History in the making! - La Quinta Chamber of Commerce

The beginningBorn in San Francisco in 1874, Morgan was theyoungest son of John S. Morgan, the wealthy owner ofthe Morgan Oyster Company. The distinguished-lookingMorgan came to the desert in 1921 for health reasonsand purchased 1,400 acres of land named “HappyHollow” by the Cahuilla people, the original inhabitantsof the area. Morgan envisioned creating a small, selfcontained,secluded retreat where guests could enjoybeing pampered in the privacy of their own guest-rooms.Many believe that Morgan chose the name “La Quinta”after hearing a local rancher in Mexico tell the tale of abig country house surrounded by cottages.In 1925, to help him turn his dream into a reality,Morgan hired then-budding Pasadena architect, GordonKaufman. Famed for his architectural designs thatinclude the Los Angeles Times Building, the Athenaeumat the California Institute of Technology and the SantaAnita Raceway, Kaufman was relatively unknown whenhired by Morgan. La Quinta Hotel, as it was first called,was Kaufman’s first major success.In 1931, two years after the stock market crashed,the local newspaper announced Walter H. Morgan’s deathdue to carbon monoxide poisoning. Words ofhis last note to his wife were never disclosed;however, it was speculated that the decline of hisfamily’s fortune in to the Great Depression andword from his doctor that he should leave hisbeloved “country home” to move to a sanitariumfor his tubercular condition were overwhelming.The great flag located at the hotel’s entranceflew at half-mast on its 125-foot pole. Morgan’sbody was cremated, his ashes were spread overhis precious date groves and flower gardens, andLa Quinta Hotel closed its fifth season in financialturmoil.Morgan’s Dream Becomes a RealityTogether, Morgan and Kaufman devised theultimate getaway. Kaufman planned main buildings,the lobby areas, the open-air, glassed-in diningroom, the guest casitas and the grounds. In addition, he designed the furnitureand lights and supervised all the construction, including the firing of the bricksused on the premises. The original kiln was located on the site that is currently LaQuinta Resort’s Mountain Course. Mexican laborers crafted more than 100,000adobe bricks, 60,000 roof tiles and 5,000 floor tiles.The total construction cost was estimated at $150,000, at a time when a Fordtouring car cost $250 and a pound of coffee was 50 cents. Morgan also brought thegolf industry to the Coachella Valley, with the construction of a nine-hole courseconstructed at a cost of $50,000 and designed by golfer Norman Beth. It was thefirst golf course built in the valley and was open to the public for a greens fee ofone dollar.La Quinta Hotel’s doors were first opened to an elite group of Morgan’s friendsduring the Christmas holiday in 1926; the hotel’s grand opening to the public washeld in late January 1927. The resort entertained such guests as Charles Taft, sonof President William Howard Taft, and William Crocker from San Francisco. Aftera successful first season, Morgan announced the building of another 14 casitas andthen went to Los Angeles to pass the word of his retreat to the Hollywood community.Morgan was a well-educated, sophisticated man with charm and charisma.Through his family’s connections, he knew the right people in the business andsocial worlds. Although Morgan was opposed to advertising, he had a special talentfor publicity and public relations. He made La Quinta Hotel a social “must” bycarefully inviting Hollywood’s finest.4Hollywood comes to townLa Quinta Hotel had a commodity Hollywoodcelebrities wanted – privacy. Accordingly, theycame to La Quinta Hotel, riding the extra 20miles past Palm Springs in “town cars,” whichlacked air-conditioning, to escape the studios,the deadlines, the pressures and the fans. In the“touring” days, the most sought-after and highlypaid were the hotel’s discrete chauffeurs andfootmen, who skillfully wheeled across the poordesert roads, often stopping to change a tire“blow out” while the passengers shared a picnicbasket. Marie Dressler, Greta Garbo, GingerRogers, Bette Davis, Clark Gable, Robert Montgomery,Errol Flynn, and Joan Crawford are buta few of the many stars who routinely made thetrek over the mountains and through the desertto La Quinta Hotel.It is said that star Bette Davis told newspaperreporters, “I’m off to La Quinta,” betweenscenes on the set of “Jezebel,” and that moviedirector Frank Capra stated, “It was the kind ofplace everyone was looking for; it is a wonderfulgreen oasis in the middle of the desert,and it is absolutely private.” Legend hasit that Capra first came to the desert inthe late 1920s to turn the short story“Night Bus,” (which he had read in aPalm Springs barber shop) into the scriptfor “It Happened One Night.” When thefilm swept the Academy Awards thatyear, Capra became superstitious aboutthe desert and returned year after yearto La Quinta Hotel, his “Shangri-La forscript writing,” to create film classics including“Mr. Deeds Goes to Town,” “LostHorizon,” “You Can’t Take It With You,”“Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” and“Meet John Doe.” For most stars, however,the hotel was more a place of isolationthan a source of inspiration. This wasespecially true for Greta Garbo. Garbo’s visits brought international fame to LaQuinta Hotel.It is said that Garbo’s first visit to La Quinta Hotel was at the suggestion of heragent, Harry Edington. With the help of his chauffeur, Edington rescued the world’smost admired actress from a phone booth that was surrounded by a mob of adoringfans. He suggested that the perfect getaway was La Quinta Hotel, which afterher first visit became Garbo’s favorite place when she “wanted to be alone.”Con’t on page 6La Quinta Hotel, inspirational,private, and to all-a beautiful oasisthat is heaven on earth.

Laid Off? Career Change?What are your career options in todays market?For many people who have had longevity in their past positions, searching for a jobcan seem like an overwhelming undertaking.The first step is to make a marketing plan. When selling a product you needa marketing strategy, when selling yourself to potential employers, you will haveto be prepared to market yourself. Once you have come up with your plan ofaction, make sure to stay organized. If you send your resume to the same companymultiple times, the hiring manager will notice. This doesn’t increase your oddsgetting the interview.Use your social and professional network. Working in the staffing industrywe hear almost daily how online job posting boards are like a “black hole”. Yousubmit your resume and never get any feedback let alone an interview. This is whywe have been suggesting to every applicant to use their social and professionalnetwork as a tool in finding their next job. “An even bigger issue is that the vastmajority of jobs are never advertised—online or anywhere. That’s why you shouldput almost all of your job energy into networking and proportionally very littletime submitting résumés online, according to a USA Today article titled “5 Tips onFinding a New Job”.Online job posting sites such as, Careerbuilder, Monster, HotJobs, Craig’s Listcan be excellent tools but use your time wisely as one can get lost in the onslaughtof false postings. Cut to the chase, go to Indeed.com. This site collects postingsfrom company job boards as well as the other major internet posting boards.Indeed.com will not have Craig’s List job postings so you will have to check thoseseparately.“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again andexpecting different results” brilliantly quoted by Albert Einstein. If your approachis not working, change it! If you’re not getting any response with the currentresume you’re sending out it could mean that it’s time to revamp the resume andsee if that will get you closer to your goal of finding a job.One of the most important things, often forgotten, is to stay involved with yourcommunity. Volunteer, keep an active calendar. Don’t just stay at home and searchthe web. Remaining involved will keep your spirits up and help you to have a morepositive attitude toward your job search.Meegan Sullivan | Proper Solutions. 73700 Hwy 111 Ste. 7 | Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 862-1818DIRECT | (760) 862-9938 DIRECT FAX. meegan@propersolutions.bizEntrepreneurship 101Considerations Before Starting Your New Business1. The idea or business concept - Why this one? What consumer need does it fill?Why are you so interested in creating a business around filling the need?2. Personal assessment - Do you have the personal characteristics to be anentrepreneur? How do you handle setbacks? Are you able to lead, define theproblems, chart the solutions, handle your co-workers, employees, Doubting-Thomasfamily members? Are you persistent, resilient? Are you comfortable marketing yourservices and products? Are you effective at it?3. Financing - Do you have a realistic budget, one that can withstand inevitabledelays? What are your financial resources? - savings, family and friends, investors,banks (NOT at this time!!)?4. Legal Aspects - Decide legal form (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation),have documents created and filed as necessary.5. Accounting - Quickbooks or other packaged accounting system. Take classes orstudy simple textbooks to acquaint yourself with basic accounting.6. Marketing - How will prospective customers and consumers learn about yourproducts or services? Presentations, Collateral Material, Websites, Graphics,Advertising, PR. How will these items and matters be handled?7. Channels of Distribution - How will your products and services be distributedto your customers? Stores? Direct Marketing? Internet?8. Competition - If it’s really a good idea, you’ll find competitors at every turn! Howwill you distinguish your products or services to win and maintain your competitiveposition?9. Customer Service - What will you do to assure the highest quality customerservice? Is it all on you, or can you train staff and co-workers to provide excellent,satisfying customer service?10. Team of Advisers - Can you establish a team of experienced supportive thirdparty advisers who can help you define and solve your pressing business issues?The more you can answer these questions - with specificity - thegreater the likelihood for a smooth transition into your own newbusiness. Good Luck!Mitch BlumbergPresident, iAudioCampus.comBoard Member & Co-Chairman EventsLa Quinta Chamber of CommerceFREE WASH($5 Value)Use this coupon towardany of our state-of-the-artmachines. With coupon onlyexp.4/30/09Cannot Combine Offers• DIRECT TV347-2777• FREE WI FI81106 Hwy.111 @ Madison St., indio (Stater Brothers Shopping Center)Open daily 6am-9pm (last wash)$5.00 OFFFluff & Fold10 lb. min. We will dolaundry for you! Drop off & pickup the next day. ($1.25 per lb.)With coupon only exp.4/30/09Cannot Combine OffersState-of-the-Art Machines • Full time Attendants on-Site • Clean • Drop off Laundry Services • Se Habla Espanol • Safe • Plenty of seating5

1in 5 Americans suffers from allergies. Potential seasonalallergens include: grass, weeds, tree pollen, dust andvarious molds. Cat and dog fur can cause allergicreactions too. Allergies can lead to itchy eyes, sneezing,nasal congestion, and wheezing. Allergic skin conditions cancause a rash and itchy skin. Allergies can play a major role inconditions such as asthma. In some people, severe allergiesto environmental or dietary allergens or to medicationmay result in life-threatening anaphylactic reactions andpotentially death.So why do some of us suffer from allergies, whenothers who are exposed to the same environmentalfactors do not? First, let’s take a look at what happens tothe body during an allergic reaction. When an allergen orforeign invader enters one’s body, some people’s immunesystem will react by mounting a response to get rid of theseallergens. The immune system will try to get rid of theallergen by sneezing, flushing them out with tears or mucus,or dislodging them with nose rubbing. It tries to preventthem from getting into the lungs by constricting the airways.These are normal responses to toxins and viruses, but notto everyday environmental factors. So again, why do someof us suffer from allergies, when others do not? Well, mostlikely variations in our immune system are to blame. A weak or over stimulatedimmune system will react to allergens while a healthy immune system will not.So what can we do about allergies or ‘hay fever’? The goal of most seasonalallergy treatments is to suppress the immune response or halt mucus production,effectively alleviating the symptoms. Many people use medication to deal with thesymptoms because they need a quick, “12-hour” fix to get them through their busyday. Many of us already know about the different antihistamine drugs, allergy shots,anti-inflammatory and over the counter nasal decongestants. Many of them arevery effective and have few side effects, but unfortunately they do not work foreveryone. Most allergy sufferers are only are concerned with seasonal allergieswhen they are in season, but the trick is to take care of the problem before itarises.Seasonal AllergiesOne can prepare for the allergy seasonby making your body and your environmentbetter equipped. Utilizing an air purifier athome and vacuuming on a regular basis canminimize the dust buildup in one’s home.Bathing before bedtime is recommended towash off pollens and other potential allergenson your body. We also know that on dry,windy days there will be more pollen in theair. Keeping windows and doors shut and usingan air conditioner will also help during allergyseason.Keeping your body prepared for allergiesis also important. As the old saying goes“an ounce of prevention is worth a ton ofmedicine.” Acupuncture may be beneficialto prevent allergic responses because it canboost the body’s immune system. It may alsobe used to treat the symptoms. In a smallbut significant study of 26 hay fever patientspublished in the American Journal of ChineseMedicine, acupuncture reduced symptoms inall 26 - without side effects. A second study ofsome 72 people totally eliminated symptoms in more than half of the participants.A bio-detoxification process may also make your body healthier and lesssusceptible to allergens. Supplementation with a combination of vitamins, enzymesand herbal remedies may also be helpful. Stinging nettles are known to have ananti-histamine effect like benedryl. Vitamin C and quercetin also work as naturalanti-histamines. The enzyme bromelain, found in the stem of pineapple, andbioflavonoids, such as those in citrus fruits, green and white tea, and red wine, aregreat anti-inflammatory agents.Check with your healthcare professional for more information and to determinewhat treatment is right for you.Contact N2Health at 760-636-0079 with any questions or for more information go to www.n2healthnow.comCarpet Cleaning for your Health and Indoor Air QualityFor years it has been recognized that carpets act as filters or traps for allkinds of filth, from soil and pet stains to a variety of chemicals. Even a cleanwater-damage event will begin to “reactivate” biological debris such as moldand bacteria. This may sound disgusting but without carpet you have all these pollutantsfloating in the air. In 1993, Dr. Michael Berry wrote “Protecting the Built Environment:Cleaning for Health.” In his book he described carpet as a “sink” whichwould positively impact IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) by acting as a filter and trappingairborne particulates (presuming the carpet is properly maintained and cleaned ona regular basis). He also warned that heavily soiled carpet could become a sourcefor air contamination due to trapped particulates at levels higher than the carpet’sability to absorb soils.In studies going back to the 70’s it was thought that carpets were a primecontributor to asthma and allergy problems. As less carpet was installed in buildingsthe decline in carpet usage was accompanied by an equal increase in asthmaand allergy related problems. In 1995 in Sweden, a research study of “sick buildingsyndrome” was done in 55 “sick” buildings housing different businesses, onlytwo of these sick buildings had carpet. From these studies, it has been found thatbuildings with carpets have less negative effects on the IAQ than those with hardfloors.8Carpeting can improve IAQ because it captures and holds dirt, contaminatesand allergens that would otherwise become airborne. These substances are readilyand effectively removed by vacuuming using high efficiency (hepa filter) bags.Synthetic carpets are better than wool because their fiber’s electrical charge attractspotential contaminants. Synthetic carpets are easy and economical to cleanin the long run and, like any other floor surface, provided they are kept dry andclean, they will not promote microbial growth.The information in this brief article is from articles written by Larry Carlsonand Bob Wittkamp published in the ICS Magazine (a Carpet Cleaning IndustryMagazine intended to educate Carpet Cleaners). Education is not a requirementin the Carpet Cleaning profession. There is no State required Certification orupdating of knowledge. Those Cleaners that spend the time and their money totake IICRC approved courses show their interest in providing quality, knowledgeableservices to the community. This information was researched and provided byAward Carpet and Tile Cleaning, an IICRC Certified Firm.You are invited to call Cathy, an IICRC Certified Carpet Cleaner at Award for any questions or Free in-homePrice Quote. Services include Tile, Stone, Grout, Carpet, Upholstery and Area Rugs Cleaning by Skilled KnowledgeableProfessional Technicians and our New Vortex, The Most Powerful Cleaning Machine in the World.760- 321-7001

Keep Employees Engaged and EnergizedYour employees’ ideas and passion for their workcan help your business grow and succeed. Are youremployees giving your company their all? Do theybelieve that what they’re doing is important? Do theyfeel appreciated? Do they arrive for work filled withpurpose?If you can’t honestly offer an enthusiastic “yes” to thesequestions, consider how you can improve your workenvironment and relationships to encourage employeesto work with energy and enthusiasm. The results couldbe profitable, personally and financially.Provide tools. Make sure your employees haveeverything they need to do their jobs. Ask each staffmember, “Do you have everything you need to be asproductive and successful as you can be?” Be willing toact on worthwhile responses. Be willing to reconsider any policies they considercounterproductive.Set expectations. Clearly communicate what’s expected of employees, what thecompany’s values are, and how the company defines success. Employees need tounderstand their roles, where they fit in the big picture, and how they can make thecompany more successful.Share information. Provide as much information as possible about the company.Explain where it’s making money, where it’s losing money, how its products aredoing in the marketplace, what new initiatives are being considered, and why andhow employees can contribute. Even when the news is not encouraging, people willappreciate your openness.Get personal. Take the time to get to know your employees, especially theirgoals. Without prying, show a genuine interest in your team.Commit to training. Most people like to learn, to grow, and to improve theirmarketability, and the more education and training you provide, the happier and moreengaged they will feel. Cross-train employees in a variety of jobs when possible. Thisnot only improves productivity, it builds cooperation and appreciation when teammembers understand the challenges of other positions. Also, be sure employees aretrained in problem solving and conflict resolution skills. These critical skills will helpthem communicate better with you, their coworkers, customers, and suppliers.Be inclusive. Include your employees in planning and decision making. Facts“on the ground” may differ from perceptions at 30,000 feet. They may see issuesdifferently and offer ideas for working smarter. If you need to create a more efficientdelivery system, ask your delivery staff how they would improve the current system.Use their ideas, and give them credit to them.Reward and recognize. Personally thank an employee for a jobwell-done. Specify what was good about it and why you appreciateit. For example, say: “Thank you for organizing that project sowell. You made it very clear what should happen, when and why.”Remember to celebrate effort as well as accomplishment, to giveemployees working on long-term goals a boost.Following these strategies will help employees feel valued andenthusiastic about their jobs. Not only is this more fun, it’s goodfor business, improves retention, and reduces burn out.Quick and Easy Ways to Recognize EmployeesTake care of your employees, and they will take care of yourcustomers. Here are a few inexpensive ways to make staff feelvalued.Free time:•Let high-performing teams leave early to miss rush-hour traffic.•Give an afternoon off to employees who have exceeded expectations for a particularcustomer.Free food:•Sponsor a free lunch or breakfast for hardworking teams.•Subsidize the price of food in vending machines.More ways to say thanks:•Creating an events committee to plan fun outings, such as trips to a sporting event, apicnic, a holiday party.•Say thank you with a hand-written note.“People are definitely a company’s greatest asset. It doesn’t make any difference whetherthe product is cars or cosmetics. A company is only as good as the people it keeps.” MaryKay Ash, founder of Mary Kay CosmeticsKathleen McEntee is president of Kathleen McEntee and Associates, Ltd (KMA).KMA provides practical advice with the When Smart Business Matters TMapproach to business owners and managers who are eager to grow anddevelop their business.Kathleen can be reached at 760-262-4080 or kmcentee@kmcenteeassoc.com.The economic stimulus package is officially on the books, and already the solarindustry is feeling stimulated. Many solar companies that had been on a hiringfreeze for several months are starting the spring thaw early and gearing upfor a busy summer ahead. The main reason behind thissudden march to action is a provision in the bill that givesrenewable energy companies a shot in the arm, in thecommercial markets allowing them to swap tax creditsfor grants, putting money in their hands now as opposedto later.The problem was that tax credits down the road werenot helping solar firms and homeowners to get loans frombanks teetering on the edge of disaster. Everything took abig pause when the mortgage bubble exploded. And whilethe effect of the stimulus package may not be felt in totefor several months, many companies are already rampingup for a big year.So with the credits-for-grants provision the effect willbe immediate, to a certain extent, for the solar industry.Other provisions that should benefit solar, directly orindirectly, are:Stimulating with Solar•$2.5 billion for research and development of renewable energytechnology•$2 billion for manufacturing of advanced batteries•$300 million in funding for Energy Star taxcredits for homeowners who purchase efficientappliances•$5 billion in home weatherization grants to lowto-middleincome families•$268 million in additional funding for residentialsolar tax creditsThere are several other energy-related provisionsas well, most notably for energy efficiency andalternative fuels and vehicles. Fans of wind powerwill be excited to know that $604 million has beenallocated for the removal of the cap on tax creditsfor small wind systems.Marc Devoe, Regional Sale Director.Sequoia Solar Source of information SEIA and Calfinder9

Golf Mastery Performance Institute / Surgeon of the Greens Golf SchoolsWe feature a full swing simulator, 3D motion capture system, 2D video analysis, customclub and putter fitting system plus training aids to accelerate your performance.We teach you how to become the “Surgeon of the Greens” both mechanically andmentally, learning how to consistently make solid contact with proper distance ontarget.Golf Destinations InternationalPlay the fairways of the world. GDI has a comprehensive range of golf programs to:Ireland, Scotland, South Africa, Hawaii, Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and beyond.Palm Springs Golf Vacations800-PS-Golf-1 gets you on virtually every golf course in the Palm Springs area. We’veplayed them all and can build your golf vacation or golf event that’ll suit you to a tee!Let us save you time and money with instant access to their tee sheets combinedwith our wholesale rates at all the courses, hotels, condos and private homes, withupdated course conditions and special offers to ensure a great golf experience.Tim Hurja. President & PGA Professional760-346-3331.78-065 Main St Suite 203&205Located in Old Town La Quinta upstairs next to the Hogs Breath RestaurantGolfDestinations.comOur doctorsDr. Nicole Ortiz and Dr. Sonja Fung graduated with a Doctorate in Naturopathicmedicine from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR, the leadingauthority in naturopathic primary care. As sun lovers we gladly migrated from thewet and cold of the Northwest to the beautiful Coachella Valley.Our locationThe Coachella Valley is known to be in the forefront of progressive medicine in thecountry. We believe in bringing our services to the area that is the most in need ofnatural medicine, where people want to be proactive and empowered in their healthand wellness.Our approachThe doctors at Live Well Clinic are board-certified naturopathic family physiciansoffering integrative holistic primary care using evidence-based natural medicine. Asthe leading authority on the integration of conventional and natural approachesto health, we use gentle and safe treatments that work well in conjunction withother medicines you may be taking. Over time, many of our patients reduce oreliminate their need for pharmaceutical treatments as they address their underlyingcauses of illness. Our comprehensive treatments may include nutrition, supplements,botanical medicine, and lifestyle coaching. We also offer bio-identical hormonereplacement as seen on Oprah Winfrey show and in SuzanneSomers most recent book Ageless. We believe the pathtoward wellness is best achieved by creating a partnership inthe healing process. You are assured 90 minutes of completeattention for your concerns to be heard.Contact Info: www.livewellclinic.org. info@livewellclinic.org78-370 Hwy 111, Ste 100, La Quinta, CA, 213-268-8884or 971-404-973510

COMMUNITY SERVICESCLASSES, EXCURSIONS,& SPECIAL EVENTSREGISTER EARLY...programs often get canceled because the minimum enrollmentrequirements are not met. Waiting until the last minute to register is usually too late,so please register early.Adult Egg HuntFeel like a kid again! Participants 18 & older are invited to this unique egg hunttaking place in the dark. Look for ordinary eggs and special golden eggs that can beexchanged for prizes. Bring your flashlight!Please no children at this event.Date: Friday, April 10Time: 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.Place: La Quinta Civic Center CampusCost: $5 advanced registration; $7 at the door (sign-ups limited)Youth Egg HuntA collaboration between theCity of La Quinta, PresidentGerald R. Ford Boys &Girls Club of La Quinta, andWindermere Real Estate.Children 2 – 10 years of ageare welcome to participate inthis egg-cellent event. Look forgoodies, toys, and surprises all overthe grass. A special visit from theEaster Bunny is planned, too!Date: Saturday, April 11Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Place: La Quinta Park (across from La Quinta High School)Cost: FREECity’s Birthday Party & Community PicnicCelebrate the City of La Quinta’s 27th Birthday at La Quinta Park. Bring family andfriends to enjoy this high energy event. Games, activities for children, hot dogs, cake,cold drinks, and giveaways.Date:April 25Time:Place:Cost:14Saturday,10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.La Quinta Park (across from La Quinta High School)FREEThis event will also include business participation by La Quinta Chamberof Commerce. So, come on down…enjoy the picnic and meet many of yourfriendly La Quinta businesses.For more informationon these programs, callthe Community ServicesDepartment at (760)777-7090 or go to www.la-quinta.orgIt’s Your LibraryMonthly ProgramsMonday, April 7: Adult Theme-Based Book Club—10:00 a.m.—in StudyRoom. This month’s genre is “historical novels.” Read a title of your choice andjoin others to discuss the different books. May’s theme is “foreign authors.”Thursday, April 16: An Evening with Friends—6:00 p.m.—Tehani’s World ofDance. See how dances are being preserved and respectfully blended to promotemessages of cultural understanding and peace.Weekly ProgramsTuesday mornings: On-the-Lap Storytime—10:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m.—in Children’s Room. Young children sit with a caregiver for a beginning libraryexperience (includes movement forthe active child).Tuesday mornings: PreschoolStorytime:—11:00 a.m.—in theStoryroom. The program is forchildren 2½ to 5 years old ableto leave their parents to join theStorytime group; continuing theme,“Hats off to Books.” Each programends with a project to make andtake home.Saturday mornings: Baby Playand Sign—10:30 a.m.—in theStoryroom. Join Lorraine Hazel, MA CCC SLP for a program that allows parentsand their babies a chance to meet, play, and communicate using simple signs.Special EventSaturday April 4: Day of the Child/Day of the Book or Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros: —10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.—A whirlwind of book-related fun!Dancers, music, crafts, face painting, Crissy the Clown with her balloon animals,refreshments, mini-AIDS walk in the campus park, and many more activities. Eachchild will receive a free paper back book.For more information about the Library, the hours, and its programs, call (760) 564-4767or log onto www.rivlib.com.Street Sweeping Q & AWhy Does the City of La Quinta Sweep Streets?City streets are swept once per week in an effort to reduce air pollutants,particularly PM10, and mitigate serious health risks to La Quinta residents. KeepingLa Quinta beautiful and free of debris is also an important mission.What is PM10 and How do I Find Out More?PM10 is a pollutant emitted from motor vehicles and other sources, and is thendeposited on roads and highways. As vehicles travel over roads, the sand isground into fine particulates and blownback into the atmosphere. PM10 posessignificant health risks and aggravatesa number of respiratory illnesses. Tolearn more about PM10, visit http://www.aqmd.gov/aqmp/PM10Plans.htmWhat Day is my Street BeingSwept?City streets are swept a minimum ofonce a week. The City of La QuintaStreet Sweeping schedule map can befound on the website at http://www.la-quinta.org/Index.aspx?page=178.

Explore Your MuseumThe La Quinta Museum has four remarkable exhibits running as well as eventsthroughout the month of April. There’s much to explore and enjoy at your LaQuinta Museum!ExhibitsPioneer Families of La QuintaA montage of early pioneer life in printand photos of the La Quinta area. Onexhibit through October 31, 2009.Paris en Plein AirA Black and White photo exhibition ofeveryday Parisian life at the museum April3 through July 15, 2009.OriginsMr. Stan Sniff’s collection of early dategrove and sand dune images, circa 1900,from Algeria and Saudia Arabia. On displaythrough June 30, 2009.Picturing AmericaMasterpieces of American art in libraries,classrooms, and museums nationwide.Riverside County Library System and LaQuinta Museum are partnering to exhibit“Picturing America” lithographs until May 15,2009.EventsAn Evening with Mr. Stan SniffA chance to hear stories and ask questions aboutLa Quinta’s early days.Date: March 31Time: 5-6pmPre-School StorytimeThe La Quinta Historical Society will provide story time and a craft for pre-schoolchildren.Date: April 1 Time:10am Ages: 3-5First Friday“An Evening in Paris” with Juggler David Cousin and the opening reception forthe “Paris en Plein Air” black and white photo exhibition.Date: April 3Time: 4:30-6pmA Visit from the Vail Ranch and the Butterfield Stage RouteRebecca Farnsbach and Anne Miller present legendary Vail Ranch and ButterfieldStage Route, both of which figured prominently in the development of RiversideCounty.Date: April 9Time: 1-3pmLa Quinta LegendsVictoria Bailey will be speaking about and signing her book, La Quinta Legends.Date: April 16Time: 6-8pmA Night at the MuseumCelebrate the museum’s first year of operation and the dedication of the historicmural! Join us for a fun-filled late afternoon complete with cake, face painting, andanimals from the Living Desert.Date: May 1Time: 4-6pmLa Quinta Senior CenterHappeningsThursday, April 2 & 23, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Diane Kelly/ Geriatric Care Manager is offeringone-on-one consultations in Navigating HealthCare Systems, Ethical Issues & Advanced Directives(appointment required). FREEFriday, April 3, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. “Is Reverse Mortgage Right for You?”Presentation with Clay Behm from Bank of America. FREEFriday, April 3 & 24, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Seniors may have simpledocuments notarized by notary public Socorro Gutierrez (appointment required).FREEFriday, April 3, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Spring Evening Dance ~ the Bob RinardBand will be playing Latin and Ballroom dance music. Special guests are the“Tough Guys and Gals Do Dance” dancers from La Quinta High School. Fee is $2(reservations please).Tuesday, April 7 & April 28, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Imperial IrrigationWorkshop on new requirements for discounts (reservation required). FREEWednesday, April 8, 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Rev up your metabolism withNutrients for the Body from Lucy Boon of Herbalife (reservations please). FREETuesday April 14, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. “Tea-You-and-Me” presented bySandra Bryant. Topics include organizational techniques, energy retention, andresources. Light Refreshments provided (reservation required). FREETuesday April 14, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. History of Social Security Taxationpresented by Lanterman Financial. Learn the history behind government taxation(reservations please). FREEWednesday April 15, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. “Spectacular Health & WellnessCenter” Lymphatic Massage/Dry Brushing. Alternative medicine demonstrationwith instruction on how to do this cleansing yourself (reservation required).Friday, April 17, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Eisenhower Medical Center isproviding memory assessments at the Senior Center (appointment required). FREETuesday April 21, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Legal Consultation with DavidGrossman (appointment required). FREETuesday April 21, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. “Fun Arts & Crafts.” Make wind sockswith volunteer Elaine Anderson (reservations required).Tuesday, April 21, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Impacts from the Current Economyon your Retirement Plans and Long Term Care with Craig Rumbaugh, MBA, aninvestment adviser for ING Financial Partners, Member SIPC.Friday, April 24, 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Multi-generational Talent Show. Awonderful way to spend the evening enjoying local performers (ages 7 & older).Admission by reservation only. FREETuesday April 28, 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Advanced Hearing is offering a freeconsultation; cleaning, battery changing, testing (appointment required). FREEWednesday, April 29, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. “Seven Costly Mistakes SeniorsMay Make in 2009” by Sterling First Financial (reservation required). FREEThe La Quinta Senior Center provides these opportunities as a service and does not endorse orrecommend any service or business. Services rendered are the responsibility of the provider andthe providee. For additional information on these and other events, please call the Senior Center at(760) 564-0096.15

Green Presentation atLa Quinta MuseumWednesday, April 22La Quinta Police DepartmentCrime Prevention TipsTAKING CRIME PREVENTION TO WORKWhen you go to work, don’t leave your crime prevention sense at home.Almost any crime that can happen at home, or in your neighborhood, canhappen in the workplace as well. The following common-sense preventionskills can help make life at work safer for everyone:Preventing Office Theft• Keep your purse, wallet, keys and other valuable items with you at alltimes or locked up.• If you bring personal items to work such as a coffee pot, a calculator,a radio or a CD player – mark them with your name, initials, and anidentification number.Take Responsibility for Office Safety• Check the identity of any strangers who are in your office. If thismakes you uncomfortable, inform security or management aboutyour concerns.• Always let someone know where you will be – whether it is workinglate, going to the copy machine, going out to lunch or a meeting.• Report any broken or flickering lights, dimly lit corridors, doors thatdon’t lock properly, or broken windows.• Be discreet. Don’t advertise your social life or vacation plans or thoseof your co-workers to people visiting or calling your place of work.Avoid Trouble Spots• Avoid using out-of-the-way stairwells or corridors. Talk to thebuilding manager about improving poorly lighted stairways andcorridors.• Don’t get into elevators with people who look out of place or behavein a strange or threatening manner.• Be cautious when using restrooms. Make sure restrooms are lockedand only employees have keys. Do not use restrooms that areisolated or poorly lighted.• Don’t work late alone. Use the “buddy system” for walking to parkinglots or public transportation. If available, ask security to escort you toyour vehicle.If you have any further questions please call Officer Fowler at (760) 863-8950.The City of La Quinta along with itsconservation partners – CoachellaValley Water District, ImperialIrrigation District, Southern CaliforniaGas Company, and Burrtec Waste &Recycling – will be hosting a FREE“Green Presentation” at the La QuintaMuseum on Wednesday, April 22,2009 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Meet& greet in the Museum Courtyardand sign up for valuable conservationprograms. Get tips on water, energy, andgas conservation and recycling smart!Water conservation programs:Weather-based irrigation controllers(water savings device); and single familylandscape conversion program (replacing turf with desert landscaping to save water).Energy efficiency programs: Energy Star rebates for pool pumps and appliances;and the Inspector Energy program (energy audit and advice for improving energyuse).Come and learn about the “Sharp’s” needle disposal program and the FREEcommercial recycling program.For more information, call the City Manager’s Office – Management Services Division at(760) 777-7120.Document Shred DaySaturday, April 18, 20099:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon(or until capacity is reached)The City of La Quinta, in partnership withBurrtec Waste & Recycling Services, is offering aFREE Document Shred Day to the residents andbusinesses of La Quinta.There is a 3-file-box limit (the size copy paper is sold in),and proof of residency or a business licensewill be required.The following items will NOT be accepted: Metal clips,metal brackets, binders, old cardboard boxes, trash,household hazardous waste, carbon paper, transparencies,foods, liquids, paper towels, tissues, glass,aluminum, and plastics.16

Ionce ran out of my third grade classroom in tears rather than give a book report– the idea of standing up in front of a room full of peers was far more terrifyingthan getting a failing grade. Speaking to groups causes many people to feel physicallyill. It’s easy to avoid public speaking - you just don’t volunteer to do it.To a lesser degree, we, as business owners and employees, are faced with publicspeaking on a regular basis. Something as simple as an event Mixer where you haveto talk ‘cold’ to people can be frightening or push you way out of your comfortzone. As a way to get past this fear, it might be helpful to understand the cause ofit.Fear of public speaking is really fear of rejection. Consciously or unconsciously,here are the thoughts that go through our minds when we have to talk with people:What if they don’t like what I have tosay? What if I look stupid? What if I forgetwhat I’m talking about? What if I havespinach in my teeth? What if they don’tlike ME?Here is the reality – Nearly ALL peopleat Mixers have those same thoughts.In fact, most of them are so preoccupiedwith their own insecurities that they arenot even focused on you. If they’re notpaying attention, how can we effectivelymarket our businesses? How can weovercome the fear of talking with others?What is the best way to network?First of all, remember that a hard sellis not necessary. In fact, most people areturned off by someone who walks up,shoves a business card or flyer in their hand and says ‘Hi, I’m so-and-so with brandX, please use us for your [whatever] needs’. Yuck. Those business cards or fliers canend up in the next available wastebasket.The key to effective networking is relationship building. People do business withpeople they know and like. To get the most out of your Mixer experiences, try thefollowing:1. Divide and Conquer – if you go to Mixers in a group, split up so you can meetmore people. It’s amazing how many people huddle with their coworkers ratherthan venture out to talk with others. You’re here to meet people, so meet them!2. It’s a Numbers Game – the more people you talk with, the better your odds areof getting your name out there and/or getting new leads3. Develop an Ice Breaker – the hardest part is striking up a conversation withsomeone you don’t know. A good intro and one that’s worked well for me is ‘Hi, I’m[insert your name] – have we met before?’ Even when you’re sure you don’t knowthe person, this statement removes any awkwardness and sets the other person atease. And if you do recognize their face, but can’t remember their name, this is anacceptable way to save your own face.4. Be Genuinely Interested in Their Story – People who talk about themselves willfind you far more interesting than if you talk about yourself, but only if you’re sincereand focused on them.5. Resist the Urge to Tell Your Story - Don’t even bother to tell them what you dountil they ask (and they will). You need to build the relationship, get to know them,and make a connection. If they don’t happen to ask about your business, no worries,you can tell them next time.6. Be Passionate About What You Do –when it’s your turn to share your business,be enthusiastic and passionate. Again, noneed to hard sell. Just tell them what youdo, what you love about it, what it can dofor others, why it’s fun. Make your conversationabout your business, not about youand there should be no rejection involved.7. Ask For a Business Card – it’s surprisinghow many times people forget to offerone. Check for an email address and if itdoesn’t have one, ask for it. If you writea newsletter or blog, now is the time toask their permission to add them to yourdistribution list.8. Make Follow Up Notations – when yourconversation results in a ‘call me about…’or ‘why don’t we meet to discuss this further’ comment, make a note on the businesscard right then, before you move to the next person. That way when you reviewthe cards later, you’ll have a reminder. Be sure to follow up promptly. Generallyspeaking, a follow up email or phone call should be made within 3 to 5 days afterthe Mixer.9. Set Opportunity Goals – If you go to lots of Mixer functions, there will come atime when you know most of the people in attendance. Set a goal to make two orthree new leads then relax and reconnect with the people you already know. Havesome fun. As they say, all work and no play….10. And Finally – avoid any appetizer with spinach as an ingredient. You don’t needthe stress.Ms. Leslie Spoor is the founder and president of Executive Errands, a locally owned and operated PersonalConcierge company. Leslie may be contacted at 760.469.2487 or lspoor@executive-errands.com. For moreinformation about Executive Errands, please visit their website at www.executive-errands.com17

There are times in life when your self confidencewill take a hard hit. Sometimes you are ableto overcome life’s challenges, while othertimes you simply feel overwhelmed. Sometimes,your confidence and courage will see you through.However, there are times when your self confidencewill take a beating. Therefore, it is extremely importantthat you remember “Nobody can hurt you withoutyour consent.” The impact the problem has on you, isnot nearly as important as the impact you allow theproblem to create on you. In your life, it is inevitableyou will feel pain, but suffering is definitely optional.Whether you choose to bounce back or endure thepain is purely a choice.There can be a variety of different reasons why yourself confidence may be hurt. Your circumstance may bethat you have had a hard marriage and are now headedfor divorce court. Or perhaps you did not make thecollege football team or may have even been laid offwork. Undoubtedly, there is a lot of pain associatedwith any of these situations. However, you don’t haveto suffer. You can simply choose to resolve or riseabove the problem and get back your confidence.The following are some ways that can help rebuildyour self confidence.Look at the bright side of things.If you have lost your job, give yourself permission tofeel bad for a day or two. However, longer than that isnot acceptable. Yes, losing a job is a horrible thing, butit is not the end of the world. In reality, losing your jobmay be a blessing in disguise. Time away from workmay allow you to take a closer look at your life. You cantake the time to review your likes and dislikes, as wellas your hobbies. This may give you the opportunity tochoose a new path in life, one that is more in syncwith your aptitude and abilities. Similarly, a divorceBy Kevin Sinclairmay cause you a great deal of pain upfront. However,chances are you were not happy in your marriage.Now, you can begin to rebuild your life and live it theway you want to.Don’t compare yourself to othersWhenever a problem arises, we often ask God “Whyme?” Chances are, God has given you quite a fewrewards in your life. When you received the rewardsdid you ask God “Why me?” This is simply what humannature is all about. We often complain and only seek Godwhen we are in trouble. It is important that you do notlook at other people who may appear comfortable andhappy from a distance. Stop comparing your sufferingwith their comfort. This will only make matters worse.Instead, try focusing the attention on yourself. Makea genuine effort to get out whenever you are feelingdown.Self pity can be very addicting and in turn, destroy lives.Instead of giving into self pity (although we all do thisfrom time to time), take back control of your life. Ownup to your actions and learn from any mistakes youhave made. This will help you to obtain a fresh start.Don’t let a “NO” get you down. A “NO” is somethingthat everyone, including people like Thomas Edisonand Henry Ford has had to face. If you look at it inthe right light, you can see that a “NO” is actually justa step closer to a “YES”. Reports show that beforeEdison was successful in producing an electric bulb, heconducted more than a thousand experiments thatall failed. Therefore, take the “NO” in stride and keepgoing.Are you keeping yourself from moving on?Shadows form when we stand directly in the path ofsunshine. In our lives, we too can cause shadows bystanding directly in the way of our own happiness.In today’s society, it is extremely important that weremain flexible. People will often search for monthsfor the perfect job, while allowing others to slip away,simply because they are not willing to adapt to somenew job skills. Jane, who was laid off from her job asa teacher, tried for several months to obtain anotherteaching job.All the while, she was turning down jobs to work asa freelance copy-editor, a nanny position and evenprivate tutoring positions. The extremely long waittook a further toll on her self confidence. Sometimesit is wise to be flexible and try to adapt to another job,rather than trying to find the perfect replacement. Thiswill help to rebuild confidence, which can eventuallylead to a better job, in the field of your choice.18

easter at la quinta resort & clubSunday, April 12, 2009easter brunch$55.00 per person*For Reservationsplease call 760-777-4900easter eggstravaganzaFor ticket informationplease call 760-564-7684 *Does not include tax and gratuityOwner/ OperatorPaul Van Vlymen & Lisa Van Vlymen•FREE quotes on equipment replacement•Tune up specials March-May & Oct.-Dec.•Family owned and operated•20+ years experiencePALM DESERT • LA QUINTA • INDIO777-1724Residential SpecialistServicing all Makes and ModelsLic# 725283 • InsuredA Business Built by Recommendations19

Legal NotebookTHE MARKED TO MARKET MESSWhy did the American financial markets suddenly collapse? The answer is farfrom simple, but it is comprehensible.From the Carter Administration through the Clinton Administration, there havebeen regulatory measures that urged, and sometimes forced, financial institutions tomake housing loans to people who did not “qualify” for such loans in the traditionalsense. They did not pay 20% of the purchase price down and did not contemplatemortgage payments of 25% or less of after tax income. They might pay only 5%down and undertake a mortgage that was affordable in the first three years butthen jumped egregiously. For example, a mortgage payment of $800 a month mightput you in your new home, but that payment would jump to $4000 a month threeyears later.“Don’t worry,” said the lender, “you can refinance.” But that was not to be.These good hearted measures aimed at putting lower income folks into theirown homes were carried over into the Bush Administration. This, combined withthe steady and large federal money supply, created what is now called the “subprime”market.That market was small compared to the overall mortgage market, probably 10%to 20% of loans made. But American ingenuity had to come into play and it did.Someone created the concept of the “Mortgage Backed Security.” This meant thata bundle of mortgages, say 1,000, were put into a “package” and the “package” wastraded like a corporation, that is, shares were sold of the “package.” The conceptwas that the “mortgage package” produced income of, say, $10,000,000 per yearfrom the payments the homeowners were making. If the “package” shares sold at aprice earnings ratio of fifteen times earnings, that meant the securities were worth$150,000,000. The securities were sold to Bank X for $150,000,000 and were partof Bank X’s reserves. These reserves must be kept at a constant level, pursuant togovernment regulation.Now our package of securities, by the law of averages, probably only had about10% of subprime mortgages. In other words, 90% of the mortgages in our packagekept right on paying and producing income. But 10% did not. There were thousandsof these packages sold by various financial institutions to other financial institutionsand no one knew how much of each package was “bad” due to subprime loans.Once loans started to fall into delinquencies, panic set in.During the Bush Administration, the government adopted a regulation, not seensince Roosevelt abolished it in the 1930’s, that required assets to be “markedto market.” That means, broadly, that if you hold an asset you cannot sell, it isworthless. So Bank X holding $150,000,000 of mortgage backed securities in itsreserves, suddenly must mark its $150,000,000 down to zero. Keep in mind thatthe package is still paying 90% of what it is suppose to pay because only 10% of theloans were subprime. Still, in the eyes of the regulators, it is worthless. So Bank Xis now short of reserves.Is this ridiculous? You bet it is. Could the panic and the crash have been avoided?Without question. But a combination of politics, the complexity of the mortgagebacked securities packages, and a lack of plain common sense, set everything into adomino-line of collapse.Will we get out of this mess? Of course we will. Many, including WarrenBuffet, are already urging the Feds to back off of “marked to market,” at least forregulatory purposes. That alone would ease the pressure and bring assets back atleast closer to their true value.People who bought houses they could not afford are probably going to lose theirhouses and this will mean a glut of houses available for a while with a correspondingdrop in new home construction. Was there a bubble in home prices? Maybe. The“bubble” in high-tech stocks of the 1990’s was caused by people paying $100 ashare for a company that had never made anything or earned anything and neverwould and never did. That company and that stock were actually worthless. Is ahome worthless? Never. So that market will stabilize and come back, but “markedto market” has to go to get the financial institutions lending again.By Thomas J. McDermott(Mr. McDermott is a lawyer in theValley and is a member of the LaQuinta Chamber of CommerceBoard of Directors)Q: What is acceptable for evening attirefor men?Fashion Police for Men: A Q & AQ: Do formal functions always require a tux,bowtie & cummerbund?A: The ‘death of the dress code’ factors in on thenew wave of formal dressing for men. Pairing dinnerand tuxedo jackets with more casual elements is notunusual. Of course, let’s not forget, buying a timelesscut will last forever - and there are times when theinvite requires the tried and true.That being said, you will notice more and morethat fashion is taking its cues from the ‘death of thedress code’, pairing traditionally formal elements ofthe dinner suit with fashion pieces.The key for guys is to really know which elementsto pick from a dinner suit. The easiest are going tobe the satin shawl, satin notched or peaked lapels.Personally we’d avoid a peaked lapel and stick to theshawl or notched lapel, these are far easier to wear.We’d also avoid selecting the formal dinner shirt as an element, despite it beingincluded in the women’s incarnation of the trend...Don’t be too averse at making a good investment however. The right dinner suitis timeless, and this trend will be around for years to come.A: It is acceptable to wear a black suit, of quality, toa formal gathering, especially with a crisp white shirtand a fashionable tie. The shirt need not be the typical‘tuxedo shirt’ but should incorporate such design elementsas tone-on-tone, be it a paisley print or stripe.Throw out that bowtie along with the cummerbundand put on a sophisticated satin black, white or silversolid tie or bring in the same kind of elements of theshirt (ie. tone-on-tone). And who says color isn’t anoption? Have you seen Donald Trump with his brightred tie or the Academy Award attendees with ALLblack attire - suit, shirt and tie?So much for dressing with the ‘typical’ formal attire.Be creative and be different. And, what is reallymost important, is how you feel about how you lookand the fun you’re having being the hit of the event...Please feel free to call us or email with your questions. Mares For Men 771-0444 or email Maggie‘magemail@earthlink.net’. Richard Mares is also available for personal consultations by appointment.20

As life expectancy climbs with every generation, focus has shifted from livinglonger to living better. We are at an age where we no longer need to choosebetween quality or quantity of life. Aging is not the same now as it wasfor our parents or grandparents. The most progressive doctors are finally focusingon how to maintain quality of life at the same time as procuring quantity of life.Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is one of the major therapiesavailable to address this improvement.Oprah and Suzanne Somers have brought bio-identical hormone replacementtherapy onto center stage. Their dramatic improvement in quality of life and wellbeinghas prompted them to speak about the benefits of using BHRT in conjunctionwith changes in lifestyle and diet. As Suzanne quoted, “By replacing my hormoneswith bio-identical hormones, I got my life back. I got my health back, I got my figureback, I got my happiness back,” she says. “Everything in my life is better.”More than 2 million women enter menopause each year. For nearly one in threewomen, menopause has the same or greater impact on daily lives as bearing andraising children.As a woman matures in age the ovaries lose their ability to produce estrogens,progesterone, DHEA and testosterone -the hormones responsible for a woman’smenstrual cycle. In this stage, when menstruation becomes erratic or disappears, thedreaded physical and psychological changes appear. This process is called menopause.Bio-identical hormone replacement helps women make this transition without theside-effects that make you miserable. BHRT is indicated for much more than justmenopause. If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms youcan benefit from a test that will show your hormone levels.• Hot flashes • Weight gain• Vaginal dryness • Insomnia • Joint pain• Low libido • Osteoporosis • Hair-loss• Headaches • Mood swings• Memory-loss • Loss in muscle massYou can think of symptoms as your body’s way of asking for more support. They arean innate signal to you that more attention is needed to your health.Bio-identical hormones are derived from plant sources and are made to modelthe exact structure of your own body’s hormones. They are not available overthe counter and must be prescribed by a doctor who has special training in bioidenticalhormone replacement.Not every woman or man needs or wants to be on hormones, and holisticdoctors can work with each patient to supplement with diet, vitamins, herbs andlifestyle to treat hormone deficiencies in a very gentle approach. The key is to beinformed. Ask your doctor if they have special training in BHRT. Do they run theappropriate 24-hour urine tests that show hormonal imbalance? If not, you may bemissing out on a very important tool to increase your quality of life, decrease riskof chronic disease, and help you regain your zest for life.If you are interested in finding out more about bio-identical hormones and if they are right for you register toattend the weekly informational discussion led by your local BHRT physicians Dr. Nicole Ortiz and Dr. SonjaFung. Sessions are held every Tuesday at 7pm at Live Well Clinic located in Point Happy Plaza in La Quinta.Men and women welcomed. Please register by calling 971-404-9735 or email info@livewellclinic.org. Formore info visit: www.livewellclinic.org.Benefits of BHRT for WomenHelps eliminate or reduce hot flashesReduces risks of heart diseaseAccelerates fat burning for increased weight lossReduces night sweats and insomniaEnhances sex drive and libidoProtects against fibrocystic breastsHelps improve memory lapses and foggy thinkingPrevents vaginal thinning and drynessIncreases energy and reduces depressionImproves the skin’s elasticity- decreases aging linesGuards bones from osteoporosis & encourages bone growthImproves blood flowBenefits of BHRT for MenReduces risks of heart diseaseHelps maintain or regain muscle toneAccelerates fat burning for increased weight lossReduces sleep disturbancesEnhances sex drive and libidoHelps improve memory lapses and foggy thinkingIncreases energy and reduces depressionImproves the skin’s elasticityEncourages bone growthImproves blood flowMOVE OVER LASIKHERE COMES REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGEFor patients 50 and up a paradigm shift is occurring with refractivesurgeons away from lasik towards refractive lens exchange.Refractive lens exchange involves removing the eyes naturalcrystalline lens and replacing it with a new generation refractivelens. As this generation moves into their 60’s and subsequent70’s expect a much larger share of refractive surgery to moveto refractive lens exchange. Unlike lasik that only has one focalpoint, refractive intra-ocular lenses have focuses for distanceand near and in the case of translating lenses a variable focus.Translating lenses move position within the eye to allow itchange focus, much as individuals had when they were under40. Both translating and multifocal intra-ocular lenses allowboth eyes to be focused at far and at near allowing betterbinocular vision and more natural vision than monovisionlasik.Con’t. on page 2721

FEATURE HOLE OF THE MONTH#13The thirteenth hole at SilverRock Resort is oneof the longest par four’s on the golf course, measuring470 yards from the back tees. Due to itsPeriodically,length and many challenges, this hole consistentlyplays as one of the most difficult. The hole doglegsslightly to the right and features a large lake to theleft of the fairway and a large native area to theright side of the fairway. The tee shot is crucial toscoring on this hole; players must hit a good driveto have a chance of hitting their second shot to the green. The green is shallowand well protected in the front by bunkers. Helpful Hint: When teeing off, favorthe right side of the fairway;this will give you a better lookat the green. Anything shortand left will give you a blindsecond shot and add distanceto your approach shot.HOW THE PRO’S PLAYEDIT:During the 2009 Bob HopeChrysler Classic at SilverRockResort, hole #13 averaged 4.10among the top ten finishers ofthe tournament. Of the topten finishers, only one professionalbirdied the thirteenthhole. The hole played 449yards during the tournament;most of the professionals hitdriver off the tee, landing theball about even with the endof the fairway bunker, leavingthem a short to mid iron tothe green.By Ryan LundeRyan Lunde, PGA1st Assistant Golf ProfessionalSilverRock Resort(760) 777 - 8884 ext.3rlunde@silverrock.orgGOLF PROFESSIONAL TIP OF THE MONTHA major cause of errant drives is dropping theclub head or “chopping” down on top of thegolf ball rather than sweeping it. To shallow yourapproach into impact, try practicing throwing abasketball down the target line and level to theground. During the drill hold the basketball inboth hands, swing it up to your top-of-the-swingposition, then use an underhand motion to tossit down the line. Poor drivers will tend to throwthe basketball into the ground; good drivers willthrow it down the target line. The more youcan level out your toss, the better your drivingaccuracy will get. To ingrain the motion, practicethis basketball drill until it becomes natural andautomatic.parents will questionthe value of an independentschool environment for educatingtheir child verses other schooloptions. I always tell them that in thefield of education, size matters.The size of the overall school, as wellas the individual class size, can make ahuge difference in the success a studentcan achieve in a school setting. New datafrom the U.S. Department of Educationshows a student’s achievement test scores, postsecondary accomplishments, andthe value he/she places on community service and civic participation are directlyrelated to school and class size.A key factor in the success of the independent school, the average enrollmentof which is 483 students, is its accountability to the families who make up theschool community. In independent schools, the average student-teacher ratio isjust 8:1. According to the latest figures from the U.S. Department of Education,the average student-teacher ratio in most public schools is 25:1; and it is 27:1 inCatholic schools.Independent school students are distinguished from their peers in other privateschool or public school situations in achievement tests in reading, social studies,math, science, as well as scores from the SAT. Nearly 72% of independent schoolstudents achieved 1700 or better on the SAT – a score that would qualify moststudents for admission to highly selective colleges and universities. By comparison,only 20.2% of public school students and 20.6% of Catholic school studentsachieved 1700 or better.Another factor that distinguishes independent school students from their peersis their choice of college majors once they graduate. Independent school graduatespursue a much more diverse range of college majors in the liberal arts, socialstudies, and natural sciences and maintain a strong focus on preparation for thefuture.Independent school graduates are further distinguished from their peers asthey lead the nation in postsecondary achievement. According to the latest data,76.3% of students graduating from an independent school environment completeda four-year degree or higher. Other private schools had only 61% of their studentscompleting a four-year degree or higher; and public school students were wellbehindat 38%. Independent school graduates also are shown to place a highervalue on community service and civic participation. Independent school graduatesare nearly twice as likely to volunteer or to work for political campaigns and politicalcauses. And 75% of independent school students voted in the last Presidentialelection compared to only 57% of students in other schools.There are more than 2,000 independent schools across the United States. Theyare called “independent” because they have distinct missions and are primarily supportedby tuition payments and charitable contributions. And they have in commonthe goal to help students receive a quality education, exceed academically andpersonally, and become healthy, active and engaged adults.“There is clarity of mission and a core academic program in an independentschool environment,” said A. Graham Down, former president of the Council forBasic Education.“Everyone agrees on the purpose – to get students into good colleges and developcharacter and leadership, and to focus on values and participation in democracy,”he said.With the impending budget cuts in education in California, more and morepeople across the board are wondering what will happen to our public schoolsand what the economic impact will be on our children’s academic futures. As aneducator and a member of an independent school, I can’t emphasize enough, in thefield of education, size matters.Vincent E. Downey, Head of School. Marywood-Palm Valley School“A college-prep, non-denominational, independent, PS-12, private school in Rancho Mirage”23

Power Luncheon, Ribbon Cuttings and MixersFirst row:Mixer at SilverRock Resortwith Brian Bowen, Dr. Naotaand Frank Holquin.•Curtis Barlow, Loren Biggsand Bernadate•Ribbon cutting at the newLa Quinta police Station withChief of Police Rodney Vigueand our local Police Officerswith Alex Negron, MitchBlumberg, Debbie Fraiser andAnn Kosich.Second row:Ribbon cutting at AGC GolfCars with Bill Mercier, ClintGriffin, Mike Newman, RobertSanchez and Jason Weir.•AGC showroom with guests• Shari and J.Paul of J & SPaul Professional Plaza withOfficer BurgieThird row:Ribbon Cutting at the newBone & Joint Institute of JFKMemorial Hospital with CEODan Bower (holding thesissors), Dr. Raj Sinha M.D.,PHD, Dr. Sam Reber M.D.,PHD, and Linda Evans of JFKMemorial Hospital.•State of Art Robot for Hip/Joint replacements.• Client on SpineForce atelite Health & WellnessFourth row:Power lunch at la QuintaResort and Club with guestspeaker Tax Attorney BernieGartland•Christine Hall, David Archerand Bearnie Gartland.•Cara St. John, Ron Combsand Toby Stockman•Ribbon cutting at eliteHealth & Wellness with SussyShiffer-Polanco, Renee Woodward,Linda Goodnight, TrishO’Shea, Dr. Delos O’DeaneSoehren, Jr., Anne Blalock,Alex Negron andAmbassador John Snow.24

NAVIGATOR$329 99EXPIRES05/01/2009 73108FREE SETUP & DELIVERY! AFTER $50 MAIL-IN REBATEMSRP $1,699.99PLUS 1 MONTHFREE POOL SERVICESUPPLIES RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL250,000 BTUEnergy Efficient Heater$1599 99onlyAQUARITELa Quinta Retail Store Now Open!79680 Hwy 111 • La Quinta7603477665®®EXPIRES05/01/200973108FREEINSTALLATIONSALT SYSTEM5 YEAR WARRANTY EXPIRES73108$999 99 05/01/2009Buy 1, get 150%OFFon all filtercartridges!WE WILLBEAT ANYCOMPETITOR’SPRICE!Visit ourstore andreceiveFREE gas!For every $25spent we will credityou $5 towards agallon of gas!40 % OFF ALLSWIMWAYS ITEMS25 % OFF ALLVACUUMS, BRUSHES,NETS & POLES25 % OFF ANY ITEM ** Some restrictions apply20 % OFF ALLCHEMICALS$ 500 OF FREEMERCHANDISE ONYOUR NEXT VISITALL OFFERS EXPIRE 73108 05/01/2009HEALTH – LIFE – AND WEALTHIn times like these more than ever, we need help and assurances that we have thesafety ropes in place whether it be our Health – Medicare - or life-business- Insuranceneeds. That is Why Casten is here to help. We want to be your source forthe Valley. Di Casten has taken on the best of the best “Nitch Products’ HealthInsurance for the so called “UN INSURANCE ABLE”. Yes we have it and at a greatlow cost ! Medicare Advantage plans through SecureHorizons. As well as longterm health care plans through Genworth Financial. Not forgetting the BusinessNetwork, we have AFLAC employee enhancements plans and employer servicesthat will save you money.Ken Casten Has taken on the wealth and safetyside of the team providing a “Life With a Pay Plan“business opportunity”,weither you are looking forsupplemental income or a new business venture.This program offers low start up cost with immediatereturn on your investment.Di and Ken Casten want to be The “Life Guards” tothe community in offering these services.Call Di at 951-231-0100. Ken at 760409-5884castenforhelp@gmail.com7606749700BEFOREAFTERPOOL SERVICESNEW CONSTRUCTION10 YEAR WARRANTYREMODELSREPAIRSPEBBLE FINISHPLASTER TILEDECKINGPOOL DESIGNSOLAR HEATINGPOOL SERVICESUPER VALUES$100 off any pump$100 off any filter$50 off any motorSALES @ POOLSPAAMERICA.COM$1000 OFFAny Remodelor newconstruction1 MONTH OFFREE POOL SERVICEWITH ANY SERVICEPACKAGE!All pool services include: FREE filtercleaning, FREE equipmentevaluation Vacuuming, Brushing,Skimming, Removal of Debrisfrom Pump Basket, Skimmer Basket2x per week Pool ServiceEXPIRES05/01/200973108$ 7999$89.99 per monthafter 3rd monthper month1x per week Pool Service$ 5499per month$64.99 per monthafter 3rd monthCall for detailson FREEPool ServiceEXPIRES05/01/200973108Senior Discounts!CONTRACTORS STATELICENSE #891048BONDED • INSUREDIn the Village of La Quinta across the street from Old Town is Solano’s Bistro,a quaint and inviting restaurant serving California Cuisine. Co-owner Alexandra(Alex) Lee Wipf met her business partner Francisco (Paco) Solano at PGA WEST,where Paco was the Executive Chef for the past 12 years. They opened Solano’swith a common goal: serve the freshest and finest meals at an affordable price, whilecreating an environment that makes you feel at home. From Eggs Benedict and theShrimp Frittata served at weekend breakfasts to the variety of salads, fresh wrapsand sandwiches at lunch, you will be surprised how much the mood changes in theevening. Seafood, poultry, and an array of pasta dishes are offered with a change ofpace. Enjoy artwork for sale by local artists while you savor the flavors of ChefPaco’s incredible, yet affordable meals. The friendly service staff looks forward togreeting you, and in its first two weeks of business, they have already welcomedback a majority of their customers. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner everyday beginning at 11:00 am, with weekend breakfast from 7:00 am to 11:00 am, andis closed on Mondays.Contact Information:Address: 78-110 Calle Estado, behind the Crab Pot and Desert Sage RestaurantsPhone: (760) 771-6655www.solanosbistro.comAccepting reservations for parties of 6 or more. All others first come, first serve.25

Joint Pain - Neck and Back Pain - Sciatica - Allergies - Acid Reflex - Fibromyalgia - Headaches50% *OFF firstvisitIn Pain?your first visit (includes consultation, exam, and treatment)Call 760-636-0079 to schedule your Appt.www.n2healthnow.comN2 Health - Chiropractic and Acupuncture in la Quintaexpires*April 30, 20093-day money back Guaranteecomplimentary Spa giftwith Holiday giftcertificate purchase.Expires 4/30/09La Quinta - Hotel & Spa50-777 Santa Rosa Plaza • 777-1711HEALTH – LIFE – AND WEALTHMore than ever we need help and assurances that we havethe safety ropes in place wheher it be our Health – Medicare- or life-business needs.Di Casten is here for your Insurance needs.Ken Casten is offering Businesses opportunityCall for your Free analysis and information. Di 951-231-0100 Ken 760 -409-5884.Café LQBuy one entrée, receive the second entrée ofsame or lesser value at 50% off. Expires 4/30/09La Quinta - Hotel & Spa50-777 Santa Rosa Plaza • 777-1711Advertise in the GEM!Call Alex Negron, Director of Sales to get the exposure you need for your business.760-564-3199 • alex@lqchamber.com26

Jake’s Pizza CouponWe Are Now DeliveringWe make everything we can fresh —Our dough, authentic Italian sausage, ground beef.We use the best mozzarella, shipped in from Wisconsin.We are known for our delicious thin crust pizza. ( lower in carbs ).Phone:760-777-728878-995 Hwy 111 Space 9, La Quintasouthwest corner of Adams and 111 across from Office Depot in the Verizon,/Mac Gallery plaza$3.50 off any Large$2.50 off any Medium$1.50 off any SmallGood for dine-in ortake-out pizzas only78-995 Highway 111 La QuintaTel: (760)777-7288Cont. from page 21One of the downsides to refractive lens exchange is the need for surgical lensremoval. With older patients removing the normal lens is less of a problem as thislens naturally losses both flexibility and clarity. Patients with refractive lens exchangenever have to worry about developing cataracts as refractive lens exchangereplaces the eyes crystalline lens. It is the crystalline lens, which becomes hazywhen cataracts develop.Refractive lens exchange patients have a very stable prescription due to the factthat the cornea remains quite stable after cataract surgery (no post-operative ectasiawhich can happen following lasik) and the intra-ocular lens power (unlike thenormal crystalline lens) does not change power over time. This means that thatunlike lasik the outcomes remain stable, usually for the life of the patient. Refractivelens exchange does not create a dry problem which is much more prevalent inpatients over 50 particularly women.Lastly, cataract/refractive lens surgery has made remarkable strides in safety andinvasiveness in the past 10 years. Today’s surgeries are completed with micro-incisionaltechniques utilizing a 2-3mm incision; leaving minimal surgically induced astigmatismand fast recovery for patients. The refractive lenses are delivered throughthis same small incision allowing most surgery to be completed without sutures oronly a single temporary suture. Imagine having a procedure that restores readingability, eliminates the need for glasses and that lasts a lifetime.Author: Dr. Evans. Dr. Evans is the clinical director of Evans Eye Care.Evans Eye Care is an Ophthalmology and Optometry practice located in Palm Desert and La Quinta.Contact them at 760-564-443027