Welcome to Thursday. Earlier this week, we were saddened to hear that Volunteer Palm Springs had ceased operations. We last reported on the organization in 2022, just as it was reemerging after a pandemic hiatus. Over the years, it helped connect volunteers who provided more than 30,000 hours of service in the valley. It also spearheaded cycling safety initiatives and much more. As David Carden Jr. wrote in a closing statement, there are many, many opportunities to give of yourself in the city and beyond. This past summer, we collected dozens of them all in one spot. We invite you to peruse them here.
🎶 Setting the mood: “Take the Money and Run” by Steve Miller Band
LEADING OFF
Queer Works CEO indicted on 53 fraud counts
Jacob Rostovsky, CEO of Palm Springs-based LGBTQ+ nonprofit Queer Works, faces a 53-count indictment for allegedly misusing over $840,000 in public funds intended for housing assistance and basic income payments, it was announced Wednesday.
Driving the news: In a statement to the media, Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin revealed charges of fraudulent claims, grand theft, and money laundering against the 33-year-old Rostovsky. Issues surrounding him were first reported earlier this year by The Post…