The GEM May 2024

THE GEM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY CG V LAQUINTA CHAM B RE EST 1950

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 QUINTA 83040 AVENUE 42 LA QUINTA, CA 92253

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER

On the Cover: Sheriff’s deputies with the La Quinta Special Enforcement Team reflect on the Riverside County Sheriff’s Monument at the La Quinta Civic Center Campus in memory of Deputy Bruce Lee, who was killed in the line of duty 21 years ago this month. Deputy Lee served the La Quinta community, where he also lived. Left to right: Deputy Chris Williams, Deputy Jeff Post, Deputy Erik Martin, Deputy Tyler Ebersole and Sergeant Patrick Mushinskie.

Photo by Ethan Kaminsky

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

As we welcome the vibrant month of May, we also observe the conclusion of another bustling snowbird season. While we bid a fond farewell to our seasonal visitors, it’s essential to look ahead to the warmer months with renewed focus on sustaining our local businesses.

The end of the snowbird season often marks a shift in our local economy. Many of our businesses that thrived during these busier months might face quieter times ahead. However, this period also opens an invaluable opportunity for us to support and reinforce the unique fabric of La Quinta’s business community.

This May, I encourage all of us “full-timers” to continue patronizing our local businesses. Whether it’s choosing a La Quinta coffee/tea shop for your morning coffee, shopping at our local boutiques, having lunch/dinner/drinks at one of our fabulous restaurants, or utilizing services offered by local entrepreneurs, every bit helps in making a significant impact.

Your commitment to shop locally not only contributes to the economic stability of our beloved city but also fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere. I am also excited to announce the return of the City’s Shop La Quinta Local program. This initiative is designed to boost the visibility and viability of our businesses during the off-peak season.

Shop La Quinta Local aims to encourage residents and visitors alike to discover and engage with local merchants, ensuring that the benefits of economic activity remain within our community year-round. The La Quinta Chamber of Commerce is fully supportive of this initiative and will be actively involved in promoting it. We believe that by collaborating, we can create a thriving local marketplace that withstands seasonal fluctuations.

Over the next few weeks, we will be reaching out to you with more information on how you can participate in and benefit from the Shop La Quinta Local program. As we adapt to the rhythm of the seasons, let us continue to champion the spirit of enterprise that defines La Quinta. Remember, every time you choose to shop, dine, or hire locally, you are making a positive difference. It’s up to all of us to ensure that our city remains vibrant and prosperous throughout the year.

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.

This Month’s

Noteworthy Nuggets

Last Seasonal Farmers Market Shop La Quinta Local

This month, the Certified Farmers Market in Old Town La Quinta wraps up for another season before it returns in October. It’s a great place to gather for fresh produce, tasty bites and beverages by a variety of vendors and other unique items.

This family-friendly experience has something for everyone to enjoy, from the freshest locally-grown produce, flowers, eggs and honey to gourmet chefprepared foods and one-of-a-kind artisan goods. Get to know local producers and farmers who bring their harvests.

While you’re there, stroll Old Town La Quinta’s boutiques and stay for brunch or lunch at one of the several restaurant options lining the streets. The last Farmers Market will be held May 26 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

More info: OldTownLaQuinta.com

The City of La Quinta is bringing back its Shop La Quinta Local campaign to help support businesses as the slower offseason months will bring less visitors to the region.

With tourism being the Coachella Valley’s number one industry, it’s especially important for year-round residents to frequent La Quinta shops, restaurants and services – which, in turn, generate sales tax revenue that helps provide City services.

The Shop La Quinta Local program offers discounts and LQ swag to those who shop and dine at participating businesses. La Quinta swag including one-of-a-kind items with the Shop La Quinta Local logo are among the gifts participating businesses will give away. Businesses come up with their own rules/programs for giving out these gifts.

For Participating Businesses: PlayInLaQuinta.com/shop-local

Make a Mother’s Day Gift

Looking for something unique to give mom for Mother’s Day? Check out the “Paint Your Own Pottery” program at Old Town Artisan Studios.

Old Town Artisan Studios supplies all the materials. Simply choose your item, paint your unique design with underglazes and pick it up once it has been fired in a kiln. There are numerous ceramic pieces to choose from.

The Paint Your Own Pottery Studio is open for walk-ins Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last seating at 3 p.m. Most pottery pieces range from $15-$20 and there are no studio fees.

While you’re there, ask about the La Quinta resident discount which will get you 20% off all four-week classes in Summer 2024 thanks to funding from the City of La Quinta.

More info: OldTownArtisanStudios.org

Remembering the Life & Service of Deputy Bruce Lee

By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta

Bruce Lee had a warm, friendly smile and a gift for making friends and putting people at ease with his kindness and empathetic nature – personality traits that served him well as a law enforcement officer.

Lee lived a dream of a career in law enforcement he’d had since childhood when he saw a police officer arrest someone attempting to steal from his father’s gas station.

As a deputy with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) and a resident of La Quinta, Deputy Lee served his community with passion and compassion, only to have his life cut short when he responded to a domestic disturbance call in the La Quinta Cove on May 13, 2003.

“I still hear stories of him, about the good things he did – he went out of his way to be helpful,” his widow Patsy Lee said when describing her late husband as the 21st anniversary of his death approached.

They met in April 1992 and were married two years later. They had just celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary two weeks before his death. They moved from Indio in 1999 when they bought their home in La Quinta.

“He loved his community. He loved La Quinta,” she said, sitting in the living room of the home they shared.

A curio cabinet in the living room displays a variety of items they collected together and some he accumulated including a book by Don Knotts, “Barney Fife and Other Characters I Have Known.” He loved “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Dragnet,” she said.

Patsy Lee’s brother still has and drives her husband’s Toyota pickup, which he bought in 1991, “nicknamed Bruce” by her brother and his family. She likes to talk about her husband, share her memories, and hear from people who knew or worked with him.

“I always hear new stories from people I haven’t met, and they’re always about good things that he did. He just went out of his way to be helpful,” she said.

Answering the Call

At 9:40 a.m. on May 13, 2003, Deputy Lee responded to what would be his final call for service, a domestic dispute on Avenida Velazco in the Cove.

The call involved reports of an emotionally disturbed man who had prior difficulties with the law, attempting to break into his parents’ home, sheriff’s department reports of the incident state.

Deputy Lee tried to question and reason with the suspect, and they became involved in a struggle during which the suspect grabbed Lee’s service baton and began beating him with it, inflicting severe blows to his head and neck.

When a backup deputy arrived on the scene, he found Deputy Lee unconscious.

The suspect, 24-year-old Kevin Diabo, began to approach the backup deputy with the baton, and when he refused to drop it, he was shot and killed by the deputy, the report states.

Deputy Lee suffered severe head injuries, was taken to JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio and transferred to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs where he succumbed to his injuries.

Patsy Lee was presented a Medal of Honor posthumously given to her husband in 2004.

Deputy Lee’s attraction to law enforcement was sparked in 1968 when, as an 11-year-old, he watched an Inglewood police officer arrest a man for stealing a car and attempting to take gasoline from Deputy Lee’s father’s service station. Years later, he and that Inglewood policeman’s son, Michael Manning, were partners at RCSO.

Over the past 21 years, RCSO, the Riverside Sheriff’s Association and the City of La Quinta have remembered Deputy Lee on or around the anniversary of his death, which comes during National Police Week.

In December 2005, the City of La Quinta named a stretch of Highway 111, from west of Washington Street, just before the Vons shopping center, to the Home Depot shopping center at Jefferson Street, the “Deputy Bruce Lee Memorial Highway.”

For several years, members of the sheriff’s department, family and friends have gathered annually in May at the Jefferson Street sign in remembrance of Deputy Lee to place a wreath. They then proceed to the sign near the Vons shopping center where they put another wreath.

At Civic Center Campus, a ceremony is held, and a wreath is placed at the Riverside County Sheriff monument, which was created in 2005 in memory of Deputy Lee.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Deputy Lee had an Associate of Arts degree in Administration of Justice from West L.A. Junior College. He had a law enforcement background in uniform patrol, court services, traffic enforcement and traffic accident reconstruction.

He began his law enforcement career around 1981 at RCSO’s old Indio station on Highway 111, which is now part of the Larson Justice Center jail. He was transferred to the Palm Desert station in 1991 where he was assigned to work traffic enforcement and investigations in the cities of Rancho Mirage and Palm Desert.

During his 22 years with RCSO, Deputy

Lee served in traffic enforcement, collision investigation and as a field training officer (FTO), providing guidance to newly hired deputies.

In December 1998, Deputy Lee was assigned to the City of La Quinta, transferred back to the Indio station, and assigned to the Traffic Team.

He investigated traffic collisions and was the regional coordinator for the countywide DUI program, “Avoid the 30,” for which he received an award presented to Patsy Lee after his death.

“He was really good at traffic. He was so pleasant. So kind. So thoughtful. So respectful. He was just a good guy. Just a super, super, super good guy,” said RCSO Chief Deputy Sheriff Misty Reynolds, who served for several years as the Thermal station’s captain and La Quinta’s police chief.

Never to be Forgotten

Reynolds was assigned to the Palm Desert station when Deputy Lee worked out of Indio, and while they would be assigned to the same events and incidents, they didn’t work together directly. But he was her former husband’s partner and would occasionally have lunch with them. “He loved to eat,” she said, laughing and remembering they would joke about that with him.

She has been the department’s liaison for Patsy Lee for several years and every year participates in the wreath placement ceremonies in La Quinta, jogging from one sign to another and then to Civic Center Campus.

“Serving Patsy is my way of serving Bruce and his memory,” said Reynolds. “He laid his life down for the community that he chose to serve,” said Reynolds, who consistently says that the ability to serve and do what she loves is a blessing.

“The honor of serving, that’s a personal choice. Most of us feel that this is a calling that we are led to do; that we are chosen for this. Nobody makes us do it. No amount of money is worth it, but … there is no greater sacrifice than to sacrifice your own life for those you serve,” she said.

Patsy Lee is grateful for the outpouring of support that has come not only from RCSO and the City of La Quinta, but from throughout the Coachella Valley.

“Bruce was such a part of the community that I don’t want him to be forgotten. The fact that he gave his life for this community, I think it’s important they show that they remember him, and I’m grateful that they do,” she said. “Not to remember him would be hurtful.”

She got involved with Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), a national organization of survivors of lineof-duty deaths of law enforcement officers. She received support from others who knew firsthand what she was going through and was, in turn, able to be there for others.

COPS offers separate support retreats, camps and events for spouses, children, siblings, and coworkers – all affected by a line-of-duty death of an officer.

Patsy Lee, a Coachella Valley native, and Deputy Lee met through a friend. One of his coworkers was the husband of a friend she knew from church, and that friend gave him her phone number. Their first date was lunch at the former Beachside Café in La Quinta.

“He was easy going and really nice,” she said. “It turned out that he knew a lot of my friends and even some family, so it was really surprising that we hadn’t met before.”

Patsy Lee was living with her mother when they started dating, and “he got along well with my mom,” she said. “He was always really good to her and helpful,” she said.

In the first month they were dating, Deputy Lee was sent to Los Angeles to work the riots that broke out following the Rodney King verdict.

“At that point, I had to decide if this was something I could handle,” she said. Knowing that law enforcement was what he loved, she set her fear aside to get to know him and see where their relationship would go.

“It would have been a shame to have missed out on that. It’s better to have had those 11 years than none,” she said.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

This year is zipping by. We are now in May when our snowbirds leave, we have fewer events and see fewer visitors to La Quinta and the Coachella Valley. Even so, our businesses remain open throughout the summer, and supporting them is more important than ever.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of La Quinta, where about 70% of the roughly 580 shops and restaurants are small, local-owned businesses. Many business owners and their employees are La Quinta residents, who in turn invest, shop and dine in our community.

Another advantage to shopping and dining locally in person is you get the opportunity to interact with owners and staff to get to know them and their passion for their business.

We are also launching another round of “Shop La Quinta Local,” offering discounts and LQ swag to all who shop and dine at participating businesses in May and June.

La Quinta swag that includes one-of-akind items with the Shop La Quinta Local logo are among the gifts participating businesses will give away. Businesses will come up with their own rules/ programs for giving out the gifts.

Look for the signs at participating businesses, or check out the website PlayInLaQuinta.com/shop-local for more information.

Certified Farmers Market

Sundays through May 26, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta

This is the last month until October to come and 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 the end of May. The Farmers Market will return in October. For more information, call Christiana Green at (951) 551-6233.

CITY UPDATES

Citywide Slurry Seal Project

Work will begin this month for a citywide slurry seal project that is part of the five-year Pavement Management Program. Work areas include dig-outs and slurry on Eisenhower Drive, Avenidas Velasco, Herrera, Vallejo and Ramirez, and Avenue 60. Expected completion is the end of summer.

Other Capital Improvement Program Projects

Landscape Renovation: Work 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. Construction on the promenade is underway and consists of two pickleball courts, a drinking fountain, bench seating and space for future amenities such as cornhole and table tennis.

Citywide Miscellaneous ADA Improvements: Construction is completed on the Citywide miscellaneous ADA improvements project. Work was done within the Seasons at La Quinta neighborhood and included the reconstruction of curb ramps, sidewalks, and cross-gutters on Springtime Way and Summer View Way. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money was used to fund the project.

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 40mile, multi-modal pathway for cycling, walking, jogging and lowspeed electric vehicles such as golf carts that will run through much of the Coachella Valley. La Quinta’s portion of CV Link is about 2 miles and runs along the south side of the Coachella Valley stormwater channel (also known as the Whitewater River) from Washington Street to Jefferson Street. When completed it will provide a connection to the Arts and Music Line, which will come down the channel to Avenue 48 and connect La Quinta to the cities of Indio and Coachella. 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

Beginning Ballroom Dancing 6 – 7 p.m. T

Physical Wellness

Deep Stretch 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. T/TH

Mat Pilates 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. T/TH

Personal Trainer (by appt.) 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. M/TH

Tai Chi Yang 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. T/TH

Yoga Flow (with Billee) 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. M

Social Wellness

Movie Matinee 1 p.m. M

Social Bridge (Fee: $4) 12:15 – 4 p.m. M

Mah Jongg (Fee: $2) 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. T

Mexican Train Dominoes 1 – 4 p.m. W (Fee: $2)

Quilting for Good Times 1 – 4 p.m. TH (Volunteers)

Chuck Sullivans 2 – 4 p.m. F Desert Oasis Strummers

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, advocate medical bill concerns). Call HICAP at (800) 434-0222 or (909) 2568369, to make an appointment. Meet for your appointment at the Wellness Center.

Open Court Time at La Quinta Boys & Girls

A partnership between Desert Recreation District (DRD), Boys and Girls Club & City of La Quinta.

Volleyball is offered on Tuesday & Thursday evenings, and basketball on Wednesday evenings.

Doors open at 6:45 p.m.

Location: La Quinta Boys and Girls Club

Enrollment: Drop in Time: 7 – 9 p.m.

Ages: All Ages (13 years and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult)

Fee: $5 Daily Drop-in or Express Pass, $30 (for 8 visits). For more information, call (760) 564-9921.

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 our 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.

EVENTS

Thursday, May 2, 5 p.m.

Music at The Museum

Enjoy the acoustic duo, The Mudbugs, who will be serving up a musical gumbo of blues, Cajun, zydeco, country and Americana.

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.

PROGRAMS

As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information the La Quinta Museum’s free programs at Facebook. com/LaQuintaMuseum/events.

Friday, May 3 &17, 1-3 p.m.

Sketchbook Journaling

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

Tuesday, May 14 & 28, 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, May 8, 1 p.m.

TED Talk Hangout

Enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, then discuss. This month: “If I Should Have a Daughter” by Sarah Kay.

Saturday, May 11, 1-3 p.m.

Genealogy Meet-Up

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

Tuesday, May 21, 11 a.m.

Take a Break with Huell

View an episode of Huell Howser’s “California’s Gold” on the big screen. Each month, Huell takes viewers to amazing locations across the Golden State.

Thursday, May 30, 3 p.m.

Good Books in the Gallery

Read a great book, then get together to discuss! This month, the featured book is “Sabrina and Corina” by Kali FajardoAnstine. 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

Speaker Series: Riverside Legal Aid

Thursday, May 30 @ 2 p.m. | Ages 18+

Learn about the array of services Riverside Legal Aid provides as well as how to contact them. An attorney will also go into more detail with specific matters that he has experience in such as family law and eviction defense.

Morning Movie Showing

Saturday, May 18 @ 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

All Ages

Catch the movie of the month! Limited seating and floor space. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks, and all drinks must have lids. Popcorn is for a limited time.

Coloring Book Night for Adults

Tuesday, May 28th @ 5 p.m. | Ages 18+

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Join 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’s provided.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Anime Cafe

Saturday, May 4 @ 1 p.m. | Ages 13-17

Make Shrinky Dinks keychains of favorite anime and manga characters. All supplies will be provided.

Level Up LQ

Saturdays, May 11 & 25 @ 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.

Writer’s Block

Sunday, May 5 @ 1 p.m. | Ages 18+

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

Pagemasters Book Club

Thursday, May 9 @ 5:30 p.m. | Ages 18+

A traditional book club for SciFi and Fantasy titles. In May, the book discussed id The Enchanted Hacienda by J.C. Cervantes. Register at the Information Desk, as copies are limited.

Page Turners Book Club

Thursday, May 16 @ 10:30 a.m.

Ages 18+

In May, this book club will discuss The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff. Register at the Information Desk, as copies are limited.

Threadheads Fiber Arts Club

Saturday, May 18 @ 1:30 p.m. | Ages 18+

Come and share your fiber art projects, ideas, skills and inspiration with other fiber artists. All skill levels are welcome.

LA

QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS

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

Maker Craft: Star Wars Day

Saturday, May 4, 2024

10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Celebrate all things Star Wars at the Creation Station. Make a paper towel roll lightsaber, create a paper bag Jedi, or select a 3D printed card to snap apart and build a miniature Star Wars ship, droid or character.

Free | All Ages

Scan for Library programs.

The La Quinta Library will be closed Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. For more information, scan the QR code:

Maker Craft: Turtle Puppets

Thursday, May 23, 2024

10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. | All-Ages

It’s World Turtle Day so celebrate with a Maker Craft hand puppet project. Patrons will receive a simple base to build their turtle puppet from using craft supplies on hand.

Free (while supplies last)

Fiber Arts Bootcamp (FAB):

Needle Felted Sea Turtle Brooch Sunday, May 26, 2024 | 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Ages 10+

As part of a continued celebration of World Turtle Day, come and try needlefelting a small brooch design of a sea turtle. This program is recommended for ages 10 and older due to the sharp needles required for the craft.

Free (while supplies last)

La Quinta Summer Golf Experience is back! Swing into action with both a men's and women's division, and compete on some of the most stunning courses in the Coachella Valley!

Early Bird Registration: Now thru May 3 - $45

General Pricing: May 4 thru May 26 - $60

Jackalope Ranch

Now Open!

Extending the Coco Rose vision of a home and lifestyle store in the old bank building next to Stuft Pizza in Old Town La Quinta!

78010 Main Street #100 • La Quinta 92263

Store Hours: Monday - Sunday 10am-7:30pm

JW Marriot

Shopping Colonnade

74855 Country Club Dr

Palm Desert 92260

Ph: 760 846 8757

Desert Springs Marketplace

74924 Country Club Dr Suite G-130

Palm Desert 92260

Ph: 760 895 4132

El Paseo

73255 El Paseo, Suite 21

Palm Desert 92260

Ph: 760 219 7165

New OUTLET on El Paseo: “Last Chance” Coco Rose Outlet

73896 El Paseo, Suite R-13

Palm Desert 92260

Ph: 760 492 0635

Get Published in The Gem

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.

Salud! Cheers to Cinco de Mayo Specials in La Quinta

Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It’s a day when many like to raise a margarita and enjoy some spicy fare in honor of this Mexican holiday.

If you’re looking for a spot to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in La Quinta, these restaurants shared their plans to offer special entertainment and deals with The Gem.

TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill

TQLAS in Old Town La Quinta is a place where every sip tells a story and every bite paints a picture of Mexico’s rich culture and vibrant flavors. From the rugged highlands of Jalisco to the bustling streets of Mexico City, each of the many tequilas on the menu is a passport to adventure. Delicious Mexican cuisine is crafted by Chef Santiago, from mouthwatering tacos to savory chicken smothered in rich mole sauce.

Chula Artisan Eatery

Chula’s chef/owner, Katherine Gonzalez, was raised in Southern Arizona. Her mother’s family migrated from Chihuahua, Mexico, and her father’s family from Spain. Growing up there was always a pot of beans cooking, freshmade flour tortillas, salsa and sopas fideo. There was warm and delicious comfort food at every celebration. Chula has been named one of the “Best 16 Restaurants in Greater Palm Springs” by TripSavvy.com.

On Cinco de Mayo, Chula will offer $5 margaritas from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Accompany your margarita with Mexican-American mainstays like huevos rancheros, pulled pork tortas with chile au jus, grilled vegetable enchiladas and chilaquiles, plus browse the bakery case, too – which offers cakes, cookies and pastries made from scratch. Located at: 47150 Washington Street, Ste B, in La Quinta Website: ChulaEatery.com

This Cinco de Mayo, TQLAS will have a flamenco guitarist playing all day, and is teaming up with Casamigos to serve some delicious new tequila-based cocktails. The restaurant will also be revealing its new Spicy Paloma, featuring Cindy Crawford’s Casamigas jalapeñoinfused tequila.

Located at: 78015 Main St, Suite109 in La Quinta Website: TQLAS.com

Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce Selected as Partner Agency for New Employer Connect Program

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) has been selected as the partner agency 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 (ECP).

On December 16, 2022, HWS/WDD was notified of an award in the amount of $5,000,000 received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). With this funding, HWS/WDD is partnering with local Chambers of Commerce throughout Riverside County to deploy the new program designed to change the way employers and communities bridge the gap between local small businesses wanting to hire new employees and individuals seeking employment.

“We take pride in creating opportunities for the business community to learn more about regional development, training, and support resources,” said Brandon Marley, CEO of the

GCVCC. “This new program will allow us to connect more businesses with underutilized resources available through Workforce Development, not only helping businesses hire staff, but increasing community collaboration and overall resilience.”

As part of this partnership, GCVCC will be creating a new full-time position and hiring a staff member to be the Workforce Liaison dedicated to the administrative oversight and day-to-day operations of this program.

Businesses located within District 4 are not required to be current members of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce to be eligible or to participate in this program. Any business interested

in learning more or participating in the Employer Connect Program should contact the GCVCC to begin the eligibility review and enrollment process. To be deemed eligible, employers must meet the following requirements:

• Physically located within Riverside County - District 4;

• Have less than 500 full-time employees; and

• Be able to provide proof of a valid operating license within Riverside County.

After working through enrollment with the Chamber, qualifying businesses will hire a new full-time employee with the assistance of HWS/WDD and the stipulation that the new employee undergo training provided by the HWS Continuum of Care Division (HWS/COC). Workforce Development will pay the new hire up to $20 per hour for the first 90 days of employment with the business.

In training, the employees will learn about the many resources available within our community and how to identify and direct individuals to mental health services, housing assistance, and food relief programs, giving businesses and their staff the essential tools to develop and strengthen engagement strategies. A minimum of 80 stipends will be issued to 80 employers in District 4 through December 2025.

For more information contact the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce at info@gcvcc.org or by calling (760) 347-0676.

DUNE PALMS BRIDGE

Reopens While Construction Continues

Dune Palms Road in La Quinta is open at the wash where construction of a $25 million all-weather bridge is continuing.

The east side of the bridge is open to two-way traffic, cyclists and pedestrians, while crews continue to build the west side.

Construction started in January 2023 with completion expected in early 2025. When completed, the east side will be for northbound traffic, and the west side for southbound.

In the meantime, all businesses in the area and at Corporate Centre Drive remain open and accessible, so please support them.

PROJECT MILESTONES TO DATE

• Dune Palms Road: The existing Dune Palms Road over the wash has been demolished and the debris removed to make way for the southbound bridge span. Crews have placed concrete for the roadway curb and gutter at the south and north ends of the northbound bridge. The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) has relocated water airvacuum valves at the north and south ends of the project.

• Northbound / East Side Bridge: Now open to two-way traffic – one lane in each direction – and is accessible to pedestrians and bicyclists, as well. Crews have finished storm drains, structure approaches, bridge lighting, utility relocations, concrete curb, gutter, and a sidewalk for pedestrian access.

• Southbound / West Side Bridge: Construction continues on the southbound bridge span as crews continue placing large, 110-foot-tall concrete bridge support casings into the storm channel, in preparation for concrete placement for the bridge support system.

UPCOMING WORK

Construction continues on the west side portion of the bridge which will be for southbound traffic.

At completion, 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.

City Council Meeting - May 21, 2024

Budget Study Session #1 (General Fund and Internal Service Funds focus)

City Council Meeting - June 4, 2024

Budget Study Session #2 (All Appropriations- General Fund, Internal Service Funds, Enterprise, and Special Revenue Funds)

City Council Meeting - June 18, 2024 Operating and CIP Budget Adoption

LaQuintaCA.gov

Riverside County Child Support provides services to parents and guardians of minor children. Every child needs financial and emotional support. Every child has the right to support from both parents. Our services are available regardless of marital status or income. If you

• Obtain a new child support/medical support order if you don’t have one from the court.

• Keeping case records

• Processing and tracking child support payments

• Enforce spousal support orders (if part of existing child support order)

•

• Establish parentage

• Locate absent parents

IT’S ALL IN THE MIX

Includingprimarycare, cancercare,woundcare andweightmanagement.

Annually,weprovidemore than$30millionincharity careto thoseinneed. OUTPATIENT CENTERS&CLINICS

EachyearintheCoachella Valley,MorongoBasin, andourgreaterregion.

DESERTREGIONAL MEDICALCENTER

With385beds,aLevel 1TraumaCenter,10 operatingrooms,and 31ERtreatmentbeds, DRMCistheanchorof DesertCareNetwork.

With145beds,aLevel4 TraumaCenter,anda PrimaryStrokeCenter, JFKMemorialHospital servestheCentraland EasternCoachellaValley.

With179beds,aLevel4 TraumaCenter,anda continuingcarecenter, HDMCisacriticalhealth resourceforthehidesertcommunities.