THE TRAVEL
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Happy New Year, Palm Springs!
2024 was a year of many accomplishments for our city, some of which you have read about here in the pages of PSILU.
From the opening of the much-anticipated new Thompson Hotel, building long-needed more affordable housing, breaking ground on the new College of the Desert West Valley Campus, the entry of new airline routes and local concessions at Palm Springs International Airport, and achieving a perfect score of 100 in the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index to helping those in need get off the streets with the arrival of the new Palm Springs Navigation Center — and perhaps most importantly, the voter passage of Measure J, a now-permanent one cent sales tax increase which has transformed our community by funding hundreds of important capital improvement and community projects — it has been yet another eventful year!
A big thank you to our residents and stakeholders for always being engaged in the process as we work to achieve excellent, inclusive services and quality of life for everyone who lives here. I also want to take a moment to thank our dedicated public safety for their ongoing commitment to keeping us safe.
In addition, I am grateful to our hardworking city staff for their outstanding efforts implementing a myriad of programs and initiatives this past year that directly benefit all who live here.
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not thank our special events team for their tremendous work producing and supporting the plethora of parades and events beloved by so many of our residents and visitors alike.
Palm Springs is a uniquely special city like no place else — and I am proud to be your city manager. We have a lot to celebrate!
Warm Regards, Scott Stiles
Palm Springs Voters Overwhelmingly Pass Measure J
Measure J — a local revenue measure in the form of a one-cent sales tax increase that originally passed in November 2011 — is now permanent.
In November 2024, Palm Springs residents voted to keep Measure J in perpetuity, with more than 71% of the vote in favor. Measure J extends the 2011 one-cent sales tax, which ensures Palm Springs will be able to maintain a reliable, long-term revenue source exclusively dedicated to important community and capital improvement projects and other essential city investments.
Indeed, for more than a decade, Measure J tax dollars have helped fund a wide variety of transformational projects in Palm Springs, including hundreds of miles of citywide street paving; upgrades and renovations to the dog park behind City Hall, and to the Police and Fire Department stations; restoration of historic buildings such as the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and the historic Plaza Theatre; the construction of the wildly popular Downtown Park; a plethora of upgrades to playgrounds, parks, and recreational facilities; and much more.
Stay tuned for more news about upcoming projects. For more information about completed projects and those currently underway, please visit PSMeasureJ.com.
NONA WATSON
CHAMBER CEO
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope 2024 ended on a high note for you, and that you are optimistically looking forward to all the good things 2025 will bring.
If one of your resolutions is to travel more, well, you’ve come to the right place, since this edition of PSILU is our Travel Issue.
As the CEO of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, I often hear people say, “We already live in paradise — why leave?” And while it’s true that our beloved desert offers an incredible lifestyle with natural beauty and plenty of fantastic, fascinating things to do, there’s something magical about venturing out to explore far-flung places. Travel has a way of expanding our horizons, connecting us with new cultures, and creating memories that last a lifetime. When you travel with a group of likeminded individuals, as we do on our Chamber trips, those experiences become even more enriching.
In this issue, we’re thrilled to feature an article highlighting the incredible travel opportunities we are offering through the Chamber over the next 24 months or so. You’ll learn about the exciting destinations planned for 2025 — like the rolling green hills of Ireland in July and the vibrant history of China in October — as well as the adventures awaiting us in 2026, which include Spain’s sun-soaked coastlines in April, Ecuador’s stunning landscapes in July, and South Korea’s pulsating culture in October.
The article also includes testimonials from three of our “frequent flyers” who have traveled with us on multiple journeys over the years — and keep booking future trips. Their stories beautifully capture the camaraderie, joy, and unforgettable moments that make these tours so special. And remember, traveling with the Chamber isn’t just about seeing the world — it’s about doing so with friends, old and new, in a wellorganized, stress-free way.
So, as you flip through these pages, I hope you feel inspired to pack your bags and join us on one of these once-in-a-lifetime excursions. The world is waiting — and we can’t wait to explore it with you!
Bon voyage!
KRISTIN BLOOMER
CHAMBER PRESIDENT
Happy New Year!!!
Welcome to the Travel Issue of PSILU! As president of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, I’m excited to share some amazing travel opportunities with you.
We’re lucky to live in Palm Springs, where the beauty and lifestyle feel like paradise. But there’s something truly special about exploring the world beyond our desert. Travel opens your eyes to new cultures, teaches you about history, and creates memories you’ll never forget.
That’s why I love the Chamber’s travel program. It’s not just about visiting exciting places like Ireland, China, or Spain — it’s about doing it with a group of friends. Our trips are fun, well-planned, and stress-free. You don’t have to worry about the details. Just enjoy the adventure!
One of the best parts of traveling with the Chamber is the people you meet. These trips are a great way to make new friends and share incredible experiences. Over the years, many travelers have told me how much they value the connections and memories they’ve made. In this issue, you’ll find all the details about the trips we’re planning for 2025 and 2026. I hope you’ll join us and see the world with us!
Let’s make this the year to discover new places, make new friends, and create memories that will last forever.
Happy travels,
Kristin Bloomer
Major Gifts Officer, Angel View
A Message from City Manager
Scott Stiles / Palm Springs Voters Overwhelmingly Pass Measure J
Chamber CEO Nona Watson and Chamber President Kristin Bloomer
Come See the World With Us
Sprouts Farmers Market Opens in Palm Springs, Brings Healthy Choices to Community / A New Era in Palm Springs: The Thompson Hotel Is Now Open
Blending Local Charm With Global Appeal: PSP’s Bold New Take on Shopping & Dining
College of the Desert Palm Springs Campus to Transform the City Into a Destination for Education and Opportunity
DAP Health’s Vista Sunrise II Offers Hope and Empowers Palm Springs Residents With Chronic Illness and Disabilities / City of Palm Springs Settles With Former Residents of Section 14
PS Chamber New Members
Palm Springs General Store Thrives After 50 Years
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kristin Bloomer (President)
Angel View
Wendy Beerbower
Eisenhower Health
John Bolton
Oak View Group / Acrisure Arena
Todd Burke
Visit Greater Palm Springs
Dax Davis
Alpha Media
John Fritch
Elevated Experiences
Angie Hoyt
Desert Care Network
Kelly McLean Poppy
PALM
Ron deHarte Mayor
Naomi Soto Mayor Pro Tem
David H. Ready Councilmember
Daniel Meier
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
Shannon Miller
Coach Miller
Julie Montante
PSA Organica
Candace Patencio Anderson
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Kim Roznoski Grocery Outlet
Scott Saunders
Walter Clark
Gabriel Terrado
Lulu California Bistro
SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
Jeffrey Bernstein Councilmember
Grace Garner Councilmember
CHAMBER STAFF
Nona Watson CEO
Brittne Meier Executive Assistant
David White
Business Development Director
Michael Ellis
Community Relations Director
Evan Gray Director of Programs
Araceli Flores Office Assistant
Chamber Magazine Staff
Nona Watson
Amy Blaisdell Executive Editors
Daniel Vaillancourt Editor
Maru Palmersheim Art Director
David A. Lee
Photographer
©2025 Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce and city of Palm Springs. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Information in this publication is gathered from various sources and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. The publisher assumes no responsibility for omissions, errors, or misinformation. Please contact the publisher at the address below with any additions or corrections. 190 W. Amado Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 | (760) 325-1577 www.pschamber.org
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
David A. Lee
President’s Circle
Thank you to the following Chamber members without whom many of our programs would not be possible.
Come See the World With Us
For more than two decades, Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce CEO Nona Watson has accompanied groups on trips around the globe. She wants you to know she wouldn’t want to see the world any other way.
BY DANIEL VAILLANCOURT
They say there’s no place like home. And when one lives in such an idyllic oasis as the Coachella Valley, nothing could be truer. That said, if you never leave home, how can you ever get that amazing feeling of returning from a fantastic voyage abroad only to deeply appreciate sleeping in your own bed?
Nona Watson has been the CEO of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce since 2009, and her trio of annual pilgrimages with desert residents has been a highlight of each of those 15 years. She has taken groups to more than 50 countries, including France, Italy, Portugal, Buenos Aires, South Africa, China, Brazil, Australia, Peru, Vietnam, Ireland, Greece, Cuba, Fiji, Turkey, and Japan. Many of these Watson visited multiple times.
“I just pick places I want to go to,” says Watson of how she plans these vacations, adding that while she’s guided as many as 180 people — seasoned travelers and newbies, young and old, straight and LGBTQ+, of all races and cultures — her current tours max out at either 30 participants (one bus) or 60 (two busses).
A Long History That Yields Excellence
Since 2002, Watson has worked with the same man at the same company: Leo Liu of Monterey Park-based Citslinc International (citslinc.org), which specializes in chamberled travels. That guarantees not only that Watson knows exactly what she and her fellow travelers are getting, but that the level of service provided by Liu is unmatched.
One such perk is expert, English-speaking local tour guides at each locale, plus a thrilling set menu of tours and activities for all to enjoy. “Everybody does the same thing, there’s no a la carte,” Watson says, adding that the one exception is that first class airfare upgrades are usually available for an additional cost.
As for why she is such a fan of this group travel, Watson says, “I’ve always tried to be very creative when I think of the potential of our chamber and all it can do for the people we serve. In Palm Springs, people like doing things together, but they also like to have fun. And when we all get together in a foreign country, fun is what it’s all about.”
Clearly, these trips are popular, since Watson schedules three of them each year. “I’d probably say a third of the people just travel with us no matter where we go,” she says, adding that some have no partner with whom to enjoy journeys, while others don’t like all the
She has taken groups to more than 50 countries, including France, Italy, Portugal, Buenos Aires, South Africa, China, Brazil, Australia, Peru, Vietnam, Ireland, Greece, Cuba, Fiji, Turkey, and Japan.
A group shot in front of The Great Wall of China.
Nona backpacks it in Huang Pu Park, with Shanghai’s cityscape in the background.
“I’ve
always tried to be very creative when I think of the potential of our chamber and all it can do for the people we serve. In Palm Springs, people like doing things together, but they also like to have fun. And when we all get together in a foreign country, fun is what it’s all about.”
pre-planning required when trekking solo, or fear especially exotic itineraries where language and cultural barriers may be daunting. “Who wants to go to Vietnam by themselves, or even with a small group. It can be scary, right? But we put the entire thing together, people come, and they have a great time. They introduce me everywhere we go. ‘Oh, that’s our Chamber CEO. She brought all of us here!’”
According to Watson, on every trip there are people who are joining for the first time. “And most of the time, that first time is not their last,” she says. “They become regulars because they just love the experience.”
Where to Next?
While the April Japan excursion is already sold out at press time, there are still spaces available for Ireland (Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Doolin, Brú na Bóinne) from July 5 to 13, and China (Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou) from October 11 to 19.
Desert dwellers transported to Santorini (Thera) in Greece.
Venezia, anyone? A happy quintet in a gondola.
Not quite ready to get your passport stamped on relatively short notice? Well then, why not consider the 2026 itineraries: Spain (Madrid, Toledo, Barcelona) from April 11 to 19, Ecuador (Quito, Alausi, Devil’s Nose, Cuenca, Guayaquil) from July 11 to 19, or South Korea (Seoul, Suwon, Andong, Gyeongju, Busan) from October 10 to 17?
The advantages of traveling with the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce are many, and are best described by the frequent flyers who’ve accompanied Watson to some of the most exciting places in the world.
No Need to Stress — Before or During
Perhaps most importantly, Chamber travelers leave all the planning to Watson, Liu, and their respective teams.
“With the greatest respect, I call it traveling for dummies,” says Boston retiree Dean Hara,
IRELAND
67, who went to Ireland in 2015, on safari in South Africa and Tanzania in 2016, and to Tuscany in 2019 — all with his dear friend, fellow retiree, and constant travel companion Larry McFadden of Palm Springs, with whom he’ll be on the April excursion to Japan. “You go to the airport and you’re with the group. They make sure you get on the bus. You all stay at the same property. You do things together. There is time for optional things you can do on your own, but it just makes traveling much easier.”
Palm Desert’s Gary Leong — 62 and originally from Malaysia — had to convince his wife of 25 years, Susan, 61, to take their first group trip. “I definitely did not want to go on a chamber trip; Gary kind of had to beg and borrow with me,” she says with a chuckle. But as Watson previously pointed out, for the Leongs, the first was not going to be the last. That initial voyage was to France, in 2022. Earlier this year they were in Italy and Portugal. They’re also on the upcoming Japan trip.
SPAIN ECUADOR
“We are very probably going to be doing the China trip in October,” says Gary Leong, adding that the retired couple are also eyeing Spain and South Korea for 2026. “Susan loves it because she doesn’t have to do anything. No planning involved. The Chamber takes care of everything. All we have to do is get ourselves to the Chamber office and that’s it. Air is taken care of. They bus you to LAX. When you get to the other side, they have the tour guide waiting. They bus you to the hotels. It’s all taken care of. So, it’s very stress-free. Well, not as stressed as if you would have to do it on your own.”
“I feel safe and secure the whole time I’m on the trip,” adds Susan Leong. “You just feel that you can have a good time and not worry about anything.”
Value, Value, Value
Another thing the Leongs and Hara love is the price.
“The trips we have gone on have been itineraries we wanted to visit, which was really the most important thing,” says Hara. “But they’re also very well-priced, so it’s a great value for the experience.”
“You never know what kind of hotels you’re gonna get when you see the price,” says Susan Leong, who was more than pleasantly surprised at the four- and five-star accommodations provided by the Chamber. Not to mention that breakfast and lunch are usually included — and sometimes even dinner. “When we were in Paris, we did the Eiffel Tower. We did the Palace of Versailles. We went to Monaco. I mean, everything was included. So, after that trip, I was sold!”
Another plus is that there is never the need to be up at the crack of dawn, wolf down a slice of toast and a cup of coffee, and rush to join the group while still rubbing the sleep out of your eyes. “Breakfast is usually at the hotel, so you can take your time,” says Gary Leong. “Our experience is that, unless we have a plane or train to catch, we don’t really start our day on the bus till 8:30 or 9:00 o’clock.”
Camaraderie, Community, Connections
Of course, traveling en masse for many days and nights brings people temporarily together. But because the vast majority of travelers on Chamber trips are from the Coachella Valley, new buddies don’t necessarily have to say goodbye after their return stateside. They can stay in touch locally and deepen connections that have already sprouted.
SOUTH KOREA
Nona in a pensive moment at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. She can’t wait to return in 2026.
Hara finds the social aspect of the trips one of the most rewarding. “People have meals together,” he says. “You’re not required to, but you develop kind of fast friends.”
Hara is also impressed that Watson is always present and available. “Nona, with her effervescent personality, always makes sure we all have a good time and are taken care of,” he says. “I always personally look forward to seeing her again.”
“As fun as it is, and as many places as I’ve seen, I do take my responsibility for my travelers seriously,” says Watson. “I want them to have a good time, and I do all I can do make that happen, to give them a great experience. There are rarely any problems, but if there are, I’m always there for them. I want people to know that if there’s anything that’s not just right, come to me, and I’ll do my best to fix it. It’s a vacation for you. But it’s — happily — a working vacation for me.”
“The Chamber’s staff have been great on all these trips, too,” Susan Leong is quick to add.
Desert Ambassadors
Due to the immense civic pride felt by these visitors from Palm Springs, the group acts as emissaries from the desert.
“Everywhere we go, we’re sure to let everyone know where we’re from,” says Watson. “All you have to say is ‘Palm Springs.’ You don’t even
“As fun as it is, and as many places as I’ve seen, I do take my responsibility for my travelers seriously,” says Watson. “I want them to have a good time, and I do all I can do make that happen, to give them a great experience."
have to say ‘California.’ They know exactly where we’re talking about, whether they’ve actually been here or not.”
Watson says her groups are so happy to be in these distant lands that everyone is on their best behavior, complimenting their hosts and thanking them for their hospitality. That, of course, leads to desert dwellers inviting anyone who will listen to come discover Palm Springs and all it has to offer.
“We always leave a tremendous amount of goodwill in our wake,” concludes Watson. “After almost 16 years of doing these trips, who knows how many hundreds of people have been convinced to come experience our beloved Palm Springs for themselves just because of us? When I think of that aspect of our travels far and wide, it makes my heart swell.”
Larry McFadden and Dean Hara phone home during a September 2015 trip to Ireland.
A toast to traveling with friends on a cruise while in Greece.
More Destinations, More Airlines.
Peak Season Travel Tips
Planning and Booking:
• Book in Advance: Reserve your flights well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best fares and seat availability.
• Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Consider traveling during off-peak times to avoid crowds and higher fares.
• Pack Light: Pack efficiently to minimize baggage fees and expedite the check-in process.
Airport Experience:
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance to allow for check-in and security screening.
• Utilize Online Check-in: Check in online and print your boarding pass to save time at the airport.
• Consider TSA PreCheck or Clear: Enrolling in these programs can significantly reduce wait times at security checkpoints.
• Stay Informed: Check the airport’s website flyPSP. com for real-time updates on flight status, delays, and security wait times.
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Sprouts Farmers Market Opens in Palm Springs, Brings Healthy Choices to Community
The opening of Sprouts Farmers Market is more than just the arrival of a new grocery store; it’s a commitment to the health and well-being of the community.
With a focus on fresh produce, organic options, and plant-based alternatives, Sprouts aims to make healthy eating easier and more affordable for everyone. The store also features specialty items like gluten-free, keto, and vegan products, catering to a variety of dietary needs. Research has shown that neighborhoods with limited access to nutritious food, often referred to as “food deserts,” tend to have higher rates of chronic health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. By offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and wholesome alternatives, Sprouts is helping to address these health
disparities and encourage better eating habits within the community.
Sprouts prides itself in providing customers with support on their health journeys and supporting local organizations like food banks and educational programs for students. The chain places a strong emphasis on sustainability, sourcing products from local farmers and producers whenever possible, reducing food miles, and ensuring that more of the community’s money stays within the region.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sprouts Grocery Store to Palm Springs,” said Palm Springs Chief Economic Development Officer Wayne Olson. “In all ways, Sprouts reflects the vision and mission of Palm Springs, and we are happy to have them
join our business community.”
The new Sprouts location is a welcome addition to the city. The store is in The Springs shopping center on Ramon Road and Gene Autry Trail, and is open seven days a week. With its diverse selection of fresh, affordable, and healthy food options, Sprouts is set to become a goto destination for those looking to live a healthier lifestyle.
A New Era in Palm Springs: The Thompson Hotel Is Now Open
Palm Springs, known for its timeless beauty, rich cultural heritage, and midcentury modern architecture, has a new addition to its vibrant landscape: The Thompson Hotel. A stunning new luxury hotel in the heart of the city, this longawaited oasis combines a fresh take on cultural heritage with an impeccable blend of iconic design, chic urban elements, and a commitment to showcasing the very best of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
The hotel’s design offers a breathtaking reinterpretation of midcentury modern style that celebrates Palm Springs’ historic roots
while embracing a contemporary flair. The Thompson Palm Springs has 168 rooms, including 18 luxury suites with private balconies. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, and wine tasting room.
The Thompson’s restaurant, Lola Rose Grand Mezze, draws inspiration from the rich flavors and traditions of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The restaurant’s ethos revolves around familystyle dining, a nod to the communal nature of Mediterranean meals. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, each bursting with bold flavors.
Chef Quentin Garcia pays homage to the area’s cultural roots, incorporating flavors from Egypt and Greece with a fresh California take. The food brings people together, celebrating community and tradition with every bite.
And as you explore the area past the indoor bar, you will be greeted by an outdoor bar, rooftop pool, endless vistas, the bustling downtown below, and the majestic San Jacinto Mountains.
The Thompson Palm Springs is located at 414 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262.
Blending Local Charm With Global Appeal: PSP’s Bold New Take on Shopping & Dining
More than a year in the making, Palm Springs International Airport’s concessions refresh brings midcentury modern elegance and vibrant local culture into the heart of its terminals. By early 2025, the project will debut seven brand-new restaurants and five reimagined retail spaces, transforming PSP into a dynamic and immersive experience. This transformation captures the vibrant spirit, modernist flair, and world-renowned hospitality of the Coachella Valley, ensuring every journey through PSP is as extraordinary as the destination itself. Two of the newest openings highlight the area’s culinary excellence. Las Casuelas Terraza, a beloved Palm Springs institution, now brings its authentic Mexican cuisine to PSP. With a serene outdoor seating area and tranquil water feature, it offers travelers a relaxing escape before their flights. Nearby, Coachella Valley Coffee serves locally roasted brews in a cozy café, delivering a true taste of the valley’s artisanal craftsmanship.
Cactus to Clouds, a vibrant new dining destination, further elevates the airport experience. Named after the iconic hiking trail that ascends over 10,000 feet to Mount San Jacinto, this full-service restaurant and bar brings bold Palm Springs-inspired flavors to the Sonny Bono Concourse (Gates 4-11). Offering craft cocktails, all-day breakfasts, hot paninis, sandwich wraps, and vegetarian dishes, it’s a bright and colorful addition that transforms a former fountain space into a stylish dining option with expanded seating.
Nine Cities Craft, located in the Agua Caliente Concourse (Gates 12-20), honors the Coachella Valley’s nine cities with a menu inspired by local ingredients and culinary traditions. Joining the lineup in early 2025 will be Trio, a Palm Springs favorite, and Vino Volo, a sophisticated wine bar, further enhancing PSP’s food and beverage offerings.
The retail experience has also been reimagined to combine local charm with travel essentials. Las Palmas Oasis offers resort wear, golf apparel, and spa-quality skincare, while Hey Joshua celebrates Joshua Tree’s high desert with handcrafted goods and unique home décor. Uptown Essentials showcases midcentury modern-inspired gifts, and InMotion ensures travelers stay connected with top-tier tech. Pink Door, coming soon to the post-security area, is a vibrant boutique inspired by Palm Springs’ iconic midcentury architecture, offering retro-themed gifts, packaged food, and locally sourced coffee.
PSP’s concessions refresh is more than an update — it’s a celebration of the Coachella Valley’s unique essence. By seamlessly blending local authenticity with global appeal, PSP invites travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s vibrant spirit and midcentury modern aesthetic. From savoring locally inspired dining to exploring thoughtfully curated retail spaces, every moment at PSP reflects the desert’s unique charm. Whether you’re arriving or departing, the airport offers an unforgettable gateway to one of California’s most iconic destinations.
College of the Desert Palm Springs Campus to Transform the City Into a Destination for Education and Opportunity
It’s not every day that a community gets to celebrate the beginnings of a project that will change the course of its future. But on what seemed like an ordinary November day, Palm Springs did just that, marking a historic moment in the city’s evolution with the groundbreaking of the College of the Desert (COD) Palm Springs Campus.
This ambitious $450 million investment, a vision 20 years in the making, is set to redefine not only higher education in the Coachella Valley but also the very fabric of the region’s economic, cultural, and social landscape.
Slated for completion in 2027, the 167,000-square-foot campus promises to offer something truly unique: a world-class educational hub that will not only provide affordable, high-quality education but also become a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and community transformation.
The new campus will serve as a beacon of opportunity for local students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
With 97% of students in the area living at or near the federal poverty level, this campus provides a vital lifeline, opening doors to higher education and career advancement that were previously out of reach. And with two years of free tuition for every Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD) student, COD is making education not just accessible, but truly attainable.
“This campus is more than just a place of learning; it’s a place where dreams will be realized,” says Palm Springs City Manager
Scott Stiles. “For many of our students, this will be the first step toward a brighter future, one where they have the skills and knowledge to not only improve their own lives but contribute to the growth and vitality of our entire region.”
What sets the campus apart from traditional community colleges is its extraordinary array of specialized programs designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce. In partnership with Cal Poly, the college will offer a bachelor’s degree in architectural design with a focus on the region’s iconic modernist architecture. This one-of-a-kind program will attract students from across the country who are eager to learn about Palm Springs’ architectural legacy and contribute to its future.
Additionally, the college will offer the only bachelor’s degree in casino gaming and management in California, one of only three programs of its kind in the nation. What makes this program even more special is its inclusion of tribal management elements, reflecting the unique needs of the region’s Indigenous communities.
For those drawn to the hospitality and culinary industries, the campus’ Culinary and Hospitality Institute will provide comprehensive programs and degrees, tapping into the region’s world-renowned tourism sector. And for aspiring artists and media professionals, the arts and media programs will provide a creative outlet, nurturing the next generation
(Left to right) COD Communications team member Brittney Sowell, COD Public Information Officer Nicholas Robles, COD Former Interim Superintendent/ President Laura Hope, and COD Communications team members Isabella Veloro and Dotty Durney at the official groundbreaking of the COD Palm Springs Campus on November 14, 2024.
of storytellers, designers, and digital innovators.
The economic impact of the new campus extends far beyond education. With an estimated 1,000 jobs created during construction, and hundreds more once the campus is operational, this project is a major driver of local employment. The skilled workforce that will graduate from the college will also fuel the expansion of local businesses and attract new enterprises to Palm Springs, further enhancing the city’s status as a thriving economic hub.
“This campus is a powerful engine for economic development,” notes Palm Springs Chief Economic Development Officer Wayne Olson. “It’s going to draw businesses, create jobs, and elevate the entire region by ensuring that our local workforce is highly skilled and ready to meet the challenges of the future. This is a transformative investment in both our students and our economy.”
As Palm Springs embarks on this new chapter, the College of the Desert Palm Springs Campus will become a cornerstone of the community. It’s more than just a college, it’s a place where families can come together to build a brighter future, where residents of all ages can continue their education, and where local businesses can find the talent they need to thrive.
To learn more about the College of the Desert Palm Springs Campus, visit EngagePalmSprings.com
DAP Health’s Vista Sunrise II Offers Hope and Empowers Palm Springs Residents With Chronic Illness and Disabilities
DAP Health’s second onsite affordable housing complex Vista Sunrise II — located on the nonprofit’s Sunrise campus at the corner of Vista Chino and North Sunrise Way — began with an idea and hope that one day it could be a place where people who were broken by illnesses, disabilities, and life’s challenges find housing within reach where they can feel safe and heal.
The community is now a reality. The fully occupied, 61-unit special needs development is located at 1527 North Sunrise Way and open to people earning less than half of the area’s median household income.
This low-income housing for people and families who experience chronic illnesses, physical or mental disabilities, and homelessness provides more
than just shelter. It offers hope. Because of Vista Sunrise II, people who feel like a house is out of reach because of their income or illness can now have a safe place to call home and focus on healing.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, people living in shelters are more than twice as likely to have a disability compared to the general population. On any given night, 31% of the homeless population reported having a serious mental illness, 24% had conditions related to chronic substance abuse, and nearly 11,000 people had HIV/AIDS. That’s why Vista Sunrise II will play a critical role in preventing and ending the cycle of homelessness for many people in our community struggling with chronic illness and disabilities.
For Sean Johnson, who was once caught up in that cycle, Vista Sunrise II has been a lifeline. Johnson, 59, is HIV positive. He was one of the first residents to move into the community. “Every time I walk through the door of my beautiful studio apartment, furnished by Revivals, I’m overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude,” he said at the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the complex on the sunny morning of October 22. “To say that taking care of myself and living my best life without the comfort of a stable roof over my head was a challenge is an understatement … I’m here as living proof that housing is health care, for which I will always be eternally grateful.”
City of Palm Springs Settles With Former
Residents of Section 14
In November, the city of Palm Springs approved a $5.91 million payment to former residents of Section 14, a one-square-mile parcel of land owned by Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians where low-income residents, including Black, Latino, Filipino, and Japanese families lived from the 1920s into the late 1960s.
There were few places for these residents to live in Palm Springs during this time due to restrictive covenants and the cost of housing. Tribal members and conservators rented land to these residents at low-cost, where they could pitch tents in the early days and build homes and other
shelter. The people who lived there were the cooks, housekeepers, construction workers, and waiters who were the backbone of the tourism industry.
As the village of Palm Springs developed, Section 14 — bordered by Ramon Road on the south, Indian Avenue on the west, Alejo Road on the north, and Sunrise Way on the east — became a valuable piece of real estate, with its proximity to downtown. In 1959, when the federal government finally approved 99-year leases on tribal land, the development of this area began in earnest with the opening of the Palm Springs Spa in January 1960.
People like Johnson, who call Vista Sunrise II home, will not be alone in this endeavor. Those fortunate enough to secure an apartment there can rest assured, knowing they can count on DAP Health staff walking on this restorative journey with them. Residents need do nothing more than walk a few steps to gain access to DAP Health’s wealth of health care and educational services, including multiple clinics and a pharmacy, plus access to social services, case management, yoga, legal counseling, and more.
Thanks to a coalition of partners — including the city of Palm Springs (which backed the project to the tune of $3.6 million), Desert Care Network (which advanced $2.5 million toward the endeavor), Richard and Annette Bloch Family Foundation Executive Director Linda Lyons (who contributed $1 million to DAP Health’s Vision Forward Campaign and the campus’ affordable housing expansion), architect Maria Song and her team at Interactive Design Corporation, developer the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, and visionaries like DAP Health CEO David Brinkman and his team members — something meaningful that will have a lasting impact was created.
“The city of Palm Springs supported this project, because it’s more than an affordable housing development,” says Palm Springs City Manager Scott Stiles. “For people who are overlooked and out of second chances, Vista Sunrise II is support, safety, refuge, and more importantly, hope.”
Vista Sunrise represents the power of compassion, the strength of community, and the unwavering belief that everyone, regardless of their challenges, deserves a place to call home.
With theAgua Caliente now truly able to monetize their land, the renters of Section 14, who were living on land leases that could be terminated with a 30-day notice, were given eviction notices by Tribal members and conservators, and had to move off the land to make way for development. According to available records, after extensive research, it was determined that 197 dwellings were razed and burned.
The $5.91 million cash settlement was based on the replacement cost of belongings in each dwelling valued at $30,000 in today’s dollars. The city has also committed to exploring the naming of a community park when new parks come online, and to establishing a public monument to honor the legacy of Section 14 residents. The city will also support a racial healing center driven by the former residents of Section 14 by providing letters of support.
Additionally, important housing and economic development initiatives will move forward with designated outreach efforts to ensure that the former residents of Section 14 and their descendants have access to these programs. These programs include housing support and small business grants independently funded by the city’s prior allocation of a portion of TOT revenue, and are structured to address longstanding economic disparities.
For more information and to review the city’s FAQ documents about Section 14 and the settlement, please visit engagepalmsprings. com/section-14.
Albert Angelo
PS Chamber New Members
29 Hundred Apartments
2900 E Ramon Road
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (213) 456-9828
29hundred.com
Acme Moving Company
77550 Enfield Lane
Palm Desert, CA, 92211 (760) 289-0073
www.acmemovingpd.com
Ball Beachwear
170 E. Arenas Road
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 833-4080 www.ballbeachwear.com
Bean Goods
750 N. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (435) 640-7629 www.beangoods.com
Blair Heating & Air 653 Oleander Road
Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 253-1186 www.blairheatingandair.com
Caravanserai Project
2150 E Tahquitz Canyon Way Suite 3 Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (914) 772-5120 www.caravanseraipraorg
Celestial Solar & Water Systems Inc.
43255 De La Luz Road Temecula, CA, 92590 (888) 630-3330 www.celestialsolar.com
Chris Isaacson Presents, LLC. 1049 Havenhurst Drive #250 West Hollywood, CA, 90046 (323) 883-1825 chrisisaacsonpresents.com
Custom Concepts Tree Care Inc. P.O. Box 1378 Cathedral City, CA, 92235 (760) 898-3757 customconceptstree.com
DC Custom Upholstery
1060 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 778-6705 www.dccustomupholstery.com
Fired Up Pottery
440 El Cielo, Suite 6
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 534-6546
fireduppottery14.com
Greg Brisendine Coaching & Consulting
242 Breeze Loop
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (206) 660-9732 gregbrisendine.com
Holt CPA & Law Firm
190 W. Amado Road
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 416-3080
Immaculate Concepts & Intelligent Design
301 N Palm Canyon Drive Suite 103-1122
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (323) 715-5722
www.icid-staging.com
Modern Miracles
777 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Suite 200-198
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) ) 260-8414
Oranj Palm Vacation Homes
1775 E. Palm Canyon Drive #205 Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 320-4952
Palm Springs General Store
193 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 320-7613
Randel Architecture
777 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (415) 336-3255
midmodpad.com
Roddy De La Garza Real Estate Group at EXP Realty
301 N. Palm Canyon Drive Suite 103-1122
Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 422-4336
www.roddydelagarza.com
Screens2U
77780 Country Club Drive
Palm Desert, CA, 92211 (760) 200-5239 screens2u.com
19020 N. Indian Canyon Drive Desert Hot Springs, CA, 92258 (442) 529-2346
1572 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92266 (760) 424-2757 www.thesukhalife.com
WELBHEALTH
46805 Dune Palms Road
Palm Springs, CA, 92253 (888) 662-1384 welbehealth.com
Palm Springs General Store Thrives After 50 Years
BY JAMES MEIER
In a tourism-dependent city that features hundreds of retail stores, it’s astonishing to not only succeed for half a century, but to continue thriving and drawing visitors worldwide throughout the year in downtown Palm Springs.
The key to the family-owned Palm Springs General Store’s success? Keeping the customers and employees happy, new owners Edith and David Jimenez say.
“Number one is always customer service,” Edith explains. “Customer service gets the returning customers and also helps provide the word-of-mouth in all we have to offer. Also, treat the staff like family because they, too, help keep the store well-stocked and provide great customer service.”
Edith worked at the store for 11 years before she and her husband, David, purchased it in May 2023. It’s clear the store became more than a job and has since become a passion for her. “What made me interested in buying the store is loving what I do,” she says. “Customer service, the fast-paced environment, and meeting people from all around the world, and providing them some knowledge of our town and state.”
The one-stop shop, which is centrally located on South Palm Canyon Drive at Arenas Road, opened in 1975 and offers visitors and locals
“We’re no longer slow in the summer, either. We’ve become a travel destination year-round.”
a wide variety of merchandise: souvenirs such as shirts, hats, glassware, bags, resort wear, magnets, ornaments, and spoons, as well as items tourists may have forgotten to pack, including all-important swimwear, sunglasses, and sundries.
The shirts the store offers are very clever and catchy. David and Edith keep an eye out for such products at trade shows, but they also want to showcase local artists’ talent.
“Most of our items are ordered through a variety of trade shows we attend, but we’re excited to have a Locals section in our store that features products from local artists and small business owners here to show off their products and creativity,” Edith says proudly.
She looks forward to building upon many unforgettable memories she has made from working at the store over the years.
“The memories are all great – from learning German from a couple that would come yearly from New York, and having regulars like Michael who comes from England each year,” she says fondly. “We’re no longer slow in the summer, either. We’ve become a travel destination year-round.”
Palm Springs General Store
193 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 320-7613
palmspringsgeneralstore.com
Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m.
Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
(Hours subject to change)
P.S. I Love You
Throwback
The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Windmill City present the ultimate throwback: the iconic 1960s P.S. I Love You logo, reimagined as fresh, must-have merchandise. Celebrate the place we call home in style.
