Palm Springs Modernism

By Kat Thatcher | Resident contributor

Tours of Sunnylands estate highlight the fabulous historic home, art collection and gardens of Walter and Leonore Annenberg. Talks are held both at the Annenberg Theater and there are upbeat parties, where participants often dress in their midcentury best. Nothing to wear? A stroll along Palm Canyon Drive will fix that in a hurry, especially at local designer Trina Turk’s store. Bright colors and mod patterns create a cheerful vibe both in her clothes and home goods.

Previously known as “Fall Preview,” four days of the event held in October are now simply called “Modernism Week—October.”

Architectural eye candy by Richard Neutra, Albert Frey and William Cody are seen from the double decker bus tour, whose tickets often sell out months in advance. The tour surveys iconic homes once inhabited by the likes of Frank and Nancy Sinatra, Elvis, Doris Day, Bob Hope, Judy Garland and Cary Grant.

Interesting anecdotal stories are told along the way. The house where Elvis and Priscilla Presley were supposed to honeymoon is pointed out. Apparently, word got out and they were never able to enjoy it for fear of their adoring mobs of fans. Hallmark architecture buildings along Palm Canyon Drive are included, and 30 city districts are explored, including Racquet Club, Movie Colony and Sunrise Park. There are also architectural walking and biking tours.

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There were 50 events featured in 2022, as well as the Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show. Fine and decorative arts dealers from around the world feature their picks at the show. The opening night cocktail party offers guests exclusive early shopping.

Since 2020, the addition of several other events have come under the Modernism umbrella, including a behind the scenes tour of Indian Wells tennis center, a pop art media exhibit and a mixology cocktail clinic.

Individual tour tickets can be purchased for important midcentury modern homes, buildings and other events on Modernismweek.com.

Thompson Peak Park is home to Scottsdale’s second inclusive playground

All of Scottsdale’s 37 playgrounds are deemed accessible and meet ADA guidelines, but Thompson Peak Park (at Hayden and Thompson Peak Park Drive) is now one of two in the city that go beyond basic federal requirements. The vibrant new playground has equipment that is challenging for children of all ability levels. With a combination of standard swings, swings with back rests, straps for kids who can’t sit unassisted and larger swings that allow both parent and child to face each other, the park offers a range of options that allow everyone to experience fun together.

Another play feature—the accessible whirl—involves spinning, which is popular among children with certain cognitive disabilities. The playground also has equipment that provides multisensory tactile experiences, slide assist exits that allow caregivers ample time to help children off equipment and cozy spots for children who might get overwhelmed by playground distractions and noise.

Input on Strategic Initiatives for DCR2025

A crucial initial component of the strategic planning process, DCR2025, is resident input.

When asked, “how would you prioritize the current six strategic initiatives for the planning period of 2023 through 2025,” residents ranked the initiatives in this order:

1. Position DC Ranch as environmentally sustainable for the future

2. Identify and position DC Ranch for the target buyers of the future

3. Invest in infrastructure and future technology for DC Ranch growth

4. Further develop an amenity-rich community and level of programming

5. Continue to invest in health, wellness and active lifestyle

6. Assist with the success of the three commercial properties

In addition to resident sessions, three other groups including stakeholders, the DC Ranch internal team and a joint session with the Ranch Association and Community Council Boards participated in sessions in April. The next step is taking the totality of the input received and updating the Strategic Initiatives. Visit DCRanch.com/DCR2025 for more information.

The Historic Committee needs your help!

Do you own preserved documents (photographs, correspondence, newspaper clippings, magazine articles, etc.) or have first-hand knowledge concerning the founding or early days of DC Ranch? Consider donating originals (or copies) of those items or being interviewed for the archives. Please submit your information on DCRanch.com or email history@dcranchinc.com.

we will help you improve your game.

Now offered at the Gainey Village!

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Anyone who thinks the desert is simply dusty and brown hasn’t experienced spring in the desert. From yellow blooms on the Palo Verdes to bursts of magenta on Bougainvillea and cactus flowers in vibrant hues, it’s a beautiful reminder of life in the desert. Discover the tranquil vibrancy of 50,000 desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes on a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden.

Founded by the Arizona Cactus and Native Flora Society in 1937, the Desert Botanical Garden features hundreds of native species, including 519 species which are rare, threatened or endangered. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of Sonoran Desert plant life, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. When you're in need of some shade, stop in the 9,000-book library dedicated to native desert plants, as well as the gift shop for gardening and desert-related souvenirs.

The Garden brings decades of experience and passion to a core vision of protecting the earth’s deserts through science, conservation and education. Visit dbg.org for more information and ticket pricing.

Playing with Stars

Through May 14, the bold and lyrical large-scale sculptures of artist Rotraut enliven the trails while a selection of her paintings and small sculptures fill the Ottosen Gallery. Known around the world, and based in Arizona, Rotraut’s artwork explores the energy of the seasons and the relationship of nature with the sky, sun and universe.