The GEM January 2024 by Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

L A Q U I N TA’ S C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E

THE GEM JANUARY 2024

In this issue The American Express Brings Golf & Concerts to La Quinta January 18-21 Silver Scorpions Car Club Gears Up for La Quinta Car Show Next Month Updates on the Dune Palms Bridge Expansion & Construction

Greater Coachella Valley Chamber 78-015 Main Street, #206 La Quinta, 92253

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PALM DESERT PERMIT NO. 1099

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Noteworthy Nuggets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The American Express Brings Golf & Concerts to La Quinta January 18-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 City Manager’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Community Services Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 La Quinta Museum Exhibits & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 It’s Your Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

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THE GEM

THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY

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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

Silver Scorpions Car Club Gears Up for La Quinta Car Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Updates on the Dune Palms Bridge Expansion & Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Waste Collection & Recycling Updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Special Thanks to all of our Partners and Sponsors!

JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER / FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP ALISON HENDRIX | ENTRAVISION ANGELIQUE ONTIVEROS | DESERT ARC CHRIS LITTLE | DESERT JET DOUG MOTZ | MOTZ-RUSIN INSURANCE AGENCY ERIC MOSSER | CHARLES SCHWAB MIKE WILLIAMS | CAPITIS REAL ESTATE STEVE WEINER | COLDWELL BANKER EILEEN DIAZ | CAMEO PALMS MASSAGE THERAPY 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.

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LongHorn Steakhouse Now Open

Evening Hike & Stargazing

Neighborhood Watch Meeting

The highly-anticipated LongHorn Steakhouse has arrived in La Quinta! The first LongHorn Steakhouse opened in Atlanta in 1981, and since then, more than 500 locations have popped up around the country.

If you love exploring La Quinta at night, the Friends of the Desert Mountains is offering two events this month that are right up your alley.

Get involved in your community by taking part in a Neighborhood Watch Meeting on Thursday, January 18, at 6 p.m. in the Study Session Room of City Hall.

Join an evening hike on January 25 from 7-10 p.m. To take part in this familyfriendly 3-mile full moon hike, reserve your spot in advance as space is limited. For tickets, visit DesertMountains.org/ calendar.

Meet your neighbors and find out what is happening, plus listen to a presentation by the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network on how to prepare for disasters. All who attend will receive a free “Ready to Go” bag with educational material to help residents be better prepared for emergencies.

The restaurant features steaks, ribs, chicken, salmon, shrimp, appetizers, freshly-baked honey wheat bread, handchopped salads, seasonal sides, desserts and a full bar with signature drinks like the Three Dons Margarita, the LongHorn Old Fashioned and Tito’s Texas Tea along with a broad selection of beer and wine. LongHorn Steakhouse is open for lunch and dinner, and also offers orders to-go. Reservations are not accepted, but you can go to their website to be added to the waitlist in advance. LongHorn Steakhouse is located at 79705 Highway 111 in La Quinta. More info: LongHornSteakhouse.com

Also on January 25, from 7:30-10 p.m., do some stargazing at a “star party” where volunteer astronomers will set up their telescopes for viewing. Registration begins 14 days prior to the event. A suggested $5 per person tax-deductible donation is encouraged for both events to support the nonprofit’s volunteer programs. Friends of the Desert Mountains has protected over 60,000 acres, managing more than 17,000 acres of conservation land. More info: DesertMountains.org

Another opportunity for community involvement is to participate in the upcoming annual Community Workshop, and this year’s theme is “Mapping Our Tomorrow.” Mark your calendars now for February 22, when this workshop will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wellness Center. Staff will present projects and accomplishments from 2023 and outline new projects for La Quinta in 2024. More info on Neighborhood Watch: sally_shelton@aol.com

The American Express Brings

PGA Golf &

By: Sherry Barkas, City of La Quinta More than 150 of the world’s top-ranked professional golfers will soon assemble in La Quinta to tee off for The American Express PGA Tour Golf Tournament – the tournament’s 65th year in the desert. Following golf on Friday and Saturday nights are concerts featuring country/pop star Keith Urban and pop/ rock band Train. The American Express will be held January 18-21 at La Quinta Country Club and PGA West. Urban performs Friday night, January 19, and Train takes the stage on Saturday, January 20, at PGA West. Last year’s purse was $8 million. Both concerts begin after the last round of golf, around 5:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at TheAMEX.com. General admission tickets are $60 for Thursday, $85 for Friday and Saturday, which include the concerts those two nights, and $75 for Sunday’s final round. American Express card holders receive a 20% discount on tickets. Among the golfers who have committed to play in the tournament are past American Express champion Scottie Scheffler, who is ranked first in the world, Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, 6

ranked third and sixth in the world, respectively, Tony Finau and Tom Kim. Defending champion Jon Rahm, a twotime American Express winner and ranked third in the world, won’t be returning. On December 7, Rahm announced that he has signed an agreement to play with the Saudi Arabian-financed LIV Golf which eliminates him from PGA play. La Quinta Country Club’s Long History The 2024 tournament marks more than six decades of the golf event that began in Rancho Mirage at Thunderbird Country Club in 1960 as the Desert Classic. From its start, the tournament has been played on some of the Coachella Valley’s best golf courses in Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, and La Quinta, with La Quinta Country Club and PGA West’s Stadium and Nicklaus Tournament the only courses used by the event since 2016. The PGA tournament has been played only on La Quinta courses since about

Concerts

to La Quinta January 18-21

2010, including SilverRock golf course, which was part of the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic from 2008 to 2011. The La Quinta Country Club has the longest history in the tournament, with 2024 being its 53rd. The change that brought the tournament national attention came in 1965 when comedian Bob Hope accepted an invitation to host the struggling event, giving it the juice it needed not just to survive but thrive. The Bob Hope Desert Classic was born, and a few years later, added Chrysler as the title sponsor, making it the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. With Hope’s name, the tournament drew celebrities, presidents, and the sport’s top pros from all over, including Arnold Palmer – the tournament’s only five-time

winner and made La Quinta his second home – along with a growing audience eager to see their favorite entertainers and golfers close up. The 1995 tournament made history when the pro-am team of former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Gerald Ford, current President Bill Clinton, Hope, and defending champion Scott Hoch teed up for the opening round. It was the first time a sitting president had played during a PGA Tour event, and possibly the first time three presidents had ever played together. Chrysler pulled out as title sponsor in 2009. Hope died in 2003 and his name was removed before the 2012 tournament, when Humana became title sponsor, putting a focus on health and wellness. Humana teamed up with

the Clinton Foundation which hosted its annual Health Matters conferences to coincide with the golf tournament. The former president would attend and participate in both the tournament and the symposiums, along with daughter Chelsea Clinton. Celebrities were eliminated from the pro-am tournament in 2012 as well. Following Humana’s exit, the tournament became the CareerBuilder Classic when the employment website became title sponsor for a short time, starting in 2016. In 2020, the title sponsor changed again when American Express put its name on the tournament, committing to five years starting with the 2020 event. Two years later, American Express extended the contract to 2028. 7

Giving Back to the Community Since American Express signed on as title sponsor, the tournament has drawn larger crowds of multiple generations especially on Friday and Saturday nights when some of today’s most popular musicians take the stage – usually a country singer one night and a pop/rock star the other night. Since 2020, Stevie Nicks, Luke Bryan, Maroon 5, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker and Gwen Stefani have performed at The American Express, with concerts included in the general admission price for a day of golf. This year’s performers are each multiGrammy winners with record sales in the millions. Urban is a four-time Grammy Award winner, two-time Country Music Association (CMA) Entertainer of the Year recipient who has also won 15 American Country Music awards (ACM), 13 CMA awards, and three American Music Awards. A 2023 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Urban headlined Stagecoach in 2018. Some of his hits include “Blue Ain’t Your Color,” “Somebody Like You,” “Never Coming Down,” and “One Too Many,” a duet with Pink. Since its formation in 1994, Train has sold more than 10 million albums and 8

30 million tracks worldwide. The rock/ pop band has had 14 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100, 13 albums on the Billboard 200 chart, and has earned multiple gold, platinum, and diamond-certified records as well as three Grammys, two Billboard Music Awards and dozens of other honors. The band’s list of hits includes “Hey, Soul Sister,” “Drops of Jupiter,” “Drive By,” “50 Ways to Say Goodbye,” and “Marry Me.” Throughout its history, the tournament has contributed millions of dollars to local charities. First, through Desert Charities, then the Mikelson Foundation when Phil Mikelson became tournament host in partnership with American Express. When Mikelson dropped out in 2022, the giving continued through The American Express’s charitable foundation, Impact Through Golf. The tournament has donated more than $65 million to local nonprofits over the past six decades, including the $1 million donated among 16 charitable entities, including Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine, Family YMCA of the Desert, Boys and Girls Clubs, FIND Food Bank, and Jewish Family Service of the Desert, following the 2023 tournament.

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CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

UPCOMING EVENTS

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a happy holiday season. January means a new year of events is getting underway in La Quinta, starting with The American Express PGA Golf Tournament which will once again bring some of the world’s best golfers competing for the championship trophy, including Scottie Scheffler, a past champion who is ranked Number 1 in the world. Performing in concert at this year’s American Express are country/pop artist Keith Urban and rock/pop band Train performing January 19 and 20 respectively. Read more about the American Express and the tournament’s 65-year history on page 6 of this edition of The Gem. The American Express signifies the start of the PGA Tour’s West Coast swing and is the tour’s first 2024 regular season event in the continental United States. January is also the time to mark your calendars for the annual Community Workshop, being held February 22 this year, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wellness Center. This year’s theme is “Mapping Our Tomorrow.” The Community Workshop is an opportunity for residents to get involved and find out what’s happening in the “Gem of the Desert.” Staff will present projects and accomplishments from 2023 and outline new projects for La Quinta in 2024. This is an opportunity for residents to provide ideas for what the City should work on, or improve, and vote on the highest priority items. More details will be shared in the February issue of The Gem, and on the City’s website, LaQuintaCA.gov/ CommunityWorkshop. We want your input, so please plan to attend. It’s free and includes food and refreshments.

Art on Main Street Saturdays, January 6 & 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta Over 100 artists, many of them local, line the streets of Old Town showcasing their paintings, jewelry, photography and other creations for sale on select Saturdays of the month, November through March. Admission, parking and entertainment are free. Art on Main Street will also be held February 3 and 17, and March 9 and 23. Neighborhood Watch Meeting Thursday, January 18, 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 where the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network will provide a presentation on how to prepare for all disasters. All who attend will receive a free Red “Ready to Go” Bag with educational material to help residents be better prepared for emergencies. For more information about Neighborhood Watch, contact Sally Shelton at sally_shelton@aol.com. American Express PGA Golf Tournament January 18-21, 7 a.m. to about 6 p.m. daily Location: PGA West and La Quinta Country Club Tickets can be purchased at www. theamexgolf.com/tickets. Daily general admission tickets range $60 to $85 depending on the day and include the concerts Friday and Saturday nights after golf at PGA West. Weekly passes start at $225. American Express card holders receive a 20% discount on purchases. This year’s concert performers are Keith Urban on January 19 and Train on January 20. For event information, visit www.theamexgolf.com.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

Full Moon Hike Thursday, January 25, 7-10 p.m. Location: La Quinta Cove Trails parking lot Friends of the Desert Mountains is hosting a family friendly, easy 3-mile full moon hike. Space is limited so tickets and reservations are required along with a suggested $5 per person tax-deductible donation. For tickets and more details, visit DesertMountains.org/calendar. “Star Party” Thursday, January 25, 7:30-10 p.m. Location: La Quinta Cove Trails parking lot Friends of the Desert Mountains volunteer astronomers will set up their telescopes for a “star party.” Registration begins 14 days prior to the event. A suggested $5 per person tax-deductible donation is appreciated and encouraged to support the nonprofit organization’s volunteer programs. For more information, visit DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984. Certified Farmers Market Sundays, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Location: Main Street, Old Town La Quinta Come 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 May 26, 2024. For more information, call Christiana Green at 951-551-6233. Personal Preparedness Training Seminar Thursday, February 1, 10-11 a.m. Location: Wellness Center Learn how to create a disaster plan for you, your family and your pets at this free educational seminar, hosted by the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network. Those who attend will receive a free “Ready to Go” bag and an educational plan that includes information about how to survive and thrive in a disaster.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

CITY UPDATES Pavement Project Updates Fred Waring Drive The Fred Waring Drive rehabilitation project includes demolition and repaving of Fred Waring Drive between Washington and Adams streets. Construction is complete. The project cost was $2.5 million. Citywide Slurry Seal Project Construction will begin this month on a citywide slurry seal project that is part of the five-year Pavement Management Program. Work areas include a portion of the Cove (Avenida Martinez, Avenida Mendoza, and Calle Madrid), Washington Street (between Eisenhower and Avenue Montero), Monroe Street, Avenida La Fonda. The estimated cost is $2 million. Find more information and updates at LaQuintaCA.gov/roads.

Other Capital Improvement Program Projects Landscape Renovation Construction will begin this month 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. Eisenhower Retention Basin Slope Repair Construction is expected to begin this month for the Eisenhower Retention Basin Slope Repair project. The project will repair slopes that failed due to tropical storm Hilary. The engineered soil that covers a specialized slope liner washed off in many areas and needs to be placed back to protect the liner from UV light. 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. CV Link is a planned 40-mile, multi-modal pathway for cycling, walking, jogging and low-speed 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. This includes a promontory access point and bridge over the La Quinta stormwater channel. 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.

Online registration available at LaQuintaCA.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096. WELLNESS CENTER Creative Wellness Indoors Ballroom Dancing Beginning

6 – 7 p.m.

Physical Wellness Deep Stretch Gentle Yoga w/ Karen Gentle Yoga w/ Karen Mental Muscle Relaxation Personal Trainer (by appt.) Pickleball 101 Pilates Tai Chi Yang Yoga Flow (Billee)

4 – 4:45 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 3 – 4 p.m. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 6 – 7 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 3 – 4 p.m. 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

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Social Wellness Movie Matinee Social Bridge (Fee: $4) Mah Jongg (Fee: $2) Mexican Train Dominoes (Fee: $2) Nintendo Switch – Bowling Quilting for Good Times (Volunteers) Chuck Sullivans Desert Oasis Strummers

1 p.m. M 12:15 – 4 p.m. M 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. T 1 – 4 p.m. W 2 – 4 p.m. 1 – 4 p.m.

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Look Who’s in the Lobby Bilhartz Desert Insurance – January 5, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Fit Friday and Medicare Advantage Plans Information Table Revivals – January 9, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Information table and recruitment of volunteers for (Sales) at Revivals’ pre-loved shopping retail stores. FIND Food Bank – January 18, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. LiHEAP, energy assistance, and resources. Fit, Fun, and Be Well Day – January 17, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Screenings, fitness demonstrations, and healthy information to start the year with wellness. HICAP One-on-One Consultations – January 8, 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) 256-8369 to make an appointment. Meet for your appointment at the Wellness Center.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

LA QUINTA MUSEUM 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.

EXHIBITS Desert Views (on exhibit through Jan 27, 2024) Enjoy works from over 40 local artists celebrating both views of the valley and diverse points of view. Spotlight exhibit in the 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. This exhibit shines the spotlight on the life of one of La Quinta’s most celebrated residents. EVENTS Thursday, January 4, 5 p.m. Music at The Museum Come to the Courtyard for the sounds of The Secret Jazz Trio. Saturday, January 20, 5-7 p.m. Desert Views Artists Reception Mix and mingle with the local artists of “Desert Views” as you enjoy this exhibit of artistic perspectives on desert life.

Jackson of the Americana roots duo, The Mudbugs, and learn how his song ideas, lyrics and melodies came to be. Friday, January 5 & 19, 1-3 p.m. Sketchbook Journaling Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided. Friday, January 12 & 26, 11:30 a.m. Fridays with Frank Catch screenings of Frank Capra’s classic films! This month, the features will be Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (January 12), and Lost Horizon (January 26). Saturday, January 13, 1-3 p.m. Genealogy Meet-Up Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in Genealogy, join a discussion and collaboration. Tuesday, January 9 & 23, 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.

PROGRAMS As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on the La Quinta Museum’s free programs at Facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum/events. NEW PROGRAM: Saturday, January 27, 2 p.m. Creative Conversations Enjoy performances by and discussion with local creatives who will share their inspiration. This month, meet KG 12

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

Wednesday, January 10, 1 p.m. TED Talk Hangout Enjoy a TED Talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month: “How to Find Humor in Life’s Absurdity” by Maira Kalman. Tuesday, January 16, 11 a.m. Take a Break with Huell Join an episode of Huell Howser’s “California’s Gold” on the big screen. This month, Huell takes viewers to the last remaining oceanside amusement park on the West Coast. Thursday, January 25, 3 p.m. Good Books in the Gallery Read a great book, and then get together to discuss! January’s selection, “Desert Solitaire” by Edward Abbey. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants. Call (760) 7777170 to request one. Friday, January 26, 3 p.m. La Sobremesa Cultural La Sobremesa es un programa en español para el disfrute cultural. ¡Acompáñanos el día Viernes 26 de enero a las 3 pm y veamos “Manos de artesanos, siete regiones de Oaxaca y su diversidad textil”

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 Spirit Week | All Ages Tuesday - Sunday, January 2-7 ALL DAY In-Person Welcome the new year by joining library staff in dressing up for a spirit week of fun! Tuesday: Crazy Sock Day, Wednesday: Sports Day, Thursday: 90s, Friday: Pajama Day, Saturday: Heroes/ Villains, Sunday: Book Theme Day. Scrabble Club | Ages 18+ Tuesdays, January 2 and 9 @ 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | In-Person Join some friendly games of Scrabble. For ages 18+. Anime Café | Ages 13-17 Saturday, January 6 @ 1 p.m. A safe, fun space to enjoy anime and manga with friends. Come and try the Japanese snack of the month! ONGOING PROGRAMS Baby Storytime | Ages 0 - 2 Wednesdays, January 10, 17, 24, 31 @ 10:15 a.m. | In-Person Baby Storytime focuses on caregiver and baby interaction with activities to promote communication and fine motor skills through song, books, movement and playtime. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.

The La Quinta Library and the Creation Station will be closed Monday, January 1, 2024, for New Year’s Day and Monday January 15, 2024, for Martin Luther King Day. Scan for January programs.

Scan for February’s Book Fest.

Level Up LQ | Ages 13 - 17 Saturdays, January 13 and 27 @ 12 – 2 p.m. | In-Person Calling all teen gamers! Play a variety of games on different consoles including the PS4, Nintendo Switch and more.

for a small and focused circulation. Zines are typically used as part of a fan base or for social or political opinions. Get started on putting together a simple zine using magazines and other supplies in the MakerSpace room.

Threadheads (Fiber Arts Club) Ages 18+ Saturday, January 20 @ 1:30 p.m. In-Person Quilters, crocheters, knitters and other crafters of all skill levels are welcome to bring and share their current projects.

Maker Craft: Mini Rock Terrariums Thursday, January 18 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. | All Ages | Free Using aquarium rock, moss and other crafting supplies in the MakerSpace room, learn how to create a simple mini rock terrarium fit for the fairy folk.

LA QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS

FAB: Crochet 101 Sunday, January 28 @ 1 - 3 p.m. All Ages | Free It’s a new year and a great time to learn how to crochet. Join the Fiber Arts Bootcamp program for Crochet 101 where staff will show you the basics of crochet. The Creation Station will supply the yarn and crochet hooks and help get you on your way to making some handmade projects.

Questions about Creation Station programs? Call (760) 777-7088. Maker Craft: Make a “ZINE” Saturday, January 13 @ 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. | All Ages | Free A zine is a handmade, self-published work of original or collected texts and images, usually reproduced by a copy machine

A.B.C. Storytime | Ages 2 - 4 Wednesdays, January 10, 17, 24, 31 @ 11:15 a.m. | In-Person Acoustics, Books and Children storytime for age 2 up to 4 years old promoting early literacy and movement through books, songs, rhymes and music. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

The Silver Scorpions have been instrumental to the La Quinta Car Show’s success, according to Brandon Marley, the CEO of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce – which puts on the event. “The club members help with parking, judging, and announcements, and they’re really knowledgeable about the cars so it’s a lot of fun to have them involved,” Marley said. Henderson adds that another reason the La Quinta Car Show has been so popular is its setting in the community. “There is a park area for the kids, and the Silver Scorpions’ wives like to go over to Old Town La Quinta to shop and dine during and after the show.”

Silver Scorpions Car Club is Key to La Quinta’s Annual Car Show Dennis Henderson and Steve Opperman are members of Silver Scorpions Car Club – and each has his own remarkable stories about how classic cars have enriched their lives and become far more than a hobby. In fact, Opperman converted the expansive garage of his La Quinta home into a museum of sorts, featuring unique cars from over half a century ago in mint condition, retro gas station signage, old gas pumps including one that was mobile, a stoplight and much more. “My family goes way back to building

electric carriages in England, and my grandfather was what they called a ‘riding mechanic’ who would ride along in race cars during races to repair the car during the race,” shared Opperman. Henderson has always been in awe of Opperman’s collection of car memorabilia, and as car enthusiasts, the two enjoy being part of the Silver Scorpions Car Club – helping local car events like the La Quinta Car Show, coming up on February 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the La Quinta Community Park. “We love the La Quinta Car Show because it’s got a fun atmosphere, and it’s on grass versus concrete which can be rare to find in a car show,” explained Henderson. “The contrast of the cars against the green grass is spectacular, and there have typically been about 250 cars at this show in the past so it’s the perfect size.”

When asked what one of the most memorable cars featured at the La Quinta Car Show has been to date, both Henderson and Opperman mentioned a white custom car built by George Barris, who was a world-famous car “artist” known for his custom creations for film and television productions. One of his most iconic vehicles was the Batmobile used in the 1960s Batman television series. He also created the car seen on the TV show “The Munsters,” along with the Beverly Hillbillies truck from the TV series of the same name. “You never know what you’re going to see at the La Quinta Car Show, but there is truly something for everyone,” said Henderson. “We’ve had some unbelievable low riders, old milk trucks – you name it.” Last year, Opperman won the Mayor’s Choice Award for his 1932 Ford fivewindow Coupe. He’s not yet sure which car he will enter this year, but one thing’s for sure – it will be a stand-out at the show. It’s free to attend the La Quinta Car Show, which also features entertainment, food, drinks and a beer garden. This year, the show will have several prize-winning categories, including Best Street Rod, Best Classic, Best Muscle Car, Best Sports Car, and more. To register a vehicle, become a sponsor or sign up as a vendor, go to LQcarshow. com or call the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce at (760) 347-0676.

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(760) 625-4959

Blackhawk Way

BRIDGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

BUSINESS ACCESS IS OPEN DURING CONSTRUCTION

Co r p o r

ate C

entre

Dr. O

P EN

Westward Ho Dr.

Jefferson St.

will remain closed through Spring 2024 due to severe damage caused by recent storms and for public safety during construction.

Adams St.

DUNE PALMS ROAD

Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel

Dune Palms Road

D U NE PALMS

CLOSED TO THROUGH TRAFFIC

KEY

BUSINESS ACCESS OPEN

La Quinta Valley Plaza

111

CLOSED Access OPEN

N BUSINESS ACCESS OPEN

*Map not to scale

www.laquintaca.gov/dunepalms to sign up for text or email updates. (760) 422-3370

info@DunePalms.com

La Quinta

FULL MOON HIKE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 | AT 7 PM

La Quinta

NIGHT SKY STAR OBSERVATION THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 | AT 7:30 PM REGISTRATION 76 0 . 5 68. 9 9 1 8 FOR MORE INFO VISIT P l ayi nLaQu in ta . c om

@Dune_Palms_Bridge

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UPDATE

Dune Palms Road Bridge For the past several months, Dune Palms Road in La Quinta has been closed at the Whitewater Wash while construction of a $25 million allweather bridge continues. It started in January 2023, with completion of the last north/south bridge of the stormwater channel needed in the City of La Quinta expected in early 2025. Dune Palms Road was to remain open throughout construction, with the building of a bypass road. However, that road was destroyed by flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary in August, and the decision was made not to rebuild it but to keep Dune Palms closed at the Whitewater Wash for public safety and to prevent additional construction delays, moving forward with the bridge related construction.

Project milestones to date: • Crews are constructing wooden forms for the upcoming northbound bridge deck concrete placement. • Crews have begun placing rebar for bridge deck construction. • The construction team completed six cast-in-drilled-hole (CIDH) concrete columns in the Coachella Valley Storm Water Channel. These columns are the supports for the two-lane northbound/eastern bridge deck.

The City was approved for $17.65 million in Highway Bridge Program funds (HBP) which will be received from Caltrans. The City initially advanced the project $14 million from reserve funds and is now being reimbursed with HBP funds. CVAG has committed $7.26 million to the bridge construction, as well. The City is also responsible for a non-reimbursable funding share of $932,987. At completion, the bridge will be 480 feet long and about 86 feet wide and will include:

• Crews completed construction on the northbound/eastern bridge span interior with an 840-yard concrete placement on November 21.

• Four vehicle lanes, two in each direction.

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

The road will reopen when the east side of the bridge is completed, around March 2024.

• In early December, crews began relocating a Coachella Valley Water District waterline in preparation to begin construction on the southbound/western bridge span.

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

• In mid-December, crews placed 525 yards on the two-lane northbound/ eastern bridge deck.

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

• A 9-foot-8-inch median.

raised

center

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

Welcome to RD RNNR and DSRT CLUB! From the owners of RD RNNR comes another amazing option in DSRT CLUB!

LET US DRIVE YOU TO YOUR DREAM HOME

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760.413.6190

For reservations and more information please call

laurie.mclennan@sothebysrealty.com

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760.808.1443

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Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. DRE #01527319

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If You Were Born in 1959 It is time for you to learn about Medicare. Its never too soon to have all your questions answered thoroughly and clearly.

Foulds Health Insurance Agency Medicare Made Easy Lisa Foulds CA lic# 4295047

Randy Foulds

760-346-6565

CA lic# 0G69218

78010 Main St Old Town La Quinta

Medicare Disclaimer: We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent six organizations which offer 48 products in your area.

Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Senior Home Care

Committed to helping seniors remain in their homes by providing them with professional caregivers.

Companionship • Hospital & Rehab Discharge Assistance Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care • Shopping & Errands Doctor Appointments • Medication Reminders • Meals All caregivers are registered with the State of California, bonded, and insured. Serving the desert communities for 19 years. LA QUINTA

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888.950.0750

CA License # 304700016

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50 Homes Expired or Cancelled

UNDER CONTRACT

HOWS THE MARKET?

LA QUINTA Nov.

138 NEW LISTINGS 30

2023

73 CLOSINGS

SPECTACULAR SAVINGS

NEW ARRIVALS

JANUARY 27 TH FROM 9AM TO 5PM Easy pickup on-site or delivery available.

Now Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9AM to 5PM 44125 Jefferson St. La Quinta, CA 92253 Suite number 101 - 103. P: (760) 205-3070

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la quinta Old Town La Quinta 78065 Main St. St. #102 La Quinta, CA 92253 Phone: 760-219-7165

PL E

SIM LIN

W NE

! y a d o T

OPEN A CASE

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 already have a child support court order and need help enforcing that order,

SERVICES

we can help!

• 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)

OFFICE LOCATIONS

• Locate absent parents • Other county and community resources referrals available • Convenient 24/7 access to your case/account information via Customer Connect

2081 Iowa Ave. Riverside, CA 92507

Call us at 866-901-3212 or visit us online: www.RivCoDCSS.com #SupportRivCo 34

To apply, scan the QR code or visit us online.

• Establish parentage

47950 Arabia St. Indio, CA 92201

260 N. Broadway Blythe, CA 92225

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The Tradition Continues

2024

Are you ready for a new season of enlightenment, inspiration, and thought-provoking conversations?

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8

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MONDAY, MARCH 4

MONDAY, APRIL 1

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NOW OPEN

WDC Luxury Showroom NOW OPEN in La Quinta!

78740 CA-111 • 760.238.5160

Contact your local WDC Kitchen & Bath Showroom to make your kitchen dreams into reality. La Quinta 78740 CA-111 760.238.5160

Agoura Hills 30621 Canwood St. 818.991.8846

Lomita 2413 Pacific Coast HWY, #201 310.802.6380

Moorpark 14349 White Sage Rd. 805.222.1380

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Oxnard 887 Ventura Blvd. 805.278.0388

Santa Barbara 3920 State St. 805.898.9883