Images Arizona December 2021 by Images Arizona Magazine

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DC Ranch

november 2021

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Scottsdale

T H I S

H O L I D A Y

S E A S O N

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G I V E

STUNNING

GIFT

MEDALLIONS COLLECTION

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The MOHR Group

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GO TO MOHRHOMES.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION, DRONE SHOTS AND PHOTOS OR CALL US AT 602-980-7653 FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING. november 2021

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“The Night Shamon” by Amy Lay, mixed media on canvas, 72” x 36”

SU E

KRZYSTON

A MY

LAY

B RY CE T R EVOR 4

SO U TH WE S T

CONT EMP O R A R Y

PETTIT

SWANSON

MYRON

“Promises to Keep” by Bryce Pettit, 68” x 40” x 20”

W ILD LI FE

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WI LD LI FE B R O N Z E

L AN D S C A P E

WHITAKE R

R E A LI S M

A N D

C E R A MI C

A R TI S T A R TI S T

S C U LP TO R

WI LD LI FE S C U LP TO R

A RT IS T

C A R E F R E E ’ S T H I R D T H U R S D AY A R T N I G H T THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16 FROM 4 TO 7PM

Sip, Shop and Celebrate with Live Music by NuWrld Jazz Quartet Bring your chairs to enjoy NuWrld jazz socially distanced outside

Clockwise: “Desert Reds,” Trevor Swanson, painting on patina metal, 15” x 21” “Looking for Trouble” by Bryce Pettit, Bronze Ceramic Vessel by Myron Whitaker “Distant Drums” by Sue Krzyston, oil on canvas

SUE BICKERDYKE 26 years in Carefree

INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES, HOME FURNISHINGS & FINE ART GALLERY 36889 N. Tom Darlington Dr. Suite B1, Carefree | 480-595-0171 | suebickerdyke.com november 2021 imagesar iz ona .c om Hours: Mon. thru Sat. 9am - 5pm Allied ASID

IMMERSED IN THE ICONIC SOUNDS OF THE SEASON Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Joseph J. Airdo

LEGACY OF A CRAFTSMAN Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen

HOW LOVELY ARE THY BRANCHES Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Rusty Childress

REMARKABLE REPASTS Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of Dana Gibbons Photography

SHEET PAN PUMPKIN MAC AND CHEESE

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Writer and Photographer Francine Coles

november 2021

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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR Joseph J. Airdo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles Susan Kern-Fleischer Shannon Severson

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz

ADVERTISING SALES Alex Orozco 602-524-4912 alex@imagesaz.com

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication.

It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays here in Arizona and we have decked out this month’s issue with stories that reflect the uniquely festive atmosphere that is found exclusively in our state. After all, every home, business, stage, resort, garden, museum, cookie and cake has been beautifully decorated in celebration of the season, we felt as though it was only fitting that we adorn our pages with all things merry and bright. From sneak peeks into our convivial community’s many joyous concerts and plays to behind-the-scenes looks at enchanting new exhibitions and experiences, this month’s issue is filled with fun and festive things that you can do with your friends and family to make the most of this holiday season. From inspiring stories about exemplary people and organizations to tips from our community’s most creative individuals about how you can expertly transform your home into a winter wonderland, the pages of this month’s issue are designed to help you step into Christmas and December’s other holidays with ease. Even this month’s photo essay, which features photographer Rusty Childress’ comforting images of our state’s pine trees naturally decorated with snow, are evocative of the classic Christmas scenes that we see in both movies and our imaginations. This is the time that so many of us look forward to all year long. As another year draws to an end, I want to thank you for inviting Images Arizona into your home each month. I also want to thank the many businessowners, artists and kind-hearted individuals and organizations who not only make this publication possible but also ensure that there is always a wealth of captivating stories to tell about our incredible community. On behalf the entire Images Arizona family, I wish that you and yours have a wonderful holiday season that is jam-packed with joyous moments that lead to cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Cheers!

The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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november 2021

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T H I S

H O L I D A Y

S E A S O N

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G I V E

STUNNING

CONTEMPORARY JEWELRY + ART

Designer Jacqueline Earle has reinvented the role of the diamond in her feminine and flirty collection of floating diamond jewelry.

Her diamonds are strung rather than set, allowing each stone to capture light in a playful manner which creates versatile, wearable pieces that, like us, like to have fun.

[

December 10–11 Friday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Wine & appetizers 4–7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Grace Renee Gallery Located in Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 480.575.8080 10

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GraceReneeGallery.com

]

GIFT

Vivace Earrings and Butterfly Necklace 18-karat gold with diamonds Award-winning design november 2021

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1 The Serenad3

Scientists have proven by countless studies over the years that music of all types has a positive impact on one’s mood, memory, stress levels and even pain management. Therefore, it is only natural that holiday music has an even more favorable effect on each of those areas. Fortunately, Arizona has no shortage of opportunities to immerse oneself in the iconic sounds of the holidays, as stages across the state come to life this month with musicians performing the many songs that help to make this the haphappiest season of all. “There are so many wonderful community concerts celebrating the holidays,” says Allan Naplan, executive and producing director of Arizona Musicfest — which is currently in the midst of its 31st season. “It is our mission to bring distinguished artists [to the Valley]. So when we do a holiday show, it is with a major act.” This year, Arizona Musicfest will bring two such acts to the Valley to help residents ring in the holidays — The Serenad3 and The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass. Ticket sales from both concerts benefit a variety of music education programs in the community. “The Serenad3 is an ensemble that is launching a massive career,” Naplan says. “It was started by Fernando Varela, who was on ‘America's Got Talent.’ He was then discovered by David Foster, the king-maker of pop music with Celine Dion and Josh Groban.” Shortly thereafter, Craig Irvin and Devin Eatmon joined Varela to form The Serenad3. Known for its acclaimed collaborations with Gloria Estefan, Voctave and Pia Toscano, the group quickly became a viral sensation through popular video performances of “Mary Did You Know?,” “Carol of the Bells,” “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night.” “They will have a very large chamber orchestra behind them on stage,” Naplan adds. “[The concert] will also feature William Joseph, who is this massively viral pop pianist from Phoenix.” After The Serendad3’s Dec. 3 performance at Highlands Church, The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass will take the stage Dec. 10 at Gathering november 2021

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The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass

Highlands Church

La Casa de Cristo Church

MUSIC

“

There are so many wonderful community concerts celebrating the holidays. It is our mission to bring distinguished artists [to the Valley]. So when we do a holiday show, it is with a major act. Allan Naplan

Place at La Casa de Cristo Church for a concert called “A Brassy Christmas.” Born into the first family of American jazz, Rodney Marsalis began trumpet lessons at age six and continued under the tutelage of his cousin, Wynton. Identified early on as a trumpet prodigy, Marsalis has performed as a soloist with orchestras around the world. He later joined forces with ten premier musicians — including trumpet, trombone, French horn and tuba players — to form The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass. “Brass is such an iconic element of Christmas music,” Naplan says. “To fill Casa de Cristo Church with this first-rate ensemble will be really exciting.” azmusicfest.org

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COMMUNITY

2021 DECEMBER

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Through April 10

PIXEL-BY-PIXEL: INTERVENTIONS BY LUKE MURPHY Photo by Joe DeNardo Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art hosts the first solo museum exhibition of New York City-based artist Luke Murphy’s dynamic LED sculptures that undermine and liberate technology from its commercial form and function. $10; youth, student, senior and veteran discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

Through Dec. 5 HANUKKAH IN CAREFREE

events featuring live music by Arizona musicians, a curated market

Photo by Herbert Hitchon

and beverage offerings. Free. See

MCCORMICKSTILLMAN RAILROAD PARK HOLIDAY LIGHTS

The town of Carefree hosts its fifth

website for dates. Noon–4 p.m.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

annual Hanukkah celebration with

Scottsdale Center for the Performing

hosts a winter wonderland of holiday

both in-person and livestreaming

Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale.

lights and displays. $15. 6–9:30

viewing options. In addition to the

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

p.m. McCormick-Stillman Railroad

of fine arts and crafts, children's holiday activities and specialty food

lighting of the menorah, prayers and songs, the celebration will include food, drinks, live music, a raffle and other

Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road,

Through Dec. 19

Scottsdale. therailroadpark.com

surprises. Local restaurants will also

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

offer special discounts each night. Free.

Desert Stages Theatre presents its

5:30 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion,

production of “The Sound of Music,”

101 Easy St., Carefree. visitcarefree.com

based on the 1949 memoir of Maria

HIDDEN IN THE HILLS EXHIBITION

von Trapp — “The Story of the

Desert Foothills Library hosts an

Trapp Family Singers.” See website

exhibition of works by the 53 artists

for price and times. Scottsdale Desert

who participated in this year’s Hidden

Stages Theatre at Fashion Square,

in the Hills Artist Studio Tour. Free.

Through Dec. 19

SHOP AND BE MERRY HOLIDAY MARKET

Through Dec. 31

Through Jan. 20

7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite

Desert Foothills Library Gallery,

Scottsdale Center for the Performing

0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664;

38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave

Arts hosts a series of indoor holiday

desertstages.org

Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

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Through April 24

LEGACY OF CEYLON: ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY OF SRI LANKA Phoenix Art Museum hosts an exhibition featuring a selection of rare and outstanding Sri Lankan artworks that date from as early as the sixth century and span 1,000 years, illuminating the influence of Buddhist and European traditions on the nation’s art history. $23; youth, student and senior discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org

Dec. 2

HOLIDAY WINEMAKER DINNER UNDER THE STARS LDV Winery and Merkin Vineyards will host a holiday winemaker dinner. $155. 6–9 p.m. RSVP. Marshall Way Bridge, 7124 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale. scottsdazzle.com

Dec. 3

ART NOUVEAU OR ART DECO? The Holland Center will welcome Nicolette Bonnstetter for a virtual conversation about the difference between art nouveau and art deco. $5. 10 a.m. RSVP. hollandcenter.org

Dec. 3

TAKE OFF 15 YEARS WITH THE RIGHT MAKEUP Desert Foothills Library will welcome celebrity makeup artist Charlie Green, who will demonstrate and share expert tips and tricks. Free. 1 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

Dec. 3 and 4

WINTER ARTISAN MARKET The Sonoran Arts League will host a showcase of local artists and makers of unique, handmade holiday gift options. Free. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

Dec. 3 and 4

AARON HENRY JEWELRY Meet the father and son team behind this luxury jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special oneof-a-kind pieces, each of which is hand-crafted, bringing classical Old World quality to modern design. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com november 2021

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Dec. 9

GOLD PALETTE ARTWALK The Scottsdale Gallery Association will host a special holiday-themed Gold Palette ArtWalk of participating studios and galleries throughout the Scottsdale Arts District, which resides along Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and north of Indian School on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue. Free. 6:30 p.m. See website for locations. scottsdalegalleries.com

Dec. 4

HOLIDAY CRAFT AND BAKE SALE

Dec. 5

Dec. 6

HO-HO-HOEDOWN Old Town Scottsdale Rodeo Museum

Desert Foothills Library will host

will host an event featuring festive

a discussion of Dave Eggers’ “The

its 12th annual event featuring

décor, live country music and delicious

Monk of Mokha.” The discussion will

holiday decor, Christmas music,

food from the Mission Restaurant.

also include plenty of coffee-related

shopping, treats, coffee and more —

See website for price. Noon–2 p.m.

information while the club’s volunteer

all benefitting the library. Free. 10

and 3–5 p.m. Old Town Scottsdale

cooks will serve an array of coffee-

a.m.–3 p.m. Desert Foothills Library,

Rodeo Museum, 3806 N. Brown Ave.

themed foods. $10. 12:30 p.m. RSVP.

38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave

Scottsdale. scottsdazzle.com

Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-

Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

Dec. 4

LITERATE FOODIE CLUB

Dec. 5

488-2286; dfla.org

NO FLEA MARKET

POLICE K-9 EXHIBITION

Pet Supplies Plus and Arizona

The Holland Center will welcome the

Animal Hospital will co-host a

Scottsdale Police Department K-9 team,

GRAND CHRISTMAS FEAST

holiday-themed event featuring

who will be providing demonstrations

Desert Hills Presbyterian Church will

local service partners, shopping and

and more. Free. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. The

host a Renaissance-themed holiday

holiday music as well as local food

Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St.,

event featuring a five-course meal,

and beverages. Free. 1–5 p.m. Pet

Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090;

madrigals, carols and music of the

Supplies Plus and Arizona Animal

hollandcenter.org

season performed in full Elizabethan

Dec. 10

Hospital, 31319 N. Scottsdale Road,

costume in a castle hall setting.

Scottsdale. petsuppliesplus.com and

Entertainment will be provided by

arizonaanimalhospital.com

Chancel Choir and the Sonoran Brass

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Quintet. $30. 6 p.m. Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road, Scottsdale. 480-488-3384; deserthills.org

Dec. 10 and 11

JACQUELINE EARLE: PLAYFUL DIAMONDS Meet the designer behind this nearly magical jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which features diamonds that are strung rather than set, allowing each stone to capture light in a fun and playful manner. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

Dec. 11

CHILDREN’S POTTERY PAINTING WORKSHOP The Sonoran Arts League will host a children’s pottery painting workshop during which students in third through eighth grade may use a variety of glazes and texture materials to embellish a bisque-fired ceramic piece. Free. 10 a.m. Sonoran Arts League Center for the Arts, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Suite 144, Cave Creek. 480-575-6624; sonoranartsleague.org

Dec. 12

LAS POSADAS: A JOURNEY TO THE MANGER Desert Mission United Methodist Church will present a reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for an inn on the night of Jesus's birth during a holiday event that also includes live music, food and activities for children. Free. 5 p.m. Desert Mission United Methodist Church, 7373 E. Dixileta Drive, Scottsdale. desertmissionumc.org

Dec. 12

MIRACLE OF THE ROSES PAGEANT Old Adobe Mission will host its annual Miracle of Roses Pageant, celebrating the appearances of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill near Mexico City in 1531. Light refreshments will be offered. Free. 4 p.m. Old Adobe Mission, 3817 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale. oldadobemission.org

Dec. 14

GET LIT BOOK CLUB Desert Foothills Library will host a happy hour book club featuring Kate Moore’s “The Woman They Could Not Silence.” Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. Blu Burger Grille, 32409 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

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Dec. 3–June 18

CHIHULY IN THE DESERT Glass artist Dale Chihuly will return to the Sonoran Desert with a new exhibition at two of Arizona’s most iconic venues — Desert Botanical Garden and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West. Combining art, architecture and nature, Chihuly’s masterpieces will stun from day to night as color, light and form come alive for the first time ever at two locations for a joint exhibition. See website for prices. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. chihulyinthedesert.org

Dec. 14

WHAT IS A CONSTITUTIONAL REPUBLIC? The Holland Center will welcome Jim

your next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com

Dec. 16

Dec. 18

LIVE NATIVITY AT OLD ADOBE MISSION Old Adobe Mission will pay homage to the birth of Jesus Christ with

Sherbert, who will provide a lecture

LITERARY SALON

that will examine America’s evolution

Desert Foothills Library will host a

performers and animals reenacting the

of political science and assess its shift

virtual discussion of books, films and

holy manger scene. Free. 6–8 p.m. Old

from individualism to collectivism and

plays set during a December holiday.

Adobe Mission, 3817 N. Brown Ave.,

the threats this trend might impose on

Free. 10 a.m. RSVP. dfla.org

Scottsdale. oldadobemission.org

Dec. 17

Dec. 18 and 19

a live nativity scene featuring real

the functioning of a Republic. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480488-1090; hollandcenter.org

Dec. 16

CAREFREE ART NIGHT

A PLACE FOR EVERYONE WITH DENISE INMON

SPARKLE AND SPIN SCAVENGER HUNT The city of Scottsdale will host a

Desert Foothills Library will welcome

seasonal scavenger hunt featuring

Denise Inmon, who will provide live

puzzles and riddles that lead

Explore fine art in the breathtaking

cooking demonstrations of favorite family

participants from clue to clue, all

shadows of Black Mountain. Courtesy

recipes from her new cookbook, “A Place

culminating in a final challenge to

shuttles will be available to transport

for Everyone.” Participants may enjoy

earn a unique holiday keepsake.

guests to participating art galleries

samples and refreshments, a personal book

Participants are encouraged to

around Carefree during an event that

signing and free holiday gift wrapping.

decorate their bicycles and/or dress

includes live music, refreshments and,

Free. 3 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library,

up in holiday attire. $18. 1–4 p.m.

of course, lots of fine art — including

38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek.

RSVP. Marshall Way Bridge, 7124 E.

480-488-2286; dfla.org

Stetson Drive. scottsdazzle.com

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Dec. 18 and 19

‘TIS THE SEASON: HOLIDAYS AT MIM Musical Instrument Museum will be transformed into a winter wonderland with seasonal songs and musical traditions from around the world. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-4786000; mim.org

Dec. 18–July 17

GENERATION PAPER: FAST FASHION OF THE 1960S Phoenix Art Museum will host an exhibition of more than 80 rare garments and accessories from one of fashion’s most experimental and whimsical eras, all made from paper, plastic, laminate and other nonwoven textiles. $23; youth, student and senior discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org

Dec. 19

BROCK FOR TOTS The town of Carefree will host a charity toy drive and winter holiday concert of Broadway standards fused with an innovative rock edge and powerhouse voices. Free. 7:30–9 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. visitcarefree.com

Dec. 20

CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON Desert Foothills Library will host an event during which guests may watch “The Santa Clause,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and “White Christmas” while enjoying holiday cocktails, cookies and snacks. Free. 9:30 a.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

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Dec. 4–18

SCOTTSDAZZLE STROLL The city of Scottsdale will host a sprawling celebration featuring live music, public art installations, holiday décor and a 40-foot Christmas tree that lights up the night with dazzling holiday spirit. Hot cocoa, coffee and sweet seasonal treats will be offered. Free. Saturdays 6–9 p.m. Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. scottsdazzle.com

Dec. 20

SEVEN SPRINGS TRAIL HIKE

relieve stress and restore the mind.

Musicfest to celebrate the legendary

Free. 1 p.m. Desert Foothills Library,

music of Tony Bennett with songs

38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave

from the Great American Songbook,

Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

Broadway and the biggest pop hits of

The Desert Awareness Committee will host a hike of Seven Springs Trail. Free. 8 a.m. RSVP. Cave Creek Ranger

Bennett’s most famous collaborators.

Jan. 4–25

Scottsdale. teegardins@msn.com

LEARN TO PAINT DESERT LANDSCAPES

Dec. 24

The Holland Center will welcome

Station, 40202 N Cave Creek Road,

9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

Jan. 8

workshop during which participants

COLDWATER CAVE ADVENTURE

will learn techniques for painting

The Holland Center will welcome

desert landscapes. $250. 9 a.m. RSVP.

Ron and Nicolette Bonnstetter

The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th

for a virtual presentation of their

Christmas Eve candle lighting

St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-

exploration of Iowa’s longest and

services. Free. 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

1090; hollandcenter.org

most spectacular cave. $10. 1 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

Larry Charles for a four-week

Desert Mission United Methodist Church will host traditional

Desert Mission United Methodist Church, 7373 E. Dixileta Drive, Scottsdale. desertmissionumc.org

Dec. 29

RESTORE WITH MUSIC AND COLOR Desert Foothills Library will host an adult coloring session, designed to

$49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church,

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RSVP. hollandcenter.org

Jan. 7

CHRIS MANN CELEBRATES THE TONY BENNETT SONGBOOK

Jan. 8

LUSH AND LOW-WATER LANDSCAPES

Top-selling recording artist, singer,

Carefree Desert Gardens will

songwriter and actor Chris Mann

welcome long-time southwest

will take the stage as part of Arizona

gardener Dr. Jacqueline Soule for a

seminar during which she will highlight more than 30 pollinator-friendly, homeowners association-approved plants that can be grown in our landscapes. $5+. 9:30 a.m. Carefree Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.

Jan. 10

JOHN LLOYD YOUNG: BROADWAY’S JERSEY BOY John Lloyd Young will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest to celebrate classic hits from the 50s and 60s rock ‘n’ roll, doo-wop and rhythm and blues. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

CAVE CREEK SCHOOLS RECEIVE GRANTS The Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation recently announced that all schools within the Cave Creek Unified School District received grants totaling more than $25,000 to support teachers and their classrooms. ccuef.org

SOUTHWEST WILDLIFE VOLUNTEER WINS AWARD Cox Enterprises and the Trust for Public Land recently selected Southwest Wildlife and Conservation Center and Desert Awareness Committee volunteer Diane Vaszily as the winner of this year’s Cox Conserves Heroes Award. The program serves to honor environmental volunteers who create, preserve or enhance shared outdoor spaces in their local communities. Vaszily received a total of $60,000 — $10,000 for being nominated and $50,000 for winning — to help Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center and its efforts. southwestwildlife.org

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

TIS THE SEASON COMMUNITY

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Through Dec. 30

ELF: THE MUSICAL Arizona Broadway Theatre presents its production of “Elf: The Musical,” based on the 2003 film in which a baby mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole where he is raised as an elf. As a grown man, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his father and discover his true identity. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-7768400; azbroadway.org

Through Dec. 24

RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER

Through Dec. 19

BALLET ETUDES’ THE NUTCRACKER

faiths as well as beloved secular songs. See website for price and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N.

Childsplay presents its production of

Ballet Etudes presents the 35th

Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999;

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,”

anniversary of its production of

phoenixsymphony.org

a musical adaptation of the beloved

“The Nutcracker.” See website for

television holiday special. $13+. See

price and times. Through Dec. 5 at

website for times. Herberger Theater

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N.

Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix.

Arizona Ave., Chandler. Dec. 11–19

childsplayaz.org

at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St.,

13 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Mesa. balletetudes.net

Fountain Hills Theater will present its

Through Jan. 2

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS

Dec. 3–19

production of “13 Days of Christmas,”

Dec. 3

featuring 13 delightful holiday tales woven with both traditional and

The Phoenix Theatre Company

THE CHRISTMAS SERENAD3

presents its production of “Million

Powerhouse vocal trio The Serenad3

11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain

Dollar Quartet Christmas,” featuring

will take the stage as part of Arizona

Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org

holiday hits through the lens of Johnny

Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands

Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and

Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road,

Elvis Presley. See website for price and

Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com

from a variety of traditions and

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Dec. 3–5

HOLIDAY POPS

unique holiday music. See website for price and times. Fountain Hills Theater,

Dec. 3–19

BLACK NATIVITY Black Theatre Troupe will present its production of “Black Nativity,” which delivers a powerful message

The Phoenix Symphony will perform

of joy, hope, victory and liberation.

a concert of hymns and carols

See website for price and times.

Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., Phoenix. blacktheatretroupe.org

Dec. 3–19

JUNIE B. IN JINGLE BELLS, BATMAN SMELLS Fountain Hills Youth Theater will present

Dec. 5–12

HOLIDAYS WITH ORPHEUS The Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix will perform a concert of both traditional

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and contemporary holiday songs. $25;

It’s time for your

youth, student and senior discounts available. See website for times and locations. orpheus.org

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its production of “Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells.” $18; youth discounts available. See website for times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org

Dec. 3–19

WINTER WONDRETTES Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Winter Wondrettes,” a

Dec. 5 and 18

CHRISTMAS WITH PHOENIX BRASS COLLECTIVE Phoenix Brass Collective will perform a concert of holiday music. Free. See website for times and locations. phxbrass.com

Dec. 7

use their talent and creative ingenuity

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM JOSÉ JAMES

to save a holiday party. See website for

Musical Instrument Museum will

price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages

welcome crooner José James for a

Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E.

concert of music from his new holiday

Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale.

album. $33.50+. 7 p.m. Musical

480-483-1664; desertstages.org

Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo

seasonal celebration in which girls must

System

Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

Dec. 4 and 5

TOGETHER AGAIN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 9–19

Upscale Singers, Scottsdale’s premier

CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS

adult choir, will perform a concert of

Dream City Church will present

Christmas music. $20; youth discounts

its annual Christmas production

available. 5 p.m. Desert Hills Presbyterian

featuring a live orchestra, exciting

Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Drive,

dance numbers, professional acrobatic

Scottsdale. upscalesingers.com

silk artists, awe-inspiring aerial

Includes: • • • • • • •

Cleaning of Combustion Section Testing of all Furnace Safety Controls Furnace Control Board Operation Inspection of Gas Valve & combustion cycle Inspection of Blower motor operation Inspection of Draft Inducer operation Inspection of combustion gas venting

stunts and a beautiful nativity with a

Dec. 5

SONORAN SILVER FLUTES HOLIDAY CONCERT Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome the flute trio of Jeanie Pierce, Lee Chivers and Nancy Sowers for a special holiday concert. See website for price. 2 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

majestic kings’ procession. $10+. See website for times. Dream City Church, 13613 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix. celebrationofchristmas.org

Dec. 10

A BRASSY CHRISTMAS The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest. $29+. 7:30 p.m. Gathering Place at La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell

Call or Text

480.478.3384 to Schedule your Appointment!

Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org november 2021

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Dec. 3–19

LET ALL THE WORLD SING Phoenix Boys Choir will perform a concert of seasonal favorites at multiple venues around the Valley. $15+; youth discounts available. See website for times and locations. boyschoir.org

Dec. 10

A MERRY-ACHI CHRISTMAS

Dec. 10–23

PHOENIX BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER

available. 3 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. carolyneynonsingers.com

Scottsdale Center for the Performing

Phoenix Ballet will present its

Arts will welcome Maestro José

production of “The Nutcracker,”

Hernández and his platinum-selling

featuring beautiful sets, festive

Mariachi Sol de México for a special

costumes, superb dancing and

CELEBRATE!

holiday concert. See website for

magical on-stage snowfall. $25+.

Sonoran Desert Chorale will perform

price. 8 p.m. Scottsdale Center for

See website for times. Orpheum

a concert of traditional Christmas

the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second

Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix.

carols and modern holiday tunes.

St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

phoenixballet.org

$18+; student and senior discounts

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Dec. 10–19

Dec. 11 and 12

available. Saturday 7:30 p.m. First

Dec. 10–24

United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Sunday 3 p.m. La Casa

ELF: THE MUSICAL, JR.

BALLET ARIZONA’S THE NUTCRACKER

Desert Foothills Theater will present its

Ballet Arizona will present its

production of “Elf: The Musical, Jr.,”

production of “The Nutcracker,”

based on the 2003 film in which a baby

featuring a score masterfully

mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of

performed by the Phoenix Symphony.

gifts and is transported to the North

See website for price and times.

Pole where he is raised as an elf. As a

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St.,

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

grown man, he embarks on a journey

Phoenix. balletaz.org

Chandler Center for the Arts will

to New York City to find his father and discover his true identity. $25. See website for times. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-4881981; dftheater.org

classics. $20; youth and group discounts

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De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-305-4538; sonorandesertchorale.org

Dec. 11–19

welcome an energetic variety show

Dec. 11

CHRISTMAS IN THE CHAPEL

featuring a cast of more than 100 dancers, singers, a horse and carriage, special guest performers and a champion hoop dancer. $30; student discounts available. See

The Carolyn Eynon Singers will

website for times. 250 N. Arizona Ave.,

perform a concert of Christmas

Chandler. chandlercenter.org

Dec. 12

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Salt River Brass will perform a concert of holiday music. $18+; student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. Mesa Arts Center, One East Main St., Mesa. saltriverbrass.org

Dec. 12

ROSIE’S HOUSE HOLIDAY CONCERT Soloists and ensembles enrolled at Rosie's House will perform a concert of holiday music. Free. 4 p.m. RSVP. Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. rosieshouse.org

Dec. 14

A PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS Musical Instrument Museum will welcome acoustic guitarist Peter White, saxophonist and vocalist Mindi Abair and multi-instrumentalist Vincent Ingala for a concert of Christmas music through a contemporary jazz filter. $49.50+. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

Dec. 16 and 17

HANDEL'S MESSIAH The Phoenix Symphony, the Phoenix Symphony Chorus and soloists will perform Handel’s masterpiece. See website for price. 7:30 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org

Dec. 16–19

ASSISTED LIVING: THE MUSICAL — THE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome the production of a play set at Christmas at a retirement home. See website for price. 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Dec. 16–20

A CHORALE CHRISTMAS Phoenix Chorale will perform a concert of holiday music with the intention of bringing tidings of comfort and joy. See website for price, times and locations. phoenixchorale.org

Dec. 18

MARTY ASHBY’S HOLIDAY JAZZ CELEBRATION Musical Instrument Museum will welcome the Marty Ashby Quartet, Lewis Nash and special guest Ann Hampton Callaway for a concert of traditional favorites and new songs for the holidays. $44.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Dec. 12

SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC HOLIDAY CONCERT Scottsdale Philharmonic will perform a concert of holiday music. $15. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Dec. 18 and 19

Dec. 19

Dec. 21

Convergence Ballet’s The Nutcracker

AJ ODNEAL AND THE LITTLEST BIG BAND CHRISTMAS SHOW

Ballet Theatre of Phoenix and

Scottsdale Center for the Performing

Musical Instrument Museum will

Convergence Ballet will present

Arts will welcome multi-

welcome Paul McDermand, his band

their combined production of “The

instrumentalists AJ Odneal and

and special guest Don Marovich

Nutcracker.” $30. Saturday 7 p.m.

Ted Belledin as well as some of the

of the world-renowned Kingston

Sunday 2 p.m. Horizon High

Valley’s best jazz musicians for a

Trio for a concert of seasonal and

School, 5601 N. Greenway Road,

holiday performance. See website for

popular favorites. $44.50+. 7 p.m.

Phoenix. ballettheatreofphx.org and

price. 4:30 p.m. Scottsdale Center for

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725

convergenceballet.org

the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second

E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-

Dec. 18 and 19

St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

6000; mim.org

BALLET THEATRE OF PHOENIX AND

A NEW ENGLAND CHRISTMAS Arizona Masterworks Chorale

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Dec. 19

Dec. 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

recreate the iconic New England

SWEETEST SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

setting with inspirational music

The Allegro String Quartet will

Leslie Odom, Jr. will perform a

that celebrates the holidays. $15+.

perform a concert of Christmas

concert that rings in the new year.

Saturday 7:30 p.m. at Christ

carols and lullabies from around

See website for price. 7:30 p.m.

Church of the Ascension Episcopal

the world. Free. 3 p.m. Christ the

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second

Church, 4015 E. Lincoln Drive,

Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E.

St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999;

Paradise Valley. Sunday 3 p.m. at

Cave Creek Road, Carefree. 480-488

phoenixsymphony.org

Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N.

2081; ctlcarefree.org

will perform a concert that aims to

Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. arizonamasterworks.com

PAUL MCDERMAND’S CHRISTMAS ISLAND

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The Phoenix Symphony and vocalist

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Phoenix Theatre Company

Having last presented “Million Dollar Quartet” two years ago, the Phoenix Theatre Company found stellar success in the musical that sees icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis come together to cut a collaborative album in 1956 at Sun Records Studios in Memphis. The company, therefore, jumped at the opportunity to offer Arizona audiences the world premiere of the musical’s holiday-themed follow-up — “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas.” “It takes place right after the first one ends,” says Michael Barnard, producing artistic director for the Phoenix Theatre Company. “They are still in the studio at Sun Records. They get to talking about the holidays, what those mean, what they meant in the past and what they mean to the future and that subsequently leads into some songs about the holidays.” Arizona audiences will be among the first to see the sequel, which will play through Jan. 2, and the only ones who have more than a month to do so this year.

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“

I think that the audience will totally be

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left in the holiday spirit and really feel

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like they personally know Elvis, Johnny,

$4796*

Carl and Jerry Lee by the end of it. Michael Barnard

“They are rehearsing two different casts at the same time,” Barnard explains. “One will go on tour and one will stay here. The theater built two identical sets and the touring company paid for both so that when we are finished with our production, they will take our set to put out two touring companies in subsequent years. After all, ‘Million Dollar Quartet Christmas’ can only play during the holidays therefore this will give them the opportunity to play in more markets down the line.” Barnard adds that although shows like “A Christmas Carol” and “The Nutcracker” are classics that play each year for a reason, he is overjoyed to offer audiences something new for the holidays. “Because our subscribers and singleticket buyers fell in love with ‘Million Dollar Quartet,’ there is a sense of familiarity about these characters

that they are going to see,” he says. “But there is also the anticipation and excitement about seeing something new. I think it is kind of a win-win in that respect, where you get a little bit of nostalgia and also get something new and exciting.” Everyone’s favorite Christmas songs will be featured in the show, including “Blue Christmas,” “Silent Night” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” — all presented in the same style that the four music icons performed them more than six decades ago. “I think that the audience will totally be left in the holiday spirit and really feel like they personally know Elvis, Johnny, Carl and Jerry Lee by the end of it,” Barnard says.

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Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Through Jan. 2 | The Phoenix Theatre Company 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix | $55+ 602-254-2151 | phoenixtheatre.com

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Phoenix Ballet

There are some traditions that you absolutely must do each and every holiday season or risk feeling as though your Christmas was incomplete. These traditions include watching the classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman” holiday specials on TV, setting out cookies and milk for Santa and, of course, attending a performance of “The Nutcracker.” “The music is so holiday-like,” says Slawomir Wozniak, artistic director for Phoenix Ballet. “I am thankful that [Pyotr] Tchaikovsky wrote such beautiful music. Whenever you go to a mall and you hear ‘The Russian Dance’ in the background or ‘Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy’ somewhere in the speakers, that already creates that feeling and that atmosphere of Christmastime. ” Wozniak produced “The Nutcracker” in Poland in 2006 before moving to the United States and bringing his version of the show to Americans the following year. “The same production is still being played in Poland in one of the biggest theaters there,” Wozniak says. “It features the exact same steps, sets and costumes. So for the last 15 years, the same production has been presented on two different continents at the same time. I am so happy that so many people have been able to see my show.”

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“

For some, ‘The Nutcracker’ was their first date. For others, it was the first performance that they attended together as a family. So people keep up the tradition to keep up with those memories. Slawomir Wozniak

Slawomir’s “The Nutcracker,” which Phoenix Ballet will present Dec. 10– 23 at Orpheum Theatre, features top students from Master Ballet Academy, gorgeous sets, festive costumes and even magical snowfall, all centered around the classic story about a young girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King.

ornaments, holiday knick-knacks and other great gift ideas and souvenirs that remind one of the very special experience of seeing the show that has made “The Nutcracker” such a timehonored tradition.

“Our school, Master Ballet Academy, is a huge part of my ‘Nutcracker’ and you will see very young students dance large parts,” Wozniak says. “It is something like nowhere else, the technical and artistic skill the young dancers bring that even the highest level of expectations regarding performing will be satisfied.”

“For some, ‘The Nutcracker’ was their first date. For others, it was the first performance that they attended together as a family. So people keep up the tradition to keep up with those memories. The more people come, the more people unite and the more people leave the theater happy. I hope that the tradition will continue forever.”

Phoenix Ballet will elevate the experience with a boutique filled to the brim with nutcrackers, Christmas

phoenixballet.org

“We have established something that is as spectacular as the performance itself,” Wozniak says.

EXPERIENCE The Nutcracker

Dec. 10–23 | Orpheum Theatre | 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix | $25+ | phoenixballet.org

november 2021

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Dream City Church

More than four decades ago, Dream City Church introduced Arizona audiences to a holiday production that goes far beyond the standard Christmas story. Taking an already amazing tale and accentuating it with additional awe-inspiring elements, the church created an annual tradition that continues to this day. “So many families make it a tradition,” says Brooke Baker, creative arts director for Dream City Chruch. “They come year after year after year after year. We had to take a year off last holiday season due to COVID and it absolutely devastated us to not bring this coveted celebration to our community. But, the show must go on and we are incredibly overjoyed to go again this year.” Baker adds that this year’s “Celebration of Christmas” show — set for Dec. 9–19 and subtitled “The Brightest Star” — will be more magical and cutting-edge than ever before, featuring a live orchestra, exciting dance numbers, professional acrobatic silk artists, impressive aerial stunts and, of course, a beautiful Nativity with a majestic kings’ procession. “This year’s storyline is a journey of a girl chasing her dream on Broadway,” Baker says. “She is chasing those bright lights then, suddenly, they kind of fade away and that leads her to the Manger where she finds the true meaning of Christmas.” Noting that “Celebration of Christmas” has grown and expanded exponentially over the past 41 years, Baker says that the storyline and show elements change periodically.

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“

It is definitely a show that is going to bring lots of entertainment, smiles, laughter and Christmas joy. Then it is going to tell you what the true meaning of Christmas really is. Brooke Baker

“The one thing that does not change, though, is that beautiful Nativity scene,” she says. “It really makes the Christmas story come alive right in front of your eyes with live camels, beautiful costumes and, of course, this little, sweet, innocent baby that represents Jesus and a flying angel that touches the top of the baby's head. It is really spectacular and gives you chill bumps.” Baker adds that in designing this year’s show, which includes just about every style of music imaginable, she tried to hit every demographic to ensure that “Celebration of Christmas” has something for audiences of all ages and walks of life. “It is definitely a show that is going to bring lots of entertainment, smiles, laughter and Christmas joy,” she explains. “Then it is going to tell you what the true meaning of Christmas really is.” Baker has been involved with “Celebration of Christmas” in some way, shape or form for the past 28 years but “The Brightest Star” will be her first time at the creative helm. Having always loved performing and working with other people, she calls the opportunity “a dream come true.” She has been especially impressed with the show’s cast and crew members, many of whom are local talent and all of whom possess remarkable dedication. “Their commitment is really beautiful,” Baker says. “We have gone through every little detail of this show. None of us want to take a bow. We just want to give our community something great.” celebrationofchristmas.org

EXPERIENCE

Celebration of Christmas Dec. 9–19 | Dream City Church 13613 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix $10+ | celebrationofchristmas.org

november 2021

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Tippi Hart

Fountain Hills Theater’s artistic/technical director Peter J. Hill knows that although Christmas is often referred to as the most wonderful time of the year, it is also among the most stressful. “Every year, we deal with the stress of the holidays,” Hill says. “This year is going to be worse than ever; well, maybe not worse than last year. But we are still dealing with a pandemic, we are still dealing with supply shortages and we are still dealing with labor shortages. If we do not laugh, we are going to cry. So we might as well laugh.” It is with that philosophy that Hill decided to revisit an original production of a show Fountain Hills Theater presented three years ago called “12 Days of Christmas,” which featured a dozen comedically relatable sketches centered around the holidays. Adding a new sketch — and replacing one that fell flat the first time around — Hill’s newly named “13 Days of Christmas” will play Dec. 3–19 at the theater.

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“

Have you been delaying the inevitable?

If yes, it’s Time to Replace!

Every year, we deal with the stress of the holidays. If we do not laugh, we are going to cry. So we might as well laugh. Peter J. Hill

“Audiences can expect a lot of fun and a lot of holiday music,” Hill says. “It is a series of 13 individual scenes all tied together by holiday songs. Some of them are very familiar and some of them are wildly unique that you have never heard before in your life. For example, we all know that a young Irving Berlin wrote ‘White Christmas,’ which is one of the most famous Christmas songs ever written. Of course, he was Jewish — so we sing it in Yiddish.” Among the show’s now-baker’s dozen sketches is one in which a very nervous husband enters a lingerie store in order to buy his wife something extra special for the holidays and another that

addresses the time-honored tradition of cutting down a Christmas tree. “Everybody has that dream of how wonderful it is to go out and cut down a Christmas tree,” Hill says. “But we play it more for the reality of the situation.” Hill insists that none of the sketches are autobiographical. However, audiences are sure to find bits and pieces of their own childhood scattered throughout “13 Days of Christmas,” which aims to be as touching as it is humorous. fhtaz.org

EXPERIENCE

13 Days of Christmas Dec. 3–19 | Fountain Hills Theater | 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills $35 | 480-837-9661 | fhtaz.org

FREE UPGRADE on 0% financing offers 36 months

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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1

Having known each other for years, Jason Ebel (left) and Chris Nicosia’s (right) North Scottsdale establishment, The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen, recently celebrated its first year anniversary. Photo by Brittney Nestle

Writer Shannon Severson // Photography Courtesy of The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen

The headstone of Jason Ebel’s beloved grandfather reads simply, “A Craftsman.” These two words, and the man who inspired Ebel and chef-partner Chris Nicosia to open The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen in North Scottsdale, are the cornerstone of every aspect of this neighborhood gathering spot that recently celebrated its first year anniversary. “My grandfather was a farmer in Nebraska,” Ebel says. “He would cut down a tree and take it all the way to creating a piece of furniture in addition to his farming. I have a background in beer and coffee and developing spirits. Chris reflects that in the kitchen. He creates everything from scratch. It all ties together.” The pair have known each other for years. Both natives of Chicago, Ebel only recently made the move to Phoenix official but has enjoyed Nicosia’s culinary mastery from his days as the executive chef at Desert Mountain in 2003 through his years as the renowned, award-winning executive chef of Sassi. “We always threw it around, ‘Wouldn’t it be neat if…’ says Nicosia, an Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame inductee. “We always kept in touch. Not only is it us creating this concept, in this time of limited staffing, we can seek out other craftsmen who are doing great things around us and bring in their talents, as well.” After the closure of Sassi, Nicosia spent time on the food distribution side, building new relationships and exploring sourcing. His new landscape is replete with new ideas and possibilities. “I was able to plan the menu around what I know I can get, what is fresh,” Nicosia explains. “If there’s something special I want, I already know where to

go. You don’t have the same variety of products now, but you have to be able to adapt.” The environment that Ebel, Nicosia and operating partner and general manager Steve Morin have created is part modern, cozy lodge with a roaring fireplace by which to lounge on the inside, and part open-air, sit-on-the-porch-and-stay-a-while casual. “We aren’t here to turn you over,” Ebel says. “We want you to spend some time with us.” The food and drinks are anything but typical. Having an executive chef of Nicosia’s caliber has immediately put this hotspot on the map. Bourbon to vodka, gin to Amaro (a complex herbal Italian apéritif made with 23 different botanicals and aged in IPA barrels), Ebel has painstakingly created proprietary spirits and beer for The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen such that the only way to get the exact quality and flavor of his inventive bar menu is to visit the restaurant in person. It’s not that the drinks are fussy, but they’re extremely thoughtful and Nicosia works with mixologist Cody Jones to add his own touches from the kitchen — simple syrups infused with blackberry and basil, jalapeño or ginger, lavender honey or homemade bitters. Drink selections follow the rhythms of the seasons and happy hour noshes rotate monthly. “Over a career of 25 years, I have a backlog of menus and recipes,” Nicosia says. “When it comes time for a seasonal change, I can refer back. I come across things I haven’t seen in years.”

november 2021

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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1

“

Over a career of 25 years, I have a backlog of menus and recipes. When it comes time for a seasonal change, I can refer back. I come across things I haven’t seen in years. Chris Nicosia

The restaurant also pairs with exclusive providers for their tequilas and mezcal and has sought out winemakers and other distillers to partner with. One of the signature events at The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen is a series of bourbon and winemaker dinners where Nicosia creates exclusive tasting menus to be paired with these unparalleled beverages. “My specialty side is distilling and brewing,” Ebel says, “I knew we wanted to highlight the spirits to go along with the food. I’m always just trying to keep up with Chris. We can kind of push each other and that makes us both want to keep getting better.” Nicosia still has some of his legendary Italian favorites on the menu. Ebel insists that his meatballs are the hands-down best on the planet, but The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen has opened the possibilities for the many cuisines that have influenced him over the years.

“I’d been in the Italian box for a long time and I love that box and it was comfortable,” Nicosia says with a smile. “It’s nice to be able to use good old smoked American bacon and not pancetta. It’s familiar but not predictable. “My menu is made of things that I have really enjoyed over the years. My first restaurant job in college was in Cape Cod. ‘Fresh and Chips’ is the type of light and crisp breading on the freshest seafood. I couldn’t find that style anywhere and now I have the chance to do it. We will always have an artisan pasta. None of it is going to confuse you.” Nicosia recalls traveling extensively throughout Europe and in the United States with his family, then they’d return home and experiment with the ingredients of whatever region in which they’d adventured. A family trip to New Orleans had his mother cooking up Cajun specialties upon return to their Illinois home kitchen.

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The food and drinks at The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen are anything but typical. Having an executive chef of Chris Nicosia’s caliber has immediately put this hotspot on the map.

On the menu now is that New Orleansinspired muffuletta sandwich on buttery homemade focaccia with perfect crumb; volcano pork, a bone-in shank braised in hatch green chile jus and served with jalapeño slaw, lime queso and warm tortillas is a nod to the glories of Southwest flavors; and the flavors of good old American barbecue drip from the blacksmith barbecue chicken sandwich with coffee liqueur barbecue sauce, confit thighs, crispy onions and arugula on a fluffy brioche bun. “I used to put on summer clam bakes as a hobby,” Nicosia says. “We would hunt and fish around the world. I remember cooking a goose my dad and I shot at 12 years old. I’ve got my little daughter eating doves that I’ve shot with foie gras and dried cherry sauce. My wife asked my daughter at just 4 years old if she’d like her sausage cut up. She responded, ‘Sausage? I want one of those little birds!” She wasn’t afraid

of anything. She will order octopus if she sees it on the menu.” Expanding horizons, reintroducing old favorites and involving family and friends in this labor of legacy and love has been a rewarding venture for Ebel and Nicosia and they’re pleased to see where it’s taking them. Regulars are plentiful at The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen and the pair has big plans for the fall and beyond, including more small-batch products, a second bar for weekend tastings and the return of weekend brunch. “We are reacting to what our guests want,” Nicosia says. “It can be unexpected to see what is popular. We have had good success this year and we’re lucky to have the opportunity and I’m looking forward to the evolution to see where we end up.” thecraftsmanaz.com

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Rusty Childress

The practice of decorating a tree for Christmas has some roots in religion, but the tradition actually branches back even further in history. Long before the advent of Christianity, ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows in the winter with the belief that evergreens warded off witches, ghosts, evil spirits and illness. Evergreen boughs also reminded those in the Northern hemisphere that plants would grow again upon summer’s return. Egyptians filled their homes with green palm rushes as representations of the triumph of life over death. Early Romans decorated their homes and temples with evergreen boughs as reminders that farms and orchards would soon be green and fruitful. Northern Europe’s druids decorated their temples with evergreen boughs as a symbol of everlasting life. Even the Vikings in Scandinavia cherished evergreens for similar reasons. The Christmas tree traditions that we practice today got their start in Germany during the 16th century and were not widely accepted by Americans until the late 19th century. Lights eventually replaced antiquated candles and, by the early 20th century, Christmas trees glimmered and glowed each holiday season in homes across the country while communities around the globe gathered to light larger versions — like the one in Rockefeller Center in New York. As beautiful as our Christmas trees are all decked out for the holidays, they are even more majestic in their natural form, as seen in forests such as those we have right here in Arizona. In fact, our state has the largest continuous belt of ponderosa pine forest in the world, according to photographer Rusty Childress. “It stretches uninterrupted from New Mexico to the Grand Canyon,” he explains. “There are 2.4 million acres of forest land with ponderosa pine. The forests consist of Coconino, Tonto, Kaibab and Apache-Sitgreaves. Immersing yourself in any of these sacred forests can evoke calm and is sure to nurture your soul.” It is our hope that this month’s photo essay, featuring numerous images in which Childress has magnificently memorialized the aesthetic enchantment of pine trees in Arizona’s winter, imbues you with at least a small sample of that soul-nurturing feeling. It is also our hope that it helps you to see the brightly lit and beautifully decorated tree that is at the center of all of your Christmas celebrations with an even more profound appreciation. november 2021

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After I shoot in the early morning, I hike four miles in pines. This is one of the best ways to practice nature-bathing mindfulness because you activate the senses by listening to the wind through the trees and by enjoying the intoxicating smell of the pines. Rusty Childress

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Snowfall acts as the preverbal icing on the cake in photography. Specifically, the contrast of white snow with green needles and red bark can provide an unforgettable punch to a scene. Unless you're a skier, it’s the kind of landscape most people seldom have access to, making it even more rare and special. Rusty Childress

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Forests inspire us, comfort us and remind us how fragile life is. With the abundance of wildfires today, we need to not only take plenty of vitamin W — wilderness — but also take ownership and maintain stewardship with the intention of preserving forests. Rusty Childress

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ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER After beginning his career as a photojournalist in 1978, Rusty Childress spent 33 years in the automotive industry. He kept his camera close at hand and, in 2007, he became a freelance photographer and started an outdoor event photography business specializing in motorsports and concert photography called The Main Event Imaging. Today, Childress focuses on natural history photography as he spends most of his time underwater, on an all-terrain vehicle, in the air or on a sport utility vehicle overland expedition in search of a story that must be told. “For example, most of our environmental struggles originate from an out-of-sight-out-of-mind scenario that threatens the equilibrium of our life support system that we call Mother Earth,” Childress says. “Mankind's reckless dominion as an apex invasive species is destroying our finite planet through overpopulation at the exponential rate of 150 per minute, 9,000 per hour, 220,000 per day, 1.5 million per week and 80 million per year.” Childress aspires for his work to celebrate and emphasize the aesthetic value of nature. He hopes that his images leave people touched, moved and inspired in a way that empowers them to take ownership and provide stewardship of the natural world. “Understanding that people protect what they love, I am committed to capturing nature's moments and sharing the resulting images as a form of artistic activism,” he explains. childress.com

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As shadows grow long against a brilliant Arizona sunset, something special is taking shape beneath the cool green leaves of Agritopia Farm’s picturesque peach tree orchard. The tables are set with a natural table runner gathered from the surrounding gardens: bunches of basil and mint, deep purple eggplants, rosy radishes, leafy bok choi and fresh-picked green beans. Printed menus are set atop hammered copper chargers that catch the glint of votive candles and the twinkling string lights that form a canopy overhead. Drinks are poured, a live musician plays and the sound of laughter and clinking glasses are harbingers of the incredible experience to come. The remarkable repasts of the TLC eXperience are the creation of Tom and Lin Baumbach, owners of Tom and Lin Catering in Phoenix. The TLCX was born at the intersection of adversity and opportunity and the entrepreneurial Baumbachs chose to make lemonade out of lemons — and to make that lemonade especially delicious, served in the prettiest possible glass. “The TLCX gave us a new creative outlet at a time when so many people were feeling stifled,” Lin says. “The pandemic surely affected our catering business, but we were and still are determined to bring amazing food and service to people any way we can. “The TLCX has also given us a chance to serve people on a regular basis — more like a restaurant. When we cater, that one event is sometimes the only event at which we will serve those people. With the supper club, we now have regulars and are excited to share our food passion with more and more people.” Chef Tom’s culinary talents meld perfectly with Lin’s natural flair for planning, hostessing and designing stunning environments. Together, they create events to delight all the senses. “When the pandemic hit, we were bombarded with closures, cancellations and rescheduled events,” Tom says. “The calendar for fall 2020 was empty. We were bored and wanted our employees to have some work. So we said, ‘If no one’s going to throw an event, we’re going to do it ourselves.’” They called Agritopia Farm in Chandler and orchestrated their very first farm dinner.

Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of Dana Gibbons Photography

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Featuring food from chef Tom Baumbach, the TLC eXperience begins with appetizers and a signature beverage, time to mingle and explore the location — most often outdoors, but always in a stimulating and unique environment.

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“We sold tables of eight so guests could control with whom they sat,” Tom adds. “Most of our clients used it as an opportunity to show their appreciation to their own clients. We had a whopping 80 people! “Many of our clients [asked], ‘When’s the next one?’ So we scheduled one at Rhiba Farms for November and one in the Chapel Sistine traveling art exhibit at The Croft Downtown for December. By that time, things were blossoming and we knew we had something special. We decided to make this a regular event and created the TLC eXperience — a modern supper club.” Guests can book ahead as a couple, single or entire table for events that are different each time. The evening begins with appetizers and a signature beverage, time to mingle and explore the location — most often outdoors, but always in a stimulating and unique environment. “We move to dinner seating about an hour into the event and embark on a fourto five-course journey through the menu — typically centered around a theme of some sort,” Lin explains. “One of our favorite dinners was the most recent, where we paid homage to chef Tom’s time in Alaska, featuring dishes inspired by guest chefs as well as the amazing seafood, foraged mushrooms and berries that Alaska has to offer.” Many of the TLCX dinner menus draw from specific purveyors, winemakers or farmers. From amuse-bouche to dessert, each plate is meticulously crafted. Chef Tom draws upon inspiration from what is fresh and from his personal experiences in the culinary industry. “I started working with food as a butcher,” he says. “I was constantly being asked what to do with the meat I sold. On a whim, I decided to go to culinary school. A passion I didn’t know was there november 2021

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Chef Tom (center) draws upon inspiration from what is fresh and from his personal experiences in the culinary industry.

Chef Tom’s culinary talents meld perfectly with Lin’s natural flair for planning, hostessing and designing stunning environments. Together, they create events to delight all the senses.

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was ignited and I was able to use my creativity in a whole new way. I worked in fine dining around the Phoenix area and branched into catering just a few years after graduating from culinary school.” Launching an independent business venture just happens to be in Tom’s DNA. “I was raised in an entrepreneurial family,” he says. “My parents owned Biltmore Jewelry and I grew up seeing the fruit of owning a small business.” Lin says she’s always been a hostess at heart. “I loved creating tablescapes and events as a child and young adult,” she explains. “I worked in banquets at The Phoenician Resort during college, along with some other local restaurants. “My early professional career was as a music teacher, but after marrying Tom, I began to grow more and more into my hostess role. We started doing small catering for friends and organizations that were near and dear to our hearts. In 2013, Tom and Lin Catering was officially born and we haven’t looked back since.” When the two aren’t creating joyful experiences for their clients, they spend time with their 10-year-old daughter, Abigail. “Abigail is our pride and joy,” Lin exclaims. “She is an actress and we are so proud of her. We love watching her perform as well as we all like to go to concerts and festivals — when we can find the time.” As concerts and festivals return to the usual seasonal rhythm, the TLCX is gearing up for some impressive supper club offerings for the holidays and the catering business is rapidly booking private events.

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The TLCX was born at the intersection of adversity and opportunity and the entrepreneurial Baumbachs chose to make lemonade out of lemons — and to make that lemonade especially delicious, served in the prettiest possible glass. “The calendar is quickly filling up at Tom and Lin Catering,” Lin says. “We offer full-service catering and work with many businesses and private residences to show gratitude and appreciation through a holiday party. We ask everyone to stay tuned through social media and our newsletter to hear about any special TLCX dinners in the works.” The future looks bright –– and delicious –– for this talented and dynamic couple. “We are really loving the momentum we have built with the TLC eXperience and are excited to see how it continues to play out,” Tom says. “Who knows what the future holds, but we are committed to providing a personal, inspired experience for all of our clients.” Lin says the principle they hold most dear is right in the name of their business: TLC — tender loving care. “We want to show a little TLC to everyone we meet,” she explains. tomandlincatering.com

FOOD

New Year’s Eve eXperience See website for time | Friday, Dec. 31 | Agritopia Farm 3000 E. Ray Road, Gilbert | See website for price november 2021 imagesar iz ona .c om 602-690-4875 | tomandlincatering.com 57

Celebrating 12 years in the community, Desert Foothills Family YMCA — under the leadership of executive director Raye Gall — now offers an expanded lineup of classes, programs and events that cater to individuals of all ages, abilities and interests.

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Desert Foothills Family YMCA

The past two years have undoubtedly been difficult for an inordinate number of individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations. For many months, the only faces we saw were either our own in the mirror, our loved ones with whom we live, partially covered with masks or comprised of a plethora of pixels through our computer screens. Moreover, many of us have become accustomed to this socially distanced way of life. But life was not meant to be lived vicariously through television shows that we binge; nor is our hunger for human connection satiated through Zoom. We crave new knowledge and skills, camaraderie with others within our community and a sense that we are taking full advantage of each and every day that we are alive. It is that thirst, strong leadership and some forwardthinking that helped Desert Foothills Family YMCA emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger than ever. “The pandemic allowed the Y some time to think about how we serve our community, what we were doing well, what we needed to bring back and what we needed to rethink,” says executive director Raye Gall. Celebrating 12 years in the community, Desert Foothills Family YMCA now offers an expanded lineup of classes, programs and events that cater to individuals of all ages, abilities and interests. “The Y offers programs that develop healthy spirit, mind and body through life-saving swim lessons to programs for seniors to reduce social isolation and everything in between,” Gall explains. “Our summer camps, afterschool programs and out-of-school day-camps engage youth in our community and allow them to explore swimming, archery, sports, STEAM programs, cooking, foreign language and more.”

STRETCHING BOTH MIND AND BODY

Gall started as a yoga instructor at Desert Foothills Family YMCA 10 years ago, aspiring to help people learn how to breathe, take time for their mental health and feel more confident with themselves. “I made my class available to all levels so that people could just come and be who they were at that moment,” Gall says. “That really aligned with the Y because anyone can come in our doors and start right where they are. They do not

have to jump up a level. They can be who they are and be comfortable with being here but know that they are going to get stretched a little bit in both their mind and body.” Like many people, Gall was unaware that Desert Foothills Family YMCA is actually a nonprofit organization. “I had thought I would actually start my own nonprofit as I knew in my heart how healing yoga can be for all ages — from preschoolers to seniors,” she says. “Then I realized that the Y does this and so much more.” Gall was especially inspired to see how Desert Foothills Family YMCA does not turn people away for an inability to pay. “All of the programs that the Y offers are for all,” she explains. “We have a financial assistance application for anyone who needs the help.” Moreover, Desert Foothills Family YMCA extends special invitations to certain members of the community who need the connections it creates and nurtures the most. “We have special military memberships to invite the families of those who are on active duty while they are gone,” Gall says. “We also have discounted memberships for veterans because we want to honor them by having them in our building and showing them the love that they may not have always received.” Seeing all of the good that the nonprofit organization does for the community and those who live in it, Gall rose up through the ranks to her current role as Desert Foothills Family YMCA’s executive director. “Now I am focused on how we, as a community, can invest in our Desert Foothills Family YMCA now and for the future for generations to come,” she says. “It has been an amazing 10 years here. It is a central hub for the community. We have so many folks who, new to the area, come here to find new friends. It is a really great opportunity for people to do that and I have seen that magic happen daily for the past decade and it really inspires me.”

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY

Although Desert Foothills Family YMCA has been that central hub for 12 years, the downtime during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed its leadership — including Gall —

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Because it is a nonprofit organization, Raye Gall encourages the community to donate to Desert Foothills Family YMCA. She also encourages everyone to visit the facility, take a look around and see what it has to offer.

some time to really think about how the nonprofit organization could even better serve, engage and connect the community. “We realized that it is important for people to have the flexibility of being inside and making social connections or being outside and making social connections,” Gall says. “So we added a new outdoor recreation person who has been a great addition to our team.” A teen director was also added to serve a segment of the population that was perhaps negatively impacted the most by the pandemic. “We realized that teens kind of got lost a little bit in the world at large during this pandemic,” Gall says. “They took to social media and, not having any real social connections, became depressed.” It became abundantly clear that teens wanted — and needed — social opportunities outside of their smartphones and computers the moment Desert Foothills Family YMCA’s sports programs were back up and running.

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“Teens flocked back to be involved in what the Y had to offer,” Gall says. “So we saw a real opportunity to focus on teens and to provide them with a safe space to come, be themselves and explore opportunities that they may not have thought of or envisioned.” Desert Foothills Family YMCA is especially focused on helping teens learn and develop important life skills and ensuring that all teens have the opportunity to be a leader. But teens were not the only segment of the population that demonstratively desired the nonprofit organization’s offerings. “Our seniors flocked back as well,” Gall says. “Obviously, there were some who had fears about coming back, but their fear of social isolation was even greater.” It should be noted that Desert Foothills Family YMCA made it a point to continue to engage seniors during the pandemic through outreach phone calls and Facebook Live classes led by “The Deb and Shannon Show” — the latter of which are still being offered, thereby

allowing seniors to continue to see their friends while out of town.

LINKING TO OTHER RESOURCES

Gall believes that the connections that people make at Desert Foothills Family YMCA while they are presenting the most authentic versions of themselves are the ultimate illustration of the nonprofit organization’s success. “Our mission statement is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body,” she says. “But what is even more important and cool is how we bring the community together. “Many people live in a homeowners association or a gated community and they may never have the opportunity to get to know someone who lives in another community or even know who their neighbors are. The Y allows people — whether they live in Terravita, Tatum Ranch, Desert Mountain or wherever — to come play pickleball, racquetball or handball together or take a water fitness class together.”

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It is a central hub for the community. We have so many folks who, new to the area, come here to find new friends. It is a really great opportunity for people to do that and I have seen that magic happen daily for the past decade and it really inspires me. Raye Gall

Similarly, Desert Foothills Family YMCA brings children and teens who go to different schools together in a setting where they can confidently let their guard down and be themselves without fear of being judged or bullied. It is a place that creates the most quintessential definition of community imaginable. “Engaging in the community is very important for people's mental health,” Gall adds. “Social isolation affects people of all ages. I have spoken with young parents who sometimes ask how to make friends. The Y really gives them an opportunity to do that.” However, it is also a resource for so much more. “We have families on financial assistance who we are able to link to other resources within the community — whether it is the food bank or [Foothills] Caring Corps,” Gall says. “The Y brings down the barriers.” Of course, because it is a nonprofit organization, Gall encourages the community to donate to Desert Foothills Family YMCA so that she and her staff can continue to serve those in need of its services. Donations also enable the nonprofit organization to offer free swim lessons that help keep the community’s children safe around water. “The community can support Desert Foothills Family YMCA by making taxdeductible contributions through a variety of ways — including Arizona tax credit, charitable trusts, cryptocurrency and wire transfers,” Gall says. “One of the really great ways to give is through appreciated stocks and mutual funds. You can actually donate your stocks to the Y and not have to pay the capital gains tax. You get the full amount rather than selling them and then giving a

donation. There are so many ways to give and stretch your dollars even further. And all donations go directly to a person or a family in need to ensure that they have access to our services.”

SETTING RESOLUTIONS

Gall also encourages everyone in the community to visit Desert Foothills Family YMCA, take a look around and see what it has to offer. “There is something for everyone and we pride ourselves on that,” she says. “But we would also love to hear if you want to volunteer or be a part of the Y family in a different way.” Future goals include expanding Desert Foothills Family YMCA’s dedicated youth space — an effort for which it is currently in the midst of fundraising. There are also plans for a terrace for outdoor fitness as well as a pool expansion. “We need to continue to grow to keep up with our ever-expanding community,” says Gall, reiterating the importance of donations. “This will enable members of our community the ability to leave a legacy by making a contribution for capital projects.” Speaking of goals, Gall believes that December is the absolutely perfect time to visit Desert Foothills Family YMCA. “Come to the Y and get a head start on those New Year's resolutions,” she says. “There is no time like the present to take care of that and it makes it so much easier when you keep active and continue moving throughout the holidays.” valleyymca.org/desert-foothills

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The Arizona Diamondbacks this fall honored the legacy of Mike Kennedy (shown here on right with former player Brad Ziegler) by officially naming the effort the Mike Kennedy Diamonds Back Field Building Program.

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Over the course of his career and residency here in Arizona, Mike Kennedy did not only demonstrate servant leadership but lived it. “Mike was all about service and made it a part of his daily life — serving his family, serving his church and serving his community,” says Derrick Hall, president and chief executive officer of Arizona Diamondbacks. “He was selfless.” Kennedy’s perpetual selflessness was seen across his career as he steadily served several community organizations. It is difficult to imagine how such a highly successful Phoenix attorney and dedicated family man could find time to make himself available to so many serviceable projects, but Kennedy did exactly that. He was especially passionate about youth sports and, as founding president of the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for nearly 25 years, he managed to have a monumental impact on the quality and quantity of athletic opportunities that children and teens have here in our state. Although Kennedy passed away this past February after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer, his efforts and endeavors will endure, ensuring that Arizona’s youth reach their fullest potential thereby strengthening the state’s prosperous future.

FROM THE BASKETBALL COURT TO THE COURTROOM

Born in 1950, Kennedy grew up in Dayton, Ohio and was a standout athlete at Oakwood High School — where he played on both the basketball and golf teams. Although he did not play in any fall sports, Kennedy loved to attend the school’s football games and inspire his fellow athletes. Kennedy later attended Duke University, where he served as president of the Sigma Chi fraternity, before receiving his law degree in 1975 from the University of Virginia. In his professional career, he first focused on civil litigation at the Phoenix law firm of Snell and Wilmer. In 1978, he joined forces with Mike Gallagher to found a new law firm — Gallagher and Kennedy. In addition to Kennedy’s professional success, which saw his firm grow to become one of the largest and most respected in the state, Kennedy consistently made it a point to give back to the community. Kennedy served as president of both the Maricopa County Bar Association and the Arizona Association of Defense Counsel and was also an inaugural member of the Maricopa County Bar Association Hall of Fame.

Kennedy’s steadfast commitment to the community quickly became crystal clear. Over the years, he was a member of Greater Phoenix Leadership, the Arizona Commerce Authority, the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors and the School of Theology at Claremont’s board of trustees. He also helped lead the capital campaign for the Phoenix Zoo. Despite his successful career and community endeavors, Kennedy always found time to dedicate to his family — especially his three children, as a member of Brophy College Preparatory’s board of regents and Xavier College Preparatory’s board of trustees.

HERE’S THE PITCH

Likely spurring from his own experience as an athlete back in high school, Kennedy saw the tremendously advantageous role that professional sports play within a community and therefore devoted much of his time to leadership positions in that realm. Kennedy served as the chairman of the Arizona Super Bowl XLII Host Committee, the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament and the Thunderbird International Junior Golf Tournament. He also served as the director of the National Minority Golf Foundation, the president of the Paradise Valley Country Club, the “Big Chief” of the Phoenix Thunderbirds Tournament and a member of the Super Bowl XLIX Executive Committee. In 1997, before the Arizona Diamondbacks ever played a Major League Baseball game, Kennedy became the founding president of the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation — a role in which he would have some of his most prominent and profound impacts on the community. “Mike was a huge baseball fan,” Hall says. “He rarely missed a Diamondbacks home game from his seats, which were some of the best in the house. His children grew up at the ballpark and one of his sons played college baseball. This sport played a tremendous role in his life and his family’s entertainment.” Striving primarily to support homelessness, indigent healthcare and youth programs, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has, since its inception, also created strategic programs to address the needs of our community’s veterans, police, teachers, firefighters and first responders. In fact, the foundation this year eclipsed $75 million in charitable contributions raised and donated to the Arizona community, proving that, under Kennedy’s leadership, it has become an industry-leading sports foundation and community asset unlike any other in our state.

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Although Mike Kennedy passed away this past February after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer, his efforts and endeavors will endure, ensuring that Arizona’s youth reach their fullest potential thereby strengthening the state’s prosperous future.

JERSEYS AND FIELDS

and backstops, irrigation, dirtwork, grass and electronic scoreboards. “These fields have been credited for improving communities as beautiful and safe points of pride, as well as becoming destinations and anchors for visitors from the outside,” Hall

“He was a firm believer in keeping children active and balancing their lives,” Hall explains. “He was also very involved in his kids’ youth sports activities and saw the clear benefits of teamwork, development and adversity. He clearly brought that perspective to many of our foundation initiatives — such as our youth jersey program, that he felt was critical.”

says. “We believe they bring tremendous economic and cultural value to the neighborhoods that they sit in.”

The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation launched the Diamondbacks Give Back Youth Jersey Program in spring 2014, providing youth baseball and softball leagues across Arizona with high-quality jerseys and caps at no cost. Since its inception, the program has significantly offset diminishing resources and allowed participating leagues to reallocate funds toward equipment, registration fees and facility improvements.

Moreover, Kennedy genuinely cared about the effects of his efforts, as he made it a point to never miss a field dedication and went to great lengths to help the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation raise the funds it needed to reach each and every community across Arizona. He was also a passionate advocate for grants and gifts to support the most vulnerable members of our community.

Another one of the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation’s initiatives that was very near and dear to Kennedy’s heart is the Diamonds Back Field Building Program, through which the foundation has built or refurbished 43 baseball and softball fields representing a charitable investment of more than $10 million.

The Arizona Diamondbacks this fall honored Kennedy’s legacy by officially naming its field-building initiative the Mike Kennedy Diamonds Back Field Building Program. It also renamed one of the fields for which the program is responsible — D-votion Field in Goodyear — Mike Kennedy Field.

With the aid of corporate sponsors, local businesses and monetary donations from individual players, the program allows children and teens across the state to play baseball and softball at quality facilities that feature new lights, fencing

They are small-yet-significant tributes in an attempt to memorialize and commemorate the very large contributions Kennedy made upon our community. Through the newly named program, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation will continue to make Kennedy’s vision a reality — a community

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GRAND SLAM LEGACY

Kennedy’s contributions to the community were as copious as they were far-reaching.

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Mike was all about service and made it a part of his daily life — serving his family, serving his church and serving his community. He was selfless. Derrick Hall

in which all children and teens have the opportunities, facilities and equipment they need to participate in youth sports. “He deserves a legacy within our foundation for all of his countless contributions since day one,” Hall says. “There is no more visible program than our field building, and they are located throughout the entire state of Arizona. His impact was not just locally here in Phoenix, as he positively improved lives of Arizonans everywhere.” dbacks.comIn addition to Kennedy’s professional success, which saw his firm grow to become one of the largest and most respected in the state, Kennedy consistently made it a point to give back to the community. Kennedy served as president of both the Maricopa County Bar Association and the Arizona Association of Defense Counsel and was also an inaugural member of the Maricopa County Bar Association Hall of Fame. Kennedy’s steadfast commitment to the community quickly became crystal clear. Over the years, he was a member of Greater Phoenix Leadership, the Arizona Commerce Authority, the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors and the School of Theology at Claremont’s board of trustees. He also helped lead the capital campaign for the Phoenix Zoo. Despite his successful career and community endeavors, Kennedy always found time to dedicate to his family — especially his three children, as a member of Brophy College Preparatory’s board of regents and Xavier College Preparatory’s board of trustees.

HERE’S THE PITCH

Tournament. He also served as the director of the National Minority Golf Foundation, the president of the Paradise Valley Country Club, the “Big Chief” of the Phoenix Thunderbirds Tournament and a member of the Super Bowl XLIX Executive Committee. In 1997, before the Arizona Diamondbacks ever played a Major League Baseball game, Kennedy became the founding president of the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation — a role in which he would have some of his most prominent and profound impacts on the community. “Mike was a huge baseball fan,” Hall says. “He rarely missed a Diamondbacks home game from his seats, which were some of the best in the house. His children grew up at the ballpark and one of his sons played college baseball. This sport played a tremendous role in his life and his family’s entertainment.” Striving primarily to support homelessness, indigent healthcare and youth programs, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has, since its inception, also created strategic programs to address the needs of our community’s veterans, police, teachers, firefighters and first responders. In fact, the foundation this year eclipsed $75 million in charitable contributions raised and donated to the Arizona community, proving that, under Kennedy’s leadership, it has become an industry-leading sports foundation and community asset unlike any other in our state.

JERSEYS AND FIELDS

Knowing that the benefits of youth sports are indeed infinite, Kennedy served as a passionate force behind programs that made it possible for Arizona’s youth to have access to athletic opportunities. “He was a firm believer in keeping children active and balancing their lives,” Hall explains. “He was also very involved in his kids’ youth sports activities and saw the clear benefits of teamwork, development and adversity. He

november 2021

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thefancypantskitchen.com

Writer and Photographer Francine Coles

Sheet Pan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese This sheet pan pumpkin mac and cheese is easy to make, thoroughly delicious and the perfect holiday side dish. Combining pumpkin purée into the cheese sauce gives you a rich, autumnal flavor while adding pepitas — raw, shelled pumpkin seeds — on top provides an amazing crunchiness in each bite. Feel free to substitute the cavatappi with any other twisty pasta with lots of nooks and crannies into which the cheese can nestle. Serves: 6

Ingredients:

2-1/2 cups bread flour 2 teaspoons Kosher salt, plus more for pasta water 1 pound cavatappi 6 tablespoons butter, plus more for sheet pan 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1 pound grated sharp cheddar, divided

Directions:

low, add noodles back into the pot and immediately toss to prevent butter from burning.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook for 4–5 minutes, till al dente — just soft enough so that if you taste one, there is no audible crunch. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain pot.

Drizzle in a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water then add salt, pepper, 12 ounces of the cheddar, Pecorino Romano and milk to the pot. Stir until you have a homogenous, creamy sauce then mix in pumpkin purée. Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

In the same pot over medium heat, brown 6 tablespoons of butter and stir continuously until it foams. The foam will recede and the butter will become golden-tan and begin to give off a deeply appealing, rich, nutty scent. Turn the heat down to

Transfer everything to prepared sheet pan and sprinkle with remaining 4 ounces of cheddar, panko and pepitas. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until panko is toasted and some of the cheesy noodles sticking out around the edges are tinged with amber spots.

Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Butter an 11-by-17-inch sheet pan with rimmed edges.

4 ounces grated Pecorino Romano 1 cup whole milk 1-1/4 cups pumpkin purée 1-1/4 cups plain panko 1/2 cup raw pepitas

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7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080 november 2021

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SANDERSON LINCOLN

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