The GEM June 2024

JUNE

THE GEM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY CG V LAQUINTA CHAM B RE

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.

OF DIRECTORS

JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER

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.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

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

Welcome to the height of summer in the desert. Often, people are curious about the history and purpose of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce. Allow me to enlighten you on both fronts.

The La Quinta Chamber of Commerce was established in 1950 and has long been a pillar of support for the local community, nurturing the growth of both commercial and agricultural sectors. Founded by Walter Bowman and Francis Haack, who were the initial president and secretary, respectively, the Chamber has been instrumental in shaping the community.

Francis Haack, a retired talent scout famously known for discovering Shirley Temple, later became a prominent real estate broker and local benefactor. Her office was housed in the unique hexagonal casita, which eventually became the La Quinta Historical Society Museum. She also played a key role in securing La Quinta Community Park for the local recreation district.

Today, the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce serves as a vibrant hub for networking, offering a dynamic platform for business owners and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate. Through its regular networking events, workshops, and seminars, the Chamber provides numerous opportunities for members to engage with peers, exchange ideas, and build partnerships that propel their businesses forward.

Advocacy is another critical function of the Chamber, representing the interests of La Quinta’s business community, and lobbying for policies and developments that foster a conducive business environment. This advocacy helps ensure that local enterprises flourish, supporting innovation and growth.

Moreover, the Chamber plays an active role in the wider community of La Quinta. By participating in local events and initiatives, it helps to strengthen the bond between businesses and the public, boosting the local economy and fostering a united community spirit that benefits both residents and business owners alike.

Jeff Fishbein – a realtor affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty, the desert’s premier real estate firm – boasts an impressive track record of assisting both home sellers and buyers. Garnering a 5-star rating on Zillow.com, Jeff has earned widespread acclaim for his exceptional service.

Noteworthy Nuggets This Month’s

Reptile Fun Show Concert in the Park

What’s the best way to encounter reptiles, especially in the hot summer months? Attending the Reptile Fun Show at La Quinta Library on Friday, June 21!

The free event begins at 11 a.m., providing an opportunity for people to come and learn about reptiles and their habitats at this live animal reptile show.

The La Quinta Library is also bringing back its Read, Renew, Repeat Summer Reading Program once again from June 10 to July 19 for all ages. The program offers six weeks of activities, events and prizes for kids, tweens, teens and adults with performances, presentations and craft events weekly as well as a reading challenge along with a spectacular closing Summer Splash Party.

Go to page 19 to scan the QR code for a full calendar of events.

More info: PlayInLaQuinta.com

The City of La Quinta has hosted a number of free concerts as part of its Concerts in the Park series at SilverRock Park, and this month, the concert will be held on Saturday, June 1, at 7:30 p.m. featuring the band La Verdad – a premier west coast Latin music ensemble.

La Verdad embodies the Los Angeles Latin experience, and is collectively led by Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter, Gabriel Gonzalez. Boasting a traditional and original repertoire that spans the scope of Latin American route music, the band plays salsa, funk, cha-cha and much more.

Grab your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy this free concert at SilverRock Park. The event includes food truck vendors, though concert-goers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

More info: PlayInLaQuinta.com

Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Don’t miss the next Neighborhood Watch Meeting in La Quinta on June 27 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at City Hall in the Study Session Room.

The La Quinta Sheriff’s Department will host a presentation on what to do in case of an active shooter event. This meeting will cover strategies and methods to protect yourself and reduce your risks.

In addition, the Department’s Lt. Frank Velasco and his team will be at the meeting to answer any questions.

Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program which enlists the active participation of residents in cooperation with law enforcement to reduce crime in their communities. It involves neighbors getting to know each other and working together in a program of mutual assistance to recognize and report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.

More info: Email sally_shelton@aol.com

On the Cover: Residents & Visitors

Welcome Dune Palms Bridge Reopening

For the past month, residents and visitors alike have appreciated having another north-south thoroughfare available for travel over the wash in La Quinta following the partial reopening of Dune Palms Bridge.

Construction continues on the west side of the Dune Palms Road all-weather bridge over the wash, with completion of the $25 million project expected in early 2025. The construction began in January 2023.

Crews recently completed installation of the falsework on the east side/southbound bridge falsework and have started placing the reinforcing steel for the bridge soffit, or bottom surface of the bridge, and bents.

Bridge bents are a substructure unit that supports each end of a bridge span, also called a pier. It’s made up of two or more columns or column-like members connected at the top by a cap or strut that holds them in place.

They will soon begin work on a cut-off wall to mitigate water running through the construction zone. In April, the east bridge opened for two-way traffic, pedestrians and cyclists.

The Dune Palms Road bridge is the last north-south bridge needed over the wash for La Quinta and will prevent road closures in the future due to flooding or other weather conditions.

When completed, in early 2025, the two lanes on the west side of the bridge will be for northbound traffic and the east side lanes will handle southbound travel. The bridge will be 480 feet long and about 86 feet wide and will include:

• Four vehicle lanes, two in each direction.

• Two 8-foot-wide bike/cart paths, one in each direction.

• Two 6-foot-wide sidewalks, one in each direction.

• A 9-foot-8-inch raised center median.

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

Knitters Haven Gathers

Those Looking to Stitch,

Chat, Laugh & Inspire

By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta

Knitters Haven in La Quinta is just what the name implies: a haven for fiber enthusiasts to gather around a long table to chat, laugh and inspire each other while knitting, crocheting and stitching their latest creations.

It’s a yarn shop where the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the emphasis is on socializing and building friendships.

“We are flipping the traditional yarn store upside down,” said Kait Hilliard.

In most yarn stores, there is an area to work on projects but they require that

knitters use yarn they buy from that store, said Linda Croushore.

At Knitters Haven, people can work on their projects using whatever yarn and patterns they want, said Carol Sacks.

The name reflects what the members envisioned when they started and named Knitters Haven.

“We wanted this to be a happy place for knitters to go and not just a shop … and this is a very happy place,” Sacks said.

Knitting Classes Offered

Knitters Haven started in Indian Wells as a co-op, moved to La Quinta about five years ago, and is now a 501(c)(7) nonprofit “mutual benefit social club,” which means members cannot sell their creations at Knitters Haven. The store, however, can have a marketplace with vendors that sell yarn, needles, patterns and more for fiber enthusiasts.

The sales and membership dues pay the rent and keep the lights on.

Current vendors are Knitters Haven members, including Coachella Valley Yarn, owned and founded by Hilliard, James Cox Knits, and Jan Runkel’s Just Jan Designs.

Runkel, a knitting instructor, brings pattern models and a Trendsetter Trunk Show to Knitters Haven.

She worked with Trendsetter Yarns in Van Nuys for more than 25 years designing sweaters, and through that connection, brings in the trunk shows twice a year that allow people to purchase yarns and patterns they might otherwise need to go to L.A. to find.

In teaching people to knit, Runkel prefers the lessons be one-on-one, saying she finds that people get more out of a class where they are taught individually.

“I don’t have a lot of you have to’s” for students, she said, so they can follow a pattern step by step or interpret it themselves and make changes just as cooks will add or subtract ingredients to make a recipe their own.

“One of the reasons that we knit is to be creative and not necessarily have what we do look like everybody else’s,” Runkel said.

“My goal when I teach people is that they don’t need me anymore. I believe in teaching a lot of really basic skills and once you have the skills then you can create anything,” she said.

Emotional Support Chickens

Members of Knitters Haven include nurses, a pediatrician, marketing, banking and airline professionals, many of them now retired. Most are women, but there are men as well.

They are full- and part-time residents from La Quinta and other cities in the Coachella Valley. Some have known each other for years, meeting through the Knitting Guild of the Desert, and others only recently took a seat at the table but quickly bonded.

They keep conversations fun and upbeat, always respectful of each other, and stay away from contentious topics like politics. They bring food or go to a local restaurant for a meal out together, celebrate birthdays, provide rides to medical appointments and care for each other when sick. For many, the friendships helped them through the pandemic.

“We laugh a lot,” said Barbara Brown.

“Sometimes our husbands send us here,” Terri Keating joked.

They often use their creations to spread cheer in the community. One member recently yarn-bombed the concrete benches, trash bins and bike rack in front of Knitters Haven with brightcolored covers.

Knitted and crocheted Emotional Support Chickens are multiplying at the Haven, beginning when Sacks became aware of a trend spreading across the country. The stuffed chickens were started by the Knitting Tree in Los Angeles during the pandemic.

As the name implies, the emotional support chickens, about 10 inches high by 13 inches long, can help reduce stress and anxiety and provide some companionship.

A running joke in the group is that someone heard Sacks “whining” for one, and Knitters Haven board president Kim Kersher surprised her with a completed chicken.

They can be as colorful as the creator chooses. People give their chickens names and accessorize them with earrings, scarves and other items to give them some personality. They make wonderful gifts for all ages, and some models are on display at Knitters Haven.

Everyone is invited to come in, pull up a chair, chat and work on a project. The first visit is free and return visits require a membership with dues ranging $25 for three visits over three months; $35 for five visits over three months; $50 for eight visits over three months; and $75 per month year-round to be a voting member which allows unlimited visits, voting rights and possible spot on the board with a $50 discount if full year is paid annually in one payment.

Knitters Haven is at 78115 Calle Estado Suite 101, on the southeast corner of Desert Club Drive across from Cali Rosina. It is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

More information about Knitters Haven is available by calling (442) 306-6799, at the shop’s website KnittersHaven.com and on the group’s Facebook page.

Friday, June 14th

7:30 - 9:30 a.m.

Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST

Senator Padilla

California State Senator District 18

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a legislative breakfast with Senator Steve Padilla representing California State Senate District 14. The event will be held on Friday, June 14th, at 7:30 AM at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, 45000 Indian Wells Ln. in Indian Wells. This event is $25 per person and includes a seated breakfast. Event sponsorship available at $200 which includes four (4) seats. Come share your thoughts on legislative and community issues. Seantor Padilla will be answering questions provided by our legislative committee as well as our membership at large.

Space is limited so please register in advance. While members of the media are welcome to attend and take notes, please no recordings.

Thank you to our generous sponsors: AT&T, Chandi Group USA, Coachella Valley Public Cemetery District, DAP Health, Desert Care Network, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, FirstBank, Kaiser Permanente, Palm Springs International Film Society, Riverside County Supervisor V Manuel Perez, and Visit Greater Palm Springs.

WDC Brings the Hottest Kitchen & Bath Trends to Expansive Showroom in La Quinta

For those who have their sights on a kitchen or bath project in the future, the new WDC showroom located in the One Eleven La Quinta Center near Stater Bros is a “must stop” to shop the latest in kitchen and bath upgrades including a wide selection of appliances, plumbing fixtures, hoods and more.

In addition, WDC offers products for outdoor entertaining such as BBQ grills, smokers and firepits, as well as mattresses, laundry appliances and accessories, and products for commercial kitchens.

The La Quinta location of WDC officially opened its doors in December 2023, after the company identified a gap in the Coachella Valley market. WDC currently operates six interactive luxury showrooms throughout Southern California, supported by a 95,000-square-foot distribution center located in Moorpark. The La Quinta showroom is its newest showroom.

“The opportunity in La Quinta aligns with our core competencies,” said Derek J. Pregibon, Chief Operating Officer of WDC. “The combination of our strategic La Quinta location, economic growth, a supportive community, and a collaborative business environment made La Quinta an ideal choice for our expansion.”

Established in 1982 in Agoura Hills, California, WDC began its journey as a warehouse discount center. Since

then, WDC has evolved into California’s premier luxury kitchen and bath specialty retailer and one of the nation’s largest.

“Renowned among home improvement professionals and customers alike, our success is rooted in our dedication to delivering unparalleled service, exceptional value, and steadfast support for the vibrant SoCal community,” explained Pregibon. “We’ve been thrilled by the overwhelmingly positive response from our local customers here in La Quinta. It’s been truly heartwarming to see the community embrace our new location with such enthusiasm.”

Pregibon added that the company has received wonderful feedback, and that their team is grateful for the warm welcome they have received. “We’re committed to continuing to serve our customers with the same dedication and

passion that has defined our brand for nearly half a century, and we look forward to building even stronger connections within the community.”

Being located in La Quinta provides the company a strong position for serving the diverse and vibrant population of the Coachella Valley, which has a unique blend of cultures and styles. “The strong sense of community here is palpable, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a network of local businesses that support and uplift each other,” said Pregibon. “Each day, we are inspired by our customers and are driven to provide them with exceptional service and unique products.”

WDC is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at 78-740 Highway 111 in La Quinta. More information can be found at WDCAppliances.com or by calling (760) 238-5160.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

The City is accepting applications for upcoming vacancies on its various boards and commissions.

This is an opportunity for anyone who wants to be part of La Quinta’s decisionmaking process and help map the City’s future on the Arts & Community Services, Financial Advisory and Planning commissions, to name a few.  Applications are being accepted for the following:

• Planning Commission – 3 seats

• Financial Advisory Commission –4 seats

• Arts & Community Services Commission – 3 seats

• Housing – 4 seats

• Palm Springs Airport Commission –1 seat

• Coachella Valley Conservation Commission Trails Management Subcommittee – 2 seats

• Construction Board of Appeals –1 seat

The deadline to apply is June 19. Terms are for three years, ending June 30, 2027. Applicants must be La Quinta residents who are 18 or older and registered to vote.

The City Council and Housing Authority will interview applicants in person at City Hall on Wednesday, June 26.

Applications and information about each commission, including when they meet, are available at LaQuintaCA.gov/ Commissions.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Concerts in the Park

Saturday, June 1, 7:30 p.m.

Location: SilverRock Park

Grab your blankets or lawn chairs and join the City of La Quinta for the free concert. The event includes food truck vendors, though concert-goers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Shred Event

Saturday, June 8, 7:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: City Hall south parking lot

Up to four boxes of documents per vehicle are permitted for shredding. All office type paper, glossy paper, file folders and envelopes are accepted. Proof of La Quinta residency or business license will be required.

Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Thursday, June 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: City Hall, Study Session Room

The La Quinta Sheriff’s Department will host a presentation on what to do in case of an active shooter event. This meeting will cover strategies and methods to protect yourself and reduce your risks. In addition, sheriff’s Lt. Frank Velasco and his team will be at the meeting to answer any questions. For more information about Neighborhood Watch, contact Sally Shelton at sally_shelton@aol.com.

CITY UPDATES

Citywide Slurry Seal Project

The next phase of the citywide slurry seal program is expected to begin in June and consist of furnishing and applying slurry seal on select streets, mainly within the Cove. The proposed work includes weed removal, application of crack sealant, removal of existing striping, application of slurry seal, and restriping slurried streets.

Other Capital Improvement Program Projects

Dune

Palms Rehabilitation Project: Construction is expected to start in June and includes removal of existing pavement, asphalt overlay, signing and striping on Dune Palms Road from Miles Avenue to Fred Waring Drive.

Landscape Renovation: Construction continues 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 a drought-friendly irrigation system. This project also includes an activities promenade at the end of Buttercup Lane within the Cactus Flower development. Work on the promenade is underway and will consist of two pickleball courts, a drinking fountain, bench seating, and space for future amenities such as cornhole and table tennis.

EXHIBITS

LA QUINTA MUSEUM

Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print

On Exhibit through July 20

This touring exhibition showcases California’s long tradition of activist printmaking and offers a historical context for understanding our present moment. The exhibition, comprised of 42 screenprints, reflects an enormous variety of styles, approaches and sensibilities. The artists range from emerging artists to well-known figures such as Carmen Lomas Garza, Nancy Hom, Rupert Garcia, Mildred Howard, Jean La Marr, Ester Hernandez, Michael Roman, Jesus Barraza, Favianna Rodriguez, and the San Francisco Print Collective. “Mission Gráfica: Reflecting a Community in Print” is a touring exhibition developed in partnership with the San Francisco Public Library, artists from Mission Gráfica, and Exhibit Envoy.

Spotlight Exhibit in the Local History Gallery:

LQ Fact or Fiction: The Fisherman Steps

Have you heard that the rock stairs in the La Quinta Cove have a Hollywood connection? They do, but it might not be the one that you think! Find out what’s fact and what’s fiction in this spotlight exhibit.

PROGRAMS

As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on free programs at Facebook.com/ LaQuintaMuseum/Events.

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.

Thursday, June 6,13, 20 & 27, 11a.m.-12 p.m.

Museum Kids: Summer Art Sessions

Fun crafts, drawing, printing, and more. Ages 6-12. Seating is limited, registration is required. Visit tinyurl. com/LQMKidsArt to sign up.

Friday, June 7 & 21, 1-3 p.m.

Sketchbook Journaling

Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided.

Saturday, June 8, 1-3 p.m.

Genealogy Meet-Up

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in genealogy, join this discussion and collaboration.

Tuesday, June 11 & 25, 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, June 12, 1 p.m.

TED Talk Hangout

Enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss. This month: “3000-yearold Solutions to Modern Problems” by Lyla June.

Tuesday, June 18, 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 one of America’s oldest, strangest and most beautiful lakes – Mono Lake.

Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m.

Summer Family Fun: Snakes! Join this hands-on learning experience as Paisley from Palm Springs Snake Club brings a couple of friends to the Museum and talks about creepy crawlies that live in the desert.

Thursday, June 27, 3 p.m.

Good Books in the Gallery

Read a great book, and then get together to discuss. This month, the featured book is “The Fire Next Time” by James Baldwin. 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

SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW PROGRAMS

Read, Renew, Repeat Summer Reading Program | All ages

Monday, June 10, to Friday, July 19

In-person

Six weeks of activities, events and prizes for kids, tweens, teens and adults with performances, presentations and craft events weekly as well as a reading challenge. Don’t miss a spectacular closing Summer Splash Party.

Speaker Series: Sunlogix

Monday, June 24 | Ages 18+

Learn more about solar as a renewable energy with the Best of the Desert’s 2020-23 Solar Company Winner, Sunlogix. Call for the time that is scheduled.

Friday Family Day: Reptile Fun Show

Friday, June 21 @ 11 a.m. | All Ages

Come learn about reptiles and their habitats at a live animal Reptile Fun Show.

Kids Spanish Enrichment Class

Thursdays, June 13 & 20, Monday, July 1 & Thursdays, July 11, 18, & 25

1 - 1:45 p.m. | Ages 6-9

2 - 2:25 p.m. | Ages 10-15

Want to learn Spanish this summer? Register now for this free Spanish Enrichment Program. Registration required.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Baby Storytime

Wednesdays, June 12, 19, & 26 @ 10:15 a.m. | Ages 0 - 18 months

A.B.C. Storytime

Wednesdays, June 12, 19, 26 @ 11:15 a.m. | Ages 2 - 4

Enjoy storytimes with special guests and toddler crafts.

Sensory Hour

Mondays, June 3 & 17 @ 10:15 a.m. Fridays, June 14 & 28 @ 3 p.m.

Ages 0 - 12

Anime Cafe

Saturday, June 1 @ 1 p.m. | Ages 13-17

A fun space to hang out, watch anime, read manga and try the Japanese snack of the month. Join in to play “Guess the Anime Opening” for a chance to win an anime poster.

Writer’s Block

Sunday, June 2 @ 1 p.m. | Ages 18+

Writers of all levels can join us in monthly prompts, exercises and group critiques.

Love Story Book Club

Sunday, June 2 @ 2:15 p.m. | Ages 18+

A book club featuring romantic titles that may or may not have “happily everafters.” June’s pick: “Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan.”

Page Turners Book Club

Thursday, June 20 @ 10:30 a.m.

Ages 18+

In June, the featured book is “Lost Hills” by Lee Goldburg. Register at the Information Desk, as copies are limited.

Scan the QR to see the full calendar of events:

Coloring Book Night for Adults

Tuesday, June 25 @ 5 p.m. | Ages 18+

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Join this Coloring Book Night for adults and discover the benefits of coloring while listening to relaxing Lo-Fi music. Bring your own coloring book or enjoy one that is provided.

LA QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS

Questions about Creation Station programs? Call (760) 777-7088.

SRP Maker Craft | All Ages

Thursday, June 13 @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Build-A-Dino & Jurassic Tracks

Thursday, June 20 @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. PVC Pipe Self-Watering System

Thursday, June 27 @ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. MakerSpace FLUGTAG (Free While Supplies Last)

Handmade Journal Camp

Saturdays, June 15, 22, & 27 & Saturday, July 6

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Ages 14+

Handmade Journal Camp is a four-week program where patrons will learn how to make and bind their own paper journals. Patrons will also learn how to attach and customize their journal cover. (Free while supplies last) RSVP required | Only 10 spots | For ages 14 and older.

FAB: Crochet 101 Sunday, June 23

12:30 – 3:30 p.m. | All ages

Designed for patrons interested in several areas of fiber arts. Patrons can learn the basics of starting simple projects or bring a current project they need assistance with. Yarn and crochet hooks will be provided. (Free while supplies last)

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Online registration available at LaQuintaCA.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.

WELLNESS CENTER

(call Pat 760-771-2261)

(volunteers)

We want to continue featuring relevant, local content in The Gem – so we want to hear from you! If you have:

• News about an upcoming event in La Quinta...

• A report about something exciting that happened in our community...

• Job postings in La Quinta or a nearby community and are an active business member of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce...

Look Who’s in the Lobby

HICAP One-on-One Consultations, Monday, May 13, 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 medical bill concerns. Please call HICAP at (800) 434-0222 or (909) 2568369 to make an appointment. Meet for your appointment at the Wellness Center.

The Greater Coachella Valey Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) is excited to announce the winners of this year’s business awards, which will be recognized at the GCVCC 2024 Annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner.

The event will be held at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa inside the Springs Ballroom on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 5:308:30 p.m. Winners were nominated and selected by both regional and local boards of directors as well as the GCVCC team.

Additional honors being presented that evening are the President’s Award and the Chairman John A. James Lifetime Achievement Award, which will be announced closer to the event.

In addition to the business awards and installation of GCVCC’s boards, attendees will enjoy a cash bar, dinner, silent auction and more – with this year’s theme being “A Look to the Future,” focusing on the future of the Coachella Valley business community.

For more information and to register for the GCVCC 2024 Annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner, visit GCVCC. org or call (760) 347-0676.

Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce to Host Annual Installation & Business Awards Dinner WINNERS

of the 2024 GCVCC Business Awards:

Ambassador of the Year Peter Bedard

Small Business of the Year

East Valley: Ryan Ryan Fine Jewelry & Gift Bar

Mid Valley: La Quinta Brewing Co

West Valley: Mary Pickford is D’Place

Large Business of the Year

East Valley: Aziz Farms Inc

Mid Valley: Renova Energy

West Valley: SunLine Transit Agency

Community Spotlight Award

Palm Springs International Film Society

Non-Profit of the Year

Palm Springs Air Museum

GCVCC thanks its generous sponsors for this event:

Title Sponsor: Desert Wildlife Center

Presenting Sponsors: Desert Care Network

Desert Urgent Care

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

Entertainment Sponsor: Palm Springs International Film Festival

Awards Sponsor: Powered by IID

Centerpiece Sponsors: FirstBank

Southern California Edison

Sun Community Federal Credit Union

Community Sponsors: Alpha Media

Banc of California

Chandi Group USA

City of La Quinta

Coachella Valley Public Cemetery District

NBC Palm Springs/Univision

Palm Springs

KESQ New Channel 3

Riverside County Supervisor

V. Manuel Perez

Valley Sanitary District

Visit Greater Palm Springs

Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce Update

By: Brandon Marley, President and CEO

Greetings to all members of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) and the wider community! I am thrilled to share the latest updates and developments from our regional chamber of commerce, where we continue to foster a thriving business environment and provide invaluable resources to our members. As we navigate through an era of growth and innovation, our commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting economic vitality remains steadfast.

The GCVCC has always been dedicated to serving as the voice of the business community, advocating for policies that enhance the business climate and providing a platform for networking, education and business development. Our mission is to champion the growth and success of our members by leveraging our extensive network and resources. We strive to create a dynamic and prosperous community where businesses can flourish.

Our chamber encompasses a diverse range of industries, from tourism and hospitality to healthcare, retail, and professional services. We are proud of the collaborative spirit that characterizes our members, who are united by a common goal: to make the Greater Coachella Valley a premier destination to work and build your business.

One of the most exciting initiatives we have launched recently is the Employer Connect Program. The Employer Connect Program is a new program in partnership with the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce in District 4 of Riverside County to work with the Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions Department/Workforce Development Division (HWS/WDD) to assist and aid all businesses within the district area through a new pilot program, called the Employer Connect Program. After working through the program’s enrollment with the GCVCC, qualifying businesses will hire a new fulltime employee who will undergo training provided by the HWS Continuum of Care Division (HWS/COC). Workforce Development will reimburse the business for the new hire up to $20 per hour for the first 90 days of employment with the business with a maximum of 480 hours of reimbursement.

Our Employer Connect Program provides a seamless process for both employers and job seekers. In addition, chamber members can post job openings via our member news with ease.

As we continue to expand and refine our programs, we invite all local businesses to join the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce. Membership with the GCVCC opens the door to a wealth of resources, including networking opportunities, educational workshops, marketing support and advocacy on behalf of your business interests.

By joining the GCVCC, you become part of a vibrant community dedicated to fostering business growth and economic prosperity. Whether you are a new business looking to establish your presence or an established company seeking to expand your reach, the GCVCC offers the tools and support you need to succeed.

To learn more about the benefits of chamber membership and to join our growing network, please visit our website at GCVCC.org. Here, you will also find detailed information about our programs, upcoming events and how you can get involved.

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is more than just a business organization; it is a catalyst for positive change and a beacon of support for our local economy. As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the continued growth of our Employer Connect Program. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient business community that benefits everyone in our region.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Greater Coachella Valley business community. Let’s continue to work together to make our community a great place to live, work and thrive.

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