Dec. 29 Daily Briefing: New wellness center, former mayor leads COD board, recreation guide launched, and more

Happy Monday, everyone, where we hope this email finds you warm and dry — or at least dry. While we were off last week, Southern California was hit with its wettest Christmas Eve and Christmas Day ever. While Palm Springs didn’t tally record amounts, there was enough of the wet stuff falling nearby that it caused flooding in the washes, causing multiple road closures. When these events happen, and crews work to open (and close) the roadways, be sure to subscribe to alerts here that will tell you when they’re open (and closed). 

🎶 Setting the mood: “A Long December” by Counting Crows

LEADING OFF

Fourth Measure J-funded wellness center to open in local elementary school

Cahuilla Elementary School will get a new wellness center by the end of this school year, marking the fourth and final elementary campus to receive the student support space funded by Measure J.

Driving the news: The wellness centers provide students a space to decompress and regulate their emotions during school hours, with no questions asked and no appointments needed. Ellen Goodman, executive director of The Foundation For PSUSD, shared the update at the most recent Measure J Commission meeting.

• The centers transform typical classrooms into calming spaces with soft lighting, plants, and couches — designed to feel more like a living room than a traditional classroom.

The big picture: While Measure J funded wellness centers in four elementary schools, the foundation has expanded the program to 16 schools districtwide, with plans to eventually reach all campuses.

• The district received a state grant to staff centers with wellness coaches, making PSUSD among the first districts in California with designated wellness coaches.

By the numbers: Usage varies by campus but typically averages 30 to 50 students daily, with visits lasting seven to 15 minutes.

Why it matters: The centers offer counselors and wellness coaches opportunities to identify students who need additional support and provide early intervention.

• Resources include fidget toys, activities, and connections to telehealth services.

Dive deeper with our complete story

BRIEFLY

🎓 Former Palm Springs mayor to lead College of the Desert board

• Former Palm Springs Mayor Ron Oden was appointed chair of the College of the Desert Board of Trustees during its most recent meeting, with the appointment taking effect immediately. Oden, whose trustee term expires in 2028, represents Area 3, which includes Palm Springs.
  
• The Board also approved Rubén Pérez as vice chair and Mark Meyer as clerk. Committee liaison assignments were confirmed for various trustees, including Joel Kinnamon for the Foundation and Mary Jane Sanchez-Fulton for the County Committee.
  
• Bottom line: As chair, Oden will lead the governing body responsible for overseeing policies and programs that support student success across the Coachella Valley community.

🚨 Woman dies after two-car crash in Palm Springs

• A 93-year-old woman died Sunday following a two-vehicle collision at South El Cielo Road and Kirk Douglas Way. The crash occurred around 3:24 p.m. when a southbound gray Honda SUV attempted a left turn and entered the path of a northbound white Mazda SUV.
  
• The Honda driver was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries and later died. The Mazda driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the crash.
  
• Details: The deceased woman’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Riverside County Coroner’s Office. Anyone with information can contact the Palm Springs Police Department Traffic Division at 760-323-8125.

TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Water Aerobics
10 a.m. | Swim Center
Get some low-impact exercise at the swim center every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday with instructor Donna Newton! ($5)

California Community of Men’s Monday Coffee
4:30 p.m. | Social Cafe & Play Lounge
Join the group for coffee, chat, and chew! No RSVPs necessary.

Monday Night Dance Party with Leanna and Miguel
5 p.m.| V Wine Lounge and Martini Bar
Join Leanna and Miguel for a night of dancing to Jazz, Latin, Pop, Disco, and more. ($5)

PALS Circle
6 p.m. | Virtual
PALS (Planning Ahead for LGBTQ+ Seniors) Circle is an informal weekly Zoom drop-in for connection and support. There is no agenda, no topic – like getting together with friends every week. Reach out to the organizer at billymoss.pals@gmail.com for Zoom instructions.

Adult Tap Dance Class
6:30 p.m. | Leisure Center Dance Studio
Adult intermediate tap starts at 6:30 p.m., and “absolute beginners” adult tap is at 7:30 p.m. ($20)

See all events here

SAVE THE DATE

• Rock the Park with Bee Gees Forever on Jan. 7
  
• Wishing Well Benefit Concert for Well in the Desert on Jan. 12
  
• Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival on Jan. 24
  
• Palm Springs Speaks with Cheech Marin on Feb. 10
  
• Palm Springs International Jazz Festival from Feb. 19-22

Submit your event here

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AND FINALLY …

Palm Springs has launched a new online activities guide that might just inspire you to finally use that gym membership collecting dust in your wallet — or at least get you outside to enjoy the desert sunshine.

Driving the news: The Parks & Recreation Department has introduced P.L.A.Y. (Parks, Leisure, and Activities for YOU!), a digital guide showcasing recreational opportunities throughout the city for residents and visitors alike.

What’s inside: The guide features programs, classes, events, and activities spanning all ages and interests, from swimming and youth programs to fitness classes, special events, and outdoor adventures across Palm Springs’ parks and open spaces.

• The Winter Season edition highlights festive activities and serves as a central resource for what’s happening at community centers, pools, trails, and parks.

Why it matters: The department emphasizes that parks, leisure, and activities are essential to health, connection, and well-being — making this more than just a program listing.

Check it out: Visit the digital guide now at this link.