The GEM February 2024 by Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

L A Q U I N TA’ S C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E

THE GEM FEBRUARY 2024

In this issue Falling in Love with La Quinta: How One Family Left L.A. for the Gem of the Desert Two La Quinta Women Share Important Insights About Black History Month City Hosts ‘Mapping Our Tomorrow’ Community Workshop on February 22

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THE GEM

THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY GCV LA

QU I

Noteworthy Nuggets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 How One Family Left L.A. After Falling in Love with La Quinta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Start Your Engines for the La Quinta Car Show February 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Two La Quinta Women Share Important Insights About Black History Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 City Manager’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area.

Community Services Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 La Quinta Museum Exhibits & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 It’s Your Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Dune Palms Road Bridge Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Waste Collection & Recycling Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mark Your Calendar for the City’s Annual Community Workshop February . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 On the Cover: The Bakers and their children moved to the Gem of the Desert and left big city life in L.A. after falling in love with La Quinta, and soon several other family members followed. Pictured on the cover are Allie & Tony Baker and their kids, Kingsley (Kiki) & Rocco, along with Allie’s parents, Susan & Robert Kingsley.

Photo Credit: Mollie Kimberling

L A Q U I N TA’ S C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E

THE GEM FEBRUARY 2024

La Quinta Community Park FREE for All Ages Car Show | Music Food | Beer Garden Family Fun

February 24, 2024 | 10:00 - 3:00|LQCarShow.com

GCVCC LA QUINTA 83040 AVENUE 42 LA QUINTA, CA 92253 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER / FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP ALISON HENDRIX | ENTRAVISION ANGELIQUE ONTIVEROS | DESERT ARC CHRIS LITTLE | DESERT JET DOUG MOTZ | MOTZ-RUSIN INSURANCE AGENCY ERIC MOSSER | CHARLES SCHWAB MIKE WILLIAMS | CAPITIS REAL ESTATE STEVE WEINER | COLDWELL BANKER EILEEN DIAZ | CAMEO PALMS MASSAGE THERAPY The Gem Production Team Editor: Andrea Carter Graphic Designer: Jeff Day The Gem is produced by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The Gem is an official publication of the GCVCC. Circulation: Approximately 23,000. Distributed free to all residents, Chamber members and businesses in La Quinta. To advertise please call (760) 347-0676. Please Note: The opinions and views expressed in all editorial material are those of the writer or person interviewed and are not necessarily those of the GCVCC, its Board of Directors, or the advertisers in The Gem. The GCVCC endorses no person, political candidate or opinion unless specifically stated. The Gem reserves the right to reject certain advertising submissions. For a list of advertising standards, please contact staff. The Gem reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, length, and questionable content. Advertisers please note that colors may look slightly darker, or slightly lighter due to variables in the printing process. Questions or comments? Email us at info@GCVCC.org or call (760) 347-0676.

y h t r o w e Not This Month’s

s t e g Nug

La Quinta Art Celebration

La Quinta Community Workshop

Heart Glassblowing

With 2024 being a leap year, the La Quinta Art Celebration will begin on the last day of February this year and run through March 3. Recognized as one of La Quinta’s signature events, the La Quinta Art Celebration brings in over 200 juried, world-class artists showcasing original works at the stunning La Quinta Civic Center Campus.

The City of La Quinta’s Annual Community Workshop is an important community gathering you won’t want to miss. The workshop will be held on Thursday, February 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wellness Center.

Looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Sign up for this Heart Glassblowing Workshop put on by Old Town Artisan Studios!

The multi-day arts extravaganza has been named the Favorite Outdoor Art Festival by Southwest Art Magazine, earning its Reader’s Choice Award in 2023. Participating artists from across the country and globe will be exhibiting their original paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and photography. The four-day event will also include music and a variety of drinks and food vendors. Tickets are $25 for one day or $30 for a four-day pass. More info: LaQuintaArtCelebration.org

Join the City Council and City staff at this significant planning event, where your ideas will be heard and you can help prioritize significant projects the City has planned for the coming year. This is an opportunity for residents to get involved and find out what’s happening in La Quinta. Staff will present past projects, new projects, and information for La Quinta in the coming year. This free event will be held in person, with food and refreshments being provided. The La Quinta Wellness Center is located at 78450 Avenida La Fonda. More info: LaQuintaCA.gov/CommunityWorkshop

Glassblowing is a glass-forming technique that involves inflating molten glass into a bubble with the aid of a blowpipe. Jason and Nicole McQuaid of McQuaid Glass in La Quinta, who have over 35 years of experience in glassblowing, will be leading instruction for this special workshop. Sign up now to create a stunning glass heart in this workshop using traditional techniques (no previous experience is required). You’ll even be able to pick out your own colors. There are several time slots available for this workshop on February 14, with four participants allowed per time slot. Cost is $150 (includes materials). More info & to register: OldTownArtisanStudios.org

On the Cover

e v o L n i Falling with La Quinta

How One Family Left Life in L.A. After

We all remember when we first fell in love with La Quinta – that’s why we’re here. The allure of La Quinta continues to attract visitors and new residents to this special community, and in the case of Tony and Allie Baker – more family soon followed after La Quinta stole their hearts and they decided to relocate their young family here. The Bakers knew they wanted to escape Los Angeles. They didn’t feel safe there anymore, and wanted to raise their family in a low stress environment. Living in L.A. during the pandemic felt claustrophobic, so with their newborn, Rocco, and two-year-old, Kingsley, in tow, they often went for long drives with no destination in mind. One day, the family aimlessly drove to the desert. “Driving through, I thought of my friend, Jen Romis, who’d only just moved to La Quinta in late 2020,” Allie recalled. “I called her and made plans to meet up with her family for a walk in their new neighborhood. When we exited the freeway, I was quickly taken aback by the sudden lush greenery. It’s as if the desert landscape takes a beat. It’s wild.” Allie knew right away this area was special. The moment she and Tony entered the gates of Jen’s La Quinta neighborhood, their eyes lit up. “This was the type of city I grew up in, where kids could ride their bikes and people said hello to each other,” added Allie. “It was the lifestyle my husband and I wanted for our kids and ourselves. We immediately opened our Zillow app and started hunting down a house. As luck would have it there was just one available directly 6

What’s more, the Bakers have invested in the La Quinta business community, as well. In November 2022, Allie opened Art Major. This handson art enrichment center offers space and materials for guests who want to get creative. And thanks to the Desert Sands Unified School District, Art Major is now accessible at numerous public schools, allowing all students to enjoy the advantages of artistic expression without any cost to their parents.

across the our friends. we were in

street from Within a week, escrow.”

Then Allie’s sister and brother-in-law, Jen and Travis Dillard, came down from Oregon. They also fell in love with La Quinta and purchased a second home within walking distance. But the family migration didn’t stop there. Once Allie’s parents, Robert and Susan Kingsley, visited from Washington just a few weeks later, they began house hunting, too. Allie found the perfect house for them just two streets from theirs, and encouraged them to buy it sight unseen. “This move was very unlike my dad, but he went for it,” Allie explained. “They sold their home and became our neighbors. Having everyone so close has been an absolute dream. Tony’s parents live in Palm Desert, so Kingsley and Rocco are getting extremely spoiled having both sets of grandparents close by.”

“When we moved here, we made friends with other parents, and we all were looking for a place indoors where our kids could foster creativity – where they could play with paint and glitter and all the things I didn’t want anywhere near my couch,” said Allie. “The studio has been thriving ever since.” Then, this past fall, Tony and Allie – along with their closest friends and now business partners, Sofia Mastroberti and Nick Iattoni – opened KIKI’s restaurant in La Quinta. “It was so important to me that we open our second business in La Quinta because of the community,” Allie continued. “There is a unique comradery here between business owners that is so beautiful. It’s not a competition, we’re all in this together. And the City itself is extremely resourceful and supportive. They truly want residents to succeed.” “My goal is to enhance the offerings and make life even better for those living here in paradise,” Allie added.

MUSICAL GUEST

THE SILVERADOS Date: February 10, 2024 Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Location: SilverRock Park

THE SILVERADOS DELIVER A BLEND OF ROCK 'N' ROLL AND COUNTRY MUSIC.

Cruise On Over to the La Quinta Car Show on February 24 research how much a car may be worth, or even where to buy a particularly hardto-find part.

If there’s one family-friendly event you don’t want to miss this month, it’s the 17th Annual La Quinta Hot Rod and Custom Car – happening Saturday, February 24 at the La Quinta Community Park, located at 77-865 Avenida Montezuma in La Quinta.

According to Dennis Henderson, who is a member of the Silver Scorpians Car Club which helps put on the event, “The La Quinta Car Show is one we always enjoy because it’s got a fun atmosphere, and it’s on grass versus concrete which can be rare to find in a car show. The contrast of the cars against the green grass is spectacular.”

Whether you are a car enthusiast or simply want to come out and enjoy food and drinks while you meander through hundreds of spectacular cars on display, the La Quinta Car Show offers something for everyone. Brought to you by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of La Quinta, this free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year’s show will be recognizing several prize-winning categories, including Best Street Rod, Best Classic, Best Muscle Car, Best Sports Car, and more. This intimate event gives car

enthusiasts an opportunity to speak with the owners of the cars on display – who love their cars and are excited to show them off. Registered vehicles that will be on display have been lovingly and painstakingly restored. Many owners are happy to share their vast knowledge about cars in general. It’s a great place to

Another benefit is that attendees will have close proximity to Old Town La Quinta and many area shops, restaurants, hiking trails and parks. For additional information about the show, visit LQcarshow.com, or contact the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce at (760) 347-0676.

Two La Quinta Women Share Important Insights About

Black History Month By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta Food and Conversation McClary and Berrysmith have been married nearly 11 of the 16 years they have been together. Berrysmith was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, and later moved to Los Angeles where she lived for more than 30 years. McClary is a South Carolina native who later lived in Texas and North Carolina. Berrysmith ultimately joined her in Charlotte, North Carolina, where they lived for a few years before moving to the Coachella Valley and buying a home in La Quinta to be closer to McClary’s sister, who was battling cancer.

Betty Berrysmith and Teri McClary February is a month for celebrating love, but Valentine’s Day is one holiday among several notable days of recognition. February 1, for example, is National Freedom Day, commemorating President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the 13th Amendment in 1865, which abolished slavery. It is also Black History Month, established in 1926 as a week celebrated in February and extended 50 years later. Sitting in the living room of their home in the La Quinta Cove, Betty Berrysmith and Teri McClary said Black History Month is an opportunity for people to learn more about African Americans – their heritage, accomplishments, and contributions beyond what’s in the history books. “It’s so important for us to know all of our history, all of our histories, not only Black history,” McClary said. “We need to know about everybody’s culture because if we don’t know our history, we will repeat our history and I don’t want to go back to those days.” 8

Black History Month, like Hispanic Heritage, Native Americans, Italian Americans, and other months, provides an opportunity to learn more about our neighbors. Only by knowing the struggles and the successes, along with the different traditions, can people fully understand and empathize with each other and avoid repeating past atrocities like slavery and the Holocaust, McClary and Berrysmith said. “For people to say they don’t care about what happened in the past … you need to know what happened so you understand that this can happen again,” McClary said. “I think it’s important for all different ethnic groups to get their chance to say, ‘This is important for you to know about our culture.’” “Everyone can do the best job of teaching their own history, for sure,” Berrysmith said.

Both women grew up during segregation and the Civil Rights Movement and said they still experience racism which comes from being judged based on what people see, and not on who they are and what they have accomplished. McClary, who can often be found riding her bike in the Cove, is a program manager for Hewlitt Packard (HP) where she has worked for 43 years. Berrysmith is a wellknown chef, caterer, and owner of B’s Table CaliSoul Cuisine – a home-cooked meal pickup and catering service with a menu that includes her signature gumbo. She is also a founding member of the L-Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides grants for emergency and educational financial assistance to lesbians throughout the Coachella Valley. She was presented with the Greater Palm Springs Pride’s 2021 Spirit of Stonewall Volunteer of the Year award for her work with the L-Fund. Food can be a great conversation starter and a way to learn about someone else’s culture and experiences, Berrysmith said.“You can learn so much from sitting down and having a meal.”

Changing the World Black History Month was started by Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard-educated historian and the “Father of Black History,” in 1926 as “Negro History Week,” celebrated the second week in February – chosen because the birth dates of abolitionist Frederick Douglas and President Abraham Lincoln fall on that week. The week became “Black History Month” in 1976, as declared by President Gerald Ford to “honor the too-oft neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every endeavor throughout our history.” It is celebrated not just in the United States but in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands. “There are so many things African Americans have done that are not talked about,” McClary said. The accomplishments of Civil Rights leader, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.; the first African American president of the United States, Barack Obama; Thurgood Marshall, the first African American to serve on the United States Supreme Court; and Rosa Parks, “the mother of the freedom movement” whose refusal to give up her bus seat to a white man launched the Montgomery Bus Boycott by about 17,000 African Americans in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955, are all well-known and documented. But there are many others whose lifechanging contributions and discoveries didn’t get the recognition they deserve. Among them: George Washington Carver was an agricultural chemist in Alabama who discovered alternative farming methods. He is best known for discovering more than 300 different uses for peanuts, and hundreds more uses for soybeans, pecans and sweet potatoes. Dorothy Johnson Vaughan was a mathematician for NASA and part of a team of African American women whose math calculations helped launch satellites and humans into space. The team was the focus of the book and award-winning movie, “Hidden Figures.” Percy Julian is known as the “soybean chemist” for his success in developing innovative drugs and industrial chemicals from natural soya products.

Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard-educated historian and the “Father of Black History,”

Sarah Breedlove Walker, also known as Madame C.J. Walker, was an inventor, businesswoman and selfmade millionaire. She developed and manufactured beauty products for African American women and became one of the largest employers of African American women of her time. Mark Dean was a top engineer at IBM and, with a colleague, developed a system in the 1980s allowing computers to communicate with printers and other devices. He holds 20 patents for his work, and in 2000, the California African American Museum named Dean one of the “50 Most Important African Americans in Technology.” Shirley Chisholm was the first African American woman elected to Congress and the first to run for president. She served seven terms – 14 years – in Congress and fought for equal rights

for women, minorities, immigrants, and people experiencing poverty. Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to obtain an international pilot’s license. Her race and gender kept her from being accepted into flight schools in the United States, so she went to France, where she earned her international pilot’s license and later became an aerial acrobat. Mae Jemison is an engineer, a physician, and the first African American woman to travel into space, serving as a mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992.

Learn more about the history and contributions of African Americans through books found at the La Quinta Public Library.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

February is an exciting month in La Quinta with lots of family-friendly events taking place. It marks the return of our free Concerts in the Park, kicking off at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, February 10, at SilverRock Park. Performing will be The Silverados & Rockin’ on Heaven’s Door, one band performing rock ‘n’ roll classics and country music. Leap Year gives the La Quinta Art Celebration, traditionally held the first weekend in March, a February start this year. The No. 1 ranked fine arts event brings 200 of the finest artists from around the world to the Civic Center Campus from Thursday, February 29, through Sunday, March 3. If you only mark your calendar for one event this month, make it the annual Community Workshop from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, at the Wellness Center. The workshop is an opportunity to get your ideas heard and help prioritize significant projects the City has planned for the coming year. UPCOMING EVENTS Personal Preparedness Training Seminar Thursday, February 1, 10-11 a.m. Location: Wellness Center Learn how to create a disaster plan for you, your family and your pets at this free educational seminar, hosted by the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network. Those who attend will receive a free “Ready to Go” bag and an educational plan that includes information about how to survive and thrive in a disaster. Art on Main Street Saturdays, Feb. 3 & 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta Over 100 artists, many of them local, line the streets of Old Town showcasing 10

their paintings, jewelry, photography and other creations for sale on select Saturdays of the month through March. Admission, parking and entertainment are free. Art on Main Street will be held February 3 and 17, and March 9 and 23. Concerts in the Park Saturday, February 10, 5:30-8 p.m. Location: SilverRock Park The Silverados & Rockin’ on Heaven’s Door will be performing classic rock ‘n’ roll tunes of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, and country music with a 30-minute intermission about halfway through. Bring your chairs or blankets and join the City of La Quinta for the return of the free Concerts in the Park series for the 2024 season. The event includes food truck vendors, though concert-goers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Neighborhood Watch Meeting Thursday, February 15, 6-7 p.m. Location: City Hall, Study Session Room This month’s guest speaker will be a representative of Burrtec, who will talk about how to turn wasteful trash into a valuable resource for farms and gardens and help to reverse climate change. For more information about Neighborhood Watch, contact Sally Shelton at sally_ shelton@aol.com. Community Workshop Thursday, February 22, 5-7 p.m. Location: Wellness Center, 78450 Avenida La Fonda Join the City Council and City staff for the 2024 Community Workshop. This is an opportunity for residents to get involved and find out what’s happening in La Quinta. Staff will present our past projects, new projects, and information for La Quinta in the coming year. This free event will be held in person at the La Quinta Wellness Center and food and refreshments will be provided. Learn more at LaQuintaCA. gov/CommunityWorkshop.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

Full Moon Hike Thursday, February 22, 7-10 p.m. Location: La Quinta Cove Trails parking lot Friends of the Desert Mountains is hosting a family friendly, easy 3-mile full moon hike. Space is limited so tickets and reservations are required along with a suggested $5 per person tax-deductible donation. For tickets and more details, visit DesertMountains.org/Calendar. Star Party Thursday, February 22, 7:30-10 p.m. Location: La Quinta Cove Trails parking lot Friends of the Desert Mountains volunteer astronomers will set up their telescopes for a star party. Registration begins 14 days prior to the event. A suggested $5 per person tax-deductible donation is appreciated in support of the nonprofit’s volunteer programs. For more information, visit DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984. La Quinta Hot Rod & Custom Car Show Saturday, February 24, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Location: La Quinta Community Park Put on by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of La Quinta, this familyfriendly event includes dozens of classic and custom cars, entertainment, food vendors, a beer garden and more. Parking and admission are free. Learn more at LQCarShow.com. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event Saturday, February 24, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Location: City Hall south parking lot Riverside County will conduct a free household hazardous waste collection event at City Hall. This is an opportunity to properly dispose of items such as used oil and filters, gasoline/diesel/antifreeze/ brake fluid, paint, fluorescent tubes and bulbs, pesticides and garden chemicals, household cleaners and aerosol cans, barbecue and camp-size propane, auto and household batteries, pool chlorine, electronic devices including TVs and computers, and Sharps and unused medication (except controlled substances). Find more information at RCwaste.org/hhw.

La Quinta Art Celebration 2024 Thursday, February 29, through Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: La Quinta Civic Center Campus, Calle Tampico and Avenida La Fonda This award-winning, No. 1 ranked event brings world-class artists from across the country and globe will be exhibiting their original paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography. The four-day event will also include music and a variety of drinks and food vendors. Tickets are $25 for one day or $30 for a four-day pass and can be purchased in advance online at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org. Certified Farmers Market Sundays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta Come load up on fresh locally grown and produced fruits, vegetables, eggs, flowers, honey, gourmet chef-prepared foods, one-of-a-kind artisan goods and more, every Sunday through May 26, 2024. For more information, call Christiana Green at (951) 551-6233. CITY UPDATES Pavement Project Updates Citywide Slurry Seal Project: Construction has begun on a citywide slurry seal project that is part of the five-year Pavement Management Program. Work areas include a portion of the Cove (Avenida Martinez, Avenida Mendoza, and Calle Madrid), Washington Street (between Eisenhower and Avenue Montero), Monroe Street, and Avenida La Fonda. The estimated cost is $2 million. Find more information and updates at LaQuintaCA.gov/Roads. Other Capital Improvement Program Projects Landscape Renovation: Construction will begin this month for the final phase of the La Quinta landscape renovation project refreshing the perimeter landscape in the Cactus Flower development with a desert oasis plant palette featuring various drought tolerant plants, boulders, multicolored crushed rock, and drought friendly irrigation system. Eisenhower Retention Basin Slope Repair: All bids were rejected to allow staff to prepare the Federal environmental documents necessary to receive available federal FEMA storm damage funding. The project will be rebid at a later date. The project will repair slopes that failed due to tropical storm Hilary. The engineered soil that covers a specialized slope liner washed off in many areas and needs to be placed back to protect the liner from UV light. CV Link An extensive amount of work has been done on the main pathway through La Quinta, and work has started on various connectors, including at Washington Street. In December, lights and benches were installed at the promontory access point and bridge over the La Quinta stormwater channel. The promontory point, where CV Link connects the cities of La Quinta and Indio, near Jefferson Street, is expected to open this summer. CV Link is a planned 40-mile, multi-modal pathway for cycling, walking, jogging and low-speed electric vehicles such as golf carts that will run through much of the Coachella Valley. For more about CV Link, visit CVAG.org or LaQuintaCA.gov/Residents/CV-Link.

COMMUNITY SERVICES Online registration available at LaQuintaCA.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096. WELLNESS CENTER Creative Wellness Indoors Ballroom Dancing Beginning

6 – 7 p.m.

Physical Wellness Deep Stretch Gentle Yoga w/ Karen Gentle Yoga w/ Karen Mental Muscle Relaxation Personal Trainer (by appt.) Pickleball 101 Pilates Tai Chi Yang Yoga Flow (Billee)

4 – 4:45 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 3 – 4 p.m. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 6 – 7 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 3 – 4 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

T/TH T TH M/W M/TH W T/TH T/TH M

Social Wellness Movie Matinee Social Bridge (Fee: $4) Mah-Jongg (Fee: $2) Mexican Train Dominoes (Fee: $2) Nintendo Switch – Bowling Quilting for Good Times (Volunteers) Chuck Sullivans Desert Oasis Strummers

1 p.m. M 12:15 – 4 p.m. M 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. T 1 – 4 p.m. W 2 – 4 p.m. 1 – 4 p.m.

F TH

2 – 4 p.m.

Workshop Act 2 – The Second Act for Women Workshop, March 5-March 26; 10 – 11 a.m. If you have ever wondered, “Who am I and where did I go?,” Act 2 is for you. This workshop is designed to help you move forward during the second half of life. Topics include: Appreciate Who You Are, Dream Forward, Design Your Direction, and Create an Action Plan. Register by March 1. Fee: $75 Material fee: $5 Look Who’s in the Lobby FIND Food Bank, Thursday, February 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Information on food bank locations, utility resources. HICAP One-on-One Consultations, Monday, February 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. HICAP counselors will meet with you one-on-one to help you understand your Medicare health insurance benefits and options (prescription drug comparisons, information on low-cost medical insurance, and advocate for medical bill concerns). Call HICAP at (800) 434-0222 or (909) 2568369 to make an appointment. Meet for your appointment at the Wellness Center.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

LA QUINTA MUSEUM 77885 Avenida Montezuma La Quinta, CA 92253 (760) 777-7170 The La Quinta Museum is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm. Admission and programs are FREE.

EXHIBITS From the Archives Feb 6 - March 30, 2024 Enjoy seldom-seen artwork from the archives of the La Quinta Historical Society. Spotlight Exhibit in the Local History Gallery La Quinta Legends: Frank Capra Legendary director Frank Capra’s films made the American dream come alive on the silver screen during the 1930s and ’40s. This exhibit shines the spotlight on the life of one of La Quinta’s most celebrated residents. EVENTS Thursday, February 1, 5 p.m. Music at The Museum Meet in the Courtyard to enjoy the sounds of Doug and Meg. PROGRAMS As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on the La Quinta Museum’s free programs at Facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum/Events. Friday, February 2 & 16, 1-3 p.m. Sketchbook Journaling Get in touch with your inner artist by sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided. Thursday, February 8, 2 p.m. Lecture: Geology Learn more about local geology in this lecture presented by Carrie DeVoe, Teri Sitton, Margo McCormick and Carol Sniegoski.

Friday, February 9 & 23, 11:30 a.m. Fridays with Frank Join screenings of Frank Capra’s classic films! This month, watch “Mr. Deeds Goes to Town” (February 9), and “Arsenic and Old Lace” (February 23). Saturday, February 10, 1-3 p.m. Genealogy Meet-Up Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in all things genealogy, join this discussion and collaboration. Tuesday, February 13 & 27, 1-3 p.m. STITCH Fiber Arts Group Bring your fiber project, meet with friends old and new, share what you’ve been working on, and get inspired for your next project. Wednesday, February 14, 1 p.m. TED Talk Hangout Enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month: “3 Questions to Ask Yourself about Everything you Do” by Stacey Abrams. Tuesday, February 20, 11 a.m. Take a Break with Huell Watch an episode of Huell Howser’s “California’s Gold” on the big screen. This month, Huell takes viewers to the northernmost and southernmost towns of the state. Friday, February 23, 3 p.m. La Sobremesa Cultural La Sobremesa es un programa en español para el disfrute cultural. Acompáñanos el día Viernes 23 de febrero a las 3 pm y veamos “Sensacional de Diseño Mexicano - Poderosa Gráfica”

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

Saturday, February 24, 2 p.m. Creative Conversations Enjoy performance by and discussion with creatives who will share their inspiration. This month, meet Andy Romanoff, author of “Stories I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You,” a young man’s wild stories told with an older man’s wisdom. Thursday, February 29, 3 p.m. Good Books in the Gallery Read a great book, then get together to discuss! January’s selection: “Museum of Ordinary People” by Mike Gayle. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants. Call (760) 777-7170 to request one.

IT’S YOUR LIBRARY La Quinta Public Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. Enjoy FREE programs for all ages! Questions? Call 760-564-4767

Rivlib.net * Means REGISTRATION is required.

SPECIAL EVENTS/NEW PROGRAMS

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Speaker Series: La Quinta Historical Society Presentation Friday, February 2 | 2 – 3 p.m. In preparation for the La Quinta Book Fest with the theme, “An Ode to the Desert,” join a presentation from the La Quinta Historical Society of ancient history in La Quinta through the 1982 incorporation of the City.

Anime Cafe Saturday, February 17 @ 1 p.m. Ages 13-17 A fun space to hang out, watch anime, read manga, and try the Japanese snack of the month!

Book Fest Saturday, February 3 @ 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages 18+ This is the fifth annual La Quinta Book Fest at the La Quinta Public Library. This year’s theme is “An Ode to the Desert,” in celebration of the Coachella Valley in literature. There will be a short reading, a discussion panel and a book signing with three guest authors: Tod Goldberg, Steven Rowley and Susan Straight. Let’s Eat! A La Quinta Community Cookbook Calling all adult patrons and local restaurants! The La Quinta Library is creating a community cookbook. Please submit a recipe that is a part of your family tradition or cultural heritage. Patrons can share a small story (100word limit) behind your recipe. Recipes will be collected until the end of May 2024. Submit your recipes to siarah. smith@rivlib.net.

Level Up LQ Saturdays, February 10 & 24 @ 12 - 2 p.m. | Ages 13-17 Calling all teen gamers! Play a variety of games on different consoles including the PS4, Nintendo Switch and more. Scrabble Club Tuesdays, February 6 & 13 @ 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Ages 18+ Join some friendly games of Scrabble. Writer’s Block Sunday, February 4 @ 1 p.m. | Ages 18+ Writers of all levels can join for monthly prompts, exercises and group critiques. Threadheads Fiber Arts Club Saturday, February 17 @ 1:30 p.m. Ages 18+ Come and share your fiber art projects, ideas, skills & inspiration with other fiber artists. All skill levels welcome!

Please Note: The La Quinta Library and the Creation Station will be closed February 12 & 19, 2024. Scan for January programs.

Scan for February’s Book Fest.

LA QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS Questions about Creation Station programs? Call (760) 777-7088 Maker Craft: Paint & Sip with Michele Josha Tree at Sunset SATURDAY, Feb. 3 Session A: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Session B: 1:30 – 3 p.m. All Ages RSVP Required | Free In celebration of the La Quinta Public Library’s Book Fest theme, “An Ode to the Desert,” Miss Michele will be offering a lesson on painting a desert scene inspired by sunsets in Joshua Tree National Park. Arizona Iced Tea, Cactus Cooler and water will also be provided for patrons to sip on during the painting lesson. Only 15 spots per session. Maker Craft: Valentine’s Day Card Decorating THURSDAY, Feb. 8 |10 a.m. – 5 p.m. All-Ages | Free (while supplies last) Get ready for Valentine’s Day by handmaking a card that comes from the heart. The MakerSpace will provide the supplies you need to show your loved ones how much you care. Fiber Arts Bootcamp (FAB): Simple Flower & Leaf Embroidery SUNDAY, Feb. 25 |1 – 3 p.m. All Ages | Free (while supplies last) Learn some common stitches to create simple flower and leaf embroidery designs on a custom sampler provided by the MakerSpace.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

UPDATE

Dune Palms Road Bridge

For the past several months, Dune Palms Road in La Quinta has been closed at the Whitewater Wash while construction of a $25 million all-weather bridge continues. The construction started in January 2023, with completion of the last north/ south bridge of the stormwater channel needed in the City of La Quinta expected in early 2025. Flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary in August destroyed a bypass road built to keep Dune Palms open during construction, closing the road until the northbound/east side of the bridge is completed around March 2024. In the meantime, all businesses in the area and Corporate Centre Drive remain open 14

and accessible, so please support them. Project milestones to date: • Northbound Bridge: Crews have completed a 525-linear-foot concrete placement on the northbound bridge deck. The concrete placement has passed strength testing and crews will begin work on the sidewalk, barrier rail, lighting and approach slabs. • Southbound Bridge: Crews successfully relocated a waterline to accommodate construction on the southbound bridge. Crews are preparing to begin rebar work on the cages for the cast-in-drilledhole (CIDH) bridge columns for the southbound bridge.

Check LaQuintaCA.gov/DunePalms for project updates and to register to receive updates by email or text.

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Mark Your Calendar for the City’s Community Workshop on February 22 Come help the City of La Quinta in “Mapping Our Tomorrow” at the annual Community Workshop from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 22, at the Wellness Center. The interactive workshop is an opportunity to get your ideas heard and help prioritize significant projects the City has planned for the coming year. The free in-person event will include food and refreshments. The Community Workshop is an opportunity for residents to get involved and find out what’s happening in the Gem of the Desert. Staff will present projects and accomplishments from 2023 and outline new projects for La Quinta in 2024.

Among the presentations: • The City’s new Strategic Plan outlines short- and long-term goals, including undergrounding utility lines, implementing the reenvision Highway 111 plan, public safety, and more. It also outlines steps to attain each goal. Residents will have opportunities to give feedback before the Council adopts the plan. • Undergrounding of utilities including estimated costs and funding options the City is exploring.

• A report on the City’s finances as we begin the second half of fiscal year 2023-24. • Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects. Such projects include repaving Highway 111 this summer at an estimated cost of $8 million. • Park upgrades, including the addition of shade structures, new playground equipment for La Quinta Park, and planned Fritz Burns improvements. Learn more at LaQuintaCA.gov/CommunityWorkshop.

Residents will provide ideas for what the City should work on or improve and then vote for the highest priority items. The event will include opportunities for question-and-answer sessions between residents and City leadership.

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