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.
GCVCC LA QUINT83040 AVENUE 42 INDIO, CA 92203A CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER / FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP
MIKE CHAPA, SECRETARY | FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE
ALISON HENDRIX | ENTRAVISION ANGELIQUE
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.
Ever since the ancient Cahuilla women wove intricate baskets with juncus, sumac and deer grass and, later, plein air painters captured—and still do—the mesmerizing landscape on canvas, La Quinta and the Coachella Valley has enjoyed a rich tradition of art.
This month we hope you will come out and attend one of La Quinta’s finest events. The La Quinta Art Celebration at the La Quinta Civic Center Campus from March 2nd through the 5th. The event was voted the number one Fine Art & Fine Craft Art Event in the Nation in 2022 by the Art Fair SourceBook. Experience an amazing array of artwork, fine crafts and spectacular creations on exhibit all created by nearly 200 juried world-class artists. Artistic styles range from classical to whimsical. Engage with your favorite artists in their outdoor galleries and learn about their process and technique. They may even create a custom commission for you.
Enjoy upscale activities at the event including relaxing al fresco dining and cocktails under a spacious covered patio accompanied by live music. There are also premier libations including a Champagne Bar, a Wine Experience, and for the ultimate adventurer and my favorite, a lakeside Don Julio Margarita Bar.
Tickets are $25 and include re-entry for multiple day visits. Get tickets and all the event info at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org.
Jeff Fishbein is a REALTOR with the desert’s leading Coldwell Banker Realty, and also serves as the Chairman of the Greater Coachella Valley La Quinta Chamber of Commerce.
Have you ever thought about launching your own rocket? Now is your opportunity! On Saturday, March 11, from 8-10 a.m. at Monticello Park, the City will be hosting the La Quinta Model Rocket Launch.
A model rocket is a small rocket designed to reach low altitudes and be recovered. This event is the perfect launchpad for beginners and seasoned rocketeers to build and launch smallpowered rockets in a safe, controlled environment. Staff will be on hand to provide instruction, as needed.
The City will provide materials, but you are welcome to bring your own model rocket. This event is free for ages 6 and up (kids under age 8 must be supervised by an adult).
Get ready to launch your rocket into the La Quinta skies!
More info: Call (760) 777-7093
In early March, Desert Wine Shop is moving from Palm Desert to La Quinta, and will be opening its doors at the Point Happy center, at 78446 Highway 111. The new location allows Desert Wine Shop to expand including the addition of a fun wine bar, seating areas and a patio.
Known for its unique selections of wines from around the world, along with hardto-find gems and all-time favorites, Desert Wine Shop offers “tastings” on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4:30 p.m., where you can come in and taste wines selected by sommelier extraordinaire, Katie Finn, for just $5.
Desert Wine Shop has a special offer for March, as well. For every case of wine you purchase through the end of March, you’ll be entered to win a pair of Coachella Valley Firebirds tickets.
More info: DesertWineShop.com or call (760) 674-0305
Enjoy live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening through the month of April in Old Town La Quinta’s charming plaza.
This month, the following bands/ musicians are scheduled to perform: DJ Pumba (March 2, 10, 24); Joe Baldino (March 3, 18, 23, 30); Avenida (March 4, 17, 25); Just 2 Guys (March 9, 16, 31) and Sergio Villegas (March 11).
Dine at TQLAS and The Grill on Main while enjoying the sounds of some of La Quinta’s top musicians. Bring your friends and family to spend a relaxing evening listening to great music.
The outdoor plaza at Old Town La Quinta is located between The Grill on Main (78065 Main Street) and TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill (78015 Main Street). Start times vary between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
For complete schedule: OldTownLaQuinta.com
The La Quinta Art Celebration is coming up March 2-5, bringing in 200 juried, world-class artists showcasing original works at the stunning La Quinta Civic Center Campus.
Named the #1 Fine Art & Fine Craft Event in the Nation by Art Fair Sourcebook, the multi-day arts extravaganza allows attendees to engage with the artists and learn about their inspiration and techniques. What’s more, arts lovers may also choose to take home an original piece or collaborate to create a customdesigned exclusive for a favorite space in their residence or office.
Enjoy upscale amenities including the Champagne Bar, top shelf libations served at the Amphitheater Bar and Napa and Sonoma Valley wines at the Wine Experience. For the more adventurous, check out the Don Julio Margarita Island. Premium brew, Stella Artois plus IPA favorites and exquisite culinary delights are found at the Gourmet Celebration Bistro. Save some room for a stop at the Oasis
Lounge for a decadent Brandini Toffee and Chocolate Dipped Ice Cream Bar.
Featured artists for the March Celebration are Chris Dellorco, native Angeleno and UC Berkeley graduate, as poster artist with the oil painting titled “Celebration.” Self-taught, Dellorco has made a name for himself as a preeminent illustrator specializing in the film industry, children’s products and books as well as working as a top creator for Disney.
Event T-shirts will feature wild horses painted by Tom Boatright from Olympia, Washington, in an abstract, impressionistic style. Boatright was born in Palm Springs and now returns to the desert as a part-time resident and gallery owner in La Quinta.
The third featured artist, Kue King, is a first-time participant. He is an internationally renowned Filipino sculptor who transforms wire into intricately abstract sculptures. His work explores the intersection of craft, design, fine art and modernism, and
King finds the inner peace he’s searched the world for within his own hands.
The La Quinta Civic Center Campus is located at 78495 Calle Tampico in La Quinta. Event hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $25 for an adult ticket valid for all four days of the event. Children under 12 are free. Parking options include paid-self parking for $10 and valet for $20. To avoid long lines at the gate, purchase tickets now and learn more about the event at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org. Call (760) 628-7770 with any questions.
dental care
ending epidemics
equitable access
food assistance
gender-affirming care
harm reduction
health equity
hiv care DAP Health
health
mental health
primary care
racial equity
recovery
sexual health
social services
women’s health
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health care
By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager
The first two months of 2023 are in the books, and soon we will be marking the first day of spring.
If you are a La Quinta resident who loves to play golf and haven’t yet bought your SilverRock Resort Resident Card, the cards are now available only at the Wellness Center.
Cards may be purchased from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; and from 8 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of each month (November-April only).
SilverRock Resort Resident Cards are $150 per person for three years, and allow residents discounted green fees, as well as discounts at the pro shop and SilverRock Grill.
For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.
Happy Anniversary to X Park
This month also marks the first anniversary of the X Park opening on March 20, 2022. If you haven’t checked out La Quinta’s newest park – the Coachella Valley’s largest competitive skate park facility with three bowls, concrete pump track, and more – please do.
This facility is for skateboarders, BMXers, and scooter riders at all skill levels and ages, including wheelchair and adaptive athletes.
For La Quinta residents, the cost is $2 for a day pass or $25 for a yearly membership. Non-residents pay $5 for the day or $50 for a one-year membership. Find more information, including hours, special events and how to register for lessons, by visiting LaQuintaCA.gov/xpark or call (760) 777-7004.
La Quinta Art Celebration
Thursday – Sunday, March 2 - 5 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily
Location: Civic Center Campus
The award-winning La Quinta Art Celebration returns for its traditional March event, featuring 200 artists from all over the world, musical entertainment and a variety of food and drink vendors. For tickets and additional information, check out the La Quinta Art Celebration website at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org.
Full Moon Hike
Wednesday, March 8 / 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 with Volunteer Astronomers
Wednesday, March 8 / 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 and encouraged to support the nonprofit organization’s volunteer programs. For more information, visit DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984.
Mission LQ: Rocket Launch
Saturday, March 11, 8 - 10 a.m.
Location: Monticello Park
The La Quinta Model Rocket is the perfect opportunity for beginners and
seasoned rocketeers to build and launch small-powered rockets in a safe and controlled environment. The City will provide all the materials needed, but you are welcome to bring your own model rocket. This event is fun and free for ages 6 and up. For more information, please call (760) 777-7093.
Art on Main Street
Saturdays, March 11 & 25
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta More than 100 artists – many of them local – show and sell their work in all mediums. These are the final two Art on Main Street events for the season.
Concert in the Park
Saturday, March 18 / 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: SilverRock Park
The BEATUNES will bring the music of The Beatles to SilverRock Park for the next free concert in the Concerts in the Park series, sponsored by the City of La Quinta. The BEATUNES perform music from the early days of the Fab Four to the final recordings of “Abbey Road.” Bring your chairs or blankets, food, and non-alcoholic beverages. There will also be food truck vendors on site. Find more information at PlayInLaQuinta.com.
Certified Farmers Market
Sundays / 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Main Street in Old Town La Quinta Come load up on the freshest locally grown and produced fruits, vegetables, eggs, flowers, honey, gourmet chefprepared foods, one-of-a-kind Artisan goods and more.
X Park is on the southwest corner of Westward Ho/Blackhawk Way and Dune Palms Road. The facility is managed and staffed by Action Park Alliance – or APA.The City of La Quinta, in coordination with the City of Indio, has begun work on the Jefferson Street Slurry Seal Project with anticipated completion in early April. There will be intermittent lane closures and possible traffic signals placed in red flash along Jefferson Street. Please allow for extra travel time and consider using alternate routes while the slurry seal improvements are completed.
Construction on the all-weather bridge at Dune Palms Road, over the stormwater channel, has begun with expected completion in early 2025. Dune Palms Road remains open during construction, with reduced speed limits in the construction zone and traffic control when necessary. A bypass lane is being constructed so the bridge can be built one half at a time. At completion, the 480-footlong all-weather access bridge will include two vehicle travel lanes in each direction;
8-foot-wide bike/golf cart paths in each direction; 6-foot-wide sidewalk in each direction; and a near 10-foot-long raised center median. Check LaQuintaCA. gov/dunepalms for project updates and to register to receive updates by email or text. Email info@DunePalms.com with any questions or concerns.
The landscape renovation contractor at the Desert Club, Sierra Del Rey and Marbella developments started in December and is scheduled to continue through the beginning of April. The improvements entail converting turf to desert landscape. Renovation will also include wall cleaning and painting.
Bring this ad to The Logo Shop inside West entrance of the event to receive a complimentary poster valued at $30.
*Posters subject to availability
La Quinta Civic Center
Thursday - Sunday • 10 AM – 5 PM DAILY
Information:
info@scopeevents.org • Phone: 760-628-7770
#1 Fine Art & Craft Festival in the Nation 2022 – Art Fair SourceBook
Buy tickets now laquintaartcelebration.org
La Quinta Public Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. Enjoy FREE programs for all ages! Questions? Call 760-564-4767
Please Note: The Library will be closed Monday, February 13, for Lincoln’s Birthday and Monday, February 20, for Washington’s Birthday.
Storytimes | Ages 0 - 5 years
Tuesdays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 @ 10:15 a.m.
In-Person
Readers’ Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, March 9 @ 5:30 p.m.
In-Person or Zoom
Chess Club | All Ages
Thursday, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 4 p.m.
| In-Person
Players of all levels welcomed. Hosted by the Coachella Chess Club.
Anime Zone | Ages 13 - 17
Saturday, March 4 @ 4 p.m. | In-Person
Enjoy random anime with friends (commentary encouraged).
Sensory Hour | Ages 0 - 12 years
Monday, March 6 and 20 @ 10:15 a.m.
In-Person
Sensory activities to promote the development of motor skills as well as socialization amongst peers. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Toddler Time for ages 18 months - 3 yrs. Wednesdays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 10:15am and 11:15am | In-Person
Baby Time for ages 0 - 18 months at 10:15 a.m. and Preschool Time for ages 3-5 years at 11:15 a.m. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Bring Your Own Baby (BYOB) Book Club
Ages 18+
Thursday, March 9 @ 10:15 a.m.
In-Person
Parents and caregivers, no need to find childcare! Bring your baby/toddler to our morning book club to meet, discuss and socialize with other adults. A volunteer will be present with activities for toddlers while adults discuss March’s book The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware. *Registration required
Readers will meet to share and discuss plays. See the Reference Desk to check out a suggested title or feel free to pick your own.
Read the States | Ages 13 - 17
Saturday, March 11 @ 4 p.m.
In-Person or Zoom
Travel to a different state every month through YA Fiction. Then, enjoy snacks and goodies during a discussion about the book. In March, the focus will be Texas with Jennifer Mathieu’s book Moxie. Visit the Library to check out a copy. *Registration required
Writer’s Block | Ages 18+
Sunday, March 12 @ 1 p.m. | In-Person Meet monthly with other local writers to explore the various aspects of creative writing. Participants will be able to share and critique their work with the group.
Love Story Book Club | Ages 18+
Sunday, March 12 @ 2:15 p.m. | In-Person
Happily Ever Afters are not guaranteed in this traditional book club featuring romantic titles. March’s pick: All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven. See the Adult Reference Desk to register and to ask about available copies.
*Registration required
Page Turners Book Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, March 16 @ 10:30 a.m.
In-Person or Zoom
In March, the discussion will be centered around The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris. See the Adult Reference Desk to register. Copies are limited.
Teen Game Night | Ages 13 - 17
Saturday, March 18 @ 4 p.m. | In-Person
Can you beat the game of LIFE?
It’s a Library Birthday! | All ages
Saturday, March 25 @ noon | In-Person
Register your March birthday and let the library throw the birthday party! This once-a-month library birthday party will include games, crafts and stories geared to create a safe, fun, all-inclusive birthday experience. Members of the community are encouraged to come and celebrate March birthdays! Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library. *Registration required
Impulse Affirmation | Ages 13 - 17
Tuesday, March 28 @ 4:30 p.m.
In-Person
Reader’s choice! Discuss in-person or online at bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord.
Maker Craft: Fire-Breathing Dragon Blower | All ages
Thursday, March 9 @ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
In-Person
It’s getting hot in here! That’s because the Creation Station is showing you how to make a fire-breathing dragon blower! This is a free and fun craft for all ages. Contact the Creation Station at (760) 777-7088 to register or if you have any questions.
Maker Craft: Tabletop Tavern | All ages
Saturday, March 11 @ 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
In-Person
Gather at the Tabletop Tavern. You can make a paper D20 dice, paint a creature mini figure, build a D&D character, or ask local Tabletop players questions about getting started and more. Free program. Contact the Creation Station at (760) 777-7088 to register or if you have any questions.
Please Note: The La Quinta Library will only be offering Express Services during the La Quinta Art Celebration, March 2 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.), March 3-4 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and March 5 (noon-4 p.m.). The building will be closed to visitors. To arrange for a pick-up, call the library at (760) 564-4767 or visit RivLib.net to place a hold request.
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
In the Fields of the North/En los Campos del Norte
In the Fields of the North is a series of evocative photographs by photographer and journalist David Bacon, accompanied by moving oral narratives – fully translated into English and Spanish – that take visitors into the contemporary world of migrant farmworkers. On exhibit through April 15, 2023, this exhibit is produced in partnership with the California Rural Legal Assistance and the Binational Front of Indigenous Organizations and is traveled by Exhibit Envoy.
La Quinta Legend: Dorothy Arzner
Explore the life of this Hollywood trailblazer, Dorothy Arzner. She was the only woman director during the “Golden Age” of Hollywood, with the largest body of work of any woman director to this day. A groundbreaker in the film industry, she also “broke ground” here in La Quinta, building a home that she shared with her partner, Marion Morgan.
Thursday, March 2, 5 - 6 p.m.
Music at the Museum: David Macias Come to the courtyard for the music of David Macias.
Thursday, March 23, 2 p.m.
Lecture: History of La Quinta Learn all about the history of the Gem of the Desert in this panel presentation by the La Quinta Historical Society.
As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on these free programs at Facebook.com/ LaQuintaMuseum/events.
Friday, March 3 & 17, 1 - 3 p.m.
Sketchbook Journaling
Get in touch with your inner artist using sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided.
Wednesday, March 8, 1 p.m.
TED Talk Hangout
Enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss. This month features “Tales of Passion” by Isabel Allende.
Saturday, March 11, 1 - 3 p.m.
Genealogy Meet-Up
Are you interested in your family tree? Are you a beginner or an expert in all things Genealogy? Come join this discussion and collaboration.
Tuesday, March 14 & 28, 1 - 3 p.m.
STITCH Fiber Arts Group
Bring your fiber project to work on while you meet with friends old and new, share what you’ve been working on, and get inspired for your next project.
Tuesday, March 21, 11 a.m.
Take a Break with Huell
Join an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen. The sights of the Golden State are just a little more amazing with Huell as your guide.
Thursday, March 30, 3 p.m.
Good Books in the Gallery
This month features Living Beyond Borders by Margarita Macias. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants, call (760) 777-7170 to request one.
Just south of Old Town La Quinta on Avenida Bermudas starts the beginning of what will soon come to be known as the La Quinta Art District. It is currently made up of four galleries: Artize, Meyave, Essence Arts & Old Town Artisan Studios. Artize La Quinta is the first stop in the La Quinta Art District.
Gallery owner, Kelly Truscott, has two locations: Artize Palm Springs, and most recently, the addition of Artize La Quinta. Recognizing the growing numbers of artists, art shows and galleries in the La Quinta area, Truscott liked the concept of a “La Quinta Art District” developing as a growing art walk of galleries. Art shoppers like “districts” so they can stroll from one gallery to another as they hunt for treasures.
This is exactly how Truscott got her start as a gallery owner – by first being an art collector herself. She only carries the work of artists that make up her personal collection.
Hallways at Artize La Quinta feature spectacular selections by Mark Harn Niemeyer, Maureen Hood and Sean Royal, as well as the Davy Fiveash oil painting, “Roses, Peonies and Oleander,” and the Craig Martinez mixed media, “Dog with Red Ear.” She has an eye for choosing comforting art featured in all sizes and price ranges.
You will also notice a unique way to take a piece of art home with you, retro-style. Inside retired (and beautifully restored) cigarette vending machines (known as the Art-o-Mat), you will delight in small affordable works of art – paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, concepts, and more – for $5. Artize hosts the only official Art-o-Mat machines in the Coachella Valley.
Artize La Quinta is located at 51351 Avenida Bermudas in La Quinta. The gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and also by appointment by calling/texting (760) 835-1866. For more information, go to ArtizeGallery.com.
Saturday, April 1 | 8 AM - 10 AM
At SilverRock Park
L A
Saturday, March 11 | 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Monticello Park
This event is FREE and fun for ages six and up.
As you step inside the new restaurant in Old Town La Quinta called Yes Please, you’ll soon understand that it has been aptly named. This cozy café and dessert shop will become your new favorite place to meet friends, family and clients, or simply hang out with a cup of Joshua Tree Organic Coffee.
As defined on their website, “we are a fast casual café, serving seriously good coffee/coffee drinks, delicious breakfast, brunch, lunch and sweets that you crave.” The café sources the best local and regional ingredients to craft a menu packed with flavor.
Your experience begins when you meet the restaurant’s welcoming, friendly baristas. For morning fare, browse their bakery with fresh bagels and pastries, baked scones and croissants made daily by baker/owner, Gina Mallano – who selected the perfect location for Yes Please right on Main Street in the Old Town La Quinta plaza.
“ My dream has been to please people – I just love looking at the faces of my customers when they are enjoying my creations.”
Yes Please is a great brunch spot – which is served all day – where you can enjoy mimosas and bloody marys with unique brunch dishes like Breakfast Hash, Eggs Hollandaise or the Banana & Salted Caramel French Toast.
For lunch, try the Pot Roast Sandwich – a panini filled with tender pot roast topped with chipotle mayonnaise. Other lunch favorites include salads with chef-made citrus dressing, and croissant sandwiches with chicken salad.
Mallano describes the interior of the restaurant as “an easy place to be.” It’s a comfortable space to work, read or dine, and is also a fun place to celebrate special occasions. The restaurant also offers a large outdoor, dog-friendly patio. Yes Please can do event catering, as well.
Watch the menu grow as Mallano adds her Asian flare with acai bowls, smoothies, and healthy vegetarian options. Be sure to try her creative drinks made from Soju, a clear and colorless Korean distilled liquor made from rice and other starches.
Yes Please Café & Dessert Shop is located at 78065 Main Street, Suite 100, in La Quinta, and is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Learn more at YesPleaseLaQuinta.com or by calling (760) 296-1425.
New state-of-the-art technology synchronizing the traffic lights on Washington Street has traffic moving more smoothly on one of the most heavily traveled stretches of roadway in and out of La Quinta.
Soon, motorists will experience the same on Highway 111 and Ramon Road.
The new technology is part of the initial phase of CV Sync, a valleywide project headed by the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) to synchronize traffic lights throughout the valley – a move
with a dual goal of saving motorists travel time while reducing vehicle emissions with fewer starts and stops.
The system complements La Quinta’s 105 public safety cameras installed in 2021 to assist police, fire, and other emergency responders by giving them real-time views of emergencies as they occur, including flooding during a storm. The cameras record what they capture, providing video that has been helpful to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department with its investigations of criminal cases and collisions.
Video from the City’s Public Safety Camera System (PSCS) has helped investigators solve crimes in and around La Quinta, including an armed robbery, a window smash commercial burglary, and the retail theft of baby formula.
The system is used to monitor streets and City property, aid in traffic management, as well as offer major event support to Ironman and criminal investigations.
During the December Ironman triathlon, CVAG representatives watched as La Quinta’s traffic management team
used the PSCS to watch the progress of the 52-mile cycle portion of the race. The City’s traffic management team communicated via handheld radios with sheriff and race officials in the field when or if anything needed to be done on the roads to move cyclists and motorists along safely.
Through CV Sync, they could also change signal timing at various intersections as needed to get cyclists safely to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, where they finished the competition on foot.
Two Systems Working Together
CVAG’s CV Sync cameras, placed at strategic locations, show traffic movement but don’t record.
The CV Sync system uses pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) cameras that can be positioned to monitor and evaluate signal timing. It allows for real-time changes to be made, and the results evaluated on the spot, said Kris Gunterson, traffic operations analyst for the City.
Gunterson is system administrator and in-house trainer for the Public Safety Camera System (PSCS).
The City’s public safety cameras have been placed at all intersections in La Quinta, around business areas, at City Hall, parks, and other public facilities. They cannot pick up sound, facial recognition or license plates and are not
The PSCS consists of a four-lens 360-degree view fixed camera system and a central PTZ which can be programmed to capture activity from different angles that the police deem
Only authorized sheriff and City personnel can access and use the Public Safety Camera System. Archived videos can also be viewed by the public, but a records request must first be filed.
The City is considering the addition of Automated License Plate Readers – cameras that would be installed and monitored by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Such cameras have been installed in neighboring cities, including Palm Desert, to help with recovery of stolen vehicles and other investigations. In La Quinta, license plate readers would complement the PSCS with an ability to produce high quality nighttime images, which the City’s system does not do.
Synchronizing the Valley’s Traffic Signals
CV Sync is a multiphase signal synchronization project that uses fiber optics to connect participating cities to a world-class, regional network, allowing them to communicate and coordinate with each other in real-time to manage traffic flow.
Phase I construction on the three most traveled roadways in the Coachella Valley – Highway 111, Washington Street and Ramon Road – is expected to be finished in April.
On December 5, the CVAG Executive Committee, comprised of elected officials from each of the valley’s nine cities, Riverside County, and the tribes, approved moving forward with the second phase of CV Sync construction by Irwindale-based Crosstown Electrical Data for $86.7 million.
The second phase will cover 93 miles of road along 18 corridors, including Avenues 44, 48, and 50, Bob Hope Drive, Jefferson, Jackson, Monroe, and Cook streets, Indio Boulevard, Monterey Avenue, and more, with completion of construction expected by March 31, 2025.
La Quinta is a partner in CV Sync along with eight of the nine incorporated cities, Riverside County and Caltrans. Rancho Mirage opted out of CV Sync because the city has implemented its own synchronization system on Highway 111.
To date, CVAG has funded the system through grants and Measure A transportation funds and has not sought money from its partner cities and agencies.
Online registration available at https://laqwebtrac.laquintaca.gov
For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.
WELLNESS CENTER
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...
PLEASE LET US KNOW! Email your press release, story idea or job posting for consideration to info@gcvcc.org.
AARP FREE Tax Assistance
Volunteers will be offering free tax preparing services for simple tax forms. All necessary documents are required at the time of registering for your appointment. An appointment can be made on Tuesdays, on a weekly basis ONLY. Please call (760) 564-0096.
OPEN COURT TIME AT LA QUINTA BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Desert Recreation District (DRD), the Boys & Girls Club, and the City of La Quinta have partnered to offer the following activities: Volleyball on Tuesdays & Thursdays, Basketball on Wednesdays. Enrollment: January 4 - April 27.
Time: 7 - 9 p.m. (doors open at 6:45 p.m.), Ages: All ages (13 years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult).
Fee: $5 daily drop-in or $30 for an 8-visit Express Pass. For more information, please call DRD (760) 564-9921.
Sunday, January 1
No service delays for this week
All collections will run on a normal schedule
Monday, September 4
Services will be delayed by one day all week
All collections will run from Tuesday through Saturday
Monday, May 29
Services will be delayed by one day all week
All collections will run from Tuesday through Saturday
Thursday, November 23
Services will be delayed by one day
Collections will be impacted from Thursday through Saturday
Tuesday, July 4
Services will be delayed by one day
Collections will be impacted from Wednesday through Saturday
Monday, December 25
Services will be delayed by one day all week
All collections will run from Tuesday through Saturday
Vision Forward is DAP Health’s 10-year strategic plan that will see the organization grow from serving 10,000 individuals annually today to 25,000 patients and clients a year by 2025. So far, this broadminded expansion has encompassed:
• The purchase of the Annette Bloch CARE Building and the opening of three primary care clinics within.
• The opening of the Orange Clinic and Yellow Clinic at the main campus in Palm Springs.
• The opening of a DAP Health sexual wellness clinic in Indio.
DAP Health is an internationally renowned, advocacy-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) based in Palm Springs. Its mission is to improve the overall well-being of the entire desert community — especially the disenfranchised who face disparities in accessing care due to sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or class — by making health equity and justice a reality.
“Health equity at DAP Health means no one ever wonders if they belong,” says CEO David Brinkman, “they just feel it.”
Founded in 1984 in the face of the HIV/ AIDS crisis, today the nonprofit provides comprehensive, culturally competent, quality wraparound services that include primary and preventative medical care, HIV care, sexual wellness testing and services, dental care, behavioral health care, social services, affordable housing, and more. No one is ever turned away due to inability to pay.
The Three Cornerstones of DAP Health
Establishing Health Care Equity for All No one should feel like an outsider when they see a medical or mental health provider. And no one should go without health care due to lack of insurance or inability to pay.
Thanks to its proven success in working toward the end of the HIV epidemic, DAP Health has been able to address new community health crises — whether COVID-19 or mpox — head-on, in a swift and successful manner.
DAP Health provides stigma-free individual and group therapy to address myriad mental health needs, including recovery from addiction.
• Groundbreaking on Vista Sunrise II, which will boast 61 new units of affordable housing, to be completed in 2023.
Still to come is the Tenet Health Pavilion, a structure that will bridge the Barbara Keller LOVE Building and the Annette Bloch CARE Building, and which will include:
• A transit- and pedestrian-friendly pathway.
• A central registration area for all patient services.
• A café open to the public that will be staffed and managed by clients of DAP Health’s Return-to-Work Program.
To learn more about how you can support DAP Health’s mission, please visit daphealth.org.
Visitors flock to La Quinta annually to relax, rejuvenate and practice selfcare. Fresh Juice Bar is exclusive to the Southern California desert oasis, and is a key player in the Valley’s search for mind, body and soul wellness.
Fresh Juice Bar was awarded ‘USA Today’s 10 Best: Juice Bars Across the Country’ for its delicious, healthy and convenient pressed juices, smoothies, açaí bowls and more. Whether completing a trek on a nearby hiking trail or taking a relaxing bike ride throughout La Quinta, Fresh Juice Bar is close by.
Fresh Juice Bar offers raw organic juices, smoothies including green and protein smoothies, açaí and pitaya bowls, juice cleanses (one, three or five-day) as well as grab-and-go healthy wraps, snacks and protein bars. Drinks and bowls can be customized to a specific preference or dietary restriction(s). Almond milk is handmade throughout each day, and all drinks can be made dairy, nut or gluten free.
Consuming the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day is made easy at Fresh Juice Bar. And the added peace-of-mind is that Fresh’s menu does not include artificial ingredients or added sugars. Fresh uses the highest quality, locallygrown organic ingredients which are full of vitamins, nutrients and enzymes to hydrate, detoxify and nourish the body.
Top sellers include the Raw Pitaya Smoothie with pineapple, mango and banana; The Amateur green smoothie with spinach, apple and banana (an excellent choice for beginners); and the Desert Delight, a healthier alternative to the locally-loved Date Shake, made with local dates, vanilla bean, banana, cinnamon and homemade almond milk. Kids and adults alike love the Strawberry Banana Smoothie.
Fresh is a local and woman-owned business that is celebrating ten years of serving delicious and good-for-you
Bar, has partnered with nutritionists and local fitness coaches to curate a menu of vitamin-packed, nutritionally-rich menu items. “One of the things that makes us very unique is that we really make an effort to keep everything clean,” said Madain. “All of our ingredients are a menu of superfoods, organic and without additives in sugar. That, to me, is the best thing you can give your body.”
Fresh Juice Bar is located at 46480 Washington Street, Unit 1, in La Quinta (one block south of Highway 111, near Trader Joe’s). To learn more about Fresh Juice Bar’s menu and other locations, go to FreshJuiceBar.com.
All of this is available right around the corner from La Quinta in Thermal, California. Our M events fill up fast, so call today to ensure you’ll be in the driver’s seat. Game. Set. Match.
For more information, visit BMWPerformanceCenter.com or call 888-345-4269.
It’s time to serve up an ace and experience a real thrill at the BMW Performance Center in nearby Thermal, California.
Try out a BMW M3 for a few hours with one of our Experiences or book two full days at Advanced M School – we’ve got something for every level of driver experience. Each event comes with pro driving instructors guiding you on track, pushing you to get that extra tenth of a second and maximize your potential. For the ultimate rush, you can get behind the wheel of an M4 GT4 racecarcomplete with roll cage and race tires.
We also offer driving courses for teenagers and intermediate drivers, as well as Group Events that can be customized to your needs. Nothing beats a little friendly competition.
