Meet Tawny Lane Arguelles, Skating Manager at the Berger Foundation Iceplex in Palm Desert. A Coachella Valley resident since 2011, Tawny and her family have fully embraced the area’s unique blend of community spirit, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Originally from the San Fernando Valley, Tawny moved to North La Quinta with her husband Kenneth to reduce his commute and establish roots in a family-friendly environment. Today, she’s not only a devoted mom of three but also a champion for ice sports and a passionate community member.

Tawny’s journey to becoming the Skating Manager at the Berger Foundation Iceplex is as fascinating as it is inspiring. With a background in the automotive industry, she held leadership roles before pivoting to focus on her family. When the Iceplex opened, Tawny saw an opportunity to reconnect with a childhood passion: ice skating. Starting as a coach at the Iceplex’s Sk8 Academy, her love for the rink quickly evolved into a full-time career.

“My job allows me to share my passion for skating,” Tawny says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch people, from toddlers to adults, overcome their fears and light up when they master a new skill.”

Today, Tawny oversees beginner and advanced skating programs, themed skate nights, and seasonal figure skating recitals. Her efforts help the Iceplex stand out as a cornerstone for local families, aspiring skaters, and community events.

Her husband Kenneth is equally driven in his career as the Parts and Service Director for Porsche of Palm Springs. Together, they balance their professional lives with a deep commitment to their children and the community.

For Tawny, weekends are a whirlwind of family time, hockey games, and ice rink adventures. Saturdays begin with an early morning car show in La Quinta, where she mingles with fellow automotive enthusiasts. The rest of the day revolves around the Iceplex, where Tawny leads skating lessons and cheers on her children, all of whom are budding hockey players.

Sundays offer a balance between relaxation and recreation. Mornings are spent unwinding at home, playing backyard games with her three kids—Savannah (10), Morgan (8), and Kenneth J. (6)—or walking to La Quinta Park. Evenings belong to Tawny and Kenneth’s adult hockey league, where the couple bonds over their shared love for the sport.

When asked for her top advice to new residents, Tawny doesn’t hesitate: “Get out and explore! There’s so much more to discover than what you’ll find online.” She highlights destinations like Old Town La Quinta for a charming afternoon stroll, TKB Bakery & Deli for incredible bites, and the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens for family fun.

Her secret? Cars & Coffee events across the Valley. The gatherings, like the one at La Quinta’s Washington Park Shopping Center, offer a casual yet vibrant way to meet locals while admiring classic and modern automobiles.

The Berger Foundation Iceplex is more than just a skating facility; it’s a vital part of the Coachella Valley community. From hosting public skating sessions to organizing field trips for local schools and offering adaptive sports classes, the Iceplex ensures that people of all ages and abilities can experience the joy of skating and hockey.

The Iceplex partners with organizations like SoCal Adaptive Sports, YMCA, and Desert Recreation District to provide tailored programs for diverse groups. It also collaborates with local schools’ Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) and charter schools to bring skating into educational settings. Special events like fundraisers with local schools, food bank drives, and toy donations highlight its commitment to giving back.

Seasonal highlights include figure skating recitals and monthly Theme Skate nights, which add a touch of magic to the rink. For example, during the holiday season, skaters can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on ice, enjoy mini games, and take festive photos. These events are designed to bring the community together while creating unforgettable memories.

When she’s not skating, Tawny enjoys strength training, sewing, crafting, and gaming with her kids. Her garage houses not just hockey gear but also her pride and joy—a Dodge Charger Super Bee, perfect for weekend drives or showcasing at car shows.

For Tawny, life in Coachella Valley is a perfect blend of professional fulfillment, family connections, and community engagement. “I love it here,” she says with a smile. “This is where we’ve built our home, and I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”