Images Arizona March 2022

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“Looking for Trouble” Bryce Pettit, bronze. Life size.

“Quiet Reflections” by Sue Krzyston, 24” by 30”

SU E

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SO U TH WE S T

CONT EMP O R A R Y

SWANSON

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“Crown of Bright” by Trevor Swanson, 33” by 21”

W ILD LI FE

R E A LI S M

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Coyote painting in furniture vignette “Song of the Wild” by Amy Lay 36” by 48”

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What's Inside?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NIKI WOEHLER PAINTING OUTSIDE THE LINES

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REVEALING THE PERSON WITHIN

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GATEWAY CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT

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COMMUNITY

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ABOVE ARIZONA

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RECIPE

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From the Publisher Publisher Shelly Spence

Managing Editor Joseph J. Airdo

Graphic Designer

Meaghan Mitchell

Contributing Writers

Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles 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

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As we exit winter and enter spring, the world around us becomes its most beautiful, possessing its full potential thereby reminding us that we are completely capable of doing the same if we only set our intentions on it.

This month’s issue of Images Arizona is filled with inspiring representations of that phenomenon, starting with a story about contemporary artist Niki Woehler, whose journey to self-discovery is a magical portrait of fortitude and faith in the universe guiding her to her life’s true calling. Even Woehler’s paintings reflect this issue’s theme, as she extracts resplendence in objects ravaged by nature and the participating elements.

Woehler believes that the longer something stands the tests of time, the more interesting it becomes. And that really is true, not only of objects but also of people. This month’s issue features several stories about individuals and organizations who constantly prove that they can and will overcome any and every obstacle that stands in the way of their steadfast mission to make this world a better and brighter place.

Each and every one of us is capable of doing exactly that so that we can all fully appreciate the beauty that, as I said, will soon reach its peak as our Arizona weather hits its annual sweet spot. This month’s photo essay invites you to admire a new perspective of that beauty and to perhaps even embark on an adventure that allows you to see our state from that astonishing altitude for yourself.

At the very least, I encourage you to spend some time outdoors this month so that you can bear witness to our world’s seasonal transformation and be motivated to consider the ways that you, too, can improve and enhance life for yourself and for those around you.

Cheers!

Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication.

Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2022 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.

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

SANDERSON LINCOLN

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— SLOANE STREET JEWELS —

MARCH 5 and 8–10

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Grace Renee Gallery will host a special event to showcase this magnificent jewelry collection designed by Frances and Charlotte Gadbois. Each piece of Sloane Street’s jewelry goes beyond the tangible expression of style by embodying the timeless elegance of every woman.

Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces.

— PAULA CREVOSHAY JEWELRY —

MARCH 11 and 12

Friday: 10 a.m.– 7 p.m.

Wine and Appetizers: 4–7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. ..

An exceptionally rare opportunity to meet iconic jewelry artist Paula Crevoshay and explore a seldom displayed collection of her pendants, earrings, rings and more.

Dubbed the Queen of Color, Crevoshay’s name is well-known among both jewelers and gemologists, and her work is displayed in impressive collections like the Smithsonian, Carnegie Museum and Gemological Institute of America

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— NIKI WOEHLER —

MARCH 17

Thursday: 4.–7 p.m.

Wine and Appetizers: 4–7 p.m. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

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Meet contemporary artist Niki Woehler and explore an exclusive collection of her organic, textural canvas works as well as abstract, high-gloss resin art panels and customized waterproof art installations emphasizing rich color that often resemble stone scattered with minerals. Woehler’s paintings are inspired by objects ravaged by nature and the participating elements — including water, wind, earth and fire.

Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7, Carefree, AZ | 480.575.8080 | GraceReneeGallery.com

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— GEMSTONE SPECIAL EVENT —

MARCH 24–26

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Special three-day event during which attendees may explore and learn about exceptional, one-one-a-kind gemstones from luxury jewelry designer Aaron Henry. Experience the eyecatching brilliance of spinels, sapphires and a curated collection of beautiful gemstones.

Discover how to customize them in a way that perfectly suits you. Extra exclusive VIP preview Thursday 4–7 p.m. Reservation-required appointments with designer Friday 10–5 p.m.

Public viewing Saturday 10–5 p.m.

..

Thursday: VIP Preview from 4–7 p.m.

Friday: By Appointment with Aaron Henry Saturday: Public Viewing

Grace Renee Gallery is a refreshingly beautiful way to explore fine contemporary art in the breathtaking shadows of the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona. Artfully designed jewelry, inspiring sculptures, spectacular wall art, stunning ceramics and more await.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7, Carefree, AZ | 480.575.8080 | GraceReneeGallery.com imagesar izona.c om

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Niki Woehler’s work has been featured in exhibitions in galleries and showrooms across Arizona and caught eyes worldwide. Many top-tier interior designers integrate her work into their contemporary designs and she has also contracted with several top art consultants throughout the United States.

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Contemporary artist Niki Woehler uses the hashtag #dowhatyoulove on every one of her social media posts for two reasons — one being a testament to her love of art. However, that was not always the case.

“I hated art as a kid,” Woehler says. “I hated it! I used to climb up the window in my art class or ask the teacher to go to the bathroom then disappear for the whole class and come back at the end. That is how much I hated art.”

Woehler says that her earliest experiences with art were dominated by rules rather than freedom and creativity.

“They wanted me to paint fruit in bowls and things that I found zero interest in,” says explains. “They wanted me to color inside of the lines. I went to Catholic school and there was just no room for coloring outside of the lines. I am one of those people who, if you show me where the lines are, I am going to jump outside of them just about every single time.”

Today, it is not uncommon for Woehler to paint for 18 hours straight, producing organic, textural canvas works as well as abstract, high-gloss resin art panels and customized waterproof art installations emphasizing rich color that often resemble stone scattered with minerals.

And although each piece is extraordinary, featuring lines, layers and textures that invade smooth facades as they exchange surface beauty for depth, character, strength and wisdom, it is the exceptional exuberance with which she creates them that is Woehler’s greatest contribution to the world.

TURNING IN Woehler grew up in Toronto, where her mother was the vice-president of a large advertising agency. From the age of 14, she would often assist her mother with market research of products like potato chips among her peers and eventually decided to continue on that path.

After pursuing a degree in marketing from Sheridan College, Woehler’s career delivered her stateside to Arizona where, at age 27, she experienced the devastating loss of a beloved colleague named Michael.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photo by Lindsay Jenks

“He had gone to Vegas for the weekend, partied too much, fell asleep at the wheel on the drive home and imagesar izona.c om

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Photo by Austin LaRue Photo by Lindsay Jenks

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died,” Woehler says. “As I was driving home from his funeral in my little BMW Roadster, I looked up at the sky and said, ‘You [jerk]. Today is such a beautiful day. You should be here enjoying it with me. I should not have to be coming home from your funeral.”

It was then that Woehler heard a voice whisper in her ear: “Turn in.”

“I looked over and saw a Michaels [craft store],” Woehler says. “To this day, I do not know what possessed me, but I pulled [into the shopping center] and went into Michaels. I bought three canvases, a bunch of brushes and a bunch of paints. Why? I do not know. I did not even like art.”

Upon arriving home with her art supplies, Woehler created her first painting. She then sought the constructive criticism of her neighbor, Trish, who was an art professor at Arizona State University.

“She came in, looked at the painting, turned and began to walk away,” Woehler says. “I asked, ‘Is it that bad?’ And she said, ‘No. It is that good. The only advice that I am going to give you is to keep painting.”

So she did. But after two more paintings, Woehler became pregnant with her first child — who, naturally, became her top priority. Before she knew it, she had two more children, one right after the other. She also still had a full-time job in marketing.

“There was certainly no time for painting,” Woehler says. “So I put all of my paints and supplies in the garage and did not look at them again for about 10 years.”

LOOKING UP As Woehler’s kids got older and required less of her attention, she decided to pull out her paints and put brush to canvas again if for nothing more than creative therapy. It was the first sign of her cognitive shift from seeing art as something from which she needed to escape to something into which she could escape.

In 2012, one of Woehler’s ad agency clients discovered her secret hobby and commissioned her to create three custom paintings for her walls. Upon completion, the client offered Woehler a word of advice that would forever change her life.

“She said, ‘You are really good at marketing but you are an idiot if you do not paint for a living,’” Woehler recounts.

It was an appealing proposition but one that felt too good to be true. Shortly thereafter, Woehler posted one of her paintings

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“

For me, art is about creating beautiful things that share amazing connections with the people who find it.

Niki Woehler

on Facebook — just for commentary — and somebody bought it within one hour.

“I posted another one and the same thing happened,” Woehler says. “So I looked up at the sky and said, ‘OK. I am paying attention to this. Here is the deal. I will put one more up. If it sells, I will close everything down and be an artist.’”

It was impossible to deny the universe’s guidance when the third painting sold, so Woehler followed her passion and devoted herself to painting full-time.

“When I first decided to be an artist, I sold my dining room furniture, had a painting table built and worked

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out of my dining room for six years,” Woehler says. “My kids and I ate around the coffee table every night and, amazingly, they never complained one time. They were so supportive of me and what I was trying to achieve; as were many of my friends who continually encouraged me in moments of fear or doubt — because, as a single mom, I definitely had many of them.”

Now, Woehler has her own 3,000-square-foot studio in Old Town Scottsdale. Moreover, her work has been featured in exhibitions in galleries and showrooms across Arizona and caught eyes worldwide. Many toptier interior designers integrate her work into their contemporary designs and she has also contracted with several top art consultants throughout the United States.

“It has been the most incredible journey,” says Woehler, noting that, in 2017, CBRE commissioned a 54-by-6-foot installation for its new offices at The Esplanade in Phoenix and, in 2018, Indeed commissioned a custom logo art wall for its new head offices in Scottsdale.

That journey would have been impossible without the love and support of her children and friends for whom she is eternally grateful.

MAKING ROOM “For me, art is about creating beautiful things that share amazing connections with the people who find it,” Woehler says.

The artist describes one such connection tied to a painting in which she used geometric shapes to create human form, inspired by Brian Andreas’ poem “Making Room.” “‘When I first met her, I knew in a moment I would have to spend the next few days rearranging my mind so there'd be room for her to stay,’” Woehler recites. “I illustrated what, to me, that meant with this geometric character meditating and his thoughts going out the window.”

One of Woehler’s former high school classmates discovered the painting on Facebook, where the artist had posted it without any description or explanation. When he told Woehler that he wanted to purchase it as an anniversary gift for his wife, who had seen it and fallen in love with it, the artist almost dropped to the ground in disbelief.

“He met his wife during a business trip to Brazil,” Woehler explains.

“When he saw her, he instantly fell in

love with her and knew that he was not leaving without her. She did not even know the meaning behind this painting yet she gravitated toward it.

Out of the hundreds of paintings that I have done, that was the one that she picked — and that was their story.”

The artist adds that things like that happen all of the time, proving that the universe that guided her to art is still working its impenetrable magic.

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“The universe really is magical,” says Woehler, noting that her painting inspired by “Making Room” is in fact one in a series of works in which she, using the same geometric shapes, tells the story of her journey with man who, upon meeting, she instantly knew would change her life. “He has been and continues to be my love, one of my greatest supporters, teachers and best friend all wrapped into one.”

Remarkably, each and every one of her paintings in the series has, like “Making Room,” found a home with kindred people whose stories in some wonderfully miraculous way connect to them.

DROPPING DOWN Woehler still has her first paintings — figurative pieces with bright, bold colors.

“The first one that I did was my own version of what a Picasso would be,” the artist says. “When I went back to painting, after my kids were older, I discovered the abstract within me.

I discovered the use of water and mediums and how you can make paint do amazing things. I almost never paint anything figurative anymore.

Now I am mostly pure abstract on canvas. I also do resin work.”

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Woehler’s paintings are inspired by objects ravaged by nature and the participating elements — including water, wind, earth and fire. She believes that the longer something stands the tests of time, the more interesting it becomes.

“I will be walking down the street and see a building where the metal has been rusted, eroded and etched over or a building that has been burned,” explains Woehler, who is drawn to the details of the imperfect and intuitively feels when something needs its story told. “The patterns and the patinas that come out are just incredible.

“Or I will be walking through the wilderness and see some bark that is kind of gnarled on a tree and has all of these beautiful, incredible dimensions and texture.

Those are the kinds of things that I stop and take photos of. Those are the kinds of things that pique my interest and imagination.”

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That imagination is larger than life, which poses a unique problem for the 5-foot-2-inch artist.

“I love to do huge paintings but I am vertically challenged,” Woehler says. “And everything that I paint has to lay flat because I use a lot of liquid. I saw ‘Mission: Impossible’ where [Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt] drops down from the ceiling and thought, ‘That is exactly what I need.’ But I did not have a space that would facilitate that kind of height until I moved into my studio on Main Street in Scottsdale.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, while all movie productions were paused, Woehler commissioned a team of Hollywood professionals to design and build flying gear — a motorized custom sling that works via remote control — that allows her to hover over enormous canvases as she paints and brings her remarkable vision to life.

Niki Woehler Thursday, March 17 | 4–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers | Grace Renee Gallery | 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com March 20 22

That vision can be fully explored Thursday, March 17 during a special artist’s reception at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree, where Woehler’s extraordinary work will be on display, including several one-of-a-kind pieces that that artist has made exclusively for the event.

She will, of course, also be sharing her personal insight behind each painting — which are reflections of her own incredibly inspiring story of self-discovery.

STEPPING OUT

results of her work. It is the other reason that she tags every social media post with #dowhatyoulove.

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“I get emails and calls from people who have watched my evolution and tell me that it has given them the courage to step out and try doing something that they love,” she says. “I know that this gift has been given to me. I do not take it lightly.

It impacts me very deeply. And it is 100% my duty and honor to shine that forward for everybody else — including my children.

When asked what she would say to herself as a child if she were able to use her flying gear to travel back in time and drop down from the ceiling — “Mission: Impossible”-style — into her Catholic school art class, Woehler briefly pauses, suddenly overwhelmed with emotion.

“Just do what you love. And do it with passion, with conviction and with faith. Know that when you are doing what you are supposed to be doing, the universe will open all of the doors for you, everything will line up perfectly and it will be just fine.”

“Here is what I would tell that girl,” she says through reflective tears. “Do not just look at the surface of things.

And do not just listen to what people tell you. I would tell her to dive deeper. I would tell her that she is going to find her freedom when she stops listening to what other people say and starts looking for herself.”

By taking her own advice, Woehler has seen the universe continue to open doors for her — such as having her art exhibited in a show this month in Luxembourg in conjunction the VAN GOGH Art Gallery in Madrid.

She is also working on a few fun new projects, including painting designer handbags, which will be completed by the end of this year.

Woehler adds that being able to convey that same very meaningful message to others through her art has been one of the most beautiful

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Through March 6 LITTLE WOMEN

Fountain Hills Youth Theater will present its production of “Little Women,” which revolves around the lives of four sisters growing up during and after the Civil War. $18; youth discounts available. See website for times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org

Through April 15 VITA TAX PROGRAM

IRS-certified volunteers will provide basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

Free. Tuesdays and Thursdays. By appointment only. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek.

480-488-2286; mastersofcoin.org

March 6

THE MANY FACES OF LOVE Sonoran Desert Chorale will perform a concert that celebrates love of singing, love of God and love of humankind. $18+; student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-305-4538; sonorandesertchorale.org

March 4 and 5

ARIZONA TROLLEY DANCES

March 4 and 5 M3F

A stellar lineup of musicians will take the stage as part of M3F. All proceeds from the event will benefit local charities such as Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. See website for prices and schedule. Margaret T. Hance Park, 1200 N. First St., Phoenix. m3ffest.com

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and The Movement Source Dance Company will present a special series of mobile dance performances throughout Old Town Scottsdale.

Patrons may hop on Ollie the Trolley for a tour of short dance works in various locations around the downtown area.

The tour will stop at five unique locations during the course of each event. $20+. See website for times. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

March 4–20

CHESS: THE MUSICAL Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Chess: The Musical,” written as a metaphor for the Cold War by the men of the super-group ABBA. See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale.

480-483-1664; desertstages.org

March 5

ARCHAEOLOGY EXPO The Desert Awareness Committee at Spur Cross Recreational Area and the Foothills Chapter of the Arizona Archaeological

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Society will host an event featuring hikes to ruins and petroglyphs, seminars about tools that our ancestors used and a wealth of information about desert foods and medicines.

Free. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 5 and 19

KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING 101 Joi Prater Interiors will host an informative session during which attendees will gain great insight into the costs associated with kitchen and bath remodels. Free. 10 a.m.

Noon. RSVP. Joi Prater Interiors, 748 Easy St., Suite 9, Carefree. 602-930-8679; joipraterinteriors.com

March 6

TELEGRAPH QUARTET CONCERT The Telegraph Quartet will perform a concert of standard and contemporary chamber music as part of Art at the Rocks. Free. 4 p.m. Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road, Scottsdale. 480-488-3384; deserthills.org

March 7

LITERATE FOODIE CLUB Literate Foodie Club will host a discussion of Evan Bloom’s “Eat Something.” The club’s volunteer cooks will serve a sampling of foods related to the book. $10. 12:30 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

March 7

SIBLING REVELRY Tony-nominated sisters Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert of great songs and witty banter. $35+. 7:30 p.m.

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

March 8

GET LIT BOOK CLUB Desert Foothills Library will host a virtual happy hour book club featuring Barbara Ehrenreich’s “Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America.” Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. dfla.org

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 8–29

LEARN TO DRAW BETTER WITH LARRY The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a four-week workshop during which participants will learn techniques for drawing proportions, shading, rendering a face likeness and other skills. $250. 9 a.m. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale.

480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 10 and 22

LIBRARY BOOK CLUB Desert Foothills Library will host a virtual book club featuring Walker Percy’s “The Moviegoer.” Free. 10 a.m. RSVP. dfla.org

March 11

GEOFFREY BURGESS AND LEON SCHELHASE Geoffrey Burgess and Leon Schelhase will join forces for an elegant program of Bach sonatas, partitas and toccatas for oboe and harpsichord. $30+; student discounts available. 7:30 p.m. All Saints' Episcopal Church, 6300 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. arizonabachfestival.org

March 11–13

LES MISERABLES: SCHOOL EDITION AUDITIONS

March 12

GATEWAY CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT

Gateway Celebrity Fight Night will host its annual event, which is known for bringing A-list celebrities to Phoenix and raising in a single night millions of dollars in charitable funds for cancer research. See website for prices. 5:30 p.m. JW Marriott Desert Ridge, 5250 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix. celebrityfightnight.org

Desert Foothills Theater will audition potential cast members for its upcoming teen production of “Les Miserables.” Auditionees aged 14–19 should prepare a musical theater song. $175. See website for times. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480488-1981; dftheater.org

March 12

GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE AND POLLINATORS Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome native plant consultant Carianne Funicelli from Strategic Habitat Enhancements for a presentation about native plant species that are appropriate for Carefree yards and gardens as well as the wildlife and pollinators that they support. $5+. 9:30 a.m. Carefree Desert Gardens Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.

March 12 and 13

EXPERIENCE IRELAND Musical Instrument Museum will celebrate the music and culture of the Emerald Isle with live performances, an Irish-

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inspired lunch menu and more family-friendly activities.

See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

March 13

GLORIOUS CONCERTOS The Arizona Bach Festival Chamber Orchestra will perform a concert of music from Bach’s contemporaries — Handel, Albinoni and Vivaldi. $40+; student discounts available. 3 p.m. All Saints' Episcopal Church, 6300 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. arizonabachfestival.org

March 13

IRISH STORIES AND SONGS World-renowned tenor Michael McCall and harpist Jocelyn Obermeyer will perform a concert in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. See website for price. 3 p.m. Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E. Cave Creek Road, Carefree. 480-488-2081; ctlcarefree.org

March 13

LEARN BALLET AND SIP MOSCOW MULES Ballet Arizona's Contemporary Council will host an event that begins with a 90-minute intro class led by Ballet Arizona dancer Ethan Price and culminates with a Moscow mule cocktail featuring locally made Big Marble Organics ginger beer. All proceeds will support Ballet Arizona, its dancers, staff, programs and the art that they provide to our community. $45. 1 p.m. Ballet Arizona, 2835 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-381-0188; balletaz.org

March 14

OUR DESERT SCRUB The Holland Center will welcome Glenn Fahringer from Earth Care Landscapers for a presentation about what you can do to help keep our desert land beautiful and protected from catastrophic fire. Free. 6:30 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale.

480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 14 and 16

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Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 17

CAREFREE ART NIGHT Explore fine art in the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain. Courtesy shuttles will be available to transport guests to participating art galleries around Carefree during an event that includes live music, refreshments and, of course, lots of fine art — including your next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com

March 18 and 19

ARIZONA SAGE ART MARKET The Holland Center will host a unique Main Street shopping experience featuring more than 50 juried artists with a diverse selection of mediums. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 18–20

SPRING CAREFREE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL Thunderbird Artists will host its 27th annual event that will bring together more than 160 juried fine artists, musicians, wineries, distilleries and more. Sculptural jeweler Victor Yurivilca has been selected as the featured artist for the event. $3. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Carefree, 101 Easy Street, Carefree. thunderbirdartists.com

March 18–20 RE:BIRTH

March 17

NIKI WOEHLER Meet contemporary artist Niki Woehler and explore an exclusive collection of her organic, textural canvas works as well as abstract, high-gloss resin art panels and customized waterproof art installations emphasizing rich color that often resemble stone scattered with minerals. Woehler’s paintings are inspired by objects ravaged by nature and the participating elements — including water, wind, earth and fire. Wine and appetizers will be served. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

Phoenix Chorale will perform a concert of music inspired by a sense of spring, renewal and hope. $42; discounts available for students, seniors and active military. Friday 7:30 p.m. at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale; Saturday 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 100 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix; Sunday 3 p.m. at Camelback Bible Church, 3900 E. Stanford Dr., Paradise Valley. phoenixchorale.org.

March 18–27

DEAR EDWINA, JR. Desert Foothills Theater will present its production of “Dear Edwina, Jr.” See website for price and times. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-4881981; dftheater.org

March 18–April 3 RIPCORD

Fountain Hills Theater will present its production of “Ripcord,” a play about a cantankerous woman who is

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determined to get rid of the woman with whom she has been forced to share her quarters at a senior living facility. See website for price and times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org

March 18–April 24 FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL

Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “Flashdance: The Musical,” based on the popular 1983 feature film about a welder who dreams of going to a prestigious dance academy and becoming a professional dancer. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org

March 19

THE FACES OF FREEDOM American Legion Post 34 will celebrate its 75th anniversary with a salute to the men and women who served in World War II. Breakfast will be served 8–10 a.m. followed by a barbecue Noon–4 p.m. The Manhattan Dolls will perform two shows during the barbecue. WWII tank commander veteran John Tyler will also be honored during the event.

American Legion Post 34, 6272 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek.

March 19

SAXY BACH The Sinta Saxophone Quartet will perform an expressive, powerful and joyful concert of Bach’s music. $30+; student discounts available. 7:30 p.m. Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church, 6715 N. Mockingbird Lane, Scottsdale. arizonabachfestival.org

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 19 and 20

GLORIOUS REVERBERATION The Phoenix Boys Choir will perform a concert accompanied by the majestic sounds of a grand pipe organ. $15+; youth discounts available. Saturday 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Mesa, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Sunday 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Phoenix, 5510 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. boyschoir.org

March 22

PINK MARTINI Pink Martini will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert inspired by the romantic Hollywood musicals of the 1940s and 1950s, as well as Argentine tango, Brazilian samba and Italian folk. $41+.

7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

March 24–27

ALL BALANCHINE Ballet Arizona will perform three ballets by George Balanchine — the jazzy “Slaughter on Tenth Avenue,” the exhilarating “Bourrée Fantasque” and the romantic “Serenade.” See website for time and prices. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. balletaz.org

March 24–April 30 CAMELOT

March 19–27

CAVE CREEK RODEO DAYS Cave Creek Rodeo Days will host its 45th annual event, including three thrilling rodeo performances featuring top-ranking Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association contestants as well as a parade, a golf tournament and more. $30. See website for schedule of events. Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St., Cave Creek. cavecreekrodeo.com

Don Bluth Front Row Theatre will present its production of “Camelot.” $28+; youth, senior, student and military discounts available. Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. 480-314-0841; donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com

March 27

SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT Scottsdale Philharmonic will perform a concert of classical music. $15. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587, scottsdalephilharmonic.com

March 28

NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL: PART 2 Neil Berg will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert that traces the musical progenitors of the 1940s through the glory years of the 50s, 60s, 70s and early 80s. $39+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E.

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Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

March 31

ART FOR LAND’S SAKE: INSPIRED BY NATURE Desert Foothills Land Trust will host an in-person reception for its annual exhibit promoting the beauty of the natural world through traditional and representational artworks. Entries will be accepted through March 4, an online preview will be available beginning March 28 and an online auction will be held April 1–11.

Free. 6:30–8:30 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. dflt.org/art-for-lands-sake

April 1

THE TEXAS TENORS The Texas Tenors will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert of repertoire ranging from country to pop and Broadway to classical. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

April 2

ARTRAGEOUS GALA: LUMINESCENCE Scottsdale Arts will host its annual fundraiser benefitting dynamic and diverse performances, exhibitions and arts education and outreach programs.

The gala will feature a Hollywoodstyle, livestreamed red carpet event; culinary and beverage stations; a silent auction, performance artists; a specially designed, three-course dinner; a dynamic live auction; and an energizing and enigmatic grand finale performance by Quixotic. See website for prices and time. Scottsdale Stadium, 7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale. scottsdalearts.org

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

April 3

BROADWAY BOUND Scottsdale’s premier adult choir Upscale Singers will perform a concert featuring the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Disney, “Grease” and ABBA. $30; discounts available for youth. 2 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. upscalesingers.com

April 4

THE MCCARTNEY YEARS Arizona Musicfest will present a technically stunning, authentic and explosive concert showcasing two decades of Paul McCartney’s music from The Beatles to Wings. $35+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

April 5–26

LEARN TO PAINT DESERT LANDSCAPES The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a four-week workshop during which participants will learn techniques for painting desert landscapes. $250. 9 a.m.

RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

April 7–17

SHALL I COMPARE THEE: THE SONNETS Southwest Shakespeare Company will perform “Shall I Compare Thee: The Sonnets,” an extraordinary celebration of life, love and the pursuit of happiness in a post-COVID world. $35+. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. swshakespeare.org

March 31

CASINO NIGHT

Creative Women of Pinnacle Peak will host a fundraiser featuring blackjack, roulette and more, with all proceeds being donated to the Phoenix Dream Center — a residential facility that rehabilitates sex-trafficked girls, boys, women and men. $125. 6–9 p.m. Troon Country Club, 25000 Windy Walk Drive, Scottsdale. creativewomenofpinnaclepeak.com

April 8–17

DISNEY'S HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, JR. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its youth production of “Disney's High School Musical, Jr.” See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664; desertstages.org

April 9

FLORA AND FAUNA OF NAMIBIA Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome Desert Botanical Garden’s former cactus collection manager Scott McMahon, who will take attendees on a journey to Namibia — home to some of the most iconic succulents in the world, some of the oldest exposed rock formations and many familiar animals adapted to survive in the desert environment. $5+.

9:30 a.m. Carefree Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.

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NEW SENIOR LIVING DEVELOPMENT DEBUTS Liv Communities last month christened its fourth amenity-rich senior living development in the Valley. The new community features 181 units — 155 homes and 26 casitas — and joins senior living properties that Liv Communities operates in Gilbert, Scottsdale and Phoenix. LivGenerations Mayo offers 20 floor plans of independent living, assisted living, memory care and casitas. LivGenerations Mayo Blvd., 6650 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. livcommunities.com

SONORAN ARTS LEAGUE NAMES NEW DIRECTOR Sonoran Arts League has selected Warren M. Davis as its new executive director. With more than two decades of nonprofit and arts experience, Davis specializes in external relations, fundraising, board governance, consulting and volunteer management. sonoranartsleague.org

TALIESIN INSTITUTE TAKES FORM The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation recently announced the creation of the Taliesin Institute — a new collection of programs intended for architecture and design students, new and established design professionals and the broader public interested in learning about the history and future of organic architecture principles, which were established as the core of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. The institute will offer public classes, symposia and workshops that reflect the evolving nature of Wright’s principles of organic design and their relevance to the way we live now, and in the future. franklloydwright.org

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Revealing the Person Within

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Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of STARS

Art can often speak what words cannot.

What Makes Me Me, an expressive new exhibition running through May 3 at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, accomplishes that and so much more.

The exhibition features a collection of watercolor, acrylic, ceramics and poetry by 35 members of Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services — better known as STARS — and the Opportunity Tree, both of which serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Each work answers the questions posed to their creators: Who are you? What makes you the unique individual you are?

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The idea for the exhibit originated as a collaboration with Beverly McIver’s Full Circle, an exhibition at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. McIver is a caregiver to her older sister who has intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal is to highlight the artistic voices of a community that is often hidden from public view.

Scottsdale Arts Learning and Innovation paired professional artists with disabled individuals for a series of workshops in different media over the course of several months. Each participant was encouraged to communicate with their art partner to express their feelings through art.

STARS’ Day Training for Adults program manager Jakie Walker oversaw its 12 participants chosen for workshops in acrylic, watercolors and ceramics. Artists facilitated progress by sketching full-body outlines of each participant. The STARS members took over from there, choosing paint colors and brush sizes. In the case of the ceramic pieces, members were provided a mirror as a reference for sculpting their own faces.

“They were given free rein and were able to choose whatever they wanted to do,” Walker explains.

“The members were told, ‘This is a picture or you or the outline of your body. Choose whatever color feels good. This is about you and bringing out your true self.’ There was a lot of encouragement during the workshop. The artists were there to walk them through and my instructors were alongside to facilitate communication.”

STARS members were eager to participate and the workshops at the Opportunity Tree location were a chance for them to get out and about after a long period of staying home and having few or no outings during the pandemic.

Court and Ella are members of STARS’ Day Training for Adults skills training program, which focuses on identifying and developing individual skills and talents to implement team projects from start to finish.

Members expand teamwork skills in communication and cooperation to engage in research, design, development and marketing.

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STARS participant Ella

STARS participant Lisa - Image Credit STARS

STARS participant Court

STARS participants Court, Matt and Tiffany

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You don’t always think day-to-day how these members see themselves and it was eye-opening to see their self-perception that they can’t always speak. Jakie Walker

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What Makes Me Me Through May 3 | Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts | 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale March 20 22 Free | scottsdaleartslearning.org

Court, 43, was thrilled when he saw old friends at Opportunity Tree and loved the entire What Makes Me Me experience.

“I like the paint,” Court says. “I painted a dragon. I still have it. I am happy.”

Ella’s self-portrait includes the outline of her wheelchair and is full of color.

“I used green for part of it and the thickest part of it was blue, pink, whatever they had,” says Ella, who is in her 30s. “It was watercolors. I liked it because I feel like they used part of me to be happy. I’m proud of myself.”

As the driver of the project, Scottsdale Arts’ curator of learning and innovation Laura Hales noticed the positive impact of artistic self-expression on participants.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Vermillion festivals are a cultural experience.

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A fusion of arts: visual, performing and culinary.

Two more shows this spring. Join us!

Litchfield Park Art & Wine Festival

“During one of the workshops, one woman who didn’t talk at all in the beginning was positively chatty toward the end of it as she became more comfortable and started enjoying herself,” Hales says. “I could see that she had gained an increased sense of herself, which was the primary goal of the exhibition.”

March 5-6 9am-5pm

Grateful to each of the artists who took time out of their busy schedules to help participants express themselves through art, Walker says that seeing everyone’s reactions to the workshops was a heartwarming and eye-opening experience.

Sonoran Fine Arts & Wine Festival

“It was interesting to see what the members saw in themselves when they were painting, putting together a collage or creating their face from ceramics,” she explains. “You don’t always think day-to-day how these members see themselves and it was eye-opening to see their self-perception that they can’t always speak.”

March 11-13 10am-5pm

101 W. Wigwam Blvd Litchfield Park, AZ

Stagecoach Village

7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, AZ

“New Day” in Red

by Kim Seyesnem Obrzut 18.75’’ H x 7’’W x 6.5’’D

When the show is over, participants will take their work home and happy memories will be preserved within each brushstroke and impression in the clay. scottsdaleartslearning.org

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Anthony Giammarino

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Anyone who has ever traveled by plane into Sky Harbor International Airport knows that truly transcendent feeling of experiencing Arizona’s majestic landscape during the descent.

What at first appears to be a breathtaking display of abstract art slowly comes into focus as recognizable forms, albeit from an entirely different perspective.

We spend the vast majority of our lives at ground level, viewing our surroundings from a relatively close distance. Mountain ranges are often relegated to faraway features of a picturesque skyline. Saguaros are seen as green giants who hover high above our heads. Our city streets are perceived as black pathways that lead to locations beyond our field of vision.

We are often told that in order to see beauty and to understand the enormity of the universe, we should look to the heavens and bear witness to the many constellations that sprinkle across the sky. But reversing that view and beholding our world from above provides the same insight and so much more.

Media creative Anthony Giammarino has made a living out of capturing imagery of our world from this perspective.

“Seeing everything from the ground level gives you a narrow perspective of what the world actually is,” Giammarino says.

“When you zoom out and see things from an aerial perspective, it really makes you appreciate everything nature has given us in a different way.”

Devil's Kitchen in Sedona

That is especially true of our Arizona landscape, whose unparalleled beauty is exponentially amplified from the aerial perspective. Our topography truly is a work of art — especially when viewed from above.

Images Arizona’s photo essay this month is devoted to sharing a selection of Giammarino’s photography, captured by drone, with the hope that it inspires our readers to broaden their perspective of our absolutely stunning state and see its aesthetic splendor from a new angle.

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“

Seeing everything from the ground level gives you a narrow perspective of what the world actually is. When you zoom out and see things from an aerial perspective, it really makes you appreciate everything nature has given us in a different way. Anthony Giammarino

Scottsdale

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About the Photographer Anthony Giammarino was born and raised in Binghamton, New York. Having had a passion for creating videos and photography since a very young age, picking up a camera has always felt natural to him. He began flying drones in 2015 as a hobby and discovered what an incredible tool the drone can be in the creation of aerial media.

In 2018, Giammarino founded Airobird Drones and began shooting media for Binghamton-area real estate agents. Desiring more out of life and wanting to get out of his hometown, he began thinking about moving to Phoenix as it had always been his dream to live out west. He had already been visiting his uncle, who lived in Arizona, but these visits became more frequent when one of his best childhood friends moved to the state.

Giammarino brought his drone along with him on these visits and, observing the Sonoran Desert’s beauty from above, he ultimately decided to move to the area. He immediately started marketing his business, making connections with local real estate agents and shooting property videos with his drone while working as a rideshare driver.

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Arizona has incredible diversity when it comes to landscapes. From Phoenix and Tucson to Sedona and Flagstaff, each place has its own unique feel, which is what makes Arizona so special. Anthony Giammarino

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Airobird Drones is now Giammarino’s full-time job. He has also started AntsDrone, an Instagram account dedicated to photography of Arizona landscapes captured from incredible aerial perspectives.

Although he loves exploring, finding new areas to capture and has traveled all over Arizona, Giammarino’s favorite place in the state is Sedona.

“You can never capture a bad shot in Sedona — especially with a drone,” Giammarino explains. “Sedona is its own work of art.

[Seeing Arizona’s] sunsets combined with the red rocks is something special and unique; and something that I never take for granted.”

Giammarino still pinches himself each morning in disbelief that he is fortunate enough to live and do what he loves in Arizona.

“This truly is the best place on Earth to be,” he says. airobird.com Instagram: @antsdrone

“

Drone perspectives are so unique because it is not about how high you can go; it is about the unique perspective the drone brings at its lower altitude. Drones are the sweet spot for incredible aerial perspectives.

Anthony Giammarino

Scottsdale

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photo by Matt Young Photography

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The past two years have been an extraordinarily challenging time for many people. Some have been more dramatically and devastatingly impacted than others, but each and every one of us has seen life become at least a bit more lonely than it was back at the beginning of 2020.

Author and noted speaker on the subject of health and wellness Dr. Stacie Stephenson says that the mental fitness of our world has been substantially reduced as social distance has, for many, felt more like social isolation.

“I personally believe that one of the most important parts of our health and wellness is relationship,” Stacie says.

“And one of the ways in which we express relationship is by convening and having community with others — things that we have all been sorely lacking lately.”

Stacie therefore strongly encourages those who may be feeling down or depressed to find ways to convene and have community. And one of the most significant ways that one can do that is while benefitting others whose health and wellness is far worse than their own — such as those who have been diagnosed with cancer.

“People’s need to be together is intense,” says Stacie, who serves as vice-chair of the board of directors for Gateway for Cancer Research. “And those fighting cancer have an intense need for the research to continue. The only way for that to happen is if we all keep working toward it.”

And that is exactly what Stacie and numerous others will do Saturday, March 12 when, after a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Celebrity Fight Night — which is known for bringing A-list celebrities to Phoenix, including headliner Pitbull, and raising in a single night millions of dollars in charitable funds — returns to the Valley, albeit with a new name and a new mission.

RESTORING HOPE TO CANCER PATIENTS

Paradise Valley residents Stacie and Richard J. Stephenson are eagerly anticipating the Saturday, March 12 return of Celebrity Fight Night, which is known for bringing A-list celebrities to Phoenix and raising in a single night millions of dollars in charitable funds.

Celebrity Fight Night Foundation — an internationally recognized philanthropic organization that has generated more than $90 million in charitable funding throughout its 27-year history — last spring merged with Gateway for Cancer Research — a global sponsor of innovative, patient-centric, clinical cancer research.

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Getty Images

Getty Images

Getty Images Getty Images

The merger put Paradise Valley residents Stacie and her husband, Richard J. Stephenson — founder and chairman of the board for Gateway for Cancer Research — at the helm of the Phoenix-based organization, whose charity events are synonymous with star-studded support for advances in health and well-being.

“One in three people will be affected themselves during their lifetime alone,” she says. “So this is a very critical cause. Bringing Celebrity Fight Night into the Gateway for Cancer Research family will do much to accelerate the realization of our vision — which is to create a world in which a cancer diagnosis is no longer feared.”

“Celebrity Fight Night is now Gateway Celebrity Fight Night,” says Stacie, noting that the organization — which has supported a range of worthwhile causes — will now focus its firepower on defeating cancer. “We think of it as two giants coming together with a new mission. And that mission is to fight cancer.”

Gateway for Cancer Research funds innovative, breakthrough clinical cancer research that promises novel and hopeful curative options that help people living with cancer to feel better and live longer.

Stacie adds that cancer touches countless lives and that there are few people, if any, who do not have a friend, family member or other loved one who has been diagnosed with the devastating disease.

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“We fund phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials,” Stacie explains. “When a patient is at the end stage of what is available for their treatment, it is a very scary space.

Those trials have to be moved along rather quickly and rather aggressively because, quite frankly, that person is at risk of dying. They have run out of treatments. They have run out of opportunities. They have run out of hope.”

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And hope is something that no one should ever have to do without.

“There are researchers out there who have concept ideas that have already passed the hospital boards and simply need funding,” Stacie says. “So our role is to bring that funding and those treatments directly to the bedside of the person most in need.

“If you are suffering at the end stages of some dreaded cancer and there was a treatment out there that could be available to save your life, we want to get it to you now.

Not next year or two years from now or three years from now. We want to get it to you now, because your clock is ticking.”

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Under the leadership of Paradise Valley residents Stacie and Richard J. Stephenson, Gateway Celebrity Fight Night will now focus its firepower on defeating cancer.

Photo by Bob and Dawn Davis Photography and Design

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We really want the celebrities who participate to lend their voices to cancer research and the fight against cancer. These celebrities and our donors have that mission in mind. And in that space, we figure magic may happen for cancer patients all over the world.

Dr. Stacie Stephenson

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AN UNFORGETTABLE ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE As strongly as Stacie knows that cancer patients need immediate help, she also knows that Phoenix is a very philanthropic community. She is, therefore, confident that this year’s Gateway Celebrity Fight Night will be a triumphant success just as the event has in years past.

“Celebrity Fight Night is an incredibly iconic institution,” says Stacie, noting that its founder, Jimmy Walker, has — after tragically losing his son, Scott, to an overdose — transitioned to a new passion of helping people recover from drug abuse. “He founded Grace Sober Living, which builds homes for those who are recovering from drug abuse as they transition back into their normal, daily lives.”

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Photo by Bob and Dawn Davis Photography and Design Photo by Bob and Dawn Davis Photography and Design

Sean Currie, who has been instrumental in advancing the fundraising success of Celebrity Fight Night since joining the organization in 1997, continues to serve in his role as executive director of Gateway Celebrity Fight Night.

The organization’s name and mission may have changed but the event itself will still be the star-studded blacktie gala for which it has become known since 1994, featuring a cocktail reception, elegant dinner, silent and live auctions for one-of-a-kind luxury items and experiences and an over-the-top, always unforgettable entertainment package.

“It is a passion of mine to put together philanthropic, immersive, experiential fundraising events,” Stacie says. “I cannot believe that I am a physician yet I love being an event producer as well. My vision for the new Celebrity Fight Night is a world-class, jump-out-ofyour-seat experience. I love to wow people. I love to do unexpected things.”

Attendees can, therefore, expect at least a few changes as Stacie and Gateway Celebrity Fight Night’s other organizers aspire to improve upon the formula while maintaining many of the elements that have made it such an eagerly anticipated annual event.

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“My personal enjoyment of it has always been the actual production itself,” Stacie says. “So we are going to do some things that you have never seen before. There will be a bit more theatrical-type performances embedded within it. We are really looking to mix and mesh. So you could see a comedian or maybe an actor or maybe a few different musical entertainers from different genres. We are bringing all of these people together in the interest of cancer research.

“We are especially interested in the celebrities who participate being willing to share their cancer journey — whether it be of themselves, a loved one, a mom, a dad, a brother, a sister or God forbid a child. We really want the celebrities who participate to lend their voices to cancer research and the fight against cancer. These celebrities and our donors have that mission in mind. And in that space, we figure magic may happen for cancer patients all over the world.” celebrityfightnight.org Facebook: @celebrityfightnight Instagram: @celebfightnight Twitter: @celebfightnight

Gateway Celebrity Fight Night Saturday, March 12 | 5:30 p.m. | JW Marriott Desert Ridge | 5250 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix March 20 22 for prices | celebrityfightnight.org See website

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RECIPE

Caramel Mocha and Nutella Brownies Serves: 16

Ingredients: For the Caramel: 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature and cut into chunks Flaky sea salt For the Brownies: 12 tablespoons salted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon instant espresso 1 tablespoon Kahlua 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 large eggs 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 3/4 teaspoon baking powder 1-1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips 1/2 cup Nutella

Directions:

Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com

These perfect brownies are the only recipe you will ever need! Perfect because Nutella gives them a smooth-but-chewy interior. Perfect because Kahlua and espresso keep them from being cloyingly sweet. And perfect because homemade toffee shards placed on top prior to baking give them both a crunch and a wonderful salted caramel flavor. These truly are the best brownies ever!

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To make the caramel, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium pot, cook sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it has melted and turned a golden caramel color, about 8 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and add chunks of butter, whisking until combined.

Stir in cream, return the pot to medium heat and cook, stirring until the caramel has thickened and easily coats the back of your spoon, about 5–8 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, stir in a pinch of salt, pour onto the parchment paper and place in the freezer for 20 minutes to harden.

To make the brownies, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper.

In the microwave, melt together butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips, stirring at 30-second intervals, until melted and smooth. Stir in sugar, instant espresso, Kahlua and vanilla extract.

In a small bowl, whisk eggs until bubbly on top, about one minute.

Stir whisked eggs into the chocolate mixture, then add flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Stir until just combined.

Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips, then evenly spread half of the mixture into the prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of Nutella over the batter. Spoon the remaining batter over top, using a spoon to lightly smooth out the batter.

Remove caramel from the freezer and cut or break into pieces. Stick the caramel into the brownies, then bake in the oven until they are just set, 28–30 minutes. Let cool or cut and enjoy warm.

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