April 16 Daily Briefing: Solving a pantyhose problem, art museum CEO leaving, and more

Welcome to Wednesday, everyone! If you’ve got solar installed at your home, you’re in good company, as 30% of the state’s energy comes from the sun. Now, Assemblymember Greg Wallis wants to make it the official state energy. Wallis, who represents our area in Sacramento, has introduced Bill 1334 to declare solar energy the state’s official energy source. Although the proposal carries no new rules or financial benefits, it’s meant to showcase the state’s clean energy strides, including two million solar installations on rooftops. The bill is set for a committee hearing later this month.

🎶 Setting the mood: “From the Start” by Laufey and the LA Philharmonic live at Coachella

LEADING OFF

Changing the drag industry one pair of pantyhose at a time

Honey Davenport, a recording artist and alum of the hit reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” is launching Honey’s Hose, a specialized hosiery line addressing the unique needs of drag performers who have long struggled with ill-fitting, uncomfortable pantyhose that aren’t available in appropriate sizes and colors.

Driving the news: After a conversation about the physical pain caused by wearing multiple pairs of conventional hosiery during a hike in Palm Springs, Davenport recognized a significant market gap and created a product specifically engineered for drag performers’ needs.

• Traditional pantyhose force performers to layer up to five pairs for coverage and durability. That extreme compression causes a condition known in the drag community as “Barbie Toe,” where feet remain stuck in a pointed position after being removed from heels.

The innovation: Honey’s Hose features thicker, more durable material that requires fewer layers, redesigned gussets that match the rest of the garment, and shapes tailored for the pointy-toed shoes typically worn in drag performances.

By the numbers: The initial launch will include six skin tone shades with plans to expand to 13, addressing the long-standing problem of inadequate color diversity in hosiery. The line will also be size inclusive. Previously, Davenport had to dye standard hosiery with teas and coffees to match their skin tone.

The bigger picture: For Davenport, the brand represents more than comfort — it’s a form of activism amid increasing attacks on drag performers and LGBTQ+ communities nationwide.

• After one year of sales, Davenport plans to launch Honey’s Heaux, a program sponsoring about 10 local performers with funds for hosiery and access to other drag-related services.

What they’re saying: “I wanted to feel like this product was made specifically for you. Because for so long, I’ve experienced so many products that weren’t made for me, and I don’t want anybody to feel that way,” said Davenport.

Dive deeper with our complete story here.

BRIEFLY

🖼️ Art Museum CEO to step down after four years

The Palm Springs Art Museum announced Tuesday that CEO Adam Lerner will conclude his tenure at the end of his current contract after four years of leadership. Lerner, who joined the museum in 2021, has decided not to renew his contract and an interim CEO will take over while the board launches a national search for his successor.

• Among highlights of Lerner’s tenure, museum officials said, were the expansion of the museum’s artistic reach, increased attendance and fundraising, a program dedicated to LGBTQ+ voices, and the realization of the Aluminaire House project.
  
• “Adam’s tenure has been transformative,” said Jane Emison, chair of the Board of Trustees. “He brought fresh energy to the museum at a pivotal time. His leadership helped shape a more connected and community-centered institution.”
  
• Next steps: Chief Curator Christine Vendredi will assume the role of Interim CEO at the conclusion of Lerner’s contract this year while the Board of Trustees launches a national search for his successor.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

GPSR Spring Fling Auction
8 a.m. | Mizell Center
Support local charities with the Greater Palm Springs Realtors by donating a basket, baked goods, or cash, or by bidding on auction items. Make sure to bring your donation by 7:30 a.m., then join the fun and let the bidding begin.

People For Palm Springs Parks
8:30 a.m. | Sunrise Park
Join People For Palm Springs Parks as they walk through Sunrise Park with the Parks Director to give feedback, make observations, and foster a dialogue on ways the community could improve Sunrise Park. Bagels and coffee will be provided for attendees. Anyone can attend!

Coachella Valley Local Government Vendor Fair
8:30 a.m. | Palm Springs Convention Center
Local businesses are invited to do business with Coachella Valley local governments and agencies – and learn more about the process at the 2nd Annual Coachella Valley Local Government Vendor Fair.

Morning Coffee Book Club
10:30 a.m. | Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Members will discuss “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” by Erika L. Sánchez, next month they’re reading “The Vaster Wilds” by Lauren Groff. Join the book club by signing up here.

The Mod Squad Variety Show
5 p.m. | The Palm Springs Cultural Center
Enjoy an evening of live music at the valley’s “Happiest happy hour!” Tickle your musical senses with fun and unique arrangements of Mid-Century Pop Music, Yacht Rock, Rat Pack, classic oldies and more. ($20)

Movie Night in the Park: “The Wild Robot”
7 p.m. | Demuth Park
Movies in the Park returns with favorite films playing at Downtown Park. Note that extreme weather or rain may force rescheduling of some events and that start times will vary depending on what time the sun goes down. 

Late Night in Palm Springs Comedy Show
9 p.m. | Coachella Valley Brewing Company – Palm Springs Taproom
Get ready for a night full of laughter and fun at the hilarious comedy show featuring talented comedians from all over SoCal. ($8)

See all events here

SAVE THE DATE

• “Falsettos” at Dezart Performs starting Friday. ($53)
  
• “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” at Palm Canyon Theatre starting Friday. ($32)
  
• “Egg-cellent” Duck Dive at the Swim Center on Saturday.
  
• Palm Springs Fire Foundation Easter Egg Hunt at Ruth Hardy Park on Saturday.
  
• Self-Advocacy in Healthcare Conference at the Mizell Center on Saturday.
  
• PS Gay Men’s Chorus “Disney Pride In Concert“ starting April 24. ($35)
  
• Earth & Arbor Day Festival at Victoria Park on April 26.
  
• Forging Forward – Community Convening at the Cultural Center on April 29.
  
• “A Song For You” Carpenters Tribute at Agua Caliente Palm Springs on April 30. ($23)
  
• Retro Palm Springs – A Nostalgic Fan Convention at Palm Springs Convention Center on May 3-4. ($28)
  
• Desert Winds Freedom Band presents “Pop, Rock, and Swing” at Jewish Community Center on May 4. ($30)
  
• 2025 Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival starting May 8. ($17)

Submit your event here

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AND FINALLY …

🐾 Each week, The Post partners with a local animal shelter to feature one or more of the many animal companions ready for a new home in our community. 

Today, we invite you to meet John Wayne, a four-year-old male dog available at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Staff at the shelter say John Wayne is good with some dogs and a bit shy meeting new people, but he appears to be housetrained.

If you’re interested: You can visit the shelter at 4575 E. Mesquite Ave. Hours are 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on all days except for Mondays (open for intake only) and Thursdays (1 p.m. until 7 p.m.). You can always call the shelter at (760) 416-5718.

Make sure to check out all the other pets at the shelter here.