The Entertainer! - August 2019

PHX METRO » AUGUST 2019

Harlem Globetrotters bounce into town

Summer oiree

Handcrafted meats make for delectable treats

SPOOKY’S SWIRLS

Winner of 6 Tony® Awards including

BEST MUSICAL

KINKY BOOTS A joyful musical about finding your footing.

August 28 - October 13 at The Phoenix Theatre Company Things look grim for Charlie Price’s shoe factory until he meets Lola, cabaret performer and drag queen, whose daring ideas might just turn the failing business around. Together, they hatch a plan to save the company and give intolerance the boot! Based on a true story, with music by Cyndi Lauper and book by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein, what audiences love most is the message: we can let our differences divide us or we can come together and make something beautiful.

Experience the Best Live Entertainment in Arizona With Craft Cocktails, Small Bites and Free Parking All Year Long.

PHOENIXTHEATRE.COM | 602.254.2151 On the NE Corner of Central + McDowell

UPCOMING P L A Y

AUG 17

I N

S T Y L E

AUG 24

JUSTIN HAYWARD

BJ THOMAS

All The Way And More! With Mike Dawes

in The Showroom

in The Showroom

AUG 30

SEP 7

JEFF FOXWORTHY

WARRANT

in The Ballroom

OCT 11

in The Showroom

OCT 24

DAVE MASON

AARON LEWIS

in The Showroom

in The Ballroom

Feelin' Alright Tour 2019

STATE I'M IN TOUR

For tickets call the box office at 480.850.7734 or visit ticketmaster.com

101 & TA L K I N G S T I C K W A Y | S C O T T S D A L E TA L K I N G S T I C K R E S O R T. C O M Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

CONTENTS

5

Summer Fare

Joey Maggiore, Schreiner’s and Lon’s among those who bring the meats

30

ON THE COVER

32 PARANORMAL PASTRIES

Spooky’s Swirls celebrates horror with baked goods

41

THEY’RE ‘BETTA’

Bell Biv DeVoe is in the prime of its career after 30 years

on the cover: Joey Maggiore of The Sicillian Butcher Cover photo by Kimberly Carrillo

6

49

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

FROM KATRINA TO THE COURT

Globetrotter ‘Big Easy’ Lofton bounces into town

Times Media Group 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282 Phone 480.348.0343 Fax 480.348.2109 entertainermag.com

publisher

Steve T. Strickbine

steve@entertainermag.com

Managing Editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

christina@timespublications.com

Assistant Editor Connor Dziawura

cdziawura@timespublications.com

CONTENTS UPFRONT

8

Top 25 • Doll Skin • Summer Sips • Blue October

CITY

designer

45

Shannon Mead

production manager Courtney Oldham

production@timespublications.com

circulation director Aaron Kolodny

aaron@entertainermag.com

16

contributing writers

Pueblo Grande • Mary Lynn Rajskub • Hell City Tattoo

TRAVEL

Kate Bacon, Alison Bailin Batz, Adianna Bermudez, Shane Crowe, Laura Latzko, Randy Montgomery, Brianna Moore, Eric Newman, Bridgette Redman, Kayla Rutledge, Katie Sawyer, Octavio Serrano, Greg Thilmont

20

Cancun

ARTS

22

Arts Calendar • “The Book of Mormon” • “Blinded by the Light”

DINING

26

THE SCIENCE OF BASEBALL

Chase Field debuts its STEM Dugout

Dining Calendar • Happy Hour Guide • Diner Insider: Fruity Fire Ice Cream • House-Crafted Meats and Sausages • Spooky’s Swirls

BEER AND WINE

34

40

44

Sports Calendar • Harlem Globetrotters • Birdgang Travel Club

FAMILY

48

Family Calendar • “Matilda” • STEM Dugout at Chase Field

MUSIC

50

Live Music Calendar • Collective Soul • Frank Iero • Skillet • 311 • Papa Roach • Calexico ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Lee Clower, Rodji Munoz, Le Blanc Resorts, Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks, Megan Thompson, Nick Wall, Mitchell Wojcikt

The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2018 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe.

Casino Entertainment Calendar • Bell Biv DeVoe • Fan Halen • Our Lady Peace

SPORTS

Contributing Photographers

ONE COPY PER READER

Beer and Wine Calendar •• Beer Finder Directory • Beertender: Marlee Palmer at OBON • Beer Pairing: Kelly’s at Southbridge • Summertime Reds

CASINOS

Staff Photographers

Kimberly Carrillo, Pablo Robles

55 NIGHTLIFE

DON’T STAY HOME

311 brings Dirty Heads for a roots-rock riot 58

Nightlife Calendar • Mad Mixologist: Little Rituals’ Aaron DeFe

IN CLOSING

60

For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the NOVEMBER prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets.

DISTRIBUTION SERVICES PROVIDED BY:

Real Wild and Woody Beer Festival

480.348.0343

• Children with eagle wings soar through the miniature Bird’s-Eye Village • Holiday lights, music, and refreshments • Train ride through a magic tunnel to the North Pole and back • Santa boards the train at the whimsical North Pole Village with gifts for all of the children • Meet Flurry, a real bald eagle and Princess Noel, characters from The Magical Christmas Journey™ book

Christmas Trains Depart at 5:30pm and 7:00pm, December 6 to 28 www.VerdeCanyonRR.com/Christmas-Train • 1-800-293-7245

8

TOP25 Brianna Moore » The Entertainer!

Blink-182 with Lil’ Wayne and Neck Deep

AUGUST 5 Take time to appreciate “all the small things” as Blink-182 stops in Phoenix on its North American summer tour. Lil’ Wayne and the band Neck Deep have been touring with the trio all summer, and will be with them when they come to Phoenix. This year, Blink-182 is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its “Enema of the State” album, so fans can enjoy the album in its entirety, along with other hits.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com, 7 p.m., $36-$259.

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE hip-hop and R&B icons Nas and Mary J. Blige will join forces for a North American summer tour.

The two will stop by the Ak-Chin Pavilion to delight fans with some of their old and new tracks.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com. 8 p.m., $30-$460.

the Elvis exhibit in the museum’s artist gallery, listen to talks about Elvis’ music, and even enjoy a movie starring the “King” himself.

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim. org, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., included with paid museum admission.

members in tears of laughter.

ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com, $40-$160

Los Angeles Chargers vs.

Arizona Cardinals

AUGUST 8 From first downs to touchdowns— Join the Arizona Cardinals in their preseason as they take on the Los Angeles Chargers at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, 7 p.m., statefarmstadium.com, $28-78.

Devin the Dude

AUGUST 9 Houston’s very own Devin the Dude is headed to Tempe for his summer tour after the release of his latest album “Still Rollin’ Up: Somethin’ to Ride With.” Hip-hop heads will be able to hear songs from the new album, as well as some old favorites like “What a Job.” Aura, 411 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.210.2872, auratempe. com, 9 p.m., $15-$45.

“The Book of Mormon”

AUGUST 6 TO AUGUST 11 The musical comedy and international sensation “The Book of Mormon” comes to Tempe. Winner of the Tony Award for “Best Musical,” this play follows two missionaries as they travel across the world to spread the “good word.” Written

by Trey Parker and Matt Stone of “South Park” fame, “The Book of Mormon” is sure to leave audience

UPFRONT

Margarita Crawl in Tempe 311

AUGUST 10 Following the release of its 13th studio album “Voyager,” 311 will be in Phoenix for a stop on its summer tour. The rock band will jam its reggae-rock-metal amalgamation to give fans a night they won’t forget.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com, $25-$95.50.

Talib Kweli

AUGUST 10 Two years after the release of his “Radio Silence” album, rapper Talib Kweli heads to Tempe for his “Summer Soulstice Tour.”

The hip-hop phenomenon will be accompanied by artists Niko Is and Chazmere, while DJ Spintelect kicks out tunes throughout the night.

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.1300, luckymanonline. com, 6:30 p.m., $25-$45.

Musical Icon: Elvis Mary J. Blige and Nas

AUGUST 9 It’s a family affair! For the first time,

REAL GOLD. REAL

Burger.

AUGUST 10 AND AUGUST 11 Long live the king! Celebrate the life and legacy of rock ‘n’ roll legend Elvis Presley at the Musical Instrument Museum. Visitors can check out

AUGUST 10 Bar Crawl Unlimited is hosting a margarita crawl in Tempe. The crawl starts at Rula Bula Tempe Irish Pub and Restaurant and will move through at least five other venues. Drinks will be discounted at each venue and there will be free goodies to take home.

Who doesn’t love free stuff?

Rula Bula Tempe Irish Pub and Restaurant, 401 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.929.9500, 2 to 8 p.m., $20-$45, 21 and older.

San Francisco Giants vs.

Arizona Diamondbacks

AUGUST 15 TO AUGUST 18 Enjoy peanuts and crackerjacks as the Diamondbacks face the San Francisco Giants in a weekend series the family can enjoy.

With the purchase of a special ticket, fans can receive a free Diamondbacks construction industry hat throughout the weekend. On Saturday, August 17, the first 15,000 fans will receive a free tumbler cup, courtesy of Dutch Bros.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m. August 15 and August 16, 5:10 p.m. August 17, 1:10 p.m.

August 18, tickets start at $15.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

New York Voices

AUGUST 15 Right before the release of its latest album, the jazz vocal ensemble New York Voices will grace audience members with unique melodies and harmonies as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim.org, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $33.50-$48.50.

Reno 1868 vs.

Phoenix Rising FC

AUGUST 16 Be a part of the uprising as the Phoenix Rising FC faces the Reno 1868 FC during the team’s Copper State Fridays. During Copper State Fridays, fans can enjoy Bud Lights for $1 and take advantage of happy-hour prices on all alcohol selections all game long.

Casino Arizona Field, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Scottsdale, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc. com, 7:30 p.m., $20-$43.

Run Soaked

AUGUST 17 Get ready for the hottest marathon of the summer! This untimed 5K marathon includes everything runners need to keep cool, including six super-sized slip and slides, water trucks and postrace refreshments. Volunteers on the sidelines will spray runners with water guns. Participants will also receive race shirts and a commemorative finisher towel.

Kiwanis Recreation Center, 611 S. All-American Way, Tempe, 4peaksracing.com, registration begins at 6:30 a.m., $30-$35.

August Alsina

AUGUST 19 New Orleans-born R&B artist August Alsina will perform songs from his latest album “Forever and a Day.” Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.1300, luckymanonline. com, 8 p.m., $35-$65.

will stop at Gila River Arena on August 23 Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix on August 24 on their “2019 Fan-Powered World Tour.” There will also be opportunities for audience members to interact with the team before, during and even after the game.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 7 p.m. August 23, $20.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, talkingstickresortarena.com, noon and 5 p.m. August 24, $15-$145.

Chicago Sky vs.

Phoenix Mercury

AUGUST 25 Come out and be heard! Watch as Brittney Griner and the Phoenix Mercury take on the ladies of the Chicago Sky. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, talkingstickresortarena. com, 3 p.m., $9-$216.

its first studio album, “ZZ Top’s First Album,” the band with beards has embarked on a 34-date tour across the United States.

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 7 p.m., $48-$184.

Jeff Foxworthy

Kacey Musgraves

AUGUST 27 Get off your “High Horse” and head down to Comerica Theatre to see Kacey Musgraves in concert. The Country Music Award winner will be in Phoenix for the second part of her “Oh What a World Tour.”

The opening act is Poolside.

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 8 p.m., sold out.

Heart

Rolling Stones

AUGUST 26 Prepare to show off your Jagger-like dance moves. After postponing their U.S. tour, the Rolling Stones are back on the road and headed to Glendale.

The “No Filter Tour” will make a stop at the State Farm Stadium.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, 8 p.m., statefarmstadium. com, $65-$1,200.

Harlem Globetrotters

AUGUST 23 AND AUGUST 24 Prepare to be amazed by the record-breaking athleticism of the Harlem Globetrotters. The team

AUGUST 28 Calling all Heart Mongers! For the first time in three years, Heart is traveling the country for its “Love Alive” summer tour. The classic rock band will be joined by rockers Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and alt-rocker Elle King.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com, 7 p.m., $22-$350.

UB40

AUGUST 29 After the release of its 20th studio album, “For the Many,” UB40 is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a North American Summer Tour. The “40th Anniversary: A Real Labour of Love Tour” will feature the classics like “Kingston Town” and “Red Red Wine.”

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.1300, luckymanonline. com, 7 p.m., $32-$62.

ZZ Top

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AUGUST 30 Comedic legend Jeff Foxworthy is headed to Scottsdale! Prepare to be tickled pink as the former “Are Your Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” host blows audiences away with his jokes that bring out the humor in all of us.

Salt River Grand Ballroom at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort. com, 8 p.m., tickets start at $35.

Daniel Caesar

AUGUST 30 Following the release of his second studio album, Canadian singersongwriter Daniel Caesar is on the road for his “Case Study 01” tour. The “Best Part” singer will be at the Van Buren in Phoenix.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, 480.659.1641, thevanburenphx. com, 8 p.m., $39.50-$45.

Korn with Alice in Chains

AUGUST 31 In anticipation of its upcoming album, “The Nothing,” Korn is on tour with Alice in Chains and Underoath to give fans a sneak preview of the collection.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com, 7 p.m., $29-$135.

Diamondbacks Bar Crawl

AUGUST 31 Join the Diamondbacks for a bar crawl inside of Chase Field! The crawl will begin at Game Seven Grill, then participants can head inside Chase Field and hop from bar to bar. The event includes beer and wine sampling, a ticket to watch the Diamondbacks take on the Dodgers and raffle prizes.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, dbacks.com, noon to 8 p.m., tickets start at $20.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

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ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Blue October’s singer shares tales of addiction and recovery Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

B

lue October singer Justin Furstenfeld has witnessed the rollercoaster rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.

He let depression, as well as drugs and alcohol abuse consume his life. But his wife, Sarah, gave him the inevitable ultimatum—along with his bandmates, management and fans.

Now platinum-selling Blue October is getting ready to release the music documentary “Get Back Up,” by Emmy-winning director Norry Niven (“Dexter,” “Chasing Shakespeare,” “American Idol”).

“What made it so special is I wanted to maintain a certain style of living, which was a positive one. If you have cameras filming you the whole time, you don’t want to go back down the negative route.

“It’s an insurance policy for sobriety and good living. I had to walk the walk instead of just talking the talk.”

On Friday, August 9, Furstenfeld’s “An Open Book” tour comes to the Van Buren in Phoenix, where he’ll discuss his career, his demons and fans.

“It’s basically a spoken word piece,” Furstenfeld says about the show. “It’s a real inspirational piece of art that I’ve put together and shared with people who might be going through stuff.

“It’s just a chance to get really up close and personal with people and have a conversation about how precious life is.

I share the tools we can use to continue doing our best as human beings. I’m

really proud of it.”

Furstenfeld says he likes to see his solo events top out at 500 people. It gives him the chance to have an open conversation with his fans, “instead of it being flashy and hazy with loud music.”

With Furstenfeld’s recovery, Blue October has bounced back as well.

Blue October’s ninth album, “I Hope You’re Happy,” debuted at No. 7 on Billboard’s Album Chart and No. 2 on its Alternative Album Chart.

Known for songs like “Into the Ocean,” “Hate Me” and “Calling You,” Furstenfeld uses his new lease on life to share new messages. The newest album spawned the hits “I Hope You’re Happy” and “Daylight.”

The Texan is looking forward to the tour and the release of “Get Back Up.” Blue October is planning a live record that was recorded in Manchester, England; and is writing a “really good raw, rock album.”

The documentary is on the forefront of Furstenfeld’s mind, as he’s a big fan of the medium.

“I’m super proud of it,” he says. “We’ve been filming it for six and a half years.

It’s quite eye opening, and beautiful, and touching all at the same time.

“An Open Book: An Evening with Justin Furstenfeld of Blue October” The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, thevanburenphx. com, 8 p.m. Friday, August 9, $30-$47.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

13

E V O L D A E D IS

Doll Skin trades romantic for trauma on its new album Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

S

cottsdale rockers Doll Skin had a pact when they were set to record their third studio album, “Love is Dead and We Killed Her.” “The name ‘Love is Dead and We Killed Her’ came from the idea that we didn’t want to have any love songs on this album, or songs about love,” says singer Sydney Dolezal.

Instead, Doll Skin, who released the album on June 28 on Hopeless Records, went with revenge and relentlessness as themes, hoping to provide a voice for those who have suffered through “traumatic or extraordinary events,” Dolezal says.

The subject matter on the album includes Dolezal’s pursuit of sobriety and finding healthy coping mechanisms on “Outta My Mind;” finding selfempowerment through introspection coupled with the strength to move on from unhealthy relationships on “Empty House;” and drummer Meghan Herring’s struggles with depression on “No Fears,” according to reports.

“It was an emotional process for us, but we really benefited from it,” Herring adds. “I’m glad we had the time we did to make this album, because it came out really well.”

After touring with New Found Glory, Doll Skin is returning for a special hometown show at Pub Rock in Scottsdale on Saturday, August 10.

The songs on “Love is Dead and We Killed Her” are relatively new, as they

were recorded in January in Big Bear, California, with producers Will McCoy and Mike Green. From there, the band went to Los Angeles to lay down tracks.

Herring says McCoy and Green helped Doll Skin develop their ideas.

“This is the first time we really worked with someone else,” Dolezal adds. “This time we were really able to sit down and utilize an outside voice. I’m really proud of this album and it was very different than anything we’d ever done before.”

Doll Skin has been highly touted since its beginnings. The band was discovered in 2013 by Megadeth bassist David Ellefson and his son, Roman, at a Desert Mountain High School talent show.

After fruitless efforts to shop the band to industry friends, Ellefson took on production and managerial duties himself. Doll Skin became the impetus behind the Ellefson and Thom Hazaert’s EMP Label Group. The band released two albums and an EP on EMP. Since the release of its 2017 sophomore effort “Manic Pixie Dream Girl,” Doll Skin has experienced a wealth of personal and creative growth through touring, meetings and listening to other bands.

“We’re kind of like sponges at this point in our career, so we’re kind of soaking up everything around us,” Dolezal says.

“In terms of sound and topics, we all matured a lot. I personally did a lot of growing within this album and I did a lot of learning about myself in terms of what we wrote about. It’s definitely very fitting for where we are right now in our

career.”

In September, Doll Skin will embark on a European and U.K. tour with their friends Trash Boat, whom they met on Warped Tour.

“It’ll be kind of a short run, but it’ll be really fun,” Herring says.

Doll Skin w/Good Boy Daisy and Love Like Fiction Pub Rock Live, 8005 E. Roosevelt Street, Scottsdale, pubrocklive. com, 7 p.m. Saturday, August 10, $12-$15.

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SUMMER SIPS

14

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Cool off in the Sonoran Desert with these heavenly pours Greg Thilmont >> The Entertainer!

W

hen it’s mindbendingly scorching outside, few things are as refreshing as sipping on a cold brew of the adult kind (preferably on a patio near a mister). This sunshine-filled Sonoran Desert summer season is time for frosty pours of lighter styles of beer— so let’s bring on the pilsners, lagers and their lip-smacking liquid peers. Here’s a look at some of the most chill draughts handcrafted in the Valley of the Sun.

SUPREME SOUTH-OF-THEBORDER SUDS Micheladas at CRUjiente Tacos One of Mexico’s most exuberant beer traditions — the flavorful michelada — gets upscale treatment at CRUjiente Tacos in Arcadia. There, tall, 32-ounce glass tumblers are filled with frigid Dos Equis and a tomato-based mix that

features assertive flavorings like umamiladen Maggi sauce, onion powder, garlic powder and housemade chili powder redolent of guajillos and pasillas. It also benefits from the distinct heat of New Mexican Rancho de Chimayó chiles.

CRUjiente Tacos stands out in the way it serves micheladas: each glass arrives brimming with a blended lagertomato-pepper-spice elixir and ice cubes.

Drinkers don’t incrementally pour their beers into the flavoring mix, as is commonly done in most eateries and drinkeries. This is to avoid diluting the michelada, explains Chef Rich Hinojosa.

“We want it to be a good drink from the first sip to the last sip,” Hinojosa says.

Each michelada glass is also rimmed with Maldon sea salt flakes from Southeast Britain and even more Rancho de Chimayo chile pepper for additional oomph in each sip. ¡Salud!

CRUjiente Tacos, 3961 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.687.7777, crutacos.com.

ARIZONA LIGHT LAGER FROM HUSS BERWING CO.

LO-CAL SUNSHINE IN A CAN Arizona Light Lager from Huss Brewing Co. For some craft beer connoisseurs, light beers are looked down on as boring and ordinary. (OK, they’re actually snobs.)

Sometimes, like when it’s 110 degrees and you’re floating in your pool, or it’s noon on Saturday and you’re mowing the lawn, you want a beer that goes down easy.

And, if you’re going to be having more than a couple, you don’t want them to be packed with carbs. But they should taste good, too. Enter the new Arizona Light Lager from Huss Brewing Co. “Bringing a healthier but very crushable and drinkable light beer to market — from a locals’ standpoint — made us very excited,” says Huss beer evangelist Chip Mulala.

Each Arizona Light Lager can contains a modest 8 grams of carbohydrates and 110 calories to help avoid summer beer bellies. And the sipper’s packaging is pure Americana, making for a backyard beevo Arizonans can toss back with state pride. (4.02% ABV) Huss Brewing Co., 1520 W. Mineral Road, Suite 102, Tempe, 480.264.7611, hussbrewing.com.

Zona Pils from 12 West Brewing Co. Get in the chill zone with a frosty Zona Pils at small but stylish 12 West Brewing Co. in the impressive Barnone craft and culture emporium at Gilbert’s Agritopia.

Taking a windowed spot at the end of the vast metal Quonset hut — which is reminiscent of a sideways giant beer can, no less — the micro-brewery’s crisp tribute to the Grand Canyon State is low in alcohol, so it’s highly drinkable. (4.3% ABV) 12 West Brewing Co., 3000 E. Ray Road, Gilbert, 480.404.9699, 12westbrewing.com.

White Mage Witbier from 8-Bit Aleworks Perhaps you want to take refuge inside during these months and delve into a virtual world (all the while sipping on high-scoring barley pop). Gamers rejoice! The White Mage Witbier from Avondale’s 8-Bit Aleworks has a sorcerous zesty and spicy character and is a style of wheat beer that’s been brewed over the centuries with an eye to summer drinking. It does pack a bit of a poweredup punch, though. (5.8% ABV) 8-Bit Aleworks, 1050 N. Fairway Drive, Building F, Suite 101, Avondale, 623.925.1650, 8-bitaleworks.com.

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Camp Light Lager from Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. Packing up for a weekend trip up north to beat the heat? Fill a Hydro Flask growler or two with the fragrant Camp Light Lager from Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. It’s flavored with orange blossoms and orange zest, so it’ll be one of the most in-demand drinks in the forest. (4.2% ABV) Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., 721 N. Arizona Avenue, Suite 103, Gilbert, 480.497.2739, azwbeer.com.

Vamonos Lager from The Beer Research Institute Put on your thinking cap inside the cool comfort of Mesa’s Beer Research Institute. Reach for a flavorful Vamonos Lager, a Viennese-style pour that’s been enhanced with Lemon Drop hops and fresh lime zest. Brilliant! (4.5% ABV) The Beer Research Institute, 1641 S. Stapley Drive, Suite 104, Mesa, 480.892.2020, thebeerresearchinstitute.com.

El Jefe Fantasma Hefeweizen from Bone Haus Brewing Don’t miss out on the cooling properties of El Jefe Fantasma Hefeweizen at Bone Haus Brewing in Fountain Hills. Dry-hopped with classic Cascade hops, the brewery steps up the game with Old World grains. (4.6% ABV) Bone Haus Brewing, 14825 E. Shea Boulevard, Suite 101, Fountain Hills, 480.292.9541, bonehausbrewing.com Pomegranate Wheat from Desert Eagle Brewing Company Savor the fruity abundance of Desert Eagle Brewing Company’s

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

run loose with a lighter version of the German beer that blends ale and lager traditions. With an easy touch on the hops, it’s very quaffable. (4.7% ABV) Flying Basset Brewing, 720 W. Ray Road, Gilbert, 480.426.1373, flyingbassetbrewing.com.

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KRYSTINA WHITTEN AND RYAN WHITTEN OWNERS OF 8-BIT ALEWORKS IN AVONDALE, AZ

Peach Ale at Four Peaks Brewing Four Peaks Brewing infuses the essence of fuzzy orchard globes into golden ale. The resulting effervescent ambrosia is fruit-forward but not cloyingly sweet. It’s peachy keen, indeed.

The brewery merits a bonus mention for its frosty Oatmeal Stout shake: it takes a dark beer not normally associated with summer weather and makes it seasonally apropos with the addition of malted vanilla bean ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

Four Peaks Brewing, 1340 E. Eighth Street, Suite 104, Tempe, 480.303.9967, fourpeaks.com.

Pomegranate Wheat. It expands on the traditional Bavarian tradition of the Hefeweizen-style wheat beer with the addition of desert-friendly organic pomegranate juice. The result is golden, slightly sweet and aromatic. (5.2-percent ABV) Desert Eagle Brewing Company, 150 W. Main Street, Mesa, 480.656.2662, deserteaglebrewing.com.

Light Kolsch from Flying Basset Brewing The brewmeisters at Flying Basset Brewing let the classic Kolsch-style beer

Long-Distance Relationship India Pale Lager from Freak’n Brewing Company Peoria craft beer fans don’t wig out in triple-digit temps. Instead, they vent steam with an icy, citrusy glass of Freak’n Brewing Company’s LongDistance Relationship India Pale Lager.

Made in collaboration with Tucson’s Dillinger Brewing Company, it’s on the potent side for a summer sip, so no drinking and dialing! (6.7-percent ABV) Freak’n Brewing Company, 9299 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 513, Peoria, 623.738.5804, freaknbrew.com.

Midday Shifty Grisette from Goldwater Brewing Co. Goldwater Brewing Co. brings some old-school French knowhow to Arizona’s beer landscape with Midday

Shifty Grisette. It’s an eminently drinkable farmhouse-style creation that’s light on the boozy effect and abundant with agricultural aroma and flavor highlights of guava, melon, Pinot Gris and pink peppercorns. (4.7% ABV) Goldwater Brewing Co., 3608 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.350.7305, goldwaterbrewing. com.

Blackberry Blonde from Helio Basin Brewing Co. Shine inside by the ping-pong table with a pint of Helio Basin Brewing Co.’s pleasantly tart Blackberry Blonde.

It’s on the brisk side and doesn’t exhibit the jammy, overpowering sweetness sometimes found in fruit beers. (4.9% ABV) Helio Basin Brewing Co., 3935 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix, 602.354.3525, heliobasinbrewing. com.

Fate Blueberry Milkshake from Fate Brewing Company Fate Brewing Company brings all the imbibers to the yard with its Fate Blueberry Milkshake. The juicy, purplehued wheat beer is poured at the Fate’s Tap + Barrel location. (4.5% ABV) Fate’s Tap + Barrel, 7337 E. Shea Boulevard, Suite 105, Scottsdale, 480.994.1275, fatebrewing.com.

MICHELADAS AT CRUJIENTE TACOS

Brite Golden Pilsner from O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery Here’s a scintillating idea for chillaxing when it’s sweltering in Arizona: reach for a Brite Golden Pilsner from O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery. It has a pleasant floral tone and you can’t miss its

lightbulb-shaped tap handle. (4.5% ABV) O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery, 4900 East Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.955.0358, ohsobrewery.com.

Helles Deep Lager from Old Ellsworth Brewing Company After spending the morning in u-pick farms and olive grove tours in bucolic Queen Creek, take afternoon shelter with a Helles Deep Lager at Old Ellsworth Brewing Company. The lightly malty quaff pays tribute to one of Munich’s historic brews and is hella good. (5.3% ABV) Old Ellsworth Brewing Company, 22005 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek, 480.935.2796, oldellsworthbrewing.com.

Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer from San Tan Brewery Aloha, Mr. Pineapple! San Tan Brewery’s zingy, tropical wheat beer is powered with plenty of pineapple juice harvested from Fair Trade farms in Costa Rica. (5% ABV) San Tan Brewery, 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, 480.917.8700, santanbrewing.com.

Orange-Ginger Saison from State 48 Brewery Celebrate the torrid climate that created Arizona’s citrus industry with a pour of Orange-Ginger Saison at State 48 Brewery. The potent pale ale varietal is suff used with locally grown Cara Cara fruit and a dash of spicy, fresh-grated rhizome. (7.0% ABV) State 48 Brewery, 13823 W. Bell Road, Surprise, 623.584.1095, state48brewery.com.

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CITY

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

DIGGING INTO HISTORY The Pueblo Grande Museum is one of Phoenix’s best-kept secrets

Kate Bacon >> The Entertainer!

S

ome 1,500-plus years ago, at the intersection of the complex canal systems that supported their ancient agricultural-based society on the Salt River, the Hohokam established a pre-Columbian village where families lived and flourished. Population estimates range from 24,000 to 50,000 people. Today, it’s the location of perhaps the least-buzzedabout Phoenix attraction.

On the southeast corner of 44th and Washington streets sits the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archeological Park, the oldest museum in Phoenix. For 90 years, it has safeguarded, preserved and taught about the earliest Valley of the Sun inhabitants.

“Imagine a large town approximately 1-mile wide and 1-mile long,” explains Scottsdale’s Lary A. Martin, president elect of the museum’s auxiliary, which raises money and recruits volunteers for the city-owned museum. He’s been a volunteer for 10 years.

“When I conduct a tour, I try to paint

a picture of what life was like.”

An introduction video inside the main building serves as an exemplary way to learn the basics. Inside exhibits offer air-conditioned comfort as well as a children’s hands-on area. Special events range from Arizona Authors Storytelling and Craft Saturdays, to scientific lectures to the popular Indian Market on December 15 and December 16, and the 13th annual Navajo Rug Sale on November 2.

If hearing about the Hohokam isn’t enough, ancient life can be seen in ruins on the museum grounds. Visitors are treated to an indoor and outdoor experience, which impacts museum enjoyment in the sizzling days of summer. An umbrella helps walkers on the self-guided trail, which winds its way in a loop around the grounds.

The museum’s marquee item is a platform mound; one of only two remaining earthen mounds built by the Hohokam, the other being at Casa Grande. Covering 3.3 acres, the mound is thought to have had several purposes.

Originally filled with trash, it was topped with caliche providing a base on

ARTIFACT CART IS A HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE FOR GUESTS.

PLATFORM MOUND ALONG THE OUTDOOR INTERPRETIVE TRAIL.

which other structures were built. Many believe it was used as an observation platform that provided perfect views of games played on nearby large ball courts.

One of the courts is on view. Visitors can follow the path to top of the dirt wall to look into history.

In addition to the ball courts, ancient houses are recreated as part of the 3/4mile walk. Remnants of earliest Sonoran life include pit houses, aptly named because they are partly dug into the ground then were covered with roofs. A garden growing native plants like corn, amaranth and squash mimics original plantings.

Crops thrived because water played a vital role for Sonoran Desert inhabitants.

The museum and park are at the headwaters of major canal systems that drew water from the Salt and Gila rivers.

Planes landing at neighboring Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport get bird’s-eye views of Pueblo Grande’s layout and water system.

Work is nearly complete on a bridge and gate at the canal, expanding the museum’s outdoor exhibits.

“Our Portal to the Past will attract pedestrian traffic along the Canal Scape to cross over physically and metaphorically and to walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Sonoran Desert People,” explains artist Zarco Guerrero.

His gate creation is “first in a series of art events to attract new audiences and supporters to the museum, while educating them on the vital importance of water usage.”

Unveiling is set for October with the official museum birthday celebration.

Operated under Phoenix’s Parks and Recreation Department, Pueblo Grande

is also home to the city archaeologist, Laurene Montero. She is tasked with safeguarding remains and artifacts across the Valley. She works with construction crews of all sizes to ensure age-old items are given proper treatment. The museum is home to a large repository of archaeological discoveries. Pottery shards, tools, jewelry and even remains can be found by area builders.

Should any human remains be uncovered, the museum follows the guidelines of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Since 1990, all remains found are repatriated directly to affiliated tribes.

“We are currently in consultation under NAGPRA for several of our human remains,” explains Nicole Armstrong-Best, museum director.

A wide variety of lectures, hands-on crafts for all ages, and other special events are on the museum’s calendar.

Check to see what is happening before going, because very young children might find a nonevent day rather difficult. Spending 90 minutes to two hours will allow a comprehensive museum experience.

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park 4619 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, pueblogrande.org, phoenix.gov, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Tuesday to Saturday, $6, $5 seniors, $3 children ages 6 to 17. Children younger than 5 and museum members are admitted free.

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THE SKIN TRADE Hell City Tattoo Festival

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

invades the Biltmore Laura Latzko >> The Entertainer!

L

ike painting a landscape or portrait, creating intricate designs on people’s bodies has become its own art form.

The Hell City Tattoo Festival celebrates the artistic style by bringing some of the top tattoo artists from around the world to Phoenix.

Set for Friday, August 23, to Sunday, August 25, at the Arizona Biltmore, the Hell City Tattoo Festival attracts more than 6,000 fans over the weekend, says owner Durb Morrison.

More than 200 tattoo artists from the United States, Australia and Japan represent a wide variety of styles, including black and gray, traditional, color portrait, tribal, stippling, geometric, biomechanical, Polynesian and Japanese-style tattooing.

Along with established tattoo artists, Hell City brings in piercers with established reputations in their industry. Over the weekend, they will do traditional piercings to more intricate surface or implant piercings. Jewelers, body piercers, artists and barbers are also invited.

Well-known tattoo artists are slated to appear, like Anthony Michaels, Mark Longenecker, Megan Jean Morris and Dave Kruseman of “Ink Master” fame.

The convention caters to those

interested in working with specific artists or getting intricate work done.

“They can find those artists, all under one roof, who can tackle those tattoos and bring them to life for them,” Morrison says.

The artists are chosen based on their experience and skills.

“I look at the artistic ability of each artist, not just on skin but off. I want to make sure they are not just tattoo

Columbus and Phoenix for the last 10 years.

“It is all really interesting to me because everybody works completely different. Everybody uses different needle sizes, which are like brushes for canvas, and just different hand

DURING THE HELL CITY TATTOO FESTIVAL, ATTENDEES HAVE A CHANCE TO SHOW OFF THEIR BODY ART AND WIN AWARDS AS PART OF TATTOO COMPETITIONS.

artists, but they are fine artists as well,” Morrison says.

Many of the tattoo artists are returning to the festival. Black and gray artist Josh Duffy of Black Castle Art Co. has taken part in Hell City in TATTOO ARTIST JOSH DUFFY

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TATTOO ARTIST JOSH DUFFY WORKS ON A TATTOO ON TYE PEROY

motions, techniques and inks,” Duffy says.

Based in Peoria just south of Lake Pleasant, Duffy has been tattooing for 17 years. He also paints in oil, acrylic and watercolor and plays the guitar, drums and piano. He comes from a family of artists; His mother, Bridget Duffy, is a scenic painter.

At Hell City, Duffy won the Artist of Show award four times, as he is known for his elaborate work.

“When I’m tattooing and working on somebody, I like to do what I call ‘layering.’ I’ll do one session, and I’ll come back and do another session over the same tattoo, adding little things and essentially finishing the tattoo,” Duffy says.

“I just strive for perfection, and the style I tattoo in is quite detailed, so I guess it just takes a little bit more than I can get in one session.”

Over the years, Duffy has developed a reputation for his distinctive style.

“It’s just the level of depth that I put into my work, the amount of open skin that I leave. I think a good tattoo is

something that is recognizable 20 to 40 feet away,” Duffy says.

CONTESTS The tattooed can showcase their body art and bring recognition to the artists behind them as part of tattoo competitions. Contests during the three-day festival are broken down into categories like best Asian, traditional, small or large black and gray, new school, biomechanical, small or large color, backpiece/chest panel, portrait, arm/leg sleeve and overall male or female tattoo.

The festival will also have special Tattoo of the Day competitions for those created onsite that day. As part of the People’s Choice Tattoo of the Day contest, audiences can vote by applause.

Tattoo artists judge the other competitions and they base their decisions on criteria relevant to the tattoo styles.

The Wet Paint Project sees 30 tattoo artists painting live. The Art Fusion Experience hosts five artists collaborating on pieces, switching canvases every 5 minutes.

And what’s a tattoo festival without music? Performers include Hollow Terra on Friday; Imposters in Effect, a Beastie Boys tribute act, on Saturday, and rockabilly by The DeVillains on Sunday.

Burlesque artists Frankie Fictitious, Liryc Suicide and Cervena Fox, as well as comedian Anwar Newton also take the stage.

Pool parties with music and movies will follow the tattoo festival on Friday and Saturday nights. Only guests staying at the hotel can attend the pool parties.

Hell City Tattoo Festival Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E. Missouri Avenue, Phoenix, hellcity.com, noon to 11 p.m.

Friday, August 23, and Saturday, August 24, and noon to 8 p.m.

Sunday, August 25, tickets start at $22 in advance.

BREAKING FROM ‘24’ THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

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Mary Lynn Rajskub let’s comedy tell her side of the story Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

M

ary Lynn Rajskub was the star of one of the 2000s’ biggest dramas, “24.”

Returning to standup, brings her back to her roots.

“There’s a part of me that’s thinking I would have loved to have been really lazy and gotten on another hit show and made a bunch of money,” says Rajskub, who starred as Chloe O’Brian.

“Not having that happen—in a good way—forced me to go back to standup, which was my original pursuit when I started getting acting work. It fed me as an artist and it keeps me going. Because I wasn’t majorly busy on a series, it gave me the opportunity to dig deeper with standup.”

Rajskub—who brings her show to CB Live in Desert Ridge Marketplace on Friday, August 9, and Saturday, August 10—enjoys the connections she makes while performing standup. Sometimes it’s not necessarily fun.

“The other night, this guy yelled out ‘Chloe,’” she recalls. “It’s totally nice. It’s a compliment, but I was in a mood.”

Rajskub was irritated because he interrupted her.

“I said, ‘Did you yell out because I’m so good on that show? You couldn’t keep it in any longer?’” she recalls.

After a little banter, he said, “You pulled it off.” Rajskub stopped her show and playfully confronted him.

“I said, ‘Really? Did I ‘pull it off ?’” she recalls. “I went from Trenton, Michigan, to Hollywood and got on the most popular show that won awards and I ‘pulled it off ?’ Tell me how good I am.”

Rajskub says many fans are surprised with her stage presence, which can come across as “dark.”

“I don’t think I’m dark at all,” she says with a laugh. “I’m a mom and people know me as an actress. I just explore stuff I want to talk about and what you’re thinking about. I don’t have the chance to do that in character or other jobs. It’s totally my point of view.”

Rajskub has been busy working on fi lms when she’s not on stage. Filmed a few years ago, she says, “A World Away” is a “sweet, magical, younger movie.” Redbox’s fi rst original title, “Benjamin” is a dark comedy about addiction that was produced by Bob Saget. “Dinner in America” is the tale of an on-the-lam punk rocker and a young woman who fall in love and travel through the Midwest. Rajskub calls it a “really fun, punk rock movie

like ‘Sid and Nancy.’ I play the mom of the daughter who’s very sheltered. Th at was a fun part.”

Rajskub is proud of her career, one she didn’t expect because she grew up in suburban Detroit.

“I always loved performing, but I was very shy and very socially awkward,” she says. “I never thought it would be possible to do that for a living. My whole career was a really nice, organic surprise.

If I planned it, I would have changed my name.”

Mary Lynn Rajskub CB Live, Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 602.910.5161, cblive.com, 8 p.m. Friday, August 9, and 7 p.m. Saturday, August 10, $22.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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TRAVEL

VACATION » SIGHTS » DAY TRIPS » ADVENTURE » EXPLORE » TRAVEL

Yucat án Peninsula Perfection Cancún showcases Caribbean at its best and brightest

Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

N

ow, when one hears the word “Caribbean,” images of Jamaica, Aruba or the Bahamas likely spring to mind.

But, tucked into southeast Mexico on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula overlooking the Caribbean Sea is none other than Cancún. Yes, in Mexico. A quick direct flight from the Valley, this paradise on Earth boasts 14 miles of white sand beaches, world-class golf and both dining and nightlife options that rival those of Miami or New York, not to mention the likes of the Bahamas or Jamaica.

Here is how to experience every last inch of its grandeur.

STAY For years, Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancún — a 2018 Best Luxury Hotel in Mexico winner from Trip Advisor and Travvy Gold Award for Best All-inclusive Luxury Resort — has ruled the beaches along the high seas in Cancun, but then it did the unthinkable last year: it closed.

Turns out, the closing was to invest multimillion dollars in stunning renovations, which debuted this summer.

The facelift begins upon entering the grand marble and onyx granite-adorned lobby, where guests are greeted with welcome cocktails and escorted to their rooms or suites.

The traditional rooms on property boast plush upgrades to furnishing and décor as well as butler service, 24-hour room service, Apple televisions with access to Netflix and iTunes, whirlpool tubs, Wi-Fi, purified water, Bvlgari brand personal products. All guests can also enjoy several unique menus, including specialty pillow menu, bath salt menu and aromatherapy menu. Each room is also outfitted with its own liquor dispensers with brand-name labels of whiskey, rum, tequila and vodka (refilled daily as needed).

The suites take extravagance even higher, boasting expansive ocean or lagoon views and ranging in size from 460 to nearly 1,000-square-feet. In addition to the above-noted amenities, suite guests can expect an upgraded person liquor cabinet, French doors to

their own private patios, double shower heads in the bathroom that transform it into more of a spa experience, espresso machines and nightly goodies including wine, petit fours and more.

SIP AND NOSH Le Blanc took extra care to ensure long-time guests’ favorite eateries stayed true to their roots, while adding new options to wow taste buds on a nightly basis. New to the resort is an elevated take on authentic Mexican

fare called Blanc, which was formerly an international restaurant, as well as a Japanese concept called Yama. Michelinstarred chef Giuseppe Iannotti helped develop the new Italian offering on-site, Bella. The décor at Bella — delicate glass art and several chandeliers dripping in crystals — is nearly as impressive as the multi-course offerings.

The most formal restaurant on property is Lumiere, which impresses with nightly tasting menus and wine pairings as well as an impressively

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

inventive cocktail menu.

PLAY Speaking of cocktails, all are on the house at the resort and use top-shelf brands ranging from Johnnie Walker red and black labels to Grey Goose, Don Julio and Tanqueray. There are also regular mixology classes on-site several times a week and dozens of wines ranked 80 points or higher available 24 hours a day.

For those looking for music and nightlife to accompany those drinks, look no further than Cava lounge, which has a nightly DJ as well as pool tables and flat-screens.

A quieter option would be the renovated BlancSpa, which all guests may use throughout their stays. It features a sauna, steam room, ice room, Jacuzzis, cold and warm lagoons, warm beds, showers and private dressing rooms. For those wishing to book a spa service, available for an additional charge, the refurbished treatment suites include a master suite with hydro-tub, seven couples suites, 11 single suites, one suite with private Vichy shower and one

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golden VIP suite, which is tailor-made for groups.

As with the spa, any guest staying at Le Blanc Cancún can indulge in daily golf at the nearby and award-winning Moon Spa & Golf Club, as well as transportation to and from the course and club food and drink options. The club features 27 holes of golf as well as the Moon Palace Golf Academy. There, guests can learn the techniques and playing philosophy of Jack Nicklaus under the guidance of certified instructors, and with integrated state-ofthe-art technology.

EXPLORE EVEN MORE For those seeking a little more adventure during their stay, Le Blanc Cancún offers day trips, snorkeling excursions, sailing and more for added fees. Of particular note is the resort’s Tulum Express tour, which whisks guests off to the archaeological site of a pre-Colombian Mayan walled city.

Those seeking something a little more heart-stopping might opt for the Aquatwister, which is the jet boat ride of a lifetime. The boat spins 270 degrees

and flies across the water, taking guests through the emerald-green Nichupte Lagoon and mangrove channels as well as offering the opportunity to snorkel.

There are also half and full-day open-water snorkel options, including the chance to snorkel at the nearby Isla Mujeres island, as well as opportunities to swim with dolphins.

The concierge team can also customize

tours to your group’s tastes and offer recommendations in nearby dining and nightlife options, including the audacious Coco Bongo (expect acrobats, bubbles and explosions), the lavish and glamorous Palazzo Cancún and oftcelebrity filled Dady’O Cancún.

For more information, visit leblancresorts.com.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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ARTS

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

ARTS

CALENDAR Randy Montgomery >> The Entertainer!

“Remember When”

TO AUGUST 15 Pack a lunch, grab your co-workers and enjoy a 45-minute nostalgic production that recalls the evolution of America’s music and pop culture from the “Fabulous ’50s” through the “Swingin’ ’60s” to the “Super ’70s.” Herberger Theater Center’s Lunch Time Theater is a perfect escape from a hectic day at work.

Presented by Act Two Productions.

Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.254.7399, herbergertheater. org, 12:10 p.m., $7.

“In the Kingdom of Clouds”

AUGUST 2 TO AUGUST 11 Desert Stages’ founder Gerry Cullity’s “In the Kingdom of Clouds” is a lyrical rock opera about love, sacrifice, hope and fate.

Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale, 480.483.1664, desertstages. org, times vary, $20.

“Silk & Jade: Chinese Aristocratic Treasures”

AUGUST 3 TO NOVEMBER 17 The Phoenix Art Museum’s Art of Asia Galleries hosts an exhibit of pieces made from silk and jade.

Developed in ancient China, silk was used for clothing, textiles and traditional paintings. Jade is an ornamental mineral, mostly known for its green varieties. Jade was used to create many utilitarian and ceremonial objects, from indoor decorative items to jade burial suits.

Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.257.1880, phxart.org, times vary, free-$23.

“The Book of Mormon”

AUGUST 6 TO AUGUST 11 The Broadway sensation returns to ASU Gammage. Hailed as “the best musical of this century,” the

nine-time Tony Award-winning play has entertained audiences around the globe. Follow the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the good word. The outrageous comedy has become an international sensation.

Contains explicit language.

ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugamamge. com, times vary, prices vary.

Thaikkudam Bridge

AUGUST 9 Thaikkudam Bridge comes to the Valley for the first time. The Kerala, India-based rock band touches on folk and classical sounds of India, interspersed with layers of progressive, pop and electronic textures. The multigenre band will rattle your musical senses all evening long.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.

TKTS, scottsdaleperformingarts. org, 7:30 p.m., $35-$100.

Small Mouth Sounds

AUGUST 9 TO AUGUST 24 Recommended for adult audiences, this strange and compassionate new play features relatively little actual dialogue, yet asks how we address life’s biggest questions when words fail us. Set in the overwhelming quiet of the woods, six runaways from city life embark on a silent retreat.

These strangers confront internal demons—the profound and the absurd. Their vows of silence collide with the human need to connect.

Presented by Stray Cat Theatre.

Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, tempecenterforthearts. com, times vary, $30.

“Matilda”

AUGUST 9 TO AUGUST 25 Inspired by the twisted genius

of Roald Dahl, this musical is envisioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company. Meet Matilda, an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

The Tony Award-winning show revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Presented

by Valley Youth Theatre.

Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 254.7399, herbergertheater.org, times vary, $20.50-$39.50.

and deep, mournful song.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 7:30 p.m., free.

“My First Time”

“Jewels of French Impressionism”

AUGUST 16 TO SEPTEMBER 1 In 1998, a website became a phenomenon as stories about “first times” poured in. Now, these stories and the unique characters in them are brought to life in this hysterical and heartbreaking comedic play. This performance is recommended for audiences age 18 and older, as it contains adult language and themes.

Fountain Hills Theatre, 11445 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480.837.9661, extension 3, fhtaz.org, times vary, $18-$33.

“A Champion Celebration”

AUGUST 17 In addition to a high-energy performance by the 2019 Sweet Adelines Chorus Champions, The Scottsdale Chorus, the show will feature the 2019 International Queens of Harmony, Class Ring as well as the 2019 Region 21 Quartet Champions, C’est la Vie. This evening will also feature a special performance by the choruses from the HarmonyFUSION Youth Festival, held earlier in the day.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 7 p.m., $15-$40.

Jácome Flamenco presents SOL y LUNA

AUGUST 23 Jácome Flamenco’s new show takes audiences on a sultry, exotic journey as exquisite flamenco dancers preside over the sounds of the guitar, singing and percussion. Witness pure artistry through the interplay of elegantly flowing dresses, sharp staccato rhythms, lively melodies

Variety Show Spectacular

AUGUST 24 Enjoy a buffet prior to a concert by the Rhythm Cats, who play a variety of music ranging from rock ‘n’ roll to big band. They throw in a little comedy for good measure.

Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480.288.0300, silverstartheater. com, 5:30 p.m., prices vary.

AUGUST 25 The Cactus Chamber Musicians are the Valley’s newest chamber ensemble. Founded in 2017, the group strives to create performance and education opportunities for the chamber music genre’s diverse ensembles. This concert features an “Introduction and Allegro” by Maurice Ravel, “Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp” and “Premiere Rhapsodie”

by Claude Debussy and “String Quartet in F” by Maurice Revel.

Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, tempecenterforthearts. com, 3 p.m., $15.

Mutual Reality: Art on the Edge of Technology

TO OCTOBER 6 Nine artists working on the cuttingedge world of technology and art are on display in this exhibit that examines how we leave a digital footprint in everything we do, from texting to internet searches. User interactions within the gallery get the viewer thinking about what we leave behind.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.874.4666, smoca.org, times vary, $7-$10.

AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

23

‘The Book of Mormon’ is raunchy and full of heart Laura Latzko >> The Entertainer!

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The Book of Mormon” is known for its satirical look at the Mormon faith and society. It’s the characters’ journeys, though, that continue to attract audiences.

“The Book of Mormon” national tour will visit ASU Gammage from Tuesday, August 6, to Sunday, August 11, for the third time.

In “The Book of Mormon,” Elders Price and Arnold Cunningham are sent to Africa on their mission. The experience isn’t what they expected, as they’re faced with a population dealing with AIDS and a local warlord.

Along their journey, the overachieving Price and the nerdy Cunningham form an unlikely friendship, and Cunningham takes on an unexpected leadership role.

The show was written by Trey Parker and Matt Stone of “South Park” fame and Robert Lopez, the co-creator of “Avenue Q.” It opened on Broadway in 2011 and has won nine Tony Awards and a Grammy.

On the national tour, Liam Tobin stars as Price; Andy Huntington Jones as Elder McKinley; Kayla Pecchioni

as Nabulungi; Jacques C. Smith as Mafala Hatimbi; Corey Jones as the General and Jordan Matthew Brown as Cunningham.

Before taking on the role of Cunningham, Brown was the role’s standby on Broadway. A graduate of Boston University’s BFA acting program, he has won the Bette Davis Prize for Acting and was nominated for the ArtsImpulse Award for Best Student Actor for his work as Leo Frank in “Parade.”

As a standby, Brown had to be prepared to go on at a moment’s notice.

Playing the role daily has come with physical and vocal challenges. Brown says it’s worth it.

“It is a role I always dreamed of getting to do. It was a big task. It scared and excited me. It is so well done because it is a role that allows us to grow,” Brown says.

Brown identified with his character since the first time he saw the show.

Cunningham isn’t presented as the typical friend of the leading man. He has the chance to shine, just as Price does.

“The show flips the trope of the sidekick and has a full journey for him,” Brown says. “The show is so brilliant because it takes so many classics we

know and flips them on their head.”

Central to the show is the friendship that develops between the two missionaries, who seem like complete opposites.

“It’s this journey you don’t expect either of them to go on, and I think the friendship between them is what ties it together,” Brown says.

Prior to becoming leading men, Brown and Tobin had developed a rapport as standbys on Broadway. Brown says although the show is filled with tonguein-cheek humor, audiences can identify with the characters.

“One of the reasons it’s lasted is it’s so funny, raunchy and full of heart,” Brown

says.

For those who have seen the show before, there are nuances to be discovered within it.

“People come back again and again because they discover new jokes and new moments,” Brown says.

“The Book of Mormon” ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com, August 6 to August 11: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, tickets start at $40.

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THE POWER OF MUSIC ‘Blinded by the Light’ uses

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UPFRONT | TCITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

‘The Boss’ to encourage change Octavio Serrano >> The Entertainer!

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ournalist Sarfraz Manzoor’s articles have been published internationally in The Guardian, The Times, Sunday Times Magazine and The New York Times. But his column about his love of Bruce Springsteen helped him find his way.

“I wrote this article for the Guardian in 2002,” Manzoor says. “A literary agent contacted me, who really liked the article, and said, ‘Do you fancy writing a book?’”

“Greetings from Bury Park” tells the story of Manzoor, who moved from Britain to Pakistan as a child and grew up in Bury Park, Luton. He covers the challenges of growing up as a Pakistani Muslim in England. The book has been made into a movie, “Blinded by the Light,” which blends dark themes like racism and prejudice with light humor. It is slated for release on Friday, August 16.

The movie follows Javed, a British teen of Pakistani descent played by Viveik Kalra, who is trying to make sense of the world while succumbing to the pressure of economic turmoil, social identity, political activism and his relationship with his family. To deal with it, he drowns himself in Springsteen’s music.

The film was directed by Gurinder Chadha, who was behind “Bend It Like

Beckham.” She jumped at the chance to work on Manzoor’s story.

“This is an era that I was very familiar, and this was an opportunity to tell a story about people like me,” Chadha says. “I thought it was a very charming story as well of somebody who was suffering real alienation and feeling trapped and had a dream and actually the dream came true.”

Chadha was captivated by the multidimensional characters, who show the best and worst of society and people.

“We live very full three-dimensional lives and juggle all kinds of things, so, with my movies, I want to make sure that we show some of the hardships, but at the same time we share the joy and we celebrate our lives,” Chadha says.

For Manzoor, however, the book and movie allow him to share his story with a large audience. He says he wrote it to show how someone like him, who he considered unexceptional, could accomplish his goals. Many of his peers sent to prison instead of college, too.

The film does take creative liberties, but “Blinded by the Light” still captures Manzoor’s essence.

“With the script, I wanted some of it to be real,” Manzoor says. “So, I really did write poetry. I really did want something different in my life. I did work in a sandwich factory. I really did go to Manchester. My friend (Roops) really was like that.”

VIVEIK KALRA AS JAVED IN “BLINDED BY THE LIGHT.”

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

AARON PHAGURA PLAYS ROOPS, JAVED’S BEST FRIEND IN “BLINDED BY THE LIGHT.”

Played by Aaron Phagura, Roops is the sole reason Javed found Springsteen and gave him the confidence to speak up.

Phagura calls the film a rollercoaster of emotions that speaks about social issues that are multigenerational.

“Although it has a comedic undertone, it tackles serious issues that my grandparent had to go through coming into the country and my parents had to deal with being one of the first generations of Asians in England,” Phagura says. “All of this is still going on. We are in a bit of a political crisis and racism is still a thing.”

On a lighter note, Phagura wants younger generations to learn about Springsteen and the power of his music.

Manzoor says watching “Blinded by the Light” was difficult. Throughout the film, the audience sees Javed struggling to respect the wishes of his otherwise conservative father who wants his son to study business.

“My actual dad died when I was 23 years old, so my wife and children have never met him,” Manzoor says. “This film is the closest they have to seeing my dad. This is my way of bringing him back to life for two hours.”

Their relationship shows parents can compromise with their children, even if they disagree. It also reminds Manzoor

of how his parents helped him become successful.

“The bit where the dad says, ‘Go write your stories, but don’t forget ours,’ that’s very hard for me to watch and I get very emotional about those things.”

Manzoor wants to tell younger audiences that things will get better if they act for themselves and their community.

“If you just listen to music and then don’t do anything in life, you’re not really fulfilling anything,” Manzoor says. “So, it’s really about being hopeful and actually pushing toward things that make it better.

“If you think the community is not working together, get involved. If you feel the stories you want to hear are not being told, write some new ones. So, it’s about actions rather than sitting around complaining about it.”

The film’s message is universal and Manzoor hopes audiences see that.

“Its appeal is bigger than the world in which it is set,” Manzoor says. “It’s actually about themes, whether it is hopes and dreams, or father and son relationships, or the power of music, which are bigger than the world it comes from and which can reach and affect you no matter where you are watching it.”

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DINING

EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH

DINING

CALENDAR Brianna Moore >> The Entertainer!

Muse & Market Pop-Up Dinner Series

Thursday Night Dinner Series

THURSDAYS UNTIL OCTOBER 17 Nico Heirloom Kitchen in Downtown Gilbert presents a weekly dinner series featuring classic American dishes with a twist. Head chef Albert Torrisi will put his special touch on popular dishes from cities across the country. With an advanced ticket purchase, guests can enjoy a four-course meal paired with cocktails, beer or wine depending on the dish. Complimentary drinks will be served before dinner at 6 p.m.

Nico Heirloom Kitchen, 366 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 103, Gilbert, 6:30 p.m., 480.584.4760, nicoaz.com, $65.

Main Event Double Play Brunch

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS UNTIL SEPTEMBER 29 Main Event is doubling the fun with its “Brunch and Game Deal.” Every Saturday and Sunday through September, family and friends can head to the Main Event and enjoy an afternoon full of games and good food, including the Tear n’ Share Cinnamon Rolls. With the purchase of a brunch food item, guests will receive a $20 game card for half the price. Guests 21 and older can enjoy new brunch cocktails, including The Perfect Pour Mimosa.

Main Event Entertainment, 8545 S. Emerald Dr, Tempe, mainevent. com, until 2 p.m., prices depend on items ordered. Other locations in Gilbert and Avondale.

AUGUST 2 TO SEPTEMBER 28 Muse & Market presents Inhabit, a modern prix fixe dinner for dining enthusiasts who enjoy modern cuisine. Laura Pich, owner of Muse & Market, has partnered with Chef Nick Rusticus to provide guests with a unique dining experience.

This pop-up dinner includes a three-course meal, specially prepared to suit a variety of tastes.

Muse & Market, 4602 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix, 602.218.6773, museandmarket.com, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., $45.

by heading down to Modern Oysterbar Chophouse and enjoying a five-course meal dedicated to everyone’s favorite briny bites.

The National Oyster Day menu includes oysters topped with caviar as well Oysters Rockefeller.

While enjoying dinner, guests can also receive tips on how to shuck the perfect oyster from Modern’s master oyster shucker.

Modern Oysterbar Chophouse, 10050 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.531.1400, modernoysterbarchophouse. com, $80.

Downtown Tempe Brunch Crawl AUGUST 10 Who doesn’t love brunch? Head to Downtown Tempe to enjoy a self-guided bar crawl across Mill Avenue. With the purchase of a $5 ticket, participants can enjoy exclusive food and drink menus at 13 brunch stops, including Daily Jam and Pita Jungle.

There’s also free parking.

Check in at Fifth Street and Mill Avenue, Tempe, downtowntempe. com, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., $5.

Oyster Shucking 101

AUGUST 4 TO AUGUST 10 Celebrate National Oyster Day

AUGUST 23 TO SEPTEMBER 8 Need an excuse to stay out of the kitchen and enjoy a relaxing night out?

Head to Marcellino Ristorante in Old Town Scottsdale for the restaurant’s “Summer Supper Special.” This specially priced three-course menu includes an antipasto, entrée and dessert. On August 23, Marcellino Ristorante will host its Dinner & Movie Night in the private dining room. With a reservation, guests can enjoy the “Summer Supper Special” menu while watching a showing of “Big Night,” starring Tony Shalhoub.

Marcellino Ristorante, 7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.990.9500, marcellinoristorante. com, 4 to 11 p.m., $38.

Summer Cooking Class at Urban Margarita

Peach Mania

AUGUST 3 AND AUGUST 4 AUGUST 10 AND AUGUST 11 AUGUST 17 AND AUGUST 18 Feeling peachy? Head down to Apple Annie’s Fruit Orchard and catch a case of Peach Mania! This peach-centered event features an all-you-can-eat peaches and pancakes breakfast, peach picking, and peach products for guests to try. There will also be homemade peach pie and peach ice cream to enjoy in the orchard shade.

Apple Annie’s Orchard, 2081 W. Hardy Road, Willcox, appleannies.com, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., free admission.

Dinner & Movie and Summer Supper Special

Zin and Q Wine Pairing Dinner AUGUST 14 Liberty Station American Tavern and Smokehouse’s Terravita location presents five-course wine pairing dinner. Guests will be able to enjoy some of the restaurants’ most popular barbecue dishes while learning how to pair wine and food from a second-level sommelier.

Featured wines include the Earthquake Zinfandel and Pruett Hurst Rattlesnake Vineyard.

Liberty Station American Tavern and Smokehouse – Terravita, 34522 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.595.9930, libertystationtavern. com, 5 p.m., $55.

AUGUST 24 This event is perfect for those who love to cook as much as they eat.

Urban Margarita presents an afternoon cooking class and invites guests into the kitchen. Participants will learn how to make pork short ribs braised in an Urban Margarita signature sauce as well as chipotle shredded chicken topped with housemade queso.

While learning to cook, guests can enjoy mimosas or the restaurant’s watermelon-mint margarita.

Urban Margarita, 6685 W. Beardsley, Suite 180, Glendale, 623.561.6684, urbanmargarita. com, 2 p.m., $25.

Fitz’s Supper Club Celebrities at Your Service

AUGUST 26 Join Larry Fitzgerald and his celebrity friends for a night of entertainment, fine dining and the best service in town as he raises hundreds of thousands of dollars to support those less fortunate.

Dominick’s, 15169 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.272.7271, larryfitzgerald. com, 5:30 p.m., $850.

DINER INSIDER

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

27

Fruity Fire Ice Cream Octavio Serrano >> The Entertainer!

C

olados Coffee & Crepes has a new addition to its menu that is a must try before the season ends.

Available through August, Fruity Fire Ice Cream ($5.50) is a ball of strawberry ice cream that’s covered with fruity cereal and adorned with strawberries. The smooth ice cream and the cereal’s crunch deliver a sweet taste.

“Our motto is: ‘Founded by family and powered by passion,’ and we try to make everyone welcome,” says marketing manager Aaron Reina, whose father, Berni, founded the Avondale eatery. “We actually want to build a relationship with people rather than just a simple transaction.”

Colados Coffee & Crepes 10685 W. Indian School Road, Suite G, Avondale, 623.215.3826, colados.com.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Linger Longer Lounge

6522 N. 16th Street, Suite 6, Phoenix, 602.264.4549, lingerlongeraz.com This vintage cocktail lounge and kitchen, with a game room and a DJ spinning vinyl, offers happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and all day Sunday. Happy hour includes $6/$7 selected appetizers, $3 Linger Longer Lager and domestic beers, $4 well drinks, $6 Tito’s draft cocktail and select cocktails and $8 classic cocktails.

Guide Brat Haus

3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.947.4006, brathausaz.com Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Brat Haus’ open-air patio paired with delicious beers, wine and cocktails offers a soothing atmosphere.

Happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, includes $2 off all draft beers, $2 off glasses of wine, $4 off well cocktails. Free dog brats for four-legged friends.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers

18529 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.912.7219; 4222 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.941.2747, coldbeers.com. Additional locations in the Valley.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers lives up to its name but offers more than that. Happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, includes $3 domestic pints, $4 domestic aluminum bottles, $4 Four Peaks pints, $5 premium wells, $5 Sauza Blue Margarita, $5 Jack and Coke, $5 house wines.

Copper Blues

50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.5005, copperblueslive.com At Copper Blues, headliners don’t just occupy the stage, they surround it in the form of tap handles and inviting service.

Happy hour is offered from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Sunday.

CRUjiente Tacos

3961 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.687.7777, crutacos. com The modern neighborhood taqueria and twotime Grand Champion winner of Arizona Taco Festival has happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m. and reverse happy hour from 9 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Happy hour appetizers include $8 chips and guacamole/queso. CRUjiente Tacos’ award-winning street-style tacos, including the $4 Korean fried chicken taco and $3.50 pork belly taco, are available with special pricing during happy hour. All draft and bottled beers are $1 off, all wines by the glass are $2 off, all well drinks are $5, Modelo Especial and Tecate Light cans are $3.50.

Dorian

7419 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.907.5635, dorianscottsdale.com A perfect place to spend happy hour, Dorian has crushed blue velvet booths, a circular marble top bar and a light and bright airy dining room. Enjoy a lavish evening at happy hour with $2 off specialty cocktails, $6 glasses of featured wine and $5 well drinks and craft beer. For bites, dine on $6 bruschetta, featured seasonal vegetables, warm marinated olives, $8 sweet and spicy calamari, Dorian burger, and $15 small charcuterie board.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

EVO Scottsdale

4175 N. Goldwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480.265.9814, evoscottsdale.com Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, and features $5 select wine and $5 select draft and bottled beer.

Freezers

83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, 602.491.9119, freezersicehouse.com Play billiards and darts while drinking some brews at Freezers. Happy hour is all day every day! $3 PBR and Rolling Rock pints from open to close.

Specials are Monday – Friday which includes a burger and any draft beer for $10, $1 off all draft beers, $2 off all wells and house wines, and $3 off house cocktails from 3 to 7 p.m.

Every Thursday drink some Deep Eddy Vodka for $5 all night long.

Gallagher’s Sports Grill

Additional locations throughout the Valley, gallaghersaz.com Gallagher’s Sports Grill loves sports as much as it loves food, so it brings both of them together.

Dozens of TVs to watch numerous sporting events, Gallagher’s has it all. Happy hour snacks run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and drink specials run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Reverse happy hour is from 10 p.m. to Midnight.

Hungry Monk

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 480.963.8000, hungrymonkaz.com Chandler’s Hungry Monk pours 27 craft beers, with daily happy hour from 2 to 6:30 p.m. and Sunday all day.

Kelly’s at SouthBridge

7117 E. Sixth Avenue, Scottsdale, 480.393.3205, kellysatsouthbridge.com Kelly’s at SouthBridge in Old Town has happy hour from 2:30 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, featuring $4 off selected starters and Kelly’s cocktails, $5 draft beers and well drinks, $6 house wines, $49 bucket of four Chandon Splits, and $100 Caymus.

Little Woody

4228 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.955.0339, littlewoodyaz.com ittle oody ar is filled it food and games for any type of party goer. From 4 to 7 p.m. daily, happy hour includes $1 off all beer, $2 off all food, $4 well drinks, $5 Tito’s (exclusions apply), and $7 classic cocktails.

Pedal Haus Brewery

730 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.314.2337, pedalhausbrewery.com Mill Avenue’s resident brewpub and beer garden, Pedal Haus Brewery offers beer enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and all day Sunday, with half-off wings, $3 Pedal Haus beers, $3 mimosas, $4 Bloody Marys and $5 margaritas.

Philly’s Sports Grill

1826 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe, 480.946.6666; 1402 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, 480.968.6612; 4855 E. Warner Road, Phoenix (Ahwatukee), 480.247.8655, phillyssportsgrill.com.

Happy hour is from 4 to 7 p.m. daily, and reverse happy hour from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sunday through Thursday.

Rehab Burger Therapy

7210 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.621.5358, rehabburgertherapy.com Rehab Burger Therapy was founded on the idea that everyone deserves a break from the daily grind. Happy hour is offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and 11 a.m. to close every Thursday.

This includes $1 off Party Starters, wine by the glass, and any Rapid Relief. Enjoy $2 off Special Treatment & any Skinny Remedy.

Rico’s American Grill

7677 N. 16th Street, Phoenix, 1.800.947.9784, squawpeakhilton.com Resort guests and locals can enjoy daily happy hour specials from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close. Drink specials include $4 domestic beers and well drinks, $5 draft beers and $5 bartender’s pick backyard cocktails.

Food specials include $5 loaded pub fries, $5 quesadillas and $7 pork carnitas tacos.

The Sicilian Butcher

15530 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 602.775.5140, thesicilianbutcher.com Every day is happy hour at The Sicilian Butcher in the bar area only with premium wells starting at $5 and house-select wines or beers for $5.50.

Happy hour bites include prosciutto bruschetta and fried ravioli for $7, a bucket of meatballs or e lant ar i iano at read for and a house-select bottle of wine and polenta and meatball board for $19.

Spinelli’s Pizzeria

420 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 602.800.5300, spinellispizzeria.com.

Spinelli’s Pizzeria has happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, with specials like $3.50 wells, $4.50 calls, $4 cheese pizza slices, $4.50 pepperoni pizza slices, and half-off appetizers.

The Stockyards

5009 E. Washington Street, Suite 115, Phoenix, 602.273.7378, stockyardsteakhouse.com In 1947, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, opened its doors with a menu focused on its historical past: beer. Staying true to its heritage, The Stockyards’ menu continues to feature only t e finest corn fed aged steaks and prime rib, Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, when house wine, draft beer, saloon snacks, domestic beer and well drinks are discounted. Complimentary tenderloin sliders are also offered.

SunUp Brewing Co.

322 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.279.8909,sunup.beer SunUp offers beer brewed on-site, with happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily.

TapHouse Kitchen

6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite #108, Scottsdale, 480.656.0012 3131 E. Shea Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.656.0012 Taphousekitchen.com Al ays uttin t e uests first a ouse Kitchen strives to become a business that is the forefront of the industry, is innovative, unique and desirable to the city and state. TapHouse Kitchen uses the freshest ingredients in the bar and in the kitchen to serve up the best beer, cocktails and food!

Tutti Santi

6339 E. Greenway Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale, 480.951.3775, tuttisantriristorante.com Tutti Santi’s menu offers Nina’s original recipes for Italian classics, from antipasti freddi to mozzarella caprese. Happy hour is 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday.

Two Brothers Tap House & Brewery

4321 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.378.3001, twobrothersbrewing.com Two Brothers Tap House & Brewery hosts happy hour 4 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, with $1 off draft beer, $6 cocktails, $1 off wine by the glass and a reduced-price appetizer menu. On Thursdays, it has $3 house draft beer, house wine and appetizer menu.

Uncle Bear’s Brewery

4921 E. Ray Road, Suite 103, Phoenix (Ahwatukee), 480.961.2374; 9053 E. Baseline Road, Suite 101A, Mesa, 480.986.2228; 21151 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek, 480.882.3177, unclebearsaz.com Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, with reverse happy hour 10 p.m. to close Sunday to Thursday. Happy hour includes $4.50 Uncle Bear’s craft pints, domestic bottles, wells and house margaritas. Other specials include $5.50 22-ounce Uncle Bear’s craft and house wines, $1 off all Uncle Bear’s backyard drink menu, and $2 off Bear Bites.

The Womack 5749 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix, 602.283.5232,

thewomack.us Embrace happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, with $1 off all beer, $4 well drinks, $5 draft wine and $6 selected cocktails.

TIME TO MEAT UP

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

These sausages are sure to be bangers at summer soirees Greg Thilmont >> The Entertainer!

P

icking up a package of freshcut ribeye steaks at Costco for the backyard grill is a time-tested and tasty summer dining idea, to be sure. But, this sunny season, there’s plenty of handcrafted specialty meats to knifeand-fork into, too. From house-cured charcuterie to custom-spiced sausages — many, many sausages — here’s a sampling of delectable treats from across the Valley.

Sausage Co. in Arcadia to choose among eye-popping, sliceable cylinders like Zwiebling (onion liver sausage) and Presswurst (headcheese). This is the beginning of mountainous sandwiches, just add bread and mustard.

- German Sausage Co., 4900 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.840.6032, germansausageaz.com.

OLD-SCHOOL SNACKING Located in a quaint wooden building just north of Downtown Phoenix, venerable Schreiner’s Fine Sausage has been a purveyor of handcrafted meat products since the 1950s. It offers a wide array of links ranging from Thuringer, andouille, boudin and smoked linguisa to knockwurst, bockwurst and bangers.

Add in savory delicacies like veal loaf for good measure. The midday brown bag lunch is a $5 deal that gets you a hot link in a bun, a bag of chips and a soda — go for a can of RC Cola and a side of baconredolent German-style potato salad for kicks.

- Schreiner’s Fine Sausage, 3601 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix, 602.265.2939, schreinerssausage.com.

For additional Central European deep cuts, venture into old-fashioned German

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MODERN CURED MEATS At gorgeous, Old West-themed LON’s at The Hermosa Inn, Executive Chef Jeremy Pacheco creates a wagon train of gourmet vittles. One of his signature

dishes is sizzling bacon: peppered pork belly griddled in cast iron skillets with bubbly maple syrup and late-harvest vinegar for a zingy caramelized sauce.

“We cure them for five days in a mixture of sugar, salt and spices,” says Pacheco, describing how he transforms whole pork bellies into rashers of bacon. “Then we smoke them for about four hours.”

Pacheco also rustles up an astounding “Lamb in 3 Ways” entrée that brings together roasted loin, crispy belly and sausage with a side of English peas, braised fennel, tomato confit and black garlic jus.

At lovely Quiessence at the Farm, which is located in a bucolic swath of greenery near the foot of South Mountain, an advanced kitchen charcuterie program turns out delicacies like rabbit terrine, spreadable ‘Nduja sausage and foie gras macarons.

And there are few things as deliciously relaxing as strolling food-laden al fresco aisles on Saturday mornings at the Phoenix Public Market and the Gilbert Farmers Market. There, the Proper Beast butchery outfit gets cheeky on the names of its offerings like “On a Bender” (Wisconsin-style bratwursts made with Refuge IPA from Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.) and “Effen Hot” (incendiary links powered with Los Muertos salsa). The Beast’s advanced sausages feature inventive flavorings like black garlic, Japanese dashi and Wild Child white from Pillsbury Wine Company.

- LON’s at The Hermosa Inn, 5532 N. Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley,

602.955.7878, hermosainn.com.

- Quiessence at the Farm, 6106 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602.276.0601, qatthefarm.com.

The Proper Beast, multiple locations, theproperbeast.com.

A VERITABLE VERSAILLES OF VIANDS It’s a hike for many, but when you see a propane tank decorated like a ginormous pink pig, pull over. You’re at the Pork Store in the agricultural hotspot of Queen Creek. The butchery holds an astounding selection of specialty meat products, with a tiny shortlist including garlic bologna, capicola, Braunschweiger, salami, smoked green chili sausages and even beefy pastrami. The array of samples set out for shoppers makes for epic toothpick wielding. For a mere $4.50, the barbecue burrito and soda pop special is a food tourism score that will keep you fueled up for the journey home.

- The Pork Store, 3359 E. Combs Road, Queen Creek, 480.987.0101, theporkshopaz.com.

DELECTABLE LOCAL TRADITIONS One of the most exquisite menus in the Southwest is expertly assembled at famed Kai at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, where Native American influences and indigenous ingredients are honored in the kitchen.

On the appetizer list, look for seasonal creations like an extraordinary bison

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

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130, Phoenix, 602.595.4310, arcadiameatmarket.com.

TREATS FROM THE WATER It’s not all turf when it comes to specialty meats; there’s surf, too. Dip into the bounty of oceans and rivers at Nelson’s Meat + Fish, where you can pick up smoked salmon and fresh-cured ceviche. For one of the best sandwiches around, grab an extraordinary yellowtail poke bánh mì with pickled vegetables. And, in Old Town Scottsdale, visit the new Merkin Vineyards wine bar for its distinguished smoked trout salad with pickled peppers and pickle aïoli.

- Nelson’s Meat + Fish, 2415 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.596.4069, meat.fish - Merkin Vineyards, 7133 E. Stetson Drive Suite, Suite 4, Scottsdale, 480.912.1027, merkinoldtownscottsdale.com

THAT’S A SPICY MEATBALL!

tartare adorned with housemade pemmican with McClendon’s Farm date leather, sumac and piloncillo-marrow custard with cured egg yolk.

- Kai at the Sheraton Grand, 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 602.225.0100, facebook.com/ SheratonGrandAtWildHorsePass.

DELUXE BIRD IS THE WORD Roast chicken makes for a fine summery meal, but you can really let your poultry game sing with a fresh guinea fowl from the smartly decorated Arcadia Meat Market. Add some fresh herbs from your patio garden, some lemon from your backyard grove, a bit of vino from the Sonoita AVA and bake away in your backyard horno.

- Arcadia Meat Market, 3950 E. Indian School Road, Suite

Making a proper meatball is no simple thing, and the best recipes benefit from generations of family tradition behind them, like those made at the Sicilian Butcher by Chef Joey Maggiore. The bustling eatery in Paradise Valley serves eight styles of devourable spheres and nine sauces to match.

“Our authentic meatballs include Tomaso’s Sicilian meatballs, (created) with my Sicilian-born father’s recipe made with ground veal, prime beef, pork, pine nuts, raisins, pecorino cheese, garlic and fresh herbs.”

Other notable venues for housemade meatballs include Queen Creek Olive Mill, Meat the Ball in the Fashion Park Biltmore, South Scottsdale’s DeFalco’s Deli & Grocery and Andreoli Italian Grocer near McCormick Ranch.

- The Sicilian Butcher, 15530 N. Tatum Boulevard, Suite 160, Phoenix, 602.775.5140, thesicilianbutcher.com.

FEELING DUCKY Crispy duck confit with its succulent, richly f lavored dark meat, is one of the perennial menu stars at ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho. This

season, try it at brunch sided with Calabrian chili-enhanced potato tots, fried eggs, pearl onions and tarragoncitrus butter. It’s a mimosa-friendly combination to savor in the cool midcentury modern digs.

- ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.376.2600, hotelvalleyho.com.

REACH FOR REAL JERKY If Sasquatch wandered into town, he wouldn’t grab a mass-produced, desiccated snack at a gas station. Rather, he’d look for the unmistakable faux heifer mascots that adorn the front of Hobe Meats, a Phoenix butcher shop that’s been serving customers for more than 50 years. There, the big guy would pick up bags of teriyaki beef jerky, a top-notch nosh made with slow-dried U.S.D.A. Prime cuts.

- Hobe Meats, 6044 N. 16th Street,

Phoenix, 602.604.2333, hobemeats. com.

HOT DIGGITY DOGS Frankfurters can be a bit basic sometimes, but not at lively Short Leash Hotdogs in the Melrose District.

There, wieners are served in naan with fixings like grilled peaches, goat cheese, chipotle cream cheese, pinto beans and even peanut butter. And at Provecho in the Churchill, pick up a bowl of salchipulpos — griddled beef franks that are sliced to make them look like cute, tiny octopuses. They’re placed on top of French fries and slathered with ketchup, mustard and chili sauce for a fun $3 bowl deal in the Roosevelt Arts District.

- Short Leash Hotdogs, 4221 N. Seventh Avenue, Phoenix, 602.795.2193, shortleashhotdogs. com.

- Provecho in the Churchill, 901 N. First Street, Phoenix, 602.466.2279, provechoaz.com

PERK UP FOR PORK Shoo-wee! Bring hungry (and adventurous) friends along to share a serving of crispy pig ears covered in Cheetos dust at the hip the Larder + the Delta in leafy Portland Parkway Park.

Chewy and salty, these orange-tinted backwoods umami bombs go a long way and call for numerous quaffs of frosty cold ones between farm-to-table munches.

- The Larder + the Delta, 200 W. Portland Street, Suite 101, Phoenix, 480.409.8520, thelarderandthedelta. com.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

IT’S !

Y K O SPO Chandler bakery’s sweet treats target horror fans Kayla Rutledge >> The Entertainer!

A

new bakery with spinechilling pastries and hair-raising movie props is giving people in the Chandler area something to scream about.

Spooky’s Swirls, at Alma School and Elliot roads, serves up eerily good sweets and treats with a horror and sciencefiction theme.

But the real shock may be that everything is gluten-free.

“We don’t want to make things that are good for gluten free,” says co-owner Lola Forbes. “We want to make things that are good. We’re not trying to catch the horror people. We’re not trying to catch the gluten-free people. Everyone is going to be happy with something in here.”

From “booberry” frosted cupcakes to “death by chocolate” coffin cakes, everything in the store has been craftily created to give customers goose bumps with every bite.

The bakery also offers specials, featuring what’s new in the thriller and

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horror scene while paying tribute to the genre’s classics.

By using hibiscus flowers, the bakery created Demogorgon cupcakes to celebrate the premier of the new season of “Stranger Things” on Netflix. It also had perfectly blue “Sharknado” cupcakes and bloodied up “Carrie”themed cupcakes.

Just behind the coffin of sweets, a Death Wish coffee bar gives customers a chance to really amp up their heart rate.

Death Wish Coffee is some of the strongest java on the market, and Forbes says the company fully supported the idea of the shop and was more than happy to have Spooky Swirls as a distributor.

But for those without a death wish, the bakery also serves hot cups of Unicorn Blood and Dark Matter coffee, which Forbes says, are also to die for.

“We also infuse some of our brownies with Death Wish, so if you’re looking for that extra kick you can pair the

coffee with a brownie,” Forbes says.

The bakery is the product of four prop-collecting movie lovers with the dream of serving gluten-free sweets, “that are so good it’s scary.”

Each of the owners brings a unique history to the table. They’re also connected with the thrillers and horror films they watched growing up.

“The props and the stuff we make, it really is us. It’s who we are.

So seeing people enjoy it and get our jokes and puns and loving it, that means the world,” says co-owner Chris Szydlowski.

Pastry chefs Forbes and Szydlowski started the business in a bus in 2016, but recently partnered with Chicagobased movie prop curators James Azrael and Ernesto Avina to give customers a spooky show while fulfilling their cravings for sweets.

“We have two things that probably would never make it on their own, but when we combined them, now we know people are really digging it,” Forbes says.

Azrael and Avina are part of the HSPPA, a prop preservation association.

The organization allows the shop to rotate its props among the 4,000 others, ensuring new, horrifying objects will make appearances about every season.

But not everything is as frightening as it may seem.

Forbes says the shop gets asked frequently if younger kids will find the spot scream-worthy.

“This is not a horror house,” Forbes says. “Nothing is going to jump out at you. This is actually a place of love and warmth. It’s perfect for families. We were sure to design it so that it can be just as sweet as it is scary.”

The two pastry chefs note they have had families come in over the weekend to share cinnamon buns and watch

movies like “Monsters, Inc.” together, and take pictures with some of the bakery’s lighthearted props like the Golden Snitch from “Harry Potter” and a “Spider-Man” costume.

However, if customers are into some of cinema’s most gut-wrenching, sinister scenes, they’ve got you covered.

Just be sure to finish your food first.

From an actual syringe from “Saw 2” and a “Chucky” doll to guns, knives and cinema’s most notorious masks, customers can see props that mark turning points in horror movie history.

Turn the corner, and there are vintage magazines and comics for people to peruse, including Marvel, Fangoria, Cinefantastique and HorrorHound.

“We’ve had adults come in here and act more excited than their kids about the props, and then they turn the corner and see the magazines and they just lose it,” Forbes says.

Szydlowski says she enjoys seeing parents “passing the torch” to their children and explaining the films behind the props in the shop.

“There’s so much history here,” Szydlowski says.

Located next to Zia Records, Forbes says the bakery is planning spooky surprises that align with the events, screenings and meet and greets the neighboring store hosts.

“I’m not above doing a tribute cupcake to whomever or whatever is happening next door. The people over there are really great, and we are happy people can go to their events and stop in here after and get something that carries over whatever the theme is,” Forbes says.

The bakery will have a grand opening on Saturday, August 10, but is open to those interested in getting a taste of some of the spookiest treats in town early.

Spooky’s Swirls 3029 N. Alma School Road, Suite 117, Chandler, 707.776.6597, spookysswirls.com

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BEER AND WINE

SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

BEER AND WINE

CALENDAR Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

480.481.0054, dermalinstitute. com, 6 to 8 p.m., free.

$4 Drink Deal

Casual Country Barbecue

THROUGHOUT AUGUST Cool off at VooDoo Daddy’s Steam Kitchen with a white wine spritzer, red wine cooler or the house sangria in a 20-ounce Mason jar for just $4. The spritzer includes white wine and sprite while the cooler is a blend of red wine and black cherry soda. The house sangria is fruity homemade mix.

VooDoo Daddy’s Steam Kitchen, 1325 W. Elliot Road, Suite 106, Tempe, 480.659.6145, voodoodaddy.com, all day, $4

Corks, Glue Guns and Fun

AUGUST 3 For those crafty wine aficionados who are looking for a fun way to showcase their love of vino through repurposing wine bottle corks, LDV Winery Tasting Room hosts the “Corks, Glue Guns and Fun” cork-crafting event.

LDV Winery Tasting Room, 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Suite B110, Scottsdale, 480.664.4822, ldvwinery. com, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., $10.

Champagne Saturdays at the Phoenician

AUGUST 3 AND AUGUST 17 In the spirit of the Phoenician’s Afternoon Tea comes Champagne Saturdays, an event featuring three courses of small bites, a choice of champagne and live music.

The Tea Room at The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, 480.941.8200, thephoenician.com, 7 to 8:30 p.m., from $59.

AUGUST 10 Make the trip to Arizona’s wine country for a casual barbecue featuring wine from the vineyard.

Stick around for a winemaker led tour, games and photo opportunities.

LDV Winery, 13922 S. Kuykendall Cutoff Road, Pearce, 602.320.1485, ldvwinery.com, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., $25.

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Paint and Create

Beer School 10

AUGUST 11 Beer School will be partnering with the Blue Pint Society to educate local beer enthusiasts on brewing-related topics and testicular cancer awareness. This event will feature a variety of brews from The Shop and a myriad of Arizona brewing companies.

The Shop Beer Company, 922 W. First Street, Tempe, 480.477.9212, theshop.beer, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., $50.

Mile High Brewfest

AUGUST 10 Visit downtown Prescott for the eighth annual Mile High Brewfest, the town’s premiere beer-tasting event.

Enjoy the taste of some of the best beers while listening to music in the beautiful outdoors of Prescott. Food from local restaurants and food trucks.

Prescott Mile High Middle School Field, 300 S. Granite Street, Prescott, 928.776.8686, milehighbrewfest.com, 4 to 8 p.m., $40 general admission, $75 VIP, $10 designated driver.

Wine, Women & Wealth

AUGUST 6 Come to the International Dermal Institute for a glass of wine and a free financial networking event for women.

International Dermal Institute, 4223 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale,

bubbly during Sparkling Week at Beckett’s Table. Choose from hand-selected champagnes and sparkling wines by the bottle, glass or as a flight featuring three 2-ounce tastings. For a limited time during Sparkling Week, the chef will offer his award-winning fried chicken. The fried chicken, only available at Beckett’s Table’s sister restaurant, Southern Rail, will be served Tuesday to Thursday.

Beckett’s Table, 3717 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.954.1700, beckettstable.com, no cover.

Sparkling Week

AUGUST 13 TO AUGUST 18 Beat the summer heat with

Zin and Q

AUGUST 14 Enjoy a five-course wine pairing dinner at Liberty Station American Tavern and Smokehouse in collaboration with The Gifted Palate.

The following house favorites with a twist will be introduced and explained by a second-level sommelier and paired with some of Liberty Station’s most popular barbecue dishes: Calcereous Kate’s Vineyard; Truett Hurst Rattlesnake Vineyard; Sobon Estate Fiddletown; Earthquake Zinfandel; and Plungerhead Zinfandel.

Liberty Station American Tavern and Smokehouse, 34522 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 180, Scottsdale, 480.595.9930, libertystationtavern. com, 5 p.m., $55.

Boulders on Southern Summer Beerfest AUGUST 17 Enjoy a dozen pours of special and rare beers at the Boulders on Southern fifth annual Beer Fest.

Boulders on Southern, 1010 W. Southern Avenue, Suite 1, Mesa, 480.659.4816, bouldersonsouthern.com, noon to 5 p.m., $40.

AUGUST 22 LDV Winery and Paint and Create come together to host an acrylic paint pour and wine-tasting event.

Participants will receive all supplies and a canvas on which to create their own acrylic masterpiece with tutorial by Paint and Create experts.

LDV varietals will be available.

LDV Winery Tasting Room, 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Suite B110, Scottsdale, 480.664.4822, ldvwinery.com, eventbrite. com, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $50.

The Van Beer’n: An Indoor Beer Festival

AUGUST 24 AND AUGUST 25 Breweries return in droves to The Van Buren for a two-day party and outdoor barbecue. There’s music, too! Oh Allen the DJ and Kim E. Fresh perform on August 24, followed by Dr. Delicious on Sunday.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren, Phoenix, thevanburenphx.com, 7 p.m. to midnight August 24, and noon to 5 p.m. August 25, free admission, $12 for four 4-ounce pours, $25 for nine 4-ounce pours, $40 for 16 4-ounce pours.

D-backs Bar Crawl

AUGUST 31 Pregame with fellow fans at the stadium before the Arizona Diamondbacks face off against their rivals the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Starting at Game Seven Grill, baseball fans will embark on an air-conditioned bar crawl around the ballpark. A game ticket is included.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.462.4121, dbacks.com/barcrawl, noon to 8 p.m., from $25.

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GREAT BEER PAIRINGS

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KELLY’S AT SOUTHBRIDGE BEER

Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

BREWERY: HUSS BREWING CO. STYLE: LIGHT WHEAT TYPE: ALE NAME: PAPAGO ORANGE BLOSSOM Perhaps the granddaddy of all the flavored beers in the state, this iconic and award-winning Dreamsicle-flavored wheat ale was created in 2005 and helped put Arizona beer on the map.

“Our goal at Kelly’s is to give guests pub classics mixed with exceptional modern cuisine and the perfect laid-back atmosphere. As a result, almost everything on our menu can be paired with one of our many beer options. We have eight traditional drafts, more than a dozen bottled options and at least six craft options in cans or bottles. Though we change them seasonally, always expect at least one local option along with some of our team’s favorite regional offerings.”

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK (480) 984-3305 9:007A.M. - 6:30 P.M. OPEN DAYS A $17 WEEK

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(480) 984-3305 23rd Annual

+ Tax & Fees

DOORS OPEN AT 8:00AM! WWW.SALTRIVERTUBING.COM Take Pride in America Event SAT 5/26 - SUN 5/27 - MON 5/28

“SALT RIVER HEROES=LITTER ZERO” It’s Your Land, Lend a Hand!

Special Event Details at www.saltrivertubing.com

HAVE A GREAT TIME!

Appoint A Designated Driver BEFORE

Tall for Tubing & Shuttle Bus

Located in NE Mesa on North Power Rd, 7 Minutes from Hwy 202 E and the Power Rd Exit 23A, in Tonto National Forest.

Special Event Details at www.saltrivertubing.com

UPCOMING EVENTS! SUPER HEROES SPLASH DOWN!

SRTR Operates Under Permit of the USDA Forest Service

or Older &

Located in NE Mesa, 7 Minutes from Hwy 202 E and

TUBE SALTJUNE RIVER PIRATES Special Event Details atCREATED PROOF AT: __________________________________________________ 7/24/2018 3:41 PM 4 Feet Tall for RENTAL DEPOSIT PROOF O.K. BY: O.K. WITHRd CORRECTIONS the North Power Exit 23A BY:_______ 23 PROOF DUE: NEXT RUN DATE: 08/05/18 Tubing &www.saltrivertubing.com www.saltrivertubing.com See AR-0008787386-28.

ADVERTISER: FUN IN THE SUN SALES PERSON: Kevin Qualls “SALT RIVER HEROES=LITTER ZERO”PUBLICATION: AR-BROADSHEET 1

WEATHER & WATER FLOW PERMITTING

Are Allowed at

Kids Must Salt Be River!

At Least 8 Yrs Kids or Older & 4 feet Tall for Must Be At Tubing & Least 8 Yrs or Shuttle Bus Service Older & 4 Feet

SRTR ACCEPTS CASH & CREDIT CARDS

JUNE 9 SEPTEMBER 6-8 SEPTEMBER 20-22 Kids Must Be See www.saltrivertubing.com for Details FOR CREDIT CARD ID & 8 Yrs 13-15• SUBMIT SEPTEMBER 27-29 ONLINE At Least PLEASESEPTEMBER READ CAREFULLY CORRECTIONS

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND WWW.SALTRIVERTUBING.COM It’s Your Land, Lend a Hand!

SRTR

Your Tubing A VALID DRIVER’S IS REQUIRED FOR 9/21 -A 9/23 9/28 -LICENSE 9/30 Service TAKE PRIDE IN AMERICA EVENT VALID DRIVER’S Adventure!

SALT RIVER PIRATES SALT RIVER TUBING’S CREDIT CARD ID & TUBE RENTAL DEPOSIT SEPTEMBER FLOATING BEACH BLASTS! PROOF O.K. BY: __________________________________________________ O.K. WITH BY:_________________________________________ LICENSE IS CORRECTIONS REQUIRED

AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 2

+ Tax & Fees

NO

Loca 7 Minu E

JUNE 9 SUPER HEROES SPLASH DOWN! SALT RIVER JUNE 23 TUBING’S BAG IT FOR BUCKS UPCOMING EVENTS! JULY 4HULA! MEGA HAWAIIAN NO

SIZE: 10 col X 10.7 in Shuttle Bus in Tonto National Forest.

Kids Must Be LIKE US, FOLLOW US, FOR FLOAT WITH US! for Details ONLINE BAG IT BUCKS PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS Service INDD At Least 8 Yrs HAVE A SRTR Operates Under Permit of the USDA Forest Service Older GREAT & PROOFTIME! JULY 4 ADVERTISER: FUN IN THE SUN4 or CREATED AT: 7/24/2018 3:41 PM Feet Tall for Appoint A SALES PERSON: Kevin Qualls PROOF DUE: NEXT RUN DATE: 08/05/18 Tubing & Designated Driver SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN PUBLICATION: AR-BROADSHEET 1 O.K. WITH SIZE: 10 col X 10.7 in PROOF O.K. BY: __________________________________________________ BY:_________________________________________ Shuttle BusCORRECTIONS BEFORE Your ENTERTAINERMAG.COM JULY 14 Service Tubing PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE A See HAVE www.saltrivertubing.com for Details ADVERTISER: FUN IN THE SUN SALES PERSON: Kevin Qualls PUBLICATION: AR-BROADSHEET 1

A VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR CREDIT CARD ID & TUBE RENTAL DEPOSIT

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AR-0008787386-28.

36

BEER DIRECTORY

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | C ASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Where to find the best beer bars in town

Boulders on Broadway

530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe, bouldersonbroadway.com Boulders has the appeal of a neighborhood bar with a beer list that’ll make your eyes pop.

Brat Haus

3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.947.4006, brathausaz.com Brat Haus’ open-air patio and its top-notch beers provide the perfect atmosphere. Get draft beers at a $2 discount during happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

The Casual Pint

1095 W. Queen Creek Road, Suite 8, Chandler 4626 N. 16th Street, Unit 102, Phoenix, 623.398.3636, thecasualpint.com The Casual Pint is a fun spot with an upscaleyet-casual atmosphere. The expert “beertenders” can serve craft beer by the pint from the tap wall, by the can or by the bottle to enjoy in the store.

Cider Corps

31 S. Robson, Mesa, cidercorpsaz.com Cider Corps is a veteran-owned and -operated company built by brothers, Sgt. Jason Duren, USMC (Ret.) and Josh Duren.

What started as a hobby for the two is now Arizona’s first fully dedicated cidery and taproom. Cider Corps ciders are available at more than 70 bars and restaurant locations in Phoenix, Prescott and Tucson.

Cold Beers & Cheese Burgers

Locations in Phoenix, Arcadia, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Peoria, coldbeers.com Do we need to say more? The name spells out everything you need to know.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Craft 64

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.946.0542, craft64. com Craft 64 offers 36 local Arizona beers on tap in the heart of Scottsdale.

Fate Brewing Company

1312 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 7337 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale 201 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe, fatebrewing.com Fate Brewing Co. is known for bold, awardwinning craft beers and perfectly paired lunch and dinner fare. Since its inception Fate has earned tremendous neighborhood support and served as a gathering place to celebrate special occasions, meet new and old friends and toast the better things in life.

Freezers

83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, 602.491.9119, freezersicehouse.com Play billiards and darts while drinking brews at Freezers. The Tempe favorite has 24 drafts; keep track by visiting Freezers’ website.

Main Ingredient Ale House “& Café

2337 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix, 602.843.6246, tmialehouse.com This Coronado neighborhood hangout spot is in a charming old home. Its beer lineup features drinks by Ska, Odell, Ace, Hess and Pizza Port. Miller, Budweiser, Corona Extra, Four Peaks and others are included, too.

The Perch Pub & Brewery

232 S. Wall Street, Chandler, 480.773.7688, perchpubbrewery.com Located in Downtown Chandler, this pub and brewery has delicious craft brews and also a home to a collection of beautiful, brightly colored rescue birds, too.

Philly’s Sports Grill

1826 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe, 480.946.6666 1402 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, 480.946.6612 4855 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, 480.247.8655, phillyssportsgrill.com With more than 20 beers on draft, 15 craft beers on tap plus more selections in cans/ bottles, Philly’s is the place for beer.

Scottsdale Beer Company

8608 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480.219.1844, scottsdalebeercompany.com Quality craft beer made in Scottsdale.

Spokes on Southern

1470 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe

spokesonsouthern.com A comfortable bike-themed grill with 24 draft handles and food made from scratch.

Superstition Meadery

120 W. Gurley Street, Prescott, 480.296.4211, superstitionmeadery. com Jeff and Jennifer Herbert started making mead at home when Jen gave Jeff a brewery kit for his birthday in 2007. They began professionally in 2012 when they collaborated with Juniper Well Ranch in Skull Valley. They opened their tasting room in 2014 and quickly outgrew that for production.

They opened their production site in 2015.

They have grown Superstition Meadery from a few varieties in 2014 to over 200.

TapHouse Kitchen

6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale, 480.656.0012 3131 E. Shea Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.656.0012, taphousekitchen.com TapHouse has 20 handles of the most soughtafter craft beers, mostly local brew and two THK selection handles that change with the season.

Transplant City Beer Company

107 W. Honeysuckle Street, Litchfield Park, 623.535.3911, transplantcitybeercompany.com From homebrewing to Transplant City Beer Company. The owners are known for being creative, with beers like the cream ale Lex Lager; The Wit Bandits, a witbier conditioned on mangoes; and the red ale, Tiffany Amber.

Keep an eye on its website as the offerings change regularly.

Two Brothers Tap House & Brewery

4321 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.378.3001, twobrothersbrewing.com Two Brothers Tap House & Brewery specializes in artisan beer, coffee and spirits. Really into beer? Check out the Two Brothers Cellar Club—a year-long membership program where members enjoy specialty beers only available within The Club, numerous perks and discounts and opportunities and access to one-of-a-kind experiences.

Uncle Bear’s Brewery

4921 E. Ray Road, Suite 103, Ahwatukee, 480.961.2374 9053 E. Baseline Road, Suite 101A, Mesa, 480.986.2228 21151 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek, 480.882.3177, unclebearsaz.com Stop by to enjoy local craft beer, including Uncle Bear’s and other guest taps, as well as delicious bites and a great happy hour.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

HEAT ? WHAT HEAT ?

37

Fight summertime blues with these fabulous reds Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

S

corching hot.

Humid.

Muggy.

For many, that about sums up Arizona in August, when it’s 110 (or more) degrees one day and pouring down rain the next, thanks to the monsoon.

But don’t let the dog days of summer give you the blues. Instead, use this time — likely being spent indoors watching the rain or cranking up the air conditioning — to explore some refreshing-yet-bold new red wine options? Yes, red wine is allowed in the summer, even here!

These are some can’t-miss options: 2017 Kali Hart Pinot Noir Talbott Vineyards This is the brand’s most fruit-forward expression, yet it is still quite complex.

Expect bright flavors here, especially cherries, cola, boysenberries and vanilla.

The finish is pleasantly clean and luscious with definite minerality and even herbaceous notes at the end. $21. talbottvineyards.com 2016 Bear Flag Sonoma County Zinfandel Bear Flag Wine All of the Bear Flag wines are inspired by the intrepid, independent spirit of California. As such, expect bold wines here with unrelenting flavor. This bottle, with its full body and hint of spice, is one of its finest. Beyond the dark fruits and toasted oak one would expect in a zin, this beauty also has notes of actual blueberry pie, making it even more perfect in summer months. $24.99. bearflagwine.com 2016 Gehricke Russian River Valley Zinfandel Gehricke Wines This dazzler is actually a blend of old vine zinfandel, which means jammy and fruity flavors, and a touch of petite syrah.

The result of the marriage between the two grapes is a wine with powerful aromas of cinnamon sticks and black peppercorns that tastes of ripe plum, cherry cordial and black currants. $30. gehrickewines.com 2016 Swanson Napa Valley Merlot Swanson Vineyards The movie “Sideways” — wherein the main characters constantly talked poorly about merlot — was so wrong. A

good merlot, like this one with its juicy blue fruit and coconut husk aromas and layered fruit flavor, is just about the perfect summer wine. It’s also a perfect pairing with almost any dish, including barbeque. $32. swansonvineyards.com 2016 Sea Slopes Pinot Noir Fort Ross Winery This expressive pinot was inspired by the majestic Sonoma Coast and the steep, rugged ridges perched at the golden (a.k.a. California) edge of the continent. The aromas of cherry, cranberry and lilac are hard to miss upon opening the bottle, and it tastes of strawberry, currants and then finally black plum in every sip. $35. fortrossvineyard.com

2016 John C. Sullenger Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Nickel & Nickel Winery Named for man who — in the 1880s — initially settled the farmstead where the now-famous Nickel & Nickel sits, this approachable-yet-structured and elegant wine delights with notes of cherry as well as delicate herbs and even a touch of earthiness. The softness is tempered well with a naturally acidic finish thanks to the tannins within. $125. nickelandnickel.com

J Vineyards 2017 Pinot Noir J Vineyards & Winery Though many know J Vineyards as a titan in the sparkling wine industry, their estate vineyards — one of which produced this silky pinot — deserve just as much praise. Expressive and subtle, then rich and tannin-forward, every sip from this bottle will stay with you long after it’s gone. Expect a complex mix of flavors ranging from raspberry and dark cherry to earthy mushrooms and even allspice. $40. jwine.com 2017 Pauli Ranch Barbera Portalupi Wine This wine is special for far more than just the flavor as Portalupi just signed a contract with Quench Wines to begin distribution in Arizona for the first time ever! If unfamiliar with the brand, the Barbera is a perfect introduction with its formidable acidity, black plum and licorice notes. The touch of smoke and white pepper at the finish rounds out the flavors and makes it a perfect food wine. $42. portalupiwine.com 2014 Hommage Cabernet Sauvignon Clos Pegase From the Tenma estate vineyard in Calistoga, this luxurious estate blend is deep in color and intensity. It was aged 19 months in French oak and is a rich, and has hints of red fruit, cocoa and espresso on the nose. The taste is something really special as it explodes with that juicy red before giving way to an essence of cedar and dark chocolate on the finish. $125. clospegase.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

BEERTENDERS

38

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | C ASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Bartenders who really know their beer Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

B

eer might not be the first thing one thinks of when craving Asian cuisine, but Marlee Palmer aims to change that. Palmer serves as a leader behind the bar at OBON Sushi + Bar + Ramen, which now has three locations in Arizona, two in Scottsdale and one in Tucson. We sat down with Palmer to learn more about her journey into the industry, the craft beer program at OBON and some of her favorite beers for summer and fall.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN CRAFT BEER? TELL US YOUR STORY! In 2010, when I was 20, I moved to Tucson from Colorado and got a job at Time Market. The 100-year-old market features several departments, all dedicated to craft food and drink. There is, for example, a craft pizza section of the market. There is also a pastry section, bread section, coffee area and then a beer and wine area. It is akin to an AJ’s, but with far more seating and smaller vendors inside. I worked there when I turned 21, and so my first foray into beer was actually with their craft options. I soon fell in love with Belgiumstyle beers. A coworker at the time was similarly into the beer scene. His name was Patrick Butler, who would go on to help open Dragoon Brewing Company in Tucson in 2012. Obviously, I became a fast fan.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES CRAFT BEER SPECIAL? So many things, but it all starts with the people. I have yet to meet a beer master or maker who isn’t an amazingly interesting character in his or her own right, full of passion for what they do.

I also love that there are so many ways to interpret beer in the development process, resulting in such a wide variety of flavors and textures. There is, of course, also such a sense of comradery within the industry, which is unique.

TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE LOCAL AND REGIONAL BREWERIES DOING IT RIGHT Well, this list has to start with Dragoon. They‘ve grown from a team of three to a family of more than 20 by focusing on quality as a measure of success. All of their 30-something beers are on point. I am also continuously impressed with what Huss puts out, especially in recent years. Twelve West is also quickly moving up on my list. And then, I had to give a shout-out to Pinetop Brewery. They are still new, but look for them to be making more of a splash in Arizona and beyond this year. They are the only true Belgium-style brewery in Arizona to my knoweldge.

TELL US ABOUT THE BEER PROGRAM AT OBON? First, a little more about us in general to give context: We are a locally grown

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restaurant founded in Tucson before moving into Scottsdale in recent years.

With a polished, casual approach, OBON + Sushi + Bar + Ramen is the spot for an unconventional and memorable dining experience. Our aim is to combine modern interpretations of traditional Japanese fare with Korean influences. Led by Chef Paulo Im, OBON’s menu features an array of starters, steamed buns, ramen and sushi.

Our beer is highly curated and so versatile it stands up to all of our dishes quite well. We have one draft dedicated to a local beer at all times, which changes regularly. We also have two local beers from Pinetop Brewery available at all times: Grand Cru and the blonde. On top of that, OBON just partnered with Twelve West on a collaboration beer called OBONtourage. Eventually, we hope to

add our custom label to it beyond just selling it on draft in the restaurants.

Another exciting element of our program: Asian craft beer. OBON is very proud to carry Echigo beer, which was Japan‘s first brewpub. We also offer options from Korea and Okinawa.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE BEERS AT THE MOMENT? I think my all-time favorite is Huss Koffee Kölsch. I am super into Asian beers. I really like Tiger, a European pale lager-style beer out of Singapore. I am also into ciders that are on the dryer side, like Schilling Hard Cider out of Seattle.

OBON Sushi + Bar + Ramen 7300 N. Via Paseo Del Sur, Suite 102, Scottsdale, 623.295.2002, obonsushi.com

Returns to The Entertainer! Magazine September 2019

Just in time to go back-to-school, the College Times will be returning to give you the hottest news, the coolest places to get discounts and shop, and all the news and tips you need to help get you through the school year. ecollegetimes.com

40

CASINOS

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

AUGUST 6

AUGUST 1

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

Stanley Serrano

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

One of These Nights: The Ultimate Tribute to America’s Favorite Band The Eagles Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

AUGUST 2 Walkens

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Rock for J.O.Y. w/Arnel Pineda of Journey

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

Pick Your Poison

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Joel Maze and Kung Fu Grip Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

AUGUST 3 XO

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Thaddeus Rose

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Cameron Degurski

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

George Lopez

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

Pick Your Poison

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

AUGUST 4 Gemini

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 5 & 6 DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Ronnie Milsap

AUGUST 7 Silhouette

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 8 Dynamite Draw

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 9 Desert Dixie

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Fortunate Son

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Latin Legends w/Brenton Wood, El Chicano, Malo, Tierra and Thee Midniters

AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

AUGUST 10 Jukebox 6

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Johnny City Band

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Freddie Duran

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Country Music Hall of Fame member Ronnie Milsap released “Ronnie Milsap: the Duets” in January with a-list guests, including Billy Gibbons, Luke Bryan, Dolly Parton, Jason Aldean, Willie Nelson, Kacey Musgraves, Little Big Town, George Strait, Leon Russell, Steven Curtis Chapman and Montgomery Gentry. “All these people were really fun to work with,” Milsap says. “I did ‘There’s No Gettin’ Over Me’ with Kacey Musgraves. She came in to sing another song, but she asked who was singing ‘There’s No Gettin’ Over Me.’ I told her no one was assigned to it yet, and she wanted to do it. She did an amazing job.” Milsap plays at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino on Tuesday, August 6. (PHOTO COURTESY RONNIE MILSAP)

One of These Nights: Ultimate Tribute to the Eagles

AUGUST 17

Bush, Live and Our Lady Peace

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Lone Butte Casino, playatgila.com

AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

AUGUST 12 & 13 DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 14 Western Fusion

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Fortunate Son

AUGUST 15

Turn the Page: Tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band

Daisy Train

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

BlueWater Resort and Casino, bluewaterfun.com

AUGUST 11 Mancini the Band

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 16 Walkens

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Lance Burton: Master Magician and Friends Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

Gimmie 3 Steps Nineball

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Greg Anderson

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Wayne Newton

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

Justin Hayward

Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

AUGUST 18 Harry Luge

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 19 & 20 DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

NEW JACK SWING PIONEERS

Bell Biv DeVoe ramps up for 30th anniversary of ‘Poison’ Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

R

onnie DeVoe has high hopes for his group’s show at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in August.

Besides performing with Bell Biv DeVoe, he hopes to squeeze in a few rounds of golf. Hopefully, it won’t be as daunting as the last time he stepped onto the Arizona greens.

“The very first time I saw a bobcat up close and personal was at one of the courses in Scottsdale,” DeVoe says with a laugh.

“Man, it scared the living crap out of me.

“It was too close for comfort. Luckily, I was with another older couple, and they made me feel comfortable about it.”

DeVoe hopes this time around the

AUGUST 20 KNIX Acoustic Summer w/Michael Ray, Lauren Alaina, Carly Pearce and Filmore Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

AUGUST 21 Silhouette

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

adventure is limited to the stage, where, he says, the trio maintains its energy and appreciation for the fans it had in 1990 when the song “Poison” was released.

“The moves we were doing back then are the exact ones we’re doing today,” DeVoe says. “Instead of 110, we’re giving about 95 easily. Other than that, we cover all the classic records. We touch on New Edition, too, which was part of my history.

“It’s a nice night of BBD music.”

BBD shows connect with fans, he says, because they conjure feelings and emotions from a time in the past.

“It’s not about responsibility,” says DeVoe, 51. “It’s about good times we were having. We love to watch and let people enjoy themselves for a good hour, then it’s back to the hectic hustle and bustle of life. We don’t take these 30-plus caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Rhythm Edition

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Cameron Degurski

B.J. Thomas

Damage Inc: A Tribute to Metallica

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Damage Inc.: A Tribute to Metallica

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

AUGUST 24 XO

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino,

Sebastian Maniscalco

DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AZ Blacktop

Western Fusion

AUGUST 26 & 27

Chippendales

AUGUST 22

AUGUST 23

and the single ‘Run’ is definitely one of those bangers to be proud of. We’re going to release something new for the 30th anniversary.”

DeVoe is still surprised at how quickly the 30 years passed.

“Where does the time go—especially when you’re still young at heart and your energy is good,” he says. “I don’t take it for granted. I eat as well as possible. I work out every now and then. We make sure we’re in shape so we’re giving people their money’s worth.”

AUGUST 28

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

AUGUST 25 Quantum

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Outlaws and Renegades: Travis Tritt, Charlie Daniels and Love and Theft

AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

41

years for granted.

“Plus, that era — the ’90s and sliding back into the latter ’80s — there’s something about it. We’re seeing a resurgence for the culture and the energy.

It resonates off the radio or iPod or what have you. It was a great time in history.”

BBD sees 2020 as a special year as it marks 30 years since the release of “Poison.” After rounding out 2019 with charity shows and spot dates, DeVoe, Ricky Bell and Michael Bivins will promote its anniversary “We’re gearing up for the 30th anniversary of ‘Poison’ and the introduction of BBD,” he says. “We have a lot of amazing things going on. We have a movie coming out toward the end of the year. There’s a lot to expect from us next year.

“We released ‘Three Stripes’ last year

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

Walkens Trio

AUGUST 29 Thaddeus

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AUGUST 30 Quantum

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

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Motley Crue’d: Tribute to Motley Crue

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1964 The Tribute: A Tribute to The Beatles

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PAINT-BY-NUMBERS UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINO | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

VAN HALEN

Fan Halen does its best to honor the David Lee Roth era Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

D

erek Fuller vividly remembers his first Van Halen concert. As a junior high school kid in California, he attended the show at the L.A. Forum.

“I remember the lights went out and I could hear the music,” Fuller says. “It was Eddie (Van Halen) and I’m thinking to myself, ‘I’m in the same room as Eddie Van Halen. There were 16,000 of us. It was life changing.”

The show inspired him to dabble in the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. When the breaks just didn’t come, he gave it up, earned an MBA, got married and “turned domestic.”

An annual Labor Day party at his home changed everything.

“I told everyone we were only playing Van Halen music this year,” Fuller says.

“That’s what we did. Everybody loved it and the party went nuts. I said, this is what we were going to do.”

That he did.

Fuller’s Van Halen tribute act, Fan Halen, plays the casino circuit with Fuller as the namesake axman. Ernie Berru is on vocals, with bassist Brian Nussle and drummer Scott Brooks.

Fuller legitimately has one of the hardest

jobs.

“I have some pretty big shoes to fill,” he says. “Nobody on earth can fill his shoes. He’s one of a kind, and arguably the best rock guitar player to ever live.

He is the master and I am his student.

He’s the masterpiece and I’m the paintby-numbers version.”

Fan Halen performs at Casino Arizona Friday, September 6, and Saturday, September 7. The show, Fuller says, aligns with the real thing.

“We’re constantly studying and perfecting and adding elements,” he says.

“The whole idea is if you squint your eyes and listen, you’ll be thrown back in time. Our amps, they look like Van Halen amps. The backdrops are like Van Halen. We go to great lengths.

“The biggest compliment we received is, ‘You just took me back to 1983 when I saw Van Halen the first time. You reminded me of my first girlfriend in the summer.’”

Fan Halen was a logical choice for Fuller. In high school, he was dubbed “the Van Halen Guy.” “Van Halen was my band,” says Fuller, who works in IT. And that’s Van Halen, with original singer David Lee Roth.

Sammy Hagar and Gary Cherone are pushed aside for the most part.

He digs deep when he describes his favorite song to play live: “I’m the One.”

844-872-2820 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

“When we play live, though, I prefer ‘Hot for Teacher.’ It gets the crowd going. It’s got a great drum intro and guitar intro. It’s Van Halen.”

The house party was 20 years ago, and Fuller never expected to be still doing this at 50.

“What I didn’t realize was my crowd is also growing older with me and they keep showing up,” says Fuller, who has seen Van Halen about 50 times. “Once I feel a little too old, that window is going to be shut, and I’ll move to the Stones.

I’ll be Keith Richards at that point.

The crowds continue to get bigger. The band continues to get more and more popular.”

Fan Halen Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, 480.850.7734, casinoarizona. com, 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 6, and Saturday, September 7, tickets start at $17.50.

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‘PEACE’ OF MIND

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

43

Our Lady Peace sharing opinionated new material on U.S. tour Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

R

aine Maida is proud to hail from Toronto. He brags about his hometown in interviews and from the stage with his band Our

Lady Peace.

He’s also a big fan of the World Champion Toronto Raptors.

“I would have been nice to be in Toronto when they won,” Maida says. “I got to watch the game, though. I used to go to the games when no one was there. Nobody cared. I was literally able to move up to almost courtside seats. It’s amazing the journey they’ve had.”

Our Lady Peace’s journey is one to be proud of as well. Guitarist Mike Turner and Maida founded the band in late 1991, after meeting through a Toronto newspaper. The two met songwriter and producer Arnold Lanni at a music seminar and he became the band’s cornerstone.

Named after a Mark Van Doren poem, Our Lady Peace released its debut, “Naveed,” in March 1994 and subsequently became a hit in Canada.

“Starseed” hit the U.S. charts, especially after a remix of it appeared on the “Armageddon” film soundtrack.

Our Lady Peace has released scores of successful singles like “Superman’s Dead,” “Somewhere Out There,” “One Man Army” and “Innocent.”

Our Lady Peace — which now includes bassist Duncan Coutts, guitarist Steve Mazur and drummer Jason Pierce — is sharing those songs while opening for Live and Bush, a jaunt that comes to the AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol on Sunday, August 11.

“The fans are digging it,” Maida says of Our Lady Peace’s sets. “They’re coming out early for us, which I’m very impressed by. It’s been amazing.”

The setlist also includes a telling new song, “Stop Making Stupid People Famous,” which has appeared on YouTube videos of shows.

“It’s funny,” Maida says. “I’ve been introducing it by title and the response is amazing. I’ve had the lyrics to this song — two pages of it — for two years.

When we did the ‘Clumsy’ tour across the U.S., I made up shirts with that on it. I just had it kicking around. I just didn’t have the right music to put the lyrics in. We finally do. I recorded it and I’m psyched.”

“Stop Making Stupid People Famous” is a seed in the creation of a new album. Maida says fans can expect “Spiritual Machines 2,” essentially.

Released in 2000, Our Lady Peace’s “Spiritual Machines” was a conceptual interpretation of Raymond Kurzweil’s 1999 book “The Age of Spiritual Machines.” The author’s voice is interspersed among the songs, and his keyboard was used in the studio.

The book shared his thoughts for

how technology will progress during the 21st century, making it the perfect time for a follow-up album to “Spiritual Machines.”

“I think it makes sense to go back and almost evaluate where we’ve come in that 20 years,” Maida says. “We didn’t come as far as he predicted. It’s interesting, in terms of technology and machines and artificial intelligence and learning and all that stuff.

The rights of robots and AI is a big deal.

To the point, Elon Musk is talking about it pretty seriously. We need to do that.”

Bush, Live and Our Lady Peace AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson, 1.855.765.7829, casinodelsol.com, 7 p.m. Sunday, August 11, $40-$225.

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SPORTS

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

SPORTS

CALENDAR Eric Newman >> The Entertainer!

Arizona Cardinals vs.

Los Angeles Chargers

AUGUST 8 Check out the Cardinals first-overall pick Kyler Murray and the rest of the squad in the first preseason game of the year. It will be the first true opportunity for the new draft picks and acquisitions to play against other teams in an Arizona uniform.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, azcardinals.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $28.

looking to turn their fortunes around.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, azcardinals.com, 5 p.m., tickets start at $28.

Phoenix Rising FC vs.

Reno 1868 Football Club

AUGUST 16 The Rising play nearby-rival Reno in USL play. It will also be a fan-favorite, Copper State Fridays and Bud Lite $1 Beer Night. Throughout the game, fans can quench their thirst on a hot night with beers for just a buck.

Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc.com, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $20.

Phoenix Mercury vs.

Washington Mystics

AUGUST 4 Phoenix takes on Washington in its first home game of August. The Mercury will celebrate Teacher Appreciation Day, presented by NAU. The team will honor local teachers, raise money for and donate to teacher-led causes. The players will also wear teacher-inspired shirts.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7867, mercury.wnba.com, 3 p.m., tickets start at $13.25.

Phoenix Rising FC vs.

El Paso Locomotive

AUGUST 10 The Rising play its first home game of August against El Paso.

The opponents’ last contest was April 13, when the Rising captured a 2-0 road victory.

Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc.com, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $18.

Arizona Cardinals vs.

Oakland Raiders

AUGUST 15 In the second and final home game of the preseason, the Oakland Raiders visit State Farm Stadium.

The Raiders acquired new talent, like star receiver Antonio Brown, and are

Harlem Globetrotters

AUGUST 23 AND AUGUST 24 Watch incredible feats on the basketball court with some of the sport’s most talented athletes.

The stop is part of the team’s Fan Powered World Tour.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 7 p.m. August 23, $20.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, talkingstickresortarena.com, noon and 5 p.m. August 24, $15-$145.

Phoenix Mercury vs.

Washington Mystics

AUGUST 25 Phoenix takes on Chicago in WNBA play. In the teams’ last meeting,

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AUGUST 26 Join Larry Fitzgerald and his celebrity friends for a night of entertainment, fine dining and the best service in town as he raises hundreds of thousands of dollars to support those less fortunate.

Dominick’s, 15169 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.272.7271, larryfitzgerald. com, 5:30 p.m., $850.

ASU Devils Football vs.

Kent State

Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

Washington Nationals

AUGUST 3 The D-Backs take on Washington in the second day of a threegame series. Chase Bank will present a Haboob Globe to the first 20,000 fans in attendance.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com, 5:10 p.m., tickets start at $25.

Chicago captured an 82-75 victory in Chicago’s Wintrust Arena.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St, Phoenix, 602.379.7867, mercury.wnba.com, 3 p.m., tickets start at $13.25.

AUGUST 29 ASU begins its season with the first of two home, nonconference contests against Kent State.

The Golden Flashes went 2-10 in 2018, including losses in nine of its final 10 games.

Sun Devil Stadium, 500 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480.965.5812, thesundevils. com, 7 p.m., ticket prices vary.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

Los Angeles Dodgers

AUGUST 30 See division-rival Los Angeles visit Phoenix for summer baseball.

ASU supporters also have a chance to show their school pride. They can get a cobranded D-backs ASU soft-style tee and discounted lower-level baseline reserve ticket to the game for $35 with a special ticket promotion.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m., promotional tickets $35.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

45

Globetrotter Nathaniel Lofton is the ideal mix of humility and talent Adianna Bermudez >> The Entertainer!

N

athaniel “Big Easy” Lofton gives Hurricane Katrina credit for his run with the Harlem Globetrotters.

When the storm hit his hometown of New Orleans in 2005, he was just out of Southeastern Louisiana University.

He and 13 relatives were forced to find shelter in Houston.

“We were there for two weeks,” Lofton says.

While he was there, his agent called with an interesting proposition: workout with the Harlem Globetrotters to keep in shape.

Lofton

agreed as it would be a “nice distraction” from the turbulent time. He enjoyed the Globetrotters’ company and that night he was offered a contract.

“And 14 years later, I’m still here,” he says buoyantly.

He and his fellow Globetrotters have two Valley shows: Friday, August 23, at Gila River Arena in Glendale, and Saturday, August 24, at Talking Stick Resort Arena.

Founded in 1926, The Harlem Globetrotters are known for their athleticism and humor, which they impart through more than 400 live events each year. Athletes show off their basketball skills by impressive ball handling and dunking all with lighthearted audience interaction.

“It has been life changing,” Lofton says of being a Globetrotter.

He has appeared in multiple television shows, including “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and “The Amazing Race” for three seasons.

He’s visited 90 countries and all 50 U.S. states. Lofton’s favorite trip so far was touring the Vatican and meeting the Pope in 2015. But the most important part of being a Globetrotter for Lofton is touching lives along the way. He says he still gets excited and a little nervous before shows.

“If I ever lose that feeling, I’ll know it’s time to move on,” Lofton says.

Until then, Lofton’s goal is to spread joy to all who come to Harlem Globetrotters shows.

“I hope that for the hour and 34 minutes people are at a live show, they forget all their troubles and just laugh,” Lofton says.

He wants people to leave a show knowing the Globetrotters are good people who aim to make people happy.

That includes children through the “On Our Sleeves” movement, which advocates for kids’ mental health issues.

“I am happy to be a part of this movement,” Lofton says.

A doctor in Colorado, Lofton’s wife taught him about the importance of pediatric mental health. Nationwide Children’s Hospital started the movement that aims to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health issues and to fundraise for mental health research.

Lofton, who played high school and collegiate basketball, says being a Globetrotter is about more than just doing tricks. They are basketball players first and performers second. His

specialty is the half-court hook shot. He earned Guinness World Records for the farthest basketball hook shot at 72 feet, 6.25 inches and the farthest blindfolded basketball hook shot at 58 feet, 2.5 inches.

He humbly admits he’s still not perfect at his specialty trick shot.

“I practice, practice, practice,” Lofton says.

More than perfecting his shot, Lofton hopes he can inspire children to work as hard as they can to achieve their goals.

“Whether you are in sports, want to be a doctor or a lawyer, keep your eye on the prize and stay focused,” he says.

Harlem Globetrotters Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 7 p.m. Friday, August 23, $20.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, talkingstickresortarena.com, noon and 5 p.m. Saturday, August 24, $15-$145.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

The Birdgang Travel Club is here to support Cards fans Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

W

hen Tyler Vasquez was growing up in Chandler, his father yelled at the TV when the

Cardinals were losing.

Despite the losing record, Vasquez has become a longtime Cardinals fan. He parlayed that into a successful fan club.

A cofounder of the Birdgang Travel Club, Vasquez and BBQ Island will share their Red Sea vision during Tailgating 101 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, August 24, at BBQ Island in Tempe.

The fan-themed class includes a grilling demo where guests will learn how to make classic tailgate dishes like brisket-stuffed jalapeño poppers and smoked chicken wings plus fun dishes to take your tailgate up a notch like baconwrapped donut holes and cedar planksmoked brie with prickly pear jelly. The cost is $50; or $45 per person when there are two or more in a group. Visit birdgangtravel.com to purchase.

“To kick off the season this year, we

wanted to do something in the Valley so Cardinals fans could get together,” says Vasquez, who works for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley.

“We’re offering a seminar on how to up your tailgate game. There will be a whole menu of items from bacon-wrapped donut holes and jalapeño poppers; cool stuff you probably wouldn’t think of to have at your tailgate.

“It’s during the Cardinals preseason game against the Vikings. We’ll have it showing on a couple televisions.”

Next, fans can pack their bags and get ready to show team spirit on two road game trips this fall. Birdgang Travel Club is taking reservations for a trip to New Orleans with more than 300 fans from October 24 to October 28, and then the flock will soar to Tampa Bay and celebrate Veterans Day from November 7 to November 11.

“We started out as a small group of friends who would travel to away games, but found it to be very expensive in small groups and quickly realized that by traveling in larger groups we could save a ton of money and have a lot more fun,” says Vasquez of Chandler.

“So, we started Birdgang Travel

ARIZONA CARDINALS GENERAL MANAGER STEVE KEIM WITH BOBBIE AND ISMAEL LOPEZ.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

CARDINALS FANS ISMAEL AND BOBBIE LOPEZ IN LONDON.

Club as a way to take some of the work and expense out of individual travel planning. Now, after four years of traveling as a group, we are booking 200 to 300 fans at a time and are able to pass along an amazing experience and savings to our members.”

In addition to the road game trips, Birdgang Travel Club offers rides to Sunday home games on a fan bus. The $65 ticket includes a breakfast buffet at Majerle’s Sports Grill in Chandler, transportation to and from the State Farm Stadium and access to the Birdgang tailgate experience where lunch is provided.

TRAVELING TIGHT The Birdgang is a tight-knit group and Vasquez wanted to meet more of them.

Vasquez came up with the idea of the Birdgang Travel Club while sitting in an Uber after the 2016 NFC Championship Game.

He sat in an airport bar and created Facebook and Instagram pages, and registered a domain. Vasquez teamed up with Cave Creek resident Eric Polansky, a Cardinals blogger.

“I’d gone on a trip with him earlier in the season,” Vasquez says. “He was connected to a lot of the fans. I wasn’t.

We partnered and started a group.

“We’ve done London, Philadelphia, Detroit, Miami, Kansas City and Green Bay. We rent out a boat and have a two-hour party on a boat, with just our Cardinals fans. In Tampa Bay, we rented a pirate ship. In New Orleans, we rented a riverboat. On Saturday nights we have our pep rally. Steve Keim (the general manager) came by, and owner for the Cardinals, Michael Bidwill came by and took pictures with every fan. The Cardinals organization is very

supportive.”

The organization now boasts a 6,000-member newsletter database.

Vasquez is hoping to get the numbers up to compete with teams like the Carolina Panthers or Philadelphia Eagles, who bring a few thousand fans on the road.

One of the Cardinals’ travelers is Ismael Lopez of North Phoenix. A member since 2016, Lopez is a longtime season ticket holder. He grew up in New Mexico and adopted the team as his favorite when he moved to Arizona.

“I thought I was going to try these Cardinals and I got hooked,” he says.

“I started following them when they played at Sun Devil Stadium. My son, who was about 12 years old, liked Aeneas Williams. One time, we were waiting for the players to come out and Aeneas Williams handed his glove to my son.

He was pretty excited about it.”

Lopez enjoys traveling with the Birdgang Travel Club because of the Cardinals front office’s support. Plus there’s strength in numbers—especially when it comes to travel costs.

“The club goes that extra length to make sure they pick the best hotels and the best locations,” he says. “I went to the Miami game in 2016, the London game in 2017, the Kansas City and Green Bay games in 2018. Everything’s been perfect.”

He’s looking forward to the upcoming season.

“Just like every year, I think we’re going to do well,” Lopez says.

“Realistically, if we go .500, I’ll be happy. I think that’s a good possibility.

I think Kliff Kingsbury is going to do great, especially with the new quarterback, Kyler Murray. I think we’re going to get a lot more female fans.”

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

FAMILY

47

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

FAMILY

CALENDAR Brianna Moore >> The Entertainer!

com, until 2 p.m., prices depend on items ordered. Other locations in Gilbert and Avondale.

Multi-Sport and Fitness Fun

Eric Carle 50th Birthday of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” TO AUGUST 31 Join OdySea for this special exhibition featuring live caterpillar exhibits, giant storybook pages of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” fun and educational learning carts, fun photo cut-out boards and caterpillar educational cards. There will be face painting on the weekends; visit the website for a schedule of caterpillar character appearances. One of the largest supplies of Eric Carle books and merchandise will be available at Butterfly Treasures Gift Shop.

Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, A100, Scottsdale, 480.800.3000, butterflywonderland.com, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., various charges.

Main Event Double Play Brunch

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS UNTIL SEPTEMBER 29 Main Event is doubling the fun with its “Brunch and Game Deal.” Every Saturday and Sunday through September, family and friends can head to the Main Event and enjoy an afternoon full of games and good food, including the Tear n’ Share Cinnamon Rolls. With the purchase of a brunch food item, guests will receive a $20 game card for half the price. Guests 21 and older can enjoy new brunch cocktails, including The Perfect Pour Mimosa.

Main Event Entertainment, 8545 S. Emerald Dr, Tempe, mainevent.

TUESDAYS Keep the kids active with more than 70 different activities to increase their energy and introduce healthy ways for them to stay active. JumpBunch is offering classes with warm-up, instruction, featured activities each week and a cool down. Activities include football, soccer, tee-ball, tennis and volleyball. JumpBunch builds children’s interest in sports by offering a safe, noncompetitive environment.

Mountain View Park and Community Center, 8625 E. Mountain View Road, Scottsdale, activekids.com, registration starts at $49, children through age 6.

World Hip Hop Dance Championship and World Battles

AUGUST 2 TO AUGUST 10 The “Olympics of Hip-Hop” are coming to Phoenix! Watch as more than 4,000 dancers—in junior, varsity and adult divisions— from around the world compete in the world’s largest hip-hop dance competition. Teams will compete for a chance at the title of world champion. This year’s competition will also introduce the MegaCrew and MiniCrew divisions. Events throughout the week fill out the competition.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, hiphopinternational.com, gilariverarena.com, 5 p.m.

Saturday, August 10, $26.50.

“Matilda”

AUGUST 9 TO AUGUST 25 The Valley Youth Theatre presents “Matilda” as its 31st season opener.

Watch as the extraordinary Matilda, armed with her vivid imagination take charge of her destiny. The

Tony Award-winning musical, packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, will be performed by young actors from across the Valley. Children and adults are encouraged to attend.

Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First Street, Phoenix, 602.253.8188, vyt.com, various times, $10.

Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, phxart. org, noon to 5 p.m., free.

Musical Icon: Elvis

AUGUST 10 AND AUGUST 11 Long live the king! Celebrate the life and legacy of rock ‘n’ roll legend Elvis Presley at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix.

Visitors can check out the Elvis exhibit in the museum’s artist gallery, listen to talks about Elvis’ music, and even enjoy a movie starring the “King” himself.

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim. org, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., included with paid museum admission

Backpacks, Blessings and Brittany Glenn

AUGUST 11 North Scottsdale United Methodist Church is looking to send students back to school this year with a backpack, a blessing and a free concert. Children are encouraged to bring their backpacks to the 10 a.m. worship service at NSUMC so they may receive a blessing and a bag tag. The service will be followed by a free coffee shop concert featuring Brittany Glenn.

Those who are not sending a child off to school are encouraged to donate new backpacks. Donated backpacks will receive a blessing, a bag tag and be sent to Vista del Camino in South Phoenix.

North Scottsdale United Methodist Church, 11735 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.948.0529, nsumc.com, 10 a.m., free admission.

Free Family Sunday

AUGUST 11 On the second Sunday of each month, the Phoenix Art Museum offers a whirlwind of great art and plenty of hands-on activities for families enjoy. The museum opens with free admission every second Sunday and gives families endless opportunities for fun, including scavenger hunts, live performances and free tours.

World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo

AUGUST 15 TO AUGUST 17 Head down to Payson for the country’s best small rodeo! The three-day event kicks off on Thursday with the ladies of the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. Then, visitors can watch the action of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association on Friday and Saturday. There will also be bull riding, calf roping and barrel racing.

Payson Event Center, 1400 S. Beeline Highway, Payson, paysonrimcountry.com, 5 to 11:30 p.m., various prices.

Harlem Globetrotters

AUGUST 23 AND AUGUST 24 Prepare to be amazed by the record-breaking athleticism of the Harlem Globetrotters. The team will stop at Gila River Arena on August 23 Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix on August 24 on their “2019 Fan-Powered World Tour.” There will also be opportunities for audience members to interact with the team before, during and even after the game.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 7 p.m. August 23, $20.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, talkingstickresortarena.com, noon and 5 p.m. August 24, $15-$145.

Ballet Etudes Auditions

AUGUST 24 Ballet Etudes holds annual company auditions. Dancers across the Valley, ages 9 to 18, are encouraged to audition so they can participate in company performances.

Ballet Etudes School of Dance, 2401 E. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, balletetudes.net, 2:30 to 6 p.m., $15 registration.

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From the Dark to the Light UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

‘Matilda’ triumphs over evil in VYT’s new production Bridgette Redman >> The Entertainer!

T

he world has cruel people in it who delight in bullying the vulnerable and taking advantage of the weak.

Thankfully, the world is also filled with stories where good has triumphed over evil. Few people have created more memorable bullies than Roald Dahl, perhaps because he encountered them himself growing up in boarding schools as a child. However twisted his stories are, his heroes, usually children who have been abused by the adults in their life, manage to triumph.

Such is the case with “Matilda,” a story about a magical youngster whose tale has been told in book, movie and musical forms.

The musical is getting its nonprofessional Arizona premiere at the Valley Youth Theatre, a children’s theater, which has prepared many Broadway actors over the course of its 30-year history and even screen star Emma Stone, who thanked its artistic director, Bobb Cooper, in her Oscar acceptance speech for best actress.

Taking center stage from August 9 to August 25 at the Phoenix theater is

Vivian Page Nichols, a 12-year-old who attends the Arizona School for the Arts.

It’s her seventh production with Valley Youth Theatre and she calls this her dream role.

“I always loved the movie and then I saw the musical when it was touring at Gammage two years ago,” Nichols says.

“It was such a cool set and the music is so awesome. Matilda has always been my dream role—it’s such a cool role.”

Matilda is a 5-year-old whose parents dislike her and see her as a bother. She’s starting school where she encounters the fierce and horrible Mrs. Agatha Trunchbull, played by Trevor Howell, a 16-year-old making his Valley debut, but who has performed many major roles at Shadow Mountain High School.

Trunchbull delights in torturing the students as she finds children to be revolting.

However, Matilda also meets the gentle and kind Miss Honey, played by 19-year-old ASU sophomore Stephanie Larson, who has been in 10 VYT shows.

Miss Honey recognizes Matilda’s genius and tries to get her the help she needs.

Matilda is no ordinary child. In addition to being a voracious reader, she has powers of telekinesis and is able to tell an unusual, prescient story.

Nichols identifies with the titular

character in many ways, for they are both adventurous.

Cooper, who is also directing this show, says he saw the original cast perform it on Broadway a number of years ago and it instantly appealed to him—primarily the light that came at the end of the show and overcame the show’s darkness.

“It’s about adversity and rising above adversity,” Cooper says. “It’s about rising above bullying and trials and tribulations and having a focus and dedication to oneself as an individual no matter what the surroundings. Matilda keeps that place within herself sacred.

Ultimately, because she doesn’t give in to those things around her and she stands up to the outside forces and doesn’t allow them to penetrate her, it works out for her in the end.”

Matilda learns she sometimes has to be naughty because the adults in her life don’t behave as they should. Nichols, who has a much more supportive family and is less mischievous, still can identify with Matilda’s actions. She shared a trick she once played.

“I went out walking with my mom one day and we saw a spider web. My mom was afraid she was going to get a spider on her, so we ran home,” Nichols says.

“We had this little clip with a spider on it, so I put it on her shoulder. It freaked her out. I wish I had got that on video.”

Cooper feels the message found in “Matilda” is important for adults and children. He recognizes some people find the show a bit on the dark side, but says even that is important.

“In a perfect world,” he says, “everything would be good and we would love each other and

be supportive. We wouldn’t have wars and fights. But that’s unfortunately not our reality. If we color things to children without giving them the tools of strength and power and individuality, we’re doing a huge disservice to future generations.”

Th at said, he also insists he is not Tim Burton and he won’t be going so far into the darkness that you can’t see the light. Shows like “Matilda,” he says, teach children how to fight back against bullies, to stand up for themselves and to fi nd strength within themselves.

“Matilda resonates with me as an individual and what I do and my love for children. It is why I do everything I can to help them find themselves and be true to themselves and to put their dreams in front of them and not be bullied, not to rest on their laurels and to make their dreams come true.”

Matilda creates a fictional world around her. Ultimately, she is rewarded for that and for the way she helps other people.

This show isn’t just for children, Cooper says. Even adults will enjoy the musical.

“It’s hilarious, it’s poignant,” Cooper says. “I think it can speak to all of us and the inner child that is in all of us. I don’t think it is childish or babyish at all. It is a show for all audiences.”

While “Matilda” has come through Arizona on tour, the Valley Youth Theatre production will mark the first time it is being produced in the state.

The production has 41 young people, the oldest of whom is 19.

“We are a 31-year company for children producing top-quality shows,” Cooper says. “The value for your dollar is going to be just as good as one might consider a true professional theater. We’ve been likened to shows on Broadway. It’s going to be incredible. It’s going to knock people’s socks off and it won’t break the bank. They’re going to love it.”

Nichols, who hopes to follow in the footsteps of alumni like Stone. She is eager to share this musical with audiences.

“I think people should come see ‘Matilda,’” Nichols says. “It’s a pretty good lesson—you shouldn’t be bullying people. It’s also a really moving and suspenseful show.”

“Matilda the Musical,” Valley Youth Theatre Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, vyt.com, various times Friday, August 9, to Sunday, August 25, $20.50$39.50.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

49

THE SCIENCE OF BASEBALL

Chase Field and the D-backs add STEM to the park’s attractions Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

T

he Arizona Diamondbacks’ youngest set of fans can learn about baseball’s inclusion of science, technology, engineering and math within the STEM Dugout in the upper concourse.

The exhibit, which is open during games, shares STEM-related facts, baseball-themed games and a cutout of manager Torey Lovullo.

“I am so excited,” says Debbie Castaldo, the team’s vice president, corporate and community impact. “I’ve been working on that concept for a year and a half.”

The STEM Dugout, which was unveiled last month, is close to her heart.

Castaldo earned a degree in business administration and marketing from the University of Texas at El Paso in 1992.

However, her first major was chemical engineering.

“I’ve always been passionate about STEM,” she says. “I grew up with a dad who was an electronical contractor. I’ve always been in that universe.”

Castaldo says exhibits like the dugout are vital because STEM is in nearly every career—music, art, solar, agriculture and mining. The project was a collaboration between the D-backs and Resolution Copper. Visit dbacks.com/STEM about

the project and partnership.

“We want to use baseball to bring it to life and have that cool conversation with kids,” she adds.

The STEM Dugout is just down from the Sandlot, near Bobby Freeman’s organ.

“We wanted an extension of the Sandlot with all sorts of things for kids and families,” Castaldo says. “One of the things I recognize is you have a lot of kids and families who will never be down on the field. They’ll never be in the players’ dugout. This gives them a taste.

The bench in the STEM Dugout was fabricated the same way they fabricate the big-league benches. It’s a replica of our Major League dugout bench.”

Throughout the season, various STEM groups, such as robotics teams and STEM nonprofits, will create interactive opportunities for teachers and kids to learn more about their respective STEMbased programs. Kids and teachers will be able to learn about the D-backs Science of Baseball program and how they can bring the program to their classroom. D-backs Science of Baseball staff will be on hand at games to answer questions and help with the interactive area.

Castaldo says the STEM Dugout even piqued Lovullo’s curiosity.

“He heard about it on Saturday (July 20) and tried to sneak up and take a photo,” she says with a laugh.

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MUSIC

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING 8 p.m., $57-$191

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

AUGUST 1 The Drums

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $22-$25

Everything is Terrible!

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $17

Joey Bada$$ w/ Flatbush Zombies, The Underachievers, Kirk Knight and Nyck Caution

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $24-$537

Bad Cop/Bad Cop

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., From $29-$175

AUGUST 2 President Gator 18-Year Anniversary Show w/ Snakes!

Snakes! Snakes!, Bogan Via, Gospel Claws and Fine China Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $15

Cold Shott & The Hurricane Horns

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10

Like A Storm w/ Through Fire, Wilson and Stitched Up Heart Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $17-$30

AUGUST 3 X Ambassadors

“Weird Al” Yankovic

Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $55-$489

Wayne Newton

Ovations Live! At Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $98

AUGUST 4 Slipknot w/ Gojira, Behemoth and Volbeat

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 5:30 p.m., $35-$494

AUGUST 5 Blink-182 and Lil Wayne

AUGUST 7 Mothersound w/ Malaise and Forthteller

AUGUST 10 Blueface

Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $36-$207

Talib Kweli

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $12

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $42-$196

AUGUST 8

Louis the Child w/ Whethan, Win and Woo, ilo ilo and Rampant

Prince Daddy and The Hyena w/ Retirement Party and The Obsessives

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $13-$15

AUGUST 9 Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizarraga

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $13-$15

Mary J. Blige & Nas

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 8 p.m., $30.99-$460

Jesse Dayton

The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 1 p.m., $35

Doll Skin w/ Good Boy Daisy Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $12-$15

311 w/ The Interrupters Ak-Chin Pavilion, 5:45 p.m., $25-$179.99

Fortunate Son

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

AUGUST 11 Young the Giant w/ Fitz and The Tantrums and Alice Merton

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:00 p.m., $29.99-$262.50

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10-$12

CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., Free

Eric Tessmer Band

Banana Gun w/decker.

And Wyves

Hans Olson

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $20-$25

AUGUST 6 Gauche

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12

Frank Iero and The Future Violents

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $45-$98

Carly Rae Jepsen

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $57-$192

Prettymuch

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $25-$550

Ronnie Milsap

Ovations Live! At Wild Horse Pass,

Wynchester

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $34-$489

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

Hoist the Colors w/2 Buk Chuk Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $5

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10 Musical Instrument Museum, 3 p.m., $55-$62

AUGUST 12

Planet Booty

Touche Amore

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $53-$181

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $20-$23

Fortunate Son

AUGUST 13

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

Banda MS

Comerica Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $88-$420

Collective Soul w/ Gin Blossoms and The Black Moods Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $53-$585

Stunna 4 Vegas w/ Blacc Zacc The Pressroom, 7 p.m., $25-$75

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $41

Morgan Page w/ Wolfgang Gartner

The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 1 p.m., $20

Jerry Joseph

Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $15

Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra

Crescent Ballroom, 6:30 p.m., $15-$20

Rascal Flatts

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $39-$506

Miss May I w/ The World Alive Club Red-East Theater, 6:30 p.m., $81

Peter Asher & Albert Lee Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $43.50-$48.50

George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic w/ Miss Velvet, Dumpstaphunk and Fishbone

THE CELEBRITY THEATRE, 7 P.M. SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, $57-$1,200

Join P-Funk legend George Clinton at The Celebrity Theatre with support from Miss Velvet, Dumpstaphunk and Fishbone. Parliament released its 10th studio album “Medicaid Fraud Dogg” in September of last year after 38 years of silence. Now Clinton and the group are embarking on a tour in celebration of decades of funk.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

Nicole Dollanganger

51

Daniel Caesar

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

THE VAN BUREN, 8 P.M. FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, $63-$78

AUGUST 14 Passafire w/ Kash’d Out

Daniel Caesar rose to critical acclaim in 2017 with the release of his debut album “Freudian.” Now, Caesar is touring in support of his follow up project “Case Study 01” which explores themes of death and spirituality. Catch him at the Van Buren for a night of moody R&B.

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $17

Alex Lahey

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $33-$179

Hibou

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25-$179

The B-52s w/ Berlin and OMD

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $33-$489

AUGUST 15 Helion Prime

August Alsina

3Teeth

Smrtdeath w/ Lil Lotus and Guccihighwaters

Club Red-West Theater, 7 p.m., $10-$13 The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $30-$87

New York Voices

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $58-$80

Club Red, 8 p.m., $80-$196

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$48.50

Reign of Kindo

AUGUST 16

AUGUST 20

Chris Young w/ Chris Janson and LoCash

Snail Mail w/ Choir Boy

Calexico w/ Iron & Wine

Tilian w/ Rivals, Brent Walsh and Landon Tewers

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $31-$489 Orpheum Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $67-$620

Icon for Hire

Rebel Lounge, 6 p.m., $15-$199

Mario Aguilar

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $175-$181

AUGUST 17 Cold Hart

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $34-$196

Summer Salt w/ Motel Radio and Dante Elephante

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $26-$179

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $31

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $190-$196

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $66-$250

The Chris Mitchell Experience

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch, 8 p.m., $65-$184

Woodstock Tribute Band

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $15-$25

The Delgado Brothers

The Rhythm room, 8 p.m., $15

AUGUST 18 Kyle Craft

Kota the Friend

Bad Books

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $48-$67

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30.76-$37.79

Katchafire

Marquee Theatre, 5 p.m., $25-$50

AUGUST 22 Convictions

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $12

Dash w/ The August Reverie, Panic Baby and Fygar The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10

Hawthorne Heights w/ Emery and Oh, Sleeper

Crescent Ballroom, 6:30 p.m., $22-$25

John Jorgenson Quintet

Musical Instrument Museum Music Theater, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$48.50

Crash Test Dummies

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $29-$59

AUGUST 23

AUGUST 19

Keith Sweat

Mogwai

Bloodshot Bill w/ Savage Gospel and Tin Can Screamers

Celebrity Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $60-$193

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10-$12

Mal Blum w/ Acne Superstar The Lunchbox, 7 p.m., $12-$15

Heart w/ Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and Elle King

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $14-$3,337

Bird and the Bee

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $33-$227

AUGUST 29

Jared & The Mill

Rebelution w/ Collie Buddz

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $17-$22

Mesa Amphitheatre, 6 p.m., $57-$337

Hank Von Hell

ZZ Top w/ Cheap Trick

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $48.50-$73.50

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $27-$489

AUGUST 28

Pub Rock Live, 9 p.m., $15

The Avett Brothers

Mesa Arts Center Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $66-$147

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $190-$196

The Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $57-$86

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $19.89

Club Cloud N9ne, 6 p.m., $10-$20

Grace VanderWaal

Justin Hayward

Strangelove

Steve Earle & The Dukes

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $21-23

George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic w/ Miss Velvet, Dumpstaphunk and Fishbone

The Rebel Lounge, 6 p.m., $18-$75

AUGUST 24

The Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $38-$175

AUGUST 21

Cold Hart & Horse Head

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $48.50-$73.50

Boris

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $18

The Celebrity Theatre, 7 p.m., $57-$1,200

The Neverland Express & Caleb Johnson

1Take Jay

The Neverland Express & Caleb Johnson Hot Spanish Nights: Guitars Mesa Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $38

BJ Thomas

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $30-$55

Banda MS

Comerica Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $93-$534

AUGUST 26 The Rolling Stones

State Farm Stadium, 8 p.m., $74-$4,169

Ringo Starr

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $96-$341

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $69.34-$522.50

UB40

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $46.92-$266.43

AUGUST 30 Sugar Thieves

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10

The Get Up Kids w/ Cloud Nothings and The Whiffs

The Pressroom, 8 p.m., $41-$297

Papa Roach w/ Bad Wolves and Asking Alexandria

Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $20-$451

Daniel Caesar

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $63-$78

Bell Biv DeVoe

Harrah’s Phoenix Ak-Chin, 8 p.m., $43-$215

Motley Crue’d

AUGUST 27

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

Kacey Musgraves

Slaughter Beach & Dog

Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $49-$1,700

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$17

Morgan Heritage w/ Jemere Morgan

AUGUST 31

Chris Isaak

BLK Live, 8 p.m., $20

Mesa Arts Center Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $81.26-$225

Korn w/ Underoath and Alice in Chains

Free Throw w/ Youth Fountain, Chris Farren and Macseal

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 6:30 p.m., $32-$536

Teenage Bottlerocket

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $54-$106

The Underground, 6:30 p.m., $15

Dada Life

Pub Rock, 7 p.m., $15

Motley Crue’d

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

‘BLOOD’ BROTHERS 52

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Collective Soul celebrates its bond of 25 years on new tour Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

C

ollective Soul drummer Johnny Rabb arrived at an Indianapolis venue to start the next leg of his band’s tour. He looked down and saw the laminate: “25 years of Collective Soul,” it read.

He couldn’t believe how his time was flying with Collective Soul.

“I literally remember the 20 years lanyard and it seems like yesterday,” Rabb says. “It’s completely freaky and scary to me. People have said, ‘Congratulations on 25 years.’ I just say, ‘Wait what?’”

Collective Soul — who returns to town Tuesday, August 13, with Tempe heroes the Gin Blossoms and The Black Moods to play the Comerica Theatre — is supporting its 10th studio album, “Blood.”

Fans can expect to hear new songs at the show that features singer/guitarist Ed Roland, rhythm guitarist Dean Roland, bassist Will Turpin and lead guitarist Jesse Triplett.

“We’ll play the hits that have come to be expected from the band as well,” Rabb says. “The new and the classics, if you will, of the songs.”

Rabb is one of the newer members of Collective Soul, which he joined in 2012. A longtime musician, Rabb enjoyed the playing style of original Collective Soul drummer Shane Evans and his successors Ryan Hoyle and Cheney Brannon.

“I was very influenced by what they did with Shane and what they did together on (the songs) ‘December’ and ‘Precious Declaration,’” he says.

“I like the magic of what Ed does in the studio. With Will on bass, it’s such a rhythmic-based band, in my opinion. I love how it all comes together.”

Prior to Collective Soul, Rabb played drums for U.S.S.A., a rock collaboration with bassist Paul Barker of Ministry fame, guitarist/composer Duane Denison and lead singer Gary Call.

(Barker is playing the Celebrity Theatre on Saturday, September 14, with Test Dept.)

“Paul is one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met—a genius-level human being,” Rabb says. “We don’t really keep in touch, but when we see each other, it’s as ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

if we are back where we were.”

He has also performed with Tanya Tucker, Hank Williams III, Maynard Ferguson, DJ Hype, Alain Caron, Frank Gambale, Larry Tagg, SheDaisy, Deana Carter and Mindy McCready. He is the co-founder of BioDiesel along with bassist, Clay Parnell. Together they comprise an electronic duo that performs live EDM. Previously a music clinician, Rabb has been with Collective Soul for eight years and “it’s feeling really good.”

“They trust me to get here from my home, right down the street here in Indy, to the club,” he says. “I bring a

professional level of playing and years of experience, experience within a rock band. I’ve been searching for this since the third grade.

“We bring each other joy and it just fits great,” he says. “I like it when people say, ‘You’re not doing drum solo stuff ?’ That’s now why I started playing drums.”

That perfect fit is evident on “Blood,” which refers to the brotherhood between Collective Soul’s members.

“We had a very rough year by losing family members,” he says. “That was unexpected. What that title means to me is obviously we care for each other. I’m

adopted. I have a brother, but these guys out here are truly our brothers. These guys were the ones also there for me.”

Collective Soul, Gin Blossoms and The Black Moods Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 7 p.m. Tuesday, August 13, tickets start at $45.

Overcoming Barrie rs Frank Iero finds peace on his

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

53

new album with Steve Albini Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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rank Iero had this vision.

The singer-guitarist thought his ironic new song “Great Party” could best be told with his band, Frank Iero and the Future Violents, trying to convince a room full of questionable characters in a VFW Hall that the soiree is actually fun.

“I wrote the treatment and it came out better than I could have ever imagined,” Iero says. “It’s fun for me. I feel like it’s another opportunity to be creative and to create in a different medium.”

The video has been a hit on YouTube since its late-July release, garnering 50,000-plus views. It’s a respectable number for an indie artist.

“Great Party” is on Frank Iero and the Future Violents’ album, “Barriers.” Recorded and mixed

by Steve Albini (Nirvana, Pixies, PJ Harvey), the album is 14 songs that not only tackle the existential journey of Iero’s heart and mind, but help him redirect his musical path.

Working with Albini was a pleasure for Iero, the former My Chemical Romance rhythm guitarist.

“I was lucky enough to work with Steve once before when we did an EP together in 2016,” he says. “I got a glimpse into his world and what it was like to work with him. When I was writing this record, I knew he would be perfect for these songs.”

“Barriers” was a difficult album to make, as it was the fi rst one he wrote and recorded since an October 2016 accident that injured him, his brother-in-law and manager.

They were in front of Twitter headquarters in Sydney, Australia, unloading gear when a bus collided with Frank Iero and the Patience’s van. Iero ended up underneath the bus’ bumper and was dragged about 10 feet. The others were seriously injured, and the band canceled the remaining 2016 tour dates.

“Talking about those emotions

and the process of trying to heal and make sense of it all was a really scary undertaking,” he says. “Once you put those feelings into song form, it tends to defi ne it. If you don’t get it right, it keeps you up at night.

“Once I was able to tackle that, that took away the stigma on everything else. I put this record off for as long as I possibly could.”

“Barriers” is Iero’s third solo album. Each one is labeled with a different name and performed with a new set of musicians. Joining him this time is guitarist Evan Nestor, bassist Matt Armstrong, drummer Tucker Rule and keyboardist/ violinist Kayleigh Goldsworthy.

“The idea is to change it up every time,” Iero says. “But rules are meant to be broken. Th is is my favorite incarnation so far.”

Like previous efforts, he claims incarnation and album may be the last one.

“I never expected to do one solo record in my lifetime, let alone three,” he says. “Every time I start a new record, I say to myself, ‘Th is is it. Th is is the end. Th is is the last one.’

“It got me thinking about how we set up these obstacles around ourselves. Sometimes they’re for protection and sometimes they’re to keep people out, and sometimes we even set them up so we fail and we fi nd solace in that failure. But whenever I fi nd something that scares me, that’s when I know I have to do it. And so, these songs are about experiences that were either walls I wanted to break down or walls that I’d built up around myself to protect myself. But these songs were also things that I’d never attempted before but had always wanted to try.”

Frank Iero and the Future Violents w/Geoffrey Rickly of Thursday Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com, 8 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, $22.50.

E L ZAR I BAH SH R IN E C I R C US

Direct from Las Vegas - Jody Jordan Circus

at WestWorld in the Equidome

SHOW TIMES:

Friday, Sept. 6th 6:30 pm Sat. & Sun., Sept. 7th & 8th 11:00 am, 3:00 pm & 6:30 pm

For Advance Ticket Sales go to:

www.azshriners.com

Proceeds benefit El Zaribah Shriners and are not tax deductible.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

54

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Skillet is

‘Victorious’

The Christian band unleashes inspiring new album Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

N

aming an album “Victorious” could be seen as a gutsy move, but Skillet lead singer John Cooper isn’t quite sure

how he feels.

“I suppose maybe it is,” he says with a laugh about his band’s latest album.

“I like big titles. They grab me. I don’t like really long album titles. They’re hard to remember. The ones that are memorable are short like ‘Slippery When Wet’ or ‘Appetite for Destruction.’”

Skillet is set to release “Victorious,” its 10th album, on Atlantic on August 2. The follow-up to the gold-certified “Unleashed,” “Victorious” is set to cement Skillet’s position as a top-selling

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

rock band. It racked up more than 1 billion streams in 2018.

“Victorious perfectly describes how the record makes me feel,” Cooper says.

“You wake up, face your own demons every day, and never give in. There’s an introspective side to it. We might’ve commented on the world explicitly on previous albums. This one is about looking inward. Perhaps, it’s because I’ve gotten a little older, and I’ve accepted struggle as part of the journey.

When I listen to these songs, I want to fight for my life, I want to fight for who I am, and I want to fight for what I believe in.”

Cooper says he likes to consider himself an optimistic person of faith. He hopes it comes across in his music.

“There are a lot of songs on this record about not giving up and continuing to

fight,” he adds.

Persistence is a thread that runs throughout Skillet’s music. The Wisconsin quartet scored a doubleplatinum hit, “Monster,” which was the eighth most-streamed rock song of 2015. It has 182 million plays on Spotify, making it Christian music’s best-selling digital single.

Nine of Skillet’s songs have been used by organizations like the WWE, Marvel, ESPN and the NFL to name a few.

Despite the success, sometimes albums and songwriting are difficult. Cooper said “Victorious” was a trying project because he put so much passion in it.

“I put my heart and soul into it because I was really working hard to make the best record I could,” he says.

“Every record is different, but this one was a lot of fun because my wife and guitar player, Korey, produced it with me.

“It’s nice to produce an album on our own. We can try things and if they suck, they suck. We’re not wasting someone

else’s time or money.”

So far, so good. Cooper has been overwhelmed with fan stories about how Skillet’s songs have helped them.

It’s a moving experience for him and the storyteller.

“They say our shows are positive, and unifying and all of that,” he says.

“I just love connecting with fans. They get really excited about songs. They say a song saved their life, or helped them get through their parents’ divorce, or check into drug rehab. That’s what the live show’s all about—connecting with the audience and seeing them sing our songs.”

Skillet and Sevendust w/ Pop Evil and Devour the Day Marquee Theater, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, luckymanonline. com, 7 p.m. Monday, September 2, $42.50 (lower level general admission) and $62.50 (balcony).

VIP packages available.

A NEW ‘VOYAGE’

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

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311 is making waves with its new album and tour Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

3

11 guitarist Tim Mahoney is frantically packing for tour.

It’s a voyage that’s been long planned, but there’s one thing he always forgets: socks.

“That can easily be remedied with Target,” he says with a laugh.

The rock-reggae band is hitting the road in support of its 13th album, “Voyager,” with Dirty Heads, The Interrupters, Dreamers and Bikini Trill.

The summer jaunt arrives at Ak-Chin Pavilion on Saturday, August 10.

The Omaha-born quintet now lives in Southern California and has spent the last 20 consecutive summers touring the United States. The musicians are singer/guitarist Nick Hexum, singer S.A. Martinez, drummer Chad Sexton and bassist P-Nut. The band is donating $1 from every ticket sold to two charity organizations—VH1 Save the Music Foundation helping kids, schools and communities realize their full potential through the power of making music; and NRDC and its work to safeguard the earth.

“Voyager” features 13 songs, four of which were recorded with Grammynominated producer John Feldmann (Blink-182, Panic! At the Disco). The album was mixed by Grammy winner Neal Avron (Weezer, Twenty One Pilots, Linkin Park).

“Recording with John is really comfortable,” Mahoney says. “He’s real comfortable to be around. He knows us really well. He has some weird ideas sometimes, but everyone does. He and I, for instance, spend a lot of time working on guitars. We have a good rapport.”

Mahoney says the album was challenging because, with each collection, the musicians run out of time.

“We have to push it hard at the end to get it out,” Mahoney says. “We had to not rush, but push it there in the middle to get it out in July. We wanted to get it out earlier. We started writing songs right around ‘Mosaic,’ our album before ‘Voyager.’ But we didn’t want to start working on new material before we finished this group of songs.”

The act will play a few new tracks during its Phoenix show. Fans can also expect a new lighting package and videos. Mahoney says the set will evoke emotion, with songs like “Down,” “All

Mixed Up,” “Amber,” “Love Song” and “Come Original.”

“The visuals, too, will be stimulating and make you happy,” he says with a laugh.

The bands on the tour are just getting to know each other.

“Dirty Heads, though, we’ve known for a long time,” Mahoney says. “I know them. Well, I run into them, but we go long periods in between seeing them.

They’re really nice guys.

“The Interrupters are old school, like No Doubt, with a girl singer. They get

compared to No Doubt a lot. They have the energy of the young punk / ska / Orange County bands. They’re a good fit with the rest of us. It should make for a fun summer.”

311 and Dirty Heads w/The Interrupters, Dreamers and Bikini Trill Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, livenation.com, 5:45 p.m. Saturday, August 10, tickets start at $29.50.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Calexico’s Joey Burns prepares to return home with Iron & Wine Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

J

a n o z i r A g n i k l Ta y l i m a and F ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

oey Burns’ 8-year-old daughters are quickly learning about the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.

He recently took them to Manhattan to see “Wicked” when his Tucson-based band, Calexico, performed with Iron & Wine in the city. They saw “Wicked” and the girls smiled and waved to everyone.

“They love the openness of what it’s all about,” Burns says with a laugh.

“They stayed up all night. One of my daughters came up to me at midnight.

She said, ‘I can’t go to sleep, dad. I’m just too wired from the night.’ The only thing I could say was, ‘you and me both.’”

Calexico and Iron & Wine are playing closer to home this month: Friday, August 16, at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix and Saturday, August 17, at The Rialto Theatre.

Burns says it’s nice to return to Arizona, where he doesn’t hear the obvious questions from fans.

“Being from Arizona — depending upon what’s happening in the news locally and globally — I get some interesting questions about immigration, the border, local politics and personalities,” he says.

“I feel good being from Arizona. I’m not born and raised here, but I’ve been living here since 1993 full time.”

Calexico and Iron & Wine recently released the full-length album “Years to Burn,” their first collaboration since 2005’s “In the Reins.”

“The spirit of collaboration has so many possibilities,” he says. “Sam Beam (of Iron & Wine) is a really talented singer-songwriter/producer. He did all the artwork on the newest album as well as the early release.

“The collaboration is great. I wanted to do a follow-up collaboration that not only involved recording, but carving out a big chunk of time for touring.”

Burns got his wish. Previously, the two bands added horse-themed cover songs to their setlists. Burns has an idea for this summer’s tour.

“For this tour, I think we’re going to dive into ’80s cover material,” he says. “I know there’s already talk of an Echo and the Bunnymen song.”

Naturally, it’s “Bring on the Dancing Horses.”

“We can do a really good version,” he says with a laugh. “I’m asking people online to help me out with other songs.

I think, at one point, Sam said ‘Horse with No Name.’ We could totally do that. We have the harmonies. I can see us in Italy, sitting around in 90-degree weather, with no A/C, coming up with a simmering version of that. It works in all

climates.”

Burns spent most of the spring and summer at home with his family, before heading overseas in advance of the U.S. jaunt. He was excited about spending time with the kids, eating popsicles and watching the U.S. women’s soccer team win. He predicted that the day they won the worlds.

“I just love everything about them— their personalities, what they represent, how they’re role models to everybody, including me and my family and my girls,” Burns says.

“The first thing I’m going to do when I pick up the girls from summer camp today is have lunch and watch the soccer game. I respect that they’re honest with who they are and their feelings. Megan (Rapinoe) was thrusted into the news because of some (bad) comments from the person in the Oval Office. That’s just disrespectful. He’s created an air of disrespect. I’m looking forward to getting a woman in the Oval Office.”

If there’s anyone who knows that, it’s him, he says.

“I’m being totally honest,” Burns continues. “I’m in a house of women. I realize the shortcomings that men have to offer. We need more balance in the workplace, balance across the board and everywhere.”

Burns and Calexico have mired themselves in southern Arizona politics, thanks to their friendship with Phoenix promoter Charlie Levy. He introduced Burns to former State Rep. Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly, a Democratic candidate for U.S. senate running against Martha McSally.

“Gabby has converted Mark into listening to Calexico, whether he wanted to initially or not,” Burns says. “I see him at the airport or the house and he’ll say, ‘How come you don’t play this song or that song?’ Alright Mark, you’re going deep into the catalog.”

On a serious note, he admires Giffords and Kelly.

“She’s very strong,” he says. “She always has been and always will be. I’m happy to see the progress she and a lot of others are making. Being in my early 50s and a father and a musician, I not only see the importance of getting involved in whatever way and capacity I can, I feel it. Our way is through music. Music is a way of healing, inspiring and bringing people together.”

Calexico and Iron & Wine w/Madison Cunningham 7:30 p.m. Friday, August 16, Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, phoenixconventioncenter.com, $36.50 and $42.

ELEVATING ITS CAREER

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

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Papa Roach is forever sticking to its ever-evolving sound Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

W

hen rockers Papa Roach performed during Columbus’ Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival, they were impressed and inspired by more than their peers’ music.

It was their sets’ production value and Papa Roach — singer Jacoby Shaddix, guitarist Jerry Horton, bassist Tobin Esperance and rhythm guitarist Anthony Esperance — took that as a challenge.

“On this tour, we’re going to roll out this whole new production package,” says Papa Roach drummer Tony Palermo, whose band plays Comerica Theatre on Friday, August 30.

“It’s about time for us to step it up and invest in ourselves. For so many years, we were just throwing our gear up on stage and relying on the songs and our inner energy to get us through the set. I mean, amps, dudes on stage, drums—it gets boring. This time, we want to spruce things up. It’s going to be really exciting to get out and actually have a bigger look.”

Papa Roach’s show will also feature songs from its 10th studio album, “Who Do You Trust?,” and hits like “Scars” and “Last Resort.”

“We always play a lot of new stuff,” Palermo says. “We’re taking everybody on a ride. We’re going to be playing an hour and a half, which is about the time Jacoby’s done singing. We don’t think playing a two- to three-hour set is actually that beneficial for our fans.

“We could play so much from the catalog, but we’re going to stick to a lot of the hits and some of the more singalong songs. That’ll make it a special night.”

Like its live show, Papa Roach took a different approach to “Who Do You Trust?” The 12-song album features heavy guitars and catchy hooks on title track and “Renegade Music,” melodic sounds on “Not The Only One,” and

Papa Roach w/Asking Alexandria and Bad Wolves Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 7 p.m. Friday, August 30, tickets start at $39.50.

hearkens back to Shaddix’s MC roots on “Elevate.”

“We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries on every record,” he says.

“There are one or two songs that take that step out of the box and really push it in a different direction.

“On (the 2017 album) ‘Crooked Teeth,’ it was ‘Born for Greatness.’ That song was not a conventional rock song, but we got a lot of positive feedback. We took that song as a stepping point for ‘Elevate.’ We’ll test our new songs live to feel the vibe. If it’s popping from the crowd’s point of view, we keep it in.”

Palermo acknowledges some fans want to hear just older tracks, but for his— and the rest of Papa Roach’s sanity—the band has to play what it wants.

“We still get the occasional hardcore fan who says, ‘Why don’t you write another ‘Infest’? That was written 20 years ago. We already had that record.

People tend to want us to stay where we were. That’s not the way we are.

“We love to evolve. It’s good for us as writers and performers because the whole

boredom thing comes into play. We’re constantly trying to push people to make them think and make them advance in their listening. It’s weird when we hear people say, ‘We miss ‘Infest’ or the old

P-Roach. We’ve tried to encompass the whole evolution of the band so it’s fun for us, too. But we’re always going to have those sing-songy rock songs that go over great live.”

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NIGHTLIFE

SIP » UNLEASH » MIX » MINGLE » PULSE » SHAKE

NIGHTLIFE

CALENDAR Katie Sawyer >> The Entertainer!

lights, which makes him a perfect fit for Shady Park this summer.

Shady Park, 26 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.474.4222., relentlessbeats.com, 9 p.m., $20, 21 and older.

The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, releasevip. com, 1 p.m., $20, 21 and older.

Spag Heddy

Bassjackers Netsky

AUGUST 2 This pop-funk artist has worked with the likes of Lil Wayne, Macklemore and David Guetta.

His 2019 hit features Lil Wayne, “I Don’t Even Know You Anymore,” and has 20 million hits on Spotify.

The Dutch artist is from Belgium and his synth style coupled with featured vocals create a perfect storm for a summer hit.

Māyā Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, eventbrite. com, 10 p.m., $10, 21 and older.

Morgan Page

AUGUST 3 Morgan Page keeps his fans waiting in the best way with his long build ups and drops signature to the EDM style. The EDM veteran has been making music since the late ’90s and got his big break with his Grammy nomination for best remix for his song “The Longest Road.”

His music has evolved with the rave scene, from a dance, electronic beat to a more modern sound with his newest song “Fire & Gold.”

AUGUST 4 This electronic duo Bassjackers are amping it up this summer with their modern and unsurprisingly heavy bass sound. Bassjackers stay on top of where the EDM movement is headed and their newest hit uses some of the major EDM sounds of 2019. The bass pounding of “Flip the Beat” is hard to miss, but their sound remains fresh. Watch their bass make waves in the pool at this pool party.

Māyā Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, eventbrite. com, noon, $10, 21 and older.

Mark Knight

AUGUST 9 House King Mark Knight has a techno, throwback sound and almost a million monthly listeners of Spotify. Aside from live set playlists, he described his last album, “A Year in the Life,” as “a sweaty tribute to classic house.” Some of his songs are upward of 7 minutes, and this synth-style music is best heard in a dark, loud and flashy club scene complete with disco

AUGUST 10 Unlike some artists, Spag Heddy doesn’t shy away from the wild and weird. Combined with a relentless, dark bass and dubstep quality, he’s heavier than most. In his 2019 jam “Noodle Neck,” his lyrics surround his stage name, including “I’m super hot and saucy wait till that lasagna sets/You wanna beef? I’ll leave you dipping like some garlic bread.”

Don’t underestimate him though, he’s worked with some other iconic bass-heads including Slander and Midnight Tyrannosaurus, both known for some serious neck-breaking, ribcage-rocking music. In case you’re wondering, it’ll be the building pounding off its foundation, Aura Nightclub.

Aura Nightclub, 411 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 201, Tempe, 480.210.2872, relentlessbeats. com, 9 p.m., $20, 18 and older.

hype EDM artist has a definite summer vibe with his deep-downlow drops and island, exotic sound.

Hits like “Kill a Soundboy” and “Jook it” hit the charts in 2018 and remain in his top five on Spotify.

His funky sound mixed with techno will have you jumping around all afternoon at this day-ger.

Māyā Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, eventbrite. com, noon, $10, 21 and older.

i_o

AUGUST 19 With his latest single titled “Death

by Techno,” there’s really no need to introduce the sounds i_o, also known as I.O., will be delivering at this August pool party. His music is perfect for head nodding, shuffling or just getting wild with it. The spacey, futuristic techno sound matches his unique white-striped black hair and overall dark aesthetic.

Māyā Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, eventbrite. com, noon, $10, 21 and older.

Louis the Child

AUGUST 10 If you’re a longtime raver and EDM fan in Arizona, you’ll know the last time Louis the Child was in Phoenix was more than three years ago.

The two have been rising to fame for years, but it was their hit single “Better Not” that skyrocketed them into stardom most recently. With more than 108 million hits on Spotify, it became an instant radio jam and arguably the song of the summer in 2018. Buy your tickets now, because this show is sure to be a sellout.

The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, releasevip. com, 1 p.m., $35, 21 and older.

Salvatore Ganacci

AUGUST 18 In typical pool-party fashion, this

Dada Life

AUGUST 31 These two Swedish headbangers are bringing their big house vibe to Phoenix for a night of dancing at BLK Live this August. Formed in 2006, they’ve been evolving their sound for years with their biggest hits like “Kick Out The Epic Motherf—” hitting the charts in 2012 and “One Last Night on Earth” in 2015. Since then, they’ve been working on more heavy hitters like their newest single “No More 54,” which features a heavy bass with some new mixing and vocals that fans haven’t heard before.

Aqua Lounge at BLK Live, 7301 E. Butherus Drive, Scottsdale, 480.494.5069, 9 p.m., $18$50, 21 and older.

MAD MIXOLOGIST A THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE AUGUST 2019

Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

Tucson native, Aaron DeFeo recently moved to Phoenix and joined forces with Bitter & Twisted’s Ross Simon to create Little Rituals, a stylish reimagining of the hotel bar concept in downtown Phoenix.

Previously Casino Del Sol’s resident mixologist, DeFeo ran the beverage program for more than six years until leaving at the end of 2017. Renowned for his imaginative use of natural and locally sourced ingredients, DeFeo’s cocktails have earned him multiple local and national accolades.

We recently sat down with DeFeo to learn a little more about him and Little Rituals.

YOUR REPUTATION PRECEDES YOU! TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT ALL THE EXPERIENCE YOU BRING TO LITTLE RITUALS? I am honored to have been named a two-time national finalist for GQ’s Most Imaginative Bartender Competition, and am a past winner of the Arizona Restaurant Association’s “Mixologist of the Year.” During my career, I’ve competed in more than 25 national and

59

international competitions and have been a contributing writer for several industry publications. But mostly, I’m a guy who really just cares about making quality drinks, in whatever form that takes.

TELL US ABOUT THE ODDEST DRINK REQUEST YOU’VE GOTTEN:

So, this one wasn’t from a customer, but a coworker. I had one team member who, for whatever reason, continuously pitched me to allow him to make a cocktail with bull’s blood in it. Yes, actual blood. And while he claimed he would make sure it was “safe blood,” whatever that meant, I turned him down.

WHAT IS YOUR NO. 1 PET PEEVE WHEN WORKING? I think bars “lose” more items per capita than any other business on the planet. With only 20 to 30 feet behind the bar, you would think everything has its place, but more goes lost than you could imagine. This can mean something small like extra napkins or pens, but is often bigger things like, for example, fresh mint. Mint tends to go “missing” at certain bars if a bartender hates muddling mojitos. Or, sometimes, fancy instruments used to make modern cocktails wind up lost. That is often when a bartender hates using the instrument in the first place. And it is all maddening.

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO DRINK— OR DRINKS— WHEN YOU’RE AT A BAR OTHER THAN YOUR OWN? If I am not drinking a paloma or batanga at AZ Distilling Co. made by Micah Olson, then I leave all of my agave-based cocktails in the capable hands of Colton Brock, who is at Ladera in Central Phoenix.

NEWTONIAN COURTSHIP 1 ounce Christian Drouin Calvados 1 ounce Sibona Chamomile Grappa 1 ounce Contratto Bianco Vermouth 2 dashes Bittermen’s Boston Bittahs Stir ingredients over ice and strain over an ice ball in a chilled cocktail coupe.

Garnish with dried apple.

I’ve also enjoyed many a fantastic gin rickey at Cotton and Copper in Tempe. I think you can’t go wrong when Josh James or any of his talented crew at Clever Koi/Across the Pond (Central Phoenix) are behind the stick.

I go out so rarely and it’s usually to a relaxed bar like Gracie’s or something charming and dive-y like the Swizzle Inn or Casey’s Woodshed. And that usually means a cold beer.

WHAT DOES ORDERING A VODKA SODA SAY ABOUT A PERSON? I am open to folks enjoying anything, as long as it doesn’t involve bull’s blood, of course.

TELL US ABOUT THE BEVERAGE PROGRAM AT LITTLE RITUALS? We’re a unique and comfortable cocktail lounge located on the fourth floor of the Residence Inn/Courtyard

by Marriott Phoenix Downtown.

But unlike most “hotel bars,” Little Rituals is a wholly independent entity.

Our menu is broken down into six categories, each featuring five cocktails: Daily Rituals, perfect beginnings or ends to any evening; Delicious Rituals, exciting flavor combinations one might not expect; Cooling Rituals, spicy-yetsoothing concoctions; Stirred & Silky

Rituals, twists on the classics; Indulgent Rituals, more complex cocktails; and Shared Rituals, an ever-changing selection of punches, pitchers and even food and drink combos. We also boast a large array of fortified and aromatized wines, such as vermouth and sherry.

There are, of course, also beer and wine options.

WHAT IS ONE COCKTAIL WOULD LOVE FOR US TO FEATURE IN THE MAGAZINE THIS MONTH? The Newtonian Courtship.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THIS DRINK? This is one of the hidden gems on our menu. It is spirit-forward, yet sexy and elegant. It always takes guests by surprise. The ingredients are unique as well, including Calvados, which is distilled from cider made from specially grown and selected apples; chamomileinfused grappa; Italian Contratto Bianco vermouth; and even bitters with heaps of citrus and chamomile notes.

Little Rituals 132 S. Central Avenue, Fourth Floor, Phoenix, 602.603.2050, littleritualsbar.com.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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IN CLOSING

FUN » FACTS » LEARN » SHARE » PLAY

Real Wild & Woody Indoor Beer Fest ival

Photos by Pablo Robles The Phoenix Convention Center welcomed a variety of fresh flavors and seasonal specialties poured by more than 75 of the Southwest’s best craft brewers for Real Wild & Woody Indoor Beer Festival. The event not only invited guests to try beer, but it celebrated 30 years of Arizona craft beer.

ALEJANDRO FONTES DONS PIRATE GEAR IN SANTAN BREWING COMPANY’S ELABORATE SPACE.

AARON CLADWICK POURED DESTIHL BREWERY BEER FROM NORMAL, ILLINOIS.

AIMEE GREENE, LEFT, AND SHANNON GRASSI FROM RUFF LIFE SHOW OFF THEIR DOG PRODUCTS. PETER SISINNI, LEFT, JOSE HOSKINS AND ALEX STEFANOWITZ SHOW THEIR BEER FROM DESCHUTES BREWERY.

DAPHNE GRAF SHARES THE SECRETS BEHIND BOOCH CRAFT BEER. CHELSEA AND CHAD SANZARI “HAND” OUT SAMPLES OF LEFT HAND BREWING COMPANY.

TREVOR LINDAHL POURS FIRESTONE WALKER BREWERY.

ADAM WALKER FROM ALMANAC BEER DISPLAYS HIS BEER.

Presented by

2019-2020

10 Percent Discount on Single Tickets Only with Box Office Code

ENTVIP

Lakeshore Concert Series at Tempe Center for the Arts

CAMILA MEZA AND THE NECTAR ORCHESTRA Sept. 28, 2019

BETH LEDERMAN AND JAZZ CON ALMA A Winter Solstice Concert Dec. 21, 2019

HOT CLUB OF SAN FRANCISCO Mar. 21, 2020

SEAN JONES QUARTET Oct. 26, 2019

NEW WEST GUITAR GROUP Jan. 25, 2020

HAROLD LÓPEZ-NUSSA Direct From Havana Apr. 25, 2020

CARMELA RAMIREZ Y MÁS - CUBOP A Latin Jazz Explosion Nov. 23, 2019

CHLOE FEORANZO QUARTET Feb. 22, 2020

TAMIR HENDELMAN’S SPIRIT OF ISRAEL ENSEMBLE May 16, 2020

All shows begin at 7:30pm in the Lakeside Room. Schedule subject to change.

700 W. RIO SALADO PARKWAY • 480-350-2822 • LAKESHOREMUSIC.ORG

F

AL

AUGUST 11-18, 2019

Cr o i AUGUST 11-18, 2019 Cn’s eng    Ac i em Crt o Cn’s    dgeng   a Ac  em ARt M ! dg   a AR M !

A NC H OR BREW I N G COM PAN Y SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Please drink responsibly. ©2019 Anchor Brewing Company. San Francisco, CA

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