L A Q U I N TA’ S C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E
THE GEM OCTOBER 2026
In this issue
Discover La Quinta Museum: Where History, Art & Community Come Together Breakfast, Brunch and Community: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Opens in La Quinta A Season of Connection: New Programs, Upcoming Events and Chamber Updates
Greater Coachella Valley Chamber 78-015 Main Street, #206 La Quinta, 92253
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Discover La Quinta Museum: Where History, Art & Community Come Together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 City Manager’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Community Services Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 La Quinta Museum Exhibits & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 It’s Your Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Breakfast, Brunch and Community: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Opens in La Quinta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 A Season of Connection: New Programs, Upcoming Events and Chamber Updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Fall Fun Returns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
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Chairman’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
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THANK YOU FOR THE MAJOR SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED BY
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The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area.
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS JEFF FISHBEIN, CHAIR l FISHBEIN REAL ESTATE GROUP / COLDWELL BANKER REALTY ALISON HENDRIX l NBC PALM SPRINGS - UNIVISION DOUG MOTZ | MOTZ-RUSIN INSURANCE AGENCY ANGELIQUE ONTIVEROS l DESERT ARC CHRIS LITTLE l DESERT JET EILEEN DIAZ l CAMEO PALMS MIKE WILLIAMS l CAPITIS REAL ESTATE GINA REYES l POSTAL CONNECTION SELENE TRUJILLO l NBC PALM SPRINGS - UNIVISION NIKKI ROBINSON l STV AUDIO & VIDEO SERVICES JENNA CONRAD l JNS NEXT BRIAN MURPHY | JIMMY JOHN’S RANDY FOULDS | FOULDS HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY 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.
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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE By: Jeff Fishbein Chairman of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce
October is always an exciting time in La Quinta. Our seasonal residents begin returning, local businesses welcome familiar faces, and the calendar starts filling with reasons to get together. That excitement was on full display at this year’s State of the City. The event was a huge success, bringing together business owners, community leaders, and residents to celebrate what La Quinta has accomplished and hear about what lies ahead. I left feeling proud of our city and energized by the conversations happening throughout the room. There is a real buzz about the upcoming events and continued growth in La Quinta. In September, Art for All opened at Old Town Artisan Studios, giving our community a creative place to shop for art materials while supporting arts education. This month, we also look forward to welcoming Party City inside Staples at its October 16 grand opening. They’re two more reasons to get out and explore what’s happening around town. As Chairman of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce, one of the best parts of my role is meeting the people behind our local businesses and seeing how invested they are in this city. New businesses bring fresh ideas, while established businesses remain at the heart of our community. I encourage you to make the most of the season ahead. Attend a local event, stop into a business you haven’t visited before, and bring a friend along. Every time we show up for our local businesses and for one another, we help make La Quinta an even stronger community. I look forward to seeing you around town this fall! Jeff Fishbein Chairman, La Quinta Chamber of Commerce Jeff Fishbein is an International Diamond Society award-winning REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty, the desert’s premier real estate company. Known throughout the community as “Mr. La Quinta,” Jeff has earned a distinguished reputation for representing buyers and sellers throughout the Coachella Valley with professionalism, integrity, and exceptional results. Backed by a consistent 5-Star Zillow rating and guided by his philosophy, “Not the BIGGEST Realtor, but the BEST,” Jeff is proud to serve as a trusted real estate advisor, helping clients achieve their real estate goals with confidence.
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Discover La Quinta Museum: Where History, Art & Community Come Together Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta
Dia De Muertos
‘Desert Dialogues’
If you’re looking for a place where you can learn about our City’s history, view some amazing art exhibits, enjoy the company of others while working on fabric, art and other projects or listen to some music, all for free, La Quinta Museum is the place.
The Dia de Muertos Mini Altars was started several years ago and its growing popularity has made it one of the Museum’s favorite annual exhibits, largely because everything is handmade by area residents paying tribute to loved ones who have passed on.
“Desert Dialogues: Coachella Valley Artists, Past and Present” brings together works from the La Quinta Historical Society’s collection, which includes artists Mary Maison, Alson Clark and Carl Bray, and the works of 12 contemporary artists known as “The Desert Dozen,” Fox said.
“The Dia de Muertos Mini Altars exhibit has certainly become a tradition for us,” said Sharla Fox, who has been the Museum director since 2018 and on staff since 2015. “It wasn’t always an annual exhibit, but every year patrons ask about it, so now it is.”
“We usually have an exhibit every other year or so where we provide a canvas, a theme, and an open invitation to local artists to join us,” Fox said. “It is great fun, and always wonderful to see such an array of works come together so beautifully.”
For those who have never been and for those who visit often, the La Quinta Museum is a treasure trove of history, with a second floor that tells our story from the first settlers, the indigenous Desert Cahuilla who lived in villages in the lower Coachella Valley, to early farmers and developers who laid the foundation for what is today La Quinta. The first floor includes the Mural Room to the right, which features a floor-toceiling, 32-foot-long mural by Andre Blanche highlighting the City’s colorful history. The mural contains so many images that one can look at it many times and always see something not noticed before. The gallery to the left of the entrance is where traveling and local exhibits are displayed year-round, changing out about every three to four months. On October 27, two new exhibits will open, both featuring creations by local residents and artists. 8
People interested in participating pick up a cigar box at the Museum that they can transform into tributes to loved ones, heroes and even pets who have passed on, Fox said. The Museum gets 15 to 20 boxes back for the exhibit, which stays up until November 7. “Each altar is so different and special! I love the details and visual storytelling. Some are artistic, some are clever, some are deeply moving. All of them are beautiful and heartfelt,” Fox said.
The exhibit will explore the legacy of artists inspired by the landscape, light, and spirit of the desert, she said.
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Mindful Art Workshop: 3rd Saturdays, 1 – 3 p.m. This is an opportunity to unwind your mind and try out meditative art. Supplies provided. Take a Break with Huell: 3rd Tuesdays, 11 a.m. Watch an episode of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on the big screen. Good Books in the Gallery: Last Thursday of the month at 3 p.m. Gather with others to discuss the book of the month. Call the Museum at 760-777-7170 to find out what book is being read and reserve one (copies are limited).
In the spirit of the mid-20th-century Smoketree School of painters, The Desert Dozen is a collective of friends and artists carrying forward the tradition of the desert artist through a distinctly modern lens. They are Warner Graves, Kathleen Sturkoff, Lynda Keeler, Vaughan Davis, Barbara Noris, Wendy Kahle, David Wolfram, Lisa Loudin, Nita Harper, John Cuevas, Elaine Matthews, and Delphine Bordas.
The December Music at the Museum also includes the holiday lighting of the Historic Casita and Lumberyard building that are adjacent to the Museum.
Among the Museum’s regular programs:
“I love that our programs are a friendly, comfortable place to try something new or engage with others. It’s wonderful to see guests creating artwork, learning from each other, having both deep and lighthearted discussions,” Fox said. “A program feels like a real success when we see new friendships made.”
The exhibit will open on October 27, and an Artists Reception, open to the public, will be held Saturday, November 7, 5 to 7 p.m.
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The Basics
The Museum welcomes school tours and teams up with The S.C.R.A.P. Gallery for a variety of programs families can do together.
• Music & More at the Museum Throughout the year, the Museum hosts a variety of free programs and events, including the seasonal Music at the Museum held the first Thursday of the month from 5 to 6 p.m., starting in October. They are usually held on the courtyard, unless weather drives them inside, and feature local performers. “Music at the Museum has been going strong for over a decade,” Fox said. “As part of our mission to reflect and celebrate our local culture, we love sharing the music of local artists here in our Courtyard. There’s something a little magical about live music in this special setting.” There’s something new every month, she said. “We’ve had Latin folk, bluesy jazz, Americana, R&B, classic rock — and I love that at every performance, at least one visitor will tell me that it’s the best we’ve had,” Fox said.
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Sketchbook Journaling: 1st & 3rd Fridays, 1-3 p.m. Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided. TED Talk Hangout: 2nd Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Watch a TED talk on the big screen and then discuss with the group. Genealogy Meet-Up: 2nd Saturdays, 1 – 3 p.m. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in genealogy, join us for discussion and collaboration. STITCH Fiber Arts Club: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 1 – 3 p.m. Bring your fiber project, meet with friends old and new, share what you’ve been working on, and get inspired for your next project
The La Quinta Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 77885 Avenida Montezuma, within walking and biking distance to Old Town. Admission, programs and events are all free. Calendars of exhibits, events and programs appear every month in The Gem and on the City’s digital calendar at www.playinlaquinta.com. For information, call 760-777-7170.
CITY MANAGER’S MESSAGE By: Jon McMillen, La Quinta City Manager
October is the month when we see temperatures drop and many of our seasonal activities and events return including the Certified Farmers Market, held Sundays from October 4 to May 30 on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta. Seventy vendors line the street with rows of fresh fruits and vegetables, all grown within 100 miles of the Coachella Valley, artisan breads and pastries, fresh eggs from local farms, vendors with holistic and handmade soaps, honey, microgreens, meats, cheeses, chef prepared foods and more can be found. Market hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Neighborhood Watch Neighborhood Watch meetings are back as well. Hosted by longtime La Quinta resident Sally Shelton, the next meeting will be held Thursday, October 22, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Wellness Center. Meetings are free and residents are encouraged to attend and bring questions and suggest ideas for different meeting topics.
While the City’s crime rates remain among the lowest in the Coachella Valley, falling year-over-year the last three years, our public safety teams say that efforts to keep our community safe are boosted when residents and business owners report unusual activity in their neighborhoods. The City’s Public Safety staff is working with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department on presentations that will provide an overview of crime rates and tips on how residents can avoid becoming crime victims. Staff is also working with the Fire Department on a presentation focused on fire prevention at home, including how to properly charge and recycle lithium-ion batteries and understanding the dangers associated with them. Also coming up, City staff will present information about the ongoing work by the County of Riverside and local cities to update the 2028 Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Neighborhood Watch was formed in 1972 with residents in communities across the country working together with law enforcement agencies, private organizations, and individual citizens uniting to prevent crime and improve their local communities.
CITY UPDATES
Citywide Striping Refresh
Civic Center Lake Irrigation
The citywide striping refresh is anticipated to be complete by end of the year. These improvements will refresh striping on the majority of City roadways and replace missing or damaged pavement markers.
The Civic Center lake irrigation consists of converting the lake and irrigation system from potable water to non-potable water (canal water). This project is located at the La Quinta Civic Center Campus, at the southwest corner of Washington Street and Calle Tampico, and is anticipated to start in Winter.
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CITY SPONSORED SECTION
The goal is to discourage and prevent crime through increased community awareness and collaboration, not by vigilante action. There are Neighborhood Watch organizations in communities throughout La Quinta. The meetings at City Hall bring members together with public safety representatives that include law enforcement, fire personnel and City code enforcement officers to discuss criminal activity and other concerns along with tips from officials on ways people can protect themselves. Following is the schedule for October 2026 through October 2027: • • • • • •
October 22 (at the Wellness Center) January 28 March 25 May 27 September 23 October 28
Except where noted, meetings are held in the Study Session room at City Hall, but check the City’s event calendar at www.laquintaca.gov/about-us/calendar for updates. For any questions about Neighborhood Watch meetings, please contact Sally Shelton at sally_shelton@aol.com.
Citywide Miscellaneous Improvements
Concrete
The citywide miscellaneous concrete improvements project is anticipated to be complete by the end of the year. This project includes sidewalk improvements to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
with Me Volunteer Program: Wednesday, October 14, COMMUNITY SERVICES Read 10 – 11:30 a.m. Online registration available at LaQuintaCA.gov For more information, please call (760) 564-0096. WELLNESS CENTER Physical Wellness Deep Stretch 10 – 11 a.m. Tai Chi Yang - Beginner 2 – 2:55 p.m. Tai Chi Yang - Advanced 3 – 4 p.m. Ballroom Swing Latin Dance 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Mat Pilates 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Personal Trainer(Paul by appt.) 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Personal Trainer 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Sharla by appt.) Sound Bath 6 – 7 p.m. Yoga Flow Monday(with Billee) 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Yoga Flow Wednesday 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. (with Billee)
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Social Wellness Social Bridge 12 - 4 p.m. M (call Pat 760-219-9972; Fee: $4) Mah Jongg “American” ($2) 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. T Mah Jongg “American” Beginner class ($2) 1 – 3 p.m. TH Mexican Train Dominoes ($2) 1 – 4 p.m. W Quilting for Good Times 1 – 3 p.m. F (Volunteers) LQ Ukulele Strummers ($2) 2 – 4 p.m. F Look Who’s in the Lobby/Presentations/Workshops Let’s Do Lunch: Tuesdays, October 6 & 20, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. A unique social activity (educational lectures, games, art creation workshops, exercise, live entertainment and more). Register by calling JFS Desert Savannah 760-325-4088 ext. 123 or email sortega@jfsdesert.org Autumn Luncheon: Wednesday, October 14, 11:30 a.m. Visit with friends and meet new people while enjoying a delicious catered meal from Whole Lotta Love BBQ. Please sign up early, seating is limited. Fee: $4.
Read With Me is recruiting volunteers for Truman Elementary and 21 other CV Elementary Schools. Low-Income Energy Assistance: Monday, October 19 A representative from FIND Food Bank will be available by appointment only from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Documents needed: Current utility bill, bank statements, Food Stamps, Social Security Number, and birth certificate. Please call the front desk at 760-564-0096 to make an appointment. HICAP One-on-One Consultations: Monday, October 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. A HICAP counselor will be available for one-on-one appointments for 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. FIND Food Bank: Tuesday, October 20, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Information on FIND Food Bank mobile markets, Cal-Fresh, and low-income utility assistance. Health & Wellness Day: Thursday, October 22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join us for a fun-filled day focused on health, wellness, and healthy living. Free screenings and more. Open court time at La Quinta Boys & Girls Club Desert Recreation District (DRD), the Boys & Girls Club and the City of La Quinta have partnered to offer Open Volleyball Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m. (doors open at 6:45 p.m.). Ages: All ages (13 years and under must be accompanied by an adult). Fee: $5 daily drop-in, or $30 for an 8-visit Express Pass. For more information, please call DRD at 760-564-9921. Adult Coed Volleyball League: Wednesdays, October 17-November 18, 6:30 – 9 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club in La Quinta. Open to all 18 and older who will register as individual players. Team Captains will then create teams by selecting 8 to 10 players from a draft (players must be paid in order to be selected). League games will be played on Wednesday evenings at the La Quinta Boys and Girls Club for a total of 6 weeks. Tournament play will determine league champions. Fee: $50. Contact Manny Marrujo at 760-347-4263/Mmarrujo@drd. us.com.
Medicare Health Insurance: Thursdays, October 1 & 15, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Free information and answers to your questions about Medicare provided by Bill Proctor & Associates Inc.
CITY SPONSORED SECTION
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LA QUINTA MUSEUM 77885 Avenida Montezuma. La Quinta, CA 92253 | (760) 777-7170 The La Quinta Museum is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am-4pm. Admission and programs are FREE
FEATURED EXHIBIT: An Age of Change: The Works of American Photographer James Abbe, 1910-1950, on exhibit through Saturday, October 10. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, James Abbe’s early 20th century photographs offer a striking window into a nation coming of age. Working largely from 1910 to 1950, Abbe chronicled a country defined by transformation, capturing the energy of its people, life-changing events, and the cultural shifts that reflected a modern America and a world in motion. NEW FEATURED EXHIBIT opening Tuesday, October 27: Desert Dialogues: Coachella Valley Artists, Past and Present This exhibit bring together works from the La Quinta Historical Society’s collection— including artists Mary Maison, Alson Clark, and Carl Bray—with works by 12 contemporary artists known as “The Desert Dozen,” a collective of friends and artists carrying forward the tradition of the desert artist through a distinctly modern lens. The exhibit will explore the legacy of artists inspired by the landscape, light, and spirit of the desert. NEW SPOTLIGHT EXHIBIT in our Local History gallery: The Gems of the Desert: La Quinta City Symbols Do you know the symbols of the City of La Quinta? Explore the history behind the bird, flower, tree, and City Seal that make this “Gem of the Desert” so special! SPOTLIGHT EXHIBIT in the Mural Room: Día de Muertos Mini Altar Exhibit, October 27- November 7 Día de Muertos or Day of the Dead is a holiday that helps families honor their ancestors. Come to the Museum’s Mural Room and enjoy the heartfelt miniature altars created by members of our community. EVENTS: Thursday, October 1, 5-6 p.m. Music at the Museum returns with Rose Mallett! Honored as a “Living Jazz Legend” in
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2016 at Los Angeles City Hall, Rose channels the vocal essence of Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Lena Horne. Join us as Rose brings the timeless elegance of classic jazz to life! Wednesday, October 28, 2 p.m. Lecture: Homegrown City, presented by Kay Wolff, as part of Perspectives on Governance – A Cultural Conversation Join us as Kay Wolff, La Quinta’s first first lady, takes us behind the scenes of the grassroots movement that transformed La Quinta’s future and paved the way for representative government in the city. Perspectives on Governance is a collaborative speaker series bringing together cultural institutions from across the region to explore the many dimensions of governance through distinct perspectives, collections, and areas of expertise. Upcoming presentations will be held at Sunnylands Center & Gardens, Agua Caliente Cultural Center, Coachella Valley History Museum, and Raíces Cultura in the Coachella library.
in genealogy, join us for discussion and collaboration. This month’s topic: Getting Started in Family History: Avoiding Mistakes! Tuesdays, October 13 & 27, 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, October 14, 2-4 p.m. Collage Club in collaboration with the S.C.R.A.P. Gallery Join us to transform upcycled materials into works of art while exploring a new creative theme each month. All are welcome to use the supplies provided, as well as bring their own materials to add to the mix! Saturday, October 17, 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.
Saturday, October 31, 1 p.m. Día de Muertos Workshop Join us to explore the rich traditions of Día de Muertos, the celebration and remembrance of those who have passed. Immerse yourself in the traditions of Día de Muertos with presenter Mariana Moctezuma, while creating your own Día de Muertos decorations.
Tuesday, October 20, 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 with five women who were all actresses in the 1940’s and have remained friends and walked together every Saturday for 50 years.
PROGRAMS: NEW PROGRAM, mark your calendar: Friday, October 30, 2 p.m. Hidden History! Join historian Lizzie Sosa for a deep dive into stories of the unsolved, unexplained, and just plain mysterious! Our first topic will be the infamous Salem Witch Trials.
Wednesday, October 21, 1 p.m. TEDx Viewing Party & Live Q&A! This month’s TED Talk Hangout will be a special one, as we’ll be joined by local La Quinta resident, global speaker, author, executive coach, and organizational psychologist R. Karl Hebenstreit, PhD, for a live screening and discussion of his TEDx talk: “Enough, Already! ACTIVATE Your Fully-Functional Self.”
Fridays, October 2 & 16, 1-3 p.m. Sketchbook Journaling Get in touch with your inner artist with sketchbook journaling. Basic supplies provided. Saturday, October 10, 1-3 p.m. Genealogy Meet-Up Whether you’re a beginner or an expert
CITY SPONSORED SECTION
Thursday, October 29, 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 “Whose Names are Unknown” by Sonora Babb. A limited number of free copies are available for book club participants, call 760-777-7170 to request one.
IT’S YOUR LIBRARY
Full list of events & activities:
Questions about Library programs? Call 760-564-4767 Please note that the La Quinta Library and Creation Station will be closed on October 12 for Columbus Day & Indigenous People’s Day.
SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW PROGRAMS Wellness at the Library! Tuesday, October 6 @ 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages 18+ Learn about Cardiac Arrest & Hands Only CPR, Burn Injury Prevention & Emergency Recognition, and Shock Recognition After Injury! Presented by Desert Regional Medical Center. Flex Farming Saturday, October 10 @ 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | All Ages Learn about indoor hydroponic growing with the Flex Farm! Teen Watch Party Saturday, October 10 @ 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Ages 13 - 17 Hang out and watch a horror movie featuring a family’s journey into The Further… Themed snacks and refreshments available while they last! Wellness at the Library! Tuesday, October 13 @ 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages 18+ Learn about Environmental & Injury-Related Illness Prevention (Heat) and Venomous Bites & Stings Injury Prevention. Presented by Desert Regional Medical Center. Teen Pokémon Club Saturday, October 17 @ 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Ages 13 - 17 Ready to be the very best, like no one ever was? Learn to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game and become a Pokémon Master! You’re welcome to bring your own cards and decks.
Level Up: Smash Bros Tournament Saturday, October 24 @ 12 – 2 p.m. | Ages 1317 It’s time for a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament with top 3 players winning a prize! Registration is required; 25 participants max! Festival of Frights: Down the Witches Path Saturday, October 31 @ 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | All Ages A daylong fright event for all covens! Enjoy crafts, activities, giveaways, photo ops, caricatures, our Spooky and Non-Spooky Witches’ Path featuring iconic witches! The Non-Spooky Path is available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Spooky Path is available from 1 to 3 p.m. Festival of Frights: Spooky Gingerbread House Making Saturday, October 31 @ 11:30 a.m. | Ages 1317 Build and decorate the spookiest gingerbread house! LA QUINTA PROGRAMS
CREATION
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Maker Craft: Furry Monster Button Pin Saturday, October 3 @ 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Ages 7+ | First Come Craft We’re crafting some furry monster button pins. These monstrosities will be the perfect accessory for the Halloween season. We will be using hot glue!
CITY SPONSORED SECTION
Ozobots After School: Trick-Or-Treat Thursday, October 8 @ 3 - 5:30 p.m. | Ages 7-13 Our Ozobots have a real sweet tooth for candy. Try and gather as much candy into the collection zone before the 5-minute timer goes off! Limited number of Ozobots, so there may be some wait times. Makerspace Camp: Sublimation Trick-OrTreat Bags Saturday, October 17 | Session A: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. (5 Spots Available) | Session B: 1:30 – 3 p.m. (5 Spots Available) | $5 Camp Fee | Ages 7-13 | RSVP (Phone or Email) Makers, ages 7-13, can sign up to learn how to make custom Trick-Or-Treat bags through sublimation. Fab-Tastic! Crochet Club Sunday, October 26 @ 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. | Ages 7+ Join fellow crocheters and fiber artists and craft together! Share off your current project or ask for help with a particular stitch. All levels of skill are welcome. Youth Maker’s Guild: The Great Goblin BakeOff Saturday, October 31 @ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Ages 7-14 | RSVP by Oct. 20th Makers, ages 7-14, can sign up for a spot in the Youth Maker’s Guild, our D&D program for kids. Resolve the conflict between mischievous goblins and citizens of Honeygrove during the Golden Bake-off challenge for their annual harvest festival!
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FREE & FREE HEALTH HEALTH & YOGA WELLNESS FAIR WELLNESS FAIR CLASS BORCELLE
Open to the Public | Admission Free October 22, 2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
78450 Avenida La Fonda La Quinta, CA 92253
Join us for a day dedicated to your health, vitality, and peace of mind. Discover local resources, connect with healthcare experts, and explore free community services. No registration required. Everyone is welcome!
www.LaQuintaca.gov
MOBILE LIBRARY
Wednesday, October 7
RIBBON CUTTING
2PM La Quinta Library 78275 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253
READ LEARN EXPLORE BELONG
BOOKS FOR ALL AGES
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITES
RESOURCES ON THE GO
Breakfast, Brunch and Community: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Opens in La Quinta Story by: GCVCC Staff A new breakfast and lunch destination has arrived in La Quinta, bringing made-to-order favorites, a welcoming atmosphere and a team eager to become part of the local community. Keke’s Breakfast Cafe officially opened its doors on August 27, 2026, at 79892 Highway 111, adding another dining option along one of La Quinta’s busiest commercial corridors. For Senior General Manager Vicente Rojas Miranda, opening the restaurant represents more than launching a new location—it is an opportunity to build relationships with the people who live, work and visit the Coachella Valley. “We saw an opportunity to bring another welcoming breakfast option to a community that appreciates good food and gathering around a table,” Rojas Miranda said. “A restaurant can become part of people’s routines, and I wanted Keke’s to earn that place here.”
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Keke’s Breakfast Cafe was founded in Florida in 2006 by two brothers who wanted to create the kind of quality breakfast cafe they remembered from home. Since then, the brand has expanded beyond Florida while maintaining its emphasis on freshly prepared food and friendly service. That approach is at the center of the new La Quinta restaurant. “Keke’s is a place to sit down, enjoy a freshly made breakfast or lunch, and feel welcome,” Rojas Miranda said. “We want someone stopping in before work to feel just as comfortable as a family taking its time over brunch.” The La Quinta location serves guests daily from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with the restaurant closed on Thanksgiving and
Christmas Day. The cafe also features a patio, providing another option for guests looking to enjoy breakfast or lunch outdoors. For those visiting Keke’s for the first time, the menu offers plenty of choices. The restaurant is known for oversized pancakes, omelets, waffles, French toast and other breakfast classics, along with sandwiches and paninis for lunch.
Rojas Miranda recommends first-time guests try the Florida Style buttermilk pancakes or the restaurant’s No. 1 Cheesesteak Omelette. For diners looking for a combination of sweet and savory, chicken and waffles are another favorite. “For me, it’s the combination of food made to order and the way we treat people,” he said. “Fresh food matters, but so does being greeted warmly, having your coffee checked on and feeling comfortable at your table.” Behind each meal is a team of approximately 45 employees who helped prepare the restaurant for its opening. Rojas Miranda said the process required considerable work, from preparing the location to hiring and training employees, but seeing that preparation turn into a real guest experience has made the effort worthwhile. “Seeing our team welcome guests is the most rewarding part for me,” he said. “We spent so much time preparing to open, and now we get to turn that work into a real experience for the people who walk through our doors.” The restaurant celebrated its grand opening on September 17, giving community members an opportunity to meet the team and experience the new location. Rojas Miranda said the response from La Quinta and the broader Coachella Valley has already been encouraging. “We’ve appreciated the interest and encouragement from people in La Quinta
and across the valley,” he said. “Every guest who gives us a try is an opportunity to listen, improve and build a lasting relationship.” Building those local relationships will remain important as the restaurant settles into the community. Rojas Miranda hopes Keke’s will develop partnerships with local businesses, the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations. “A restaurant depends on its community,” he said. “Local businesses support one another, create jobs and help make La Quinta a place where people want to spend time. I want us to contribute to that.” That sense of community was also part of what made La Quinta attractive
for the new restaurant. With a mix of year-round residents, local workers and visitors, Rojas Miranda believes the city provides the right environment for Keke’s to establish itself. “La Quinta felt like a wonderful fit,” he said. “We have local families, people working throughout the valley and visitors who all need a good place to start their day.” Looking ahead, his goal is straightforward: create a restaurant that guests can rely on and a workplace where employees take pride in what they do. “I want us to keep improving, take feedback seriously and become a place La Quinta is proud to call its own,” Rojas Miranda said. For local residents who have not stopped in yet, his invitation is simple. “We’re grateful for the welcome we’ve received,” he said. “Whether you’re joining us for your first visit or coming back with a friend, we look forward to seeing you and making your morning a little better.” Keke’s Breakfast Cafe La Quinta is located at 79892 Highway 111 and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Menu, ordering and additional information are available through the Keke’s Breakfast Cafe La Quinta location page. Guests can also follow Keke’s Breakfast Cafe on Instagram and Facebook. 19
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Advanced Care. Close to Home. Services offered in La Quinta at Desert Care Network Primary & Specialty Care
You may know Desert Care Network for its comprehensive healthcare services throughout the region, but did you know many services are available right here in La Quinta? La Quinta Medical Center offers: • Desert Care Network Primary & Specialty Care services include: ○ Gastroenterology ○ General Orthopedics ○ General Surgery ○ Hand and Upper Extremity Specialists ○ Joint Replacement and Joint Revision Specialist ○ Neurosurgery • The Advanced Wound Healing Center – provides hyperbaric oxygen therapy and procedures for treating wounds
• Comprehensive Cancer Center in La Quinta offers: ○ Hematologic oncology consultations ○ Infusion services ○ Mammography screenings
47647 Caleo Bay Dr. La Quinta, CA 92253
Additional services are available at our Palm Springs and Yucca Valley locations.
To schedule an appointment, call 855-580-4230. DesertCareDocs.com/LaQuinta
A Season of Connection: New Programs, Upcoming Events and Chamber Updates Story by: GCVCC Staff
needs of our local business community.
As we head into a busy fall season, there is a lot happening at the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce and the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce. From new educational opportunities to major regional events and expanded resources for local businesses, our team continues to look for new ways to bring value to the communities we serve. This time of year is always especially active for the Chamber, and it is exciting to see our members reconnecting, participating in programs and preparing for another strong season across the Coachella Valley.
We are also expanding the way we provide resources in the eastern Coachella Valley. In partnership with the City of Coachella, our existing Chamber office is being transitioned into the Coachella Community Business & Resource Center, creating a more comprehensive location for businesses and entrepreneurs to access assistance, education and professional workspace. The Center will include shared workspace, Wi-Fi, basic printing, conference and meeting space, workshops and access to Chamber staff, while also connecting businesses with partner organizations offering resources in workforce development, financing, entrepreneurship, technology and more. Our goal is to make it easier for businesses to find the support they need and create a welcoming space where entrepreneurs can work, learn and make valuable connections.
We recently launched The Morning Exchange, a new monthly educational series designed to provide practical information businesses can put to work right away. Each month will feature a different topic and speaker, while also providing time for networking and relationship building. Our first program, held September 22, focused on practical ways businesses can use artificial intelligence to save time and improve productivity. We look forward to continuing the series throughout the year with topics that respond directly to the 22
September also brought one of our largest regional gatherings of the year. The All Valley Mayors, County and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon welcomed more than 600 attendees and brought representatives from all nine Coachella
Valley cities, several tribal governments and Riverside County together on one stage. It was a great example of the Chamber’s role as a regional convener and the value of bringing leaders and the business community together for important conversations. Looking ahead, registration is underway for The Chamber Invitational, taking place Wednesday, November 18, at Eagle Falls Golf Course in Indio. The tournament will feature an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start and a full day of golf, networking, lunch, contests and opportunities to connect with business leaders from across the valley. It is always one of our most enjoyable networking events of the year and a great opportunity to build relationships in a relaxed setting. These programs are just a snapshot of what is ahead. We encourage businesses throughout La Quinta and the entire Coachella Valley to get involved, attend an upcoming event and take advantage of the resources available through the Chamber. Learn more about upcoming programs, events and membership at gcvcc.org.
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FA L L F U N R E T U R N S
Story by: Sherry Barkas/City of La Quinta Bring your family and friends out to La Quinta Park on Friday, October 16, and enjoy a cool fall evening of fun games, activities, music and more when the City hosts its second annual Fall Festival.
Families can look forward to six different fall-inspired photo ops throughout the park along with: • Music by a Local DJ • Balloon Artists • Games • Face Painters • Food Trucks • Much more!
LQ Fall Fest starts at 4:30 p.m. and continues to 8:30 p.m. at the park, located on Blackhawk Way, across from La Quinta High School.
Everything is free except the food vendors. The inflatable attractions will include: • 105-foot Obstacle Course • A Pumpkin Jumper • 85-foot Obstacle Course • Neon light Axe Game • Maze • Haunted Mansion Slide 26
• • • • •
Jumping Castle Lumberjack Axe Throw Game Spooky Pumpkin slide & Jumper Spooky Pumpkin Toddler Playground Wipe-Out Game
This will be a night to celebrate the fall season with Halloween just around the corner, so bring your friends and family and be ready to laugh and smile and have a great time.
Happy Hour Daily 3-6pm
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up on our upcoming events and live entertainment.
Big Rock Pub offers reimagined pub classics, craft cocktails, and live music in a lively, rock-inspired setting, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm | Fri-Sat 11am-11:30pm | Sun. 10am-8pm 79-940 Westward Ho Dr Indio CA, 92201
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5 REASONS TO JOIN THE CHAMBER Membership connects you to people, visibility, resources and a stronger regional business community.
01
Networking Opportunities - Connect with local business owners, community leaders, and potential clients at exclusive events.
02
Business Promotion - Gain visibility through chamber directories, social media, and marketing opportunities.
03
Advocacy & Representation - Have a voice in local government and business policies that impact your industry.
04
Educational Resources - Access workshops, seminars, and expert advice to help grow your business.
05
Community Involvement - Support local and show your commitment to the Coachella Valley region.
FIND OUT MORE AT
GCVCC.ORG 28Local Presence. Regional Strength.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
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A Call for
the Wild
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH COACHELLA VALLEY HISTORY MUSEUM 82616 MILES AVE, INDIO, CA 92201
5-7PM
This evening gathering will support the Desert Wildlife Center and highlight the vital role it plays in protecting local wildlife. Guests will enjoy a relaxed setting featuring food, music, and community connection. Throughout the evening, attendees will learn about the Center’s impact and be invited to make a meaningful commitment to support the future of wildlife care in our region.
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING & SIGNATURE DINING OPEN DAILY Featured Brands Lululemon Vuori L Space Aviator Nation Keri Rosenthal Ramy Brook Tommy Bahama Peter Millar Travis Mathews Johnnie-O ...and more Morgan’s in the desert Adobe Grill Twenty6
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49499 EISENHOWER DR. LA QUINTA, CA 92253 760.564.4111 • LAQUINTARESORT.COM