Author: KESQ

City News Service

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – In an effort to promote the city of Palm Springs’ objectives of health, wellness and year-round recreation, city officials will expand the swim center’s hours of operation starting next month, it was announced today.

“This exciting change comes in response to growing community interest and a commitment to providing greater access to aquatic programs and recreational swimming,” officials said.

The swim center, at 405 S. Pavillion Way, will launch the new hours Sept. 22, and it will vary depending on the day. The hours will be 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.   

“We’re excited to offer more flexibility for our residents and visitors to enjoy the swim center,” Parks and Recreation Director Nicholas Gonzalez said in a statement. “Whether you’re an early riser looking to swimbefore work or a family wanting more weekend recreation, these new hours are designed to better serve our community.”  

More information can be found at palmspringsca.gov/recreation, or through the Parks and Recreation Department, at 760-323-8272.

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City News Service

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Springs International Airport will launch a seasonal nonstop service to Austin, Texas next year via Southwest Airlines.   

“Adding Southwest on the Austin route gives travelers more choices than ever,” Executive Director of Aviation at PSP Harry Barrett Jr. said in a statement. “When airlines compete, travelers often benefit with more convenient schedules and competitive fares — and that’s great news for anyone flying between Palm Springs and Austin.”

Travelers at PSP will have more options to travel to Austin with Delta Airlines and Southwest Airlines, officials said.  

The service will be offered Saturdays and Sundays aboard Boeing 737 fleet from March 5 through April 6, 2026.

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City News Service

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Cathedral City officials will host a commemorative event later this month to mark 100 years since the first recorded land marker that showed the official development of the city.

The centennial celebration will feature a screening of two films that depict the city and history at Mary Pickford Theatre.   

The free event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 30 at 36850 Pickfair St.  

Organizers said “Palm Springs Weekend,” a 1963 film shot in Cathedral City and “Cathedral City: Built by Grit and Grace,” a short documentary about the city’s history will screen at the theatre, with free refreshments provided.   

In collaboration with the city’s Historic Preservation Committee, attendees will receive an exclusive 100th anniversary swag bag

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Garrett Hottle

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) Update 8/17: The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department tells News Channel 3’s Garrett Hottle, Nicholas was located on Friday Aug. 15 around 5:45pm in the 72000 block of Highway 111, and has been removed from the missing person  database.

This a developing story and will be updated with further information as it becomes available.

Original Article 8/15

The search continues for 29-year-old Nicholas “Nick” Bialkowski, who vanished last month after multiple police contacts in the Coachella Valley.

According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs#MP148489) and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, his last official contact was July 14 in La Quinta, when Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies arrested and released him the same day.

In a Facebook post, Bialkowski’s mother urged the community to remain alert in La Quinta, Palm Desert and Palm Springs, adding: “Our hope is that our recent collective efforts may potentially confirm he is receiving necessary care or support at a facility. Please maintain your search efforts … praying for his safe return!!”

Social media post shared on Facebook from family members say he was last seen a day later, July 15, sitting on a bench outside a Vons grocery store in La Quinta.

In a Facebook post, Bialkowski’s mother called her son’s disappearance “highly unusual” and “completely out of character.” She wrote:

“Nick’s behavior is completely out of character and his disappearance is highly unusual. He has never gone missing before. We believe he may be struggling with mental health issues, possibly compounded by a history of concussions.”

He is described as 5 feet 11, 175 pounds, brown hair, blue eyes, often with a scruffy beard, and a small scar between his eyebrows, according to a family flyer shared publicly online. 

Social media post shared on Facebook from Sondra Bialkowski and information on Namus, say Nick left Arizona for Southern California in late June and that his Tesla was later found and towed in Palm Springs.

“Nicholas quit his six figure job abruptly. He left Scottsdale, Arizona on 06/24/25 and ended up in Palm Springs, California where his Tesla was abandoned and later towed. Nick was contacted by Palm Springs police on 07/02/25, by Indio Police on 07/06/25 and by Deputy Sheriff’s in La Quinta on 07/14/25. Nicolas has left his phone behind and has not contacted any of his friends or family.”

Circumstances of Disappearance – (NamUs#MP148489)

On Friday, Palm Springs Police confirmed to News Channel 3’s Garrett Hottle they’ve investigated tips as recently as last Thursday but have not located him. Officers say they are aware of surveillance video tied to dine-and-dash incidents involving Nicholas, but have found no record of his Tesla being towed in the city.

“Every time he’s been contacted here in Palm Springs, there was never a vehicle involved,” Palm Springs Police officer Lt. Mike Torres said. “We are unaware of any Tesla that’s involved in anything in Palm Springs or in the in the Coachella Valley. Our records… do not show any tow as well. So I’m not sure who the Tesla comes from. We’re trying to figure that out.”

Obtained from (NamUs#MP148489)

Nicholas Bialkowski was charged with multiple misdemeanors in the month of July in Riverside County, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

NamUs, the federal missing person database, lists him as missing under case #MP148489. Palm Springs Police, Indio Police, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department have all confirmed encounters with him in the weeks before he vanished. News Channel 3 has been investigating the details of those encounters leading up to his disappearance. Here’s the timeline of what we know:

Timeline of Known Encounters

June 30 — Palm Springs (Escena Golf Club):Palm Springs Police responded to a dine-and-dash call at a golf course on Clubhouse View Drive. Officers couldn’t find the suspect at the time, but say a photo taken during the incident was later used to help identify Bialkowski in another case two days later. News Channel 3 has reached out to the Escena Golf Club for more information regarding this incident, and will update you as information becomes available.

July 2 — Palm Springs (Rowan Hotel):Two separate dine-and-dash incidents occurred inside the hotel, one at 10:48 a.m. for about $45, and another at 8:18 p.m. for about $60, according to the Palm Springs Police Department. Bialkowski was identified after an officer recognized him from a photo taken during the June 30 golf course case, linking him to all three incidents, including the call at Escena Golf Club, said Lt. Mike Torres.

“They were able to identify that person at that time because he was contacted by the officer, and then the other officer came in and had a picture of the subject from the initial call,” Lt. Torres said. “They linked them together.”

July 6 — Indio (Dino Restaurant):According to the Indio Police Department, officers were dispatched around 10:42 p.m. after staff reported a customer left Dino Restaurant without paying a $25 bill. A restaurant employee later pointed out the suspect identified as Bialkowski at a nearby liquor store. When contacted, police say he admitted he had no money but was hungry. He was taken into custody after an employee signed a private person’s arrest form on behalf of the restaurant.

Bialkowski was booked into the Riverside County Jail on charges of defrauding an innkeeper and released on July 7. Indio Police say the case has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

News Channel 3 has reached out Dino Restaurant about the events on July 6, and will update you with further information as it becomes available.

July 14 — La Quinta (Highway 111 & Adams Street):The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department says deputies contacted Bialkowski around 5:17 p.m. after employees reported merchandise stolen from a business. Police say staff identified the items in his possession as belonging to the store. He was taken into custody and booked into the John Benoit Detention Center at 6:43 p.m., then released at 10:08 p.m. the same night. The Sheriff’s Department says the case remains under investigation.

The last known contact the Riverside Sheriff’s Office had with Bialkowski was during his release from custody on July 14, 2025, at 10:08 p.m.

July 15 — La Quinta (Vons, per family):According to Facebook post shared by family Bialkowski was last seen sitting on a bench outside the Vons grocery store in La Quinta. This sighting has not been confirmed by law enforcement.

July 19 — La Quinta (Highway 111):According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched at 7:28 a.m. after Bialkowski’s mother reported him missing in the 78000 block of Highway 111. Deputies confirmed he had been arrested three times in July for misdemeanor offenses, most recently on July 14. The Sheriff’s Department says the investigation remains ongoing.

Palm Springs Police confirmed to News Channel 3’s Garrett Hottle they followed up on a possible sighting as recently as last Thursday on Aug. 14, but did not find him.

Bialkowski is described as 5’11”, 175 pounds, with brown hair, blue eyes, scruffy facial hair, and a small scar between his eyebrows.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Thermal Station at (760) 863-8990 or reference NamUs case ID #MP148489.

This is a developing story, and this post will be updated with further information as it becomes available. 

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Athena Jreij

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) — Riverside County volunteers with Voices for Children are providing a new level of support and mentorship to youth in the foster care system through the organization’s CASA program. 

CASAs, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, support foster children’s educational and domestic rights, with the power to place children in safer homes.

“In the process of getting to know their teachers, their lawyers, their psychologist, their family members, a lot of times the CASA member might be the difference between a child staying with family members and going into foster care indefinitely,” said Robert Huesca, a Palm Springs volunteer.

However, with more than 25% of the county’s foster kids residing in the Valley, officials say thousands are without a CASA going into the school year.

For Anthony O’Leary, who faced an inconsistent childhood in the system, having a CASA made all the difference.

“I went in and out of foster care system many times throughout my early years, it still never felt right. I always questioned everything, especially my at home life and why my parents would, you know, do something like this to me,” O’Leary said.

O’Leary says his CASA, Daniel, supported him in and outside of the courtroom.

According to the National Foster Youth Institute, just 50% of foster youth will graduate high school and less than 3% will make it through college.

“He proved his his worthiness of my trust and the impact that he can make from the very beginning all the way up to, me getting out of the foster care system due to him advocating for me to move back in with my great aunt and great grandma, my forever home.”

According to the National Foster Youth Institute, just 50% of foster youth will graduate high school and less than 3% will make it through college. It’s a statistic O’Leary was able to defy, with the help of his CASA who he credits him with helping attend UCLA on a full-ride scholarship.

Now, officials with Voices for Children are putting out the call that the impact of a CASA can change more than just one life.

“It’s so important that we look at these young kids as potential law makers, teachers, educators and people that are going to impact our communities for years to come,” O’Leary said.

No requirements are needed to become a CASA volunteer. If you’re interested in getting involved, visit: https://www.speakupnow.org/

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Luis Avila

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – A once-familiar space is getting a new life. Work has started on the upcoming Eagle Cathedral City, a bar that promises to offer more than just a remodel.

Jeremy and Phillip Nalwalker, co-owners of Eagle Cathedral City, say patrons can expect a completely redone interior, modern sound and lighting systems, and a larger dance floor, among other things.

It’s set to open its doors in the building that formerly housed The Barracks — a longtime staple of the local LGBTQ+ community before it closed down in 2024.

The owners say that’s part of the reason they were inspired to open Eagle.

“This is a space we used to come frequently, it was our home bar… We felt there really was a hole in our community once it closed… It seemed no one was doing anything to fill that gap so we thought, let’s do it.”

Jeremy Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

But the former bar had a tainted legacy — one marked by community concerns and serious allegations in its final years.

The owners say creating a safe environment is their top priority.

“First and foremost, we want a safe place for our community to come and gather for years to come and I think, to be able to do that, we follow all the local and state law and regulations that apply to bars and premises that sell alcohol. That’s our most important thing we need to do.”

Jeremy Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

Eagle Cathedral City is already generating excitement. Community members have expressed optimism about the new bar and what it could bring to the area.

City officials are also embracing the change. In a statement to News Channel 3, Cathedral City City Manager Charlie McClendon said:

“The City of Cathedral City is excited to support another business opening in our community following the closure of The Barracks. We take tremendous pride in our city’s substantial LGBTQ+ population and Cathedral City’s rich history as a welcoming place for diverse entrepreneurs and businesses.

The owners of Eagle Cathedral City have been incredibly communicative and responsive throughout their interactions with City staff. While they still need to complete the site plan submission and business license process, we appreciate their proactive approach and professionalism.

Cathedral City has long been a place where diverse businesses can thrive, and we’re committed to supporting entrepreneurs who want to contribute to our vibrant community. We wish the Eagle Cathedral City team well on their journey and look forward to working with them to complete the necessary processes.

This represents another chapter in Cathedral City’s proud tradition of welcoming LGBTQ+ businesses and celebrating the diversity that makes our community special.”

Beyond being a nightlife venue, Eagle Cathedral City aims to play an active role in the local community.

“We want the Eagle to be a hub for the community and a place where different nonprofit organizations can leverage our space to donate to charity.”

Phillip Nalwalker, Eagle Cathedral City Co-owner

Eagle Cathedral City is expected to open this winter

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Jesus Reyes

AGUANGA, Calif. (KESQ) – Firefighters are at the scene of an aircraft emergency in Aguanga.

The incident was first reported at around 8:45 a.m. on the 49000 block of Sky Harbor Way.

“Firefighters responded to reports of a small aircraft on its side with a damaged wing as it landed on the runway. The aircraft was removed from the runway and no injuries were reported,” reads a post by CAL FIRE Riverside.

Environmental Health was requested to scene.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any updates.

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Allie Anthony

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission is kicking off its 15th annual Backpack Bonanza this morning at 6:30 a.m.

This is a drive-thru event, and a child must be present in the vehicle to receive a backpack.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the rescue mission has collected more than 2,200 backpacks. Each bag is filled with essential school supplies to support local students in need.

Volunteers have spent the week organizing and packing the backpacks to ensure every student receives the tools they need for a successful school year.

Stay tuned to News Channel 3 throughout the day for full coverage and stories on the impact of this year’s Backpack Bonanza.

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Cynthia White

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Cathedral City Police were investigating a deadly shooting in Cathedral City Wednesday night after witnesses said they heard gunshots then saw a car speed away, leaving a male lying on the sidewalk.

Shots were reported coming from near the corner of Mission Indian Trail and Whispering Palms Trail, just south of Ramon Road, just after 8:00 p.m. An area resident said she saw three teenage males near that corner as she drove by. Shortly thereafter, she heard the gunshots and saw that one of the boys was down. Other witnesses say they saw a car speeding away after they heard the shots.

A police investigator said a group of teens in that area had a confrontation with some people in a vehicle, and someone in the vehicle shot at the victim.

When police arrived, they said they found a teen male suffering from a gunshot wound. They initiated CPR until paramedics arrived to perform lifesaving measures, but the male was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators said no suspects were in custody.

Whispering Palms Trail was closed from Ramon Road to Mission Indian Trail while police processed the scene and interviewed witnesses. Shifting Sands to Sky Blue Water Trail was also impacted.

Stay with KESQ News Channel 3 for any new developments.

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Shay Lawson

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ)  – Some teens aren’t texting friends, they’re chatting with Artificial Intelligence (AI) instead.

According to a new study by Common Sense Media, 72% of teens have used AI companions atleast once, and 52% qualify as regular users who interact with AI platforms multiple times a month.

Dr. Evita Limon-Rocha, a psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Riverside County, said leaning too much on technology can be risky.

“There’s lots of data related to too much screen time in general can disrupt sleep patterns,” Dr. Limon-Rocha said. “Technology can bring us information, but also with that wealth of information, we can be exposed to things that are really difficult.”

She said she encourages teens to build real human connections.

“That connection of someone hearing the highs, the wonderful things and also the difficult things is important,” Dr. Limon-Rocha said.

Connecting face to face is at the heart of what the Indio Teen Center does said Karla Martinez, the center’s community program assistant.

“We offer a lot of different programs here,” Martinez said. “We do culinary, sports, crafts and boxing every day.”

She said she has noticed teens engaging more with their phones.

“I definitely think it’s social media,” Martinez said. “Part of it is AI. AI is everywhere now.”

Even as teens turn to AI, she said the center offers plenty of real world opportunities, something one teen said she appreciates.

“I really like that they do so many activities,” Viviana Terriquez teen center attendee said.

The Indio Teen Center is a free city-run after school program open to current 8th -12th grade students. The founder said enrollment is now open and directs those interested to visit the website.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear more from Terriquez about what it’s like growing up in a world with AI.

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