The Controversial CV Link: Visionary Or Boondoggle? Multipurpose Trail Would Link Desert Cities, but Building and Upkeep Might Not Be As Seamless

R M INSIDER

Winter 2016 / Official publication of the City of RANCHO MIRAGE, California

The Controversial CV Link: Visionary or Boondoggle? Multipurpose trail would link desert cities, but building and upkeep might not be as seamless.

magine a hiking and biking path extending from one end (NEVs) were added to the mix and with that, the Iof the sun-drenched Coachella Valley to the other. Sounds cost rose exponentially because you have to change wonderful, doesn’t it? The concept ties in with the ongoing the composition of the roadways so as to comport emphasis on health and wellness, and environmentally, it with California requirements. From that point on, makes good sense, too. I felt the project was not in the best interests of the It has never been a one-size-fits-all undertaking by any communities, in particular the community I have an means, so it’s wise not to get caught up in the hype. It’s obligation to serve — Rancho Mirage. The increased better to first stop and consider the implications a project cost, taken in conjunction with projected operation of such scope would have on individual cities. The City and maintenance [O&M] expenses, caused me of Rancho Mirage has done just that, and in keeping with great concern.” its fiscally responsible reputation, identified and voiced CV Link started as a brainchild of Riverside some real concerns over the CV Link’s economic impact on County Supervisor John Benoit and Coachella Valley our community. Association of Governments (CVAG) Executive Director Tom Kirk, who were looking for creative ways to secure History of CV Link some of the $50-plus million in air pollution mitigation In the beginning, if anyone had heard of the proposed funds they knew were coming to the region. project at all, they knew it as Whitewater River Bike Path, a name that eventually morphed into CV Link. With a price Use of Measure A Funds tag that ultimately grew to $100 million, the notion sounded Another source of funding that CV Link hopes to promising but not too likely to happen. Initially, the City of appropriate is the regional sales tax fund known as Rancho Mirage was supportive of the concept. As a city that Measure A. The tax, which amounts to a half cent per prides itself on always being at the forefront of establishing dollar spent, was approved by voters in 1988 with the and sponsoring recreational services that appeal to intent it be applied to crumbling roads and bridges residents and visitors, naturally it would welcome ideas that sorely in need of repair and maintenance. At the time, promised to do the same. CV Link wasn’t on the voters’ radar. “My original understanding of this project was that it It’s no secret that Riverside County’s transportation was going to be a bike and jogging path,” Mayor G. Dana system is woefully underfunded. Benoit himself Hobart says. “Over time neighborhood electric vehicles contributed to a Press Enterprise article dated THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM 2 | Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER

August 21, 2015, which stated that roads committed to construction of the CV Link, on the paved roadway reserved for NEVs in Riverside County rank as some of the whose first phase is supposed to begin in and bicycles. worst in the nation. The other primary 2017. CVAG has also identified $600,000 “CV Link has grown to encompass a source of local transportation system per year in additional Measure A funds for 14-foot-wide NEV/bike path, a separate funding is a tax applied to gas purchases. maintenance, accompanied by a 2 percent 6- to 8-foot-wide pedestrian path, solar This year, however, every city in Riverside annual increase. structures, charging stations, restrooms County has seen a decrease of 25 percent “We’re lucky in Riverside County,” says — it’s now this huge facility, which is why in that regard due to the decreasing price Isaiah Hagerman, City Administrative it’ll cost $100 million,” Hagerman adds. of gasoline, the increasing efficiency of Services Director. “Our voters passed “If it were a walking-hiking-biking trail in cars, and the great strides made in hybrids this special tax — Measure A — for keeping with the original concept, the cost and plug-in vehicles. transportation. Yet even if we ignore would be so much less and there’d be no It’s been proposed that Measure A the bigger picture of the transportation need to resort to sources like Measure A funds totaling up to $20 million be system being completely underfunded, for funding.” CVAG has already identified $3 billion in roadway projects waiting for this funding. Operation and Maintenance Costs CVAG is nevertheless determined to Fast forward through all the CV Link ballot measures divert those Measure A funds away from conceptualizing and planning of CV Link to that the Rancho Mirage the identified streets and road projects March 2015, when CVAG published a report electorate will be asked and in favor of a no-expense-spared CV that put forth the idea of taking the city’s to vote on in the April Link. I think it’s fiscally irresponsible to Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) dollars use our limited transportation funding in to fund operation and maintenance of the 2016 election are posted this manner.” trail. The overall ﬁ gure for O&M costs on the city’s website at has been pegged at $1.6 million annually www.RanchoMirageCA.gov. Electric Vehicles with an annual two percent for inﬂ ation Ballot measures can be Adding NEVs to the equation is primarily factored in. Six hundred thousand of that what boosted the CV Link sticker price to amount has been earmarked for rangers found on the city’s homepage $100 million. NEVs — not to be confused to police the trail, although there has been by clicking on “CV Link & with traditional golf carts — require a some discussion about eliminating that City of Rancho Mirage” at paved path that is completely separate particular form of law enforcement as a the top of the page. This will from pedestrians. According to CVAG’s cost-saving measure. Should that come to Neighborhood Electrical Vehicle Plan, pass, other concerns about public safety connect you to the ballot there are 440 local NEVs registered would arise. measures as well as a great with the DMV in the Coachella Valley. “The 8 percent TOT plan was deal of additional information It’s noteworthy that walkers, joggers, mentioned in a CVAG staff report dated about the CV Link. and stroller-pushing pedestrians will be April 6, 2015, and there was a section relegated to a sideline decomposed granite that showed what each city would pay path and will not be permitted to traverse over a nine-year period,” Hobart says. “It would have placed over 90 percent of CV LINK AND THE CITY the entire O&M budget for the next 75 Residents can learn more about the city’s concerns regarding the proposed CV Link project by watching RMTV years — based on TOT income — on five any day of the week at 8 a.m., 2 p.m., 8 p.m., and 2 a.m. An hour-long roundtable discussion between the Mayor, cities, including Rancho Mirage. What the Mayor Pro Tem, the City Manager, and others will help viewers understand the challenges the city faces. happens if a city that says they’ll join and RMTV can be found on your cable television at Channel 17. The roundtable discussion can also be viewed on the city’s website at www.RanchoMirageCA.gov, at any time pay changes their mind in one or five or 10 of the day or night. A link to the video can be found at the top of the home page of the city’s website. years? Who then picks up the load? What Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 3

happens if a city goes bankrupt during that period of time? There are innumerable unaddressed questions concerning the My original understanding of this project was financing of this project.” that it was going to be a bike and jogging path. The Route “Over time neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) CV Link’s planned route through a number of valley cities hugs the lip were added to the mix and with that, the cost rose of the Whitewater Wash fairly closely. In Rancho Mirage, however, the trail is exponentially because you have to change the slated to cross Highway 111 at two points, composition of the roadways so as to comport with possibly even three. This would wreak havoc with traffic signal synchronization, California requirements. From that point on, I felt the in which the city has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars to maintain vehicle project was not in the best interests of the communities, flow. “There’s a huge air quality impact in particular the community I have an obligation to if you stop traffic unnecessarily,” Hobart adds. “Vehicles are idling, then they have serve — Rancho Mirage. The increased cost, taken in to get back up to traveling speed — and the act of speeding up uses the most gas conjunction with projected operation and maintenance and emits the most pollutants.” [O&M] expenses, caused me great concern. At one point, the proposed CV Link route passes right in front of – Mayor G. Dana Hobart the Rancho Mirage fire station on Highway 111, complicating matters for our first responders hoping to speedily From a financial standpoint, safety the area would probably view it” as a exit as they respond to emergency calls. and security issues are sure to impact positive. It would likely spur economic The idea of CV link–traveling pedestrians, individual city budgets, many of which development of vacant areas in practically bicycles, and NEVs regularly intersecting are already struggling to keep up with the all the cities. with Highway 111 traffic is perplexing average 7 percent increase in police and “Instead of attempting to shoehorn to say the least. “No other city is being fire services that occurs each and every a project like CV Link into an already asked to absorb that into the heart of their year. If an accident were to happen along developed portion of our city, future commercial district or thoroughfare,” a stretch within any city’s limits and they development can incorporate the Hobart says. didn’t or weren’t able to respond, the city CV Link,” Hobart says. “Obviously such a could be found negligent. project would deliver benefits — and we Safety and Security would never oppose its development in Accidents and emergencies can happen An Alternative principle. We’d have to be comfortable just as readily on thoroughfares like Although the southern section of the with the O&M and ongoing financial CV Link, despite the reduced speeds City of Rancho Mirage is very developed, commitment — and, of course, the route typically encountered. Emergency more northern points on its map show — before we ever said yes. As a forward- vehicles can face access problems real potential for a project like CV Link. thinking community, we’re always along certain stretches, and it’s a It could run parallel to Rancho Mirage interested in the prospect of exciting certainty that firetrucks can’t drive on High School, for example, and other new recreational activities for residents any section. landowners of undeveloped parcels in and visitors.”

4 | Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER

Q&A Mayor G. Dana Hobart Answers Questions About Taking CV Link to the Rancho Mirage Electorate.

A. Yes, as has been the case for the past few elections, this will be an all-mail-in ballot. There will be no polling places on Election Day. Residents will receive ballots in the mail in advance of the election. Residents can mail in their ballot ahead of time or drop it off in the sealed ballot box at City Hall any time during business hours until 8 p.m. on April 12, 2016, when ballots will be collected by the Riverside County Registrar of Voters.

Q. How will the vote be tabulated and who announces the results of the vote?

A. The Riverside County MARK DAVIDSON

Major G. Dana Hobart Registrar of Voters will tabulate the votes and post the results. Official results must be adopted at a City Council meeting, Q. When and why did the City Council A. The ballot questions will address the which will likely take place on April 21, 2016. decide to ask Rancho Mirage residents route and funding sources of the proposed what they think about CV Link? CV Link. Because the CVAG Executive Q. Let’s say you’re a registered voter Committee has ultimate authority to ap- elsewhere but want to vote in this A. The proposed $100 million CV Link prove or deny CV Link, CV Link–related election. Can my primary address for and its accompanying disruption to our ballot measures in Rancho Mirage can only voting purposes be changed? neighborhoods and business community — be advisory in nature. With your vote, you will be advising the City Council. [See the not to mention impacts to public safety and A. It’s easy; your primary address can be ballot measures on the city’s website at the unanswered operation and maintenance changed by mail or online. But keep in mind www.RanchoMirageCA.gov.] questions — led the Council to conclude that that it would make your Rancho Mirage our residents deserve to vote on the issues. residence your “primary residence.” Voter At the City Council meeting held October Q. When will the election take place? registration forms are available at City Hall. 15, 2015, the Council unanimously approved Fill one out and drop it in the mail (postage six ballot measures for the April 12, 2016, A. The city’s elections take place every is prepaid). Please note: Persons cannot be election. other April. This election will be no registered to vote in two places at once; only exception. Election Day is April 12, 2016. one primary address is allowed for voting Q. What ballot questions will Rancho purposes. Registration can also be changed Mirage registered residents be asked to Q. Will it be a mail-in ballot? online at www.voteinfo.net. The last day to address regarding the CV Link project? register for the April 12, 2016, municipal election is March 28, 2016.

Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 5 Code Compliance FAQs

THE RANCHO MIRAGE Code Compliance division is dedicated to ensuring that the city’s public and private properties are maintained on the highest level. Our Code officers strive to help residents and business owners understand their responsibilities through positive community interaction. Code Compliance is also responsible for Animal Services and responding to complaints regarding property maintenance, abandoned vehicles, landscape maintenance and overgrown weeds, tree trimming, barking dogs, business licensing, RV and trailer parking, zoning questions, permits, and neighborhood cleanup.

The City of Rancho Mirage has adopted a comprehensive approach to providing MARK DAVIDSON customer service by integrating Building & Senior Manager Sandra Johnson Safety and Code Compliance divisions. • Collection of refuse may be made from the Q. Do I need a permit to host a garage/ Sandra Johnson, the newly appointed place where containers are located on the yard sale? senior manager of these divisions, takes property, provided the containers are accessible. • All receptacles shall be screened from a moment to respond the some of the A. While a permit is not required, posting view from any public street or public place. most frequently asked questions: of signage on city property (signal poles, Q. median islands and traffic signs) is Q. How long can I park a recreational What are the permitted hours for prohibited. Temporary signs are permitted Vehicle (RV) in front of my home? landscape noise? in the City of Rancho Mirage with prior approval from the Planning Division. A. A. RVs may be temporarily parked on All "for hire" landscapers and gardeners public or private property for no more than working in the City of Rancho Mirage are Q. What should I do if I see an at-large 48 continuous hours. Also, 48 hours must prohibited from using "noise-producing (loose), injured, or deceased animal in elapse before the start of a new 48-hour motorized equipment" such as lawnmowers, Rancho Mirage? period. Recreational vehicles may not be edgers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, etc., on Saturdays and Sundays, and are permitted on used for overnight occupancies. A. You should call Animal Services at 760- weekdays only between the hours of 7 a.m. 770-3220. After hours, contact Riverside and 6 p.m. Q. County Animal Control at 760-343-3644. How long can I leave my trash cans • Individual homeowners are not prohibited on the curb (i.e., visible)? from using motorized equipment to perform their own landscaping and gardening For after-hour complaints A. Trash cans may be placed at the curb activities on any day of the week. or to report graffiti, please call for collection up to 12 hours prior to • Landscaping and gardening activities 760-578-5877. the scheduled pickup and for 12 hours associated with a golf course are not covered thereafter. by these restrictions.

To receive the R/M INSIDER and R/M MAGAZINE by email, visit www.RanchoMirageCA.gov, scroll to the bottom of the home page, and subscribe. Follow us by clicking the social media icons at the top of the home page. 6 | Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER The River’s Renaissance Is Under Way By Joseph Carpenter a home furnishing brand with a focus on natural, sustainable, organic fabrics; and Per-Fekt — beauty products with the ability to multi-task as gracefully as today’s busy woman. Look for artwork from Shag and merchandise from a one-of-a-kind collection of retailers including Sohung Designs, Weathered Captain of Maui, and Classic Shaving, which will feature an onsite barber/ groomer. Made to Measure will offer bespoke tailoring services, ready-to- wear, and drop off shoeshine. All of the store’s current pop-ups will also make the move, including Covet from San Francisco; Seaplane Shirts out of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; LASC based in West Hollywood; local favorite V&G Hipwear; and Studio BE Apparel by

MARC GLASSMAN entertainer Bobbie Eakes.

Above (from left): Rancho Mirage City Council Member Charles Townsend; City Manager Randy Bynder; Council Member To celebrate the store’s arrival Richard W. Kite; Raymond | Lawrence owner Larry Abel; Mayor G. Dana Hobart; Raymond | Lawrence co-owner Raymond at The River, Raymond | Lawrence McCallister; Council Member Iris Smotrich; Mayor Pro Tem Ted Weill; Executive Director of Palm Springs Pride Ron DeHarte; continued the tradition they started CL Investment Group Director of Acquisitions Ungar Kung; and Doug Watson, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho in its Uptown Palm Springs location Mirage. “It’s with great excitement that we welcome Raymond | Lawrence to The River,” Mayor Hobart says. “Internationally by giving back to the community known for their dynamic marketing skills and community spirit, Larry Abel and Raymond McCallister bring to Rancho Mirage a contemporary vibe and global retail perspective. We wish them the greatest success.” through its signature events with a Grand Opening Party on November 5, 2015 that kicked off and benefitted ince 2002, The River at Rancho Mirage has for lovers of style and design — has relocated Greater Palm Springs Pride, an annual Sbeen at the center of this world-renowned its Palm Springs store to The River. The weekend festival that promotes the community, offering residents and visitors an move places the hip retailer in closer history, diversity, and future prosperity oasis for dining, shopping, and entertainment proximity to its target demographic and of the Greater Palm Springs LGBT in the heart of the valley. Now, the new owners was a key component to the start of the community. In coordination with the of The River — Cheerland Investment Group, renaissance at The River. grand opening event, many of The River’s who purchased the property in 2014 — have With its fresh, cheeky Palm Springs restaurants, retailers, and The River announced that the popular downtown vibe intact, the new expanded itself participated in the fun, with special Rancho Mirage destination is undergoing a Raymond | Lawrence at The River will activities and promotions benefitting renaissance, with a slate of improvements, serve as host to a curated selection of Palm Springs Pride. entertainment, events, and an exciting new retail businesses, offering everything Ramond | Lawrence will also be home flagship tenant that opened its doors in from home décor, furniture, accessories, to Party Lab 2.0, the one-stop shop for November 2015, Raymond | Lawrence. textiles, and bedding, to men’s and party essentials focusing on original women’s fashions, beauty products, gift costumes and accessories along with Raymond | Lawrence Brings Fresh items, and more. Owners Larry Abel and distinctive decorations and balloons, Palm Springs Vibe to The River Raymond McCallister have spent the as well as to Plate | Glass, a small café Raymond | Lawrence — a curated collection summer cherry picking new and exciting offering desserts and coffee with cocktail of offerings, brands, services, and selections brands to join the mix, including Avasa — service coming soon. Winter 2016/ Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 7

BUSINESS BEAT

On the Move A New Look – Logo, Signage, Website, Debbie Lee’s Classic Creations parts, service, rentals, and storage. Their showroom and Property Improvements Debbie Lee’s Classic Creations has moved from showcases a variety of custom and standard golf The River’s reinvigoration continues with the former Pavilions Shopping Center to Country and transportation vehicles. Visit Cart Mart, the extensive landscaping improvements, Club Village, home of Albertsons and located at leading distributor of Club Car, Garia, Polaris GEM, began in November, with all plants selected the southwest corner of Country Club Drive and Taylor-Dunn, and Yamaha transportation and utility to beautify the center and contribute to Monterey Avenue. The new location is about vehicles, at 70-190 Highway 111, or give them a call water conservation. This winter will also twice the size of their previous one, which will at 760-823-7446. see improvements to The River’s namesake allow Debbie Lee’s Classic Creations to properly water features, with new pumps installed to Norma’s Italian Kitchen enhance the water’s flow and appearance. showcase their extensive range of products, Located in the Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center, In line with these important center including special gifts for children, women, and improvements is the introduction of a men, and of course their celebrated custom gift Norma’s Italian Kitchen is committed to serving the new branded look and feel for The River baskets. For more information about Debbie Lee’s freshest, highest quality Italian food. They offer at Rancho Mirage. A compelling new logo Classic Creations’ unique products, visit the a variety of pastas, salads, calzones, and pizzas. communicates the center’s renaissance store in the Country Club Village Shopping Center Menu staples include many pasta favorites, such with an exciting, visually appealing at 40-101 Monterey Avenue, Suite F-1, or call as lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, and trio ravioli as and sophisticated brand statement. A 760-424-8502. well as pizza favorites The Deluxe and the Rancho comprehensive new signage program is being Mirage Special. Next time you find yourself in the designed, including attractive monument CVS Pharmacy Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center, be sure to signs announcing the center on Highway 111, CVS Pharmacy recently moved about 600 stop by and try their amazing food. 42-418 Bob Hope to be installed this season. The new logo feet south within the Rancho Las Palmas Drive; 760-834-8738. will also be used in The River’s aggressive Shopping Center to the corner of Bob Hope Drive advertising campaigns and a suite of Stein Mart marketing collateral materials moving and Highway 111. While the location was already forward. In addition, the marketing team at immensely popular, the move allowed CVS to Stein Mart, a national retailer offering fashion The River is developing an attractive, eye- construct a brand new freestanding building with merchandise, service, and presentation of a catching website that is informative, easy a drive-thru pharmacy window and also provided department or specialty store items but at prices to navigate, and will highlight each tenant, room for Hobby Lobby to construct their new competitive with off-price retail chains, has special promotions, and offers, in addition building in the old CVS location. The new CVS opened their third Coachella Valley location at to featuring an events calendar. is reinventing the pharmacy concept to have a the Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center. Their more active, supportive role in each customer’s merchandise includes current-season brand name Fitz and His Fans Come to The River unique health experience — from advising on fashions for women and men, accessories, home for a New Music Series prescriptions and helping manage chronic and décor, linens, shoes, and more at prices up to 60 Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald — known for popular specialty conditions to providing quality walk-in percent below those in department stores. Visit radio shows and as the host of the highly Stein Mart located in the Rancho Las Palmas celebrated “Fitz’s Jazz Cafe” at The medical care and pharmacy benefits management. Shopping Center at 42-420 Bob Hope Drive or call McCallum Theatre for the past 15 years Visit CVS Pharmacy located in the Rancho Las — now brings his passion for music, as Palmas Shopping Center at 42-520 Bob Hope 760-346-1306. well as his legions of fans, to The River. Drive, or give them a call at 760-568-5651. Fitz will be programming The River’s Gioia Italian Bistro Saturday evenings with music throughout Recently Opened Stores Gioia Italian Bistro, located in The River at the season, as well as special extended Cart Mart Rancho Mirage, uses nothing but the finest entertainment during long holiday Cart Mart specializes in the sale of custom ingredients when crafting their fare. A must-try weekends. One noteworthy highlight will golf and industrial vehicles, including new and at Gioia is the pizza. All pizzas are baked in a be Fitz’s new “The River Music Showcase.” used equipment, on-site service, preventative wood-fired brick oven; the smoky flavor, crisp but Running one Saturday each month through maintenance programs, replacement parts, and fluffy crust, and crunchy toppings keep customers April, the musical series will be hosted by special event rentals. They also maintain a first- coming back. Stop by The River at Rancho Mirage Fitz from 5–8 p.m. on January 23, February and visit Gioia Italian Bistro at 71-800 Highway 111, 20, March 12, and April 16. class paint and body department, which includes upholstery, fabrication, motor reconditioning, Suite A-122 or call 760-422-4330.

Rancho Mirage Community Park and Amphitheater Update 2015 Art Affaire patrons got a preview of the City’s new amphitheater and renovated park.

Anne Rice and Christopher Rice join an animated panel on writing, social media, and a wide range of other topics. MARK DAVIDSON

Above (from left): Council Member Richard W. Kite, Mayor Pro Tem Ted Weill, Mayor G. Dana Hobart, Council Member Charles Townsend, and Council Member Iris Smotrich prepare to cut the ribbon at the amphiteater dedication. Opposite: Scenes from the 2015 annual Art Affaire.

ancho Mirage Community Park was the tree-lined pedestrian promenade with benches mid-February through mid-April of this year. Rsite for the 2015 annual Art Affaire in early along each side, a veteran’s memorial, and many This late-afternoon series is being produced November, but the day after the event the park more exciting new features make the park by Marker Broadcasting and will feature a was closed again for construction. By the time this a must-see for all residents in the coming weeks. selection of musical styles. In addition,three publication reaches residents, it is anticipated The park’s most dynamic new feature is classical concerts will be presented by IMG that the improvements will be completed the state-of-the-art amphitheater that was and Palm Springs Life magazine. Tickets and all park facilities will open for the public’s introduced at the Art Affaire with two packed- for these three concerts will be available for uninterrupted enjoyment. New pickleball courts, house concerts. Look for a series of 10 free purchase at www.palmspringslifefestival.com. children’s play equipment, exercise stations, a weekly performance events that will run from See the concert schedule on page 11. Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 9 10 | Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 11

MUSIC Restless Heart Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Sunday, March 20, 2016 Sunday April 3, 2016 IN THE PARK 5 p.m. 5 p.m. Rancho Mirage Amphitheater Free Concert - Open Seating Free Concert - Open Seating Rancho Mirage Community Park Restless Heart has enjoyed one of the most Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s swing revival band 71560 San Jacinto Drive successful careers in country music history, from Southern California is always a hit with placing more than 25 singles on the charts, audiences. Their notable singles include “Go A series of concerts that celebrate all genres including six consecutive No. 1 hits. Four of Daddy-O,” “You & Me & the Bottle Makes of music, presented to introduce the public to their albums have been certified Gold by the 3 Tonight (Baby),” and “Mr. Pinstripe Suit.” the city’s magnificent new concert bowl. Recording Industry Association of America. The band focuses on the swinging days of The accolades keep coming after 30 years of the ’40s and ’50s, borrowing some of the Collin Raye wowing country music fans. Rat Pack lingo and attitude and delivering to Sunday, February 14, 2016 adoring fans hard driving fun! 5 p.m. Midori in Concert Free Concert - Open Seating Friday, March 25, 2016 Chad Hilligus Collin Raye’s heartfelt material is the 7 p.m. Saturday April 9, 2016 signature of his rich soulful vocal style. Tickets $65-$95 5 p.m. With 24 top ten records and 16 No. 1 hits, Go to www.palmspringslifefestival.com Free Concert - Open Seating Collin Raye is an electrifying performer and for tickets. A former member of the multi-platinum one of the greatest country voices of all time. Internationally acclaimed solo violinist Midori Australia-based rock-opera group The Ten will showcase her stunning talent at the Tenors, Chad gained international recognition Foghat Rancho Mirage Amphitheater. Midori has on the musical theatre stage starring Sunday, February 21, 2016 played in venues around the world and received as Tony in the critically-acclaimed 50th 5 p.m. numerous honors for excellence. She has anniversary world tour of West Side Story. Free Concert - Open Seating commissioned new works from an impressive In addition, Chad has performed leading Pumped up boogie-rock brings audiences to array of today’s most talented composers, roles in Show Boat, Bye, Bye Birdie, Scrooge, their feet rocking to one of the classic bands which demonstrates her enthusiasm for playing Hello, Dolly!, Oklahoma!, State Fair, Godspell, known for their dynamic use of the electric and supporting the music of our time. The Sound of Music, and Street Scene. slide guitar. Primal American rock and roll is Chad has also performed as a solo artist delivered at its best by this Brit band. David Green’s Disney at concert venues across North America. on Broadway* His soaring tenor will thrill showtune fans. David Green’s Broadway Saturday March 26, 2016 Valley high schooler and rising star in the Park 3 p.m. saxophonist Chase Huna will be the opening Presents Tony Award Winning “Best Free Concert - Open Seating act for Chad Hilligus. Musicals “Broadway Show Stoppers”* The songs and dances of Disney’s Broadway Saturday, February 27, 2016 blockbusters including Beauty and the Beast, Defying Gravity 5 p.m. The Lion King, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, – The Music of Free Concert - Open seating Aida, Newsies, and Mary Poppins. Special Stephen Schwartz* A celebration of Broadway’s most guest Broadway stars** will join a cast of University at Rancho Mirage High School popular and award winning musicals 20 talented students from Musical Theatre Saturday April 16, 2016 including A Chorus Line, Chicago, University at Rancho Mirage High School. 5 p.m. Hairspray, The Producers, Les Miserables, Free Concert - Open Seating The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, and more Sir James Galway A tribute to one of Broadway’s most will be performed by Broadway stars** with Saturday March 26, 2016 celebrated and prolific composers featuring back-up support from 20 talented students 7.p.m. songs and dances from his musicals from Musical Theatre University at Rancho Tickets: $65-$95 Godspell, Pippin, Rags, Children of Eden, Mirage High School. Go to www.palmspringslifefestival.com The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Baker’s for tickets. Wife, and, of course, Wicked. Special guest Roberta Gambarini A living legend of the flute, Sir James Galway Broadway stars** join a cast of 20 talented Saturday, March 5, 2016 is regarded as both the supreme interpreter of students from Musical Theatre University at 5 p.m. the classical flute repertoire and a consummate Rancho Mirage High School. Free Concert - Open Seating entertainer whose appeal crosses all musical The American songbook and jazz favorites boundaries. He will share his timeless gift with All free concerts are a Marker Broadcasting comprise lush territory for Roberta the desert and perform a range of memorable Production funded by the City of Rancho Mirage. Gambarini’s compelling style. She is a classical hits and other audience favorites. fixture on the international jazz circuit, All fee concerts are an IMG Festival of the Desert appearing in major concert halls, festivals, Sarah Chang in Concert production presented in partnership with Palm & clubs around the globe. Tuesday, March 29, 2016 Springs Life magazine. 7 p.m. The Spinners Tickets: $65-$95 *A partnership between Marker Broadcasting and Sunday March 13, 2016 Go to www.palmspringslifefestival.com David Green’s Musical Theatre University 5 p.m. for tickets. Free Concert - Open Seating Sarah Chang is one of the outstanding **Special guests Broadway stars for the concerts As the greatest soul group of the ’70s, violinists of her generation. She has on February 27, March 26, and April 16 include Loni The Spinners created a body of work that performed internationally with renowned Ackerman (Evita), Larry Raben (The Producers), defined the lush, seductive sound of Philly orchestras, conductors, and accompanists Sal Mistretta (Sweeney Todd), Bruce Vilanch soul and sold 60 million records in the in a career spanning more than two decades. (Hairpsray), Gwen Stewart (Rent), Eric Kunze process. Soul classics, including “I’ll Be She was the youngest person ever to receive (Miss Saigon), Teri Ralston (Company), Terron Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” the Hollywood Bowl’s Hall of Fame award Brooks (The Lion King), Anneliese VanDerPol “Mighty Love,” “Ghetto Child,” “Then and was named Young Global Leader for (Beauty and the Beast), Nicole Parker (Wicked), Came You,” “Games People Play,” and 2008 by the World Economic Forum (WEF), Jonelle Allen (Two Gentlemen of Verona), Krysta “The Rubberband Man” continue to wow and the U.S. Embassy’s Artistic Ambassador Rodriguez (The Addams Family) and Rex Smith audiences worldwide. from 2011. (The Pirates of Pemzance). 12 | Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER

ANA Inspiration RECYCLING Rancho Mirage residents are in for a special treat this year. KNOW-HOW

the champion’s leap into Document Shredding & Poppie’s Pond, located E-Waste Collection adjacent to the 18th Saturday, January 9, 2016 9 a.m. to noon green. In 1988, the first City residents (with proof of Rancho Mirage champion’s leap into residency) are invited to take advantage of this Poppie’s Pond was taken free service at the Rancho Mirage Public Library’s by Amy Alcott, and since west parking lot, 71-100 Highway 111. has become one of the • Shredding will be limited to five 12"x17"x9" boxes most anticipated and of documents per resident. memorable traditions • E-waste such as old televisions, computers, in golf. cellphones, printers, and fax machines will also The 2016 ANA be collected free of charge and recycled. Inspiration will feature For more information, please contact the the top 120 women City of Rancho Mirage Public Works Dept. at 760-770-3224. golfers in the world representing more than Bulky Item Pickup 25 different countries. Burrtec Waste & Recycling offers free home The residents pickup for bulky items such as appliances, and visitors of furniture, mattresses, televisions, carpet, and tree Rancho Mirage and the limbs. Burrtec will not pick up tires, hazardous GETTY IMAGES rest of the valley will be waste, engines and car parts, building materials, Winner of the 2015 ANA Inspiration, Brittany Lincicome, with her caddy, Missy Pederson. in for a special event at or bagged household trash. This service replaces THE ANA INSPIRATION is golf’s first major this year’s tournament. the twice yearly community cleanups. Residents and one of the LPGA Tour’s most prestigious Golf is returning to the Olympic Games must have an account with Burrtec to participate. events. Previously known as the Kraft for the first time since 1904. The Rio To schedule a pickup of as many as four items at a time, call Burrtec at 760-340-2113 at least two Nabisco Championship, the tournament Olympics will take place approximately days before your regular trash day. was founded in 1972 by David Foster and 125 days from the ANA event in late Dinah Shore and was designated a major August. This will be an opportunity to Household Hazardous championship in 1983. Held at Mission Hills witness the world’s best women golfers Waste Country Club in Rancho Mirage since its compete before representing their home The city contracts with a private business, inception, the ANA Inspiration holds the country. Many exciting celebrations WM Curbside, to pick up household hazardous distinction of being the second oldest golf are planned and underway to celebrate waste (HHW) at city residences. Examples of tournament continuously held at the same the inspiration of women in sports. hazardous waste include fluorescent light bulbs, course. For many, the event is most notable March 28-April 3, 2016; for information batteries, paint, sharps (syringe needles), and pesticides. Call 800-449-7587 to arrange by one of golf’s most beloved traditions: visit www.ANAinspiration.com. for a free pickup. Household hazardous waste can also be dropped off onSaturdays at the Riverside County facility: 1100 Vella Road, City’s Golf Club Membership Palm Springs. 800-304-2226.

THE CITY’S GOLF PROGRAM is now Members will then enjoy the four- Special tips on recycling household administered by The Westin Mission Hills day advance tee time privilege, as well as batteries and compact ﬂuorescent light bulbs Golf Resort & Spa. However, Rancho access to both courses, seven days per week (twisted style): Accumulate batteries in a Mirage residents must ﬁrst obtain a (subject to availability) plus a 20 percent quart -sized container and call WM Curbside membership eligibility form by showing discount on non-sale items purchased at at 800-449-7587 for a pickup when full, or proof of residency at City Hall, located at The Westin golf shops. In addition, golf carts drop them offat City Hall. For light bulbs, call 69-825 Highway 111. and practice balls are included in green fee for a pickup or drop them offat Home Depot Once the application is stamped with on the day of play. in Rancho Mirage at the corner of Monterey the official city seal, a golf membership Please direct city golf club membership Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Other major home improvement stores, such as Lowe’s on card will be issued by The Westin at inquiries to The Westin Mission Hills Monterey Avenue, also accept these. the Pete Dye Golf Shop, located at Golf Resort & Spa, Pete Dye Golf Shop 71-333 Dinah Shore Drive. at 760-328-3198. Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 13

Rancho Mirage Cultural Commission 2016 Calendar of Events

Laurence Luckinbill reads Clarence Bill Marx and Frank Furino present Darrow Tonight! Play Ball II! (Rancho Mirage Public Library) (Rancho Mirage Public Library) Actor-writer Laurence Luckinbill Beginning with a food truck dispensing performs his one-man show Clarence free hot dogs, this tribute to what many Darrow Tonight! about the famed still call the national pastime marks American lawyer. Darrow, immortalized the beginning of spring training. With in the play Inherit the Wind, was a primary videos and recollections by fans and member of the American Civil Liberties retired major leaguers in our valley, Union who fought for civil rights, better Play Ball II! is the second annual spirited working conditions, and against the death hour of fun related to the sport. Featured penalty. In other one-man shows that he are Bill Marx, Scott Kiner, Frank Furino, has written, Luckinbill has played Lyndon and others to be announced. Nine Johnson, Teddy Roosevelt, and Ernest innings of memories, music, laughter, Hemingway. and high energy. Wednesday, March 9, 2016, 7–8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016, 6–8 p.m.

Third Annual Rancho Mirage Artists High Desert Art Tour to Joshua Tree Studio Tour and Beyond (Begins at Rancho Mirage City Hall) (Various locations) The 3rd Annual Rancho Mirage Tour of Leaving from Rancho Mirage Public Library, Artists Homes & Studios, a self-guided tour the tour will accommodate 50 pre-registered of where our city’s growing arts community attendees. Stops will include Pioneertown, live and work. This event offers participants Simi Daba’s sculpture garden in Joshua the opportunity to meet artists in their own Tree, and Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art environment and see how they create their Museum in Joshua Tree. work. The Rancho Mirage City Hall will As time allows, a drive into Joshua Tree feature a pop-up gallery where additional National Park will be included. Registration artists will have their work on display. The is free and limited to 50 guests. Box lunch tour begins with registration at Rancho will be served. Rancho Mirage residents Mirage City Hall, where participants will receive preference for seating. Registration receive a map and a pass before heading out required online at www.rmpl.me/rmcc2015. for a day of discovery. Saturday, March 5, 2016, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 2016, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

For more information on the calendar of events, please contact Rancho Mirage Public Library at 760-341-7323.

Cyber Defenses Now Available to Rancho Mirage Businesses MARK DAVIDSON RANCHO MIRAGE businesses face small businesses struggle to weather the unprecedented threats from cyber crime costs and recover from cyber attacks. ﬁnancial fraud, extortion, and loss of critical According to the U.S. Chamber of customer and employee information. Commerce, the No. 1 enabler of cyber crime Protective measures such as antivirus, is failure to follow effective information passwords, and ﬁrewalls play a key role security practices. in cyber security. But defenses also To help local businesses protect their involve simple, effective measures now assets and keep their doors open, the City of available free of charge through a new and Rancho Mirage is sponsoring an education innovative program backed by the City of program consisting of short online videos Rancho Mirage. covering information everyone needs to While large organizations such as know to protect their business networks

Target, Sony Pictures, and the IRS garner and cellphones from cyber theft and James McFarlin most cyber crime media attention, invasion, both in the business and at home. 71 percent of all cyber attacks actually Deployed with the assistance of For more information, please contact occur against businesses with fewer than noted national cyber security authority James McFarlin, Vice Chair of the 100 employees. James McFarlin, this valuable service is Rancho Mirage Emergency Preparedness Lacking the ﬁnancial resources to now available for free through the city’s Commission at 760 -851- 5411 or deploy sophisticated cyber defenses, many Emergency Preparedness Commission. [email protected].

Perfect weather means your guests will surely Entertaining Tips want to enjoy the outdoors: for an Accident-Free Gathering • Check to see if all the rear patio lights are working and, as with the entry, that walking mood like an accident or injury, surfaces are clear and well lit. and it takes just a few minutes to make sure you’re really ready If cooking is part of your event, check the for your guests when they following items to ensure no mishaps occur: arrive. Addressing the following can make a big difference in • Check the smoke detectors and remind

THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM assuring a pleasant experience yourself of your fire extinguisher’s location. for all: It should be close to the kitchen since most household fires originate there. • For most of us, our house key is the garage door remote • Check outlets in the kitchen and outside. — which means we rarely If you have to use an extension cord for the walk up to our own front event, make sure it’s connected to a ground door. Make sure your house fault circuit interrupter-protected receptacle. address is clearly visible from GFCI is a device that shuts off an electric the street. This is important power circuit when it detects that current is IT’S THAT TIME of year when lovely for your guests as well as emergency flowing along an unintended path, such as weather and seasonal gatherings add to responders. through water or a person. When in doubt, the pleasure of living in Rancho Mirage. call your electrician. He can help ensure that Entertaining at home can be enjoyable and • Check the walkway from the street: your home is safe for you and your guests. especially if hosts put some thought into Have the hedges overgrown into the path? the planning of a gathering. Along with the Make sure it’s free of trip hazards or water With just a little extra effort, we can eliminate planning that goes into making a great event, runoff that might cause a slip and fall. some of the potential problems that may occur some thought should be given to the safety In addition, check the view after dark to and focus on enjoying some of the benefits that of your guests as well. Nothing dampens the make sure the path is well lit. come with living in Rancho Mirage. Winter 2016 / Rancho Mirage INSIDER | 15

Rancho Mirage HOAs Work With the City to Prepare for Emergencies

WILL COACHELLA VALLEY residents According to the Commission’s Chair, be able to communicate with the outside Marcia Stein, the purpose of the radio THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM world if we are rocked by a major drill is “to ensure that HOAs and the earthquake? How will we know what City of Rancho Mirage are able to share efforts are underway to bring us aid if cell information, even if phones, radios, towers are damaged and our avenues of televisions, and other resources are down. communication are suddenly inoperable? In this way, the city gathers data regarding “That’s why we’re here,” says Bob any damage or injuries. The HOAs get EL NIÑO ALERT Barger, President of Las Palmas Country news regarding the extent of the event and The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Club Homeowners Association. Barger and estimates as to when aide may be arriving. Administration (NOAA), also known as the Chuck Brackin, Chair of the Las Palmas It’s a win-win,” she says. National Weather Service, is a federal agency CC Emergency Preparedness Committee, Residents are encouraged to call their that focuses on the condition of the oceans attended a recent meeting of the Rancho HOA to see if they currently participate and the atmosphere. They are predicting a Mirage Emergency Preparedness in the radio drill. In addition, essential large El Niño event for the winter of 2015 and Commission. “We’ve heard about the emergency preparedness information stretching into the spring of 2016. El Niño is a Commission’s radio drill and we want our to help residents plan, prepare, and stay weather phenomenon that is predicted to bring HOA to be included,” he said at the meeting. informed is available on the city’s website: the jet stream south this year and into next The radio drill is an exercise that takes place www.RanchoMiragePreparedness.com. year and is expected to bring large amounts of on the first Tuesday evening of each month. HOAs are encouraged to contact Marcia precipitation to southern California. Although Presently, approximately 60 homeowners Stein at 760-324-4511 to learn more about El Niño can result in beautiful wildflower blooms in the desert, it can also cause flooding, associations participate in the drill. participating in the radio drills. so residents must be prepared. The City of Rancho Mirage is suggesting residents do the McCallum Events following to prepare for El Niño:

The McCallum Theatre offers Rancho Mirage residents • Clean/clear roof drains and downspouts discounted rates to enjoy city-sponsored shows for the • Trim large trees in your yard 2016 season. • Ensure that there are no low areas adjacent to On Sunday, March 6, 2016, at 3 p.m., The your house so any standing water drains away 60th annual edition of It’s Magic! will be from your home presented by Milt Larsen and Terry • Have sufficient water/food/medicines on hand Hill. A dazzling, in case you are house-bound due to flooding all-new revue • Have fully charged batteries/flashlights in featuring award- your home winning magicians, It’s Magic! features • If you are part of a homeowners association, remind them to have retention basins checked the finest stars of for proper operation, as clogged drains lead to magic, comedy, ON SUNDAY, January 10, 2016 at 3 p.m., overflowing and flooding experience The Peking Acrobats. Since sleight of hand, and their debut in 1986, they have redefined stage illusions. The • Check with City Hall about the availability of the perceptions of Chinese acrobatics. Los Angeles Times sandbags They are masters of agility and grace with calls It’s Magic! “… a must for magic buffs of Residents may rest assured that the city is also their amazing contortion, flexibility, and all ages!” Regular-priced tickets are $47, $37, planning and preparing for El Niño to minimize control. Regular-priced tickets are $47, $27, and $17. Rancho Mirage resident rates any impacts we all may feel. Although we can’t (with ID) are $42, $32, $22, and $12. Visit $37, $27, and $22. Rancho Mirage resident be sure of the impact of El Niño, a properly rates (with ID) are $42, $32, $22, and www.mccallumtheatre.com for more details. prepared citizenry will go a long way in avoiding $17. Visit www.mccallumtheatre.com severe disruptions to your life. for more details.

To receive the R/M INSIDER and R/M MAGAZINE by email, visit www.RanchoMirageCA.gov, scroll to the bottom of the home page, and subscribe. Follow us by clicking the social media icons at the top of the home page. PRESORTED STD US POSTAGE PAID PALM DESERT,CA CITY COUNCIL PERMIT NO.149 Mayor G. Dana Hobart Mayor Pro Tem Ted Weill Council Member Richard Kite Council Member Iris Smotrich Council Member Charles Townsend

PLANNING COMMISSION Michael Adams, Bill Brodovsky, Bill Maxwell, Larry Nichols, Anne Winchester CITY STAFF Randal K. Bynder, City Manager Steven Quintanilla, City Attorney Cindy Scott, City Clerk Isaiah Hagerman, Director of Administrative Services David Bryant, Library Director Mark Sambito, Director of Public Works Robert Barrett, Director of Marketing and Public Relations CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE 69825 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 760-324-4511 www.RanchoMirageCA.gov www.RelaxRanchoMirage.com www.RanchoMirageLibrary.org

At Your Service The Rancho Mirage City Council The Rancho Mirage City Council works tirelessly to ensure that the residents enjoy a safe and happy lifestyle in Rancho Mirage. Here, seen from left to right, are Council Members Charles Townsend, Iris Smotrich, Mayor G. Dana Hobart, Mayor Pro Tem Ted Weill, and Council Member Richard Kite at Rancho Mirage Community Park 2015 Dedication Ceremony. MARK DAVIDSON