July 15: Free Screening of The Great McGinty at BSPAC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE $10,000 awarded to seven Borrego Springs students pursuing health and wellness careers. Functionally Fit for Life has awarded $10,000 in scholarships to seven Borrego Springs students pursuing careers dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others. Through a partnership with the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF), which served as fiscal sponsor and administrator of the scholarship program, 100 percent of donated funds were distributed directly to scholarship recipients. BVEF waived all administrative fees, ensuring every dollar raised supported local students. Originally established to support students pursuing degrees and careers in kinesiology, exercise science, and nutrition, the scholarship program expanded this year to recognize the strong interest among Borrego students pursuing careers in healthcare. As a result, two scholarship categories were created. Category 1: Kinesiology, Exercise Science, and Nutrition Scholarships ($2,000 each) This year's recipients are: Peter Rodriguez , who recently completed his sophomore year at Palomar College and is pursuing a degree in kinesiology with plans to attend physical therapy school. Angel Vilchis , who earned an associate degree in University Studies in Health and Fitness from Palomar College and plans to transfer to California State University San Marcos to complete a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and pursue a career in physical therapy. Christopher Alcaraz Arias , a recent Borrego Springs High School graduate who plans to attend Palomar College and pursue a degree in kinesiology with the goal of becoming an athletic trainer. Category 2: Healthcare Career Scholarships ($1,000 each) This year's recipients are: Abigail Gonzalez , who completed her freshman year at Chico State University and is completing prerequisite coursework for admission to the university's nursing program. Anavey Gonzalez , a recent Borrego Springs High School graduate who plans to attend California State University Fullerton and pursue a career as an MRI technician. Lylamae Gutierrez , who recently graduated from Borrego Springs High School and is enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College pursuing a nursing degree. Evelyn Cordova , who recently graduated from Borrego Springs High School and is enrolled at Mt. San Jacinto College studying diagnostic medical sonography. “All seven recipients have chosen a career in which they will have significant positive impacts on people’s lives—physically, mentally and emotionally—and I am thrilled we were able to support them in the pursuit of their dreams,” said Mike Puzzo, founder of Functionally Fit for Life. “What makes philanthropy so meaningful is that it allows a community to invest directly in the dreams, ambitions, and futures of its people,” said Anna ABatzoglou, Executive Director of the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund. “Scholarships like these send a powerful message to students: we see your hard work, we're proud of what you've accomplished, and we're rooting for your success. We're grateful to Functionally Fit for Life for making this opportunity possible and honored to help support these students as they pursue their education and career goals." About Functionally Fit for Life Functionally Fit for Life is dedicated to promoting health, fitness, and wellness while supporting educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in kinesiology, exercise science, nutrition, healthcare, and related fields. About the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund is a community foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life in Borrego Springs through philanthropy, healthcare access, community investment, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the future of the community Learn More Community members interested in learning more about future philanthropic opportunities that support Borrego Springs, are encouraged to contact the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund at info@bvefund.org or at (760)-315-8330. 

A Hollywood fun fact courtesy of longtime Park Ranger Fred Jee.

Don't Miss These Summer Night Sky Events

Celebrating another year of exceptional performances while bringing free concerts to local school children.

Looking for a fun way to cool off this week? Escape the heat and enjoy Raiders of the Lost Ark on the big screen Wednesday, July 1 at 7 p.m. at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (BSPAC) . Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and admission is free . The comfortable, air-conditioned theater is the perfect place to relax, see friendly faces, and enjoy one of the greatest adventure films ever made. This free community screening is presented by the Borrego Springs Film Institute , with support from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund . See you there!  Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center 590 Palm Canyon Drive, ​Borrego Springs, CA, 92004

The historic farm offers fresh local products, farm tours, and a chance to experience sustainable agriculture in the heart of the desert. Riviera Farms continues to bring new life to one of Borrego Springs' historic properties. Originally established in 1975 by Knute and Gloria Quvale , the 22-acre farm has been revitalized with a focus on regenerative agriculture, sustainability, and caring for rescued animals. Visitors can stop by the farm to purchase fresh products, meet the animals, and take a tour of the property. For those who can't make it in person, many of the farm's products are also available through its online store. Riviera Farms offers a growing selection of organic eggs, seasonal produce, herbs, nopales, handcrafted seasonings, soaps, bath products, honey, apparel, and other farm-made goods . Inventory changes throughout the year based on what's in season and available. Supporting Riviera Farms means supporting a local Borrego Springs business that is helping preserve the community's agricultural heritage while producing fresh, locally grown products. To learn more, schedule a tour, or browse available products, visit rivierafarms.com . Riviera Farms 2021 Borrego Springs Rd. Borrego Springs, CA 92004

East County Performing Arts Association unveils six shows for its fifth season in Julian.

The Dutch monarch’s quiet visit to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park remained largely unknown until months later.