The La Quinta Gem IRONMAN IS BACK
IRONMAN Returns in December A Locals Journey to IRONMAN
Greater Coachella Valley Chamber 78-015 Main Street, #206 La Quinta, 92253
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CA License #0G69218
Office conveniently located at78010 Main St, suite 208
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This Image and the Cover Image Provided by IRONMAN®
The La Quinta Gem
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TALUS is Currently Under Construction
NOVEMBER 2021
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What’s Happening in Old Town
Message from the President
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Letter to Residents and Business Owners
14-19 City Pages • City Managers Message
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Trainual IRONMAN® 70.3 Indian Wells-La Quinta Triathlon Returns December 5, 2021
09 A Locals Journey to IRONMAN
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Certified Farmers Market
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Art on Main
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Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony
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Brew in LQ Tour
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La Quinta Art Celebration
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Wellness Center Closure
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La Quinta Dog Parks Reopen
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Fire Station 70 Project
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La Quinta X-Park Project
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Small Business Saturday
• It’s Your Library • La Quinta Museum • Community Services
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Back to Basics
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The IRS Backlog: A Taxing Situation
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THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY
The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 Q 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 ES Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and 0 T. 1 9 5 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.
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GCV LA QUINTA CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Elisa Guerrero, Chairperson | Village Peddler Bike Rental & Repair Mike Chapa, Secretary | Fairway Independent Mortgage Carrie Babij, Treasurer | Desert Insurance Solutions, Inc. Doug Motz | Motz-Rusin Insurance Agency Steve Weiner | Coldwell Banker Ray Dominguez | Lamar Outdoor Advertising Karen Lambrose | Caliber Home Loans Eric Mosser | Edward Jones Financial Advisor - Eric Mosser Steve Wilson | Optavia/Next Level Coaching - Steve Wilson Janice Isbell | La Quinta Chevrolet-Cadillac Ricardo Loretta | Dr. Carreon Foundation Kimberly Anken | Robert Half Staffing Agency Heidi McArthur | Jadabug’s Kids Boutique Ralph Piscitelli | Alzheimers Association Mike Williams | Capitis Real Estate Jeff Fishbein | Coldwell Banker / Fishbein Real Estate Group Mickey Jumapao | iServe Lending
THE GEM PRODUCTION TEAM THE LA QUINTA 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.
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
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As community residents we get to benefit from all that La Quinta offers; but we get to contribute to it too!! You may not know this but every single dollar you spend at a La Quinta business is directly reinvested into our quality of life in La Quinta. Literally, cents from every dollar are redirected to infrastructure, public safety, and community development. To help you better understand why we encourage you to shop local, here are some facts that I hope encourage you to change your shopping behaviors.
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As a newer resident to the area, I am continuously in awe of this beautiful community. La Quinta is truly the gem of the desert with its breathtaking views, rocky hillsides, its master planned communities, shopping, dining, lifestyle amenities and more. Some of my favorite evenings are spent in Old Town La Quinta, under the market lights patronizing a local restaurant. And some of my favorite mornings, are spent basking in the sunlight as it reflects off the face of our rocky hillsides. La Quinta offers beautiful views, a tranquil place, and a lot to do!
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Submitted by: Emily Falappino, President/CEO of the GCVCCC
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1. Small businesses generate $68 of local economic return for every $100 spent with them. 2. Over $9.3 billion would be directly returned to our economy if every US family spent just $10 a month at a local business. 3. Businesses with fewer than 500 employees account for 99.7% of all US employers. 4. Small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to community causes. Shopping local makes a big, local impact. As we approach the holiday season, I hope I can encourage you to Shop La Quinta! And, feel free to connect with the Chamber for referrals to some of our local businesses. Thank you for your community support. Now, go Shop La Quinta!
CALL RON AT 760-625-6506 AND START PACKING DRE # 02033152
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UNDER CONTRACT
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LA QUINTA September 2021
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To Our Residents and Business Owners, December 5, 2021 will mark the third year an IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon will take place in our community. We are looking forward to hosting over 2,000+ athletes from all over the world for this exciting event! While this event serves as an economic driver, pulling off a race of this magnitude brings challenges. We are reaching out to our communities and businesses near the course to keep them updated on race day impacts. The race starts early Sunday morning, December 5, with a swim in Lake Cahuilla beginning at 7 a.m. The athletes will then ride bicycles through Riverside County, returning to La Quinta and finishing at the Indian Wells Tennis Gardens. The bicycle course will remain the same as re-designed in 2019 to avoid Washington Street, except where the course crosses Washington St. at Miles Avenue. The full course and current information about the race is available at www.laquintaca.gov/IRONMAN. Still have questions? Here are a few things we recommend: Contact Ironman or the City with questions you may have or schedule a meeting so we can discuss how the race may affect your neighborhood Share this information with your neighbors, members of your community and other businesses within your reach so they may plan accordingly Join in on the fun! Ironman has volunteer opportunities or become part of the action at Ironman Village on race day. Remember, businesses will remain open, so shop local and support our La Quinta businesses on race day. We appreciate you welcoming all visitors to La Quinta, and for making it the true Gem of the Desert!
Sincerely, Zander Johnston City of La Quinta, Ironman Liaison 760.777.7044 zjohnston@laquintaca.gov
Ironman Community Relations 760-239-9226 im70.3iwlq@ironmanvolunteers.com
TRAINUAL IRONMAN® 70.3 INDIAN WELLS-LA QUINTA TRIATHLON RETURNS DECEMBER 5, 2021 Submitted by: GCVCC and IRONMAN Staff Following a hiatus during the pandemic, the Trainual IRONMAN® 70.3 Indian Wells-La Quinta triathlon will be returning to the eastern Coachella Valley once again on Sunday, December 5, 2021. “We are excited to have our IRONMAN 70.3 event return to the La Quinta this year. This signature event represents the healthy lifestyle of our city, while showcasing outstanding athletes from around the world,” said Linda Evans, Mayor of the City of La Quinta. “We’re confident that the experience of enjoying our beautiful community and welcoming businesses will be memorable for both participants and visitors to our Coachella Valley.” The Trainual IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells-La Quinta triathlon will take athletes on a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and 13.1-mile run throughout the Coachella Valley. The popular end-of-season event will offer slots to the 2022 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in taking place in St. George, Utah. “We are thrilled to be back in the communities of Indian Wells and La Quinta,” said Paul Huddle, Senior Regional Director at The IRONMAN Group. “After the success of our first two events, this has become a highly soughtafter IRONMAN 70.3 finish line. As the world begins to re-open, we look forward to reconnecting in person with our community partners, volunteers, and athletes in this beautiful part of the world. We expect that the first Sunday in December will be a true celebration.” Athletes will start their day with a swim in the clear waters of Lake Cahuilla, providing an ideal experience for athletes of all levels. The single-loop bike course offers a flat and fast experience across county roads, the Thermal Raceway, the City of La Quinta and the iconic Indian Wells Tennis Gardens. The day ends with a serene run through the Indian Wells Golf Resort finishing inside the Tennis Gardens.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running™ Series, IRONKIDS®, World Triathlon Championship Series, premier running events including the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon™ and The Sun-Herald City2Surf®, UltraTrail® World Tour events including Tarawera Ultra and Ultra-Trail Australia™, mountain bike races including the Absa Cape Epic®, road cycling events, and other multisport races. The IRONMAN Group is the largest operator of mass participation sports in the world and provides more than a million participants annually the benefits of endurance sports through the company’s vast offerings. Since the inception of the iconic IRONMAN® brand and its first event in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE® by crossing finish lines around the world. Beginning as a single race, The IRONMAN Group has grown to become a global sensation with hundreds of events across 55+ countries. Volunteering is one of the best ways for friends and families to see their athletes on race day. Anyone who is interested can send an email IM70.3IWLQ@ IronmanVolunteers.com. Please note that Indian Wells Tennis Garden (IWTG) has instituted a vaccine mandate for all patrons who come on their property. This means that in order to take part in the 2021 Trianual IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells- La Quinta triathlon, all athletes, volunteers, vendors, media, staff, etc., are required to provide proof of full vaccination. The IRONMAN Foundation will distribute $18,000 in charitable giveback to local organizations within the region this year, bringing its total regional giveback to nearly $40,000. To learn more about the IRONMAN Foundation and donate visit www.ironmanfoundation.org. To register or for more information, go to www.ironman.com/im703-indian-wells.
The last edition of the IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells-La Quinta in 2019 drew more than 3,000 athletes from around the world to the Coachella Valley. Two Canadians were the ultimate winners – with Lionel Sanders taking the men’s title and Paula Findlay capturing the women’s title. The IRONMAN Group operates a global portfolio of events that includes the IRONMAN® Triathlon Series, the IRONMAN® 70.3® Triathlon Series, the IRONMAN® Virtual Racing™ (VR™) Series, 5150™ Triathlon Series, the Rock ‘n’ Roll® Running Series, the
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Provided by IRONMAN®
Photo by Daniel Burr Photography
A LOCALS JOURNEY TO IRONMAN Submitted by: GCVCC Staff People travel to our community from all over to participate in IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells–La Quinta, but there are a number of locals who participate as well. We had a chance to speak with Kelsey Mezrahi, a local who is competing in this year’s IRONMAN. Kelsey previously competed in the 2019 event, as well, and has participated in several marathons, ultra-marathons and one other triathlon. Can you let us know a bit about the different types of fitness events and some that you have participated in? A marathon is 26.2 miles, which I’ve done in cities like L.A. and Chicago. Ultra-marathons are anything longer than the 26.2 miles. I’ve also done a few ultra marathon distance events with friends during the pandemic and also did a formal 50k in Zion. Triathlons are 3 events – swim, biking and running – which is what is being held here with the IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells–La Quinta.
is usually 5-7 days a week. I engage in all 3 disciplines, doing those each 2 or more times a week. I also do some back-to-back workouts each day, getting ready for the transition from one discipline to another. What do you like about having this sort of event in La Quinta? It’s so wonderful to have an IRONMAN here in La Quinta – bringing more fitness into the Coachella Valley. It also attracts fitness tourists, so it’s a great way to show off our healthy lifestyle and beautiful views. What advice would you give to someone thinking about preparing for an event like this? Just do it if it’s something you really feel like you want to try. It doesn’t matter what your time is at the finish line – if you set a goal to finish and you’re a finisher, that’s what matters.
What made you get into these types of events? I’ve been running since college, and a friend of mine and I had a goal to do a half marathon –then a full marathon. After school, it was a great way to deal with stress. I discovered a triathlon club here in the desert, and am now a part of the Salton Sea Triathlon Club. It’s a great way to gain comradery and enjoy biking and running while connecting and meeting new people.
What did you like about participating in the last IRONMAN you competed in here? I loved seeing my friends and family on the course – especially racing in our matching suits. I also loved being cheered on by my friends. There are a lot of benefits to having a local triathlon like this. Is there anything you would like to add?
How do you prepare and train for this event? Training never really stops, but it does ramp up more during the months of September through November. Training for IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells–La Quinta
I hope they continue with the event here in Indian Wells– La Quinta. The Salton Sea Triathlon Club is so supportive and loves having it here in our community.
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TALUS IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION Submitted by: The Robert Green Company The Robert Green Company is rebranding the SilverRock Golf Resort in La Quinta, Calif. to TALUS, which is poised to become the first five-star development in the history of the Coachella Valley. TALUS, which began construction late this summer, will deliver a heightened level of luxury and personalized service to the market, including two branded luxury hotels and 84 turn-key single-family homes and condominiums. “We have carefully crafted the TALUS community—its ethos, offerings, and amenities—to appeal to a new type of buyer and cater to today’s traveler, who seeks an authentic, enriching lifestyle combined with a curated living experience,” said Robert Green, President and CEO of The Robert Green Company. The TALUS brand was selected for its literal meaning: “a gathering or collection of rock fragments at the base of a mountain.” TALUS will be an assemblage of storied hospitality brands, vibrant real estate offerings, and resort services that will set a new bar for mixed-use resort developments in the Coachella Valley. The first branded luxury hotel will feature 134 casitastyle guestrooms and suites, and the branded lifestyle hotel will offer an additional 200 guest rooms. Additional amenities include a 71,000-square-foot conference center with outdoor event venues, a new 10,000-squarefoot golf clubhouse, an 18,000-square-foot full-service spa, and multiple culinary outlets. The first phase of the branded single-family homes will be delivered in Fall 2022, concurrent with the new golf clubhouse, and the branded luxury hotel is scheduled for
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completion in Spring 2023. Construction for the branded condominiums is set to begin later this year, with delivery of the first condo building in Spring 2023. Interest in the real estate offerings has been strong with phase 1 of the single-family homes and condos being fully reserved. “This has been a record-breaking year for real estate in the Coachella Valley, and we are thrilled to see such strong pre-sale success at TALUS,” said Jeff Yamaguchi, VP of Real Estate for The Robert Green Company. “La Quinta has been an iconic destination for almost 100 years and, even today, it remains a haven for generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike traditional gated golf communities in the desert, TALUS will offer its residents a complete array of luxury hospitality services and amenities for turn-key resort living.” For more information on homeownership opportunities at TALUS, please visit www.TALUSLaQuinta.com.
B B Q • D R I N K • FA M I LY F U N
11-6-21 THE LIGHTS AT INDIO GOLF COURSE
INDIOBBQfestival.COM
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November 27 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live Music • Free Admission • Free Parking
SHOP LOCAL LA QUINTA ART CELEBRATION
November 11th – 14th Make La Quinta Art Celebration the priority destination for Veteran’s Day weekend. Experience the amazing array of artwork showcased at La Quinta Civic Center Park where 200 juried world-class artists will exhibit their spectacular creations in styles ranging from classical to whimsical. Stroll down to Old Town La Quinta afterwards for a glass of wine or bite to eat at one of our top-rated restaurants.
Leslee Adams
Laurent Martres
Victor Yurivilca
Gustavo Santana
Kathy Caldwell
78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta. Get tickets and event info at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org. or call 760-628-7770
THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT OLD TOWN LA QUINTA!
Sponsored by
facebook.com/artonmainst
OldTownLaQuinta.com
78100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA 92253
1:30pm in Old Town La Quinta.
CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE
Art on Main: Upcoming dates for this recurring art show that is held on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta include November 27 and December 11 from 10am-4pm.
By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager
The holidays will soon be upon us, and we have so much to be thankful for this year. Businesses in La Quinta are open and serving the many visitors and residents who love being out-and-about in our community. There is activity throughout every corridor in La Quinta – from hikers and bikers on our scenic pathways to families in our parks. I hope you’ve had an opportunity to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the many amenities we offer here in the City of La Quinta. There are a number of events coming up in La Quinta, and all the details can be found at PlayInLaQuinta.com. Here are a few highlights from some of the highly-anticipated happenings that you’ll want to mark on your calendar: Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony: Join the City of La Quinta as we recognize and thank our veterans who have given so much. The ceremony will be held on Veterans Day – Thursday, November 11 – at 9am. Seating at City Hall is limited, so we encourage you to watch live on Facebook @CityofLaQuinta. Brew in LQ Tour: Craft beer goes on tour this year! Visit participating locations throughout La Quinta from November 4-6 for exclusive Brew in LQ Tour offers. Go to PlayinLaQuinta.com for event details. La Quinta Art Celebration: The annual La Quinta Art Celebration event will showcase 200 premier artists from 32 states and five countries from 9am-4pm November 11-14 at the Civic Center Campus. Get your tickets at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org. Wellness Center Closure The Wellness Center will be closed Monday, November 8 through Monday, November 15 due to the to the La Quinta Arts Celebration. Through a partnership with the Desert Recreation District, Wellness Center members can access the La Quinta Community Fitness Center by showing their Wellness Center membership card during the La Quinta Arts Celebration. The La Quinta Community Fitness Center is located at 77865 Avenida Montezuma, and can be reached by phone at (760) 564-9921. Certified Farmers Market: This open-air market featuring fresh produce, entertainment and other vendors happens every Sunday during the season from 8:30am-
La Quinta Dog Parks Reopen Overseeding and maintenance at the three La Quinta dog parks is wrapping up. Seasons Dog Park, Fritz Burns Dog Park and Pioneer Dog Park are anticipated to reopen November 4. The City prioritizes the upkeep of facilities such as dog parks to ensure they are wellmaintained for the use of residents and their furry friends. As a reminder, the City Municipal Code requires that dogs must be on a leash when in public and dog owners must pick up after their pets. Fire Station 70 Project The Fire Station 70 project is now complete. The work included energy efficient and sustainability upgrades to the windows, sliding door, lighting, plumbing, and replacement of the existing generator. Interior cosmetic improvements were made to the dormitories, restrooms, the office, reception area and exterior patio covering. Enhancements such as these help keep public safety facilities well-maintained for those who serve our community. La Quinta X-Park Project The La Quinta X-Park Project will bring a 31,000 sq. ft. skate park to North La Quinta. Action Park Alliance Inc. was just awarded the management contract for the facility, and we are looking forward to the parks opening in early 2022. The X-Park will also include a 1,400 sq. ft. pro-shop with restrooms and an observation deck, energy efficient/programmable lighting, a pump track and ample parking. This new amenity will offer new recreation opportunities for La Quinta residents. Monroe Street Rehab Project Construction on the Monroe Street Rehab Project is currently underway, and is anticipated to be complete this month. The project scope covers two separate areas on Monroe Street: Monroe Street from Avenue 52 to Avenue 53 and Monroe Street from Avenue 61 to approximately 325 feet north of Avenue 61. It will improve road conditions for residents traveling these thoroughfares. Eisenhower Basin Fence and Drainage Improvements Project The Eisenhower Basin Fence and Drainage Improvements project is now complete, meaning construction of catch basins, a sidewalk, undersidewalk drains, a curb ramp, a wrought iron fence and other enhancements were made on the west side of Eisenhower Drive north on Avenida Fernando and south on Coachella Drive. Curbs were cut and u-gutter
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construction was also done on the north side of Calle Tampico between Eisenhower Drive and Avenida Bermudas. This project is sure to improve your commute on those occasional rainy days. Just a reminder, the Saturday after Thanksgiving is Small Business Saturday – come out and support La Quinta businesses on November 27 and throughout the holiday season. We also want to be sure to remember our brave Veterans during this month. We hope you all enjoy this beautiful time of year in our Gem of the Desert.
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
SPECIAL PROGRAMS FIND Food Bank Drive November 1 - November 30 We’re partnering with FIND Food Bank for a food drive. We’ll have a donation bin in our lobby where you can donate non-perishable food items. Fall Plant Giveaway (All ages) Wednesday, November 10 @ 3:30pm - 5:30pm We’re partnering with the Riverside County Master Gardeners to make your life a little greener! Our Master Gardener will be here with a variety of fall starter plants. Pick up your plant and take the opportunity to get expert advice from the Master Gardeners. One plant per patron. First come, first served and while supplies last. VIRTUAL BOOK CLUBS Book Club of the Desert (Ages 18+, Zoom) Thursday, November 4 @ 10:30am This month’s book club will discuss There, There by Tommy Orange. Registration required, copies of the book are limited. Visit our Book Club Page at bit.ly/LQLibraryBlog to register and get info. Read the World Book Club (Ages 18+, Zoom) Tuesday, November 16 @ 5:30pm Visit 11 countries in one year as we read translated books from around the world. In November, we’ll visit Mexico by reading Swift as Desire by Laura Esquivel. Registration required, copies are limited. Visit our Book Club Page at bit.ly/LQLibraryBlog to register. NEW! The Book Reporters Book Club (Ages 8-12, inperson or Zoom) Wednesday, November 17 @ 3:30pm Spirit Animals Book 1: Wild Born by Brandon Mull. Join us as we chat about this great series, have a chance to make a craft and record your own review of the book. Zoom available. Space and copies are limited, register at https://bit.ly/LQBookReporters.
Impulse Affirmation Teen Book Club (Ages 13-17, Discord: bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord) Tuesday, November 23 @ 4:30-5:30pm Read what interests you, then join us on LAQLibraryTeens Discord server to talk LIVE! For more information about this and other Teen Programs visit bit.ly/LQLibraryBlog. VIRTUAL STORYTIMES NEW! La Hora del Cuento/Spanish Storytime Tuesday, November 9 @ 11:15am, La Quinta Library Facebook and Youtube Channel ¡Únete a la Sra. Minerva mientras lee algunos de sus libros favoritos en español! Join Miss Minerva as she reads from some of her favorite storybooks in this Spanish language storytime! “In the Stacks” Storytime with Miss Sara (All ages, Facebook Live) Wednesdays @ 11:15am, Facebook Live on La Quinta Public Library’s Facebook Page Get ready for songs, stories and lots of fun with Miss Sara during a live storytime on our Facebook Page! ONGOING VIRTUAL PROGRAMS NEW! Explorando el Mundo de la Biblioteca/Exploring the World of the Library (YouTube Channel) Posted once a month on our Youtube Channel, Explorando el Mundo de la Biblioteca is a series of Spanish language videos that introduce our patrons to books and resources the library has to offer in Spanish. NEW! Judging By Its Cover (Ages 13-17, Discord: bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord) Submit book covers for our teen librarian to “judge” in the November “Judging By Its Cover” on our Teen Discord server. NEW! Judging By Its Cover (Ages 13-17, Discord: bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord) Submit book covers for our teen librarian to “judge” in the November “Judging By Its Cover” on our Teen Discord server: bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord. New Books Now (All ages, Teen YouTube Channel) Check out all the new YA books available this month at the La Quinta Library on our Teen YouTube Channel! LIBRARY SERVICES Please Note: The Library will be closed Thursday, November 11 for Veterans’ Day and Thursday & Friday, November 25 & 26 for Thanksgiving. La Quinta Public Library | 78275 Calle Tampico La Quinta, CA 92253 | 760-564-4767
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LA QUINTA MUSEUM 77885 Avenida Montezuma La Quinta, CA 92253 (760) 777-7170
THE LA QUINTA MUSEUM IS OPEN TUESDAYSATURDAY, 10AM-4PM. PLEASE NOTE: THE MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSED FOR VETERANS DAY NOVEMBER 11, AND FOR THANKSGIVING NOVEMBER 25-26, 2021 ADMISSION AND PROGRAMS ARE FREE CURRENT EXHIBITS Beauty and the Beast: California Wildflowers and Climate Change On exhibit through November 13, 2021 Exquisite photographs of California’s wildflowers bring awareness to the beauty of the Golden State – as well as to the dangers facing our natural habitats from climate change. This exhibition by Rob Badger and Nita Winter originated at the San Francisco Public Library and is traveled by Exhibit Envoy.
and get inspired for your next project! Wednesday, November 17, 1pm: TED Talk Hangout Let’s enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month, we’ll watch “How bumble bees inspired a network of tiny museums” by Amanda Schochet. Thursday, November 18 4pm: Good Books in the Gallery This month, we’re reading Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants, call 760.777.7170 to request one. Tuesday, November 23, 11am: Take a Break with Huell Join us for an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen! This month, we’ll watch “Frey House and 50’s Motels,” as Huell takes us on a road trip to visit the famous Palm Springs Frey House as well as some mid-century motels in Palm Springs.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
La Quinta History Galleries Dive in to the stories of your city, from the original stewards of the land, the Cahuilla, to the homesteaders, ranchers, and dreamers looking for a desert oasis. NEW EXHIBIT OPENING NOVEMBER 23, 2021
(Creative Wellness) Indoors Line Dancing
5:30 - 6:30pm
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4 – 5pm
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6:30 - 7am
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Creative Space: La Quinta Artists in their Natural Habitat Through portraits and artwork, this exhibit explores the minds, methods, and workspaces of 22 artists who live and create in La Quinta.
(Physical Wellness)
PROGRAMS For the latest information and registration links for our FREE programs, please visit facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum/events
Essential Fitness
8:30 - 9:15am
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Gentle Yoga
11am - 12pm
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Pilates
11am - 12pm
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Tai Chi Yang
4 - 5pm
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Yoga
4 - 5pm
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6-7pm
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7 - 8pm
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Pickleball Conditioning
6:30 - 7:15am
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Tennis Ball Red (5-7 yrs)
5:30 - 6:30pm
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Tennis Ball Orange (7-10 yrs)
6:30 - 7:30pm
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7 - 8pm
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Social Bridge (Call Julie 760.342.8580 (Fee: $4)
12:30 - 4pm
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Mah Jongg (Fee: $2)
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Wednesday, November 10, 5-7pm Exhibit Grand Opening: The Story of La Quinta Experience our newly expanded local history exhibit! This special evening will highlight La Quinta’s ranch era history, with the poetry of Ray Chavez, and speakers Linda Kennedy Caruso and Sharon Kennedy. Friday, November 12, 1-3 pm Sketchbook Journaling Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling—the no-rules, playful approach to creativity. Join us each month to create bite-sized bits of drawing, painting, lettering, collage, and mixed media. Basic supplies provided. Tuesday, November 16, 1-3pm: 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,
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Online registration available at https://laqwebtrac.laquintaca.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.
CITY SPONSORED SECTION
Sculp Fit Core (Fitness Members) Stretch & Restore (Fitness Members) (Physical Wellness) Indoors
(Physical Wellness) Outdoors Pickleball 101 Beginners 18+ Pickleball Drills for Skills
Tennis Ball Green (8-12 yrs) (Instructor Yuliya 760.501.4594) (Social Wellness)
Family Hospice Care Support Group (Call TR Barto 760.674.3344)
Veterans Day Recognition ceremony November 11, 2021 9:00 AM Watch live on Facebook @CityofLaQuinta PLAYINLAQUINTA.COM
BACK TO BASICS Submitted by: Carrie Babij, Desert Insurance Solutions According to a recent survey (USA Today, 8/27/21) 42% of older and 61% of younger adults don’t think they understand home insurance. For readers who may be part of the above 42% and 61%, this article will go back to basics. Based on the survey results, parents should feel free to pass these principles on to their adult children. Here are seven home insurance principles to remember: 1. Home insurance is necessary and valuable. Home insurance protects against financial loss from risks to property and liability to others caused by family and pets (lawsuits). It is required to get a mortgage. Without home insurance it would be common for people to have a lifetime of work destroyed by events no fault of their own. With home insurance, in the event of a loss the financial impact is offset, and additional support is provided. In the case of a lawsuit, support includes legal representation. In the case of loss of use, support includes alternative living expenses for as long as 24 months while your home is repaired. 2. Basic home insurance does not cover every peril. Basic home insurance generally covers perils that are common to all homes such as: • Fire/lightning • Wind/hail • Cold/snow/ice • Interior water leak • Theft/vandalism • Lawsuits Other perils are typically covered but at very restricted loss limits: • Mold • Sewer back-up • Cyber
And certain perils are not covered by basic home insurance: • Flood • Earthquake Flood and earthquake are not covered under basic home insurance policies because people located where they don’t occur don’t want to pay for what they don’t need. So flood and earthquake insurance are available as an optional coverage. 3. For a claim to be paid, the insured needs to be prudent. Prudent means: • Maintain the home properly • Mitigate damage if possible • Claim isn’t related to illegal activity Prudent means common sense. Here are examples of not prudent: you leave your heat off during a cold snap and your pipes burst…wind blows shingles off your 35-yearold roof…you ignore a small visible leak, and it later leads to mold. In general, home insurance covers certain events that are sudden and accidental, not the result of poor maintenance. 4. Insurance is not a commodity. There is no standard insurance contract or standard set of terms. Contract terms (exclusions, sublimits, replacement valuations, etc.) and claims service vary widely by carrier. When a TV ad says you can save by switching, they want you to assume insurance is a commodity. You don’t see Kia advertising you can save on car expense by switching from a Mercedes. Differences in contract terms get complicated. Carriers generally try to develop terms to achieve market appeal to their target segments while still making a profit. High net worth homeowners who use midmarket carriers may be using a suboptimal product designed for a different type of customer. 5. Insurance is not a right. When a client gets a non-renewal notice, their first question is often “can they do that?” The answer is yes. Carriers cannot discriminate, but they can and do underwrite based on risk factors: • Wildfire zone • Claims history • Property condition • Safety features (like water leak detectors) Anybody looking to buy a house near a Western brush area or East/West coastal should do an insurance check before closing to avoid a nasty surprise. Over the last several years carriers have expanded their wildfire
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risk zones to include wide swaths of many areas in California, parts of Arizona, Oregon and Colorado, and the Lake Tahoe area. Gulf Coast/Florida markets are risk tightening as well. And try to avoid multiple small claims. Carriers view a handful of small claims as a better predictor of future claims than if you had one claim where your entire house burned to the ground. If you do get cancelled or non-renewed, there usually are options, but they will likely be more expensive and/or more restrictive. 6. Insurance is not a savings account. Some people have this unusual idea that because they’ve paid home insurance premiums for years they deserve “payback” via a claim. Insurance is designed to offset the financial impact of a covered loss (in legal terms “indemnity”). So even if your insurance completely offsets your covered financial loss, you still have the hassle factor. The best possible insurance outcome is never having a claim. Wanting payback on your home insurance is like wanting to get sick and have expensive surgery to get payback on your health insurance. 7. The key to the right insurance is the right agent. Insurance is complicated and according to the survey about half the people who have it don’t feel they
understand it. Well, you may not understand how to fly a plane but still fly because you trust the pilot. The right insurance agent will get you the right insurance. Good insurance agents are: • Experienced…at least 10 years with personal, commercial, professional and health lines. Even if you aren’t buying those other lines, if your agent sells them all they probably know what they’re doing. • Independent…multiple carriers including out-ofstate carriers for special situations. You want the optimal carrier for you and if non-renewed you want options. • Resourced…accessible, responsive, licensed in all states, physical offices with real people. Carrie Babij is President of Desert Insurance Solutions – with offices in La Quinta, California and Scottsdale, Arizona – and has more than 25 years’ experience with high net worth personal and commercial lines of insurance. For more information, contact Carrie at carrie@ desertinsurancesolutions.com. This article is for information only and is not intended to provide legal or tax advice. Insurance limits, terms, conditions and pricing can only be established by specific contract agreed to by the carrier. Copyright © 2021 Desert Insurance Solutions, Inc.
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FINANCIAL GEMS THE IRS BACKLOG: A TAXING SITUATION Submitted by: Lee Osborne, Osborne Rincon CPAs The landscape in the world of a tax provider looks differently these days as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is overwhelmed with high call volumes – creating a trickle-down effect that will ultimately be felt by most taxpayers as they work with their tax representatives to keep up with the ever-changing tax laws and requirements. According to IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig, while testifying at a recent Congressional hearing – in the busiest part of this year’s filing season, IRS call assistors received 1,500 calls a second. That means the IRS is only answering 2% of all calls. A majority of tax professionals reaching out with questions receive a “courtesy disconnect” or they simply don’t have the time to remain on hold for extended periods. The Internal Revenue Service is inundated with the volume of returns yet to be processed and phone calls for assistance. “The level of service is at its lowest historically, with more calls coming in daily than ever,” said Stephen Mankowski, tax chair of the National Conference of CPA Practitioners. And it’s not a static situation, Mankowski emphasized, noting that as IRS works to catch up on returns already
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filed, more are coming in. “Paper returns have piled up — there are 5.5 million Form 1040s and over 4 million business returns that have been opened but not processed,” he added. As the IRS continues to be inundated with phone calls, the number of people in the queue is determined by the number of assistants available. The volume of calls coming in – especially with regard to the Child Tax Credit – are intensifying the backlog. But it goes beyond just hiring more personnel. Even if they had the money and the people willing to work, there are systems that new hires need to be trained on and it takes at least 12 to 18 weeks to train someone to assist callers. So, what does all this translate into for taxpayers? Simply be aware of what tax providers are facing at this time, and while there may be challenges caused by these extremely low service levels by the IRS, we are still doing our very best for those we serve. Hopefully in the very near future, more resources will be allocated to the IRS along with the incorporation of a modern technological infrastructure. Lee M. Osborne, CPA, CFE, is the President of Osborne Rincon CPAs. During his 30+ years in public accounting, Lee has done extensive work in many areas, including agriculture, retail sales, the service industry and manufacturing. Osborne Rincon is one of the oldest and most respected full-service accounting firms in the Coachella Valley. To learn more, call (760) 777-9805 or go to www.OsborneRincon.com.
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Discover La Quinta Medical Center At Desert Care Network’s La Quinta Medical Center Campus you’ll discover an intimate setting for hospital outpatient services. Our services include: • Desert Regional Medical Center’s Comprehensive Cancer Center satellite facility offers consultations, infusion services, and screening mammography • Desert Care Network’s Advanced Wound Healing Center offers care for chronic wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers. We are a member of the Amputation Prevention Centers of America. • La Quinta Imaging provides a wide array of medical imaging, including X-ray, CT and MRI scans • Our Neurology Specialty Clinic treats movement disorders, epilepsy and a host of neurological conditions • Desert Care Network Primary & Specialty Care, where patients can schedule appointments with physicians in a variety of primary and specialty services
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