Jan. 6 Daily Briefing: Food co-op study, protecting immigrants, next star, and more

Happy Monday, everyone! This weekend, the city is holding yet another free shredding event at the Palm Springs Convention Center. But all this week you’re invited to drop off some of your materials at City Hall. According to the city’s website, the “pre-shredding” drop-off takes place today through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at City Hall at 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way (direct question to recycling@palmspringsca.gov). You can find the complete list of materials being accepted this weekend here, and also a reminder that if you have e-waste or bulky items you need to wait until the main event at the convention center on Saturday to drop them off.

🎶 Setting the mood:  “Debbie” by Your Smith

LEADING OFF

Group seeks Measure J funds for food co-op study

A Palm Springs neighborhood organization has applied for Measure J funding to study the feasibility of creating a food co-op in the northern portion of the city. The initiative aims to address the lack of accessible, affordable grocery options in an underserved part of Palm Springs.

Driving the news: Residents in neighborhoods in the northern section of the city approached the Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) seeking help to establish a supermarket in their community, citing a lack of healthy, affordable food options with convenient hours.

• A preliminary survey conducted by ONE-PS confirmed what many have known for years: there’s a strong need for improved grocery access in the area.

Why it matters: The $50,000 request would only fund a feasibility steady. Still, if it becomes reality, the proposed food co-op could fill a critical gap in food accessibility for an underserved population, potentially improving community health and well-being.

• The project aligns with efforts to address community needs that the city itself cannot directly provide.

What they’re saying: During a Measure J Oversight Commission meeting last month, ONE-PS board member Lisa Hoff explained that the proposed study would examine the sustainability and financial viability of a potential food co-op. It would also explore how the initiative could complement the city’s broader plans for larger retail developments in the area.

What’s next: The Commission will evaluate the proposal along with dozens of other community-initiated projects for potential funding. Final funding  recommendations are expected to go the City Council by the spring.

Dive deeper with our complete story 

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BRIEFLY

🏫 PSUSD Board passes immigration resolution

The Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD) Board of education passed a resolution ensuring equal access to education regardless of immigration status last month. The move reinforces existing federal and state laws protecting student privacy and prohibiting disclosure of personal information without consent.

• The resolution reaffirms that schools are “sensitive” locations where immigration enforcement activities are not conducted, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy.
  
  
• In addition, PSUSD sent notice to remind families that it does not maintain citizenship records for any of its students.
  
  
• Bottom line: In passing the resolution, district officials said they hope to reassure families that student privacy is a top priority and that schools are safe spaces for all students.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Palm Springs International Film Festival
The 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival continues today and there are screenings of films, new and old, as well as the festival’s “Talking Pictures” conversations with actors and directors. 

Mon Petit Salon
5 p.m. | Palm Springs Cultural Center
Enjoy an evening of live music from the award-winning team from the high desert: Mon Petit Mojave ($22)

CalComMen’s Monday Coffee
5 p.m. | Play Lounge & Café
Join the group for coffee, chat, and chew! No RSVPs necessary.

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. (“Two left feet are optional.”) ($20)

Fabulous Bingo
7 p.m. | Kings Highway at Ace Hotel
Join Bella Da Ball for a night of fabulous bingo. (Must spend $30 at Kings Highway to participate.)

SAVE THE DATE

• Rock The Park with Led Zepagain on Wednesday in Downtown Park.
  
  
• Free shredding at the convention center on Jan. 11.
  
  
• Coachella Valley Media Hall of Fame luncheon on Jan. 14.
  
  
• “A Very Sordid Wedding” at Palm Canyon Theatre starting Jan. 17. ($32)
  
  
• “The Light in the Piazza” at Coachella Valley Repertory starting Jan. 22. ($90)
  
  
• An Evening with figure skater Randy Gardner at the Cultural Center on Jan. 23. ($27)
  
  
• Desert Open Studios 2025 starting Jan. 24.
  
  
• Community Clean-Up event at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center on Jan. 25.
  
  
• Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival on Jan. 25.

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AND FINALLY …

Musical comedy legends Phil Ford and Mimi Hines are set to be honored with the 473rd star on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars, marking their seven-decade contribution to the entertainment industry.

Driving the news: The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce announced the unveiling ceremony for Ford and Hines’ star will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 21.

• The duo’s connection to Palm Springs is significant, with the city serving as their second home and a frequent venue for their performances.

Looking back: Ford and Hines rose to prominence in 1958 following a groundbreaking appearance on The Tonight Show. This led to collaborations with industry icons and headlining acts at prestigious nightclubs.

Details: The unveiling of Ford and Hines’ star will take place at 2 p.m. in Downtown Park. The event is open to the public.