March 29, 2024

Denny DuVall Update: A Borego Valley Original

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Denny DuVall and Henry the Truck Update

In this update, we're delving into the current happenings of Denny DuVall in 2024, a notable figure in Borrego Springs whose family history is interwoven with the town's own. The DuVall saga began in the 1930s when Denny's father, Ed DuVall, took a significant step by taking over the local store and post office, establishing the DuValls as key contributors to what was then known as Borego's development. This pivotal move not only marked the beginning of the DuVall family's enduring impact on the community's infrastructure and history but also set the stage for Denny's own journey in Borrego Springs.


Let's get started on the update now.

Denny and Henry at the Drone Zone Sanctuary

Henry Was A Hit At The Drone Zone Sanctuary

Denny DuVall's year began with an engaging event at the Drone Zone Sanctuary, a collaboration with Women And Drones, an organization dedicated to connecting women globally in the drone industry. Denny's exploration into drone technology and regulations was a highlight, showcasing his never ending and broad interests.


Amidst this, "Henry the Truck," Denny's iconic 1950 Ford Panel truck, captured the attendees' imagination, sparking discussions about Borrego Springs' history and Denny's own storied past.


Drone Shot By Eric Hanscom , Owner of Drone Zone Sanctuary Borrego Springs

Denny's Health Scare

Shortly after attending the drone event, Denny DuVall woke up early with what he assumed was severe heartburn, an unusual occurrence since heartburn for him typically follows eating closely. Given the unexpected timing, he prudently dialed 911. The Borrego Springs EMTs, upon evaluating Denny's condition, decided on an immediate airlift to Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage for advanced care. At the hospital, doctors identified Denny was suffering from a "Widowmaker" heart issue, a severe condition that necessitated the urgent placement of two stents to save his life.


Following another health incident, Denny DuVall made a second trip to the hospital, where he was prescribed anxiety medication to help manage stress and anxiety, supporting his shift towards a more contemplative and relaxed way of life. Though he hasn't needed to take the medication yet, Denny keeps it within reach, finding reassurance in knowing it's there if necessary.


Quick Recovery

Within 2 weeks after his health scare, Denny returned to his regular activities, spoiling his cat Mila, spending time with "Henry the Truck," his 1950 Ford Panel truck, and visiting familiar places like the Bargain Barn and the Borrego Springs Farmers' Market. Denny continues to enjoy the lifestyle his 22-foot Class C Lazy Daze motorhome offers, appreciating its convenience and freedom.


Additionally, Denny took an active role in the town's Writers' Week, sharing parts of his book and connecting with the creative outputs of fellow local artists. With the temperature on the rise, he's planning a seasonal move to Julian to avoid the desert heat, especially once it hits the 90-degree mark.


For those looking to connect with Denny, share a story, or simply say hello, he's open to all forms of friendly interaction. Feel free to reach out to him at dennyduvall09@gmail.com, give a friendly wave, snap a photo, or even honk your horn if you see him around; he enjoys it all.


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Catching up with Denny was Delightful


During our visit, we had the opportunity to assist Denny with his Facebook account, which had somehow been switched to Chinese (?) on both his phone and laptop. It was a puzzling situation that gave us a good laugh. This small tech fix allowed us to spend more time reminiscing and discussing Denny's recent experiences and future plans.

Learn More About Borrego Springs

January 21, 2026
The 13th Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped January 18, 2026, with sold-out screenings, red carpet moments, awards, and strong community turnout. The 13th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped up January 18, 2026, closing five days of independent cinema, conversation, and community energy. Events were held throughout Borrego Springs, including free screenings at the Borrego Springs Library and ticketed block screenings and awards ceremonies at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Borrego Springs Film Institute, the festival continued its traditional, theater-first format that brings people together to watch films in shared spaces and talk about them afterward. Several screening blocks sold out during the week, reflecting strong local interest and visiting attendance. That connection was clear during the live-streamed red carpet. Host Brianna Pinto described one of the festival’s defining qualities by saying, “Filmmakers get to interact directly with the audience,” noting that Borrego Springs draws viewers who truly watch and engage with the films. Filmmakers echoed that experience in different ways. A King’s Curtain director Grannan Johnson said it was especially meaningful to hear audience members tell him, “Oh yes, I saw your film,” calling Borrego Springs “a fun place to be” with “really nice, great people.” Documentary filmmaker Mitch Yapko (Watching Walter) described a moment when a full theater reacted together, saying the shared gasp from the audience made it clear they were fully engaged. The setting itself also left an impression. Actress Laura Bolin (Rage, Rhonda) called the enthusiasm of Borrego Springs audiences “contagious” and encouraged visitors to explore the landscape, describing the area as a place to “just wander” and take in the desert views.
January 18, 2026
Supervisor candidate Rebecca Jones met Borrego Springs residents at a BBQ luncheon at Rams Hill to discuss housing, education, busing, healthcare, and quality of life.
January 18, 2026
The 27th Annual Borrego Springs Golf Classic takes place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at de Anza Desert Country Club. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego , this annual event brings golfers, supporters, and community members together for a day of golf and giving in Borrego Springs. All proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the Borrego Springs Branch , supporting programs that help local youth succeed academically, build good character, and develop healthy lifestyles. The event features a scramble-style round of golf , on-course activities, auctions, and a hosted lunch. It’s designed to be both competitive and social, welcoming participants looking to enjoy a meaningful day on the course while supporting youth programs in the Borrego Valley. Sponsorship & Participation A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event and the Borrego Springs Branch. Sponsorships provide visibility throughout the tournament and help fund essential youth services. Event Details Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 Location: de Anza Desert Country Club 509 Catarina Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Registration and additional event details are available through the event website.  Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 16, 2026
Circle of Art: March 14–15, 2026
January 16, 2026
An Evening of Fine Dining, Scenic Views, and Live Music Whether shared with a partner or a group of close friends, Rams Hill’s Valentine’s Day dinner offers an elegant night out against the backdrop of the Anza-Borrego Desert. Guests will gather in the Santa Rosa Room for a thoughtfully prepared prix-fixe menu featuring locally inspired dishes—from the Urban Blend Berry Salad to a classic Surf & Turf entrée , and a decadent Mini Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake for dessert. Live music by Brooke Ramel adds to the ambiance, creating a warm, inviting setting for a memorable evening. Seating is limited, and this popular event fills quickly—plan ahead.
January 16, 2026
By Dennis Mammana 
January 16, 2026
Is a Super Bloom Coming to Anza-Borrego Desert? Fox 5 San Diego news recently spoke with Sicco Rood of the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center about the vibrant wildflowers beginning to appear across the region. While the landscape near Henderson Canyon is already bursting with purple desert verbena , desert sunflowers , and white dune primroses , this is technically a fall bloom —not yet the rare and famous Super Bloom . A true Super Bloom spans many more square miles and requires a perfect combination of well-timed rain , cool temperatures , no drought , and minimal wind . If these conditions align, early March could bring a spectacular bloom like the last major one seen in 2019 . For now, visitors can enjoy the peace and beauty of this early bloom, with fewer crowds and great photo ops in areas like Coyote Canyon and the Badlands . But remember, a heat wave or lack of rain could still cut the season short. Now’s a great time to visit—just in case nature doesn’t go full Super Bloom this year!
January 15, 2026
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