Lupe Ramos Watson is currently mayor of Indio and has served on the city council there since 2004. Before participating in a discussion of why arts and music festivals matter, she explained in the Zócalo green room why “OMG” is the phrase she uses most often these days, and why a sewing machine is the best gift she’s ever been given.
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A politician.
What word or phrase do you use most often?
Well now it’s “OMG” because I’m into texting. (Laughs.)
If you didn’t live in Indio, where would you be?
Mexico.
What music have you listened to today?
Country—new country, all the time.
What’s your ideal temperature?
I would say 79, 78.
What keeps you up at night?
Thinking about how exciting the next day’s going to be.
What’s your favorite plant or flower?
The palm tree. Does that count?
Where do you come up with your best ideas?
When I’m lying in bed, in my sanctuary.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever been given?
My great-grandmother came into the [Coachella] Valley on the Southern Pacific Railroad. She left behind the Singer sewing machine she brought with her from China to me.
What’s the coolest thing about being mayor?
Helping everyone.