Uncovering the Gems' is your official video podcast from the City of La Quinta. Join us as we explore the hidden gems of our community. This video podcast offers a comprehensive overview of city initiatives, from infrastructure improvements to community programs. We'll also highlight upcoming events and introduce you to the dedicated individuals who serve our city. Tune in to stay up-to-date and engaged with the Gem of the Desert.
Episode 20 - E-Bike Safety with Sgt. Mark Chlarson
Episode 20: E-Bike Safety with Sgt. Mark Chlarson from Riverside County Sheriff's Office
E-bikes are everywhere in La Quinta, but do you know the risks associated with the different classes of motors? In this episode of Uncovering the Gems, we sit down with Lieutenant Mark Chlarson from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office to discuss the critical importance of e-bike safety and education.
As these bikes become a popular choice for local students and commuters, many parents may not realize they are purchasing vehicles that can reach high speeds and require specific legal compliance. Lieutenant Chlarson breaks down the different e-bike classifications, the rules of the road in the Coachella Valley, and why parental involvement is the key to preventing accidents.
In this episode, we cover:
Understanding the difference between Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes.
Why some e-bikes are legally prohibited for riders under 16.
Essential safety gear and riding habits for La Quinta trails and streets.
How the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is working to keep our students safe.
Episode 19 - Recycling with Clara Vera, Burrtec
Episode 19: Recycling with Clara Vera, Municpal Marketing Manager at Burrtec
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the world of waste management with Clara Vera, Municipal Marketing Manager at Burrtec. We break down the essentials of recycling and composting, exploring how these daily habits make a lasting impact on our community. Clara joins us to discuss the "why" behind state regulations and local programs, offering practical tips to help residents stay in compliance while protecting our desert environment. Whether you’re curious about which bin to use or the future of sustainability in the Coachella Valley, this conversation covers everything you need to know to be a better neighbor to nature. For more information visit: www.laquintaca.gov/recycle
Episode 18 - The Hub with Manager Tommi Sanchez
Episode 18 - The Hub with Manager, Tommi Sanchez
In this episode, we sit down with Tommi Sanchez, the Hub Manager, to explore the heartbeat of La Quinta’s professional and creative community.
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur looking for a place to scale or a resident curious about how the city fosters innovation, this conversation dives deep into the "why" behind The Hub. We discuss:
Community Impact: How The Hub serves as a central resource for networking and professional growth.
Business Support: The specific tools and spaces available to help small businesses and startups thrive in the Coachella Valley.
Resident Value: Why this space is more than just an office—it’s a catalyst for local economic development and connection.
Join us to learn how The Hub is shaping the future of business in the Gem of the Desert.
Episode 17 - Part Two of La Quinta Resident & Music Industry Pioneer: Eddie Gilreath
Episode 17 - Part Two of La Quinta Resident & Music Industry Pioneer: Eddie Gilreath
In the Part Two of Uncovering the Gems withy true industry titan, Eddie Gilreath, we go from navigating the legendary inner circle of Frank Sinatra to pioneering marketing strategies that changed the face of the music business, Eddie’s career is a blueprint for excellence. We dive deep into the story behind the "Black is Green" campaign—a revolutionary movement that proved the immense commercial power of Black music and forced the industry to take notice. What we cover in this episode: The Sinatra Years: Working alongside "Ol' Blue Eyes" and the lessons learned from the heights of show business. The "Black is Green" Campaign: How Eddie shifted the narrative around Black music’s profitability and cultural impact. Legacy & Leadership: Navigating the corporate music world as a trailblazer.
Episode 16 - La Quinta Resident & Music Industry Pioneer: Eddie Gilreath
Episode 16 - La Quinta Resident & Music Industry Pioneer, Eddie Gilreath (Part 1)
The Legend Who Broke the Mold: Eddie Gilreath (Part 1) In the first installment of this exclusive two-part series, we sit down with a true titan of the music industry: Eddie Gilreath. Eddie didn't just witness music history; he built the infrastructure for it.
From his humble beginnings to becoming the first Black executive to shatter the glass ceiling in major label distribution, Eddie’s story is a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and soul.
In This Episode, We Cover:
The Early Years: The foundations that shaped Eddie’s drive and vision.
The Motown Era: How he found his way into the legendary "Hitsville U.S.A." and the energy of the Berry Gordy era.
Breaking Barriers: What it was truly like to be a pioneer and the first Black executive in spaces that weren't built for him.
The Marley Connection: A deeply personal look at his genuine friendship with the late Bob Marley and the impact the reggae icon left on the world.
Episode 15 - Riverside County Sheriff Lt. Nick Lingle
Episode 15 - Riverside County Sheriff Lt. Nick Lingle
On this episode of Uncovering the Gems, we're introducing you to Lieutenant Nick Lingle, the newest addition to Team La Quinta! Lieutenant Lingle joins the La Quinta team with a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective on community engagement. We discuss his vision for the department, the importance of the partnership between the Sheriff's Office and our residents, and what he looks forward to most in his new role serving La Quinta.
Episode 14 - La Quinta Historical Society President, Linda Williams
Episode 14: La Quinta Historical Society President, Linda Williams
In this podcast, we sit down with Linda Williams, the dedicated President of the La Quinta Historical Society. As a resident for over two decades, Linda offers a fascinating perspective on how La Quinta has evolved while holding tight to its rich, multi-cultural heritage. Linda shares the crucial role the La Quinta Historical Society plays as the "guardians of La Quinta's treasured heritage," discussing their efforts to preserve and promote the city's past.
Episode 13 - State of the City Series
Episode 13: State of the City Series - Council Member Steve Sanchez
The State of the City series includes weekly podcasts with Mayor & City Council members discussing why they love La Quinta. We get into how each of them arrived to LQ, what future projects they are excited to see, and what makes La Quinta the Gem of the Desert. This is a great way to get to know your Mayor & Council. State of the City is on Wednesday, November 19 at La Quinta Resort & Spa. For more information or to register visit: https://gcvcc.org/event/2025-la-quinta-state-of-the-city/
Episode 12 - State of the City Series
Episode 12: State of the City Series - Council Member John Peña
The State of the City series includes weekly podcasts with Mayor & City Council members discussing why they love La Quinta. We get into how each of them arrived to LQ, what future projects they are excited to see, and what makes La Quinta the Gem of the Desert. This is a great way to get to know your Mayor & Council.
Episode 11 - State of the City Series: Council Member Kathleen Fitzpatrick
The State of the City series includes weekly podcasts with Mayor & City Council members discussing why they love La Quinta. We get into how each of them arrived to LQ, what future projects they are excited to see, and what makes La Quinta the Gem of the Desert.
This is a great way to get to know your Mayor & Council.
Episode 9: State of the City Series
Mayor Linda Evans
The State of the City series includes weekly podcasts with Mayor & City Council members discussing why they love La Quinta. We get into how each of them arrived to LQ, what future projects they are excited to see, and what makes La Quinta the Gem of the Desert.
This is a great way to get to know your Mayor & Council.
Episode 8 - XPark with Victor Delgado, Facilities Manager
October's podcast talks all things X Park!
Special guest: Victor Delgado, Facilities Manager
We discuss how the X Park design came to be with the help of the skating community, what connection it has to the Olympics, how residents can enjoy the X Park, and why famous athletes love to come and experience the X Park themselves.
Episode 7 - PGA West with Ben Dobbs, Executive Director of PGA West & The Citrus Club
This month's podcast features: Ben Dobbs, Executive Director of PGA WEST and The Citrus Club
We will be discussing:
Golf, golf, and more golf
Amenities at PGA WEST
Amazing places to eat
How La Quinta residents can come and be part of PGA WEST
Episode 6 - Fire Prevention with Richard Tovar, Cal Fire Division Chief
Fire Prevention and Safety
Guest: Richard Tovar, Cal Fire Division Chief Riverside County
We will be discussing the following:
Common causes of residential fires
Simple steps every household should take to improve fire safety
What services does our local fire department offer beyond emergency responsiveness
Episode 3 - Highway 111 Corridor Plan with Danny Castro, Design & Development Director
This month, we're diving into the Highway 111 Corridor Plan with Danny Castro, Design & Development Director.
Learn about the City's vision for Highway 111 in La Quinta
What it means for businesses along the corridor
What the community can expect in the long run
How community input shapes the future of 111
Watch now and stay informed about the future of La Quinta's Highway 111
Episode 2 - Highway 111 with Bryan McKinney, Public Works Director
Episode 2 -Features Public Works Director/City Engineer Bryan McKinney who will discuss the upcoming Highway 111 Pavement Project. Bryan will discuss the process of how the project timeline was determined, how the project was paid for, and what the community can expect during the pavement process.
Episode 1 - Gilbert Villalpando, Director of Business Unit
Episode 1 - Gilbert Villalpando, Director of Business Unit
Episode One features the City's Marketing Manager/Public Information Officer, Marcie Graham and Gilbert Villalpando, Director of the Business Unit to discuss why the City is starting a podcast, the importance of transparency, and why the City wants to continue to strengthen its connection to the community.
