The Magazine of Rancho Mirage of Rancho Magazine The R M The Magazine of Rancho Mirage SCOTT AND RACHEL WHITE GOLF IN RANCHO MIRAGE HAMBURGERS AND HIGHBALLS AND HAMBURGERS MIRAGE RANCHO IN GOLF WHITE RACHEL AND SCOTT
THE WHITES A Destined Journey SWINGING CITY Golf in Rancho Mirage HAMBURGERS AND HIGHBALLS Some Delicious Samplings
2016 20 16 SCOTT AND RACHEL WHITE Premium Steaks, Sustainable Seafoods, & Spectacular Soufflés
IMAGINE IMAGERY, Photography by Chris Miller
• Modern Californian Cuisine • 5-Star Wine List & Bar
760-568-9321 www.WallysDesertTurtle.com 71-775 Highway 111 | Rancho Mirage Welcome R M
WELCOME TO THE THIRD ISSUE OF R/M MAGAZINE, and we’re happy the Whites have chosen Rancho Mirage as the official magazine of the City of Rancho Mirage. Funded their home base. by the city and distributed free of charge to all Rancho Two features turn back the clock as we explore the history Mirage residents, businesses, and resorts, this annual of golf in Rancho Mirage (where the golf cart was introduced) publication aims to define our great city for residents and and revisit the creation of Bing Crosby’s Blue Skies Village, the visitors alike. The magazine’s mission is to communicate our nation’s first luxury mobile home community (pages 40 and legendary story and evolving luxury lifestyle, highlighting 70 respectively). not only the people and organizations that contribute This year’s featured home (page 76) is a one-of-a-kind tremendously to our wonderful community spirit but also Moroccan Modern estate in Thunderbird Heights that’s the local restaurants, retailers, and service establishments been beautifully restored down to the finest details by its that make Rancho Mirage a wonderful place in which to live. current owners. In the pages that follow, you’ll meet some of the inspiring men Of course, we can’t neglect the many upscale establish- and women who live and work in Rancho Mirage. In “Making ments in Rancho Mirage that nourish and refresh us. a Difference” (page 20) we highlight nine individuals whose Discover some of the best burgers the city has to offer in contributions make our city a more interesting, cultural, and “Hamburgers: Redefining an American Classic” (page 116). special place. Whether we’re talking about delicious homemade Just be forewarned: Doing so on an empty stomach might Italian sausage, our nationally recognized writers festival, or a result in serious cravings. Or, check out some of the craziest — friendly face that greets you at the door at a favorite restaurant, and tastiest — cocktail concoctions in “Hometown Highballs” these are creations envisioned and brought to fruition by (page 124). remarkable people who have helped make Rancho Mirage a We hope you enjoy this year’s issue of R/M magazine. This place we’re proud to call home. publication serves as a testament of our unparalleled blend of Our cover story (page 28) features Scott White, the world-class establishments and forward-thinking individuals, President and CEO of the Greater Palm Springs Convention and we’re so pleased to be able to share it with you: the and Visitors Bureau, and his wife, Rachel, the North residents, visitors, and businesses who make our city so special. American Sales Director for a prestigious golf resort in — The Editors, on behalf of Scotland. Both are globe-trotters in the business of travel, The Rancho Mirage City Council
1 GOLFER-IN-CHIEF At Sunnylands Center & Gardens, the former 200-acre Annenberg Estate, golf and presidents go hand-in-hand. The first leader of the free world to tee it up on Walter and Leonore Annenberg’s private course was Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1966. Richard M. Nixon kept a set of golf clubs (pictured) on the property, now on display in the lobby of the Center, and also donated a magnolia tree to the estate, which still grows on the seventh hole. Ronald and Nancy Reagan rang in the new year there for 18 consecutive years. Today, President Barack Obama is among the lucky golf enthusiasts to receive invitations to play the nine- hole course. To learn more about the links at Sunnylands as well as golf’s unique history in Rancho Mirage, turn to page 40.
2 GARDENS & SUNNYLANDS CENTER DAVIDSON/COURTESY MARK Contents
5/THE SCENE Resort boutiques, Desert European Motorcars, and the new Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center in Rancho Mirage provide luxury retail therapy for desert dwellers. 14/IT TAKES A CITY Rancho Mirage High School principal Dr. Ken Wagner believes community involvement impacts a student’s success. 16/CHILD’S PLAY Carol Scott, the new CEO of Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert, has big plans for the future. 18/EN POINTE Dance teacher Valerie Mahabir brings grace and movement to Rancho Mirage. 20/MAKING A DIFFERENCE Meet nine men and women who help make Rancho Mirage a cultural centerpiece of the Coachella Valley. 28/THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME For globe-trotting professionals Scott and Rachel White, Rancho Mirage is their favorite destination. 32/EIGHT OF HEARTS The generosity of eight remarkable women make Rancho Mirage — and the world — a better place. 33/LANDSCAPES FORE-EVER Artist Graeme Baxter has been canvassing golf’s greatest landscapes for more than a quarter century. 40/A CITY WITH SWING In fewer than seven decades, Rancho Mirage has gone from a desert to an internationally renowned golf destination. 48/A WORLD OF WELL-BEING AWAITS At The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, Six Pillars of Wellness — feel well, work well, move well, eat well, sleep well, and play well — stand strong for both guests and the community. 56/THE BENEFITS OF BEING LOCAL Rancho Mirage residents can enjoy the offerings at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa all year-round. 64/THE BEAUTY OF SUSTAINABILITY At the Sunnylands Center & Gardens, we watch the desert change and envision what’s to come. 70/NOTHING BUT BLUE SKIES Bing Crosby’s Blue Skies Village was designed as an exclusive mobile home park for millionaires. 76/MOROCCAN MODERNIST
ON THE COVER Two styles meld into one at this one-of-a-kind Thunderbird Heights estate. Rachel and Scott White with their rescue dogs, 90/THE VIEW FROM HERE Bella (left), and Spencer. Dentists Robert Strain and Laura Wittenauer bring a new perspective to an often fear-inducing practice. Photography: MARC ROYCE Styling: SUSAN STEIN 98/DOGGONE CRAZY On Rachel: Diane von Furstenberg ice pink a-line Our four-legged friends live the good life in Rancho Mirage. dress from Saks Fifth Avenue, Palm Desert. 105/ALL IN A DAY’S WORK Roberto Demeglio pale pink ceramic “Domino” bracelet with diamond link, and diamond dome Larry Abel and Raymond McCallister, Jeff L. Grubbe, Charlie Martin, Dr. Mark Sofonio, and Doug Watson contribute to the success of Rancho Mirage. ring and diamond drop earrings from Frasca Jewelers, Palm Desert. Shoes, her own. 110/THE ART OF A GOOD PARTY On Scott: Flowered shirt by Sand, Saks Fifth Residents Sheldon and Susan Good share their recipe for a fabulous dinner party. Avenue. Suit, his own. Hair and Makeup: MONICA VALASQUEZ 116/HAMBURGERS: REDEFINING AN AMERICAN CLASSIC OF J. RUSSELL! THE SALON Here are some of the city’s best, from fast food chains to the finest of fine restaurants. Location: OMNI RANCHO LAS PALMAS 124/HOMETOWN HIGHBALLS RESORT & SPA No. 1 rule in the desert: Stay hydrated. The great news is ... cocktails count! 132/CULINARY DELIGHTS To receive the R/M INSIDER and R/M MAGAZINE Rancho Mirage restaurants serve up a variety of dishes that satisfy any craving. in your email, visit www.RanchoMirageCA.gov, scroll to the bottom of the home page, and 136/ADEPT AT HANDLING CHANGE subscribe. Follow us by clicking the social media icons at the top of the home page. Lauren Bacall and the only parking meter ever erected in Rancho Mirage.
3 R M RANCHO MIRAGE
CITY COUNCIL Mayor G. DANA HOBART Mayor Pro Tem TED WEILL Councilmember RICHARD W. KITE Councilmember IRIS K. SMOTRICH Councilmember CHARLES TOWNSEND
CITY STAFF City Manager R ANDAL K. BYNDER City Attorney STEVEN B. QUINTANILLA City Clerk CINDY SCOTT Director of Administrative Services ISAIAH HAGERMAN Library Director DAVID BRYANT Director of Public Works MARK SAMBITO Director of Marketing/Public Relations ROBERT BARRETT
CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE 69-825 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 760-324-4511 www.RanchoMirageCA.gov www.RelaxRanchoMirage.com www.RanchoMirageED.com www.RanchoMirageLibrary.org
Publisher FR ANKLIN W. JONES Chief Financial Officer JOSEPH HINMAN Editorial Director JULIE SINCLAIR Editor WINSTON GIESEKE Art Director STUART FUNK Managing Editor OLGA REYES Assistant Editor MADELINE EWLES Editorial Assistant MIR ANDA CAUDELL Production Manager LAURA REYES Digital Imaging MARCO MORACHA MIS/Internet Director TODD MAY Digital Content Developer JERRY SULLIVENT
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS June Allan Corrigan, Michaeleen Gallagher, Lisa Marie Hart, Robert Kaufman, Kay Kudukis, Tom Mackin, Christy Majors, Judd Spicer, Daniel Vaillancourt, Stewart Weiner, Marissa Willman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Dan Chavkin, Mark Davidson, Jon Edwards, Laura Hunt Little Images, Ethan Kaminsky, David A. Lee, Chris Miller, Elena Ray, Marc Royce
©2016 DESERT PUBLICATIONS INC.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information provided in this publication. Desert Publications Inc. makes no guarantee of the accuracy of information supplied by this publication, advertisers, organizations, or individual contributors. The publisher is not responsible for loss or damage to unsolicited editorial or photography.
Desert Publications Inc., 303 N. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262, 760-325-2333; FAX: 760-325-7008; www.desertpublications.com
4 The Scene
SHOPPING
18-karat gold-plated hammered cuff with blue chalcedony and cubic zirconia by Marcia Moran, $215, at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
by MADELINE EWLES Rancho Mirage is home to some of the most prominent resorts in Southern California — and their shops should not be overlooked. Find fashionable accessories in these local boutiques, which off er sophisticated shopping that goes beyond the expected sunblock and touristy takeaways.
5 The Scene
RETAIL THERAPY Resort-Style 1
OMNI RANCHO LAS PALMAS RESORT & SPA 1 Gold four-inch brim hat with UPF 50 by San Diego Hat Co., $28
2 Phone charging wristlets by Mighty Purse, $99
3 18-karat gold-plated earrings with pink quartz and cubic zirconia by Marcia Moran, $210
2 3
RAYMOND | LAWRENCE AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE 1 Leather fringe bag by V&G HipWear, $380
2 Miranda gold sunglasses by Tom Ford, $375
3 Pyrite crystal necklace, $268
1 3
2
6 1
AGUA CALIENTE CASINO RESORT SPA 1 Men’s cable bracelets by Alor, $195 and $250
2 Floral printed scarf by Charlie Paige, $15.95
3 Stardust Knot necklace by Swarovski, $199
2 3
INDIGO COLLECTIBLES/INDIGO AUTO GROUP AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE 1 Men’s Time watch by Maserati, $283
2 Crest cuffl inks 1 by Porsche, $95
2 3 Women’s stainless steel clutch by Audi, $339
3
THE WESTIN MISSION HILLS GOLF RESORT & SPA 1 Men’s Elmore sunglasses by Von Zipper, $100
2 18-karat gold-plated bracelet with rhodium/titanium 2 by Marcia Moran, $138
3 Baseball hat by Tommy Bahama, $38
3 1
7 The Scene
INDIGO AUTO GROUP’s Desert European Motorcars Campus DRIVING IN TOP GEAR The Rancho Mirage dealership is the only place in the country to offer all six British luxury brands. by JUDD SPICER
The all-new Jaguar Land Rover Rancho Mirage
HOUSED AMID A UNIQUE BLEND OF INFECTIOUS ENTHUSIASM and expanding opulence, Todd Blue and the indiGO Auto Group have shifted Desert European Motorcars into rare gear. Since indiGO’s purchase of Desert European Motorcars in August 2013, Blue and crew have fast turned the Rancho Mirage dealership into one of the country’s premier luxury auto outlets. Surrounded by nine worldly brands and a new, 26,000-square-foot Jaguar Land Rover showroom which debuted in September, Desert European’s burgeoning business now boasts a singular experience. “I really think this campus is unparalleled in the United States,” says Blue, indiGO’s Chairman and CEO. “There is no shopping experience with these nine brands like this. And we’re the only dealership group in the country that represents all the luxury British brands. Other people may have four or five, but we’re the only one with all six. Which is a cool thing.” With the bright and modern architecture of the new space aptly framing the wares, Blue doesn’t eye the space as a car lot. Rather, it’s a canvas. “It’s exceeded our expectations,” he says of the updated space. “It matches the desert landscape with the tones and colors, and it just looks gorgeous. We’ve always had a plan that the next phase would be our all-new Jaguar Land Rover facility, which is probably the most state-of-the-art Jaguar Land Rover facility in the country. It’s a doubling of our service capacity, which affects the other brands in a positive way.”
8 Bentley Bentayga
Rolls-Royce Dawn
9 The Scene
2016 Range Rover Sport
For the sporting set, Desert European’s new addition of McLaren Automotive has the CEO revving. “McLaren is going in an amazing direction,” details Blue of the highly coveted 570S. “Until now, McLaren did not have a vehicle, basically, that was under $300,000. This sports car will be priced at $185,000, which, while not inexpensive, is definitely attainable and puts them right in the 2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT sweet spot of cars like BMW and Mercedes that aren’t so unobtainably Mirroring the vehicular celerity that comprises the campus, Blue’s exotic. So, that’s huge. Some of our team members just drove the 570S in customer culture is fast to answer buyers in the affirmative. “The key to Portugal and said it was incredible.” this business is service,” Blue says. “We are ‘white glove,’ and we have a Come spring, indiGO’s expanding vision in Rancho Mirage will find culture of ‘yes.’ If you go, say, to The Ritz-Carlton in Rancho Mirage, they further bounty. “We’ll do a brand new Aston Martin and McLaren facility don’t tell you all the ways something can’t be done, they tell you how it can in what is currently the most aged part of the campus,” Blue says. “When be done. In luxury, we’re in the business of telling customers, ‘Yes.’ With that is completed in August or September of 2016, every single brand will us, it’s not, ‘You bought the car, see you later.’ Your experience with us have a new showroom in and around the past five years.” R/M hopefully starts after you buy your car.” With a slew of primo SUVs hitting the showrooms, Blue talks about the 2016 models with a boyish buoyance which belies his suit and tie. “The new Bentley Bentayga is literally the ultimate SUV in the marketplace,” Blue enthuses. “There is nothing higher; this is any luxury SUV you can think of, plus-one. It is absolutely the most aspirational SUV in the world.” Jaguar’s drive into the sports utility market also has his zeal. “It’s the first time ever that Jaguar has had an SUV,” says Blue of the new Jaguar F-Pace. “An amazing price point and a very cool and unique car, which I think will reinvent the entire Jaguar brand. I think it puts Jaguar back on the shopping list for people who may not have considered it for a long time.”
Jaguar XE
10 “In luxury, we’re in the business of telling customers, ‘Yes.’ With us, it’s not, ‘You bought the car, see you later.’ Your experience with us hopefully starts after you buy your car.”
McLaren 570S
11 The Scene
Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center TALK OF THE TOWN
Rancho Mirage residents have eagerly awaited the reboot of the Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center, the Center of the Desert. Here’s a sample of what you can expect.
WITH COMPLETELY RECONSTRUCTED FACADES and an incredible Weimer and Post began selling handcrafted almond toffee as part of lineup of stores, the redesigned RANCHO LAS PALMAS SHOPPING a fundraising project for a class trip to Italy back in 2006; 10 years later, CENTER offers something for everyone, from well-known national residents and visitors can find their delicious, gourmet treats for sale brands like CVS, Hobby Lobby, and Stein Mart to locally owned throughout the Coachella Valley. Brandini Toffee recently relocated their and managed businesses including Greens International Market, Rancho Mirage production facility to the Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Brandini Toffee, and Norma’s Italian Kitchen. Center, where customers can indulge in award-winning toffee and even learn how the candy is made. INTERNATIONAL EATS “Rancho Mirage has been great to us,” Weimer says. “They’ve been “There is so much diversity in the desert but no diversity in food,” says supportive throughout the whole process. We even have the city’s name Maria Mouchati, owner of GREENS INTERNATIONAL MARKET, on the packaging.” Above all, Weimer and Post are proud to be a part of a a specialty grocery store catering to ethnic and international food lovers. family-owned business. “We get to learn from the mistakes and from the “The valley needs a store like this.” growth,” Weimer says, “and the family business concept is something that Given the desert’s reputation as a popular retreat for both international we value and I know our customers value.” vacationers and residents, a store that specializes in diverse food offerings FROM ITALY, WITH LOVE and ingredients from around the world is a major windfall. And Greens’ convenient location in Rancho Mirage, which Mouchati calls “the center With endless dining options in Rancho Mirage, Ron and Norma Hare want of the desert,” means that inhabitants from all nine cities can easily visit customers to know why NORMA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN — where pizza, the new marketplace. pasta, and spaghetti are always on the menu — is special. “The quality of our For Mouchati, being able to shop for groceries at a single store is ingredients is unmatched,” Ron says, “and the food’s consistency is always important, but when your shopping list includes international and other the same. We offer fair value and pricing, along with excellent service. We do hard-to-come-by ingredients, it’s almost impossible to find everything you a lot of internal production of foods: Our pizza dough is made daily, we grind need in one place. At Greens, customers come across everything from exotic our beef and pork, and we make our own spaghetti sauce.” Ron also points fruits and vegetables to fresh herbs and meats. “Our store is international,” out that the restaurant serves dishes made from authentic Italian recipes, Mouchati explains. “We offer everything for different ethnicities, but we so customers can enjoy true Italian cuisine without leaving the desert. also have the basics. You don’t have to go to different places to get what you When it comes to the best plate on the menu, it’s hard to pick just one, want. It’s a one-stop shop.” but Norma vouches for the lasagna. “It’s a really great dish,” she says. The Hares, who have owned several successful restaurants throughout A SWEET ENTERPRISE the valley for the past 20 to 25 years, couldn’t be happier about their new Brandon Weimer and Leah Post might not be related by blood, but the restaurant’s location. “We live in Rancho Mirage,” Ron says, “so this is a inspiring duo behind BRANDINI TOFFEE, a local candy company that great opportunity for us.” They are especially pleased to join the Rancho has been featured on Oprah Winfrey’s O List and The Martha Stewart Las Palmas Shopping Center. “It’s a real community,” Norma says. “We’re so Show, share a 20-year friendship that falls nothing short of family ties. excited to be a part of it.” “We’ve been friends since pre-school,” Post says. “We’re pretty much brother and sister.” Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center, 42-540 Bob Hope Drive.
by MIRANDA CAUDELL / photography by ETHAN KAMINSKY
12 FOOD FOR THE SENSES Clockwise from top: Leah Post and Brandon Weimer (front row) of Brandini Toffee have made their business a family affair; Ron and Norma Hare happily break in the kitchen of their new Norma’s Italian Kitchen; Maria Mouchati looks forward to a bright future for Greens International Market. 13 PROUD PRINCIPAL Dr. Ken Wagner stands up with the students of Rancho Mirage High School’s first graduating class.
14 Mentors
THE PRINCIPAL OF Rancho Mirage High School has a poolside reading list that’s not what you’d call “casual.” There are no spy novels, IT TAKES thrillers, or war epics. Traditional fiction is not on Dr. Ken Wagner’s menu. What is reads like a management syllabus: The Fifth Discipline, A CITY The 5 Levels of Leadership, The Steve Jobs Way. And those are just for fun. His favorites The principal of RANCHO MIRAGE HIGH SCHOOL believes are for knowledge: Justice, Disrupting Class, community involvement greatly impacts a student’s road to success. Change or Die; he enjoys authors who challenge old ideas and offer suggestions for a better future. Wagner’s philosophies fit him just fine, but as an outdoorsy kid, he had envisioned a very different life. “I wanted to be a fish and game warden,” he says. “And then a veterinarian.” Fortunately for the City of Rancho Mirage, while waiting to get into vet school, Wagner met his future wife, Jackie, who thought he should try teaching; he did and found his calling. RANCHO SCHOOL MIRAGE HIGH “I was a fun and engaging biology teacher, “The many opportunities that students learning to work with others to be better in their I think because I tried to teach through a have had to perform at events and speak at own lives, and we want parents to encourage more global perspective rather than dense council or chamber meetings have been great. that level of involvement. Every study available content. I wanted students to make the real life The business partners have already provided points to school involvement as a necessary connections and see biology in everyday life.” professional practices for our students, from component to academic success.” Wagner degreed up with an M.A. in education Pirch fundraisers, Ritz-Carlton tours, and guest That translates well for the community. administration and an educational doctorate in speakers to mayor’s lunches and guidance from In 10 years, Wagner sees the City of Rancho leadership for educational justice, which made [local writer] Sue Rappaport.” Mirage recognized across the country for its him the perfect choice for principal of RMHS. Under his leadership, Wagner hopes his innovation, creativity, and academic achievement. “From the beginning of my hire date, I students will utilize these resources to realize “As we train students through culinary arts, have been connected to the community,” he their fullest potential. Some cheerleading from automotive maintenance, and performing says. “Reaching out to the city and chamber home can help. arts, we hope to provide not only community were my first orders of business.” Meanwhile, “We want parents to encourage students service but also trained employees to our local the community, who will look on with pride to be involved in school,” Wagner says. “There businesses. We want to get students educated when RMHS’s first graduating class dons caps is a whole other world to high school through and to ultimately stay in the desert. We currently and gowns later this year, has been just as activities. Our performing arts students put in have students training and working alongside passionate as Wagner, opening its doors to just as much time after school as they do during business and performance professionals. new programs and empowering the students school. Athletes work as a team, musicians work What better system is there to prepare them through participation. as a team, clubs work as a team. Students are than that?” R/M
by KAY KUDUKIS / photography by MARK DAVIDSON
15 PLANS IN MOTION New CEO Carol Scott stands in the reimagined Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert.
16 Mentors
CHILD’S PLAY At 25 years of age, CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY MUSEUM OF THE DESERT in Rancho Mirage is all grown up. But the new CEO is working to change that.
CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY MUSEUM encourage and motivate 9-to-15-year- of the Desert — with its three glass-walled olds to find purpose and leave a positive structures landscaped in between with footprint within the Coachella Valley. desert grasses, pebbles, a bridge, and Super Kids Save the World, the first curving pathways — all looks very ... adult. installment of traveling exhibitions to But that’s about to change. CDMOD’s visit the museum, will delight kids of new CEO, Carol Scott, and her band of all ages while sneakily educating them merry staffers have reimagined those on sustainability and inspiring critical pathways as Plasma Tracks where kids thinking through creativity. Next up, a can freewheel a Plasmacar to exhibit halls display based on the works of artist Marc while obeying street signs, thus learning Chagall. “A traditional Children’s Museum the rules of the road. is multidisciplinary,” Scott says. “It covers “To have all of this space and not science, the arts, culture, and humanities.” STUART FUNK use it interactively is really a missed As the former executive director of Kid’s opportunity,” Scott says, taking a seat on the daily activities for preschoolers. And a parent Space in Pasadena and former president and CEO toddler-sized, kinetic energy–powered plastic educational component, “Baby and Me,” is offered of South Carolina’s Children’s Museum of Upstate, vehicle. “Eventually, part of the vision is to use the to moms and dads who want some help raising there’s no denying Scott’s got chops. Toss in a keen 6½ acres here with covered outdoor exhibitry that responsible children. vision, and you’re looking at an inspired future. can withstand the summer heat.” “We have to guarantee kids safe passage from “I see CDMOD as (having) more buildings, and Other changes in the works include the visitor- here to the future,” Scott says, “and I think we can as an integrated community entity. We want to be favorite VW Bug. For years, children have delighted play a critical part.” a powerhouse for the value of play, the state-of-the- in splattering the car with paint and graffiti (which As president-elect of the Association of art museum, and the best place in the Coachella staffers then annually chip off); it will return Junior Leagues International, Scott knows that Valley for a family and informal learning.” decked in chalkboard paint, relocated outside, and her direction of the museum is a big job, but the With no disrespect to the gambling reinvented as “The Blackboard Bug.” fearless fundraiser has no problem admitting she community, she’d like to see CDMOD become The inside of CDMOD is getting a rethink, too. needs a village. “One of my highest priorities is to the No. 1 destination for people in the valley and Grandma’s Attic — which once housed costumes build our community partnership from vendors surrounding areas. But if you’re a gambler, you’d — is now a classroom. Toddler Time, an area to artists to people with skill.” do well to put your money on the 5-foot-2 former containing puzzles and Legos, has moved into the That integration includes YES! (Youth gymnast with the big smile, riding the toy car. VW’s vacated space and now consists of different Empowerment Through Service), created to She’s a sure bet. R/M
by KAY KUDUKIS / photography by MARK DAVIDSON
17 TINY DANCER Valerie Mahabir keeps a watchful eye over a twirling young student.
18 Mentors
EN POINTE VALERIE MAHABIR brings grace and movement to Rancho Mirage.
IN CLASSICAL BALLET, the term allongé describes a position that is stretched or made longer with grace and flow. It’s an idea that metaphorically expresses the beautiful, inspired life’s work of Rancho Mirage resident Valerie Mahabir as she teaches children to reach toward their highest potential through dance. When Mahabir, who has been dancing since the age of 5 and teaching for more than 50 years, is asked if she’d always dreamed of being a ballerina, she demures, noting she chooses instead to make goals her focus — an outlook she encourages in her students. “I show my pointe shoes to my little students, and they ask, ‘When am I going to get my pointe shoes, Miss Valerie?’ and I say, ‘When you come here for awhile.’ It’s a little inspiration; they’ve got to have goals.” Trinidad-born Mahabir studied at the Royal Academy of Dance in London (RAD) and danced for princes,
princesses, and the pope while rubbing slippers with PATEL NARENDRA ballet greats Baryshnikov, Fonteyn, and Nureyev prior to In addition to locating her Royal Academy of Ballet and finding her life’s work: teaching. Performing Arts studio, which was designed by her architect Mahabir, however, doesn’t revel in her success stories, husband Narendra Patel and is housed behind The River, she lives in the moment — and her current students Mahabir chose to reside in Rancho Mirage (where “the weather benefit from that. “Not all kids are equal, so you just is guaranteed all the time”) in what she calls The Ballerina House, have to take their talents and work with that,” she says. also designed by her husband. The couple has held many charity “Whatever I do with them it’s for their betterment. events there for the Opera Guild and Steinway Society, as well as I want those kids to be the best that they can possibly be.” Desert Youth Ballet, her own charity. The RAD certificates earned by her most devoted Her two golden retrievers, Winston and Bellarina, are her students are the golden ticket when it comes to getting constant companions; they do just about everything together. into the finest schools in the country. Athletes, too, like The love and respect she shares with her other companion — Mahabir-coached Olympic medalists Dorothy Hamill Patel — is evident in the studio he has built for her and Mahabir’s and Karen Magnussen, who take ballet for strength affectionate talk of his achievements. Recently, the two made a and endurance, have also gone on to greatness. The pact to never, ever retire. discipline ballet requires is unparalleled by any field. “We love Rancho Mirage, and we love what we do,” “Gymnasts, football, basketball,” Mahabir says, “all Mahabir says. “You’ve got the music here, you’ve got the sports benefit from ballet. Lynn Swann the football young people, you’ve got the interaction with the students player — he took ballet.” — what more could you want?” R/M
by KAY KUDUKIS / photography by MARK DAVIDSON makeup by ANNABELLE PONTIOUS, International School of Beauty
19 Making a Difference Rancho Mirage is a cultural centerpiece of the Coachella Valley, providing a wealth of services, events, and establishments for the community. Here are nine men and women whose contributions make Rancho Mirage a place we’re proud to call home.
by MIRANDA CAUDELL / photography by ELENA RAY
A ROOM WITH A VIEW Some people might not apply the concept of beauty to a desert landscape, but JANICE LYLE, Director of Sunnylands Center & Gardens, sees things differently. “The Sunnylands Center & Gardens is amazingly beautiful,” she says. “When people come here, they’re surprised by the beauty of the gardens and by the way in which the architecture frames the view of the mountains. We see these mountains throughout the valley, but there’s something so special about the way this building gives you a view like a landscape painting.” Comparing the views at Sunnylands to a work of art is no exaggeration. In fact, she couldn’t be more spot-on. “The garden is an art garden,” Lyle says. “It’s not a botanical garden. We’re an unusual place in that we’re emphasizing the visual aspects of the garden as opposed to the uniqueness of a particular specimen or species of plant.” And like most works of art, Sunnylands holds a special place in history as a chosen locale for global summits and political retreats. “Sunnylands is also about the Annenberg residency, and it’s about what’s happening today when President Obama visits,” Lyle says. “There’s this sense about coming to a place that continues to make history.” Sunnylands Center & Gardens, 37-977 Bob Hope Drive, 760-202-2222; www.sunnylands.org.
20 21 READING BETWEEN THE LINES When asked what makes the Rancho Mirage Public Library such a great organization, Director DAVID BRYANT can’t settle on one answer — the Library is just that good. “Our collections are outstanding,” Bryant says. “Also, our programming is pretty stellar for a public library: lectures, concerts, instructional classes. I think [it’s] the whole package.” From film screenings and concert series to technology classes and natural history lectures, the Library has something to offer each one of its 300,000 annual visitors. “There are many cities that are larger in size, but that don’t have libraries as good, big, or well-staffed as ours,” Bryant adds. Though 300,000 visitors seems like a staggering number for a city of 17,000, Bryant ensures that the public is just as important as the Library’s programming. “We value our patrons and want to make sure each is satisfied,” he says. “Our staff is absolutely devoted to the people who use the Library, and we have a great city behind us.” Rancho Mirage Public Library, 71-100 Highway 111, 760-341-7323; www.RanchoMirageLibrary.org.
22 CLASS ACT Seven years ago, desert dwellers would have had to travel to L.A. or San Diego for serious, thought- provoking theater. Now, thanks to RON CELONA, Founding Artistic Director of the Coachella Valley Repertory, locals can see a professional performance without leaving town. “We are the fastest growing theater company in Southern California,” Celona says, “and as of this past January, we’re the only Equity theater in the Coachella Valley.” Theatergoers can expect to see shows that challenge the norm and personal boundaries. “We deal with topics from social issues to political issues to romance issues, human relations, and racism,” Celona says. “Our work is very edgy; we don’t do anything safe.” Clearly, a little danger goes a long way; sold-out shows have forced Celona to add a fourth week of performances just to compensate for growth. And plans to construct a midsize, 200-seat theater are in the works. Theater has arrived in the valley, and it’s here to stay. Coachella Valley Repertory, 69-930 Highway 111, 760-296-2966; www.cvrep.org.
LEADING LADY DIANA MARLO has been the director of the Coachella Valley’s biggest girls’ weekend for the last eight years, and each year gets bigger and better. “The Desert Woman’s Show is an excellent opportunity for women to find out what’s going on in the valley,” Marlo says. “In the past, people had to go to L.A. for the doctors, or the holistics, or just various areas that women are interested in. We put them all under one roof, and it just became this explosive event.” So explosive that the show has relocated over the years from the Esmeralda in Indian Wells to its current home at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa in Rancho Mirage. With more than 100 exhibitions, including fashion shows, fitness demonstrations, and finance seminars, the event is recommended for anyone interested in women’s issues — and, contrary to popular belief, men are welcome. “We started out as a girls’ weekend and then it became, ‘I’m going to bring my husband, is that OK?’ I said, ‘Of course! Bring your husband.’ ” The Desert Woman’s Show takes place January 16–17, 2016 at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. Visit www.desertwomansshow.com for more information and tickets.
23 FAMILY MAN A FRIENDLY FACE If you watch local news, you’ve likely come across chief “I love what I do,” says GINGER CARTER, who has been the meteorologist PATRICK EVANS reporting the latest weather hostess at local eatery Shame on the Moon for 26 years. “After updates, but that isn’t the only thing Evans dishes out. Fulvio’s this many years, you couldn’t stand at the front door and do Foods is Evans’ homemade Italian sausage company, which what I do unless you really liked people. It never gets old, and it he named in honor of his late father, Fulvio Antonio Iachetta. never gets boring.” Carter first met Shame on the Moon owner “I grew up making this homemade Italian sausage with him,” and chef Milan Tojagic almost 30 years ago, when she worked at Evans explains. “It was a weekend ritual. About every three or four a store next to his budding restaurant on Highway 111 (before months, we’d make a batch of Italian sausage, 25 or 30 pounds. It was he relocated to Rancho Mirage). Tojagic asked Carter if she really a special project he and I did together.” could help answer the phones after her shift at the store, and she After meeting with a co-packer and tweaking some of the gladly volunteered. measurements, Evans was ready to market his product. “I knocked Now, Carter’s warm, friendly face has become a trademark of on doors up and down the valley,” he says. “I gave restaurants a the popular restaurant. She always makes people feel welcome pound of spicy and a pound of mild and said, ‘This is the best Italian and happy to be there. “The people who work there are just like sausage you’re going to taste.’ ” Today, Fulvio’s sausage is featured on family,” she says. “And the service is incredible, the best in the menus at several Greater Palm Springs eateries, including Appetito valley, in my opinion.” Whether you’re a Shame on the Moon in Palm Springs, Cello’s American Bistro in Cathedral City, and regular or a newbie, Carter says there’s one thing you have to The Slice, Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse, and The Ritz-Carlton try. “You must sit at the bar and have one of Johnny’s martinis — in Rancho Mirage. “Fulvio’s food is a passion, but it’s also about that is, if you’re old enough!” Shame on the Moon, 69-950 Frank keeping my father’s legacy going,” Evans says. “It brought him a lot Sinatra Drive, 760-324-5515; www.shameonthemoon.com. of pleasure.” Fulvio’s Foods, 760-333-8998; www.fulviosfoods.com.
24 DREAM COME TRUE Every year since 1972, thousands have flocked to Mission Hills Country Club to watch the first major event in the LPGA tour: the ANA Inspiration, formerly known as the Kraft Nabisco Championship. “In the sporting world and in women’s golf, [the ANA] is one of the most historic events on the schedule,” says GABE CODDING, Tournament Director. “It is the second-oldest continuous tournament in one location. We have the top 120 women golfers in the world, with about 25 different countries represented. This year will be truly unique because it’ll be about 125 days before the Olympics,” Codding adds, “and golf will be in the Olympics for the first time in more than a century, so not only will we have the top 120 women golfers here, we’ll also have 60 to 80 Olympian athletes.” After nearly 20 years of involvement with the event, Codding says one of his favorite aspects of being Tournament Director is seeing lifelong dreams come true. “For girls from all around the world who have been introduced to golf, their dream moment is to come to Rancho Mirage, play in this tournament, and jump in Poppie’s Pond. For me, it’s a very honoring and memorable thing to be a part of.” ANA Inspiration, March 28–Apr. 3, 2016, Mission Hills Country Club, 760-883-1656; www.anainspiration.com.
25 GOOD NEIGHBOR Randy Zupanski, General Manager of The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, believes that a hotel can be more than just a place to spend the night. For him, Westin Mission Hills is “the cornerstone of the community in Rancho Mirage.” “It’s an interesting place to stay and a tremendous destination for families,” he says. An African spurred tortoise named Scooter, two giant rabbits, and koi are just a few of the interesting elements you’ll find at the resort. Guests can even adopt a dog through The Westin’s pet adoption program. “It’s a unique program for a hotel,” Zupanski says. “Walk into the resort’s lobby and you’re likely to be greeted by a dog.” Locals are encouraged to join in on the fun, too. The resort offers membership packages for Rancho Mirage residents, such as the Good Neighbor program, that provide special discounts on dining and other amenities. While Zupanski hopes that guests and residents enjoy the beautiful grounds, amazing programs, and exceptional service, he says his ultimate goal “is to make you feel better than when you arrived.” Goal accomplished. The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, 71-333 Dinah Shore Drive, 760-328-5955, www.westinmissionhills.com
26 THE WRITE MAN Jamie Kabler has helped create every reader’s dream: the Rancho Mirage Writers Festival, a four-day event dedicated to the written word and to the authors who inspire, challenge, amuse, and fascinate us with their work. The event takes place each January at the Rancho Mirage Public Library. “It’s the best writers festival held at a public library,” says Kabler, the festival’s founder. Kabler attended a writers conference in Sun Valley a few years ago and, feeling inspired, thought, I could do this; let’s do one here. With the help of friends, who, like Kabler, were ready to donate their time and money to make the dream a reality, the Rancho Mirage Writers Festival was born. The success of the event, now in its third year, speaks for itself, with a budget that has grown from $90,000 to $700,000 and a lineup that includes at least one National Book Award–winner and 30 New York Times best- selling authors. “My favorite part is all the preparation that goes into making it happen,” Kabler explains. “It’s exciting to reach out to writers. What’s been amazing is the support and enthusiasm from readers in the valley.” Kabler insists on the festival staying right where it is. “I love Rancho Mirage,” he says. “The event will always be here; everything happens in Rancho Mirage.” Rancho Mirage Writers Festival, January 21–23, 2016, www.rmwritersfest.org
27 28 There’s No Place Like HOME For a dynamic couple whose careers frequently have them globe-trotting, home base is nowhere other than Rancho Mirage.
by JUNE ALLAN CORRIGAN / photography by MARC ROYCE
29 OR MANY, THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY is all about mortgage, then Scott called me up soon afterward and we met for lunch. He planning your next destination — but for Scott asked if I needed any help with my townhouse, and I said I could use a little and Rachel White, traveling has become part of help putting up some electric lights. We got married a year later,” she says. their destinies. Strong, decisive natures coupled with business savvy and hard work As President and CEO of the Greater Palm define this twosome and lie behind their career successes. A definitive F Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, Scott is measure of that success is how thoroughly Scott has revitalized and a key player in the engine driving the Coachella repositioned the Greater Palm Springs brand, both nationally and Valley economy. That engine, of course, is tourism. His wife, Rachel, is no internationally. It hasn’t been an easy task convincing nine distinct stranger to the trade either. She’s the North American Sales Director for desert cities to agree to come together and be promoted as one. Yet Scott the world-class Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland. While the pair’s and his forward-thinking team of 47 employees have succeeded and professional lives place them squarely in the middle of the global travel simultaneously grown the CVB budget from $8 million to $13.5 million industry, their personal life finds them quite happily ensconced in the during the five years he’s been at the helm. heart of Rancho Mirage. It’s helped that the CVB is funded differently than it once was. Now “I don’t like to commute,” says Scott, who, before assuming his current 90 percent of funding comes directly from the hotels instead of the job in December 2010, held the top CVB post in San Antonio, Texas, and previous TOT (transient occupancy tax) dollars that communities often prior to that was second in command at the Greater Phoenix organization. felt would be better allocated elsewhere. Oversight comes courtesy of two He actually started his career in the Coachella Valley, working in hotel sales boards: the CVB Board of Directors — which is composed of hoteliers, from 1988 to 1996 and living in several desert cities while doing so. Now he restauranteurs, and the like — and a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) appreciates the proximity of his and Rachel’s Rancho Mirage home to the Executive Committee comprising one elected official from each member Greater Palm Springs CVB offices that are conveniently headquartered city and the county of Riverside. here. They both enjoy the quality of life this community affords — activities With increased financial muscle and cooperation from the cities, the like biking around the neighborhood or walking their dogs to The River for CVB has been able to stir up considerable new interest in the Greater Palm coffee or ice cream. Easy access to Palm Springs International Airport is Springs area all around the world. “Every city in the valley has different events also a plus for the couple. As Rachel puts it: “We’ve always liked living close and products to promote,” Scott says. “We’re curating all of that, bringing to the airport because, sadly, it’s where we start many work days.” it together, and getting it out in one message. Our role is the big picture, If it weren’t for their peripatetic ways, however, the two might never communicating the valley’s story to a national and international audience.” have met. Scottish-born Rachel was 10 years into a successful hotel Rancho Mirage residents might not realize it, but the more the tourism marketing career in the UK when she was presented the opportunity sector can drive revenue for the city — for example, increasing TOT dollars to work for Troon Golf in Scottsdale, Arizona. Visa delays and the 9/11 and sales tax from visitor spending — the better their quality of life will terrorist attacks almost derailed her plans, but she eventually landed in be. “If tourism didn’t exist at the level it does today and continue to grow, the United States on Oct. 12, 2011. “I arrived in Scottsdale not knowing each household would have to pay an additional $3,200 annually in taxes to anybody,” she says. Figuring she’d give it two years and thinking, What’s maintain the level of services they currently receive,” Scott says. Perks like the worst case? If it doesn’t work out, I’ll go back home, she found herself last year’s announcement of JetBlue’s new $261 nonstop round-trip flights loving both the job and her new environment. from New York — which eases passage for still more travelers and their Meanwhile, Scott was a few years into his tenure at the Greater welcome dollars — wouldn’t occur either. Phoenix CVB, and naturally their paths crossed — although it wasn’t love It could be said that two loosely related words — destination and at first sight. Two years went by — the length of time Rachel had allotted destiny — factor prominently in Scott and Rachel White’s lives. Certainly for her American adventure — and by that point she was entertaining both their working lives center around the promotion of destinations, an attractive job offer back home and struggling with the decision of and seeing as how Rachel’s birthday is the 4th of July, it appears she may whether to go or stay. have been destined for the United States all along. Whatever the case, the Ultimately she decided to put down roots on this side of the pond and, couple is glad their destinies intertwined and brought them to as pleasing being a very home-oriented person, she bought a townhouse. “I got a a destination as Rancho Mirage. R/M
30 31 yPAT MANHART
“In many underdeveloped countries, a hearing- yJANE SALTONSTALL yHELENE GALEN yMARCIA STEIN yBEVERLY JOHNSON impaired child is discarded and forgotten about. “My parents continually reminded us how “Giving back is easy when you are lucky enough “I grew up in a home where we always reached “My generous spirit comes from my mother yANNETTE BLOCH We seek out these children and give them fortunate we were to be born in this country to have. And living in this intimate community is out to help others who needed our support. My and father who were always conscious about “My mother-in-law told me at age 19 that someday free hearing aids through the Starkey Hearing and to have been given the chance to receive such a blessing because you get to see the results husband, Rick, and I are very committed to our volunteering for community outreach programs. my husband will be very successful and I have Foundation. To see their little faces light up an education. Gratitude was stressed as a very up front. It’s one big family and we are all together philanthropy and the difference we make in It’s important to me to give back because giving to remember to give back. I have never forgotten when they hear the word ‘Mama’ for the first time important attitude to incorporate into one’s life.” in this beautiful desert.” people’s lives.” back feeds my soul.” that and feel so fortunate that I’m able to do so.” defies description.” Eight women. Many with recognizable names and faces. Each has done remarkable things and experienced success. At a point where others might choose to step back, these eight women, all full- or part-time Rancho Mirage residents, step up and spend a considerable amount of time making the world a better place. EIGHT of Hearts
by JUNE ALLAN CORRIGAN / photography by ETHAN KAMINSKY photographed in the Thunderbird Room at THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE
BARBARA BOXER, U.S. Senator from California, An educator and counselor for the Palm Springs Unified won’t be seeking re-election in 2016. Expect to see her School District for 35 years, MARCIA STEIN is the direct her considerable energy toward philanthropic chair of the Rancho Mirage Emergency Preparedness pursuits such as the Desert AIDS Project and the Commission and works tirelessly to ensure that all AIDS Assistance Program, entities she has supported in residents are prepared in the event of a disaster. the past. As a top model, BEVERLY JOHNSON’s face IRIS SMOTRICH worked in commercial real graced the cover of countless magazines over several estate property management prior to becoming active decades. Now she takes an active role in addressing the on the local political scene. An incumbent City of abuse of women and children and is the international Rancho Mirage Council Member and the former Mayor, spokesperson for the Global Down Syndrome Smotrich plays an active role in many Coachella Valley Foundation. She’s also an accomplished writer — last year charitable organizations. she published her memoir, The Face That Changed It All. At her own consulting firm, JANE SALTONSTALL For years, ANNETTE BLOCH has worked to improve serves as an educator and coach to numerous cancer care, a philanthropic pursuit she began with her late corporations around the world. She recently assumed husband, H&R Bloch founder Richard Bloch. Almost 30 the role of President of the Palm Springs Art Museum cancer survivor parks throughout the United States and Landscapes Board of Trustees executive committee. Canada represent their commitment and generosity. Philanthropist HELENE GALEN, wife of the As a business owner and hearing-aid specialist, late businessman Lou Galen, has donated millions PAT MANHART fitted hearing-impaired children and of dollars over the years to local nonprofits. Her name adults with custom hearing aids for 52 years. Now, she graces the Palm Desert Art Museum in Palm Desert travels the globe with a charitable foundation helping Fore-Ever and the Performing Arts Center at Rancho Mirage individuals in underprivileged nations who have never had High School. access to hearing devices. Inspired by his love of golf, Rancho Mirage artist GRAEME BAXTER has been canvassing the game’s greatest landscapes yyyyyyyy for over a quarter century. It’s been said that a single person cannot change the world but that each of us by ROBERT KAUFMAN / photography by MARK DAVIDSON can change the world of a single person. These women wrote the book.
EDITOR’S NOTE: WHEN ASKED TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS STORY, COUNCIL MEMBER IRIS SMOTRICH INSISTED ON PAYING 1/8 OF THE LAYOUT’S COST IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH CALIFORNIA LAWS THAT GOVERN ELECTED OFFICIALS AND PRINTED MATERIALS FUNDED BY THEIR JURISDICTIONS. yBARBARA BOXER yIRIS SMOTRICH “Our great country has given every opportunity to my family, and I ”Growing up in modest but very charitable homes, [my husband] want to ensure that future generations have the same chance.” Thom, and I learned early on the value of providing for others. As a Rancho Mirage Council Member, I strive each day to improve the quality of life for our residents and feel fortunate to be able to help those who are in need of assistance.” LANDSCAPE TO A TEE Graeme Baxter’s painting of the 18th hole at Mission Hills Country Club.
33 W ITH ONE FINAL STROKE OF HIS BRUSH, Scotland-born Rancho Mirage resident Graeme Baxter places the finishing touch — his signature — on his latest painting, which was unveiled this past July at Castle Pines Golf Club in Colorado Springs. How does he know his newest masterpiece is complete? “I know it’s finished when I sign it,” the artist declares. While Baxter’s final sign-off represents the end of another labor of love, it also signifies the anticipation of a new beginning for the 57-year-old world-renowned golf landscape artist — one whose career began as a fine art dealer in his father’s gallery. Throughout the past 28 years, the process of signing a painting is one Baxter has repeated an estimated 320 times since doing so on his premier canvas, which was covered with a landscape of the 17th hole at Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland. That’s when Baxter first became infatuated with the game. “I showed that painting to Michael Bonallack, the secretary of The Royal and Ancient [Golf Club of St. Andrews], and he told me he loved it,” Baxter says. “But when asked what I would do with it, I didn’t have an answer. After talking with him and my dad, I decided to do my first limited edition print run, after which I took two copies to a gallery in Glasgow. The owner knew me, so he agreed to take them — but by the end of the first week he was already requesting two more prints.”
STEADY HAND Above: Unlike some artists, Baxter composes his paintings with oil from beginning to end rather than relying on pencil, charcoal, or a ruler. Right: Baxter works on a painting of Ibis Country Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, in his studio at the Clubhouse in Mission Hills Country Club.
SERENE LINKS A stunning view of the course at The Springs Country Club.
36 37 PRESIDENTS AND PRINCES Top, from left: Baxter’s take on the eighth hole at the Pebble Beach Golf Links; HRH Prince Andrew unveils the official painting for the 2000 Open Championship in St. Andrews, Scotland. Center: The fourth hole at Bighorn Golf Club.Bottom, from left: President Gerald Ford and the First Lady with Baxter during a special presentation of his painting commemorating Bob Hope and his renowned tournament; the 11th hole at Augusta National. “I really wanted to become known in America because it’s the biggest golfing nation in the world, and we chose the Coachella Valley because of its notoriety as a major golf destination.”
Beginner’s luck? Not even close. After selling the original for For nearly three decades, Baxter has developed a successful formula £1,200, Baxter took the windfall and packed his paint brushes that has rewarded him with honors, ranging from his position as the in order to continue creating landscape scenes at other famous official artist for every Ryder Cup since 1991 and numerous British Open Scottish golf venues such as Turnberry, Gleneagles, and Muirfield. championships, Presidents Cups, PGA championships, and Solheim Cups With word spreading throughout the links, a new career was to a royal portrait commission for a painting of Prince Charles on his launched, and, to this day, Baxter’s brush stroking has not slowed. polo horse. Yet, even after solidifying his position as the preeminent golf Baxter brings to life eight to 10 paintings a year, with each landscape artist, Baxter yearned for new territory; so, 13 years ago he, his commission commanding a month’s effort. He starts by taking wife, and daughter relocated from Scotland to America. hundreds of photographs of his subject, usually in the early “I really wanted to become known in America because it’s the biggest morning or evening when the light is best. “I am looking to find golfing nation in the world, and we chose the Coachella Valley because of the heart of a golf course, grasp the many details and colors, its notoriety as a major golf destination,” Baxter acknowledges. “We now and capture its key characteristics, natural feel, and historical live in Rancho Mirage and are members at Mission Hills, where I also impact,” Baxter says. have my studio. Not many people get to drive their golf cart to work like The “traditional artist” (as Baxter describes himself) then I do — or have a view to die for.” composes with oils on canvas beginning with thin layers of paint. Since his relocation, Baxter has certainly made his presence known He never utilizes a pencil, charcoal, or ruler when sketching out a in the desert by adding a wealth of golf history to the walls of some of scene, instead using brushes to lightly fill in color and add detail the valley’s most prestigious clubs — Ironwood, The Springs, Hideaway, before completely painting. The working canvases range in size Madison Club, and Desert Willow — while also providing official from 18 inches by 24 inches to his largest at 8 feet by 12 feet, the paintings for several Bob Hope Classics and serving as the ongoing latter another St. Andrews landscape that served as the official artist-in-residence for the ANA Inspiration (formerly the Kraft Nabisco painting for the 2000 Open Championship at the iconic “Home Championship) since 2003. of Golf” and was unveiled by His Royal Highness Prince Andrew. Baxter’s prominence has also taken him from the links to the tracks. Not surprisingly, Baxter’s largest painting is also his highest-selling The artist has recently been commissioned by Bob Baffert, one of the piece to date after being auctioned for $475,000. top thoroughbred trainers in the world, to create two paintings of Baxter possesses an innate ability to approach a blank canvas — Triple Crown Champion racehorse American Pharoah. One will depict regardless of its size or what the finished artwork might sell for American Pharoah alone, the other will show the world-famous horse — with a preconceived image on which to embed his signature. His with Mr. Baffert. gifted eyes allow him to absorb the unique textures of a golf course Several years ago while attending The Open championship, a Royal and, eventually, help his admirers benefit from what his enhanced and Ancient member approached Baxter and said, “You’ve been doing vision sees. While the single-digit handicapper says he prefers this for 25 years, and do you know what you’ve done?” Baxter suggested surveying the perfect angle for a painting to lining up his next shot, he’d been painting great golf courses, but the member quickly asserted Baxter asserts that his primary goal is capturing the essence of a the artist had, more importantly, been recording golf history. One day, golf course so when people view his paintings they have a warm Baxter will sign off on his last painting, but he will do so knowing he feeling and can imagine themselves playing that hole. contributed a legacy to the game of golf that he so loves. R/M
39 A City With SWING
In less than seven decades, Rancho Mirage has gone from desert to an internationally renowned golf destination. by TOM MACKIN photos courtesy PALM SPRINGS LIFE ARCHIVES
a picture is worth a thousand words, then the history of golf in Rancho Mirage is written I F on the walls of clubhouses across the city. That’s where galleries of images document a rich relationship with the game, one filled with high-profile tournaments, legendary players, and Hollywood stars.
DESERT GOLF BEGINNINGS At Thunderbird Country Club, the first private 18-hole country club in Rancho Mirage — as well as in the Coachella Valley — you’ll see photos of former presidents, including longtime member Gerald Ford; honorary member and 1964 U.S. Open winner Ken Venturi, who won the 1958 Thunderbird Invitational, the same year Bing Crosby won the club championship; and major league Hall of Famer and founding member Ralph Kiner.
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41 The golf course’s official opening came in January of 1951, built on the property then known as the Thunderbird Ranch, which itself had debuted six years earlier. Johnny Dawson, a fine amateur golfer who would go on to develop Eldorado Country Club and La Quinta Country Club, was the driving force behind the club’s establishment. “We had been playing in tournaments at O’Donnell [a nine-hole layout in Palm Springs] with Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Phil Harris, and all the big shots, in the 1940s,” recalled his then-wife Velma Dawson, in the club’s 50th anniversary history book. “Johnny always said there should be an 18-hole golf course in the desert.” Lawrence Hughes, an apprentice of legendary Scottish course designer Donald Ross, created that very layout while the first investors included Hope, Harris, and Desi Arnaz, among others. The club is also noted as the home of the first golf cart, introduced in 1952 by assistant professional Eddie Susalla, who had noticed a three-wheeled gas-powered cart being used by a handicapped man in Long Beach, California. Thunderbird’s first user was a member from Texas who produced a doctor’s note stating that he had a bad leg and required the use of a motorized cart. To keep caddies employed, the club’s board of directors made the doctor’s note a requirement. But when celebrities like Arnaz began showing up with documentation stating that they, too, had “medical issues” that prevented them from golfing on foot, the new rule was relaxed. A year later, Thunderbird had more than 100 carts, which by then had four wheels.
THUNDERBIRD COUNTRY CLUB Above: Desi Arnaz, Phil Harris, Bing Crosby, and Milt Hicks show off their new three- wheeled golf carts, 1952. Right: President Richard M. Nixon enjoys a round of golf with President Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1963. Opposite: Bob Hope lines up a shot.
42 43 COURTESY OF TAMARISK COUNTRY CLUB/SCORPI DOYLE; DONATED BY ANITA RICHMOND TAMARISK COUNTRY CLUB Above: Harpo Marx at Tamarisk, circa 1963. Right: Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus keep their eyes on the ball, 1955.
Walk the hallway between the pro shop and the locker rooms at nearby Tamarisk Country Club, and you’ll find photos of nine-time major winner Ben Hogan, the club’s first professional who even helped design the original golf shop. He was on record with his doubts about the wisdom of building golf courses in the desert, but the experience of his one winter at Tamarisk couldn’t have been all that bad — he went on to win three of golf’s four majors, The Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open. Tamarisk opened its doors in 1952 with a course designed by William Bell. The club, where former assistant professional Jeff Freeman and Davis Love III share the course record of 61, is known as much for its ALL PHOTOS OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF THE ANNENBERG FOUNDATION TRUST AT SUNNYLANDS food as it is its golf. It was here where comedian Harpo Marx notoriously enjoyed the game au naturale, shedding his clothes and playing a few holes in the nude, occasionally jumping into the swimming pools of strangers to cool off. He is also said to have tried to become the first golfer Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa has two top-rated golf to make a hole-in-one while naked. Unfortunately, his attempt at making courses — the South by Pete Dye, complete with signature pot bunkers unique golf history failed to be officially included in the record. and railroad ties, and the North by Gary Player, the only design of his in the Coachella Valley. TEES SPROUT UP Rancho Mirage is also home to some ultra-private courses as well, As the Coachella Valley increased in popularity as a golfing destination including a Dick Wilson design at Sunnylands, the former Annenberg in the 1970s and 1980s, more courses and clubs opened. Desmond Estate. Although there are various versions of the course’s 1965 origins, Muirhead designed the 18 holes at Desert Island Golf and Country Club, the most well known story was handed down over the years to Nick which opened in 1971, and a year later created the first of what would DeKock, head professional at Thunderbird Country Club since 2003. become three courses at Mission Hills Country Club. It was followed “Walter Annenberg was a member at Tamarisk, and he walked in to in 1979 by an Arnold Palmer–designed course and a third, by Pete Dye, the golf shop one day during a busy week,” says DeKock, who worked in 1988. as an assistant professional at Tamarisk from 1995 to 1999. “He was Sunrise Country Club unveiled a par-64 executive course in 1974, exasperated that he couldn’t get a tee time and asked longtime starter while another Muirhead design, The Springs Country Club — which and Massachusetts native Scorpy Doyle why not. Another member features bentgrass greens, rare in the desert — opened for play in 1975. behind him said, ‘Walter, leave Scorpy alone. You have so much money Two years later, what is known today as the Omni Rancho Las Palmas — why don’t you go build your own course?’ So he did.” Resort & Spa opened its 27-hole facility. The Club at Morningside While the estate property is open to public tours, access to the golf arrived on the scene in 1982 with a Jack Nicklaus–designed course course — which has nine holes but multiple tees that allow for 18-hole dominated by lakes. play — remains available only by highly coveted invitation.
44 SUNNYLANDS Clockwise from top: Walter Annenberg plays on his private course; President Ronald Reagan works his way out of a bunker, 1988; Leonore Annenberg takes a swing. MISSION HILLS COUNTRY CLUB Clockwise from top left: The club’s bridge entrance to the Dinah Shore course’s 18th green; an early postcard advertisement; President Gerald Ford’s drive wows the crowd. Opposite: Shore shows off her fine form.
Then there’s Porcupine Creek, owned by Oracle CEO Larry Ellison since Television personality Dinah Shore helped bring the LPGA Tour to the 2011, where President Obama enjoys playing when in town. There is not valley, first sponsoring a tournament at Mission Hills Country Club in 1972. much activity on the 19-hole layout, but it’s good enough that Golf Digest has Now known as the ANA Inspiration, the event features one of golf’s most ranked the course as high as 13th on its list of Best Courses in California. unique traditions: The winner takes a running jump into Poppie’s Pond at On a smaller scale, but still part of a gated community, is a nine-hole pitch the 18th hole, a tradition started by Amy Alcott in 1988 when her win that and putt course — complete with a water feature — at the Blue Skies Village year made her only the third woman in LPGA history to earn over $2 million mobile home park. The course and the community opened in 1955. (Read in career prize money. more about the history of Blue Skies Village on page 70.) Today, Rancho Mirage features 15 courses and the Coachella Valley has more than 120 — a far cry from those early days when Thunderbird stood HEALTHY COMPETITION alone in Rancho Mirage. Even if all the history isn’t the foremost concern of Tournaments have also raised the profile of golf in Rancho Mirage. today’s residents or visitors, it’s not forgotten either. The Thunderbird Country Club Women’s Invitational, first held in 1951, was “Thunderbird Country Club’s history is certainly appreciated by many of a huge hit with the country’s best female amateurs, while the Thunderbird the long-standing members here,” DeKock says. “Yet with the changing times Country Club Pro-Member, first held in 1952, was the forerunner of what and transitions of private country clubs, there are new members now who are became the PGA TOUR’s Bob Hope Desert Classic, now known as the certainly learning from the older members about how historical the club was.” CareerBuilder Challenge. Both Thunderbird and Tamarisk were two of That brings to mind an old saying: “Those who ignore history are bound the original courses for that event. The former was last used in 1962 while to repeat it.” When it comes to golf in Rancho Mirage, that sounds like a Tamarisk was one of the host courses as recently as 2005. wonderful thing. R/M 46 47 A WORLD-CLASS RETREAT Wellness thrives at The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, where first-rate amenities and stunning grounds encourage an overall sense of well-being and community. Photography courtesy of The Westin Mission Hills
48 A World of Well-Being Awaits at THE WESTIN MISSION HILLS GOLF RESORT & SPA
by MARISSA WILLMAN photography by THE WESTIN MISSION HILLS, LAURA HUNT LITTLE IMAGES, and ETHAN KAMINSKY