Actively selling Desert Mountain since January 1995, Karen draws on her experience of having designed four custom homes and building two “Golden Nugget” award winners, to provide the detailed expertise Desert Mountain clients require. Her knowledge of the community and exclusive attention to Desert Mountain properties allows her to provide detailed knowledge of the community’s history, club operations, design review, and other issues important to members.
December 10–13
WEDNESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Wine and hor d’oeuvre from 4–7 p.m.
Discover William Henry’s award-winning fusion of rugged sophistication and artisan mastery. Each meticulously crafted piece — from luxury men’s jewelry to collectible pocket knives — combines precious metals, rare materials and advanced alloys. Experience limited-edition creations designed for the discerning collector who values both timeless elegance and masculine distinction.
f u l l s e r v i c e i n t e r i o r d e s i g n & f u r n i s h i n g s
w w w . o m d e s i g n g r o u p . c o m - 4 8 0 . 9 1 5 . 0 1 2 9
ELEVATING GUEST COMFORT: INSIGHTS FROM SUE B.
As the holidays approach, I suggest staying in your guest room to experience it from your guest’s perspective. Ensure every amenity is provided, that the space radiates luxury, and that plush towels convey the comfort your visitors deserve.
This guest room epitomizes sophisticated elegance with exquisite furnishings and sumptuous bedding. The midnight blue leather headboard and matching bench add opulence, while custom-made dark nightstands and contemporary champagne-finish lamps enhance the ambiance. A playful area rug introduces warmth and personality, complemented by raised velvet polka dot pillows and a sculptural fabric stool. This thoughtfully curated space creates a true sanctuary — one that makes your guests feel pampered while reflecting your impeccable taste.
The key to exceptional guest comfort lies in the details that speak to both luxury and thoughtfulness. When your guests settle into this carefully designed retreat, they’ll experience the same attention to comfort and style that defines your entire home.
SUE BICKERDYKE
Whether
The
THIRD
FEATURING RENE PALOMINO
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 FROM 4 TO 7 PM
Artist Speaking at 5:15PM
ARTIST RENE PALOMINO Reversed Painted Mixed Media
From Cotton Fields to Concert Halls Community
Where Wilderness Meets Wonder
Creative Metamorphosis
photo essay
S ANDERSON LINCOLN ANDERSON LINCOLN
PUBLISHER
Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR
Joseph J. Airdo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Meaghan Mitchell
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Joseph J. Airdo
Francine Coles
Shannon Severson
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Francine Coles
Loralei Lazurek
ADVERTISING SALES
Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271 cindi@imagesaz.com
From the Publisher
by Loralei Lazurek
As autumn settles over Arizona, there’s a palpable sense of gratitude in the air. November brings not just cooler temperatures but a collective pause to appreciate the abundance that surrounds us in our desert home — from the creative talents that flourish here to the world-class cultural offerings at our doorstep.
This month’s issue celebrates the intersection of authentic artistry and sophisticated entertainment. Our cover story, “From Cotton Fields to Concert Halls,” offers an exclusive look at Morgan Freeman’s “Symphonic Blues Experience” at Arizona Musicfest, where the Academy Award winner bridges Mississippi Delta authenticity with orchestral grandeur. This unprecedented fusion of storytelling and symphonic artistry demonstrates the sophisticated cultural offerings that make our community truly special.
“A Creative Metamorphosis” follows artist Elizabeth Page’s dramatic transformation from floral painter to mixed-media innovator, sparked by motherhood and a deeper connection to the Sonoran landscape. Her stunning desert collage graces this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory cover, exemplifying how authentic artistic vision can emerge when we find the courage to embrace change.
Our photo essay, “Wild Light,” showcases Dean Hueber’s stunning captures of Sonoran Desert wildlife during autumn’s subtle but spectacular transformation. His images remind us that even in our familiar landscapes, extraordinary beauty awaits those who know where to look and when to pause.
As I reflect on this season of Thanksgiving, I’m profoundly grateful for legends who honor our community with their artistry, for artists who show us the beauty of transformation, and for photographers who help us see familiar landscapes with fresh eyes. I’m thankful for my family and friends who support this endeavor, for our advertisers who believe in our mission, and most of all, for readers like you who make our work meaningful.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona
Photography
From Cotton Fields to Concert Halls
Morgan Freeman Brings Delta Blues to the Desert
Writer
J.
The cotton fields stretch endlessly under the Mississippi sun, and somewhere among those 100 acres, a rhythm begins. It starts with the steady thwack of hoes against earth, builds with the natural cadence of human labor, and inevitably, someone begins to hum.
“That’s the absolute beginning,” says Morgan Freeman, his unmistakable voice carrying the weight of authentic memory. “You can’t separate blues from gospel music for that reason.”
On Jan. 8, the Academy Award-winning actor will bring his “Symphonic Blues Experience” to Arizona Musicfest, offering North Scottsdale audiences an unprecedented fusion of his legendary storytelling prowess with the raw, emotional power of Mississippi Delta blues. But this isn’t simply another celebrity concert — it’s a cultural bridge spanning centuries of American musical history, orchestrated by a man whose connection to the blues runs as deep as the Delta soil itself.
Freeman’s relationship with the blues began in childhood, long before Hollywood discovered his distinctive presence. Born in Memphis and raised in Charleston, Mississippi, by his paternal grandmother, Freeman absorbed blues music not as an outsider looking in but as someone raised within its authentic cultural context.
Morgan Freeman, co-owner of Mississippi’s Ground Zero Blues Club, presents a groundbreaking multimedia production that combines cinematic narration with symphonic orchestration at Arizona Musicfest.
Joseph
Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Symphonic Blues Experience
Freeman’s childhood was immersed in this musical tradition, where blues emerged naturally from the rhythm of daily life. His grandmother would host traveling musicians, creating some of his earliest musical memories. This early exposure shaped Freeman’s understanding of blues as more than entertainment — it’s a cultural expression born from genuine human experience, rooted in the struggles and joys of Delta life.
This authentic foundation led Freeman, his late partner, Bill Luckett, and Howard Stovall, to establish Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, in 2001. The club emerged from a simple observation: Tourists visiting the Delta’s legendary crossroads had nowhere reliable to hear genuine blues music.
“Across the street from where we were working, we saw these backpackers — just a young guy and girl,” Freeman recalls. “Bill, being a hail fellow well met type, went over to ask if they needed help. They asked, ‘Where can we hear some blues music?’ There was no place we could recommend.”
So Freeman and Luckett decided to create that place themselves, establishing what would become Ground Zero Blues Club.
Today, the club operates under the guidance of Eric Meier, the Stanford MBA and healthcare executive who joined Ground Zero as co-owner in 2018, bringing entrepreneurial acumen to cultural preservation, viewing the club’s mission through both business and community development lenses.
“We’ve tried to make this as much about education as it is entertainment,” Meier explains. “You’ve got the beauty of great music, with Morgan providing connective tissue over a 100-year journey through his narration. Then you’ve got video storytelling.”
Ground Zero has evolved into what many consider “the world’s top blues club,” hosting more than 200 shows annually and launching careers of contemporary Delta talents including Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Anthony “Big A” Sherrod. The
Who knew that a symphony orchestra and a few blues musicians could blend so well and put on such a wonderful show?
Morgan Freeman
club’s authenticity — maintained in a minimally renovated cotton warehouse with graffiticovered walls and mismatched chairs — attracts international media attention while preserving a genuine juke joint atmosphere.
“One of the things that’s made it so enduring — we’re approaching our 25th anniversary next May — is that we’ve kept it real,” Meier notes. “It doesn’t look like it was just hacked together. There are layers to it: the graffiti, the not-safe-for-work bathroom visits, the posters and flags. People want to come and experience this living history.”
The Symphonic Blues Experience represents Ground Zero’s most ambitious cultural expansion. Rather than simply transplanting club performances to concert halls, Freeman and Meier created a multimedia production combining filmed narration, live orchestra and authentic Delta musicians.
“We realized it’s not easy for everyone to reach Clarksdale, so we thought, ‘Let’s bring it to you,’” Freeman explains. “The symphony becomes a medium to narrate the blues story.”
The production deliberately challenges assumptions about both genres. Freeman, who appreciates diverse musical forms from Ravel to contemporary blues, sees no inherent conflict between symphonic sophistication and Delta authenticity.
“I listen to symphonies. I like Ravel. And I’ve listened to the blues,” he says. “I’m not a blues aficionado — I like music, period. I don’t think there’s any music I don’t like.”
Meier elaborates on this philosophical approach: “The beauty of the strings, right? Can the strings add more gravitas to a classic blues song? Absolutely. We’ve got a song called ‘Traveling Riverside Blues’ that Led Zeppelin covered. It originally was written
Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman brings his “Symphonic Blues Experience” to Arizona Musicfest Jan. 8, fusing his legendary storytelling with authentic Mississippi Delta blues and full orchestra.
Morgan Freeman and Eric Meier, co-owners of Mississippi’s Ground Zero Blues Club, have transformed their authentic Delta venue into a touring symphonic experience that brings blues history to concert halls nationwide.
by Robert Johnson, I believe. We have a gospel singer performing it, and it works.”
Arizona Musicfest Executive and Producing Director Allan Naplan immediately recognized the production’s significance when considering programming for the organization’s 35th anniversary season.
“When I learned about the Symphonic Blues show, I immediately jumped at the opportunity to present such a well-conceived and well-produced concert,” Naplan explains. “Along with the featured performances of acclaimed Delta blues artists, with the integration of our Musicfest Pops Ensemble orchestra, a beautifully produced multimedia retrospective on the history of the blues, and, of course, the presence of legendary Hollywood icon Morgan Freeman, I thought the concert would be ideal for our Musicfest series.”
Before the Blues
Arizona Musicfest’s 35th anniversary season continues with four distinctive performances leading up to Morgan Freeman’s January spectacular, each offering unique cultural experiences for desert arts enthusiasts.
Kenny G takes the Highlands Church stage Nov. 14, bringing decades of contemporary jazz mastery to Scottsdale. The superstar saxophonist, with more than 75 million records sold worldwide, delivers smooth jazz favorites, including his signature “Songbird.” His expressive melodies and chart-topping instrumental albums have defined contemporary jazz for multiple generations.
The Texas Tenors return Nov. 22 for their highly anticipated third Arizona Musicfest appearance, presenting “Let Freedom Sing” in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The “America’s Got Talent” favorites showcase their acclaimed blend of country, pop, Broadway and classical repertoire, drawing from their extensive catalog of five studio albums and more than 2,000 concerts performed.
“We’re thrilled to bring back The Texas Tenors for their third appearance at Musicfest,” explains Allan Naplan, Arizona Musicfest’s executive and producing director. “As their first two appearances sold out, we look forward to another great success with this popular act. With their strong vocal prowess and captivating stage charisma, their special program ‘Let Freedom Sing’ will surely be a moving and powerful concert experience.”
December opens with Phat Cat Swinger Dec. 5, as Hollywood’s “Little Big Band” delivers its signature “Not So Silent Night” holiday celebration. The ensemble presents lively arrangements of Christmas favorites alongside new, unreleased material exclusive to this tour, complete with social dancing opportunities for adventurous audience members.
Naplan particularly appreciates this innovative approach to holiday programming. “For each season’s Christmas concerts, I’m always looking for inventive and engaging artists who will bring a fresh and entertaining take on holiday classics, and with Phat Cat Swinger, we’ve certainly got that,” he notes. “Their enthusiasm, exuberance, and entertaining excellence are really something special. This will be one of the most enjoyable Christmas concerts that we’ve ever presented.”
The holiday season concludes Dec. 8 with “Christmas with the Celts,” the PBS-featured celebration mixing ancient Irish carols, folk ballads, contemporary songs and spirited Irish dance. This interactive performance features traditional instruments, vibrant string arrangements and the warm humor characteristic of Celtic holiday traditions. azmusicfest.org
Lee Williams
Heather Crosse
After attending the production at Chicago’s Ravinia Festival, Naplan witnessed its broad appeal firsthand.
“From blues aficionados to movie buffs, everyone in attendance was having a wonderful time,” he recalls. “Further, as this season Musicfest begins our extended celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, it’s a great time to celebrate and honor the legacy of this uniquely American musical genre.”
The production’s innovative approach attracts diverse audiences, expanding traditional boundaries between musical communities.
“There will be people who don’t regularly attend symphonies coming to this show,” Meier observes. “There will be symphony aficionados who don’t go to blues concerts saying, ‘I’m going to come listen to this.’ The show has sold extremely well and is approaching sellout status.”
This cross-pollination serves broader cultural purposes beyond entertainment.
“Symphony executives have approached us afterward and said, ‘Yeah, this is what we want. We want to appeal to a broader cross section, maybe a slightly younger population,’” Meier notes. “This production enables that.”
Freeman envisions the audience experience as uniquely collaborative.
“A symphony orchestra has its own audience. But then there are people who want to come and see something different and exciting,” he explains. “So you’re going to have that mix in the audience, each bringing their own perspective to the experience. That’s the other great thing about doing things together — you have this diverse audience.”
Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman partners with Stanford MBA Eric Meier to preserve and expand Delta blues culture through their Ground Zero Blues Club and innovative “Symphonic Blues Experience” production.
Slim Forrest
Big A
The production’s emphasis on authenticity extends to its featured performers — all regular Ground Zero artists under 40, representing blues as a living, evolving tradition rather than a historical artifact.
“One important point: When people think of blues artists, they often think of someone toward the end of their career,” Meier clarifies. “That’s not what this is. This is a living, breathing, vibrant music genre that’s embedded itself in rock, gospel and hip-hop.”
For Freeman, the ultimate measure of success transcends commercial metrics.
“What do I want for a legacy? Simply that people had a truly unique experience — something unbelievable,” he reflects. “Because who knew that a symphony orchestra and a few blues musicians could blend so well and put on such a wonderful show?”
The Jan. 8 performance promises North Scottsdale audiences an evening that Freeman describes as transformative — a journey through American musical history guided by authentic voices and elevated by symphonic grandeur. In a region celebrated for its cultural sophistication, Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience offers something genuinely unprecedented: the marriage of Hollywood storytelling, Mississippi authenticity, and orchestral elegance.
As Freeman puts it, “Music is communication, and it’s widespread. Every culture, every subculture has a way of expressing itself musically.” On a January evening in the desert, Arizona Musicfest will host that universal communication in its most compelling form — where voice meets blues, and both find their perfect symphonic expression.
symphonicblues.com
MUSIC
Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience
Thursday, Jan. 8 // 7:30 p.m. // Highlands Church 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale // $79+ 480-422-8449 // azmusicfest.org
ITALIAN WEEKEND
LA DOLCE VITA IN GOLD
NOVEMBER 14–15
Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. // Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Celebrate Italian excellence with an exclusive showcase featuring FOPE’s revolutionary Flex’it technology, Demeglio’s innovative engineering, Mattia Cielo’s futuristic designs and Roberto Coin’s signature artistry. Join us Friday evening for cocktails as we toast the finest expressions of Italian goldsmithing, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary innovation.
GOLDEN GEOMETRIES THE ARTISTRY OF ALEX ŠEPKUS
NOVEMBER 11–12
Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Enter the extraordinary world of Alex Šepkus, where microscopic artistry meets unparalleled vision. Each 18-karat gold masterpiece showcases intricate geometric patterns and textures that transform jewelry into wearable sculpture. Experience these collectible treasures that have captivated museums and connoisseurs worldwide.
ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
NOVEMBER 20
Wine and hor d’oeuvre Thursday from 4–7 p.m.
Experience the intersection of architecture and art with Kathleen Hope’s textural cement compositions and Troy Axelrod’s bold geometric wall sculptures. Both artists explore structural beauty through mixed media, creating pieces that bridge the worlds of fine art and architectural design.
AARON HENRY’S GOLDEN LEGACY
NOVEMBER 21–22
Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Discover the warm luxury of Aaron Henry’s 18- to 19-karat gold creations, where each piece undergoes a meticulous 10-step process to achieve unmatched brilliance. These modern heirlooms blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sophistication, designed to be treasured for generations.
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
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
DECEMBER 11
Wine and hor d’oeuvre Thursday from 4–7 p.m.
Embrace the season in perfect comfort and style. Join us for an evening of holiday treats, mulled wine and festive warmth as we celebrate the year’s finest collections. Don your coziest cashmere and discover the perfect gifts for those who appreciate exceptional art and jewelry. A relaxed evening of seasonal celebration awaits.
Community
THROUGH NOV. 10
INSIGHT NEW YORK TRUNK SHOW
Lonni Women's Fashion Boutique presents a curated collection of jackets, pants and tops from Insight New York. Free gift with purchase. Call for hours. Lonni Women's Fashion Boutique, 30 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-7768.
NOV. 1
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY CRAFT FAIR & BAKE SALE
American Legion Auxiliary Post 34 hosts its 8th annual community event featuring handmade goods — from wooden creations and holiday items to jewelry, natural soaps, purses, candles and Arizona honey — plus a bake sale by Auxiliary members, a raffle table, a silent auction and lunch available on the patio. Proceeds support veterans in need. Free. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. American Legion Post 34, 6272 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2669; azpost34.com
NOV. 1
BLACK & WHITE BALL
Desert Foothills Library reimagines
Truman Capote’s iconic soiree with an elegant evening of cocktails, hors
NOV. 1
PRICKLY PEAR FESTIVAL
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
The Holland Community Center’s Desert Awareness Committee hosts its annual event celebrating the bounty of the Sonoran Desert. Learn about harvesting, juicing and flour processing of prickly pear fruit, and enjoy samples of smoothies, salsa, bread and more. Free. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-4881090; hollandcenter.org
d’oeuvres, live music, dancing, a seated gourmet dinner, magical entertainment and live auction. $250+. 5–9 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. School House Road, Cave Creek. 480-4882286; dfla.org
NOV. 1
JUBILATE CONSERVATORY FALL RECITAL
Jubilate Conservatory of Music presents a special recital featuring all fall semester ensembles and classes, from the Littles on Fiddles to the Desert Strings advanced level ensemble. Free. 10–11:30 a.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. jubilateconservatoryofmusic.org
NOV. 6
DISCOVERY HOUR: THE GOLDEN DECADE
The Holland Center invites the community to relive the magic of 1950s popular music at this lecture led by music writer and Musical Instrument Museum docent Jeff Weiner. Experience video highlights featuring iconic stars from Elvis Presley to Dean Martin and Pat Boone, with discussion celebrating the era’s remarkable musical variety. Free. RSVP requested. 10:30 a.m.
Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
NOV. 7
BBQ, BOOTS & BEERS
Desert Foothills Theater presents a footstomping musical tribute to the spirit of the American West, with live music, food, dancing and cowboy-inspired performances in a cabaret format. $50. 6 p.m. Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-1981; dftheater.org
NOV. 7–8
OUR LADY OF JOY CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Enjoy festive community spirit at this 18th annual holiday shopping tradition showcasing the work of more than 70 gifted artisans, plus Sweets and Treats, the KOC Savory Grille and the Mimosa Bistro. Attendees are invited to bring nonperishable food items or make a monetary donation benefiting the Foothills Food Bank. Free. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church, 36811 N. Pima Road, Carefree. oloj.org
Community
NOV. 8–9
WESTWORLD ART & WINE EXPERIENCE
Coinciding with the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, this new event brings together fine art and Arizona wine under one roof at WestWorld. Browse works by approximately 100 artists and craftsmen while sampling selections from 20 in-state wineries, with additional interactive art demos, gourmet bites and luxury lifestyle exhibits rounding out the weekend. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. vermillionpromotions.com
NOV. 11
CAREFREE VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
The town honors veterans past and present during its annual celebration. Free. 3–5 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. carefree.org
NOV. 12
HONORING AND CELEBRATING OUR VETERANS
The Holland Center hosts a heartfelt Veterans Day luncheon to honor military service, featuring patriotic music and
NOV. 8–9 BENTLEY SCOTTSDALE POLO CHAMPIONSHIPS
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
The 14th annual Polo Party returns with six matches over four days, highlighted by Saturday’s 2 p.m. signature showdown as the Wales Polo Invitational Team — founded in 2008 under the patronage of King Charles III — challenges defending champions Wine Country Polo Club. The weekend also features an Army vs. Navy matchup, a “Battle of the Sexes,” and an “International All-Stars” game, plus fan favorites including Canine Couture by Lugari Pet Salon, the World’s Longest Catwalk Fashion Show by Phoenix Fashion Week, Casa Amigos Dayclub, and the BarrettJackson Champagne & Jazz Lounge in a new open-air format. See website for prices and schedule. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. thepoloparty.com
stories by the Fountain Hills Saxophone Quartet. Veterans and a guest are invited to enjoy lunch, fellowship and gratitude in a welcoming community atmosphere. Free. RSVP required. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
NOV. 13
THE COLORADO RIVER AND ITS WONDERS
The Holland Center presents a lecture by historian and author Jim Turner on the Colorado River’s importance, history and beauty — from its role in supporting millions of people and agriculture to its scenic canyons and national parks. The session explores the river’s geology, geography, current challenges and preservation. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP requested. 6 p.m. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
NOV. 14–15
ITALIAN WEEKEND: LA DOLCE VITA IN GOLD
Celebrate Italian excellence with an exclusive showcase featuring FOPE’s revolutionary Flex’it technology,
Demeglio’s innovative engineering, Mattia Cielo’s futuristic designs and Roberto Coin’s signature artistry. Discover the finest expressions of Italian goldsmithing, where centuriesold traditions meet contemporary innovation. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480-5758080; gracereneegallery.com
NOV. 15 PAPAHUGS CHILDREN’S MUSIC CONCERT
Grammy Award-nominated children’s musician David Sharpe presents an interactive concert featuring original, upbeat songs for children of all ages. The PapaHugs performance includes singalongs and movement activities. Free. 11 a.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. School House Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
NOV. 15–16
VERDE VALLEY POTTERY FESTIVAL
The Verde Valley Pottery Festival returns to Cornville, featuring more than a dozen Arizona potters, live demonstrations, food trucks and estategrown wines. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
This car show welcomes auto enthusiasts and families to explore rare “orphan” vehicles from now-defunct manufacturers — including Studebaker, Packard, Nash and MG — alongside unique and unusual automotive oddities. Free. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. carefreecavecreek.org
NOV. 19
EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL EVENT
The Carefree Traveler hosts an invitation-only luxury travel showcase featuring 16 top-tier vendors specializing in private jet expeditions, small-ship cruising, all-inclusive luxury travel and small-group tours to destinations including Alaska, Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Japan, North America and South America. Space is limited. Call for details and an invitation. The Carefree Traveler, 7171 E. Cave Creek Road, Suite A, Carefree. 480-488-3111; carefreetraveler.com
NOV. 20
ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
Experience the intersection of architecture and art with Kathleen Hope’s textural cement compositions and Troy Axelrod’s bold geometric wall sculptures. Both artists explore structural beauty through mixed
Community
media, creating pieces that bridge the worlds of fine art and architectural design. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
NOV. 20
CAREFREE ART NIGHT
Local and regional artists showcase their work at participating galleries during this monthly celebration. Enjoy live music, refreshments, artist talks and demonstrations. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries and event map. visitcarefree.com/artnight
NOV. 20–22
AARON HENRY’S GOLDEN LEGACY
Discover the warm luxury of Aaron Henry’s 18- to 19-karat gold creations, where each piece undergoes a meticulous 10-step process to achieve unmatched brilliance. These modern heirlooms blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sophistication, designed to be treasured for generations. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
NOV. 11–12
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
GOLDEN GEOMETRIES: THE ARTISTRY OF ALEX SEPKUS
Enter the extraordinary world of Alex Sepkus, where microscopic artistry meets unparalleled vision. Each 18-karat gold masterpiece showcases intricate geometric patterns and textures that transform jewelry into wearable sculpture. Experience these collectible treasures that have captivated museums and connoisseurs worldwide. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
NOV. 21–23
SONORAN FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL
Browse bronze, clay, glass and wood sculptures, paintings, ceramics, handcrafted jewelry, photography, metalwork and more throughout Cave Creek’s shops, plazas and botanical gardens. Fine wine tastings, patio dining and live music complete the experience. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 623-734-6526; vermillionpromotions.com
NOV. 22
COMPOSERS IN CONCERT
Jubilate Conservatory of Music partners with professional musicians to perform string quartets composed by Jubilate students. Throughout the year, students of all ages and skill levels collaborate with teachers to craft original works showcased in this annual event. Free. 1–3 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. School House Road, Cave Creek. 480-993-6147; jubilateconservatoryofmusic.org
NOV. 23
SUNDIAL DRUM CIRCLE
Join an all-ages drum circle class with optional sundial parade to follow. Drums and rhythm instruments available. Free. 2:30–3:30 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. 480-9936147; jubilateconservatoryofmusic.org
DEC. 2
STARRY DESERT NIGHTS
The Holland Center and Desert Foothills Land Trust present a Foothills Speaker Series evening exploring the night sky with Jenny Hall of Paradise Valley Community College and telescope viewing with Focus Astronomy’s Kevin LeGore. Free; RSVP required. 6–8 p.m. Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Bldg. B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; dflt.org/ speakerseries
DEC. 6
CAREFREE LIGHTS UP
Celebrate the season with the town's annual tree lighting ceremony and Christmas concert. Free. 5 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. carefree.org
MUSEUM HONORS RANCHO MANANA
Cave Creek Museum’s Local Landmarks program this month will present a brass plaque to Rancho Mañana in recognition of its role in the town’s heritage. Originally a stagecoach and U.S. Cavalry stop, the property later operated as a sheep-shearing station and wool-shipping business before becoming Howard Ranch cottage resort. In the early 1940s, Romy and Jean Loudermilk acquired the property and named it Rancho Mañana, and in 1945, Ted and China Loring purchased it and operated it as a dude ranch until the mid-1950s. Today the property features a desert golf course and Tonto Bar & Grill. cavecreekmuseum.org
DESERT MOUNTAIN ESTATE SETS RECORD
The Hunter Family Trust this fall purchased an 11,272-square-foot hillside mansion in Desert Mountain for $14 million, setting a neighborhood sales record. The cash sale, handled by Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, features six bedrooms and eight bathrooms. The contemporary estate showcases panoramic desert and mountain views characteristic of North Scottsdale’s exclusive gated golf community. russlyon.com
DETOX DESSERTS EXPANDS WITH ONLINE BAKERY
Detox Desserts, the first and only physician-created healthy bakery in Arizona, has launched an online bakery offering gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan and low-carb desserts for pickup or delivery. Founded by Dr. Alexis McNeil, the Carefree-based company created the expansion in response to customer demand for ready-to-eat options. The business features physician-formulated, clinically tested superfood desserts handcrafted in small batches using proprietary “Sweet Swaps” ingredients based on the Mediterranean diet. detoxdesserts.com
Kathleen Hope + Troy Axelrod
CONTEMPORARY ARTIST
Experience the intersection of architecture and art with Kathleen Hope’s textural cement compositions and Troy Axelrod’s bold geometric wall sculptures. Both artists explore structural beauty through mixed media, creating pieces that bridge the worlds of fine art and architectural design.
ARTIST RECEPTION
Thursday, November 20 Wine & appetizers
p.m.
Renee Gallery Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377
Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. By appointment Sun. and Mon. 480.575.8080
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography
Pulse Points
Machine Vision Captures Sonoran Desert’s Living Rhythms
Acholla cactus performs an almost imperceptible dance, its spiny arms swaying in slow motion against an azure sky. Sediment flows like liquid mercury across desert washes after phantom rains. Cactus blooms breathe in microscopic pulses, revealing the secret choreography of an ecosystem most consider static.
This is the Sonoran Desert as you’ve never seen it — captured through the electronic eyes of machines and transformed into “Framerate: Desert Pulse,” a groundbreaking exhibition that opened this fall at Desert Botanical Garden. Five monumental video installations now reveal the hidden life pulsing through our familiar landscape, challenging even longtime desert dwellers to see home through entirely new eyes.
London-based ScanLAB Projects has spent the past year documenting the subtle transformations of our desert landscape using pioneering 3D scanning technology, capturing billions of data points that reveal the constant, nearly imperceptible dance of life in the Sonoran ecosystem. The result is a multisensory experience that challenges even longtime desert residents to see their home through entirely new eyes.
Tephrocactus Geometricus, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
If we can encourage people to recognize and appreciate that this landscape is always changing — and that those changes aren’t always about us — I think that’s a truly beautiful place for people to arrive at.
Matt Shaw
“There’s this sense of surprising wonder — the thing that’s struck us most about the desert is just how full of life it is,” says Matt Shaw, co-founder and director of ScanLAB Projects. “That life is both vividly present and, at the same time, somehow hidden.”
Shaw and his creative partner William Trossell have built their artistic practice around what they call “machine vision” — the use of 3D scanning technology to capture reality with scientific precision while revealing poetic truths about the world around us. Their previous work has taken them to melting Arctic ice and former concentration camps, but the Sonoran Desert presented unique revelations.
“Phoenix, after all, is one of the hottest cities in America,” Shaw explains. “From our perspective, it exemplifies the realities of climate change — a city getting hotter and more extreme every year, sometimes to a dangerous degree.”
Yet what emerges from their yearlong documentation is not a story of harshness, but of resilience and surprising vitality. The installation’s five massive screens, positioned thoughtfully throughout Desert Botanical Garden’s landscape, display footage that transforms familiar desert scenes into something otherworldly yet deeply truthful.
The technology itself reads like science fiction. Teams of specialized photographers returned to the same 15 locations across the Valley every day for an entire year, capturing repeated 3D scans from identical positions. These sites
One Giant Saguaro (from above), 2025
Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Astrophytum Myriostigma Nudum, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
ranged from the Tonto National Forest and Salt River to McDowell Mountain Preserve and carefully selected spots within Desert Botanical Garden itself.
“We don’t just show up with a concept and impose it on a location; it’s about engaging in a conversation with that place,” Trossell explains. “Asking how we can respond to it and how, through technology, we might tell truly beautiful and meaningful stories that come alive.”
The resulting footage captures phenomena invisible to casual observation: the microscopic movements of cactus blooms, the flow of sediment after rare desert rains, the seasonal breathing of an ecosystem that many mistakenly perceive as static. Layered onto this yearlong documentation are captures of events unfolding over mere hours, creating a temporal tapestry that reveals the desert’s multiple rhythms.
The visual complexity extends beyond individual screens. Shaw and Trossell, both trained architects, have designed the installation as a four-dimensional editing experience where images flow not just across screens but through the physical space of Desert Botanical Garden itself.
“The architectural design of the installation is critical to how audiences experience the piece,” Shaw notes. “Even though it’s digital — just screens — we care deeply about the materiality of those pixels. Every detail is carefully crafted.”
Composer Pascal Wyse has created an equally sophisticated soundscape that responds to and enhances the visual revelations, having captured audio recordings in precious locations including Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands. The result is a 20-minute immersive journey distributed across multiple screens that functions as both meditation and revelation.
Echinopsis Bourne Mischief 2025
Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Diamondbacks Baseball, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Echinocereus Rigidissimus, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Echinopsis Bourne Mischief (from above) 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
For Elaine McGinn, Desert Botanical Garden’s chief experience officer, the project represents more than artistic innovation — it embodies the institution’s commitment to fostering deeper connections between visitors and the natural world.
“Curating ‘Desert Pulse’ has been a process of peeling back assumptions, inviting the viewer to consider not just what deserts are, but what they represent: resilience, transformation and the unseen networks that sustain life,” McGinn says. “The exhibition is not just a display of art — it is a meditation on what it means to belong, to remember and to reimagine the unique and beautiful place we call home, the Sonoran Desert.”
Desert Botanical Garden’s selection of ScanLAB Projects continues its tradition of hosting world-class artists like Dale Chihuly, Bruce Munro and Fernando Botero. But this exhibition breaks new ground by bridging art and science while addressing contemporary environmental concerns through a distinctly local lens.
London artists use cutting-edge 3D scanning to reveal the Sonoran Desert’s hidden life in a stunning new exhibition that transforms how we see our own backyard.
McGinn discovered the artists at South by Southwest, where their prototype immediately resonated with her vision for art that transforms perspective.
“Will and Matt from ScanLAB have brought an entirely new dimension to what we hope to achieve with our art program,” she explains. “This exhibition is, above all, a deeply visceral experience. People leave not just thinking, but truly feeling — often in ways that are quite surprising.”
The project’s commitment to sustainability adds another layer of meaning to its environmental themes. ScanLAB has documented the carbon impact of every aspect of production, making choices that sometimes cost more but create less environmental impact. Its partnership with Rivian Automotive, which provides an electric R1T pickup for the project, underscores these values while supporting the artwork’s themes of innovation and environmental responsibility.
One Giant Saguaro, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
“We genuinely hope people appreciate the honesty with which we approach these decisions,” Shaw says. “Sometimes we make choices that complicate our process or cost us money, simply because they help us minimize our footprint.”
For viewers, the experience promises revelations both grand and intimate. McGinn has found her own relationship with the desert transformed by witnessing it through the artists’ technological lens.
“Now, when I drive out into the desert or even just around town, I find myself noticing things differently,” she reflects. “There’s one incredible cholla that almost appears to do a little dance. You’ll see — it’s truly fascinating.”
The installation reveals moments of human celebration alongside natural processes — a baseball game recording captures community joy while documenting our collective footprint on the landscape. Such juxtapositions invite reflection on how we inhabit and impact the desert environment.
Shaw hopes visitors will expand their temporal perspective beyond daily routines and individual lifetimes.
“There are moments in this piece where we hope viewers reflect on the timescale of a landscape or a river — features that have existed long before any of us and will likely persist long after we’re gone,” he says.
Simultaneously, the work captures fleeting moments — events too quick for normal perception — encouraging appreciation for the desert’s constant, subtle transformations.
“If we can encourage people to recognize and appreciate that this landscape is always changing—and that those changes aren’t always about us — I think that’s a truly beautiful place for people to arrive at,” Shaw concludes. “‘Framerate’ is a glimpse into the future of cinema, a sobering observation, and a hopeful moment — all at once.”
For desert dwellers who thought they knew their landscape intimately, the exhibition offers a profound gift: the chance to fall in love with home all over again, seeing familiar terrain through eyes that miss nothing and reveal everything.
dbg.org
EXPERIENCE
Framerate: Desert Pulse
Through May 10 // 8 a.m.–8 p.m. // Desert Botanical Garden // 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix // See website for prices 480-941-1225 // dbg.org
Trilogy Development (detail), 2025
Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Aylostera Pulchella, 2025 Pointcloud animation still Courtesy of the artist
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Loralei Lazurek
Desert Dreams Community Rallies to Save Carefree’s Last Wild Acres
The family of quail appeared like clockwork that morning, crossing Cave Creek Road in perfect formation — the father leading, six chicks trailing like marbles, the mother bringing up the rear. For Wendy Mattes, who drives this route twice daily, it was a moment of clarity that would change everything.
“Watching them, I wondered: What will become of these quail and all the other creatures that pass through or call this place home if the land is developed?” Mattes recalls. “That was when it really hit me.”
That moment of revelation has sparked one of the most ambitious conservation efforts in Carefree’s history — a race against time to preserve the town’s last remaining portion of accessible Sonoran Desert before it falls to developers’ blades.
Our legacy will be saving this beautiful piece of land for residents and visitors to enjoy in perpetuity.
Wendy Mattes
The land in question represents something increasingly rare in Arizona’s rapidly developing landscape: 48 contiguous acres of untouched desert, bounded by Cave Creek Road, Mule Train Road, Stagecoach Pass and an extension of Windmill Road. To the casual observer driving by, it might appear unremarkable. But step onto the property, and its true character emerges.
“We once tried to count the saguaros and stopped after reaching 250 mature, old-growth cacti,” Mattes explains. “You’ll also find staghorn, crucifixion thorn, and ocotillo. That’s one of the main reasons many of us moved here — because the untouched Sonoran Desert is simply stunning.”
The terrain is far more complex than it first appears.
“While driving by, you don’t get a real sense of the land’s topography; it appears flat from the road,” Mattes notes. “But when you’re out hiking, you discover little arroyos and a large wash running east to west along Stagecoach Pass. The terrain is diverse — perfect for a hike that isn’t too strenuous but still far from flat.”
Wendy Mattes and Mayor John Crane survey the 48-acre parcel that represents Carefree’s last accessible Sonoran Desert.
Mayor John Crane, who served a decade on the Desert Foothills Land Trust board, sees the project as embodying community values of self-reliance and stewardship.
This ecological richness extends beyond flora to encompass the full spectrum of Sonoran Desert wildlife. Game cameras have captured bobcat families, coyotes and javelinas moving through what has become a vital wildlife corridor in an increasingly fragmented landscape.
But perhaps most remarkable is what lies beneath the desert floor — or rather, what crosses it. A preserved section of the Stoneman Road Military Trail, established in 1870 by Col. George Stoneman, winds through the property. This 155-year-old route, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, once connected Fort McDowell to Fort Whipple, cutting a dangerous 170-mile journey to just 98 miles.
The land’s beauty and history mean little to the Arizona State Land Department, whose constitutional mandate requires selling trust lands to the highest bidder. Recent appraisals value the property at about $7 million — money earmarked for Arizona’s public schools.
“We’re just a single phone call away from a developer deciding this is a prime parcel to build on,” Mattes warns. “That’s why there is such a sense of urgency — we need to accelerate our fundraising to submit our application as soon as possible.”
The threat is immediate and tangible. Development surrounds the parcel on nearly all sides, with 35 acres adjacent to the property slated to become 31 homes soon. Plans for about 2,000 homes near Cave Creek and Pima Road in Scottsdale loom on the horizon.
“Little by little, urban sprawl continues to expand northward, making this truly the last sizable piece of accessible land,” Mattes observes.
The urgency becomes even more pronounced when considering the current zoning allows for approximately 32 homes on the property. According to local water department calculations, such development would consume more than 4 million gallons of water annually — a staggering figure in a region where water conservation has become critical.
Mayor John Crane understands the mathematics of the situation all too well. With Carefree’s annual operating budget roughly equivalent to the land’s appraised value, a municipal purchase isn’t realistic. Instead, he offers what the town can: moral support, venue space for fundraisers and his personal endorsement of the grassroots effort.
“My hat is off to people who don’t look to government to solve every problem but roll up their sleeves and try to solve it themselves,” Crane says.
The mayor, who served on the Desert Foothills Land Trust board for a decade, sees clear community benefits beyond conservation. Preserving the land would mean less municipal infrastructure to support, dramatically reduced water consumption and enhanced property values.
“A preserved park with modest improvements would still require some water — for restrooms and maybe a drinking fountain — but far less than if homes were developed there,” Crane explains.
What began as one woman’s morning revelation has grown into a diverse coalition spanning municipal government, state agencies, community groups and individual donors. The momentum builds on solid community sentiment — during Carefree’s recent general plan update, about 89% of survey respondents identified open space conservation as the town’s top priority.
Arizona State Parks Executive Director Bob Broscheid recognizes the project’s alignment with statewide conservation goals.
“Finding the right balance between conservation and access for the public is critical, and we work with partners statewide to help identify needs and resources to help,” Broscheid states.
Local resident Jaye Perricone, who moved to Carefree in 2002, speaks for many long-time residents watching open space disappear.
“It has been disappointing to witness so much of the open space disappear and be replaced by development,” Perricone observes. “We now have a unique opportunity to provide not only Carefree residents, but also those living in nearby areas, with a safe, open desert space to hike, visit, and enjoy for many years to come.”
Even the community’s youngest voices have joined the effort, creating artwork and posters supporting the campaign — evidence that this vision truly spans generations. The support also extends beyond Carefree’s borders. Early donations included contributions from Scottsdale residents who simply love the Sonoran Desert and want to see it preserved.
Mayor John Crane and Wendy Mattes walk the proposed park site, discussing efforts to preserve this wildlife corridor before development claims it.
Community groups such as the Desert Mountain Desperados also have rallied to the cause.
“The Desperados are pleased to support Carefree Park’s preservation efforts,” a representative from the cultural and conservation group said in a statement. “Natural open space cannot be recaptured. Once lands are developed, the loss is forever. Future generations will applaud what we preserve today.”
Carefree Park’s strategy reflects both urgency and prudence. The organization has raised approximately $1.2 million in donations and pledges while identifying an additional $1.5 million in potential grant funding.
“Because the land can only be acquired through a public auction, we are primarily asking for pledges,” Mattes explains. “If we are the successful bidders, pledges will need to be fulfilled within 30 days. If we are not, the forms are simply returned and donors lose nothing.”
Those interested in supporting the effort can find pledge forms on the Carefree Park website. The organization is also planning fall fundraising events that will take small groups hiking on the land to experience firsthand what they’re working to preserve.
“We want people to really see and feel what this place is,” Mattes says. “More information about these guided hikes will be posted on our website as details are finalized.”
The park’s ultimate vision remains deliberately modest: a 4-mile loop trail system following the land’s natural contours, minimal parking, a restroom, picnic ramada and benches. No intensive recreational facilities, no manicured landscapes — just preserved desert accessible to all.
“We’re not talking about turf, playgrounds, pickleball or barbecue areas,” Mattes clarifies. “Our goal is to acquire the land and preserve it with minimal impact to the landscape. We’re thinking not just five or 10 years into the future, but a hundred years from now. Our legacy will be saving this beautiful piece of land for residents and visitors to enjoy in perpetuity.”
However, the specter of development hangs over every fundraising event and pledge drive. A single call to the Arizona State Land Department could trigger the auction process, potentially catching the nonprofit unprepared. This reality adds weight to every donor conversation and urgency to every community presentation.
Yet this same urgency has galvanized support in ways that might not have occurred under different circumstances. The “last chance” nature of the opportunity has motivated donors who might otherwise have waited, volunteers who might otherwise have remained on the sidelines and officials who might otherwise have offered only polite support.
In a region where development pressure seems unstoppable, Carefree Park represents something increasingly rare: a community choosing preservation over profit, legacy over immediate gain. Whether they succeed depends on rallying enough support before that inevitable phone call triggers the auction process.
The quail still cross Cave Creek Road each morning, oblivious to the human drama surrounding their habitat. Their daily journey — and that of countless other desert creatures — hangs in the balance of a community’s commitment to its natural heritage.
carefreepark.org
Wendy Mattes follows wildlife paths where game cameras have captured bobcats, coyotes and javelinas in this vital desert corridor.
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In the rugged foothills of Cave Creek, seven extraordinary facilitators with long ears, gentle eyes and remarkable patience are changing lives one interaction at a time.
“I’ve never seen someone meet a donkey for the first time without smiling,” says Sophie Rainer, founder and executive director of The Donkeys of the Heart. “Their calm demeanor is less intimidating than horses’, making them approachable. They’re naturally curious and will often come toward you.”
The French-born equestrian launched her nonprofit in 2019 after a successful corporate career, combining her lifelong passion for equines with a desire to help children facing cognitive, behavioral and developmental challenges. But rather than using horses, Rainer chose donkeys — a decision that reflects both her personal journey and professional insight into these misunderstood animals.
“In Europe, we’ve had relationships with donkeys for centuries,” Rainer explains. “But here in America, despite their historical importance during westward expansion, they often have an undeserved negative reputation — that they kick, bite or are stupid. None of this is true. Donkeys are extraordinarily intelligent.”
Her journey with these gentle creatures began unexpectedly in France, where she had been competing at elite levels in show jumping with warmbloods since childhood.
“My journey with donkeys began when a friend brought me a badly abused
donkey,” she recalls. “I knew nothing about donkeys at the time.”
Fortunately, an 88-year-old neighbor who bred donkeys became her mentor, teaching her that donkeys need companionship — specifically with other donkeys — ultimately leading her to acquire four of the animals.
When a nearby psychiatric center approached her about using the donkeys in their programs, Rainer discovered their extraordinary potential for supporting individuals with various challenges. Years later, after relocating to the United States and working in various corporate positions, she made a life-changing decision.
“I’m done with my corporate life,” she decided in Fall 2019. “I want to create a nonprofit working with donkeys to help children and adolescents facing cognitive, behavioral and developmental challenges — which, as we know, is a major issue in the United States.”
Starting with just four donkeys — two formerly feral and two rescued minis — Rainer navigated the challenges of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic. After relocating to Cave Creek, she began working with clients and expanded her herd to seven donkeys, each with its own distinct personality.
The organization now offers specialized equine-assisted services through two primary programs: equine-assisted learning (groundwork only) and adaptive riding. Children as young as 4 can participate, though Rainer always
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Loralei Lazurek
conducts thorough readiness assessments first — evaluating both physical abilities and emotional preparedness — prioritizing safety above all else.
“I love horses, but donkeys’ cognitive abilities are significantly higher,” Rainer explains. “While both are prey animals, donkeys respond differently to perceived threats. Instead of running like horses, they stand their ground, process the information, and decide whether they agree or not with your request before acting. Only if they feel threatened will they defend themselves.”
This thoughtful nature makes donkeys particularly suitable for working with children who face cognitive, behavioral and developmental challenges. Their measured responses and calm demeanor create a safe space for participants to develop social skills and emotional regulation.
“When a donkey stops, there’s always a good reason,” Rainer notes. “They’re processing information — perhaps they heard, smelled or saw something concerning. They don’t spook easily like horses; they remain calm and observant.”
Each donkey at the barn has a unique personality that resonates differently with the children they serve. Alfred, rescued from the skin trade near the U.S.-Mexico border, is nicknamed “the philosopher” for his careful observation before approaching.
Hee-Haw Healing Braying for a Better Tomorrow
“Alfred teaches patience — he requires time to develop relationships,” Rainer says. “If someone approaches too quickly or forcefully, he simply walks away, as if saying, ‘I need to know you better before allowing that kind of contact.’ His cautious nature makes him an excellent facilitator for children who need to learn about respecting boundaries.”
Then there’s Violette, the only female donkey, affectionately called “Miss Mischief” for her playful, adventurous spirit.
“She’s incredibly sweet but constantly bubbling with creative ideas that sometimes push the boundaries of what’s allowed,” Rainer says with a laugh. “She works wonderfully with a 9-year-old child who faces multiple challenges. This child’s mother observed their interaction and remarked, ‘This donkey fits him perfectly!’”
I’ve never seen someone meet a donkey for the first time without smiling. Sophie Rainer
Charlie, described as “our gentle giant,” possesses a uniquely smooth gait that makes him especially beneficial for children with cerebral palsy.
“While most donkeys have a somewhat staccato step pattern that works well for many conditions, Charlie’s movement is especially beneficial for cerebral palsy, specifically,” Rainer explains. “His entire demeanor communicates, ‘I love you,’ and he eagerly participates in every activity.”
The transformative impact of these animalhuman connections is evident in the progress participants make. In a recent session, Rainer worked with a child with autism who also struggles with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and sensory issues.
French-born Sophie Rainer founded The Donkeys of the Heart in 2019 after a successful corporate career.
equine-assisted learning.
“I could immediately see he wasn’t feeling well today,” Rainer recalls. “We adapted our plans when I saw he wasn’t up for riding. Instead, we continued groundwork from last session, taking breaks for deep breathing and hydration. By the session’s end, he was laughing and happy — the transformation was profound.”
The approach at Donkeys of the Heart is holistic, extending beyond riding to comprehensive care.
“Our children don’t just learn riding; they learn comprehensive care — carrying equipment, checking their donkeys’ health, understanding proper nutrition,” Rainer says. “We constantly draw parallels between the donkeys’ needs and the children’s lives — discussing balanced nutrition when feeding the donkeys, for instance, which can open conversations about eating
disorders. The metaphors are endless and powerful.”
For riding instruction, Rainer teaches classical English style, developing personalized curricula that address each child’s specific needs. The physical benefits are substantial, particularly for participants with balance issues or limited attention spans.
“Riding requires coordinating different body parts in specific ways, which they learn step by step with personalized curricula,” she explains. “Parents often tell me how their children have changed dramatically — not just physically, but in their communication skills and attention spans.”
Rainer’s professional credentials include certification from PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), a prestigious organization
Sophie Rainer’s PATH certification and equestrian background inform her specialized approach to
Donkey Digest
Donkeys have been domesticated for over 5,000 years, with evidence suggesting they were first tamed in Egypt or Mesopotamia around 3000 B.C.
Unlike horses, donkeys don’t have a hierarchical herd structure. They form strong bonds with specific companions rather than establishing dominance.
A donkey’s large ears serve multiple purposes: excellent hearing, temperature regulation and nonverbal communication with other donkeys.
Donkeys have exceptional memory, remembering places and people for decades, even after long separations.
While horses have a flight response to danger, donkeys typically freeze, assess the situation and may defend themselves if necessary — a trait that makes them excellent guardians for livestock.
Donkeys require less food than horses of similar size and can thrive on rougher forage, reflecting their evolutionary adaptation to arid environments.
The average lifespan of a donkey is 25 to 30 years, though many well-cared-for donkeys live into their 40s.
Donkeys communicate through a distinctive braying sound that can be heard up to 2 miles away.
that certifies professionals for equine-assisted services. This training, combined with her lifelong equestrian experience, informs the meticulous preparation each donkey receives before working with vulnerable participants.
“Properly preparing a donkey to safely carry young children requires two to three years of consistent training,” she explains. “The training process for donkeys differs significantly from horses. Donkeys need to thoroughly understand their work conceptually.”
Looking ahead, Rainer envisions expanding both the client base and therapeutic programs, particularly focusing on educational workshops that integrate academic subjects through interaction with the donkeys during the fall and winter months.
“Enrollment for the 2025-26 season is already open,” she shares. “We limit groups to six participants to
ensure personalized attention. The process begins with an appointment involving both the child and parents, where I conduct a comprehensive intake session to evaluate each child’s stamina, communication skills, sensory issues and comfort with safety equipment such as helmets.”
Beyond therapeutic programs, Rainer has also introduced “donkeysmanship classes” — educational sessions designed to deepen public understanding of these remarkable animals.
“For the past two years, we’ve offered five to six classes, and the response has been wonderful,” she explains. “People genuinely want to learn more about donkeys and have the opportunity to interact with them safely. These classes typically run Saturday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and are open to children 8 years and older, as well as adults.”
Sophie Rainer carefully matches each child with a donkey whose personality complements their specific needs.
These community education programs serve a dual purpose: fostering greater appreciation for donkeys while generating additional support for the organization's therapeutic mission.
“It’s remarkable how many educational concepts can be connected to these animals in ways that make learning engaging and memorable,” Rainer says. “Children absorb information differently when it’s presented in this experiential, joy-filled context.”
As for Rainer herself, the donkeys have been profound teachers.
“By nature, I’m extremely active and efficiency-oriented — I like things done well but quickly,” she admits. “The donkeys have been excellent teachers in this regard, constantly reminding me, ‘Slow down. Take your time.’ It’s not necessarily about doing things slowly, but about developing genuine patience.”
As The Donkeys of the Heart approaches its fourth anniversary, the organization faces challenges typical of small nonprofits. Operating on deliberately affordable fees to ensure accessibility for families with limited financial resources, the organization relies heavily on donations and volunteers.
“My ultimate dream is to secure our own property,” Rainer shares. “Right now, we operate thanks to the extraordinary generosity of a woman who has opened her entire property to us. Without her support, The Donkeys of the Heart simply wouldn’t exist.”
For now, Rainer remains focused on the transformative work happening daily at the barn — work that changes both the lives of the children who participate and the perspectives of adults who witness it.
“These transformations are my greatest reward,” she says, her voice softening with emotion. “The donkeys’ patience and gentleness create a beautiful environment. I truly wish more people would come see what these remarkable animals can do.”
thedonkeysoftheheart.org
The tour bus idles outside another venue, another city, another chance to connect with an audience through song. For most fans, this is where the story ends — but for Anthem’s Britnee Kellogg, it’s where CBS’s “The Road” begins.
The groundbreaking reality series pulls back the curtain on touring life, following 12 emerging musicians as they compete for the chance to open for Grammy winner Keith Urban. The talented mother of three has been singing since age 6 and, while she’s performed for years on her own, the show marks her first experience as part of a national tour.
“I think ‘The Road’ will change the [music singing competition] game,” Kellogg says of the show, which airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/ PT on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.
“It’s much more behind the scenes and shows what it’s like to be on the road — the nitty-gritty, the bus rides — you get to know the artists in a different, more connected way. It’s not an easy life, but touring has been a big part of my career. They focus on original music, which is unheard of [in this genre]. I’m excited for viewers to see what it’s really like.”
Despite the show being a competition, she says the contestants spend so much time together that they’ve become like a family, guided by country megastars Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson and Blake Shelton, who teamed with Taylor Sheridan of “Yellowstone” and “Landman” as coexecutive producers.
“Yes, it’s a competition, but we’ve all been doing this for a long time, and this is our dream — it’s what we want to do,” she says earnestly. “I can only speak for myself, but
I really do believe that we all wanted each other to be successful, whatever that looks like. I think that’s something really special, and you’ll see that on the show.”
Kellogg spent most of her life in Washington state, growing up on ‘90s country. Her very first concert was Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash. She names the Cashes, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw and Martina McBride as early influences. It’s that storytelling style that she loves, and she sees a space for it in today’s country music landscape.
“I look back to being in my mid-20s, and when I went through a breakup, I’d turn on country radio and I could relate to the lyrics,” she recalls. “Now, as a 40-year-old, what’s on the radio today just doesn’t reflect what I’m going through. I feel like we really need more music for the average person going through it — the messy kitchens, screaming kids, divorce — everyday life. We don’t have that demographic right now in country music. It’s traditionally been a younger person’s game. I honestly believe that this show is going to change that.”
Kellogg plays guitar, writing and singing songs for real life. “Hey Mama” is one of her anthems that strikes a chord with mothers in the thick of parenting — the stress of busy days and sleepless nights — but she points out that the lyrics serve up a mix of encouragement and tough love.
“The song says, ‘It’s not gonna be this hard forever,’ but it also says to get over it,” she says with a laugh. “It’s hard right now, but you’ve got this. ‘Pull yourself together’ and let’s go. I stay true to that.”
Kellogg shares that she’s often asked how she balances life as a wife, mother and
Britnee Kellogg brings authentic storytelling to her country music, drawing from her experiences as an Anthem mother of three to create songs that resonate with everyday life.
Writer Shannon Severson // Photography Courtesy of CBS
‘Road’
My goal is to get my music into the hands of as many people as I can and to change lives with my music.
Britnee Kellogg
touring musician and admits it’s not easy; she relies heavily on her family support system as she pursues what she terms her first love — music — which she compares to being like another one of her children. While it’s hard to be away, her eldest son has expressed admiration that she’s doing all she can to pursue her goal, saying it inspires him to do the same in his own life.
“My son has said, ‘I’ve seen you walk out the door, and I know that I can do it, too. I know my circumstances don’t define my future,’” she says, her voice softening with the memory. “I hang on to knowing that my kids are going to have dreams, and they’re going to believe in them because they saw me do it. They’re seeing what determination, grit and passion look like, and they’re going to be better for it. I’m so grateful to have such an incredible support system — my husband, my mom and family.”
That newfound confidence extends to how she approaches work-life balance. For Kellogg, staying grounded means being wholly present, whether at home or on the road.
Trip to Stardom
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“When I’m home, I’m being present as much as I can,” she reveals. “I’m not working. When I’m gone, we have daily FaceTime chats, but I’m focused on work. The behind-the-scenes of ‘The Road’ is just incredible. I think my kids will see it and understand a bit more about what I’m doing and how busy it is. I think it will be really cool for them to see, and they are so excited and proud. We can’t wait to tune in to see it all.”
As her family learns more about her life as a musician, Kellogg says her experience on the show has prompted personal reflection and growth in how she perceives herself and her career. She’s faced self-doubt, admitting that being compared to 11 other super-talented artists can shake your confidence. When you hear another person’s powerful vocals or compelling songwriting, it’s easy to question your own abilities. But she’s gained a new perspective on her musical gifts.
“Through this process, I really learned that every single one of us has something unique and different to bring to the table or to our careers,” she says.
While life and experience have been excellent teachers, so too have the show’s celebrity coaches.
“Working with Blake, Keith and Gretchen, I’ll never be able to repay them for the advice and encouragement,” she says with heartfelt enthusiasm. “They have those years of experience, and they tell you, ‘Wow! This song is crazy!’ or other things that encourage you to keep going. They’re people who have had such amazing success in the industry, and then Taylor Sheridan — I literally feel like everything he touches turns to gold. I’m just honored to be a part of it.”
The 12 contestants of CBS’s “The Road” (Britnee Kellogg, third from left) compete for the chance to open for Grammy winner Keith Urban as the reality series follows the authentic experience of life on tour.
Wilson, whom Kellogg describes as a “mama” who took the contestants under her wing, acts as the show’s tour manager. As the contestants travel from city to city, Urban, Shelton and guest country stars, along with a live audience, decide who advances until one winner remains.
“Gretchen is wonderful,” Kellogg reveals. “She has a tenacity and [an attitude of] ‘I’m going to do this whether you like it or not,’ and it is what has made her successful. Keith is one of the most insanely talented musicians, and his charisma on stage is just something you can’t match. And Blake, of course, you just want to pinch his cheeks. He’s so sweet and easygoing; he’s an entertainer. He steps on stage and you say, ‘Yes. That’s it.’”
With all the advice that Kellogg has taken to heart through her experience on “The Road” and throughout her career, she has some wisdom of her own for aspiring performers.
“The biggest advice I have is, if it really, truly is your dream, then just never, never stop; never give up,” she says. “You’re going to hear ‘no.’ You’re going to hear ‘you’re terrible.’ The door is going to be slammed in your face 100 times, and you just have to get up and keep going and believe in what you have to say.”
She’s also learned that fame isn’t something to chase as an end game and shouldn’t be the goal.
“My goal is to get my music into the hands of as many people as I can and to change lives with my music. I want people to connect to my music at whatever level I’m allowed, and I’m going to be so incredibly grateful for it.”
As Kellogg’s journey continues, her clear passion for music and storytelling has only deepened as she’s learned to embrace the special, singular nature of her talent as a performer and songwriter who uses her voice, her words and her life experience to connect with and uplift others. Her commitment to sharing the messy, everyday challenges of life is sure to resonate with fans old and new, and her determination to never give up on her dreams, even in the face of adversity, is an inspiration for anyone working to make their dreams a reality.
britneekellogg.com
photo essay
Dean Hueber
Photographer
J.
Acclaimed photographer Dean Hueber captures the surprising vitality and unexpected beauty of Sonoran Desert wildlife during autumn’s subtle but spectacular transformation.
Wild Light
The Sonoran Desert doesn’t announce autumn with a cascade of crimson leaves or the crisp snap of New England air. Instead, it whispers its seasonal shift through subtler signs — the softer arc of winter solstice light, the restless energy of animals entering mating season, and the unexpected pockets of gold hiding in desert watersheds.
Acclaimed local photographer Dean Hueber has spent years learning to read these quiet cues, developing an intimate understanding of when and where the desert reveals its most spectacular autumn moments. His latest collection captures the surprising vitality of native wildlife during this season of transformation, from the piercing gaze of a great horned owl resting on a tree stump to the playful antics of bear cubs exploring their mountainous domain.
“Traveling through the Sonoran Desert during autumn does not generally present a plethora of fall colors, but if one knows where to look, it can be stunningly spec-
tacular,” Hueber explains, his enthusiasm evident as he describes discovering bigtooth maples in remote canyons and cottonwoods glowing gold along watershed corridors.
This month’s photo essay reveals the desert’s hidden autumn drama through Hueber’s lens — raccoons foraging with increased urgency, majestic elk bugling across mountain meadows, and elusive bobcats emerging from shadows in the season’s forgiving light. Each image tells a story of adaptation and survival, captured during that magical window when the sun sits lower in the sky, creating what Hueber calls “photography lottery” conditions.
For Hueber, beauty remains the driving force behind every frame, but his definition has evolved to embrace the unexpected moments that wildlife photography demands.
“This is not our planet — it belongs to all living creatures,” he reflects, “and we need to balance our needs with those of the many animals we share our state with.”
Writer Joseph
Airdo // Photography by Dean Hueber
Beauty being my key motivator, I am always hoping to find and photograph animals with stunning backdrops, and these autumn colors are nothing if not beautiful. Dean Hueber
Fall brings mating season, and that brings out different, often more public behaviors in many of these animals as they compete for the attention of groups of females. Dean Hueber
Combine this softer light with fall colors and it’s like hitting the photography lottery, keeping in mind that fall in the Sonoran Desert is mid-December through mid-January. Dean Hueber
Meet the Photographer
Dean Hueber’s journey from a Buffalo suburb to becoming one of Arizona’s most respected nature photographers began with a childhood fascination that drew him up water towers to glimpse unobstructed star-filled skies. Those early moments of wonder, combined with college dorm walls decorated with images of the Grand Tetons and Yosemite, hinted at a deeper calling that wouldn’t fully emerge until years later.
The transformation occurred during Hueber’s first visit to Yosemite National Park while attending graduate school in Northern California.
“The power of Yosemite was spectacular and overwhelming,” he recalls. “I spent the weekend awestruck, never having imagined that such pure beauty could exist. I had always loved nature, but that was the first time I had truly desired to take photos of it.”
What began as a practical purchase — an SLR camera to document his son’s childhood — evolved into what Hueber describes as a “passionate love affair” with landscape photography. Technical workshops and relentless study of other photographers’ work provided the foundation, but it was the addictive combination of adventure and artistic pursuit that sustained his commitment.
In recent years, Hueber has undergone a significant evolution, transitioning from pure landscape photography to include wildlife subjects. This shift has demanded an entirely different skill set and approach.
“Landscape photography is easy compared to animal photography,” he admits. “With animals, you can decide you want to photograph a particular species, but then you have to figure out where they are.”
His technical prowess has advanced dramatically as well. Hueber now employs sophisticated techniques including focus stacking, focal length blending and multi-image stitching, all enhanced by his Nikon Z8’s superior capabilities. The result is a body of work that captures not just the visual beauty of the Sonoran Desert’s wildlife, but the deeper connection between all living creatures sharing this remarkable landscape.
pbase.com/deanhueber
For years, Elizabeth Page was known for her vibrant floral oil paintings at the Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour. The classically trained artist had built a reputation for luminous works that captured nature’s vitality. But motherhood changed everything, sparking a dramatic evolution toward contemporary landscapes created through mixed-metal leaf collage.
The risk is paying off. Page’s mixed media collage “Lost Dutchman Copper Skies” graces the cover of this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory — a striking work that captures the rugged Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix.
Now in its 29th year, Hidden in the Hills has grown into Arizona’s premier artist studio tour, drawing collectors and art enthusiasts throughout the Desert Foothills. The nonprofit Sonoran Arts League coordinates this expansive cultural event, which unfolds over the final two weekends of November: Nov. 21–23 and Nov. 28–30. Visitors can explore 164 artists across 41 studios throughout Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale at their own pace — and entirely free of charge.
For art collectors and enthusiasts who return year after year, the four-color, glossy artist directory has become quite a collectible. For participating artists hoping to gain more exposure, being selected as a featured cover artist represents a significant career milestone.
This year’s HITH artist directory also features four diverse artworks on the directory’s back cover: “King of the Desert” by contemporary glass artist Deb Wight; “Sweet Tweets” by oil painter Joye DeGoede; “Queen Valley Aloe” by oil painter Ann-Marie Graves; and “Ocean Whispers,” a sterling silver and 14-karat gold ring by fine jeweler Leonor Pisano that features aquamarine and sapphires.
HITH event co-chair Gail Haire says there were many wonderful submissions for cover art this year, but Page’s mixed media collage stood out to the HITH committee.
Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer //
by Loralei Lazurek
Each piece invites you into participation. Like walking through landscape, what you see depends on where you stand, how you move and your capacity to meet yourself in presence.
Elizabeth Page
A Creative Metamorphosis
Elizabeth
Page’s Artistic Evolution
Takes Center Stage at Hidden in the Hills
Photography
“It’s a breathtaking piece and a big departure from the floral oil paintings that Elizabeth had been known for,” says Haire, herself a highly acclaimed oil painter. “The collage combines earth tones with soft, shimmering hues of pink, purple, blue and green. It’s one of those pieces that makes you stop and reflect on the sheer beauty of nature.”
Page’s story of artistic transformation exemplifies why collectors and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the annual studio tour.
“For many collectors, visiting Hidden in the Hills has become a tradition, not only because they enjoy discovering artists who may be new to the studio tour, but also because many collectors like to follow artists through their careers,” Haire explains. “Collectors appreciate being able to see how an artist’s work evolves, and sometimes a dramatic change in style or medium can be a pivotal point in an artist’s career.”
NATURE AS CREATIVE FOUNDATION
An Arizona native and Cave Creek resident, Page received her BFA in figurative painting from Arizona State University. She began her career in portraiture and the figure before teaching for several years. When she transitioned into her professional practice, she turned her focus to florals — expansive oil works rooted in her fascination with the vitality of plants and the presence of nature.
“Nature has always been the soul of my work,” Page explains. “I’ve always been drawn to organic shapes and rhythms. In my previous floral work, I was already layering gold and silver leaf with natural, organic shapes, grounding them in earth elements while reaching for something that felt expansive.”
Collectors were drawn to the vibrancy and energy of these works, where repetition and variation created bold, beautiful and dynamic compositions. The introduction of precious metals gave the paintings a living surface, shifting with light and time, and marked the beginning of her ongoing dialogue with materials that reflect presence.
“The first time I used gold leaf was a tiny experiment that never ‘resolved’ — and yet it changed the trajectory of my art,” she recalls.
Page found herself increasingly drawn to landscapes, particularly the desert that shaped her.
“The more I leaned into the expansiveness of nature, the more landscapes called to me,” she says. “My mixed-metal leaf process grew from that call. It’s my way of embodying what I know to be true: We are not separate from nature. We are nature.”
MOTHERHOOD’S CREATIVE CATALYST
Falling in love and becoming a mother marked a profound turning point in Page’s life and work. Several years ago, she met her partner, Carlos, a renowned contemporary metal sculptor. In 2024, they welcomed their son, Zack.
“Nature has always been the driving force of my inspiration, but becoming a mother gave me a new capacity — both creatively and energetically,” she shares. “This body of work had been living in me for years, waiting for the space to emerge. Once Zack was born, I felt a boldness and a freedom to explore it fully.”
That shift opened the door to abstraction and landscapes, where Page now works primarily with mixed-metal leaf — gold, silver, copper and brass, layered with oil, paper or shell. Her process is both disciplined and intuitive: tearing fragile metal leaf by hand, surrendering to its unpredictability and shaping it into luminous surfaces that echo the experience of being in nature.
“This process allows me to be meditative and playful,” she says. “It’s about surrendering control, pivoting with the materials and letting the work become what it wants to be. In that letting go, I’ve found both stillness and momentum.”
Her works are not static objects; they are invitations to contemplation. The surfaces shift as light moves, asking the viewer to shift, too.
“Each piece invites you into participation,” she explains. “Like walking through landscape, what you see depends on where you stand, how you move and your capacity to meet yourself in presence. That’s why, for me, beauty is never mere decoration — it’s devotion.”
“Lost Dutchman Copper Skies” was inspired by a hike in the Superstition Mountains years ago — a landscape that continues to resonate with her.
“My process always begins with lived experience,” she explains. “There’s always both a structural composition and an emotional memory. Sometimes I return directly to a place I’ve walked. Other times I revisit a photo I’ve taken — but either way, I wait for one to call me back. That resonance guides the work. It’s never random.”
motherhood sparked Elizabeth Page’s dramatic artistic evolution from floral painter to mixed media innovator.
STUDIO COLLABORATIONS
During Hidden in the Hills, Page will exhibit her new mixed media collages alongside her partner, Carlos, who serves as host of Studio No. 27 in Cave Creek. The studio’s guest artists include photographer Jon Linton, contemporary pastel painter Michael McKee, jeweler Rollande Poirier and ceramic artist Myron Whitaker.
Recently, Page began collaborating with Whitaker by leafing one of his vessels. When she shared a glimpse of the vessel in a private collectors group, the response was immediate and enthusiastic.
“That’s the current of creative energy when it moves without hesitation,” Page recalls. “For me, it’s initiation — trusting desire, following sparks
even without knowing where they’ll land. There’s delight in it too, playing with an idea to see where it wants to go.”
This year, she and Whitaker will present collaborative works at Hidden in the Hills.
“As an artist, there’s nothing more exciting than when a spark becomes a turning point,” Page says. “I am so grateful to be on this journey — with Carlos, Zack and the desert itself, each a living force in my transformation.”
elizabethpage.art
Jeanne Bonine Studio
Stu
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Arizona’s Most Soul-Stirring Autumn Campsites
Where Wilderness Meets Wonder
As autumn’s first crisp breath sweeps across Arizona’s diverse landscapes, a particular restlessness stirs in those who understand that the state’s most profound beauty lies not in its famous destinations but in its hidden corners. This is not about disconnecting from the everyday — it’s about reconnecting to something deeper: to the rhythm of your own heartbeat under a canopy of stars, to the ancient silence that exists only in places where cell towers fear to tread and to the kind of solitude that doesn’t feel lonely but complete.
Arizona’s autumn wilderness offers experiences that commercial campgrounds simply cannot deliver. These are places where silence has weight, where starlight tells stories and where the simple act of waking to sunrise over untamed landscapes becomes a form of prayer. From high-mountain meadows ablaze with color to sandstone moonscapes under the Milky Way, these eight destinations represent the pinnacle of Arizona’s wild camping experiences — each carefully selected for its ability to restore, inspire and transform.
Photo by Kevin Dooley
LOCKETT MEADOW: ARIZONA’S AUTUMN CATHEDRAL
When photographers speak of Arizona’s fall color epicenter, they’re talking about Lockett Meadow. Nestled at 8,600 feet on the flanks of the San Francisco Peaks, this alpine sanctuary hosts the Southwest’s largest aspen stands, creating a golden cathedral that draws pilgrims from across the country.
The journey here is currently an adventure in itself — road closures have transformed what was once a drive into a 6-mile round-trip hike or bike ride, effectively filtering out casual visitors and preserving the meadow’s sacred quiet. Those who make the effort are rewarded with camping beneath quaking aspens whose white trunks rise like columns in nature’s most magnificent hall.
The Inner Basin Trail begins at your tent door, winding 3 1/2 miles through groves so thick with golden leaves that the light itself seems to glow from within. Wildlife is abundant — elk bugle across the meadow at dusk while Abert’s squirrels chatter in the pines overhead. On clear nights, the thin mountain air reveals stars with startling clarity.
Pack extra layers; November nights can dip below freezing, but the crisp air only enhances the experience. Bring ample water, and prepare for the kind of silence that makes city dwellers remember what peace actually sounds like.
Photo Courtesy of U.S. Forest Service
Photo Courtesy of U.S. Forest Service
These are places where silence has weight, where starlight tells stories and where the simple act of waking to sunrise over untamed landscapes becomes a form of prayer.
MOGOLLON RIM: ON THE EDGE OF INFINITY
Forest Road 9350 traces the dramatic precipice of the Mogollon Rim, where designated dispersed campsites perch literally on the edge of Arizona’s high country. At nearly 8,000 feet, these rim-side camps offer unobstructed views that plunge 2,000 feet to forested valleys below — a perspective that redefines the word “vista.”
Nearly 40 marked campsites dot this 2-mile corridor, most featuring established fire rings and picnic tables. The first mile accommodates RVs and trailers, while the final stretch rewards tent campers with increasingly dramatic rim-edge positions. Some sites hover so close to the precipice that morning coffee becomes a meditation on infinity — though parents should note these spectacular perches come with genuine safety considerations.
November brings peak color as aspen, maple and oak paint the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and reds. Nearby trails like the Cabin Loop and Highline Trail wind through groves of changing leaves, while Woods Canyon and Bear Canyon lakes offer excellent trout fishing surrounded by autumn’s palette.
The Rim Road corridor extends camping options far beyond Forest Road 9350, with forest roads branching into increasingly remote and private settings. Fire restrictions are common, so check current conditions before planning your trip.
KP CIENEGA: HIGH-COUNTRY QUIETUDE
At nearly 9,000 feet, KP Cienega claims the distinction of being one of Arizona’s highest campgrounds — and perhaps its most peaceful. Just five campsites nestle in this alpine meadow south of Alpine, offering a fairy-tale setting that feels lifted from the Colorado Rockies rather than the Arizona high country.
The elevation creates genuinely cool autumn weather, with crisp days and nights that often drop below freezing by early November. This is tent camping at its most elemental: pit toilets, fire rings, picnic tables and absolutely no other amenities. Bring everything — including water — and prepare for the kind of solitude that makes you question why you ever thought you needed cell service.
The adjacent KP Trailhead opens into the Blue Range Primitive Area, America’s last remaining national forest primitive area, where dozens of interconnected trails offer everything from day hikes to multiday adventures. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with frequent elk herds, deer and even occasional Mexican gray wolf sightings.
The nearby Hannagan Meadow Lodge provides a civilized backup plan for harsh weather, offering meals, hot drinks and rustic accommodations for those who want to balance wilderness adventure with old-school Arizona hospitality.
Photo by Kevin Dooley
Photo by Rick Obst
WHITE POCKET: SURREAL STARLIT STONE
For those seeking the ultimate in primitive camping, White Pocket delivers an otherworldly experience that requires serious commitment. Located on the remote Paria Plateau within Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, this permit-free alternative to the Wave rewards the prepared with surreal beauty and absolute solitude.
The swirling red-and-white Navajo sandstone formations create a landscape so alien that visitors regularly describe feeling transported to another planet. At 6,100 feet elevation, autumn brings mild days and crisp nights perfect for photography and stargazing — this is among Arizona’s darkest locations, with zero light pollution and crystal-clear views of the Milky Way.
Access requires a true four-wheel-drive vehicle and considerable preparation. The final 8 miles traverse deep sand that regularly claims unprepared travelers, and once there, you’re entirely self-sufficient. No water, no facilities, no cell service — just you, the rocks, and silence so complete it has a physical presence.
Bring satellite communication devices, plenty of water and the kind of gear that could save your life if weather turns. This is wilderness camping for experts only, but the payoff — sunrise over formations that seem sculpted by alien hands — justifies every challenge.
Photo by John Fowler
CHIRICAHUA NATIONAL MONUMENT: SKY ISLAND SANCTUARY
The Chiricahuas rise from the Sonoran Desert like a lost world, their “sky island” peaks creating a biodiversity hotspot that feels more like the Rocky Mountains than southeastern Arizona. At Bonita Canyon Campground, 25 sites nestle at 5,400 feet among towering rhyolite hoodoos and dense oak woodlands that burst into spectacular fall color.
This is Arizona’s premier birding destination, with more than 375 species recorded, including the occasional elegant trogon. The autumn migration coincides perfectly with peak foliage as cottonwoods, sycamores and Rocky Mountain maples paint the canyons in brilliant golds and scarlets. The South Fork Trail outside the monument offers some of the most reliable fall color viewing in the state.
Bonita Canyon’s 25 sites provide flush toilets, running water and bear boxes — welcome amenities given the area’s active black bear and mountain lion populations. The monument’s 17 miles of trails wind through a wonderland of balanced rocks and stone spires, culminating at Massai Point’s 360-degree views of the hoodoo landscape.
For greater solitude, Piney Canyon Road in adjacent Coronado National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping among the pines, while higher-elevation spots like Barfoot Park may require fourwheel drive but reward visitors with cooler temperatures and even more dramatic autumn displays.
ARAVAIPA CANYON: ARIZONA’S SECRET EDEN
Perhaps no Arizona wilderness experience is more transformative than Aravaipa Canyon. This 19,410-acre wilderness preserves a 12-milelong, 1,000-foot-deep canyon carved by perennial Aravaipa Creek — a living oasis in the Sonoran Desert that explodes with autumn color from late October through December.
Access requires permits that limit visitors to 50 people per day, guaranteeing solitude that’s increasingly rare in outdoor recreation. The “trail” is the creek itself, requiring repeated stream crossings and sometimes walking directly in ankle- to knee-deep water for miles. This isn’t hiking — it’s an adventure.
Cottonwood, sycamore, walnut, willow and box elder create a kaleidoscope of yellow, gold, orange and rust beneath sheer canyon walls. Wildlife is abundant, with more than 200 bird species, deer, bighorn sheep, coatimundi and black bears calling the canyon home.
Camping is wherever you choose — sandbars, established clearings or hidden side canyons. The requirements are strict: bear-proof food storage, pack-in/ pack-out ethics and complete self-sufficiency. Weather awareness is critical, as flash flooding poses real danger in the narrow sections.
This is Arizona’s Holy Grail for experienced backpackers — less a destination than a pilgrimage to one of the Southwest’s most enchanting hidden places.
Photo by Denny Armstrong
Photo by Bob Wick and Courtesy of Bureau of Land Management
COCHISE STRONGHOLD: WHERE LEGENDS LIVE
The Dragoon Mountains’ Cochise Stronghold combines dramatic granite landscapes with profound historical significance. This fortresslike canyon system, once the sanctuary of Apache Chief Cochise, now offers some of Arizona’s most evocative camping experiences.
Eleven individual sites at Cochise Stronghold Campground nestle beneath towering granite domes, shaded by oak groves that provide subtle but beautiful fall color. The setting feels primordial — massive boulders balanced in seemingly impossible configurations, creating intimate camp spaces that offer both privacy and grandeur.
The 5-mile Cochise Indian Trail connects the west and east strongholds, following historic Apache routes through the mountains. Rock climbing here is world-class, with more than 1,000 established routes on the granite faces. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with diverse bird populations and frequent sightings of javelina, deer, and the occasional mountain lion.
Dispersed camping throughout the Dragoon Mountains offers even greater solitude, with numerous forest roads leading to private boulderstudded clearings, perfect for small groups seeking complete immersion in this legendary landscape.
Photo by Leland Jackson
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Celebrates Global Flute Legacy
Breath of Humanity MIM
When Matthew Zeller, curator for Europe at the Musical Instrument Museum, describes the flute as expressing “what it means to be human,” he’s speaking from intimate knowledge of nearly 150 objects now gracing MIM’s newest exhibition. Opening Nov. 7, “The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power” transforms the Phoenix museum into a global symphony hall where ancient breath meets contemporary artistry.
“Flutes represent the breath of humanity in so many ways,” Zeller explains. “Guests will see everything from a prehistoric bone flute to those used in spiritual practices such as a 19th-century shakuhachi.”
The exhibition’s crown jewel may be an 8,000-year-old Chinese yue bone flute, suggesting music accompanied humanity’s earliest civilizations, but Zeller finds equal fascination in the stories these instruments continue to tell.
Among the treasures: Napoleon’s faceted glass flute, presented to the emperor by its maker, Claude Laurent, following his catastrophic Russian campaign in 1812, featuring 540 indi-
vidually ground facets that “catch and reflect light, making it absolutely sparkle.”
The exhibition bridges millennia through more than 100 instruments from every continent, each chosen to “engage with one another to develop and contextualize compelling narratives about the flute’s global impact,” as Zeller describes the curatorial process.
Curators Eddie Chia-Hao Hsu and Matthew Zeller analyze a pre-Columbian vessel whistle, part of the exhibition’s global scope // Courtesy of the Musical Instrument Museum
“We have a fantastic curatorial team at MIM,” he says. “It was such a pleasure to work with my colleagues to select instruments from all around the world that engage with each other to develop and contextualize compelling narratives.”
Sir James Galway’s diamond-encrusted, 18-karat gold flute represents the pinnacle of modern virtuosic performance, one of two instruments acquired directly from “the Man with the Golden Flute” himself, along with a large contrabass flute. But the curatorial team’s expertise represented in this exhibition extends beyond European masterworks to pieces like an Edo-period miyogiri bearing the distinctive crest of the Taira samurai clan, displayed alongside samurai armor from the same clan.
“Together they show the importance of music in the warrior-scholar way of life,” Zeller explains.
The exhibition’s scope encompasses jazz flutist Herbie Mann’s instruments, Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai’s pieces, and flutes owned by Hollywood studio musician Sheridon Stokes, whose solos graced “Mission: Impossible,” “Jaws” and “Titanic.” MIM’s signature audiovisual technology allows visitors to hear these world-class musicians playing the very instruments on display.
“MIM excels at bringing instruments to life,” Zeller explains. “The exhibition’s audiovisual content is the perfect platform to hear these world-class musicians play the very instruments that are on display. Guests at MIM experience music and musical instruments like no other.”
Beyond instruments, the exhibition features costumes from Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” by Marc Chagall and Dame Zandra
Rhodes, each bringing a distinctive artistic vision to the opera’s fairy-tale world. Chagall’s design combines bold geometric shapes with expressionistic elements, while Rhodes embodies “the opera’s inherent fantasy and whimsy through her imaginative approach,” according to Zeller.
An 1849 Theobald Boehm flute represents revolutionary innovation in musical instrument making. Crafted just two years after Boehm perfected his pivotal key system, this instrument “represents a central pillar in the story of musical innovation,” Zeller says, noting that “nearly all modern Western woodwinds use a key system based on his revolutionary designs.”
The exhibition’s cultural breadth extends from richly decorated ancient panpipes from the Nazca people of Peru to an elaborately beaded Ndon flute belonging to a Bamileke chief of Cameroon, each contextualizing how flutes have shaped cultural identities across civilizations.
“The flute’s cultural resonance is contextualized throughout the show,” Zeller explains. “Costumes from Mozart’s ‘The Magic Flute’ open the imagination and bring the guest into an enchanting immersive experience. Likewise, the Taira samurai armor and Chokwe hunter’s outfits portray the power their flutes were endowed with.”
Tamino, Papageno, and Griffin costumes from “The Magic Flute,” c. 2000 // Loan courtesy of Seattle Opera
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Eddie Chia-Hao Hsu, MIM curator, holds an 8,000-year-old Chinese yue bone flute, one of the exhibition’s oldest pieces. // Anonymous Loan
Nazca panpipe, 400–650 // Courtesy of the Musical Instrument Museum
Komuso Shakuhachi, late 19th century // Courtesy of the Musical Instrument Museum
“Korogi” Miyogiri, Edo period, 1603–1868 // Courtesy of the Musical Instrument Museum
Sheridon Stokes Pearl SS-100 model flute, 1979 // Loan in memory of Sheridon Stokes by Michael Stokes
Napoleon’s faceted glass flute, 1813 // Loan Courtesy of Mark Leone
Chorus costume from “The Magic Flute,” c. 1697 // Loan courtesy of the Metropolitan Opera Archives
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Stagecoach Village Art & Wine Festival
Nov. 21-23, 2025
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Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival
Nov. 1-2, 2025
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WestWorld Art & Wine Experience
Nov. 8-9, 2025
Wigwam Fine Art Festivals
Dec. 5-7, 2025
For Zeller, the exhibition’s ultimate message transcends individual instruments or cultures: “The flute, in all of its simplicity and complexity, illustrates shared cultural themes and distinctive musical practices from around the world.”
“The ultimate power of the flute is in its ubiquity around the world,” he reflects. “Its sound, craftsmanship and deeprooted cultural symbolism are avenues we explore to show how impactful the flute has been on human civilization.”
mim.org
Feb. 13-15, 2026
Tubac Festival of the Arts
Feb. 4-8, 2026
Oro Valley Art & Wine Festival
Feb. 28-Mar. 1, 2026
High Street Art Festival
Mar. 7-8, 2026
SanTan Art & Wine Festival
Oct 25-26, 2025
Mar. 28-29, 2026
EXPERIENCE
The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power
Through September 2026 // 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
The Musical Instrument Museum
4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix
$20; discounts available for youth, seniors and students
480-478-6000 // mim.org
Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Ahsaki LaFrance Chachere
Labelle LaFrance Lassos Million-Dollar Moment
Breakaway Belles
The crowd falls silent as a horse shifts in the box — little puffs of dust rise from eager hooves as the rider grips a rope with strong hands, her determined eyes scanning the arena, awaiting the moment when the calf is released from the chute and moments later, the pursuit begins.
Breakaway roping has captured rodeo audiences with its display of fast-paced athleticism from both horse and rider. Riders are judged on speed and technique as they chase and lasso a calf around the neck while on horseback. The rope, attached to the saddle horn, breaks cleanly the moment it meets its mark and the timer stops. This electrifying sport will be on full display at the second annual Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway, Nov. 24–30 at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
The event showcases an elite field of 168 top-qualifying female breakaway ropers from across the country, each
competing for victory and generous cash prizes. The final days of this celebration of rodeo competition and Western culture will feature live performances by country music stars Josh Meloy and Grammy Award winner Ashley McBryde on Nov. 28 and 29, respectively.
Labelle LaFrance, 22, of Window Rock brings third-generation ranching expertise and Navajo heritage to the elite field at the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway, competing Nov. 24–30 at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
My grandfather is my inspiration. To have a connection with animals and to have family support through the ups and downs, a family legacy — that’s what keeps me motivated in the sport. Labelle LaFrance
Among the competitors vying for a spot in the finals is Labelle LaFrance, 22, a third-generation Arizona rancher with a rich personal and cultural history woven from her Navajo and Creole heritage. Rodeo has been a lifelong passion for LaFrance, who says rodeo runs in her blood. During her upbringing on the Navajo Reservation near Window Rock, her grandfather encouraged her family to get involved in the sport — a natural outgrowth of the work they do on the family ranch.
“My grandfather is my inspiration,” she says. “To have a connection with animals and to have family support through the ups and downs, a family legacy — that’s what keeps me motivated in the sport.”
LaFrance, whose father was a professional football player for the Green Bay Packers and several arena football league teams, has embraced her natural athleticism in the arena. She began barrel racing in fifth grade and has competed steadily over the past six years as part of the
Window Rock’s Labelle LaFrance combines natural athleticism with cultural pride as she prepares to compete against 167 other top breakaway ropers at this year’s million-dollar competition in Scottsdale.
Third-generation Arizona rancher Labelle LaFrance credits her grandfather’s inspiration and family legacy for fueling her passion in breakaway roping, a sport that celebrates both speed and precision.
National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. While she says she’s always had a rope in her hand, her brother-in-law, Dennis Chachere, encouraged her to pursue breakaway roping, a discipline at which she quickly excelled.
LaFrance has lassoed calves at the Indian National Finals Rodeo and the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo — a national showcase celebrating Black cowboy and cowgirl culture — and now looks forward to competing for the first time at the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway in her home state.
“I love breakaway because of the freedom of having another event aside from barrels,” LaFrance says. “We can throw a rope! I love the mental and physical challenge of it. Breakaway roping is fast and persistent; it requires focus and connection with the horse. I’m going up against girls who have been doing this all their lives. I look up to so many of them. They opened a doorway for us, and it helps push me to do my best.
“Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway is one of the biggest breakaway roping competitions in the country. It elevates women’s breakaway roping at its finest, and it’s an incredible platform for competitors at all levels to showcase their skills. I hope to perform my best and compete alongside some of the best in the sport.”
This marquee event celebrates the growing popularity and professionalism of women’s breakaway roping, shining a spotlight on the supremely talented field of top competitors and rewarding them with a generous prize purse.
milliondollarbreakaway.com
EXPERIENCE
Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway
Nov. 24–30 // See website for schedule of events // WestWorld of Scottsdale // 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale
See website for prices // 480-312-6802 // milliondollarbreakaway.com
The casual yet classy atmosphere strikes that elusive balance between refined and relaxed, where exceptional service meets comfortable elegance.
When the desert evenings turn crisp and autumn settles over Carefree, Giordano’s Trattoria Romana offers exactly what diners crave: the warmth of authentic Italian hospitality paired with hearty, soul-satisfying cuisine that has made this intimate trattoria a community fixture for more than two decades.
Owner Adele Giordano, who brought her New York City roots and Italian heritage to Arizona more than 20 years ago, has cultivated a dining experience that authentically captures the ambiance of a classic Manhattan Italian eatery. The casual yet classy atmosphere strikes that elusive balance between refined and relaxed, where exceptional service meets comfortable elegance.
November is an ideal time to explore the restaurant’s extensive menu of Italian classics, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The kitchen’s signature dishes continue to earn devoted followings, including the eggplant rollatini — delicate slices rolled with sublime cheese filling and baked under a blanket of mozzarella and marinara sauce — and the indulgent saltimbocca, featuring tender chicken or veal topped with prosciutto and mozzarella in Marsala mushroom wine sauce.
The restaurant’s versatility shines through its preparation options, whether diners choose the rich, wine-kissed Marsala, the bright and citrusy piccata, or the decadent Gorgonzola with its creamy mushroom sauce. First-time visitors should begin with the expertly prepared antipasti, such as the baked clams served in bright lemon sauce or the traditional bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.
The chef also prepares nightly specials beyond the extensive regular menu, ensuring returning guests always discover something new to savor. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere has cultivated a devoted following among Carefree’s discerning diners. As such, advance reservations through OpenTable are essential.
Two Decades of Italian Tradition
GIORDANO’S TRATTORIA ROMANA
Dining Guide
PUMPKIN SHEET CAKE WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
Serves: 20
INGREDIENTS:
For the cake:
2 1/2 cups (330g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs, room temperature
For the frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
This generously spiced pumpkin sheet cake captures autumn’s essence with warm notes of cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. The tender, oil-enriched crumb paired with silky cream cheese frosting creates a dessert sophisticated enough for entertaining yet approachable for family gatherings. Its sheet pan format makes it ideal for feeding a crowd — perfect for those intimate dinner parties where conversation flows as freely as the wine.
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup granulated sugar
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Recipe
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of kosher salt
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees and line a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or coat with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg and ginger; set aside.
Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com
3. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, eggs and vanilla until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
4. Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
5. For the frosting: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy — approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
6. Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Beat in vanilla and salt.
7. Once cake is completely cooled, frost with the cream cheese frosting.
For an elegant autumn presentation, create a rustic buttercream base using an offset spatula. Divide remaining frosting among four bowls, tinting one orange, one dusty blue, one brown, and leaving one white. Transfer to piping bags fitted with Wilton tips 6B (orange), 4B (blue and white), and 3 (brown). Pipe decorative pumpkins on opposite corners of the cake and top with brown frosting stems.
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9.6 ACRE RANCH
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DRAMATIC VIEWS
Walk to Downtown Carefree! NO HOA! Private and elevated 1.8 acre lot. Stunning Black Mountain Views! 3045 SF 4BR/3BA/3CG Erika 602-550-9595 DOWNTOWN CAREFREE
views of the surrounding mountains and desert. The home’s craftsmanship and attention to detail are immediately evident in every corner: custom beam work, soft Venetian plaster, warm hardwood floors, natural stone and brick accents all seamlessly flow throughout the space. Neutral tones create a serene atmosphere that invites both calm and sophistication, making every room feel like a sanctuary. Joanie Barreiro 480-235-2776
GATED
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TERRAVITA
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