Category: kesq-local-news

Luis Avila

UPDATE 7/28 7:26 A.M.: According to SCE, the maintenance outage has been rescheduled for August 9 at 10 PM due to customer concerns.

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – Some Palm Desert residents are questioning why a planned overnight power outage is being scheduled during one of the hottest stretches of summer.

Southern California Edison has scheduled a maintenance outage affecting approximately 878 customers in Palm Desert. The outage is expected to begin at 10 p.m. Tuesday and continue until 7 a.m. Wednesday in the area of Fred Warning Drive and Monterey Avenue.

Residents say they understand maintenance is necessary to keep the electrical grid reliable, but they believe the work could have been postponed until cooler months.

“Last week it was 116. It’s supposed to be 112,” said Palm Desert resident Darby Bressler, one of the customers expected to lose power during the overnight outage. “That’s hot. Even though it’s between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., you have to sleep through that.”

Getting answers, News Channel 3 asked Southern California Edison why the work couldn’t wait.

“Maintaining the electric system is a year-long process, and we need to stay on top of this work even during the summer,” said Edison spokesperson Diane Castro. “It’s just crucial to keeping the power flowing reliably, and we don’t want to delay the outages, which could cause equipment to fail, especially during long periods of heat.”

For Bressler, the concern goes beyond just the heat.

“There are elderly people out here too who are on health machines that require electricity,” Bressler said. “They say after four hours you need to get rid of anything that has eggs, cream, dairy, milk, condiments, salad dressing.”

Southern California Edison acknowledged planned outages can be disruptive but says they take several steps to reduce the impact on customers.

“The crews know exactly what needs to be updated,” Castro said. “They are prepped and ready to go, and the outage is typically much shorter… We do send a letter in the mail. We also send it via text. We notify all the affected residents in advance.”

As the outage approaches, Bressler says she’s taking extra precautions to minimize the impact.

“My daughter suggested we get dry ice for the fridge,” she said, adding that her family is also considering sleeping downstairs where temperatures may be cooler.

Southern California Edison encourages customers to prepare for planned outages by keeping flashlights, extra batteries, drinking water and a first aid kit readily available. Customers with medical needs are also encouraged to have backup plans in place in case power is interrupted.

Residents can check Southern California Edison’s outage map for the latest information on scheduled maintenance outages in their area.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Garrett Hottle

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) A former senior executive at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is suing the Palm Desert institution, alleging she was fired in retaliation for raising concerns about animal deaths, alleged cover-ups and internal misconduct, claims the zoo forcefully denies.

Allison Krupp, who spent two years as The Living Desert’s vice president of marketing and communications, filed the lawsuit in March in Riverside County.

According to her attorneys at Shegerian & Associates, the complaint alleges Krupp, was directed to misrepresent the causes of animal deaths, reported undisclosed animal welfare incidents and potential misuse of organizational funds, and was ultimately terminated.

The lawsuit asserts claims including whistleblower retaliation, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and defamation.

In an interview with News Channel 3, Krupp’s attorney, John David, said his client joined the zoo believing it was a place with “a deep concern and care for animals,” but grew alarmed by what she saw.

“What she realized when she got there was that it’s no different from a lot of big corporations,” David said, alleging the organization put profits and financial gain above animal health and well-being.

Among the allegations in the complaint, David said, Krupp was asked to push forward false statements including characterizing suspicious animal deaths as congestive heart issues.

He said a Mexican wolf died at the facility and Krupp was told to put out a false statement about the death.

He also pointed to what he described as dozens of other animal deaths, including approximately 26 African birds he said died because of faulty facilities.

“Repeatedly over the time that she worked for this organization, she learned of severe animal abuse issues and escalated them and refused to go along with it,” David said, adding that she was terminated in part for raising those issues despite what he called her stellar performance.

When News Channel 3 asked David for evidence supporting the claims, he cited the departure of the zoo’s CEO, Allen Monroe. David said his team had scheduled Monroe’s deposition for next week, and that Monroe announced his departure after the deposition was noticed. “I don’t think that’s just coincidence,” David said. Mr. David further explained the deposition is being rescheduled and that he expects more to emerge as the case moves through discovery.

The Living Desert disputes that characterization and rejected the allegations in a statement provided to News Channel 3 through its outside general counsel. The statement reads in full:

“The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens unequivocally rejects the allegations made by former employee, Allison Krupp. The claims are entirely unfounded, lack any factual basis, and distort the organization’s actions and intentions. We are confident these assertions are being advanced to create financial pressure, and we will not be drawn into false narratives or unsupported demands.

“The Living Desert further clarifies that its CEO is not resigning from the organization. As previously announced, the CEO’s departure is the result of a planned retirement following years of dedicated leadership and service to The Living Desert. Any suggestion that this retirement is connected to these allegations is false and misleading.

“The Living Desert remains firmly focused on its mission of desert conservation, education, and exemplary animal care. We operate with transparency, integrity, and a long-standing commitment to responsible stewardship. We stand behind the professionalism of our team and the rigor of our practices.

“While we cannot discuss specific details of the matter at this stage, we are fully prepared to address these baseless claims through the appropriate legal channels as our record will withstand any scrutiny this process brings. The Living Desert has spent decades earning the trust of this community, and we intend to defend that trust without hesitation.”

The case is in the discovery phase, and no trial date has been set. David said he expects to receive documents from the organization and take depositions of its executives in the coming weeks.

News Channel 3 is reviewing The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens’ federal inspection records as part of our effort to independently verify allegations made in a lawsuit involving the zoo.

USDA inspection reports reviewed by News Channel 3 show federal inspectors cited The Living Desert three times during the past year and a half.

The most serious finding was classified as a “critical” citation in June 2025 after two bat-eared foxes escaped through a gap in their enclosure fencing. According to the inspection report, one fox was recaptured, but the other was never found.

Federal inspectors also cited the zoo for inadequate shade in a camel enclosure and after a hornbill escaped from its enclosure. The bird was recaptured four days later off zoo property, according to the report.

The inspection records show the zoo took corrective action following each citation.

The Living Desert’s most recent USDA inspection, conducted in April, found no violations.

This is an ongoing legal case, and many of the allegations have not been proven in court. News Channel 3 will continue asking both the plaintiff and the defendant to provide evidence supporting their respective claims as we follow the case and report new developments.

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Tommy Gallegos

Big Bear Lake bald eagle Jackie is receiving intensive veterinary care, as she remains in “stable but critical condition,” as wildlife specialists continue working to identify the cause of her illness.

The Ojai Raptor Center, which is caring for the beloved bald eagle, says that after initially improving following a blood transfusion, Jackie suffered a setback over the weekend when her blood values declined. Since then, she has rebounded, showing increased energy, alertness, and appetite. Caregivers report she is eating on her own and has become noticeably more active during feedings.

One of the most promising developments is the improvement in her packed cell volume (PCV)—a measure of red blood cells in the bloodstream—which has risen from 8% before the weekend to 16% as of July 27. While still below normal, the increase is considered an encouraging sign, and her bloodwork will continue to be monitored daily.

Despite extensive diagnostic testing and consultations with experienced wildlife veterinarians, the center says a definitive diagnosis has not yet been determined. The veterinary team is continuing supportive and preventative treatments while adjusting Jackie’s care as new information becomes available.

Locals and visitors of Big Bear Valley miss the presence of Jackie, whom is usually visible with other bald eagle Shadow, from the eagle nest cam, managed by Friends of Big Bear Valley.

The rehabilitation team thanked the public for its overwhelming support and asked well-wishers to avoid contacting or visiting the facility so staff can focus on patient care.

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KESQ News Team

The next St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway is officially underway in the Coachella Valley, with GHA Companies beginning construction on its eighth Dream Home benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Organizers say Palm Desert continues to be one of the most popular locations for Dream Home ticket buyers, making it the ideal community for this year’s giveaway. The selected lot also offers added flexibility for future homeowners, with no homeowners association fees and a design suited for a variety of families.

This year’s dream home is located at 40-965 Avenida Arcadia, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Tickets go on sale on December 4th with the giveaway planned for March 22nd, 2027. The home is approximately 2400 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and a flex room. Many great additions including a gated courtyard, covered rear patio upgraded kitchen and much more.

Construction is expected to wrap up by the end of January. The official reveal of the home, including its location and additional details, is scheduled for Monday, July 27 at noon.

The annual Dream Home Giveaway raises critical funds to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its mission to advance research and treatment for children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Families receiving care at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food, allowing them to focus entirely on their child’s health.

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Peter Daut

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ)– The free back-to-school backpack drive and resource fair in Palm Springs is almost here.

The annual event helps local students and families get ready for the school year. It will be held Saturday, August 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Palm Springs Leisure Center. All participants must be registered in advance.

“The need does grow each year. So far this year, we have 350 students already registered and coming for this event. We’re still taking registrations so if people want to come by, please let us know and sign up,” said Nicholas Gonzalez Director of Palm Springs Parks and Recreation

In addition to backpacks, free school supplies and haircuts will also be provided.

For more information stay with News Channel 3.

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Dakota Makinen

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – As students prepare to return to the classroom, Palm Springs Unified School District is reminding families to make sure their children are up to date on required vaccinations and health records before the first day of school.

School officials say this is one of the busiest times of year for families seeking immunizations, particularly the Tdap vaccine, which is required for students entering seventh grade in California.

To help families meet those requirements, Palm Springs Unified is partnering with Desert Oasis Healthcare to host immunization clinics at each of the district’s middle schools this week.

Healthcare providers say they’re already seeing an increase in demand as the school year approaches and encourage parents not to wait until the last minute to schedule vaccinations or sports physicals, as pediatric appointments can fill up quickly.

Families who have questions about immunization requirements or clinic availability are encouraged to contact their child’s school or healthcare provider.

School officials say completing these requirements ahead of time can help families avoid delays before the first day of school.

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City News Service

WHITEWATER (CNS) – One person suffered minor injuries today in a collision involving a big rig and another vehicle on eastbound Interstate 10 in Whitewater.

The crash was reported about 10 a.m. Monday near the Whitewater off-ramp, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said the trailer of the big rig overturned, but there were no reports of a hazardous materials spill. One person was taken to a hospital. All lanes are back open, after the California Highway Patrol reported the overturned trailer was blocking the No. 4 lane.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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Matthew Pearce

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) — School is just weeks away, but recent economic challenges are changing how families approach which supplies are essential.

A new analysis by Groundwork Collaborative and The Century Foundation, using NielsenIQ data, found families will spend about $4,000 per child on school supplies and food during the school year, up 10.7% from 2025. Nearly half of parents, 45%, said they expect to take on debt to afford school supplies this year.

Meanwhile, NerdWallet’s annual back-to-school shopping survey found shoppers plan to spend less than they did last year on clothing, books and other school supplies because everyday costs remain high. However, lower spending does not necessarily mean families are getting everything they need for less.

For back-to-school supply giveaways:

Coachella Valley Unified School District

Desert Sands Unified School District

Palm Springs Unified School District

Coachella Valley Rescue Mission

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Gavin Nguyen

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) – Plans to bring a new water slide to the La Quinta Resort are being met with some pushback from nearby residents.

The slide is part of a renovation project the historic resort is developing at its main pool, which will include changes to the family pool, a spa area, a new water play structure, and the slide.

Proposed Site Plan at La Quinta Resort

The entire structure is set to measure about 34 feet at its tallest point, featuring two slides: one is at 22 feet tall, and the other is closer to 30 feet tall.

3D Rendering of water slide

La Quinta Resort held a listening session with its nearest neighboring community, the La Quinta Tennis Villas, where it showed the site plan and renderings of the proposed water slide.

Other communities nearby, though, like the Mountain Estates, said their opinion was not taken into account.

One resident of that community, Tom Maloney, shared a letter he wrote to the La Quinta City Council, where he outlined several of his concerns. In part, he wrote the following:

“The Resort is a wonderful property and we are fully supportive of the need to continue to invest and improve the property and its amenities. However, building a mini water park amidst a high-density neighborhood of town homes and single family homes is unconscionable. We were involved years ago in the successful effort to oppose a similar water park feature on the Resort property- only to have it resurface. The idea that a massive tower in excess of 34 feet would be built on the edge of the hotel property and the neighboring community makes no sense. The excessive noise generated by what amounts to a water park will create an environmental nuisance well beyond the Resort property.”

In an interview with News Channel 3, Meg Maloney added, “There’s no high rises anywhere along the property. And so that, combined with the noise, it’s just it’s not something, you know, – the resort is a very tranquil place and that would would not add to that environment at all.”

During the resort’s listening session with the Tennis Villas, they responded to several questions from residents about the added noise. The architect, Gary Houston, explained that it was a problem they had worked around by positioning both the kids’ play area and water slide in a way that would bounce noise back towards the resort, rather than into surrounding neighborhoods. The planners also added landscaping would help blend the water slide structure with the nearby architecture.

“Do you think that’s enough?” I asked Tom. With a shake of his head, he replied, “Candidly, I don’t think that’s enough.”

“Listen, kids get excited when they go down a slide and they should,” he continued. “[When] they are 30 feet in the air, that screaming is going to project across multiple hundreds of feet.”

We reached out to La Quinta Resort for comment and left a voicemail with the resort’s marketing team, but we did not hear back from them.

The City of La Quinta, though, confirmed in a statement to News Channel 3 that project approval had not yet been given to the resort to begin construction, despite the resort saying they planned to start construction in the fall.

“The project application has not been approved at this time and currently isn’t scheduled for planning commission or council review. The City has received public comments on this project and continues to encourage comment both in writing and in person at all public meetings. When the application is scheduled for a public hearing in the future, all comments will be considered.”City of La Quinta

We’ll continue monitoring this project and the pushback surrounding it. Be sure to stay with us for any new developments.

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Kiera McKinney

PALM SPRINGS, CALIF. (KESQ)- The Prescott Preserve in Palm Springs is marking four years since the former Mesquite Golf Course was transformed into a future desert nature preserve.

Phase 1 restoration is progressing with native plant cultivation and permitting, while major on-the-ground planting is scheduled for late 2026.

Target Area: Restoring 28 acres of valley floor habitat, focusing on 15 acres of desert dry wash woodland, 11 acres of Sonoran creosote bush scrub, and 2 acres of perimeter buffer.

Funding: Backed by a $3,480,000 grant approved by the California Wildlife Conservation Board.

Current Progress: Over 6,350 native plants are growing via the Nursery to Nature Pathway alongside ongoing irrigation and site planning.

Timeline: Large-scale visible planting is planned for fall/winter 2026 when seasonal weather favors plant survival.

Just months ago, a fire damaged over 3 acres of the preserve. The fire started a debate on having this undeveloped land near neighborhoods. The non-profit, Owsit Land Trust, stepped in with preserving the land by coming out and helping with clean up and restoration efforts.

David Paisley, the Deputy Director and Community Engagement Director for the Oswit Land Trust, said “75 people came out, they worked five days and cleaned it up and six months later it looks great.”

Leaders tell me that responce showed how much people care about this preserve and space, and now Friends of Prescott Preserve is announcing a new membership program to get more people invovled.

Brian Ramos, one of the Members of Friends of Prescott Preserve Steering Committee said “we’ve also decided to do is create membership, tiers and different financial contributions, so that donors can sort of participate at whatever level makes the most sense for them.”

The membership levels will range from 120 dollars a year to 25 thousand dollars or more. Members will get acess to events, educational programs, bird tours, and tours of the preserve.

“Even at the entry level of $120 a year, members will still have complimentary access to social events throughout the year, educational content, birdwatching tours, tours of the preserve as we go through the restoration project over the next few years,” said Ramos.

The group says that membership will help fund projects not covered by the state grants. That includes replacing an old irrigation and restoring the land with native plants.

“One of the major things that’s going to happen this year is this old, dilapidated pump house with the bad roof. It’s all going to get replaced,” said Paisley.

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