Mayor honors local leaders with Spirit of Palm Springs Awards
The awards highlight what Mayor Ron deHarte called the small business people who “are truly the backbone of our community and our economy.”
Mayor Ron deHarte presented September’s Spirit of Palm Springs Awards to local business leaders and community contributors Thursday at Palm Springs City Hall, recognizing individuals and businesses whose work has made positive contributions to the city through entrepreneurship, community service and cultural leadership.
“These remarkable honorees represent the entrepreneurial spirit, compassion, and commitment to excellence that make Palm Springs such a special place to live, work, and visit,” deHarte said.
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Lily Rodriguez, artistic director of the Palm Springs International Film Society, received recognition for her leadership of the organization. Rodriguez is the first Latina to serve as artistic director in the film society’s history and has been instrumental in overseeing artistic decisions while ensuring diverse cinematic styles and genres are represented.
“This community means a great deal to me, and I feel every day, really lucky that I get to contribute through the Film Society to the creativity and the spirit that makes the city so special,” Rodriguez said.
Pedro Rodriguez, executive director of the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, was honored for his three decades of work in affordable housing development. Rodriguez has been instrumental in the coalition’s mission to improve living conditions for low-income individuals and families, having facilitated the development of thousands of housing units throughout the region.
“This year it has been 30 years since we completed the Coyote Run Apartments, affordable housing for residents of Palm Springs,” Rodriguez said. He noted that some original residents have remained in the community for the full 30 years, with their children growing up and staying in the development.
Erica Flannery, owner of Cafe La Jefa, was recognized for creating a community gathering space in Downtown Palm Springs. Flannery, described as a veteran of the local hospitality and design scene, opened her Mexican-inspired coffee shop during the pandemic and has transformed an old bank into the Flannery Exchange, which supports small businesses.
Spencer’s Restaurant was also honored for 25 years as a Palm Springs landmark, recognized for exceptional dining and community leadership. Marcel Ramirez, owner of Gabino’s Creperie, was selected for recognition but was unable to attend the ceremony.
The awards highlight what deHarte called the small business people who “are truly the backbone of our community and our economy.”
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