S T R I N G
F L I N G
ACOUSTIC AMERICA
PHOTOGRAPHY ESSAY
SILENT NIGHT
HO L I DAY
HA RM ON Y
& H E R I TA G E
DECEMBER 2023 PROUDLY SERVING THESE COMMUNITIES: Anthem Country Club l Anthem Parkside C1 imagesar December Desertizona.c Hills om l New River2023 l Tramonto
ANCIENT + OLD TRUNK SHOW DECEMBER 7-9
Special Thursday Night Sneak Peek from 4-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 480-575-8080 | GraceReneeGallery.com
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What's Inside?
TABLE OF CONTENTS
STRING FLING
ON A MISSION FOR MENTAL HEALTH
HOLIDAY HARMONY & HERITAGE
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COMMUNITY
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SILENT NIGHT
30
RECIPE
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From the Publisher Publisher Shelly Spence
Managing Editor Joseph J. Airdo
Graphic Designer
Meaghan Mitchell
Contributing Writers
Joseph J. Airdo Francine Coles Susan Kern-Fleischer James Malcolmson Rebecca L. Rhoades Shannon Severson
Photographers
Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek
Advertising Sales
Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271 cindi@imagesaz.com
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication.
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As another winter wraps our communities in a festive embrace, I am thrilled to wish you a season of warmth and wonder on behalf of our entire Images Arizona family. This special December issue has been designed to serve as our holiday greeting to each and every one of our valued readers, without whom our magazine would not be possible. This month, we have curated a collection of stories and images that capture the essence of the holidays here in Arizona. Within these pages, you will find pieces that celebrate our diverse traditions, showcase local artisans and highlight the spirit of giving that defines this time of year. From a photo essay that depicts the sanctity of our silent nights to a multitude of information about the wonderful ways in which you can celebrate the season with your friends and family, it is our sincere hope that this month’s issue reflects the vibrant tapestry of the holiday experience in Arizona. As we bid adieu to 2023, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us this time of the year and always as well as the many amazing people who make our community — and our lives — so special. May your holidays be filled with love, laughter and magic. Cheers!
Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2023 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
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Photography by Loralei Lazurek
Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
S SA AN ND DE ER RS SO ON N LL II N NC CO OL LN N
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G R A C E
R E N E E
G A L L E R Y
JANUARY
ARTIST
Cathy Hegman
CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE ARTIST
Meet Cathy Hegman, a renowned contemporary artist celebrated for her captivating figurative artworks. Throughout her career, Hegman has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in contemporary art. Her dedication to creating art that transcends traditional boundaries and invites individual interpretation has contributed to her reputation as an artist who captures the imagination and stirs the soul.
[
ARTIST RECEPTION Thursday, January 18 Wine & appetizers 4–7 p.m.
]
Grace Renee Gallery Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. By appointment Sun. and Mon.
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GraceReneeGallery.com | 480.575.8080
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AWARD-WINNING
CONTEMPORARY
ARTIST
Hoopla II, Acrylic on Canvas, 40” by 30” imagesar izona.c om December 2023
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Photo by Daniel J. McCauley IV Growing up just outside of Philadelphia, Daniel J. McCauley IV’s fondest Christmas memories include spending long Saturday afternoons helping his father hang thick, multicolored lightbulbs outside his family’s house and chopping down fresh Christmas trees from a local tree farm to bring home and adorn with cherished ornaments. “The season also brought us snow and countless school mornings when even the lightest of dustings sent us straight to the radio to intently listen for an announcement of the school day’s cancellation,” McCauley says. “It was truly the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat for every young student. And, of course, we always wished for a white Christmas.” McCauley moved to Cave Creek more than two decades ago, and although the change of scenery and advancements in technology have altered many holiday traditions, he and his wife still relish the Christmas season just as much as they did when they were younger. “Our classic Christmas bulbs have become mini-LEDs; our wonderfully aromatic, freshly cut trees have turned artificial; and our wishes for a white Christmas have devolved into prayers that our temperatures do not rise above 70 degrees — but it is still Christmas,” McCauley explains. “We still decorate in abundance — both inside and out — and we look forward to indulging in delicious foods and spending time with friends and family.” McCauley recently shared with Images Arizona a photo that he believes both encapsulates and entwines the uniqueness of Arizona with the magic of the holiday season. “This image was the result of pure happenstance,” McCauley says. “One Sunday evening, about a week or so before Christmas, my daughter and I went out to Cave Creek and Carefree to capture some holiday portraits. At some point during our photo shoot, we stumbled upon this cactus, isolated and glowing majestically from its mini-LEDs in the crisp night air. It immediately became my favorite Christmas image and I am blessed that I have the opportunity to share it.” djm4photography.com instagram.com/danmccauleyiv
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SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS TO IMAGES@IMAGESAZ.COM OR TAG #IMAGESAZ ON INSTAGRAM FOR POSSIBLE PUBLICATION IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of the Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix has hosted a number of captivating special exhibitions over the past decade, including “The Electric Guitar: Inventing an American Icon,” “Congo Masks and Music” and the recent “Treasures: Legendary Musical Instruments.” While brainstorming different ideas for its next special exhibition, staff began contemplating the collections of the generous individuals whose loans make up many of the more than 4,200 instruments on display at the museum from every corner of the globe. “We are lucky to work with a variety of people out in the world who have some pretty remarkable collections,” says MIM senior curator Rich Walter, noting that David Grisman is among the most generous and cooperative. “In addition to being a really phenomenal and influential mandolinist and composer, David Grisman has an extraordinary personal collection of instruments.”
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“
These instruments are the foundation of a lot of different genres of music. Every single one is a distinctive object, makes a distinctive sound and has been used in really distinctive careers. Rich Walter
Peter Yarrow's 12-fret Dreadnought Guitar
One such instrument is a 1980 Grand Artist model mandolin that Grisman played on numerous albums and with other superstars such as Stéphane Grappelli and Chet Atkins. “It was made by a luthier named John Monteleone, who lives in New York, is still working today and is considered one of the greatest builders of all time,” Walter says of the iconic instrument notable for its elegant carved scroll, points and proportions. “It is like having a Picasso.” Walter adds that the 1980 Grand Artist model mandolin is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Grisman’s collection. “He has got not only some amazing mandolins from his own career but also things that were played by really influential mandolinists through time; people from the Vaudeville era, people from the late 19th century, virtuosic Italian mandolinists who emigrated to the United States,” Walter explains. Grisman’s collection became the catalyst for MIM’s latest special exhibition — “Acoustic America: Iconic Guitars, Mandolins and Banjos,” which showcases more than 90 historic acoustic stringed instruments played by the heroes of folk, blues and bluegrass music. “We then reached out to a number of other collectors and performing artists and realized that we had a real critical mass and could build on that foundation,” says Walter, noting that
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Ira Louvin's
John Hartford's Banjo
1947 Martin M
andolin
the special exhibition features 90 instruments from about 30 different sources — including 30 from Grisman’s personal collection and many from MIM’s permanent collection. “These instruments have been a real universal companion to our lives going back before the Civil War. They are the foundation of a lot of different genres of music. Every single one is a distinctive object, makes a distinctive sound and has been used in really distinctive careers. Each one has a unique story and personality, but together they remind us of the shared connections within America’s most influential music.”
ACOUSTIC ARTISTRY Immediately upon entering the gallery, guests are greeted by a guitar, a mandolin and a banjo — each of which is an excellent example of its kind, with the guitar being the eighth Martin D-18 ever made back in 1933. “The banjo is one of Earl Scruggs' personal instruments,” says Walter, noting that the 1928 RBGranada is a gold-plated Mastertone that the world’s most famous and influential banjo player has owned, played and preserved in original condition for more than 50 years.
David Grisman's 1925 Gibson F-5 Mandolin
Earl Scruggs' 1928 Gibson Banjo
Eliza 1935 M beth Cotten's artin D -28 Gu itar
Once their captivation by the first three instruments starts to subside, guests will discover that the gallery is filled with other astounding examples of acoustic artistry everywhere they turn — such as a one-of-akind mandolin customized by Ira Louvin in the flashy style of professional country music artists. The special exhibition also features a 1935 Martin “Herringbone” D-28 guitar that made a significant impact on American music when folk icon Elizabeth Cotten used it to record her famous song “Freight Train” and others for Smithsonian Folkways in 1957 and a vintage A. A. Farland open-back banjo played by John Hartford, whose classic “Gentle on My Mind” became one of the most recorded songs in history. Also on display is a Dobro guitar that LeRoy McNees — aka LeRoy Mack — played on an episode of “The Andy Griffith Show” in 1961 as a member of influential bluegrass group the Kentucky Colonels, under the alias the Country Boys, as well as famed Gibson acoustic engineer Lloyd Loar’s personal 1924 F-5 mandolin.
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“Acoustic America” also includes a 1964 Guild F-30 guitar that blues legend Mississippi John Hurt handpicked to play at the 1964 Newport Folk Festival. The instrument is on loan from John Oates who, having idolized and closely studied Hurt’s music, borrowed the guitar to record the first two Hall and Oates albums in 1972 and 1973. Many items in the gallery represent a historical significance that extends far beyond the arts, such as a 12fret dreadnought acoustic guitar that tireless ambassador for civil rights and social justice Peter Yarrow played when Peter, Paul and Mary joined Bob Dylan and Stevie Wonder to sing “Blowin’ in the Wind” at the inaugural celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a national holiday in 1986. “I think that the oldest instrument [in the gallery] is an 1849 fiddle on loan from Jenee Fleenor, who is coming up on her fifth consecutive Country Music Association Musician of the Year award,” Walter says. “We also have a Martin guitar that dates back to about 1860 and literally witnessed the end of the Civil War in Richmond, Virginia.” The special exhibition also features a few examples of how acoustic instruments are still being innovated today. “We have a prototype of a brand-new guitar design that was unveiled to the public just about two months ago,” explains Walter, with the aptly named Versitar sounding warm, articulate and full, whether strummed, flatpicked, thumb-picked or played fingerstyle. “It was designed by George Gruhn, a world-famous historian, dealer and collector in Nashville. It
is neat to see how these experts are still reimagining the possibilities with these instruments.”
MUSICAL MELTING POT MIM’s latest exhibition tells a story of American music through instruments that have over time been manufactured here in the United States by a variety of builders and played by a variety of artists. “Just like the story of the United States, the backgrounds of so many of these people begin in other countries,” Walter says. “They are from Sweden, Germany, West Africa, Portugal, Mexico, Italy; these influences come from all over the world. It is similar to the whole melting pot idea of the United States. “Another part of the story is the fact that some of these genres with signature sounds of American music, like blues and bluegrass, have gone back out into the world and become internationally recognized.” Noting that MIM is honored and proud to present such a great crosssection of outstanding objects through “Acoustic America,” Walter believes that the special exhibition will really punctuate the museum’s ability to represent human beings through musical instruments. “This is, after all, what I think MIM does best,” the curator adds. “Each of the musical instruments in this special exhibition is visually interesting, beautifully built and a part of history. That is exactly what MIM loves having on display for people to discover.” mim.org
Experience
‘Acoustic America: Iconic Guitars, Mandolins and Banjos’ Through Sept. 30 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix $10; discounts available. | 480-478-6000 | mim.org
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Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Road #7 | Carefree 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m December 20 23
STEPHEN WEBSTER
ELECTRIFYING JEWELRY WITH NO REGRETS Enjoy a very special appearance by London-based contemporary fine jeweler Stephen Webster during an exciting evening that includes one-of-a-kind exclusive designs, stories from Stephen and an opportunity to experience glamour at a high level. Breaking the rules with designs that are intelligent, thought-provoking and visionary, Webster’s jewelry takes influence from art, fashion, music, literature and the natural world while paying homage to state-of-the-art techniques and traditional British craftsmanship and goldsmithing.
Join us for a lounge environment with wine and appetizers on
FRIDAY, JANUARY 26TH | 4-7pm Grace Renee Gallery
Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Road #7 | Carefree 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com imagesar izona.c om December 2023
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COMMUNITY December 2023 Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Through Dec. 24
THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS JOURNEY Verde Canyon Railroad will transform its Clarkdale depot into a miniature Birds-Eye Village. Children can strap on a pair of eagle wings and soar through 10 tiny houses on a town square before boarding a train for a magical Christmas journey. $40+. 4–8 p.m. Verde Canyon Railroad, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale. verdecanyonrr.com
Through Dec.24
PRATT BROTHERS CHRISTMAS Rawhide Western Town will host a holiday experience featuring more than 6 million lights, a dazzling light show, a magical train ride, a nightly parade, jaw-dropping stunt shows, holiday shopping, live entertainment and more. See website for prices. 6–10 p.m. Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. prattbrotherschristmas.com
Through Dec. 24
‘RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER’ Photo by Tim Trumble Childsplay will present its production of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” $20+. See website for times. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. childsplayaz.org
Through Dec. 30 Through Dec. 24
THE NORTH POLE EXPERIENCE Flagstaff’s Little America Hotel will serve as a magical portal to the North Pole, where guests can enjoy a hands-on, interactive holiday adventure through Santa’s Grand Workshop, Mrs. Claus' Bakery, Elf University and more. $52+. 7:50 a.m.–9 p.m. Little America Hotel, 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff. northpoleexperience.com
LAS NOCHES DE LAS LUMINARIAS Desert Botanical Garden will host its annual holiday lights display, which will also feature musical performances, entertainment and festive food and drinks. $39.95; youth and member discounts available. 5:30–9:30 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480941-1225; dbg.com
Through Dec. 30 POLAR EXPRESS
Grand Canyon Railway will offer a holiday train ride through the wilderness of Williams as the classic storybook and animated film “The Polar Express” is brought to life. Ticket holders can enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies on their way to meet and receive a jingle bell from Santa Claus. $39+. 5:30–9 p.m. Grand Canyon Railway Hotel & RV Park, 233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd., Williams. thetrain.com
Through Dec. 30 ‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’
Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “White Christmas.”. See website for prices and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org
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Through Dec. 31 ‘ELF: THE MUSICAL’
The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Elf: The Musical.” See website for prices and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
Through Dec. 31
ENCHANT: THE MISCHIEVIOUS ELF Enchant will host an incredibly illuminated winter wonderland, featuring more than 4 million sparkling lights, creating an immersive walk-through, story-themed maze. The pop-up village will also offer ice skating, live entertainment, dining, holiday shopping and more. $34; youth, senior, military and group discounts available. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick Resort, 7555 N. Pima Road, enchantchristmas.com
Through Dec. 31
MESA TEMPLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Mesa Temple will host its annual holiday lights and international Nativity displays. Free. 5–10 p.m. Mesa Temple, 101 S. LeSueur, Mesa. 480-964-7164; mesatemple.org
Through Dec. 31
‘SISTER'S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM: THE MYSTERY OF THE MAGI'S GOLD’ The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold.” See website for prices and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
Through Jan. 1
PRESCOTT RESORT GINGERBREAD VILLAGE Prescott Resort and Conference Center will host its 31st annual gingerbread village display. Free. Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 1500 Highway 69, Prescott. prescottresort.com
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Through Jan. 6
CHRISTMAS AT THE PRINCESS The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess will host its annual holiday lights display and festival, featuring more than 6.5 million sparkling LED lights, ice skating, cheerful holiday characters and more. See website for prices and times. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. 480-585-4848; fairmont.com
Through Jan. 7
GLENDALE GLITTERS The city of Glendale will host its annual holiday lights display. Free. 5–10 p.m. Historic Downtown Glendale. glendaleaz.com/glendaleglitters
623.551.1305 az115@postnet.com postnet.com/az115
3655 W. Anthem Way, Ste A-109 Anthem, AZ 85086
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COMMUNITY December 2023 Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Through Sept. 30
ACOUSTIC AMERICA: ICONIC GUITARS, MANDOLINS AND BANJOS The Musical Instrument Museum will host a special exhibition that tells the stories behind the rich and vibrant sounds of acoustic instruments in America. $10; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Dec. 1
FOLLOW THE STAR Cross of Christ Church will host a community event featuring live re-enactments of the Christmas story, bounce houses, a petting zoo, crafts and food. Free. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Cross of Christ Church, 39808 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Phoenix. anthemcross.org/star
Dec. 1
JOHN PIZZARELLI AND CATHERINE RUSSELL Arizona Musicfest will present a holiday concert featuring Grammy-winning producer, guitarist and singer John Pizzarelli and Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Catherine Russell. $39+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org
Dec. 1 Through Dec. 31
WORLD OF ILLUMINATION World of Illumination will host a drive-through animated holiday light show. See website for prices and times. Desert Diamond Casino, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale. Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe. worldofillumination.com
SEDONA TREE LIGHTING The city of Sedona will host its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which will also feature refreshments, local holiday entertainment and visits with Santa Claus. Free. 5–7 p.m. Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village, 336 State Route 179, Sedona. tlaq.com
Dec. 1 and 2
NATURAL-COLORED DIAMONDS + RARE-COLORED GEMSTONES Marvel at an exquisite and awe-inspiring selection of sapphires, rubies, emeralds and natural-colored diamonds during this special showcase of exclusive and one-of-akind pieces. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
Dec. 1–3
‘HOLIDAY POPS’ The Phoenix Symphony will perform a concert of holiday music. See website for prices and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org
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COMMUNITY December 2023 Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Dec. 1–17
‘SHE LOVES ME’ Starlight Community Theater will present its production of “She Loves Me.” See website for prices and times. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Drive, Suite 9, Phoenix. starlightcommunitytheater.com
Dec. 2
ANTHEM HOLIDAY LIGHT CRUISE A group of local Jeep and utility terrain vehicle enthusiasts will light up the streets of Anthem with a procession of festively decorated off-road vehicles. Traveling along a 25-mile route, the light cruise will weave in and out of neighborhoods, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community. Free. Dusk. Outlets North Phoenix, 4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix.
Dec. 2
APS ELECTRIC LIGHT PARADE APS and the city of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department will host their 36th annual holiday parade. Free. 7 p.m. Downtown Phoenix. phoenix.gov
Dec. 2
BOULDER CREEK HIGH SCHOOL BAND WINTER FESTIVAL
Through Jan. 14
ZOOLIGHTS
Phoenix Zoo will present its annual holiday lights display, featuring the tallest floating tree in North America, an interactive Glow Garden and an immersive 200-foot-long light tunnel. 5:30–10:30 p.m. $30+; member discounts available. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800; phoenixzoo.org
Boulder Creek High School Band Boosters will present its first-ever Winter Festival, featuring a $10 pancake breakfast, musical performances, raffles, a toy drive, gift and craft vendors and a visit from Santa Claus. Free. 8 a.m.–Noon. Boulder Creek High School, 40404 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem. bchs.band/festival
Dec. 2
MARIACHI CELEBRATION CONCERT Rosie's House's acclaimed mariachi ensemble will perform a concert that celebrates the season and the rich heritage of Mexico and features an exceptional guest performance by the esteemed professional Arizona ensemble Mariachi Pueblo Viejo. Free with RSVP. 7 p.m. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. rosieshouse.org
Dec. 2 and 3
THE SPIRITS OF MEXICO CULTURE AND TOURISM FEST
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Imex Events will host an event that connects attendees with Mexico’s culture, flavors and traditions while promoting sustainable international tourism with Mexico. Guests can enjoy agave spirits, an emerging spirit from the Chihuahua Desert and many other tequila, mezcal and sotol spirits. The event will also feature live entertainment, including a Mariachi band, Ballet Folklorico and fine art from Mata Ortiz pottery. $50. Saturday 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Heritage Square, 113 N. Sixth St., Phoenix. imexliveevents.com
Dec. 2, 9 and 16
SCOTTSDAZZLE STROLL Old Town Scottsdale will host an event during which attendees can stroll along the canal bank, surrounded by the sounds of the season. Live music will anchor the sprawling celebration filled with public art installations, holiday décor and a 40-foot tree that lights up the night with dazzling holiday spirit. Food vendors will be on site with hot chocolate and sweet treats, as will music box ballerinas, candy cane stilt walkers, carolers and the Grinch. Free. 6–9 p.m. Scottsdale Waterfront Canal Bank, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. scottsdazzle.com
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Dec. 3
SOUNDS OF JOY HOLIDAY CONCERT Students from Rosie's House's strings, winds, choir, guitar and piano programs will perform a concert of holiday music and classical favorites. Free with RSVP. 5 p.m. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. rosieshouse.org
Dec. 4
THE TEXAS TENORS Arizona Musicfest will present a holiday concert featuring 2022 Texas Country Hall of Fame Inductees The Texas Tenors. $59+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org
Dec. 7–9
CYNTHIA ANN JEWELS ANCIENT + OLD MEDALLIONS Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Cynthia Ann Jewels' Ancient + Old Medallions collection. This captivating showcase brings together a mesmerizing array of ancient relics, thoughtfully reimagined as wearable pieces of art. Each item seamlessly blends classic European design elements with contemporary metals, textures and stunning precious and semi-precious stones. Free. Special sneak peek Thursday 4–7 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
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Dec. 7–17
‘CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS’ Dream City Church will host a Broadway-style performance featuring live animals, a full orchestra, a breathtaking live nativity scene, awe-inspiring silk artists and aerial acrobatic stunts that will leave you in awe. $12+. See website for times. Dream City Church, 13613 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix. 602-867-7117; dreamcitychurch.us
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COMMUNITY December 2023 Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Dec. 8–17
‘BLACK NATIVITY’ Black Theatre Troupe will present its annual production of “Black Nativity.” $50. See website for times. Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-258-8128; blacktheatretroupe.org
Dec. 8–23
PHOENIX BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ Phoenix Ballet will perform its production of “The Nutcracker.” See website for price and times. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. 602-996-8000; phoenixballet.org
Dec. 8–24
BALLET ARIZONA’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ Ballet Arizona will present its production of “The Nutcracker,” featuring The Phoenix Symphony. See website for prices and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-381-1096; balletaz.org
Dec. 9 and 10
CONVERGENCE BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’
Dec. 15–18
‘A CHORALE CHRISTMAS’ Phoenix Chorale will welcome Arizona State University’s director of choral activities, Jace Saplan, as guest conductor for its annual Christmas concert. $45; youth, senior and military discounts available. See website for times and locations. 602-253-2224; phoenixchorale.org
The professional dancers of Convergence Ballet and the students from Ballet Theatre of Phoenix will present their production of “The Nutcracker.” The iconic “Land of the Sweets” will feature classical Indian dancers from Silambam Phoenix and Spanish Flamenco dancers from Spanish Flamenco ¡Ay Flamenco! Yumi La Rosa Flamenco Student Company. $35. Saturday 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. 602-957-3364; ballettheatreofphx.org
Dec. 9 and 10
‘TIS THE SEASON: HOLIDAYS AT MIM The Musical Instrument Museum will host an event during which guests can experience the music that defines the season while discovering how diverse cultures from around the world celebrate their unique versions of winter holidays. See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Dec. 14
MTA’S HOLIDAY SHOW Musical Theatre of Anthem will host its annual holiday show, featuring concert-style performances of classic carols and popular music. $20. 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
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Dec. 15–17
Dec. 16 and 17
Marlo Johnson Promotions will debut a new event featuring more than 60 fine artists and vendors, an eclectic lineup of live music and activities, food vendors and more. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Outlets North Phoenix, 4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix. oakcreekartsandcraftsshow.com
DanceStudio 111 will present its production of “The Arizona Nutcracker,” exclusively featuring young actors and dancers aged 3–19. $35+. Saturday 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix. thearizonanutcracker.com
Dec. 16
Dec. 21
North Valley Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert that is designed to be a celebration of holidays from around the world. $10; student, senior, military and veteran discounts available. 7 p.m. North Canyon High School, 1700 E. Union Hills Drive, Phoenix. northvalleysymphony.org
Galleries throughout Carefree will host an event that offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy live music and refreshments as they stroll through the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain in search of their next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. carefree.org/third-thursdayart-night
ART AT ANTHEM
‘HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD’
Dec. 16
‘THE ARIZONA NUTCRACKER’
Dec. 29
ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra will perform a concert of ancient carols and traditional Christmas music. $28.50; youth, student and senior discounts available. 3:30 p.m. All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. pmaz.org
BARANS
Local band BARANS will perform a concert of instrumental, cinematic rock music. Free. 6–9 p.m. Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., Glendale. Joebarans.com
Dec. 16
‘ARISTOCATS’ AND ‘MEAN GIRLS’ AUDITIONS
Wreaths Across America will host its annual ceremony, during which thousands of holiday wreaths will be laid on the graves of our country's fallen heroes. Free. 10 a.m. National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix. wreathsacrossamerica.org
Dec. 16
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Jan. 6
Musical Theatre of Anthem will hold auditions for its upcoming productions of “Aristocats” (ages 6–13) and “Mean Girls” (ages 14–18). $325; sibling discount available. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
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VRBO FIESTA BOWL PARADE The Fiesta Bowl Organization will host its 51st annual two-mile march through central Phoenix. Free. 10 a.m. See website for route. fiestabowl.org
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The kids are not all right. Mental health issues are plaguing young people at unprecedented rates, interfering with their family, social and academic goals. Many suffer in silence, unsure of how to relieve the anguish they experience daily, but help is on the way for local students. Barry Goldwater High School senior Brendan Salisbury has seen and experienced the profound struggle among his peers and in his own life. He decided to do something about it and, in the process, has been honored as a 2023 Bezos Scholar, 2023 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year and Interact District 5495 West Valley Team Executive and Assistant Governor. “When I was a child, I was diagnosed as twice exceptional,” Salisbury reveals. “I was diagnosed with severe generalized anxiety disorder and was gifted in the 99th percentile. Growing up, it was difficult to fit in socially; I had a lot of struggles. I had the support of my mom, who is a mental health counselor. A myriad of kids believe they’re the only ones [suffering]. I want to be able to provide equitable mental health care access and resources to kids of all origins.” Barry Goldwater High School senior Brendan Salisbury has been honored as a 2023 Bezos Scholar, 2023 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year and Interact District 5495 West Valley Team Executive and Assistant Governor.
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Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Loralei Lazurek
Bezos Scholar Brendan Salisbury , a senior at Barry Goldwater Higfh School, is just the second Arizonan ever to earn the honor.
STATE OF DISTRESS Arizona’s youth struggle mightily with mental health challenges. According to a 2022 study by Mental Health America, our state ranked 49th in mental health, with more than 17% of young people suffering at least one major depressive episode. Adding to that concerning statistic, 60% of Arizona youth experiencing major depression do not receive any mental health treatment, as access is limited and even among insured patients, 10% do not have mental health coverage. Since children spend the majority of their time in school, Salisbury saw the need to innovate positive mental health options on campus. “I feel like schools are not set up for [mental health needs],” he says. “If you have a learning disability or a physical disability, [they] can help with that, but if someone has a mental health issue or some places where they’re struggling to cope, the school just isn’t set up very well to manage that. That became the driving force for [my project].” It all began with his sophomore year project as part of the extremely demanding International Baccalaureate program. Salisbury was inspired by actor Glenn Close’s “Bring Change to Mind” campaign and started a mental health club. “The sophomore project can be individual or community-based, so my mom encouraged me to do something that would help me reach out in the community,” he explains. “It is the first mental health club in Deer Valley Unified School District history. We got a lot of traction, which was awesome.”
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Barry Goldwater High School senior Brendan Salisbury is raising funds in the community and seeks to partner with local businesses and fellow students to expand and establish wellness centers at every Deer Valley Unified School District high school.
LEADING & LEARNING By the time junior year rolled around, he was approached by the Barry Goldwater High School Pride, Accountability, Courage and Kindness Team, which provides positive behavior intervention support to students, about an idea they’d learned at a recent conference. The concept: a centralized place to decompress and feel rejuvenated. “They came to me and said, ‘We want to build this but we need student buy-in,’” Salisbury recalls. “That’s where I came in. I have tons of students who are interested in mental health as a result of my club.” With student input and a crowdfunding campaign that raised $3,000, Salisbury helped the school’s intervention team to establish both a staff and student wellness center — the first of its kind in Arizona. This effort was a catalyst for his Bezos Scholar designation, as just the second Arizonan ever to earn the honor. Every year, 17 students and 13 educators from the U.S. and South Africa are chosen for this yearlong program of leadership development, which grew out of the Aspen Ideas Festival, where Jackie and Mike Bezos (parents of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos) attended with global leaders and wondered why there weren’t young people involved in the event. Bezos Scholars like Salisbury and his IB Spanish teacher Vicky Muñoz participate in virtual sessions twice each month. He also attended a week at the Aspen Ideas Festival this past summer for training and networking before returning home to launch his “Community Change Project.” Salisbury will spend the remainder of his senior year planning the presentation of his project and will share a grant proposal to earn $1,000 in seed money to finance his project.
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“I loved that [Aspen Ideas Festival] experience,” Salisbury says. “I learned how to make a local ideas festival and received training and now every month I receive specialized coaching on how to make community changes. [Scholars] also get personalized college and career counseling. The program is really for those who want to benefit the community. I don’t receive any money personally and that’s the unique aspect of this. I get to participate and develop as much as I can for my community.” Salisbury is raising funds in the community and seeks to partner with local businesses and fellow students to expand and establish wellness centers at every Deer Valley Unified School District high school. His goal is to raise $25,000 in conjunction with a local charity, the Xan You Matter Foundation.
A WAY TO WELLNESS Salisbury says that every wellness center will look different and be tailored to each community’s needs. Students, counselors, teachers and administrators will all have a say in how to best serve their individual populations. For privacy, an online pass system allows the student to discreetly request a break from their teacher. Upon check-in, the student scans a QR code and rates their level of stress on a scale from one to ten. It helps to self-identify how they’re feeling and they can indicate if they’d like to speak with someone; a qualified staff member is always on-hand to assist, if needed. “Students go to the wellness center for only about 15–20 minutes,” Salisbury explains. “That’s an amount of time that is scientifically proven to bring a student down from a ten to a six. They choose what resources to use. They can gather themselves and venture back out.” Barry Goldwater High School’s student wellness center is divided into areas that facilitate varying coping mechanisms. The workout area has medicine balls to slam and yoga mats for stretching or meditation. “When emotions are really high, there’s nothing better for me,” Salisbury says. “If I’m really mad, I’ll just slam a slam ball and it’s phenomenal because I get it out; [the anger] is just gone. That’s probably one of our students’ favorite resources.”
Mental Health Resources
Suicide and Crisis Line: Call or Text 988 Crisis Text Line: Text “Home” to 741741 Mental Healthline: Call 844-549-4266 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “HelpLine” to 62640 National Youth Crisis Hotline: Call 800-448-4663 Teen Lifeline: Call 800-248-TEEN (8336) imagesar izona.c om December 2023 Maricopa County Crisis Line: Call 800-631-1314
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There’s also an area with board games, puzzles and fidget toys; a creative space with art supplies; a reading library with books on mental health; and a directory of crisis and mental health hotline numbers. Students have a wide range of coping tools. The staff wellness center has massage and inversion chairs; a generous supply of coffee and snacks; as well as puzzles and reading materials. The space also gives teachers a quiet place away from students during lunchtime if they need some extra solitude that day. “In Arizona, we are struggling with a high teacher turnover and retention rate,” Salisbury explains. “We are trying to take care of their mental health just as much as they’re taking care of our kids. The time they spend with kids outnumbers the time parents are spending, so we are making sure they’re mentally healthy and feel supported.” Salisbury points out that mental health maintenance fosters community among teaching staff and gives students good role models for their own mental health journeys. The response from students and teachers has been extraordinarily positive.
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE Salisbury’s next step to leave this legacy of wellness in his community is to expand to every high school campus in the district. He’s using his networking and leadership skills to get it done and he wants local businesses to buy in so that he can grow the effort beyond the original seed amount of $25,000. “I’ve been able to recruit an interior design company to work with me pro bono and have several different nonprofits that want to help,” Salisbury says. “I really want to bring in local businesses, though. I want the communities to be involved.”
Barry Goldwater High School senior Brendan Salisbury hopes to attend Stanford University in the fall to earn a degree in neuroscience with an emphasis in systems. He aspires to ultimately become a physician-scientist and create his own foundation to fund neurological institutes in children’s hospitals to focus on neurodevelopmental disabilities.
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Salisbury has partnered with the Xan You Matter Foundation, founded by the parents of Alexander “Xan” Leon — a former Goldwater High School International Baccalaureate student who battled mental illness and sadly took his own life during his sophomore year at Northern Arizona University. He was just 20 years old. The foundation aims to end the stigma of mental illness, raise awareness and affirm that every life matters by providing resources, education and hope for those who battle depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
One hundred percent of donations to the foundation for Salisbury’s efforts will go to his project, with the Bezos Scholar aspiring for each high school’s wellness center to be not only custom-designed to serve the students but also supported directly by the businesses that serve the school’s families. The way he sees it, healthy teens and healthy families benefit the local business community, too. “Teens who are getting the help they need can contribute in the workplace and are likely to volunteer and be good citizens,” Salisbury says. “It puts a smile on everyone’s face to be greeted by a friendly young employee or have the door held open for them by a local student.” Salisbury hopes to attend Stanford University in the fall to earn a degree in neuroscience with an emphasis in systems. He aspires to ultimately become a physician-scientist and create his own foundation to fund neurological institutes in children’s hospitals to focus on neurodevelopmental disabilities. He will also remain involved with the Xan You Matter Foundation after graduation and hopes the wellness centers that he is helping to establish will become a model for not only Arizona but also the entire U.S. “This is a legacy,” Salisbury says. “I want to be able to leave something that is going to be there for generations and generations.” venmo.com/u/xanyoumatter xanyoumatter.org
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Joan Wood
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Joan Wood’s night photography is a combination of long exposures, light painting, astrophotography and various landscapes and cityscapes. With it, she aspires to push the viewfinder further than the eye can see in an effort to create mischief, magic and possibility. “Here in Arizona, the desert beholds amazing landscapes,” Wood says. “After the ‘golden hour’ is a magical time to shoot, as this is the transition into dusk, where we have a 9- to 10-hour nocturnal shift change before dawn. “Photography in the Wild West creates opportunities for adventure in sunset photography, astrophotography, nature photography, sunrise photography and any storms in between. The night is also an awakening to many nocturnal animals because our desert is very hot during the daylight hours.” Wood often used her photography to emphasize the importance of respecting and preserving the history found in our desert while underscoring the beauty of natural nighttime phenomena. Of particular interest to the photographer are historical sites that, today, are under threat from natural erosion and vandalism. “My favorite subject in photography is to capture the historic landmarks that Arizona has left standing and tell their stories under the stars,” she explains.
Elvis Memorial Chapel // Apache Junction Originally a movie prop for Elvis Presley’s 1969 film “Charro,” Elvis Memorial Chapel has survived two fires that devastated Apacheland Movie Ranch. Following these trials, the chapel found a new home at the Superstition Mountain Museum.
This month, Images Arizona showcases a collection of Wood’s works that not only tell such stories but also reflect the sanctity of our state’s silent nights.
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White Dove of the Desert // Tucson Also known as San Xavier del Bac Mission, White Dove of the Desert in Tucson was founded as a Catholic mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797. The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church’s interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings.
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Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Chapel in Flagstaff is suffering from not just its own erosion, but also from people who are stealing the heads of these beautiful gargoyles — which are symbols of the church to ward off sin. Joan Wood
Chapel of the Holy Dove // Flagstaff Chapel of the Holy Dove in Flagstaff was built by Dr. Watson M. Lacy, in 1961, using Ponderosa pine logs, volcanic rock and petrified wood. Having been destroyed by a transient’s campfire in 1999, the chapel was rebuilt the following year with the support of the local community and Flagstaff merchants’ contributions, mirroring the original structure. Today, it continues to be a sanctuary amidst the beauty of the San Francisco Peaks.
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Chapel of the Holy Cross // Sedona Commissioned by local rancher and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude and designed by architect August K. Strotz, Chapel of the Holy Cross has sat high atop the red rock buttes of Sedona since 1956.
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The community church at Pioneer Living History Museum in Phoenix is a copy of St. Paul’s Methodist Episcopal Church, which stood from 1880 through 1927 in Globe. Two of the original pews were donated to the museum by the First Baptist Church of Globe and copied to provide the current seating. The original i mages a r i zochurch n a .c o m bell December 20 23 “God’s Alarm Clock” — now graces the rebuilt St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Globe. — dubbed
McDowell Mountains
About the Photographer Born and raised on the outskirts of the Tonto National Forest in Mesa and later spending seven years in Flagstaff, Joan Wood grew up in a family of outdoor enthusiasts who encouraged her to follow her passions — which included skateboarding, snowboarding, camping, rock hounding, fishing and hunting. These experiences became her inspiration for capturing the essence of nature on film. In high school, Wood’s photography teacher recognized her talent and encouraged her to explore night photography on film. Meanwhile, Wood’s outdoor experiences led her to discover unique locations and landmarks, thereby fostering her appreciation for historical sites that, today, are under threat from natural erosion and vandalism. Pairing these passions prompted her to revisit these places and capture their essence under the night sky. With concerns about light pollution due to increasing urban development in previously pristine natural areas, Wood aspires for her photography to emphasize the importance of respecting and preserving the history found in our desert while underscoring the beauty of natural nighttime phenomena, such as storms with stars in the background. instagram.com/j.marie_nightphotography imagesar izona.c om December 2023
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Worldwide Winter Wonderland
Photo by Pete Schulte, Lucky Dog Images
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo
North Valley Symphony Orchestra will take its audience on a symphonic sleigh ride around the world this month as the ensemble performs a concert that promises to be a mesmerizing musical journey spanning continents and cultures. “We were very careful to select music representing every continent except for Australia and Antarctica,” says music director and conductor Kevin Kozacek, joking that there are not too many penguin songs to choose from. “And I think that we were very successful in finding pieces from around the world. We tried to cover it all.” North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is the heartbeat of the concert, which is set for Saturday, Dec. 16 at North Canyon High School Auditorium in Phoenix. With an impressive repertoire of 17 pieces, the concert aims to be a grand celebration, transcending the traditional Christmas focus.
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Art expands our knowledge of other cultures and traditions. Our differences really are very minor compared to how much we have in common. Kevin Kozacek
The meticulous selection of music encompasses not only recognizable medleys of holiday carols but also standalone pieces designed to introduce audiences to customs and observances with which they may not yet be familiar. “Our goal with this theme is to just have a very celebratory concert,” Kozacek says. “Of course, most of our audience is looking for a Christmas concert, but we also want to be reflective of the other things that are going on during this time of the year.” Kozacek, reflecting on his international experiences as a conductor, speaks passionately about the unifying power of music.
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Photo by Mike Benedetto
“Art expands our knowledge of other cultures and traditions,” Kozacek says. “I was fortunate enough to, at one point in my career, conduct over in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Krasnoyarsk, Russia. That was a very eye-opening experience to conduct two different orchestras from two different countries. It gave me such an appreciation for how much we share in common. Our differences really are very minor compared to how much we have in common.” Among the many merry selections set to be performed as part of North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s “Holidays Around the World” concert is “A Joyful Noel” — a piece, based on “Joy to the World” and “The First Noel,” that opens with a majestic brass fanfare before breaking into a Celtic-style dance and building to a dramatic conclusion. The transcontinental sleigh ride will continue through Italy (“Gesu Bambino”), France (“Patapan”), Russia (“Troika”), Canada (“Huron Carol”), Scotland (“Fantasy on Auld Lange Syne”) and China (“Spring Festival Overture”). Other selections include “African Holy Night” and “Brazilian Sleigh Bells.” The concert will also feature three festive medleys. The aptly titled “Around the World at Christmas Time” traverses Germany, Poland, England and France as well as incorporates pieces of African-American, Roman Catholic and Jewish music. Meanwhile, the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah is recognized in a five-song medley composed by Bill Holcombe and a nine-song medley of Christmas standards with which the audience can sing along serves as a grand finale. The celebration of unity will continue to infuse the North Valley Symphony Orchestra's entire season, with Kozacek excitedly revealing the ensemble’s spring concerts: “Postcards from Bohemia” in March, focusing on Bohemian
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composers such as Antonin Dvorak and Bedrich Smetana, and “Victors and Heroes” in May, featuring the musical scores from “Rocky” and “James Bond,” with “Olympic Fanfare and Theme” in tow. In a personal touch, Kozacek shares that his favorite holiday song is “O, Tannenbaum,” as it reminds him of one of his most cherished family holiday traditions. “As a young Kevin, my family used to go up into the mountains of Colorado where there were Christmas tree cut areas,” the music director and conductor explains. “They were thinning the forest and would mark trees that you were allowed to cut down. Every year, we went up there, cut down a tree, topped it, brought the top home and had a fresh Christmas tree from the Colorado Rockies.” Celebrating the diverse traditions that make this time of year so special, North Valley Symphony Orchestra's “Holidays Around the World” concert is about much more than just music; it is about the unity and shared joy that music brings, transcending borders and cultures — especially during the holidays. northvalleysymphony.org
Experience
‘Holidays Around the World’ Saturday, Dec. 16 | 7 p.m. North Canyon High School Auditorium 1700 E. Union Hills Drive, Phoenix See website for price | 623-980-4628 northvalleysymphony.org imagesar izona.c om December 2023
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Mesa Temple
Between the bright lights, pretty wrapping paper and various forms of evergreens that adorn our homes each Christmas, there is one piece of decor that is often the most cherished. Whether passed down through generations or purchased as a reflection of one’s faith, the Nativity is a meaningful reminder of not only the reason for the season but also who we are, where we come from, what we value and what we believe. Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center this month hosts a display that features more than 100 nativities from around the world — each one an inspiring work of art that depicts the birth of Jesus Christ and communicates a narrative about its country or culture of origin.
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People come from all over the world to experience this, and every single one finds something that touches, moves or inspires them. Stacey Farr
The exhibition is part of Mesa Temple’s annual holiday celebration, which began more than four decades ago with a small light display that has since grown to become one of the largest Christmas lighting events in the Southwest. In 1979, temple president L. Harold Wright envisioned that lighting the temple grounds at Christmastime could be a “gift to the community.” That year, 5,000 clear and blue lights were hung around the temple’s visitors’ center roof and reflecting pool, where electrical outlets were available. In 1985, when a new sprinkler system was installed, underground electrical lines were added to make more outlets available and lights were able to be placed throughout the temple’s gardens. At this time, “Good Morning America” named Mesa Temple’s celebration one of the top three “must-see” holiday lighting extravaganzas in the United States. Music was added, with local school and church choirs and private ensembles representing a variety of cultures and musical styles
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performing nightly concerts during the celebration. By the early 1990s, more than 300,000 lights adorned the temple grounds as chartered buses filled with visitors from around the Valley congregated at the temple to witness the display. Stacey Farr, who has served as director of Mesa Temple’s holiday celebration since 2015, says that the international Nativity display was introduced about 20 years ago as a natural evolution of the temple’s mission to invite all people to feel the spirit of Christmas. “The lights that we put on the grounds emulate the light of Christ,” says Farr, noting that roughly 3,000 volunteers build, facilitate, set up and take down the sprawling 12-acre light display each holiday season. “The nativities signify this grand miracle because, without His birth, we would not have had His resurrection. And without His resurrection, we would not have Christmas.” Over the years, community members and groups have donated about 400 nativities — many of which are handmade — to the temple. They come from all over the world, with volunteers ensuring that there is at least one Nativity that represents the country or culture of each of Mesa Temple’s sister missionaries — young women who are serving fulltime proselyting missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “There are some from different Native American tribes that are just unbelievably creative,” says Farr, noting that visitors who are familiar with Hopi and Navajo designs, textures and patterns will immediately recognize the nativities of those tribes. Mediums include wood, copper, porcelain, metal, fabric, resin, stained glass, paper and a variety of natural items
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that reflect the art, practices and traditions of people around the world. “There is one that is made of chewing gum wrappers and another that is made of seeds and nuts,” Farr says. “We even have one that is made out of woven grass. The creativity is just phenomenal. We have one from Wisconsin that is made entirely of beeswax. It smells like honey. It is absolutely awesome.” One sister missionary came to Mesa Temple from a country whose only Nativity was represented on a stamp. Therefore, that stamp has been added to the display. “The craftsmanship is stunning,” Farr adds. “Some feature miniatures that are less than an inch tall and have been beautifully crafted with so much intricate detail. There is also one that is extremely heavy because it is made of cast iron and magnets.” With 400 nativities in its collection and limited space to display them, volunteers select about one-quarter of the nativities in rotation to showcase each season. Therefore, a visitor who attends the exhibit one year will certainly see several new nativities the next.
trees decorated with elegant ornaments and historical pictures of the temple, a long piece of upstairs artwork on which angels appear and QR codes linking to special videos that enhance and expand each visitor’s experience. “There is also a Nativity that sits in the reflection pool in front of the temple that is absolutely stunning because it looks as though it is just floating on water,” Farr says. “All of our displays as well as our lights are not done in a style that is flashy or anything like that. It is calm, peaceful and serene. We just want people to come and feel peace through the light of Christ and, when they leave, to feel joy. That is our goal. “Mesa Temple is a very sacred place and we have volunteers and visitors from all walks of life, all faiths and all ages. Everybody just wants to be a part of this. It is so beautiful. People come from all over the world to experience this, and every single one finds something that touches, moves or inspires them.” mesatemple.org
This year’s display features several other surprises, as well — including a number of large-scale outdoor nativities,
Experience
Mesa Temple International Nativity Display Through Dec. 31 | Nightly 5–10 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center | 455 E. Main St., Mesa Free | 480-964-7164 | mesatemple.org
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This season, Phoenix Chorale celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Arizona while embracing the spirit of the holidays through a new 20-track Christmas recording featuring a diverse blend of musical traditions and timeless classics. Spanning ancient to contemporary and sacred to secular, the album promises to be the perfect soundtrack for festive gatherings and moments of reflection, carrying listeners away on a musical journey that connects the past with the present and the community with the world — all in the spirit of holiday joy. “The Christmas Album” marks Phoenix Chorale’s first release since 2015 and the award-winning ensemble’s first recording since Christopher Gabbitas assumed his post as artistic director in 2019.
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I think that our ensemble does sound very much as though it is from a toasty place, and the warmth in our hearts comes out through our music. Christopher Gabbitas
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Chris Loomis
“I think that Christmas is always a good place to start because the holiday engenders feelings of warmth, happiness and cherished memories,” Gabbitas explains. “Each singer is, therefore, able to tap into a very personal experience that they can translate into the way that they approach the music.” The collection is also Phoenix Chorale’s first Christmas album — aside from 2008’s “Spotless Rose: Hymns to the Virgin Mary,” which Gabbitas notes was a much more esoteric, classically driven recording. “What we have done here is different in that there is something for everybody,” the artistic director adds. “The Christmas Album’s” sound is one with a sense of place, clearly identifying Phoenix Chorale as both American and from a border state with Mexico. There is Hispanic influence in the repertoire choices, which include Catalan folk songs as well as Hispanic Renaissance music. This veneration of space even extends to the album’s cover art. “Visually, it has got the saguaro, sun and desert landscape that place us right here, right now,” Gabbitas says. “Sonically, it has got not just Hispanic influence but also the signature warmth of sound that Phoenix Chorale creates. I think that our ensemble does sound very much as though it is from a toasty place, and the warmth in our hearts comes out through our music.”
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SEASONAL SMORGASBORD The album opens with “Veni, Veni Emanuele,” an Advent hymn that Gabbitas describes as a “nod to the faith-base side of Christmas and the ancient era of choral music, but brought up to date with new harmonies and a lush arrangement.” As the album progresses, it delves deeper into traditional and contemporary holiday classics. From Catalan folk songs to Latin motets, the music evolves, providing an enchanting experience. “The Christmas Album” also includes “Trinity Triptych,” a new three-piece commission by English composer Cecilia McDowell, honoring the centenary of Trinity Cathedral in downtown Phoenix. “From there, we move further forward into more of a contemporary and more secular environment,” Gabbitas says. “This is your dessert or pudding. You have enjoyed your starters and your main course and have had something meaty to chew on, in terms of the newly commissioned work, and now you can enjoy the candy of ‘Winter Wonderland,’ ‘Sleigh Ride,’ ‘The Christmas Song’ and ‘Jingle Bells.’” Gabbitas adds that “The Christmas Album” was reverse-engineered from its final track, “Noche de Paz” — which he calls the catalyst for the whole recording. An arrangement of “Silent Night” by James Burton, the piece is sung entirely in Spanish with new text by Phoenix Chorale alto Ariana Iniguez.
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ProSkill Now Offers “It was so important to me and to our whole team that we really did venerate the Hispanic tradition behind our community with this album because Phoenix Chorale really comes from this community,” Gabbitas says. “We do not fly singers in. We do not pay alternates or ringers to come in. Everybody lives with their families in this community. We are unique amongst most professional choirs in that sense.” Each track is special in and of itself, while “The Christmas Album” as a while is a sonic journey that has been carefully curated to offer a varied and delightful experience. “It is like a holiday smorgasbord,” Gabbitas enthuses. “It is your Christmas buffet, your love offering, your feast, your family-style, audio-enlightening experience for the holiday period.”
FAITH, FAMILY AND MUSIC “The Christmas Album” is not Phoenix Chorale’s only gift to the community this holiday season. This month, the ensemble will also collaborate with Arizona State University’s director of choral activities, Jace Kaholokula Saplan, for a performance that showcases a fusion of Western/ American and Polynesian/Hawaiian cultures and storytelling.
“Christmas is three things for me,” Gabbitas says. “Christmas is about faith, family and music. That is the Holy Trinity of this time of year for me. And if I can engage with each of those three things, I am very happy. Christmas is a very busy time of year for musicians. Often we are away from our families or our time with them is very limited.
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“So, for me, it is a real gift and blessing that this year I am going to be able to have the entire month of December with nothing in the diary other than fun things with my wife and children. We will have our church rituals — things like the Nativity and maybe midnight mass on Christmas Eve — as well as some traditional carol services, but I will actually be listening rather than singing. “Then we will all open presents on Christmas morning while listening to Christmas music. But that has to be classic Rat Pack or other brilliant Americana from the 1950s and 1960s; those wonderful tunes sung by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and the more modern-day Michael Bublé. So, yes — family, faith and music; that is all I need.” phoenixchorale.org
Saplan will serve as guest conductor of the concert, while Gabbitas enjoys a well-deserved break from the podium to spend Christmas with his family.
Music
‘A Chorale Christmas’ Dec. 15–18 | See website for times and locations $45; youth, senior and military discounts available 602-253-2224 | phoenixchorale.org
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RECIPE Harvest Kale, Brussels Sprouts & Squash Salad Serves: 6
Ingredients:
For the Salad 1 head kale (shredded) 4 cups shredded Brussels sprouts Arils from 1/2 pomegranate 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 small delicata squash (unpeeled and cut into 1/4inch circles) or butternut squash (halved, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch half circles) 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 cup raw pepitas 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 4–6 fresh figs (optional) 1/2 cup shredded Gouda cheese For the Vinaigrette 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 shallot (thinly sliced) 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage 1/4 cup pomegranate juice 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey Kosher salt and black pepper 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com
This bright salad is the ideal choice for a holiday dinner. The honeyroasted squash combined with savory pepitas, shredded kale and Brussels sprouts, pomegranate seeds and Gouda cheese become the perfect backdrop to this warm pomegranate vinaigrette. It’s gorgeous to look at, mouthwatering to eat and easy to make! What more could you want? 48
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m December 20 23
Directions:
Prepare the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine kale, Brussels sprouts and pomegranates airils. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. On a baking sheet, toss squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Transfer to oven and roast until squash is tender, 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. Line a separate baking sheet with parchment paper. Add pepitas, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, cayenne and a pinch of salt. Arrange in a single layer. Transfer to oven and bake until pepitas are toasted, 8–10 minutes. Prepare the vinaigrette: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over high heat. When the oil shimmers, add shallots and sage and cook until fragrant, 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar and honey, then season with salt, pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad, tossing to combine. Add the roasted squash, gently tossing, then top with toasted pepitas, figs (if using) and cheese. thefancypantskitchen.com
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