Officer Colantuono was commended for his outstanding service to the community by his proactive enforcement efforts, analyzing information about high-crime areas, locating stolen vehicles, and identifying suspects. His relentlessness assisted in making the city safer by his seizure of several firearms and his recovery of stolen vehicles from criminal gang members.
The Police Department’s Field Training Officer Program was approved by the State’s Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) in July 2019. Sergeant Raso worked hundreds of hours to create the program, which ultimately led to the state’s approval. His overall dedication enhanced the performance and efficiency in training new officers.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The members of the Code Compliance Unit were recognized for their hard work and dedication during unprecedented challenges to evolving pandemic-related regulations. Their high level of empathy, professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication has played a significant role in ensuring a safe environment for all. They are commended for their exemplary service and commitment during these challenging times. CLASS B COMMENDATION
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Code Compliance Unit
Officer Joshua Crocker
Employee Recognition Recipient June-December 2019
Detective Michael Torres
Employee Recognition Recipient January-June 2020
Officer Don Benstead
Employee Recognition Recipient July-December 2020
Officer Max Reynoso 2019 MADD DUI Award
HONORABLE SERVICE RETIREMENTS
Sergeant Matthew Beard 29 years of service
Officer Dave Costello 25 years of service
Officer Czersale Hilton 24 years of service
Officer Anthony Harrison 18 years of service
Account Specialist Carolyn Notte
21 years of service
Senior Secretary Heidi Farrance
25 years of service
Animal Control Officer Peter Garcia 5 years of service
SERGEANT RYAN RASO OFFICER LUCIANO COLANTUONO
BRINGING
Lulu
Home
If there are two phrases best known here by locals and visitors, one is “I Palm Springs” and the other is “There’s always a party at Lulu.” Well, the party continues with safe, sanitary to-go and delivery service—and outdoor dining when it returns—365 days a year, just as it has for nearly 10 years since Lulu California Bistro opened its doors.
“We’ve always risen to meet the challenge,” says Lulu founder Jerry Keller. “Serving delicious food at great prices in a safe environment is just who we are. Whether it’s contactless to-go orders, delivery from Lulu’s kitchen to your table, or dining with us in our festive Bistro Gardens, we’re here for you.”
Lulu’s menus remain large and bountiful! The all-day dining menu offers many choices for which Lulu has become famous, including wild mushroom soup, Kobe beef burgers, sandwiches, salads, avocado and tuna tower, seafood linguine, meatloaf, seafood, steaks, chicken pot pie, and much, much more. As always, Lulu’s wide and varied selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free choices guarantees there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the menu.
bright green artificial grass, and colorful sail panels mimic the ceiling sculptures in Lulu’s interior dining room.
While the party continues from Lulu’s kitchen in downtown Palm Springs, Lulu can also bring the party to you with Lulu Catering & Events. Now specializing in smaller, more intimate events—from in-home gatherings to beautiful micro weddings and small business and private parties—it offers its own unique array of creative menu choices, design services, and party equipment and tabletop rentals. In addition to its full-time culinary and wait staff, Lulu Catering & Events is recognized for creating festive, beautiful, and lavish settings produced with exquisite care at the highest level of excellence and with extraordinary safety standards.
Operational changes for restaurants due to the worldwide health crisis have also made Lulu the outdoor dining darling of Palm Springs. With its new Bistro Gardens along bustling Palm Canyon Drive and the adjacent, closed Arenas Road, Lulu has created two new, fully heated, beautiful outdoor “dining rooms” that take advantage of the amazing mountain views. Lulu’s Bistro Gardens are fully carpeted with
Lulu California Bistro
200 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs 760-327-5858 | lulupalmsprings.com
The accolades don’t end there. Lulu California Bistro and Lulu Catering & Events have been award-winners in multiple categories for many years! The most recent “Best of the Desert” readers’ poll honored them with Best All-Around Restaurant, Best Bloody Mary, Best Business Lunch, Best Carryout, Best Caterer, Best Classic Cocktails, Best Dining Experience, Best Early Bird Dining, Best Late Nite Bites, Best Martini, Best Meal for the Money, Best Outdoor Dining, Best PetFriendly Dining, and Best Weekend Brunch. All of these “Bests” at affordable prices, served up with so much love!
“We look forward to serving you Lulu’s delicious food in the safest ways possible,” says Keller.
Lulu Catering & Events
760-537-0048 catering.lulupalmsprings.com
TThe Chamber adds a second flexible office space to meet demand.
“Build your own dreams, or someone else will hire you to build theirs.”
–Farrah Gray, American businessperson and best-selling author.
he Chamber’s Palm Springs Co-Work offers modern, flexible options in the heart of downtown. Choose from two vibrant locations: Chamber HQ, with its midcentury feel and stunning mountain views, or the modern, industrial suites above the West Elm building, which overlook Palm Canyon Drive.
Amenities include high-speed WiFi, kitchen and lounge areas, coffee, beverages, snacks, and free parking. Need a break? Walk to nearby shops and restaurants. And don’t forget that Co-Work members enjoy exclusive Chamber benefits, including free access to networking opportunities, special events, and discounts.
Full-time locals, seasonal residents, and out-of-towners combine to make Palm Springs Co-Work an inspiring environment for enterprises of any size or budget. No longterm commitment is ever required.
Contact us at (760) 325-1577 or mellis@pschamber.org or visit pschamber.org for more information or to reserve your spot.
PALM SPRINGS
Jeff Denean Jones
A NEW TWIST ON
Cannabis
Four Twenty Bank is a modern revitalization of a once-dilapidated building that sat vacant for over 23 years. After investing over two years of time, we have completely restored this once-prestigious place of business into an onsite cannabis consumption lounge, dispensary, and epic event venue. The very first of its kind!
Entrepreneurs Nolan Moore and Julie Montante have merged their brilliant minds and successful business expertise to create this truly unique experience. They have deliberately chosen to break the stereotype of the typical cannabis consumer and elevate the minds of the public. They have set out to broaden the horizon and aim for a new concept. The influx of a vibrant demographic to the downtown Palm Springs area makes this the absolute perfect location to introduce such a groundbreaking business. Unlike anything you have experienced, the Four Twenty Bank dispensary and concert lounge offers a wide range of products, including a full assortment of sodas, cocktails, beer, and wine that contain zero alcohol and are CBD- and THC-infused. We carry all the top brands of cannabis, from King Garden to Cookies. On offer: the desert’s largest array of pre-rolls, live rosin, wax, oils, enriched lotions and creams, vape pens, and cartridges. With the cannabis community being fully accepted in the desert region, we feel the creation of this experience will be beneficial to the community as a whole! Oh, and wait for the mixology robots!
Working side by side with local professionals and the city of Palm Springs, we have strived to exceed every request the city had regarding ventilation and social distancing in this location so as to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. The custom filtration system is designed to create a unique airflow designed to pull fresh air into the building while lifting out smoke and purifying it before exiting the extended vents. The major overhaul of this 17,000+-square-foot landmark includes double glass entry doors maintained at all times by security specialists, three oversized chandeliers that each have over 4,000 hanging crystals, and customized rolling display cases to make this space adaptable to concerts and special events, when allowed. Upstairs, private rooms and Sky Suites are available for member-hosted affairs and
invitation-only parties, with exclusive access reserved for VIP guests. Also available is office space for rent.
By combining the consumption lounge and dispensary with a concert and arts experience, we aim to become a staple of the community. The opportunity to work with many local performers and feature artists is beyond exciting.
Four Twenty Bank also has a limited number of Private Label Society Memberships that will have priority access to the event calendar, plus many other benefits. Four Twenty Bank also envisions building a business model that can be applied to other unique properties in other major cities across the world! While we eagerly await the delight of opening our doors during these unprecedented times, we continue to move forward every day with goals for this founding location.
MEET THE OWNERS
Julie Montante opened PSA Organica in downtown Palm Springs in 2016. Julie’s brother, Len Montante, is an important part
of both PSA Organica and Four Twenty Bank. Having been with her since the beginning, he works in management operations and buying. Come in and also meet Sue Littleton, our metrics and floor manager.
Julie got into this industry when her mother developed stage 4 breast cancer at the age of 45. She wanted to find alternatives to chemo, radiation, and surgery without stripping her of her dignity. This was the beginning of an extensive and compassionate journey for Julie and Lenny to pursue their dream of helping others in need. They put their clients’ needs and comfort first from the time they walk in. Their goal is to supply compassion to those in need in a safe and comfortable environment. Julie donates five percent of after-tax receipts each month to local charities. She also works with Well in the Desert, Desert AIDS Project, Martha’s Kitchen, and the AIDS assistance Program. Stop by and meet Julie, Len, and the friendly knowledgeable staff. Should you have any questions, please contact Julie at (760) 250-6477. www.fourtwentybank.com
THINK
Local
Photography Kevin Taylor
Lulu’s covered and heated Bistro Gardens along bustling Palm Canyon Drive and down the closed Arenas Road features the delicious flavors of its food and drinks in a lively and fun outdoor setting. There’s always a party at Lulu…and now it’s outside!
Maracas
With two great locations, Maracas Cantina serves delicious and unique Mexican cuisine with emphasis on fresh ingredients and great flavor. Our restaurant is the perfect place to relax with the family, or to enjoy the company of friends. We feature arguably one of the best patio settings in the valley. Our courteous staff is always available to answer any questions about our menu offerings so as to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Come in and try one of our fantastic dishes, homemade desserts, or perfect margaritas. Maracas Cantina also features a selection of over 100 Tequilas and a terrific Happy Hour. Come see what’s shakin at Maracas! maracas-restaurant.com
Blackbook
There are people who feel comfortable dining out, some who don’t, and those in-between. Early on, we weren’t confident we had the right solution. So, we waited. The result is a chic outdoor patio that doesn’t feel temporary, where people can dine comfortably and most important, safely. We actually submitted for less capacity than the city would grant. We felt people would appreciate having the extra space. We believe we’ve reached our goal of bringing folks back who wanted to visit but were a little apprehensive about it. This pandemic may be temporary, but what we do during it will have a long-lasting effect.
Tac/Quila
Our business model is unusual for the restaurant industry. We believe that if we invest in the best possible ingredients and people, and focus our resources on presentation and environment, our customers will recognize the difference and will be excited to return and share their experience with others. We believe that a cocktail should be the creative expression of its author, and that a good meal must be an artistic blend of flavor, aroma, and color. A true dining experience should involve an awakening of all of the senses, and we hope to bring this delight to our guests...again, and again, and again.
Lulu California Bistro
El Patrón
El Patrón is a boutique, Baja-inspired eatery committed to serving the freshest, natural, local produce; wild-caught seafood; and all-natural, hormone-free meats. You will find our handcrafted food and drinks on the #1 corner in downtown Palm Springs.
EDITOR'S NOTE: When we first conceived of this article, outdoor dining was permitted in Palm Springs. At press time, per state mandate, it is no longer. When patio service resumes, these wonderful eateries will welcome diners with open arms.
Eight4Nine
With 9,000 square feet of patio space—plus a team of management, front-ofhouse, and kitchen professionals dedicated to the latest pandemic relief health protocols— keeping you safe is easy at EIGHT4NINE.
Las Casuelas Terraza
We’re proud to serve four generations of Delgado family recipes. Las Casuelas Terraza’s great food, friendly hospitality, and excellent service have made it a Palm Springs institution loved by locals and visitors alike. Our legacy traces back to Maria Fajardo, the Delgado family matriarch, who cooked for copper miners in predepression Arizona with her famous earthenware pots and pans—cazuelas. Terraza opened in 1979 inside a historic Palm Springs casita from the 1920s, and quickly became a landmark, routinely serving Palm Springs’ residents, visitors, and vacationing celebrities. Today, Maria Fajardo’s granddaughter, Patricia, and her great grandson, Patrick, serve her recipes to guests from around the world.
Trio
Trio Restaurant Palm Springs—located in a renovated, historic, midcentury bank building in Palm Springs’ fashionable Uptown Design District—has been a local favorite since opening in 2009. Here, we aim to bring people together with timeless dishes and exceptional service that convey sincere appreciation for the neighborhood’s continued support. We are where Palm Springs eats. From the moment you walk into Trio, you feel the energy in the room and hear an inviting blend of music. You are immersed in the aroma of your favorite cuisines as you gaze upon a sea of happy faces and a colorful décor.
Setting a new standard for luxurious and private desert living, these modern, single-family residences are on fee simple land just a short walk from downtown Palm Springs and local shopping Relax in your own indooroutdoor resort overflowing with natural light. Enjoy the very best fixtures and finishes, iconic San Jacinto Mountain views, your private pool in landscaped surrounds, a generous downstairs master suite, vaulted ceilings and your choice of three different floor plans with two and three bedroom options available.
Showing by appointment - from $1,129,000
Your Chamber
FOREVER HARD AT WORK FOR OUR COMMUNITY
As we have been since the very beginning of the global pandemic that started early last year, we at the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce remain committed to focusing all of our energy and resources on concerted efforts to help member businesses stay afloat, and to assist them in preparing for a safe, successful, and sustainable reopening of the economy. We’re also acting diligently to elevate public awareness of—and support for—small local businesses. Just some of the ways we're doing this include:
The gathering of extensive information from reputable sources on such topics as government aid programs, things to keep in mind while reopening, or strategies to keep businesses, their employees, and their customers healthy and safe. Call us or visit our website to learn more.
The setting-up of a pop-up coronavirus testing site at the Palm Springs Convention Center to help Riverside County reach the numbers it needs to move to the least restrictive tier.
The participation of CEO Nona Watson in weekly Zoom meetings dedicated to updates on the most recent state, county, valley, and city developments and regulations.
The design of various interactive, audience-driven workshops touching on education, marketing, and social media tips for businesses.
The hosting of educational Zoom workshops, on various topics, designed to bring businesses directly to the experts from within our own community who can help answer questions and provide the right information to keep all of us moving forward.
Assistance to members adversely impacted by the pandemic who wish to submit applications for various grants through the Small Business Administration.
A collaboration with other local chambers to form a list of valley resources for businesses, employees, and the general public so they can all maneuver through the crisis. This includes an updated list of businesses that are open, and what services they provide.
The presentation of regular community updates on Governor Newsom’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” plan so that we can all be better prepared for each step of said plan.
The regular surveying of our members so we can stay on top of the issues that affect them.
The distribution of thousands of free face coverings, hand sanitizers, and face shields to area businesses.
The transitioning of our Leads Lunches to Zoom meetings held each Tuesday at noon.
A partnership with the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism to operate a visitors center out of our Chamber offices.
A partnership with Alpha Media on a weekly radio show promoting Palm Springs businesses that are reinventing the way they operate.
The hosting of a community blood drive at our Chamber offices.
The production and posting of videos on our social media promoting creative ways our members are adapting to this new normal.
The offering of co-working services as an alternate to those who may not have home office space.
As in any emergency, the entire community is only as strong as its weakest member. Our mission here at the Chamber is to help the Coachella Valley weather these unprecedented times. We know that, together, we shall prevail and emerge greater and more resilient than ever!
Jeff Denean Jones
Abnormalities
Acne,
Cosmetic
Sun
Micro
Esthetician Services
Facials, Chemical Peels
Melasma
Information Community
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way (760) 323-8299 palmspringsca.gov
Palm Springs Police Department
200 S. Civic Way
Direct Line (760) 323-8116 Public Information (760) 323-8106 pspd.com
Palm Springs Fire Department
300 N. El Cielo Road (760) 323-8181
Office of the City Manager (760) 322-8362
Office of the Assistant City Manager/City Engineer (760) 323-8202
Office of the City Council (760) 323-8200
Office of the City Attorney (760) 323-8205
Office of the City Clerk (760) 323-8204
Request public records via email at cityclerk@palmspringsca.gov
Office of Communications/ Public Information (760) 323-8250
Office of Neighborhood Involvement (760) 323-8255 palmspringsneighborhoods.com
Office of Special Program Compliance/Vacation Rentals & Cannabis (760) 322-8370
Information Technology and Palm Springs Community Television (760) 322-8397
Finance Department
Direct Line (760) 323-8229
Business Licenses (760) 323-8289
Community and Economic Development (760) 323-8259
Sustainability Manager (760) 323-8214
Planning Services (760) 323-8245
Public Works & Engineering (760) 323-8253
Building & Safety (760) 323-8242
Maintenance & Facilities (760) 323-8167
Code Enforcement (760) 323-8177
Parks and Recreation 401 S. Pavilion Way (760) 323-8272
Demuth Community Center 3601 E. Mesquite Ave. (760) 320-6430
James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center 480 Tramview Road (760) 323-8271
Palm Springs Public Library
300 S. Sunrise Way (760) 322-7323 palmspringslibrary.org
Welwood Murray Memorial Public Library & Visitors Center
100 S. Palm Canyon Drive (760) 323-8296
Palm Springs International Airport 3400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way (760) 318-3800 palmspringsairport.com
Palm Springs Animal Control (760) 323-8151 (760) 327-1441
Active animal assistance
Palm Springs Animal Shelter 4575 E. Mesquite Avenue (760) 416-5718
psanimalshelter.org
Palm Springs Convention & Bureau of Tourism
277 N. Avenida Caballeros (760) 325-6611 VisitPalmSprings.Com
Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs, ONE-PS www.one-ps.org palmspringsneighborhoods@one-ps.org
USEFUL CONTACTS FOR OTHER COMMUNITY SERVICES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Desert Water Agency 1200 Gene Autry Trail South (760) 323-4971 DWA.org
LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert
1301 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. 301 (760) 416-7790 thecenterps.org
Mizell Senior Center
480 S. Sunrise Way (760) 323-5689 mizell.org
Path of Life Coachella Valley, Homeless Assistance & Resources (760) 601-5424
Well in the Desert 441 S. Calle Encilia (760) 285-7297 wellinthedesert.org
CITY HOTLINES
Code Enforcement (760) 778-8434
Graffiti (760) 778-8469
Vacation Rental Compliance (760) 322-8383
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Congressman Raul Ruiz, MD, 36th District
Coachella Valley District Office 43875 Washington Street, Ste. 4 Palm Desert, CA 92211 (760) 424-8888
Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, 4th District Coachella Valley District Office 73710 Fred Waring Drive, Ste. 222 Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 863-8211
Assemblyman Chad Mayes, 42nd Assembly District 41608 Indian Trail, Ste. 1 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 (760) 346-6342
State Senator Melissa Melendez, 28th Senate District 45125 Smurr Street, Ste. B Indio, CA 92201 (760) 398-6442
