Gente de Borrego Springs

Watch the video to hear Briem Cole's story and learn about his goals.

Michael and Julia Johnson take top honors in Borrego Springs Michael Johnson and Julia Johnson were named the winners of the 2026 Peg Leg Smith Liars Contest, held March 7 at American Legion Post 853 in Borrego Springs (circa 1916). Their winning performance, The Ballad of Peg Leg Smith , mixed music, costume, and tall-tale humor in a way that captured the spirit of one of Borrego Springs’ most distinctive traditions. Michael opened by noting that he had won the contest the previous two years, making this his third straight victory. This year also marked the first time he and Julia Johnson performed together. In the act, Michael sang The Ballad of Peg Leg Smith , while Julia appeared as Sister Mary Virgin Cleopatra Gamora, adding to the comic stage presence that helped set the performance apart. The performance played to the crowd with a mix of desert references, Borrego humor, and Peg Leg mythology. Johnson wove in mentions of local places, wild desert characters, and the enduring mystery of Peg Leg Smith’s lost mine, all while leaning into the exaggerated storytelling style that defines the contest. The finale brought the act back to its central idea: “We never found his mine, but we loved his mystery.”

BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club

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SHORT | 24:35 | THE 2026 BSFF COMMUNITY FILM!

 Host Your Special Occasion Looking for a unique desert venue? Yellow Woman Ranch offers stunning sunsets, open desert views, and versatile spaces — perfect for weddings, quinceañeras, and special celebrations. Call 760-399-7159 or visit Yellow Woman Ranch to learn more.

Thank you Susan L Forsburg for sharing your photos of Patrick.

Coming Soon!

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

La Casa del Zorro has named Borrego Springs local Tony Cecena as its new General Manager. A familiar face in the local hospitality industry, Tony brings more than two decades of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the community he’s always called home. Cecena began his hospitality journey as a high school student working in guest services at La Casa del Zorro. Now, after 22 years at Borrego Springs Resort—rising through the ranks and managing multiple departments—he’s come full circle, returning to where it all started. In his own words, here’s what Tony shared about his background, vision, and commitment to Borrego Springs:

Camp Firelight returned to Borrego Methodist Church after 14 years, offering Bible stories, science, crafts, and fun for local children of all ages.