Celebrate St. Francis on his feast day, October 4, 2025 at the Blessing of Animals, at the Christmas Circle at 10am. Bring your pets!

BMA Late Summer/Early Fall Newsletter Father Michael Plekon, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, president, BMA Since the work of the Borrego Ministers Association (BMA) never takes a vacation, it’s time to tell what we’ve been up to lately. And it’s time as well to ask your help as we always do. You know doing good is never out of season. Just to remind us all, the BMA is the work of all God’s people—Methodist, Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran, Baptist, LDS, Jewish, Muslim, doubting, whatever faith you are or aren’t. All of us are “ministers,” not just Pastor Mateo Mamea, Fathers David Madsen, Michael Plekon or Tony Stanonik and other local pastors. Those who regularly meet on Zoom on Tuesdays are a cross section of the Borrego community, from Martha Deichler of the Community Resources Center (CRC) to Diane Johnson and Tammy Baker on the Water Board, Linda Stanley from Soroptimists, and Dale Jones of the American Legion, along with the pastors just named and other members like Pam and Mike McEvoy, George and Carole Thompson, Tery Neal, the Rev. Dr. George Abrams, Shirley Vialpando, and Joyce Merrick, our secretary and interim treasurer. Andrea McKenna is our gifted communications person. We check in with each other every Tuesday, pray for our sisters and brothers in need, go through the pastoral needs submitted since the last meeting, and review our upcoming events and services. Every month the Borrego Ministers Association provides about $4,000 in food coupons for The Desert Pantry and The Center Market. These coupons are distributed on Wednesdays at the Community Resource Center by Diana Fox. Each week, neighbors receive support through the “Let’s Go Borrego” program, operated by the CRC, to help offset medical transportation expenses. Donations also provide modest grants that help ease the burden of staggering utility bills and rent. This year, in coordination with a grant from the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, the BMA is administering a program providing temporary emergency AC units to families whose AC unit has broken down. These are “loaner” units, to be returned when home units are repaired or replaced, all this with the help of the HVAC business in Borrego. Those sisters and brothers who come to us are put in touch with County social workers to explore programs from which they might benefit. Likewise, people asking for help are connected with the food banks that operate every week at the CRC and St. Barnabas Church once a month. Connections to periodic dental and medical screening opportunities are made for our neighbors. The ways in which the BMA tries to assist neighbors is much larger. It can include connection with legal aid when a lawyer’s help is needed. Or consultation with a retired medical professional residing in Borrego. Connection with trained caregivers, with the English classes at the CRC and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors in town. BMA members have linked neighbors up with special assistance available through The American Legion for vets and Soroptimists for women heading households. It may get tiring, reading all these works of love that the BMA tries to do. But what you cannot see in this newsletter are the smiles, the faces that break into joy when we are able to help with overwhelming costs. Summer is a very tough time for Borregans. The 100+ temperatures are matched by increased utility rates. This comes on top of so many residents being laid off from the hospitality and related businesses till the winter/spring “season” of snowbirds and tourists returns in October. Despite setting aside a reserve fund for summer needs of our neighbors, we at the BMA see our funds depleting as we help sisters and brothers in need. The BMA has no paid employees, minimal operational costs, so virtually all contributions go directly to neighbors in need. Please consider renewing your contribution or making one if you have not. Doing so makes, as the prophet Isaiah says, “the desert burst forth in flowers.” ~Father Michael Plekon, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, president, BMA >> Please consider donating to the BMA

As a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, the store's proceeds benefit the Borrego Springs Children's Center, making every purchase impactful and meaningful. 

Find the class schedule for Borrego Academy of Music & Art. Explore music and art programs for all ages in Borrego Springs. Get involved today!

Friday, October 17, 2025 • 7 p.m. BSPAC presents blues legend Doug MacLeod , a storyteller extraordinaire whose soulful vocals, masterful guitar playing, award-winning songwriting, and unforgettable live presence have captured the hearts of blues lovers worldwide. Why You Can’t Miss This Doug MacLeod delivers performances rich in narrative and authenticity. A multiple Blues Music Award winner, he received the 2024 award for Acoustic Album of the Year (Raw Blues 1) and the 2023 award for Acoustic Artist of the Year. In 2025, he received two additional nominations for Acoustic Artist of the Year and Acoustic Album of the Year (Raw Blues 2). His 2022 release A Soul to Claim was named an Album of the Year by DownBeat Magazine. Over his long career, Doug’s songs have been covered by legends including Albert King, Albert Collins, Joe Louis Walker, and Eva Cassidy. His music has also been featured in film, television, and on stage productions. 

Borrego Springs CRC Food Bank offers weekly groceries, monthly health services, and improved facilities with help from community grants and donations. Open to all.

DAP Health’s Mobile Dental Unit will be in Borrego Springs on Sept 16, 10am–3pm, offering free dental screenings and protective treatment.

Explore Summer Novas at The Gallery at The Palms, May 3–Sept 28. Featuring Rebecca Duckworth, Debbie Gallerani, and Tom Bertolotti. Artist reception May 3.

Borrego Springs Groundwater Overview

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

DAP Health provided free screenings and support today at Borrego Springs Community Resource Center. Visit borregocrc.org for future events.

Apply by November 15 for the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award If you’re a woman living in Borrego Springs, Warner Springs, Salton City, Ocotillo Wells, or Julian , and you are working to improve your life through education, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award is here to support you. This grant offers $1,000–$4,000 in financial assistance to help cover education-related expenses. The deadline to apply is November 15 . About the Live Your Dream Award The Live Your Dream Award , presented by Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs , provides financial help to women who are: The primary financial support for their families Enrolled in an undergraduate or vocational training program Experiencing financial need Funds can be used for a variety of expenses, including: Tuition and school books Transportation or gas Childcare Uniforms or tools needed for school or work A previous recipient shared, “The award helped me a lot with gas money and to get uniforms and tools for school and for work.” Who Should Apply You are eligible if: You are a woman with financial need You are the main financial support for your family You are currently enrolled in a vocational training or undergraduate program You live in Borrego Springs, Warner Springs, Salton City, Ocotillo Wells, or Julian How to Apply Deadline: November 15 Apply online at: www.soroptimist.org/LYDA-apply

Coyote Steakhouse is open for summer Fridays and Saturdays from 5:00–8:30 PM. Prime rib, steaks, seafood, prix fixe menu, and specialty cocktails available.

Food Bank Partnership Serving Borrego and Beyond

A Community Effort to Reflect Our Shared Spirit The Borrego Springs Welcome Sign Committee is leading a long-awaited effort to replace the aging “Welcome to Borrego Springs” signs with designs that better reflect the vibrant, diverse, and welcoming spirit of the community today. Below is their message, shared with residents, local organizations and businesses, explaining how you can be part of this legacy project.

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:

When you shop in Borrego Springs, you're not just supporting local businesses—you now have the opportunity to invest in the future of our community's youth.

The countdown is on for Borrego Days 2025! This year's Desert Festival takes place October 18–19, 2025 at Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs. The event is free to attend and packed with community favorites, new additions, and live performances. Dates: October 18–19, 2025 Parade Theme: Hometown Happiness Location: Christmas Circle, Borrego Springs Full Schedule & Details: BorregoDays.com 2025 Festival Entertainment Lineup Subject to change. For the most current schedule, visit: borregodays.com/festival-events-schedule Saturday, October 18 Highlights 8:45 AM – National Anthem by Robin Young Along the Palm Canyon Drive parade route. 8:50–9:00 AM – Multi-plane Flyover A stunning aerial display over Palm Canyon Drive and Christmas Circle. 9:00–10:00 AM – Borrego Days Parade Theme: Hometown Happiness. Bring a chair and watch from the curb. 10:00 AM – Festival Grounds Open Including food stations, booths, an expanded Kids Zone, and the Shine & Show Car/Vehicle Show. Saturday Entertainment Lineup (Main Stage) 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM – Al Williams Quintet 12:35 – 1:00 PM – Community & Chamber Awards Includes parade and car show winners. 1:00 – 3:15 PM – Stone Horse First time in Borrego—don’t miss their unique sound. 3:20 – 5:35 PM – Pulp Vixen All-female band performing in English and Spanish. 5:40 – 7:45 PM – PHT and the Honky Tonk Nights Close out Saturday with high-energy modern country music. The Beer Garden stays open until 8:00 PM Festival grounds close at 8:00 PM. Come back Sunday! Sunday, October 19 Highlights 9:30 AM – Festival Grounds Reopen Morning performance to be announced. 10:15 AM – 12:15 PM – TBA 12:20 – 2:30 PM – Disturbing The Piece A local favorite band that always draws a crowd. 3:00 PM – Festival Ends See you at Borrego Days 2026! What’s New This Year Live Coverage by The RAM Radio Borrego Valley Community Radio will broadcast from the festival all weekend long. Expanded Kids Zone More activities and games for all ages. More Food Options From food trucks to local vendors. New Vendors & Booths Explore a variety of art, crafts, information, and services. Extended Beer Garden Hours Saturday’s beer garden stays open until 8:00 PM. 

Discover the top night sky events in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park this July 2025, including the Full Buck Moon, a Moon–Saturn–Neptune alignment, and a dramatic Moon–Mars conjunction—ideal for stargazers, photographers, and night hikers.

Free, Fun, and Full of Energy in 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.

Jinny Perrin receives the 2025 Lay Member Recognition Award from the UMC South District for decades of music ministry and service in Borrego Springs.

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's Jim Dion and his role in facilitating 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.

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.

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.

Community Rallies Behind Austrian Cyclist Training for RAAM  You might have seen a focused cyclist zipping around Borrego Valley over the past few weeks. That rider is Lukas Kaufmann , a world-class athlete from Austria who’s chosen Borrego Springs as his training ground for the upcoming Race Across America (RAAM) —a 9-day, coast-to-coast endurance race starting June 10 in Oceanside and finishing June 19 in Atlantic City. Track his ride here: trackleaders.com/Team_Kaufmann While Peter Kellner was also out riding with his wife Tammy Baker , he spotted Lukas and could tell right away he wasn’t just another visitor getting in a few desert miles. Peter tracked him down, learned his story, and turned that curiosity into action. The result? A spontaneous community celebration: “Borrego Cheers for Lukas!”

Sylvia Maas Ride Updates On June 1, 2025, Sylvia Maas, an ultra-endurance cyclist and Soroptimist from Borrego Springs, will embark on the Trans Am Bike Nonstop Check Point Edition (3,500 miles), a self-supported, coast-to-coast cycling challenge starting in Astoria, Oregon. Her mission is to raise funds for the "Bike 4 Borrego Kids" scholarship program, supporting Borrego Springs High School seniors pursuing higher education.

Community nonprofit completes construction phase, seeks funding for equipment The Borrego Springs Music Festival and its educational arm, the Borrego Academy of Music & Art (BAMA), have completed construction on a new recording studio in downtown Borrego Springs. The buildout included soundproofing and a technician window, with oversight provided by John Young, BAMA’s Technical Director and Vice President of the board. The studio is the latest milestone in the organization’s mission to provide music education to youth in a region where none of the local schools—elementary, middle, or high school—offer a formal music program. Borrego Springs serves a population of approximately 2,500 residents, and 87% of the 358 enrolled students in the school district are considered socioeconomically disadvantaged. John Young, a 34-year science center veteran and longtime volunteer, helped launch the studio space as part of his ongoing work with the music festival and its education efforts. He also teaches courses in piano, digital recording, and technology. 

The House of Borrego Springs West Gallery will be closed for summer break from June 1 through September 30, 2025. The gallery will reopen with new exhibitions on October 1, 2025. For inquiries during the break, please contact: 760.443.3300 houseofborregosprs@sbcglobal.net

Borrego Springs honors fallen service members with a Memorial Day ceremony at Christmas Circle, followed by lunch at American Legion Post 853.

Now hiring: Borrego Valley Endowment Fund is seeking an Executive Director to lead community development and nonprofit strategy in Borrego Springs.

Weekly $25 food coupons are available every Wednesday in Borrego Springs through the Borrego Ministers Association at the Community Resource Center.

14 Local Seniors Just Got Scholarships from Sylvia Maas.

Taking on the 2025 Trans Am Bike Nonstop Check Point Edition

Every third Monday of the month, the Food Bank at St. Barnabas comes to life as volunteers set up tables and prepare for the truck’s arrival.

Starting April 2025, a brand-new season of Free Community Screenings kicks off—thanks to generous support from the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund.

Now selling organic eggs in Borrego Springs! Riviera Farms offers free-range, soy-free eggs laid by happy hens. Taste the difference, order today.

Community Turns Out for Mobile Dental Screenings at CRC