Desert Business Association Announces 2026 Impact Award Winners

The Desert Business Association, the Coachella Valley's LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, announced its 2026 Impact Award recipients this week, recognizing local businesses and community leaders making a difference across the region.

Townie Bagels will take home the Business of the Year honors, while Michael and Ernie Westman, the duo behind GED Magazine, Montage Events, Cathedral City Days, and Equality Wine Fest, were named Business People of the Year. The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs will receive the Outstanding Community Service Organization award, and Julie Warren, known for her work with the LGBTQ+ History & Archives of the Desert, Palm Springs Library, and Palm Springs Speaks, will be recognized as Outstanding Community Service Leader.

"Each of these recipients has made a lasting impact on our community," said DBA Executive Director David Powell. "From supporting local nonprofits and youth, to preserving our history and promoting inclusion, they represent the very best of what our valley stands for."

The DBA will also award LGBTQ+ youth scholarships at the event through its partnership with Safe Schools Desert Cities.

The ceremony is on Monday, May 4, at 5 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Tickets and information are available at DesertBusiness.org.