Rams Hill Gives: Student Scholarships

Artists painted live during the Plein Air Quick Draw at Rams Hill in Borrego Springs.

BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club

Event Raised $65,000 Borrego Springs Rotary held a Mardi Gras–themed fundraiser on February 7, raising about $65,000 to support local scholarships and Rotary programs. Rotary Club President Diane Johnson welcomed guests and highlighted Rotary’s work in the Borrego Springs community. The event was also supported by Rotary Foundation leadership, separate from Rotary club leadership. The evening centered on education support and featured live and silent auctions , raffles, and community gathering activities. Auction items included hosted dinners, private chef experiences, original artwork and photography, handcrafted quilts, wine collections, spa packages, and gift certificates donated by local businesses and individuals. Several packages drew competitive bidding throughout the night. One of the most sought-after offerings was a private chef experience led by Chef Kurt Hauser of de Anza Country Club . Final bidding for the experience went to Jimmy Smith , of the upcoming Jimmy’s Front Porch Revue . Beverages also reflected local support. Beer was supplied by Julian Beer Co . , and wine was donated by Borrego Outfitters . Food, service, and décor were provided by Rams Hill Golf Club , with Jessica , Food and Beverage Manager, and Chef Eduardo overseeing hospitality and event operations. The Mardi Gras theme carried through the program, with music DJ’d by Mike Rue and a costume element judged by high school S-Interact students along with Miss Borrego and her court. Monica Rue was named Best Dressed. Raffles ran throughout the evening and included donated baskets, wine and dining packages, nursery gift certificates, and spa services. Participation in both the raffles and auctions contributed to scholarship funding. During the program, Rotary Foundation President Martha Deichler and the event auctioneer noted that local students often rely on multiple sources of scholarship support to continue their education. “Our students rely on multiple scholarships from Rotary, BASIC, Soroptimist, and Bike4BorregoKids to make it work,” Deichler said. Rotary’s scholarship structure was also outlined, noting that awards can increase as students continue their education. “First-year students receive $1,000. If they stay in school with good grades, the amount increases each year,” the speaker said. A student scholarship recipient described how community scholarships directly affect their ability to remain enrolled. “I don’t receive financial aid through FAFSA, so scholarships like this are how I’m able to continue my education,” the student said. “Every scholarship helps reduce the burden on my family.” S-Interact students assisted throughout the evening, and members of the Miss Borrego Court supported event activities and engagement. The February 7 fundraiser continued Borrego Springs Rotary’s local focus on education, service, and community-based fundraising.

Photo Courtesy of Chad Foreman / Riviera Farms, Borrego Springs

Located at the Borrego Community Resource Center

Live Music at Rams Hill Clubhouse Brooke Ramel will perform live at Rams Hill Clubhouse on February 13 and 14. Event type: Live music performance Dates: February 13 & 14 Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Location: Rams Hill Clubhouse Dining: Special Valentine’s Dinner offered Reservations: Recommended Brooke Ramel is an award-winning independent artist with more than 20 years of touring experience, 6 original albums, and 50+ TV and film placements. She is known for her honest songwriting and engaging live performances. She has shared the stage with artists including Christopher Cross, Peter Cetera, Don McLean, Judy Collins, Shawn Colvin, Richard Marx, Colin Hay, Air Supply, Sophie B. Hawkins, and Chris Botti, among others.

Strengthening Health Care in Borrego Springs

Holiday Gift Event in Borrego Springs On Sunday, December 14 , families gathered at Christmas Circle for the annual Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway , a holiday event organized by OLAX – Organización de Latinx de Borrego Springs in collaboration with community partners. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived at the event aboard a Borrego Springs's San Diego County fire truck , while the Grinch made an appearance in a decorated truck , interacting with children throughout the afternoon. Holiday music played during the event, creating a seasonal backdrop as families moved through the activities. The Event was Open to all Families Children met Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos, received a stuffed animal, and then walked through a decorated toy tunnel , where they selected a gift to take home. Free cookies and hot chocolate were provided for everyone. Volunteers assisted with greeting families, guiding children through each station, and supporting gift distribution to ensure that each child received an age-appropriate gift in an organized and efficient way. Volunteers included members of OLAX , Miss Borrego and the Princesses , and S-Interact students , a Rotary–Soroptimist youth service group. Their coordination helped the event run smoothly and safely. The Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway reflected continued community collaboration in Borrego Springs, bringing together local organizations, volunteers, and families for a shared holiday tradition.

Learn about the Borrego Caregiver Corps, the community need it serves, caregiver training, key benefits, and future plans for supportive programs in Borrego Springs.

Music, fun, and community at BAMA The Borrego Springs Music Festival invites adults to Thursdays for Grown-Ups, a weekly gathering of music, learning, and good company. Starting in Nov, enjoy adult-only classes: Ukulele Group: 3–4 PM Guitar Workshop: 4–5 PM Jam Session: 5–7 PM Sharpen your skills, meet fellow musicians, and play together in a relaxed, encouraging space.  All are welcome! Location: BAMA (Borrego Art and Music Association) Please note: BAMA is a family-friendly venue — no alcohol or drugs permitted. Learn More About Borrego Springs

Borrego Springs Thrifting for a Cause: Support Veterans at Bargain Barn.