Early-Century Modern Signs of the Times

Leaving the land of death, I continued on the train to Palm Springs where hideously designed new signage was promising that "Life = Fun."



As the psychedelically decorated "A+ Home Health Care" vehicle in front of the St. Baristo condos reminded, Palm Springs is affectionately known as "God's Little Waiting Room."



Across the street from the condo complex is an historic 1935 Protestant church that was never called St. Baristo but which was part of the redevelopment plans of developer John Wessman, who wanted to turn the religious complex into a spa.



This didn't pan out so well so the church property is now up for sale, which was a bizarre sight.



Down the street on Palm Canyon Drive, one of the mid-century modern buildings has emptied out of most of its tenants, including one that pretty much sums up the casino financial structure of the U.S. economy.



The cracking signage spelled out "Pit Boss Empire USA."



Across the street, another mid-century modern masterpiece by E. Stewart Williams is free of ugly commercial signage because until recently it was a Washington Mutual banking branch and the Chase conglomerate hasn't had time to put up its logo yet.



The most unusual signage in Palm Springs, though, is a homemade screed that's been taped to walls and telephone poles all over town by either a speed freak or a schizophrenic who wants you to know you're not alone if you're hearing voices and hate Lisa aka: Victoria, Carmen (but her real name is Sheree). The handbill publisher also advises that "You are not crazy...you are being electronically harassed!!!" And who's to say he/she is wrong?