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Contents

Owner/publisher Shelly Spence

Editor/contributing writer Jenn Korducki Krenn

Contributing writers Donna Kublin Amanda Christmann Larson Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Rebecca Zaner Barb Evans Lara Piu Stephanie Maher Palenque Paula Theotocatos Lauren Strait Peni Long Suzanne Wright Nigel Spence Susan Kern-Fleischer Rebecca Zaner

Photographers Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Mike Harvey Michele Celentano Karen Hamilton Monica Longenbaker

Graphic artist Sam Paul Meaghan Mitchell

Advertising Consultant Brian Bluvas

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.

ImagesAZ is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright Š 2014 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.

Go with the Glow 6th Annual Cave Creek Balloon Festival Writer Barb Evans P. 46

Local First A R I Z O NA 4

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Welcome For the last 15 years, I have enjoyed the opportunity to use this space to acknowledge the wonderful things happening in our community, to share the joys and struggles from my own life, or to express the excitement I’ve had over stories our writers and photographers have brought to life in our pages.

This month is a little different. I want to tell you a little bit about exactly who makes this magazine happen each month, and why we do what we do. You see, sometimes we are all so plugged into technology that we forget to get plugged into each other.

First and foremost are our advertisers. I cannot tell you how rewarding it is each month to hear business owners – most of which have invested their entire lives in building their livelihood – tell me how much they appreciate what we do for them.

Their messages are sprinkled throughout our pages, and they each are trying to share their own stories with you through their advertising. Please take note of

Meet The Cicogna Family

Writer Stephanie Maher Palenque Photographer Keri Meyers P. 8

these businesses and patronize them; they are supporting your community!

Next is the staff. I am not one to toot my own horn, but I would love to toot theirs. We are the only local publication that has entirely unique content. We do not buy it off the Internet; our writers interview people who are making our community a home, including many people who work tirelessly to make a difference for others. Our photographers are all professionals, too, and they bring the faces and places to life in incredible ways. Our production staff also put in long hours, tweaking fonts and artfully mastering the layout each month.

Each one of these professionals care about what they do, and work hard to represent the kind of community we all want to live in.

And finally are you, our readers and our community. You have supported us for a decade and a half, sharing your successes, your heartbreak, and aspects of your lives with us through your stories and comments. I am grateful to do what I love and know that you find it relevant and meaningful, and you have shown

Courtyard Rules

that year after year.

P. 42

So thank you to all of you: advertisers, staff, and community members. I truly believe in what we are doing, and I know that you recognize that in the quality of publication that we are able to provide each month. It is because of you that we are here, and it is because of you that I am proud to call the North Valley home.

Cheers!

Shelly Spence

Geodes P. 50

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Foothills Food Bank

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P. 54

Publisher, ImagesAZ magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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Meet THE

Cicognafamily

Writer Stephanie Maher Palenque Photographer Keri Meyers

There are some connections and relationships in life that are meant to be. One of those is the relationship between two local native New Yorkers, Nick and Danielle Cicogna.

Both moved to the Anthem area with their families in 2001 and 2002, respectively. Danielle attended Sandra Day O’Connor High School and Nick attended Boulder Creek High School.

They were both part of their schools’ inaugural graduating classes. Even as non-natives, their ties to the North Valley are strong, as well as their ties to each other.

Nick has a communications degree from Arizona State University. After spending many years working for Chase bank, he now works for Zenefits. During his downtime he loves watching baseball and supporting his wife, Danielle.

If you live in the North Valley, it is probable that you have already seen the work of Danielle Cicogna. Danielle has dazzled audiences with her original, award-winning choreography for several

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WE HONOR

Your commitment to wellness.

Your unique health needs.

Your busy schedule.

Your questions and concerns.

Your right to feel empowered about healthcare.

Making healthcare easier to navigate.

Scottsdale Healthcare and John C. Lincoln Health Network are now HonorHealth.

We are making healthy personal.

HonorHealth.com May 2015

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Photo by Jeff Griffith

competition teams in the Valley. For the past five years

Danielle’s dreams are coming true, and that means that

she has served as the director of the dance department

the dreams of many young dancers in the area will be

at Cactus High School, as well as the junior varsity spirit

fulfilled as well.

line coach and pom coach. Audiences across the Valley have seen her teams perform at WestGate, Glendale

Danielle has been dreaming of “diamonds” ever since

Glitters, on EVB Live, and hosted their own shows

she was a “tiny dancer.”

including the Arizona State Dance Festival and charity

Angieri, remember that, when she was five years old,

show for Arizona Friends of Foster Children.

people would ask her what she wanted for her birthday

Her parents, Donna and Nick

and she would say, “Diamonds.” When Alyssa, Danielle’s She was born with the desire and the dream to not only

sister, heard their parents reminisce, she yelled out,

dance, but also to run her own dance studio. She says

“Diamond Dance Works!” Danielle absolutely loved the

with conviction, “I love to teach, and I love to dance!”

idea for the name.

She attended Arizona State University and graduated

and they have a standard associated with them. This

opening of her own dance studio, she will get ample

will be the same for the dance studio. We will have

opportunity to both dance and teach, putting her

diamond standards – the best instructors, the best

extensive 25-year dance training in jazz, ballet, modern,

facility, and a positive, friendly environment when

hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, and tap, and her

students and parents enter.”

certification to teach dance to grades K-12 to work.

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“Diamonds are special,” Danielle said. “They sparkle

with a degree in dance education. Now, with the

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Diamond Dance Works will cater to families, because it is a family-centered business. Danielle taught her younger sister to dance and her sister will now be teaching at Diamond Dance Works.

Danielle said, “We always have had a special bond, and with our age difference, being her teacher and being able to dance together made that bond even stronger. Even my little brother, Nicholas, who is 17 and a junior at Boulder Creek, wants to be involved. He helps me at every one of my dance shows at the high school I teach at, along with my husband.”

Nick has earned his stripes in dance as well. He works lights and sound at Danielle’s shows and is completely taking charge of the build out and business aspect of the dance studio.

“This is a family endeavor,” said Danielle. “My husband is making my lifelong dream a reality and I couldn’t do it without him. My parents have always supported my dance career and encouraged me to be independent and take chances,” she said.

When they are not spending time readying the new dance studio, the couple loves to travel and go on family vacations with their extended family.

Their favorite holiday is Christmas. They enjoy the tradition of going to Danielle’s parents’ house, where Danielle’s mother prepares a big, traditional Italian Christmas feast.

The Cicognas are anticipating the opportunity to show the community how Diamond Dance Works will sparkle. They set an opening date of June 1, with an open house scheduled for May 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Many summer programs are scheduled for all ages.

In the meantime, Danielle is watching her dreams become a reality, day by day, and she can’t wait to help her dance clients do the same! diamonddanceworks.com

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Sports

Writer Tom Scanlon Photographer Denise Raum

LADY JAGS MAKE A RUN FOR THE SOFTBALL PLAYOFFS

If your idea of softball is “beer league,” with slow arcing pitches tossed lazily toward the plate, there are two words that will shatter that impression: Brianna Binns.

Binns is the star pitcher for the Boulder Creek Lady Jaguars, and her blazing fastball and dropping curve are paving the way to a very big season. In high school girls’ softball, pitchers like Binns do deliver pitches underhand, but that is where the similarity to casual beer league and picnic games ends. The likes of Binns brings some serious heat; batters have split seconds to decide to swing the bat at the white blur or take the pitch, risking a called strike.

This season, the Lady Jags have been making all the right decisions, all the right moves.

Tori Bigelow is one of the senior stars leading this team. The slugging third baseman has signed to play with the University of California, Berkeley next season. “Can’t beat the competition,” she said of her decision.

But before starting her college career, she hopes her high school team will make a big run in the playoffs. “I think we have a solid team this year. Good chemistry,” Bigelow said, after

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Morgan Smith

Brianna Binns

knocking out two doubles, scoring a run and making

And Bigelow, who had a phenomenal .506 average and

some dazzling plays in the field in a 3-1 home win

powered three home runs as a junior, will be playing

over Desert Vista.

softball for a Cal team ranked in the Top 20. She was hitting .442 mid-way into her senior year.

The victory was the Lady Jaguars’ sixth straight to start the year. Though the BC girls would lose their seventh

College scouts will be eyeing more talent from this

game, the strong start showed coach Evah Taylor may

year’s team, Maddie Daigneau, who last year as a

have an even better team than last season’s Lady Jags

sophomore batted .455 and was right around that mark

softball team, which had a stellar 19-9 record, crushing

this season, is headed for Villanova. And sophomore

the ball for most of the season. Three of those

Hunter Raum, was off to a terrific start at the plate

crushers will be playing in college.

this season, while junior pitcher Hilaria Stewart was also bringing the heat as a strike-out artist closer.

Morgan Smith, who hit .343 last year and was batting

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over .300 again this season, will attend school and

And then there is the electric junior pitcher Brianna

play for Black Hills University in South Dakota. Aubrey

Binns, who after a break-through season last year was

Ledbetter, who pounded out a .383 average for the

off to a dazzling start, 6-0 with a measly .58 earned

Lady Jags last season and was over .400 this year, will

run average, plus an incredible 33 strikeouts against

hit the diamond at Paradise Valley Community College.

only three walks allowed in her first seven starts.

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“Bri is tough,” noted Bigelow, in quite an understatement. “She has a good curve.”

Plus a no-time-to-think fastball. Other pitchers that Boulder Creek faces can also deliver pitches with eye-popping velocity. How can batters have any chance against those speedballers?

“The

hardest part of batting,” said senior star Bigelow, “is the mental part. Quieting your mind.”

Bigelow and other Lady Jags have been as sharp in the field as at the plate. In the Desert Vista game, Boulder Creek was clinging to a 2-0 lead when the visitors got a runner on first base.

Dangerous slugger Brooke Hughes worked a 3-2 count, creaming a few pitches foul to left, clearly getting her timing down on the pitches.

Bri Binns didn’t give up, and threw another strike; the batter pounced on it, sending a screeching one-hopper to third. Bigelow not only fielded it smoothly, in one motion she sidearmed a throw to second, starting a double play. Threat over, to the delight of a lively crowd that was locked into the action.

After the victory, Coach Taylor said her girls were playing solidly as a team. “They work really well together,” she said. Taylor praised the overall fielding and noted that her batting order is sharp from top to bottom, with speed at the top and bottom surrounding the power hitters.

“The whole lineup is strong,” she said.

And with Bri Binns bringing the wicked curve balls on the mound, who knows how far the Lady Jags can go in the May playoffs.

“Bring it on,” said the coach. “These kids have fight. They’re hungry. They need to know they’re that team.” Meaning: That team that everyone is talking about, everyone is out to beat … and everyone is watching lift the championship trophy.

While it’s a long, rugged road to the state title, the Lady Jaguars are moving in the right direction.

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community arts // Culture // announcements Writer Barb Evans

May 9-10, 16-17 Schnepf Farms Peach Festival Paint the town peach by celebrating the 50th anniversary of Ray Schnepf’s first peach trees at this fun family festival featuring hay rides, live music, train rides, arts and crafts, and such peachy delights as peach pies, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, cookies, cobblers and more. 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Free admission. Schnepf Farms, 24810 S. Rittenhouse Rd., Queen Creek, 480-987-3100, schnepffarms.com.

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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Music in May Concert Series Anthem’s popular outdoor

scene as well as premier

concert series returns for

national artists. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

its 13th year every Friday

May 8

throughout May. This year’s

“Homeless to Heroes” Fundraiser & Silent Auction

lineup features hits from

Help the National Concierge Association-Arizona Chapter raise funds

yesteryear and today, with

for the FETCH Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to

Activities included with paid admission. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725, E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.

Affinity, May 1; Tommy

saving animal lives. This fundraiser features light appetizers, cash bar,

Holloway, May 8; Shining Star,

silent auction, balloon pop and Chinese auction. 5:30-8:30 p.m. $5

May 15; AZ Dueling Pianos,

admission. Donovan’s Steak & Chop House, 3101 E. Camelback Rd.,

May 22; and Daisy Train, May

Wings & Wheels

480-636-0500, ncakey.org/Arizona.

Pediatric cancer patients benefit

29. 7-9 p.m. Free. Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., 623-7426050, onlineatanthem.com.

May 14 from this fundraising event.

May 8

May 9

Admire private, luxurious jets

Alzheimer’s Conference

Drum Break: Discover What’s Beyond the Beat

culinary treats from award-

The Alzheimer’s AssociationDesert Southwest Chapter

May 7

hosts this seminar where you

National Day of Prayer

can learn about the basics of

Bring the family to celebrate

dementia, legal and financial

and pray for our nation and

planning for patients, behaviors

local entities as part of the

and communication, and

64th Annual National Day

available resources. Registration

of Prayer. 6:30-7:15 p.m.

required. Noon-5 p.m., Free.

Anthem Veterans Memorial,

Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W.

41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy,

Anthem Way, 623-742-6065,

onlineatanthem.com.

onlineatanthem.com/ACBprogram-registration.

Delve deeper into the themes showcased in the MIM’s exhibition “Beyond the Beat: Drums of the World” by playing different styles of drums from around the world and participating in performance workshops, drum clinics and instrument-making demonstrations. Meet influential drummers from the Phoenix

and vehicles while dining on winning “Good Morning America” guest, Chef Eric Osborn. Two to three children’s items serve as admission and will be used to fill backpacks to occupy kids during their travel and treatment.

Reservations required. 5-8 p.m.

Pulver Aviation at Scottsdale Airpark, 7332 E. Butherus Dr., azcancerfoundation.org.

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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements

May 17 BCHS/DHYFA Golf Tournament Fundraiser Support Boulder Creek High

May 23-25

School and Desert Highlands Youth Football Association’s

Butterfly Wonderland’s 2nd Birthday Celebration

football programs at this annual fundraiser featuring

Celebrate Butterfly Wonderland’s

a silent auction, prizes and

2nd birthday with live music

dinner at Legends Restaurant.

by Native American flautist,

Registration required. 12:30

Anthony Wakeman, food trucks,

p.m. shotgun start. $115 per

children’s games, a bounce

player, $440 per foursome.

house, face painting, storytelling

Anthem Golf and Country ClubAnthem Club Dr., 602-471-2991, saramackey23@gmail.com.

and live performances by the

May 9

Butterfly Princess, Persephone

Pie a la Mom

Dimson. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

Ironwood Golf Course, 2708 W.

The Anthem Community Council will show some love to moms with

Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E.

a special Java & Jammin’ featuring the musical talent of 76th Street,

Via de Ventura, 480-800-3000,

followed by a social for mothers and their children that includes pie,

butterflywonderland.com.

ice cream, craft projects, games and photo booth. Java & Jammin’: 9:30-11:30 a.m.; Pie a la Mom: 12:30-2 p.m. Reservations suggested.

Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, 623-742-6050, onlineatanthem.com/ACB-program-registration.

May 21-24 MTA Presents “Les Miserables” Musical Theatre of Anthem brings Victor Hugo’s famed novel to life with a cast of award-winning performers from New York and the Valley.

Check website for times and ticket prices. Musical

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May 25 A Day of Remembrance Honor the service and sacrifice of all US veterans who have

Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N.

fun and beautiful ice event with

fallen while serving their country

Vision Way, 602-743-9892,

AZ Ice Peoria’s Elite skaters and

with this annual Memorial Day

musicaltheatreofanthem.org.

Learn to Skate skaters from

ceremony. Retired USMC Maj.

every level. Anthem’s Hannah

Gen. James M. “Mike” Myatt

Wright plays Cinderella. 2 p.m.

presents the keynote address.

May 23, 24 AZ Ice Peoria Presents “A Tribute to Cinderella on Ice” See the timeless story of Cinderella transformed into a

(Sun. only) and 6 p.m. $10

10 a.m. Anthem Veterans

bleacher seating, $15 on-ice

Memorial, 41703 N. Gavilan

seating. AZ Ice Peoria, 15829

Peak Pkwy., 623-742-6050,

N. 83rd Ave., 623-334-1200,

onlineatanthem.com.

azicepeoria.com.

community calendar arts // Culture // announcements 29-Feb. 13, 2016; “The Odd

June 5-14

Couple,” March 4-13, 2016;

Starlight Community Theater Presents “Li’l Abner”

“Mission: Impossible,” April 8-17, 2016; “Pocahontas,” May 6-7, 2016; and “Oliver,” June 3-12,

This fun-filled, foot-stompin’

2016. Tickets can be purchased

musical straight from the

at starlightcommunitytheater.com.

comics will keep audiences laughing with its mixture of hillbilly nonsense and sharp, critical humor. Check website for show dates, times and ticket prices. Starlight Community Theater, 1611

May 23

W. Whispering Wind Dr. #9, starlightcommunitytheater.com.

Cave Creek Balloon Festival Celebrate the magic and wonder of inflated, whimsically shaped and brightly colored hot air balloons with this festival featuring live music, kids’ activities, food and drinks. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Adults, $10; 12 and under, $5; children 2 and under, free. Rancho Mañana Golf Course,

Foothills Food Bank Greens ’R Great Garden Program Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center recently created a new program to provide fresh produce and seedling starter pots for the more than 2,500 families, seniors and individuals it serves throughout the northern desert foothills communities. Raisedbed gardens will not only provide food for families, but will also help teach customers

5734 E. Rancho Mañana Blvd., cavecreekfestivals.com. how to grow fresh produce on their own. Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center provides emergency food, financial assistance and other life necessities and resources to individuals and families in a 180-square-mile area that includes Black Canyon City, Cave Creek, Carefree, Anthem, Desert Hills, New River, North Scottsdale and North Phoenix. foothillsfoodbank.com.

Starlight Community Theater Announces 2015-2016 Season Starlight Community Theater, located at 1611 W. Whispering Wind Drive, recently released its list of shows for their eleventh season. Productions for 201516 include “Bugsy Malone Jr.,” Sept. 11-26; “Play On!” Oct. 16-25; “Haphazardly Ever After,” Nov. 13-14; “Mary Poppins,” Dec. 4-13; “Seussical,” Jan.

Anthem Veterans Memorial Receives Landscape Upgrade The award-winning Anthem Veterans Memorial is undergoing a colorful landscaping makeover in advance of the Memorial Day ceremony May 25. The new landscape design will feature low profile desert plants that will surround the memorial with seasonal blooms year-round. The project is funded by ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance as part of an annual credit provided through their contract with the Anthem Community Council for special landscape projects. onlineatanthem.com.

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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements time. Without family in town, friends are seeking support by way of meals and donations towards her post-op care. To

Diamond Canyon Earns A+ Distinction

help, visit the “Rally for Sally”

Diamond Canyon School

facebook.com/rally4sally.

Facebook page at

recently earned the A+ School of Excellence distinction from the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF). This designation is given to Arizona schools that demonstrate high levels of student achievement,

Two Diamond Canyon Artists Have Works Published

innovation in classroom

Diamond Canyon artists Gracie Milliken and Sage Raczka were

Harold’s Cave Creek Corral

programs and instruction, and

named winners in Music K-8 magazine’s 2015 cover art contest held

is turning 80 in September,

collaborative involvement of

earlier this school year. The magazine is a national and international

and to commemorate, they’re

parents and community. This

resource for teachers of students in grades K-8. Milliken, a fifth

reaching out to re-connect

was the first year Diamond

grader, was named a top finalist, and Raczka, also in fifth grade,

with former employees, bands

Canyon received the honor

received honorable mention. Both works of art are published on the

and musicians, and inviting

from AEF, and is joined by

magazine’s website, musick8.com.

two other Deer Valley Unified School District schools on the 2014-15 A+ list: Barry Goldwater High School and

Lincoln Health Network and Scottsdale Healthcare in 2013, and honors the legacy of

Desert Sage Elementary.

both health systems. The new

Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network is Now HonorHealth

Medical Group, a network of

Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network is now called HonorHealth. The new name comes after the affiliation and subsequent merger of John C.

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Harold’s Corral Seeks Former Employees, Bands and Patrons for 80th Anniversary Celebration

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

network includes HonorHealth 54 primary care and specialty practices located throughout the Valley, five acute care hospitals, extensive outpatient services and community outreach programs. honorhealth.com.

couples who met there to share their stories as part

Community Rallies for Sally The Anthem community is seeking support to help local resident Sally Grimes recuperate from knee surgery. Grimes, who is affectionately known in Anthem for her enthusiastic and animated personality and penchant for riding her bike - the “Pink Cadillac” - to and from work at Walgreen’s, underwent surgery in April and will be immobile for quite some

of a month-long celebratory series of events. If you have a history at the iconic restaurant, contact haroldscorral@gmail. com for more details. The restaurant is also seeking old photos to be considered for a special display. Send your scanned photos to evelyn@ cavecreekmuseum.com, or call 480-488-2764.

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Writer Peni Long

From Boulder Creek High School to Pepperdine University,

young life, she has already spent time in Argentina and

Taylor Jarvill has always brought a strong will to succeed

Fiji on missions to prevent and heal. During her month in

and to serve. That strength of purpose is soon taking

Fiji in 2013, she saw first-hand the need for help. “People

her to Nairobi, Kenya. On May 29 she will join nine

ride a bus all day to get to a doctor. I saw a lot of

other volunteer interns on an eight-week mission in the

surgeries. And one lesson—the importance of something

Mathare Valley as part of Christian Missionary Fellowship

as simple as a healthy mouth to prevent other problems.”

International. Working alongside missionaries, volunteers, medical personnel and Kenyan nationals, Taylor will be

That’s one reason she is focused on preventative

able to use her focus on preventative healthcare to help

healthcare. Sometimes having a pain-free life can also be

transform the lives of those living in extreme poverty.

as simple as having the right clothes – bras, for example.

What we might take for granted, women in other countries

For Taylor, this is not her first mission. In her relatively

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like Fiji may not be able to find or afford, and the lack

thereof can lead to back ailments and other pains that can be easily prevented once the cause is identified.

At Pepperdine, located in Malibu, California, Taylor is busy not only with classes in her Pre-Med/ Economics major but also as a member of the student health advisory board and editor for the undergraduate research journal, in addition to jobs tutoring athletes and working in the graduate law school campus office.

This high level of involvement and commitment continues the pattern she set at Boulder Creek.

Graduating as a valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society, she also was a drum major for the band, played softball, and was a “mathlete.” When she returns to Anthem from school and her travels, she serves in the worship, children’s and youth ministries at The Crossroads Church. Her mother, father and brother are happy to welcome her back home to Anthem, if even for a short time.

Admittedly, traveling to Kenya this summer may be worrisome given the recent news from that area, but Taylor is committed to her faith and her work to help improve the lives of those who are in great need.

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602-996-1818 May 2015

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Writer Tom Scanlon

If you want to know what it’s like to play sports in college,

“Alex is very composed on the ball and very skilled as an

ask Alex Elias.

outside back or center midfielder. She’s very technical and very patient, athletic and strong in the air. She is a good

Why her? Well, she’s good, no doubt about it, attending

kid and an unbelievable player with great skill.”

Northern Illinois University on a scholarship to play soccer.

She can also give you some insightful, articulate answers,

So she has pretty much picked up where she left off at

as she is smart: big-time, straight-A’s smart.

Boulder Creek High School, where Elias was MVP of the soccer team her junior year and captain on a team that

In her sophomore season at NIU, Elias played in all 21

made it to the state quarterfinals her senior year. More

games, starting 17 at center back. She was a powerful

than just her play on the soccer pitch, she was a standout

force on defense and was the first woman from her school

at BC as a terrific student, National Honor Society member

in five years to make the Academic All-District Second

and community service-oriented young woman. And, yes,

Team. Her 4.0 grade point average also landed her on

she’s also modest and family-oriented.

the Academic All-MAC (Mid-American Conference) Team. In 2013, she was named to the MAC All-Freshman women’s

“I’d love to recognize my mom and dad, Anne and Mark

soccer team, becoming the fourth athlete in NIU history to

Elias,” she said from her frozen campus. “They have

accomplish the feat.

supported me through my youth career, competitive days and the recruitment process and still manage to fly up

26

Her coach at NIU, John Ross, had this to say about the

here to continue to support me. Because of them, I have

star from Anthem, who helped her team make the MAC

been successful, and I could never thank them enough for

tournament semifinals for the first time since 2007:

all that they do.”

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Alex Elias, who turned 20 at the beginning of the year,

Over the years, Elias has made many sacrifices, pushing

answered a few questions about making the leap to play

herself to excel in classes and improve on the field. Have

big-time college ball.

they been worth it?

“The biggest hurdle was the workload in both school

“The greatest lesson that I have learned thus far,” she

and soccer,” she said. “College schoolwork is a lot more

said, “is that being a student athlete is worth it. The all-

demanding than high school. Also, playing college soccer

nighters, the morning workouts, the fitness testing and

includes morning workouts, two-a-days, classroom sessions

every other sacrifice that I have made is all worth it. I’ve

and a lot more than just practice three times a week. I

learned how to work with a group and developed some

really had to learn how to manage my time wisely.”

leadership qualities. I have mastered my time management and organizational skills and I have grown up a lot in the

The biggest difference between playing at the collegiate

process. Our motto here at NIU is ‘building champions in

level versus high school is that college soccer is faster

the classroom, in competition and in life,’ and everything I

and more aggressive.

have gained as a student athlete will always be a part of who I am in my future.”

“I remember my first practice as a collegiate athlete,” Elias recalled. “One of my teammates knocked me straight to

Speaking of the future, when she graduates in two years,

the ground and I was not used to falling prior to that. It

Elias plans to attend graduate school for mathematics

was quite the wake-up call that I needed to work on my

education before entering the teaching field.

physicality.”

What’s her advice for high school athletes who want to There really is no stopping at this high level of athletics.

reach the next level of competition?

“No breaks here,” she said. “In our off-seasons, we continue

“Being a student athlete is such a rewarding experience,

to practice, lift and run. It is almost more exhausting

so commit to a school and do the little things: get tutors,

because there are not as many games to look forward to,

manage your time, go to class, do extra workouts, work

and games are the best part!”

on your flaws and never cut corners on the runs,” she advised. “In general, sleep any time you can and be kind

During the season, Elias practices and lifts on Mondays

to everyone.”

and Wednesdays. On Thursdays, the team practices and travels, if necessary. They compete on Fridays, practice

She added, only half-joking: “And make sure you always

on Saturdays and compete again on Sundays and travel

have access to caffeine.”

home if necessary. Tuesdays are their days off, required by the NCAA, but then that usually means they take a lot of classes on Tuesdays. Needless to say, when they are in season, the semester flies by.

For Elias, sports are a big part of her life, but not as important as doing well in school.

“First and foremost, I understand that I am a student before I am an athlete so when in doubt, school takes precedence,” she said. “Earning those grades has taken a lot of hard work. I have definitely had my fair share of all-nighters with a lot of caffeine.”

May 2015

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Writer Lara Piu Photographer Leah Hope

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Y

“You’re not always going to feel like this,” a friend told Alison Pattison.

Yet she couldn’t see past the mountain of problems that had become her new life as a single mom. After 16 years of marriage and having a hand-in-handpartner to turn to, she was not confident she could do it all on her own.

Three months post-separation, she found herself in the thick of it.

“A pack rat had eaten the wires of my car and the mechanic handed me a $700 quote,” Allison recalls. “I just stood there feeling overwhelmed.”

Shortly after this defining moment, one of several, the Anthem mom resolved to ensure that other single mothers would have better resources.

“The reality of doing it on your own was really hard,” says Alison. “I pleaded with God that, if I ever got out of these circumstances, that I would help other moms.”

In the years that followed, Alison dug her heels in and glued the pieces of her life back together. Along the way she learned how generous people could be.

“Going through the experience of divorce and becoming a single mom changed me forever,” she explains. “The many people who came alongside me blessed me in ways they will never know. I believe that we go through hard circumstances in life so that we can help others who are going through similar situations.”

Today Alison’s rebuilt life is rich with fulfilling roles: mom, professional trainer, professor, doctoral student, and – again – wife. In fact, she’s added a new position to the lineup: stepmom. Two months after Alison re-wed last fall she jumped right into her promise and founded an organization focused on single mothers, Hope 4 Single Moms AZ. “There was a time when I could not see past the problems right in front of me,” recalls Alison. “I was paralyzed and was barely existing. Through Hope 4 Single Moms AZ I want to repay the acts of kindness that were shown to me, and pass it on to the many other moms who need help too.”

What Alison experienced was similar to what many American single mothers currently face. According to the Hope 4 Single Moms AZ founder, the statistics show that 25 percent of mothers living in the United States are single, and one in four U.S. children are being raised in a single-parent home. The median income of single mothers is one third of married couples. Moreover, 45 percent of single moms work at more than one job, with 50 percent of their income going to housing and another 33 percent to childcare.

May 2015

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Hope 4 Single Moms AZ aims to empower single parents through education, resources, and practical assistance so that families can become self-sustaining. The organization provides one-time grants for single mothers living in Maricopa and Pima County with emergency needs for things like diapers, food, electricity, and of course, car repairs.

The organization also provides scholarships for single mothers currently enrolled in school. In addition, Alison is compiling a comprehensive list of resources for single mothers on the organization’s website, which is also where people can nominate a single mom in need.

“I am in a place in my life that I can give back and help others,” Alison says. ”I know there are single parents out there with their own stories to tell. Their stories may be different from mine, but the feeling of being alone and the responsibility of being a single parent are the same for all of us. I am passionate about helping struggling single-parent families.”

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

The organization is funded by individual donors and grants and run by volunteers close to the cause, like Anthem resident Kay Rhodes, who built the logo and website.

“Alison has a heart of gold and I’m happy to support her endeavors to help other women,” says Kay. “I was a single mom at one time and it’s not an easy thing for women to go through without lots of support from family and friends.”

Another contributor, Torrey Inez voluntarily created the video that now appears on the home page.

“My mom had the courage to pull me and my little brother and sister out of a drug-torn home and give the three of us a fair chance at life,” says Torrey. “At 31 years of age, she was raising three kids under the age of 12 by herself. She saved us. She is my hero to this day. For me, this project was non-negotiable.

I had to do this because I have a deep respect and honor for single moms.”

Alison encourages others to get involved.

“Your donation has the power to change lives,” adds Alison. “We would be honored if you would consider partnering with Hope 4 Single Moms AZ to make a difference in the lives of single parents and their children.”

Looking forward, Alison would like to expand her services to include things like drives for toys, school supplies, and more, but for now, she’s focused on the launch of this new organization and established as a 501(c)3.

She says, “I am excited to see where it goes.” hope4singlemomsaz.org

May 2015

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Writer Tom Scanlon Photograph by Sam Paul and Mike Harvey

Graduation is approaching like a chugging train that can

The girls’ soccer team leads the way with an exceptional

be heard but not yet seen. For many Boulder Creek

six athletes signing to play in college. Word about Lady

High School graduates, that train will take them off to

Jags soccer is spreading; a press release on Texas Tech

college. And for 16 seniors honored at a ceremony in late

signing Brooke Denesik noted she “played for Boulder

February, college means not only higher education but

Creek High School, one of the top programs in Arizona.”

also higher levels of athletics, as those 16 have signed

Able to swing from defense to forward, Denesik was twice

agreements to play at the likes of Arizona State University;

named to second team all-state.

University of Arizona; University of California, Berkeley; University of California, Davis; University of Oklahoma;

“Brooke is a tremendous late addition to this class,” said

Texas Tech University and University of Utah.

Tom Stone, coach of Texas Tech. “She is strong, fast, skillful and a real winner. We expect Brooke to make a

“We think the excellent combination of academics and

quick transition to the college game and play anywhere in

athletics at Boulder Creek is what makes so many colleges

the back or up front.”

interested in our high-performing athletes,” said Scott

32

Warner, BC’s athletic director. “Colleges don’t just want

Denesik joins one of the top teams in the country, as

athletes, they want student athletes.”

Texas Tech is coming off its best season in history,

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

finishing with a 16-4-2 record and No. 14 national

that we look for in our outside backs. She is an

ranking (losing in the third round of the tournament).

excellent defender, quick and tough to beat. She also gets involved in attack and passes the ball well in tight

Two of her high school teammates, high-scoring Kyle

spaces.”

Escobedo and fierce defender Angela Boyle, join an Oklahoma team that is also on the rise. After finishing

Amber Wilson, a forward/midfielder who played for

last in the Big 12 in 2013, the Sooners posted a

Valparaiso United Futbol Club, signed with Chandler-

winning season in 2014, made it to the conference

Gilbert Community College.

tournament final and earned a trip to the NCAA tournament.

Swimming BC star swimmer Krista Kolkebeck, who also swims

Boyle graduated early and has already joined the

for the Anthem Dolphins Swim Team, will join Natalie

Oklahoma soccer program. An Oklahoma press release

Stephens at Arizona State University.

on the school signings noted that “Boyle signed as a three-star defender and a top 50 player in her region

“She’s a solid freestyler from the 50 through the 500

out of high school, logging 14 goals, 10 assists and 280

— though she specializes more in sprints — and should

steals in 70 games played throughout her career.”

provide some excellent developmental depth to ASU,” noted swimming site SwimSwam.com.

Boyle, who is studying theater at Oklahoma, will have a familiar face to pass to in college, as Kyle Escobedo

Kolkebeck finished fourth in the state in the 100-yard

— heavily recruited since her freshman year —will

free and fifth in the 50-yard free.

also be on scholarship at Oklahoma. As the Sooners’ press release noted, “A four-star recruit from Phoenix,

Softball

Escobedo is ranked among the top 50 players in the

Last season’s Lady Jags softball team had a stellar 19-9

nation and is the No. 5 player in her region. She joins

record, crushing the ball for most of the season. Three

Oklahoma boasting an outstanding list of accolades,

of those crushers will be playing in college.

including three first-team all-section, all-division and allstate selections.”

Morgan Smith, who hit .343 last year, will attend school and play for Black Hills University in South Dakota.

Natalie Stephens, who had another brilliant season for

Aubrey Ledbetter, who pounded out a .383 average

BC scoring a team-leading 18 goals (after 24 her junior

for the Lady Jags last season, will hit the diamond at

year), is staying close to home to become an Arizona

Paradise Valley Community College. And Tori Bigelow,

State University Sun Devil. She is another high school

who had a phenomenal .506 average and powered three

all-state star who excelled at the club level, playing on

home runs, will be playing softball for the University of

the Elite Clubs National League national champion team,

California, Berkeley. Cal was ranked in the top 20 of this

Sereno. She joins an ASU team that finished 12-6-4 last

year’s teams.

season, making it to the second round of the national tournament for the first time in a decade.

Baseball Coach Joe McDonald will add another two to the list

“Natalie is a forward who is special in every possible

of 27 former BC baseball players who go on to play in

way,” said ASU coach Kevin Boyd in a signing day

college: Michael Troisi and Nick Zappala are both headed

release. “She has instincts with the ball that you cannot

for Glendale Community College. Ace pitcher Zappala

teach and outstanding creative skillfulness.”

was 5-7 as a junior, with a 3.16 ERA and 49 strikeouts against only 22 walks. In his junior season, Troisi batted

When ASU battles Pac-12 rival Utah, Stephens will face

.385 with an outstanding .510 on base percentage. The

her old teammate, Shelby Stewart. She is an outside

outfielder also had seven steals in eight attempts.

back who was also named to the all-state team. Stewart joins a team that was 8-8-4 last season.

Girls’ basketball Darian Slaga chose the University of Portland over

“Shelby is a big player in a small package,” said Rich

several other colleges that were recruiting her. A four-

Manning, the Utah coach. “She has a lot of qualities

year starter at BC, she was named to the all-state team May 2015

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Morgan Smith

Krista Kolkebeck

Darian Slaga

Ryan Parentau

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Nathan Eldridge

Michael Troisi Photograph by Chris Pondy

her sophomore and junior years. She received recognition not only for her shooting touch (she averaged around 17 points per game), but also her passing, leadership, tenacious defense and all-around play.

“She’s a dynamic combo guard and we love her for her toughness,” said Cheryl Sorenson, coach of UP, on the school’s website. “She brings speed and the ability to attack the rim and she hates to lose at anything.”

Football The Jaguars football team that finished 8-3 last season will have three players at the college level, led by the beast known as Nathan Eldridge. The 6-foot-4-inch, 275-pound lineman heads down to Tucson to play for the University of Arizona.

“He’s our kind of guy,” said David Lockwood, an assistant coach. “He’s a guy that we found in our camp last summer who came down and did a heck of a job. We are looking forward to him providing some depth at the offensive line.”

Teammate Ryan Parenteau, who was a do-it-all player for the Jaguars, signed with the University of California, Davis. The wide

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Shining Star

Affinity

Dueling Pianos Writer Peni Long

Grab your lawn chairs or blanket and plan to join your

At the first concert, popular food trucks will be on hand to

friends and neighbors for another series of fun concerts in

serve dinner if you don’t want to cater your own, and the

Anthem’s community park. Starting May 1 and continuing

Anthem Youth Advisory Council will be doing a free s’mores

every Friday in May, a different group will entertain people

station (definitely worth the calories). The ice cream truck

of all ages in this festive, family-friendly signature event at

will be at all concerts except May 1.

the park’s amphitheater.

Got your calendar handy? Mark Fridays in May for fun, According to Anthem’s Special Events Director Michele

starting at 7 p.m. at the amphitheater – but plan enough

DeMichele, more than 2,500 concert goers typically stake

time to park, stake out your favorite spot on the lawn and

out favorite spots in the park to picnic, listen to live music,

relax before the concert begins.

enjoy beautiful sunsets, and even dance the night away in this traditional month-long event. It’s fun and it’s free.

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

This Year’s Lineup May 1: Affinity Affinity showcases both male and female vocalists, rhythm musicians and full horn section in its highenergy performances. Entertaining audiences since the 1980s, the group has a loyal following of fans of Sinatra, the Eagles, the Temptations and others.

Definitely high on the sing-along, dance-along scale.

May 8: Tommy Holloway Tommy sings songs of the past and the present with his amazing five-octave range. Ever since singing gospel as a child, he has traveled the world performing with bands of all genres, including jazz, blues, show tunes, country and rock.

May 15: Shining Star Band Shining Star shines its light on R&B and dance tunes.

Each concert is a memorable one, with performances of songs made popular by Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, Beyoncé, LMFAO and others.

May 22: Dueling Pianos AZ Dueling Pianos invites patrons to an event that promises “the most fun you can legally have” – fun involving two pianists joined by a changing panoply of other performers and special guests. Bring your smile, be ready to laugh, and enjoy a unique performance featuring music from a variety of genres.

May 29: Daisy Train Finish off the concert series with this high-energy finale. Country comes to Anthem in a kick-up-yourheels performance with Texas-sized flair. Sing and dance along with country hits by artists like Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, and Miranda Lambert.

And isn’t it appropriate that we have our own Daisy Mountain and Daisy Train to boot?

For the most current information about the lineup and event details, go to www.onlineatanthem.com/music-may.

Anthem Community Park is located at 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway and the amphitheater is on Gavilan Peak just off of Anthem Way. Parking is available in multiple locations throughout the park venue.

May 2015

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Writer Barb Evans

At 51 years old, Susan Loken is preparing for her fourth Olympic Marathon Trial. With her agile body and determined spirit, it would be hard to believe that she didn’t start running until the age of 35, after the birth of her third child.

“I was the girl that skipped gym class, hated to get her hair sweaty and was always picked last for any team sport,” she says. “I had no idea there was an athlete hiding inside my body for over 35 years! I began walking, and then running, to give myself some alone time, get outside in the beautiful sunshine, lose weight and feel personally accomplished. The gift that running gave me was the lesson to believe in myself.”

Now she is the athlete everyone looks up to, sweaty hair and all, as she trains with 15 other female runners as part of the Sonoran Distance Project (SDP), an elite all-female running team where members are hoping to qualify and compete in the 2016 Olympic Marathon Trials, and ultimately, the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Stronger Together Legendary NFL running back Walter Payton once said: “We are stronger together than we are alone.” Many may think that statement wouldn’t apply to marathon running, since it is often viewed as an individual sport. But Loken and the other members of the SDP would beg to differ.

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

“Running is usually seen as an individual sport, but there’s nothing farther than the truth,” says team member Carrie Birth, who has dreamed of running in the Olympics for the last four years. “You really can’t do it on your own. The push and support you get from your team is what gets you through the tough times. When you have other people doing it with you, it makes you push harder.”

“Success is not a solo journey,” says Loken. “Being surrounded by passionate women, all chasing a similar dream, allows us to support and encourage one another. The SDP team is there to pick you up when you fall down, cheer for you when you are kicking butt, and inspire you when you need to train harder. They bring new meaning to the phrase ‘stronger together.’”

John Reich, an esteemed USATF Level 1 running coach, created the Sonoran Distance Project in 2013 after leading three women to the 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials.

“I thought a team might help me get even more women to the 2016 Trials,” says Reich. “I knew from personal experience, and from the success of other athletes, that training in a team environment worked.”

He started with several women he was already coaching, and sought other female runners who wanted to run a qualifier, or roughly the equivalent in some other discipline of running. Currently, all members of the SDP are vying for the 2016 Olympic Marathon Trials except for one woman, Nicole Truxes, who is training for the triathlon. The team is the only all-female Olympic feeder team in the U.S. To qualify for a spot on the SDP, post collegiate runners need to have run a 3:00 marathon or the equivalent in the past two years. Reich is not adding new runners to the team in 2015, but will take applications for 2016 in the fall. Training varies based on each athlete’s background, goals and strengths.

“Most of the team is running 70-90 miles per week, in six to 10 runs,” he says. “They’re also doing strength training and daily self care to avoid injury and maximize performance.”

Run Like a Girl One of the goals Reich had when creating the team was to attract sponsors. In 2013, the team started with little more than a name and logo, but by early 2015, Procter & Gamble signed on to provide financial support through two of their brands: Always and Pantene.

May 2015

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Susan Loken

“To run at the highest level, an athlete needs financial

“SDP members are just as committed to being positive role

support, training partners and a good training environment,”

models to women athletes of all ages,” says Loken. “We

explains Reich. “My hope for the team is to attract

hope to serve as an example that everyone can achieve

sponsorship that will give them the resources they need to

their goals, regardless of life circumstances.”

reach their full potential.”

Adds Birth, “We give back since running has given us so The brands align well with the team’s goals for community

much.”

outreach and female inspiration, as they both have ad campaigns with empowering messages for women

Like a Family

and girls. Always’ #likeagirl campaign aims to destroy

Birth has been a member of the SDP for almost a year. The

negative female stereotypes, and Pantene’s #shinestrong

32-year-old Rhode Island native moved to Arizona last June

ads implore women to stop apologizing. The SDP strives

to take advantage of the ideal year-round training weather.

to empower and educate female runners of all levels

She also wanted to be part of the SDP.

through seminars, kids coaching and inspiring blog posts, encouraging them to be strong and run like a girl.

“I knew about the team before I moved here,” she says.

“I’ve dreamed about the Olympic Trials for four years now. I

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

played softball in high school and started running after I graduated to fill the competitive void, but what started out as a hobby became a passion, and that passion became a dream to run in the Olympics.”

On most days, Birth rises at 4:30 a.m. to run before work, and squeezes in a second run or strength training after her workday is finished. She meets with the team on Wednesdays at 5 a.m. at Scottsdale Community College’s track, and again on Sundays for a long run, at different locations throughout the Valley.

“We’ll meet at canal paths, Tempe Town Lake, Reach 11, South Mountain or other locations since we all live in different parts of town,” explains Birth. “It’s sort of like taking a running tour of the Valley.”

She and other members also get together at different times to do strength training like Pilates, yoga or weights, and occasionally, other non-running activities.

“We’re not only a support system during hard training runs and races, but we also support one another through life’s trials and joys,” says Loken.

“We have team social events and we help each other individually when life throws us curve balls with kids, jobs, surgery or celebrations like proposals and birthdays. We are a total support system for each other, on the track and off.”

Both women say that being part of the SDP has given them the support and competitive edge they need to make their Olympic dreams a reality.

“Sometimes our biggest enemies are ourselves,” says Birth, “but we are supportive of each other and help each other achieve our goals. This team has become my family.”

Follow the journeys of Carrie Birth, Susan Loken and other Sonoran Distance Project runners on Facebook/ sonorandistanceproject, and through their personal blogs at sonorandistanceproject.com.

May 2015

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Writer Lara Piu

As a little girl, I loved the book, and then the movie

so a courtyard adds to a home’s buyer appeal.”

“The Secret Garden.” The idea of a magical, beautiful, private place was brilliant. My grown-up, real-life

A proper courtyard space is not required, says Jim

equivalent is the home courtyard – a secluded, warm

Sheehan. The owner of McKenzie Brothers Builders

and inviting space for friends come over to “play,”

says that homeowners can transform any front, side or

and a quiet, zen-like place to sit in peace and let the

backyard space into a courtyard. Recently, the custom

imagination wander.

homebuilder has been receiving more requests to build custom backyard ramadas for this reason.

A courtyard also works its magic unoccupied. Often

42

visible from throughout the house, it adds beauty and

He says, “People are wanting to make the most of the

ambiance by providing views from within the home,

home that they are currently in, so they are redoing

which some say can enhance a home’s resale.

their outdoor living spaces.”

“It really is a big seller for a home to have a great

Courtyard proper or not – the design rules remain the

outdoor living room,” says designer Wendy Black

same, our experts say. Here are a few of their courtyard

Rodgers of Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors. “In the

design do’s, don’ts and tips, and how-to transform any

Valley, we’re fortunate to spend so much time outside,

outdoor space that charming courtyard appeal.

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Courtyard Landscaping

Pascale Sucato, landscape designer and outdoor decorator, Desert Foothills Gardens

Do

… choose winter-friendly plants, so the space looks great November through March when Valley weather is at its finest. Mix evergreen tones and leaf types such as foxtail and sage, choose plants that are frostresistant, and incorporate bloomers.

Don’t

Transform

… think bigger is better. “It is

… with wall art, a trellis, or stairs.

difficult to make large spaces warm

Bigger items with impact help set

and cozy,” says Pascale. “Think

the mood and define an area.

quality over quantity to make it inviting.”

Professional Tip Incorporate fragrant plants. They are welcoming if you have a front door courtyard, and soothing if the courtyard is a refuge.

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Courtyard Lighting Bryan Gold, lighting designer, Let There be Light

Do … balance light fixture form and function.

Consider the fixture from a longevity standpoint, and review the manufacturer warranty.

Don’t … fear use of light for safety reasons. Bryan says that there are tactful ways to light the architecture walls and vegetation for security and accomplish the needs of both architectural and traverse lighting.

Transform … with lightning to set a mood through color temperatures. For example, Bryan recommends a cold color for a modern look, and a warm color to emulate the softer feel of a candle.

Professional Tip Fixture styles can be leveraged as key design elements. Try sharp-angled fixtures for a modern feel, and if you’re looking for something with design flexibility, go for fixtures with curvy shapes. He adds, “Ultimately, the long term function of the light emitting diode light bulb and fixture are most important.”

Do … add fire. Today’s chat tables and other firescape options have better functionality and have more style than ever.

Don’t … be afraid to add outdoor kitchen elements such as a refrigerator or grill. There are ways to blend these items in with the atmosphere you’re trying to set.

Transform … with outdoor furniture, and a barbecue. Nick

Courtyard Furniture Nick Stelfox, designer, Carefree Outdoor Living

says, “Even a barbecue unit smartly shaped and placed in the right manner can define the space to make it smaller and more intimate.”

Professional Tip A permanently mounted cantilever umbrella is an easy way to define a space and add functionality as well as that intimate courtyard feel.

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Courtyard Decor Wendy Black Rodgers, designer, Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors

Do … incorporate interesting window frames to enhance the mood. “Iron or reclaimed stone fragmented window frames can add interest to the look,” says Wendy.

Don’t … feel that all the furniture has to be on the rug. Some can be on; some can be off, just as long as you use the rug to define the space.

Transform … by creating a conversational area. Place chairs within 10 to 12 feet across from each other, which is ideal for a conversation area.

Professional Tip Utilize outdoor lamps to add warmth to the mood. These lamps are wired for the outdoors and should be plugged into the wall, rather than the floor.

May 2015

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Writer Barb Evans

If you thought you missed Cave Creek’s Balloon

events planned for the evening. Coats won’t be

Festival, have no fear; the event, which in years past

needed this year while roaming the beautiful grounds

had taken place in January, is set to glow May 23.

of Rancho Mañana’s driving range to enjoy the fun

What’s the reason behind the date change? According

bounce houses, tasty food and beverages, beautifully

to event organizers, warmer weather.

lit balloons and musical entertainment by local musicians Heartlyn Rae and Lauren Riley. Something

January proved to be just too chilly and unpredictable to enjoy the myriad of family-friendly

46

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

else is new this year, too: fireworks.

To end the festival, the Cave Creek sky will be set afire with hundreds of fireworks to celebrate Memorial Day and the beginning of summer.

What started out as a simple idea back in 2009 has turned into one of Cave Creek’s most anticipated events of the year. About 10,000 people attended last year’s soiree, and this year’s event promises to be just as big.

“We love being able to organize an event that creates lasting, wonderful memories for the families that attend,” said Vanessa Clifton, owner of Aerial Solutions, LLC and event co-organizer.

Balloons will start to glow at 7:30 p.m. and attendees are invited to get upclose and personal with the pilots to learn more about these gentle giants and how they operate. But come early; lines are sure to form quickly.

This year’s festival is presented by Sanderson Lincoln and organized by Tonto Bar & Grill, Aerial Solutions, LLC and Valerie’s Fine Furniture. Proceeds will benefit the Cave Creek Unified School District and the Cave Creek Museum.

6th Annual Cave Creek Balloon Festival When:

Parking:

Saturday, May 23

Park in the center of town at

5:30-10 p.m. Balloon Glow starts

38406 N. Schoolhouse Rd. for $5

at 7:30 p.m.

and catch the shuttle to and from the event, included in the price

Where:

of parking. There is no access or

Rancho Mañana Golf Course’s

parking available at Tonto Bar &

Driving Range, 5736 E. Rancho

Grill.

Mañana Blvd. Entrance is on the corner of Spur Cross & Cave

Glow Like a VIP:

Creek Roads.

Glow in style with Valerie’s VIP Ticket, which includes event

Tickets:

admission, gourmet buffet dinner

General admission: adults,

from Tonto Bar & Grill, cash bar

$10; children 12 and under,

and private restrooms. VIP tickets

$5; children 2 and under, free.

must be purchased in advance

Purchase at gate or online. All

and are $60 for adults, and $25

sales are final. No cancellations or

for children 12 and under. Price

rain checks.

includes gratuity and tax. All sales are final. No cancellations or rain

Kid Zone:

checks.

Tickets are $1 each, or 25 for $20. Amount of tickets needed

cavecreekfestivals.com.

varies for each attraction.

facebook.com/cavecreekfestivals

3655 W. Anthem Way, Ste A-109 Anthem, AZ 85086

purplepass.com/cavecreekfestivals May 2015

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47

Writer Paula Theotocatos

Our chamber of commerce has a new name and mission,

spectacle in Prescott Valley, and for bringing the popular

and there’s a new man at its helm. Like a teenager

Grand Canyon Railway to Williams. He has been a featured

declaring his or her independence from Mom and Dad,

speaker at many of business and community functions

the newly named Anthem Area Chamber of Commerce is

throughout Arizona and Missouri. And, Lew was the co-host

breaking away from the greater Phoenix area. Although

of a daily morning TV show in Prescott for nine years.

extremely grateful for the guidance they received, it is time to step out on their own. The new chamber wants to

Lew was born and raised in Arizona and he attended

create a vibrant chamber that is totally plugged into the

school here. “The blue skies and sunshine” drew him back

community.

to Arizona 19 years ago from Missouri and he hasn’t looked back. “Missouri was fine, the folks very nice, but believe me,

Lew C. Rees, the new executive director of the Anthem

Arizona is my home,” he says.

Area Chamber of Commerce, comes to the chamber with an impressive background in marketing, public relations and

Lew is married with three daughters and four grandchildren;

broadcasting. Lew has been the CEO of the chambers of

three boys and one girl and, as he likes to boast, “Our

commerce in Kimberling City, Missouri; Williams, Arizona;

grandkids are the best looking, smartest, talented and most

and Prescott Valley, Arizona. He was instrumental in the

likely to succeed. Period. End of conversation.”

installation of the much-loved Christmas Valley of Lights

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Lew met his wife when he rented

Thanksgiving and Christmas season

two rooms of his four-bedroom

that might involve a one-mile drive

home to her and a friend, a

through of animated Christmas

situation he compares to the

displays, including long tunnels of

popular ‘70s show, “Three’s

snowflakes, a 60-foot-tall animated

Company.”

American flag, giant candy canes, and animated Santa and elves.

“Gay, my partner in life, is the best thing that ever happened to

“I have worked on this type

me,” he shares. “She is truly my

of attraction in two other

best friend, my advisor when I run

communities wherein the

astray, and the single person in

community people loved and

life I can’t live without. She is just

took ownership,” he says.

a God-given blessing to me.”

“The visitors, (thousands upon thousands) adored it and came

The new executive director is

back for more. This attraction is

excited about working with the

an economic boost for business,

chamber’s board. “I couldn’t

a community pride winner, and

be happier,” he declares. “The

brings tremendous exposure of

chamber’s members are fabulous

Anthem to the state of Arizona.”

folks who want to get things done.”

He believes a good leader should be “strong, compassionate,

Asked what he sees as the

giving, humble and possesses

mission of the Anthem Area

what I have learned are the five

Chamber of Commerce, Lew

E’s to Excellence – Enthusiasm,

replied: “To build a strong, lasting,

Energy, Empower, Education and

vibrant organization that brings

Excitement.”

economic prosperity, community pride, enduring relationships and

Lew Rees is a high-energy,

future leaders to the front of the

passionate person. His enthusiasm

Anthem area. It takes work, sweat,

is infectious. I asked him how he

and complete dedication to task,

stays so positive. He answered,

but we will succeed.”

“It’s simple really: Life is good.

Truly I learned early in life with

He has a lot of ambitious ideas

keen observation of fellow human

about possible future events in the

beings, that positive attitude

Anthem area. He envisions bringing

produces positive results, and well,

in bands celebrating the musical

you guessed it, negative begets

style of the Beatles and Rolling

negative. It proves true every time,

Stones, a chef show-off event that

in every circumstance. So I have

would highlight local restaurants,

a choice every minute of every

a business showcase, battle of the

day. I choose positive. It does not

bands, fall music series, shop-at-

mean that negative does not creep

home campaign, celebrity roast,

in from time to time. It takes work

community service awards and a

every day to remain positive, but

Lake Pleasant cruise.

the rewards are great.”

One other attraction that he

An excellent philosophy we all

was successful with in two

should try to imitate.

other communities would be a Christmas lights display during the

anthemareachamber.org May 2015

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Writer Marc Fleischer Photographer Loralei Lazurek

In their simplest form, geodes are hollow rocks with a crystal-lined interior and a complex origin. They are named after the Greek word, geoides, which means “earth-like.� Geodes are spheroidal in shape and can occur in igneous rock, where they form inside gas bubbles within chambers of basalt and lava close to the surface, and in sedimentary rock as rounded cavities.

After rock formations surrounding these cavities harden, dissolved minerals rich in silica and other constituents are deposited inside. Geodes are partly hollow and slowly, over a great amount of time, groundwater from above and hydrothermal solutions from below allow crystals to form inside the hollow chambers. Often times, there are well-formed crystals of quartz, calcite and other minor minerals that have crystallized inward to a central cavity, and sometimes geodes can even replace fossils and other crystals that were in the host rock.

Once the rock surrounding the cavity has weathered away, the geode is left to be discovered by geologists and rockhounds. Beautiful specimens of amethyst geodes are created when the cavities have filled with solutions containing small amounts of iron.

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Finding Geodes in Arizona Arizona is rich in gems and minerals, so it is no wonder that beautiful examples of geodes are literally at your feet if you know where to look for them. One would be hard-pressed to find an area of Arizona that didn’t contain some form of agate nodule, thunderegg or chalcedony rose, which are all very similar to geodes in both formation and shape. Some of the more popular collecting sites include the purplish blue snowflake agate nodules and geodes from Mulligan Peak in Clifton, where one can dig just under the topsoil with a hand tool to loosen them.

South of the Mogollon Rim near Payson offers interesting little concretions and display pieces. Many collectors like to stop near the Quartzite area to also look for specimens of agate nodules and crystal-filled geodes around Saddle Mountain, which is quite famous for fire agate and chalcedony.

In the southern part of the state, there are numerous opportunities to collect near the dumps of old mining activity, and the best place to hunt for agates, green quartz and crystalline-cavity geodes is the Courtland-Gleeson area. Just

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and geodes that may not always contain crystals but make beautiful lapidary

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be especially careful to not trespass onto any private areas that may be posted as closed to collecting.

The most famous geodes are the popular near-perfect spheres known as Mexican coconuts. If you have ever been to a gem and mineral show or tailgate rock swap, more than likely you have seen a vendor cracking geodes open with a specialized cutting tool to the delight of young and old. These geodes are found in the Chihuahuan Desert, in ancient lava ash flow tuff with a whitish coating. Upon opening, they reveal an array of minerals within the cavity, or they can be solid, filled with exquisitely colored bands of agate.

The most expensive and highly-prized geodes are the gemmy and giant amethyst-filled cavities from Brazil and Uruguay. They can reach enormous sizes and, depending on the quality of the crystals and the thickness of the nodule, command prices in the thousands of dollars.

Shopping Locally for Geodes Closer to home, with its rich mining history, it seems only natural for the Cave Creek and Carefree area to be home to stores that carry geodes and other spectacular gems and minerals.

In Carefree, Barb Vander Leest, Ph.D., owns Desert Treasures, a retail rock, fossil, jewelry and gift shop that has been in her family for 41 years.

“We have a wide variety of gems and minerals at very reasonable prices,” Vander Leest said. “Most of our geodes are from Mexico and Brazil.”

Vander Leest became fascinated with gems at an early age.

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“My father was a rockhound,” she said, adding that the appeal of geodes is that “you never know what you will find inside.”

The geodes at Desert Treasures range from $3 to $750 and sizes range from small to large, including breakopen geodes for kids.

Down the road in Cave Creek is the Rare Earth Gallery, which is hard to miss with its 14-foot tall, 7,500-pound geode from Brazil situated in the parking lot. It’s also easily located on the southwest corner of Cave Creek and Schoolhouse Roads, next to the only stop sign in Cave Creek.

Wayne Helfand, owner of the unique “decorative art of the earth” gallery, started mining at age 19. While traveling around the world, he spent time in the Lightning Ridge mines in New South Wales, Australia. When he returned to Los Angeles, he found a gem cutter who bought the opal rough, which paid for his entire trip. From

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Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

that point on, he was hooked. He became a gemologist in his early 20s and began designing jewelry.

“I had a leg up on everyone because I did it backwards,” Helfand said. “I was involved in mining at a young age and had experience dealing with exotic gemstones. Colored stones piqued my interest and I traveled to Brazil, China, Vietnam, Thailand and other countries to further my education. I always tell people that the best way to learn about colored stones is to buy them. Once you buy the wrong color, you never forget that particular shade.”

Helfand said he should have been born in the time of Marco Polo because he loves to travel and explore. When it comes to geodes, his gallery carries a variety of types and sizes, ranging in price from 25 cents to millions of dollars.

“People are always fascinated with these natural beauties,” he said. “They have a natural aesthetic to them, an intrinsic beauty that is captivating.”

Many factors go into determining the price of geodes, including the rarity, color and size of the crystal growth inside the rock cavity.

“It could be microscopic or very large,” he said. “Last year we sold a geode that was five and a half tons.”

Whether you’re new to collecting gems and minerals or want to add to your established collection, the remarkable geode offers mysterious beauty that reveals a colorful glimpse into the earth’s turbulent past.

May 2015

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Writer Peni Long

When we hear the words “food bank,” we most likely think of just that – a bank of shelves filled with foodstuffs and a band of volunteers who bag and distribute the food to the hungry. And we would be right. But in the case of the Foothills Food Bank we would also be so very wrong, for in its short life, the food bank has expanded its shelves with sustenance for not only the bodies, but also the minds and spirits of its clients, preparing them to survive and thrive on their own.

In the words of Executive Director Pam DiPietro, “It takes a village. Providing food is one thing, but we need to create a one-stop shop for those in need so that they no longer need us.”

With that in mind, the food bank now provides its clients with help in many ways to navigate their way to independence and success and to do so, partners with other agencies, non-profits, churches and government groups to coordinate a full range of assistance.

Who, Me? In the food bank service area of Anthem, Cave Creek, Carefree and New River, there are an estimated 46,259 residents. As of last count, 5,623 of those residents are 150 percent below the income poverty level.

“Disaster can strike anyone,” says Pam. Lose a job. Get sick. Lose your family. It may not take long to run out of options. Most months, the food bank helps support more than 400 families. It’s hard to tell exactly, but that may very well add up to more than 1,000 men, women and children with different stories and needs for help through difficult times. Those needs have prompted the food bank

to work with a broad spectrum of service providers. The latest partnership is with Neighbors in Need, a non-profit dedicated to making connections.

Coordinating Help Suzanne Hyde, a social worker for Neighbors in Need, now works directly with the Foothills Food Bank to help identify and solve problems for its clients. Suzanne coordinates monthly meetings with representatives from a wide range of agencies and community groups. The sessions are dedicated to understanding the needs of the communities and their people and coming up with solutions.

A case in point – some homeless individuals may not have a home, but they may have a vehicle; is there some way that community groups can find a safe haven for those vehicles to park? How about a client who was injured on the job and needs help navigating the medical systems, or someone who needs to figure out how to obtain birth certificates or other identification?

With her 13-year background as a medical social worker, Suzanne is able to help clients through difficult times by coordinating with the food bank, its partners, and the entire Neighbors in Need network. “That’s what we do,” says Suzanne. “We connect people in need with people who help.”

The Village Those people in need have many different faces. Some are unemployed, some underemployed. Some are old, some young. But most of them never thought they would need help to survive.

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Foothills Food Bank’s Resource and Education Committee reviewing ways to assist with the SNAP (food stamp) program.

56

One recent case involved a woman found walking on the side of the road carrying her 6-month-old baby and leading a dog. A good samaritan driving by stopped, picked them up, and took them to a church. The church called the food bank.

up with a place to live temporarily, the dog was cared for, individuals and groups donated funds to help her through the first few weeks, resourceful volunteers found clothing for her and for the baby, and she is on the way to recovery and independence.

The mother had been homeless for three days and had only the clothes on her back, a couple of small bottles of baby formula and two diapers. Abandoned by her partner and the father of the child, the woman was left with nothing. In a very short period of time, beginning with the grace of the driver who acted to rescue her, she was set

Pam cheered this case as an example of everyone coming together to solve a problem. “When the client is trying to do the right thing, everyone rallies around, even people not directly involved with the food bank. It really does take a village.”

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

Becoming Independent The ultimate purpose of the Foothills Food Bank’s expanded set of services is to make every client self-sufficient. It is not always possible; some elderly clients may need long-term food assistance, for example, in order for them to pay their utilities based on their limited assets. But it is a noble goal.

With the helping hands of connected support organizations, coordinating services, volunteers and staff, the food bank provides a broad spectrum of services, including: Food – 779,226 pounds in 2014 Food – free and picked up by clients every 30 days Care Club – additional food for subscribers who pay a small cost Snack Pack – special packages for children over weekends Senior Program – deliveries to homebound and senior

citizens, in partnership with Caring Corps

Assistance with applying for food stamps and other government assistance Assistance with applying for medical support and navigating

healthcare choices

Assistance in developing resumes and applying for jobs, in

partnership with Team Job Search

Coordination across local support groups as needed to solve

problems and address individual situations.

In many ways the Foothills Food Bank has become a community hub for serving those who need a helping hand. It continues to adapt to changing needs and add programs that make sense in today’s somewhat complicated world, for those who need to work through often confusing options.

As a final note, the food bank has initiated the ultimate program aimed at self-sufficiency. Greens ’R Great is the tagline for the new grow-your-ownfood venture. With a recently completed garden area designed to provide fruits and vegetables, the food bank will be able to grow some of its own supplies; its companion program, Garden in a Pot, also offers clients the chance to take home a plant and grow their own healthy foods.

“Our volunteers built a beautiful garden behind the food bank so we can grow fresh strawberries, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and more for the families we serve,” says Pam. “We are excited to offer this new food resource to those in need and to show clients how to cultivate their own food for meals.”

It’s really a complete circle of support.

480-488-1145 6038 E. Hidden Valley Dr., Cave Creek foothillsfoodbank.com

May 2015

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Bryce Molder and Scott McNevin

Writer Nigel Spence

With 300 days of sunshine, more than 400 golf courses

with bold ink, indicating local ties that further confirm

and a migrating population that is enamored with the

the connection. But upon close inspection of those

game, it is easy to associate the state of Arizona

highlighted names, it appears that almost all of them are

with the game of golf. Photographs of immaculate

transplants taking advantage of the great conditions once

emerald ryegrass fairways juxtaposed against the

their careers are underway versus local products taking

dramatic backdrop of saguaros and boulders of the

advantage from an early age.

high Sonoran Desert is the stuff of postcards, further

58

synonymizing our state and the game.

Who are the true local products of Arizona junior golf?

When scrolling through the PGA and LPGA Tour results in

The answer to that question is twofold. First, there are

the newspaper, many of the names listed are emblazoned

a handful of PGA and LPGA Tour players who were

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

born and raised here in Arizona and played local junior events. Second, there are a number of outstanding young business leaders within the area who played junior golf, gained access to an education and used the lessons that the game taught them to succeed in life.

The Junior Golf Association of Arizona (JGAA), formed in 1983, has acted as a tournament-operating platform for 31 years. During that time, the program helped foster the development of many young people who achieved success both on and off the golf course throughout their lives due in part to their time with the JGAA. “Arizona is ranked seventh in the country for the strength of junior golfers that it produces,” said Scott McNevin, executive director of JGAA, with a sense that seventh would be a baseline from where Arizona could ascend. While it sounds like a strong position, Michael Thompson, Charlie Beljan and Chez Reavie are the most prominent current Arizona born and raised golfers, and they are not really household names. There is certainly room to improve upon the current format to produce elite golfers.

In 2014, the board of directors of the JGAA was reorganized and the JGAA Foundation was reestablished.

The board, once consisting of 17 individuals, was reduced to nine dynamic people, all of whom have a passion for the game, its values and the opportunities that it provides.

“Golf is unique in that the game teaches you things and allows avenues that no other sport participation provides,” said Joe May 2015

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Savannah Cooper

1st Place Boys - David Ricciardelli

Brock Goyen

1st Place Girls - Emily Mahar

Worden, a member of the JGAA Foundation committee.

Jock Holliman, also a member of the JGAA Foundation

“You have access to adults, access to successful

committee.

people and you are exposed to the challenges of life that you face every day. Many of the most successful

With this premise in mind, the JGAA has set about

graduates of the JGAA have learned that golf is a

dividing its attention into three arenas: inspiration,

life skill. It provided an opportunity to access a great

competition and education.

secondary education and later in life opened doors to access people professionally for four hours.”

The inspiration piece was first explored in April 2014, when PGA Tour player and Scottsdale resident,

Instead of acting purely as a tournament platform, the

Bryce Molder, spoke at a breakfast at Moon Valley

board of directors recognized an opportunity.

Country Club. One hundred ten junior golfers were in attendance to hear Molder discuss the topic of

60

“We looked at the collection of outstanding youths

“Decisions I Made,” as the Georgia Tech graduate

that we have had and currently have within the JGAA

discussed his battle with Poland syndrome, which

and asked ourselves, ‘What else can we do?’” said

caused him to be born without a left pectoral muscle

Ima g e s A Z . c o m m ay 2 0 1 5

and a smaller left hand with three webbed fingers. The speech was followed by a clinic on the driving range where the juniors had unfettered access to Molder and his coach, Mike LaBauve. It is intended that one of these events will take place each quarter, enriching the lives of those in attendance.

This year, Molder is taking his commitment one step further and is linking into the competition arena. The JGAA, which has excelled in providing tournament opportunities to all levels of junior golfers throughout the state for the past 30 years, will continue to do so with one caveat: a small number of limited field events presented by a PGA Tour player for the elite junior players, to help them build their national ranking while also experiencing a more professional tournament atmosphere.

The first of these events, the AM&E Classic presented by Bryce Molder, took place at Moon Valley Country Club on March 14 and 15. The boys’ championship ended up being a two-horse race with David Ricciardelli firing consecutive rounds of 67 to hold off a charging Michael Feagles who followed up an even par 72 with an outstanding round of 64. The pair finished eight clear of third place Daniel Starzinski.

The girls’ championship was a much more closely contested tournament.

Emily Mahar was the most consistent performer and managed a one-stroke victory over Megan Knadler, who birdied three of her last five holes and Ashley Lonegran who had held a share of the lead after the first round. It is hoped that six of these events will be on the schedule in 2015.

The education component of the JGAA will be delivered through a junior ambassador program. Similar to high schools requiring civic hours from honors students, the JGAA endeavors to establish a program where young golfers will be given the opportunity to serve voluntary hours to causes and events that revolve around the game of golf. Many of these opportunities will exist through The Thunderbirds, currently the largest financial supporter of the JGAA, creating more of a two-way street between the funding and the beneficiaries.

Long term, the JGAA wishes to endow scholarships for junior golfers and subsidize expenses of elite players to compete in national events, as well as provide access for juniors to golf courses at a reduced rate. They see a day where colleges will revere JGAA ambassadors as young leaders and where graduates of the program will see that golf can take them places, even if they don’t play at the highest level. The wish list is large and the scope is broad, but with how quickly the first few steps have taken off, it is clear that the JGAA is headed in a direction where local products will be both on leaderboards and executive boards for years to come. jgaa.org May 2015

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LocalIndex

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Habilitation, REspite & Attendant care Arion 623-238-4349 sdykhuizen@arioncaresolutions.com arioncaresolutions.com

Community Organizations New River-Desert Hills Community Association 602-432-2800 nrdhca.org Community Theater Musical Theatre of Anthem musicaltheatreofanthem.org 602-743-9892 Starlight Community Theater starlightcommunitytheater.org starlightcommunitytheater.com DANCE CLASSES Diamond Dance Works 732-245-6518 34406 N 27th Dr., Bldg. 8 diamonddanceworks.com Dentist Bishara Dental 623-742-7220 46641 N. Black Canyon Hwy #7

Health & Fitness Sports Conditioning Harper Physical Therapy 623-742-7338 41818 N. Venture Drive, Suite #120 insurance Auto/home/life/renters/health/ retirement/Auto Loans & refinancing American Family Insurance John Kovach Agency 623-551-7900 johnkovachagency.com Farmers Insurance Glenn Grossman 480-588-9310 Maki Insurance 623-551-3585 makiinsurance.com

Daisy Mountain Dentistry 623-551-5250 4205 W. Anthem Way, Suite #106

State Farm - Nanette Miller 623-742-6866 nanette@nanettemiller.com

Sheppard Pediatric Dentistry 623-551-2992 3618 W. Anthem Way, Suite D104

Investing/Retirement Edward Jones - Doug DeMuth 623-551-0523 edwardjones.com

Financial Planning Edward Jones - Doug DeMuth 623-551-0523 edwardjones.com

Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130

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Jewelry/gold buyers AndrewZ Diamonds & Fine Jewelry 623-551-6892 andrewzdiamonds.com Landscape Design and Maintenance Iddings & Sons Landscaping, Inc. 623-465-2546 623-297-7584 Massage Hand and Stone Massage 623-551-6602 handandstone.com Therapeutic Massage by Maura 623-824-1663 41818 N. Venture Drive, Suite #120 Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Jen Gentry 623-251-5518 42104 N. Venture Drive, C-122 drjengentry.com Outdoor Lighting Let There be Light 480-575-3204 lettherebelightllc.com Orthodontics Cordon Orthodontics 623-465-5478 42201 N. 41st Dr., #102 Wood Orthodontics/Wyatt Wood 623-792-7323 3618 W. Anthem Way, Suite D108 Pediatrics Angel Pediatrics 623-551-0442 3654 W. Anthem Way Suite B-114 Twin Pediatrics 623-551-9825 42211 N. 41st Dr. Suite 153 Pest Control Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com

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Photography Karen Sophia Photography 480-543-7526 karensophiaphotography.com Michele Celentano 480-399-3255 michelecelentano.com Physical Therapy Harper Physical Therapy 623-742-7338 41818 N. Venture Drive, Suite #120 Plumbing Canyon State AC and Plumbing 602-996-1818 canyonstateac.com Proskill Services 623-551-7473 proskillservices.com Realtor RE/MAX Professionals Linda Rehwalt 602-249-SOLD azrealty.com Restaurants Dara Thai Cafe 623-551-6676 3655 W. Anthem Way Ste B-127 Ocho Locos 623-551-8580 3655 W. Anthem Way Screens C&S Screens 623-582-8592 cssreens@cox.net Schools Anthem Elementary School Main Line 623-376-3700 Attendance 623-376-3790 Anthem Preparatory Academy 623-465-4776 anthemprep.org Barry Goldwater High School Main Line 623-445-3000 Attendance 623-445-3090

Brighter Beginnings Preschool 602-619-4202 brighterbeginninspreschool.com Boulder Creek High School Main Line 623-445-8600 Attendance 623-445-8690 Canyon Springs Elementary Main Line 623-376-5200 Attendance 623-376-5290 Caurus Academy 623-551-5083 caurusacademy.org Creative Castle Preschool 602-740-9561 creativecastlepreschool.com Desert Mountain School Main Line 623-445-3500 Attendance 623-445-3590 Diamond Canyon Elementary Main Line 623-445-8000 Attendance 623-445-8090 Gavilan Peak Elementary Main Line 623-445-7400 Attendance 623-445-7490 New River Elementary Main Line 623-376-3500 Attendance 623-376-3590 North Valley Christian Academy and Preschool 623-551-3454 northvalleyca.org Sunset Ridge Elementary Main Line 623-445-7800 Attendance 623-445-7890 Westwind Prep at Northern 602-864-7731 westwindacademy.org Shopping Cave Creek Candle & Gifts 6245 E. Cave Creek Road 480-488-7799 cavecreekcandles.com

LocalIndex

Advertising: 623-341-8221

Spa Services Hand and Stone Massage 623-551-6602 handandstone.com Therapeutic Massage by Maura 623-824-1663 41818 N. Venture Dr., Suite #120 Termite Treatment Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com Urgent Care John C. Lincoln Urgent Care in Anthem 623-434-6444 Water Softener & Filtration Rayne of the North Valley 623-234-9047 raynewater.com Weed Control EST Enterprises, Inc. 623-742-6923 estentinc.com Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com Website design Fox Designs Studio 602-688-7588 foxdesignsstudio.com Window Treatments Carefree Coverings 602-617-2920 34522 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite 100B Worship Arizona Hills Community 623-465-0202 arizonahills.org Calvary Chapel Desert Hills 623-434-5060 calvarychapeldh.com Chabad Jewish Center of Anthem 42302 N. Vision Way Suite #106 623-551-8348

Chapel Bellavista 480-502-0707 arizonaministers.com

Hosanna Christian Fellowship 623-512-6213 hosannaanthem.com.

Canyon Church of Christ 623-889-3388 canyonchurch.org

New Creation Community 623-261-6904 newcreationcommunity.org

Carefree Vineyard Church 623-551-1133 carefreevineyard.com

New River First Assembly of God 623-465-7455 newriverag@yahoo.com

Catholic Community of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne 623-465-9740 diocesephoenix.org

Northgate Church 34835 N. 7th Street Phoenix, AZ 85086

Christ’s Church at the Crossroads 623-466-7964 thecrossroadsaz.com Christ’s Church of the Valley 623-376-2444 ccvonline.com Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 2503 W. Anthem Way Meeting times 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.

Cross of Christ Lutheran Church 623-551-9851 anthemcross.org Crossroads Christian Fellowship 602-740-5964 42425 N. New River Rd. Deer Valley Worship Center 623-582-1001 dvworship.com Desert Hills Presbyterian Church 480-488-3384 deserthills.org Desert View Bible Church 623-298-4900 desertviewbible.org Grace North Church 623-551-0007 gracenorth.com

North Ridge Community Church 480-515-4673 northridge.org North Valley Assembly of God 623-516-8734 northvalleyag.com North Valley Jewish Community Association 623-322-0957 nvjca.org Pioneer United Methodist Church 623-551-0802 pioneerumcaz.org Pureheart Christian Fellowship 602-866-8850 pureheart.org Spur Cross Cowboy Church 623-556-7935 spurcrosscowboychurch.com St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church 623-486-8665 stharalambos.org Sun Valley Baptist Church 623-986-1687 sunvalleybaptist.org Valley Life Church 623-850-8777 valleylifeaz.com

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Recipe

Croque Madame Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

With Mother’s Day approaching, remember that small acts of gratitude make a bigger impact on Mom than any price tag. One easy way to show appreciation is by making her breakfast in bed. Instead of the usual scrambled eggs and toast, why not transport her straight to Paris with this recipe for Croque Madame?

Not just your average ham and cheese sandwich, this classic French dish is topped with a cheesy Mornay sauce and a golden fried egg for a luxurious start to her day. Serve with a lightly dressed bed of mixed greens, and if you’re feeling extra appreciative, garnish with some fresh spring flowers.

Croque Madame Servings: 4

Directions: In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Slowly whisk in milk. Continue to whisk until the

For the Mornay Sauce: 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour 1 c Milk ¼ c Gruyere Cheese, grated A pinch of Nutmeg Salt and Pepper to taste For the Croque Madame:

mixture comes to a simmer and thickens.

Remove from the heat and stir in ¼ cup Gruyere cheese, nutmeg, salt and pepper.

Set aside.

Spread 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard on half the slices of bread. Top each piece of bread with 3 slices of ham, 1/8 cup Gruyere cheese, and the second piece of bread.

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each sandwich until lightly golden brown on both sides.

12 slices (about 4oz) Ham 4 tbsp Dijon Mustard

Transfer the sandwich to a sheet pan and preheat the broiler. Spread Mornay sauce

½ c Gruyere Cheese, grated

on top of each sandwich in a thin layer. Place sandwiches under the broiler for 3-5

8 slices Thick Cut Bread 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for cooking) 4 Eggs

minutes, or until tops are golden brown.

In a non-stick skillet, fry the eggs sunny-side up. Top each sandwich with a sunny-side up egg and a dusting of black pepper.

Serve immediately.

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