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🌱 Patch AM: Did a Pride banner debate crack the Valley’s LGBTQ “safe bubble”?

Coming up: HOLIDAY HOOTENANNEY! with Desert Hot Things on the Palm Springs Patch calendar

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Hey there, Palm Springs! Let's get started with what's happening in and around town. Read on and stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Did a Pride banner debate crack the Valley’s LGBTQ “safe bubble”?
  • Did you feel Friday morning’s Anza quake in Palm Springs?
  • How are Palm Springs shoppers mixing big-box returns with local finds?

Also on today's calendar: A Very Sinatra Christmas Special at The Saguaro and 2 more events.

Find out what's happening in Palm Springsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did the balloon say to the doctor? 🤔 (Answer below!)

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Find out what's happening in Palm Springsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Weather forecast:

  • Sunday: Mostly sunny and pleasant, with a high of 77 and low of 55 degrees.
  • Monday: Nice with sun, some clouds, temps: high: 76, low: 56.
  • Tuesday: Chance of a p.m. shower, with a high of 71 and low of 55 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Local LGBTQ leaders discuss impacts of political climate on community mental health (kesq.com) — LGBTQ leaders in Palm Springs and the wider Coachella Valley say recent political debates, including a failed push in Palm Desert to end official Pride Month recognition, are straining community mental health. After more than 50 residents spoke against rescinding the Pride banner, advocates warn the region’s long-standing “safe bubble” feels less secure and are urging continued attention to local support systems.
   

2. Update: Earthquake of 3.4 magnitude registered near Anza, CA on Dec. 19 (fresnobee.com) — Palm Springs residents reported feeling weak shaking from a 3.4-magnitude earthquake centered near Anza early Friday morning, according to the USGS. While no damage is reported, officials urge locals to use this as a reminder to review earthquake safety steps like drop, cover, and hold on, and to file a USGS “Did You Feel It?” report if they noticed the tremor.
   

3. Shopping local as holiday returns become more challenging at major retail stores (kesq.com) — Holiday shoppers across the Coachella Valley, including Downtown Palm Springs and the Uptown Design District, are weighing big-box return policies against the benefits of buying local. Extended return windows at major chains contrast with the unique gifts, lighter crowds, and community impact offered by neighborhood boutiques and markets. Many residents are blending both options to finish their 2025 holiday lists.
   

4. Palm Springs has always been festive at Christmas. See historic photos (desertsun.com) — Palm Springs has long turned its sunny, snow-free winters into a uniquely festive holiday season, from decorated cacti and smoke trees to glamorous hotel parties. This historical look back traces midcentury Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, culminating in the city’s early Tournament of Roses Parade floats, including a Walt Disney–designed winner that showcased desert living to the nation.
   

5. A Cadillac and a Cactus Walk Into a Bar . . . (classiccars.com) — New public art fans will recognize “Cadillactus,” the Cadillac-inspired sculptures now installed between Palm Springs Airport and downtown, created by Swiss artist Roger Reutimann for the city. The illuminated, cactus-like forms echo 1959 Cadillac fins and taillights, blending local desert flora with classic Detroit design and recently earning a national people’s choice art award.
   

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Pets in Recovery
    We are seeking a temporary home for Jerry, a 3-year-old shepherd who is sociable with other dogs, potty-trained, and neutered. A 3-week foster… (Nextdoor El Rancho Vista Estates)
  • Christmas Giving.
    Our families have so much so we try to donate to those who don’t. My spouse saw Vons beans on sale for 69 cents a can. He said let’s but 100 and… (Nextdoor Tahquitz Creek Golf)
  • Oakview Group posted a job opening for Bar Back | Part-Time | Palm Springs Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs. Apply here.
  • Hyatt Hotels Corporation posted a job opening for Bartender - Lola Rose, Grand Mezze in Palm Springs. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Palm Springs here.

Ok Palm Springs! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I feel lightheaded!
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