ABF Photo Contest Marks 20 Years

Award-Winning Cellist Ruslan Biryukov Performs Two Concerts in Julian

Community in Action: The Borrego Ministers Association

Californians have only four days left to enter the “Share Your Space” Photo Contest, which closes Aug. 1. California State Parks is inviting residents to submit photos taken at any of California’s 280 state parks. Participants may enter one photo in each of five categories: A Space for All A Wild Ride Heroes and Helpers Landscape and Legacy Living Wonders Winners will be selected based on creativity, quality and overall impact, with prize packages featuring outdoor gear and California State Parks merchandise. Participants must be California residents and submit their photos through OuterSpatial by Aug. 1, 2026 . Submit Photos Here

Extreme Heat Expected as Highs Near 121°F This Weekend Triple-digit temperatures are expected to continue through the week, with highs climbing from 111°F Tuesday and Wednesday to 114°F Thursday , 119°F Friday , and 121°F Saturday , according to the National Weather Service . Need a Place to Cool Off? The Borrego Springs Library is serving as a Cool Zone , offering an air-conditioned place to escape the heat. The library has also scheduled free Saturday matinee movies during August from 2–4 p.m. , providing another opportunity to stay cool while enjoying a film. Help Is Available for AC Problems The Borrego Ministers Association is continuing to work closely with licensed HVAC professionals to help residents experiencing emergency air conditioning failures. The program provides temporary portable AC units while evaluating longer-term solutions for qualifying households. With temperatures expected to remain above 110 degrees for several days, residents are encouraged to: Stay hydrated. Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Check on neighbors and older adults. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

www.youtube.com/@Desertusa

Photo by Kamala Venkatesh

Website: paulettedonnellon.com

How One Borrego Springs Household Manages Summer Electric Costs  Borrego Springs resident and writer Shannon Cheesman , creator of Under the Borrego Sky , recently shared how her household manages electricity costs during the desert summer. Her tips include using paid-off solar panels, avoiding laundry during peak hours, raising the thermostat while away, alternating between central air and a swamp cooler, and making monthly payments toward the annual SDG&E bill. Subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@under-the-borrego-sky Read more from Under the Borrego Sky, at: www.undertheborregosky.com