Chairman’s Message

By: Jeff Fishbein Chairman of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce

Now that the holidays have been unwrapped, I’d like to wish you all a Happy New Year!

2023 brings a lot of exciting events to our gorgeous city. On January 16, The American Express beckons athletes and spectators from around the world for an exhilarating weekend of golf and musical entertainment.

The tournament is a tradition that has spanned over 60 years. The Desert Classic debuted in 1960 and evolved from the Palm Springs Thunderbird Invitational. It previously had five rounds of competition (90 holes) rather than the standard of four rounds, and was known for its celebrity pro-am. For many years, the event was named for and hosted by entertainer Bob Hope and featured many celebrity participants.

This year there will be performances by Gwen Stefani and Darius Rucker at the PGA West course on Friday and Saturday nights after the day’s course play. Tickets to the tournament include entry into the evening concerts. The American Express also gives back to the Coachella Valley via Impact Through Golf. It provides funding to organizations that support health and wellness, youth sports, family support, education and homelessness. Since the tournament’s inception, the event has generated more than $63 million for nonprofit organizations locally.

January is also the month of resolutions – many of which include getting into shape. If you need a little motivation you may want to join a hike or nature walk with the Friends of the Desert Mountains. Their mission is to preserve land, to support education, conservation and research in the Coachella Valley. Other happenings during the month of January that you can read more about in this issue include the always-popular Art on Main Street, sponsored by the City of La Quinta.

You may have noticed a different “look” to The Gem this month. This magazine continues to be upgraded, and we felt January was the perfect month to launch a new cover design. Many of us at the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce – along with City officials – have been hearing positive feedback about the new direction of The Gem and we’re proud to be providing an elevated publication that’s worthy of La Quinta coffee tables and lobbies.

La Quinta has a plethora of activities to offer residents and visitors of every age. Let’s get out and explore.

I hope to see you out and about.