Posted on by James Kampas

Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería

Jan 25, 2026 – Trumpeter Pacho Flores captivates the audience.

Venezuelan trumpeter Pacho Flores was the undisputed star last night at the Cathedral City Amphitheater, performing with the iconic Minería Symphony Orchestra of Mexico in a program that highlighted the ensemble’s vibrant commitment to Latin American repertoire. Under the baton of Artistic Director Carlos Miguel Prieto, the orchestra delivered a balanced, rhythmically charged performance perfectly suited to the open-air venue.

This concert was part of Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic’s first-of-its-kind Latin American music festival in the Coachella Valley, which also featured performances by the Cathedral City Ballet Folklórico Dancers, the Cathedral City Royal Jazz Band, Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles, and special guest Marisa Corvo.

Posted on by James Kampas

CV Link Bridges Communities

May 25, 2025 - CV Link at El Cielo Road.
May 25, 2025 – At El Cielo Road in Palm Springs.

CV Link is a multi-use pathway in the Coachella Valley, designed for walkers, cyclists, and low-speed electric vehicles. Once construction wraps up—currently projected for this fall—it will extend more than 40 miles, linking Palm Springs to Coachella with much of the route following the Whitewater River wash. The trail will offer a safe, scenic, and eco-friendly way to travel while promoting outdoor recreation and connecting communities across the Valley. We’ve been enjoying the open sections on our e-bikes and can’t wait for the entire route to be completed.

Posted on by James Kampas

It’s Not Woody

April 29, 2025 - Ladder-backed Woodpecker on palm tree.
April 29, 2025 – Ladder-backed Woodpecker.

I heard a loud, hollow tapping above me and looked up to see this industrious Ladder-backed Woodpecker clinging to the trunk of a palm tree. These small, eye-catching birds are native to the arid regions of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. They get their name from the bold black-and-white “ladder” pattern running down their backs. Males sport a bright red crown patch.

Posted on by James Kampas

Billy F. Gibbons Up Close

Jan. 25, 2025 – Billy F. Gibbons & Mike Flanigin jamming out on “La Grange.”

I’ve seen the band Z.Z. Top in concert 3 times and Billy F. Gibbon’s performance tonight was like seeing them a 4th. This time in a small, outdoor venue, the Agave Caliente Terraza at Agua Caliente Cathedral City, with Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin on bass and Chris Layton on drums. It was chilly outside, but the energy from the crowd (and the beer) kept everyone warm.

Posted on by James Kampas

Christmas at Grandpa’s

Dec 27, 2024 - Grandpa's house for Christmas
Dec 27, 2024 – Happy grandfather.

Having kids around makes Christmas more fun! I’m thrilled that my wonderful daughters and their families made the long drive to the desert to spend a few days together. Seeing the excitement in my grandkids’ eyes as they opened presents or went on a local adventure was the best Christmas gift I could have received.

Posted on by James Kampas

Desert Wildlife

Oct. 19, 2018 – Red-tailed hawk.

This Hawk likes drinking water from the fountain. Red-tailed Hawks are incredibly adaptable—they thrive in wild desert, suburban neighborhoods, and even golf courses (which the Coachella Valley has plenty of). They’re monogamous and often return to the same nest year after year.