THANK
YOU FOR THE
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.
Photo Credit: Ethan Kaminsky
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER / FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP
ALISON HENDRIX | ENTRAVISION
ANGELIQUE ONTIVEROS | DESERT ARC
| DESERT JET DOUG
MOTZ
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.
I hope this message finds you all in good spirits and with plenty of spooky decorations. It’s October, and I have a bona fide treat for you all – a message that’s as full of Halloween humor as a jack-o’-lantern full of candy!
As we usher in this enchanting month, I want to remind everyone that laughter is the best medicine, especially in a world that can be as unpredictable as a ghostly apparition. So, let’s take a moment to chuckle our way through this month’s update.
Firstly, I’m thrilled to report that our local businesses are positively “boo-ming” with activity! New restaurants including the new DSRT CLUB and KIKI’S, and the reopening of our beloved Stuft Pizza and The Sandbar.
It seems that the ghosts and ghouls of commerce are finding our town quite welcoming. So, if your business has seen more foot traffic lately, don’t be surprised if you spot a friendly specter or two browsing your aisles and tables.
The La Quinta State of the City, Business Awards and Expo was last month. If you missed it, we celebrated the City of La Quinta, as well as the Business of the year, the Beer Hunter; our Charity of the year, Desert Arc; and our Volunteer of the Year was Mike Williams.
October is a month for laughter and good spirits – both figuratively and literally. Whether you’re sharing ghost stories around a campfire or brainstorming your next big business idea, remember that laughter is the glue that holds it all together.
May your October be filled with treats, not tricks, and may your businesses continue to thrive like a pumpkin patch in the moonlight. Happy October, chamber members and La Quinta residents!
October brings with it added interest in bats and other creatures inspired by Halloween, which makes it the perfect time to join a superhero-themed “bat walk” hosted by the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center and co-sponsored by Friends of the Desert Mountains.
The “Be a Bat Superhero Bat Walk” will be held on Saturday, October 28 from 6-8 p.m. at the Cove Oasis Trailhead, located at 54990 Avenue Madero in the La Quinta Cove. Register for this nighttime hike and win a prize for the best superhero bat costume. Reservations are required and can be made starting October 13. Explore the desert and learn about the superpowers of bats on this easy hike, which is about 2 miles roundtrip and goes through desert wash with a 300-foot elevation gain. Bring a flashlight, a backlight (if you have one) and water. Event check-in begins at 5:45 p.m.
More info and to Register, go to DesertMountains.org
The Certified Farmers’ Market in Old Town La Quinta is back for the season. This family-friendly experience has something for everyone to enjoy, from the freshest locally-grown produce, flowers, eggs and honey to gourmet chef-prepared foods and one-of-a-kind artisan goods.
Get to know local producers and farmers who bring their harvests each week – all grown within about 100 miles of the Coachella Valley.
The Farmers Market in La Quinta is a great place to gather every Sunday for fresh produce, tasty bites and beverages by a variety of vendors and other unique items. While you’re there, stroll boutiques and stay for brunch or lunch at one of the several restaurant options lining the streets.
The Farmers Market happens every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on La Quinta’s Main Street, and will run through May 26, 2024.
More info: (951) 551-6233
La Quinta welcomes the addition of KIKI’S which promises vibrant Italian flavors, craft cocktails and an atmosphere that sparks excitement. With its cheeky, colorful interior and a lounge that beckons after dinner, KIKI’S aims to be everyone’s favorite place to hang. The outdoor patio encircles a fountain, offering a resort-like setting with spectacular sunset views.
KIKI’S brings East Coast Italian to the West Coast. Executive Chef Jon Butler creates authentic and innovative dishes. The White Peach Pizza, with market peaches, ricotta, Calabrese salami, basil, and pecorino, is a fan favorite.
Beverage Director Josh Lucas, the mastermind behind some of LA’s top bars, crafts an extraordinary drink menu. Don’t miss the Crop Top, a twist on a Paper Plane cocktail. Katie Finn of La Quinta’s Desert Wine Shop has curated the impressive Italian-origin wine list.
More info: Reservations on Open Table or by calling (760) 777-8008
By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta
Forty-two years ago, Robert Cunard bought a known biker bar, Freddy’s Sandbar, on Calle Tampico and turned it into a place of elegance.
The transformation to a fine dining restaurant, however, didn’t come easy.
Business grew steadily through word of mouth and Cunard’s Sandbar is today a La Quinta landmark.
“We never paid for any advertising,” Cunard said. “Word of mouth is better than anything.”
But after four decades, Robert and Tina Cunard have retired and sold the restaurant, which will reopen on October 3 under the ownership of local restaurateur Waldo Cesoni.
A fresh coat of paint on the walls and “some needed TLC” to the restrooms will be the most noticeable changes when the restaurant reopens after being closed for the summer, said Cesoni, who owns Waldo’s Ristorante and Backstreet Bistro in Palm Desert.
“The menu’s the same. The chef is the same. The staff is the same and Bill Baker is still there (at the piano),” Cesoni said.
The name will change to The Sandbar, he said. From Bay Area to Hawaii and finally La Quinta “Timing and age, and to spend some time with my family,” were the key reasons Cunard said he was ready to sell and retire after decades in the restaurant business.
“Being a restaurateur is a 24-hour job, whether you are plugging leaks, answering phone calls, making reservations, it takes a lot of time,” Cunard said, relaxing in the dining room of his La Quinta home.
The Cunards, who have been married 35 of the 38 years they have been together, plan to stay in La Quinta.
Cunard fell into the restaurant business while living in the Bay Area.
“I needed a job,” he said, and immediately fell in love with restaurant and nightclub work.
Among the restaurants he has owned and operated over the decades is Duke Kahanamoku’s in Honolulu where Don Ho performed regularly.
“He was something special,” Cunard said of the “Tiny Bubbles” singer.
When Cunard returned to California, he first landed in Newport Beach. An avid golfer, it was a tournament that brought him to the desert around the early 1970s and he never left.
“I came to Indian Wells to play in a golf tournament,” Cunard said. “The sun was shining and it was just beautiful.”
He found a house on a golf course in Indian Wells to rent for $600 a month.
After a year of renting, he moved to La Quinta, buying a house at 78045 Calle Cadiz – a ranch-style home designed by architect Cliff May in 1948 for world-renown photographer Mary Mead-Maddick that is today home to Old Town Artisan Studios. He is a former owner of Adobe Garden Hotel and Iron Gate Restaurant in Palm Desert and Prevue in Rancho Mirage.
When he came to La Quinta more than 50 years ago, it was before incorporation. There were only dirt roads and no mail delivery, and Highway 111 was mostly undeveloped land.
“There were only three traffic lights between Palm Springs and La Quinta,” he recalled.
“The menu’s the same. The chef is the same. The staff is the same and Bill Baker is still there (at the piano).”
~ Waldo Cesoni, New Owner
He has seen a lot of changes over the past five decades, especially since May 1, 1982, when La Quinta became the Coachella Valley’s ninth incorporated city.
The town had reached a point where it needed to have oversight by its own elected council, Cunard said.
When his daughter left for college, Cunard turned his house on Calle Cadiz into a restaurant called Cunard’s.
In 1982, he bought the building at 78120 Calle Tampico from Frances Hack. Built in the 1950s, the building was initially a laundromat until the 1970s when it was converted to a bar and from there went through a few ownership changes.
When Cunard bought the building it was a biker’s bar called Freddy’s Sandbar. To make it simple, he removed “Freddy’s” from the sign and replaced it with “Cunard’s.”
The sign may have been the easiest thing to change. While the building doesn’t look like much from the outside, the Mercedes-Benzes, Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and Lamborghinis parked outside indicated the type of clientele Cunard’s Sandbar drew and the fine dining experience inside.
Tables were draped with white linen and set with crystal stemware, “real silver,” and candlelight in three dining rooms, including the bar where Baker performed customers’ favorite tunes on a baby grand piano.
The menu included steak, seafood, chicken, pasta dishes and fresh-made desserts.
“You don’t have to have a big glamorous building … to attract and hold customers,” Cunard said.
As word got out, Cunard’s Sandbar became a favorite hotspot of Hollywood celebrities including Bob Hope, Ginger Rogers, Greer Garson, Gena Rowlands, Jack Jones and Andy Williams.
“My favorite was Johnny Mathis who would sometimes sing” when he dined at the restaurant, Cunard said.
Over 42 years, Cunard’s Sandbar weathered economic storms other restaurants couldn’t survive, including the pandemic.
“The average life of a small, individual restaurant is two years,” Cunard said. “It takes a personal touch and people caring about people” to survive, along with a good product and service.
Many of his 24 employees were with him for decades and were like extended family, he said.
What Cunard will miss with retirement is the people –customers and employees.
“Needless to say we were blessed with wonderful, wonderful customers and friends, but I’m still going to be here, hopefully,” Cunard said.
He may be retired but won’t be sitting idle, he said.
“I’ve always got something going,” Cunard said.
He loves cars and is restoring a 1961 Porsche 356B that was “a barn find” that he may show at the La Quinta car show when finished.
“I have had a series of everything from hotrods to woodies, limousines – I have a limousine still,” he said.
Cunard always closed the restaurant for the summer, and this year when he shut the door he knew it was for the last time.
“We had committed to (sell to) Waldo in February or March, so I knew,” he said.
When Cunard decided it was time to retire, he wasn’t going to turn the restaurant over to just anyone.
“I was choosey about who I sold to,” he said.
Cesoni appreciates the restaurant’s past and will carry it forward.
“I really love the history of the restaurant,” Cesoni said. “It’s very unique to have a restaurant that’s been around for 42 years and it’s still going strong. That’s very, very rare so I don’t want to touch that.”
Cesoni has been in the restaurant business for many years, starting at age 17 when he worked for his parents in Argentina.
He went on to work in Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Irvine, Salt Lake City and Las Vegas before moving to the desert.
Much like Cunard, it was a love of golf that brought Cesoni to the Coachella Valley about five years ago. Ready to own his own place, he bought Backstreet Bistro and later founded Waldo’s Ristorante.
He had eaten at Cunard’s Sandbar several times and is excited for the opportunity to now own the landmark.
He is counting on Cunard coming to The Sandbar at least once a week and placed a plaque, “Bob’s Table,” at Cunard’s favorite spot just inside the door.
“I told him, ‘You’re part of the building,’” Cesoni said, laughing.
“I appreciate Bob and Tina and I’m looking forward to them being part of the journey.”
Hours will remain the same through the end of the year – opening at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. In January, Cesoni plans to open seven days a week, though Sunday and Monday will be without entertainment.
We enter the month of October having weathered two severe storms – Tropical Storm Hilary on August 19 and an unexpected storm on September 1. While the City endured some flooding from both events, the road closures were few, and the $15.5 million spent on flood and drainage improvements over the past five years held up well.
Improvements are still to be done at the following locations:
• Eisenhower Drive at Avenue 50: Installation of a new storm drain from the intersection to the evacuation channel. Estimated cost is $2.2 million.
• Washington Street at Avenue 50: Route overflow at back of catch basin to retention basin and work with property owner on drainage easement. Estimated cost is $450,000.
• Washington Street near Avenue 48: Drainage report and concept is complete; improvements, including connection of the City drainage system to the developer-built retention basin, are to be constructed with the proposed development. Estimated cost is $1.6 million.
• Avenida Bermudas at Calle Tampico: Upsizing existing system and adding a pipe to the existing Seasons Park retention basin. Estimated cost: $1.8 million.
• Desert Club Drive at Calle Tampico: Connect dry wells/catch basins to the Seasons retention basin. Estimated cost is $1.6 million.
• Avenue 50: An all-weather crossing over the La Quinta Evacuation Channel between Washington Street and Park Avenue. The City has received proposals for the engineering design phase. Estimated cost is $16.4 million. Revenues from the Measure G sales tax initiative La Quinta voters passed in 2016 have been instrumental in making these improvements in an effort to avoid flooding experienced in 2013 and 2014.
Building an all-weather bridge at Dune Palms Road, over the stormwater channel, is also key among the City’s flood and drainage improvement projects. It is the last north/south bridge over the wash for the City and is estimated to cost $25 million.
Construction started in January with completion expected in 2025. However, a bypass road built to keep Dune Palms Road open during construction was destroyed by flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary, and the storm that hit on September 1 solidified the need to keep the road closed until further notice while staff works with the construction teams to assess the damage.
City staff has been working with La Quinta High School, Desert Sands Unified School District, nearby residents and businesses, and SunLine to find options to minimize impacts and ensure awareness of the closure.
While we know the closure is inconvenient, we hope everyone will understand that safety is our primary concern.
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 and a 9-foot-8-inch raised center median.
The City was approved for a state highway bridge program grant of $17.65 million which will be received after completion. In the meantime, the City advanced the project $14 million from reserve funds. CVAG has committed $7.26 million to the bridge construction, as well. The City is also responsible for a non-reimbursable grant-funding share of $932,987.
Check LaQuintaCA.gov/dunepalms for project updates and to register to receive updates by email or text.
Certified Farmers Market
Sunday, October 1, 8-1 p.m.
Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta Come load up on the freshest locallygrown and produced fruits, vegetables, eggs, flowers, honey, gourmet chefprepared foods, one-of-a-kind artisan goods and more, every Sunday through May 26, 2024. For more information, call (951) 551-6233.
Concerts in the Park
Saturday, October 14, 6-8 p.m.
Location: SilverRock Park Rock ‘n’ roll rhythm and blues band All Night Meat Bingo will perform for the final concert of 2023. Bring your chairs or blankets and explore food truck vendors on site. You can also bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Neighborhood Watch Meeting
Thursday, October 19, 6 p.m.
Location: City Hall, Study Session room Come meet your neighbors and find out what is happening in your community by attending the Neighborhood Watch meeting with presentations from the Sheriff’s Department and City staff. One of the topics will be Holiday Crime Prevention Tips. For more information, contact Sally Shelton at sally_shelton@ aol.com.
Be A Bat Hero, Superhero Bat Walk
Saturday, October 28, 6-8 p.m.
Location: Cove Oasis Trailhead, 54990 Avenue Madero, La Quinta Cove Register for this nighttime hike and win a prize for the best superhero bat costume. Reservations are required and can be made starting October 13. Explore the desert and learn about the superpowers of bats on this “easy” hike, which is about 2 miles round trip and goes through desert wash with a 300foot elevation gain. Bring a flashlight, a backlight if you have one and water. Event check-in begins at 5:45 p.m. This event is hosted by the Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center and co-sponsored by Friends of the Desert Mountains. For information, call (760) 862-9984.
Pavement Projects
Avenue 50 and Avenue 52: The Council awarded a contract with Granite Construction for $2.5 million for these pavement rehabilitation projects at various locations throughout the City, which will be finishing up this month.
Fred Waring Drive: The Fred Waring Drive rehabilitation project includes demolition and repaving of Fred Waring Drive between Washington and Adams streets. The project also includes the northbound portion of Washington Street between Avenue 48 and Lake La Quinta. Construction has begun and is expected to be completed in the fall. Estimated project cost is $2.5 million.
Citywide Slurry Seal Project: Construction is underway on a citywide slurry seal project that is part of the five-year Pavement Management Program. Work areas include a portion of the Cove, Desert Pride neighborhood, Desert Club Drive, Seasons neighborhood, and Dune Palms Road south of Highway 111. The estimated cost is $1.04 million. Find more information and updates at LaQuintaCA.gov/roads.
Other Capital Improvement Program Projects
Fritz Burns Park: Master planning efforts are wrapping up for the 6-acre Fritz Burns Park improvements project. The proposed improvements for the master plan were approved by the City Council on September 19.
Landscape Renovation: Construction is expected to begin in October 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 drought friendly irrigation system.
CV Link
An extensive amount of work has been done on the main pathway through La Quinta, and various connectors, including at Washington Street. CV Link is a planned 40-mile, multi-modal pathway for cycling, walking and low-speed electric vehicles such as golf carts running 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. This includes a signature promontory access point and bridge over the La Quinta stormwater channel. The project is led by the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG). 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 Indio and Coachella. Learn more at CVAG.org or LaQuintaCA. gov/residents/cv-link.
Autumn
October 12, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Enjoy meeting new friends and a catered lunch (fee is $4). Registration required before event day. Limited seating.
Monday, October 16, 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 on prescription drug comparisons and lowcost medical insurance. Call HICAP (909) 256-8369 for an appointment that will be held at the Wellness Center.
Thursday, October 18, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Bilhartz Desert Insurance will have an information table on Medicare Advantage Plans.
Riverside County Department of Social Services
Tuesday, October 10, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
An information table will be available.
The Riverside County Community Action Partnership Program and the La Quinta Wellness Center have partnered as a Cool Center Monday through Friday through October 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide temporary relief from the heat.
This program, provided through a partnership between Desert Recreation District, the Boys and Girls Club and City of La Quinta, teaches youth the fundamentals of a variety of sports including pickleball, basketball, volleyball, soccer and more. They will learn, practice their skills and have fun being active with other youth their own age.
Location: La Quinta Boys and Girls Club
Enrollment: September, October, November Day: Wednesdays, 6:45 – 7:45 p.m. Ages: 7 – 12 years old. For more information, call (760) 564-9921.
La Quinta Public Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. Enjoy FREE programs for all ages! Questions? Call 760-564-4767 * Means REGISTRATION is required.
Please Note: The La Quinta Library and the Creation Station will be closed Monday, October 9, for Indigenous Peoples Day and Friday, October 20, for Staff Training.
Master Gardener Presentation & Plant
Giveaway | Ages 18+
Wednesday, October 11 @ 2 - 4 p.m.
In-person
Learn about planting and caring for fall plants with the UCCE Master Gardeners of Riverside County. Then pick out your own fall appropriate plant to take home (while supplies last).
FESTIVAL OF FRIGHTS | All Ages
Saturday, October 28 @ 11 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
In-person
Experience The Night the Library Came Alive! on a whole new level with a notso-spooky walk-through from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. or come for the scares from 3 - 5:45 p.m. Also check out photo ops, crafts, and a digital escape room, plus sign up to have your caricature drawn by Autumn Martino from 1 – 5 p.m. (space is limited). Be sure to grab a goodie bag (while supplies last)!
Haunted Walk-Through | All Ages
Monday - Thursday, October 29November 2 | In-person
Unable to make it to the Festival of Frights? That’s ok, a haunted walkthrough will be open again Monday through Thursday. Join from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. for a not-so-spooky walk-through adventure or prepare to be scared from 5 - 6:45 p.m. (Monday & Tuesday only).
Writer’s Block | Ages 18+
Sunday, October 1 @ 1 p.m. | In-person
Writers of all levels can join us and participate in monthly prompts, exercises, and group critiques.
*Love Story Book Club | Ages 18+
Sunday, October 1 @ 2:15 p.m. In-Person
Happily Ever-Afters not guaranteed in this romantic book club. October’s pick: Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune. Register at the Information Desk – copies are limited.
Sensory Hour | Ages 0 - 12 years
1st and 3rd Monday, October 2 & 16 @ 10:15 a.m. | In-person
2nd and 4th Friday, October 13 & 27 @ 3 p.m.
Sensory activities to promote the development of motor skills as well as socialization amongst peers. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Piece it Together | Ages 5 - 12 years
Mondays, October 2, 16, 23, 30 @ 5 p.m. In-person
New program! Improve motor skills and strengthen creativity by piecing together puzzles or Legos (alternating weekly). Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Baby Storytime | Ages 0 - 2 years
Wednesdays, October 4, 11, 18 & 25 @ 10:15 a.m. | In-person
At Baby Storytime, the focus is on the caregiver and baby with interaction activities to promote communication and fine motor skills through songs, books, movement and playtime. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
A.B.C. Storytime | Ages 2 - 4 years
Wednesdays, October 4, 11, 18 & 25 @ 11:15 a.m. | In-person
Acoustics, Books and Children (A.B.C.)
Storytime for children up to 4 years old promotes early literacy and movement through books, songs, rhymes and music. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
*Altered Book Club | Teens & Adults
Wednesday, October 4 & 18 @ 4 p.m.
In-person
Join an exploration of mixed media art using different techniques and materials to upcycle old, hardcover books into works of art. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Chess Club | All Ages
Thursday, October 5, 12, 19 & 26 @ 4 p.m. | In-person
Players of all levels welcomed! Hosted by the Coachella Chess Club.
*DIY Tech Support | Ages 18+
Friday, October 6 & 13 @ 10:30 & 11 a.m.
In-person
Register for a half-hour appointment and get basic tech help like learning how to navigate your mobile phone, setting up an eBook app, signing up for an email account, etc. Call or stop by to register.
Anime Zone | Ages 10 - 17 (Tweens & Teens)
Saturday, October 7 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-person
Enjoy random anime with friends. Commentary encouraged! Enjoy snacks while you watch.
Graphic Bites | Ages 13-17
Monday, October 9 @ 5:30 p.m.
In-person
Sample three comics or manga then share what’s interesting, what’s meh, and what’s irredeemable! Enjoy snacks while discussing the books.
The Pagemasters’ Book Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, October 12 @ 5:30 p.m.
In-person or Zoom
A book club for SciFi and Fantasy fans. In October, the group will discuss “Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow. Register at the Information Desk – copies are limited.
Read the States | Ages 13 - 17
Saturday, October 14 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-person or Zoom
Check out this haunted road in “Rules for Vanishing” by Kate Alice Marshall. Enjoy snacks and goodies from Massachusetts while discussing the book.
Page Turners Book Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, October 19 @ 10:30 a.m.
In-person or Zoom
In October, the group will discuss “Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment” by Daniel Kahneman. Register at the Information Desk – copies are limited.
Anti-Bored Games | Ages 8-17 (Tweens & Teens)
Saturday, October 21 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-person
Challenge friends old and new to a selection of board games or take a turn on our Nintendo Switch.
Impulse Affirmation | Ages 13 - 17
Monday, October 23 @ 5:30 p.m.
In-person
New day! Now on the 4th Monday of the month. Your choice! Discuss books, movies, sports, or whatever else you’re into (in-person or online) at https://bit. ly/LAQTeensDiscord.
Judging Books Club | Ages 13-17
Saturday, October 28 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-person
Teens, pick your book based on its cover. Will it live up to your expectations or not? Let us library staff know if it’s worth the time. Enjoy snacks while discussing.
*It’s a Library Birthday! | All ages Saturday, October 28 @ 12 p.m.
In-person
Register your October birthday and let the library throw the birthday party! This once-a-month library party is an all-inclusive birthday experience. All members of the community are welcome to come and celebrate. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
*Registration required for birthdays
The GEM EMPORIUM | All Ages
Friday, October 13 @ 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Earn one Library Gem for each book you check out throughout the month. Then visit the Gem Emporium on October 20 to exchange your gems for school supplies like pencils, pens, water bottles, and more! The Gem Emporium will be open one day each month.
Book Bundles - Personalized Recommendations
Not sure what to read next? Your library staff is here to help! Fill out a form about your reading preferences, and librarians will pick some books for you. Visit https://bit.ly/lqbookbundle for more information.
Book Club To-Go | For Kids, Teens, and Adults
Book Club To-Go consists of ready-made book club kits, including 8-10 copies of a book, one set of discussion questions, one sign-out sheet and a bag. Each kit can be checked out for six weeks.
Questions about Creation Station programs? Call (760) 777-7088.
Maker Craft: Viking Wire Weaving
Ages 8+
Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In-person
FREE (while supplies last)
Join the Creation Station in preparation for Lief Erikson’s birthday by learning about Viking wire weaving. This chain-link craft predates chainmail and can be made into decorative keychains or jewelry.
Maker Craft: Spooky Lantern Projectors
All Ages
Thursday, October 12, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In-person
FREE (while supplies last)
As Halloween season creeps up, join the Creation Station to learn how to build a simple lantern projector with your choice of traditional Jack-o-lantern, scary Jacko-lantern or a witch design that can be projected from the build.
Fiber Arts Bootcamp (FAB): Itsy, Bitsy Amigurumi Spider | Ages 8+
Sunday, October 29, from 1 to 3 p.m.
In-person
FREE (while supplies last)
The October Fiber Arts Boot Camp program is designed for our intermediate to advanced crochet makers. This month, learn a simple pattern to make a fluffy crochet spider using mink and chenille yarn. Crochet hooks, row stitch counters, doll eyes and yarn needles will be provided (while supplies last).
Interested in supporting and making a change in your community? Friends of the La Quinta Library is recruiting new board members. As a member of the Library Board, you get to make a difference in your community by ensuring that everyone has free access to information, resources, educational opportunities and programs. Support your community by becoming a Friends of the La Quinta Library board member! Call the Reference Desk for more information, (760) 564-4767.
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.
Please note: The Museum will be closed Friday, Oct 20, 2023, for staff development.
Scorpions!
The word “scorpion” often evokes fear. Although scorpions are abundant around the world, and encounters with humans are common, most people know very little about these remarkable creatures. This exhibit will present information about scorpions – their evolution, anatomy, family life, diet, and the truth about their venomous reputation – in addition to addressing scorpions in history and popular culture. Curated by Hi-Desert Nature Museum biologist Stefanie Ritter.
Thursday, October 5, 5-6 p.m.
Music at the Museum: Symara Stone
The Music at the Museum season kicks off with the sounds of Symara Stone.
As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on the museum’s free programs at Facebook. com/LaQuintaMuseum/events.
Friday, Oct 6, 1-3 p.m. Sketchbook Journaling
Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided.
Tuesday, October 10 & 24, 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.
Wednesday, October 11, 1 p.m. TED Talk Hangout
Enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss. This month, the feature will be “How to Weave a Cultural Legacy through Storytelling” by Cohen Bradley.
Saturday, October 14, 1-3 p.m.
Tuesday, October 17, 11 a.m.
Take a Break with Huell
Watch an episode of Huell Howser’s ‘California’s Gold’ on the big screen. This month, Huell is ready to celebrate train travel at the California Railroad Museum.
Thursday, October 26, 3 p.m.
Good Books in the Gallery
Each month, participants read a great book and then get together to discuss. In October, the group will be reading “The Nature of Desert Nature” by Gary Paul Nabhan. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants, call (760) 777-7170 to request one.
Friday, October 27, 3 p.m.
La Sobremesa Cultural
La Sobremesa es un programa en español para el disfrute cultural.
¡Acompáñanos el día Viernes 27 de octubre a las 3 pm y hablemos sobre El Día de Muertos!
Spotlight Exhibit in Our Local History Gallery
La Quinta Legends: Frank Capra
Legendary director Frank Capra’s films made the American dream come alive on the silver screen during the 1930s and ’40s – and our own La Quinta may have played a part in his success! This exhibit shines the spotlight on the life of one of La Quinta’s most celebrated residents.
Genealogy Meet-Up
Are you interested in your family tree?
Are you a beginner or an expert in Genealogy? Come join this discussion and collaboration.
extreme care has been taken to retain the ranch environment as it was back in 1926. This careful restoration has brought back to life one of the genuine adobe treasures of La Quinta.
Miller and Blanton have been known for their elaborate Halloween parties, but in 2014, the parties got even bigger after they joined the Board of the La Quinta Historical Society and became more involved in the community. The Haunted Hacienda events have become fundraisers for various charities over the years.
Guests will enjoy a frightful walking tour of multiple structures which have been decorated on the property, and outdoor areas that have been transformed into spooky spaces, as well. Details are as follows:
Date: Friday, October 27, 6-9 p.m.
Location: 58-300 Almonte Drive in La Quinta
Cost: $10 per person
Includes: Historic haunted home tour, candy, refreshments, fun photo opportunities and hotdogs available for purchase
If you’re into haunted houses and scary scenes, you won’t want to miss a special upcoming event at the Haunted Hacienda, which is brought to life in the spirit of Halloween fun right here in La Quinta each year.
The Haunted Hacienda Spook Tour will be held on Friday, October 27, from 6-9 p.m. for $10, and will be a fundraiser for the La Quinta Historical Society.
In 2012, John K. Miller and James Blanton purchased Rancho Tecolate –a historic 2.5-acre La Quinta property. The Coachella Valley has been home to hundreds of adobe houses, but over time, most have washed away, collapsed or been bulldozed.
There are, however, real adobe structures still standing in La Quinta. Rancho Tecolate – which is now known as J & J Ranch – was built on land farmed for dates and cotton since 1918. It is believed that the surviving structure was built in 1926 for a 22-year-old New York/Hollywood artist and teacher, Frances Nugent.
The architecture of the J & J Ranch house includes original red clay roof tiles, wide low porch overhangs, a fireplace and covered patios. The kitchen and dining area still feature the colorful tiles that have adorned these rooms for almost a century. Miller and Blanton have lovingly restored J & J Ranch in a way that preserves the spirit of the original adobe. The main house, guest houses and grounds have been completely refurbished with new amenities – but
The La Quinta Historical Society collects and maintains historical archives and artifacts, provides educational programs and community outreach presentations about La Quinta’s history, curates popular events and tours throughout La Quinta’s unique neighborhoods, and supports the La Quinta Museum. For more information, go to LaQuintaHistoricalSociety.com.
For 30 years, the Beer Hunter has served up great food, drinks and sports on a prime corner of La Quinta real estate. There wasn’t much in La Quinta in the early days, but even as the City has grown, The Beer Hunter is still a go-to watering hole – especially as fall football is back in action.
“We’ve got over 50 televisions, but we’ve also carved out a niche that’s almost like being in someone’s living room too,” said John Barber, who bought The Beer Hunter 7 years ago, fulfilling his dream of owning a sports bar. “People cheer out as if they were at home – they’re communal. We have customers who come in from all over the country to support their favorite teams in a fun environment, but also don’t want to have the party at their house.”
When asked what games are featured on the TVs at The Beer Hunter, Barber
explained that, at The Beer Hunter, it’s like having a party every day and not knowing who is going to show up. “We let the fans make their game requests and then we accommodate them.”
The Beer Hunter is known for dishes like their famous nachos and burgers, but they’ve also added healthier items to the menu. “If you want a cocktail or a beer during the game but are watching what you eat, you can do that here. We have a great choice of salads, a California chicken lettuce wrap, ‘beyond’ burgers and salmon tacos, too,” added Barber. With over 25 beers on tap – served ice cold – plus a diverse menu, pool tables and ample space (the restaurant can seat 140 inside and 80 on the patio), The Beer Hunter offers the ideal sports bar setting in La Quinta.
Have you considered what your story might be worth to your loved ones and those around you?
In our frantically-paced and constantly distracted culture, it’s easy to think that everybody only cares about themselves—even those within our own families.
It’s no secret that the generational gaps are getting wider. At least, that’s the felt experience of many. With social media and streaming services continuing to dominate our attention, are we losing touch with the people that matter most to us?
It’s also true that the ties that bind us all are our stories: both our successes and failures, the good times and the bad. We are wired to tell stories, and to hear and respond to them as well. Sharing your story with those around you can be a conversation catalyst that strengthens our relationships and brings us into a deeper, richer, more grateful experience of life. More than that, we all have something to learn from each other! Here are three ways you might take an intentional step this month in sharing your story with your family or other spheres of influence.
Photos: Spend 10 minutes before bed sifting through old photos on your phone, and pick 2-3 photos to share with a loved one at your next meal. Looking at old photos is a great way to remember stories. The next step is to take that story and share it, either with the person(s) you experienced it with, or someone who is hearing it for the first time.
Storytelling doesn’t have to be limited to our families only. You might do any of the above with your colleagues or business community, sharing stories about how you got into the work you are doing, a tough lesson you’ve learned along the way, or even parts of your personal story that they can benefit from.
This week, push pause on the content consumption and screen time and instead spend some time having a faceto-face, heart-to-heart conversation with someone you care about. If we all begin taking advantage of the little opportunities to share our story, with no intent other than to deepen our relationships with others, we’ll all be better for it.
or
The next time you see your children or grandchildren, share just one story from your childhood that you know they haven’t heard. This can be something about your own parents, your siblings, the school you went to, special vacations or holiday traditions, your best friends growing up—anything to peel back the curtain and give your loved ones a glimpse into the people and experiences that shaped you. If you want to take this to the next level, bust out that old photo album or box and sift through them with your family! Taking an intentional first step in gathering the family around to listen to your stories is one way to get them off the devices and have meaningful conversations.
Stories: Begin voice recording your favorite stories in small doses. Your voice is a powerful tool, and recording it ensures that your stories are documented in a way that won’t get lost! It’s not difficult to do, and it makes it easy to share with those around you.
Sean Daigle, founder of La Quinta-based Memoria Films, specializes in helping individuals and couples in every stage of life tell their story on video for their families and future generations. You can learn more about his company and get free resources to help you tell your story at MemoriaFilms.com.
By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta
Small businesses are the lifeblood of La Quinta, making up about 70% of the City’s estimated 580 shops and restaurants.
To celebrate these businesses, a new Shop La Quinta Local campaign has been launched, offering discounts and LQ swag to residents and visitors who shop and dine at participating businesses.
The goal of Shop La Quinta Local is to increase in-person shopping and dining, especially as we get into the holiday season, boosting business for our restaurant and store owners. Another goal is to incentivize people to visit some of La Quinta’s specialty shops and restaurants they haven’t been to before.
“When a family or friends come out for dinner at a nice restaurant and stop at a unique shop they haven’t seen before, or vice versa, they experience something unique to La Quinta,” said Gilbert Villalpando, business and housing director for the City.
“These unique places help build the attraction,” he said. “People don’t like large distribution centers going in their neighborhood, yet they order online. This program is designed to draw people to brick and mortar.”
Many local business owners and their employees live in La Quinta, which means they are invested in the community. They pay taxes, buy groceries, cars and other products. By shopping locally in-person, people can interact with owners and get to know them and their passion for their business.
“So many customers return because they get to know the owners and build a bond,” Villalpando said. “Cali Rosina is a great example. You can get tea from a lot of places, but the interaction and ambiance keeps bringing people back.”
Buying from specialty shops and restaurants in La Quinta supports the owners and their employees while boosting the local economy with tax dollars that stay in the community, creating and maintaining jobs.
La Quinta swag that includes one-of-a-kind hats, totes, and pennants with the Shop La Quinta Local logo are among the gifts participating businesses will give away. Businesses will each come up with their own rules/programs for giving out the gifts. They may, for example, base the giveaways on the amount spent at the store or restaurant.
The program launches on October 1 to get people thinking about shopping locally for holiday gifts.
For more about the program and a list of participating businesses, visit PlayInLaQuinta. com/shop-local.
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.
• 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)
If you already have a child support court order and need help enforcing that order, we can help!
• Establish parentage
• Locate absent parents
• Other county and community resources referrals available
• Convenient 24/7 access to your case/account information via Customer Connect
To apply, scan the QR code or visit us online.
presented by
Register Today at HealthEquityWalk.org
October 28, 2023 Ruth Hardy Park
Walk Out Loud… to end HIV/AIDS to end epidemics for mental health care for LGBTQ+ health care for women’s health care
WALK OUT LOUD… for care for everyone
