PSILOVEYOU Spring 2023

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Shannon Miller (President) Coach Miller

Candace Patencio Anderson

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

Wendy Beerbower

Eisenhower Health

Kristin Bloomer

Angel View

Aftab Dada

Hilton Palm Springs Resort

Dax Davis

Alpha Media

Mary Flores

Grit Development

John Fritch

Elevated Experiences

George Holliday

Maryanov, Madsen, Gordon & Campbell

Chamber CEO Nona Watson and Chamber President

Shannon Miller

Legacy Commerce President's Circle

Meet Scott Stiles, Palm Springs’ New City Manager

New Chamber Members

Community Information

| ON THE COVER:

Keith McCormick, owner of McCormick’s Palm Springs Exotic Car Auctions, poses with Scott Harvill's 1938 Chevrolet Master Deluxe. McCormick was the mastermind behind “Cruising Through the Years,” the parade of 85 vintage automobiles (one for every year the city has been incorporated) that was held on Saturday, April 8.

Angie Hoyt

Desert Care Network

Jacquelyn James Hotel Zoso Fun

Jenny McLean

McLean Company

Daniel Meier

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

Julie Montante

PSA Organica

Kim Roznoski

Grocery Outlet

Brady Sandahl

Brady Sandahl Real Estate Group

Jen Seymour Hunters

Gabriel Terrado

Lulu California Bistro

PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL

Grace Garner

Mayor

Jeffrey Bernstein

Mayor Pro Tem

Lisa Middleton

Councilmember

Christy Holstege

Councilmember

Ron deHarte

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

EXECUTIVE EDITORS

Nona Watson and Amy Blaisdell

EDITOR

Daniel Vaillancourt

ART DIRECTOR

Maru Palmersheim

PHOTOGRAPHERS

David A. Lee

Gregg Felsen

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Gregg Felsen

©2023 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

Our chamber of commerce has been a driving force in the local economy, and we understand that to have a strong economic development environment, we need a strong community.

Palm Springs is a strong and united community, supporting local businesses, and celebrating new businesses with numerous ribbon-cuttings, mixers, and other special events. We are fortunate to have business owners, leaders, educators, and citizens that all realize that we share in the responsibility of creating a safe space to live and a healthy, hearty, economic environment.

We are over 200 businesses strong and growing. I want to thank our community leaders, our business leaders, our chamber staff, and our chamber board members for their collaboration, vision, spirit, and initiative in creating an environment where our community and local businesses can thrive.

If you’re looking to build relationships in the business community, join our efforts to grow the economy, and/or serve as a voice for the community, joining our chamber is the best first step. We have something for everyone, and this is an exceptional group to be part of!

Nona Watson Chamber CEO

The year 2023 marks a major milestone for the city of Palm Springs. Our beautiful home turns 85 this April and in true desert style, we threw ourselves a party.

We marked this big event with a parade of 85 classic cars (one for every year we since the city’s founding), a concert in our downtown park, and lots of activities centered on honoring our past while envisioning an even brighter future. “Cruising Through the Years” brought to life just how much history is here in our city and just how far we have come.

Going through the pictures and stories that we have included in this edition of our PSILOVEYOU magazine, I have taken time to reflect on how much history has been gathered amid these pages.  We applaud businesses that have shaped our city into what it is today, created great leadership, provided services for those less fortunate, and created a decades-long prosperity for themselves in a locale that welcomes everyone.

As you leaf through the pages, I hope you’ll feel inspired and thankful for everything everyone — both commerce leaders and their customers — have contributed and sacrificed over the years.

We also hail what our city is today. With a thriving new downtown and several fresh summer events added to our calendar, Palm Springs has grown into a year-round magnet of a resort town full of opportunities for everyone. We are thankful for our municipality’s strong leadership through the decades, for all the volunteers that have given time to serve on committees and commissions, and of course, for all the enterprises that have enhanced our lives, as the saying goes, like no place else.

Happy birthday, Palm Springs. I know I can speak for all of us when I wish us all many more years of happiness together.

Aaron Jay Young

Shannon Miller Chamber President

COMMERCE

Celebrating the businesses that have been booming here for decades

Here at the Palm Springs Chamber, we think that thriving businesses are the backbone of the community. They are the enterprises that provide invaluable goods and services to the hardworking people who live here. And what says “thriving” more than longevity. We’re talking companies that have roots several decades-deep in the desert. So here, in honor of Palm Springs’ 85th birthday, we profile eight such ventures, which are listed in order of history as opposed to alphabetically.

Palm Springs Woman’s Club

(1938)

A pearl in the desert… In 1938, the world was on the edge of changing forever. Not knowing what lay ahead, desert legend Pearl McCallum McManus assembled a group of 65 civic-minded, pioneering women to inspire and promote a promising future for their growing village. They wanted to define their purpose with a strong mission statement: “Intellectual Improvement - Social EnjoymentHelpfulness in the Community.”

Next, the newly formed Palm Springs Woman’s Club needed a place to meet. Renowned architect John

Porter Clark, whose wife happened to be a member, was enlisted to design a building on a piece of property donated by Pearl. The PSWC Clubhouse sits at the corner of Baristo and Cahuilla in downtown Palm Springs.

The Palm Springs Woman’s Club is still going strong in its 85th year! With approximately 150 members, the Club continues Pearl’s legacy of philanthropy by awarding scholarships to deserving Palm Springs High School seniors pursuing undergraduate degrees. The Palm Springs Woman’s Club is a vital part of our community and welcomes all women interested in joining to apply.

Alpha Media Palm Springs (1947)

Alpha Media may not be a business that rings familiar to many in Palm Springs. However, the radio stations it owns and operates are household names to many of its residents, providing them with much of the music, news, and information they consume on a daily basis. Mix 100.5, 107.3 Mod-FM, U-92.7, and 93.7 KCLB are among the eight memorable brands housed inside Alpha’s studios located on North Gene Autry Trail.

A radio station’s programming is available free of charge to desert residents thanks to the local businesses who have purchased advertisements that are heard on the air. Local program directors are charged with keeping up with music trends and identifying what the general public wants to hear to gain as many listeners as possible.

Palm Springs Florist

(1947)

By Jordan Hall

We opened in 1947. Same place, same family, three generations. We just celebrated our 76th Valentine’s Day. All great stories have a great beginning, so here’s ours: It all started with a train ride in 1946. On his way home from the war, my grandfather, E. Earl Hall, struck up a conversation with Horace Head, renowned floral designer and FTD master design instructor. As the two talked, Horace was so impressed with my grandfather’s personality and character that he offered to not only train him, but invited Grandpa Earl to become a partner in purchasing a floral studio in Palm Springs.

“Uncle” Horace and Grandpa opened the doors of Palm Springs Florist in March 1947. In August of that year, Grandpa headed home to Salt Lake City to marry his sweetheart, my Grandma Mary Lou. The two packed up what belongings they had, traveled by train to

Our first radio station, KCMJ-AM 1340 (now KNWQ-AM 1140), was licensed by the Federal Communications Commission on April 1, 1946, and our studios were located in downtown Palm Springs. Since that time, we have continued to keep our offices located in Palm

Springs because of the overwhelming support we received from its residents and the business community when we were a fledgling young business ourselves. Even though our stations serve all of the communities within the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is our home!

Los Angeles, then with Earl’s brother, pulled their first home — an 18-foot trailer — into Palm Springs and settled in on September 1, 1947. The trailer had no air conditioning, and the shared bathroom facilities were down the road. Grandma later said, “If we weren’t young and in love, I would have headed home out of the scorching desert heat!”

With no knowledge of the business, and lots of trust and support from Mary Lou, Earl went to work. Their first deliveries were made by Grandpa on his Schwinn bicycle, while Grandma rode on the handlebars holding the flowers.

In the early years, Palm Springs Florist was on the outskirts of town, surrounded by a developing oasis in the desert known for its golf and tennis resorts, and vacation homes of many famous movers and shakers from Hollywood and all over the world.

As Palm Springs developed into a popular and iconic location, Palm Springs Florist became

the go-to place for all things floral. My grandfather built a reputation for outstanding customer service and the finest blooms in town. As friendships developed with most of the local celebrities, my grandfather frequently serviced the floral needs of Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Elvis Presley, Lucille Ball, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Liberace, and so many more.

Over 70 years later, we are now into our third generation of family florists. My dad Brent and I are running the show with the help of my wife Whitney and Mom. The Schwinn is long gone, replaced by a fleet of delivery vans. Endless stacks of paper have been replaced by a state-of-the-art computer system. Our team includes award-winning designers and a first-class delivery crew. Over the years we have enjoyed and celebrated numerous accolades from the community and our loyal customers. While things have changed, the foundation of hard work, uncompromising standards, and amazing customer service that my grandfather left for us continues to be our cornerstone as we look forward to the next 70 years.

Williams Properties

(1948)

Arriving in the village of Palm Springs in 1919, one day after he was discharged from the Navy after serving in WWI, John W. Williams — a lean young man of 20, with wavy hair and a good-humored Irish laugh, according to Desert Sun columnist George Ringwald — immediately began to accumulate real estate. He purchased the first real estate office in Palm Springs in 1928 and moved it to 423 N. Palm Canyon Drive.

In 1954, one of his three children, Don Williams, joined his father in the family business that is still thriving today. Williams Properties, which manages assets developed by the Williams family (including much of the area near Gene Autry Trail and Ramon Road) is now run by his grandson, Ron Williams, and great-grandson, Ken Williams.

Williams is credited with building the city’s first industrial complex, which is located on Williams Road, south of Ramon Road. In 1938, he developed the Ramon Trailer Park, which is still in operation on the south side of Ramon Road, west of Sunrise Way.

Not only was Williams a very successful businessman, he was also an early leader in the community. He served as president of the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, and was president of the Board of Realtors in 1938 and again in 1945. He was a charter member of the Lions Club and an elder in the Community Church for over 40 years. He served on both the elementary and the high school district boards in the 1920s and 1930s. He was a benefactor of the Desert Museum and a sat on its board of directors until 1962.

In November of 1936, Williams was appointed to a committee that would study the pros and cons of Palm Springs becoming a city. The 30-man committee held a meeting on August 14, 1937 to finalize the city boundaries. They divided the area into seven wards, and then drew up an incorporation petition to be signed by property owners. After a number of discussions with the county, the

incorporation matter came to a vote on April 1, 1938. Not all of the town’s 910 registered voters turned out; the final tally was 442 in favor of incorporation, 211 against. Williams was elected to the first Palm Springs City Council, serving from 1938 to 1942.

Williams was also a generous philanthropist. He donated land to establish an animal shelter in the city. He also donated land so that all the local children could play Little League baseball in a park originally located between Palm Springs High School and the Field Club, east of Sunrise Way and north of Ramon Road. But when the Field Club, the Pavilion, and other city buildings were torn down to make way for the library complex, the baseball stadium, and Sunrise Park, the Little League Park was moved to its present location at Demuth Park. The city honored Williams’ gift by naming the new Little League Park after him and by honoring their agreement, which allowed the Little League continued access to the fields.

Williams also donated land for the Girl Scout House, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Desert Chapel. He became a major donor to Desert Hospital and a benefactor of the Palm Springs Desert Museum where he served as a member of its board of directors.

In 1962, Williams received the Distinguished Service Award from the Palm Springs Police Officers Association. His final endowment was to build the John W. Williams Conference Center at Redlands University.

Schlecht, Shevlin, & Shoenberger (1951)

Schlecht, Shevlin, & Shoenberger, ALC has been serving its clients in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley since 1951. The full-service law firm (a trusted brand whose name bears those of the three original partners from the seventies) has substantial experience in: (1) all areas of business transactional work and litigation, (2) general civil matters and litigation, (3) estate planning and litigation, (4) Native American land leases and other related issues, and (5) other matters, as needed. Since its inception, members of the firm have been an integral part of the Palm Springs community; have served as judges, city council members, and planning commissioners; and have held leadership positions at the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, the Palm Springs Rotary, the Palm Springs Lions Club, local churches, and other numerous charities.

The energy, beauty, and spirit of Palm Springs has made it easy for Schlecht, Shevlin, & Shoenberger to come to work every day and maintain a thriving business. The firm’s desire to be involved in the city — and Palm Springs’ willingness to accept the firm’s involvement — has made for a seamless, mutually beneficial relationship.

Schlecht, Shevlin, & Shoenberger is grateful to the people it has met over the 70-plus years it has been open in Palm Springs. It is grateful for the friendships and business contacts made throughout the decades. The firm and the city have been a match made in heaven! Schlecht, Shevlin, & Shoenberger looks forward to another 70-plus years in Palm Springs. [Photo L to R: David A. Darren, Daniel T. Johnson, Christopher J. Thomsen, and Ulrich R. McNulty]

The Original Las Casuelas (1958)

February marked our 65th year serving the Coachella Valley with the same recipes Mary and Florencio “Del” Delgado introduced in 1958. Our passion has always been rooted in providing authentic dishes and excellent service to members of our community, whom we consider family! We are beyond grateful for all the six-plus decades we have been loved and supported by the Palm Springs community!

Palm Springs Welding, Inc.

(1964) By Chantal Francisco

Palm Springs Welding, Inc. was founded in Palm Springs in 1964 by my dad, Marcel Latulippe. Mike, as he was called, came to Palm Springs on vacation from a small town near Montreal in the early sixties, and he chose to stay, even though he didn’t have a great working knowledge of English (French was his first language). He started as

an employee at a local welding shop, then gained skills and knowledge, not to mention a love for our community. Over the years, he created a home here with a great network of friends. He was involved in many local organizations and put down deep roots here.

He started with a small shop on South Palm Canyon Drive, where the Oasis Resort stands now. He later moved to Matthew Drive, and ultimately built his own warehouse just east of the airport where our building still continues to this day.

Our company started by being a source of ornamental iron gates, fences, and the like throughout the Coachella Valley. We did ironwork in master-planned golf course communities for many, many years, and provided gates and other ironwork to homes and businesses in Palm Springs. We continue to do so.

In 1993, the next generation joined the company when I graduated from college. My husband and I started in the company, learning the business from the ground up. We quickly learned that a new industry had lots of potential and we started focusing on structural steel projects. We help build homes throughout the Coachella Valley, providing well-paying jobs to our loyal and valued employees. We’re proud to have participated in the arch project over Palm Canyon Drive at Alejo Rd.

Palm Springs is literally in our name. It is our identity as well as our home. We have pride in our work, and it brings us joy to see our work throughout our community. Although my dad is now passed, my mom still lives in the same home they purchased together here as newlyweds, and my husband and I live in town and raised our girls here. We couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

Ace Hardware

(2000)

Our family-owned-and-operated organization opened its doors in February 2000 as True Value Hardware of Palm Springs. Our original location with True Value was in the old Palm

Springs Mall at Baristo and Farrell, across from Palm Springs High School. We moved to our current location at 1785 E. Palm Canyon Drive in the Smoketree Village shopping center in February 2011.

We were fortunate to have our ever-growing customer base follow to our new location. A large sum of our clientele is seasonal, return vacationers and tourists from locations throughout the U.S. and internationally. Through the years, we have made continuing improvements to best serve our customers’ needs and interests.

In 2019, one of our improvements was the choice to become an Ace Hardware store, expanding and refining our product assortment.

Throughout our time, we have received several awards, including #1 store in our franchise, Best in Customer Service, as well as Best Hardware Store by Best in the Desert. Many who visit our store quickly understand why our customers become fans. One or more of our staff of over 45 employees stand ready to greet and assist customers, helping them find exactly what they need, or helping them find products or solutions, even if that solution is not readily available in our store. Customer service is vital to our business and is instilled in our associates every day. We are not just a hardware store. We are a destination and an experience for our many guests the world over. We are proud and delighted to play an essential role in our diverse community.

President’s Circle

Thank you to the following Chamber members without whom many of our programs would not be possible.

For the next generation of Palm Springs professionals

The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce it is launching a new program targeted at the next generation of Palm Springs professionals. EMERGE Palm Springs (AKA EMERGE) has as its mission the personal, professional, and philanthropic grooming of Palm Springs’ next generation of leaders.

Though the city has a variety of community-involvement offerings, the Chamber hopes to bring these young entrepreneurs together through relationship-building, career-advancement opportunities, and community enhancement.

Far from being just another run-of-the-mill networking program,

EMERGE strives to create a business community of members who believe in working hard, playing hard, and volunteering hard — together.

Sponsored by Brady Sandahl Real Estate Group, EMERGE Palm Springs kicked off on February 23 at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel, where, despite the rain, some 75 people attended, all of them excited to hear what’s on the horizon and how they can get involved in effecting positive change.

For more information, and to stay up to date, scan the QR code, email emergepalmsprings@gmail.com, or follow us on Instagram at @emergepalmsprings.

A Message From the City Manager

Dear Palm Springs residents:

As I enter my second month as your city manager, every single day I marvel at how fortunate I am to be at the helm of this iconic city.

Since I arrived in March, I have had the opportunity to meet many of you through the ONE-PS neighborhood organizations and at a multitude of community meetings and events that have afforded me an excellent opportunity to listen and learn about some of the many issues our community cares about.

One of the issues ongoing in Palm Springs is addressing homelessness, and I am pleased to report that Chief of Police Andy Mills and his officers have accomplished very good results through an innovative new pilot program called Operation Relentless Sun. Read more about it in the coming pages.

Another thing I have discovered upon moving to this beautiful city is that the occasional rain and/or sandstorm can cause frequent road closures that frustrate residents all over the Coachella Valley. The city of Palm Springs has long been working to address these issues, and I invite you to read more about what we’re doing in these pages. By the way, to get the latest news on weather-related road closures, I recommend that everyone register for Palm Springs public safety alerts. It’s quick and easy! Keep turning the pages for details about how to sign up.

Finally, I want to take a moment to give a huge shout-out to local businessman Keith McCormick, owner of McCormick’s Palm Springs

Collector Car Auctions, who recently organized the city’s spectacular 85th anniversary exotic car parade, “Cruising Through the Years,” on Saturday, April 8. This incredible feat featured 85 cars from 1938 (when the city was first incorporated) to the present day, and was truly a sight to behold with iconic local celebrities like Nancy Sinatra, Beverly Johnson, Fred “The Hammer” Williamson, and many more on hand to celebrate 85 glorious years of our legendary destination. In addition, the musical party that followed afterwards in the Downtown Park was tremendous!

A big thank you to our city staff and our generous sponsors — the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, P.S. Resorts, the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, Splash House, and Poppy Vacation Homes — for partnering with us to create this memorable event for our residents and the entire

Palm Springs prides itself on being one of the most welcoming and inclusive cities in the nation — and in the short two months I have been here, I can attest that this one-of-a-kind community is truly like no place else!

Thank you for welcoming me with open arms. I look forward to hearing any suggestions or ideas that you may have related to enhancing public services, safety, and quality of life. You can reach me via email at CityManager@palmspringsca.gov.

All the best,

Scott Stiles Palm Springs City Manager

Sign Up for Public Safety Alerts and Get the Latest Road Closure Information

Road closures can be incredibly frustrating, so don’t be the last to know!

Residents are invited to sign up now for Palm Springs public safety alerts and get the latest on weather-related street closures. It’s fast and easy. Just visit palmspringsca.gov.

Bridge Update

By the way, we want our community to know city staff members continue to work hard managing important bridge projects. Here’s an update:

The Indian Canyon Drive Bridge Widening Project Over Union Pacific Railroad

Construction will start June 2023

The Ramon Road Bridge Widening Project Over the Whitewater Channel

Estimated to start construction in August of 2024

The Vista Chino Canyon Bridge Project Over the Whitewater Channel

Estimated to start construction in August of 2026

The East Palm Canyon Bridge Widening Project Over the Palm Canyon Wash

Estimated to start construction in June of 2025

The South Palm Canyon Bridge Widening Project Over Tahquitz Creek

Estimated to start construction in January of 2025

The South Palm Canyon Bridge at Arenas Canyon South

Estimated to start construction in January of 2024

The city of Palm Springs is working with Cal Trans and the Federal Highway Administration doing everything possible to keep these projects moving forward and on time. For more information, visit www.palmspringsca.gov.

Safety Alerts

Plaza Theatre

Residents are invited to a series of open house events every Tuesday through June 6 to learn more about the Plaza Theatre Restoration Plan.

Help save downtown Palm Springs’ historic Plaza Theatre so it can be restored to its former glory!

The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation recently announced it will hold free open house events at the theatre to display plans and renderings of the renovations to the historic building. These informal affairs will take place every Tuesday from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. through June 6 at the theatre, located at 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. Foundation board members and other volunteers will greet members of the general public and answer their questions about the project. The purpose of these free weekly gatherings is to provide attendees with an opportunity to see firsthand the restoration plans for the iconic building as it enters its Next Act. Reservations are not necessary.

During the meetings, attendees will get a sneak peek at the exciting restoration plans created by Architectural Resources Group (ARG), the firm selected by the Foundation and the city of Palm Springs. ARG has completed a number of theatre and other historic projects of similar scope (including New Mission Theater in San Francisco and The Alameda Theater) and has an architectural conservator on board who will be instrumental in the restoration of the Plaza Theatre.

“These open houses will provide an opportunity for anyone, especially those who have never had the chance to be inside the theatre before, to find out more about what it will take to bring this landmark back to its former glory,” said Foundation President J.R. Roberts. “As the theatre enters its final phase of fundraising, it is important for all community members to see what exciting plans we have in store. The valley needs venues like the Plaza Theatre that are

accessible to, and affordable for, everyone.”

When restored, the Plaza Theatre will be an affordable community venue showcasing diverse programming for all people, local youth organizations, promoting multicultural programming in film, music, live theater, education, comedy, and entertainment for all. It will also support and serve nonprofit organizations like the Palm Springs International Film Festival, ONE-PS, Modernism Week, and many others. The foundation board formed in response to a $5 million challenge grant from Palm Springs resident and noted TV and stage writer-director-producer David Lee to support the restoration effort. Along with other smaller donations, an anonymous donor pledged $2 million. Recently, the foundation board secured an additional $2 million from the city of Palm Springs, $2.5 million from the state of California, and $1 million in matching funds from Oak View Group (OVG), the owners and operators of Acrisure Arena. Designer Trina Turk donated $200,000 to the OVG matching funds challenge. The fundraising goal for the project is $16 million needed to restore the building to its original splendor and update it to meet the access, technology, and equity needs of today and tomorrow. If you would like to get involved or make a donation to the theatre’s restoration, visit www.SavethePlazaTheatrePS.com.

About the Plaza Theatre

Originally built in 1936, the building was used for film premieres and screenings, nationally broadcast radio theatre programs, and other performances. In its later years, the theater was home to the long-running “The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies.” Over the decades, the building has deteriorated, so the city of Palm Springs initiated a capital campaign to restore the beloved structure to its former glory.

"Cruising Through the Years”

85th Anniversary Classic Car Parade and Community Celebration, April 8, 2023

Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate 85 years of the magic that makes Palm Springs like no place else!

ORS

Palm Springs Police Department Update

A snapshot of Operation Relentness Sun and its first month in motion

Since the inception of Operation Relentless Sun on February 1, the Palm Springs Police Department has identified a total of 340 unhoused residents, and conducted daily multiple camp clean-ups. As of late March, 68 people have been arrested — for 38 felonies and 30 misdemeanors.

More than 300 people have been provided with a complete list of resources, with information on mental health, substance abuse resources, and emergency shelters.

Additionally, 24 people accepted housing in various shelters throughout the valley, and 14 individuals have

been relocated to their original hometowns, with friends and family.

Palm Springs Chief of Police Andy Mills says, “Officers and CSOs have done a fantastic job counting, contacting, and coordinating resources for the homeless, and conducting enforcement efforts. My command staff briefed me; here is where we are with the project. Operation Relentless Sun will be a long-term effort, fraught with many difficulties. Still, we are determined to give our best effort while being transparent and compassionate, yet firm in our approach.”

Chief Mills also explains the strategy has two parts, which include enforcing “micro hot spots” and using “leveraged deterrence” to gain compliance for research on these two policing strategies.

Hot spot policing strategies focus on small geographic areas, where crime is concentrated. Law enforcement agencies can then focus limited resources in the areas, where crime is most likely to happen.

The deterrence strategy, also called “pulling levers,” is one focused on attempts to deter specific criminal behavior through the presence of specific sanctions or “levers.” At the same time, there is an anticipation of benefits for not engaging in crime.

The four initial Operation Relentless Sun hot spots include Sunrise Way and Vista Chino, 400 South Palm, Sunrise and East Palm Canyon, and Ramon Road and Crossley Road. Progress at those locations is improving, but Chief Mills says the department recognizes the numbers can change daily. Therefore, a before-and-after picture is essential to understanding the problem and assessing progress being made in each area.

Here is a look at where each spot stands, one month into the operation:

Sunrise Way and Vista Chino

10 tents with about 15 people. A month later, two tents remain.

Ramon Road and Crossley Road

32 tents with 37 people. A month later, all tents are gone.

South Palm Canyon

Two tents and 10 people frequently in the area. Now, one tent and five people present.

East Palm Canyon and Sunrise Way

15 people frequently. Now, three people are there regularly.

Chief Mills says, “We recognize there has been some displacement. Once these areas are stabilized, officers will move to the next spot.”

The PSPD would like to gratefully recognize the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission and Jewish Family Services for their enormous support in helping to move this project forward. Operation Relentless Sun is a continuous mission in motion. The department will continue to update the Palm Springs community as the work continues and the strategies are applied with compassion and hope.

Q&A

Meet Scott Stiles, Palm Springs’

New City Manager

Scott Stiles is the new city manager of Palm Springs. He arrived in March from Garden Grove, California, where he served as city manager for seven years. Prior to Garden Grove, he worked for 27 years in a variety of management positions for the city of Cincinnati, graduating to assistant city manager, then to interim city manager. PS I Love You sat down with Scott to learn more about him.

Q. PS I LOVE YOU: What made you decide to apply for the position of Palm Springs city manager?

SCOTT STILES: Several reasons, but number one is that, just like so many other Southern California residents, my family and I have always loved spending time in this unique and vibrant slice of paradise. I’m a fan of Palm Springs’ year-round sunshine, iconic mid-century architecture, and inclusive vibe. When the Palm Springs city manager position opened, I knew I would enjoy being a part of this amazing community, and I felt it was the opportunity of a lifetime. Not to mention, coming out of the pandemic, I knew that city administrative staff had gone through a tremendous amount of change. I felt I could bring some stability to help the team focus on the priorities of our city council and the community. I’ve so far been nothing but impressed with the outstanding level of dedicated service by our city council, staff, and public safety officers, all of whom are deeply committed to this community.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges the city is facing, and what do you plan to do to address them?

Like many cities in California, addressing issues of homelessness are very important. Affordable housing and support of our vibrant hospitality and small business sectors is also critical. Specifically, regarding homelessness, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. My experience is that a comprehensive continuum of care strategy that includes temporary and permanent supportive housing, compassionate mental health services, and enforcement apprehension of those individuals committing crimes is all part of the solution. Also, political boundaries do not perfectly fit with the needs of homeless individuals. Regional solutions are important.

Q. You have been here almost two months now. How have you introduced yourself to the community?

I am happy to report that the Palm Springs community has welcomed me with open arms! The mayor, councilmembers and city staff have done an outstanding job of quickly getting me introduced to important neighborhood, business, and nonprofit stakeholders who are leaders in the community. For my entire career, I’ve always lived, and immersed myself, in the community where I work. That’s how I’m wired. There’s no doubt that commitment will help me connect more quickly and personally with those whom I serve. In fact, in Cincinnati, where I worked for 27 years before my time in Orange County, there was a robust network of 52 community councils. It was quite ironic to learn that Palm

Springs also has 52 recognized community organizations through Organized Neighborhood of Palm Springs, ONE-PS. I’m looking forward to interacting with them all-- and to listening and learning from a wide variety of perspectives.

Q. Tell us a little about your background, your family, and where you’re originally from.

My wife and I have two daughters. The oldest is an aspiring, young cinematographer in the terrific film and media arts program at Chapman University, and the youngest is a junior in high school who is beginning to think about furthering her education at the next level. I grew up in a small South Dakota town on the shores of the Missouri River. I’ve tried to maintain an internal compass of curiosity that has taken me on a journey from there on to Cincinnati, Garden Grove, and now Palm Springs, which is where I hope to remain for a long time.

Q. What have been some of your favorite experiences so far in Palm Springs?

I’ve had quite a few so far. When I first arrived, my wife and I had the opportunity to take Modernism Week’s doubledecker bus tour, which was quite something! It was fantastic and fascinating to learn more about the city’s iconic midcentury modern architecture, design, and historic properties. I also had the opportunity to attend the Palm Springs Air Museum’s annual gala, which was also quite an experience. Their collection of vintage aircraft is truly one-of-a-kind. But I must say, what I have enjoyed most so far is meeting and engaging with Palm Springs residents who have gone out of their way to welcome me and get me acquainted with the issues they care about. In fact, I just attended the annual ONE-PS picnic, and it was a phenomenal way to meet the neighborhood residents and local organizations that really drive this city. Moving forward, I am excited to continue meeting, listening, and learning from the residents and business leaders of Palm Springs. My goal is always to keep an eye on improving and enhancing city services and quality of life while continuing to ensure Palm Springs remains a world-class destination that prides itself on being one of the most welcoming and inclusive communities in the nation. The future is bright, and I am honored to take the helm at Palm Springs City Hall and get to work!

Residents with questions or suggestions can reach Scott Stiles via email at CityManager@PalmSpringsca.gov.

PS Chamber New Members

707 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Ste. 21 Palm Springs, CA,92262 (310) 286-6700

Palmina Italian Restaurant

2500 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 895-9255 palminabypuglia.com

Jacobsson Engineering Construction

P.O. Box 14430, Palm Desert, CA, 92255-4430, (760) 345-8700

jacobssoninc.com

Sol Agave Restaurant 262 Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 659-1353

Arrae Health

3655 E. Ramon Road Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760 )327-9400

Hotshot Professional Power Washing

19408 Prickly Pear Trail Desert Hot Springs, CA, 92241 (800) 278-0774

Kaladjian Law Office

77564 Country Club Drive, Ste. 150 Palm Desert, CA, 92211 (800) 760-0468

so-cal-lawyer.com

Bruce Wayne’s Handyman Heroes

1478 S. Camino Real Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (616) 655-5869 handymanheroes.com

Rooftop 262 Bar 262 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (562) 455-9242

Little Shop of Treasures

616 E. Sunny Dunes Road Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 778-4300

www.littleshopoftreasures.biz

R2E Associates Inc. 2555 N. Junipero Avenue Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (646) 701-4621

r2eAssociates.com

Sage Wax Lounge Palm Springs

1276 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. 109-B Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (909) 731-5347

sagewaxlounge.com

The Core Collaborative 1090 N. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (619) 432-2673

thecorecollaborative.com

760.322.2268

Dr. Michael J. Feldman

Cheeky Charity

1555 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (518) 505-0844 cheekycharity.org

Matrix Insurance

1091 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 932-0906

First Team Real EstateBetty Kerr

serving the Coachella Valley Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 250-9326

Spatial Design

886 E. San Lucas Road

Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (818) 554-0835

Funtastik Balloons 42005 Cook Street

Palm Desert, CA, 92211 (760) 205-1334

California Univetristy of Science and Medicine

1501 Violet Street Colton, CA, 92324 (909) 954-3502

www.cusm.org/

Cruise Planners

2800 Lawrence Crossley Road, #H-18 Palm Spring, CA, 92264 (760) 408-4003 smoothgrovetravel.com

SEEK Personnel Staffing 72855 Fred Warning A3 Palm Desert, CA, 92260 (760) 636-0861

seekpersonnelstaffing.com

Chef For Seniors of Palm Springs

1013 Easy Street Los Angeles, CA, 90042 (626) 737-2052

chefsforseniors.com/palm-springs

Todd Verwers Architects

1111 E Palm Canyon Drive, Unit 322

Palm Spring, CA, 92264 (858) 866-4146

toddverwers.com/profile

Low Desert Modern Mexican 1775 E. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Spring, CA, 92264 (760) 656-0231

lowdesert.net

Meredith Lodging 707 E Tahquitz Canyon, Ste. 16 Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (541) 419-0963

www.meredithlodging.com

The Kindel Group, LLCStaffing Services

P.O. Box 12625 Palm Desert, CA, 92255 (760) 383-1735

thekindelgroup.com

AJ’s Law Firm 1775 E Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. 110-26 Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 333-6854

Da Silva & Goodman 2680 S. Cherokee Way Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760) 328-0277

dasilvaandgoodman.com

Equity Union 460 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Spring , CA, 92262 (310) 595-5875

www.equityunion.com

I Fresh K Barber 477 S. Palm Canyon Drive #2 Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760 )548-0018

Play Lounge 2825 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Bldg. C Palm Spring, CA, 92262 (714) 422-7337

playloungeps.com

Casa Blanca Restaurant - Palm Springs 140 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (760) 325-9464

www.casablancamenu.com

Daily Planet LLC 38954 Trinidad Circle Palm Springs, CA, 92264 (760 )459-8990

.linkedin.com/in/malcolmwitter

Drift Hotel Palm Springs 284 S. Indian Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA, 92262 (888) 976-4486

drifthotels.co/palmsprings

Body Shop by Justin Boerman

630 N. Belardo

Palm Springa, CA, 92262 (858) 753-5969

masseurfinder.com/massagetherapists/25284/

J. Arthur Law Firm

67876 Garbino Road

Cathedral City, CA, 92234 (760) 201-3215

jarthurlaw.com/

ZOSO FUN

150 S. Indian Canyon Drive Palm Spring, CA, 92262

L’Atelier Cafe

129 La Plaza

Palm Spring, CA, 92262 (760) 778-7895

.facebook.com/Lateliercafe/

Tredi Interiors

458 S. Palm Canyon Drive Palm Spring, CA, 92262 (760) 318-4242

trediinteriors.com

Scan to view the full directory of Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce members

September

9 DAYS, 8 NIGHTS INCLUDING HOTELS, MEALS,

• Roundtrip international airfare & Tax

• 9-day deluxe tour package

• 4-star hotel accommodations

• Breakfast & lunch

• Deluxe bus

• Fluent English-speaking tour guides

• Entrance fees to attractions

Full itinerary online at PSChamber.org

Plan now to join Palm Springs Chamber group for this once in a lifetime Greece adventure. Please call Nona at the Palm Springs Chamber at 760-325-1577, email your registration form to nwatson@pschamber.org Website www.pschamber.org

$300 Deposit Due May 15, 2023

Balance for the Trip Due Before June 15, 2023

Tour Operator: Citslinc International, Inc.

1-844-262-1100 Email citslinc@aol.com Website www.citslinc.org

Community Information

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) 322-8385

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- 8383

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

Office of Sustainability

(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 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 Center

480 S. Sunrise Way (760) 323-5689

mizell.org

Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce

190 W. Amado Road (760) 325-1577

pschamber.org

Palm Springs Disposal Services

4690 E. Mesquite Avenue (760) 327-1351

palmspringsdisposal.com

Palm Springs Unified School District

150 District Center Drive (760) 883-2700

psusd.us

Volunteer Palm Springs PO Box 5803 Palm Springs, CA 92263 760.902.2297

volunteerpalmsprings.org

CITY HOTLINES Code Enforcement (760) 778-8434

Graffiti (760) 778-8469

Vacation Rental Compliance (760) 322-8383

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Congressman Ken Calvert, 42nd District

73710 Fred Waring Drive Ste. 129 Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 620-0041

State Assemblymember Greg Wallis, 7th District

41-608 Indian Trail Road, Ste. D-1 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 (760) 346-6342

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

State Senator

Melissa Melendez, 28th Senate District

45125 Smurr Street, Ste. B Indio, CA 92201

(760) 398-6442