Dear friends & neighbors:
Greetings! May has arrived, and it's a month of great significance for all of us as we celebrate various special and meaningful occasions. During this month, we commemorate Jewish American Heritage, a triumph for Mexico, celebrate our mothers, and the valor of our U.S. military, to name a few.
On the entertainment front in Rancho Mirage, make sure to get your "golden ticket" to see our Youth Theatre's performance of Willy Wonka at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater where "wonderful things are in store for you; wonderful surprises await you."
Before I delve into all of the above, I want to talk about a very special ceremony that took place in Rancho Mirage on April 5th and an exciting opportunity for the official band of Rancho Mirage!
Keep reading to learn more!
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The official opening of the Michael S. Wolfson park expansion was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 5th. This expansion was made possible by the acquisition of a 1-acre land parcel, which allowed for the addition of several new features such as picturesque picnic areas, scenic walking paths, and a larger parking lot with the capacity to accommodate up to 20 vehicles. This expansion aims to reduce on-street parking and enhance visitor accessibility.
Additionally, the park's connectivity for pedestrians has been improved, providing better access to the nearby Butler-Abrams Trail. Sustainability features have also been included in line with the City's eco-friendly practices. To find out more about the Michael S. Wolfson Park expansion, flagpole dedication, and its significance to the Rancho Mirage community, Click here for the video.
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Former Mayor and Councilmember Charlie Townsend (center) happily cuts the ribbon formally opening the Wolfson Park expansion to the public on April 5, 2023 with City Council members (LtoR) Ted Weill, Meg Marker, Steve Downs, myself, and Lynn Mallotto; Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce staff and members, City staff and family of Michael Wolfson. |
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I was honored to get a photo with Marc Glassman (L) and his dad, Kenneth Glassman (R). Marc is Michael Wolfson's grandson and Kenneth is married to Michael Wolfson's daughter and former City Councilmember Marilyn Glassman (not pictured). |
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Brian McDaniel, Director of Bands & Instrumental Music for Rancho Mirage High School (RMHS) (pictured above with his students), proudly announced that 60 students from the Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion, and String Orchestra will be attending the WorldStrides International Music Tour scheduled June 12-23, 2024. The students will visit and perform in Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hakone. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for these talented musicians and quite possibly life changing for some.
The RMHS Band Boosters, a 501(c)(3) organization, is assisting with the fundraising to cover the overall cost of the festival that will fully fund 60 students’ festival fees, transportation, room and board, which is approximately $6,000 per student.
To ensure every student and faculty member can participate, they need your help. Let's come together as a community to support the arts and make this dream a reality!
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The month of May is officially designated as Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) by the United States government. JAHM is an annual recognition and celebration of Jewish American achievements and contributions to American culture, society, and history.
JAHM is a time to recognize and celebrate the rich and diverse contributions that Jewish Americans have made to the fabric of American society, including in the fields of science, technology, medicine, business, entertainment, sports, and more. Click here to learn more about the history and contributions of Jewish Americans and to promote greater understanding and appreciation of their culture and traditions.
Food has always figured prominently in the Jewish cultural experience; traditional dishes evoke family memories and play a vital role in holidays and lifecycle events. In honor of Jewish Heritage Month, visit the Rancho Mirage Library and check out their book display including cookbooks, novels, and other titles relating to Jewish food culture and around the world.
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May 5th is Cinco de Mayo, a holiday that celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It has become a significant cultural celebration in the United States and other parts of the world, especially in areas with large Mexican American populations. Many people commemorate the day by enjoying traditional Mexican food, music, and dance, and by participating in parades and other cultural events. Cinco de Mayo is a time to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture, and to recognize the resilience and strength of the Mexican people.
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Mother’s Day is May 14th so take the time to thank your mom for all she does and the role she has played in your life. Thank her for her love and guidance that helped shape you into the person you are today.
To all the mothers out there, Happy Mother's Day! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and the appreciation that you so rightfully deserve.
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Youth Theatre at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater! |
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If you haven't had the chance to see a Desert Theatricals' Youth Theatre production at the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, there's another amazing musical experience the whole family will enjoy this month! |
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Join Charlie and his Grandpa Joe on their adventures with the quirky Willy Wonka at his chocolate factory. Watch the madness ensue as a troupe of undesirable children make sweet chaos for Mr. Wonka - and Charlie ultimately wins Wonka's heart and trust. |
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Friday, May 19 & Saturday, May 20
Showtimes for both days 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Amphitheater gates open at 6:00 p.m. on show night.
This production is presented by the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory Foundation, underwritten by the Richard Brooke Foundation, and produced by Desert Theatricals.
Admission is free, however tickets are required.
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Memorial Day is an important holiday in the United States that is observed annually on the last Monday of May. It is a day to remember and honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
While Memorial Day is primarily a time of reflection and remembrance, it is also a day to express gratitude for the freedoms and liberties that have been defended by those who have served in the military. It is a time to honor their sacrifices and to reaffirm our commitment to preserving the ideals that they fought and died for.
On this Memorial Day, let us take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude and deepest appreciation to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We honor their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their families, and we will never forget the debt we owe to them for defending our freedom and way of life. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
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Mark sure to add these important dates to your May calendars!
- 5th - Cinco de Mayo
- 14th - Mother's Day
- 19th & 20th - Willy Wonka JR.
- 29th - Memorial Day
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Please do not hesitate to reach out either by email at richardk@ranchomirageca.gov, or by phone at (760) 324-4511 with your ideas or suggestions.
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