La Quinta Gem May 2020

MAY 2020 | THE STAYING HOME ISSUE

LA QUINTA STAYS AT HOME

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SOCALGAS® IS HERE FOR YOU.

We understand this is a challenging time for us all.

Rest assured, your natural gas service will still be there for your community. For more information on how we’re helping our customers, please visit socalgas.com/coronavirus

© 2020 Southern California Gas Company.

All copyright and trademark rights reserved. N20J064A 0421

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TAKING EXTRA STEPS TO KEEP YOU SAFE We're here for you during the COVID-19 pandemic and here is what we are doing to keep you safe.

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Team members have not traveled outside of the United States in the last several weeks.

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Team members with any symptoms may not return to work until cleared by a physician.

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If anyone of our team members has a fever, we are sending them home.

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Team members wash their hands frequently.

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Before entering your home, each technician will wash their hands with soap and water, wear a pair of disposable gloves, a pair of disposable shoe covers, a mask and if you request an exposure suit.

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When confirming your appointment we will ask if anyone in the home has had a fever in the last 48 hours.

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We are canceling service calls to homes where someone is quarantined, has any symptoms of a respiratory illness or has a fever.

ASK ABOUT OUR

FOOD & SUPPLY DRIVE

Need a HVAC or plumbing repair? We are still here to serve you!

$

50 OFF

Any A/C, Heating or Plumbing Repair1

WANT EVEN MORE PEACE-OF-MIND?

JUST SAY "NO CONTACT" WHEN YOU SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT! NO TALKING All of our communication will be done over the phone, video chat, or text messaging. Just let us know what your preference is.

NO PAPER EXCHANGE We will not provide you with any company literature, and approvals and payment collection will be handled electronically.

NO FACE-TIME Any face-to-face that needs to take place will be done outside and we will use social distancing guidelines of 6 ft. of spacing.

Schedule your appointment today!

760.343.7488 Lic #686310 1

CallTheGeneral.com

Valid on products or services of $200 or more. Cannot be used toward diagnostic, maintenance agreement or emergency service fees. Not valid with other offers or on previous purchases. See company representative for more details. Expires May 31, 2020.

Hello, neighbor!

C Cabanas Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Cindy Cabanas, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0I88633 78370 Highway 111 Suite 260 La Quinta, CA 92253 Bus: 760-797-7101 savewithcindy.net

Please stop by and say, “Hi!” I’m looking forward to serving your needs for insurance and financial services.

Here to help life go right.® CALL ME TODAY.

Experience Top-Rated Veterinary Care with Personalized, Stress-Free Service for You & Your Pets

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TABLE OF CONTENTS May 2020

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Telemedicine is Here to Stay

DSUSD Ready to Educate

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07

Shop and Eat in LQ directory

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Desert Recreation District offers Online Recreation & Learning Resources for Everyone

12-13 4

What’s Happening at Old Town

City Page’s

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14-19 22

Take a Pause during this pause and just breathe

Health Insurance, More Important Than Ever

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Dr. Carlson, DVM

Dr. Smith, DVM

Dr. Jeffrey, BSc, BVMS

The Issue of Taxes: Where Do We Go From Here?

Stuft Pizza: grateful for this community’s support

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Dr. Jeffrey, BSc, BVMS

NEW CLIENT WELCOME OFFER $25 off Your Pet’s First Wellness Exam 760-564-3833 51-230 Eisenhower Drive • La Quinta Mention coupon when booking appointment.

Limit one coupon per client. Offer valid thru June 30, 2020.

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Cover: #LQATHOME

HOSPITAL HOURS

M-F: 8am-8pm Sat: 8am-5pm

760-564-3833 VillageParkAnimalHospital.com 51-230 Eisenhower Drive • La Quinta

Dear residents

Please be aware that the planning and curating of advertising and editorial for the Gem is done months in advance, with much of the advertising and content submitted well ahead of planned distribution. In light of the sudden and quickly evolving COVID-19 emergency, some of the content in this magazine may seem dated. Our editorial staff and advertisers that generously support this publication are all working hard to update materials as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding and continued support of the local La Quinta business community.

THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in Q 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and ES Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission T. 1 9 5 0 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.

MBER HA

GCV LA

UINTA C

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.

Curbside & Delivery available OPEN DAILY 12PM-7PM

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS ON OUR LIMITED MENU. THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT.

#sharethegoodstuft STUFTPIZZABARANDGRILL.COM OLD TOWN LA QUINTA | 760-777-9989 111 & PLAZA WAY PALM DESERT | 760-610-7990

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Telemedicine is Here to Stay

Patient response to telemedicine Patients have been responding positively with comments like: “Very professional and pleasant. Our provider provided an excellent appointment by telemedicine.”

Another patient stated, “Appreciate telemedicine appointment! Really helpful.”

Submitted by: Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center Staff Telemedicine is an option that’s been around for many years, but gained popularity recently and received broader insurance and Medicare coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine is HIPAA compliant and offers a secure way for people to be seen by a medical provider. For non-emergency matters or for a determination if something needs to be seen in person, telemedicine is especially convenient. Fees also typically cost about half that of an in-person visit.

“Telemedicine is something I’ve wanted to offer at our practice for a while to expand our capabilities,” said Timothy Jochen, MD, board certified dermatologist and medical director of Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center. “The current situation, just brought it to the forefront and we are now offering both medical and cosmetic consultations online.” Another reason Dr. Jochen has been wanting to offer telemedicine is because the Coachella Valley is home to many snowbirds from Canada, the Pacific Northwest and other parts of the country. After spending much of their time here, should they have a dermatology when they are out of town, this allows patients to be able to be seen by a physician with whom they have a personal history.

How does telemedicine work?

Contour Dermatology utilizes an online platform called Doxy.me which has an excellent security profile. Just like a regular appointment, a person will call or email an appointment request. Once the appointment is set, they will be emailed a link and provided with a unique, secure password. A patient needs to have a smartphone or computer with a camera and microphone to be able to participate in a telemedicine appointment. If a person is experiencing hives or a rash, for example, they can show a medical provider the area of concern and receive treatment recommendations. If a prescription is recommended, that will be called into a pharmacy, just as with a regular visit. If a biopsy is recommended, an inperson visit will need to be scheduled.

During COVID-19, Contour Dermatology has been continuing to see patients for urgent needs and Dr. Jochen is continuing to perform important procedures such as Mohs surgery for removal of skin cancer.

However, until the stay-at-home order is lifted, nonurgent concerns are being handled via telemedicine.

Cosmetic consultations also are available online.

Online educational events Another way Contour Dermatology is responding to this quarantine period, is to take their popular lunch and learn events online, sans lunch. These informative events are live streamed on Facebook and Instagram and provide an engaging and interactive way for people to learn more about a treatment of interest and to pose questions online.

Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center has three Coachella Valley offices including Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs and La Quinta. For more information, call (760) 423-4000 or visit www.contourderm.com.

Pick Pick Up Up & & Delivery Delivery Service Service Daily Daily •• Weekly Weekly •• Monthly Monthly

Groceries Groceries •• Restaurant Restaurant Food Food Dry Dry Cleaners Cleaners •• Postal Postal

Hardware Hardware Store Store •• & & Other Other Errands Errands

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$5 $5 Off Off On On Your First Your First Delivery Delivery

Or Or email email your your order order to: to:

TastyEatsDelivery@gmail.com TastyEatsDelivery@gmail.com website: website: tastyeatsdelivery.com tastyeatsdelivery.com City of La Quinta Business License # 768345 City of La Quinta Business License # 768345

We add convenience in this �me where safety is a na�onal concern.

We add convenience in this �me where safety is a na�onal concern.

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DSUSD Ready to Educate Submitted by: Mary Perry, Desert Sands Unified School District On Friday, March 13, 2020, life changed for Desert Sands Unified School District. Late in the day, after students and staff had left for the day, Riverside County Department of Health closed schools countywide. Over the next several weeks, dates for reopening included the March 26 order that schools would remain closed until the end of April. On that day DSUSD senior staff began to plan for distance learning with teacher training opportunities the week of March 30 in preparation of a new teaching and learning model to begin on Monday, April 6. Then the world changed again on April 1 as school buildings would close through June 19.

Three immediate decisions took place the afternoon of March 13. On Monday, March 15 at 5:00 am nutrition services workers began making meals to be picked up at ten different sites for our students. This work continues and will for the foreseeable future. Custodial workers returned to their sites to be certain that schools were cleaned and disinfected. The third action began the work necessary to develop distance learning. Within a week, suggested resources were made available on the district website (https://www.dsusd.us/online-resources) along with a help desk.

DSUSD is a one-to-world district. The award-winning Connect Initiative places a Chromebook in the hands of every student grades 2-12. These computers go home with students as they connect to their teacher, their classmates, and the world. Mi-Fi devices are provided to families without internet connection. That meant that DSUSD students were ready to continue or begin distance learning. For those who hadn’t taken their Chromebook home that fateful Friday the 13th, arrangements were made for pick up as principals stood outside in front of their schools ready to hand them out. For younger students, the graphic services team

printed hundreds of packets for directed-learning by the teachers.

On March 30, teachers began to refresh their distance learning skills or learn new programs and methods.

They took the week to collaborate electronically to create online (distance) lessons for their students and participate in virtual training. Come April 6, teachers were ready and students were anxiously opening their devices to resume learning. Each DSUSD school created a workable schedule for the students at all grade levels.

The first week of distance learning and the provision of quality education gave students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the process. It was followed by the scheduled spring break when students and staff were reminded to take a break, take a deep breath, and get ready for the weeks ahead.

As the situation remains fluid, DSUSD is confident that students will continue their learning process in a new way, working with their teachers in all subjects and classes. This remains true for our special education students, as well. Work continues to find ways to honor and celebrate our seniors during the months that would have included prom, senior trips and activities and, of course graduation. As opportunities to celebrate our seniors solidify, they will be shared throughout the community. The students have worked hard and we are committed to providing them the opportunity to celebrate this milestone.

The most important message for all DSUSD students, staff, and their families is to stay healthy and safe. As a student told Superintendent Scott Bailey, “We’ve got this!” We’re Team DSUSD! For up-to-date information on DSUSD meal service and distance learning, go to www.dsusd.us.

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Shop and Eat in LQ directory Submitted by: GCVCC Staff In this time of need, we’ve built a directory of some local restaurants and shops that provide delivery, takeout, curbisde, online ordering and in-store pickup for you. See the list below so you can shop local and help support our local merchants. These lists were compiled from dinegps.com and playinlaquinta.com. *All location information is subject to change. Please contact before visiting.

EAT ASPEN MILLS BAKERY & CAFE 46-520 WASHINGTON ST. 760-564-5266 WWW.ASPENMILLSPS.COM

BASKIN ROBBINS

78-520 HWY 111 760-296-1074 BASKINROBBINS.COM

BOBBY’S DETROIT CONEY ISLAND RESTAURANT

47-150 WASHINGTON ST, SUITE B 760-227-6616 CHULAEATERY.COM

COLD STONE CREAMERY

78-380 HWY 111, SUITE 190 760-771-8242 COLDSTONECREAMERY.COM

COOKING THAI BY BENZ 818-667-7306 COOKINGTHAIBYBENZ.COM

CORAL MOUNTAIN DINING COLLECTION

79-630 HWY 111 760-347-2200

60-151 TRILOGY PARKWAY 760-771-0707 CORALMOUNTAINGOLFCLUB. COM/ORDERS

BUCATINI TRATTORIA LA QUINTA

​CORK & FORK

BOBBYSDETROITCONEYISLAND.COM

46-660 WASHINGTON, SUITE 8-9 760-636-5906 BUCATINI.BIZ

47-875 CALEO BAY DRIVE 760-777-7555 CORKANDFORKWINEBAR.COM

DING TEA LA QUINTA

78-100 MAIN ST 760-564-5553 OLDTOWNLAQUINTA.COM/BLOG/ OLD-TOWN-COFFEE-COMPANY/

FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

PALM TREE PALACE

78-445 HWY 111 760-771-9300 ORDER.FIVEGUYS.COM/MENU/ LA-QUINTA

79-660 HWY 111, SUITE 103 760-289-6633 POSTMATES.COM/MERCHANT/ PALM-TREE-PALACE-LA-QUINTA

FORTUN’S KITCHEN + BAR

PANERA BREAD

78-085 AVENIDA LA FONDA 760-564-8744 FORTUNSKITCHEN.COM

79-124 HWY 111 760-564-3750 PANERABREAD.COM

FRESH JUICE BAR

PHO VU VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

46-480 WASHINGTON ST, SUITE 1 760-777-4666 FRESHJUICEBAR.COM

IHOP

79-892 HIGHWAY 111 760-342-8489 IHOP.COM

JUICE IT UP! RAW JUICE BAR 79-775 HIGHWAY 111 760-678-3173 JUICEITUP.COM/LA-QUINTAKOMAR-DESERT-CENTER

LA PETITE PATISSERIE & CAFÉ 78-010 MAIN ST 760-771-0700 LAPETITEOLDTOWN.COM

LA QUINTA BAKING COMPANY

78-395 HIGHWAY 111 760-777-1699 LAQUINTABAKING.COM

LA QUINTA CLIFFHOUSE GRILL & BAR

79-815 HWY 111, SUITE 101 760-775-6494 BURGERSANDBEER.COM

79-680 HWY 111, SUITE 101 760-698-8126

EL RANCHITO

78-039 CALLE ESTADO 760-564-0061 ELRANCHITOLQ.COM

MY THAI

BROKEN YOLK CAFE

78-430 HWY 111 760-777-9655 THEBROKENYOLKCAFE.COM

CANTON BISTRO 79-405 HWY 111 760-771-9129 EATCANTON.COM

CASA MENDOZA

78-110 CLL ESTADO 760-564-1463

CASAMENDOZAMEXICANGRILLANDBAR.WEEBLY.COM

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 79-174 HWY 111, SUITE 101 760-564-3079 CHIPOTLE.COM

ENZO’S BISTRO & BAR

78-121 AVENIDA LA FONDA 760-564-7333 ENZOSBISTROANDBAR.COM

ERNIE’S BAR & GRILL AT PGA WEST TOURNAMENT CLUBHOUSE 56-150 PGA BLVD 760-564-7125 LAQUINTARESORT.COM

OLD TOWN COFFEE

78-575 HWY 111 760-777-1601 FISHERMANS.COM

78-250 HIGHWAY 111 760-360-5991 LAQUINTACLIFFHOUSE.COM

BURGERS & BEER

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CHULA EATERY

FISHERMAN’S MARKET AND GRILL

46-520 WASHINGTON ST., SUITE 3 760-564-8424 MYTHAILQ.COM

MARIO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ

49-906 JEFFERSON ST 760-777-4055 MARIOSITALIANCAFES.COM

MÉLANGE AT THE CHATEAU AT LAKE LA QUINTA

78-120 CALEO BAY 760-564-7332 THECHATEAU.COM/DINING.HTML

NITROINFUSIONS

78-010 MAIN ST 760-771-0700 NITROINFUSIONS.COM

79-630 HWY 111, SUITE 103 760-775-2417 PHOVURESTAURANT.COM

POKEHANA

78-742 HWY 111, SUITE A 760-564-0004 POKEHANA.COM

RD RNNR LIBATIONS PINTS & PLATES 78-075 MAIN ST, SUITE 105 442-400-3255 ROADRUNNERLQ.COM

RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS 78-722 HWY 111 760-777-1111 REDROBIN.COM

ROSATI’S PIZZA

79-630 HWY 111, SUITE M2 760-775-8900 MYROSATIS.COM/LAQUINTA

SAM’S KOREAN BBQ AND TERIYAKI GRILL

79-405 HWY 111, SUITE 10 760-777-4189 POSTMATES.COM/MERCHANT/ SAMS-KOREAN-BBQ-TERIYAKI79405-HWY-111

SAM’S SUSHI

79-485 HWY 111, SUITE 5 760-771-8285 SAMSUSHILAQUINTA.COM

SOUL OF CHINA

50-855 WASHINGTON ST, SUITE 2F 760-564-4469 SOULOFCHINACUISINE.COM

TERRA BISTRO AT EMBASSY SUITES LA QUINTA HOTEL & SPA 50-777 SANTA ROSA PLAZA 888-386-1126 HILTON.COM/EN/

CIRCLE K

78-364 HWY 111 760-771-0349

COMPUTER REPAIR CO 78-370 HWY 111 760-564-5855 COMPUTERREPAIRCO.NET

COST PLUS WORLD MARKET 78-983 HWY 111 760-777-7267 WORLDMARKET.COM

THE BEER HUNTER

78-483 HWY 111 760-564-7442 THEBEERHUNTER.COM

THE GRILL ON MAIN

78-065 MAIN ST 760-777-7773 THEGRILLONMAINLQ.COM

THE HABIT BURGER GRILL 79-174 HWY 111 760-564-6900 HABITBURGER.COM

THE SCENE AT CORAL MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB

BANK OF AMERICA

78-400 HWY 111 760-340-1867 BANKOFAMERICA.COM

BANK OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

47-000 WASHINGTON ST. 760-771-0654 BANKSOCAL.COM

BED BATH & BEYOND

79-110 HWY 111 760-777-4637 BEDBATHANDBEYOND.COM

60-151 TRILOGY PKWY, SUITE 2 760-771-0707 CORALMOUNTAINGOLFCLUB. COM/THE-SCENE

BEST BUY

TIFFANY’S SWEET SPOT

BEVMO

79-410 HWY 111, SUITE 101 760-360-1329 TIFFANYSSWEETSPOT.COM

79-220 HWY 111 760-396-9368 BESTBUY.COM 79-715 HWY 111 760- 342-3277 BEVMO.COM

TUSCANO’S & BREWQUINTA

BIG 5

TUSCANOSANDBREWQUINTA.COM

BIG5SPORTINGGOODS.COM/STORE/

78-772 HWY 111 760-625-1129

SHOPs & Services AAA SOUTHERN CA AUTOMOBILE CLUB

46-050 WASHINGTON ST. 760- 771-1162 CALIF.AAA.COM

ALEXANDRITE ACTIVE & GOLF WEAR 78-100 MAIN ST., SUITE 103 760-625-1364 SHOPALEXANDRITE.COM

AT&T

78-982 HWY 111 760- 564-5138 ATT.COM

AUTO ZONE

78-792 HWY 111 760-771-1858 AUTOZONE.COM

78-710 HWY 111 760-771-6626

CALIFORNIA PATIOS PLUS 79-305 HWY 111 760-564-5252 CALIFORNIAPATIO.COM/LAQUINTA-DESIGN-CENTER/

CARTEL JEWELRY 78-371 HWY 111 760-771-6810

CHASE

78-805 HWY 111 760-564-0351 CHASE.COM

CHEVROLET CADILLAC OF LA QUINTA 79-225 HWY 111 760-771-8200 LQCHEVYCADY.COM

CINDY CABANAS STATE FARM

78-370 HWY 111, SUITE 260 760-797-7101 SAVEWITHCINDY.NET

COSTCO

JONATHAN’S CLEANERS

46-660 WASHINGTON ST. 760-771-2616 JONATHANSDRYCLEANERS.COM

KOHL’S

78-950 HWY 111 760-771-4710 KOHLS.COM

LA QUINTA CAR WASH 78-992 HWY 111 760-777-1181

LAQUINTACARWASHANDDETAIL.COM

79-795 HWY 111 760-775-0363 COSTCO.COM

LA QUINTA CLEANERS

CVS

LA QUINTA JEWELERS

DISCOUNT CLEANERS

LA QUINTA MAIL BOXES PACK & SHIP

44-075 JEFFERSON ST. 760-772-2969 CVS.COM 50-801 WASHINGTON ST. 760-771-2226

EVOLVE YOGA

50-991 WASHINGTON ST. 760-564-9642 E-VOLVEYOGA.COM

EXPRESS CLEANERS

79-410 HWY 111 760-396-4661 EXPRESSCLEANERSPICKUP.COM

FEDEX OFFICE PRINT & SHIP CENTER 79-174 HWY 111 760-564-4016 FEDEX.COM

GAMESTOP

79-405 HWY 111 760-564-6804 GAMESTOP.COM

GNC -GENERAL NUTRITION CENTER 78-670 HWY 111 760-564-8300 GNC.COM

HOME DEPOT

79-900 HWY 111 760-347-8722 HOMEDEPOT.COM

HYUNDAI OF LA QUINTA 79-025 HWY 111 760-564-5070 HYUNDAIOFLAQUINTA.COM

JADA BUG’S KIDS BOUTIQUE 78-377 HWY 111 760-347-7406 JADABUGS.COM

78-311 HWY 111 760-564-3310

79-405 HWY 111, SUITE 2 760-777-6420 LAQUINTAJEWELER.COM

78-365 HWY 111 760-564-7007 LAQUINTAMAILBOXES.COM

LESLIE’S SWIMMING POOL SUPPLIES 78-595 HWY 111 760-777-7884 LESLIESPOOL.COM

LOWES HOME IMPROVEMENT 78-865 HWY 111 760-771-5566 LOWES.COM

MECHANICS BANK

51-290 AVENIDA BERMUDAS 760-564-1857 RABOBANKAMERICA.COM

MILAN INSTITUTE OF COSMETOLOGY 78-900 HWY 111 760-771-5520 MILANINSTITUTE.EDU

MINT CLEANERS

50-949 WASHINGTON ST 760-564-5888

MOUNTAINVIEW TIRE AND AUTO SERVICE 79-265 HWY 111 877-872-0128 MOUNTAINVIEWTIRE.COM

OFFICE DEPOT-OFFICE MAX 79-190 HWY 111 760-564-8502 OFFICEDEPOT.COM

OLD TOWN LA QUINTA 78-100 MAIN ST. 760-600-0758 OLDTOWNLAQUINTA.COM

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ONEWEST BANK

STAPLES

T-MOBILE

US TAEKWONDO TEAM

PETCO

STATER BROS. MARKET

TORRE NISSAN

USPS

PETSMART

STEIN MART

TRADER JOE’S

VONS

POSTAL CONNECTION

STORQUEST STORAGE

UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA

WALGREENS

78-010 MAIN ST., SUITE 100 760-771-3498 ONEWESTBANK.COM

78-680 HWY 111 760-564-8957 STAPLES.COM

78-720 HWY 111 760-564-3869 PETCO.COM

79-485 HWY 111 760-564-3195 T-MOBILE.COM

78-630 HWY 111 760-564-5388 STATERBROS.COM

79-375 HWY 111 760-771-4058 PETSMART.COM

78-945 HWY 111 760-771-4430 STEINMART.COM

50-855 WASHINGTON ST., SUITE 2 760-564-5969 POSTALCONNECTIONS.COM

QUICK QUACK CAR WASH 43-632 WASHINGTON ST 760-772-6000 DONTDRIVEDIRTY.COM

SHELL SERVICE STATION 78-998 HWY 111 760-564-6392 DOORDASH.COM

SMART & FINAL

79-770 HWY 111 760-342-1646 SMARTANDFINAL.COM

46-400 WASHINGTON ST. 760-777-1553 TRADERJOES.COM

47-350 DUNE PALMS RD. 760- 230-0584 STORQUEST.COM

TARGET

79-670 HWY 111 760-863-1865 UNIONBANK.COM

UPS SPECIALITY STORE

78-935 HWY 111 760-564-0492 TARGET.COM

79-405 HWY 111 760-771-6311 THEUPSSTORE.COM

THE POOL STORE

78-600 HWY 111 760-771-8011 THEPOOLSTORES.COM

THE VITAMIN SHOPPE 78-692 HWY 111 760-564-5987 VITAMINSHOPPE.COM

BE

79-125 HWY 111 760-777-8999 TORRENISSAN.COM

US BANK

78-435 HWY 111 760-564-6661 USBANK.COM

US BANK

50-991 WASHINGTON ST. 760-564-0019 USBANK.COM

79-825 HWY 111, SUITE 103 760-342-3006 USTT.US 79-125 CORPORATE CENTRE DR. 760-771-6311 USPS.COM 78-271 HWY 111 760-564-2001 VONS.COM 47-900 WASHINGTON ST. 760-771-1526 WALGREENS.COM

WEIGHT WATCHERS

78-995 HWY 111, SUITE 8 800-651-6000 WEIGHTWATCHERS.COM

WELLS FARGO BANK 79-234 HWY 111 760-771-1007 WELLSFARGO.COM

YOGA CENTRAL

78-370 HWY 111, SUITE 185 760-861-8574 YOGACENTRALLAQUINTA.COM

Supporting our LOCAL communities of the

WE CARE 10

Coachella Valley

760-564-3888 www.MotzRusin.com

License # 0M26924

As more and more people are being confined to their homes, Desert Recreation District (District) has over 75 online resources for children and adults, ranging from education and arts & crafts to health & fitness activities, exercises to keep one’s mind sharp, virtual museum tours and more. All of these resources can be accessed at MyRecreationDistrict.com – just scroll down to find the DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT ONLINE RECREATION AND RESOURCE CENTER.

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LY

Another important issue is for people to respect the signs regarding temporary closures at parks, playgrounds, ball fields and other public spaces. While many amenities at the park may be closed, open grass areas at parks may remain open. The District reminds people to keep the social distancing space of six feet and follow other recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). A summary of recommendations for following these guidelines when visiting open public spaces can also be found at MyRecreationDistrict.com.

Please note local municipalities may have different closures.

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“We recognize the importance of being able to stay active when at home, and since many cannot go the gym, we wanted to bring the gym to them” said General Manager Kevin Kalman. “We are also working with local services to help facilitate additional food distributions and other services for the community” Kalman went on to say. Desert Recreation District will post on their Facebook page and website as additional community services are made available to the public.

RED

Submitted by: Desert Recreation District STAFF

Desert Recreation District (DRD) is the largest park and recreation district in California, covering over 1,800 square miles and serving more than 385,000 residents throughout the greater Coachella Valley. DRD manages, maintains and assists in maintaining over 30 parks and recreation facilities; creates and delivers quality programs, services and classes; and, facilitates leisure opportunities through partnerships – this community collaborative approach allows us to provide barrier-free and safe recreational activities. DRD strives to ensure the public receives personal benefits such as physical fitness, relaxation and revitalization; social benefits in the form of stronger and healthier families and enriching the lives for persons with disabilities, and economic benefits through more productive and healthier citizens and increased tourism.

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Desert Recreation District offers Online Recreation & Learning Resources for Everyone

About Desert Recreation District

EN SE D & IN

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Photo Courtesy of The Desert Sun

What’s Happening at

OLD TOWN

Chris & Anita Chmielak, Owners RD RNNR

RD RNNR FEEDS FIRST RESPONDERS While staying open for take-out, Chris and Anita Chmielak, owners of RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates reached out to deliver 50 meals to medical workers at JFK Hospital. Inspired by the service and dedication of Coachella medical staff and other first responders, Chris and Anita developed a mission to continue donating healthy, boxed meals. To assist with this effort, they developed a GoFundMe campaign and have continued delivering meals to JFK, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Station, Thermal Riverside County Sheriff’s Station and more. The donations help this recently opened restaurant to remain sustainable while providing food for local heroes.

RD RNNR Libations, Pints and Plates is known for its Craft American Cuisine, farm to table ingredients, refreshing craft cocktails and a well-balanced selection of hops and rotating craft beers.

RD RNNR has sanitation stations in the kitchen to exceed health department requirements. Food is assembled and boxed wearing gloves and guest pickup areas include a special sanitation station as well.

Curbside pick-up is also available. For RD RNNR’S To-Go Menu visit roadrunnerlq.com.

HOW TO DONATE:

Take-Out Specials: Daily from Noon to 8 p.m. (Closed Wednesdays) Curbside Pick-up & Delivery Via Postmates The take-out menu has relaxed prices and includes beers by the growler, margarita kits to-go craft cocktails, 50% of all bottled wine and 25% off gift cards.

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Go to Roadrunnrlq.com or visit https://bit.ly/39za8aQ Or make a donation at RD RNNR at take-out.

No Donation is too small! Another way to help is to share Facebook, Instagram or GoFundMe page posts with your friends.

Sign-up for our monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date on events, deals and lifestyle news at oldtownlaquinta.com

Thank you for your support!

—Submitted by Old Town Staff

78-100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA

TAKE-OUT, DELIVERY, ON-LINE SHOPPING & SERVICES The Grill on Main Take-out & delivery via Postmates Tuesday-Saturday, 3 to 8 pm To-Go Menu:thegrillonmainlq.com RD RNNR Libations, Pints & Plates Take-out Noon-8pm Daily (except Wednesday) roadrunnerlq.com Alankara Aveda Salon Shop online for products at Alankarasalon.com Alexandrite Active & Golf Wear Online shopping, free delivery or curbside pick-up: shopalexandrite.com Gather Wellness & Movement Studio Online Yoga & podcasts Gatherlaquinta.com H2o Closet Modern Apothecary Shop online, free delivery H2ocloset.com La Quinta Brewery To-Go Beer & Delivery: laquintabrewing.com La Quinta Olive Oil Company Online shopping & curbside pick-up Laquintaoliveoilcompany.com Old Town Optix & Optometry Open Monday & Friday; Contact Lens orders by phone 760-771-0715 Pedego Electric Bikes Home Delivery $300 Off Bikes Pedegolq.com

MAY ON MAIN STREET COVID-19 UPDATE As surely as the bell on Main Street chimes by the hour, we’re reminded that we’ll meet again when the time is right.

These pages went to press in mid-April, so please check with Old Town shops and restaurants for updates on hours and services in May including Stuft Pizza and Old Town’s newest restaurant, TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill.

We look forward to opening as City, County and State orders allow. Until then, we remain a part of global efforts to restore a healthy and safe environment for all.

Our entrepreneurs are grateful to be of service and remain sustainable by providing takeout, feeding first responders, offering online shopping & deliveries, and healthy activities to participate in at home via online yoga and bike rental deliveries.

Stay well. We look forward to seeing you on Main Street one day soon and thank you for your support of small businesses.

The Grill on Main

OLDTOWNLAQUINTA.COM

78100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA

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City Manager’s Message By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager Hello residents of La Quinta and welcome to May here in the Gem of the Desert. The City of La Quinta is making every effort to keep you updated on information regarding COVID-19 as well as ongoing projects throughout our city.

We encourage you to please sign up for NIXLE by texting 92253 to #888-777 to receive information and resources straight to your phone. If you signed up previously for event-related updates, we suggest signing up again to insure that you are receiving city updates.

You can contact us through our Hotline at 760.777.7130 (Monday – Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM) or email us at COVID19@LAQUINTACA.GOV. If you are a business in La Quinta that is struggling due to COVID-19, be sure to visit our website for a list of business resources that are helpful. All this information and more can be found at www.laquintaca.gov/covid19.

If you have Code or COVID related concerns you need to report, please call 760-777-7050. The Code/COVID Reinforcement team is available to assist you with these reports or visit the GoRequest app where you can also report code or COVID related concerns.

Even though City Hall is currently closed to the public, staff is still available and ready to help. Here is a list of services available online:

While out and about, please make sure if you are using rubber gloves or disposable masks to not throw them on the floor. Please use a trash can to dispose of these items. We love our Gem of the Desert and want to keep it beautiful. Help us do this by properly disposing of these items.

During this time, there are CIP projects under construction and being completed. Two electric vehicle charging station locations have been constructed. One is on the northeast corner of Highway 111 and Washington in the One-Eleven Center, and the other at the La Quinta Park on Blackhawk Way just east of Adams Street.

Stage one of the La Quinta Village Complete Streets Project construction has been completed along the Calle Tampico corridor. Stage 2 of the project is underway constructing the Avenue 52/Sinaloa and Avenida Bermudas roundabout. Please be aware that there is a temporary intersection closure at Avenue 52/Sinaloa and Avenida Bermudas through mid-May and the use of alternate routes is recommended.Check out the project progress, see photos, watch live video footage and more information at www.lqcompletestreets.com or www. laquintaca.gov/completestreets. You can also sign up for alerts and stay updated on the project progress by texting LAQUINTAVILLAGE to 22828.

The Fiscal Year 2019/20 Pavement Management Plan (PMP) Slurry Seal Improvements include over 2.1 million square feet of slurry seal and striping on portions of Avenue 54, Madison Street, Avenue 58, and Calle Tecate. The contractor is applying the second coat of striping and legends and installing pavement markers and signs. Construction is anticipated to be complete in May 2020.

We want to thank you again for letting all of us at City Hall serve you. Please be diligent during these times and again, follow the guidelines being set forth for all of our safety.

• City Clerk Services – www.laquintaca.gov/

CITYCLERK • Code Compliance Services – www.laquintaca.gov/ CODE • Emergency Services – www.laquintaca.gov/EM • HUB Services – www.laquintaca.gov/HUB • Go Request Services – www.laquintaca.gov/ GOREQUEST • Short Term Vacation Rental – www.laquintaca.go/ STVR You can also call us directly at 760.7770.7000.

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Stay Healthy and Engaged from Home

The Wellness Center encourages fitness members and the La Quinta community to continue with your fitness journey from home.

Register for the My Wellness App at laquintaca.gov/WellnessCenter

Explore ways to remain active with the La Quinta Library and gain access to digital library services Check us out at laquintapl.blogspot.com

Take an online trip to the Museum with video exhibits, virtual field trips, downloadable activities and much more.

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/LaQuintaMuseum

Get your maker moment online with Creation Station.

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THANK YOU RESIDENTS OF LA QUINTA! Thank you for pushing to help flatten the curve, for heeding the precautions, for compiling with the state and local orders and for helping our local businesses.

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Financial Gems The Issue of Taxes: Where Do We Go From Here?

Submitted by: Jason Schneider, Osborne Rincon CPAs As we stare down the peak of the COVID-19 health crisis, people and businesses are doing everything they can to get by and make ends meet. There’s no denying the health tragedy at hand, but we also need to acknowledge and plan for the recovery of the economic fallout and challenges as well. Looking at the impact on the economy and the coming months, it’s imperative that we begin planning now for how we’ll pull ourselves and our businesses out of the economic hole that has been created.

The federal government developed several economic stimulus packages for those affected by COVID-19, and hopefully you’ve been able to take advantage of by now.

If not, as of this writing, it’s not too late to put in for an Economic Disaster Relief loan or a Paycheck Protection Program loan. Your local CPA or banker can help you navigate this process.

In addition to the immediate stimulus opportunities, it’s important to prepare your business to be ready to operate fully once we are able to move about and conduct commerce again. Preparing a cash flow projection for your business for the next 3 months, 6 months and 12 months will help you determine your cash flow needs for capital use or borrowing.

One of the key lessons learned through this global pandemic is that most businesses were ill-equipped to operate in a fully digital or virtual environment. We were forced to learn and adapt on the fly while businesses that had prepared or were already working in this space were able to transition seamlessly.

We keep hearing words like “the new normal” and while this helps us cope with the environment we’re in now, we need to use this time to transition our businesses into the “next normal.” To ensure you’re able to not only make it to the next normal but thrive, it’s imperative that you understand the scalability and digital infrastructure of your business.

Take this time to get a firm grasp on how you will meet the needs of your current and future customers in the

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digital space. Are you able to scale your business up or down based on factors that are out of your control? Do you fully understand your pricing structure, and can you scale it accordingly?

Many times, small business owners spend too much time working “in” their business as opposed to working “on” their business; a lesson to be gained from this slow-down. Now is a good time to set up your business digitally in order to take advantage of the current and future market conditions. Lean on your professional partnerships as you work to evaluate how to best grow out of the current business climate and into the recovery period.

Jason A. Schneider, CPA, is a partner with Osborne Rincon CPAs. He has been in public and private accounting for over 17 years and works with clients to help them achieve their business and personal financial goals. Osborne Rincon is one of the oldest and most respected full-service accounting firms in the Coachella Valley. To learn more, call (760) 777-7805 or go to www.

OsborneRincon.com

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STUFT PIZZA: GRATEFUL FOR THIS COMMUNITY’S SUPPORT Submitted by: John Bertram, STUFT PIZZA The Pizza business and providing quality customer service in our family dates back 44 years. We are proud to be locally owned and operated in the Coachella Valley.

Since our original opening in the La Quinta Cove on November 2004, and our opening at Westfield Palm Desert in 2014, we have become a strong small business, growing to provide jobs for over 180 employees between the two locations.

We don’t take our role in the community lightly and we have found ourselves making tough decisions during this difficult time, choosing to err on the side of caution, to help keep our employees and our loyal customers safe.

We appreciate the support, concern and patience as we have navigated the ever-changing recommendations and mandates provided by local and state governments.

No one could have predicted the challenges that 2020 would bring. Only being allowed to have a limited number of staff at each location (with social distancing) has tested us, but similar to other local restaurants, we felt it was very important to find a way to offer take-out. We consider our employees family, we miss them, and hope to be able to have our entire crew back to work soon.

The community support during the transition time has been unbelievable and for that we are truly grateful.

Everyone had hoped for things to be back to normal in early May, but that reality proved to be very unlikely.

We have been blessed to be able to provide a muchneeded break to those tired of cooking at home. This has been a trying time for everyone, and we can’t thank the community enough for supporting us through take-out orders.

The good news is that during the extended closure, we have taken the opportunity to freshen up our dining rooms with new booths, paint, carpet and a few other surprises. The safety of our employees and guests will continue to be our top priority once we are given the goahead to reopen. We cannot wait to see you inside our restaurants again when the timing is right. Stay safe from the Stuft Family!

Stuft Pizza is located at 78015 Main Street in Old Town La Quinta and 72840 Highway 111 at Westfield Palm Desert.

For more information call (760) 777-9989, or visit www. stuftpizzabarandgrill.com

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Dr. Sonja Fung Dr. Sonja Fung

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Take a Pause during this Pause and Just Breathe.

Submitted by: Dr. Shari Jainuddin, Live Well Clinic The impact of how we breath cannot be overstated when it comes to its effect on our health. But you already know this. You use your breath to regulate your body’s state of being more often than you realize. How many times have you taken a deep breath to calm yourself down when you get upset or when you sit down to relax?

Breathing isn’t just about getting oxygen into our bodies, although that is critical. It is also about getting waste products out. It’s one of the important pathways of detoxification. There are countless variables that influence and are influenced by breathing. Additionally, respiration (breathing) involves a highly complex network of communication between all these variables and our bodies continuously adjust accordingly to keep us in homeostasis (i.e. a healthy balance).

There are many challenges in our daily lives that we must navigate. Breathing is an unconscious function and continues in the background of these events, another words, most of us don’t have to focus on taking every breath as we go about our lives. However, our breathing patterns can become chronically maladaptive. Symptoms that result from long-term improper breathing include sleep disorders, Reynaud’s syndrome, memory issues, sexual dysfunction, blurred vision, anxiety, chronic cough, frequent sighing, nausea, palpitations, GI issues (including irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis), and hypertension. These are just a few.

With all the stress and urgency in the typical American lifestyle, it is not unexpected that many of us are improperly breathing. There is something that can be done about it. It’s called breath training. Through breath training, proper breathing techniques are learned and practiced. Consider this like any other training, the more you train, the better you get at it and the more it becomes second nature. With continued practice, many people over time notice varying amounts of relief from or complete resolution of symptoms. Although it does take time and practice, what I cherish about this intervention is that it is with you wherever you go. All you have to do is breathe.

Dr. Shari Jainuddin graduated from Bastyr University and is currently doing her residency at the Live Well Clinic in La Quinta, CA. She is now accepting new patients. If you are interested in discussing your specific healthcare needs, please contact the Live Well Clinic at 760-771-5970.

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51-230 Eisenhower Drive • La Quinta

800.567.5918 www. ask b r id g it. c o m 800.567.5918 800.567.5918 www. askb r id g it. c o m www. askb r id g it. c o m

Health Insurance, More Important Than Ever Submitted by: Randy Foulds, Foulds & Feldmann Insurance Agency Many who lost their jobs over the last few weeks also lost their health insurance. Getting replacement coverage in place can seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. And, if you already have a Covered California plan, remember to log in to your account and update your income if it has changed due to a furlough or lay off.

Covered California application process can seem cumbersome, but if you know what to expect, you can get through the application and get enrolled in less than 30 minutes. Here are some of the questions you will want to have answers to before you begin: Who is in your household? This refers to your household for tax purposes. Think about who is listed on your tax return. Head of household should be the same person listed first on your return, and then spouse, children and other dependents. Remember this refers to your 2020 tax return that you will file next year. List everyone who will be listed on your return, even if they have insurance. You will be asked that question later. If one spouse has Medicare and the other does not, they still need to both be listed in the household and their income included.

What is your household income? You will need a reasonable estimate for each person you just listed in the household and the source of the income. If you do not know for sure, estimate for now, you can change it later.

Other important documents you will need for each person include, Social Security number, immigration status, immigration document number and California Driver’s license for at least the head of household.

Once you have completed the application, the system will calculate how much assistance you qualify for in three areas. First, the Advanced Premium Tax Credit. This is the amount of tax credit you will receive to help pay for the health insurance premium. This is paid directly to the insurer, so you only pay the net premium amount. In other words, if the plan has a premium of $500, but you qualify for $400 in monthly tax credit, you only pay the $100 difference each month. Second, it will calculate the state premium subsidy. This is a smaller amount that will further reduce your premium each month. And third, the Cost Sharing reduction, if any. This is a level of extra help available for those who qualify for the tax credit, and will reduce your out of pocket expenses by reducing your deductible and copays, but only if you select the Silver level plan.

Next you will see a variety of health plans from four insurers available in our area; Anthem Blue Cross (HMO only), Kaiser Permanente (HMO only) Blue Shield and Healthnet (both PPO and HMO). All of these are available in high deductible Bronze plans, Silver moderate deductible plans, and zero deductible Gold and Platinum plans. If you receive the tax credit and the state subsidy, the net premium you will pay is what is shown in the plan detail. The Silver plans will also show if you have reduced deductible and co-pays. Remember, you only get cost sharing reduction on Silver level plans but you can apply your tax credit amount to any level plan.

Here is where many get frustrated. What plan to select?

Which doctors and hospitals take these plans? Each insurer has a link to their provider directory where you can look up the doctors and hospitals. But, the lists are far from complete. For example, if you normally see a PA, you will need to look for the name of the doctor or practice, not the PA. If you must know for sure if your current doctor or any specific provider is in network, it is best to call them and ask. But, to get an accurate answer, don’t just ask if they take Blue Shield or Healthnet. Use the exact full name of the plan. The plan name is shown on the Covered CA website. It helps a lot if you have made this call in advance and asked what Covered California plans your doctor will take.

Once you select a plan, you will see a link to pay your first premium. This is very important! Making the first premium payment binds the contract for your policy. Until you send the insurer a payment, they are not obligated to cover you.

Your health insurance cannot be declined or cancelled for health reasons, but one of the very few ways to get your policy cancelled is to miss a payment, especially the first payment. Make the payment immediately using the link provided and print the receipt.

Once you and your family have a Covered California health insurance plan, you can update your household information and income at anytime, on the website or on the phone.

If your income is now lower, you can probably qualify for more tax credit each month, giving you a lower monthly net premium to pay.

This may all sound very daunting but millions of California residents qualify for tax credit and enroll in these plans each year. If completing the application online proves to difficult, then call Covered CA and enroll over the phone or request help from a local agent under the ”Get Help” link on the Covered CA website. There are currently nine agents listed in La Quinta who can help you get enrolled, including us.

This is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional advice. Randy Foulds of Foulds & Feldmann Insurance Agency is an independent broker and Medicare specialist in La Quinta. license #0G69218. You can reach him at 760-346-6565.

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Cover: #LQATHOME During the stay home period here in La Quinta, our residents have found all sorts of ways to stay busy. The City of La Quinta went to social media asking people to post their #lqathome photos. Thank you to everyone who participated.

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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:

• The Institute of Clinical Orthopedics and Neurosciences for joint replacement, sports medicine and an array of orthopedic and neuros services • La Quinta Imaging provides a wide array of medical imaging, including X-ray, CT and MRI scans • Desert Regional Medical Center’s Comprehensive Cancer Center satellite facility offers consultations, infusion services, and screening mammography • 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 | (760) 323-6511

DesertCareNetwork.com