The GEM June 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.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

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

As we welcome the summer season here in La Quinta, I want to take a moment to recognize the beauty, progress, and resilience of our community.

This time of year, Lake Cahuilla shines as one of our local gems—offering a peaceful retreat for families, hikers, campers, and anglers alike. Whether you’re exploring the trails, enjoying a weekend picnic, or casting a line, it’s a great reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us and why so many choose to live, work, and play in La Quinta.

We also want to acknowledge the infrastructure improvements happening along Highway 111. While construction can bring temporary inconvenience, the longterm benefits—safer roads, enhanced access, and modernized corridors—will serve our city for years to come. Most importantly, our local businesses are open throughout the project, and they appreciate your continued support. We encourage residents and visitors to dine, shop, and support local during this period—it truly makes a difference.

This month also marks one of the Chamber’s most exciting annual traditions: the Installation & Annual Business Awards Ceremony. I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s award recipients. Your innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence are what fuel La Quinta’s dynamic business community. We look forward to celebrating your success and welcoming our new board members as we continue working together to strengthen our city’s economic vitality.

As always, thank you for being part of what makes La Quinta such a remarkable place. Here’s to a summer of progress, celebration, and continued connection.

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 his unwavering commitment to excellence in the real estate market.

Investing In Our Future

B u d g e t S t u d y S e s s i o n # 2

J u n e 3 | 4 P M

F i n a l B u d g e t A d o p t i o n

J u n e 1 7 | 4 P M

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LAKE MAINTENANCE FOR CIVIC CENTER CAMPUS

The City of La Quinta has star ted working on essential maintenance at Civic Center Campus lake to maintain its vital biof ilter system.

The lake and nearby areas will continue to be closed through mid June.

Fish are being temporarily relocated to the upper lake and tur tles are being relocated to private lakes/ponds. Paths and lawns outside of the lake closure fencing will continue to remain open.

Thank you for your patience as we keep the lake thriving!

LaQuintaCA

Lake Cahuilla Lives On: A Desert Tradition Renewed for Future Generations

Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta

La Quinta resident Nick Vela has been coming to Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park since he was a child, growing up in the Coachella Valley.

“My dad would bring us here, and we would have parties here,” he recalled recently, standing near the lake with two friends and fellow La Quinta residents, Julian Rangel and Ken Payne, sharing some of their memories.

“It was awesome,” Vela said. “I had a big family, so we needed a big area” to gather for birthday parties, Easter and just for fun.

“This was the place to be” when growing up Rangel and Vela said. It was something families could afford to do.

As they’ve gotten older they have ensured that their kids and others experience all that Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park has to offer.

All three talked about how important the 710-acre park is to the Coachella Valley with its campgrounds, picnic and barbecue areas, fishing, swimming pool and other amenities. They are grateful that Riverside County, the Coachella

Valley Water District (CVWD) and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) have inked a new 30-year lease agreement to keep the recreation area open.

Much of the park is closed this summer while the County makes over $11 million in improvements, including new restrooms, shade, swimming pool renovation, pickleball and basketball court additions and more. New electrical pedestals and other improvements are coming to the campgrounds.

Fishing remains open during construction. “I grew up here. I’m now 53 and I’ve been enjoying it since I was 8 years old,” Rangel said. A few years ago he formed Desert Valley Outdoors to give kids an opportunity to learn to fish, camp and “get off the computers.”

Protecting the Water

For nearly 55 years, the recreation area, renamed Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park in 2019, has been a popular destination for hikers, campers including snowbirds, fishing enthusiasts and others.

Riverside County has leased the recreation area since 1971. The new lease was signed in December 2024 after more than three years of negotiations.

At the core of the discussions was the protection of the 135-acre Lake Cahuilla, owned by CVWD and built as a storage reservoir for Colorado River water to provide water to the valley’s farmers for their crops.

Constructed in 1969, the lake is about three-quarters of a mile long and holds up to 1,300 acre-feet, or about 424 million gallons of water. The soil-cement-lined reservoir averages 10 feet deep.

The lake is an end-point reservoir for the Coachella Canal that helps balance canal water flows. Lake Cahuilla also makes it possible to irrigate farms that are not directly connected to the canal, said Lorraine Garcia, CVWD communications manager and public information officer.

CVWD’s priority is providing water to its customers, and recreational use such as swimming and boating creates a risk of infestation of quagga mussels and other invasive species which can rapidly multiply and destroy the water system to the farms.

Fishing is allowed with the following restrictions:

• No boats.

• No body contact/swimming.

• No flotation devices.

• Fishing equipment inspections required upon entry.

• Unopened and unused baits only.

“We have the only freshwater lake … in the desert, so fishing is very popular,” said Noriko Gardner, senior park ranger who has worked at Lake Cahuilla since May 2001. “We stock catfish in the summer months and rainbow trout in the winter months.”

The park district holds fishing derbies on Veterans Day and Presidents Day weekends.

The park district works with We Can Fish, a local nonprofit that brings children with disabilities and their families to Lake Cahuilla to teach the kids how to fish.

A youth fishing clinic is also held in partnership with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“We furnish them with fishing gear and bait and they get to learn how to tie a knot, throw a line and we also offer a few interpretive programs for children,” Gardner said, which include lessons of the importance of clean water, how not to contaminate the watershed and anything to do with the environment.

Fishing and camping aren’t the only draws to Lake Cahuilla. The park has many day-use amenities with more being added. Desert Recreation District offers programs at the park as well.

A zero-depth pool that has been closed since the pandemic is part of the refurbishment project and will reopen soon.

“In our pool, since there is no depth, children with disabilities get to get in the water independently, on their own,” without the need of a lift which can scare them, Gardner said.

Volunteers are Critical

After nearly 25 years in the park, Gardner said she sees fourth generations of Coachella Valley families come out and enjoy the park.

She has a team of volunteers, most of whom are seasonal and come from all over the country.

“They’re not just great helpers, but they’re great supporters. They’re the biggest advocates for the park,” Gardner said. “Without their help, we cannot operate …not only at Lake Cahuilla, but throughout the Riverside County park district.”

They work at the kiosk doing customer service, collecting fees, setting up reservations and interpretive talks, and as grounds crews that do simple plumbing, irrigation, cleanup and recycling.

Volunteers are work at least 20 hours per week and stay at the campgrounds in their RVs.

“Our volunteers interact with the campers … who then meet other campers in another facility and advertise our campground. That’s how we have been getting a lot of people, from word of mouth,” Gardner said.

Camping fees, which include water and electric hookups, are $40-$45 per night. “We have this beautiful, beautiful view and quietness, yet we are only 10 to 15 minutes away from dining and shopping experiences,” Gardner said.

She sees friendships formed when residents come with their families, fish, cook and mingle with the campers.

“We’re so fortunate, because everybody who comes to the park, their intention is to have fun,” Gardner said. “The bonus is the magnificent sunrises and sunsets you get to witness every day. The reflection of the sunset on the water … priceless.”

Meaningful Change

Payne said rededicating the park to honor all who have served is meaningful to veterans.

“For a veteran, to be acknowledged for service gives you a bit of a warm fuzzy feeling. Some (veterans) … came back with physical and mental issues and it means a lot when something like this acknowledges your service or sacrifice,” said Payne, a veteran who has been going to Lake Cahuilla for about 20 years.

As a scout master, Payne brought troops to the lake for camping and hiking, and echoed what Rangel and Vela said, that it’s important it remain open.

For Payne, it’s a great place to do what he loves: fishing.

“For me, it’s just something to relax, unwind and enjoy the view because it is pretty out here. It’s very picturesque,” he said.

For information about Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park, including hours, events, day use, camping costs and reservations, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.rivcoparks.org or call 800-234-7275.

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Highway 111 Construction is Getting Underway But

Your Favorite La Quinta Shops Are Still Open

Story by: GCVCC Staff

This summer, the City of La Quinta will begin a major road improvement project along Highway 111, stretching from Jefferson Street to Washington Street. During construction, residents are encouraged to continue shopping local and supporting the businesses they love.

All businesses along the corridor will remain open throughout the duration of the project.

What to Expect from the Construction

The project includes everything from resurfacing worn pavement to upgrading medians and improving driveways and bus

stops. It’s all part of an effort to enhance the safety, look, and functionality of one of La Quinta’s most important roadways. Work began in May and is expected to continue into the fall. To reduce disruption, the City is phasing the project and coordinating efforts to maintain business access, post clear detour signs, and schedule work during off-peak times when possible.

Though the temporary inconvenience is real, the long-term benefits will be worth it—think smoother drives, better landscaping, and a more inviting experience for shoppers and visitors alike.

Your Go-To Spots Are Still Here for You Construction cones might line the road, but behind them, La Quinta’s local businesses are still open and ready to welcome customers.

Need groceries, a quick lunch, or a little retail therapy? You’ll find it all along Highway 111, including at these popular centers:

• La Quinta Centre: A neighborhood staple for essentials, casual dining, and services.

• The Pavilion at La Quinta: Home to Sprouts, PGA TOUR Superstore and a mix of shops that make healthy living and everyday errands easy.

• One Eleven La Quinta Center: A hub for well-known stores like Hobby Lobby, Ross, Stater Brothers, and more.

• Plaza La Quinta: Located near Washington Street, this vibrant center features shops, dining, and everything from fitness studios to beauty salons.

Whether you’re grabbing coffee on the way to work, getting a haircut, or picking up dinner for the family, the businesses along this stretch of Highway 111 continue to offer the same friendly service and great products that make them a key part of everyday life in La Quinta.

Small Changes, Big Support

Even small efforts to support local businesses during construction can make a big difference. Planning ahead, leaving a little extra time to navigate the area, or entering shopping centers from side streets can help keep your visits stressfree.

Many businesses are doing their part, too—offering curbside pickup, online ordering, and seasonal promotions to make shopping convenient and rewarding. Plus, summer is a great time to explore new spots or revisit old favorites you haven’t been to in a while.

Stay in the Know

To help residents stay informed, the City has launched www.LQHighway111.com, a dedicated

website with weekly updates on construction activity, traffic advisories, and tips for getting around. Signing up for project updates can help you plan your visits and avoid delays.

The City is committed to keeping the community connected, and that includes making sure residents have easy access to the information they need to keep shopping local.

Moving Forward Together

Yes, construction can be a hassle—but it’s also a sign of progress. When this project is complete, Highway 111 will be safer, more efficient, and more visually appealing for everyone who lives, works, and shops in La Quinta.

In the meantime, continued support from residents will help ensure that the businesses along this key corridor stay strong. Every purchase, every visit, and every shared recommendation helps keep our local economy thriving.

So the next time you’re out and about, don’t let a little roadwork stop you from enjoying all that Highway 111 has to offer. Your favorite spots are open—and they can’t wait to see you.

Congratulations CLASS OF

On behalf of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s high school graduates. You represent the bright future of our community and the next generation of our workforce.

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

The Highway 111 rehab project in La Quinta will soon be getting underway and will undoubtedly impact traffic flows during the four to five months of construction.

The City is doing everything possible to minimize the impact, including regular updates on where construction is occurring, how many lanes may be closed and when, as the work will be done in sections.

There are several ways to stay informed with the latest information about construction hours and lane closures:

• Website: www.laquintaca.gov/hwy111pavement

• Text message: Scan the QR code to sign up for updates via text message, the website and the La Quinta Newsletter.

• Helpline: 760-502-0566

• Email: Info@LQhighway111.com

The work was scheduled during the summer months when the traffic is typically lighter and the impact on the hundreds of businesses that line Highway 111 in La Quinta will be less severe.

UPCOMING EVENTS

FY 2025-26 Budget Study Session

Tuesday, June 3, 4 p.m.

Location: Council Chamber, City Hall

The proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget will be presented to the City Council during a Study Session. The Finance team will outline the budget process and projections for General Fund revenues and expenditures in the new fiscal year, which starts July 1.

CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE

By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager

There will be slow-downs and commuters are encouraged to take alternative routes during construction to avoid long delays. Roughly 38,000 vehicles travel the City’s 2-mile stretch of Highway 111, from just west of Washington Street to Jefferson Street, daily. The Washington Street intersection is the most traveled in the Coachella Valley.

Most of the construction is likely to occur during the day time, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays.

While many have suggested all of the construction be done at night, engineers say night work would not necessarily lessen the impact, as lanes will still be closed during the day. Night work and earlier starts could be used to allow work to take place next to a lower volume of traffic or to reduce the overall construction time if double shifts are used.

This highway rehabilitation is far more extensive than the typical slurry seal or grind and pavement overlay project, as it requires pulverizing and removing the existing pavement and constructing a new solid road base 18 inches below the final surface of the finished roadway.

When finished, it will be at least 20 years before an extensive rehab is needed again.

Burrtec Shred Event

Saturday, June 7, 7:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: City Hall, south parking lot

Bring your documents to this free event for La Quinta residents. Up to two file boxes (copy paper size) of documents per car. Acceptable items include: all office type paper, glossy paper, file folders and envelopes. Proof of residency or business license will be required. For more information, visit www.laquintaca.gov/ recycle.

Businesses Are Open

Businesses will remain open and accessible throughout construction, so please continue to shop and dine at the stores and restaurants that line our stretch of Highway 111.

Many of the shops are small businesses owned, operated and staffed by La Quinta residents who count on your continued support.

City staff and representatives of Southstar, the construction management group overseeing the project, have been conducting in-person outreach to let businesses know about the construction and to help them prepare.

The $7 million to $8 million project will also include improvements at curb ramps to bring them into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

About half of the cost – $4 million – is from federally earmarked funds that can be used only for this project and are dispersed through Caltrans. The remainder is being covered with $984,000 in Senate Bill 1 (SB1) funds and about $3.3 million from the City’s Measure G sales tax revenue. SB1 is legislation that invests $5.4 billion annually to fix roads, freeways and bridges in communities across California.

FY 2025-26 Budget Adoption

Tuesday, June 17, 4 p.m.

Location: Council Chamber, City Hall

The proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget will be presented for adoption by the City Council during its June 17 meeting, which starts at 4 p.m. The new fiscal year starts July 1.

• The next phase of the Pavement Management Program (PMP) is out to bid, with the following cove streets receiving slurry seal: Avenida Rubio, Avenida Alvarado, Avenida Obregon, Avenida Carranza, Calle Potrero, Calle Temecula, Calle Chillon, Calle Arroba, Calle Colima, Calle Monterey, and Calle Chihuahua. Construction is anticipated to start in late spring.

• Construction for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements within the Navarro Plaza, between Avenida Navarro and Avenida Bermudas on Calle Tampico, and at the intersection of Avenida La Fonda and Desert Club Drive, is anticipated to be complete by early June.

• The Fritz Burns Park Improvement Project is out to bid with construction anticipated to start late June/early 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

Physical Wellness

Walking Group

(summer- indoors)

Mat Pilates

Personal Trainer (by appt.)

Yoga Flow (with Billee)

Social Wellness

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

Movie Matinee

(call center for movie)

Social Bridge

(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

HICAP One-on-One Consultations: Monday, June 9, 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.

Medicare Health Insurance:

Tuesday, June 10, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Free information and answers to your questions on Medicare provided by Bill Proctor & Associates Inc.

Welbe Health: Wednesday, June 11, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Information available on customized care plans to meet seniors’ health and social needs (person-centered all-inclusive care).

Alzheimer’s Coachella Valley: Tuesday, June 17, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Resources and information.

FIND Food Bank: Wednesday, June 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Information on FIND Food Bank mobile markets, Cal-Fresh, and low-income utility assistance.

FEATURED EXHIBIT:

LA QUINTA MUSEUM

Her Side of the Story: Tales of California Pioneer Women

Illuminating the hardships, joys, and lives of female pioneers, this exhibit highlights first-person stories from the women who traveled by land or sea to settle in California prior to statehood. “Her Side of the Story: Tales of California Pioneer Women” is an exhibition from The Society of California Pioneers and tours through Exhibit Envoy. On exhibit through June 14.

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

PROGRAMS:

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

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

Sketchbook Journaling

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

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

STITCH Fiber Arts Group

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

Wednesday, June 11, 1 p.m.:

TED Talk Hangout

Let’s enjoy a TED talk on the big screen, and then discuss! This month: “Why Women Should Tell the Stories of Humanity” by Jude Kelly.

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

Genealogy Meet-Up

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

Tuesday, June 17, 11 a.m.

Take a Break with Huell

Join us for an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen. This month, Huell explores two of California’s most interesting State Parks: the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area, located in the Eastern Mojave Desert, and the Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park, in the Sierra Nevadas.

Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Summer Family Fun with S.C.R.A.P. Gallery

Bring the whole family to create recycled and upcycled art with Karen from the S.C.R.A.P. Gallery!

Thursday, June 26, 3 p.m.

Good Books in the Gallery

Let’s read a great book, and then get together to discuss! This month, we’ll read “The Bohemians” by Jasmin Darznik. 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

The Summer Reading Adventure begins! Discover, learn, grow with fun programs and exciting rewards for all ages. We’ll have a Galaxy Dance Party, performances, and much more! Join the adventure and make this summer unforgettable. Lunch at the Library is Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12 - 2 p.m. for 17 and under only.

Library After Dark: 100 Year Great Gatsby Celebration

Saturday, June 21 @ 5 – 7 p.m. | 18+ Travel back to the 1920s with us as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby.” Come dressed up (optional), enjoy light refreshments, games, and more! Limited spots so registration is required.

Desert Compost Talk

Wednesday, June 18 @ 5:30 p.m.

Hear from Desert Compost founder Haley Preston to learn about how community members in the Coachella Valley have diverted tons of organic materials from landfills to produce rich soil for growing nutritious food, conserving water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and making friends. Join us to learn tips on composting, messages of hope, and a recipe for simple steps that heal our planet and build a legacy.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Culinary Kids

Monday, June 9 @ 11 a.m. | Ages 5-7

Monday, June 23 @ 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.

Japanese Culture Club

Wednesday, June 11 @ 5:30 p.m. | Ages 18+

Join us as we watch anime, read/discuss Japanese literature and explore other aspects of Japanese culture throughout the year.

LQ Garden Club

Saturday, June 14 @ 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, June 19 @ 10:30 a.m. | Ages 18+

In June, we’ll discuss “Deep Water” by Emma Bamford. Register at the Information Desk, as copies are limited.

Coloring Book Night for Adults

Wednesday, June 24 @ 5 p.m. | Ages 18+

Join us & discover the benefits of coloring while listening to relaxing Lo-Fi music. Bring your own coloring book or enjoy one of ours!

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 the MakerSpace Room. Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

SRP Week 1 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild Healing Potion Dice Bottle

Thursday, June 12 @ 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Oh no! You’ve been scratched by a rogue Owlbear and have lost 12 hit points. Use your Healing Potion Dice Roller Bottle to rejuvenate your health back to stability.

FREE (While Supplies Last) | Ages 7+

SRP Week 2 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild Tabletop Miniature Painting

Thursday, June 19 @ 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Do you need an NPC, Creature or Main Player figure? Select a blank tabletop mini figure to customize and bring to life through paint.

FREE (While Supplies Last) | Ages 7+

SRP Week 3 Maker Craft: Maker’s Guild Dice Tower Build Thursday, June 26 @ 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

You can increase your odds of a better D20 roll when you toss your dice from a higher elevation. At least that’s what the wizard told us... Build a small two-story dice tower.

FREE (While Supplies Last) | Ages 7+

FAB-Tastic!: Makers, We shrunk The Creation Station Sunday, June 30 @ 12 – 3:30 p.m. Okay, don’t freak out, but our DIY ShrinkRay backfired and made the MakerSpace room shrink just a little bit. While we wait to fix the issue, help us wind up some sewing bobbins and relabel the now jumbo crayons.

RSVP| $5 | Ages 7+ | Limited Spots

Fly Local, Explore Global

Your travel choices matter. Every time you fly PSP, you help demonstrate demand and attract new service. Let’s keep growing together — and make it easier than ever to fly your favorite airport.

Scan code to Book Your Escape Today

Escape the summer chaos of other SoCal airports and reclaim your travel joy and fly out of Palm Springs International Airport.

While nearby airports are frustratingly congested in the summer, you can enjoy a smooth, no-line, relaxed journey from PSP. Whether you’re embarking on a swift weekend escape or a grand European adventure, at PSP you can escape the heat and take to the skies!

Employer Connect: Putting Dollars Back Into Local Business Pockets

Story by: GCVCC Staff

In today’s challenging business environment, every dollar matters—and the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) is helping local employers keep more of them. Through a new pilot initiative called the Employer Connect Program, hundreds of businesses across the Coachella Valley have already seen thousands of dollars flow back into their budgets, all while strengthening their workforce.

Developed in partnership with the Riverside County Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions/Workforce Development Division (HWS/WDD), the program is a straightforward, businessfriendly approach to easing the cost of hiring. It offers financial support to small and mid-sized businesses that bring on new full-time employees, helping cover wages during those crucial first few months of training and adjustment.

Here’s how it works: businesses that meet a few simple requirements can receive up to $20 per hour in wage reimbursement for new employees during their first 90 days of employment. That adds up to a potential $9,600 per hire—money that can make a real difference to a business trying to grow or recover.

“The feedback has been incredibly positive,” said Brandon Marley, President and CEO of the GCVCC. “We’ve heard from business owners who said this program made hiring possible when it otherwise wouldn’t have been. It’s helping local employers invest in their teams without overextending their resources.”

Simple Process, Real Results

To be eligible, businesses need to be located in District 4 of Riverside County, hold a valid business license, and have fewer than 500 full-time employees. They must also provide workers’ compensation, issue W-2s, and show how COVID-19 impacted their operations. Importantly, you don’t need to be a chamber member to apply—this program is open to all qualifying employers in the region.

“This is about more than filling jobs,” Marley added. “It’s about building a stronger, more connected workforce— one that benefits employers, employees, and the entire community.”

Millions in Support for Local Business

The Employer Connect Program is part of a larger $5 million workforce initiative funded by the American Rescue Plan

Act. At least 80 stipends are expected to be awarded to District 4 businesses by the end of 2025, injecting significant resources into our local economy and supporting a diverse range of industries.

Already, the program has helped put thousands of dollars directly back into the pockets of local business owners— funds they’re using to hire more help, expand operations, and improve services. In a region where small businesses are the backbone of the economy, that impact can’t be overstated.

Get Connected

If you’re a business owner in the Coachella Valley and you’re planning to hire, Employer Connect could be exactly what you need. The application process is simple, and the GCVCC team is ready to help walk you through it.

To learn more or get started, visit gcvcc.org/employer-connectprogram or contact the chamber at workforce@gcvcc.org or (760) 347-0676.

This is just one more way the GCVCC is working to make sure our businesses not only recover—but thrive.

5 Reasons to Join the Chamber

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

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

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

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

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

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