BIGHORN MAGAZINE
B I G H O R N G O L F C L U B | A P R I VAT E R E S I D E N T I A L G O L F C O U R S E C O M M U N I T Y 800.551.5578
W W W. B I G H O R N G O L F. C O M
P A L M D E S E R T, C A L I F O R N I A
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
REDEFINING THE EXCLUSIVE CAR COLLECTOR GARAGE
a collection of dazzling moments and endless possibilities. welcome to the exception, NO LIMITS AND NOTHING ORDINARY.
a collection of dazzling moments and endless possibilities. welcome to the exception, NO LIMITS AND NOTHING ORDINARY.
Relationship Investments. Make your very special moments unforgettable. We feature a wide variety of jewelry to show how much you care.
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WWW.BIGHORNGOLF.COM
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
BIGHORN Golf Shop Palm Desert, California (801) 971-2223
Features
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PROPERTIES (800) 551-5578 www.bighorngolf.com
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Family Ties: Amy & Barry Baker
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Five Minutes from Everywhere
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Casbah Cove: Desert Contemporary-Inspired Estate
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Get Your Motor Running: The Vault at BIGHORN
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Supporting Arts: Karla & Richard McKenzie
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Game, Set, Match
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Perfect Harmony: Nanette Pattee Francini & Jim Urie
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Smart Conservation
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Supersized Fun!
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Creating an Extraordinary Vision: Celebrating Season 20
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Dynamic Women: Carol Ammon, Jo Kaplan Feldman, Debra Gershen, Dr. Marie Pinizzotto, and Alice Rosenblatt
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In Full Swing: The McGrath Family
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BIGHORN Is All We Do!
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Passion for the Grape: Lauri & Mike Corliss
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All That Glitters
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Italian Affair: Midge & Pat Mulcahy
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BIGHORN Cares
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Life’s Best Moments: Becky & Duane Andrews
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Captivating the Imagination: 125 Wanish Place
© BIGHORN PROPERTIES 2015. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
On the cover: Casbah Cove, a 16,800 sf
Publisher: Carl Cardinalli | Editor: Theresa Maggio desert contemporary estate is featured on page 16. Production Director: Stacy Daniel, Hired Hands Graphic Design photography by mark davidson Contributing Designers: Scott Burch and Adam DuPlay, Cord Media | Production Editor: Lisa Marie Hart Contributing Photographers: Scott Avra, David Blank, Mark Davidson, Fuller Edge Photography, Lani Garfield, Katie Geiberger, Getty Images, Peter & Kelly Gibeon, Rob Greer Photography, Ethan Kaminsky, Pat Lassy, and Shannon Wilsey
Family Ties
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By Theresa Maggio Photography by Scott Avra, Mark Davidson and Pat Lassy
Top: The Baker boys take on the challenge of the annual Parent-Junior Golf Tournament. Center: The beautiful Baker ladies. Right: Lane shows off her stellar ballet skills in shades. Bottom: BIGHORN’s fun-filled activities keep their social calendar booked until Lane continues her ballet performing in Utah.
The Baker residence is always in motion. With two professional parents and the entire family blessed with natural athletic ability, the household (which includes Dad Barry, Mom Amy, Brandace, age 28, Bryce, age 19, and Lane, age 15) requires an ease of convenience as well as multiple rooms for entertaining, relaxing, and their wide range of personal hobbies. Within this spirited environment, complex schedules are balanced between plenty of game time – from board games and pool games to on-site tennis matches and, of course, some friendly, family competition on the golf course. “You can’t possibly get bored here at BIGHORN, especially with active kids,” says Barry Baker – whose favorite moments at home are spent lounging poolside “listening to Frank Sinatra and looking at those gorgeous mountains.” Barry is a Senior Advisor at Lee Equity Partners. Some of the companies he advises over are Cadent Network, Papa Murphy’s, Eating Recovery Center, Jason Wu, and Ric Edelman Financial. He has been a global communications and branding Internet executive for almost 40 years. Before joining Lee Equity in 2013, Barry served as a General Partner and Managing Director of Boston Ventures, specializing in the communications and entertainment business. His broad background has led to many board appointments and to being a CEO coach for many of Boston Venture’s portfolio companies that include Production Research Group, American Media, Vue Cinemas, Camp Systems, Richard
Petty Enterprises, Smith TV, SJL Broadcasting, World Publications, American Home Pages, and Backyard Broadcasting. Prior to Boston Ventures, Barry served as President and Chief Operating Officer of USA Networks and all USA Interactive properties. His business savvy led him to oversee the acquisitions of Hotels.com, Match.com, and the transformation of Ticketmaster to an online platform all during his tenure. Prior to that, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Communications, overseeing the business of over 100 television and radio stations in 28 states. It was his experience in cable, broadcast TV, and radio broadcasting that led him to founding River City Broadcasting in 1989.
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Brandace Baker Having taken up golf in her twenties, Brandace is really coming into her game – and why wouldn’t she be? Coming from naturally athletic parents and loving the fun, family camaraderie on the course, golf has become an exciting part of her vacation time. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, her focus in communications, sociology, and Spanish set her off to a great start with Ohana Real Estate Investors, an investment and development firm focused on high-quality hotels and fully serviced residential communities. She has recently returned to Los Angeles to work as an Assistant Director of Development for the Anti Defamation League. When it comes to free time, she loves to spend the bulk of it with her tight-knit family. To Brandace, that means time at BIGHORN. Because her family lives for golf, she has embraced lessons and playing time so they can spend as much time together as possible. Golf Instructor Bill Madonna shares, “Brandace has great ability and the natural talent to take her game to the next level, which will give her a brighter future in the business world. Through golf, she will be able to connect with colleagues and leadership in a more relaxed environment which will also allow her to explore the possibilities of her brilliant ideas with confidence.“
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“The great part is that working my business from here is a breeze,” says Barry, citing his affinity for the smart, eye-pleasing architecture of their family home designed by Kristi Hanson – along with the ease of knowing he can telecommute from his home office, day or night with complete focus. Because balance is one of the keys to his success, Barry loves playing in the Men’s BIGDEAL Golf Tournament alongside former guests who have recently become Members after falling in love with the Club. “BIGHORN has the ‘youth factor’ that other clubs don’t have,” Barry surmises. “We also have so many Member and private events that when people want to celebrate, they can. And whenever the family decides to head to El Paseo, we’re so close we can be home in minutes.” When he isn’t running a global communications empire, Barry’s philanthropic efforts include positions as Chairman of the Park City Medical Center and sitting on the Advisory Board of the Newhouse School. Barry and Amy are responsible for two of the world’s leading voice and cancer research labs and chairs at Harvard’s Mass General and the Vanderbilt Medical Centers. Amy Baker’s career is just as vast and appealing, filled with many stories as a 20-year veteran of NBC. She began her career working alongside David Brinkley with NBC News in Washington, D.C., from 1975-1980. Amy recalls, “Brinkley was the most brilliant newsman on the planet. He wrote all of his own copy and never used a teleprompter.” In 1980, Amy relocated to NBC’s entertainment/
programming division in Los Angeles. She hired all the professional voiceover talent and worked on a series of network shows. One of her most unforgettable experiences was sitting in on a rehearsal for Frank Sinatra. “I remember sitting in the audience at rehearsal for one of his legendary concerts. As Sinatra sang with his 50-piece orchestra, I could not stop smiling. When he took a break, he said to me, “Did you enjoy that?” I replied, “That was the greatest high of my life.” He smiled and said, ‘I’m glad.’” The balance of her career at the network was in various management positions, including Director of Program Production running daytime, primetime and late night programming for shows. She hung out with comedians, her favorite was Howie Mandell. But it was at a National Broadcasting Association convention 25 years ago in Las Vegas that her life forever changed when a mutual friend introduced her to Barry. An instant connection led them to dating long-distance before eventually marrying 21 years ago. Amy then worked in public relations for internationally known Fleishman-Hillard. In 1996, the family moved to Baltimore, where Amy joined the board of Port Discovery, which was, at that time, the second largest children’s museum in the country. Since then, Amy has been on numerous boards, worked on various shows and is a partner at Jupiter Bowl, in Park City, Utah. Jupiter Bowl is a family entertainment center that features 16 luxury lanes of ultra-modern bowling plus a billiards lounge and arcade. “Jupiter Bowl has been such an incredible business to co-own. We have the right people in the right places, and it’s so easy to manage from wherever we are,” praises Amy.
The fabulous Baker Family spends as much time as they can in their incredible BIGHORN home. “Our home is always filled with family and friends,” shares Amy.
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Bryce Baker Naturally gifted in skiing, golf, and tennis, 19-year old Bryce loves spending his vacations at BIGHORN between his studies in Economics at Vanderbilt University. In fact, he loves the desert so much that after finishing his spring finals, his first stop was The Pour House for lunch, and directly out to hit some golf balls before his tennis lesson that afternoon. Bryce praises his BIGHORN coaches for their expertise, not to mention the life lessons they have taught him through playing sports. “Dan is an awesome tennis coach,” he says. “I play left-handed, so Dan learned to play left-handed to show me the correct dynamics to play the game. After many years, the points he used to give me, I now give him, returning the favor.” Junior Golf Director Bill Madonna “is really encouraging with every shot,” Bryce says. “He translates the importance of learning through your swing and keeps kids engaged – which is hard to do with their low attention spans and a very independent game.” “Bryce is known around campus for the infamous ‘Bryce Baker Putt,’” grins Bill. “At the age of 11, during a Junior Putting Clinic on the original green by The Marketplace, Bryce sunk a 50-foot putt twice in a row! Then, when one of the moms came to watch, Bryce sinks three more putts in a row for a total of 5 putts! It was Bryce’s complete focus on his short game, reading the lie, and never giving up that led to his legendary success that day.” In 2010, Bryce and dad Barry competed in the Parent-Junior Golf Tournament and won! Coach Bill notes, “This was a monumental moment for both of them. From then on, Barry began expanding Bryce’s playing groups to include his friends and tour players, expanding their relationship and building future contacts for Bryce.” PGA Tour Player Joe Ogilvie plays with Bryce often and has assisted in developing Bryce’s beautiful swing. “Bryce will have a step up in the business world because of the traits he has developed through golf,” shares Bill. “He will feel comfortable in a competitive environment, be able to negotiate around hazards, and will find that he can focus his results like he focused on the legendary ‘Bryce Baker Putt.’”
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Their first introduction to BIGHORN unfolded while on a 1994 vacation to La Quinta, during which they attended the unforgettable Skins Game on BIGHORN’s Mountains course when Payne Stewart played with Tom Watson, Fred Couples, and Arnold Palmer. “I remember saying, ‘This place is pretty spectacular!’” expresses Amy. They ended up purchasing their first house – a Guy Drierdesigned 9,485 sf home – in 2002. In 2005, when Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer, she immediately and instinctively headed for their desert home to recuperate. “I felt better in the desert, more at peace,” she explains, adding that she also was definitely warmer than at the Park City home where they were sharing their time. As Amy recovered in their BIGHORN home, the family strengthened their bond – taking walks, enjoying breakfast at The Pour House or Golf House (which is still their favorite thing to do), and playing tennis. Bryce also started playing golf, so Barry connected him with Bill Madonna, Junior Golf Director. “The kids always wanted to be at BIGHORN,” continues Amy, “because of the extremely fun Blizzard Blast, Easter, Family Fun Days, Passover celebration and so many more events.” They enjoyed it so much that they moved Amy’s 91-year old mother into a home a few miles away. Their BIGHORN friends even go and visit her when the family is in Park City managing high school activities or away on business.
“Barry works out of his BIGHORN home office, and after work he has the opportunity to relax with the kids or with some of our many friends. We love to travel, but the place we like to travel to most is BIGHORN. We have everything that we love to do right here.” No wonder their three children never stray far. Amy fell in love with a stunning spec home at a BIGHORN Properties mixer which was purchased by another Member. When the house came back on the market years later, Amy convinced her husband and children that it was time to move. The family’s tennis estate graciously accommodates the whole gang with five bedrooms (including a two-bedroom guest house) plus his and hers designer offices and a movie theater. Additionally catering to their love for the outdoors, their home’s 2,108 sf outdoor living space features a spa flowing into a fulllength lap pool, oversized chess game played on natural grass, and a fireside outdoor living room. At the heart of the action is a sunken tennis court, a “tennis lounge,” and a luxurious entertainment patio with barbecue island, dining and bar seating, double-sided fireplace, and flat-panel television – perfect for unwinding after a casual, or heated, match! The guest house on property has it’s own full kitchen, pool and hot tub. Their friends love to visit.
The Bakers are very active BIGHORN BAM breast cancer supporters. Daughter Lane even filled in for mom this spring in the annual tournament and the legendary Cash for Caddies was held on their sunken tennis court.
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Lane Baker At age 15, Lane’s free time focuses on her passion for ballet and modern dance at the Park City Dance Academy, as well as competing on her school’s golf and tennis teams. “Dance has helped Lane’s coordination and balance, which gives her great strength in her game,” Coach Bill explains. “And Lane’s game has just scratched the surface. She has natural motion, great rhythm, balance, and a grace that generates power.” In fact, Lane’s golf team at Rowland Hall dominated 2A Girls Golf in the Spring of 2015, building her confidence and elevating her to shoot in the 80s at a young age. Lane’s game has improved by the year under the tutelage of Coach Bill, who annually helps young players adapt their swing to their body, knowing their bodies grow and change quickly. “I play my best golf when I’m working with Bill,” Lane beams. “He has smart suggestions on how to work with my particular skills so I can succeed.” Lane recently played in the BIGHORN BAM Golf Tournament in March alongside her mom, Amy, and her friends supporting breast cancer patients. Lane says she had a lot of fun that day and felt like she was a contributing partner to her team. “I’m really lucky to have the opportunity to do what I love and explore new experiences,” she says, “but I also really enjoy my down time whenever I’m at BIGHORN.”
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BRI L L I A N T D E S I G N
V I S I O N A RY TALENT
EVE RY P RO J E C T I S A C E L E BR ATI O N O F O R I GI NALI TY
B L A C K B I R D
I N T E R I O R S
760.931.6500 K ATHY BLACK B I R D B O B CALL PALM DES ERT S AN DI EGO W WW.BLACK B I R DI NTER I O RS.COM
Five Minutes From Everywhere By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson A world of new adventures awaits within minutes of your BIGHORN paradise. Art lovers should start at The Galen and the Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden. Open daily during season, the museum showcases amazing collections and live music on the first Friday of every month. Beyond the museum, world-class galleries on and off of El Paseo mingle with Palm Desert’s renowned public art displays. Take an afternoon and wander through Imago, CODA, Austin Art Projects, Melissa Morgan, Desert Art Collection, or Hohmann Fine Art galleries. You’ll discover that perfect masterpiece! Attend a festive array of music, art, film, and other cultural happenings nearby including the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Fashion Week El Paseo, Food & Wine Festival Palm Desert and Coachella. The addition of First Weekends blend Cruise Nights, opening art receptions, live performances, and extended shopping hours all in the span of a few short days.
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Palm Desert’s love affair with shopping makes it Coachella Valley’s capital for retail therapy. Pick up a new couture ensemble at one of the fine retailers at The Shops on El Paseo or The Gardens on El Paseo. Try on some incredible jewelry at Leeds & Son or the Estate Jewelry Collection. Or browse the boutiques for global treasures and unexpected home accents at Between the Sheets, or Maison Felice and Phyllis Washington Antiques. Get glammed up at the BIGHORN Salon for a chic evening out or an elegant evening of entertainment at The McCallum Theatre. Choose from classic Broadway shows, jazz superstars, or classical performances. Follow the show by stopping at local wine bars or live music venues along El Paseo; be spontaneous and pop into whichever Palm Desert door intrigues you next!
Casbah Cove Inspired by the open and carefree living of extraordinary architecture, this estate was designed as one of the most innovative and imaginative desert homes anywhere. Built over the course of four years, the home features the work of talented craftsmen led by one of the most creative design teams in Southern California. Casbah Cove is unlike anything you have ever seen including: • 16,800 sf of majestic architecture and design including indoor and outdoor living spaces. • Custom 30’x40’ retractable glass ceiling. • 2 spas: one indoor and one outdoor. • 4 fully appointed bedrooms, including a detached guest house with kitchen area and private entrances. • 5 full baths, two half baths; one with an oversized steam shower. • 3 outdoor dining areas. • 8 sculpted fireplaces. • Secret garden high above the valley. • Vanishing glass walls in theatre, library, and master. • Outdoor shower off master bath. • Limestone slabs, intricate tiles, and Siberian oak floors. • Sophisticated Hammam spa with steam room and built-ins. • Elevator walls lined with mother of pearl, adorned with a TV and music controls. • Temperature-controlled wine cellar that accommodates hundreds of bottles. • Radiant heated floors in master and most common areas of the home. • Hookah room features seating for 20, with disappearing doors overlooking the preserved mountainside. With a touch of a button, a 20-foot screen raises from the ground to change traditional movie watching into a truly spectacular experience! • Unparalleled privacy allows you to enjoy both a 75’ lap infinity pool and 40’ round reverse infinity-edge swimming pool for sunning. • Lush landscaping features date palms, mature olive trees, birds of paradise, gardenias, and so much more. • Elevated location high above the valley floor with unparalleled views of mountains and the city below. For more information on luxury real estate in Palm Desert, please call BIGHORN Properties at 800-551-5578 or visit www.bighorngolf.com.
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Get Your Motor Running
By Theresa Maggio Photos by Mark Davidson
The Vault at BIGHORN How do you create the most sophisticated car paradise in the world? You elect BIGHORN Member Jay Westman as its passionate President, add experienced-with-luxuriousenvironments Vice President of Development Carl Cardinalli, and assemble a sky’s-the-limit dream team of Kristi Hanson Architects, Orr Construction, Blackbird Interiors, Jaeger Metal Fab & Concept, and Spectrum Designs – then let the games begin! This dynamic group has been facilitating a racy architectural design and setting their visionary plans in strategic motion for three years to unveil this monumental project. Now The Vault at BIGHORN is green-light ready to become any car aficionado’s ultimate home away from home. Inspired by the sleek design of European’s finest cars, vintage Americana models, and one-of-a-kind automobiles from around the globe, the talented minds behind The Vault have created a state-of-the-art car museum and interactive play station for the luckiest of BIGHORN’s Vault Members.
retreat back to reveal the most stunning car collection ever assembled in one location! Your jaw will literally drop and the first ‘Wow!’ will escape. You simply can’t help it!” In other words, the team is confident that The Vault is set to present every Member with the ride of their lives. The Vault’s extraordinary showplace interior will house up to 50 of the world’s greatest automobiles and four sleek, road-machine motorcycles. “The 24,000 sf Vault is designed to look like a large desert contemporary residence,” describes Hanson. Polished grey concrete floors are complemented by silver striping to indicate the owners’ premier parking spaces. Black lacquer roll-up storage doors hold each car’s favorite waxes and polishes, while gallery-style niches are perfect for a favorite collectible or piece of art. High-Performance Race Simulator
“As you drive up to The Vault, the most dramatic feature is the handcrafted vault-style doors,” explains Westman. “The intricate details in these doors are mesmerizing, and then you see them BIGHORN Members are thrilled with the features The Vault is bringing to the Club’s car enthusiasts: custom artwork and furnishings, a sculpted McLaren grille at the entry and a Virtual Race Simulator!
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The materials and textures used in The Vault are beyond imagination. From the red lacquered burlwood bar to the metallic groove glittered tile, the design team hasn’t missed a beat!
(Most Members are expected to display personal “Best in Show” trophies.) Vaulted ceilings and gallery walls feature some of the most impressive car manufactures in the world, prominently illuminated.
The Vault is a high-tech, climate-controlled facility where security is paramount and cutting-edge technology is a given – from fingerprint scanners and 360-degree HD cameras to 4K ultra high-definition televisions. “Visualize yourself driving into the entrance. Only once the head lamp tag on your exotic car is read does The Vault entry door begin to swing open,” describes Westman. “As you enter this exclusive facility, each car will be captured by Starlight and 360-degree HD cameras, which provide 24/7 surveillance. After parking your car, you’ll walk to the entry doors of the Redline Lounge where, upon an approved fingerprint scan, you’ll gain access to the most exclusive lounge at BIGHORN to watch your favorite sports team on eight 4K ultra high-definition televisions.” Of course, you could choose instead to relax in supreme comfort while sipping your favorite beverage and listening to ambient music, or you could stroll to the Redline Lounge deck to enjoy a hard-to-come-by cigar and endless views over the Coachella Valley. The creators also expect the “viewing deck” adjacent to the garage to be another popular place to talk cars and exchange high-horsepower memories among fellow Members. “Yet The Vault Members’ distinctive cars are the true eye candy of The Vault,” says Westman. “These are our favorite trophies, all located in one highly technological facility, where Vault Members can view them all from the Redline Lounge and reminisce over some of their favorite stories about their treasured cars. Our most exciting new addition is the Virtual Race Simulator where you can virtually race every brand of car on any track in the world! I’m anticipating many friendly competitions among Vault Members as we test our driving skills against each other,” croons Westman, who confesses that his own adrenaline shot through the roof when he took it for a test drive. “That is the focus of The Vault – to provide Members and guests with unique, eye-popping, experiences. And, boy, with all that is planned you will not be disappointed.”
Artist Sam Lawless can capture your automotive spirit in custom commissioned paintings. 20
Ready to start your virtual engines? The Virtual Race Simulator will host the VirtualGT’s VGT Carbon. The Pro Cockpit features a custom-designed Momoracing wheel with integrated fingertip controls, a quick release, and shifting paddles connected to a powerful force feedback steering system. An LED shift light
indicator positioned at the top of the dash just below the driver’s field of vision provides MPH/KPH speed, RPM, gear, and lap times all on its digital display. With well over 500 VirtualGT racing simulators deployed worldwide, VGT is motorsports’ most popular racing simulator and the only personal simulator taken seriously by racing professionals. Even before stepping inside the Redline Lounge, its turbocharged entrance sets the stage for the premier car-and-driver experience! Through glass doors awaits a show-stopping McLaren grille, fully showcasing the artistry of this fine automobile in up close and personal detail. A custom black carpet hosting logos of the most prestigious car brands in the world adorns the high-gleam tiled floor. Along the staircase, an elite assortment of beefy, high-performance wheels inspires you to make a hot lap up to the lounge. “You will be awe-inspired as you take in the Redline Lounge’s stunning bar,” says Kathy Blackbird of Blackbird Interiors. Rich red burl wood wraps around the bar’s torso as backlit etched glass car logos grace the soffit above giving off a soft glow. Eight handcrafted leather bar stools offer luxe bar seating, while swivel chairs with stylish cocktail tables create conversational ambiance. The Redline Lounge is elevated above The Vault floor allowing guests and Members prime viewing opportunities. Within the 2,500 sf Redline Lounge, two custom curved sofas provide double-sided seating options around an expertly crafted tachometer coffee table. Additional custom red benches sidle up to sculptural yin-yang tables. Shining above, chrome accents complement a ceiling made of black lacquered slats. Throughout the entire lounge, 24” x 24” metallic groove tiles finish the floor and add glitz and glam to this thematic space designed specifically for those who appreciate all eras and aspects of automotive finery. From the Redline Lounge, glass doors open to the 1,200 sf patio lounge overlooking the Mountains 8th fairway and providing picturesque down-valley views. Gleaming white porcelain tiles combine beautifully with the brick and mustard colored lounge chairs and white woven conversational sofas. Even the bathrooms are quick off the line with their Titanium Black floor tiles that travel right up the walls. In the men’s room, custom car track wall treatments make
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a novel accent, while the ladies’ walls receive a gorgeous red glass bead and silver rhinestone treatment. Illuminated red resin sinks with aerodynamic faucets and polished chrome commodes complete the utterly cool vibe that emanates from these spaces. “The Vault is an authentic amenity for BIGHORN Members and a unique and innovative offering,” expresses Todd Blue, Chairman and Dealer Principal of indiGO Auto Group’s Desert European Motorcars. “As clubs continue to stretch themselves to redefine the membership experience, having something as special as The Vault will be a point of differentiation for BIGHORN throughout the world. Automobile fascination has always been a part of this great country, but now collectible and classic cars are considered a legitimate asset class. Complementing classic cars with drivable modern luxury and exotic cars, all in one building, will make The Vault the cool place to be.” “The indiGO Auto Group, and the brands we represent on our Desert European Campus, is proud to be the sponsor of The Vault,” Blue continues. “As a BIGHORN Golf Member who happens to make no secret of my obvious love for cars, The Vault is a dream amenity for me. indiGO will be producing fun events in conjunction with Vault Members. We will provide white glove service and Vault Members can expect a lot of goodies and exciting events. The Vault exemplifies indiGO’s mission to Activate Your Ownership. Owning a great car isn’t just about transportation. It’s about community and creating experiential memories with one’s friends and fellow car enthusiasts. The Vault will be a launching pad for organized ride and drives, excursions to track days, and fun ways to live in the moment with the great cars we are blessed to enjoy.” le.
b Redlin e ta e Lounge’s coffe
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Some of Your Good Friends Are Our Good Friends As Well Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert has been embraced by the community and visitors alike as a uniquely creative experience. There is no other destination in the valley that provides worldclass exhibitions at The Galen; school tours in the Annette Bloch Education Wing; and a robust community calendar that includes family programs, yoga, and live music in the beautiful Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden — all at no charge. The generous gift of free admission was made possible by our great friend Helene V. Galen. Following in her path many leading members of the community have become Founders and Friends, supporting the museum in so many different ways. Visit psmuseum.org and learn about all the benefits you will receive when you become a Friend of Palm Desert. Your friendship means everything to us. Barry Flanagan, Acrobats, 1988, bronze, artist’s copy 2/2, gift of Donna and Cargill MacMillan, Jr, © Barry Flanagan
72-567 Highway 111, Palm Desert 760-346-5600 | psmuseum.org
Supporting the Arts
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson, Ethan Kaminsky and Pat Lassy
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Passionate Collectors BIGHORN Members Karla and Richard McKenzie are serious collectors, aficionados, and avid supporters of emerging artists through their non-profit organization, Seven Bridges Foundation. Their expertise and shared passion for art comes through both inside and outside the home they love and have enjoyed curating together. In 2013, Karla and Richard were married at their BIGHORN home in their lush backyard that overlooks the Canyons course 5th fairway and green with panoramic views of the Coachella Valley mountains – another meaningful facet to their highly aesthetic BIGHORN estate. While they maintain other homes in Greenwich, Conn., and Belvedere, Calif., – each with its own art collection – the pair chose their BIGHORN lawn as the site of their vows, surrounded by family and friends. By the end of the reception, the couple recalls, our grandkids were in their bathing suits enjoying the pool!
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To artfully commemorate their desert ceremony, Richard commissioned custom-made rings that combine their wedding date – June 2, 2013 – with their birthdays. Inside their home, adorned throughout with captivating works on canvas, towering sculptures, vessels, pottery, and vibrant glass, one might find it hard to believe this is a secondary collection – just a glimpse of what awaits at their Seven Bridges endeavor on the East Coast. “Each is not just a piece of art,” Richard explains of the placement of these works in their Kristi Hansondesigned home that was architecturally inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. “It’s where and how it’s hung, the color of the walls, how it is lit, the time of day you see it. The wall never makes the painting, but the painting can make the wall. And you can’t put glass or sculpture against a wall,” or you will lose the affect. For Richard, the environment and the art are inseparable.
This notion is certainly inherent at Seven Bridges, their non-profit foundation devoted to collecting art made by those who have the potential and the ability but not the means to create it. Set on former farmland in Greenwich, Conn., Seven Bridges encompasses two galleries that total 25,000 sf. Each is filled with thought-provoking paintings, sculpture, and glass and is enveloped by an immense, 84-acre sculpture garden that traverses landscaped grounds, woodlands, and waterways accented by seven bridges. “No one thing stands alone,” Richard states. “The buildings exist within the landscape, and the art exists within the buildings. The components all work together for the experience.” Last year, more than 600 people were privy to that experience as visitors to the couple’s artful oasis, where Karla serves as Public Relations director. The Seven Bridges Foundation supports living
artists and promotes their creativity, all while providing a serene and scenic environment for their art. “We have put some artists on salary for four years so they can continue their work,” says Richard, noting that sculpture and glass can be particularly expensive mediums. “We have been able to take artists from one level to another.” Richard started collecting more than 25 years ago in New York City, where he worked on Wall Street with Oppenheimer & Co. for 10 years. Primarily a sculptor who creates works that blend shape, math, and color, Richard and Karla tend to favor figurative, realism, and photorealism works among the artists they collect. He also trades stocks and is writing a novel, while the couple loves to entertain. “Everyone lives on the West Coast so we entertain a lot more when we’re at BIGHORN,” she says.
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Karla and Richard celebrated their wedding ceremony surrounded by family and friends in June 2013. They wanted to state their vows at their favorite place on Earth, their home at BIGHORN. After the ceremony, the grandkids raced to get their suits on, ready to swim. (Middle) Richard created a special ring with their wedding date in Roman numerals.
A tremendous glass wall in the dining room invites the mountain range as an ever-present guest. Here, Thanksgiving is an annual family tradition, after which their seven grandchildren like to play football and baseball in the made-for-sports yard, which stretches across two homesites. “Of course, when we’re not entertaining, we love The Pour House and Canyons Steak House,” Karla says. “We also love that they deliver to your door!” Beyond their work encouraging artists through their Connecticut foundation, the couple has sponsored an after-school art program
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for the past three years with the Family YMCA of the Desert. “Children are naturally creative with no fear, and it’s exciting to be able to tap into their artistic side and to see how happy they become with what they’ve accomplished,” says Karla, who has visited their classroom. There, children ages 8 to 10 engage in projects taught by art teachers that are paid through the couple’s sponsorship. “It has proven to be a really positive program.” “We find more and more people who live at BIGHORN who do fantastic, philanthropic things but don’t blow their horn about it,” Richard adds. “We are in good company here, among people who love to help others.”
Game, Set, Match By Theresa Maggio
Photography by Mark Davidson
April’s Mixed Doubles Championship was a historic weekend for the BIGHORN tennis program. Our two-flight tournament encouraged more players to get involved. By the time play started on Thursday, there were seven teams in the “Championship” Flight and seven teams in the “Fun” Flight. The Championship matches began with nine of the 14 players having won BIGHORN Tennis Championships, including the last two Mixed Doubles Champions from past seasons. It was an amazingly strong field. On Saturday, all the courts were filled and we had many Members watching from the beautiful viewing area behind courts 3 and 4. The matches were all very entertaining and everyone had a great time cheering on the players.
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BIGHORN’s Tennis Spectator Viewing Area
On Sunday, the Fun Flight final was played at 8 a.m. and was won by Rich Helppie and Darla Valliant. At 9 a.m. a dozen players wanted to play in BIGHORN’s Drill & Play session. At 11 a.m. the Titcombs defeated the Ackermanns in a really tight and well-played 3-set final that lasted over two hours.
Above: Fast friends and terrific competitors, the Ackermanns and Titcombs continue to challenge each other for the top championship spots.
It was four days filled with highly competitive and excellent tennis matches. Twenty-eight different Members played in the event and many more supported their friends by watching the matches and cheering them on. This is the core of BIGHORN tennis: Friendships! The Drill & Play sessions evolving from the original clinics has allowed the tennis program to grow.
Having a ball with the Pro – Tennis Director Dan Aubuchon receives a standing ball toss on the ClayTech court after an exciting tennis season. 29
Men’s Doubles Champions Jeff Aarthun and Kerry Killinger
Word has it that a tennis director at a much larger club saw the number of teams in our tournament and told Tennis Director Dan Aubuchon that we have better participation at BIGHORN than at his club! He was certain that BIGHORN has the most active group of tennis players at any club here in the desert. “Dan Aubuchon runs a fabulous and growing tennis program which has attracted an ever-expanding group of players of all abilities who enjoy tennis and good friends through parties and other social events,” describes Kerry Killinger. “Our tennis program has attracted many new vibrant Members to BIGHORN and we encourage all Members to try out the complimentary Drill & Play, and quality tennis instruction,” praises Killinger. BIGHORN will continue to provide the best instruction, a varied program of Drills & Play, and Club Championship tournaments, but the real value to BIGHORN’s tennis program is the social network of players and how they welcome new tennis players at BIGHORN. “The growth in the tennis program is amazing and I am proud of the work that we have done,” says Aubuchon, “but the real heroes in the program’s growth are the Members. They bring in new players and even more importantly welcome and indoctrinate the new Members into life at BIGHORN.”
BIGHORN’s ClayTech court softens play for players’ knees.
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Tennis Directors Dan Aubuchon and Frank Fanning led an unbelievable season of Drill & Play tournaments and exciting Junior Clinics.
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Perfect Harmony Hollywood power couples have their choice of fabulous places across the world when it comes to choosing where to spend their precious down time. For one couple, they’ve never found a better place to relax, unwind, and be themselves than BIGHORN. Last year, Nanette Pattee Francini – President and Founder of The Sports Club Company – and Jim Urie – recently retired CEO of Universal Music Group – made that fact loud and clear. After having spent weekends at BIGHORN for more than a decade, they made their former part-time sanctuary on the Mountains 5th fairway their permanent winter residence.
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson and Pat Lassy
Originally, the couple had planned to drive out once a month. “We would get out of the car and all of a sudden it would be quiet. No pressure, beautiful surroundings – it was an amazing experience,” says Jim. Nanette tells the rest of the story. “While we were still busy running our companies, it was exciting to envision a new and different lifestyle. And once we met all the really great people here, we spent the next 12 years driving back and forth every single weekend!” Invitations to entertainment parties and happenings were politely declined so they could hole up in the place they loved most. Jim estimates they were spending
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“We talk about travel all the time, but the first thing on our bucket list was spending a whole season at BIGHORN and we’re having a lot of fun with that,” Nanette says. “We feel like we should travel, and are going to. But we’re really comfortable here right now.”
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80 to 90 nights a year at BIGHORN, grabbing every day off and holiday they could. Now they’re settled in and thrilled with their decision. ”It feels different on a Monday morning when you don’t have to drive back,” Jim says. “It’s more relaxing to spend the whole season here.” Nanette says that while they maintain both homes, she’s glad to finally have her favorite things put away in her closet and jewelry drawer at BIGHORN. Though having embraced the slower pace, the couple enjoys staying involved in their respective industries, from which they launched to success beginning in the 1970s. In 1979, Nanette created an unparalleled health and fitness dynasty when she introduced the concept of luxury clubs with a business partner. From that first club, The Sports Connection, to what became an
extensive collection of health clubs, The Sports Club/LA, operates throughout the largest cities across the country. Nanette’s 30-plus years reinventing the health and fitness industry paved the way for current luxury health club concepts around the globe. She is recognized as a top fitness and lifestyle expert as well as a business visionary and has received many accolades, including being named to the Committee of 200, a membership organization of the world’s most successful women entrepreneurs and corporate innovators. Jim began his career in 1972 as a college rep for CBS records in Washington, D.C. By 2008, after 12 years with the company, he was named CEO of Universal – the largest music company in the world and home to such artists as Taylor Swift, George Strait, Jay Z, U2, Luke Bryan, Lady Gaga, Jon Bon Jovi and many more.
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“In our careers, we operated with the same philosophy that we find operates at BIGHORN,” Nanette points out. “We were dedicated to enhancing lives. It’s a blessing that’s hard to come by.” Jim, who officially retired in December 2014, is still a consultant; Nanette holds a director position in the company she sold and is an Executive Vice President of Cochise Capital, an investment company with entertainment and real estate holdings. Through it all, they have held their marriage as a priority and complemented one another on many levels. “Jim is a great team leader,” Nanette says of her husband who has built strong relationships with artists across all facets of the entertainment industry. “So many people he has worked with have credited him with helping them succeed.” Jim quickly returns the praise. “Meanwhile, you founded the best company in your field.” Life was much more hectic for this charming pair back in 2002/2003, when each was president at their respective companies. That’s when Nanette spotted an ad for BIGHORN in Palm Springs Life.
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Both were working long, hard hours and supporting each other in their ambitious endeavors, but they hadn’t thought about purchasing a place where they could escape L.A.’s relentless demands. “Jim had no intention of buying, but we fell in love with it,” she recalls. “Of the more than 100 golf clubs and gated communities here it was incredible for us to find the top of our category right away without even knowing what we were doing!” Jim nods, adding that they visited a few others before their final decision. “We actually stopped one guy right in the middle of his tour and said, ‘We’re sorry but we’re wasting your time.’ We came right here, put our dogs’ photos in the frames, and we’re still having fun,” he says.
those fairways among friends, with the same level of drive and charisma that shaped his career.
For Nanette, that fun means tennis – a game for which she has immense enthusiasm. Her kudos for BIGHORN’s program carries tremendous weight, considering her professional fitness background. “Tennis is my passion here because we have the best teaching pro anywhere – Dan Aubuchon – and an amazing program that makes it so easy to play. Dan builds on our talents and makes us better while we’re having fun. Taking lessons from him and participating in our tennis clinics are the reasons that I came to love the game. I rarely miss a day. The ability to simply show up without calling people or any pre-planning whatsoever, warm up, and then get matched with the perfect partner and opponents (Dan is genius at that), thus making the games always exciting, is really something special and unique to BIGHORN. And this season we’ve gained another great pro in Frank.” When she’s not playing tennis, she is working out with trainer Chris Manger in the Fitness Center. “I’ve employed thousands of top-notch trainers and the ones at BIGHORN are in the same category,” she says. “My Clubhouse is the spa and gym,” adds this woman who knows a premier wellness and fitness facility when she sees one!
Friends always get a kick out of peeking in the couple’s garage where Jim’s industry awards, autographed photos of world-class musicians, and other mementos of his numerous achievements for top names in the music business cover several impressive walls. But it’s the tile by their entry that speaks their hearts best. “Hacienda de las Bendiciones,” or, “House of Many Blessings.” Jim explains, “We hung that up after we spent our first year here and really realized what we were onto.” Both agree the convenience of BIGHORN is unrivaled and that they appreciate the summers as much as the winter season. “BIGHORN feels like the desert meets Hawaii,” Nanette says. “And in the winter I feel like I’m in the mountains when I’m in front of the fireplace.”
“Mine is the men’s grill or club room,” says Jim, who had attended college on a golf scholarship but hadn’t played in five years before they landed at BIGHORN. Now he loves to take on
While the bustle of L.A. is only a drive away – where this dynamic duo maintain countless personal and business connections – it is driving back to BIGHORN that truly feels like coming home.
“We made so many good friends here that having guests cramps our style,” Jim laughs. “Other than our four kids, we rarely have anyone outside the gates with us because we’re so busy having fun with people inside the gates!” While they spent years running with A-listers and celebrities while attending red carpet events – from the Grammys to the CMAs – the couple says they keep an “eclectic” group of friends from all backgrounds, most of which are BIGHORN neighbors. “It’s just a great mix of people here,” Jim affirms.
The home holds special significance for them as well because when they met each other, they each had a home; Jim sold his house to move into hers. “Buying at BIGHORN was the first time we had ‘our house,’ and that’s an important step in a relationship,” he shares. “This will always be our place that we picked out together and what better a place to have it than here?”
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Beautiful Savings with Smart Energy
You may have seen our solar installations taking place on your street. You may have wondered why over 50 BIGHORN Members have converted to solar with Southern California Energy. We provide the best overall value as well as attention to the aesthetics of your home. We ensure that your system is not only efficient, it also looks great! The deadline for your 30% tax credit and net metering is December 31, 2016. We are scheduling our installations for 2016 now.
529 Mesquite Hills owns a 25kw Solar System – providing $14,400 savings in its first year! • Take Advantage of Net Metering (Full Retail Credit for kWs sent to Edison for 20 years). • Take advantage of the 30% tax credit for 2015 and 2016 only. • Immediate savings after installation. • We also specialize in other high-efficiency products, such as Variable Speed Pool Pumps and LED lighting. • Free energy audit provided. Schedule an appointment with Brandon today!
760-755-5692
45-350 San Luis Rey, Palm Desert, CA View our BIGHORN installations go to www.socaenergy.com/bighorn
Smart Conservation
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson
When rainfall is scarce and unpredictable and news stories about emptying reservoirs and a historically low snow pack flood media outlets, the critical necessity of water – its conservation and prudent use – is in the forefront of everyone’s thoughts. Yet this has always been the case at BIGHORN, where planning a smart water strategy started long before the current dire crisis and even before the first blade of grass sprung up on a BIGHORN fairway.
From its very inception, Cardinalli continues, BIGHORN was developed with preservation of native vegetation and materials as an objective. In preparation for development, many Mesquite, Palo Verde, and Ironwood trees – along with hundreds of native shrubs from the project area – were boxed, removed from the ground, and maintained in an on-site nursery before being carefully replanted in the finished development.
“Typically, just one 18-hole course covers 150 acres, which was the norm when BIGHORN was developed,” explains BIGHORN Vice President of Development Carl Cardinalli. “The Canyons course is 74 acres, and the Mountains course is 76 acres, for a total of 150 acres between our two championship 18-hole courses.” While BIGHORN golfers don’t miss the additional acreage on its 36 holes – played and raved about by some of golf’s most competitive names on the globe – the courses’ water-savvy architecture speaks volumes about a Club that proactively values the environment.
“We’ve received accolades and recognition from numerous sources in the valley, including the City of Palm Desert and the Mountains Conservancy, for our contributions to the protection and maintenance of our desert and mountain heritage,” he shares.
“BIGHORN has always been conscious of water conservation,” Cardinalli affirms. “We were the first high-end residential golf club community that significantly reduced its golf course turf acreage, planted indigenous drought-tolerant desert plant material and trees, and used drip irrigation extensively.”
The local community regards BIGHORN as a Club that has never taken natural resources for granted, and we make strides each year to further that shining reputation. Even details as minute as the water pumps and motors that comprise a critical part of the irrigation system are seen as an opportunity for improvement. All of the old pumps and motors have been replaced with new, energy-efficient ones and are constantly serviced and monitored for overall efficiency.
Mountains course, 11th tees
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When it comes to water conservation, BIGHORN is an absolute water warrior, and has consistently been recognized as a leader in this realm. As a community, our Members passionately care about conservation, and our staff and leadership share that passion with a commitment to ongoing innovation across all elements of operations. “Our water sources for all irrigation water on BIGHORN’s golf courses, its desert areas, and all community common areas are from abandoned wells of the Coachella Valley Water District that were no longer producing potable water,” Cardinalli explains. “In fact, the water in the wells has a very high nitrogen content – too high for human consumption – so BIGHORN purchased the well sites from the Water District and refurbished them. Over the years, we have since replaced the refurbished wells with new wells and related pumping equipment.” These immensely powerful wells produce approximately 3,900 gallons of water per minute at an extremely consistent rate. “They are very adequate in meeting all of BIGHORN’s needs now and in the future,” he adds. In addition to the wells, BIGHORN continuously monitors water production and distribution on the courses, desert, and common areas. Wetting agents – which are non-ionic soaps that clean soil particles and aid in soil penetration – are applied when necessary to localized dry spots to encourage water percolation into the root system of dry turf. An on-site weather station monitors the rate of evapotranspiration (ET) or the rate at which water is lost to the atmosphere occurring on our turf grass; when the ET drops below a certain level, the weather station communicates with our irrigation computer and the computer will activate our irrigation system to more precisely replenish the water loss. This is just one example of the 24/7, behind-the-scenes practices that often go unseen yet are vital to our efforts. These efforts include many individuals who embrace the mission of conservation. BIGHORN’s dedicated irrigation technicians play a major role, starting with meticulous maintenance. Each tech has been trained to add precisely targeted watering to their daily routine and they do it the old-fashioned way: with water hoses. “This hand-watering requires a little more time, but greatly improves water efficiency,” notes Golf Superintendent Dave Lowe. Irrigation techs also evaluate individual sprinkler heads, which doesn’t seem daunting until you realize there are over 3,800 for both courses. In assessing the heads’ performance, technicians check for uniform distribution, proper operating pressures, full sprinkler head rotation, and any leaks. “In our water management, we strive for efficiency,” Lowe says. “To do this, we need to maintain 42
a consistent ‘throw’ of water from the irrigation head in order to uniformly irrigate an area and reduce or eliminate any overlap or parched areas.” Repairs and replacements are made quickly to preserve the beauty of the landscape as well as avoid the misuse of any water. BIGHORN’s golf maintenance associates also troubleshoot and repair electrical control lines and field irrigation clocks and check and clean filters. The head irrigation technician additionally monitors moisture levels in each of the greens and other areas throughout the golf course, replenishing moisture as needed. “BIGHORN Golf Club was founded on a deep connection to the land,” concedes Lowe. “Not only was water conservation built into BIGHORN as a conscientious and proactive measure by our founders and developers, but it has also taken high priority and is continually reviewed for improvement.” During the summer of 2002, the Mountains golf course irrigation system was completely rebuilt. After the course was redesigned by one of the best irrigation design engineers in the southwest, Brent Harvey & Associates, highly regarded Landscape Unlimited was selected to install the new system. “The primary purpose behind the new system was to improve water efficiency and gain a more uniform distribution across the golf course,” Lowe says. “The course’s turf health responded immediately as wet spots and dry spots were eliminated.” By the end of 2016, a three-year capital improvement project on the Canyons course that incorporates new irrigation control clock installation and the latest technology in sprinkler head design will also be complete. The new sprinkler heads will improve water efficiency by 5% and greatly improve overall uniform water distribution. As many Members have expressed interest in the state of our local water, Bob Keeran, Multi Media Specialist for the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), was invited to speak at BIGHORN. In a very informative presentation in the Clubhouse, Keeran addressed past, present, and future water issues in the Coachella Valley. As Mr. Keeran recognized, “BIGHORN has done a lot already and has been a leading example of water conservation and management.” Toward the end of his presentation – which included the captivating history of the Water District from its creation in 1918 with a mandate to conserve and protect the local watershed to how it established the four water sources from which the Valley receives its water – Keeran described BIGHORN as an eco-friendly role model for other golf courses, stating, “You should be proud of everything you have done up here.”
Water-Smart BIGHORN Facts:
5 Easy Steps to Conserving Water:
Did you know...?
The Coachella Valley Water District confirms that most water usage (70-80% of a home’s consumption) takes place outdoors. Look out your windows for your first steps to conservation.
• BIGHORN’s golf courses each have half of the turf of a typical 18-hole golf course. • BIGHORN’s plant and tree palette is indigenous to the desert and tolerant of its scant rainfall. • Roughly 250,000 emitters deliver drip irrigation to plants and trees in the desert landscape throughout the community. •
Two recently drilled BIGHORN well sites produce more than 3,900 gallons of non-potable, irrigation water per minute: 1,845 from its Lupine Well and 2,100 from its Chia Well. These water sources provide irrigation water across BIGHORN’s golf courses, desert areas, and community common areas.
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Irrigation technicians hand-water daily if necessary, continually monitor irrigation controllers and 3800+ sprinkler heads for optimum performance, and consistently monitor the moisture content of the soil in a concerted effort to conserve water and use it as efficiently as possible.
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Install a “smart controller” on your irrigation system. These gadgets detect changes in weather and moisture then water plants accordingly. CVWD offers rebates and installation services.
2. Use mulch around plants to preserve moisture and prevent evaporation. 3.
When time to update landscape, replace water-thirsty plants with water-wise desertscape plants and trees and/or consider a water-efficient turf lawn. (CVWD’s book Lush & Efficient is a 160-page guide to water-efficient landscaping available in hardback and in a PDF format. www.cvwd.org/conservation/lush/lush_efficient.pdf)
4. Cover your pool and spa to prevent evaporation when away for extended periods of time. 5.
Indoors, choose low-flow toilets, low-flow showerheads, and install a faucet aerator. Full loads of dishes save water, too. Select appropriate water levels for each laundry load.
Mountains course, 13th hole
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TRAVEL ON YOUR OWN TERMS BIGHORN Transportation features private car service, offering a variety of choices including a Cadillac XTS, Lincoln Town Car and spacious Navigator. From a simple lunch date, a shopping spree or private service to the airport, to a luxurious night of dinner and theatre in Los Angeles or San Diego, BIGHORN will take you there. Round trip excursions with as many as six of your family members or friends are available to you with only 24 hours’ notice. Reservations can be made through BIGHORN’s Transportation Coordinator, Carol Tufaro, at 760-610-8242.
TRANSPORTATION
760-610-8242
Supersized Fun!
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson and Pat Lassy
When Mom and Dad (or Grandma and Grandpa) choose to make their home at BIGHORN, they’re not the only ones who can’t wait until move-in day. The roughly 86 kids on the BIGHORN campus are some of the community’s biggest (and littlest!) fans.
and park is surrounded by soft, water-efficient Astroturf. Kids love the junior putting green, too. A picnic table makes it a convenient stop for an al fresco breakfast, lunch or afternoon snack, especially with its location adjacent to The Marketplace and the Dog Park.
From enjoying pick-up games on the sports court, biking around the scenic paths, dining in several kid-friendly restaurants, making a frozen yogurt sundae at The Marketplace, and participating in an events calendar designed for every age and interest, the young set at BIGHORN finds the Club is an easy place to be active and makes for one exciting place to grow up.
Even teens and tweens don’t seem to mind sticking close to home at BIGHORN. The Junior Golf Program is just one draw for them. Through clinics, holiday activities, special tournaments and competitions, they begin to master the fundamentals of the game in addition to patience, etiquette, and the importance of good sportsmanship. Bill Madonna is a US Kids “Top 50 Kids Teacher in America” and has a natural gift for teaching young golfers, from newly swinging tykes to the most advanced junior golfers who are well on their way to playing collegiate golf.
Budding athletes quickly discover that BIGHORN is an ideal setting in which to hone their golf and tennis skills, filled with plenty of kids their age and/or skill level to play with. Easygoing and friendly, BIGHORN is a place where juniors effortlessly make new friends who are as multifaceted as they are. Before long, they’re meeting up for a swim at the Clubhouse Pool or on the court for a serious basketball game, heading to the BIGHORN Dog Park with their pups, or grabbing their clubs to practice together on the driving range. Little ones have their own special place where they feel on top of the world at BIGHORN. The multi-level Kiddin’ Around Play Park
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More than all of the kid-friendly amenities, however, many juniors cite the mix of friendly, spirited competition and personal challenge combined with the support and encouragement of the BIGHORN staff and community as the reason they feel at home at BIGHORN – a place where they can learn, grow, and thrive season by season.
Families wake to a BIGHORN blanket of white for the magical Blizzard Blast on December 27th. Sleds and innertubes glide down four sled runs that have been piled high with 150 tons of snow as laughter fills the air. Santa flies in from the North Pole for photo ops, and an incredible breakfast buffet by BIGHORN Catering fuels everyone’s creativity for the rise-and-shine dance party.
Beyond their own expressive ways to enjoy the BIGHORN lifestyle, juniors find BIGHORN’s themed bashes to be the stuff of legends come to life. Better than a fairytale, BIGHORN’s highly anticipated seasonal events transform the campus overnight into a wonderland of activities and adventures that they regale to their friends and reminisce about all year round.
Here’s the question for springtime: What do you get when you combine a dancing Peter Cottontail, a DJ mixing your favorite tunes, and a hula hoop contest? Our annual Easter Eggstravaganza for kids of all ages, which kicks off with 6,000 eggs that have been hidden by the Easter Bunny himself. Baskets of candy plus prizes galore are just part of the fun. Spring Break Weekend features a wide variety of family events, too, from the Hawaiian Luau with an authentic Polynesian band, dancers, and fire experts to an old-fashioned campfire night and Rockin’ Swim Party – Family Fun Day always makes a splash! Get ready to tackle the obstacle course, swim contests, and water balloon tosses before showing off those well-rehearsed dance moves!
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“Our grandchildren love Family Fun Day. It gets bigger and better every year!” exclaims Member Joan Masterson. ”Our granddaughter Joanie has won the hula hoop contest several times and Kyle loves the dance contests. Blizzard Blast is another great event, and last year was the very best of all with sledding, a zip line, and laser tag! My kids love BIGHORN and can’t wait to visit!”
The good news for juniors is that every day feels like a special occasion. One peek in BIGHORN’s restaurants and they’ll spy the fun, interactive desserts including s’mores, cotton candy, and fresh-baked cookies and milk. Even adults admit that it’s fun to feel like a kid again and indulge in these sweet treats from time to time.
entertaining the generations with sun and shade, pool and spa, a media room, family room or home theater, and, quite often, a barbecue overlooking the golf course. Throwing an indoor-outdoor birthday party at home or celebrating a milestone or achievement at a BIGHORN restaurant are BIGHORN traditions everyone can look forward to.
“Our five grandkids absolutely love coming to BIGHORN! The Blizzard Blast, Family Fun Days, Luau, and Easter Egg Hunt are among their favorites, and provide endless entertainment and fun! It’s a kids paradise... as magical for us to watch as it is for them to enjoy,” cheers on Charlynn and Rick Locke.
Should the juniors get stir crazy, a short drive down Highway 74 leads to The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, a girls’ shopping day along El Paseo, or an all-ages performance at the McCallum Theatre, from acrobats and circus troupes to animal handlers, hit Broadway shows, and live concerts from top musical acts.
Once kids grow up at BIGHORN, they always relish coming back with families of their own. BIGHORN homes are made for
What has come to be nicknamed “Camp BIGHORN” by the younger residents is often called a “Disneyland for adults” among their parents. The vibrant youthfulness, vitality, and energetic zest for life that flows through BIGHORN resonates with all ages. And it’s that genuine enthusiasm that fills BIGHORN with happy families who have made it the #1 Club and community in the valley.
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The Canyons course opened December 1998 and within the first three months BIGHORN had sold 40 lots and Golf Digest had already recognized the Canyons with a distinction as one of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the nation. By summer, a deal was struck for the Battle at BIGHORN to be hosted with newcomer Tiger Woods, who had only won two majors by 2000, but by 2002 had won eight. The shootout under the lights brought notoriety to BIGHORN as well as to the top players in the world including Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Annika Sorenstam, David Duval, Karrie Webb, and Sergio Garcia. LPGA great Annika Sorenstam shares, “The Battle at BIGHORN was extremely fun! At the time, I was number one and we had Karrie Webb who was number two, and then you had Tiger Woods and David Duval, so you had the top players in the world from both tours. It was a bit of a showdown, and we played the last few holes under the lights, which I had never done before. I’ve always enjoyed playing with the guys, and to partner with Tiger on this occasion was very, very special. I have some fond memories from that time; certainly making the putt on the last hole was pretty cool.” “Mr. Colbert invited me over to BIGHORN before the first Battle and I was blown away by the quality, the amenities, and the golf course,” continues Sorenstam. “I knew it was something special from the very beginning. After that, I signed on the dotted line and was a new neighbor!” After opening to great success, the results poured in, including the sales! Homeowner Duane Hagadone shares his theory on this triumph and what it meant to him personally. “I give R.D. a huge amount of credit for developing the Canyons in the manner that he did. Most developers get very selfish and squeeze in every lot that they can. We looked all over the world for the perfect place to build our dream home, and it was R.D. who made our lot happen – down to the right size, shape, and level of privacy.” Today, the future of BIGHORN is secure. Residence and Membership continues to grow, and the Club has sustained a high level of real estate sales, equaling over $2.4 billion. BIGHORN’s location, within
minutes of El Paseo and the McCallum Theatre and abutting the foothills adjoining National Monument land with views of the valley, provides a site and a setting that can never be duplicated and will continue to be desirable. Additionally, the constant creation of new facilities and the renewal of existing ones has not only maintained the Club’s relevance, but has also surpassed the expectations of current and prospective residents. “The financial aspect of this club is so solid and that comes right from the top,” Colbert affirms. “Mr. Hubbard manages this Club so well financially that it never has had any trouble. Everything has continued to grow – even through some pretty tough times – without any financial strain being passed along to the Membership.” Over the years, BIGHORN has added the Spa & Wellness Center (one of the first premium club spas in the country), the Canyons Steak House, The Marketplace (a boutique market with a Starbucks coffee bar and wireless Internet cafe), The Pour House and Golf House restaurants, a Golf Learning Center, bocce ball courts, dog parks, and a children’s park, as well as refurbishing all of the facilities. Three years ago, for example, BIGHORN added a $1 million well to meet the long-term irrigation needs of the golf courses and community landscaping. This one significant move has made BIGHORN one of the most water-efficient golf course communities in the world. And of course, the Club’s two worldrenowned golf courses are continually maintained in perfect, championship condition. “Golf is certainly a big part of what makes BIGHORN special,” touts Sorenstam. “But it’s all the other amenities where BIGHORN really has an edge. They have so many fun activities and that is why the Membership is always growing.” Investor and long-time Member Robert Masterson says, “I have to give a lot of credit to R.D. Hubbard. He’s always listening to the Members – to their needs and wants – and every year he’s trying to add additional amenities. He’s not letting other clubs catch up
Creating an Extraordinary Vision By Theresa Maggio Photography by Scott Avra, Mark Davidson, Getty Images and Pat Lassy
When R.D. Hubbard and his wife, Joan Dale, began vacationing in the desert in the early 1970s, they may not have imagined what a transformative effect they would have on the Coachella Valley. Drawn by the ideal climate, proximity to the mountains, and tremendous golfing opportunities, Hubbard believed that he had discovered one of the world’s best-kept secrets in BIGHORN. (Indeed, he had!) Without hesitation, he purchased two homesites and built his own residence. Since that time, under his direction, BIGHORN has become one of the most beautiful and prestigious golf and residential communities in the world. And while the BIGHORN narrative to date is one of great success, according to its visionary founder, the story has just begun. Hubbard confirms that the Club lies at the cusp of its most thrilling days – and the best is yet to come.
“Our goal was to create the best golf club and residential community anywhere,” explains Hubbard. “From the beginning, I was committed to creating a community that was responsive to its Members’ and Homeowners’ desires and doing so in a way that always delivered even more than expected. Consistent with that commitment, I was not willing to compromise the quality of the environment or the high level of personal service. To create BIGHORN, I enlisted excellent people who grasped the vision and who worked tirelessly and creatively because they realized that a chance to develop a community like this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Though BIGHORN was originally started by Westinghouse Corporation, it was Hubbard and a group of Member investors in 1996 who purchased the land and development rights that led to fulfilling their ultimate vision of creating a Club of unmatched setting, amenities, and services where Members develop lifelong relationships.
After Hubbard’s purchase of the Mountains course from Westinghouse, Safeco Insurance, who owned a 90-acre parcel across Highway 74, approached Hubbard about expanding the Club. “R.D. made the deal,” shares Gagan. “We partnered with Safeco and brought in Tom Fazio to design the Canyons course, promising him an unlimited budget, which he immediately exceeded in the first two holes. Nine months after groundbreaking, Safeco decided to get out of the development business altogether and they wanted to cease the project, but BIGHORN was selling lots already.”
“Westinghouse couldn’t sell lots; we had no trouble with R.D. running BIGHORN’s sales,” explains investor Jim Gagan. “He picked up the phone and people came from all over the world. They came to buy a house, a lot, and a membership because they believed in what R.D. was selling, which was a unique way of life, our own culture. I think the biggest risk-taker here was Hubbard who put his reputation on the line along with his money and his heart. The results are obvious. We’ve got the only club in the world like it.”
PGA Champions Tour Winner and Investor Jim Colbert continues the story. “Hubbard convinced Safeco to let BIGHORN buy them out. Hubbard said, ‘They’re going to sell it for $25 million. The golf course is slated for $40 million and the infrastructure is $65 million. We cannot take that risk – it’s crazy. We’re out of the woods over here on the Mountains.’ I asked him, ‘If we buy the ground, build the golf course, and never build a road or sewer, is the ground around it worth $65 million?’ He said he would get back to me. Next thing I knew we owned the place.”
Open to see BIGHORN’s dynamic timeline. Story continued on page 54.
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1991 1991
1992 1992
1993 1993
season 1994 1994
1995 1995
The Skins Game televised internationally (1st of 4 through 1995)
MEMBERSHIP
1996 1996 65 Members, Individual $50,000, Dual $75,000
1997 1997 100 Members, Individual $75,000, Dual $125,000
1998 1998 200 Members, Individual $85,000, Dual $135,000
1999 1999 Individual $125,000, Dual $185,000
2000 2000 300 Members, Individual $150,000, Dual $250,000
2001 2001 Individual $175,000, Dual $290,000
2002 2002 New wellsite acquired, re-equipped and reactivated; Canyons hole #6 redesign; Mountain Oasis built
2003 2003 400 Members
1st $7 Million home sold
SALES MILESTONES
Residential homesite sales begin
First Palobrea Residences built
R.D. Hubbard and investors acquire BIGHORN and form BIGHORN Development
Golf Villas introduced
1st $3 Million home sold Battle of BIGHORN internationally televised (1st of 3 through 2002)
Mountains course opens
DEVELOPMENT & AMENITIES
BIGHORN Clubhouse and The Turn completed; first Custom Home finished
2004 2004 MEMBERSHIP
2005 2005
2006 2006
2007 2007
Individual $237,000, Dual $350,000
Westinghouse markets BIGHORN for sale
BIGHORN initiates steps to develop another course and persuades Tom Fazio to be the designer
2008 2008
2009 2009
455 Members; Individual $250,000, Dual $350,000
BDLLC successfully transfers Club facilities to BIGHORN Golf Club, no assessments required
Mountain Estate lots released; BIGHORN Development acquires Canyons and Canyons Groundbreaking held
2010 2010
U.S. Senior March Play Challenge; Canyons course, Golf House and Highway 74 tunnel opens and Canyons Homesites released
2011 2011
Canyons front entry and Canyons Drive completed; Mountains course and Clubhouse renovated
2012 2012
1st Annual Snow Day & Fishing Derby; BIGHORN Sales Office, HOA Office and Mountain Oasis built and new well site acquired
2013 2013
2014 2014 Membership grew for its 18th consecutive year
Spa & Wellness Center opens, private airplane service begins, Canyons course and Clubhouse renovated (II)
2015 2015
Mountains course (II), Clubhouse (III) and Men’s Locker Room (I) renovated; The Pour House opens for service and private Limo service begins
2016 2016
530 Members
520 Members
SALES MILESTONES
DEVELOPMENT & AMENITIES
1st $10 Million home sold
Samsung World Championship internationally televised (1st of 4 through 2007); Dog Park opens
The Pour House and Cahuilla Hills Gatehouse remodeled; Members raised $1.6 Million for Hurricane Katrina victims
$11 Million raised for Eisenhower Medical Center; Canyons Steakhouse, The Marketplace, Starbucks coffee bar opens; Junior Golf Program and BIGHORN Golf Club Charities begin; Canyons #7 redesign and Mountains course irrigations system installed
Total real estate property valuations $2.1 Billion BIGHORN BAM raised $316,000 for breast cancer
Golf Shop, Ladies’ Locker Room, Canyons Steak House, and Pool Event Area remodeled; Clay Tech Tennis Court added; BIGHORN Golf Club Charities gives first Second Language Scholarship
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BIGHORN Properties celebrates $2.4 Billion in sales
$1.7 Billion total sales; 410 homes completed
$1 Billion in total sales
BDLLC adds connector street to community at no cost to BIGHORN or HOA
BIGHORN raises $1.3 Million for Wounded Warriors with Jack Nicklaus
New Well built; Canyon Drive rock and landscaping restored & renewed
Golf Learning Facility built; Spa & Wellness remodeled and Salon renovated (III)
BIGHORN BAM raises $2.56 Million to date
Bocce Ball Courts and Kiddin’ Around Play Park added; The Pour House outdoor dining area expanded
Fitness Center increases by 40%; Golf House market added; MediSpa services begin and the first BIGHORN Golf Club Charities Pro Am sells out
$5 Million raised for BIGHORN Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Center at Scripps; The Pour House Pointe opens; Clubhouse Dining Room remodeled; Tennis court stadium seating added and Blizzard Blast unveiled
The Vault at BIGHORN opens
New lifestyle Clubhouse underway
BIGHORN BAM raises $5.5 million to date for their fight against cancer; BIGHORN Cares launches gifting 38 non-profits nearly $400,000; and BIGHORN Members have gifted over $43 Million to Eisenhower Medical Center
BIGHORN Golf Club Charities reaches milestone of gifting 500 scholarships, BIGHORN BAM celebrates its 10th Anniversary
to him. He’s always pushing our Club further and further into the future and trying to create something better.” “The best run clubs are by dictators, but you’ve gotta have a damn good dictator,” shares Hagadone. “In my mind, we have the best dictator in R.D. Hubbard. He does a great job. He runs this place, he cares, he puts money back into it, and we could not be happier. I’d put BIGHORN up against any club in the world!” “When you talk about leadership, it starts from the top down, beginning with how people are treated and how they’ve handled service,” prides Member Jay Westman. “At BIGHORN, everybody knows your name. I don’t know how they do it but they do! There isn’t anybody here who doesn’t have a smile on their face, doesn’t know your name, and doesn’t do everything to please you. It’s amazing! And in terms of value in life, this Membership has probably given us the most joy of any single thing that we’ve done, I’d say, in life to date.” Today BIGHORN is a mature, stable, yet innovative community that offers a variety of living choices, including remarkable new custom homes, resale homes, villa residences, and homesites. In a larger context, the Coachella Valley offers not only a breathtaking natural environment and lifestyle, but also a thriving and cooperative business community, which distinguishes BIGHORN and the Coachella Valley among other luxury resort areas. Throughout both challenging and prosperous economic times, the Coachella Valley continues to grow. “But I think what makes BIGHORN so special is the people themselves,” adds Masterson. “It’s such a family. Not only is it a family of people enjoying themselves and the events, but they’re also such a caring group. They raise so much money for all the local charities throughout the valley. And they love the employees; they are part of the family.”
Members of BIGHORN routinely demonstrate a passion for generating enthusiasm and resources that benefit all of the desert’s residents. Individual and corporate support of charitable and educational organizations in the Valley is virtually unmatched. BIGHORN Members individually, as a group, and through BIGHORN BAM, have contributed $43 million to Eisenhower Medical Center, which has led to the BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center. Donations have been used for necessary diagnosis and treatment equipment, transportation services, and bare essentials through Eisenhower Medical Center and The Pendleton Foundation. BIGHORN Golf Club Charities has gifted 419 scholarships and established BIGHORN Cares donating nearly $400,000 annually to 38 non-profit organizations that serve the most underserved citizens of the Coachella Valley. These efforts, in addition to the spectacular natural, architectural, social, and recreational lifestyle provided by the Club are BIGHORN’s past, present, and future legacy. BIGHORN’s global stature and recognition provide a sense of pride to the Valley’s residents and an example of responsible, successful development. From its inception, BIGHORN’s team of Members and developers, helmed by R.D. Hubbard, have strived to preserve the desert environment and to demonstrate how it can be cultivated to create a beautiful community, emulating what is so magnificent about this pristine setting. “You know, it’s been 20 years since the investors took over this Club,” shares Masterson. “But if you look back from where we started with just one golf course and you look at this place today, you look at the size, the 500 homes, the Canyons Steak House, the Golf House, the Spa, and you keep seeing more and more events. And you say, ‘Wow! What a wonderful thing we’ve created and we’re not done!’”
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Dynamic Women By Lisa Marie Hart
Photography by Mark Davidson
Business | Law | Medical | Merchandising
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Carol Ammon Founder and Former Chairman of Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc., Chairman, University of Arkansas Myeloma Institute With a degree in biology, an MBA, and 23 years in the pharmaceutical division of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Carol Ammon made a bold move in 1997. She led a buyout team and purchased 37 pharmaceutical products from The DuPont Merck Pharmaceutical Company to form specialty pharmaceutical company Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc., stepping into the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. By July 2000, Pennsylvania-based Endo was a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: ENDP) with market leadership in pain management. It was difficult to earn a prominent position as a woman scientist in the 1970s, “but I was always inspired by my mom and dad who gave me a great sense of achievement,” says the New York native. “My dad is my hero. He taught me to find happiness in my work and contentment in my life.” Under her lead, Endo became Eastern Technology Council’s Company of the Year in 2003, the same year in which Ammon received the Greater Philadelphia Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in the Health Sciences category. A year later, Ammon was named CEO of the Year by the Eastern Technology Council. Other accolades include the 2005 Paradigm Award, the Woman of Spirit Award from the Greater Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and was recognized for her past role with the Delaware Public Policy Institute. In the decade since retiring from Endo in 2005, Ammon has lectured in business development strategy at the University of Delaware and served as a Director of the Harvard School of Business Healthcare Advisory Board. She has also served as Trustee of the University of Delaware and Director of the Hagley Museum & Library in Wilmington – site of the greatest collection of business papers in the world. In a role dear to her heart, Ammon is also Chairman of the University of Arkansas Multiple Myeloma Advisory Board, where she is impassioned to find a cure for the disease in addition to raising $100 million for new research laboratories.
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With an accomplished past, Ammon pushes forward. “I’d like to see better access for the disadvantaged, making sure we take care of those who can’t take care of themselves,” she says. “I would also like to see more scholarships for doctors.” Topping her bucket list are seats to the 2016 Olympics, going to the Final 4 NCAA Basketball Championship, and traveling to Russia. Ammon enjoys the freedom she finds in working from BIGHORN and teleconferencing, but says that the humility amongst both Members and staff is its greatest asset as a community. “It feels like one big happy family here,” she says. “I love living in a diverse place where people are genuinely happy for each other’s success.”
Jo Kaplan Feldman Los Angeles Juvenile Advocate & L.A. County Probation Commissioner After graduating from UCLA Law School in 1968, Jo Kaplan Feldman soon became a voice for the voiceless as a criminal defense attorney with the Public Defenders Office.“As a young lawyer, I realized that although everyone needs good representation, it was especially critical for the impoverished, mentally ill, and children,” she says. “Otherwise they could easily be lost in an often unfair, overburdened, dehumanizing system.” Kaplan decided early on that she would focus on reforming the Juvenile Justice System not just changing one life at a time in the courtroom. “I’ve been representing families for 40-plus years and nothing is more tragic than not giving them the help they need. These kids have had lousy breaks – yet when given proper treatment, resources, and support they could lead productive, law-abiding lives.” “Unfortunately putting children in serial foster care, group homes, or youth prisons doesn’t work,” she shares. “There has been very little emphasis on rehabilitation – only on punishment. We need to help these kids, teach them life skills, and educate them so they have a chance at leading fulfilling and productive lives.” A fearless advocate, Kaplan is also a leader in children’s rights at the state and national level. As the head of the Offices of Jo Kaplan – a precursor to the Children’s Law Center of California – she counseled for the abused and neglected. She also taught juvenile law classes at two L.A. law schools, sat as a referee in Juvenile Court, and has been a vigorous legislative advocate for policy change. With her husband, Larry Feldman, also an attorney, they helped to establish the Loyola Law School Center for Juvenile Law and Policy. Jo has been honored for her work in public interest law by Public Counsel, along with Former Vice President Al Gore, by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), the ACLU, and by many others. Kaplan is currently working to save girls as young as 12 who have fallen victim to sex trafficking. Kaplan is also consulting on a new $50 million Juvenile Center. “We lock up thousands of children every day, so we’re building cottages instead of barracks, we’ll have counselors, not just guards. We want to give kids hope and self-esteem and get them back on their feet,” she explains. To recharge, the Feldmans spend their weekends at BIGHORN, where they love hiking, the spa, golf, and hosting their teenage grandchildren. “It’s a real bonus for us and now they are bringing their friends; we’ve become sort of a sleepover camp.” Around town, she relishes the art scene. “My house is filled with art from Colin Fisher Studios. I go there with my convertible and whatever I can fit in, I bring home.”
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Debra Gershen Vice President & General Merchandise Manager The 1980s centered around labels – from Brooke Shields flaunting her Calvin Klein jeans and IZOD’s essential crocodiles to Jaclyn Smith debuting her fashion collection at Kmart. Transforming the public’s perception of one of the world’s largest retailers – and making it cool to visit the home of “Blue Light Specials” – was one of the most inconceivable ideas in fashion history. Yet it was the genius of Debra Gershen, former Vice President and General Merchandise Manager for Kmart’s Ladies & Girls Apparel, that changed fashion retailing forever.
In the late 1970s, Gershen joined G. Fox & Co. By the time she moved to New York as an Assistant Buyer for the S.S. Kresge Corporation, which owned Kmart, Gershen was ready to shine. She became the first female Vice President of Women’s Apparel, the largest position with the largest retailer in the country. Charged with eliminating the “Blue Light Special,” Gershen’s team created celebrity branding with “Charlie’s Angels” Jaclyn Smith, who was the perfect smart, athletic role model. “From the beginning, Jaclyn wanted to be involved, picking out the styles she would wear and modeling for the campaign,” Gershen praised. “We were far ahead of the curve to develop celebrity merchandising for years before anyone tried to copy us. Jaclyn cheered the company on and the staff loved her!” Kmart’s sales soared as their new products and fresh displays revolutionized the industry – largely thanks to the crossmerchandising techniques of Gershen’s team. Smart pairings of clothing, hats, and accessories quickly inspired eager customers to purchase the entire outfit so they could feel like a supermodel. Today, Jaclyn Smith continues to be one of the most successful celebrity-turned-designers in the world. Sealing their legacy, Gershen’s team also created a SKU system that tracked the week’s best-selling merchandise at each store. By following the numbers, the team boosted stores’ success by stocking the merchandise that matched their clients’ needs. “The increase in sales empowered the sales staff and the marketing and merchandising teams became more innovative with their designs.” Future labels included the “Beverly Hills Blues” line, worn by the 1988 U.S. Girls gold-medal winning Olympic Gymnastics team on the pages of Teen and Seventeen magazines. After 25 years reinventing Kmart’s image, Gershen met her husband, Bill Gershen, and embarked on her second career as a dedicated philanthropist and artist. While Bill serves as CEO of Vanguard Industries, producer of the military’s highest forms of honors, Debra became Director of Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael. She has served on the boards of Lifeline Center for Child Development, San Diego Museum of Art, Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, and the Telluride Foundation. Having discovered her love for painting, she has converted a bedroom into a studio where she transfers her favorite visions onto canvas. Now enjoying a retirement fueled by beauty and creativity, Gershen’s efforts in the retail arena live on in celebrity fashion collaborations and beautiful clothes at affordable prices for women across the globe.
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Marie Pinizzotto, MD, MBA Physician, CEO, Philanthropist From practicing obstetrics and gynecology to ensuring drug safety among users of high-risk drugs and hormone replacement products, Dr. Marie Pinizzotto’s esteemed career has created a safer, healthier, and longer life for an untold number of people who have been touched – and even healed – by her work. Dr. Pinizzotto earned her medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia and specialized in obstetrics and gynecology before transitioning to a meaningful career in the pharmaceutical industry that included senior positions at Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Wyeth. She left big “pharma” to start her own consulting company, Drug Safety Solutions, LLC, a pharmacovigilance and risk management company concerned with drug safety of narcotics and high-risk drugs. In her role as president she worked closely with the FDA and numerous pharmaceutical companies developing risk management plans and assessing risk profiles of drugs. In 2008, she earned her MBA from the University of Delaware. Incredibly involved in healthcare, Dr. Pinizzotto is a board member and also the Named Chair of Academic Affairs at Eisenhower Medical Center. She is a trustee at Christiana Care Hospital in Wilmington DE, where she is the Named Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr Pinizzotto is also a board member of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation where she also sits on the their scientific advisory committee. She also sits on the Presidents Advisory Council for Jefferson Medical College and the University of Delaware. Currently she is the President and CEO of a private philanthropic foundation which focuses on healthcare and education. Dr. Pinizzotto’s passionate vision for her personal endeavors is as ambitious as her healthcare career has been. “I have a few bucket list quests: to play the Top 50 U.S. golf courses and to learn to speak Italian and Spanish.” On her way to playing the Top 50 courses, according to Golf Magazine’s 2013 list, this avid golfer (nicknamed “Twitch” because she moves so much while golfing) has swiftly checked off 20 courses. “Members of Augusta, please let me know.” Her Sicilian lineage fuels her love for cooking, especially lasagna, for family and her BIGHORN friends, who are also considered family. Cooking makes her feel like she is at one of her traditional Sunday dinners with 25 of her closest relatives. Another goal, she adds good-naturedly, but in earnest: “I’d also love to live long enough to collect Social Security!” As a six-year survivor of multiple myeloma cancer, Pinizzotto is constantly funding research. “My dream is to find a cure for this disease.” 61
Alice Rosenblatt 40+ Year Career and Executive Vice President & Chief Actuary for WellPoint Growing up in a 2-bedroom, 1 bath apartment in the Bronx, NY, Alice Rosenblatt never felt deprived. “But I never knew people lived like this, in houses like this,” she reflects. “I feel blessed every day when I look outside and see this view.” Rosenblatt worked her way up through the male-dominated actuarial field starting with naturally strong math skills. “I was a bit of a bookworm,” she says. “I majored in math with the intent to teach on a college level, until I became disillusioned with the theoretical nature of my specialty in complex variables.” An employment agency suggested this technical and analytical field, and she quickly passed all of the required exams and became one of the few to soar into the ranks of executive management. When she retired from WellPoint (now Anthem) in February 2008, she was performing three jobs: acting as chief actuary; overseeing the company’s information management strategy; and coordinating the integration of all mergers and acquisitions. In her role as Executive Vice President and Chief Actuary (the final position in her impressive 40+-year career) at one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, she managed a staff of 700 employees. Rosenblatt also served on the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission for six years and has served on the boards of both the Society of Actuaries and the American Academy of Actuaries. She received the Society of Actuaries’ President’s Award in October 2013. “When I started out, only five percent of actuaries were women. Now it might be 20 percent. I think a lot of women are afraid of math,” says Rosenblatt, who modeled her great bosses and learned what not to do from the poor ones. “I was always a believer in open, honest communication and I think that helped me.” After retiring from WellPoint, Rosenblatt remained in the industry as an actuarial and strategy consultant to health plans. Now she focuses on volunteer work for the Society of Actuaries. “It supports a profession that brought me to where I am today. I wouldn’t be at BIGHORN without it,” she says. “It’s my way of paying the profession back.” “I’m lucky to have my circle of friends here – many who have had very successful careers,” Rosenblatt says of her life at BIGHORN. “Even though I’m single, I never feel alone. It’s the first time I’ve had friends outside work. We all have similar interests: attending charitable events, visiting galleries, entertaining, golfing, or enjoying a good workout. BIGHORN has been a great community for me.” 62
I fly Sentient Jet.
速
In Full Swing
By Theresa Maggio Photography by Scott Avra, Mark Davidson, Lani Garfield and Pat Lassy
If you’re a golfer, then over the years you have most likely seen the dynamic sons of the McGrath family flourish from boys to men – both on and off the course. David, James, and Kevin McGrath have grown up at BIGHORN, starting with annual visits to Grandmother JoAnn’s home starting in 1997, then following her lead in 2004 by selecting a home with their parents, Lisa and Sean. “It was the fun activities that brought us in,” shares Lisa. “Once we discovered Junior Golf Director Bill Madonna and the 30 kids involved in the program, they became our extended family. Every holiday weekend we would fly from Boston to sunny BIGHORN to have fun, then take the red-eye back for school the next day. It’s become a routine that we happily take advantage of: spending every possible moment at BIGHORN.” The McGraths are third-generation Members, and these young men have been involved in the Junior Golf Program for the past 10 years. “It’s been an honor to coach them from growing kids to ambitious gentlemen,” prides Bill. “Developing through the game as kids then teens, the McGrath boys will be able to successfully navigate the business world because of patience, discipline, perseverance, and camaraderie they have learned playing golf. They have become capable players who can team up as brothers and are ready to challenge anyone to an exciting round.”
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Now aged 16, Kevin has his own words of praise for Bill. “It was actually Bill who really made us love the game of golf as a family,” he says. Dad Sean is a golfer himself and has spent many afternoons on the course with his sons, coaching and encouraging their development. It’s not surprising that after many years of practice and determination that David, now 20, is a 7 handicap, James at age 18 is a 4 handicap, and Kevin is a 3 handicap. “They are very competitive between each other and can never wait to get out and play another 18 holes together,” beams Sean. While competitive, the McGraths exhibit and enjoy an almost overwhelming sense of family. Coach Bill recalls a day of true sibling love. “One of my proudest moments was at the 2008 Parent-Junior Golf Tournament when David and James tied for first place and ultimately decided to share the championship,” he remembers. “As competitive as they were, they both decided to win the tie and they put their arms around each other, winning as co-champions.”
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Bill also shares a memory of the time he won the Top 50 Junior Golf Instructors award in 2009 and the whole McGrath family flew out from Boston to Florida to see him receive his award. After a late-arriving flight, they came into the auditorium rolling their luggage so they wouldn’t miss the ceremony. “It meant the world to me,” says Bill. “My early junior golfers, including the McGraths, built the program junior-wide by all hanging out together and developing a huge sense of community and camaraderie. It’s successful today because of these founders.” BIGHORN is more than a second home to the McGraths: it’s where their childhood memories have been fostered – filled with entertaining Family Fun Days, festive Blizzard Blasts, and spirited Egg Hunts. As they grew, BIGHORN became a place for golf, tennis, working out at the gym, swimming, hanging out at the dog park with their puggles Bentley and Nash and, as teens do... eating! For Lisa and Sean, BIGHORN is about a sense of community and coming home. The McGrath parents enjoy spending time with their family as well as their multitude of friends. “I am intrigued by the wide variety of diverse entrepreneurs at BIGHORN,” says Sean. “Everyone has different interests, businesses, and bright
ideas, and I find myself learning from their experiences.” An expert in real estate development, Sean holds over 26 years of experience with the Stonegate Group in building high-end boutique developments in Boston’s historical Back Bay and South End neighborhoods. “Quality, style, and innovative design are just a few distinguishing characteristics of a Stonegate Group development project,” expresses Sean. “Our development team has partnered with prominent architects, contractors, and real estate professionals to harmoniously blend architectural creativity and precision craftsmanship to ensure that our Boston-area development projects are second to none.“ The McGrath family devotion to a calling doesn’t fall far from the tree. Sean’s mother and first-generation BIGHORN Member JoAnn
McGrath serves on several esteemed fine arts and educational boards in Boston and in the desert. Coachella Valley appointments include the McCallum Theatre, Eisenhower Medical Center Board and Foundation Board, Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Palm Springs Art Museum, and Palm Springs International Film Festival – not to mention the prestigious Kennedy Center International Committee on the Arts in Washington, D.C. To her grandsons, JoAnn is simply one of the funniest people you’ll ever meet. “You never know what she’s going to say,” explains James. For Kevin, Grammy taught him how to play backgammon, a gesture that represents just how much “she loves and cares for all of us.” Kevin also adds, “She makes the best whoopie pies! She’s the best!”
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David McGrath Age: 20 Handicap: 7 Longest Drive: 348 yards Average Drive: 285 yards Entering his sophomore year at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., David is following his father’s passion for business by studying finance. On a stroke of luck, he even met his freshman year roommate, Bryce Baker, through BIGHORN’s Junior Golf Program, as Bryce was coincidentally planning to attend Vanderbilt as well. In May, David had the opportunity to travel to China as part of the university’s “Intro to China’s Business Culture” class. There, the students took a journey through Beijing’s business world, and David gained keen business insights and a heightened awareness of the international economy. During the class, Sean offered to meet his son in China for a few days, which made the perfect opportunity for them to knock off another Top 100 Golf Course, Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai, China (#82 in the world). “From day one I have complimented David’s swing,” praises Coach Bill. “He has natural ability and is focused 100 percent on his golf game. David is incredibly bright, especially when it comes to math, so I challenge him to figure out his physics to get the best swing possible. I also like to balance out the competition between the three boys. Because while the boys are all cut from the same cloth, they have vastly different personalities and approaches to the game.” “I don’t know where my game would be without Bill,” David says. “I like the challenge of continuously pushing myself through my game.”
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James McGrath Age: 18 Handicap: 4 Longest Drive: 356 yards Average Drive: 285 yards Starting his senior year at Middlesex School in Concord, Mass., James is not only the captain of his golf team but he is also one of the youngest licensed helicopter pilots on the eastern seaboard. A very impressive feat he achieved at age 18! While considering universities on both coasts, playing basketball, and lifting weights, James ultimately would like to be sitting behind the wheel as a race car driver. His dream car? A Bugatti. What can you say? The kid has excellent taste! Naturally, James says he is excited about The Vault at BIGHORN’s opening this fall, where he looks forward to checking out some of the highly collectible Member-owned cars – and perhaps a sneak preview to the Virtual Race Simulator, if he can talk his dad into it. When it comes to golf, James aspires to play Pebble Beach and put Coach Bill’s techniques to work. “Bill pushes us – he challenges us to play better,” describes James. “Both James and his brother Kevin have worked their tails off to make their golf swing their own,” Bill adds. “James learned early on that it’s not about how it looks, it’s how you score. So I focused on teaching him how to improve his short game. He picked up these tips very quickly, and now shoots in the 70s. We really brought his game up to his level.”
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Kevin McGrath Age: 16 Handicap: 3 Longest Drive: 333 yards Average Drive: 275 yards For Kevin, golf is more than a lifestyle; it’s the focus of his athletic goals. His goals are to play collegiate golf, national tournaments, and the “BIG I.” And he wouldn’t mind adding in a tee time at St. Andrews in Scotland! “Kevin is a bulldog and immediately he wanted to out-swing both his brothers upon his arrival to the Junior Golf Program,” adds Coach Bill. “He would try so hard that I used to tease him that he was going to swing right out of his shoes! Kevin never backs down, especially against playing his brothers in golf. As a teen, your body is growing every year, so every year you need to change your swing. With that in mind, I focused on teaching him about the importance of getting the ball to the hole.” As a sophomore at Middlesex School, he hosts the lowest handicap on the golf team. “But I let my brother James be the Captain this year,” he adds with a modest smile. Kevin also plays basketball, loves hanging out with his friends, and plans to study business in college. It looks like he has been raised in the right family. “Golf is associated with so many things in the business world,” says Kevin, “I know my experience will help elevate me through the business world faster because of the competitive spirit and strong ethics I have learned over the years.”
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Sean and Lisa McGrath’s three golfer sons, David, James, and Kevin, have grown up at BIGHORN, where they have had a great time together while improving their handicap with the help of Bill Madonna and the Junior Golf Program over the last 10 years.
Another one for the memory books was the day the boys met LPGA golfer Michelle Wie at a BIGHORN Junior Golf Clinic. For several years, Michelle would spend her Thanksgiving weekend at BIGHORN sharing tips and advice for each golfer as they practiced their drives and posing for photos with the kids. The McGraths always enjoy attending and participating in the variety of events on BIGHORN’s busy calendar. Especially since JoAnn is right nearby and they can all go as an extended family. In February, the family threw a huge birthday celebration to honor their matriarch of the family. JoAnn’s party hosted 100 people at the prestigious Canyon Steak House who all enjoyed upbeat dancing music and a dazzling fireworks show. Sean says that the community has greatly enhanced the family’s personal experience since their 2004 purchase. “BIGHORN as a
Club continues to raise the bar and add improvements,” he affirms. “We are lucky to have R.D. Hubbard as our Chairman to envision what’s best for the Club.” Philanthropy is on top of mind for this family as well. “It’s impressive to see the efforts that our own BIGHORN Golf Club Charities has made in supporting non-profits and some of the brightest kids in the Coachella Valley,” shares Sean. “The new BIGHORN Cares Grant Program is reaching out to the most underfunded non-profits and giving them a leg up to serve people who need it most. In combination with their educational outreach, scholarships, and support of deserving cancer patients and the hospitals that cure them, R.D. Hubbard and BIGHORN Golf Club Charities are making a huge difference in the desert. It’s meaningful to be part of a club that recognizes their responsibilities to give back to the extended community.”
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1018 Cahuilla Falls
BIGHORN Is All We Do! At BIGHORN, seizing the day means taking hold of a limited opportunity to build a lasting legacy and becoming part of a community of homeowners who live comfortably in awardwinning, architectural masterpieces, who experience excellent service, and who enjoy an unparalleled way of life. Our individual homesites, custom residences, and remarkable villas are represented by arguably one of the finest teams of real estate professionals in the world: BIGHORN Properties! An unmatched resource since its inception in 1990, BIGHORN Properties is open seven days a week, all year, to serve listing clients and accommodate prospective buyers at a moment’s notice. Only BIGHORN Properties can provide prospective owners and Members with immediate access to all private amenities by offering a full, firsthand glimpse into the BIGHORN lifestyle. Four professional sales associates, who average over 19 years of experience at BIGHORN, continue to cultivate long-lasting relationships with their homeowners. They are led by Carl Cardinalli, Director of Sales, who has seen BIGHORN develop from inception to its revered status as one of the world’s exceptional communities.
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101 Wanish Place
By Joanna Beresford Photography by Mark Davidson
The fully equipped office has participated in 96% of all property sales since BIGHORN’s founding. This record is no accident; it was established through tremendous effort and focus. The team has a thorough understanding of the BIGHORN vision, detailed knowledge of every facet of its properties, and an unwaivering commitment to BIGHORN’s community and Club. It is no wonder that BIGHORN Properties has successfully negotiated and closed over $2.4 billion in sales at BIGHORN. For information on BIGHORN’s current real estate offerings, please call BIGHORN Properties at (800) 551-5578 or visit www.bighorngolf.com/BighornProperties.
Passion For The Grape
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By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson
To merely state that Lauri and Mike Corliss are wine enthusiasts doesn’t justify their immense passion for the love of the grape. As owners and developers of Corliss Vineyard in Walla Walla, Wash., the couple is engrossed in every juicy detail, thoughtfully funneling the company’s philosophy of patience, teamwork, dedication, and flavor into every bottle. It’s the vibrant images of people, families, and friends celebrating their favorite moments with their wines in hand that motivates them year over year, whether in their creation of the traditional richness of Corliss wines or the progressive tastes of Tranche wines. Mike Corliss was educated in winemaking at a very young age. As a fourth generation Washingtonian, he well understood the potential of the soil content in the Red Mountain area, which eventually became its own American Viticultural Area (AVA). He developed a long-term perspective, instigating patience and perfection, and set out to build a multigenerational business within which his family could celebrate sweet success for many years to come. Growing their grapes through sustainable farming methods in the renowned subappellations of Red Mountain, Walla Walla, Yakima Valleys, and the Columbia Gorge in Washington State, Corliss Vineyards’ staff personally handpicks and sorts each varietal. A small portion of the very best grapes are then set aside and reserved to make Corliss Wines; the rest continue their journey on to a select group of award-winning Washington wineries. The couple’s tried-and-true formula for memorable wines is simple: Start with sun, soil, and carefully tended fruit; add expertly crafted blends to meticulously selected barrels, and throw in the magical ingredients of patience and time. “Extra time in a bottle inside our temperature-controlled cellar allows each finished wine to meld, evolve, and mature,” Lauri reveals. “Each element contributes to the complexity of the aroma, flavor, texture, and finish. This is the gold standard, the creative vision, and the hallmark of every Corliss wine.” Lauri and Mike have left their impression for all time on the fruitful and continuing history of the southern Washington Columbia Valley wine regions. They use the same winemaking team at both Corliss Estates (which has three distinct vineyards) and at their separate sister winery, Tranche Cellars. 75
Red Mountain Vineyards “Red Mountain has more than justified its reputation as the epicenter for growing great red wine grapes in Washington,” says Mike. The portfolio consists of nearly 350 acres of acclaimed AVA vineyard property, making it a picturesque and fertile home to a wide variety of grapes that people love to sip in those big, bold reds. “The mountain’s elevation, slopes, desert-like climate, and complex soils make it a perfect laboratory for red wine viticulture,” he adds. The couple purchased their first Red Mountain vineyard parcel in 2007. These 33 acres, originally planted in 1989, produced a bountiful harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. “Our land sits in the sweet spot that is referred to as ‘the tenderloin,’” explains Lauri, “because the fruit has historically produced some of the finest wines from Washington.” In 2009, the couple acquired an additional 139 acres. The first vines went in on southwest slopes at elevations climbing to 1,500 feet. The rows were oriented to shade the fruit from too much sun and were angled to allow proper airflow, which prevented cold air from pooling (a frost hazard) when the temperature drops. “We planted 56 acres, predominately to Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot), with smaller amounts of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault,” continues Lauri. Acquired in 2012, the third vineyard parcel of 174 acres sits adjacent to the second and holds plantings of rarely seen Nebbiolo as well as 30-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon. Numerous other red and white varieties are also in the ground. Once evaluated for quality and health, they too will have a mouthwatering Red Mountain future.
Blackrock Vineyard Blackrock Vineyard is a stone’s throw from Red Mountain on the eastern edge of the Yakima Valley AVA. Since 1998, the couple has planted a total of 50 acres. Over the course of more than 15 years, they’ve been thrilled to discover that a wide spectrum of grapes will flourish on the site. Similar to Red Mountain with its steep slopes and range of soils, it yields a remarkable wine list in the making. From favorite Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Merlot) and blendable Rhône varietals (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Counoise) to the more unusual Mediterranean varietals (Dolcetto and Barbera from Italy and Tempranillo from Spain), each finds its own way to thrive across the same location, affording the couple a wealth of opportunity. Blue Mountain Estates Corliss’s Blue Mountain Vineyard is a breathtaking, 180-acre site currently planted to 54 acres with a tempting array of red and white varietals. Cooler than Red Mountain, the Blue Mountain vineyard produces less tannic wines with fruit-driven flavors. The first vines went into the ground in 2001 – a mix of Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot), Rhône varietals (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre) and Mediterranean (Sangiovese). In 2009, 12 acres of white Rhône grapes were planted (Roussanne, Viognier, Marsanne, Picpoul, Grenache Blanc, and Clairette Blanche) to support the production of Tranche Cellars’ estate-grown, “Slice of Pape Blanc.” In 2014, 20 more acres were planted on the site and the couple is currently developing another 40 acres that will be planted in 2016.
Mike Corliss is engrossed in every detail of the winemaking philosophy, serving as the barometer of consistency in developing their premium wines.
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Tranche wine enthusiasts can join the Pape Culture Club where they gather to share their mutual love of unique slices of wines of the world including Mediterranean varietal wines and Rhone blends made from estate-grown, Washington grapes.
Celilo Vineyard In July 2015, Mike and Lauri added the Celilo Vineyard to their real estate portfolio. Celilo has long been considered the finest white wine vineyard in Washington state. In 1972, it was converted from a pear orchard to vineyards by the McAndrews family, who had been the sole owners until now. The property consists of 129 acres of land with 53 acres of dry-farmed vineyard planted to Chardonnay, Gewurtraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Gruner Veltliner, Lemberger, and Muller Thurgau. Soils from the extinct volcanic cone of Underwood Mountain can be as deep as 45 feet and retain moisture well, allowing Celilo Vineyards to survive without irrigation. The deep-rooted vines bring a mineral characteristic to Celilo’s wines along with higher acidity giving them Burgundian characteristics. At an elevation ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet, the vineyard is considered sub-alpine, sitting on a cusp of wetter maritime weather to the west and the high desert to the east. The Corliss’ seek to update the vineyard management to modern standards, continue to develop the
property, and supply world-class fruit to the thriving Pacific Northwest wine community. Tranche Cellars Tranche, a French term meaning “slice,” refers in this case to exploring a broadening range of estate-grown Mediterranean and Rhone-inspired varietal wines and blends. At Tranche Cellars, the team has cultivated a diverse collection of some of the world’s most interesting grape varietals. Practicing sustainable viticulture, their careful technique of hand-farming each block harvests very low yields of intensely flavored fruit – resulting in a cutting-edge brand that has become an excellent counterpart to the classic Corliss wines. Mike sums up the product with ease: “Expressive, aromatic, beautifully defined varietal wines and blends.” “A taste of Tranche is a slice of life,” exudes Mike. “The life of the place, the vines, the people who make the wines, and most of all drink them – we have given our lives over to making every bottle worthy of your attention.” 77
Winter Escapes The Corliss family has lived at BIGHORN for 15 years, enabling their five kids to grow up in the desert while the vines lay dormant for the winter. Now ranging in age from 20 to 27, the youngest will soon be graduating from college, and two have followed in the family business. Their oldest daughter works as a Hospitality Manager for a Sonoma Valley winery while their middle daughter works for a wine distributor in Hong Kong. Their BIGHORN home worked perfectly for their active family with the mountains nearby for hiking and their cantilevered entertainment patio presiding over the valley below – the locale of many happy family occasions. “BIGHORN is our happy place” shares Lauri. “Here we have the flexibility to be as social or as private as the moment requires for us. When we leave we are rested, revived, and ready for a more hectic pace. Life at BIGHORN is indescribably invaluable.” Built and designed by friend and fellow BIGHORN Member Mike Fedderly 15 years ago, the organic elements of the house blend flawlessly with the homeowners’ philosophy and their love for
the land. From rock outcroppings and meandering streams to an ethereal elevated master bedroom, the design has a supremely natural ebb and flow that extends all the way downstairs. As one descends the staircase, a fountain trickles into a cavernous basin. Rock walls ascend alongside the hand-crafted staircase railing revealing a billiards room, game table, wet bar, and fully stocked wine cellar, plus two guest suites. Here, the family has spent many nights watching television, playing games, and celebrating the simplest moments of being together. As the home’s designer and fellow wine enthusiast, Mike Fedderly became close friends with Lauri and Mike, introducing the couple to wines from all over the world along the way. They saved his favorite wine, a La Tache Burgundy, for a very special birthday, making the evening one to remember. The harmonious results of the Corliss family living at BIGHORN match the intensity and the characteristics of their favorite wines – refined and flavorful with beautiful delineation of detail and the richness and structure to improve with every year.
Their Mountains estate home features endless panoramic views of the pristine fairway and the valley beyond, topped by early morning sun and starlit skies. Members since 1996, the couple enjoys every moment of their life at BIGHORN.
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All That Glitters
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson, Fuller Edge Photography, Katie Geiberger, Rob Greer Photography, Pat Lassy, and Shannon Wilsey
When the BIGHORN Catering team receives a call from a Member who is planning his or her first event at BIGHORN, they are confident of one thing: It won’t be the last! This talented staff lives to make jaws drop and smiles inevitable. And that’s just the beginning. With a passion for tailoring exquisite menus – from fanciful trays of beautiful appetizers to elaborately decadent dessert displays and imaginative signature cocktails that tie into your theme – the team listens to your unique vision for the perfect celebration before creatively executing it beyond your
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wildest dreams. You’ll be as amazed as your guests at their endless penchant for conjuring out-of-the-box events, whether on your own entertaining patio or in one of BIGHORN’s perfect venues. Captivated party-goers who reluctantly head home take along sweet memories they will share and revisit for years to come. Combine the catering team’s years of experience with the area’s most renowned event designers, inspired wedding coordinators, and gifted floral artists and you’ll find that each timeless celebration is guaranteed to be a tremendous success – not to mention worthy of a magazine spread!
“We’re receiving more calls than ever for weddings, anniversaries, kids’ parties, and those historic birthdays when Members hit that special milestone and it has to be truly unforgettable,” says Catering Director Joe DeNovi. Word has spread that BIGHORN Catering specializes in absolutely effortless, concept-to-clean up services for any landmark occasion.
The couple wed at the private home of Members Amy and Barry Baker, where the bride and groom had first met at a BIGHORN BAM fundraiser. The Baker’s sunken tennis court transformed into the ideal setting for an al fresco reception. The following day, the couple stated their vows again at a Christian ceremony which was held on the picturesque Mountains driving range overlooking the valley. The ceremony was followed by a poolside reception at the Clubhouse where everyone danced the starry night away.
© ROB GREER PHOTOGRAPHY
© ROB GREER PHOTOGRAPHY
What’s more, hosts and hostesses can bask in the emotions of the day knowing that behind the scenes every nuance is in the most skilled of hands. Members tell DeNovi they consistently feel like guests at their own party and can’t envision their memories made anywhere else. “Even small gatherings benefit from our professional touches that really pull it all together,” he adds. “That carries over to large events; we have planned weddings for a guest list of over 500, and we always wow the couple with the level of personalization and the tiny details we are able to incorporate just for them that speak to their joys and their relationship.”
This past year, BIGHORN hosted a number of glamorous wedding events. One multi-day extravaganza even made BIGHORN history by including a gigantic guest of honor: the first elephant to ever walk on BIGHORN soil! After a ride in a luxury coach, this sweet 2-year-old elephant transported the groom, Peter Curtin, in traditional Indian fashion to meet his bride, Tanya Shanti – daughter of BIGHORN’s private jeweler Joe Goott and his wife, Panna. The festive fanfare had guests dancing in the streets while a mobile DJ escorted them to a grand Indian ceremony.
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For the ultimate wedding experience, BIGHORN Catering maintains long-standing relationships with premier vendors including furniture rentals, lighting companies, musicians, and other specialists that understand BIGHORN’s high standards and appreciation for elegance. Photogenic backdrops with the high drama of BIGHORN’s panoramic views combine with little-known niches for candid moments to create images worthy of lifetime events. When Robert Masterson dreamt up a surprise birthday party for his wife, Joan, DeNovi worked with him and her closest girlfriends to finesse every detail for an evening custom-fit just for her. Guests arrived in black-and-white before she entered the room, completely awestruck – in a stunning red dress that matched the décor. Their son surprised her by singing with the dance band, while 200 guests watched her beam.
As the finishing touch, BIGHORN Catering’s world-class service before, during, and after the party is unmatched – even for last-minute shindigs and spontaneous get-togethers. From significant family reunions, graduations, and company think tanks to more casual events such as friends visiting from afar, children’s sports team wins, pet birthdays, and “We finished our kitchen remodel!” bashes, life’s important moments are fun to commemorate at BIGHORN. That’s because with BIGHORN Catering as master in command, meaningful gatherings of every shape and size are customized and presented by the Club that knows you best. Couples love capturing their engagement portraits at BIGHORN.
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Imagine, Explore, Inspire!
Over 25,000 square feet of beautiful objects from 18th Century to Mid-Century Modern.
www.MaisonFelice.com maisonfelice@aol.com
73960 El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA 92260 t.760.862.0021 f.760.862.0051
Italian Affair
By Lisa Marie Hart Photography by Mark Davidson
Designer style and Italian architecture set the stage for this custom estate of an Italian villa – one that happens to have been masterfully built at BIGHORN. Few who drive past the BIGHORN gates would ever suspect that a home so nearby could reveal this sort of Italian countryside feel – or that it could be so meticulously filled with centuries-old details, thoughtful custom accents, and a gallery of exquisite antiques personally curated by its owners from renowned regions across Italy.
education in art history served as the ideal springboard for this ultimate design challenge.
The Midge and Pat Mulcahy estate at 119 Navtem Place is one of several spectacular BIGHORN residences that was born straight from the imagination of its homeowners. These distinctive homes fit right in with BIGHORN’s signature blend of styles – elegant works from prominent architects reknown the world over. Midge and Pat are among these homeowner visionaries who have forever left their legacy on the community and their imprint on the landscape by designing their own awe-inspiring home right at BIGHORN, with none other like it in the world.
“I love the lot’s enormous privacy and unique surroundings,” says Midge of the elevated perch on a very private cul-de-sac tucked up beside a rugged swath of mountainside. “We can enjoy the beautiful Santa Rosas as well as panoramic views of the 1st fairway.”
After traveling throughout Italy on multiple occasions, Midge worked closely with architect Gordon Stein to design and develop not just a single home but a necklace of individual abodes that look and feel like a rustic Italian village. Her interior designer background, experience working for a design-build firm, and
A well-chosen team of professionals helped Midge combine the rich abundance of historical items she brought back from Italy into a fairytale estate that looks like it was plucked from the Italian countryside and placed gently on a generous plateau overlooking the Mountains course.
Exuding unmistakable charm and transportive European ambiance, the home’s Italian romance is smartly tempered by a straightforward sensibility, defined by simplicity and unfussiness. The harmony results in a highly polished gem designed to recall the rustic appeal of Florence and Rome. The Venetian plaster adds to the authenticity of the home and its three detached guest suites create their own private village all around a lush rose garden courtyard filled with flittering hummingbirds and a bocce ball court. How very Italian!
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“The Italian Villa feels as if you are living in the heart of Italy,” shares the homeowners. “All our dreams have been translated into this remarkable home.”
On cool evenings, the couple might find themselves in the living room, relaxing beside one of three antique Peperino stone fireplaces that Midge hand-selected. The lava-like stone is found only outside of Rome. Gorgeous Corzine sofas beckon beneath wood-beam ceilings while an expansive, antique three-section bibliotheca cabinet fills an entire corner. Rare books, antique finds, and Italian collectibles are displayed from behind its towering glass doors. Custom murals that arch around the doorways have an in-house artist to thank. Midge commissioned an artisan from Rome to spend months in the home, adding his skillful touch. Beyond the living room, his work is showcased on a grand level across the dining room’s barrel-vaulted ceiling. There, hand-painted shields from the Palio di Siena horse race mingle with Italian family crests. Feasts unfold around the carved walnut dining table from Parma that can seat 14. The carved walnut and leather dining chairs date to 1840, while another of Midge’s discoveries – a regional hand-painted on gesso buffet – is a treasure from 1720. During the day sunlight streams into hallways from high set windows. At night, the warm glow from antique iron sconces creates a romantic ambiance. This attention to detail prevails in every aspect of the home and creates and authenticity that easily transports one to the hills of Tuscany. Midge points out the practicality of the house as well. “The home is so well built that it’s incredibly comfortable and naturally temperature-controlled year-round.” 86
The couple, who came to BIGHORN 15 years ago, fully appreciates Midge’s masterpiece. They had been married for two years when they made two significant investments in 1999 – the first was the lot for Midge’s Italian dream home; the second was a BIGHORN villa to live in while she built it – nearly a three-year labor of love. “This is all her,” Pat smiles. “I really don’t have any taste, so I’m happy to follow hers!” At the time, he was commuting between BIGHORN and St. Louis, where he served as CEO of Ralston-Purina. After an incredible career, he retired in 2006 as Chief Executive Officer of Energizer Holdings, Inc., for which he remains Chairman of the Board. Both love to golf; Pat also enjoys bicycling as well as stretching and weight lifting in the BIGHORN Fitness Center. “More importantly, we love our friendships at BIGHORN,” he says. “Even though we lived in St. Louis for more than 30 years, our closest friends are here.” Those friends joined the family during a surprise party held at the home for Pat’s birthday – a night the couple recalls fondly. “I thought I was going to dinner with a friend at the Club,” Pat laughs. “But the kids showed up and the party lasted a few days!” Work balances with play, of course, when Pat retreats to the cozy office with stone fireplace, wood-beam ceiling, and golf course views. The couple’s big, adorably serious cat, Harry, often keeps Pat company there, but will hide when the couple head out for a casual game of bocce ball. “We kind of introduced bocce to BIGHORN after we picked it up in a resort town on the Adriatic,” Midge says. The travel-savvy 87
couple went to Italy with a group of BIGHORN friends two years ago, then last year took a safari and golf trip to Africa. Next stop? New Zealand, Australia, and Tazmania. “We go with other couples who are really good travel mates,” Pat explains. “We’re all at the same point in life and want to see the world with our buddies instead of a big group.” Friends always love to visit the Mulcahys’ slice of Italy. From the front door to the back entertainment patio, the experience Midge created is seamless and breathtaking. A tiered path creates a dramatic introduction to the south-facing four-bedroom residence. Past the towering vault entry, ancient, first-cut stone flooring from Israel and antique Italian tile leads into the home. From there, endless ways to entertain – one of the couple’s passions – await. A striking antique three-panel bar that may once have been used as a traveling baptismal font in Italy now makes a fashionable wine and cocktail center. Outdoors, custom teak furnishings combine with a disappearing flat-screen television, fireplace, water-efficient turf lawn, spa with plunging waterfall, cast wishing well, and the pool, which Midge describes as “simple and patterned after one I liked in Italy.” A pair of custom tables that have become a favorite gathering spot are inlaid with antique Italian tiles that Midge collected specifically for this purpose. The master suite enjoys its own views of the pool and Mountains course 1st fairway. Straight out of a Florence storybook, the suite features a carved wood four-posted bed, checkerboard floor of wood and terra cotta tiles, and double doors from Italy that have been painstakingly taken down to their original paint – an ethereal “My concept was to create more of a village than a house,” Midge says of her one-of-a-kind 6,845 sf mountainside retreat. “When you look down on it from above, you see that every room is a building.”
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robin’s egg blue. “When I found them, they were painted white, so I asked the artist to strip them down and see what was underneath,” Midge relates. “When I saw this incredible blue, I decided to keep the doors just as they were originally.” On a whim, Midge created the open double rain shower in the spa bath from an Italian fountain – a bold accompaniment to the heated Spanish tile floor and trio of high windows enhanced by hand-laid mosaic tiles. “And the carved white Carrara marble tub is just like you see in all of the old Italian villas,” Midge adds. The heart of many Italian homes, however, is the kitchen. For the Mulcahys, one of their favorite memories is the night their favorite chef – a Sicilian chef from St. Louis – catered for a large crowd during a BIGHORN BAM fundraiser they hosted. “Giovanni was here prepping for a week,” Pat recalls of the chef who knew Sinatra and cooked for Ronald Reagan and Oprah Winfrey. “It was a spectacular meal and everyone loved it.” With all the charm of Italy’s culinary heritage, the inspired kitchen impresses with two walnut prep tables, one topped with gleaming Cavendish Grey Classic Carrara marble. “Italian kitchens don’t have islands,” Midge notes. “So I chose these long tables like one would see in Italy. The marble-top one is perfect for rolling out pasta or dough. Its long, built-in flour drawers go all the way to the middle.” Dual granite farmhouse sinks, high-performance appliances, morning room seating, custom pendant lighting, a stone fireplace, and pitched wood-beam ceiling complete the Italian flavor. Truly enchanted throughout, the residence is so welcoming that it feels like home, even to first-time visitors.
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By Lisa Marie Hart and Theresa Maggio Photography by Mark Davidson, Shannon Wilsey and Getty Images In 2006, BIGHORN Chairman R.D. Hubbard created BIGHORN Golf Club Charities, a 501(c)(3) non-profit focused on providing college scholarships, English as a Second Language classes, hundreds of gifts during our holiday Toy Drive, and providing a Veterans Resource Center at the College of the Desert to assist the 400 veterans attending classes. To date, BIGHORN Golf Club Charities has funded 419 community college, trade school, 4-year university, and graduate scholarships with 48 more anticipated to be awarded this fall semester alone.
Members have been moved to provide BIGHORN Golf Club Charities with the necessary funds for these non-profit organizations to enhance their facilities, improve their programs, and launch new ones. BIGHORN Cares is their newly established vehicle for doing just that, in the only way that BIGHORN knows how – doing it BIG and doing it RIGHT!
Through this success, BIGHORN Members continue to give and support hard-working individuals who will undoubtedly make our valley’s future great! In 2014, BIGHORN Members Joe Kirby, R.D. Hubbard, and Ed Burger collaborated on another idea to honor the dedicated, immensely effective non-profits in the Coachella Valley that serve some of the most underserved populations to radically improve their quality of life. Many of our
Nine-year-old INCIGHT athlete Damian was born with a Oromandibular Limb Hypogenesis Syndrome. Using his prosthetic legs and the high-performance wheelchairs purchased by a BIGHORN Cares Grant allows him to play tennis, basketball, and baseball. 91
What started as a grassroots campaign by a few Members wanting to reach out to the most underserved in our community has turned into an exciting beacon of hope for 38 well-deserving non-profits. We all know that the Coachella Valley is home to many non-profits that do truly incredible work. Over 125 Valley non-profits applied for the first BIGHORN Cares program, all with impressive programs and services that are enriching our community. Yet the selected 2014 recipients provided the most significant projects that are poised to benefit the most people and make an unmistakable difference in local lives. In our beautiful Valley, the needs are vast, and the results of these awarded monies will prove to be miraculous!
“Thank you for our BIGHORN Cares Grant. We have an appointment Monday morning to purchase our new van. We are so honored to be among the first BIGHORN Cares recipients.” – Oma Gray, Soroptimist House of Hope, Inc. BIGHORN Cares donors Shelley Reade, Barbara & Woody Stuart, Vickie & David McFarland, and Joan Dale & R.D. Hubbard with Harold Matzner.
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2014 BIGHORN Cares grants funded the following programs: 1. AIDS Assistance Program, Inc. – patient grocery cards 2. Assistance League of Palm Springs Desert – Operation School Bell supplying children’s clothing and backpacks 3. Baseball Buddies – disabled children’s baseball equipment 4. Bob Hope USO Palm Springs – cots, sleeping mats, and a movie screen for military members waiting for their flights 5. Boys & Girls Club, Cathedral City – upgrade their gymnasium and equipment 6. Boys & Girls Club, Coachella Valley – upgrade their community room and cafeteria 7. Boys & Girls Club, Indio Unit – upgrade their computer lab, art room, education room, and game room for 1,200 kids 8. Boys & Girls Club, La Quinta Unit – upgrade their education and game rooms 9. Braille Institute Rancho Mirage – purchase much-needed braille technology for teens and children 10. Cahuilla Elementary School – technology for teachers 11. California State San Bernardino, PDCVSC – technology for the new Veterans Success Center 12. Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert – 4 Family Nights for 800-1,000 East Valley kids and their families 13. Coachella Valley Housing Coalition – developing English as a Second Language program 14. Coachella Valley Rescue Mission – annual purchase of towels, bed linens, and personal hygiene supplies for 225 homeless citizens 15. Desert Cancer Foundation – patient equipment 16. Desert Cities Mitchell Paige MOH Chapter – 100 Christmas dinners for military families 17. Desert Recreation District Foundation – technology for seniors’ and children’s programs 18. Ears4Me, Inc. – screenings for uninsured patients and purchase diagnostic equipment 19. Father’s Heart – A Ranch for Children – 3 air-conditioning units for neglected and abused boys’ home 20. Gilda’s Club Desert Cities – building improvements 21. Guide Dogs of the Desert – upgrade kennels and purchase a misting and shade system for training 22. Hanson House Foundation – refurbish 12 bedrooms and upgrades to community resident’s kitchen
Boys & Girls Club of the Coachella Valley
23. INCIGHT – purchase 4 sports wheelchairs for activities 24. K-9 Friendly Visitors – educational training assistance 25. Los Medicos Voladores (The Flying Doctors) – host an annual health day for 2,000 underserved citizens providing health, vision, and dental screenings 26. Mama’s House – support the Courage to Carry program benefiting pregnant moms through job searches 27. Paws & Hearts – Animal Assisted Therapy – training for long-term, cancer, and Alzheimer’s outreach programs 28. Pegasus Therapeutic Riding – provide transportation services for 200 disabled children to animal therapy 29. Rancho Mirage Elementary School – provide technology to teachers 30. Refuge Pregnancy Center – ultrasound and lab equipment for mothers 31. SafeHouse of the Desert – Grow Your Own Garden program to engage youth-in-crisis in the opportunity to learn life skills 32. San Jose Community and Learning Center – technology and building improvements for Thermal community center supporting residents of 41 mobile home parks 33. Shadow Hills High School Theater – technology for the arts 34. Soroptimist House of Hope, Inc. – patient transportation for medical appointments 35. Stroke Recovery Center – purchase critical exercise equipment to expand their therapy program for long-term rehabilitation 36. The Ranch Recovery Centers, Inc. – patient transportation for medical appointments 37. Valley View Elementary School – develop a physical education program 38. West Shores High School – technology and a library
“It was amazing to be included with so many organizations that were tremendously blessed by BIGHORN Cares. In my 20+ years in the non-profit world, your awards dinner was the first night that I have seen a standing ovation at the closing of the event to applaud the hosting organization’s efforts. It was an honor to be a part of that and to stand and applaud your efforts in giving to our youth and our community.” – Chuck Delong, Father’s Heart Ranch
Baseball Buddies have had an incredible season with new equipment. SafeHouse of the Desert’s Grow Your Own Garden engages youth-in-crisis in learning lifelong skills. Judy May and Tom Ayala from INCIGHT.
“I can’t express how thankful we are for the BIGHORN Cares grant money. The head of technology for the District is looking for matching money for us so that we can all get our computers. It is because of your donation that this is happening. Thank you!” – Marsha Boring Rancho Mirage Elementary School 93
Educational Scholarships BIGHORN Golf Club Charities (BGCC) has raised over $6 million to build Coachella Valley’s future through educational scholarships. Funding has included 196 community college and technical trade scholarships and 223 4-year university and master’s scholarships. BIGHORN has experienced students filled with hope, inspiration, and determination to build a more promising future, as shown through these examples: Amber Wiskow Corner Director of Nursing and Infection Control Coordinator, Advanced Pain Management Daughter of 24-year BIGHORN team member Sue Babington, the Homeowners Association Manager, Amber started visiting BIGHORN as a baby. As she grew, she understood how important BIGHORN was to their family, not only as a means of support, but as friends who loved them. As she prepared to go to College of the Desert (C.O.D.), she was granted the BGCC Scholarship to help her with tuition, books, and expenses. “A successful career takes dedication, hard work, and perseverance,” Amber says. “I had big dreams of becoming a Nurse. Receiving the BGCC Scholarship meant I was able to focus more time on school and less time at work. I completed my prerequisites in two short years and was quickly accepted into the Nursing Program. Two grueling years later, I emerged with a degree in hand. I am proud to be a Registered Nurse and gratefully thank the BIGHORN Members for making my dreams a reality!” Amber is the Director of Nursing and the Infection Control Coordinator for the Ambulatory Surgical Center at Advanced Pain Management. Working alongside Dr. Roland Reinhart, she prepares patients for medical procedures to ensure their safe and quick recovery. “I try to positively impact my patient’s lives by turning what can be a frightening experience into something pleasant,” she states. “I could not ask for a more rewarding career.” 94
Veronica Noriega Canyons Electrical & Golf Maintenance Veronica Noriega is a 15-year BIGHORN team member with the Canyons Golf Maintenance staff. She has graduated from the English as a Second Language program held at BIGHORN, which has helped her in filling out forms, filing her taxes, and reading her bank statements as well as boosting her confidence to participate in more activities. Five years ago, BIGHORN Golf Club Charities granted Veronica a scholarship to complete her Industrial Electric and Residential Electricity certification. She spent over 200 hours on weekends driving to the Riverside Training Center. Her graduation assignment entailed working on an elaborate final project which incorporated switches, buttons, lights and a fan to demonstrate how electricity transmits in multiple ways. “Everyone at BIGHORN has the opportunity to grow,” she shares. “I am excited to continue with my education and want my co-workers to succeed too!” “We are so proud of Veronica,” shares Golf Superintendent Dave Lowe. “She is a model team member who encourages her co-workers to continue their education and who teaches others what she has learned.”
Mayra Orozco Payroll Associate Eight years ago, Mayra started at BIGHORN as the Ladies’ Locker Room Attendant. Her winning personality and professionalism impressed the Members and while attending school she moved into a position at The Pour House. After graduation, an opportunity opened in Human Resources for a Payroll Associate and she was immediately selected to fill the position. “The BIGHORN Scholarship helped me succeed and become the professional I am today,” shares Mayra. “It gave me hope when finances became tight. My manager would give me extra shifts when I could only afford to take one class at a time, but I knew I could do it! Going to C.O.D. and then graduating from Cal State San Bernardino, I felt like I was on top of the world!” As a Payroll Associate for the past three years, Mayra feels that she is prepared for the real world, adding “I am so grateful for all the help BIGHORN has given me.” Mayra is now working on her Certified Payroll Professional certification and donating her time to students who want to continue their education. “Anything is possible with determination!” she exclaims.
BIGHORN Changes Lives Year after year, BIGHORN Golf Club Charities (BGCC) hits milestones. These are born from the generosity of the individuals behind this organization’s lofty yet remarkably attainable goals. Over the past year, BGCC has made some significant achievements in its philanthropic efforts including adding to its support of Eisenhower Medical Center. $43 million has been given in 10 short years. Members have supported the nationally recognized BIGHORN Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Center at Scripps and the impressive cancer survivor supporting BIGHORN Behind A Miracle (BAM). Their coordinated efforts reached an impressive $5.5 million milestone over its nine-year history!
Eisenhower Medical Center.............................. $43 million Scripps Medical Center....................................... $5 million BIGHORN BAM Fight Against Cancer.............. $5.5 million Hurricane Katrina Victims ............................... $1.5 million Veterans Lake Resource Center....................... $1.3 million BIGHORN Cares......................................................$800,000 College of the Desert.............................................$550,000 Total Community College, 4-Year University & Graduate Scholarships.........................................419 Holiday Tree Donation Program ..................................1,850 (gifts over the past 7 years) BIGHORN BAM Fights Cancer “BIGHORN BAM is a true miracle to the 25,000 cancer patients treated at Eisenhower Medical center each year,” beams 10-year breast cancer survivor Selby Dunham. “From day one of diagnosis, you are a survivor. So it’s a privilege for us to lessen both the physical strain by providing high-performance equipment and transportation services at Eisenhower and lessen the financial strain with monetary assistance through our partnership with The Pendleton Foundation.” Pendleton distributes grocery and gas cards and helps pay rent and utilities when money gets tough and patients need to focus on getting better. “When people are diagnosed in the Coachella Valley and are struggling financially, they need immediate response,” shares Sean Roberts, President of The Pendleton Foundation. “When you don’t have food or housing, you can’t wait three weeks for benefits. The Pendleton Foundation receives applications that are generally approved within an hour. We can have benefits ready for that patient the same day!” “If we can’t get patients to treatment, it’s impossible to get them better. To BIGHORN BAM, from every patient, family member, and every physician, we can’t thank you enough!” – Alison Mayer Sachs, Director of Community Outreach & Eisenhower Cancer Support Services
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BIGHORN CONTRIBUTIONS TO DATE:
BIGHORN BAM’s fight against breast cancer has raised $5.5 million and assists 25,000+ patients annually. Lucy Curci Cancer Center is growing their space to accommodate a High Risk Breast Clinic, developing Breast Imaging Research, promoting physician education to the community, and creating a healing environment. Providing high-performance equipment is still the core of Eisenhower’s needs: a Tomosynthesis, or a 3-D Mammography machine, is necessary as well as a Whole Breast Ultrasound System and a Breast CT, which offers the accuracy of an MRI with the convenience of having a mammogram. “BIGHORN BAM seeks the greatest needs at Eisenhower and makes the decision on what they can help fulfill – that is a true miracle!” expresses Michael Landes, President, Eisenhower Medical Foundation. And There’s More... Philanthropy of all shapes and sizes has always been a BIGHORN tradition, and this past season is greater proof that a legacy can be built when the caring efforts of many individuals come together as one united force. Whether it’s The Galen, Palm Springs Art Museum, The Living Desert, McCallum Theatre, Cancer for College, or the multitude of non-profits that work with the neediest members of our community, BIGHORN Members continue to band together to help build up the surrounding community by making a real difference! 95
Life’s Best Moments Thinking back on “life before BIGHORN,” each member of the Andrews family can’t imagine where they might be without the memories and moments they have created as part of the community. It was a decision that involved the entire family, and one that has changed the course of their lives. Their journey to BIGHORN began when son Kevin was a teenage golfer traveling with his father, Duane, from their home in Lake Tahoe to La Quinta to work with a golf coach. Taken in by the area’s world-class reputation as a training ground for budding
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By Theresa Maggio Photography by Scott Avra, David Blank, and Mark Davidson
golfers, they ventured out to look at property during one of their visits. On his call with BIGHORN Properties, Duane shared the importance of Kevin’s ability to play the courses if they decided to purchase. When they arrived, “Sales Agent Tony Lennon, Membership Director Mike Grenier, and Junior Golf Director Bill Madonna all met with us for our appointment, and we were sold immediately on their genuineness,” Duane recalls. More than anywhere else they considered, the two felt at home with the BIGHORN team.
“They were integral to our experience,” Duane attests. After viewing BIGHORN, Kevin took the initiative of shopping online for the family’s dream home. He found an incredible property that not only fulfilled the family’s needs but also offered a sensational Canyons course view and sleek architectural details. On the next trip, Becky and Amanda joined the guys to see this home for themselves. They immediately loved its sense of privacy as well as its intriguing, nautilus-style design that places the great room at the center with the rest of the house designed around itself. During an enthusiastic family meeting, they discussed numbers and decided that BIGHORN and this home were the right investments. From there, the family’s moments at BIGHORN quickly turned to lifetime memories. Amanda and Kevin, who were 19 and 16 at the
time, spent many weekends at the new house. Because Kevin played golf throughout high school and needed to play independent of his parents when he traveled down, the Club extended him a Legacy membership. Kevin understood the privilege and pursued the sport seriously. “It was the perfect place for practicing and working on my game, especially with my swing coach being local,” he relates. A Legacy meant he could play at any time, and it presented him the honor of inviting guests, including his coaches or teammates. After two years of Division 1 collegiate golf at University of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif., Kevin took an internship with a hedge fund and discovered a newfound passion for business. Though golf became purely recreational when he transferred to The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Va., to focus on finance, BIGHORN has remained an important part of his life.
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During a collegiate golf fellowship retreat at their BIGHORN home, Kevin was baptized in a ceremony that incorporated their water feature. “It was a powerful moment knowing that my friends Cameron, Ben, and Jeff were alongside me celebrating my beliefs,” Kevin shares.
For dad Duane, one of his proudest moments at BIGHORN was winning with Kevin the gross division of the 2010 Opening Day Member-Member Golf Tournament; they were also on the winning gross team for the New Year’s Scramble in 2013. Since becoming Members five years ago, the Andrews have won four tournaments and a ProAm. Duane also made a hole-in-one on Canyons #17 in 2013 with Kevin at his side. Kevin, of course, will never forget his own double eagle on a par 5 that he made to win the 2013 Orange County Championship. Mom Becky is the family’s social queen. Her memories have been made entertaining and hiking, as well as unwinding at the Spa, reading by the pool, dining with her family at the Canyons Steak House, or grabbing Golf House take-out. With family memberships at Martis Camp in Lake Tahoe as well as BIGHORN, Becky recognizes golf is a lifetime passion for her husband and son. Kevin says he loves the Mountains 12th hole for its “incredible approach that challenges you to make a great shot.” Duane looks forward to the
Mountains 9th hole for “its beautiful approach towards the Clubhouse, and the Men’s Locker Room,” he winks. Off the course, the family’s business is headquartered in Lake Tahoe and Becky appreciates the tranquility of relaxing at BIGHORN while conveniently managing the company remotely. “This house makes you feel like you are outside all the time,” she effuses. “It feels completely open. You can look right through it to see the magnificent views.” Plus, for the Andrews it’s easy to work with BIGHORN Transportation Manager Carol Tufaro to fly from Tahoe to Palm Desert in the Pilatus whenever need be. Becky was a labor/delivery nurse before enrolling in business classes at Biola University in La Mirada, Calif., and working alongside Duane and his co-founder to develop Clear Capital, the largest privately held real estate valuation company servicing all five of the country’s major lenders. “Freddie Mac processes every one of their appraisals through our quality-ranking engine,” Duane says.
Kevin Andrews has a cart ready to go so he can hit the course as soon as he arrives home.
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“We process 25,000 appraisals a day, including residential and commercial.” From real estate asset valuation, broker price opinions, and property condition inspections to data and analytics and technology-driven intelligence tools, the company and its 340 employees uphold the philosophy: Wherever it leads, whatever it takes. “We have never failed at completing a report. We’ve never had a call go to voicemail during work hours. We put people on float planes to perform appraisals and get the job done right so our customers will be with us for life,” Becky says. “Everyone is a top-tier, number-one customer, and we know we are making a difference in the lives of those we serve. We love what we do, and we see this company as a blessing.”
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Daughter Amanda’s memories reach back to those first weekends at BIGHORN. As a Biola University student, she savored the time away to relax on the sunbather’s deck in the courtyard. She always felt like it was her own private resort, making it the perfect place to read novel upon novel. Once she met Matt Tororello, now her husband, the two spent many weekends at BIGHORN, playing tennis and hitting the Spa. After a few years, it was BIGHORN’s Canyons #16 where Matt proposed. He had called the Canyons Steak House Manager who turned off the sprinklers and set up a picnic area for the big engagement. The pair celebrated at the Steak House after Amanda said the magical word: “Yes!”
Amanda loves reading poolside, one of her favorite spots in the home.
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Collectively, the whole Andrews family has said a resounding “Yes!” to life at BIGHORN, where memories often include a dose of humor. At their traditional Easter brunch, for example, Duane always asks for a kids’ coloring book that the Club customizes annually. Then he proceeds to complete the word search in record time. Last year, Catering Manager Joe DeNovi even surprised him with a fun trophy that named him the word search winner. Most recently, the staff created a supremely difficult word search, challenging Duane with just one hour to finish it. He did – with some help from his family – and he loved every minute of it. That’s what makes BIGHORN home – it’s a place where customized experiences create one-of-a-kind memories for each family who chooses to make BIGHORN their own.
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Captivating the Imagination 125 Wanish Place at BIGHORN features spectacular indoor/outdoor living! On a 1.23-acre elevated lot, this Guy Dreier-inspired 9,950 sf residence features 6 bedrooms plus office, media room, gym, and 5 full and 2 half baths. Sophisticated design and elegant furnishings make this unique estate one to see! Dramatic living room, exquisite dining room, chef’s kitchen, luxurious master suite with lavish bath and spa garden with hand-painted mural. Entertainment patio offers beach-style entry pool with palapas, meandering streams, firepit lounge, multiple sitting and dining areas on two sides of this estate, plus built-in barbecue center.
For more information, please visit www.bighorngolf.com/125WanishPlace or call 800-551-5578.
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