Hello CV Locals, happy Thursday!

Welcome back, and Happy New Year! The Season has arrived and we are so here for it. Lots to do and see and eat, just don’t ask us to go on the aerial tramway.

If you are new here, The CV Scene delivers just the right amount of news and events for locals of Coachella Valley. No crime, no politics, no spam—just the good stuff. We scan newspapers, blogs, social media, business journals, and Google alerts so you don’t have to.

In Today’s Scene:

Located on El Paseo, Buena Matcha has evolved from a beloved local pop-up into a permanent sanctuary for tea lovers. Locally owned by husband-and-wife team Kayla and Nahum Munoz, the shop is dedicated to "creating matcha moments" with a focus on high-quality, organic ceremonial-grade matcha sourced directly from Kyoto, Japan.

The space reflects the couple’s "intentional" philosophy, offering a minimalist, earthy aesthetic with neutral tones and lush greenery designed to act as a calm respite from the busy shopping district. Beyond the traditional whisked teas, the menu features creative signature drinks like the Banana Cinnamon Matcha (Nahum’s favorite) or the Coconut Matcha (Kayla’s pick), all crafted with house-made syrups to pair with their oat and almond milk options. You can find them at 73833 El Paseo, Suite 101 in Palm Desert.

An unexpected technical stoppage at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway left 568 visitors stranded at the Mountain Station overnight on Friday, January 2. Operations halted around 8:00 p.m., prompting officials to distribute boarding tokens, complimentary food, and blankets, but guests described the experience as chaotic and confusing. Visitor Amanda Ferrise noted that communication was sparse, leaving families to sleep on the floor while they waited for updates.

The system was eventually deemed safe to operate at reduced speeds starting at 12:30 a.m., with the final group of guests not reaching the bottom until 4:30 a.m. The Tramway remained closed for repairs on Saturday before resuming normal operations Sunday morning. VP of Marketing Greg Purdy apologized for the ordeal, emphasizing that safety was their primary concern and confirming that refunds were being offered to those affected.

High Wind Watch:
A High Wind Watch is in effect for the Coachella Valley and San Gorgonio Pass starting late Wednesday (Jan 7) through Thursday afternoon (Jan 8). Gusts of 60–70 mph are possible in wind-prone areas like North Palm Springs and Thousand Palms.

Film Festival Continues:
The Palm Springs International Film Festival is currently in full swing and runs through Monday, January 12. Screenings are taking place at multiple venues including the High School, Camelot Theatres, and the Regal.

Airport Operations:
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) has resumed normal operations following a temporary ground stop earlier this week (Jan 5), though travelers are advised to check flight statuses due to the incoming wind.

Development News:
Local officials announced major 2026 milestones this week, including the projected opening of the Cotino Bay Beach (Disney’s lagoon community in Rancho Mirage) later this year and the reopening of the Avenue 44 Bridge in Indio this spring.

Wednesday, January 7

Thursday, January 8

Saturday, January 10

Sunday, January 11

Tuesday, January 13

Wednesday, January 14

Thanks! Hope to see you next Thursday! If you have an event or a scoop that you want to share with The Scene, give us a buzz at [email protected], I read every email.