.m. September 23 and October 28 TK – 8th Grade Fall Flag Football Fridays, October 6 – December 8 5 – 9 p.m. Hovley Soccer Park TK – 8th Grade Dodgeball Open Play Tuesdays in September, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. TK – 8th grade Indoor Hockey Open Play Tuesdays in October, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. TK – 8th grade YMCA’s 36th Annual Fundraiser Hoedown in Paradise Save the Date: Saturday, November 4 Miramonte Resort 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. Information: ymcaofthedesert.org/jean- benson-child-development-center/ THE GARDENS ON EL PASEO 73545 El Paseo 760-862-1990 thegardensonelpaseo.com GROW at the Gardens Saturday, October 21 Held in partnership with Shay’s Warriors—Life After Cancer, this day-long wellness program is focused on setting realistic goals, providing opportunities for personal growth, and promoting success through movement and education. HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PALM DESERT &FIREHOUSE MUSEUM 72861 El Paseo 760-346-6588 hspd.org Reopens for the season on Friday, October 6. JOSLYN CENTER 73750 Catalina Way 760-340-3220 joslyncenter.org Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 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. Information: JoslynCenter.org/programs Onsite Programs with Partners SCAN Independence at Home, Eisenhower Health lectures, Health Expos, JFS Let’s Do Lunch, and more. Virtual Programs Some of the Joslyn Center’s services and programs are offered virtually. Virtual activity newsletter: JoslynCenter.org/ virtual-programs. Information: Melanie Lyons at 760-340-3220, ext. 102 or melaniel@joslyncenter.org. 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. Indoor Pickleball Open Play Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free with membership or $5 daily drop-in fee Round Robin Indoor Pickleball Tournament Sunday, September 24 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. $10 registration and $10 per event Hula Dancing for Fun and Fitness Mondays, 6 – 8 p.m. October 2 – November 13 $77 per session Ballroom Dancing, Swing, and Salsa Lessons Wednesdays, 7 – 8 p.m. Monthly sessions $52 per session Palm Desert Resident Cards Palm Desert Resident Cards for use at Desert Willow Golf Resort are issued by Desert Recreation District at the Palm Desert Community Center. Information: cityofpalmdesert.org/ departments/special-programs/desert- willow-golf-resort Golf Center at Palm Desert 74945 Sheryl Avenue 760-779-1877 golfcenterpd.com Check website for hours. Home of the First Tee of the Coachella Valley youth golf program includes 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 monthly 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. 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. DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT 38995 Desert Willow Drive 760-346-0015 desertwillow.com Visit their website for current hours 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. Upcoming Event Fall Health & Wellness Fair Thursday, October 26 Medical Seminars, health screenings, glucose screening, blood pressure screening, body mass index and flu shots. THE LIVING DESERT 47900 Portola Avenue 760-346-5694 livingdesert.org Through September 30: 7 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Last admission 12:30 p.m.) Beginning October 1: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Last admission 4 p.m.) Hiking Trails and Carousel open October 1 Tours and Experiences Giraffe Feeding Through September 30: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. October 1 – May 31: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. $8 members; $10 non-members with paid park admission. An experience for a lifetime, giraffe feed- ing gives guests a one-on-one encounter with these graceful giants. Rhino Encounter Through September 30: 8 a.m. Beginning October 1: 8:30 a.m. $45 members; $50 non-members with paid park admission This semi-private experience offers guests the chance to meet a black rhino up close in an exclu- sive animal care area and features a keeper chat that gives an inside look at these amazing animals. Reservations recommended. Private Safari Tours Two-hour guided tours with private shuttle and giraffe feeding. Advanced reservations required, visit website for pricing and details. This is How We Zoo It Beginning October 1 $13 members, $15 non-members, $10 child Take a 30-minute guided tour that gives an inside look at how The Living Desert cares for its 600 animal residents and learn about the Zoo’s many conservation efforts. Walk-ups welcome. Special Programs Me & You at the Zoo Tuesdays, 9 – 10 a.m. in the Discovery Center Resuming on October 3, this interactive, toddler and parent participation program meets each week for an hour of guided exploration and hands-on fun. Free with membership or paid park admission. No advance registration is required. Howl-O-Ween Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free for members or with paid park admission. Get ready for a howling good time at The Living Desert’s seasonal, daytime event with family-friendly activities, costumes, trick-or-treat candy stations, and more. MCCALLUM THEATRE 73000 Fred Waring Drive 760-340-ARTS (2787) mccallumtheatre.com Tickets for the 2023-2024 season are now available on their website. McCallum Theatre Education’s Field Trip Series October 31 and November 1 “Activate” by the Grammy-nominated music duo 123 Andrés celebrates the Latinx experience and incorporates Spanish, English, and ASL languages into the performance. Presented to schools at no cost. Information: www.mccallumtheatre.com/ edu-series PALM DESERT AQUATIC CENTER 73751 Magnesia Falls Drive 760-565-7467 pdpool.com Recreational Swim hours through September: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Open Labor Day, September 4 for recreational swim, 10 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. Check website for lap swim and water exercise schedules Group Swim Lessons continue through October on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Dive-In Movies Saturday, September 2: The Super Mario Bros. Movie $5 per person; under 2 years old free. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; movie begins at dusk PALM DESERT CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce parking lot 72559 Highway 111, Palm Desert cvcfm.org Open Wednesdays from October through May, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. PALM DESERT AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 72559 Highway 111 760-346-6111 pdacc.org Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Wednesday, September 27 Information and registration: pdacc.org 59th Annual Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade Sunday, October 29 See article elsewhere in this issue PALM DESERT PUBLIC LIBRARY 73300 Fred Waring Drive 760-346-6552 rivlib.net Open Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m. Closed: September 4, October 9 and 20 Special Event: Author Talk Tuesday, October 24, 6:30 p.m. Authors and brothers Lee and Tod Goldberg share highlights of their writing careers and talk about their latest releases, “Gangsters Don’t Lie” by Tod Goldberg and “Malibu Burning” by Lee Goldberg. Adult Programs Chinese Mah Jong Open Play Tuesdays, 1 – 3 p.m. The library will provide sets or bring your own. All levels welcome. Sound Bath/VST Join licensed practitioner Michelle Hedgecock for sound healing sessions. Thursday, September 7, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Thursday, October 12, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Information and Reservations: rivlib.libcal.com Teen Programs Open to teens grades 6 – 12 All programs in the Community Room Program Information: rivlib.libcal.com KPOP Club Wednesdays, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Anime Alliance Club Thursdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Teen Book Club Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. September 26 and October 24 Reservations required: rivlib.libcal.com Teen Council Meeting Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. September 5 and 19, October 3 and 17 Crafternoon Wednesday, September 13 and Tuesday, October 10, 5 – 6 p.m. Information and Reservations: rivlib.libcal.com Open Mic Night Wednesdays, 6 – 7 p.m. September 27 and October 25 Share your writings, poetry, musical skills, comedy skits, and more in a safe space. Teen Lounge Thursdays 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. September 7 and 21 Snacks, board games, and Mario Kart & Super Smash Bros on the Nintendo Switch. Children’s Programs Paws and Pages Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Animal Samaritans return in September! Sensory Storytime Tuesdays, 11:40 a.m. Sensory Storytime encourages children to move and interact with the environment through music, reading, and fun activities. Craft Corner for Kids Ages 9 – 12 Wednesdays, 3 p.m. beginning September 13 Special Halloween Craft Events for Kids Wednesday, October 25, 2 – 4 p.m., Ages 6 – 12 Tuesday, October 31, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Library Connect – Desert Mobile Resource Van Library cards, check out/return books, Wi- Fi, and pop-up computer lab services. Information, location, and events schedule: bit.ly/desertmrv or email LibraryConnectDesertVan@rivlib.net Veterans Resource Center Monday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Information and referrals for all veterans. Walk-ins welcome. Information: 760-346-6552 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. Monument Night Adventures Saturdays September 9, 7:45 p.m. September 23 at 7:30 p.m. Discover the desert after dark while looking for the nocturnal creatures and observing the night sky at this family event. Night Sky Viewing of Stars and Planets Saturdays September 9, 7:45 p.m. September 23, 7:30 p.m. Volunteer astronomers set up their telescopes and invite the public to stop by to view the ever- changing display of fascinating objects to see — stars, constellations, and planets. Star Party in the Mountains Saturdays September 16 and October 7, 7 p.m. Join members of the Astronomical Society of the Desert for fun “sky tours” and direct observations of the night sky through telescopes and binoculars. Information: 760-862-9984 education skills, and uses an interdisciplinary curriculum including online lectures, hands-on learning in the field, and volunteer service. Information: palmdesert.ucr.edu/uc-climate- stewards Lit Flicks: The Kite Runner Saturday, September 16, 1 p.m. Palm Springs Cultural Center 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs UCR Palm Desert’s popular book-to-film series, Lit Flicks, is back! This season they’ve been screening films adapted from young adult books that have been banned/challenged, followed by a brief discussion. Registration: palmdesert.ucr.edu/ events-programs UCR Osher Fall classes at UCR Osher for curious people over the age of 50 who never stop learning begin the week of September 11. This quarter courses include Judicial Issues in the News; Broadway Divas; Human Genetics: What Makes Us Who & What We Are; and Trends in Interior Design. 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 Developmental Screenings for Children 0 – 5 Caring Connections offers a quick, free screening process to help parents understand their child’s strengths and areas where they need support. Support is available to monitor development and bridge communication between parents and providers. Fall Carnival and Resource Fair October 14, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join Variety for a fall carnival at their office with activities, prizes, and games. Community organizations will host booths and share their resources for children of all ages. Children with special needs are welcome and costumes are encouraged. Star Party at the Monument Saturday, October 21, 6 p.m. The Astronomical Society of the Desert will conduct “sky tours” and direct observations of the night sky. Tortoise Talk & Walk Saturday, October 21, 8 a.m. Enjoy a two-mile hike on the Randall Henderson trail searching for tortoises. At trails end, visit with the Friends’ desert tortoise ambassador at his burrow. Yoga with the Ranger Thursdays, October 5 and 12, 9 a.m. Join National Monument Park Ranger Meg for an outdoor fun yoga flow for all skill levels. Fall Bioblitz Sunday, October 22 – Saturday, October 28 The National Monument is a hotspot for biodiversity with over 2,400 species. Join the ongoing efforts to find and document the species found in the Monument using the iNaturalist app. 23rd Anniversary of Santa Rosa San Jacinto Mountains National Monument PCT Hike Tuesday, October 24, 8:30 a.m. Hike the spectacular Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and learn about epic resources unique to the Monument. Lecture Series: Exploring the Pacific Crest Trail Thursday, September 21, 9 a.m. Endangered Species of the Coachella Valley Saturday, September 23, 9 a.m. Roadrunner, Cuckoo of the Desert Friday, October 13, 9 a.m. Check desertmountains.org/calendar for other events and updates. Registration: DesertMountains.org/calendar or 760-862-9984 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 UC Climate Stewards Certificate Program Saturdays, September 23 – December 23, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The UC California Naturalist Climate Stewards course introduces Californians to how climate is changing both natural and social systems. The course covers topics including climate and earth science; interpretation, communication, and 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@cityofpalmdesert.org Websites www.discoverpalmdesert.com www.palmdesert.gov n Watch City Council meetings live online at www.palmdesert.gov on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month at 4 p.m. n City Council Kathleen Kelly Mayor Karina Quintanilla Mayor Pro Tem Jan Harnik Gina Nestande Evan Trubee SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023 Look what’s on the BrightSide... inside! In honor of the City of Palm Desert’s 50th Anniversary, the Palm Desert Golf Cart parade will not only travel along El Paseo but will travel through time as well. With the theme of “Golf Cart Time Machine – Take Me to ’73,” expect to see a multitude of decorated carts that will transport you back 50 years to 1973, ahead 50 years to 2073, or somewhere in between! The 59th annual edition of the popular Golf Cart Parade steps off at 12 noon on Sunday, October 29, following a flyover by warbirds from the Palm Springs Air Museum. Those flashback and futuristic carts and floats will be joined by cheer groups and marching bands. Organized by the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce (PDACC), the Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade is a treasured local tradition and fun for the whole family. While the parade itself starts at noon, come early to enjoy all the day’s activities. The Palm Desert Rotary will hold its popular annual Pancake Breakfast starting at 8 a.m. on the corner of El Paseo and San Luis Rey. Marketplace booths and food vendor booths open at 9 a.m. Other attractions include a custom golf cart show, a classic car show, and a Kids & Family Fun Zone sponsored by the Berger Foundation. Bring a chair and find your spot to view the passing parade from multiple locations along the route. Or reserve shaded VIP seats that include a box lunch for $30 each, sponsored by Eisenhower Health Dolores Hope Auxiliary. Additional shaded seating areas are designated for senior citizens, sponsored by the Auen Foundation, and for veterans, sponsored by General Heating and Air Conditioning. Both are free of charge, include a boxed lunch, and can be reserved beginning September 1. For more information and to reserve seats, please call the PDACC at 760-346-6111. GOLF CART PARADE TRAVELS THROUGH TIME Palm Desert, a city committed to environmental sustainability, has scheduled two upcoming events that will provide residents and businesses with opportunities to conveniently recycle electronic waste and securely dispose of sensitive documents. ELECTRONIC WASTE COLLECTION EVENT On Saturday, September 16, the City of Palm Desert will host a free Electronic Waste Collection event from 7 – 11 a.m. The collected e-waste is donated to Desert Arc Recycling, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. Residents and businesses are encouraged to bring in a wide range of electronic items, including: • Televisions • Microwave Ovens • Computers and Accessories • Printers and Copiers • Small Appliances • Cameras • Stereo Equipment and Radios • Phones • Vacuum Cleaners • Video Game Systems • Non-Lithium Batteries (taped on both ends) • Lightbulbs Please note that large appliances such as refrigerators, dryers, and stoves cannot be accepted at this event. Lightbulbs and non-lithium batteries, while not categorized as e-waste, can be dropped off at this event for recycling. Businesses with more than 20 items for disposal are requested to call Desert Arc at 760-404-1370 to schedule an appointment. DOCUMENT SHREDDING EVENT On Friday, October 20, and Saturday, October 21, the City of Palm Desert will hold a free Shredding Event in collaboration with Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services. The event will take place from 7:30 – 11:30 a.m., or until the trucks are full. The Shredding Event aims to help individuals securely dispose of sensitive documents such as tax records, legal documents, and bank statements. It is free and open to all Palm Desert residents and businesses, who are limited to ten boxes of documents per day. Boxes or bags will not be returned. Accepted items for shredding include stapled and bound office paper, glossy paper, photos, file folders, and envelopes. Please be aware that paper clips are allowed, but binder clips and notebooks will not be accepted. It is essential to remove all hazardous materials, such as batteries and potentially flammable liquids, from bags and boxes before drop-off. Both events will be held in the Palm Desert Civic Center parking lot, 73510 Fred Waring Drive. Participants can simply drive through and drop off their e-waste or documents; no appointments are required. For additional information regarding either of these free events, please contact the City of Palm Desert at 760-776-6342 or reach out via email at recycling@ palmdesert.gov. PALM DESERT HOSTS ELECTRONIC WASTE AND SHREDDING EVENTSThe City of Palm Desert’s approved budget for fiscal year 2023/2024 continues to address the ongoing economic challenges resulting from the impacts of inflation, supply chain, and labor issues while maintaining the high levels of service and public amenities for which our community is known. The well-being and safety of Palm Desert’s residents, visitors, and businesses were the City Council’s highest priorities in the budget process. In this budget the City Council continues to make efforts to ensure that much of the deferred maintenance absorbed during the pandemic is being addressed in addition to funding the capital investment objectives set forth in the City’s 20-year strategic plan, and City Council’s Annual Goals. The City’s daily operations are paid for from the General Fund. The total projected General Fund revenues of $75,554,467 and estimated expenditures of $75,353,985 will result in an estimated surplus of $200,482. Estimated General Fund revenues represent nearly a 6% increase ($4.37 million) from the previous fiscal year’s revenue estimates. The increase is based on estimates from a rise in travel activity, increased building activity, and a normalizing of sales tax revenue growth compared to the prior year. The approved General Fund operating expenditure budget also represents an approximate increase of 6% ($4.17 million) over the last fiscal year. The projected expenditures include increases in the cost of public safety, increases in utility costs, increased costs of goods and services, and City contracts due to an increase in the statewide minimum wage. The safety of Palm Desert’s residents, businesses, and visitors continues to be a top priority. This year, the public safety budget is approximately $43.1 million, and is paid from both the General Fund and the Fire Tax Fund. The portion being paid from the General Fund amounts to approximately 35% of the total overall budget. The City continues to partner with OpenGov to enhance transparency and understanding of its budget and finances. OpenGov’s online interactive charts and graphs illustrate where revenues come from and where the money is spent, offering residents and other stakeholders an intuitive, easy-to-use window into how their government works. To access Palm Desert’s budget and other financial information online, please visit palmdesert.gov/budget. ANNUAL BUDGET INVESTS IN PALM DESERT’S FUTURE REVENUE 2023-2024 Sales Tax, $26,623,447 Police Services, $21,388,323 Transient Occupancy Tax, $21,005,000 Salaries, $13,446,128 Property Tax, $8,746,728 Transfer for Fire Services, $4,600,000 State Payments, $5,029,000 Transfer to Acquatic Center Operations, $1,805,294 Franchises, $3,200,000 Transfers to Other Funds, $2,500,780 License/Permits/Fees, $4,596,768 Benefits, $5,534,001 Timeshare Mitigation Fee, $1,711,324 PERS Annual Payment, $2,680,167 Transfers In, $1,852,700 Professional Services, $8,028,653 Repairs/Maint/Utilities, $7,063,400 Interest and Other Revenue, $2,789,500 Other Operational Expense, $6,662,618 Community Events/Services, $1,644,621 EXPENDITURES 2023-2024