The GEM July 2025 by Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

THE GEM

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

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.

Summer Momentum in La Quinta

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

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

As we welcome July in the Gem of the Desert, there’s a unique energy in the air. While the summer months may be quieter for some local businesses, this is also a season of opportunity—time to reflect, plan, and continue building momentum for the year ahead.

At the La Quinta Chamber, we’re focused on ensuring that our business community remains supported, informed, and connected. Whether you’re a long-standing member or a new entrepreneur finding your footing, we want you to know: we’re in your corner.

Congratulations to Our Business Awards Honorees and Chamber Board

We recently celebrated the Chamber’s Annual Installation and Business Awards Ceremony—and what an inspiring evening it was! Congratulations to all our honorees, whose dedication and innovation help make La Quinta such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

We also extend a warm welcome and heartfelt congratulations to our newly installed and returning board members. Your leadership and commitment are instrumental to the continued growth and success of our Chamber and the entire business community.

Keeping Business Flowing During Highway Improvements

As Caltrans continues improvements along Highway 111, we want to remind everyone: La Quinta is open for business. Detours may be temporary, but the exceptional service, food, and experiences our businesses provide are ongoing. Support your local favorites this summer—they need you now more than ever.

Lake Cahuilla: An Oasis Worth Exploring

Looking for a refreshing escape close to home? Lake Cahuilla offers fishing, camping, scenic views, and a cool break from the heat. It’s a hidden gem that reflects our city’s unique balance of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

What’s Next

This summer, we’re continuing to work with city leaders and regional partners on initiatives that drive long-term economic vitality. From workforce development to small business support, the Chamber remains committed to being a resource and advocate for local progress.

Thank you for being part of what makes La Quinta special. Whether you’re networking at a mixer, mentoring a new entrepreneur, or simply enjoying a local hike, you are contributing to the success of our community.

Stay cool, stay connected—and we’ll see you around town.

Jeff Fishbein, an INTERNATIONAL DIAMOND SOCIETY award winning REALTOR affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty, the desert’s premier real estate firm, boasts an impressive track record of assisting both home sellers and buyers. Garnering a 5 Star rating on Zillow.com, Jeff has earned widespread acclaim for his exceptional service. Embracing the motto, Not the BIGGEST Realtor, but the BEST, Jeff consistently demonstrates

A Legacy of Discovery: La Quinta Bids Farewell to Beloved

Educator Maria Luz Puente

Story by: GCVCC Staff

A Legacy of Discovery: La Quinta Bids Farewell to Beloved Educator Maria Luz Puente

After more than three decades of inspiring students across generations, Maria Luz Puente has officially retired, leaving behind a remarkable legacy at La Quinta High School and beyond. Her teaching journey—spanning from elementary classrooms to college lecture halls—has shaped countless lives, making her a cherished figure in the La Quinta educational community.

Maria’s path to La Quinta began across the Atlantic in Spain, where her family’s deep-rooted tradition of teaching planted the seed for her own vocation. In 1990, she was recruited by the local school district in a bilingual teacher outreach effort and offered a position that would forever change her life. “That has been the best opportunity of my life,” she reflects. “I wanted to make a difference in students’ lives and to inspire them to excel in their academic endeavors.”

Her career began at Madison and Hoover Elementary Schools, before transitioning to La Quinta High School in 1996—a post she held until her retirement in 2025. Throughout her tenure, Maria also taught Spanish as an adjunct professor at College of the Desert, further broadening her impact on students of all ages.

Maria’s teaching philosophy blended structure with compassion. “Discipline, organization, high standards, and humor,” she says, were her classroom cornerstones. Her students were regularly challenged to reflect on their personal growth and goals, often through thoughtful exercises like journaling about their strengths, values, and role models.

Among her most cherished accomplishments are the countless student connections forged over the years. “When I see students flourish and mature, I feel I’ve accomplished my mission,” she shares. Maria was frequently recognized by former students in everyday places—cafés, grocery stores, gas stations—each encounter a testament to the enduring influence she had on their lives.

One memorable initiative she spearheaded involved having honors students take the reins of the classroom, working in teams to teach grammar and verb conjugations. “It was a very enriching academic experience,” she recalls. “Watching students take ownership of their learning was incredibly fulfilling.”

While education has transformed over the years—technology reshaping how students learn and collaborate—Maria adapted with grace, never losing sight of her core belief: that every student is capable of growth and excellence.

Now entering retirement, Maria looks forward to a life filled with creativity and adventure. Her plans include traveling, reading, dancing, gardening,

cooking, photography, birdwatching, and perhaps even teaching part-time at the college level. “There is a whole world out there ready to be explored and discovered,” she says with a smile.

When asked what she hopes her students remember most, her answer is simple and profound: “That I cared about them, their intellectual learning, and their personal development.”

In one word, Maria Luz Puente describes her teaching journey as “Discovery”—a fitting tribute to a career that not only uncovered the potential in others, but also helped her realize her own.

Escape Games Brings Interactive Adventure to La Quinta

Story by: GCVCC Staff

La Quinta’s entertainment landscape is about to get a major boost with the arrival of Escape Games, an immersive puzzlebased adventure experience coming soon to the city. Following the success of their first location at The River in Rancho Mirage, owners Charlie and Mia Sundahl are excited to bring the same high-quality entertainment to La Quinta—with an all-new slate of escape room challenges designed for families, tourists, and locals alike.

Charlie Sundahl, who first moved to the Coachella Valley in 2000, spent nearly two decades working as a golf professional at prestigious clubs such as The Vintage Club and The Springs Club. It was during this time that he and Mia noticed a gap in the local entertainment offerings—particularly for interactive, group-friendly fun. That observation led to the launch of their first Escape Games venue, which has since become a go-to destination for puzzle lovers and curious adventurers.

Escape rooms have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. The concept is simple yet captivating: participants are “locked” in a themed room and must work together to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and complete their

mission within 60 minutes. No special knowledge is needed—just a sense of curiosity, a bit of creativity, and solid teamwork.

What sets Escape Games apart is the level of detail and craftsmanship involved in creating each game. The design and build process for a single room can take four to six months. Every puzzle, prop, and storyline is custom-built, and once a room is completed, it’s tested extensively by beta groups to fine-tune the experience. The result? Games that are immersive, smooth-flowing, and rewarding.

The La Quinta location will open with one to two rooms, eventually expanding to six unique experiences. Initial offerings include “Tiki Island,” a family-friendly tropical adventure perfect for beginners, and an imaginative “Alice in Wonderland” game with a whimsical twist. Fans of seasonal festivities will also be pleased to learn that the Sundahls’ popular holiday-themed escape room—run each year from mid-November through early January—will make its debut in La Quinta this winter.

Escape Games welcomes a wide range of visitors. Families, retirees, tourists, birthday parties, and corporate teams all find a home here. The facility is designed to be inclusive and accessible—

no scary actors or horror themes, just pure puzzle-solving fun suitable for kids, grandparents, and everyone in between. Community engagement is also a key part of their mission. Special group pricing is available for parties of 25 or more, and the team is committed to supporting local fundraisers, schools, and nonprofit efforts through donations and collaborations.

Though small in size—with plans to employ seven to eight local staff— Escape Games brings big energy and excitement. The La Quinta location is projected to open in late July or early August. To stay updated, follow them on Instagram @escapetheriver or visit escapegameslaquinta.com.

For locals and visitors seeking a new way to spend quality time together, Escape Games promises a one-of-a-kind experience full of laughter, challenge, and those unforgettable “aha!” moments.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBERR 12TH | 10:30

Our Hero in Uniform: LQMS

Celebrates a Leader, Father and Patriot

Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta

With cheers, tears and hugs, La Quinta Middle School (LQMS) celebrated Assistant Principal Jared Goldman, giving him a hero’s sendoff a few days before he left for a year of active duty with the Army National Guard.

Members of La Quinta High School’s Air Force Reserve Junior Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) participated in the event on May 21, saluting Goldman, a captain in the Army National Guard, as he sat in a special chair decorated with red, white and blue garland.

Students in the school’s Renaissance Leadership class performed dance routines, while others lined the quad waving flags, many dressed in red, white or blue, cheering for Goldman.

Cheers quickly turned into tears for most, including Goldman, as he went out to hug his surprise guests: his wife and three children all wearing T-shirts that said: “Land of the Free Because of the Brave.” Behind the family, students held up a sign, “Our Hero,” and Lee Greenwood’s song, “God Bless the U.S.A.” blared.

Goldman stood with his family in the center of the quad and students lined up to drop personal messages of well-wishes into a jar they gave him. Students then crowded around him for a group hug and photo.

The City also presented Goldman with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service. He expects to return to the school in May 2026.

A Dream to Serve

Goldman has spent 14 years at La Quinta Middle School, 11 years as a counselor and the last two as assistant principal. He came to the middle school from La Quinta High School where he was a counselor from 2006 to 2011. He also served concurrently as an adjunct counselor and professor at College of the Desert for 16 years.

His family consists of his wife, Des, daughter Brooksie, sons Rylan, who plays football for LQ High School, and Daxton, the youngest of the three, two French bulldogs and various creatures including fish and a lizard.

“And a (list) that goes on and on and on and on,” Goldman said with a chuckle. “Anything we find. We had a pet spider for a while. My 9-year-old … finds these things and is like, ‘let’s create a habitat for them.’ OK,” Goldman said.

Goldman joined the Guard about 13 years ago, fulfilling a desire he’d had to serve in the military since he was a teenager.

“When I was in high school I wanted to join the military. Mom said, ‘Absolutely not.’ Her father was in the Army, so I think there was this thing of be safe, we don’t want you to have to go to war,” he said.

Around 2004, Goldman started talking to a recruiter who was a good friend but who moved out of state before Goldman made a final decision to enlist.

“Then in 2012, I was looking for a challenge and started doing some Googling and ran across the Army National Guard,” he said. Enlisting in the Guard meant he could keep his job at the school and serve his country at the same time. He met with a recruiter and within a couple of months was off to basic training followed by Officer Candidate School (OCS), graduating in 2013.

He now serves as a captain with the 224th Finance Battalion based in Ontario.

He serves as the executive officer of the Finance Battalion, a new roll for him.

“I was in command for five-and-a-half years and now I support the battalion commander. It’s different here than in a deployed environment. Ultimately, we have different shops that are responsible for everything that happens

– administration, supply, logistics … I am their boss,” he said.

“So, anything that happens with the unit that has to do with the functioning is me,” Goldman explained.

While he knew where he was deploying to, he wasn’t sure if it was information he could share publicly but said it is outside of the continental United States.

“I should be fine,” Goldman said, adding that where he was going “is the safest possible environment I could be in, which makes me happy and makes my wife happy, because there are always those concerns.”

This is his first deployment outside of the U.S. though he was called to active duty a few years ago during the riots in Southern California.

Goldman looked forward to the deployment, saying he values being able to give to his country full-time.

“I’m excited for the opportunity,” he said, adding that he plans to return to LQMS following his deployment.

“I totally feel that … when you come to La Quinta Middle you become part of a family,” he said.

His last day at LQMS was May 23, and he took some time off to spend with his family before deploying on June 5.

“The longest I have been away is three months, so 10 is going to be not easy. I will miss my children and my wife immensely,” Goldman said.

A Little Bit of Japan Comes to La Quinta:

Daiso Opens Its Doors This July

Story by: GCVCC Staff

La Quinta residents and visitors alike are about to get a delightful new destination for discovering fun, functional, and affordable finds—Japan’s beloved retailer, Daiso, is officially opening its doors in La Quinta on Saturday, July 19. Located at 78870 Hwy 111, this vibrant and valuedriven specialty store promises a one-ofa-kind shopping experience that blends practicality, charm, and international flair.

Daiso, a global Japanese retailer with a strong and growing presence in the U.S. since 2005, is renowned for offering an eclectic mix of products that range from household goods and kitchenware to beauty products, stationery, and irresistible Japanese snacks. Known for turning everyday shopping into a treasure hunt, Daiso delivers the joy of discovery with each aisle.

At 8,000 square feet, the new La Quinta store offers ample space for guests to explore hundreds of items across its most popular product categories. Whether you’re searching for stylish storage solutions, clever kitchen tools, adorable plushies, or a fresh set of “chair socks”— yes, that’s a thing!—you’ll find something to surprise and delight you.

Why La Quinta? According to Daiso representatives, the city’s dynamic mix of tourists and retirees makes it a perfect match for the brand’s value-focused and joy-filled retail approach. “We’re excited to bring Daiso’s unique shopping experience to such a vibrant and welcoming community,” a spokesperson shared. “La Quinta offers the perfect environment for us to introduce our curated selection of Japanese-inspired essentials and fun finds.”

While the store won’t feature La Quintaor Coachella Valley-exclusive items just yet, customers will enjoy grand opening giveaways and special promotions. The first 200 customers who make a $20 purchase on Saturday, July 19, will receive an exclusive California Daiso tote bag. The fun continues into Sunday, July 20, with a special gift with purchase and coupon offers all weekend long, while supplies last. The store opens at 9 AM on Saturday and 10 AM on Sunday, so early birds are sure to get the best picks!

Looking ahead, Daiso also announced exciting expansion plans with a new location coming to Palm Springs this August at The Springs shopping center— another sign of the brand’s growing popularity in the Coachella Valley.

Although there are no La Quinta-specific community partnerships or events scheduled at this time, Daiso is eager to become a community staple. The brand is committed to offering a warm, familyfriendly atmosphere where residents can browse, discover, and enjoy. Their hope? That locals will embrace the store as a goto spot for practical goods, creative gifts, and the occasional whimsical treat.

To stay up-to-date on new arrivals and promotions, customers can visit daisous.com or follow Daiso on Instagram (@daiso_usa) and Facebook (@ DaisoUsaOfficial). For inquiries, call the La Quinta location at 442-241-0455.

Whether you’re a seasoned Daiso fan or new to the brand, one thing is clear: La Quinta is in for a charming new shopping adventure.

I wish you all a very happy and safe Fourth of July.

This year, the holiday falls on a Friday, creating the opportunity for a long weekend with friends and family taking in some of La Quinta’s many outdoor and indoor places for hiking, biking, walking and cooling off with a meal and some entertainment.

In addition to our beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails, there are about 80 miles of designated bike lanes throughout La Quinta that make it easy to pedal to Old Town, the museum, library, Wellness Center and parks.

The City has 17 parks, including the challenging X Park, the largest in the Coachella Valley and one of the premier

CITY UPDATES

• The extensive Highway 111 pavement rehabilitation project is underway and expected to take four to five months to complete. Traffic will be impacted and the best way to plan your commute route is to sign up to receive text message updates about lane closures and more at www.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

skate parks in the country, as stated by Tony Hawk and other pros.

The competition level extreme sports complex includes 31,000 square feet of skate area, bowls, street course and pump track. The facility also includes a 1,400-square-foot pro shop with restrooms and shaded seating areas where people can sit and watch skateboarders, BMXers and others test and hone their skills.

X Park was built for all ages and skill levels, including wheelchair and adaptive athletes. Check the website, www.laquintaca.gov/xpark for current hours and prices. The website also has summer skate camp information and applications.

Many of our community parks have shaded picnic tables and playgrounds. La Quinta Park on Blackhawk Way, La Quinta

lqhighway111.com. The businesses along Highway 111 continue to be open and accessible throughout construction.

• The next phase of the Pavement Management Program (PMP) was awarded June 3, with the following cove streets receiving slurry seal: Avenida Rubio, Avenida Alvarado, Avenida Obregon, Avenida Carranza,

Community Park on Avenida Montezuma, and Fritz Burns Park also have barbecues. You can find a full list of our parks and amenities at www.laquintaca.gov/parks. If you spend time outdoors, please remember to lather on the sunscreen, carry plenty of water and do your hiking, biking or walking early in the day before it gets too hot.

Be sure to pack extra water and snacks for your furry family member, as well, and protect your dog’s paws from the hot sand and pavement with shoes.

Don’t forget that pets must be on leashes, and please clean up after them.

In celebrating our nation’s 249th birthday, please remember that fireworks are illegal in La Quinta and if caught and cited, you may be fined as much as $5,000.

Calle Potrero, Calle Temecula, Calle Chillon, Calle Arroba, Calle Colima, Calle Monterey, and Calle Chihuahua. Construction is anticipated to start in late June.

• The Fritz Burns Park Improvement Project is out to bid with construction anticipated to start late July.

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

Physical Wellness

Walking Group 8 – 10

M/W/F (summer- indoors)

Mat Pilates

Personal Trainer (by appt.) 9

Yoga Flow (with Billee) 11

Social Wellness

Blackjack 21 for Fun ($2) 2 – 4 p.m. M La Quinta Ukulele Strummers 2 – 4 p.m. F

Movie Matinee 1 p.m. M (call center for movie)

Social Bridge 12 - 4 p.m. M (call Pat 760-219-9972; Fee: $4)

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

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

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

Look Who’s in the Lobby

Medicare Health Insurance: Tuesdays, July 8 & 15, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Free information, and answers to your questions about Medicare provided by Bill Proctor & Associates Inc.

Welbe Health: Wednesday, July 9, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Information available on customized care plans to meet seniors’ health and social needs (person-centered all-inclusive care).

HICAP One-on-One Consultations: Monday, July 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

A HICAP counselor one-on-one appointment to help you understand your Medicare health insurance benefits. Appointments to meet at the Wellness Center can be made by calling HICAP at 800-434-0222 or 909-256-8369.

10 Most Important Medicare Tips: July 22, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Health Insurance presentation provided by Bill Proctor & Associates Inc.

FIND Food Bank: Wednesday, July 23, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Information on FIND food bank mobile markets, Cal-Fresh, and low-income utility assistance.

LA QUINTA MUSEUM

NEW FEATURED EXHIBIT:

She Sang Me A Good Luck Song: The California Indian Photographs of Dugan Aguilar, on exhibit through September 20

This exhibition reveals the richness and vibrancy of Native California cultures, featuring the works of Dugan Aguilar (Mountain Maidu/Pit River/Walker River Paiute). Aguilar, a well-known photographer of Native life, spoke his heart through his photography. Aguilar’s photos defy the romanticized and melodramatic images by which Native people are often depicted. Ranging from portraits of military veterans, basket makers, and dancers to meditative landscapes, Aguilar’s work documented – and contributes to – the perseverance and renewal of Native California’s living, vibrant cultures.

“She Sang Me A Good Luck Song: The California Indian Photographs of Dugan Aguilar” is a partnership with Exhibit Envoy, Heyday Books, and the Native Fund, curated by Theresa Harlan and artist Dugan Aguilar.

Spotlight exhibit in our Local History gallery:

Wish You Were Here!

See La Quinta through the lens of vacationers and road-trippers discovering the wonders of the desert, as we take a look at the postcards in the collection of the La Quinta Historical Society.

77885 Avenida Montezuma

La Quinta, CA 92253 (760) 777-7170

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

Admission and programs are FREE

Please note: The Museum will be CLOSED on Friday, July 4, for Independence Day

EVENTS:

Saturday, July 26, 1-3 p.m.

Summer Family Fun: Indoor Bird Watch!

Join us in the Mural Room to meet the bird ambassadors from Avian Behavior International!

PROGRAMS:

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

Tuesday, July 8 & 22, 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, July 9, 1 p.m.:

TED Talk Hangout

Let’s enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month: “How Language Shapes the Way We Think” by Lera Boroditsky.

Saturday, July 12, 1-3 p.m.

Genealogy Meet-Up

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in all things Genealogy, join us for discussion and collaboration. This month, we will watch a video and show a demonstration of Ancestry Pro Tools.

Tuesday, July 15, 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 visits three places across the state where the splendor of California is in full bloom: Daffodil Hill in the Gold Country, the Ranunculas fields of Carlsbad Ranch, and the California Poppy Reserve in Antelope Valley – all amazing vistas where swaths of color stretch as far as the eye can see.

Friday, July 18, 1-3 p.m.

Sketchbook Journaling

Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided. (Please note: Sketchbook Journaling will not be held on Friday, July 4, as the Museum will be closed for the holiday.)

Saturday, July 19, 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, July 31, 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 “Weaving Sundown in a Scarlet Light: Fifty Poems for Fifty Years” by Jo Harjo. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants; call 760-777-7170 to request one.

IT’S YOUR LIBRARY

La Quinta Public Library is located at 78-275 Calle Tampico. Enjoy FREE programs for all ages! Questions? Call 760-564-4767 | Rivlib.net

SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW PROGRAMS

Summer Reading Adventure

Monday, June 9, through Friday, July 18 | All Ages

Discover, learn, grow with fun programs and exciting rewards with our Summer Reading Adventure for all ages. To wrap up our summer programs, join us for some fun at the David Skale Magic Show! Lunch at the Library is Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 12 – 2 p.m. Lunch at the Library is for ages 17 and under only.

Original Character Creation

Friday, July 11 @ 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. | Ages 13 - 17

Create and design an original character with Andy Taylor, the instructor of Teen Digital Art Camp at Old Town Artisan Studios! Children 11 and 12 years old allowed with parent permission. All supplies provided while they last. No registration required.

David Skale Magic Show

Friday, July 18 @ 11 a.m. | All Ages

Join us for a family-friendly morning of comedy and magic with magician David Skale!

Food Waste-Food Rescue

Friday, July 25 @ 11 a.m. | All Ages

Learn strategies on how to waste less food as you shop, cook or eat out, plus learn the basics of food rescue from the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Culinary Kids

Monday, July 7 @ 11 a.m. | Ages 5-7

Monday, July 21 @ 11 a.m. | Ages 8-12

Little chefs can discover the joys of cooking with the Charlie Cart! Kids will learn food safety, kitchen skills, and how to create their own delicious dishes with the help of library staff. The CLA Lunch at the Library Partner Project is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by

the State of California, administered by the California State Library.

Anime Cafe

Saturday, July 5 @ 1 – 2 p.m. | Ages 13-17

A fun space to hang out, watch anime, read manga, and try the Japanese snack of the month (while supplies last)!

Level Up LQ

Saturdays, July 12 & 26 @ 12 – 2 p.m. | Ages 13-17

Calling all teen gamers! Join us to play a variety of games on a variety of consoles including the PS4, Nintendo Switch, & more!

LQ Garden Club

Saturday, July 12 @ 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages 18+

Interested in all things green? Whether you’re new or experienced, join us at the La Quinta Library as we learn to grow and maintain our very own library garden! Let’s beat the heat this month and make a DIY terracotta plant label! The CLA Lunch at the Library Partner Project is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.

Page Turners Book Club

Thursday, July 17 @ 10:30 a.m. | Ages 18+

In July, we’ll discuss “The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean” by Susan Casey. Register at the Information Desk, as copies are limited.

LA QUINTA CREATION STATION PROGRAMS

Questions about Creation Station programs? Call 760-777-7088

MakerSpace AGE Restriction: Patrons must be at least 7 years old to enter MakerSpace Room. Anyone under 14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

SRA Week 4 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild Gelatinous Cube Construction THURSDAY, July 3 | 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

AHHHH! Beware this gooey monster! The Maker’s Guild will be constructing small Gelatinous Cube that will fit over most tabletop miniature figures. FREE (While Supplies Last) | Ages 7+

SRA Week 5 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild D&D Character Build THURSDAY, July 10 | 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

The Maker’s Guild will be learning how to build a playable D&D character using guidebooks and campaign information. FREE (While Supplies Last) | Ages 7+

SRA Week 6 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild Live D&D Campaigns The Trouble with Cheese - Ages 7-17 Saturday, July 19 | 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Young Members of the Maker’s Guild will reserve a spot to participate in a 1-SLICE campaign where they will need to BRIE strong as they investigate the town of Tumbledowns. This is going to be GRATE! FREE | RSVP by July 13 required to play (8 Spots)

The Wolves of Welton - Ages 18+ Saturday, July 19 | 3 - 5:30 p.m.

Members of the Maker’s Guild 18 and older can reserve a spot in a 1-shot dungeons and dragons campaign adventure. FREE | RSVP by July 13 required to play (8 Spots). Spectators are welcome!

FAB-Tastic!: Crochet Club SUNDAY, July 27 | 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Swing by the Creation Station to join fellow crochet and fiber artists as we craft together. Share your progress on a current project or ask for help with a particular stitch. All levels of skill are welcome. (This is not a class.) FREE | Ages 7+

GCVCC Honors Business Excellence at Annual Awards Dinner

Story by: GCVCC Staff

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) recently hosted its Annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner, welcoming civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and business professionals from across the valley for a vibrant evening of recognition and celebration.

As the largest regional chamber in the Coachella Valley, the GCVCC plays a vital role in supporting businesses across La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, and surrounding communities. With a mission to advocate, connect, and empower, the chamber provides resources, legislative voice, and exposure to businesses of all sizes—from solo entrepreneurs to large-scale employers.

Held in a festive atmosphere, the annual awards dinner recognized excellence in leadership, innovation, community impact, and entrepreneurship. From

small businesses making a big difference in their neighborhoods to large companies driving economic growth, the evening spotlighted the people and organizations that help the valley thrive.

Top honors included the Chairman John A. James Lifetime Achievement Award, President’s Award, Public Impact Award, and recognitions for Ambassador of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, and Business of the Year across the East, Mid, and West Valley. These awards celebrated not only outstanding achievements, but also dedication to community service and regional collaboration.

This year’s winners reflected the incredible diversity and talent found throughout the valley’s business community, with honorees representing industries from healthcare and hospitality to staffing, animal welfare, and food service.

The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of dozens of sponsors. Title Sponsors included Desert Wildlife Center and Desert Oasis Healthcare, with Presenting Sponsors like City of Indian Wells, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, and Palm Springs International Film Society adding their support. Visionary Sponsors, Media Sponsors, and a wide range of Community Sponsors helped elevate the evening, underscoring the spirit of unity that defines the region.

As the night came to a close, attendees left inspired and energized, reminded of the strength and potential of the local business community. The GCVCC continues to lead with purpose, building bridges between cities, industries, and people—one partnership at a time.

Photography by Jonathan Castellon, JCast Productions.

BRIDGING THE GAP

Connecting Business, Community, and Opportunity

Tuesday, June 10th, 2025 | Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells

Congratulations to this year’s award winners

Chairman John A. James Lifetime Achievement Award – Ernesto Rosales

President’s Award – Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies

Public Impact Award – Palm Springs International Airport

Ambassador of the Year – Peter Bedard

Small Business of the Year: East Valley – Mr. Clamato | Mid Valley – Seek Personnel Staﬃng | West Valley – My Party Rental Guys

Large Business of the Year: East Valley – La Quinta Chevrolet Cadillac | Mid Valley – SBEMP Attorneys | West Valley – Desert Oasis Healthcare Non-Proﬁt of the Year – FoodNow DHS

Title Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

Visionary Media Sponsor

5 Reasons to Join the Chamber

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