The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area.
GCVCC LA QUINTA 83040 AVENUE 42 LA QUINTA, CA 92253
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR | COLDWELL BANKER / FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP
MIKE CHAPA, SECRETARY | FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE
ALISON HENDRIX
Special Thanks to all of our Partners and Sponsors!
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.
As we embrace the arrival of summer, June marks a significant milestone for our vibrant city, and I am honored to highlight the progress and initiatives we have undertaken to foster prosperity and community growth. Together, we are creating an environment that nurtures business success and enhances the quality of life for all residents and visitors alike.
At the heart of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce’s mission lies the unwavering commitment to supporting local businesses. Through various programs
and initiatives, we continue to champion the growth and development of our entrepreneurial community.
In the past year, we have organized numerous networking events, workshops and seminars to provide valuable resources, knowledge and connections to our members. By fostering an environment of collaboration and sharing, we empower businesses to thrive in the competitive landscape.
We have worked diligently to foster strong relationships between businesses, residents, and community organizations. Through our various events, such as the annual La Quinta
Hot Rod and Car Show and community events and ribbon cuttings, we bring people together, sparking connections and building lasting relationships. Furthermore, the Chamber actively supports local charitable initiatives and nonprofit organizations that contribute to the betterment of La Quinta.
As we move forward, the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting economic growth and community development. I encourage you all to engage with the Chamber, attend our events, and take advantage of the resources and networking opportunities we offer.
The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) has announced that Brandon Marley – who has in-depth chamber experience, including several years of prior service with the GCVCC –has been named CEO of the organization.
“The Executive Committee was impressed with Brandon’s dedication to the vision of our Chamber as the voice for businesses large and small across the Coachella Valley,” said Richard Ramhoff, Board Chair of the GCVCC. “He is intimately familiar with our history and commitment to building a Chamber that has the resources to speak with a regional voice while maintaining deep connections to our cities through our Local Chamber Boards in Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indio and La Quinta, as well as our business district in Indian Wells.”
Marley worked with the GCVCC from 2018-2022 as Director of Communications & Public Outreach before leaving to work at Local IQ and the Desert Sun. He has deep roots in the community, and said he will build upon his relationships with city council members, state and federal officials, as well as other community stakeholders to help advocate for the Chamber and the businesses it serves.
“I truly believe in the importance of our Chamber and how vital it is to be a true ‘voice of business,’ ” Marley said. “I understand the effort it takes to build and maintain a team that is truly passionate about our communities, and I’m excited by the possibilities.”
Ramhoff thanked Interim CEO Diana Soto, who has served since October 2022, for the energy and dedication she has given the Chamber. He added, “We could not have made it this far without
her leadership, and we’re committed to finding the best way to keep her wisdom, knowledge and love of our Chamber to help us to move forward.”
“I’ve been honored with the opportunity to help take this organization to the next level, and as I return to Arizona to be with my family full time, I am confident the Chamber will continue to grow as a business resource and advocate,” Soto said.
“I think this is a pivotal time for the GCVCC,” Marley said. “I’m thrilled at the opportunity to bring my leadership skills – as well as my background in marketing, advertising and advocacy – to help grow the GCVCC and the business community here in the Coachella Valley.”
Desert Recreation District operates the Fritz Burns Pool in La Quinta, and aside from it being a fun place to stay cool, the District will also be hosting movies at the pool.
The movie nights planned for this summer are:
June 23 – Minions: The Rise of Gru
July 14 – Lightyear
August 4 – Puss in Boots
Swim and watch a movie with family and friends for FREE! The pool opens at 7 p.m. for open swim and the movie starts at sunset. Guests are welcome to bring food and drinks, and concessions will be sold at the pool.
Open and lap swim, swimming lessons and water fitness classes are also offered at Fritz Burns Pool, which is located at 78-107 Avenue 52 in La Quinta.
More info: MyRecreationDistrict.com
Looking for unique ways to be entertained in the cool indoors this summer? Marvyn’s Magic Theater is just the ticket.
Every week, Marvyn’s hosts a different variety and magical entertainment show for ages 21 and over. Each performance lasts approximately 75 minutes. Arrive early to enjoy pre-show music and magic.
June performers include magician Dan Sperry, 9-time award winner at the famed Magic Castle in Hollywood, John Carney; comedy speaker and mind reader, Paul Draper; master of deception, Ben Seidman; and magician/mentalist, Lou Serrano.
The theater seats 130, and there is also a full bar available. Marvyn’s Magic Theater is located at 46630 Washington Street in the Washington Park Center near the movie theater. Tickets are $75.
More info: MarvynsMagicTheater.com
Have you ever watched your ice cream being flash-frozen right before your eyes? Nitroinfusions in Old Town La Quinta is a unique take on the quintessential ice cream shop.
Nitroinfusions is a specialty ice cream shop that creates made-to-order ice cream using liquid nitrogen to freeze a 100% organic base right in front of you. The “secret” is science: the -321 Fahrenheit temperature of the liquid nitrogen freezes within seconds, removing the build-up of ice crystals and air.
Popular flavors include salted caramel, strawberry cheesecake and mocha cappuccino. Nitroinfusions also features nitro pops, brownie sundaes, shakes and floats as well as dairy free ice cream and sorbet. The shop is located at 78010 Main Street, Suite 108, in La Quinta.
More info: Nitroinfusions.com
Have you ever been to the La Quinta Museum? If not, it should be at the top of your list of things-to-do in La Quinta whether it be when you have guests in town or are simply looking for something fun to do with the family.
The La Quinta Museum is a cultural museum with two exhibit galleries. Gallery 1 features local history including the Cahuilla Indians, The Desert Club and the legendary La Quinta Resort, which existed decades before La Quinta incorporated as a City. Gallery 2 showcases revolving exhibits that change every three to four months.
In early May, the La Quinta Museum welcomed its latest traveling exhibit: “The Newest Americans” – which captures the experiences of immigrants from 23 countries and America’s legacy as a nation of immigrants.
This new temporary exhibit Illustrates a wide range of ages and walks of life. The 29 participants of this exhibit represent numerous countries such as Mexico, Rwanda, China, Russia and Syria. The exhibit includes photographs accompanied by text panels presented in English and Spanish, sharing the subject’s views on why he or she chose to become an American citizen and what the American dream means to them.
“We’re proud to be able to exhibit ‘The Newest Americans’ in our community,” said Sharla Fox, Museum Director at the La Quinta Museum. “I know our visitors will enjoy learning what motivated these new Americans to become citizens, from freedom and opportunity to love and family. It’s a moving look at the concept of the American Dream through the lens and experiences of this diverse group, as well as an opportunity to reflect on what that dream means to each of us.”
“The Newest Americans” is an exhibition from Sam Comen (photography) and Michael Estrin (reporting). It is produced in partnership with the California Museum, and is traveled by Exhibit
Envoy. It can be seen at the La Quinta Museum through July 22, 2023.
In addition to “The Newest Americans,” the La Quinta Museum also has “La Quinta Legends: Dorothy Arzner” currently on display. Explore the life of this Hollywood trailblazer, who was the only woman director during the Golden Age of Hollywood with the largest body of work of any woman director to this day. A groundbreaker in the film industry, she also “broke ground” here in La Quinta – building a home that she shared with her partner, Marion Morgan.
While you’re at the La Quinta Museum, check out the mural of La Quinta highlights painted by Andre Blanche, as well as a diorama of a Cahuilla Indian village and another depicting native animals.
Museum Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Free
More information: PlayInLaQuinta.com
Ten weeks of summer camp are available, each featuring a different theme such as “Bugs N’ Butterflies” and “Fairy & Tree House Building.”
June 6 – August 11
Monday-Friday • 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: 78309 Highway 111 in La Quinta (next to Vons)
Cost: Weekly $325/Daily $75
More Info:
ArtMajorStudio.com/camp
Six weeks of activities, events and prizes for kids, tweens, teens and adults plus a spectacular closing concert performance by Genevieve Goings from Disney Junior.
June 12 – July 21 • All Ages
Location: La Quinta Public Library, 78275 Calle Tampico in La Quinta
Cost: Free
More info: (760) 564-4767
The City’s state-of-the-art skate park – with a concrete pump track, a modern street course and two distinct bowls for all skill levels – will host five day camps this summer.
June 7 & 21
July 5 & 19
August 2
Location: 46170 Dune Palms
Road in La Quinta
Cost: $65 per day
More info: LaQuintaXPark.com
Summer art camps are offered for two different age groups: 7-10 and 11-15. Students will have two classes per day, with an hour lunch break.
June 5 – August 11 (No camp the week of July 4) • MondayFriday • 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Location: 78-046 Calle Barcelona in La Quinta
Cost: $275 per weekly session (all materials included)
More info: OldTownArtisanStudios.org
By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager
It’s June and hot summer days are here. If you’re looking for things you and your family can do indoors, our library and museum just may be the ticket.
The La Quinta Library has something for everyone, including a variety of book clubs, writing programs, a Chess Club and special events.
Every month, the library throws an allinclusive birthday party for all ages with games, crafts, stories, snacks and more. Just register your birthday at the library. A full calendar of events can be found on the library’s Facebook page or at Linktr.ee/LaQuintapl.
The library is also home to the La Quinta Creation Station with top-of-the-line 3D printers, plus sewing, mold-making and Cricut machines, as well as themed
Concerts in the Park
Saturday, June 3, 7:30-10 p.m.
Location: SilverRock Park
Enjoy an evening of time travel with Soulshine performing music from Carole King to Carly Simon, Bonnie Raitt and Sarah Bareilles to Paul Simon, the Doobie Brothers and Boz Scaggs. The Acoustic Connection, an Inland Empire-based trio of longtime musicians, takes the stage from 8:30 to 9 p.m. while Soulshine takes a short break. Bring your chairs or blankets, food, and non-alcoholic beverages to this free concert. There will also be food truck vendors on site. Find more information at www.playinlaquinta.com.
programs and classes for all ages. There are MakerSpace classes, Maker Craft events for all ages and MakerSpace camps for children 7 to 13.
The After School Printers program also provides children in kindergarten through eighth grade the opportunity to create 3D prints.
Fees and reservations may be required for some programs. Annual memberships are also available. Check PlayInLaQuinta.com under Arts & Culture for more information.
The La Quinta Library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Another great place to escape the heat is the La Quinta Museum, which has a
Deadline to Apply for Commission Seats
Monday, June 5, 5 p.m.
Location: City Hall
The City of La Quinta has vacancies on its Planning, Affordable Housing, Financial Advisory, Community Services and Housing commissions and the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission’s Trails Management Subcommittee. For more information about each of the openings and applications, visit LaQuintaCA.gov/ commissions.
City 2023-24 Budget Sessions
Tuesdays, June 6 & 20, 5 p.m.
Council Chamber, City Hall
If you are interested in seeing how the City’s budget is planned and adopted, I invite you to attend one of the upcoming City Council budget sessions. This is an opportunity to understand how City dollars are allocated and prioritized. For more information, visit LaQuintaCA.gov/finance.
Neighborhood Watch Meeting
Thursday, June 15, 6 p.m.
Location: City Hall, Study Session Room
Find out what is happening in your community by attending the
new exhibit which is featured on this month’s cover of The Gem, “The Newest Americans: New Citizens Reflect on What America Means to Them.”
The City’s history fills the second floor and includes a featured exhibit about La Quinta resident Dorothy Arzner, the only woman director during the Golden Age of Hollywood.
The museum also offers a variety of programs and events, including Sketchbook Journaling, Stitch Fiber Arts Club and more. Visit the museum’s Facebook page and PlayInLaQuinta.com for more information.
The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.
Neighborhood Watch meeting which will include presentations by sheriff’s Lt. Andy Martinez and Sgt. Kyle LaFond, and City Staff. For more information, contact Sally Shelton at sally_shelton@aol.com.
Pavement Project Updates
Avenue 50 and Avenue 52
Design has been completed for the Avenues 50 and 52 project, and staff is preparing for City Council approval to post for bids. Construction will begin this summer.
Fred Waring Drive
Design is wrapping up for a pavement rehabilitation project that includes pulverization and paving of Fred Waring Drive between Washington Street and Adams Street. Construction is anticipated to start this summer.
Fritz Burns Park
Master planning efforts are underway for the Fritz Burns Park improvements project. The City is seeking public input on the proposed master plan and amenities. Please find more information and the online survey at: LaQuintaCA.gov/FBpark
Landscape Renovation
Design is wrapping up for the final phase of the La Quinta landscape renovation project. Construction is expected to begin this summer 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.
Dune Palms Bridge
Construction on the all-weather bridge at Dune Palms Road, over the stormwater channel, has begun with expected completion in early 2025. Construction crews are continuing work on the east side of the bridge. A bypass road has been constructed with one lane available in each direction. Barriers separate a dedicated pedestrian and cyclist lane from vehicles. Check LaQuintaCA.gov/dunepalms for project updates and to register to receive updates by email or text.
Citywide ADA Improvements
Construction is underway to reconstruct curb ramps, sidewalks and driveways on various intersections along Avenida Montezuma to bring them up to the current code.
Civic Center Activities Promenade
Construction is beginning on the Civic Center Activities Promenade within Civic Center Campus. Improvements will include table tennis and corn-hole.
Citywide Slurry Seal Project
Construction is beginning 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. Find more information and updates at LaQuintaCA.gov/roads.
CV Link
The main pathway through La Quinta is near completion, and work has started on various connectors, including at Washington Street. The lights and the decomposed granite for walkers and joggers also need to be installed. 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 Whitewater channel levee from Washington Street to Jefferson Street, where a promontory point and bridge over the La Quinta storm water channel, linking the City with Indio’s portion of CV Link. For more about CV Link, visit CVAG.org.
HICAP One-on-One Consultations
Tuesday, June 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
HICAP
will meet with you one-on-one to help you understand your Medicare health insurance benefits and options. Please call HICAP 1-800-434-0222 or 909-256-8369 to make an appointment. Meet for your appointment at the Wellness Center.
La Quinta Wellness Center Designated as a Cool Center
The Riverside County Community Action Partnership program and the La Quinta Wellness Center have partnered as a Cool Center Monday through Friday, June 1 through October 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide drop-in sites for vulnerable individuals, seniors, the disabled, and others in need of temporary relief from the heat.
In 2019, Chris and Anita Chmielak – who are longtime residents of the La Quinta cove with more than 20 years of restaurant experience – were on their way to look at restaurant space in Old Town La Quinta. They were discussing the prospective name for their new restaurant, and both wanted it to feature a bird or animal indigenous to the desert. Then a roadrunner ran across the street. Anita said, “That’s it! But let’s spell it RD RNNR, like a license plate, to give it a hipper vibe.”
RD RNNR opened to rave reviews, and has built quite a following over the past few years. It was time to grow, so the Chmielaks decided to elevate the restaurant – literally. Last month, it moved ‘upstairs’ in Old Town to the iconic restaurant space that was once Clint Eastwood’s Hog’s Breath Inn that had been sitting vacant for the past 10 years (with a beautiful second-floor patio overlooking Old Town La Quinta). The space not only expanded their seating capacity, but also allowed them to add a retail space where they sell the clay mugs they use when serving their Spicy Margarita, as well as glasses, clothing and other merchandise showcasing the RD RNNR logo.
The restaurant is known for local farmto-table ingredients, refreshing craft cocktails and a well-balanced selection of hops and rotating craft taps. “Our tagline has been ‘Libations, Pints & Plates’ which captures what we offer well,” said Chris. “We wanted a menu that had something for everyone – bar food done well, with good presentation. Our new menu incorporates the ‘build your own’ concept so you can create your own bowl, or dirty fries, or salad, where you pick your protein and load your toppings from there.”
Chris adds that his top-selling items (thanks to executive chef, Nestor Ruiz) include the Ahi Tuna Nachos, Lamb Chili, Adam’s Gift (baby back ribs) and the Angus RD Burger). Favorites from their craft cocktail menu are the Spicy Margarita, the Classic RD RNNR and Clawtails – which are RD RNNR “originals” that incorporate different cocktail selections with a White Claw “floater” on top (plus, you get the entire White Claw can with your cocktail so you can top it off at your leisure).
Other exciting news shared by the Chmielaks is that they will be opening a new restaurant in their old space in Old Town that will be called DSRT CLUB (after the historic Desert Club that was the happening hangout in La Quinta decades ago). The executive chef will be James Nellis, who is working on a more upscale menu – like you might find at an old school supper club. “It will have a more vintage feel,” Chris explained. He hopes to open DSRT CLUB within the next couple months, so watch for more on that.
RD RNNR is located at 78065 Main Street, #200, in La Quinta. Hours of operation are Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., and 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Learn more at Roadrunnerlq.com.
La Quinta Public Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. Enjoy FREE programs for all ages! Questions? Call 760-564-4767
Find Your Voice Summer Reading Program | All ages
Monday, June 12, to Friday, July 21
In-person
Six weeks of activities, events and prizes for kids, tweens, teens and adults. Enjoy performances and presentations happening weekly as well as a reading challenge where you can earn drawing tickets toward our end-of-summer prize drawings. Don’t miss a spectacular closing concert performance by Genevieve Goings from Disney Junior.
Graphic Bites | Ages 13-17
Tuesday, June 13 @ 5:30 p.m. | In-person
Sample three comics or manga then share what’s interesting, what’s meh, and what’s irredeemable!
Short Stack | Ages 8-12
Wednesday, June 14 @ 4:30 p.m.
In-person
New for Tweens! Read a short story with friends, then create something new based on what was read.
Bad Book Club | Ages 13-17
Saturday, June 24 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-person
Teens, have you read a book you’ve absolutely HATED? Come and share why – spill the tea!
Chess Club | All Ages
Thursday, June 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 @ 4 p.m.
In-Person
Players of all levels welcome. Hosted by the Coachella Chess Club.
Anime Zone |Ages 13-17
Saturday, June 3 @ 11:30 a.m. | In-Person Enjoy random anime with friends. Commentary encouraged!
Writer’s Block | Ages 18+
Sunday, June 4 @ 1 p.m. | In-Person Meet monthly with other local writers to explore the various aspects of creative writing. Participants will be able to share and critique their work with the group.
Love Story Book Club | Ages 18+
Sunday, June 4 @ 2:15 p.m. | In-Person
“Happily ever afters” are not guaranteed in this traditional book club featuring romantic titles. June’s pick: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood. See the Adult Reference Desk to register and to ask about available copies. *Registration required.
Bring Your Own Baby (BYOB) Book Club
Ages 18+
Thursday, June 8 @ 10:15 a.m.
In-Person
Parents and caregivers, no need to find childcare! Bring your baby/toddler to morning book club to meet, discuss and socialize with other adults. A volunteer will be present with activities for toddlers while adults discuss June’s book, The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn. *Registration required.
The Pagemasters’ Book Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, June 8 @ 5:30 p.m. | In-Person or Zoom
Join the newest traditional book club and read a wide variety of SciFi and Fantasy titles throughout the year. In June, the club will discuss The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates. See the Reference Desk to register, copies are limited.
Read the States | Ages 13-17
Saturday, June 10 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-Person or Zoom
Travel to a different state every month through YA Fiction. Then, enjoy snacks and goodies while talking about the book. In June, visit Florida by reading Once Upon a Quinceañera by Monica Gomez-Hira. Come to the Library to check out a copy. *Registration required.
Sensory Hour | Ages 0- 2 years
Monday, June 5 & 19 @ 10:15 a.m.
In-Person
Sensory activities to promote the development of motor skills as well as socialization among peers. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library.
Page Turners Book Club | Ages 18+
Thursday, June 15 @ 10:30 a.m.
In-Person or Zoom
In June, the club will discuss Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano. See the Adult Reference Desk to register. Copies are limited.
(Anti) Bored Games | Ages 13-17
Saturday, June 17 @ 11:30 a.m.
In-Person
Hail Hydra.
It’s a Library Birthday! | All ages
Saturday, June 24 @ 12 p.m. | In-Person
Register your June birthday and let the library throw the birthday party! The once-a-month library birthday party will include games, crafts and stories geared to create a safe, fun, all-inclusive birthday experience. Members of the community are encouraged to come and celebrate June birthdays. Sponsored by Friends of the La Quinta Library. *Registration required.
Impulse Affirmation | Ages 13-17
Tuesday, June 27 @ 5:30 p.m. | In-Person
Reader’s choice. Discuss in person or online at bit.ly/LAQTeensDiscord.
SRP Maker Crafts | All ages
Thursdays, June 15 - July 20 @ 11 a.m. -12:30 p.m. | In-Person
Join the Creation Station each week for a new craft project related to the weekly theme of the RCLS Summer Reading Program: FIND YOUR VOICE!
FREE (limited to first 20 patrons)
Fiber Arts Bootcamp (FAB):
Crochet 101
Sunday, June 25 @ 1-3 p.m. | All-Ages
Learn the basics of crochet at the first meeting of the Fiber Arts Bootcamp (FAB). Receive instruction on how to start a foundation chain, single crochet and double crochet stitches. Yarn and hooks will be provided but you are welcome to bring in your own supplies.
FREE (while supplies last)
Friday, June 2 &16, 1-3 p.m.
Sketchbook Journaling
Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided.
Saturday, June 10, 1-3 p.m.
Genealogy Meet-Up
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
New Exhibit
The Newest Americans: New Citizens Reflect on What America Means to Them On exhibit through: July 22, 2023
The journeys, hopes, dreams and concerns of 29 new U.S. citizens come to life through vivid color portraits and personal stories. The Newest Americans encourages visitors to see the United States and the immigration process through the eyes of new citizens representing over 20 countries of origin. All photos were taken and interviews conducted in the moments immediately prior to and following two naturalization ceremonies. This exhibit by Sam Comen (photography) and Michael Estrin (reporting) is produced in partnership with The California Museum and traveled by Exhibit Envoy.
La Quinta Legend: Dorothy Arzner
Explore the life of this Hollywood trailblazer, Dorothy Arzner. She was the only woman director during the “Golden Age” of Hollywood, with the largest body of work of any woman director to this day. A groundbreaker in the film industry, she also “broke ground” here in La Quinta, building a home that she shared with her partner, Marion Morgan.
As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on our FREE programs at facebook.com/ LaQuintaMuseum/events
Are you interested in your family tree? Are you a beginner or an expert in all things Genealogy? Come join this discussion and collaboration.
Tuesday, June 13 & 27, 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, June 14, 1 p.m.
TED Talk Hangout
Enjoy a TED Talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month, watch “A historical musical that examines Black identity in the 1901 World’s Fair” by Amma Y. Ghartey-Tagoe Kootin.
Saturday, June 17, 2 p.m.
Magic at The Museum
A magical afternoon for the whole family! All ages will be amazed by magician Dean Apple.
Tuesday, June 20, 11 a.m.
Take a Break with Huell
Join in on an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen. This month, Huell takes viewers to experience Cahuilla Bird Songs and an antique engine show.
Saturday June 24, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. S.C.R.A.P. on Saturday!
The S.C.R.A.P Gallery is coming to the Museum! Bring the whole family and make your own masterpiece with upcycled materials.
Thursday, June 29, 3 p.m.
Good Books in the Gallery
This month, the featured book is “I’m a Stranger Here Myself” by Bill Bryson. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants. Call (760) 777-7170 to request one.
Friday June 30, 3 p.m.
La Sobremesa Cultural
La Sobremesa un programa en español para el disfrute cultural, cada último viernes de mes, a las 3 p.m. ¡Acompáñanos el día Viernes 26 de mayo y hablemos sobre la historia del “Cinco de Mayo” y lo que significa celebrarlo aquí!
Until they were dismantled by the State, cities such as La Quinta had Redevelopment Agencies (RDA) which provided funding and oversight of affordable housing development.
After the dissolution of RDAs, housing successors such as the La Quinta City Council which also acts as the La Quinta Housing Authority, assumed the housing obligations of the former RDA. The City’s five-member Housing Commission meets quarterly to review and make recommendations on all matters that ultimately go before the Housing Authority, except emergency issues.
The topic of affordable housing is one not easily understood and often stirs negative images brought on by misinformation. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about affordable housing that may help clear up misconceptions.
What is affordable housing and who is it for?
Those living in affordable housing units are working families and seniors whose income is one-third less than housing costs, which include rent and utilities, leaving them struggling to provide other basic needs including food, medical care and clothing for themselves and their families. A broad swath of La Quinta residents live in or need affordable housing.
How often is a tenant’s income reviewed to be sure it hasn’t surpassed the allowed income level? Annually.
Is the City of La Quinta obligated to provide affordable housing?
Yes. Both Federal and State governments require that the City – and all municipalities –provide housing for all income levels.
Who determines how many affordable housing units are needed in the City of La Quinta?
Every eight years the State Department of Housing reviews a municipality’s General Plan Housing Element and submits a Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) which outlines a required number of new housing units as determined by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) based on population growth.
What is the City’s RHNA for the current planning period, October 2021 to October 2029?
Total allocation 1,530 units: 420 very lowincome; 269 low-income households; 297 moderate income households; 544 above moderate-income units.
What is the income range for an average family of four?
A family of four qualifies for affordable housing in Riverside County if the family’s income is at or under the County’s median income of $87,400, which is also La Quinta’s median income as of May 2022.
What is the rent range for affordable housing units?
For a 2-bedroom apartment, rent is typically $1,180 per month with a maximum income for all persons in the household of $78,650, while a 4-bedroom apartment is $1,416/month with a maximum income for all persons in the household of $94,400.
opportunities and public hearings.
With all that said, there is State housing law referred to as “No Net Loss” which requires cities to keep the number of identified sites for any level of housing throughout the housing planning period. This means that if a developer/property owner has a site that has been identified for any level of housing and they want to develop their site with a different number of housing units and/or income level, the City must identify another suitable site for what the housing plan called for within six months of the project approval. The City can compel the developer to help the City identify an alternate site.
What if the City does not meet its current RHNA numbers by October 2029?
The City is not required to build the housing units but is responsible for facilitating the development of housing for all income levels. If the State deems the City has not made a good faith effort
How would people know if they were looking at an affordable housing community?
Or would they? Is there anything about the developments that make them stand out as easily identifiable?
The City has made sure its affordable housing communities are developed to stand at par or above market rate and designed to complement the surrounding communities.
What are some of the hurdles that make it difficult to build affordable housing units?
At over $500,000 per unit, cost is the biggest hurdle to building affordable housing. To receive tax credits on affordable housing, developers must surpass minimum Title 24 energy efficiency and sustainability mandates. Rental income to the property owner is lower than marketable properties, so more cash equity is required at development to cover ongoing maintenance expenses. It is also important to find properties for affordable housing development that are near jobs, shopping, dining, schools and public transportation.
More information about affordable housing
How many units exist today in La Quinta?
There are 1,202 affordable housing units throughout the City of La Quinta.
Can the City require a private property owner/developer to provide affordable housing?
The City cannot require developers/ property owners to provide affordable housing. The State requires the City to plan for affordable housing (all income levels) in our housing element. As part of that process, we review different areas of the City and identify what potential sites within the City could accommodate the different levels of housing we are required to plan for, such as very low income, low income, moderate income and above moderate income housing. The housing element process is an open public process with workshops, comment
to meet its RHNA requirement, the State can by law take control of public lands, including the parks, and develop those lands for affordable housing.
On May 16, the City Council, acting as the Housing Authority, received an update on La Quinta’s affordable housing program and properties. If you missed that meeting, view the video at LaQuinta.12milesout.com.
More information about affordable housing resources can also be found at LaQuintaCA.gov/residents/localresources/affordable-housing.
dental care
ending epidemics
equitable access
food assistance
gender-affirming care
harm reduction
health equity
hiv care
DAP Health housing lgbtq+ health
mental health
primary care
racial equity recovery
sexual health
social services
women’s health
is daphealth.org
health care
Desert Jet Center serves the needs of the business and general aviation community at the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport (KTRM) in Thermal, and has the following open positions: Financial Controller – Aviation Charter Sales Coordinator Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P)
Parts & Inventory Clerk
For more details and to apply, visit DesertJet.com/about/careers.
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.
