Category: kesq-local-news

Jesus Reyes

UPDATE 06/10/2025: PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Unified School District Board of Education has named Dr. Marcus Funchess as the new PSUSD Superintendent.

The PSUSD Board of Education will take action on Dr. Funchess’ contract at its upcoming June 24th meeting. Dr. Funchess will begin his employment on July 1st, following Dr. Tony Signoret’s retirement on June 30th.

Dr. Funchess says he looks forward to “building a solid foundation of trust, transparency, and collaboration,” adding that his initial goals are to elevate academic success and equity, and ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational excellence.

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Unified School District board of education has identified Dr. Marcus Funchess as a finalist to serve as the next Superintendent of Schools.

The selection comes after a rigorous selection process and vetting of more than thirty candidates.

The board will consider and is expected to consider and approve Funchess’ employment agreement, with a start date of July 1, at its June 24 meeting, immediately following Dr. Tony Signoret’s retirement on June 30.

Funchess is currently the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at the San Bernardino City Unified School District. He has a history of improving student achievement, building strong relationships with employees, parents, and community members, and focusing on the support of “scholars,” the title he gives to all the students he serves.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Funchess served as a Director of Human Resources, an elementary principal, an elementary assistant principal, and an elementary school teacher, all in the San Bernardino City Unified School District.

“Dr. Funchess has an impeccable reputation for integrity, advancing equitable outcomes for all students, fostering positive labor relations, and building strong community partnerships,” said PSUSD Board President Sergio Espericueta. “All of that, combined with his enthusiasm and passion for student success, has distinguished Dr. Funchess within a highly competitive field of outstanding candidates.”

Funchess earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Redlands, a master’s degree in Cross-Cultural Teaching from National University, and a bachelor’s degree from Cal State University of San Bernardino.

“From the moment I thought there was a possibility that I could be the next Superintendent of PSUSD,” commented Funchess, “I was inspired by the opportunity. I am prepared to lead and work with the PSUSD community, as we work together to implement a strategic, future-oriented vision that places student success at the forefront. I look forward to engaging with the students, employees, and community members as we begin this crucial work together.”

The PSUSD Board expressed its appreciation to the educational and community partners who contributed to focus groups and survey feedback to develop the leadership profile that was foundational to the superintendent selection process as well as all applicants who put forth their time and energy in offering their candidacy to serve PSUSD and its families in this vital role.

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Jesus Reyes

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) – A Yucca Valley man has been charged with threatening to assassinate then-President-elect Donald Trump after last year’s election, the Department of Justice announced on Tuesday.

Thomas Eugene Streavel, 73, of Yucca Valley, was arrested Monday and charged with three counts of making threats against the President-elect, the DOJ confirmed.

Streavel was arraigned in United States District Court in Riverside on Tuesday where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. A July 28 trial date was scheduled and a federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $10,000 bond.

According to the DOJ, if convicted, Streavel would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.

“This defendant is charged with threatening the life of our President – a man who has already survived two deranged attempts on his life,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice takes these threats with the utmost seriousness and will prosecute this crime to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The type of rhetoric and threats made by this defendant are similar to those that led to an attempt on the President’s life last year,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “There is no place for political violence or threats of violence in the United States. We will not hesitate to arrest and charge others who engage in similar criminal conduct.”

According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on May 29 and was unsealed Tuesday, Streavel used his Facebook account before the 2024 U.S. presidential election to post multiple messages expressing his desire to harm or have others harm President Trump.

After the 2024 presidential election, Streavel allegedly continued using Facebook to post about assassinating President Trump. For example, on November 6, 2024 – the day after the election – Streavel posted, “[T]rump is a dead man walking for the time being until a patriot like myself blows his [expletive] brains out in the very near future.

The indictment alleges several instances in which Streavel knowingly and willfully threatened to kill and inflict bodily harm on Donald Trump, who then was the President-elect of the United States.

On November 12, 2024, Streavel posted a message on Facebook that read, in part, that he was “willing to make America great again and blow his [expletive] brains out.”

On November 19, 2024, Streavel posted a Facebook message that read, in part, “Let me put a bullet right between the ears of your president-elect…That’s my purpose for living.”

On November 28, 2024, Streavel wrote on Facebook, “I’m praying for a successful assassination of your president-elect” and “My life’s mission is killing the worthless LOSER [expletive] and my mission starts tonight so watch yourself trump [sic], you are a dead [expletive] and I am your assassin.”

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Jesus Reyes

As temperatures rise in the Coachella Valley, the City of Palm Springs reminds residents that cooling centers are now available to provide relief when temperatures hit 100 degrees or higher.

The following locations will serve as cooling centers through the end of September:

James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center480 W. Tramview RoadOpen Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.(760) 323-8271

Palm Springs Public Library300 S. Sunrise WayOpen Monday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Tuesday & Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.(760) 322-7323

Check Out Our Cooling Center Section for an Interactive Map of Riverside County Locations

City officials say pets are welcome! Dogs must be on a leash, and cats must be in a carrier.

Additionally, Martha’s Village and Kitchen will operate the Palm Springs Access Center, 225 El Cielo Rd. (across from the airport), daily as a cooling space for unhoused individuals. Those in need of overnight shelter will be transported to the Palm Springs Navigation Center.

For more information, visit EngagePalmSprings.com

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Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Legendary LGBTQ+ trailblazer Mariah Hanson—founder and producer of The Dinah, the world’s largest and longest-running music festival for queer women, nonbinary folks, and allies—will take her final bow in September 2025 capping off an unprecedented 34-year run of music, celebration and LGBTQ+ cultural impact.

Hanson confirmed that the upcoming edition of The Dinah, set for September 24–28 at the Riviera Resort in Palm Springs, will be her final production—bringing a monumental era in queer culture and independent live events to a close.

Hanson stepping down does not mean the end for the festival. Organizers said Hanson is actively in talks with potential successors, “seeking the right partner to carry the torch forward and preserve the event’s powerful legacy of pride, visibility, and community for future generations.”

“After 34 unforgettable years, I’m stepping away from producing this world-famous celebration of queer joy, freedom, and connection. It’s been the honor of a lifetime to help create space where our community could be bold, wild, and unapologetically ourselves,” Hanson said. “I’ve often been asked when I would pass the torch. I never had a specific answer — only that I’d know when the moment felt right. And now, the time is right. It’s time for a new generation to bring their vision, energy, and heart to this legacy and take it even further. That’s my deepest hope.”

Founded in 1991 by Mariah Hanson, The Dinah has evolved from a grassroots weekend gathering into a global phenomenon, drawing thousands to a five-day experience filled with live music, iconic pool parties, and a spirit of transformation.

Mariah Hanson’s influence extends far beyond event production—she’s long been regarded as a tastemaker with a remarkable instinct for booking artists on the verge of explosion. Thanks to her The Dinah stage has repeatedly served as career inflection points for artists who would go on to shape the sound of a generation. From Lady Gaga to Katy Perry, Lizzo to Bebe Rexha and Doechii (among others), Hanson didn’t just predict their success—she helped launch it.

Hanson’s decision to step down comes from a place of reflection and reverence for what has been accomplished – and a desire to conclude on a high note, giving one final, unforgettable celebration to the community that helped build it, all while ensuring The Dinah is thoughtfully passed on to the right hands to continue its powerful legacy.

“If The Dinah has ever touched your heart, brought you joy, or helped you feel seen — I invite you to join me one last time as I close out my Dinah career and celebrate 34 years of unforgettable memories, community, and cultural impact,” Hanson said. “While my Dinah chapter is ending, the future is full of possibility in new hands. My hope is that this beloved torch is carried forward — so The Dinah can thrive for another 34 years and beyond.”

One final invitation to revel in the spirit of unity and community that defines the event—and to step into a world of empowerment and inclusivity, where authenticity is not just welcomed, but celebrated.

The Grand Finale promises to be a powerful homecoming celebration and an unforgettable thank you, with a line-up and legacy tribute that honor The Dinah’s musical history, queer cultural roots, inclusive ethos, community feel and contagiously electrifying energy.

One of the not-to-be-missed highlights of The Dinah’s Grand Finale will be the return of Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey from the cult lesbian TV series The L Word—the show that famously catapulted The Dinah onto screens around the world. In a full-circle moment that blends pop culture and queer legacy, the duo will be back where it all began appearing at The Saturday Pool Party, to sign their new book “So Gay for You” and take photos with fans. A limited number of 150 copies will exclusively be available at The Dinah for purchase and signed in person. They’ll also make a special appearance at the Saturday night party – —but not before they hit The Dinah’s iconic red carpet in head-turning looks.  Their presence is more than a moment —it’s a celebration of visibility, chosen family, and a powerful nod to the monumental mark The Dinah leaves behind. Keep an eye out— —more exciting announcements featuring Leisha and Kate are coming soon.

And that’s just the beginning. The Dinah 2025 is shaping up to be another grand slam, with a powerhouse entertainment line-up and a stellar wave of celebrity guests expected to join Mariah Hanson’s final Dinah. From chart-topping artists to iconic queer talent, Hanson will raise the bar one last time to deliver a celebration that will be nothing short of legendary. The full entertainment lineup drops in mid-June—get ready for a history-making finale and the most epic send-offs in Dinah history.

“This final Dinah is my personal love letter to the community — a celebration that reflects the boldness, beauty, and heart that have always defined who we are,” shares Hanson. “More than anything, I hope the legacy I leave is one of joy, connection, and possibility — a foundation for the next generation to build something even greater.”

At the heart of LGBTQ+ culture since 1991, The Dinah was never just a party – it was and will always be a movement, a unique sanctuary where generations of queer people came to connect, be seen and feel free and empowered in a safe space.

“This last edition isn’t just an event—it’s the culmination of 34 spectacular years of joy, liberation, visibility, and love. Whether you’re returning to relive the magic or experiencing it for the first time, this is your moment to be part of herstory,” says Mariah Hanson visibly moved. “Come raise a glass, dance under the sun, and help write this last, extraordinary chapter with me—a tribute to a journey that changed lives, built community and sparked decades of culture-shifting moments, bold firsts, and unforgettable memories. While I may be taking my final bow, the legacy we’ve built together will live on in every life it’s touched.”

Tickets and full event details are available now at www.thedinah.com

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Luis Avila

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) – Residents are outraged after finding flyers from a known hate group put up in plain sight across a shopping center parking lot in Rancho Mirage. The flyers appear to be from Patriot Front, an American white supremacist and neo-fascist hate group.

The flyers were discovered last week at the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford by Rico, who did not want to share his real name or face.

“It was concerning to me. Never seen this before in Rancho Mirage. I’ve lived here many years… I think the group wants it seen. Whoever posted it here wants to be seen.”

Rico, Rancho Mirage resident

Concern quickly spread throughout the community as photos of the flyers began circulating online.

“I think it’s disgusting and you know it’s there but I hate when you gotta go around and see it. It’s a terrible thing and I don’t understand very they do this.” 

Tim, Indio resident

News Channel 3 receiving a statement from the city of Rancho Mirage:

The City of Rancho Mirage has been made aware of some stickers attributed to the group known as “Patriot Front” being distributed near the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford.

The city unequivocally condemns the dissemination of hate-filled propaganda and any actions intended to intimidate or divide our community. These materials do not reflect the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity that Rancho Mirage proudly upholds.

The statement goes on to say the city is working with local law enforcement agencies to investigate the origin of the flyers. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Rancho Mirage Police Department at (760) 836-1600.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Garrett Hottle

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) As part of Men’s Health Month, Desert Oasis Healthcare is sending a clear message to men across the Coachella Valley: Don’t wait until something’s wrong to go to the doctor.

Some of the most serious health threats men face including heart disease, diabetes, and prostate cancer can be caught early with routine screenings. But doctors say too many men still skip that first step.

“Just come see me once a year,” says Dr. Seamanduras-Navarro with Desert Oasis Internal Medicine. “Knowledge is power. If you don’t know what’s going on, you can’t do anything about it.”

One key screening that men should be aware of is the PSA test, which checks for early signs of prostate cancer. It’s a simple blood test, but the results can be difficult to interpret without medical guidance.

“The actual test is not expensive, but the results are not very reliable,” Dr. Navarro says. “There’s a big gray area. That’s why it’s always better to have a discussion before you’re actually doing the test.”

Doctors recommend starting that conversation around age 50, or earlier if there’s a family history of prostate issues.

For more information on Desert Oasis Healthcare, visit this link.

For more tips on healthy living and to watch more of our Living Healthy stories, visit this link.

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Gavin Nguyen

CACTUS CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Improvements to the I-10 aimed at improving safety and connecting electric vehicle drivers to the grid are nearing completion.

The I-10 Desert Rehab Project began in 2022 with an estimated completion time of three and a half years. According to project leaders, the project will be substantially completed in late July. The rest stop is expected to reopen in the coming weeks.

“The I-10 Desert Rehab Project is essentially a paving project at heart. It’s a rehabilitation paving project of 13 miles, both eastbound and westbound the I-10 east of Dillon Road,” Thomas Reese, the project manager, said.

Reese also highlighted the addition of a climbing lane for eastbound freight traffic, which he said improves safety for both truck drivers and the general public by separating the two.

Eight new electric vehicle charging stations have also been installed in both directions of the Cactus City Rest Stop, just east of Indio. Four chargers will be available on each side when the rest stop reopens.

“The installation of chargers in more rural parts of the state or in stretches in between some of these destinations will help kind of bridge that gap,” Reese said of the new installations.

Stay with News Channel 3 for the latest.

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Tori King

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ)– June 3rd is World Bike Day, which celebrates bikes and cyclists around the world. It’s also a day that encourages cyclists to ditch the car for a day, and if possible, take a bike for transportation instead.

Several desert cities are also celebrating World Bike Day. From the Ironman to the Tour De Palm Springs, it’s no secret that the Coachella Valley has a large cycling community, and is very bike friendly and inclusive. In fact, Palm Springs posted a message on social media reminding drivers to be aware of additional cyclists on the roadways, and to practice careful driving.

World Bike Day comes as the Coachella Valley is continuing its efforts to become more bike-friendly, by adding new bike trails in several cities, as well as an extensive CV Link project spanning the valley.

In the latest update in April, The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) approved two major steps to advance the CV Link project, an eco-friendly alternative transportation trail across the desert. Officials voted to allocate an additional $15 million to complete final stages of CV Link construction.

Since then, construction continues and crews have been seen working to finish up the final pieces of the project.

News Channel 3’s Tori King is working to speak with CVAG to get an update on the projects, and how it will make biking safer for people riding in the desert.

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Jesus Reyes

JURUPA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – President Donald Trump again threatened California today with possible fines and loss of federal education funds for allowing a transgender athlete from Jurupa Valley High School to compete in the CIF State Track and Field meet last week in Clovis.

Trump posted Tuesday on social media that Gov. Gavin Newsom “fully understands, large scale fines will be imposed” following the California Interscholastic Federation State meet and AB Hernandez’s participation in three events.

Hernandez, a junior on the Jurupa Valley track and field team, won the girls’ triple jump and high jump and finished second in the long jump at the CIF State Championships Saturday, despite protests and calls for her to not be allowed to compete because she is transgender.

Under a rule change announced last week by the CIF, the state’s governing body for high school sports, Kira Gant Hatcher from Saint Mary’s College High School in Berkeley was allowed to stand with Hernandez at the spot for first-place finishers on the podium. Hatcher was second in the triple jump.

The new rule awards biological female athletes the place on the podium they would have earned if not for the presence of transgender athletes.    Saint Mary’s College High School also received 10 points in the team scoring, just like Jurupa Valley High School.

Hernandez was among three high jumpers to clear 5 feet, 7 inches but was declared the winner because she cleared the height on her first attempt, while Jillene Wetteland, a senior at Long Beach Poly, and Lelani Laruelle, a junior at Monta Vista in Cupertino, both missed their first attempts, then cleared on their second.   

Hernandez was second in the long jump behind Long Beach Wilson senior Loren Webster.

During some of Hernandez’s jumps, a protester could be heard on a bullhorn from outside the Buchanan High School stadium chanting “No boys in girls’ sports!” the Los Angeles Times reported.

CIF officials banned protest signs inside the facility, but outside protesters held several, including ones that read “No Child Is Born in the Wrong Body,” “Trans Girls Are Boys: CIF Do Better,” and “She Trains to Win. He takes the trophy?” according to The Times.

Hernandez’s mother, Nereyda Hernandez, praised her daughter after the events in a statement provided to The Times, saying, “As your mother, I cannot fully express how PROUD I am of you.”

Nereyda Hernandez told City News Service at the CIF Masters Meet at Moorpark High School on May 24 that her daughter’s focus on sports helps her.   

“As any other child, they need that support. They need that love. I hope she know I’m going to support her 110%. I’m going to be behind her all the way.”

Last Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it is opening an investigation to determine if a state law allowing transgender athletes to compete on female sports teams at California schools violates the federal Title IX civil rights law.

The department sent letters to state Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and the CIF informing them of the investigation.

According to the DOJ, the investigation specifically targets state Assembly Bill 1266, the 2013 legislation aimed at preventing discrimination against transgender students and ensuring their right to take part in school activities, including athletics.

It also targets a CIF bylaw “that permits, directs, instructs or requires California high schools to allow males to participate in girls’ interscholastic athletics, thereby depriving girls and young women of equal athletic opportunities.”   

Without using her name, the DOJ letter to the CIF specifically references Hernandez.

“Title IX exists to protect women and girls in education. It is perverse to allow males to compete against girls, invade their private spaces, and take their trophies,” Harmeet K. Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights, said in a statement. “This division will aggressively defend women’s hard-fought rights to equal educational opportunities.”   

Last Tuesday, the CIF announced a change in the entry rules for the state meet, essentially expanding the field of competitors in various events to ensure biological females were not excluded from the competition due to the performance of trans athletes.   

The DOJ Title IX investigation announcement came one day after Trump posted on social media that he would withhold federal funding from California if transgender athletes are allowed to compete in girls sports, and he called on local authorities to prevent Hernandez from competing in the CIF State meet.

“California, under the leadership of Radical Left Democrat Gavin Newsom, continues to ILLEGALLY allow `MEN TO PLAY IN WOMEN’S SPORTS.’ This week a transitioned male athlete, at a major event, won `everything,’ and is now qualified to compete in the `State Finals’ next weekend.”

The athlete Trump is presumably referring to is Hernandez.   

“As a male, he was a less than average competitor. As a female, this transitioned person is practically unbeatable. THIS IS NOT FAIR, AND TOTALLY DEMEANING TO WOMEN AND GIRLS,” Trump wrote. “Please be hereby advised that large scale Federal Funding will be held back, maybe permanently, if the Executive Order on this subject matter is not adhered to.  

“The Governor, himself, said it is `UNFAIR.’ I will speak to him today to find out which way he wants to go??? In the meantime I am ordering local authorities, if necessary, to not allow the transitioned person to compete in the State Finals. This is a totally ridiculous situation!!!’   

Nereyda Hernandez said she couldn’t expect anything else from her daughter for competing in the CIF track and field meets.   

“There is nothing I could do but support her and be proud.”

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Kendall Flynn

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Springs International Airport is working on a master plan to upgrade the airport and enhance its offerings for travelers.

PSP officials said they have a plan to drastically improve the airport over 20 years, including expanding the terminals and changing the concourses. While the expansion is a long-term goal, officials said they have short-term goals to improve the airport in the meantime.

Part of those enhancements include adding new restaurants, like Trio and Vino Volo. Trio’s Owner, Kevin Marchese, said it was a long process to reach the concourse, but it was worth the wait.

“10 years ago, we said to our city manager; ‘Look we need to have local restaurants, they have them in other airports, Arizona, [and] just everyone does,” Marchese said. “And so we finally do because it’s a part of us.”

Marchese said conversations of adding Trio to the airport started nearly six years ago, but the COVID-19 Pandemic paused the progress. The project wasn’t picked back up until September 2023, but he said it’s vital for Trio and other local businesses to join the traveler community.

“It’s important for all of us,” Marchese said. “We’re in hard times now, so the more we can support each other the more we can support local businesses, the better we’re all going to be as a community.”

“Do you mean hard times, like the summer months?” News Channel 3’s Kendall Flynn asked.

“Summer months. Seasons are not as long as they used to be,” Marchese said. “Travelers are not as much as they used to be. So we just need the support.”

For other projects at the Palm Springs International Airport visit https://flypsp.com/progress/#allprojects

Stay with News Channel 3 for an exclusive look at the new restaurants, and to hear from Marchese on the importance of upgrading PSP with local businesses. 

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