The Gem March 2022

The La Quinta Gem La Quinta Art Celebration Returns A Sit Down with Local Artists

#ARTINLQ

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

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

********ECRWSSEDDM*** POSTAL CUSTOMER

Discover La Quinta Medical Center At Desert Care Network’s La Quinta Medical Center Campus you’ll discover an intimate setting for hospital outpatient services.

Our services include: • Desert Regional Medical Center’s Comprehensive Cancer Center satellite facility offers consultations, infusion services, and screening mammography • Desert Care Network’s Advanced Wound Healing Center offers care for chronic wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers. We are a member of the Amputation Prevention Centers of America.

• La Quinta Imaging provides a wide array of medical imaging, including X-ray, CT and MRI scans • Our Neurology Specialty Clinic treats movement disorders, epilepsy and a host of neurological conditions • Desert Care Network Primary & Specialty Care, where patients can schedule appointments with physicians in a variety of primary and specialty services

La Quinta Medical Center | 47647 Caleo Bay Drive | La Quinta, CA 92253

DesertCareNetwork.com/LaQuinta

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The La Quinta Gem

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Inflation and the Cost of Insurance

MARCH 2022

Do You Know the Importance of Short-Term Vacation Rental Insurance?

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Message from the Chairperson

La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac

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La Quinta Art Celebration Returns

09 Local Artists Jasón and Nicole McQuaid

10 A Look at Old Town Artisan StudioLQ

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What’s Happening in Old Town

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La Quinta Art Celebration

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Nominations for Distinguished Artist, La Quinta Athlete & Pillar of the Community

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La Quinta X-Park

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Citywide Miscellaneous ADA Improvements Project

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SilverRock Retention Basin Soil Stabilization Project

It’s Your Library La Quinta Museum Community Services

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Fly Over LQ: A Kite Experience

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Mission LQ: Rocket Launch

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City Pages • City Manager’s Message

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THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 Q in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms ES Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and 0 T. 1 9 5 significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area.

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GCV LA QUINTA CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Eric Mosser , Chairperson | Charles Schwab Mike Chapa, Secretary | Fairway Independent Mortgage Carrie Babij, Treasurer | Desert Insurance Solutions, Inc. Doug Motz | Motz-Rusin Insurance Agency Steve Weiner | Coldwell Banker Ray Dominguez | Lamar Outdoor Advertising Karen Lambrose | Caliber Home Loans Steve Wilson | Optavia/Next Level Coaching - Steve Wilson Janice Isbell | La Quinta Chevrolet-Cadillac Ricardo Loretta | Dr. Carreon Foundation Kimberly Anken | Robert Half Staffing Agency Heidi McArthur | Jadabug’s Kids Boutique Ralph Piscitelli | Alzheimers Association Mike Williams | Capitis Real Estate Jeff Fishbein | Coldwell Banker / Fishbein Real Estate Group Mickey Jumapao | iServe Lending

THE GEM PRODUCTION TEAM THE LA QUINTA GEM IS PRODUCED BY THE GREATER COACHELLA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. The Gem is an official publication of the GCVCC. Circulation: Approximately 23,000.

Distributed free to all residents, Chamber members and businesses in La Quinta.

To advertise please call (760) 347-0676.

Please Note: The opinions and views expressed in all editorial material are those of the writer or person interviewed and are not necessarily those of the GCVCC, its Board of Directors, or the advertisers in The Gem. The GCVCC endorses no person, political candidate or opinion unless specifically stated. The Gem reserves the right to reject certain advertising submissions. For a list of advertising standards, please contact staff.

The Gem reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, length, and questionable content. Advertisers please note that colors may look slightly darker, or slightly lighter due to variables in the printing process. Questions or comments? Email us at info@ GCVCC.org or call (760) 347-0676.

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Gem half page ad Jan 2022.pdf

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON Submitted by: Eric Mosser, La Quinta Chamber of Commerce Chair Trappist monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist Thomas Merton said, “art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” Having volunteered at this year’s Southwest Arts Festival as the parking lot golf cart shuttle driver, I know this quote is too true. So many art aficionados, after spending time enjoying the festival, were lost when it came time to find their car. I spent quite a bit of the day circling the parking lot helping folks find their vehicle. OK, I know this isn’t What Thomas Merton meant, but it fits, right?

Either way, if you’re up for finding yourself, losing yourself, or doing both at the same time, your opportunity is here. The La Quinta Art Celebration will be held March 3rd-6th, at the La Quinta Civic Center at 78495 Calle Tampico. The event is ranked as the #1 Fine Art & Craft Event in the Nation by Greg Lawler’s Art Fair Sourcebook “Elite 10 Fine Art Events 2022.” There will be over 200 juried artists, live music, fabulous food and drink, all in one spectacular setting.

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Medicare has become even more complex Confusing and misleading ads Conflicting information Penalties and adjustments

More than ever, you need an expert on your side

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Whether you’ve been to an art festival or not, having volunteered at several over the years, I want to share a few tips on getting the most from the art festival. First, wear comfortable shoes and give yourself plenty of time to truly appreciate all that will be on display. If you have questions or praise, don’t hesitate to share with the artist. They are happy to chat about their works.

If you’re looking to buy, consider the size of where your purchase will go, how will you get it home, will it require installation, and if you should have it insured.

And finally, make note of where you parked so that you aren’t completely lost after having found yourself in the festival.

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Eric Mosser Investment Consultant Charles Schwab 760-836-3079

Randy Foulds Lisa Foulds

760-346-6565 Office conveniently located at 78010 Main St, suite 208

CA License #0G69218 Learn more at FHI65.com 6

Café California

LA QUINTA ART CELEBRATION RETURNS Submitted by: La Quinta Art Celebration Staff La Quinta is a community steeped in pride for the arts, and La Quinta Art Celebration seamlessly intertwines the visual, performing, and culinary arts all at one event.

In 2022, La Quinta Art Celebration resumes its early spring schedule March 3-6 (from 10 am to 5 pm) with the full support of the City of La Quinta at the visually stunning La Quinta Civic Center.

Presented by SCOPE Events, LLC, La Quinta Art Celebration is now ranked as the #1 Fine Art & Craft Event in the Nation by Greg Lawler’s Art Fair SourceBook “Elite 10” Fine Art Events 2022”. The ranking is based on average sales as reported per fine art exhibitor as well as artist’s evaluation of the venue, sophistication of art patrons, artist’s amenities and overall experience at the event. Other art events recognized in the Top Ten are Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Cherry Creek Arts Festival, Des Moines Art Festival and Park City Kimball Arts Festival.

“We are delighted to be ranked #1. It further motivates us to continue producing a spectacular and fresh show. It is important to continue what is working well while enhancing each show with new creative elements” shared event producer, Paul Anderson.

The March event will be an outdoor showcase of 200 world-class, jury-selected artists hailing from 31 states and six countries to exhibit their original artworks. Their styles range from classical to whimsical and span 11 media categories including: 2D Mixed Media, 3D Mixed Media, Ceramics, Drawing & Pastel, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood.

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To complement the unparalleled art experience, the Celebration will offer patrons a variety of upscale amenities that include live music, gourmet dining from popular local restaurants, and premium top-shelf beverages. Daily live entertainment will feature favorite local performers Scott Carter (10 am-1 pm on the Amphitheater stage) and Michael Anthony Gagliardi (10 am-5 pm at the Oasis Lounge). Headlining on the Amphitheater stage from 2-5 pm are Southern California music legends, Shaken Not Stirred (Friday), The Art of Sax (Saturday and The Smooth Brothers (Sunday).

If you are out of the Coachella Valley and will miss the March Celebration, save the dates of November 10-13, 2022 for the ENCORE Celebration. The hours for this fall show are 9 am to 4 pm, to take full advantage of autumn desert sunshine. It was so much fun last November that the City and Scope Events decided to make it another annual event.

La Quinta Civic Center is located at 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253. Event hours are 9 am to 4 pm and admission is $20 for 1 day, or $30 for a Multi-Day Pass.

Children under 12 are free. Parking options include free parking throughout the Village of La Quinta, paid selfparking for $10, or valet for $15. For more information or to purchase tickets early (and avoid long lines at the gate), visit LaQuintaArtCelebration.org.

SCOPE Events, LLC is committed to following all local and state COVID-19 health & safety guidelines and will clearly communicate current requirements to ticket holders before the festival.

LOCAL ARTISTS JASÓN AND NICOLE MCQUAID Submitted by: GCVCC Staff With so much art here in our city and our favorite art celebration of the year coming, we sat down with local artists and La Quinta residents Jasón and Nicole McQuaid who are creating right here in the Gem of the Desert and will be on display at this years La Quinta Art Celebration.

Laguna Beach, CA we fell in love with the beauty of the desert and made La Quinta our home. We have been participating in art shows in the Coachella Valley for 25 years.

Can you let us know you name, where you live and what type of art you do?

We have been glass artists working together for 28 years now. Before, Jasón did art in the surf industry and me, Nicole, made mixed media jewelry. Some of the jewelry was made with handmade glass beads and pendants I created.

We are Jasón and Nicole McQuaid and have been working with hot glass in our private studio since 1996. Combining traditional Italian style blown glass techniques with innovative torch working methods our creations range from impressionistic color patterns in organic forms to sculptures which represent sea- life, Desert botanicals and abstract ideas.

Our large scale sculptures in public places are featured in Orange County, Laguna Beach, Long Beach , Monarch Beach and Naples, Florida. Early works are held in the permanent collection at LACMA(Los Ángeles County Museum of Art).

How long have you been artist’s?

Can you let us know a bit about your art and what makes it unique?

Our Glasswork is inspired from our love of nature, specifically desert plants and wonders of the ocean.

As artists, what makes you want to live in La Quinta?

Our glass is hand made from sand at 2350 degrees F. All hand blown with the use of handheld torches we can put work together from many blow pipes keeping it Hot. How can someone see your art and contact you?

Originally from the seaside art community of Laguna Beach, we fell in love with the Coachella Valley while participating in the fine art shows of the 1990’s and purchased a desert home to reside in.

Have you participated in the La Quinta Art Celebration before?

We work out of our private studio in the la Quinta village.

We plan on being open to the public in the near future.

For now, we can be contacted by phone or email for an appointment at (949)295-1190 or mcquaidart@gmail.com.

We live in La Quinta Cove and have our private art studio down the street in old town. We do hand blown and sculptured glass. We have been participating in the La Quinta Art Celebration since it started. Originally from

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A LOOK AT OLD TOWN ARTISAN STUDIO Submitted by: GCVCC Staff Art is a year-round adventure in La Quinta, and a great spot to immerse yourself into it is Old Town Artisan Studios. Tom Burns, who is going into his sixth year as the Executive Director of Old Town Artisan Studios, spoke with us about why he loves being part of the studio and also shares about some of Studios’ great programs.

Tom accepted the position at Old Town Artisan Studios because he firmly believes the arts should be nurtured and kept in our lives. “Art programs are usually the first to get cut from school budgets, and our mission is focused on bringing art back into schools and organizations that have had their programs defunded or eliminated,” said Burns. “We have two mobile art vans that we can load an entire art department in (including pottery wheels and fused glass) to bring to any town in the Coachella Valley.

Creativity is a critical part of all our lives, regardless of your profession. Creativity is problem-solving and therapeutic outlet for so many.”

Tom loves having an opportunity to give back to the community, as well. “For a long time, we have been an undiscovered creative paradise in the desert. Whenever someone walks into our facility for the first time, the usual response is, ‘Wow! I had no idea this was here! This place is so beautiful.’ We have created a wonderful and inclusive environment to express yourself in a multitude of artist mediums.”

There can also be a common misconception that they are just an art studio offering classes. “We ARE an art studio and we do offer a variety of art classes, but the bulk of our work is our Outreach Program,” added Burns. Their Outreach Program, which utilizes their mobile art vans, serves the community on an on-going basis.

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Over the last two years of the pandemic, Old Town Artisan Studios was still able to provide over 50,000 art experiences in the Coachella Valley. Last year, they served over 26,000 experiences alone. It is a very large operation that many people are still learning about. They offer a variety of in-house art classes, which in turn, helps to fund their Outreach Programs. People who take their in-studio classes know that a portion of what they are paying for is helping to fund an art program for several charities in the Coachella Valley or providing an art experience to someone in our community that might not have the same financial means to take a class. In other words, they are a charity for other charities.

Old Town Artisan Studios offers ceramics, sculpture, painting, printmaking, drawing, glass, watercolor, pastel and fabric arts. Their offerings also include monthly music events which have been very popular – they’ve even decided to start offering two per month, beginning in the fall. In fact, they just hosted their first Open Mic Night in February. They also have a gallery on their campus that is open to the public, which features pieces from local artists who each do a two-week show. The gallery is filled with new art on a revolving basis all year.

Other programs are tailored to those with special needs – both youth and adults – including The Autism Society, La Quinta High School, Alzheimer Associations, YMCA’s Boys and Girls Clubs and multiple after-school programs.

Additionally, they have a complete retail and gift shop filled with unique items that were made in the studios.

Old Town Artisan Studios is located in the La Quinta Village area, two blocks from City Hall, at 78046 Calle Barcelona – with the main entrance directly across from Lavender Bistro. You can visit them online at OldTownArtisanStudios.org, by phone at 760.777.1444 or by following them on Instagram: @ oldtownartisanstudios.

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March 12 & 26 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Live Music • Free Admission • Free Parking

Leslee Adams

Laurent Martres

Victor Yurivilca

Kathy Caldwell

Gustavo Santana

Sponsored by

facebook.com/artonmainst

OldTownLaQuinta.com

78100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA 92253

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

Mission LQ: Rocket Launch Join us for a fun-filled morning with model rocket building and launching.

• March 19 | 8:00-10:00 a.m.

• Monticello Park La Quinta • Free event for ages six and up • Pre-registration is required to attend – space is limited For more information, visit PlayinLaQuinta.com.

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

We hope you’ve been getting out-and-about in La Quinta to experience the perfect temperatures and activities happening in the community. Here’s what you can look forward to for the month of March.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR La Quinta Art Celebration The La Quinta Art Celebration will showcase 200 premier artists from 35 states and abroad exhibiting their creations from 12 media categories.

• March 3 – 6 | 10:00 a.m.

• La Quinta Civic Center Park • Event amenities include live entertainment, gourmet food, and drinks served al fresco Event details can be found at LaQuintaArtCelebration.org.

2022 Community Workshop Join City Council and City Staff for the 2022 Community Workshop. This is an opportunity to get involved and find out what’s happening in the Gem of the Desert.

Staff will present out past projects, new projects, and information for La Quinta in the next coming year.

• March 12 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• La Quinta Wellness Center • All welcome to attend this free workshop Learn more at LaQuintaCA.gov/CommunityWorkshop Tree Planting Event at SilverRock We are looking for volunteers to be part of La Quinta’s Tree Team. The City, in partnership with AMPlify the Urban Forest and CAL FIRE, will be holding a tree planting event in recognition of Arbor Day. • March 12 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• SilverRock Park, Retention Basin • Please bring your own shovels and gloves To sign up, go to the city calendar at LaQuintaCA.gov.

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Fly Over LQ: A Kite Experience Come have a great time flying a kite in the La Quinta skies! Build your own kite – or if you have a kite already – feel free to bring it.

• April 2 | 8:00-10:00 a.m.

• SilverRock Park • Free event and for all ages • Pre-registration is required to attend – space is limited Sign up at PlayinLaQuinta.com.

CITY UPDATES Nominations for Distinguished Artist, La Quinta Athlete & Pillar of the Community This is the last month to submit your nominations for a Distinguished Artist, La Quinta Athlete, or Pillar of the Community. In 2002, the City began recognizing community members who have gone above-andbeyond to make positive impacts in La Quinta. Past and present honorees have contributed through volunteer efforts, fundraising, involvement with community organizations, and providing much-needed support to friends and neighbors. Nomination forms can be found at LaQuintaca.gov/Nominations.

La Quinta X Park We expect the X Park to be completed this month! The much anticipated skateboard Park will include 31,000 square feet of skate area, a 1,400 square foot pro-shop with restrooms, an observation deck, energy-efficient/ programmable lighting, a pump track, and 20 parking spaces. X Park is still under active construction, so we ask everyone to please be patient and not trespass while we work to finish the final touches. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Nextdoor @CityofLaQuinta for updates on opening day.

Citywide Miscellaneous Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Improvements Project The citywide ADA improvements are underway and include reconstructing curb ramps, sidewalks, and driveways to bring them to current code. Improvements also include an additive alternate to construct raised crosswalks across Avenida La Fonda and Calle Estado on the east side of Avenida Bermudas. Raised crosswalks are proposed due to the right-of-way constraints when placing curb ramps. This project is anticipated to be completed in May 2022.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

SilverRock Retention Basin Soil Stabilization Project The contractor is currently clearing, grading, and trenching to install the main irrigation line at the SilverRock Retention Basin. The project will add shrubs to the upper half of the slope on Avenue 52 and along the parking area. The east slope will remain in its current natural state – utilizing a hydroseed mix with rotor irrigation on the balance of the slopes to prepare for future tree installation during Arbor Day. This project is anticipated to be completed in May 2022.

Enjoy another beautiful month in the Gem of the Desert!

To stay updated on news and events in La Quinta, sign up for “Quail Mail” on the City website - . www.laquintaca.gov/quailmail

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

ONGOING PROGRAMS La Hora del Cuento/Spanish Storytime (Facebook & YouTube) Tuesday, March 8 @ 11:15am ¡Únete a la Sra. Minerva mientras lee algunos de sus libros favoritos en español! Join Miss Minerva as she reads from some of her favorite storybooks in this Spanish language storytime!

Tween STEAM (Ages 8-12, in-person) Saturday, March 12 @ 11am Have hands-on fun creating and collaborating on exciting experiments. Sign up by calling or visiting the Library.

Read the World (Ages 18+, Zoom) Tuesday, March 15, 2022 @ 5:30PM Travel the world with this immersive* book club! In March, we’ll visit Egypt by discussing The Zafarani Files

by Gamal al-Ghitani. Visit our Book Club Page at bit.ly/ LQLibraryBlog to register and for more info. *Immersive goodies available for the first 18 registrants.

La Quinta Public Library 78275 Calle Tampico La Quinta, CA 92253

FEATURED PROGRAMS In-N-Out Cover to Cover Reading Program (Ages 4-12) Runs Saturday, March 5 through Saturday, April 16 Starting Saturday, March 5, the Library is offering the In-N-Out Cover-to-Cover Reading Program to children ages 4-12. Here’s how it works: • Sign up at the Library to receive a reading log.

• Read five (5) books at reading level and record it on the reading log.

• A parent must sign the reading log after each five (5) books are read.

• 5 books read = 1 In-N-Out certificate for one free burger • Maximum 15 books & 3 certificates per child.

Plant Swap (Ages 18+, in-person) Saturday, March 19 @ 11am Drop by to meet fellow plant enthusiasts and take home a new plant! Bring a healthy, pest-free plant, rooted cuttings in water, or seeds to trade. (Please only bring pots that you are willing to part with!) You’ll also have a chance to win cuttings from Hermivy, our Library Pothos plant! We’ll meet on the patio.

Should I Know That? Event (Ages 13-17, in-person) Friday, March 25 @ 4:30pm Now that you know a bit about savings accounts, put your new knowledge to the test against other teens and see who will be the first one to make it to $100,000!

(The money is fake, the fun is real.)

Storytime in the Park (Civic Center Campus Amphitheater) Wednesdays, March 9, 16, 23, & 30 @ 11:15am Join us at the amphitheater behind the library for storytime! This program is best for preschool-age children and their caregivers. Note: Program may be subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

CITY SPONSORED SECTION

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LA QUINTA MUSEUM 77885 Avenida Montezuma La Quinta, CA 92253 (760) 777-7170

LA QUINTA MUSEUM MARCH 2022 THE LA QUINTA MUSEUM IS OPEN TUESDAYSATURDAY, 10AM-4PM. ADMISSION AND PROGRAMS ARE FREE CURRENT EXHIBITS The Ranges Between On exhibit February 8 – May 21, 2022. Experience the wonder of the desert through 35 works in this series of paintings from Eric Merrell’s artist residency at the Mojave National Preserve.

Take a Break with Huell Tuesday, March 15, 11am Join us for an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen! This month, we’ll watch “Spa Hotel and Indian Canyons”, visiting the spa where Elvis soaked!

Register at tinyurl.com/HuellMar Good Books in the Gallery Thursday, March 31, 4pm This month, we’re reading Desert Oracle by Ken Layne. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants, call 760.777.7170 to request one. Register at tinyurl.com/GoodBooksMarch

La Quinta History Galleries Dive in to the stories of your city, from the original stewards of the land, the Cahuilla, to the homesteaders, ranchers, and dreamers looking for a desert oasis.

PROGRAMS As programs are subject to change, please find the latest information and register for our FREE programs at facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum/events Music at the Museum Thursday March 3, 5-6 pm By popular demand, Music at the Museum is back on the first Thursday of each month! Join us in the Courtyard for music with David Macias.

Artist Reception, The Ranges Between Friday, March 4, 5-7 pm Experience our new exhibit and meet the artist, Eric Merrell.

STITCH Fiber Arts Group Tuesday, March 8 & 22, 1-3pm Bring your fiber project to work on while you meet in our Courtyard with friends old and new, share what you’ve been working on, and get inspired for your next project!

Register at tinyurl.com/StitchMarch

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COMMUNITY SERVICES Online registration available at https://laqwebtrac.laquintaca.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096.

(Creative Wellness) Indoors Line Dancing

5:30 - 6:30pm

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Chair Yoga

11am - 12pm

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Gentle Yoga

11am - 12pm

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Tai Chi Yang

3 - 4pm

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Yoga

4 - 5pm

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8:30am - 9:15am

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Pickleball 101 Beginners

6 - 7pm

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Pickleball Drills for Skills

7 - 8pm

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(Physical Wellness)

TED Talk Hangout Wednesday, March 9, 1pm: Let’s enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month, we’ll watch “Dangerous times call for dangerous women” by Pat Mitchell. Register at tinyurl.com/TedMarch

(Physical Wellness) Outdoors

Pickleball Conditioning

6:30 - 7:15am

M/TH

Sketchbook Journaling Friday, March 4 & 18, 1-3 pm Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling—the no-rules, playful approach to creativity.

Join us each month to create bite-sized bits of drawing, painting, lettering, collage, and mixed media. Basic supplies provided. Seating is limited, please reserve your spot at tinyurl.com/SketchMarch

Pilates

11am - 12pm

M/TH

12:30 - 4pm

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12:30 - 3:30pm

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CITY SPONSORED SECTION

Essential Fitness

(Social Wellness) Social Bridge (Call Julie 760.342.8580 (Fee: $4) Mah Jongg (Fee: $2)

INFLATION AND THE COST OF INSURANCE Submitted by: Desert Insurance Solutions Staff The cost of groceries is going up. But don’t blame the grocers because the cost of everything they buy to provide us is going up.

The cost of home and auto insurance is going up. But it’s hard to blame insurance companies because everything they buy to provide us is going up.

What do insurance companies buy to provide us? They buy labor and materials to repair and replace damaged homes and autos, and they provide temporary homes and autos during repair.

It’s just not realistic to expect flat insurance rates when the price of everything else is going up.

What’s going on with the cost of labor and materials?

• 60% of builders have a skilled labor shortage • First year of the pandemic lumber prices up 42% • First three quarters of 2021 steel mill product cost up 81% • 10/21 year over year new car prices up 11% • 10/21 year over year used car prices up 32% • Shortage of many car and home parts, most notably computer chips

There’s partial consolation knowing the value of your home and other assets is appreciating with inflation, which provides a positive offset to your expenses. As your home appreciates you should be mindful of your dwelling and contents limits at each renewal to ensure they are high enough to offset replacement cost.

Homeowners policies (but not always condo policies) typically have an automated inflation adjustment built in, but that standardized adjustment may be inadequate in high appreciation areas.

What’s going on with the cost of temporary homes and autos?

• They’re more expensive for the reasons above • Shortages are causing longer repair periods so the length of time people need temporary homes and autos has gone way up

Carrie Babij is President of Desert Insurance Solutions – with offices in La Quinta, California and Scottsdale, Arizona – and has more than 25 years’ experience with high net worth personal and commercial lines of insurance. For more information, contact Carrie at carrie@desertinsurancesolutions.com.

In addition to all that, people are driving again so claims are up. First 6 months 2021 car fatalities up 16%.

Insurance costs are going up because the cost to provide the benefits of insurance is going up. But if you take your total insurance cost and divide by 365, your daily cost to protect all your assets from natural perils, accidents and lawsuits might not appear unreasonable.

So if grocers and insurance companies aren’t causing inflation, what is? Here’s a list of things that contribute to inflation: 1. Position in business cycle 2. Commodity production rates 3. Regulations 4. Employment restrictions 5. Government-driven excess demand (deficit spending, artificially low interest rates, “money printing”) 6. Reverse globalization (trade restrictions, transportation challenges) 7. Demographics (immigration, birthrates) 8. Lack of competition 9. Inflation mindset (expecting inflation leads to more inflation)

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The cause of inflation is arguable, but we know it’s affecting all insurance carriers. In addition, some carriers are actively trying to reduce their risk footprint. So between inflation and claims issues it’s currently very difficult to switch carriers and get a significantly lower rate for the same quality coverage. And using cheap low quality carriers is not a good idea; they won’t be there when you need them.

DO YOU KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTAL INSURANCE? Submitted by: Motz-Rusin Insurance Agency Staff Our BIG events are coming back…do you know what that means?

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not provide details of what you need to do to protect your assets.

Property owners will be renting their Short-Term Rentals again!

YES, you will need a Short-Term Vacation Rental Policy if you decide to rent your house or condo for a couple of days, the weekend or weekly.

You may think you are covered in the event of a fire, damage, theft or liability through your homeowner’s insurance policy. NOPE…not the case!

What homeowners usually do not realize is that their homeowners’ insurance will NOT cover them if a problem arises if they rent their home short-term.

A typical homeowners insurance policy covers owneroccupied structures, your personal property such as furniture, TV’s, clothes, personal liability for lawsuits and medical bills resulting from injuries which could happen on your property.

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If you decide to rent your house or condo for the weekend or week you will need to purchase a ShortTerm Vacation Rental Policy.

Keep in mind this is NOT the same thing as a “landlord policy”, which is for a long-term lease.

Renting the home, you live in for a weekend or a week has different insurance requirements than if you were to have a long-term rental.

When you rent your home long term the risk is not as high as if you are renting it short term. Most homes, when rented long term, have minimal appliances and furniture. When you rent the home you are living in, it will most likely have all your furniture and personal possessions in it.

Your primary homeowners’ insurance policy will not offer protection if you decide to rent out the home you live in.

CALL RON AT 760-625-6506 AND START PACKING DRE # 02033152

37 HOMES Expired or Cancelled

UNDER CONTRACT

HOWS THE MARKET?

Be sure you check with your insurance agent BEFORE you make any changes or decisions no matter how small or insignificant you think a situation might be.

LA QUINTA January 2022

Call Motz-Rusin Insurance Agency @ 760-564-3888 or go to www.MotzRusin.com for any questions regarding renting your property as a Short-Term Rental.

License #0M26924

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147 NEW LISTINGS S

115 CLOSINGS 21

LA QUINTA CHEVROLET AND CADILLAC Submitted by: La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac Staff La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac is a local, family-owned business. The dealership strives to provide the very best experience when looking to purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle. They have a number of new and preowned vehicles now in stock.

Currently, La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac is offering winter car services with exclusive Chevy bundle-up service offers. For those crucial services like oil changes, brakes pads and/or rotors replacements, come see their experts who will ensure only GM genuine parts are used to complete your vehicle’s service. The parts that were used to build the vehicle in the factory are the same parts being installed at La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac.

The dealership also offers touchless pre-appraisal.

Their team will come directly to you at your home or place of business to appraise your vehicle. A qualified, experienced sales associate will set up an inspection then provide a written estimate of the assessment.

If you’re in search of a new or pre-owned vehicle, stop by the dealership or visit their website. Your vehicle purchase can be delivered to your home. The La Quinta Chevrolet and Cadillac team will assist you in securing the best financing options available at your time of purchase, as well.

To learn more, go to LaQuintaChevrolet.com.

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M MAIN STREET COFFEE La Quinta, California