Images Arizona March 2022

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

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What's Inside?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NIKI WOEHLER PAINTING OUTSIDE THE LINES

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CLUBS, COLLEGE AND CONNECTION

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GATEWAY CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT

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COMMUNITY

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ABOVE ARIZONA

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RECIPE

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SANDERSON LINCOLN

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From the Publisher Publisher Shelly Spence

Managing Editor Joseph J. Airdo

Graphic Designer

Meaghan Mitchell

Contributing Writers

Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles Shannon Severson

Photographers Bryan Black Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz

Advertising Sales

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

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers!

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

Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2022 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited.

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

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

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

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

SU E

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SO U TH WE S T

CONT EMP O R A R Y

SWANSON

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

W ILD LI FE

R E A LI S M

WI LD LI FE B R O N Z E

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A N D

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A RT IS T

C AREFREE’S THIR D TH U R S D AY A R T N I GH T T H U R S D A Y, M A R C H 1 7 F R O M 4 T O 7 P M

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

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Photographer Derek Ryan Mathewson recently submitted a photo that he took of himself enjoying an especially peaceful moment in Sedona’s Subway Cave.

“There are a lot of hidden gems and amazing scenery in Sedona, but seeking out the spots that take a little more research and effort is always worth it,” Mathewson says.

“Although the hike to this location is not tough, it is knowing which trailhead it is on and how far to go until you have to take a fork to get there that makes it fun.

“Being a huge fan of geological formations and caves, I had to make the trip here during my visit to Sedona. Once finding the location of the start of the trailhead, I made my way to the cave, got some epic shots and took in the views.”

Without spoiling the experience of discovery for others, Mathewson hints that another secret gem is located nearby, making Sedona’s Subway Cave a particularly special spot.

“It definitely will not disappoint,” he adds. “I hiked back as a very happy camper.”

Instagram: @dreadhead_derek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photo by Lindsay Jenks

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

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Photo by Austin LaRue Photo by Lindsay Jenks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Niki Woehler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“When he saw her, he instantly fell in

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STEPPING OUT

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

Insulation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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— SLOANE STREET JEWELS —

MARCH 5 and 8–10

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

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

— PAULA CREVOSHAY JEWELRY —

MARCH 11 and 12

Friday: 10 a.m.– 7 p.m.

Wine and Appetizers: 4–7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. ..

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

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

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— NIKI WOEHLER —

MARCH 17

Thursday: 4.–7 p.m.

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

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

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

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— GEMSTONE SPECIAL EVENT —

MARCH 24–26

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

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

Public viewing Saturday 10–5 p.m.

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Thursday: VIP Preview from 4–7 p.m.

Friday: By Appointment with Aaron Henry Saturday: Public Viewing

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

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

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Through March 6 LITTLE WOMEN

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

Through April 15 VITA TAX PROGRAM

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

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

480-488-2286; mastersofcoin.org

March 6

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

March 4 and 5

ARIZONA TROLLEY DANCES

March 4 and 5 M3F

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

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

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

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

March 4–20

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

480-483-1664; desertstages.org

March 5

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

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

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

March 5 and 19

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

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

March 5 and 8–10

SLOANE STREET TRUNK SHOW Grace Renee Gallery will host a special event to showcase this magnificent jewelry collection designed by Frances and Charlotte Gadbois. Each piece of Sloane Street’s jewelry goes beyond the tangible expression of style by embodying the timeless elegance of every woman. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces. Free.

10–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

March 6

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

March 7

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

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

March 8

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

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COMMUNITY March 2022

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March 8–29

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

480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 10 and 22

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

March 11 and 12

PAULA CREVOSHAY Grace Renee Gallery will present an exceptionally rare opportunity to meet iconic jewelry artist Paula Crevoshay and explore a seldom displayed collection of her pendants, earrings, rings and more. Dubbed the Queen of Color, Crevoshay’s name is well-known among both jewelers and gemologists, and her work is displayed in impressive collections like the Smithsonian, Carnegie Museum and Gemological Institute of America. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m. 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

March 11–13 March 12

GATEWAY CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT

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

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

March 12

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

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March 12 and 13

EXPERIENCE IRELAND Musical Instrument Museum will celebrate the music and culture of the Emerald Isle with live performances, an Irishinspired lunch menu and more family-friendly activities.

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

March 13

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

March 13

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

March 13

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

March 14

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

480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 17

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

March 18 and 19

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

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

March 18–20

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

March 18–20 RE:BIRTH

March 17

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

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

March 18–27

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

March 18–April 3 RIPCORD

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

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

480-837-9661; fhtaz.org

March 18–April 24 FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL

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

March 19

THE FACES OF FREEDOM American Legion Post 34 will celebrate its 75th anniversary with a salute to the men and women who served in World War II. Breakfast will be served 8–10 a.m. followed by a barbecue Noon–4 p.m. The Manhattan Dolls will perform two shows during the barbecue. WWII tank commander veteran John Tyler will also be honored during the event. American Legion Post 34, 6272 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek.

March 19

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

March 19 and 20 GLORIOUS REVERBERATION

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

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March 22

PINK MARTINI Pink Martini will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert inspired by the romantic Hollywood musicals of the 1940s and 1950s, as well as Argentine tango, Brazilian samba and Italian folk. $41+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

March 24–26

AARON HENRY GEMSTONE EVENT Grace Renee Gallery will host a special three-day event during which attendees may explore and learn about exceptional, one-one-a-kind gemstones from luxury jewelry designer Aaron Henry. Experience the eye-catching brilliance of spinels, sapphires and a curated collection of beautiful gemstones. Discover how to customize them in a way that perfectly suits you. Free. Extra exclusive VIP preview Thursday 4–7 p.m. Reservation-required appointments with designer Friday 10–5 p.m. Public viewing Saturday 10–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 24–April 30 CAMELOT

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

March 27

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

March 27

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

March 28

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

March 19–27

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

March 31

ART FOR LAND’S SAKE: INSPIRED BY NATURE Desert Foothills Land Trust will host an in-person reception for its annual exhibit promoting the beauty of the natural world through traditional and representational artworks. Entries will be accepted through March 4, an online preview will be available beginning March 28 and an online auction will be held April 1–11. Free. 6:30–8:30 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. dflt.org/art-for-lands-sake

April 1

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

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April 2

CAREFREE CLASSIC WHEELS AND WINGS SHOW Celebrate America’s love of automobiles and aircraft.

Enthusiasts and owners can mingle and take in some of the finest examples of domestic and foreign automobiles and aircraft from around the Valley. The event will feature a mix of classic automobiles and vintage aircraft manufactured prior to 1980. Free. 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. SkyRanch at Carefree, 8302 E. Cave Creek Road, Carefree. carefree-wheels-wings.com

April 3

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

April 4

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

Learn with us!

April 7–17

Join Cave Creek Join Cave CreekDistrict!

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Southwest Shakespeare Company will perform “Shall I Join Cave Creek Compare Thee: The Sonnets,” an extraordinary celebration Unified School District! of life, love and the pursuit of happiness in a post-COVID events at each of our world. $35+. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright A+ Elementary Schools! events at each of our Blvd., Scottsdale. swshakespeare.org A+ Elementary Schools!

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

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COMMUNITY March 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

April 9

FLORA AND FAUNA OF NAMIBIA Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome Desert Botanical Garden’s former cactus collection manager Scott McMahon, who will take attendees on a journey to Namibia — home to some of the most iconic succulents in the world, some of the oldest exposed rock formations and many familiar animals adapted to survive in the desert environment. $5+. 9:30 a.m. Carefree Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.

NEW SENIOR LIVING DEVELOPMENT DEBUTS Liv Communities last month christened its fourth amenity-rich senior living development in the Valley.

The new community features 181 units — 155 homes and 26 casitas — and joins senior living properties that Liv Communities operates in Gilbert, Scottsdale and Phoenix. LivGenerations Mayo offers 20 floor plans of independent living, assisted living, memory care and casitas. LivGenerations Mayo Blvd., 6650 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. livcommunities.com

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

March 31

CASINO NIGHT

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

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

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Leaving It All on the Rodeo Grounds

S

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days

Steeped in storied history, the town of Cave Creek truly embraces its Western roots. From its cowboy bars boasting bull riding two nights a week to its art galleries showcasing authentic Southwestern paintings and artifacts, evidence of this unique and fascinating heritage fills every nook and cranny of the community.

“Cave Creek is a Western, boutique-style, small town,” says Daren Peterson, president of Cave Creek Rodeo Days. “I mean, it is just a cowboy town. So when it comes to a cowboy town, we need a cowboy sport. And that sport is rodeo.”

Aspiring to maintain the highest level of professional rodeo event and to preserve and promote the town of

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Cave Creek’s Western heritage, Cave Creek Rodeo Days has — since 1977 — energized the community and brought major economic benefits and the nation’s leading rodeo contestants into town to showcase their talents.

“It is our 45th anniversary of being right here in Cave Creek,” Peterson says of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-sanctioned event. “That is a big deal. That represents 45 years of history of giving back the way that we do through our charitable donations and everything else that we provide the community.”

Among the many things that Cave Creek Rodeo Days provides the community is a reason to celebrate. The past two COVID-era years have come with unique

challenges that have stifled that celebration, so Peterson is hopeful that this year’s milestone event — which takes place March 19–27 — will trumpet a triumphant return of the rodeo’s remarkable ability to bring the community together.

“We did it two years ago without any fans and we lost a bunch of money,” Peterson says. “It was very unprofitable but, through our prior successes and our budget-minded way of [operating], we were able to do it. We had money in the bank and we were able to pull it off in spite of taking a big loss.”

Organizers shifted last year’s event from its usual date in March to Memorial Day weekend in May with the hope that, by then, the state would allow events to operate at 100% capacity.

“We really needed 100% capacity in order to offset the big loss that we took the year before,” says Peterson, noting organizers also wanted to ensure the safety of everyone involved. “In spite of being in May, when the temperatures are a little bit warmer than what they are in March, it was successful from a spectator standpoint, a contestant standpoint and from an overall aspect.”

More than 15,000 people came to Cave Creek to enjoy the events of Cave Creek Rodeo Days in 2021.

Peterson is confident that this year’s events will welcome even more visitors, supported by our spectacular March weather.

“The weather in March in Cave Creek, Arizona, is probably as good

as anywhere in the entire world,” he explains. “We are able to have two performances at night when people are enjoying the nice, cool evening. Then we are able to have one performance during the day on Sunday when everybody is out enjoying the sunshine.

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“Plus, [the PRCA events] will be televised nationally on The Cowboy Channel. That will bring awareness to what a great place Cave Creek is to be in the winter.”

This year’s events will kick off Saturday, March 19 with a parade through downtown Cave Creek — one of the community’s favorite parts of the festivities that has been absent from Cave Creek Rodeo Days’ roster for the past two years.

“The parade is all about community involvement,” Peterson says. “It is a lot easier to be a participant in the parade than it is to be a participant in the rodeo so this is just a chance for everybody to get together, come to downtown Cave Creek and have some fun.”

Peterson adds that, in addition to setting the celebratory tone of the week to come, the parade provides a tremendous economic benefit to local businesses.

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“It takes a wide pass to really see the entire economic impact of the parade to the town,” Peterson says.

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The festivities will continue Monday, March 21 with Cave Creek Rodeo Days’ annual charity golf tournament, which this year will take place at The 500 Golf Club in

480.463.1696 **Pricing Expires 4/1/2021 imagesar izona.c om

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“

It is our 45th anniversary of being right here in Cave Creek. That is a big deal. That represents 45 years of history of giving back the way that we do through our charitable donations and everything else that we bring to the community. Daren Peterson

Glendale. The tournament is followed by a silent auction and banquet with lots of awards.

“The money that we raise during the golf tournament goes right back into the community through scholarships and donations that we make to local nonprofit organizations,” says Peterson, noting the tournament adds $8,000–$12,000 to Cave Creek Rodeo Days’ general fund.

The local nonprofit organizations that benefit from Cave Creek Rodeos Days’ charitable contributions truly are too many to count, but suffice it to say that the community depends on the support that the organization is able to provide as a direct result of its annual event.

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Another important part of Cave Creek Rodeo Days that, like the parade, had to be sidelined for the past two years is mutton bustin', which offers children aged 4–7 an opportunity to begin their own rip-roaring rodeo careers by riding sheep for as long as they can. It is not only back in full force this year but now joins the main festivities.

“We normally do mutton bustin’ during parade weekend but now we are having [kids] come to the rodeo grounds the morning of Sunday, March 27,” Peterson says. “We will then bring the top kids back from each age group during the PRCA performance and they will perform for the crowd. It brings a family aspect to the entire event and gives kids a chance to be involved with the radio at a young age.”

There is also a dance Saturday, March 26 at Harold's Cave Creek Corral as well as entertainment and other celebrations at businesses all across Cave Creek throughout the weekend. But the main events of Cave Creek Rodeo Days are, of course, the three PRCA performances.

“The payout will be more than $100,000,” Peterson says. “With that purse money, we are able to attract a lot of the higher caliber cowboys and cowgirls who do professional rodeo for a living as well as some of those who just do rodeo on the weekends.”

And if you have never before attended a rodeo, Peterson says that you are in for a real treat when it comes to witnessing first-hand the hard work, dedication and sheer Western spirit that Cave Creek Rodeo Days contestants demonstrate. They truly do leave it all on the rodeo grounds at Cave Creek Memorial Arena.

“Football players, baseball players and basketball players get paid whether they play or not and whether they win or not. If somebody is out with a sprained ankle, they still get a paycheck. These cowboys and cowgirls pay their own money to get here and pay an entry fee to participate in the events all with the hope that they are going to win a check back from that.”

Therefore, spectators can expect to see a show that is unlike any other — especially this year, as Cave Creek Rodeo Days celebrates not only its milestone 45th anniversary and the town’s Western heritage but also the long-awaited reconvening of the community. cavecreekrodeo.com Facebook: @cavecreekrodeo Instagram: @cavecreekrodeodays

“These cowboys and cowgirls only get paid if they win,” he explains.

“They do not get a paycheck for just showing up and participating.

Experience

Cave Creek Rodeo Days 480-304-5634 | cavecreekrodeo.com Parade Saturday, March 19 | 9 a.m. | Downtown Cave Creek | Free Golf Tournament Monday, March 21 | 8 a.m. | The 500 Golf Club | 4707 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale | $650 per four-person team PRCA Competitions Friday, March 25–Sunday, March 27 | See website for schedule | Cave Creek Memorial Arena 37201 N. 28th St., Cave Creek | $30

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Dance Saturday, March 26 | 10 p.m. | Harold's Cave Creek Corral 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek | Free Mutton Bustin’ Sunday, March 27 | 10 a.m. | Cave Creek Memorial Arena | 37201 N. 28th St., Cave Creek | $25

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Karen Fallon and Courtesy of Martin Auto Museum and Event Center

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P

People-watching has become one of Mark Fallon’s absolute favorite things to do at the Martin Auto Museum. In addition to being evidence of the ardent appreciation that exists for automobiles, one can really learn a lot about a person by seeing which vehicles they gravitate toward and the amount of enthusiasm or even emotion they exhibit.

“We have so many cars from so many different eras,” says Fallon, who serves as the Martin Auto Museum’s social media manager. “It is really neat to see people come in and point at certain vehicles. There is usually some attached memory for a visitor in a group to a particular car and it is usually a very different vehicle from one person to another.”

Dedicated to the preservation of collectible and rare automobiles for educational purposes, the Martin Auto Museum is the brainchild of 91-year-old real estate developer Mel Martin.

“Mel has been involved with cars and the car industry throughout his entire life,” Fallon says.

Martin moved to Mayer, Arizona at age 16 and started his own auto-repair garage there the very next year. He later moved to Phoenix, where he opened another garage and started a towing business.

“A lot of his business ventures have been car-related,” Fallon adds. “He has always had a love for cars of all different vintages and types.”

Over the years, Martin’s love of cars led to a substantial collection and, in 2005, he founded the Martin Auto Museum as a means to showcase vehicles that represent significant periods in automotive history. The museum operated for 17 years off Interstate 17 at Bell Road.

However, as Martin’s personal collection continued to grow, it became clear that the museum needed a new space to house his vehicles. At its maximum usage, the location could only showcase roughly 60 cars or so.

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“And he now owns somewhere near 150 cars that span the generations,” Fallon says.

So a new site was chosen on the northwest corner of 43rd Avenue and Thunderbird Road, which originally operated as a Gemco department store and was more recently utilized by Safeway. Over the next year, museum board members and volunteers renovated the space and slowly began very carefully moving automobiles and automotive memorabilia — such as antique gas pumps and neon signs — into it.

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With its targeted opening set for this month, the new location benefits the museum in more ways than just being able to accommodate more than 100 cars.

“One of the things that set this particular location apart from the previous location is that we have three spaces of significant size that can host corporate events, weddings, birthdays, reunions, car clubs and what have you,” Fallon says. “We are rebranding it as the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center. Being a nonprofit, the museum could not continue to thrive based solely on its visitors so the new event rooms will help maintain its operation.”

And that operation is to the benefit of not only automobile enthusiasts but also the future of the entire automotive industry. After all, we must first appreciate the road that has already been paved behind us in order to create one worth driving on ahead of us.

“One of the things that Mel is really focused on is educating the next generation on the history of cars,” Fallon explains. “If all they ever see is the cars that their parents drive and the occasional cool hot rod that goes down the road, they may not have in their minds the brass era cars or the Model T's and the Model A's and all of those things that gave birth to the automobile industry in the United States and throughout the world.”

The Martin Auto Museum immersively illustrates a progression of vehicles through time, with the oldest representation dating way back to 1886 — a replica of Carl Benz’s first automobile with a highspeed internal combustion engine.

“We have got a room that is dedicated to Corvettes from the 1950s through the 2020 Corvette, which is the first mid-engine Corvette,” Fallon says.

“They are all in one room so you can see how those cars advanced and changed through the years.

The collection spans generations of automotive history.

“Older visitors come in and are able to reminisce whereas the younger folks may have never even seen some of the vehicles that are in the museum. We are trying to grow an appreciation of these older classic cars in that next generation.”

The Martin Auto Museum and Event Center facilitates that appreciation

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through complimentary lesson plans, available on its website, specifically designed for students at all grade levels. Younger visitors may also enjoy a ride on a carousel or a turn at the museum’s collection of driving and racing games.

Of course, the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center will also make many older visitors feel like they are kids again, fueled by nostalgia.

“There are people of an age who drove these cars at one time in their life and have a great appreciation for them,” Fallon says. “So we really do have a built-in audience in these large retirement communities in the Valley.

“There is also a really large car show community here. Almost every weekend, you can find a car show somewhere around the Valley. So there are a lot of collectors who go to those car shows and can come to the museum to see an even broader collection in one place.”

In fact, the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center has plans to periodically host its own car shows in its new parking lot — another thing that it was unable to do at its former location.

The museum sees an uptick in visitors near the beginning of each year, around what has become known as auction season here in the Valley. Of course, those auctions also afford Martin an opportunity to explore the purchase of additional vehicles.

“Every year, it seems that Mel goes to one or more of those auctions and we add a car or two — or 10 — to the museum’s collection,” Fallon says.

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Older visitors come in and are able to reminisce whereas the younger folks may have never even seen some of the vehicles that are in the museum. We are trying to grow an appreciation of these older classic cars in that next generation. Mark Fallon

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Of course, the expense of maintaining each car is ongoing. All automobiles are lovingly cared for, often hand-washed, polished and given vanity tweaks as needed. The museum, therefore, offers automobile enthusiasts the opportunity to sponsor a vehicle’s care through its Adopt-a-Car membership program.

A yearly $250 donation ensures a car’s continued care for future generations of visitors. Each adoptive guardian also has the added benefit of advertising their benevolence in protecting the remarkable history of that automobile.

“In fact, my wife Karen and I have adopted the 1930 Duesenberg Model J Boattail, which is probably one of the finest cars in all of Mel's collection,” Fallon says. “One of the interesting things about that car is that it was built the year that Mel was born. He bought it as an 80th birthday present to himself. What a great gift that he has now turned around and given to the community.”

The Duesenberg is one of two cars that Fallon says are among his favorites at the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center, with the other being a 1965 Shelby Cobra SC. That car is signed by American automotive designer Carroll Shelby and has only 14 miles on its odometer.

Having said that, Fallon — who is a member of the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center’s board as well as Martin’s stepson — acknowledges that there are a lot of cars in the collection that have really interesting stories and he has far too many favorites to count. His friendship with Martin has not only strengthened his appreciation of automobiles and automotive history but also shown him that he still has much to learn and discover.

“Mel’s knowledge of cars throughout history is just amazing,” says Fallon, noting that Martin, who still goes to work every day at 91 years old, uses his career as a real estate developer to support his love and passion for collectible cars. “He can look at a car that might be unremarkable to the average person and know that there was maybe only a handful of those made in that year with that specific equipment which makes it special.

If we could bottle him and put him in the museum to talk to folks every day, I think that people would be blown away.”

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Vermillion festivals are a cultural experience.

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Litchfield Park Art & Wine Festival March 5-6 9am-5pm 101 W. Wigwam Blvd Litchfield Park, AZ

Sonoran Fine Arts & Wine Festival Stagecoach Village

March 11-13 10am-5pm 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, AZ

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History Inn the Making

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Cave Creek Museum

Anyone who has ever lived in or visited a city in the eastern portion of the United States knows that historical tours are a very popular form of recreation in those areas. Cities take great pride in their pasts and invite residents and tourists alike on journeys through which they can discover and learn about the people, places and things that helped create the present.

Unfortunately, such tours are far less common in cities in the western portion of the country.

Over the past year, Cave Creek has been putting into motion a plan that not only recognizes the historical significance of several individual sites but turns the entire town into one great, big historical tour on which

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one can venture anytime they desire.

“The pride in Cave Creek and what makes the town so special is the people and the remembering of history and reflecting upon it,” says Evelyn Johnson, interim executive director of the Cave Creek Museum.

In an effort to celebrate Cave Creek’s diversity and promote exploration of the unique places which have shaped and housed its vibrant character, the town last year launched a program through which it recognizes iconic buildings and spaces with bronze plaques designating them local landmarks.

Starting with Harold's Cave Creek Corral and moving

through The Hideaway, Carpenter's Trading Post, Big Earl's Greasy Eats and even Dairy Queen, each local landmark tells an incredible story — one that is celebrated and cemented in time.

The story of the last of the first six sites chosen as part of the program, which was unveiled last November, began in 1928 when the town’s first commercially zoned building was erected. The Black Mountain Store sold groceries and other basic supplies.

In the 1950s, the Black Mountain Store became the Cave Creek Inn, which served as a stop for weary travelers who could rent a cabin for $4 per night.

“They had five tuberculosis treatment cabins that were marketed as vacation homes,” explains Johnson, noting that, at the beginning of the 20th century, doctors often sent their patients to Arizona to live in cabins while recovering from tuberculosis and other respiratory illnesses.

Sometime later, the Cave Creek Inn closed and the building became known as Trois Amis — a French restaurant owned and operated by gourmet chefs. It remained a restaurant during its next reincarnation, serving Mexican food under the name Los Mesquites Taqueria.

When that closed, the building sat dormant for about eight years

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The pride in Cave Creek and what makes the town so special is the people and the remembering of history and reflecting upon it. Evelyn Johnson

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before it reopened in 2014 as what it currently is known — Oregano’s Pizza Bistro.

“The town is long-range planning to develop a map that will quite literally lead you through town,” says Evelyn, noting that each local landmark’s bronze plaque includes not only a historical photo and description but also a QR code that, when scanned with a smartphone, reveals additional information about the site as well as an invitation to tour the town’s other iconic buildings and spaces.

The Cave Creek Town Council recently voted on the next 10 local landmarks.

“Part of the charm of Cave Creek is its uniqueness,” Johnson says. “That is indicative and demonstrated in the architectural design of different buildings around the town. It is important to recognize what has been there before and how it has improved. That is what brings people to Cave Creek.” cavecreekmuseum.org

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Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Carl Schultz

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When a professional golfer strides onto the course, a trusty caddie is right alongside — quick on the draw with just the right club; handy with a ball marker and divot repair; and knowledgeable about the nuances of the course and wind speeds that can affect the final score.

These are all skills honed over many years, but they’ve got to start somewhere. That “somewhere” for the Western Golf Association’s Evans Scholar Foundation scholarship winner Jeremy Dreher is Desert Forest Golf Club in Carefree.

“Desert Forest Golf Club is one of the biggest hidden gems,” says Dreher, a 17-year-old Moon Valley High School senior. “I’ve caddied there with the junior caddie program since 2019. The members really like the youth caddies and the board members are so helpful and supportive of the Western Golf Association and Evans Scholars Foundation. I received the letter stating that I’d won the scholarship on Christmas Eve day and it was the best Christmas present ever.”

Dreher hopes to attend University of Colorado at Boulder but also has his eye on Penn State. He plans to major in business and finance. The Evans Scholarship covers full tuition and housing for all four years. While he finishes up his high school year, he’s receiving plenty of pats on the back out on the green.

“I get congratulations all the time now,” he says with a joyful smile. “It feels good that all the members feel just as good as I do about the scholarship.”

Dreher began golfing in sixth grade and has played on his high school golf team all four years. He points out, though, that junior caddies don’t have to be golfers or have an encyclopedic knowledge of golf to join the program. The scholarship winner credits head professional Brandon Rogers and his team for educating and making all the youth who participate feel welcome no matter their background.

“Brandon Rogers is probably one of the greatest guys I’ve ever met,” Dreher says. “He and my caddie master, Connor, were a big encouragement to me from the beginning. All the trainers want you to succeed; they are really friendly and the training gave me a lot of confidence.”

Rogers oversees and trains 90 caddies who completed 600 loops in 2021 — young men and women whose participation puts them in the running for a full-tuition and housing college

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Western Golf Association’s Evans Scholar Foundation scholarship winner Jeremy Dreher hopes to attend University of Colorado at Boulder but also has his eye on Penn State. He plans to major in business and finance.

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scholarship and soft skills that last a lifetime. They learn etiquette, tips on how to connect with members and how to read the green.

“We don’t turn anyone away,” Rogers says. “I try to build a ‘this is for anyone and everyone’ program. You automatically have a team and a group of friends. No matter what is going on in life, this is a place where they can come and be around other buddies. When you’re caddying with other caddies, you’re a team. You exist to help the golfers and give them the best experience.”

CADDIES OF THE FUTURE Dreher’s win this year makes him one of the back-toback winners from Desert Forest Golf Club after Evan Johnson was awarded the scholarship last year. Needless to say, Rogers’ junior caddie program — which began in 2015 — is soaring.

“Over the years, members talked about how they got started in golf by caddying as a kid,” Rogers recalls. “It dawned on me — that generation’s experience wasn’t possible anymore, at least in Arizona’s current culture and climate.

“I decided I wanted to do a caddie program just for kids and I would structure it around weekends since, unlike other states, our members mostly play during school months. I didn’t fully realize all the benefits that came with junior caddies but now I’ve gone from growing caddies at Desert Forest to trying to figure out how to grow caddies across all of Arizona.”

Rogers says it starts by educating members and encouraging them to support the caddie program. The member response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Connecting across generations is good for all involved and advances the future of the sport.

“I educate my members and encourage them to support the caddie program,” Rogers explains. “They don’t come out like a pro-caddie right away, but with some training from Western Golf Association and some that we have developed ourselves, they learn a lot of tips and tricks.”

Rogers adds that Desert Forest Golf Club is a walkable course with greens and tees that are close together.

“The junior caddie program is a great way to exploit the benefits of walking and it helps out a deserving kid,” he

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No matter what is going on in life, this is a place where they can come and be around other buddies. When you’re caddying with other caddies, you’re a team.

You exist to help the golfers and give them the best experience. Brandon Rogers

says. “It also elevates the level of the golf experience. It’s not charity. These kids are highly trained.”

Rogers calls participants of the program the caddies of the future.

“There’s a ton of technology now that they can learn about,” he says. “When you’re trying to help your golfer and making a quick assessment, how can you actually help them lower their score? Everything done on the golf course to manage your game comes with understanding percentages.”

LEADERS OF TOMORROW The Evans Scholars program is for hardworking caddies like Dreher and Johnson who demonstrate financial need and have outstanding academic and leadership records. It is also one of the golf community’s favorite charities since its founding in 1930.

Rogers gets feedback from members and does his best to pair up caddies and golfers who are a natural fit.

Reading the personalities of members and learning how to relate, even if a youngster is on the quiet side, are important skills they’ll take with them into adulthood.

Over the life of the program, there have been 11,500 Evans Scholars, making it not only the nation’s largest scholarship program for caddies but also a favorite for golfers who want to donate to a cause after their own hearts.

Rogers is now brainstorming ideas for a caddie summer camp at a higher elevation that will allow for training and life skills.

“We believe that caddying provides an incredible opportunity to bring new people and groups into the game of golf,” says Amy Fuller, vice president of communications for Western Golf Association. “To that end, Western Golf Association oversees and establishes many youth caddie programs across the country.

Particularly in Arizona, it has been exciting to see the growth and momentum around youth caddying.”

“That’s my next phase,” Rogers says enthusiastically.

“The caddie camp concept is really taking shape and I hope it takes off. They can learn to do things beyond cleaning clubs. Even the mental side of the game is a big deal; You can train a caddie to say phrases to add value

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to a player’s game, whether they know it or not. Junior caddies can get a bad rap that they don’t have much to offer. I’m setting out to prove that wrong. I’m always finding ways to improve and grow.”

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Those caddies who are lucky enough to earn the Evans Scholarship go on to excel in college and beyond.

“Our Evans Scholars are truly the leaders of tomorrow,” Fuller says. “Our alumni go on to become community leaders and are successful in every industry imaginable. They also give back more than $17 million each year to the program that they love.”

This past year, the BMW Championship — a PGA Tour FedEx Cup Playoff event — raised a record $5.6 million to benefit the Evans Scholars program, which costs about $27 million per year to operate.

The value of a four-year Evans Scholarship is estimated at more than $120,000. Scholars attend 21 leading universities where they live and work together, with an impressive graduation rate of 95%.

This fall, Dreher will join those ranks and he couldn’t be more excited or grateful for the opportunity. He feels acutely how Rogers, his trainers and club members have truly invested in his success and it has bolstered his ambitions for the future.

“I need to give a lot of credit to Desert Forest Golf Club,” Dreher says. “They are amazing. I feel that they care about me at Desert Forest.

I believe they actually do care.

They see me as a person. They’ve really helped me and given me the greatest appreciation of golf. One of my goals, when I grow up, is to be a member at Desert Forest. I’m so excited for what the future holds.” desertforestgolfclub.com Facebook: @desertforestgolfclub Instagram: @desertforestgolfclub Twitter: @desert_forest imagesar izona.c om

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Anthony Giammarino

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devil's Kitchen in Sedona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anthony Giammarino

Scottsdale

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Photo by Aneliia Miller Photography

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Arizona is certainly filled with fascinating sights to behold from the ground up. Our desert is carpeted with saguaro and cacti of every sort, bright blooms in the spring and an array of wildlife amidst unique rock formations, shrubs and trees year-round.

However, a simple flip of your perspective can result in some truly unforgettable experiences and an entirely new view of our stunning state. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of high-flying options that allow just about anyone to soar over Arizona and see its grand extravagance from the sky.

UP, UP AND AWAY Floating above Arizona in a hot air balloon is one of the most popular adventure activities in the Valley of the Sun. Rainbow Ryders’ Scott Appelman, who has been involved in hot air ballooning for 40 years, says that Arizona’s consistently fantastic weather makes the state a perfect place for the activity.

Hot air balloons fly about 320 days out of the year — although safety is always a priority with keen monitoring of weather conditions, temperature and winds.

“We have more than 40 balloons,” says Appelman, noting that Rainbow Ryders operates seven days a week. “We have one flight time at sunrise and one at sunset and we can fly 10–15 balloons holding anywhere from two to 16 passengers.”

Rainbow Ryders has given the ultimate lift to many special occasions — engagements, anniversaries, birthdays, family reunions, bachelor and bachelorette parties and even weddings.

There are about two dozen hot air balloon weddings in Rainbow Ryders balloons each year.

“We are that special occasion experience as well as a bucket list check-off,” Appelman explains.

Writer Shannon Severson

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Photo by Aneliia Miller Photography

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Photo by Chris Banks

Photo Courtesy of Rainbow Ryders

This time of year — March through May — is high season for hot air ballooning, so it’s best to book early and be flexible just in case the weather interferes. If you’re planning to launch with family or friends visiting from out of state, Appleman suggests that you schedule early during their stay to allow for possible rescheduling.

Rainbow Ryders’ pilots are put through rigorous training and have extensive knowledge of the history, geography and nature of the area in order to provide a five-star experience.

“We take it as a privilege to be part of people’s memories,” Appelman says. We want to make sure that this is the best memory they’ve ever had.”

Rainbow Ryders 715 E. Covey Lane, Suite 100, Phoenix 800-725-2477 rainbowryders.com Instagram: @rainbowryders

JUST HANGING AROUND Hang gliding may sound like something that you have got to be an expert at, but Sonora Wings owner Danny Lange says that he and his crew are able to get beginners off the ground in short order when paired with an expert for a tandem ride.

“It doesn’t take a lot of skill to actually fly a glider,” says Lange, who has been flying since 1979.

“Almost anybody can do it smoothly and learn the knack. Our discovery flights are an introduction framed as a lesson. We’ve had some newbies fly the glider all the way down to the

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LIGHTING • IRRIGATION

www.lettherebelightllc.com (480)575-3204 info@lettherebelightllc.com Licensed | Bonded | Insured imagesar izona.c om

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Photo Courtesy of Sonora Wings

Photo Courtesy of Sonora Wings

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If you’re up for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of high-flying options that allow just about anyone to soar over Arizona and see its grand extravagance from the sky.

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point of landing, then our pilot LJ Omara does the hard part of getting it on the ground.”

At Sonora Wings, Lange and his wife Karen, who have owned the business since 2018, are introducing the public to aero-towed launching — where the glider is towed aloft by a small airplane.

Sonora Wings only operates November through the beginning of April, but its discovery flights for beginners generally conclude by midMarch. Safety is key and it’s a business that depends on good weather and wind speeds below 10 mph.

The time spent in the air is dependent upon altitude and conditions. Sonora Wings lifts its flyers to heights of 2,000, 3,000 or 5,280 feet. The higher the release of the glider, the longer it takes to meander back to Earth.

Lange adds that while tandem discovery flights last anywhere from ten minutes to a half-hour, solo hang glider pilots can sometimes stay aloft for hours — sometimes traveling hundreds of miles.

“People say hang gliding is awesome but peaceful,” he says. “The sensation very much resembles a bird. We can’t completely out-perform a bird, but we can come close.”

Sonora Wings 11934 N. Russell Road, Maricopa 480-251-1515 sonorawings.com Instagram: @sonorawings

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CHARTERING ADVENTURE If you’d rather fly the friendly skies in a more traditional craft but still want it to be extra memorable, Westwind Air Service offers year-round tours and charter flights on their fleet of 10 planes that depart from Deer Valley Airport.

Westwind Air Service operations manager Brad Fontenot says that aerial sightseeing tours above Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Sedona, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley are extremely popular with his clients and are often paired with other adventures like jeep rides, hiking, white water rafting, boat tours and even wine tasting.

Westwind Air Service’s signature tour is a 6–7 hour excursion that includes a scenic, narrated flight over Tonto National Forest, the Verde River, Sedona’s red rocks and the San Francisco Peaks.

When you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you’ll spend 20–30 minutes flying over the widest and most beautiful sections.

Only a few companies have permission to fly in this heavily restricted zone. Passengers then exit the plane for a tour around the canyon aboard a Buck Wild or Pink Jeep Tour.

“You land near the place you just saw from the air,” Fontenot explains. “We have a professional tour guide who is truly knowledgeable about the area.”

Fontenot adds that Westwind Air Service can fly private charters anywhere within a 400-mile radius of Phoenix. Utah, Colorado, Mexico, New Mexico and San Diego are all within reach without the hassle of taking a commercial flight.

Westwind Air Service charter tours have narration available in six different languages and, because the Cessnas fly at an altitude that is lower than commercial flights — 8,500 feet versus 25,000–35,000 feet — you’ll get a much closer, more detailed look at the view below.

Fonentot says that you may even spot rafters paddling down the Colorado River.

“These can be once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” he adds.

Westwind Air Service 732 W. Deer Valley Road, Phoenix 480-991-5557 westwindairservice.com Instagram: @westwindiarservice imagesar izona.c om

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photo by Matt Young Photography

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RESTORING HOPE TO CANCER PATIENTS

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

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

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Getty Images

Getty Images

Getty Images Getty Images

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

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

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

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diagnosed with the devastating disease.

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

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

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

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

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

“There are researchers out there who have concept ideas that have already passed the hospital boards and simply need funding,” Stacie says.

“So our role is to bring that funding and those treatments directly to the bedside of the person most in need.

“If you are suffering at the end stages of some dreaded cancer and there was a treatment out there that could be available to save your life, we want to get it to you now. Not next year or two years from now or three years from now. We want to get it to you now, because your clock is ticking.”

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

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

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

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

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

Photo by Bob and Dawn Davis Photography and Design

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

Dr. Stacie Stephenson

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

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

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Photo by Bob and Dawn Davis Photography and Design

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

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

“We are especially interested in the celebrities who participate being willing to share their cancer journey — whether it be of themselves, a loved one, a mom, a dad, a

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brother, a sister or God forbid a child. We really want the celebrities who participate to lend their voices to cancer research and the fight against cancer. These celebrities and our donors have that mission in mind. And in that space, we figure magic may happen for cancer patients all over the world.” celebrityfightnight.org Facebook: @celebrityfightnight Instagram: @celebfightnight Twitter: @celebfightnight

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

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Writer Shannon Severson

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It’s easy to put people in boxes — a habit that, for most people, likely began in middle and high school, where jocks, loners, drama geeks and artsy kids tend to stick close to their own. Rarely do the members of any particular group mix with the others. Whether it was imposed stereotype or selfcategorization, we began to accept the false notion that there was no cross-pollination between art and sport.

However, athletes and artists share plenty of characteristics and, as it turns out, the artist and the athlete are often one and the same. A new exhibition at The Gallery at Mountain Shadows seeks to tear down the walls and stereotypes, presenting the work of former professional athletes and U.S. Military veterans.

Gallery curator Cece Cole says that she is drawn to The Abstract Athlete and its aim to create dialogue in the context of socially engaged art practices.

“While demonstrating the comparisons and similarities between the disciplines of art and athleticism, they collectively offer insights that expand our knowledge and understanding of the creative process,” Cole explains.

Professor of fine art at Virginia Commonwealth University Ron Johnson is one of four co-founders of The Abstract Athlete.

He says that the general consensus is that artists and athletes are supposed to be separate. Being both can make one feel like somewhat of an outsider.

But retiring the cleats or hanging up the uniform can leave athletes and veterans feeling adrift. Where there was once structure, connection and daily discipline, there may be a sudden sense of solitude, less routine and sometimes even physical or mental trauma that can affect everyday function and relationships. Art provides renewed discipline, learning, accomplishment, stress release and healing.

Former college athlete and award-winning industrial designer and entrepreneur Chris Clemmer is another one of the organization’s co-founders, alongside Dr. David X. Cifu, a dean at Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine with expertise in traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation. They have collaborated with Fortune 500 marketing executive and former collegiate scholarship cheerleader Darrel Branch.

“We originally envisioned [The Abstract Athlete] as a charity to inspire kids,” Clemmer says. “It began growing into a huge opportunity to tell the story in different media and product.”

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TONY MANDARICH

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Today, The Abstract Athlete has expanded to include a traveling exhibition, a podcast and films as well as workshops, curriculum and classes for elementary through university students, professional sports teams, veterans and service members and corporate settings.

TONY MANDARICH Tony Mandarich was always fascinated by photography, even serving as photo editor of his high school newspaper.

“My interest was piqued pre-digital,” he reveals. “Now, the possibilities in photography are unlimited. I was amazed by what people were able to do with chemicals, dodging and burning — and I always wanted to know the why behind everything. Since art is so subjective, it was explained to me 20 different ways.”

As a top football prospect, the camera took a backseat to the game as he went on to play at Michigan State University and was drafted second overall in the 1989 NFL draft as an offensive tackle by the Green Bay Packers, for which he played for four seasons. He struggled with addiction and left the sport for a time, making a strong return to the game with the Indianapolis Colts, for which he played for three years.

Mandarich has now made his mark in the world of digital photography, creating powerful portraits that often comprise up to 25 images in one single piece. The native of Ontario, Canada lives and works in Scottsdale. His photographs are striking and strong, bringing out the many facets of his subjects in a single representation.

“My work is a reflection of my life,” Mandarich says.

“There was a lot of darkness in my life. I’m coming up on 27 years of sobriety; I would have missed it all if sobriety didn’t happen. To me, I’m living on 27 years of borrowed time. I have bad days. None of them compare to how they used to be. I would have missed the time with my photography mentors, Joel Grimes and Paul Markow, and doing photography myself and coming back to the NFL to play sober. I never thought I’d have my work in galleries.”

Mandarich says his athletic background works to his advantage once people get past the idea that a former football player might not be a good photographer. It has helped him build rapport and trust. He is also served by his ability to fully devote himself to honing a skill that takes extensive practice and time — the least of which is spent behind the camera. His photos each require an average of two to four editing hours.

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PERCY KING

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As Mandarich began to pursue photography full-time, he dedicated himself to constantly learning more, working as a photography assistant to Markow for 18 months and to Grimes in multiple photoshoots. He attended dozens of workshops and classes to learn everything he could about technique and composition. Mandarich brings his own personable nature to form a bond with anyone who puts themselves in front of his camera.

The photographer and subject are a sort of team. That trust shows through in the vulnerability his subjects are able to achieve, which makes for a much better end-product.

“I don’t hear most photographers talk about how important it is to get your subject to trust you,” Mandarich explains.

“If they trust you and buy into the process, the pictures will be incredible. I explain everything that goes into the images so that they really understand it; there’s a lot of preparation.

I even have playlists to match the mood of the shoot and what we are trying to portray.

“The best photos are when people are just being themselves.

Forget what you’ve seen on TV with top models. We are capturing something different — elegance and strength together. It’s hard to do but it can be done and I’ve been lucky to work with great people.”

Mandarich has also worked with the NFL’s “Smocks and Jocks” program and various charity groups. He is pleased to be involved with The Abstract Athlete and its wide reach to athletes, veterans and young people.

“What they’re doing is valuable,” Mandarich says.

“Creativity is good for the brain. It really helps people with PTSD and head injuries. I know it’s helped me. What Ron and Chris and the rest of The Abstract Athlete team are doing brings so much to people. I never would have had any of this particular experience without Ron and the program.”

PERCY KING Percy King was a standout defensive back at Ohio State University and later played for the Kansas City Chiefs. As a high schooler in Canton, Ohio, he had the good fortune of being coached by a Vietnam veteran and architect who served as both football coach and art teacher.

“He was an eccentric guy,” King recalls. “He helped design the World Trade Center towers. He was the first [creative] person I knew who recognized hip-hop.”

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Hip-hop is often a central theme of King’s work, which utilizes the Shaolin wood technique to build thin layers of wood veneer to create powerful, multidimensional portraits that seem to reverberate with motion. King has two pieces featured in The Abstract Athlete exhibition — one depicting Muhammad Ali and another of Prince.

“I do mostly portraiture and I’m focusing on different techniques,” says King, who began working with wood as a medium when he was learning to create inlay for some home remodeling projects. “You can really see a difference in my work from six years ago. I’m using paint, different backgrounds, using photography, lighting and digital work.

I’m continuing to add all these tools to my repertoire.

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“That’s really what has gotten me to this point — learning all of the things that I can. Just like in sports, you can work on a catch, then try it one-handed, then alter how you turn your hips or move your feet as you move on to the next level.”

And King’s art certainly has reached the next level. It has been his full-time occupation for six years and his works can be found in the museum of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts+Culture and Sozo Gallery in North Carolina, where he now lives. Six of his pieces are in the permanent collection of the Columbus Museum in Ohio. Former teammate Eddie George has a piece of his art, as well.

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“It’s been an amazing journey so far,” King says. “The Abstract Athlete were really the first people to tell me, ‘You are an artist’ and show me that my work would be accepted in these spaces. Not having gone to art school or one of the Ivy Leagues, [the art world] can be very closed off; people are looking for credibility. It’s intimidating. The Abstract Athlete is one of the first groups of guys to say, ‘Yes. You are a part of this community.’”

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King plans to continue to focus his perspective on things that inspire him — music, history, politics and other cultures such as the Dogon tribes of Mali and some of their traditional beliefs.

“I’m surprised [by] how many athletes are out there who are artists or who have done art,” King says. “It makes sense.

These things cross paths because of practice, discipline and the satiety of the need to have that discipline. All athletes are pursuing perfection; that desire doesn’t go away.”

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BRETT TOMKO

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While demonstrating the comparisons and similarities between the disciplines of art and athleticism, they collectively offer insights that expand our knowledge and understanding of the creative process. Cece Cole

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ALICIA DIETZ Alicia Dietz served in the Army for more than 10 years, attaining the rank of Major. She was a Blackhawk helicopter maintenance test pilot in Iraq, Germany, Alaska and Egypt.

It’s a career that left no room for error.

When she left the military in 2012, many called her crazy.

But she was determined to do something different — even if it was for a lower paycheck. She drew upon her experiences alongside her father and grandfather, as they did woodwork on weekends. Both men were highly accomplished and built furniture and, in her grandfather’s case, an entire home.

In the military, Dietz found respite in the woodshop on post as a stress reliever between intense flight school training classes. As she left the framework of military life, she drew on what she’d learned before to forge the path ahead.

“Craft, labor, dedication and learning were the cornerstones of my personal ethos in the military,” Dietz explains. “These same characteristics are exemplified in my pursuit of craft. Some people find it an odd jump to go from helicopter pilot to studio furniture maker. But many of the same principles apply.

“In the military, you learn to plan in both overview and specific detail. Then you execute. Yet, no plan survives first contact. So you evaluate your situation based on previous knowledge and what your experts are advising you, make changes, disseminate that information and execute again.

“I find this to be true in my studio. This process of evaluation and action, time and time again, leads to projects and pieces more informed than the last. It is this constant cycle that allows me to evaluate what I’ve just done in order to produce ever-evolving work.”

Having previously received a degree in advertising/journalism from Ohio University in 2001, Dietz ventured to the northeast to earn two woodworking and furniture making degrees from Vermont Woodworking School. An internship during that time with her woodworking hero, Wendy Maruyama, convinced Dietz that she had a story to tell.

“She is the one who really said, ‘You have a very different story and you can use craft as a way to convey that story,’” Dietz says. “She taught me about using concept and craft, telling your story through a different medium and method

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— which I think is really powerful about craft and art in general. The Abstract Athlete really brings that together.”

Dietz met Johnson at Virginia Commonwealth University as she completed her Master of Fine Arts in craft and material studies. In those classes, she created art as a way to convey the military experience to people who may only know civilian life, something she acknowledges can be a challenge.

Her sculptures are raw and heartbreaking. Notable

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among them is “Fallen Soldiers,” a Battlefield Cross, which is the display of the boots, helmet, rifle and kevlar of someone who has been killed. On it, she wrote the names of more than 7,000 soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. A version without the names has traveled the United States as a memorial to lives lost. The original will soon be in a New York City exhibition.

“It was me processing that experience in the only way I knew how,” Dietz explains. “I lost a friend and I was

The Abstract Athlete Through March 31 | The Gallery at Mountain Shadows | 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley March 20 22 480-624-5400 | mountainshadows.com

spinning my wheels as to why. I was suffering survivor’s guilt. The only thing I could think of was to write her name so people knew what an incredible person she was. I started writing all of the names.

“I didn’t know it at the time, but that piece was my penance for surviving.

The way my hand would cramp when carving or writing names — it was a physically and emotionally weighted piece. It was something I felt like I had to go through. It continues to be my most important piece and the one that I’m most proud of.”

These days, Dietz primarily works to create custom furniture and is constantly busy in her Richmond, Virginia studio. She has a passion for combining wood and concrete and some of that appears in her home decor and wall features.

Dietz’s contribution to The Abstract Athlete is part of a larger, 12-component live edge walnut and artisan grade concrete work titled “In Solitary / In Solidarity” that communicates the way that, as humans, we are individuals but also part of a larger collective.

It’s a lot like what the exhibition communicates as a whole. theabstractathlete.com Instagram: @theabstractathlete mountainshadows.com Instagram: @mountainshadowsaz

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DINING GUIDE Venues Cafe

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Offering an American bistro menu in an upscale-yetcasual dining atmosphere, Venues Cafe is the perfect place to settle in and relax while enjoying a meal that touches your heart and soothes your soul. The beautiful building — which provides the ambience of multiple textures of brick, copper, wood and stone — sits adjacent to the Carefree Sundial and directly across from the picturesque town center park.

From delicious starters like deviled eggs with bacon jam and tuna tartare stacked with avocado, mango and fried wontons to showstopping dinner entrees like chicken schnitzel with lingonberries and pistachio-crusted rack of lamb, Venues Cafe’s menu is comprised of comfort food at its absolute finest.

And there is nothing more comforting than a juicy burger, served with your choice of side and a free glass of house wine or beer every Monday night. Celebrate Wacky Wednesday with $3 tacos and $5 margaritas,

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

enjoy all-you-can-eat fish and chips each Friday or stop by on Saturday for the most mouthwatering comfort meal of all — a delectable prime rib dinner served with a baked potato and vegetables.

Take advantage of the town’s fabulous fresh air while dining on Venues Cafe’s new outdoor patio, complete with plenty of shady umbrellas to keep you cool during the day and several toasty heaters to keep you cozy at night. Or enjoy your meal inside, where a warm fireplace is situated next to a very well-stocked wine cellar.

Now celebrating its 12th year in Carefree, Venues Cafe has become many regular diners’ home away from home — especially on Sundays when, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., bottomless mimosas are offered with the purchase of any brunch item. Venues Cafe has perfected comfort food with a Southwestern flair.

Venues Cafe 38 Easy St., Carefree 480-595-9909

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And there is nothing more comforting than a juicy burger, served with your choice of side and a free glass of house wine or beer every Monday night.

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DINING GUIDE Giordano's Trattoria Romana

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Originally from New York City, Adele Giordano arrived in Arizona more than 18 years ago and saw an opportunity to bring a piece of her hometown and cultural heritage to the town of Carefree. Authentically capturing the feel and ambience of a little Italian eatery in New York, Giordano’s Trattoria Romana has become a true cornerstone of the community.

Giordano strives for a casual-yet-classy atmosphere and achieves exactly that with a focus on providing each and every guest an exceptionally personalized experience that is comfortable, relaxed and memorable.

Reservations are, therefore, highly recommended.

“We have so many repeat customers,” says Giordano, emphasizing her gratitude to the community for supporting her restaurant throughout the pandemic.

“We have received so much support. We would have never survived without the help and support of all of the wonderful people who dine with us.”

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Giordano adds that she loves meeting her guests and getting to know each and every one of them. She also loves being able to share with them a tantalizing taste of the Italian flavors with which she grew up — such as osso buco milanese, featuring a succulent veal shank in red wine sauce with diced vegetables over fettuccine, and veal gorgonzola, prepared in a delectable cream sauce with mushrooms over capellini.

“We have been known as the best-kept secret in Carefree, but we are not such a secret anymore,” says Giordano, who is grateful that the community appreciates the congenial service and delicious food that she, her chef and her staff are so incredibly proud to provide.

Giordano’s Trattoria Romana 7275 E. Easy St., Carefree 480-595-0233 giordanostrattoriaromana.com

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Authentically capturing the feel and ambience of a little Italian eatery in New York, Giordano’s Trattoria Romana has become a true cornerstone of the community.

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RECIPE

Caramel Mocha and Nutella Brownies Serves: 16

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

Directions:

Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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