The GEM March 2026

THE GEM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area.

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR l FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP / COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

ALISON HENDRIX l NBC PALM SPRINGS - UNIVISION

DOUG MOTZ | MOTZ-RUSIN INSURANCE AGENCY

5 Reasons to Join the Chamber

Networking Opportunities – Connect with local business owners, community leaders, and potential clients at exclusive events.

Business Promotion – Gain visibility through chamber directories, social media, and marketing opportunities.

Advocacy & Representation – Have a voice in local government and business policies that impact your industry.

Educational Resources – Access workshops, seminars, and expert advice to help grow your business.

Community Involvement – Support local and show your commitment to the Coachella Valley region.

Find out more at

The Gem is produced by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The Gem is an official publication of the GCVCC. Circulation: Approximately 20,000. Distributed free to all residents, Chamber members and businesses in La Quinta.

To advertise please call (760) 347-0676. Please Note: The opinions and views expressed in all editorial material are those of the writer or person interviewed and are not necessarily those of the GCVCC, its Board of Directors, or the advertisers in The Gem. The GCVCC endorses no person, political candidate or opinion unless specifically stated. The Gem reserves the right to reject certain advertising submissions. For a list of advertising standards, please contact staff. The Gem reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, length, and questionable content. Advertisers please note that colors may look slightly darker, or slightly lighter due to variables in the printing process. Questions or comments? Email us at info@GCVCC.org or call (760) 347-0676.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

By: Jeff Fishbein Chairman of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce

March in La Quinta is pure momentum.

The sunshine feels warmer. Our patios are full. Golf courses are humming. Visitors are here. Snowbirds are soaking it all in. And our local businesses are operating at full stride.

If you attended the La Quinta Classic Car Show, you experienced firsthand what makes this city so special. With beautiful weather and more than 200 stunning cars lining Old Town, the energy was undeniable. Restaurants were packed. Retail shops were busy. Our streets were alive. Events like this are more than community gatherings — they are economic engines that drive visibility, tourism, and direct support to our local businesses.

The La Quinta Art Celebration continues that momentum, drawing national talent and visitors who discover not only incredible art, but the charm and vitality of our entire business community.

With St. Patrick’s Day upon us, it is easy to talk about luck. But lasting prosperity is not built on luck. It is built on strategy.

Economic development happens when a community intentionally plants seeds. Investments in infrastructure. Support for entrepreneurs. Collaboration between business leaders and public officials. Advocacy that protects and strengthens our local economy. What we cultivate today through thoughtful planning and partnership will determine the strength of La Quinta’s economic harvest in the years ahead.

The Chamber remains committed to working alongside our City Council and municipal leadership to ensure responsible growth, smart policy, and a business-friendly environment that attracts investment while preserving the character that makes La Quinta so unique. Public and private partnership is not optional, it is essential.

As we continue through peak season, this is the moment to be intentional. The relationships we strengthen now, the partnerships we build, and the visibility we create today will shape the opportunities of tomorrow. A resilient business community is not created during slow seasons; it is built when momentum is strongest.

La Quinta continues to shine not only as a destination, but as a model for how community, leadership, and business can work together to thrive.

As your Chairman, and as someone who proudly calls La Quinta home I am deeply invested in this city’s future, I remain optimistic and energized about where we are headed.

Let’s keep planting. Let’s keep building. And let’s keep La Quinta flourishing.

An International Diamond Society award-winning REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty, the desert’s premier real estate firm, Jeff Fishbein, known throughout the community as Mr. La Quinta, has earned a distinguished reputation for representing discerning buyers and sellers across the Coachella Valley. With a consistent 5-Star rating on Zillow, Jeff is recognized for his white-glove service, strategic market insight, and ability to navigate complex transactions with discretion and precision. Guided by his philosophy, “Not the BIGGEST Realtor, but the BEST,” he delivers a level of professionalism, trust, and elevated representation that aligns with the exceptional lifestyle our desert communities offer.

Retired Air Force Colonel Kathleen O’Regan exemplifies leadership and service through her extensive volunteer work across Trilogy and the Coachella Valley.

She founded and led major community initiatives supporting veterans, youth, and local nonprofits.

Her dedication and positive impact make her a deserving candidate for the 2026 Senior Inspiration Award.

Guardians of the Desert:

Friends of the Desert Mountains Preserve Our Wild Legacy

Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta

Since its formation in 1987, Friends of the Desert Mountains has been laser focused on preserving the open land and mountains that surround the Coachella Valley, creating spectacular views and trails open for all to hike and enjoy the outdoors.

The nonprofit organization was created by a group of developers and preservationists committed to protecting the mountains and wildlands from development.

“It’s not very often that you find developers who want to say, ‘we need to preserve some land,’” said Tammy Martin, Friends of the Desert Mountains (Friends) executive director.

Today, the Friends has conserved more than 63,000 acres of open land, 18,000 of which it has purchased with grants or received as donations, and is the official nonprofit partner of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, which was formed in 2000.

The group’s mission is preservation, education and research.

Among the research programs Friends is working on is one with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians surveying the Palm Canyon Trails to record the effects on the land and wildlife between seasons.

A wildfire last year destroyed a portion of the Palan Trail which crews and volunteers are in the process of clearing and repairing. On January 13, Friends assembled a team of its volunteers, USDA Forest Service staff and members of the Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians to address erosion issues caused by heavy rain on the burn areas.

Eight water bars were built and installed along the upper portion of the trail, where the damage was the most severe, to guide water off the trail and avoid more damage, while keeping the trail open and safe for public use.

The improvements will also give surrounding vegetation time to recover and the trail corridor a chance to heal following the storms.

“We’ve actually seen some sprouts come out, up there. So things are coming back. Which is good,” Martin said.

The longtime La Quinta began working for Friends 22 years ago as an administrative assistant and as executive director the last 10 years.

“I just I love what I do, and the people I work with, especially our volunteers. I tell everyone, if it wasn’t for our volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. I think volunteers are key to any organization,” said Martin, adding that Friends has about 100 volunteers.

Today Friends works in partnership with many agencies and organizations, including the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), US Forest Service, Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, Coachella Valley Conservation Commission, Desert Recreation Center, the Cities of La Quinta and Palm Desert, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and others.

Education Key to Future Preservation

As stated on its website, Friends has achieved many successes, but organizers knew that “without the support of future generations, our preservation efforts may be in vain.”

So, Friends made it its mission to reach out to “tomorrow’s leaders. We steward the land, support the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, and educate the community. We go into the field with kids, lead hikes, and give classes. By doing so, we hope to reveal the wonders of the fragile desert and mountains we call home and instill an environmental awareness that will last a lifetime.”

The education program includes partnerships with the Coachella Valley Unified and Desert Sands school districts, the YMCAs, Desert Recreation District, the Housing Coalition and Boys and Girls Clubs.

“Teaching the youth what we know is really important to us, and our education program throughout the valley is very well received. We’re actually understaffed for the requests that we have,” Martin said.

Hopefully, students will gain interest in careers in fields that will make them the next stewards of the land, she said.

Funding is needed to support and grown the education programs, Martin said.

The problem is it’s hard to find grant funding for overhead including staff time, an issue many nonprofits face, Martin said.

“So, you know, you have to reach out to your donors, but if we could add to our education committee, then we could provide our program to many more people,” she said.

Group Hikes in La Quinta

In La Quinta, Friends volunteers help to maintain the trails in the cove and lead hikes, including night hikes and stargazing events.

“We’ve done cleanups up in the cove, pulling fountain grass, which is an initiative that we want to continue with throughout all cities, letting the cities know that fountain grass is not good to be planted,” Martin said.

“We also provide guided hikes, especially our night hikes, the full moon hikes, are extremely popular. Those fill up very quickly,” she said.

To accommodate more hikers, Friends has gone from offering one big group hike

to now taking smaller groups of 10 to 15 starting at about 7 p.m. and departing every 15 minutes with the last group going out at 8 or 8:30 p.m.

Sometimes hikes include looking for desert creatures, such as scorpions. Check the Friends of the Mountains event calendar for upcoming hikes.

Friends also works with the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition in La Quinta to take senior residents in one of the City’s affordable housing communities to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

“A lot of those are seniors that probably don’t get out very much,” Martin said.

“And then, of course, we do our largest fundraiser in November at the SilverRock Park,” Martin said. “That location has been very well received. They like the amphitheater effect, people just love it.” For more about Friends of the Desert Mountains and its programs, a calendar of events and hikes, as well as how to volunteer or donate, visit http://www.DesertMountains.org.

HealthCare. Better Together.

Services offered in La Quinta

at Desert Care Network

Primary & Specialty Care

You may know Desert Care Network for its comprehensive healthcare services throughout the region, but did you know many services are available right here in La Quinta?

La Quinta Medical Center offers:

• Desert Care Network Primary & Specialty Care services include:

□ General Orthopedics

□ Hand and Upper Extremity Specialists

□ Joint Replacement and Joint Revision Specialist

□ Sports Medicine

□ Gastroenterology

• The Advanced Wound Healing Center – provides hyperbaric oxygen therapy and procedures for treating wounds

• Comprehensive Cancer Center in La Quinta offers:

□ Hematologic oncology and gynecologic oncology consultations

□ Infusion services

□ Mammography screenings

Additional services are available at our Palm Springs and Yucca Valley locations.

47647 Caleo Bay Dr. La Quinta, CA 92253

We have a couple of new directories on our www.PlayInLaQuinta.com website that are great resources if you’re looking for places to eat or shop anywhere in the City.

Restaurant options range from fast-food to fine dining, from sweet to savory and local to global. A common theme in La Quinta is patio dining, so you can sit back and enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful weather and stunning views.

Peruse the nearly 100 dining options to see everything La Quinta has, or scroll down the page to where you can select a category to narrow your search based on what you’re craving.

CITY UPDATES

Fritz Burns Park Improvements

Construction on the estimated $7 million multiphase Fritz Burns Park Improvement Project is underway with work continuing, with some phases opening this month. The project includes improvements to existing park and pool facilities.

Improvements in the pool area will continue through May.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

Maybe it’s Italian that you want, or perhaps you’re in the mood for steak or burgers, seafood, Asian food, pizza, American cuisine or vegan, searching by category will give you a snapshot of what’s available. If you’re looking for fine dining, that is also a category.

If dessert is what you seek there are categories for pastries, cookies, cake, ice cream, frozen yogurt or chocolate. Just click the category that interests you and see what comes up.

The site is equally helpful if shopping for clothing, automotive parts, toys, groceries, office supplies, jewelry and other necessities. If you need a hair or nail salon or barber, eyewear, sporting goods or other specialty stores, they are also listed.

The pickleball and tennis courts remain open throughout construction.

Swimming programs at Fritz Burns have been temporarily moved to Indio’s Pawley Pool until construction is completed. Check the website, www.laquintaca.gov/ fbpark for updates and more details.

Road Improvement Projects

Construction is underway with work continuing through March, with an

In addition to the big name department stores like Target, Best Buy, Kohl’s and Walmart, La Quinta is home to hundreds of unique and locally owned shops. This site allows you to explore the boutiques, artfully filled with treasures such as jewelry, apparel and one-of-a-kind home décor pieces.

The site includes a map as well, which shows where each shop and restaurant is located.

To view the listings, visit www. PlayInLaQuinta.com, click “Search,” then click “Dining” or “Shopping” under “Things to Do” at the top of the page.

anticipated end date of April 6 on the following streets: Avenida Diaz, Avenida Juarez, Avenida Madero, Avenida Cortez, Avenida Morales, Avenida Montezuma, Calle Nogales, Calle Ensenada, Calle Sonora, Calle Durango, Calle Sinaloa, Calle Hidalgo, Monticello Community, La Quinta Highlands Community, and Adams Street.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Online registration available at LaQuintaCA.gov

For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.

WELLNESS CENTER

Creative Wellness, Indoors

Ballroom, Latin, Swing 6 – 7 p.m. T

Create & Play 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. T

Physical Wellness

Cardio Tennis 6 – 7 p.m. T (Court 7 & 8 Fritz Burns Park)

Cardio Tennis 8 – 9 a.m. TH (Court 7 & 8 Fritz Burns Park)

Deep Stretch 2:40 – 3:30 p.m. T/TH

Mat Pilates 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. T/TH

Personal Trainer (by appt.) 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. M/TH

Pickleball 101 6 – 7 p.m. W (Fritz Burns Courts 3 & 4)

Sound Bath 6 – 7 p.m. TH

Stretch & Flex 9 – 10 a.m. W

Sunset PIYO 5:30 – 6 p.m. T/TH

Tai Chi Yang 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. T/TH

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

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

Social Wellness

La Quinta Ukulele Strummers 2 – 4 p.m. F Movie Matinee (no fee) 1 p.m. M

Social Bridge 12 - 4 p.m. M (call Pat 760.219.9972) Fee: $4)

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

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

Quilting for Good Times 1 – 3 p.m. TH (Volunteers)

Workshop “Act 2”: Wednesdays, March 4 – March 25; 5:30 –6:30 p.m. A workshop series designed for women navigating life’s second half, offering guidance through self-reflection, dreaming, and planning. Led by Susan Magrino, the sessions empower participants to evolve and thrive. Registration required by March 2. Fee: $60

Shamrock Luncheon: Wednesday, March 11, 11:30 a.m. Visit with familiar friends and meet new friends while enjoying a delicious catered meal from Mission Catering. Please sign-up early as seating is limited. Fee: $4

Look Who’s in the Lobby/Presentations/Workshops

HICAP One-on-One Consultations: Monday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

A HICAP counselor one-on-one appointment for Medicare health insurance benefits. Appointments to meet at the Wellness Center can be made by calling HICAP at 800-4340222 or 909-256-8369.

Medicare Health Insurance: Tuesdays, March 10 & 24, 10 –11:30 a.m. Free information, and answers to your questions about Medicare provided by Bill Proctor & Associates Inc.

Alzheimer’s Coachella Valley: Tuesday, March 17, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. A Representative will share information on programs, resources, and screenings.

OPEN COURT TIME AT LA QUINTA BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Desert Recreation District (DRD), the Boys & Girls Club and the City of La Quinta have partnered to offer the following activities: Basketball Wednesdays & Volleyball Tuesdays & Thursdays. Time: 7 – 9 p.m. (doors open at 6:45 p.m.). Ages: All ages, 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Fee: $5 daily drop-in or $30 for an 8-visit Express Pass. For more information, call DRD 760.-564-9921

EXHIBITS:

LA QUINTA MUSEUM

NEW FEATURED EXHIBIT:

Abuelita’s Kitchen, opening March 17

Exploring the themes of identity, place and food culture, “Abuelita’s Kitchen” features the stories of 10 grandmothers who have cooked, preserved, and passed on Mexican food culture while creating communities and cultures that are unique to Southern California. This exhibit reveals each abuela’s unique relationship to Mexican cuisine, their birthplaces in Mexico, and their current homes in Los Angeles. This exhibit was developed by USC professor Sarah Portnoy with support from California Humanities and LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. The exhibition tours through Exhibit Envoy, a nonprofit.

SPOTLIGHT EXHIBIT in our Local History gallery:

Thanks for the Memories: The Legacy of the Bob Hope Classic

This exhibit celebrates the man behind the tournament that helped shape the Coachella Valley’s identity. Experience the remarkable life of Bob Hope, the beloved entertainer whose quick wit, love of golf, and unwavering commitment to philanthropy transformed a regional event into one of the PGA Tour’s most iconic stops.

77885 Avenida Montezuma. La Quinta, CA 92253 | (760) 777-7170

La Quinta Museum March 2026

The La Quinta Museum is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission and programs are FREE

EVENTS:

Thursday, March 5, 5 - 6 p.m.

Music at the Museum: Danni Stefanetti

Join us as Danni Steffanetti, award-winning singer, songwriter and guitarist originally from Australia, brings her fresh sound of vocals and guitar to the Museum Courtyard!

Thursday, March 19, 2 p.m.

LQHS Lecture: Legends and Fairways with Larry Bohannan

Don’t miss this talk with Larry Bohannan, award-winning journalist and author of “50 Years of Hope,” a history of the Bob Hope Classic golf tournament. Widely respected throughout the Coachella Valley and the international golf community, Bohannan is also a 2026 inductee into the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation’s Media Hall of Fame.

PROGRAMS:

As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information on our FREE programs at facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum/events

Fridays, March 6 & 20, 1-3 p.m.

Sketchbook Journaling

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

Tuesdays, March 10 & 24, 1-3 p.m.

STITCH Fiber Arts Group

Bring your fiber project, meet with friends old and new, share what you’ve been working on, and get inspired for your next project.

Wednesday, March 11, 1 p.m.

TED Talk Hangout

Let’s enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month, we’ll watch “How I Found Resilience Through Artistry” by Misty Copeland.

Saturday, March 14, 1-3 p.m.

Genealogy Meet-Up

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

Tuesday, March 17, 11 a.m.

Take a Break with Huell

Join us for an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen. This month, Huell takes us to watch the electrifying annual Catalina Ski Race, and coast along to the serene and little-known San Nicolas Island – one of the Channel Islands off the California coast, a haven for wildlife and a sight for sore eyes.

Saturday, March 21, 1-3 p.m.

Mindful Art Workshop

Unwind your mind as we try out meditative art together. This intuitive art practice emphasizes the process of creation rather than the final product, encouraging mindfulness and focus on the present moment. Supplies provided.

Thursday, March 26, 3 p.m.

Good Books in the Gallery

Let’s read a great book, and then get together to discuss! This month, we’ll read “Like Water for Chocolate” by Laura Esquivel. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants; call 760-777-7170 to request one.

IT’S YOUR LIBRARY

Questions about Library programs? Call 760-564-4767

SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW PROGRAMS

Tween Game Night

Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18 & 25 @ 4 p.m. | Ages 8-12

Come hang out after school for Game Night! Whether you’re a strategy master, trivia whiz or just in it for fun, there’s something for everyone. Bring friends or arrive solo and team up!

The Giving Tree

Fridays, March 6 & 27 @ 4:30 p.m. | Ages 5-12

This program is a way to give back to the community! Join us monthly to create and implement charitable service projects. Let’s make an impact!

Library After Dark: A Night with Paul Bradley Carr

Saturday, March 7 @ 5:30 p.m. | Ages 18+

Coming to us from here in the valley, Palm Springs resident and co-owner of The Best Bookstore in Palm Springs, Paul Bradley Carr! Join us for a discussion of his newest book, “The Confessions,” followed by a Q&A and book signing! Registration is required, please call or visit the library.

Kids of the Arts

Tuesday, March 10 @ 12 p.m. | Ages 5-7 Saturday, March 28 @ 12 p.m. | Ages 8 -12

Join the fun of learning new forms of art each month! From journaling, drawing to clay and mini crafts, you’ll learn how to express yourself through different art mediums! Registration is required, please call or visit the library to register.

Pokemon Club

Fridays, March 13 & 27 @ 4 p.m. | Ages 8-12

Ready to begin your journey or already love all things Pokemon? Join us for Pokemonthemed activities and for the opportunity to play the Pokemon Trading Card Game! Never played before? Join to learn!

Listening Lounge

Wednesday, March 18 @ 5:30 p.m. | Ages 18+

Join us as we listen to vinyl records! Feel free to bring a book craft, or activity to keep your hands occupied!

Great British Book Club

Saturday, March 21 @ 10:30 a.m. | Ages 18+

Anglophiles unite! Connect with fellow readers and join us as we take a deep dive into British literature throughout the year. This month we’ll be reading “Persuasion” by Jane Austen. For ages 18+.

The Ephemera Vault

Saturday, March 21 @ 2:30 p.m. | Ages 13+

Join us as we create and express ourselves through junk journaling, scrapbooking, and collage making with Lofi music in the background. All supplies provided as they last, but you are welcome to bring your own materials as well!

LA QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS

Maker Craft: Parachute Drop

Saturday, March 7 | 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Patrons will construct a parachute device that will carry their target to a specific drop zone. MakerSpace staff will record the distance from the drop zone’s bullseye. At the end of the day, the rankings will be posted to social media.

Free | Ages 7 and Older | First Come Craft

Ozobots After School: Back-2-Basics Thursday, March 12 | 3 – 5:30 p.m.

We are starting with the basics! Learn how to use markers and color block code to program a small robot. Limited number of Ozobots, so there may be some wait times.

Free | Ages 7-13 | First Come Program

MakerSpace Camp: Flower Making Saturday, March 14

Session A: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. (5 Spots Available)

Session B: 1:30 – 3 p.m. (5 Spots Available)

Makers 7-13 years old can sign up to learn how to construct plants and flowers from laser cut felt and pipe cleaners in honor of World Flower Day (March 21).

Free | Ages 7-13 | RSVP

The Maker’s Tabletop: The Delian Tomb Saturday, March 28 | 3 – 6 p.m.

Sign up at the Creation Station for our Adult tabletop program.

This month’s 1-shot campaign is “The Delian Tomb.” This program is designed for patrons ages 18+ for DnD Campaigns or to try out tabletop games selected by our GM Douglas. Call or email to find out more.

Free | Ages 18+ | RSVP

FAB-Tastic!: Spring Cleaning Crafts

Sunday, March 29 | 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

We are cleaning out our craft supplies from the backroom and getting rid of all of our craft kits from past programs. You can make a craft that you missed out on or combine kits together to make a new craft of your own creation.

Free | Ages 7 and older | THIS IS NOT A CLASS

SLOANE STREET

TRUNK SHOW MARCH 25 & 26

What makes Sloane Street truly special is the signature “strié” finish—a meticulous, hand-etched texturing of 18k gold that gives every piece a rich, luminous character. Founded by a motherdaughter duo, the brand pairs this unique gold work with vibrant, hand-selected gemstones.

NADJA SWAROVSKI

REALLY WILD LONDON

POP UP SHOP MARCH 18 & 19

Carrying forward the legacy of her great-great-grandfather Daniel Swarovski, Nadja brings her innovative eye for luxury to the world of apparel. Come explore the collection defined by classic equestrian grace and effortless elegance and meet Nadja in person.

Spring in La Quinta:

A Season to Shop Local and Refresh What Matters Most

Story by: GCVCC Staff

Spring arrives gently in La Quinta. The mornings feel softer, patios fill with conversation, and the Santa Rosa Mountains glow just a little brighter at sunset. It’s the season when we open the windows, reorganize our closets, refresh our living spaces and reconnect with the community around us. And there’s no better way to do that than by supporting the locally owned businesses that give La Quinta its unmistakable charm.

A perfect place to begin your spring outing is Old Town La Quinta. With its walkable Main Street, Spanish-inspired architecture and welcoming storefronts, Old Town feels less like a shopping center and more like a neighborhood gathering place. Visitors can explore shops, dining and events yearround at www.oldtownlaquinta.com , but the real magic happens when you take your time and wander.

Among the standout boutiques is Coco Rose Beach & Resort Wear (www.cocorose.com ), a colorful Main Street staple known for its breezy, bohemian-inspired fashion. Inside, you’ll find flowing dresses, effortless separates and accessories that feel tailor-made for desert living. Whether you’re dressing for brunch with friends or packing for a coastal getaway, Coco Rose captures the relaxed elegance that defines spring in La Quinta.

Just steps away, Coco Rose Home extends that same sense of global style into your living space. Also featured at www.cocorose.com , the home boutique offers thoughtfully curated décor, accent pieces and gifts that bring warmth and personality to any room. It’s the kind of place where you walk in looking for one item and leave inspired to refresh an entire corner of your home.

For those drawn to timeless silhouettes and refined details, Elizabeth & Prince (www.elizabethandprince.com ) offers a sophisticated yet wearable collection perfect for the season. Their pieces transition seamlessly from daytime errands to evening dinners, reflecting the effortless versatility that spring wardrobes demand.

Another beloved stop in Old Town is Mimi & Rae (www.mimiandrae.com ), a women’s boutique that embraces femininity and thoughtful design. The shop’s inviting atmosphere and carefully selected collections make it easy to discover something that feels both current and enduring — the kind of piece you’ll reach for again and again.

Jewelry lovers and gift seekers often find themselves lingering inside Lulu’s La Quinta (www.lulusoflaquinta.com ). Known for distinctive accessories and boutique apparel, Lulu’s adds a bit of sparkle to any spring ensemble. It’s also a wonderful stop when you’re

searching for a meaningful gift that feels personal rather than mass-produced.

Beyond Old Town, La Quinta’s locally owned retailers continue to shine. Audrey’s & Greta’s (www.audreysandgretas.com ) has long been a favorite for curated fashion and lifestyle finds. With its welcoming feel and carefully chosen pieces, the boutique embodies the spirit of smallbusiness hospitality — where shopping feels like catching up with an old friend.

Nearby, Citrus brings vibrant style and seasonal energy to Eisenhower Drive. The boutique’s colorful selections echo the brightness of spring itself, offering fashion that feels as lively as the desert blooms outside.

Entertaining also takes center stage this time of year, and Desert Wine Shop (www.desertwineshop.com ) is a go-to destination for those planning patio gatherings or thoughtful hostess gifts. With a curated selection of wines and specialty beverages, the shop encourages locals to slow down, savor and celebrate the season with friends.

Families strolling through the area often make a cheerful stop at Lollipops, a whimsical shop filled with playful treasures and gifts that delight all ages. It’s a reminder that local shopping can be joyful and unexpected — a place where memories are made as much as purchases.

Spring is also about renewal and self-care. Oasis Spa Shop, connected to the well-known spa experience in La Quinta (www.oasisspalq.com ), offers beauty and wellness products that allow you to bring that sense of relaxation home. Whether you’re refreshing your skincare routine or searching for a soothing gift, it’s a gentle invitation to prioritize well-being.

For those who love discovering oneof-a-kind items, The Marketplace Gift Shop provides an eclectic mix of artisan pieces and specialty goods. It’s the kind of store where each shelf feels curated with intention — perfect for finding something that speaks to your personal style or home refresh.

And for music enthusiasts, Village Records (www.villagerecords.net ) adds a nostalgic yet vibrant layer to La Quinta’s retail landscape. Browsing vinyl and curated selections feels wonderfully tactile in a digital world, and it’s easy to

imagine building a fresh spring playlist after an afternoon of shopping local.

What connects all of these businesses isn’t just what they sell — it’s who they are. They are owned and operated by people who live here, raise families here and contribute to the rhythm of daily life in La Quinta. Every purchase made within their walls circulates back into the community, strengthening the local economy and preserving the character that makes our city special.

Spring offers the perfect excuse to explore someplace new or revisit a favorite shop with fresh eyes. Maybe it’s updating your wardrobe with a lightweight dress, adding new pillows to the living room, selecting a bottle of wine for a weekend gathering or finding a gift that feels uniquely “La Quinta.” Whatever brings you out, take the scenic route. Walk Main Street. Say hello. Discover something unexpected. And if you’d like to explore even more locally owned businesses throughout

STATE OF EDUCATION

La Quinta and the Coachella Valley, the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce maintains a full online directory at www.gcvcc.org . It’s a helpful resource for finding and supporting the entrepreneurs who keep our community thriving.

This season, let spring be your reminder: when you shop local, you’re not just refreshing your home or your closet — you’re investing in the heart of La Quinta itself.

Friday, May 1 , 2026 st 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Location TBD www.gcvcc.org

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Coloring the Coachella Valley:

Old Town Artisan Studios’ 2026 Gala Brings Art, Heart, and a Touch of Lavender

Story by: GCVCC Staff

Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS) is preparing to paint the town in the most inspiring way possible with its 2026 Color the World Gala — an evening designed not only to dazzle guests, but to deepen its impact across the Coachella Valley.

As the organization’s premier annual fundraiser, the gala serves a vital purpose: ensuring transformational art experiences remain accessible and attainable for everyone — regardless of age, ability, or financial circumstances. The theme, Color the World, beautifully captures OTAS’s mission to infuse creativity, healing, and vibrancy into the lives of those it serves. Through artistic expression, the organization quite literally and metaphorically brings color into the community.

“Color the World” symbolizes far more than a palette of bright hues. It represents the power of art to uplift, connect, and transform. It celebrates diversity, creative expression, shared inspiration, compassion, and accessibility. At its heart, the theme reflects OTAS’s belief that art has the power to heal, unite, and create opportunity for all.

Over the years, the OTAS gala has grown thanks to loyal supporters and new friends who share the organization’s passion for arts access. The 2026 celebration promises something especially memorable — a “touch of Lavender.” Guests will begin the evening at the enchanting OTAS campus, where a cocktail reception and silent auction will showcase more than 30 pieces of original art. The celebration will then move just across the street to the beloved Lavender Bistro for dinner and a spirited live auction — hence the gala’s playful nod to lavender this year.

The funds raised during the evening will directly fuel OTAS’s mission-driven programs. Proceeds from the live auction and 100 percent of the silent auction support initiatives such as the Mobile Art Mission and extensive community outreach efforts. These programs bring professionally led art classes and handson creative experiences to schools, senior centers, special needs organizations, and underserved neighborhoods — often at little to no cost to participants.

The impact is measurable and meaningful. In 2025 alone, OTAS served more than 30,000 art experiences throughout the valley. From mobile art programs that bring lessons directly into schools and youth clubs, to inclusive classes that create accessible spaces for individuals with disabilities, to senior art programs that foster wellness, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation — the ripple effects of these efforts are felt across generations.

Looking ahead, OTAS is committed to expanding even further, extending

art opportunities to underserved populations throughout the entire valley and reaching even more participants in the coming year.

Guests attending the gala can expect an immersive and joyful experience. The evening will feature a cocktail reception and campus tours at OTAS, opportunities to interact with artists and instructors, a silent auction (which opens online March 9), and a live auction during dinner at Lavender Bistro highlighting exceptional works donated by talented local artists. The program will also include community awards, mission highlights, and inspiring

opportunities to give — all wrapped in a welcoming atmosphere under the theme of “Colorful Evening Attire.”

The dress theme itself plays an important role in setting the tone. By encouraging guests to embrace vibrant, colorful attire, the gala becomes a living reflection of OTAS’s mission. The visual celebration of individuality and creativity helps foster an uplifting, joyous mood — a room filled with people quite literally embodying the spirit of coloring the world.

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the prestigious Heart of the Community Award to the Honorable Linda Evans, Mayor of La Quinta. Mayor Evans is being recognized for her remarkable leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the arts, culture, and overall quality of life in La Quinta and throughout the Coachella Valley. Honoring community leaders underscores the collaborative spirit that sustains arts access and reinforces the shared leadership that strengthens both OTAS and the broader valley community.

Sponsors and community partners also play an essential role in the gala’s success. Their financial support underwrites key elements of the event, elevates awareness of OTAS’s mission, and expands outreach beyond what ticket sales alone can accomplish. In turn, local businesses benefit from increased visibility, meaningful community engagement, and connections with donors and civic leaders who champion arts access.

Ultimately, supporting Old Town Artisan Studios means investing in creativity, community connection, equitable arts access, and the healing power of art. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and donation made directly fuels programs that enrich thousands of lives throughout the Coachella Valley. Tickets and sponsorship information for the 2026 Color the World Gala are available at https://oldtownartisanstudios.org/.

This year, with a touch of lavender and a spectrum of color, OTAS invites the community to come together — to celebrate, to give, and to help color the world.

COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta

About 50 residents and commissioners joined Council members and staff for the City’s 13th Community Workshop.

Held February 11 at the Wellness Center, this year’s theme was “La Quinta Forward: Momentum and Milestones” and included an overview by the mayor and city manager of past workshops and the status of projects listed as priorities by residents.

Some projects, such as the Fritz Burns Park improvements, have been completed or are close to completion, while long-term projects such as addressing electrical needs and the reenvision Highway 111 Corridor Plan are in progress with steps taken toward accomplishment.

A fiscal snapshot was presented by Director of Finance Claudia Martinez who said the City is financially sound and well positioned to handle economic downturns, natural disasters and other unforeseen events.

La Quinta is No. 7 out of 410 cities in the state providing data as ranked by California Policy Center’s Fiscal Health Dashboard, putting it in the top 2% of cities statewide, Martinez said.

La Quinta is the only city in the Coachella Valley ranked in the Top 10.

“What this ranking tells us is that the City of La Quinta is financially strong, stable and well positioned for the future. But most importantly, it reflects a long-term commitment by the City Council and staff to responsible fiscal stewardship. We recognize that every dollar we manage belongs to the community,” Martinez said.

Updates & What’s Ahead

City Manager Jon McMillen and Mayor Linda Evans provided updates on some of the priority projects, including:

• Imperial Irrigation District (IID) equipment needs: The City is working with developers and IID in finalizing cost-share agreements for the expansion of the Avenue 58 substation. Estimated to cost $23.25 million, the City will advance funds up to $9.4 million to purchase equipment needed to add a fourth transformer bank to the substation. Those funds will be reimbursed by participating developers.

• Affordable housing: The City has three vacant parcels of varying sizes along Highway 111 designated for affordable housing units that will bring up to 587 new units total. Those parcels are in various stages of pre-development. The biggest challenge to developers is the cost

of about $700,000 per door to build, regardless of unit size, Evans said.

• Road improvement projects: Highway 111 was done last summer and the Washington Street rehab, from Eisenhower Drive north to the City limits near the Washington Street Apartments, is the next big project set for summer 2027. As with Highway 111, the City will receive federal funds earmarked for the project. Resurfacing projects are ongoing, with streets in the Cove currently in progress. Even though the City dedicates about $1.5 million per year to road improvement projects, over the last five years the City has expended closer to $4 million per year.

Some residents wanted to know the status of undergrounding utilities, especially in the Cove. Estimated to cost more than $200 million, McMillen said the City cannot cover that cost but there is a process in place and interested property owners should contact the Public Works Department, City Clerk’s or City Manager’s offices.

“We can show you the study that was done and we can show you the path that has been laid out and the steps that are necessary to accomplish undergrounding through a phased approach,” McMillen said.

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CELEBRATE THE CENTENNIAL, One Bite at a Time.

Join us as we celebrate our centennial with special dishes and cocktails, created in honor of this once-in-a-lifetime milestone at all three of our on-site restaurants.

Classic dishes, artfully revisited for our centennial year.

Oysters Rockefeller

Lyonnaise Salad

Filet Oscar

Baba au Rhum

Timeless favorites, made for a milestone year.

Shrimp Cocktail

Waldorf Salad

Chicken à la King

Peanut Butter Pie

Cocktail features: French 75 Sidecar

A celebratory take on bold Adobe flavors.

Pollo Centenario de La Mirage

Centennial Margarita

Scan the QR code to learn more, view menus, and make a reservation: