Paradise Valley February 2017 by City Lifestyle

Paradise Valley FEBRUARY 2017

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N O W A C C E P T I N G 2 0 17 B O O K I N G S | M O U N TA I N S H A D O W S . C O M 5 4 4 5 E A S T L I N C O L N D R I V E , PA R A D I S E VA L L E Y, A Z 8 5 2 5 3

Lifestyle Letter

Made With Love

’ve always loved to read, and as far back as I can remember, my mother had always read to me at night before going to bed. As I got older, I continued this tradition, staying up to the first break of daylight on weekends devouring book after book. After finishing up a good novel, my thoughts would spin everywhere and I often found myself starting my own stories in my head based on what I had read—an intro or a new ending or plot twist.

However, I never thought to put those thoughts on paper until I took my first creative writing class in high school. That’s when the magic happened. I can still recall the feeling of pure bliss and excitement I had after finishing my first short story—a mystery/ romance piece. There was just something so beautiful about the way the words flowed together on paper and how I could manipulate them to change the whole feel of the story if I wanted to. It was a moment that ignited a spark of passion in me that has yet to fade. Every time I write something, whether it be a magazine article or story, I am still in awe of how truly fulfilling creating something all my own is.

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FEBRUARY 2017 PUBLISHER

Kat McMahon | Kat.McMahon@Lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Danielle Accovelli | Danielle.Accovelli@LifestylePubs.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Michelle Guerrero CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Talsma Everson, Michelle Guerrero, Teresa K. Traverse CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

William Dooning, Tonia Johnston

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

It is that passion for creation that I was fortunate enough to experience throughout the month meeting some of the talented artists, sculptors, designers and jewelry makers featured in our magazine. Every time I would sit down and chat with one of them and learn about how they came to their craft, I could see that same spark of passion I felt when I discovered writing light up in their eyes as well. It was as if we shared a secret kinship in our collective passions. I was also able to view first-hand many of the wonderful, expertly-crafted works these artists have devoted their lives to making, and the experience was truly enlightening. So, for our “Locally Made” issue I want to shine the spotlight on some of our talented residents and their works, like Thora Barker of Barestrings necklaces, Christiane Barbato of Blue Door Ceramics, Ruby Farias of Ruby Farias Designs and many more. Thank you for making our community so vibrant!

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGERS

OPERATIONS MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

| Nicole Sylvester, Nicolette Martin | Janeane Thompson

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour, Chad Jensen

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

| Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

| Melanie Carlisle

EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

Until next month,

| Matthew Perry

WEB DEVELOPERS

| Randa Makeen

| Michael O’Connell

| Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne

Danielle Accovelli, Editor

Correction: In the January 2017 Issue of Paradise Valley Lifestyle, the Good Times feature titled "St. Jude's 'A Night to Remember' Soiree" (Page 9) included the incorrect spelling of a name in the photo captions. Please note that the incorrect spelling of the name Dushyant Gandi should be correctly spelled as Dushyant Gandhi.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Paradise Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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February 2017

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Renovate & Refine

Hot Spot

Lifestyle Calendar

Sold Properties

Localâ€™s Choice

16 Barestrings of Wonder

Elegant jewelry by Thora Barker

20 Living Color

Bela Fidelâ€™s vibrant works of art

24 Embellished Beauties

Ruby Farias turns regular clothes into elegant ensembles

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Good Times

57th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball

The exquisite black-tie event, hosted by the Phoenician, saw over 750 guests enjoy cocktails, live entertainment and a sumptuous meal in the whimsically-decorated ballroom decked with pink and silver to match this year’s theme. PHOTOGRAPHY KAY ESKRIDGE

Carolyn Jackson, Kristine Thompson & Susie Wesley

Joel & Shannon Barthelemy and Kim & Rod Cullum

C.A. & Nan Howlett

William & Paula Wichterman

Sylvia Shoen & Jennifer Carmer

Table Decor

Holiday Prelude XXXI Luncheon & Fashion Show

Kicking off the holiday season, this haute event held at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn featured a festive array of boutiques, charming center pieces, an elegant lunch menu and fabulous fashions. PHOTOGRAPHY ELENA THORNTON

Billie Jo Herberger, Linda Herold

Tochia Levine, Judith Pearson

Deborah Carstens, Debbie Gaby

Emcee, Krystle Henderson

Linda Herold, Kate Van Driel, Debbie Gaby, Carol Poore, Deborah Carstens, Sally Macksey, Billie Jo Herberger

Fashion Show

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

Hotel Valley Ho's Confetti Ball

Partygoers from across the Valley rang in the New Year at Hotel Valley Ho’s lavish gala, which included a four-hour reception, savory hors d’oeuvres, a midnight Champagne toast and whimsical confetti drop. PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN CRAMER

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

ANDAZ SCOTTSDALE RESORT & SPA GRAND OPENING The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa is officially open for business, marking the Andaz brand’s introduction to Scottsdale, and its 14th property globally. Located on 23 acres in Paradise Valley, less than two miles north of Old Town Scottsdale, the mid-century inspired resort features 201 bungalow-style guestrooms and suites situated among majestic 50-foot pine trees with giant saguaros and desert wildflowers. A true oasis setting with incomparable views of nearby Camelback Mountain, the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa offers guests a place to inhabit, explore and create. For more information, please visit Scottsdale.Andaz.Hyatt.com.

2017 GIRL SCOUT COOKIE DESSERT CHALLENGE For the fourth year in a row, chefs from more than two dozen restaurants across the Valley and Flagstaff will go head-to-head to create a winning dessert using one of the Girl Scout cookie flavors. The new creations will be sold in their restaurants throughout February, with a portion of sales directly benefitting local girl scouting. This year, Northeast Valley restaurants taking on the

HOTEL VALLEY HO WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF

challenge include The Crepe Club,

The iconic Hotel Valley Ho in Downtown Scottsdale welcomes

Chompies, Proof Canteen at the

Russell LaCasce as its new executive chef. He joins the team

Four Seasons Scottsdale, Churn,

after serving as executive sous chef at the Sanctuary Camelback

Twisted Grove, Olive + Ivy, The

Mountain Resort and Spa, and began his new role at Hotel Valley

Henry, Flower Child, The Thumb,

Ho in January, 2017. As the executive chef of Hotel Valley Ho, Russell

Rusconi’s American Kitchen, Drexyl Modern American, Chr Kitchen

will oversee the culinary aspects of the hotel’s signature restaurant,

+ Bar, Coup des Tartes, Sorso Wine Room, The MARKET by Jennifer’s

ZuZu, as well as in-room dining, the OH Pool and OHasis Pool, ban-

Restaurant + Bar, Rhythm & Wine, and Jalapeno Inferno. For more

quets and catering. ZuZu is known for its seasonal American fare,

information, please visit GirlScoutsAZ.org.

locally sourced ingredients and classic cocktails. For more informa-

ARIZONA COCKTAIL WEEK Arizona Cocktail Week, the Southwest’s premier event for hospi-

tion, please visit HotelValleyHo.com.

INTRODUCING THE SCOTT RESORT & SPA

tality professionals and cocktail enthusiasts, will host its 6th Annual

Classic Hotels & Resorts, a leading hospitality development and

showcase February 17-24. This week-long celebration of the craft of

management company based in Phoenix, has announced plans to

the cocktail includes everything from parties, spirit tastings and edu-

rebrand and rename Firesky Resort & Spa, a boutique property the

cational seminars, to cocktail competitions, drinks specials and din-

company acquired in April 2016. The 204-room resort, located in Old

ners. The vast majority of the main events take place at Hotel Valley

Town Scottsdale, is being renamed as The Scott Resort & Spa. The

Ho, and in the general vicinity of the hotel. Events are also planned at

reinvention will consist of all guest rooms, suites and public spaces,

various locations in downtown Phoenix and Tucson. Arizona Cocktail

two pools, lobby bar and restaurant. The redesign will at once cel-

Week’s opening event, The Cocktail Carnival, is on Friday, February

ebrate the historic building’s iconic architecture, while introducing

17. For more information, please visit ArizonaCocktailWeek.com.

a new look, feel and elevated guest service culture, creating a new personality for the prized resort, alongside an all-new restaurant concept. For more information, please visit TheScottResort.com.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

VALENTINE’S DAY WEEKEND ON THE SCOTTSDALE WINE TRAIL Just in time for Valentine’s Day, hop on the Scottsdale Wine Trail and enjoy delectable wine and chocolate pairings at five different downtown Scottsdale wine tasting rooms. The cost is only $5 per tasting room, and includes three tastes of wine paired with chocolate. To partake in this delicious adventure, simply arrive at one of the wine tasting rooms during the allotted dates and times—and enjoy! Participating wineries include, LDV Winery, Carlson Creek Vineyard, Aridus Wine Company, Su Vino Winery and Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room. For more information, please visit ScottsdaleWineTrail.com.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER PHOENIX PRESENTS HIGHEST AWARD

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More than 150 guests were present as the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix presented its highest award, the Medal of Honor, to Joel Kramer during its Donor Appreciation and Award Brunch. Longtime friend and business partner, Len Miller, presented the award. For more information, please visit JewishPhoenix.org.

JDRF ANNOUNCES NEW ROCK & RUN 5K JDRF’s Desert Southwest Chapter has announced their newest fundraising event, the JDRF Rock & Run 5K, a local nighttime run driven to support a great cause while enjoying entertainment, gourmet food trucks and fun. Thousands of advocates will join for this inaugural run to raise funds and awareness for type 1 diabetes (T1D). Registration is now open for the event, which will take place in Mesa at Sloan Park on Saturday, April 29, 2017. For more information, please visit JDRF.org.

SHEMER ART CENTER’S TECHKIDS WORKSHOP Over the past 12 weeks, 22 students ages 9-13 attending Title 1 schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District had the opportunity to attend a TechKids Workshop provided by the Shemer Art Center in partnership with Arizona State University and STAX3D. The workshop provided edu-

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cation and training about art and 3D printing, allowing each child in attendance one of the four-week sessions to design and print their own 3D item. For more information, please visit ShemerArtCenter.org.

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Renovate & Refine

Plates of Perfection HOW CHRISTIANE BARBATO FOLLOWED HER PASSION TO CREATE BLUE DOOR CERAMICS ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Renovate & Refine

(CON TI N U ED)

hen I arrive at Christiane Barbato’s studio she greets me with two cheek kisses and has a big, bright smile that seems to grow even more as she begins to tell the story of how she came to create her now-famous line of signature works. At 40, Barbato knew she needed a change. To combat what she calls her “mid-life crisis,” she left her corporate job in her native Brazil and returned to what she loved: Arizona and ceramics, having discovered the medium as an exchange student at Chaparral High School. “Ceramics are fascinating. You can mold it into anything,” says Barbato. She typically molds clay into custom plates and dishes. And restaurants across the country have taken note, with most of them discovering her creations via her company’s Instagram account. Here in the Valley, Binkley’s, Roka Akor and Bourbon Steak at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess all stock her plates. Why does she think chefs like her work? “I love to cook. Every ceramics artist that makes plates should know how to cook. It’s kind of a complementary art,” she says. “I also love to see pictures of the beautiful presentations the chefs make on my plates. Just a plate like this, it’s just a plate. It’s just food. If you see the plate with the food on top, it looks amazing.” However, Barbato didn’t originally set out to create Instagramready dishware. When she moved to Arizona in 2006, her plan was to sell imported tiles from Brazil. When that didn’t take off due to the economic downturn, she decided to make plates because she felt her

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

own dishes were boring. One day a neighbor asked her to make them a set, then another did, then another. Seeing how her passion could also be a viable business, she launched an online store in 2009 and started to work on Blue Door Ceramics full time in 2013. Barbato’s work is influenced by both nature and her Brazilian roots. As the seasons shift, so do the colors she uses to decorate her plates. The fall and winter months mean darker colors, while the summertime sees lighter colored dishes in her kiln. Also expect to find beautiful turquoise plates in honor of Arizona’s state gem, cappuccino colored ones that she says look like the desert’s sands, and aquamarine and emeralds in honor of her home country, Brazil—one of the countries where the stones are mined. “I love organic shapes too,” she says. “I know how to throw on the potter’s wheel, but my style is more organic.” Barbato describes her works as happy, “with energy, connected to God and connected to nature” and the studio behind her Phoenix home as a “sanctuary” with good vibes and good thoughts. She hopes others who encounter her work sense her cheerful disposition in them. ”Everyone that buys my plates, they always have something good to say,” says Barbato. “I think about how many lives I’m going to touch with my work.” See more of Barbato’s works at BlueDoorCeramics.com or email her at Hello@BlueDoorCeramics.com.

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

BeautifulBarestrings

T H O R A B A R K E R C R E AT E S S T U N N I N G W O R K S O F W E A R A B L E A R T ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI | PHOTOGRAPHY TONIA JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

ucked away on a quiet residential street in Paradise Valley is a quaint home unique for its magnificent greenery, vine-covered wrought-iron fence and vintage cars parked in the driveway. Step inside and be transported to the interior of a traditional New England-style home, complete with a grand library, a cozy breakfast nook and exquisite antiques scattered throughout. It is here you will find Connecticut native and passionate jewelry maker Thora Barker pouring over a bevy of satin strings as she creates her magnificent, one-of-a-kind Barestrings necklaces.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

The strings come in multiple hues of almost every color on the spectrum—from vivid violets, blues and reds to subtler ivories, greens and grays—and all necklaces are custom-tailored to each individual client’s combination preference. “My love of color goes back to my first box of Crayola crayons, which eventually led me to an Art History Major at Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York; and it just grew from there,” says Thora. She also has an affinity for knowing her precious metals. Her grandfather, who immigrated to the United States from Sheffield,

England, worked for the International Silver Company in Meriden Connecticut for 50 years and passed along his love for silver to his granddaughter. “The Barestrings are really an inspiration from all of these things—my love of color and merging that with beautiful sterling silver pieces,” says Thora. However, on a practical note, the concept for the necklaces themselves actually came from something Thora had read in Nora Ephron’s novel I Feel Bad About my Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman. “Ephron talked about her friends in Manhattan, who wore turtlenecks on hot, humid days in the summer to hide their necks. That’s when I thought to myself ‘there has got to be a better way to do this,’ and came up with the concept of Barestrings,” says Thora. “They’re perfect because they’re light, airy, hand-washable and travel well.” Further distinguishing Thora’s jewelry is the fact that all the elements of her Barestrings are 100-percent made in the United States. “The strings are made out of natural fibers and the sterling silver I use for the clasps is made here locally by an incredible man who casts and does all the silver work for me,” says Thora. “That’s really important to me.” CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

BEAUTIFUL BARESTRINGS (CON TI N U ED)

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

PERFECT PAIRINGS

Thora customizes each necklace to her clients’ personal color preference, creating lasting statements that will perfectly complement any outfit. “There’s a certain grace and style to the Barestrings with how soft and feminine they are; and the way they contour to your body and enhance the natural glow of your skin,” says Thora. “They have panache.” Barestrings also pair well with your favorite pieces of jewelry. “I even like to use my own jewelry and layer it with the Barestrings because they really enhance everything,” says Thora. She’s extending her creations to younger generations as well, and plans to introduce a Barestrings children’s line soon. “I have two granddaughters and they both love their necklaces because they are colorful, light and pretty,” says Thora. “I can really make them for anyone of any age.” GLOBAL ELEGANCE

At the end of the day, what truly makes Thora’s passion so fulfilling is the people she has met and shared her necklaces with along the way. “I love that I can custom-make the necklaces for clients from all over, using email for color combinations,” says Thora. “I’ve met so many creative and wonderful people from places like Switzerland, Australia and Hawaii, and it’s just been so rewarding.” With the brand’s increasing global reach, new expansion and ever-evolving concept, the future certainly looks bright for Thora Barker and her Barestrings. For more information, please visit BareStrings.com or email Thora at Thora@Barestrings.com.

Marlene Pontrelli, Michelle Khazai, Leonce Richard, Marki Stewart, Ian Nesteruk Steven Wolfson, Dana Levy, Robert Schwartz

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February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

A Colorful Life Bela Fidel Shares Her Vibrant Art With the World ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

“I’m always busy looking ahead, trying different mediums, aiming higher and higher, demanding more and more of myself.”

or someone who has built such a successful following in the local art scene, it’s hard to believe that Bela Fidel originally didn’t plan on being an artist, having had dreams of becoming a writer before she discovered painting in oils. “Early on in the sixties, on a whim, I started playing with oils and continued ‘playing’ for a couple of years until I decided to take formal classes. In Brazil, I studied diligently for five or more years while painting non-stop, never thinking that painting would become a lifelong passion,” she explains. “After 10 years of painting regularly, I realized that this was what I wanted to do, this was what I needed, and that this was an integral part of who I was. I have never looked back.” In truth, Fidel has not had much time to look back. “I’m always busy looking ahead, trying different mediums, aiming higher and higher, demanding more and more of myself. My curiosity seems to have no end and it cannot be lassoed in: it eggs me on and on, relentlessly.” Born in Brazil, Fidel studied in Jerusalem and in the U.S. Her education and background are multifaceted: she has a B.A. in English and Spanish Languages and Literatures from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and also studied makeup artistry in Los Angeles. She’s worked as a translator in many languages, a secretary, a makeup artist, and is now a full-time artist and art teacher out of her studio in North Scottsdale. “At the risk of using a cliché, my studio is my retreat, my sanctuary, my battlefield—depending on the day,” she says. “It is where I face my angels and demons, where I get to know myself. It is where I get hurt and where I heal; where I learn humility, patience, persistence, as well as despondency, despair and many other existential challenges. I believe, though, that it is this emotional rollercoaster that enables me to deepen my work, bring meaning to it and touch other people’s hearts.” In recent years, Fidel has earned several accolades for her work, including Honorary Mentions from the Holocaust Museum and the West Valley Arts Council; a first prize in Mixed Media from the Arizona Art Alliance; and a third prize from the Arizona Art Alliance at an exhibit that took place at Vision Gallery last April. Fidel is known best for her work with oils and mixed media. She also uses and teaches the encaustic technique, which involves using hot wax and a heat source with a variety of artistic mediums. CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

A COLORFUL LIFE (CON TI N UED)

Where lovers meet, friends reminisce & the food is legendary.

“My work with encaustic encompasses paintings, wall sculptures, monotypes on paper and fabric and, lately, as one of the elements in my mixed media practice,” she explains. “I am planning to continue to develop my mixed media work by using larger panels, learning about different, additional materials that can be incorporated into the works, all while still making sure I remain true to my ‘Zen’ aesthetics,” Fidel says. When asked about her advice to novice artists, she notes, “I can only mention that stubbornness, persistence, hard work [and] diligence are a few of the elements that have kept me going throughout the years. I must not forget, as well, that learning about myself through my practice has been invaluable in my continuing efforts toward becoming a better artist.” To learn more, visit BelaFidel.com.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

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February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

PLAIN JANE To

Dame

Ruby Farias Creates Embellished, Hand-Painted Clothing and Accessories ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO | PHOTOGRAPHY TONIA JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

cottsdale artist and designer Ruby Farias can take anyone’s little black dress and pair of high heeled shoes and paint them with an elegant gold trim to refashion a modest outfit into a chic, one-ofa-kind ensemble. She can breathe life into a plain pair of sneakers with the fabric paint she creates herself, or transform a wall flower into a sassy diva who stands out in the crowd with her unique embellished gowns. Farias’s designs attract attention from all over with their exceptional style and flair. Even something simple like her black, high heeled ankle boots— hand-painted with red fringe along the top and delicate swirls along the toe— are a statement piece. “Once you wear one of my designs and see the attention that you get, it builds you up, makes you feel good and builds confidence,” she says. Farias works with clients individually to create the perfect item for them, and even though she creates high fashion pieces, you don’t have to be a fashionista to wear her designs. She bedazzles and bedecks jeans, jackets, suits, purses and shoes for every day occasions too.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

A CREATIVE ROAD

“I understand who the person is before I begin,” says Farias. “I create just for you.” Her clients may come to her with a color scheme in mind or an event they want to dress for, but she prefers to sit in the driver’s seat when it comes to design. “Clients will go through my portfolio to give themselves ideas, and for me to get a better understanding of their likes. Then I will move on the vibe I get from the client to create something new for them,” says Farias. Her clients typically meet with Farias in her home. Some bring their own garment or accessory for her to work with, while others want assistance. “I have my own little space where I work and can fit someone into something I have. I’ve done shopping for clients and have gone shopping with clients if they want something specific,” says Farias.

A MOTHER’S GIFT

Farias is from a large family and is no stranger to hand-me-downs, but as a child remembers watching her mother make special dresses just for her. As she got older, she started following in her mother’s footsteps. When she was in seventh grade, she designed her first pair of bell-bottoms. They were complete with a hand-embroidered smiley face at the bottom of the pant leg, foretelling her work today. Farias modeled and was very much interested in the fashion industry when she was in her late teens and early twenties, but eventually traded the starving artist lifestyle for a more dependable career in the banking industry. She was in that industry for 28 years before having her artistic breakthrough. When the economy took a dive in 2001, there was an acquisition of banks and everyone, including Farias, lost their jobs and had to re-apply. “My daughter was two-and-a-half. I was very much a career woman,” says Farias. “With my daughter at home, I was trying to figure out something fun to do. I went to the store and bought some paints, brushes and canvas – ‘Mommy’s going to teach you how to paint,’ I said. Painting again reignited my passion and made me feel alive. It was at that time I wondered how I could have ever put that brush down.” Farias left her corporate job to stay home with her daughter and follow her passion. By 2014 she was painting on clothing, merging her two favorite things: fashion and art. Today, she has a deep love for giving back and donates her work to a variety of fundraising events. She also enjoys sharing art with children by donating paints, brushes and canvases to worthy programs. “I don’t consider it work,” says Farias. It’s a way of life; her passion come to fruition. Learn what’s current with Ruby Farias Designs at RubyFariasDesigns.com. CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

PLAIN JANE TO GLITTERY DAME (C ON TI N UED)

Painted sneakers and three dimensional fashion are popular on the runway now. HERE ARE SOME TIPS

TO JAZZ UP YOUR WARDROBE:

1. The internet is full of fabulous ideas. Search for inspiration. 2. Plan your design on paper first. 3. Use an acrylic pencil or permanent marker to trace out your plan on the item before applying paint, gems, shells or other embellishments. 4. Make sure the paint or glue is compatible with the material or fabric being used. 5. Hand-stitch trimmings like flowers if you are hard on clothing. 6. Take climate into consideration. Hot glue guns work great for securing flourishes, but be cognizant when in the Arizona heat. 7. Fabric paint adheres best to canvas shoes and works well on suede. 8. Have a variety of brushes and use the proper tools: fine line brushes for fine lines and large brushes for wide lines.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

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February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Hot Spot

CROWN JEWEL ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI

ot simply your typical resort restaurant, dining at T. Cook’s at The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is an entire Mediterraneaninspired evening experience of its own. The journey begins as you step through the outdoor entranceway, past a brilliant courtyard with a cascading fountain, and find yourself at the iconic T. Cook’s. The ambience of the restaurant immediately invites warmth and intimacy with its glowing candles, rustic brick walls and wooden accents throughout the dining area. There’s also a roaring fireplace surrounded by comfortable leather seating in the adjacent room. “We have some really nice, composed entrees here in the dining room, as well as some great shared plates in the Fireplace Bar for tapas too, if you just want to come and share a bottle of wine and small bites with some friends,” says Executive Chef Todd Allison. Hailing from California, Allison began his culinary career working for a chef in San Diego before heading to culinary school in Arizona. While working at Mary Elaine’s at The Phoenician, the position for executive chef at T. Cook’s became available and the rest was history. Since then, Allison has been taking the restaurant back to its Mediterranean roots with flavor-driven seasonal menus highlighting fresh ingredients. “The way I like to cook is to keep it simple and recognizable,” says Allison. “I want people to be able to enjoy all the flavors.” Although Allison likes to keep his dishes simple, it doesn’t mean they lack creativity in the very least.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

T. COOK’S SERVES UP A MEDLEY OF MEDITERRANEAN MARVELS “I’m constantly testing myself to find those really authentic Mediterranean recipes; the ones that I find interesting or have never tried myself before. Then I bring them here for our customers to experience,” says Allison. Some stand-out menu items at T. Cook’s include the Lamb Osso Bucco with melt-in-your-mouth meat pulled right off the bone and served with ricotta gnocchi, San Marzano tomatoes and Calabrian chili; or the wonderfully tender Roasted Spanish Octopus for starters. Then there’s tantalizing entrees like the Grilled Venison Loin served with Brussel sprouts, roasted yams and drizzled with a pomegranate gastrique; or the famous Pan Roasted Branzino, perfectly cooked, sitting atop a bed of Shishito peppers, fingerling potatoes and stewed tomatoes. Also not to be overlooked are the restaurant’s signature side dishes. Chef Allison prepares a spectacular Vadouvan Spiced Oven Roasted Brussel Sprouts with a beautifully smoky yet smooth flavor that can stand on it’s own as a small dish. Pair all with one of the exquisite wines from the restaurant’s extensive list to complete the experience and truly savor the flavors of the Mediterranean. For at T. Cook’s, every bite takes you on a new culinary journey. For more information and to make reservations, please visit RoyalPalmsHotel.com or call 602.808.0766.

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February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

February FEBRUARY 1 - 5

dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, folk and tradition-

WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN

al dances, musical performances, Chinese culture and history booths,

SCOTTSDALE

a children’s pavilion and much more. PhoenixChineseWeek.org

Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” this legendary golf tournament sports the largest crowds on the PGA Tour in a stadium large

FEBRUARY 9

enough to hold 15,000 fans. Unlike any other golf tournament, the fun

CONSERVE THE PRESERVES LUNCHEON

lasts well into the evening here with entertainment at the Coors Light

PHOENIX

Birds Nest. WMPhoenixOpen.com

The Desert Botanical Garden brings renowned scientist and wild-na-

FEBRUARY 1 - 4

ture advocate Dr. Wallace “J.” Nichols to this though-provoking event to spark conversation about the greatest love story ever told: our con-

BIRDS NEST CONCERT SERIES

nection to the natural world and all its beauty, wonder and inspiration

SCOTTSDALE

here in the Sonoran Desert. DBG.org

For four nights every year, the legendary Birds Nest night club moves to a large tent in North Scottsdale for the Waste Management Phoe-

FEBRUARY 9

nix Open. This year’s line up includes performances by Jake Owen

BESPOKE: A CELEBRATION OF BEAUTY

with Chase Rice, Toby Keith with The Band Perry, Kaskade and Flo

PHOENIX

Rida, and Blink 182 and Steve Aoki. WMPhoenixOpen.com

Celebrate the new Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Grand Gallery

FEBRUARY 3 - 5 ARIZONA OPERA PRESENTS MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOENIX

and the opening of the inaugural exhibition, Beauty Speaks for Us, featuring masterworks from the Heard Museum’s permanent collection and private Phoenix collection. Heard.org

Performed at Symphony Hall with a bevy of tender duets and the

FEBRUARY 9 - 12

most breathtaking arias of all time, the production encompasses a

BALLET ARIZONA'S

lifetime of hope and anticipation, betrayal and despair as an innocent

ROMEO & JULIET

Japanese geisha’s love for an American naval officer leads to the ulti-

PHOENIX

mate heartbreak and tragedy. AZOpera.org

Prepare to feel the sweeping romance and profound tragedy of Shakespeare’s beloved tale during this spectacular performance. Choreographed by renowned Artistic Director Ib Andersen, the ballet is a feast for the eyes and ears with sweepingly regal ballroom scenes, vivacious swordplay and a dramatic score. BalletAZ.org

FEBRUARY 11 NIGHT OF BEATLE-MANIA GALA

FEBRUARY 6 - 12

SCOTTSDALE Step into a world of Beatles music and entertainment for this fabu-

PHOENIX CHINESE WEEK

lous fundraiser at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

PHOENIX

benefitting a New Leaf’s homeless and domestic violence shelter

The 27th annual festival in honor of Chinese New Year, “The Year of the

programs. Also featured are live and silent auctions, dancing and a

Rooster,” will feature an array of thrilling live entertainment, including

delicious dinner. TurnANewLeaf.org

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

FEBRUARY 12 SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT SCOTTSDALE Arizona’s Premiere Philharmonic will be hosting a melodious evening of tunes at the Scottsdale Bible Church, featuring Wagner’s Overture to Tannhauser, Mozart’s Symphony 40 G minor and Respighi’s Pines of Rome. ScottsdalePhilharmonic.com

FEBRUARY 14 TAOS TUESDAYS SCOTTSDALE Collectors played an important role in the promotion and support of the Taos Society of artists. Here, leading American art dealers Brad Richardson and Jack A. Morris Jr. examine this connection and cultivation of a new generation of collectors. ScottsdaleMuseumWest.org

FEBRUARY 23 - 26 CANAL CONVERGENCE: WATER + ART + LIGHT SCOTTSDALE Scottsdale Public Art returns to Scottsdale Waterfront for its fifth year presenting this cutting-edge, interactive art event. Experience four days of eight large-scale, contemporary public art installations positioned in the Arizona Canal, along its banks and soaring in the skies above, along with artist talks, workshops and live music. ScottsdalePublicArt.org

MARCH 1 GRAND OPERA CINEMA SERIES: LA BOHEME SCOTTSDALE Head to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts to experience a beautiful rendition of Puccini’s most beloved opera. Screened in glorious HD, the world-renowned San Francisco Opera performs the heartwarming story of starving artists falling in and out of love in 19th-century Paris. ScottsdalePerformingArts.org

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Scottsdale Museum of the West (480) 686-9539 scottsdalemuseumwest.org

AUTOMOTIVE Scottsdale RV (480) 946-0707 scottsdalerv.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Arabian Horse Association of Arizona (480) 515-1500 scottsdaleshow.com Top Notch Transportation (602) 505-5158 topnotchtransportation.com

FOOD & BEVERAGE Dutch Bros Coffee (541) 941-1152 dutchbros.com

Hypoxi (480) 794-1776 HypoxiBody.com

LANDSCAPING

Switch Consignment (480) 664-0580 switchconsignment.com The Dump (757) 552-1598 thedump.com

LEGAL

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

HOME SERVICES

Benjamin Moore & Hunter Douglas/Arizona Paint Supply (480) 757-2000 azpaintsupply.com Griffin Estate Sales, LLC (480) 261-2020 Griffinestatesales.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

HEALTH & WELLNESS Desert Dragonfly Holistic Healthcare & Mobile Massage (480) 427-7985 Ddhhc.com

Closet Factory (480) 998-2070 closetfactory.com

KITCHEN & BATH

JK Cabinets (480) 219-9580 jkkitchencabinets2you.com

Cesar Mazier Landscaping & Consulting (602) 265-0920 cmazier.com Dickinson Wright PLLC (313) 223-3132

LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE

Infiniti on Camelback (602) 776-9800 infinitioncamelback.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Eddie Merlot's - Scottsdale (480) 699-0480 eddiemerlots.com Tomaso's...When in Rome (480) 699-3481

SALONS & SPAS Amazing Lash Studio Paradise Valley (602) 529-4366 amazinglashstudio.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Tonia Johnston (480) 677-5622 toniajohnstonphotography.com Brenenstuhl PV Luxury Real Estate (602) 524-1677 pvluxuryrealestate.com Mackey Martin Group/ Realty Executives (602) 930-6661 arcadialuxuryproperties.com

The Terraces of Phoenix (602) 906-4024 TheTerracesPhoenix.com The Green Goddess (602) 971-8110 greengoddess.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE Mountain Shadows (480) 624-5400 mountainshadows.com

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Paradise Valley Properties NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM*

BDRMS

BATHS

Paradise Valley

$6,500,000

$5,100,000

78%

343

Paradise Valley

$5,900,000

$4,750,000

81%

186

Paradise Valley

$4,250,000

100%

6.5

Paradise Valley

$3,795,000

$4,545,000

120%

4.5

Paradise Valley

$3,500,000

$3,200,000

91%

736

Paradise Valley

$3,000,000

100%

4.5

Arcadia

$2,895,000

$2,650,000

92%

130

5.5

Arcadia

$2,800,000

$2,350,000

84%

300

4.5

Paradise Valley

$2,250,000

$1,950,000

87%

177

Paradise Valley

$2,250,000

$1,825,000

81%

193

4.5

Paradise Valley

$2,230,000

$2,050,000

92%

208

5.5

Paradise Valley

$1,999,000

$1,500,000

75%

452

Arcadia

$1,850,000

$1,768,000

96%

4.5

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis from ARMLS for all agents for 12-1-16 through 12-31-16. *DOM=Days on Market.

JILL BRENENSTUHL

Paradise Valley Specialist

CA L L O R V I S I T U S O N L I N E !

602-524-1677 | jillbrenenstuhl@gmail.com | PVLuxuryRealEstate.com February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Local’s Choice Burton Silverman, American Artist

Portraits to Last a Lifetime DENISE RESNIK, OIL, 36 X 24 Resnik is one of three founders of SARRC, a national model for the research and treatment of people with autism. She has also spearheaded First Place, a comprehensive residential and training community for adults with autism. “The Napolitano, Resnik and Silverman projects inspired me because I think they are each people who have spent their lives in the service of a fair and just society,” says Saper.

BURTON SILVERMAN, OIL 28 X 28 Burton Silverman is an iconic New York City artist, as well as Saper’s friend and mentor. “Burt is truly a living legend in the portrait world,” she says. “He is one of four portraits I've done in a series of paintings to recognize and thank artists who have helped me or inspired me in some way along this journey.”

Denise Resnik, First Place & SAARC

Janet Napolitano

SELECTIONS FROM CHRIS SAPER OF CHRIS SAPER HEIRLOOM & CORPORATE PORTRAITURE ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE ChrisSaper.com

East Light

JANET NAPOLITANO, OIL, 26 X 38 “This is a casual portrait of a former Governor of Arizona, a woman who loves to go to the opera when she's not running the University of California system or, as in her prior role, trying to keep the homeland safe,” says Saper. “I've painted several portraits of Janet, and I particularly like this one because she showed me a side of her that the pubic rarely sees. Before I met her, I expected to find a formal, rather aloof woman, and instead found a warm, incredibly funny and smart woman who is absolutely passionate about opera.” 34

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

EAST LIGHT,OIL 36 X 24 This is a portrait of Saper’s daughter, Alexandra, when she was about 15. “I love that age, where both child and woman are simultaneously visible,” she says. Saper has been painting her daughter since she was 18 months old. Alexandra’s now a 25–year-old attorney. “She's been a willing model, constructive participant/critic and an all around old soul, who happens to be my muse.”

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