Discover Borrego Springs

Free friendship bracelet workshop for kids ages 8–17 at Borrego Art Institute, Sunday, June 29, 1–3 PM. Drop in—no registration required.

BVEF Makes Borrego Stronger, One Gift at a Time The Borrego Ministers’ Association (BMA) has received a generous $10,000 grant from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF), a nonprofit dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and sustainability of the Borrego Valley and its residents. This grant will directly fund the BMA’s food coupon program, a practical support system for individuals and families facing hardship in Borrego Springs. These coupons are redeemable at local grocery stores—The Center Market and The Desert Pantry—ensuring that aid helps residents meet basic needs while supporting small, local businesses. BMA: Local Aid with Deep Roots The Borrego Ministers Association is a nonprofit coalition of local faith leaders and community members that quietly provides year-round assistance to residents facing crises. Their programs include emergency support for rent, utilities, transportation, food assistance, coordination of local charitable resources, and interfaith services that strengthen community connections. "In the hot summer, families really scramble to make ends meet, especially when they are let go from jobs in hospitality which slows down considerably," said BMA Chair Michael Plekon. "The BMA often can help them rearrange dollars so that rent and utilities don't put food and medication in jeopardy. Food coupons and the food bank can go a long way in helping." The BMA is often called upon when no other local option exists—ensuring that help reaches those in need swiftly, respectfully, and without red tape. A Partnership for Community Well-being The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund’s mission is closely aligned with the BMA’s work. Originally focused on ensuring quality healthcare in Borrego Springs, BVEF now also supports initiatives in community development and environmental protection. Their funding priorities include senior care, youth opportunities, skills training, housing, and food security—essential areas for a rural, unincorporated community like Borrego Springs. This grant for food support is part of BVEF’s larger commitment to promoting practical, local solutions that improve residents' quality of life. Gratitude for Local Impact The BMA extends its sincere thanks to the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund for this generous grant. Special appreciation goes to BVEF board member Jim Dion for helping facilitate the partnership. “We’re grateful for this show of support from BVEF,” said a BMA representative. “It helps us meet immediate needs while reinforcing the long-term strength and dignity of our community.” About the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund The BVEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Borrego Springs. The Fund supports health, well-being, and environmental stewardship throughout the Borrego Valley. Donations can be designated for specific needs or applied where most needed. To learn more, visit www.bvefund.org, email give@bvefund.org, or visit their office at 587 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 128.

Borrego Sun editor Jolene McGowan is expecting her first child and recently lost her husband. Support through GoFundMe and baby registry.

Paul Schuessler is named Borrego Springs’ 2024–2025 Legionnaire of the Year for his years of service to American Legion Post 853 and his quiet contributions to the wider community.

The Vial of Life gives them your medical details immediately, helping prevent delays, avoid drug interactions, and notify loved ones.

Astronomer Dennis Mammana Captures Stunning Rocket Sighting from His Front Yard On the night of June 16 , the skies over Borrego Springs lit up with a striking view of the Falcon 9 rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base —and local astronomer Dennis Mammana was ready. From his front yard, about 264 miles to the southeast of the launch site, Mammana captured the event on video, showing once again why Borrego Springs is one of the best places in California for skywatching.

$60 Rounds for Borrego Springs Residents This Summer Mondays just got better for Borrego Springs residents. Rams Hill Golf Club is offering $60 rounds of golf every Monday after 9:00 AM through the summer. Just show a valid local ID at check-in to receive the discount. Call (760) 767-3500 or stop by the Rams Hill Golf Shop to book your tee time. Set in the foothills of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Rams Hill is a Tom Fazio–designed course known for its lush fairways, elevated greens, and panoramic desert and mountain views. Consistently ranked among California’s top public courses, it offers a challenging and rewarding round in a quiet desert setting. Locals looking for a break from the heat can turn their Monday round into a full staycation with Rams Hill’s Stay & Play packages . It’s an easy getaway without the drive—offering new scenery, a peaceful night, and an early morning round with fewer crowds and cooler temps. Offer ends August 31. Valid local ID required at check-in.

June 16 Distribution Brings Relief—and Groceries—to Borrego Springs On June 16, the St. Barnabas Food Bank held its first indoor summer distribution at the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center , offering a cooler, more comfortable environment for both volunteers and recipients. With temperatures rising across the desert, the move from the church parking lot to the CRC made the process easier and safer for everyone. Inside, tables were filled with canned goods, fresh grapes, frozen chicken, and pantry staples. Volunteers welcomed each resident with a smile, scanned their check-in cards, and helped them gather the food they needed. Volunteer Diane Johnson made a point to hold boxes aside for those who couldn’t arrive during the regular window—particularly resort and golf course workers who often finish their shifts around 2:00 PM. Thanks to this kind of planning, even those with early morning jobs don’t miss out.

Celebrating the Class of 2025 On June 12, Borrego Springs High School hosted a heartfelt graduation ceremony for the Class of 2025, honoring academic achievement, leadership, and the support of the local school community. The stage was decorated in school colors, with festive balloon columns adding a celebratory touch as students prepared to walk. The simple setup reflected the care taken to honor the graduates. The ceremony began with “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by opening remarks from Ailene Arias and Abraham Arambula. Melanie Urquidez and Anthony Thompson led the Pledge of Allegiance. Superintendent Dr. Mark Stevens welcomed families and guests. Brenda Jimenez and Gaby Cole introduced graduation speakers Mrs. Victoria Baay and Mr. Francisco Ramirez. Academic honors were presented by Mr. Ramirez and Vice Principal Mr. Tim White. Valedictorian Melanie Urquidez and Salutatorian Valentina Villareal delivered meaningful reflections on their class’s journey. As each graduate’s name was called, diplomas were presented by Dr. Stevens, Mr. Steve Dunn, and Mrs. Baay. Staff seated nearby looked on with emotion, having supported many of these students from the beginning of high school. The celebration concluded with closing remarks from Mrs. Baay and a tassel-turning moment led by Abigail Gonzalez and Ailene Arias—officially marking the Class of 2025’s graduation.

Join the Borrego Springs Grief and Loss Support Group at The Mall Resource Center. Open to all, including locals and visitors, seeking comfort and understanding.

On June 12, the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) received a $5,000 donation from Rams Hill to support food, housing, and emergency aid for Borrego Springs residents.

The Borrego Springs Library was filled to capacity on June 5th as community members gathered for our Borrego Springs Community Revitalization meeting.

Local brainteasers and word puzzles now available online

A sustainable, affordable senior housing community is planned for Borrego Springs. See why it matters and how it will help local seniors thrive.