One Plate at a Time
CHRISTIANE BARBATO
DC Ranch
Scottsdale
ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
Grayhawk
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Contents
PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
EDITOR/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenn Korducki Krenn
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donna Kublin Amanda Christmann Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Rebecca Zaner Stephanie Maher Palenque Paula Theotocatos Peni Long Shannon Severson Nigel Spence Katherine Braden Lara Piu Grace Hill
PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Mike Harvey Karen Hamilton Monica Longenbaker Brandon Tigrett
ADVERTISING SALES Loren Sheck
ART DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT Jennifer Satterlee
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ 85377 623-341-8221 imagesaz.com Submission of news for Community News section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2016 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
One Plate at a Time Christiane Barbato pictured Writer Katherine Braden Photographer Loralei Lazurek P. 8
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Consign With Us These rare five dollar bills sold for 26 times the estimated price. J. Levine’s top tier bidders, representing over 60 countries, ensure that when you consign with us we provide both an active audience and a convenient turnkey solution for a single item or an entire estate. Our consignment team continually uncovers estates and collectibles that attract a strong and regular following.
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Welcome
I
It’s been a year of exciting changes for Images Arizona. From a new design to new staff members to a brand new publication, our family has grown and evolved in both measurable and immeasurable ways in 2016. Through it all, we’ve remained dedicated to exploring local arts and culture, as well as businesses and members of our community — people making an impact, no matter how big or how small, in their own lives or in the lives of others. We are Arizona proud. And I mean that quite literally, as this month we introduce our newest way of celebrating Arizona and the people who make our state great: iamAZproud.com.
Saguaro Splendor P. 24
Our new website was built to ensure our readers and clients are the first to know about exclusive upcoming events highlighting the cultural and natural aspects of Arizona. Featuring local artists, architects, musicians and other unique talent, these events will be more than your average mixer — they are an unmatched, #iamAZproud experience. Visit iamAZproud.com and sign up for our newsletter to receive special VIP invitations. Alongside these events created to celebrate our home state, the magazine itself will feature more Arizona-centric photographs and local photographers, such as this month’s photo essay on one of our most treasured desert icons: the saguaro cactus. If you’re a nature enthusiast, we encourage you to submit your favorite shots for a chance to be profiled.
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Enjoy!
Tuft & Needle P. 32
Strawberry Champagne Granita P. 65
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Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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Local Artist CHRISTIANE BARBATO
I
I follow Christiane Barbato across her backyard and into a small white hut. Inside, dozens of unglazed clay pots and bowls rest upside-down on shelves, waiting. It’s bright and dusty, and the air smells earthy, like dirt and sunshine. A long table stands in the middle. Christiane turns to me, smiling. “This is my studio,” she says. For Christiane, it all officially started a few years ago. Unhappy with the plates she had at home, she decided to make her own. She’d been making pottery since high school, but it had always been a hobby. Once friends saw her homemade plates, however, they asked if they could order some for themselves. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business, Christiane sensed an opportunity. She sold to her friends and started a website, putting her work online. In 2013, she relocated to a house in Phoenix. But there was a problem: The door of her new home was a nasty shade of green. Undeterred, Christiane painted it a bright, happy blue. Inspiration hit, and she named her business Blue Door Ceramics. And just like that, her hobby became her full-time job. “It’s perfect for me,” says the mother of three, ages 9 to 18. “I need to be very present for my children and my work.” Christiane’s self-made schedule allows her to be flexible, dedicating time to both. “After [my children] go to bed, I have to go back to the studio.” Writer Katherine Braden Photographer Loralei Lazurek
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Christiane works Sunday to Sunday, four to six hours a day. She has to get up early to glaze outside, or else the sun will be too hot. “Most of the days, I work in a bikini, sunscreen, hat and flipflops,” she says. Before she begins her work, however, she meditates. For her, it’s a way to sync with God, surrender and leave all problems behind. It’s also how she receives inspiration. She tells me she recommends everyone do it, but especially artists. Then, using California clay, Christiane shapes her pieces. Most of the time she makes plates or mugs. Bowls are her favorite; they leave room for so much creativity. Christiane is inspired by organic shapes, such as tropical plants and fruits. She molds her bowls around rocks or watermelons, presses leaves into plates or shells into mugs. Sometimes she uses the potter’s wheel, but she doesn’t love the uniformity it produces. She likes all of her pieces to feel organic. Christiane shows me mugs made on the wheel where she has purposefully pushed in one of the sides to give them a less perfect, less uniform feel. She must then dry the piece, a four- to seven-day process that involves carefully covering the clay to prevent cracking. Next, a bisque firing prepares the clay to receive the glaze. Then, she glazes. She loves the
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colors turquoise, gray and off-white. She also decorates the bottoms of her ceramics, an idea that was inspired by a bowl she bought from a Brazilian Indian tribe in Mato Grosso — a large state in the country — that was painted on the bottom. After she glazes the piece, it again goes into the kiln, where it is fired at 2,200 degrees for 12 hours. It takes another 12 to 24 hours for the kiln to cool down. Finally, the piece is ready to be wrapped and shipped. It takes at least two weeks to complete a piece, and it’s a delicate procedure. One mistake can ruin hours of work. “There’s no way to speed up the process,” says Christiane. Clay teaches you to be patient, and it’s a stern teacher. “Also, you can never get attached to anything you make because it might crack.” But working with clay is something that Christiane has enjoyed doing for many years. Born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil, Christiane was a high school exchange student at Chaparral High School in Scottsdale in 1983. It’s where her love for pottery, and Arizona, first began. “I love [Phoenix],” she says. “I always felt like I belonged here. Like it was my place.”
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She moved back to Brazil, went to college, got her master’s and started her own hotel and spa, which she ran for six years. The whole time, she dabbled with clay as a hobby. By the time she was 40, however, she decided it was time to be happy, so she moved back to Phoenix. Now, she makes plates for spas and restaurants. “Funny how life goes around,” she says. Christiane has made plateware for more than six restaurants, and her work has been featured in cookbooks and gallery shows. She also does wedding registries. A portion of all Blue Door Ceramics proceeds are donated to the charity Casa Brazil. An organization near to Christiane’s heart, Casa Brazil helps to feed and clothe impoverished children in Northern Brazil. “I really want to be able to help them more,” she tells me. She does what she can, donating her pieces to their silent auction and assisting them with events. Giving to them “makes [her] heart really happy.” Mother, businesswoman, benefactor, artist: Christiane works hard, but it’s obvious she passionately loves everything she does. I ask her advice for anyone thinking of becoming an artist full-time. It’s totally doable, she says. She stresses there’s no such thing as a starving artist. Writer Tom
Scanlon
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“Don’t think an artist can’t make a living,” she says. It’s important, Christiane tells me, to always be professional, and treat your work as you would treat work in a corporate world.
Her dream? To do what she loves, help others and make a difference in the world. And she’s doing it — joyfully, warmly. One plate at a time.
However, it’s also essential to stay true to who you are and make things that give you pleasure.
You can find Christiane at the Sonoran Arts League’s Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale this November, as well as the Italian Festival and open studios at her home.
“I’m only going to make things I like,” she says. “You don’t have to please everyone when you make something, but you must trust there are people out there looking for what you have to sell … someone who wants exactly what you have.” Christiane likes to envision her clients as “goodhearted people who travel, are adventurous and kind.” Her ceramics are infused with her joy and love, and she hopes it blesses the homes and people who use it.
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480-528-8937 bluedoorceramics.com etsy.com/shop/bluedoorceramics
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COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Grace Hill
AUG. 1-5
SUPERHEROES OF THE BIBLE SUMMER CAMP Children entering grades 1-6 will explore superheroes of the Bible with acting, singing, comic book art and much more! $60 per week. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Desert Mission United Methodist Church, 7373 E. Dixileta Dr., 480-595-1814, desertmissionumc.org.
AUG. 6
PHOENIX ZOO’S PROWL AND PLAY Calling all pirates and princesses! Phoenix Zoo will be taken over by enchanting fairytale princesses and the swashbuckling pirate Jolly Roger for a special meet-andgreet. The fun will continue with musical entertainment, animal encounters, water slides and more. $6, members; $8, general admission; free, children 2 and under. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., 602-2863800, phoenixzoo.org.
AUG. 10, 24 STORY TIME FOR TOTS
Two favorites collide for kids at Butterfly Wonderland: butterflies and story time. Children between the ages of 2 and 5 are invited to hear a special story read to them. Certified massage therapist Laurie Schaefer will also lead a pediatric massage instructional at the event. Free with admission. 10-11 a.m. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, 480-8003000, butterflywonderland.com.
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AUG. 25-28
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE BIRTHDAY Happy birthday to the National Park Service! 2016 marks the agency’s 100th birthday, and what better way to celebrate than to visit a national park. More than 400 national parks will offer free admission, which includes entrance fees, commercial tour fees and transportation entrance fees. Check website for details. nps.gov.
AUG. 14
PHOENIX ART MUSEUM’S FREE 2ND SUNDAY Discount Tire and the Phoenix Art Museum offer the public free admission for the whole family on the second Sunday of the month. Included in the visit are activities, scavenger hunts, live performances, story time, free tours and more. Free. 12-5 p.m. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., 602-257-1880, phxart.org.
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AUG. 25
LEGO BUILDER'S CLUB Children ages 4 and up will be excited to show off their skills at Desert Foothills Library’s monthly building club. To include both young and old builders, the library makes available both chunky
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and regular building blocks. Call to register. Free. 4-5 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., 480-488-2286, desertfoothillslibrary.org.
AUG. 26-27
3RD ANNUAL SEDONA BIKE AND BREW FESTIVAL Bicyclists will have the opportunity to participate in a truly unique experience: racing on a golf course. The six-mile track will take riders over all 18 holes, 400 feet of elevation change, 90
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acres of fairways, tee boxes, cart paths and natural and manmade features. After the race, the festival continues with an awards ceremony, music, food, cold beer and a raffle. Check website for details. sedonagolfresort.com/race.
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AUG. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 LOCAL JONNY’S DRINK AND DRAW
Unwind after a long day of work by attending Local Jonny’s Drink and Draw each Wednesday evening of the month. There you will experience what is all the rage right now: adult coloring! The restaurant will also include live music, coloring supplies (or you can bring your own) and halfpriced flatbreads. 6-8 p.m. Local Jonny’s, 6033 E. Cave Creek Rd., 480-488-7473, localjonnys.com.
AUG. 19
ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER’S SCIENCE WITH A TWIST It’s back to school time with a twist! Adults, 21 and older, are invited to a nighttime event at the Arizona Science Center. The theme for the night is “Coffee Chemistry” and will include a cash bar, music, live science demonstrations, hands-on activities, discounted tickets into the featured exhibition and more. Check website for prices. 6-10 p.m. Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., 602-716-2000, azscience.org.
AUG. 6
LUNCH AND LEARN AT SANCTUARY ON CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN Celebrity chef Jeff Mauro, host of Food Network’s “Sandwich King” and “The Kitchen,” will participate in a cooking demonstration with Sanctuary’s executive chef, Beau MacMillan. Attendees will enjoy a three-course meal with wine, Q-and-A and take-home recipes. Reservations required. $125 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, 5700 E. McDonald Dr., 480-948-2100, sanctuaryoncamelback.com.
Adult Fun
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AUG. 5, 12, 19, 26 FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT NIGHT LIGHTS TOUR
Enjoy Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West in a spectacular way. Located in the McDowell Mountains outside of Scottsdale, Wright’s winter home is open for evening tours each Friday of the month and is a perfect option for a one-of-a-kind date night. Reservations required. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., 480-627-5375, franklloydwright.org.
AUG. 20
VERDE CANYON RAILROAD’S STARLIGHT TOURS A romantic night awaits you on the Verde Canyon Railroad! This Saturday Night Starlight Ride will showcase the Verde Canyon in a truly breathtaking way, as it comes alive under the luminous glow of moonkissed skies. Check website for prices. 5:30 p.m. 800-582-7245, verdecanyonrr.com.
*Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West at night. Photo by Andrew Pielage
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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
2016 STATE JUNIOR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS This year’s State Junior Golf Championship took place at Talking Rock Golf Club in Prescott on June 28 and 29. First place winners, Trueman Park and Ashley Menne, were among the 60 boys and 30 girls competing in the 36hole tournament. Trueman, a 17-year-old from Chandler, won the boys’ division with a 67-72 - 139, 5-under-par performance. Ashley, a 14-year-old from Surprise, won the girls’ division with a 73-70 - 143 (1-underpar). Congratulations to both Trueman and Ashley for their excellent playing!
NVSO ADULT ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS Auditions will be held all month long for the North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s 2016-17 season. NVSO’s adult orchestra is a community-based, 75-plus member group and includes the bassoon, horn and all strings. Rehearsal times, location, audition instructions and excerpts can be found on the website. To schedule an audition, please call 623-980-4628. For more information, visit northvalleysymphony.org.
PROMUSICA ARIZONA CHORALE AND ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS ProMusica Arizona, a leader in chorale and orchestra performances since 2003, has announced two audition dates for August. To audition for the chorale, the vocalist should be experienced in choral singing and also have the ability to read music. A one-minute song also needs to be prepared. To audition for the orchestra, instrumentalists need to have an intermediate or advanced skill level and be ready to perform a one-minute prepared piece. For more information, visit pmaz.org.
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Notre Dame Preparatory’s new girls’ and boys’ varsity swim coach. Robertson, a
A Community of Saints
Congratulations to Craig Robertson,
Join the Fun!
NDP HIRES NEW SWIM COACH
graduate from San Jose State University, is a four-time All-American in water polo and swimming and was on the 1980 United States swim team. He also brings to NDP more than 25 years of coaching experience in swimming and water polo. For more information, visit ndpsaints.org.
NDP TO HOST ROSARY RALLY On August 6, Notre Dame Preparatory will host the second annual SportsLeader Rosary Rally. This rally will bring together football teams from different prestigious Valley high schools, including NDP, Bourgade Catholic High School, Brophy
Be a Saint for a day! Shadow one of our student ambassadors and see first hand what it is like to be a Notre Dame Prep Saint. ndpsaints.org/visit (480)634-8281 | 9701 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Building strong minds, bodies and souls
College Preparatory, St. Mary’s High School and Seton Catholic High School. Led by NDP’s chaplain, the Rev. John Parks, the teams will recite the rosary and dedicate the upcoming season to God. For more information, visit ndpsaints.org.
CALL FOR LOCAL ARTISTS The Anthem Community Council and Sonoran Arts League’s “Art in Public Places” exhibit will showcase submitted art pieces at the Anthem Civic Building from October 1, 2016 through January 27, 2017. Interested artists can submit pieces online through the Sonoran Arts League website beginning August 1. Participating artists will need to adhere to certain criteria, such as submitting only original pieces, being 18 years of age or older, being located in Anthem or any part of the North Valley and paying a $25 non-refundable entry fee. To find out other criteria and more information about the submission process, visit sonoranartsleague.org.
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AUG. 29
8TH ANNUAL FITZ’S SUPPER CLUB Enjoy a night filled with celebrity servers, delicious food and stand-up comedy at the eighth annual Fitz’s Supper Club. The event will also include fundraising for Larry Fitzgerald’s First Down Fund, a fund dedicated to helping kids and their families across the country. Check website for event details. Dominick’s Steakhouse, 15169 N. Scottsdale Rd., larryfitzgerald.com.
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AUG. 5
AUG. 16, 17
Get ready to roll with laughter
Grammy Award-winning singer
as one of the most recognizable
Adele brings her musical genius
figures in the world of comedy,
to Talking Stick Resort Arena.
Jay Leno, returns to the Valley
The Adele Live 2016 tour will
to entertain with his impressive
feature songs from her new
comedic skills made famous
album, “25.” Of course, old fan
on “The Tonight Show with
favorites will also be included
Jay Leno.” $65-$225. 8 p.m.
in one of this year’s most
Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E.
entertaining and talked about
Indian Bend Rd., 480-850-7734,
concerts. $34.75-$144.75 7:30
talkingstickresort.com.
p.m. Talking Stick Resort Arena,
JAY LENO AT TALKING STICK RESORT
AUG. 12, 13
FOUR PHANTOMS AT TALKING STICK RESORT
ADELE AT TALKING STICK RESORT ARENA
201 E. Jefferson St., 480-8507734, talkingstickresort.com.
AUG. 23
comes to Talking Stick Resort.
COLDPLAY AT GILA RIVER ARENA
This event features Brent
Coldplay, the successful British
Barrett, Franc D’Ambrosio, Davis
rock band best known for songs
Gaines and Marcus Lovett, all
like “Paradise,” “The Scientist,”
of whom have had the privilege
and “Yellow,” bring their A Head
of playing one of the most
Full of Dreams Tour to Glendale.
iconic characters on stage:
Special guests of the tour
Phantom from Andrew Lloyd
include two singers/songwriters,
Webber’s famous musical,
Alessia Cara and Bishop Briggs.
“The Phantom of the Opera.”
$23-$173. 7 p.m. Gila River
$50-$200. 8 p.m. Talking Stick
Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave.,
Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend
800-745-3000, gilariverarena.com.
A celebration of Broadway
Rd., 480-850-7734, talkingstickresort.com.
AUG. 26, SEPT. 1,2
RED ROCKS MUSIC FESTIVAL The Red Rocks Music Festival has three upcoming concert dates for Phoenix. Located at the Jewish Heritage Center, the concerts will feature masterful performances by some the world’s most acclaimed musicians. Check website for event details. $28 general admission. 7:30 p.m. Jewish Heritage Center, 122 E. Culver St., 602-402-4551,
HOT
redrocksmusicfestival.com.
Summer Nights
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S aguaro splendor Writer Grace Hill Opening Photo AimĂŠe Madsen
A
Amidst the sprawling Sonoran Desert, the saguaro cactus makes its exclusive home. It is here, and only here, that the largest and perhaps most treasured cactus in the United States finds living conditions required for its survival: a hot, dry climate located between sea level and 4,000 feet in elevation. The summer monsoon season is also vitally important, as it supplies the rainfall that hydrates the saguaro all year long. The saguaro’s scientific name is Carnegiea gigantea. It is not a coincidence that the name Carnegiea sounds similar to the last name of the famous philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. It was given in honor of Carnegie for his generous support in the research of desert plants.
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The quintessential saguaro is often depicted as having two arms growing upward out of its trunk. While an accurate portrayal for some, this form is not considered the standard. In fact, it is possible for a saguaro to produce as many as 50 arms. Those arms do not always grow upward; if exposed to extreme frost, freezing temperatures or too much irrigation, the arms can droop. While most saguaros produce a rounded head, some deviate from this norm, instead growing a fan-like form on the top of the trunk. Because of this rare formation, it is dubbed the cristate, or crested saguaro. Scientists have yet to uncover the exact cause of this anomaly.
Professional experience: Aimée Madsen has
natural world gives me a clearer attachment
more than 20 years of experience shooting
to the complex beauty and yet the simplicity
stills for magazine and book publications,
of the Earth.”
some of which include: Native Peoples, Arizona Highways, Sunset, Outdoor
Your best nature photo: “I think the most
Photographer, New Mexico Magazine,
rewarding photos I’ve captured are of natural
Phoenix Magazine, Splash, Nip and
occurrences that don’t often take place, such
Transitions Abroad.
as a double rainbow, lightning and wildlife up close. Something that takes patience,
Aimée Madsen Hometown: Cheyenne, Wyoming Current: Cave Creek www.eyeamfilms.com www.paolosoleribeyondform.com
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Photography niche: photojournalism, the
devotion, hard work and putting yourself
natural world and indigenous cultures.
in a place where anything is possible, by running into the storm rather than running
Inspiration for taking nature photos: “I feel
away from it.”
most comfortable outdoors — always have since I was very young, especially in the
Best tip for nature photography: “Never put
undeveloped wilderness. Photographing the
your camera away too soon.”
Although saguaros engulf the desert landscape, the road to becoming a saguaro is not an easy journey. It is believed that out of a saguaro’s 40 million seeds, only one may survive to adulthood. This low survival rate is a result of many circumstances, including droughts, excessive freezing and being a food source for animals. However, if a saguaro does survive, it is thought that it can live between 150 and 200 years. When a young saguaro is fortunate enough to take root under a tree, its chances of survival increase. This nurse tree, most often a palo verde, ironwood or mesquite, provides much needed protection from the harsh desert elements. Unfortunately for the nurse tree, as the saguaro grows, it absorbs all the nutrients and water from the surrounding soil, which can ultimately kill its protector.
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Bryan Black Hometown: Dromore, Northern Ireland Current: Cave Creek
Professional experience: Bryan spent six years working in portrait studios — two in Phoenix, followed by four years in Cancún, Mexico — before joining the Images Arizona team, where he has now worked for four years. In addition to his work for the magazine, Bryan shoots weddings, products and advertisements, as well as portrait sessions. Photography niche: portraiture, environmental and studio. Inspiration for taking nature photos: “Inspiration for nature and landscape photography is essentially the love of traveling. Old masters like Ansel Adams and Edward Weston. Kevin Whitley is another inspiration for his commitment to finding the right location, and his images are jawdropping.” Your best nature photo: “A view of mesquite sand dunes in Death Valley, taken at sunset on a trip back from San Francisco. I decided to go through Yosemite and Death Valley instead of the quicker highway route.” Best tip for nature photography: “Best tip: patience. Thinking more before taking the shot. Knowing what it is you want to capture, and understanding the camera and settings to achieve it.”
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From seed to adulthood, the growth of a saguaro is extremely slow: a 10-year-old Saguaro reaches a height of approximately two inches. Although the saguaro is on the short side during its youth, by adulthood — roughly 125 years of age — a saguaro’s height can be measured anywhere from 40 to 60 feet tall. During the rainy season, a saguaro will expand its body to absorb as much water as possible. Because of this, it is possible for a saguaro to weigh an unbelievable 3,200 to 4,800 pounds. To put that into perspective, one cactus can weigh about the same size as a small adult elephant. For many birds, the saguaro has become the perfect place to raise a family.
Burrows in the trunk will house nests made for baby gilded flickers, Gila woodpeckers, owls, sparrows and others. Since larger birds might be too large for a burrow, the arms of a saguaro are the next best thing for their nests. The saguaro’s creamy white flowers (Arizona’s state flower) are situated at the ends of its trunk and arms. Every year, from April through June, the flowers bloom and reveal an orange center ready for pollination. A few flowers open each night, only to close again by the next afternoon. Bats — especially because they are nocturnal — bees, butterflies and white-winged doves are some common pollinators of the saguaro.
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Once fertilization of the flower occurs, a green fruit will begin to grow. Inside this fruit is a sweet, red center that is a food source for many animals, such as woodpeckers, finches, bats, javelinas and coyotes. Some of the fruit’s seeds will pass unharmed through the animal and, once secreted, will begin the process of growing into another saguaro. Native Americans have a special relationship with the saguaro. They have used the cacti’s woody ribs for shade ramadas, fences, furniture and more. The saguaro boot, a hardened shell of a dead saguaro’s burrow, has been used to store and carry water. The Tohono O’odham tribe in Southern Arizona makes wine, jams and jellies from the saguaro’s fruit for the Nawait l’i, a rain ceremony for the coming monsoon season. Though they have become an icon of the American West, you will only find the saguaro in Southern Arizona and Western Sonora, Mexico — although a few strays may also be found in Southeast California. They are a shining emblem of the Southwest, right in our own backyard.
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Judy McCord Hometown: Greenbelt, Maryland Current: Paradise Valley judymccord.com Professional experience: Judy has been photographing for more than 10 years. Her work has been featured in various media outlets, including Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Foundation, 12 News Arizona, The Arizona Republic, Saguaro National Park, Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center. Photography niche: “Landscape is my favorite, but I enjoy photographing just about everything!” Inspiration for taking nature photos: “I am in awe of the beauty that surrounds us here in Arizona. I tend to chase the sun and the moon on a regular basis!” Your best nature photo: “That’s a tough question; I love so many for different reasons. Perhaps a photo I took in Monument Valley of ‘The Mittens’ reflecting in a puddle of water while on a photography tour with a Navajo guide. Best tip for nature photography: “Visit a National Park! We are fortunate to have one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World so close, the Grand Canyon. Saguaro National Park is another beauty!”
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If you love Sonoran scenes as much as we do and have an image you'd like to share, send it to images@imagesaz.com! Your work may be featured in an upcoming issue of Images Arizona magazine!
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Young, successful innovators use their software development backgrounds to take a startup from problem-solving idea to multimillion dollar industry breakthrough. It sounds like a Silicon Valley Cinderella story, but it’s happening right here in Phoenix at online mattress retailer Tuft & Needle. John-Thomas “JT” Marino and Daehee Park were longtime friends who met at Penn State University and were burning the candle at both ends at an early stage, heavily financed Palo Alto, California software company. They had tossed around the idea of starting their own company for a long time, but didn’t want to follow the same old formula: become a founder, then find an idea to build a company around, followed by collecting massive amounts of investors’ cash to get things going, all while working endless hours until a buyout makes everyone involved massively wealthy. “We wanted to do it differently,” says Marino. “We wanted to look at our own lives and find a problem we had that we could solve. We didn’t want to limit ourselves to software, but we knew we could use our software knowledge to our advantage.” Soon, the problem that would launch a $100 million-plus business presented itself in the form of a poor night’s sleep on an overpriced mattress. Newly married, Marino researched, shopped for (an experience he describes as “a nightmare”) and spent $3,300 on a top manufacturer’s mattress that he ended up hating. Despite claims that dissatisfied customers could return the mattress,
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TUFT & NEEDLE Writer Shannon Severson
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it soon became clear that there were too many hoops to jump through to make such a thing feasible. “We kept it and every night, I was reminded of my mistake,” says Marino. “Here was a problem that we might be able to solve. Daehee had experienced similar problems with mattresses. Maybe other people had, too. To understand what we could solve, we made a list of everything we hated about shopping for mattresses: the mattresses themselves, the return process, poor customer service. The list was so long it was unbelievable. It was clear there was room here for innovation.” The two figured that if they could alleviate even half of their gripes, there might be enough to start a business. They dismantled that expensive mattress and did some wily investigation and reverse engineering to learn about materials and actual manufacturing cost. The answer was shocking: $300. A 1,000 percent markup. Offering an alternative was starting to feel like a moral obligation. In June 2012, a basic website they set up to test the waters generated a sale within the first 15 minutes of launch. This idea clearly had legs. “It’s an entirely different mattress concept: simplicity, transparency and stripping away all the gimmicks,” says Park. “When we went shopping for a mattress, that is the type of company we were looking for. This validated that almost everyone else also hates shopping for a mattress the traditional way.”
John-Thomas Marino and Daehee Park
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With $6,000 between them, they quit their jobs and launched Tuft & Needle in October 2012, with only themselves and their brothers as employees for the next year and a half.
Not having outside investors raised a lot of eyebrows, but it meant passing on the savings to both customers and employees. The goal was to build the best mattress in the industry, charge a fair price and create a company that is 100 percent employee-owned. “At the start, even our friends and family thought what we were doing was crazy,” says Park. Why leave promising tech jobs in the fast-paced, big money tech capital of the world to launch what, on its face, seemed a stodgy, entrenched, traditional business? An idea so decidedly un-sexy couldn’t recruit solid talent in the astronomically-priced Silicon Valley. That was tough for any entrepreneur, unless you had a company that was seen as the next superstar — the next Uber, Facebook or Instagram. So, they left all that naysaying, prevailing wisdom stuff behind and moved to Arizona in 2012, drawn to the low cost of doing business, ease of incorporating (no need for expensive attorneys) and reasonable cost of living. They relished the opportunity to blaze their own trail outside of the
Bay Area bubble and set up in an old transmission shop on Apache Boulevard in Tempe — nothing fancy, just the bare necessities. “We created a mattress that appeals to those who like a firm mattress and those who want a softer mattress,” says Marino. “It sounds crazy, but we have proven that it is possible.” What makes these “well-crafted mattresses at a fair price” revolutionary is a breakthrough in foam. Tuft & Needle invented a brand new proprietary material — T&N Adaptive Foam, a top layer that eliminates the need for multiple materials, with a support base of high-density polyurethane foam that is also exclusive to the company and was created to be comfortable, cool, durable and responsive. The price? From $350 for a twin mattress to $750 for a California King. “The way we price is to charge what we need, not what we can,” says Marino. “We could price these mattresses AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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at several thousand dollars, but we don’t need that. We view our pricing as very fair.” Marino and Park, at 30 and 27 years old, respectively, are earnest in their philosophy of fairness: the price is the price. They never go on sale, and shipping is free. They’re passionate about setting the gold standard for customer experience. They don’t hire individuals who have previously worked in the mattress industry, and no one works on commission. Employees are paid well, empowered and educated to be familiar with all aspects of the company: supply chain, social media and problemsolving. That education starts with making a mattress themselves at a Tuft & Needle factory (all mattresses are American-made). The confidence they have in their product is evidenced in the 100-night money-back trial and 10-year warranty, both free of fine print. As part of the company’s dedication to giving back to the community, returns are donated to charity, but those
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returns have helped them constantly refine and improve their product. They’ve seen returns rapidly diminish with each iteration. The pair’s automated engineering skills contribute to efficiency at every point of production, marketing, packaging and delivery. Overhead is low, very little is outsourced and middlemen are cut out of the process. The mattresses ship in compact boxes, can be unrolled at home and, once the wrapping is snipped, quickly puff up to full size and are immediately ready to be slept on. Marino and Park were rewarded with strong sales from the start, with year-over-year sales growing astronomically (from $1 million in 2013 to $42 million in 2015). They now employ more than 100 workers and have purchased the historic Stapley building on Grand Avenue
in downtown Phoenix, which they now own. The 36,000-square-foot building now serves as both corporate headquarters and a sleek retail sales lab, with just one other showroom in San Francisco that displays their design aesthetic and offers a customer experience that is more Apple Genius Bar than mattress showroom. “We chose downtown because we are big proponents of sustainability,” says Marino. “There’s lots of activity. Resources are all right here within walking distance. Phoenix is a young city, but it has so much potential. We wanted to plant our flag where we believed there could be a hub, and that was in downtown Phoenix. We like all of Arizona, but this was a big draw. Our hypothesis about how the area would support us proved true.” With all sales occurring through their website, Marino and Park are experimenting with the showrooms, mostly operating on the notion that retail is dead, but willing to test it out to be sure. The top-notch product has done much to educate consumers who might have had initial hesitation about purchasing a mattress online. Customers now come from every age range and city across the country. Business is booming. “Our success is a testament to the service and quality of the product,” says Marino. “We set out to solve our own problem, one that we had an emotional attachment to. We are literally fixing an industry.” Tuft & Needle 735 Grand Ave. Phoenix, 85007 877-842-2586 tuftandneedle.com
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Writer Rebecca Zaner
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Originating in Southern Spain, flamenco dance is known around the world for its Spanish attributes and sensual movements. Heavily influenced by Spanish culture, flamenco portrays an array of human emotion through notorious expression, power and passion. Julia Chacon is a local choreographer and flamenco dancer, born in New Mexico, but raised in Arizona. Her local dance company, Inspiración Flamenca, was founded in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2008 before relocating to Phoenix, where Julia remains the artistic director. Inspiración Flamenca's mission is to “share a connection; to celebrate the community nature of flamenco and to promote cultural understanding through this rich and complex art.” “When I started my dance company, I named it Inspiración Flamenca because it translates to ‘flamenco inspiration,’ and I know how much it can inspire,” Julia shared of the first stage of building her company. “I have always loved teaching. My mom was an educator and I definitely feel inspired by her. This is what led me to start my dance company, so I could do what I love most — perform and teach.” Julia primarily studied ballet throughout her life. She began taking Spanish dance lessons at age 12 but did not choose to pursue a career in that genre until college. Julia graduated from the University of New Mexico, where she studied modern dance. During her undergraduate years, she attended New Mexico's Festival Flamenco, which is known as the most prestigious flamenco event outside of Spain. This festival became Julia’s inspiration to primarily study flamenco dance and strive to make it her career. “The level of artistry at the flamenco festival was outstanding — prior to witnessing this festival, I was taking some dance classes just to stay in shape,” Julia admitted. “Then I became inspired by flamenco and received a dance scholarship in addition to my academic scholarship.” Julia ultimately received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance, as well as a Bachelor of Science in anthropology. Because of the encouragement she received within the dance program, flamenco turned out to be her calling. After graduating college, Julia lived in Spain for several years, studying authentic Spanish dance in Madrid and Seville. While living and performing abroad, she was immersed in true Spanish culture. Following her studies in school and in Spain, Julia performed in six national tours alongside major flamenco dancers. AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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Her touring has taken her across the United States and into Spain, Mexico and Colombia. She performed many solos amongst her touring companies, gaining experience and respect for the Spanish culture throughout her travels. “My background is Spanish,” she said. “I started learning Spanish history and it really inspired me to have more respect and interest in my own culture. Exploring Spain has changed my cultural identity and makes me feel more in touch with my heritage. I’ve been inspired through flamenco in many ways, including my dance career, teaching and my exploration of the world.” Doors continued to open, and Julia immediately started touring for 10 years, teaching during the same period. All of her tours were of flamenco dance, including Maria Benitez Teatro Flamenco and Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana. “I feel so blessed to be able to travel and work with
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amazing artists and also experience large theaters and stages,” she said. “Then to bring those experiences back home and share them with dancers and our local public is truly rewarding. I have about 30 young students. It is wonderful to see them inspired by flamenco the way I was when I was first introduced.” In 2013, Julia moved back home to Arizona and reestablished her dance company. She began serving on the advisory committee of Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Discovery Series, whose goal is to recognize a different national culture each year. In 2014, they featured Spain and Portugal. Because of her connection with the committee, Inspiración Flamenca was the closing act of Origination, the Discovery Series’ culminating festival, which celebrated Spanish culture, music, pottery and arts of Spain. The company was also asked to participate in the 2015 Live and Local Fridays summer concert series, and then became the first local dance company in over a decade to be presented by Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
Inspiración Flamenca’s upcoming performance will be the closing act of this year's Live and Local Fridays. Last year, Inspiración Flamenca performed to a soldout audience — crowds were being turned away at the door. Julia’s dance company returns to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts on August 26 at 8 p.m., featuring professional performers from the Valley as the closing act. The upcoming concert will showcase solo and group numbers. “We improvise and build energy together,” Julia said. “It is impossible to create the same dynamic with recorded music. Our performance includes traditional and theatrical flamenco. We feature not only our five dancers, but guitar, vocals, piano, flute and percussion. While our dancers are taught much choreography, we also improvise many moves during the show. We have a large cast and live music — it’s sure to be a great time.” The upcoming concert will highlight famous flamenco dances, such as "Guajiras," a flirtatious duet between Julia and co-dancer Carlos Montufar; "Sevillanas," which uses props such as fans and the mantón de Manila, a large fringed shawl manipulated around the body; and "Alegrías," a joyful exploration of feminine movement. Tickets for the show are available on Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ official website. Costs range from $12-15. All the costumes for the show are handmade specifically for the company. There has been an incredibly positive response from the Valley toward Inspiración Flamenca. The genre is definitely growing in the community and reaching more people. Julia Chacon is also available to teach dance lessons to those who wish to join in the fun of flamenco. She teaches classes of all levels to all ages. “My passion is the promotion of international culture in the Valley,” Julia shared of her love for flamenco. “Flamenco is powerful and strong — it has a special kind of ferocity about it. It reaches people in many profound ways and transmits such a range of human emotion and experience. People of all ages can enjoy this art form. I do what I love. Do what you want to do and it can take you on amazing pathways.” scottsdaleperformingarts.org juliachacon.com AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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Writer Rebecca Zaner
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“Softly, deftly, music shall surround you …” On August 12-13, the music of the night at Scottsdale’s Talking Stick Resort will feature “The Four Phantoms,” a brand new national tour featuring four of the most iconic stars of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, “The Phantom of the Opera”: Brent Barrett, Franc D’Ambrosio, Davis Gaines and Marcus Lovett. Each of these actors have performed the role of Phantom in professional venues on and off Broadway during their careers. The new concert will include beloved songs from the show, as well as other Broadway favorites from “Les Miserables,” “Cats,” “Miss Saigon,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Evita,” “West Side Story” and more. The four artists will also be joined by Kaley Ann Voorhees, the youngest female performer to play the role of Christine in “Phantom of the Opera” on Broadway. Brent Barrett performed in the Las Vegas production of “Phantom of the Opera” at the Venetian for two years, beginning in 2006. He also sang six months as Phantom in Germany, where the whole show was performed in German.
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Brent Barrett
Davis Gaines
Marcus Lovett
Franc D'Ambrosio
“That was so difficult to learn; I don’t speak German!” said Brent. Franc D’Ambrosio originally auditioned for a Broadway production of “Miss Saigon.” Those judges were convinced he was auditioning for the wrong show, and immediately scheduled him for an audition with Hal Prince, the multiple Tony Award-winning director of “Phantom.” “Being completely underprepared and under-rehearsed, I went off to Staples and bought the biggest Sharpie I could in order to write the lyrics all over my hands,” he said with a smile. “So between singing the song and doing the grand gestures that it actually took for me to read the lyrics, they gave me the part.” Franc performed in the original national tour from 19921994, followed by five years in San Francisco.
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Davis Gaines first sang in the role of Raoul in the early 1990s, which is how he earned his way into the “Phantom of the Opera” family. He sang as Phantom in Los Angeles, following Michael Crawford. “I was probably one of the youngest in the role of Phantom that Hal allowed,” Davis said. “I didn’t know what I was getting into. I didn’t realize the magnitude of ‘Phantom’s’ popularity. It was very exciting and scary at the same time. I performed there for two years. “Los Angeles loved ‘Phantom.’ We were on the cover of newspapers … Everything was about ‘Phantom.’ I spent hours after the show at the stage door signing autographs. I’ve never experienced something like that.” After performing in Los Angeles, Davis opened the show in San Francisco and performed there for four months — just
before Franc came in. He then went on to sing as Phantom at the Majestic Theatre on Broadway for two and a half years. “I sang the role more than 2,000 times,” Davis shared. “I just love it. It’s an amazing role that fit like a glove and opened so many doors for me.” Marcus Lovett was 27 when he was approached by Hal to audition. It was seven years into the Broadway run in 1999 when he took on the role of Phantom. He performed at the Majestic Theatre for 11 months, followed by a year at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London. “Four Phantoms” will feature beautiful music and wonderful performers. Most of the show’s details are kept under wraps to avoid too many spoilers before fans get to see it live. “It is just balls to the wall dramatic,” said Brent. “Fans can expect to see four seasoned Broadway veterans doing what they do best and having a great time,” said Franc. “We all have a history together. We’ve known each other over 30 years. We’re like a Broadway ‘Rat Pack.’” “Phantom” fans will of course look forward to hearing their favorite songs sung by Broadway’s best. The stars also have their favorite moments from the show, and each one motivates them to keep performing with a fresh attitude. “I love when the Phantom is finally revealed,” said Marcus. “It’s not a pretty scene, but in the lair with Christine, there is no wig, no mask — he is his version of himself. The layers of pretending have gone away. ‘Music of the Night’ is melodically my favorite song. It can never fail.” For Franc, his very first opening night of “Phantom” was his favorite memory, sharing his great accomplishment with family and friends. “One time in Las Vegas, the boat wasn’t working in the opening and the director told me to walk on water and get to the lair,” Brent recalled. “It’s silly, the things you have to do because of technical difficulties. Those who know the show were probably wondering, ‘Why aren’t they in the boat?’”
These special moments are what keep the actors inspired. They draw from their favorite memories and keep that excitement in every show they perform. “Phantom of the Opera” has been on Broadway for decades, and its success spans generations. “It’s the melody,” said Marcus of the show’s success. “You can have the greatest story in the world, but if you don’t have a melody that people like to hear, it’ll fade away.” “The music is soaring and gorgeous,” Brent said. “The audience is transported to another time and place.” “It’s also a true love story based on emotional, intellectual and artistic attraction,” said Franc. “It’s about true love being lost and found. We have all at some point in our lives been rejected. It portrays elation and fear. You see the characters go through an internal debate in love that most of us have gone through in our lives.” Davis added, “I think the generational success also has to do with the original generations now taking their kids, and it just keeps going. It’s kept in pristine condition. The costumes and sets are always refurbished and updated, making it sparkle and shine. It doesn’t look old.” “Four Phantoms” will inspire new fans to love the show, and current fans to follow their dreams. “The world needs art,” Marcus shared. “It’s an important time to study, from the minute you’re inspired.” “It’s a really tough business,” said Davis. “It’s a lot of sacrifice and struggle, and if you really don’t want to go through that, don’t do it. But those who stick to it, if that’s all you want to do and it’s a passion, then you have to do it. Learn as much as you can; study, watch, learn, hone your craft. Do as much as you can and just keep doing. When an opportunity arrives, you’ll be prepared. You have to just be yourself. We’re not competing with each other. Everyone is different. Celebrate uniqueness and bring it to the table.” 480-850-7734 talkingstickresort.com/four-phantoms.aspx
When Davis reached his 2,000th performance, a huge banner flew onto the stage and Betty White came and presented him with a plaque of his achievement. AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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Baroque Beauty THE ORPHEUM THEATRE
Writer Paula Theotocatos Photography Fred Urlich Photography
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The year was 1929. The madcap era of the Roaring ‘20s was over and the country plunged into the Great Depression with the Wall Street stock market crash. The first Academy Awards ceremony was held in Los Angeles and the Museum of Modern Art opened in New York. Across the country in Phoenix, another prestigious opening for the benefit of the arts occurred that year: the beautiful Orpheum Theatre.
library where Fay was also the librarian. After they were married, they moved to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and enjoyed what Fay refers to as “our 4.5-year honeymoon.” After their island sojourn, they moved to the San Francisco Bay area for several years and then on to Phoenix in 1993. The peripatetic couple moved again after retirement to Lake Tahoe for a few years, but were drawn back to Phoenix. They moved to Anthem in 2004 and Fay resumed her docent duties at the now-completed Orpheum Theatre.
The Orpheum has a rich history and Anthem resident Fay Giordano, who is a docent at the theater, will be glad to tell you all about it. Fay first became a docent in 1994 when the theater was in the middle of its 12-year renovation.
“After going to a performance at the Orpheum, I knew I had to go back to being a docent there,” Fay says. “It’s just such a beautiful, interesting historic building.
“We did hard hat tours of the empty theater, telling its history and the plans for its future,” Fay explains. “It reopened in January of 1997 after a $14.5 million restoration.”
“We do public tours every other Tuesday and private tours by arrangement. I’ve shared the story of the Orpheum with at least eight private tour groups from Anthem.”
Fay has had an interesting history of her own.
After the Orpheum was opened in 1929, it became the venue for vaudeville acts for the next 20 years. After vaudeville died, the theater became a movie house, the Paramount, for about 20 years more, and then the well-known theater impresario, James Nederlander, took it over. It became known as Palace West and was the home to touring Broadway productions. Finally, it was rented by a local family, the Coronas, who showed Spanish language films, boxing matches and talent shows.
“Although I was born in Duluth, I was raised on a farm near the small town of Upsala in Central Minnesota, exactly where Garrison Keillor placed his fictitious town, Lake Wobegon,” she says. She completed an around-the-world tour when she was only 22 via the Trans-Siberian Railway and Eurail Pass, followed by a job on Park Avenue in New York City. She met her husband, Frank, at the tender age of 19, while she was teaching English as a second language as a Peace Corps volunteer on the Northern Mariana Island of Rota. Frank was a Seabee assigned to build the school
The theater then fell into disarray and was to be torn down when the Junior League stepped up in 1985 to ensure the preservation of the historic building. The women of the League held
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fundraisers and saw that it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. After an ambitious 12-year restoration project, the Orpheum reopened in January 1997 with a performance by Carol Channing in “Hello Dolly.” The design of the building was meant to be atmospheric, suggesting an outdoor mission house garden. It is a blend of Spanish, Italian and Rococo architecture. Over the years, the lobby’s murals and moldings had been painted over and its beauty marred significantly. In order to restore it to its former glory, architectural detectives removed the top layer of paint where they could and worked with old photographs to discover what lay beneath the paint. Highlights of the tour include: • The ceiling in the theater’s main hall, which is meant to represent the sky. During the daytime, it displays a blue sky and clouds and then turns mauve as the sky darkens to twilight. Finally, the ceiling turns dark blue with stars scattered over its surface, signaling the performance is about to begin. • The 1,062 new seats on the first level of the theater and 302 original seats in the balcony.
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• The Kissing Room, where you can hear a perfect echo of your voice as you stand in the center of the room. “Performers have been known to practice there,” Fay shares, “and marriage proposals have been made there!” • The Peacock and Phoenix stairways, along with many artworks referencing ancient Greek theater. “The elliptical Peacock Stairway is probably the most beautiful place in the theater,” Fay says. “Looking up from the lower level, there are several elegant peacocks on the ceiling and under the stairway, done in aluminum leaf with beautifully colored glazing.” • The ladies’ room, not only for its elegance but also for the fact that it is twice as large as the men’s room. “It affords a much quicker visit than the ladies’ room of most venues,” Fay explains. “The ladies love it and even the men usually say ‘wow’ when they are invited to enter.” I asked Fay if there were any ghosts in this historic structure. “Although I’ve never had any experiences myself, there are so many stories that we recently began giving Ghost Tours as a fundraiser for the theater,” Fay shares. The Orpheum Theatre is a fascinating glimpse into history. In addition to the free public tours every other Tuesday and the private tours by appointment, look for a Ghost Tour around Halloween this coming October. Also in October this year, a silent movie from the 1920s will be shown on the 23rd, accompanied by music on the 1929 Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Starting in September, free concerts will be offered in front of the fireplace by a small group of musicians approximately every other Tuesday, along with complimentary appetizers and a full, no-host bar. As an extra attraction, the docents will also conduct short tours during intermission. Call the Phoenix Convention Center to verify dates. And don’t leave without stopping by the Friends of the Orpheum Theatre gift counter in the lobby, from which any profits support the theater. 877-840-0457 phoenixconventioncenter.com/orpheum-theatre
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CONTOUR ON CAMPBELL AVENUE Located in Phoenix’s character-rich Campbell Avenue, Contour offers more than 111 one- and two-bedroom condominiums ranging in size from 1,000 to 1,700 square feet. These homes feature customizable interior spaces, the latest smart home technology, secure underground parking and stainless steel Bosch appliances. contourcondos.com. • Starting at low $400,000s • Expected completion fall 2017
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LUXURY LIVING Writer Grace Hill
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A new era in luxury home development has emerged in Arizona. Homebuyers are being seduced by a more upscale, urban lifestyle — one where they are in the heart of the city, with easy access to high-end shopping, trendsetting dining destinations, art districts and local music venues. In order to meet this lifestyle demand, a slew of impressive homes are being built as close to main streets as possible. These homes are masterfully designed and full of modern luxury. Resort-style features permeate throughout, including concierge services; gorgeous rooftop and courtyard gardens; sophisticated and upscale interior amenities; one-of-a-kind mountain and city views; secure indoor parking; sprawling entertainment spaces; and so much more. No detail has been overlooked and no expense has been spared. Luxury living is now possible in areas bursting with life.
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THE MASON Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture and design, abundant natural sunlight, rooftop terraces, nine-foot ceilings and private attached two-car garages are just a few of the features that define The Mason. Situated at Bethany Home Road and 16th Street, the 33 two- and threebedroom townhomes range in size from 1,756 to 1,940 square feet. themasontownhomes.com. • Starting at high $400,000s • Expected completion fall 2016
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OPTIMA KIERLAND This 12-story condominium tower is located in North Scottsdale’s Kierland district. Home options are numerous in this 220 one- to five-bedroom complex. Optima offers 15 different floor plans ranging in size from 720 to 4,550 square feet. Units include floor-to-ceiling glass windows; a rooftop lap pool; five acres of landscaped, ground level space; a 16,000-square-foot fitness center; and two levels of underground parking. optima-kierland.com. • From low $300,000s to more than $2.5 million • Expected completion in 18-24 months
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ELDORADO ON 1ST The homes of Eldorado on 1st are like none other. The seven multi-level homes are situated above two street front offices in Scottsdale’s urban arts district. Included in the complex are flexible floor plans ranging in size from 3,202 to 3,472 square feet; personal elevators; private, shaded rooftop patios; attached oversized garages and Bulthaup kitchens. eldoradoon1st.com. • Starting at $1.58 million • Expected completion early 2017
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EASY STREET Located in the heart of Carefree Village, Easy Street features 44 condominium homes ranging in size from 1,800 to 3,600 square feet. Along with the 13 floor plans available, homebuyers will be impressed with the smart-wired technology for whole home automation, 11-foot ceilings, collapsing patio doors, on-site concierge and underground parking. easystreetcarefree.com. • From $600,000 to $2.5 million • Expected completion fall 2017
HIDDEN ROCK AT CAVE CREEK A luxury home community located in the town of Cave Creek, Hidden Rock offers 39 homes, five hillside estates and six live-work homes with multiple floor plans ranging in size from 2,070 to 2,570 square feet. Features specific to Hidden Rock include a salt water community pool and spa, walking trails, environmentally-friendly design, Bosch stainless steel appliances and natural granite stone countertops. hiddenrockatcavecreek.com.
• Starting at $545,000 AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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THE STETSON Old Town Scottsdale's entertainment district is home to The Stetson, a four-story, two-tower complex with 316 homes. The four floor plan options include studios to threebedrooms ranging in size from 628 to 2,087 square feet. These homes feature 10-foot ceilings, DuChateau wood flooring, under counter wine refrigerators and environmentallyfriendly features. liveatthestetson.com. • Rentals from $1,299 to $4,530
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PORTLAND ON THE PARK Located in downtown Phoenix between Portland Park and Margaret T. Hance Park, the four-, 12- and 14-story towers include 21 floor plans ranging in size from 745 to 2,508 square feet. Exposed metal ductwork, hardwood floors, nine-foot ceilings and whole home technology are just a few features of Portland on the Park. portlandparkcondos.com. • From $235,000 to $1.25 million • Expected completion late 2016
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Writer Amanda Christmann Photographer Brandon TIgrett
GOING WITH THE GRAIN: DANIEL GERMANI DESIGNS Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Michael Woodall
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For Daniel Germani, furniture design began as a creative outlet, not as something he thought would become his livelihood. Today, his furniture; residential and commercial interior design; and skilled architectural renovation are in demand, drawing attention both here in Phoenix and around the world. Originally from Argentina, Germani first studied architecture at the Universidad de Buenos Aires, then spent the next eight years pursuing entrepreneurial and creative projects in Rome, Madrid, Brussels, London and Amsterdam. In 1998, he landed in Phoenix to pursue his master’s in international management from Thunderbird. His now uber-successful career as a furniture designer began simply, as a way to reconnect with his passion for design. “I decided to return to it slowly, designing small furniture pieces that would give me a flavor of seeing and touching something I created and built,” says Germani. “More commissions started coming my way, and then, eventually, a kitchen — then another, and then a restaurant and more furniture. The rest is history.” Germani found furniture design rewarding partly due to its relatively short gratification timeline from inception to finished piece. But there’s no sign of impatience in his work. Each item, each project, is carefully planned and meticulously completed, with the materials coaxed to their highest purpose. He prides himself on paying close attention to his clients, no matter how large or small the undertaking. “Furniture was an outlet to design, execute and see it done,” says Germani. “The process was way shorter
than doing a building. I decided to start slow and small and then the furniture brought me remodeling and commercial work. I gained traction and it never stopped.” He began with wood, a material which is still a major player in his work to this day, walnut being a particular favorite. Each piece — the direction of the grain, the color, the texture — affects the way he designs and how his vision for the final product will emerge. He notes the differences from species to species and tree to tree. It is this organic nature that makes replication impossible. Each of his pieces is one-of-a-kind. “The reason I started designing with wood is that I wanted to give it a voice,” says Germani. “For me, each piece of wood has its own personality. What differentiates my work is that even when we lay veneers, we do it in a way where the wood really speaks a certain language. Wood is very expressive. When you’re laying it out to work with, you see the grain and that is what starts the conversation.” His wood furniture is what opened the door for his entry into the commercial design space. A local restaurant owner fell in love with a piece and purchased it from a dealer for one of his locations. Soon, commercial work such as this became a fixture of Germani’s business. It’s one of the things Germani loves about Phoenix. There’s a rich trove of entrepreneurs, artists and artisans who comprise the creative fabric of the city, influencing and supporting each other. “For me, it’s about finding amazing people and AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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growing with them together,” says Germani. “At the end of the day, Phoenix is a big city, but a small community. I have really good people around me. Some things they do completely change the way I design and some ways I design completely change the way they work. It’s never isolated from a drawing. It’s teamwork.”
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While Germani began with wood, he’s not confined to it. Both metal and stone play a prominent role in his work. His collaboration with woodworkers, metalworkers and stone fabricators has enhanced and influenced the way he designs. “I enjoy working with wood, metal and stone,” says Germani. “Steel because it is so malleable and stone because it brings an element of durability and timelessness.” Working with stone is part of what has brought him international attention, first with Caesarstone in 2009 and now with the Cosentino Group, the world’s leading quartz surface manufacturer. Their Dekton product — an ultracompact material that is nearly impervious to staining, scratching, water and even fire — is something Germani has been using to produce pieces that are suitable for both indoor or outdoor application. Combined with wood or metal, Dekton by Cosentino makes a powerful statement anywhere it’s used. It’s this dedication to good design paired with innovation that has earned Germani recognition and praise from Phoenix to Milan.
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“Good, honest design has to inspire the end user,” says Germani. “The product has to serve the specific purpose for which it was designed. Hence, the honesty. It cannot cheat you out of the experience proposed. It has to last and deliver.” Germani is influenced by Bauhaus, Gio AUGUST 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM
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Ponti, Oscar Niemeyer and, particularly, Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris (better known as Le Corbusier), another architect who became a furniture designer, urban planner, painter and writer. “Le Corbusier was a Renaissance man — he mastered it all,” says Germani. “His views on urban design, architecture and design were way ahead of his time.” At Le Corbusier’s core was the desire to improve the lives of citizens through design. For Germani, an opportunity to do something similar for families of children facing serious illness is his latest project. In conjunction with NASCAR and Phoenix International Raceway’s 50th anniversary in Phoenix, Germani is completely remodeling and designing the common areas at the Ronald McDonald Charities’ Roanoke House, which houses up to 45 families each day. Every element of the remodel has been donated by suppliers, including Cosentino, Sub-Zero, Clyde’s Hardware and Pro-Source, among others, with work beginning in August. “When they gave me the project, what really inspired me was that these families usually have their children in ICU, and sometimes in long-term treatments,” says Germani. “They have to leave their lives to find a room near the hospital and often don’t have many resources. When you have a child who is sick, nothing else matters, but I want to provide these families
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with five seconds of ‘Wow!’ When they walk in, I want them to forget their hardships for a second and to be inspired.” The cause is personal to him. He knows that for families who are vigilantly caring for a hospital-bound child, it is hard for the parents to have a moment to care for their own needs. This project is a way he can use his talents to give back to the community that has embraced his work. Germani finds reward in creating, whether it be an entire home remodel where every item — even the hardware — is designed by him and fashioned by hand, or a single piece of commissioned furniture. It’s clear that the joy of the process is never lost on him; he’s always up for the next challenge. On his bucket list is to design a furniture line and show it at Salone del Mobile in Milan. “I approach each project with the same passion and excitement as when I did my first one,” says Germani, “although my ideas are always evolving because I am constantly learning and experimenting with new materials and technologies. The interaction is what forces the design. It evolves.” 602-466-3820 info@danielgermanidesigns.com danielgermanidesigns.com
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If you are craving a reprieve from the soaring temperatures this summer, this Strawberry Champagne Granita is a refreshing frozen treat that is also incredibly easy to make. As opposed to sorbets, which tend to be creamy and dense, granitas are icier and airier in texture and require no fancy machinery. In this recipe, fresh strawberries are pureed, then simply popped into the freezer and scraped over time until flaky. Adding some bubbly Champagne to the strawberries takes this refreshment to the next level, resulting in a fruity, invigorating treat that’s definitely worthy of a toast.
Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
Strawberry Champagne Granita STRAWBERRY CHAMPAGNE GRANITA Yield: Serves 4 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 cup Brut Champagne 1 teaspoon lemon juice
DIRECTIONS: Place the strawberries and sugar into the bowl of a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Optional: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds.
Stir in the Champagne and lemon juice. Transfer the mixture to a non-reactive metal or glass baking dish and place the dish into the freezer.
After about two hours, begin to scrape the mixture from the sides of the bowl toward the center to loosen the ice crystals. Repeat scraping about every hour until flaky ice crystals are formed (about 6-8 hours total). Transfer the frozen granita to a glass and serve immediately. Optional: Top the granita with a few splashes of Champagne.
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Once a staple of the Aztec and Mayan cultures, tomatillos are commonly known these days as the champion ingredient in green salsa. Not to be mistaken for a green tomato, tomatillos have a bright, tart flavor and a subtle sweetness. They are grown inside a papery husk and have a sticky film that should be removed before using. Once roasted, the tomatillos begin to yellow and blister, intensifying their sweetness and deepening the flavor of the salsa. Serve alongside a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips or atop tacos or enchiladas for a mouthwatering fiesta.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
ROASTED TOMATILLO SALSA Yield: 6-8 Servings 1½ pounds tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed 2 medium jalapeno peppers ½ medium white or yellow onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, chopped Ÿ cup cilantro leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice salt and pepper to taste
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DIRECTIONS: Preheat the broiler to high heat. Arrange the tomatillos and jalapeno peppers onto a sheet pan. Place the sheet pan under the broiler until the tomatillos and peppers are blackened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sheet pan from the oven, flip the tomatillos and peppers, and broil again until blackened. Allow to cool to room temperature. Remove the stem from the jalapeno peppers. Optional: For less heat, remove the seeds and veins, as well.
Place the jalapenos, tomatillos, onion, garlic, cilantro and lime juice into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse about 8-10 times, or until desired consistency is reached. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the salsa to a bowl and refrigerate until chilled. Serve with tortilla chips or spoon over tacos or enchiladas. Store the salsa in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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