The Borrego Springs Welcome Sign Committee has launched the next phase of the project and released the final welcome sign concepts.

Borrego Springs pianist Steve T. Hunter shares a new solo piano album inspired by love songs from classic films. Borrego Springs pianist, arranger, and conductor Steve T. Hunter has released a new solo piano album titled Heartstrings Hotel, a collection of love songs from classic films arranged and performed by Hunter. With a career that has included performances at the Kennedy Center and conducting productions such as CATS and TOMMY, Hunter brings decades of professional experience to a project shaped in part by the quiet creative setting of Borrego Springs. The album is now available on Bandcamp and features 17 tracks inspired by cinema favorites including Cinema Paradiso, La La Land, The Notebook, Out of Africa, The Princess Bride, WALL-E, Shawshank Redemption, and more. Listen here

By Dennis Mammana Week of May 17-23, 2026 That brilliant light now glistening in the west at sunset is again the "star" of the show. It is, of course, the planet Venus, and this week it'll pair up with two other celestial wanderers: Jupiter and the moon. Jupiter, another very bright planet, has been descending farther to the west as the spring months progress, and it is now approaching a close encounter with Venus by the end of the month. This occurs because these worlds, along with the Earth, orbit the sun, and our constantly changing viewpoint makes them appear to drift slowly against the more distant and "fixed" stars. Over the next week, though, another solar system body will enter the scene: the moon. Since our celestial neighbor orbits the Earth once a month, we can see it change its position in the sky from night to night. Shortly after sunset on May 17, you might try searching very low in the west for the tiny and delicate crescent moon, but to find it, you'll need a very clear sky and a low horizon, and possibly binoculars. If you don't succeed, don't worry. It'll be pretty tough to spot, but if you wait until the next night, it'll be much easier to see. On the 18th, it will appear not far from Venus. Of course, the moon won't really be next to this planet; they will be separated by 124 million miles that evening, but since both lie roughly along the same line of sight, they'll appear together in the sky. For a really amazing view, check out the pair through binoculars! The following night, May 19, the moon will have moved eastward along its orbit and will appear about midway between Jupiter and Venus. If your sky is clear on May 20, check out the western sky again, and you'll notice that the moon is not only a significantly thicker crescent but now lies above Jupiter. Of course, this whole view is purely an illusion caused by our inability to see true depth in the cosmos, but it does result in a truly pretty picture. And speaking of pretty pictures, this week offers a good opportunity to try your hand at photographing the spectacle. Since the trio appears low enough in the sky at dusk, you can frame the scene with a foreground subject — a dramatic tree, building, sculpture or person, for example. You don't need fancy or expensive equipment to do this; just a regular camera or smartphone will do fine. You may find, however, that zooming in a bit will produce a more compelling image. If you shoot half an hour or so after sunset, you can probably trust the automatic settings of your camera or phone. Much later, though, you may need to adjust settings as you go because the light at dusk changes rapidly. Don't be afraid to experiment; if some photos turn out poorly, you can always hit "delete," and no one will ever know! I hope your skies are clear this week so you can enjoy the planetary sky show. And if you get some nice photos, please email me. I'd love to share your success!  Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. Learn More About Borrego Springs

Bill Wright’s Lasting Impact on Borrego Springs This tribute video reflects on the businessman, developer, and community supporter remembered across the desert community A tribute video created by Path 88 Productions is helping preserve the memory of longtime Borrego Springs businessman and community supporter Bill Wright, whose influence can still be seen throughout the desert community today. The video was created by Path 88 Productions , a Borrego Springs-based production company owned and operated by Alicia Wszelaki and Matthew Nothelfer. Through interviews and personal reflections, the video describes Wright as a visionary, entrepreneur, and someone deeply committed to Borrego Springs and its people. “He had a passion for Borrego, not just for its beauty and splendor, but for its people.” “He was a big idea man. He was a creator. He was an entrepreneur.” The tribute reflects on Wright’s decades of involvement in Borrego Springs, where he became known for supporting community projects, development, local organizations, and charitable efforts. “Every vision that he had, he brought it to fruition.” “Bill loved people, wanted to see good for everybody. He made it happen.” “You walk around, you see all the places that Bill had an impact.” The video closes with reflections from Wright’s son, who described his father as someone proud of what he accomplished and grateful for the life and work they shared together. “I like to see my tracks. I like to see what I’ve accomplished.” For many in Borrego Springs, the tribute serves as both a remembrance and a reminder of the lasting influence one person can have on a desert community.

The Bike4BorregoKids fundraiser is ongoing and continues to support graduating seniors at Borrego Springs High School with financial aid f

An extreme heat warning is in effect for the eastern edge of San Diego County, including Borrego Springs. The National Weather Service expects daytime highs to run well above average Sunday and Monday. Borrego Springs could reach about 103 to 104 degrees, while Ramona may see highs in the low to mid-80s. The heat is being caused by a strong high-pressure system. Temperatures are expected to ease by Tuesday, but another warmup may arrive later in the week. During extreme heat, the risk of heat-related illness rises. Residents and visitors should limit time outdoors, drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Did you know the Borrego Sun was established in 1949 and has documented Borrego Springs for more than 70 years? The newspaper has covered local life, community milestones, desert events, and stories from Borrego Springs, Julian, Ocotillo Wells, and the Salton Sea. In 1954, Copley Press purchased the Borrego Sun and helped modernize the paper during an important growth period for Borrego Springs. James Copley also played a role in promoting Borrego Springs as a desert resort community. Copley Press produced promotional films, featured Borrego Valley news, and helped bring wider attention to the area. The historic Borrego Sun building was built in 1960 and originally housed both the newspaper offices and a bank. Today, the Borrego Sun archive includes thousands of photos, articles, maps, and clippings that help preserve the story of Borrego Springs and the surrounding desert region. More is to come for the historic Borrego Sun.

Spend Memorial Day at Rams Hill Golf Club on Monday, May 25, with a full day on the course surrounded by the desert landscape of Borrego Springs. Players can enjoy morning rounds, a relaxed afternoon pace, food and drink specials, on-course games, and complimentary replays throughout the day. Special pricing: $120 — Military & First Responders $170 — All Players Whether you're planning a competitive round or simply looking to enjoy time with friends over the holiday weekend, Rams Hill offers a memorable Memorial Day experience in Borrego Springs.  Reserve your tee time: https://tinyurl.com/RamsHillMemorialDay

BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club

Families gathered at Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs as OLAX hosted its Cinco de Mother’s Day celebration, an evening focused on honoring mothers, culture, and community connection. The event featured performances by Eli Hernandez, Mia Lopez, BAMA Youth, and Folklorico Youth. Guests also enjoyed free drinks, quick snacks, gifts for mothers, and an opportunity drawing. Mothers attending the event were able to choose their own gifts. Volunteers prepared hundreds of items for moms, creating a thoughtful and welcoming experience for local families. Mothers also received corsages made by Christina Portillo.

Hundreds of Animals Rescued From Julian Sanctuary During Major Investigation San Diego Humane Society officials say hundreds of neglected animals are now receiving care after a large-scale rescue operation at Villa Chardonnay in Julian. Villa Chardonnay had been described online as an animal sanctuary focused on giving animals a safe place to heal and live peacefully. But investigators say the conditions they encountered on the 40-acre property revealed widespread neglect involving hundreds of animals. According to San Diego Humane Society, the rescue effort began after concerns about conditions at the property continued for years. The case was transferred from San Diego County Animal Services to SDHS in late April due to the scale of the situation and legal complications connected to bankruptcy proceedings.  Officials said a search warrant was served on May 1 after veterinary evidence documented severe neglect, including malnutrition, untreated injuries, infections, and lack of basic care.

Community joins global moment of reflection in Borrego Springs St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Borrego Springs marked World Labyrinth Day with visitors gathering throughout the day and at the shared “Walk as One” moment at 1:00 PM, joining others around the world in a quiet act of reflection and intention for peace. The church’s outdoor labyrinth, located just south of the main building, remained open all day, allowing people to walk at their own pace. Some came for a few minutes, others lingered, taking time in the center to pause, reflect, or pray. Fr. David Madsen described the experience as accessible to anyone. “You do not have to know the right words or follow a certain tradition. The labyrinth welcomes anyone seeking peace, clarity, or a moment to breathe.” Unlike a maze, the labyrinth offers a single path to the center and back out, encouraging a steady, intentional walk. “The labyrinth offers a quiet way to pause, pray, and listen for the presence of God in the stillness,” Madsen said. Modeled after the 11-circuit design at Chartres Cathedral, the Borrego Springs labyrinth sits in a peaceful desert setting that naturally invites stillness and reflection. Participants walked for many reasons, including seeking calm, releasing burdens, or simply taking a break from the pace of daily life. “In the desert quiet, the labyrinth becomes a place to release burdens, center the heart, and return to the world with peace,” Madsen said. World Labyrinth Day is observed globally each year, bringing people together through a shared act of walking with intention. In Borrego Springs, the day offered a simple but meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and step into stillness.

The emblem at Christmas Circle has been updated from the ram to the sun, along with a fresh coat of paint. Did you notice the update at Christmas Circle? The emblem has been refreshed, replacing the ram with the sun and adding a new coat of paint to brighten the sign. The work is maintained by the Christmas Circle Board, a local nonprofit that relies on community support. Frank Murillo, a board member and longtime resident, volunteers his time to keep the sign clean, current, and welcoming. His ongoing efforts are part of what helps maintain the appearance and pride of this central gathering place. Small details like this reflect the care people have for Borrego Springs—and the many volunteers who quietly keep things looking their best. The Board welcomes donations of all sizes to help continue maintaining Christmas Circle and its features for the community. Borrego Springs is fortunate to have dedicated individuals like Murillo helping preserve what makes the area special.

As the busy Borrego Springs season comes to a close and the community transitions into summer, the Rotary Club of Borrego Springs is reflecting on a year of meaningful impact. Through fundraising, partnerships, and volunteer efforts, the club continues to support programs that invest in students, develop leaders, and strengthen the community. A highlight of the season was the Mardi Gras gala fundraiser, which raised nearly $60,000 . Those funds are distributed throughout the club’s July–June fiscal year, supporting a wide range of local initiatives. This year, Rotary contributed to programs including the Christmas Toy Giveaway, the Youth and Seniors Center, Borrego Days Festival, the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association , the Borrego Springs History Museum, and the Borrego Ministers Association’s emergency air conditioner program, helping local families during extreme heat. Supporting Borrego youth remains a central focus. Rotary continues to fund scholarships for Borrego Springs High School seniors and students continuing their education, with a $50,000 allocation this year. Leadership programs such as Interact, RYLA, and LEAD also provide students with opportunities to build confidence, responsibility, and community involvement. Beyond Borrego Springs, the club remains active in international service, including long-standing support for an orphanage in Mexicali and contributions to Rotary International’s End Polio Now initiative. The Rotary Club has also launched a newly redesigned website , offering a clearer view of its work and making it easier for the community to stay connected. “Our Club is small but mighty — like Borrego itself,” said President Diane E.P. Johnson. “As we enter the new year, we intend to let the good times — and good works — roll on.” Save the date: The 2027 Rotary Gala will take place on February 6 at La Casa del Zorro — an event the community won’t want to miss.

A Unique Stop Just Outside Borrego Springs

Emmy-winning mixer Mark Hensley leads development on “Sundown at the Salton Sea,” the first flagship feature from the Blockreel Studios production pipeline EIN Presswire LOS ANGELES — Blockreel Studios, the production and distribution division of the filmmaker-owned operating system Blockreel DAO, announced the development of its first flagship feature film, Sundown at the Salton Sea. The project is being led by founding advisor and Emmy-winning re-recording mixer Mark Hensley (Genius: Picasso, The Last of Us), who serves as the project’s lead creative force. Sundown at the Salton Sea is an elevated gothic horror-thriller that weaves together a tragic 19th-century love story with a modern-day descent into terror. Bound by reincarnation, memory, and an ancient curse, the film explores the terrifying reality behind the myth of Nosferatu. As a group of friends becomes stranded in the California desert, they discover that the classic cinema legend was not fiction but a desperate, plagiarized attempt to exploit a real-world tragedy that has haunted the shadows of history for over a century. “Sundown at the Salton Sea represents a new hybrid model for independent cinema,” said Mark Hensley. “By utilizing Blockreel’s end-to-end production ecosystem during this development phase, we are creating a blueprint that allows for complete creative integrity while accessing a global network of vetted, high-caliber talent. We are building a model for how the next generation of features will be packaged and produced.” A new blueprint for independent production With a target budget of $5 million, the film serves as a lighthouse project for the Blockreel ecosystem. The production leverages Blockreel’s integrated infrastructure, designed to replace legacy industry fragmentation with a unified workflow: Vetted Talent Ecosystem: Utilizing Blockreel’s network of 560+ vetted professional filmmakers, including award-winning talent, to assemble the creative team. End-to-End Transparency: Incorporating decentralized production management to streamline transparent reporting, real-time budgeting, and global distribution workflows from the ground up. Industry-Standard Quality: Ensuring all creative and technical aspects meet the highest standards required by global theatrical and streaming partners. “Independent film is at an inflection point,” says Osman Arslan, founder and CEO of Blockreel DAO. “Hollywood output is shifting, and the next generation of breakout independent hits will come from creators who own their rails. With this feature, Blockreel Studios is moving from the platform layer to the production layer—delivering high-velocity, high-quality IP that the market is starving for.” The project currently serves as the anchor title for the Blockreel ecosystem, creating a closed-loop pipeline from development through to future exhibition.

Free compost and mulch available May 3–9 while supplies last.

Low counts, valuable research, and strong community support.

BSFI Free Movies Continue at BSPAC with May Screenings of Ordinary People and Mother

By Miriam Raftery www. eastcountymagazine.org April 28, 2026 (Borrego Springs) – “California’s largest state park — and one of the last true wild places in Southern California — could face one of the biggest industrial threats in its history,” states a website set up by the Anza-Borrego Foundation at https://theabf.org/park-threat/ . “A proposed 500-kV transmission line, the Golden Pacific Powerlink, could cut through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — impacting wilderness, wildlife habitat, scenic landscapes, dark skies, and cultural resources.” SDG&E released a proposed route map on April 13, 2026 and is accepting stakeholder feedback through early November 2026. You can learn more about what’s at stake, and how you can help defend the park, at the ABF’s site. Below are details. As ECM previously reported , including an interview with SDG&E’s manager for the project, the California Independent Systems Operator (CAISO) has identified the high-voltage line as necessary to meet the state’s future electrical needs. The line would begin at the Imperial County substation and end at a new substation to be built in Orange County. SDG&E’s proposed route would cut through the heart of California’s largest state park before traveling northeast along State Route 79 in the Warner Springs and Santa Ysabel areas, then into Riverside and Orange Counties. A 500 kV line is the highest-voltage class of transmission infrastructure built in California. The towers required to carry these lines can stand 150 to 200 feet tall, the height of a 15- to 20-story building with a cleared right-of-way stretching hundreds of feet wide. According to the ABF, “For context, the only existing transmission line within the Park today is a 69 kV line on modest wooden poles, barely visible against the landscape. That line was constructed before the Park was established in 1933 and before the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) existed (1970) — it would not be permitted today.” The cost of the line is an estimated $2.3 billion. Strong opposition to another SDG&E high voltage line, Sunrise Powerlink, led to rerouting of that line, which was also originally proposed to go through the state park. What you can do The ABF’s website recommends several actions for those concerned about the proposed route at https://theabf.org/take-action/ Right Now: Stakeholder Feedback Period (Through Early November 2026) Your participation now helps ensure stakeholders who care about the Park are part of the conversation before the project is formally submitted. Make a Donation : This work is costly and ABF needs your support to ensure we can continue to engage. Attend a Virtual Open House: SDG&E is hosting virtual open houses on May 12 and May 14, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. All sessions present the same content. Visit www.sdge.com/GoldenPacific to register or learn more. Attend an In-Person Open House: SDG&E will hold in-person community meetings later in 2026. Specific dates and locations will be announced. Show up and ask questions about impacts to the Park. Sign up here for updates Submit Stakeholder Feedback to SDG&E: Email the project team at GoldenPacific@sdge.com to share your input on the proposed route and raise questions about project impacts and the clean energy commitment (download letter template here) . Stay Informed: Sign up for email updates to receive the latest news on the project timeline, public meetings, and opportunities for engagement. Spread the Word : Share this page. Talk to your friends, family, and community. The more people who understand what is being proposed, the more informed the process becomes. Download our “Not Through Our Park” graphics to share and use on your social media profile. After the CPUC Application Is Filed (Expected Fall/Winter 2026) Once SDG&E submits its application, the project enters formal regulatory review. This is when the rigorous environmental and public review process begins under CEQA and NEPA, with multiple opportunities for public participation. Submit Written Comments to the CPUC: Email the CPUC at public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov or use the online Docket Card to submit your comments on the record. We will keep you informed when and how to do this when the time comes . File a Formal Protest: Within 30 days of the application filing, anyone can file a formal protest with the CPUC. Attend Public Participation Hearings: The CPUC will hold hearings where members of the public can speak directly to the decision-makers reviewing this project. Your testimony becomes part of the official record. Contact Your Representatives: Share your concerns about this project with your state legislators and the Governor’s office (download letter template here) . Help them understand what Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is, why it matters, and what is being proposed — so that the significance of this landscape is well understood as the project moves through the regulatory process in the months ahead . Find your State Senate and Assembly representatives here. Find your San Diego County Supervisor here. Find your Riverside County Supervisor here. Email Governor Gavin Newsom here. For questions or to get involved or volunteer, contact Anza-Borrego Foundation at info@theabf.org.

New state body will coordinate long-term restoration, habitat management, and air quality work  California launched the Salton Sea Conservancy this April to support long-term restoration work at the Salton Sea, California’s largest inland lake. The new conservancy was created through Senate Bill 583 and operates within the California Natural Resources Agency . The Conservancy is responsible for helping manage completed restoration and mitigation projects, including habitat and dust-control work. Its duties include managing land and property rights, including easements and water rights, within the Salton Sea region after projects are built. The Salton Sea has been shrinking as inflows have declined, exposing lakebed that can contribute to dust and air quality concerns in surrounding communities. Rising salinity has also affected habitat for wildlife, including birds that use the Pacific Flyway. State officials say the Conservancy is intended to strengthen coordination, provide long-term stewardship, and help sustain work already underway through the Salton Sea Management Program. That includes restoration projects designed to create habitat, reduce exposed playa, and address public health concerns tied to dust. The launch also included the appointment of a 20-member board with representatives from state agencies, Riverside and Imperial counties, local water districts, tribal groups, and public organizations. The board is expected to guide future planning and project priorities. The creation of the Salton Sea Conservancy marks a shift toward more centralized, long-term management of restoration, air quality, and habitat projects in the region.

Live Your Dream Awards Recognize Education and Determination at Ram’s Hill On Monday, April 27 at 9:30 a.m., Soroptimist of Borrego Springs hosted a buffet-style breakfast at Ram’s Hill Restaurant to recognize this year’s Live Your Dream Award recipients. With desert and mountain views surrounding the room, the gathering brought together community members to celebrate women working toward educational and career goals while supporting their families. “The Live Your Dream Award provides $1,500 in direct support to women, with opportunities to receive up to $5,000 at the regional level and $10,000 at the federation level. Applications are open from August 15 through November 15.” — Kathy Jorgensen Recognizing Determination and Progress This year’s honorees include: Graciela Castro, criminal justice Sandra Quintero, nursing Betty Gonzalez, culinary arts During the breakfast, all three recipients shared their stories, goals, and appreciation for the support. Their remarks reflected determination, gratitude, and the importance of education as they work toward stronger futures for themselves and their families.

“Thank You, Dolly”: 10 Years of Early Literacy in Borrego Springs Borrego Springs marked a milestone on April 9 with a community celebration of 10 years of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) , hosted by BASIC (Basic Assistance to Students in the Community). Held at Borrego Springs High School, the event brought together families, educators, and community partners to recognize a program that has quietly shaped early childhood learning across the valley. Why Early Literacy Matters The focus of the celebration was clear: early reading changes outcomes. Research shows that about 90% of a child’s brain develops before age five . During those years, children who are read to regularly are exposed to significantly more words, helping build language skills, reading ability, and readiness for kindergarten. These aren’t abstract benefits. They happen in everyday moments—reading on the couch, at bedtime, or in a parent’s lap—where children begin to associate books with comfort, curiosity, and confidence. What the Program Does Since 2015, the Borrego Springs Imagination Library program has mailed one free, age-appropriate book each month to enrolled children from birth to age five. The program is made possible through a partnership between The Dollywood Foundation, the State of California, and BASIC , ensuring there is no cost to families . To date, the program has: Enrolled 272 local children Delivered more than 6,475 books directly into homes Put into perspective, those books would stretch farther than the length of the dragon sculpture at Galleta Meadows—a “dragon made of storybooks.” Books That Mark the Journey Each child’s reading journey begins and ends with meaningful titles. The first book: The Little Engine That Could, Dolly Parton’s childhood favorite The final book: Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come!, preparing children for their next step Together, these books create a consistent and familiar pathway into reading. A Program Rooted in Personal Experience During the event, a short video shared Dolly Parton’s motivation for launching the program. Her inspiration came from her father’s inability to read, leading her to create the Imagination Library so children could grow up surrounded by books and a belief in their own potential. Local Impact: A Family Perspective The program’s impact was illustrated through local families, including Dylan Garcia and his mother, Leyssa . Leyssa shared that Dylan’s early language development was shaped in part by reading his Imagination Library books repeatedly from infancy. Dylan, now six, read a thank-you note during the event: “Thank you for helping kids like me get a book every month… My favorite book was The Gruffalo because it’s so fun and silly.” Community Recognition The event also highlighted the people who helped bring and sustain the program in Borrego Springs. Joann Stang , whose early research and advocacy led BASIC to adopt the program, was recognized for her role in making Borrego the first Imagination Library affiliate in San Diego County . Chrissy Green , Community Engagement Coordinator for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of California, spoke about Borrego’s place within the broader state network and noted the community’s strong participation. She also introduced Tom Stinson , representing Senator Kelly Seyarto’s office, who presented BASIC with a Certificate of Recognition from the California State Senate honoring 10 years of impact. A Community Effort The celebration reflected broad community support. Recognition was given to: BASIC board members and volunteers Local coordinators and program champions School district staff who supported the event Donors and partners who have funded the program over the past decade Looking Ahead While the milestone marks 10 years of progress, the need continues. New children are born in Borrego Springs each year, and families continue to move into the area—many of whom may not yet be enrolled. The message from BASIC was simple: the work continues. Families with children from birth to age five are encouraged to enroll and take part in the program. To learn more or support BASIC’s efforts, visit: www.borregobasic.com