Entertainer! Spring Training Guide

PHX METRO » MARCH 2023

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CONTENTS SPRING TRAINING GUIDE

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Intro • Cactus League Preview • Potential D-backs Starters • D-backs pitcher Merrill Kelly • Team Schedules • Shopping Listings • Attractions Listings • Outdoors Listings • Troon Golf Arizona • Other Golf Listings • Innings Festival • Arizona State Card Show • Valley Ballpark Map

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Top 25 • Arizona Renaissance Festival

CITY

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BREWS & SPIRITS

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Fan Halen • Casino Listings

FAMILY Circus Americana

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104 ON THE COVER: Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly, photographed by Kelsey Grant of the D-backs

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BACK TO THE BASICS Spring Training returns to the Valley for another season

By Joe McHugh

T

he Cactus League has been a staple in Arizona since the late 1940s and has been a way for the state to host some of the best players — Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds and Mike Trout included.

Four years removed from a global pandemic and one season after the MLB lockout, Spring Training is full steam ahead in 2023 — no holds barred.

“I am so excited,” says Bridget Binsbacher, Cactus League executive director. “I’m excited for the fans. And just based on the inquiries that we’re getting, people are so excited to experience Spring

Training without restrictions.”

According to a study by the L. William Seidman Research Institute at ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business, the 2018 Cactus League season generated $373 million in Arizona’s gross domestic product.

The study also found a total economic impact of $644.2 million. Bars and restaurants benefited the most from out-of-town visitors, with an estimated expenditure of $122.6 million. The median daily spending per party for out-of-state visitors was $405, with an average four-day stay. The Cactus League will perform an updated audit of the economic impact after the 2023 Spring Training.

“Not only does that impact affect businesses and tourist attractions

surrounding our facilities, but we know for a fact that people coming primarily for Spring Training,” Binsbacher says.

“And then as a result of that, they’re visiting other parts of the Valley, other parts of the state. So, the impact is spread across the Valley and across the state to surrounding cities and attractions all across Arizona. So, it’s a tremendous impact.”

But this year’s Spring Training does come with a slight hitch, the fifth World Baseball Classic will be held concurrently.

Stars like Trout, Shohei Ohtani, Merrill Kelly and Jose Ramirez are opting out of the majority of Spring Training to compete for a world title with their country.

“People are (still) definitely going to see

great baseball,” Binsbacher says. “If you’ve experienced Spring Training like many of us in Arizona, it’s like no other experience as far as watching baseball.

“The way we’re set up in proximity to one another in Arizona is unique to the Cactus League. People can go to the day game, a night game, see multiple games in a day in the same league because of the way we’re set up.”

Even though some of the stars won’t be in Arizona for some of Spring Training, fans should still be more than excited to get out to the ballpark to experience the greatness that is Spring Training.

“I think everybody’s excited,” Binsbacher says. “I think everyone’s ready for a normal season.”

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Offseason was a fun one for Major League Baseball

By Joe McHugh

T

he 2023 baseball season is inching closer, but first we must celebrate Spring Training.

The offseason has been a fun one, with plenty of megadeals, and we will have the World Baseball Classic in March.

Here’s the complete lowdown on who’s coming to the Valley for Spring Training.

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS: 2022 RECORD — 74-88 The Arizona Diamondbacks have been trending in the right direction. They turned a 2021 52-110 season into a more respectable 74-88 record in 2022. The team boasts some of the brightest youth in the game, and 2023 could be the year the D-backs see results from their young core.

Leading the pack is the No. 2 prospect in all of baseball, Corbin Carroll. The outfielder entered the league at the back half of the 2022 season and became an instant star in the Valley. His lightning speed, combined with an electric bat and glove combination, makes him the perfect storm for the D-Backs to build around. (See related D-backs feature.)

CHICAGO CUBS: 2022 RECORD — 74-88 After a mediocre 2022 season finishing with a 74-88 season, the Cubs made a plethora of offseason moves to spring back to 2016 World Series form. They brought in stars like Dansby Swanson from the Atlanta Braves and former MVP Cody Bellinger from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Filling in the depth are players like New York Yankees pitcher Jameson Taillon, Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles designated hitter and first baseman Trey Mancini, Boston Red Sox first baseman Eric Hosmer and Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher Brad Boxberger.

The key loss for the team was three-time all-star catcher Willson Contreras, who signed with the St. Louis Cardinals in free agency.

The team has lightly addressed the issue with former Detroit Tigers and Cincinnati Reds catcher Tucker Barnhart. A career .245 batting average player, Barnhart will look to bridge the gap for the Cubs on their return to success.

CHICAGO WHITE SOX: 2022 RECORD — 81-81 Derailed by injuries in 2022, the team drastically underperformed their preseason projections of 89 wins, finishing at 81-81. They had World Series hopes just one year ago, so they’re hoping to get the train back on the tracks this year.

In the offseason, the White Sox remained fairly dormant. However, they brought in players who could make an impact: former Kansas City Royals and New York Yankees outfielder Andrew Benintendi and San Diego Padres pitcher Mike Clevinger.

The team is star-studded when it is healthy.

Players to watch out for are Luis Robert, Tim Anderson, Yoan Moncada and Eloy Jimenez, who are all proven benefits to the team. In the predicted starting rotation, the White Sox have morphed into one of the best in the league: Dylan Cease, Lucas Giolito, Lance Lynn, Mike Clevinger and Michael Kopech.

The team did, unfortunately, lose one of its biggest pieces. Star closer Liam Hendriks was diagnosed with cancer and will likely miss most of the season. That weight will fall on the hands of Kendall Graveman, who the White Sox acquired last season from the Seattle Mariners.

The team also lost a former MVP and their face of the franchise, Jose Abreu, to the World Champion Houston Astros. Gavin Sheets, Andrew Vaughn and Benintendi are expected to pick up the slack.

CINCINNATI REDS: 2022 RECORD — 62-100 The Cincinnati Reds are coming off a dismal 2022, finishing the year at 62-100. Rebuilding, the team is anchored by a young core and hoping for breakout players to come out of Spring Training.

The Reds offseason offered some help for the young core, bringing in the San Diego Padres’ Wil Myers, Seattle Mariners catcher Curt Casali and Cleveland Guardians catcher Luke Maile.

The focus is offensive improvement. The team batted .235 last year and struck out more than 1,400 times. It could be sparked by up-andcomers, like top 10 prospect infielder Elly De La Cruz. If he has a good Spring Training, he could crack the opening day roster, bringing in a .285 batting average to the roster. Another infielder to watch is the No. 29 prospect in baseball, Noelvi Marte, who brings in help in the average and

power departments.

CLEVELAND GUARDIANS: 2022 RECORD — 92-70 The Guardians were the surprise of the American League in 2022, as they outperformed preseason expectations and clinched the top spot in the AL Central with a 92-70 record. The team pushed into the American League Division Series, after sweeping the Tampa Bay Rays, 2-0, in the Wild Card round. They gave the New York Yankees all they could handle, losing the series 3-2.

The team is littered with talent across the board but anchored by a solid pitching rotation.

Headed by former Cy Young winner Shane Bieber, the rotation is well-rounded with names like Triston McKenzie, Cal Quantrill, Aaron Civale and Zach Plesac. The group was one of the tops in the league, with a 3.47 ERA on the year.

The offense is almost just as talented, as they cashed in on breakout players, outfielders Steven Kwan and Oscar Gonzalez, two young players who contributed heavily in 2022. Led by perennial star third baseman Jose Ramirez, the Guardians added ex-Washington National and San Diego Padres first baseman Josh Bell and former Tampa Bay Rays all-star catcher Mike Zunino.

COLORADO ROCKIES: 2022 RECORD — 68-94 The Colorado Rockies are coming off of a disappointing 2022, finishing the season at 68-94, placing them in dead last of the National League West. The roster has a couple solid players, but the lineup is far from complete. This

year, they’ll try to crack a .500 record.

The team added depth to its pitching, after ranking last in ERA as a staff. They allowed more than five runs per game on average. New faces include Pierce Johnson from the San Diego Padres and Connor Seabold from the Boston Red Sox. The offense was the bright spot for the Rockies in 2022, though, as they ranked in the top half of the league in team OPS. They must rely heavily on players like Kris Bryant, Ryan McMahon, C.J. Cron, Charlie Blackmon and Brendan Rodgers to repeat their success last year to have a chance to crack the .500 mark on the season. Young star Ezequiel Tovar could be a name to look for in 2023.

They also lost key pieces to their limited success last year, including pitchers Alex Colomé, Carlos Estevez, Chad Kuhl and Chad Smith as well as three key role players in Garrett Hampson, Sam Hilliard and Connor Joe.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS: 2022 RECORD — 65-97 After ending the year at the bottom of the American League Central with a 65-97 record, the Kansas City Royals roster doesn’t look like it will be contending in 2023. They are anchored by a very young core of blossoming stars, however.

The aforementioned young stars the Royals boast are shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., designated hitter MJ Melendez and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, who all had great seasons in 2022 and are primed to continue it in the new year.

They are vital to the organization if the Royals plan to contend.

The Royals did lose stars of their own. They continued on pg. 10

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING 10 continued from pg. 8 Kimbrel, Chris Martin and Tommy Kahnle to the Oakland Athletics as well.

traded career Royal and fan favorite Whit Merrifield to the Toronto Blue Jays. Michael Massey must perform in the wake of Merrifield’s absence.

The Royals’ biggest hole is in their pitching, though, as they ranked in the bottom five in the league in staff ERA. Led by young star Brady Singer, the rotation doesn’t provide much help.

Bringing in Ryan Yarbrough from the Tampa Bay Rays, as well as the combination of the aging Jordan Lyles and Zack Greinke, the rotation still lacks any consistency.

LOS ANGELES ANGELS: 2022 RECORD — 73-89 The Los Angeles Angels started the 2022 season hot, but limped their way to a disappointing 73-89 record after loads of preseason hype. This year could be different for the Halos through a plethora of offseason moves.

2022 was outlined by injuries, so Angels general manager Perry Minasian built the right foundation in anticipation of this season.

Among those added to the team are pitchers Tyler Anderson from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Carlos Estevez from the Colorado Rockies.

Anderson will join a rotation that was among the top 10 in the league in staff ERA, and Estevez will be a key piece in the Angels’ bullpen.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Angels added infielder Gio Urshela from the Minnesota Twins, Hunter Renfroe from the Milwaukee Brewers and Brandon Drury from the San Diego Padres. Couple them with a lineup that consists of Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, the result could be magical.

Offseason drama was twofold. The Angels organization was posted for sale by owner Arte Moreno, but he later changed his mind. The other is the impending extension of Ohtani.

LOS ANGELES DODGERS: 2022 RECORD — 111-51 The Dodgers are coming off yet another season in which the team’s fans are beginning to know all too well — a stellar regular season, but nothing to show for in the playoffs.

They won the National League West title with a franchise-record 111 games but fell in four games to the San Diego Padres.

The “Boys in Blue” have question marks looming for a team that has won nine out of the last 10 National League West Division titles.

Most notably, the team lost star shortstop Trea Turner in the offseason, after he opted to sign an 11-year/$300 million contract with the National League-champion Philadelphia Phillies.

The team also lost starting pitchers Tyler Anderson and Andrew Heaney to the Los Angeles Angels and Texas Rangers, respectively.

The Dodgers also lost bullpen contributors Craig

free agency.

Perhaps the most morale-crushing loss — for both the team and its fans — was losing All-Star third baseman Justin Turner and 2017 Rookie of the Year and 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger.

The Dodgers declined their club options for 2023 and the two signed with the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs, respectively.

To fill the hole at shortstop, the Dodgers traded for Miguel Rojas from the Miami Marlins. Rojas, who came up with Los Angeles in 2014, struggled at the plate in 2022, but provides Gold Glove-caliber defense at a premium position.

Resigning future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw to a one-year deal, a full season of Dustin May and the eventual return of Walker Buehler will keep the rotation afloat.

Despite losing bullpen pieces, the Dodgers still boast depth in the way of Evan Phillips, Daniel Hudson and Alex Vesia, among others. They also brought in longtime D-backs outfielder David Peralta, who last played for the Tampa Bay Rays at the end of the 2022 season.

A huge question mark for this team heading into the season will be whether Max Muncy and Chris Taylor can bounce back from their down years in 2022.

Contributions from infielder Gavin Lux and potential Rookie of the Year infielder Miguel Vargas will be important, too.

At the end of the day, the Dodgers still have a star-studded roster, headlined by outfielder Mookie Betts and first baseman Freddie Freeman, so this team will undoubtedly be one of baseball’s best in 2023.

MILWAUKEE BREWERS: 2022 RECORD — 86-76 The Milwaukee Brewers are coming off of a solid season in 2022, finishing the campaign with a 86-76 record and missing the playoffs by one game.

Their roster has the capability to be playoff contenders next year in a tough National League Central division.

The Brewers are anchored by a pitching rotation that features three of the league’s premier pitchers in former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes, Freddy Peralta and Brandon Woodruff, all of which are capable of giving them quality outings three out of every five days.

On offense, though, the Brewers did shake things up. Hunter Renfroe and Kolten Wong went to the Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners via trade, respectively, and lost catcher Omar Narvaez to the free agent market.

Through their series of trades, the Brewers brought back minor and major league talent, including Jesse Winker and Abraham Toro, and most notably former Atlanta Braves catcher William Contreras in a three-way deal including

They also have young talent that is on the way, in the form of two top 30 prospects: the No. 8 prospect in baseball, Jackson Chourio, and the No. 30 prospect, Sal Frelick, both of whom could be in action in the Cactus League.

OAKLAND ATHLETICS: 2022 RECORD — 60-102 The Oakland Athletics were the worst team in baseball in 2022, finishing with a 60-102 record. The team is spiraling out of control currently, without a path back to the playoffs, and with some of their offseason losses, it might be even bleaker for the A’s in 2023.

Oakland’s offseason headline was the loss of one of the better catchers in baseball, Sean Murphy, who was traded to the Atlanta Braves.

To add insult to injury, they have had one of the worst offseasons in the league. The A’s fell to the sixth pick in the MLB Lottery from their projected top three pick, didn’t receive enough for Murphy and brought in lackluster players.

The team only had two “mainstay” hitters in Tony Kemp and Seth Brown, as they were the only players on the roster with over 400 plate appearances, and both were relatively ineffective for the team.

On the flip side, the A’s only had one pitcher who pitched over 100 innings break the 4.00 ERA slot — Cole Irvin, who was traded to the Orioles.

They’re looking to their top prospects Tyler Soderstrom and Ken Waldichuk to make a difference.

SAN DIEGO PADRES: 2022 RECORD — 89-73 The San Diego Padres were one of the most electric teams in baseball in 2022. They pushed deep into the playoffs on the back of an 89-73 season, making it into the National League Championship Series, where they fell short to the eventual World Series runners-up, Philadelphia Phillies.

The team is bound for another successful year with the hopes of another deep playoff push, if all goes according to plan.

The Padres made a splash in free agency, landing former Boston Red Sox shortstop Xander Bogaerts, a true game changer for the organization.

His addition to the already terrific trio of Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado and Juan Soto, the star power is off the charts in San Diego. With the depth behind the four stars and if all these players can stay healthy, their offense could become the unstoppable force that will propel them into the World Series.

The pitching group for the Padres is no joke either. Yu Darvish, who recently inked a sixyear deal, along with Joe Musgrove and Blake Snell are tough to beat.

SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS: 2022 RECORD — 81-81 Falling from the best team in baseball in 2021, with a 107-55 record, to a flat 81-81 season the San Francisco Giants’ fall from grace has been tough for fans to watch. Missing on key free agents in the offseason, as well as losing key pieces across the board makes the outlook for the Giants a tough one coming into 2023.

It was a roller coaster year for fans and personnel. The main storyline for the Giants was their initial signing of Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa. The megadeal fell through the cracks due to medical issues for Correa, leaving the Giants scrambling in the aftermath.

The Giants also lost ace pitcher Carlos Rodon, legacy player Brandon Belt, Evan Longoria and Jarlin Garcia, making the offseason bear little to no fruit for San Fran.

The did try to address other needs in the roster, though, and for the most part succeeded — bringing in outfielder Mitch Haniger from the Seattle Mariners and pitchers Ross Stripling and Sean Manaea from the Toronto Blue Jays and San Diego Padres, respectively. These could be key contributors to their roster.

The pieces that are in place for the Giants are solid contributors. Most notably their young ace, Logan Webb, has been a star in the making over the past few years, compiling an ERA of 2.96 over the past two seasons. He will be backed by Alex Cobb and Alex Wood along with Stripling and Manaea, rounding out an effective rotation.

The offense is shaky at best, though. They were able to bring back designated hitter Joc Pederson in the offseason, adding him back to the lineup consisting of Mike Yastrzemski, Brandon Crawford, Michael Conforto and Haniger.

SEATTLE MARINERS: 2022 RECORD — 90-72 The Seattle Mariners broke the curse of their franchise by finally making the playoffs after a 21-year drought. They capped off the 2022 campaign with a 90-72 record and advanced to the American League Division Series after sweeping the Toronto Blue Jays in the Wild Card round.

The Mariners fell short to the eventual World Series champions, the Houston Astros, 3-0.

The Mariners have been knocking on the door for a couple of years in a row, and they have the makings of a roster capable of competing with the best in the game.

The offseason was plentiful for the Mariners, bringing in Kolten Wong from the Milwaukee Brewers and Teoscar Hernández from the Toronto Blue Jays. These additions will help round out their roster and give them consistency continued on pg. 12

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D-backs add gold — and hope — to the baseball diamond

By Josh Ortega

I

n 2022, not finishing in the cellar of NL West Division represents just one of the many silver linings for the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the Valley sitting at the epicenter of the sports world for the past couple months, some wheeling and dealing in the offseason looks to keep everyone’s eyes on Los Serpientes in 2023. Here’s a look at some of the potential starters on opening day at Chase Field on April 6.

STARTING PITCHER Zac Gallen Finishing fifth in Cy Young voting proves he’s no mirage in the desert. In 31 starts, the 27-yearold accrued a 2.54 ERA through 184 innings and led the team with 192 strikeouts. Perhaps he can extend his late-season accolades earning Pitcher of the Month nod in August and Player of the Week first week in September.

Merrill Kelly The only thing hotter than Phoenix in July 2022 was the Sun Devil alum earning NL Pitcher of the Month. That month proved his best yet, locking down four wins through 41 and a third innings. The 34-year-old led the team on the mound with 13 wins and 200 and one-third innings pitched and racking up 177 strikeouts, second by team ace Gallen.

Madison Bumgarner The 33-year-old southpaw enters his 15th MLB season and fourth with the D-backs since signing as a free agent after the 2019 season.

The desert has shown no mercy to the four-time All-Star, three-time World Series Champion, two-time Silver Slugger, and World Series MVP. Either “MadBum” returns to his 2016 form striking out a career-high 251 batters and

continued from pg. 10 across the board.

The big story for the Mariners last season was the breakout from young phenom Julio Rodriguez. The AL Rookie of the Year and AllStar is the engine for the Mariners, and the sky is the limit for J-Rod. The Mariners rotation has everything they could ask for from a pitching staff. Having veteran leaders like Luis Castillo, acquired last season from the Reds, and former Cy Young

throwing a 2.74 ERA, or he rides off into the Arizona sunset.

Zach Davies The 30-year-old right-hander drafted out of Mesquite High School in Gilbert appears a lock for the fourth spot in the rotation. Davies shined during the pandemic-shortened season, placing second in the NL with seven wins. Playing five seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, “Bat Boy” has bounced around since then but could earn his spot at home if he returns to his 2017 form of 17 wins with a 3.90 ERA through 191 and one-third innings pitched.

Tommy Henry Drafted in 2019, Henry certainly feels the heat of competition working for the fifth and final rotation spot. Henry made his debut on August 3, and the hard knocks he took in nine starts last season could serve as a lesson learned for this season. But he got there striking out 242 in the three seasons in the minor leagues, and that performance could earn him a shot this season.

CATCHER Gabriel Moreno The 22-year-old Venezuelan arrived with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in a trade that sent Daulton Varsho to the Toronto Blue Jays. Moreno had shined in the Valley before when won the Arizona Fall League Rising Star award for the Mesa Solar Sox in 2021.

Carson Kelly The only remnant in the organization from the Paul Goldschmidt trade has made a solid backstop since then. The D-backs will look to his consistency behind the plate, but Kelly looks to return to his 2019 form of a .245 batting average with 77 hits and 18 home runs. winner Robbie Ray, as well as young stars like Logan Gilbert and George Kirby, the Mariners should be stingy in giving up runs.

The Mariners’ expectations are at a high they haven’t seen since the days of Ken Griffey Jr., and the roster shouldn’t let them down, as they could be contenders in the American League.

TEXAS RANGERS: 2022 RECORD — 68-94 The Texas Rangers 2022 season was lackluster, to say the least, finishing at 68-94, after signing

FIRST BASE

Christian Walker Returning to the other hot corner fresh off winning his first Gold Glove, Walker looks to repeat that stellar performance that made for a good finish since joining the organization in 2017.

But the 31-year-old shined just as much at the plate as well, leading the club with 141 hits, 36 home runs and 94 RBIs.

SECOND BASE Ketel Marte Marte had his fair share of struggles in recent years on and off the field but looks to grow since last season, leading the team with 42 doubles and tied for second in club with 55 walks. The 29-year-old Dominican also looks to return to 2019 form of .329 batting average with 187 hits and 32 homers.

THIRD BASE Josh Rojas The Litchfield Park native faced some struggles after sustaining an injury early last season, but that didn’t stop him from nearly running away with the club lead in stolen bases. He ended up tied with Jake McCarthy (23), and fifth in the NL. SHORTSTOP Nick Ahmed After 2022, it can only look up for the 32-yearold shortstop as he enters the final year of his fouryear, $32.5 million contract extension. With 23 triples in his D-backs career, the two-time Gold Glover could only add to his lore in the desert.

run double that gave the D-backs a 9-7 lead and eventual 13-7 win.

Jake McCarthy McCarthy will enter his third season in the desert and his star power continues to climb, including tying for the club lead last season with 23 stolen bases — fifth in the NL. That youth and hustle could mean a lot for the team’s outfield and overall season.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. The 29-year-old Cuban arrived in the desert just before Christmas last year part of the trade that sent Daulton Varsho to the Toronto Blue Jays. Gurriel Jr. finished fourth in doubles for the Blue Jays with 32.

BULLPEN With four-time All-Star Mark Melancon as closer and relievers like former New York Yankee Miguel Castro, the D-backs relievers have strength in their leadership. Melancon, Miguel Castro, Joe Mantiply and Scott McGough are favorites to get the nod this season, a slew of names look to compete for the final two spots. Success this season depends on the ’pens overall health to survive the long haul through a 162-game season.

OTHER PLAYERS TO WATCH DH/1B Evan Longoria SS Geraldo Perdomo OF Kyle Lewis OF Alek Thomas DH/OF Pavin Smith

OUTFIELD Corbin Carroll Selected 16th overall in 2019 out of high school in Washington, Carroll earned a selection the Futures Game last season. In his debut on August 29, 2022, Carroll cracked his first hit with a two-

MANAGER Torey Lovullo will enter his seventh season as the D-backs skipper and looks to get the team back to postseason as he did in his first season in 2017, a fact that may well have contributed to winning NL Manager of the Year.

two of the biggest free agents on the market last year in Corey Seager and Marcus Semien of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays, respectively. The Rangers kept the wallet open this offseason to help them compete in the American League West.

The free agent signings were fast and furious, and addressed a key need for the team: pitching.

They ranked in the bottom 10 in ERA as a staff in 2022, so they wasted no time grabbing the biggest name on the market, former New York Mets pitcher and two-time Cy Young winner

Jacob deGrom. Although he has been injured for the past two seasons, when he is on the mound, he is the best pitcher in the sport. Along with deGrom, the Rangers added Andrew Heaney and Jake Odorizzi from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves, respectively, and re-signed Martin Perez.

Their offense is shaky at best, though. Aside from the star power of Semien and Seager, the depth of the roster is thin. The Rangers had solid years from Nathaniel Lowe and Adolis Garcia and are banking on them.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

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BUILDING ON LAST YEAR 14

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

WBC to prep Merrill Kelly for another productive season

By Jordan Rogers

A

rizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly is coming off his most complete season as a Major League pitcher.

Four seasons removed from pitching out of Incheon, South Korea, for the SK Wyverns in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), the Arizona native and ASU alum won 13 games for the D-backs in 2022 and pitched to a 3.37 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. He was also one of just 11 pitchers across the league to hit the 200-inning mark at 200.1 innings total.

For Kelly, though, there is always room for improvement.

“There were definitely times throughout the year that I definitely could have done better,” Kelly says as he flips a baseball up and down in his hands. “I was pretty disappointed in myself with the last month of the season. I think if I finished the way that I started the rest of the season, I think the numbers look a lot different than it did even though they were solid.”

Moving the needle toward improvement begins for all players in Spring Training. Kelly, however, was selected to play for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic (WBC).

Kelly says his preparation throughout the offseason has been the same as the past, but his pre-regular season innings will come in more high-leverage situations. He sees this as something that will benefit him coming into the new season.

“Each pitch is going to be a lot more high pressure than what you’d normally face in Spring Training,” he says. “The (Spring Training) games, everyone’s kind of just getting their feet wet. It’ll be hit the ground running from Day 1 in the WBC. So, I think transitioning into the season, I think will be a lot smoother, a lot easier, because I’ve just been in those environments.”

The star-studded American roster will also include Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto.

That said, he is looking forward to sharing the clubhouse with Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw.

“His career, it obviously speaks for itself,” Kelly says. “So, the fact that I’ll be able to sit there and kind of pick his brain and just see how he goes about his business is pretty cool.”

To boot, Pool C of the WBC — Team USA’s pool, along with Mexico, Colombia, Canada and Great Britain — will play its games at Chase Field. Playing in his home ballpark, Kelly says he believes this will give him a mental edge in those games.

“It’ll be our own locker rooms, it’ll be our own training room, our own weight room, our own dugout,” he says. “So, it’s not like I’m going to be walking into any stadium that I’m not familiar with. I think being able to take the mound, the vantage points will be all the same.

It’s not anything eyewise that I’m not used to seeing. So hopefully that will bode well and just be able to transition straight into the game rather than trying to have to get my bearings.”

Come time for the 2023 season, Kelly says he will look to utilize his pitch mix — a four-seam fastball, two-seam fastball, cutter, change-up and work-in-progress slider — to keep hitters off balance.

While he says Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatís Jr. are his most difficult at-bats in the league, Kelly knows that if he executes his plan, the rest will work itself out.

“My goal is to try to make everything look the exact same,” Kelly says. “I’m trying to make it look the exact same as long as I can and make the hitter decide on what (the pitch) is going to be. I’ve never been considered a power guy, so my game is mixing speeds, mixing pitches, giving them different looks.”

For the first time since 2019, where the team won 85 games, Los Serpientes have a real shot to make some noise this year after finishing last year on a hot streak. Knowing this, Kelly is excited to see what the team can put together in 2023.

“I think, honestly, we’re just going to build on last year,” he says. “I think the baseball that we were playing, especially in the second half of the year, was an exciting brand of baseball.

“I’m excited this year. I think the fans are going to see a pretty exciting brand of baseball coming out of the Valley this year, which is something that we haven’t been able to say for the last couple of years.”

The team is full of young talent, and Kelly named top prospect Corbin Carroll as

someone he expects to see big things from.

“Obviously, there is a lot of hype around him,” he says. “He works extremely hard. He’s very disciplined on his craft. He cares about baseball a lot. He wants to be really, really good. I see him working every day how he goes about his business. You can tell that baseball is definitely in his blood and he cares about it a lot. So, I’m interested to see him kind of have a breakout year. I think he will.”

For Kelly, there are no guarantees in baseball, but he would love to stay a Diamondback for the rest of his career. As he enters his age 34 season, he acknowledges winning takes precedence, but he grew up in Arizona.

Short of his mother who just recently moved out of the state, his entire family lives here.

Additionally, Kelly’s home close to Salt River Fields and Chase Field.

“My contract for this year and next year are guaranteed, and then there’s an option for the third year,” Kelly says. “I obviously envision that option getting picked up. In my mind, I’m going to pitch well enough for that option to get picked up. But I would love to be especially with the direction that we’re going to right now.

“Obviously, this is home for me. I’ve been here since I was 14 years old, and my wife has been here since she was 4. … I definitely wouldn’t be mad if that’s the way it went.”

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480.270.5000 saltriverfields.com azdiamondbacks.com

DESCRIPTION The Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies share Salt River Fields, a luxurious, massive facility that boasts healthy foods, huge concourses, lots of seating and a massive lawn.

Game schedule March/April 2023 Sunday

26

GATES Gates open an hour and 40 minutes before game time; times may change for doubleheaders.

5

BEST PLACE TO SIT Check out the two party decks, on the top deck of the stadium, in the infield.

The section has seats and a stand-up bar for more casual viewing.

SHOPPING American Furniture Warehouse 4700 S. Power Road, Gilbert, 480.500.4121; 5801 N. 99th Avenue, Glendale, 602.422.8000, afw.com American Furniture Warehouse has been offering the best prices and widest selection of furniture and home décor since 1975.

Whether shoppers are looking for traditional, contemporary or modern designs, they can find it online or in store for an affordable price.

The store delivers to most places throughout the United States.

Antique Trove 2020 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.947.6074, antiquetrove.com/scottsdale Established in 1989, the Antique Trove has been the “go-to” location in the Valley for more than 20 years. The store boasts more than 140 quality vendors within its 23,000-square-foot space. Shoppers can find anything from Victorian items to very popular midcentury furniture and collectibles.

Arizona Mills 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle,

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GAME TIME TBA. *Split Squad

PARKING The lot has more than 4,000 spaces; hybrid parking spaces courtesy APS.

TICKETS Ticket prices depend on the day and opponent, 480.362.9467, dbacks.com

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Tempe, 480.491.7300, simon.com/mall/arizona-mills Arizona Mills is a racetrack in layout and pace and is a predominantly bargain and closeout mall located just 10 minutes South of Sky Harbor Airport. Park the nonshoppers at Tilt Studio, the Legoland Discovery Center or the movies. Set your pace at H&M or Just Sports to make sure you have all of the right team gear. Browse clothing as you take a shortcut through Forever 21. Cruise through hundreds of sunglass styles at Sunglass Hut before finally refueling and regrouping at Rainforest Cafe.

Arrowhead Towne Center 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale, 623.979.7777, arrowheadtownecener.com Buy, eat, and catch a film at the Arrowhead Towne Center. Shopping locations include Lids, BoxLunch, Coach, Q, Champs Sports, JCPenney and Lush. Dining options include Fired Pie, Little Tokyo, Panera Bread and Wetzel’s Pretzels. Don’t forget to head over to AMC to catch the latest movie.

Big Bronco 6602 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 480.575.1357 (furniture

Celebration of Fine Art

barn), 480.575.7025 (general store), bigbroncocavecreek.com Big Bronco features a wide assortment of Southwest-lifestyle home accessories, such as brightly hued ceramic pots filled with desert floral, vivid and soft fabric throws, vintage serapes and an endless selection of Southwest pillows. It carries specialized art pieces made out of recycled metal in horse and other Western motifs. Inspired Kachinas and Peace Ponies by local artists are favorites, as are

wooden steer skulls and barbed-wire candles.

Celebration of Fine Art 18400 N. Hayden Road (at Loop 101, under the white tents), Scottsdale, 480.443.7695, celebrateart.com Visit 100 artists’ studios under one roof in less than a day. This is where art lovers and

continued on pg. 18

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

A visit to RTO’Sullivans Sports Grill offers our guests an opportunity to experience dining, sports and entertainment like no other in South Scottsdale!

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

CHICAGO CUBS

Sloan Park 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa 480.668.0500 or 1.800.THE.CUBS chicago.cubs.mlb.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The new, 1.46-acre Sloan Park is a 15,000-capacity ballpark owned and operated by the Chicago Cubs.

PARKING Prices vary for cars, motorcycles, buses and RVs. Spots available on a first-come basis. Reserved handicap parking is in the blue lot. General handicap parking is in the yellow lot. Credit cards accepted.

BEST PLACE TO SIT The outfield lawn features shaded trellis seating and high-top tables all overlooking left field.

INSIDER TIP The player walkway at the Under Armour Performance Center is the place to catch players before and after a game.

Sunday

artists connect. In its 30th year, Celebration of Fine Art is open daily through March 26.

Chandler Fashion Center 3111 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 480.812.8488, shopchandlerfashioncenter.com Located where the Price Freeway and the Santan Freeway meet at Chandler Boulevard,

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each wing is dedicated to a specific category of merchandising, like clothing, home, children and electronics. In the middle rests Barnes & Noble. At the end of each leg are Dillard’s and Macy’s. Don’t forget the Lego Store. There’s also a plethora of dining options.

Desert Ridge Marketplace 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.513.7586, shopdesertridge.com

H-SEA

Shop, dine and play at North Phoenix’s premier shopping and entertainment destination. More than 110 retailers and restaurants in one convenient location including Kohl’s, Old Navy, Ross, Soap Des Jour, Target and Torrid. Dining options include The Keg Steakhouse and Bar, Yard House, Mimi’s Cafe and The Sandbar Mexican Grill. Copper Cantina allows you to grab an alcoholic beverage and walk around outdoors in The District.

Downtown Tempe/ Mill Avenue District downtowntempe.com Right across the street from ASU, Downtown Tempe and its diverse attractions deliver a (Sun) Devil of a time. In addition to college town staples like Urban Outfitters, plenty of independently owned shops will also pique your interest.

Elite Jewelry and Loan 805 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe, 480.699.6639, elitejewelryandloan.com Formerly located in Wrigleyville and Wicker Park in Chicago as American Jewelry & Pawn, Elite Jewelry and Loan carries more than 5,000 unique items with deals on fine

and vintage jewelry and high-end watches.

The Cohen family, which is originally from Chicago, now has a location in Tempe.

High Society Resale Boutique 10805 N. 71st Way, Scottsdale, 480.951.2506, highsocietyretail. com Open since 1984, High Society Resale Boutique sells women’s clothing and accessories in sizes 0 to 22 within its 4,400-square-foot store. High Society carries high-end labels and boutique brands alike. The store attracts out-of-town visitors, who bring fashion sense from Canada, Europe, Asia and other parts of the United States. The store invites unusual items that are sometimes a little funky. The friendly staff is style conscious and loves to help customers put together outfits. The inventory changes hourly, as High Society takes in racks of clothing daily.

Lost and Found Resale Interiors District at the Airpark, 15530 N. Greenway Hayden Loop, Suite 100, Scottsdale, 480.588.7006, lostandfoundresale.com The high-end consignment furniture

continued on pg. 22

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

CHICAGO WHITE SOX

Glendale Camelback Ranch 10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix 623.302.5000 camelbackranchbaseball.com whitesox.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION Home to the White Sox and Dodgers, Camelback Ranch was completed in 2009 and boasts a capacity of 13,000— including 3,000 lawn seats, 12 luxury suites and a party deck. It is adjacent to a manmade lake.

PARKING Parking in the complex’s 4,000 spots is free and at the driver’s risk. The west lot off 107th Avenue is closest to the stadium.

TICKETS Available at whitesox.com or 623.302.5000.

BEST PLACE TO SIT Clearly, in front of the first-base concourse, where 100-foot shade structures were added.

continued from pg. 18 store Lost and Found Resale Interiors serves Scottsdale. It opened in January 2017 and specializes in midcentury, modern, vintage, retro and contemporary furniture. It also carries unique interior and exterior furnishings and accessories.

Merchant Square 1509 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, merchantsquareantiques.com 480.792.1919 Merchant Square Antique Marketplace is known for a wide selection of Antique Furniture as well as charming, quality accessories. With “a whole lot of everything”, the Merchant Square has been called a flea market, a swap meet and an antique mall.

With over 250 individual merchants under one roof, every shopper is sure to find something unique at the Merchant Square.

Mesa Market Place Swap Meet 10550 E. Baseline Road, west of Signal Butte Road, Mesa, 480.380.5572 Enjoy “recreational shopping” at its finest at the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet. Admission, parking, live music and

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entertainment in the food court are free.

Peruse the 1,600 shopping spaces under a mile of covered walkways. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Service dogs only.

is along each side of Scottsdale Road between Second Street and Indian School Road.

Mesa Riverview 1061 N. Dobson Road, Mesa, mesariverview.com Easily accessible from the Loop 202 and Dobson Road, Mesa Riverview offers shopping — even for guys — with Bass Pro Shop and Larry H. Miller Nissan or Riverview Toyota.

When you’re shopped-out and full on Chili’s, Cracker Barrel or any of a number of other restaurants, you can relax with a movie at Cinemark.

On-Auk-Mor & Lone Butte Trade Centers 10115 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale, 480.945.4116; 8001 E. McKellips Road, Scottsdale, 480.949.0971; 1242 S. Kyrene Road, Chandler, 480.639.1930; 6921 W. Sundust Road, Chandler, 480.639.1030, onaukmor.com Native American-owned tobacco shop and delicatessen that sells baskets and fuel on the reservation. The convenient stores offer the lowest prices for all tobacco products in locations bordering Scottsdale and Chandler.

Old Town Scottsdale Downtown Scottsdale, Scottsdale Road at Main Street, oldtownscottdaleaz.com, scottsdalegalleries.com The best time to visit historical Old Town Scottsdale (“The West’s Most Western Town”) is Thursday evenings for the Scottsdale ArtWalk, when over 100 art galleries and jewelry stores prop open their doors to invite patrons to gander the work of famous and up-and-coming artists. The Old Town district

Park West 9744 W. Northern Avenue, Peoria, 623.877.9771, shopparkwest.com The Northwest Valley shopping center boasts dining, shopping and entertainment. Shop around at Chico’s, Bath & Body Works, Vans and Candle Chemistry. Ready for a satisfying meal? Dining options include Grimaldi’s, Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, Pita Jungle and Sicilian Butcher, the latter of which has a 5-foot charcuterie board that serves up to four people.

End the day at Harkins Theatres by catching

the latest flick.

Phoenix Premium Outlets 4976 Premium Outlet Way, Chandler, 480.639.1764, premiumoutlets.com/outlets/ phoenix Phoenix Premium Outlets is a destination for locals and visitors looking for upscale shopping in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Phoenix Premium Outlets features savings of 25% to 65% off brands like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade New York, Coach, Michael Kors Outlet, Movado Company Store, Adidas, Under Armour, Sunglass Hut, Lucky Brand and more. Dining options include Starbucks, Villa Italian Kitchen, Charley’s Philly Steaks and Dairy Queen.

Queen Creek Olive Mill 25062 S. Meridian Road, Queen Creek, 480.888.9290; Marketplace at Kierland Commons, 7122 E. Greenway Parkway, Suite 120, Scottsdale, 480.361.9860, queencreekolivemill.com The Queen Creek Olive Mill boasts a

continued on pg. 24

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22525 N. Executive Way 623-544-6017

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13975 Deer Valley Rd. 623-544-6016

Stardust

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2023 FORD MAVERICK 24600 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye Just South Of I-10 Between Miller and Watson Roads

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

BESTOF

2023

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

CINCINNATI REDS

Goodyear Ballpark 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear 623.882.3130 goodyearbp.com reds.com DESCRIPTION Goodyear Ballpark celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2019. The 10,000-seat Goodyear Ballpark plays host to the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians. It’s one of the more family-friendly parks in the Cactus League, featuring inflatable attractions and a kid-sized whiffle ball field on the first base side.

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BEST PLACE TO SIT In the outfield grass, aim for left field to avoid the sun and have a view of the center-field scoreboard.

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continued from pg. 22

of specialty shops. From Living Spaces and Nordstrom Rack to Bowl of Greens and Benihana, one can shop until they drop and fi nish the day with a tasty meal. The Promenade also offers several barbershops and hair and nail salons.

PARKING The lot has 3,000 spaces. Free parking is available on an .6-mile stretch of Wood Boulevard.

GATES Ballpark gates open 90 minutes prior to game time. Practice field gates open at 9:30 a.m. daily.

DIRECTIONS Goodyear Ballpark is located just 20 miles west of downtown Phoenix and is a short drive from Sky Harbor Airport. From I-10, take Exit 127 (Bullard Avenue) or Exit 126 (Estrella/Pebble Creek Parkway) and head south. The ballpark is located approximately 2.5 miles south of I-10, just past Yuma Road.

gourmet market and restaurant starring locally produced olive oil and specialty foods.

Mill tours are available. In Scottsdale, the tourist destination has an outpost with its products.

Scottsdale Fashion Square 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, 480.941.2140, fashionsquare.com.

Fashion Square satisfies the Valley’s most discriminating tastes, as the exquisite Tiff any & Co., Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade New York, Anthropologie and Gucci are leavened by Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and the largest Dillard’s in the state.

Th row into the mix staple ingredients like Burberry and Express and a splash of cosmetics with M.A.C. and Sephora. Voila!

A feast of credit card fun. Even check out the Teslas.

Scottsdale Promenade 16243 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 602.866.0900, scottsdalepromenade.com The Scottsdale Promenade offers great eats, stylish shopping options and an array

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Scottsdale Quarter 15037 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.270.8123, scottsdalequarter.com Scottsdale Quarter holds some of the city’s most exciting retailers, including the Apple Store and Bath & Body Works, plus different offerings, like Design Within Reach and West Elm for furniture and accessories. Dining options range from white tablecloth at Dominick’s Steakhouse to casual fare at True Food Kitchen.

Tanger Outlets 6800 N. 95th Avenue, Glendale, 623.877.9500, tangeroutlet.com/glendale Attracting thousands of visitors — especially on Cardinals game days — Tanger Outlets provides a good bang for the buck.

Get Coach clutches for a reasonable price, dine at Fired Pie or just watch the sports fans.

Tempe Camera Sales, Rentals and Repairs: 606 W. University Drive, Tempe Photo Lab: 530 W. University Drive, Tempe, 480.996.6954, tempecamera.biz Want to snap those perfect shots of the big games as well as Valley hotspots? Tempe Camera is the one-stop imaging store for all photographers — amateur and professional alike. The company’s business philosophy is simple: provide its customers with good service at reasonable prices. The sales department offers new and used equipment including cameras, lenses, lighting, supplies and darkroom gear. Trade-ins are welcome toward new purchases. It also boasts a rental center and repair department.

Tempe Marketplace 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.966.9338, tempemarketplace.com Tempe Marketplace is the spot to be social, find the latest fashion trends, grab a bite with friends, listen to live music, or just unwind. Tempe Marketplace is an interactive, outdoor haven to shop, dine and experience a bit more than the every day.

Tempe Marketplace is more than a shopping

and dining destination. It’s a modern and inviting neighborhood hub, complete with cozy amenities, a carefree atmosphere, plus engaging and edgy events to encourage the community to get out, meet up and have fun with friends and family.

Thieves Market 1500 N. McClintock, Tempe, 480.329.6118, thievesmarketvintageflea.com Savvy junkers, compulsive collectors and weekend warriors: Come dig for everything you want and nothing you need at everyone’s favorite flea market. It’s perfectly uncivilized.

It features antiques, vintage, handmade, art and exotic imports. $5 at the door; free for kids 12 and younger. Mellow pets on a leash are welcome. Free parking.

Westgate Entertainment District 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Glendale, 623.385.7500, westgateaz.com Westgate Entertainment District sits against Gila River Arena and adjacent to State Farm Stadium. For lovers of all-things outdoors, visit Cabela’s. When you’re hungry you can grab food and drink at McFadden’s or Whiskey Rose.

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CLEVELAND GUARDIANS Goodyear Ballpark 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear 623.882.3130 goodyearbp.com indians.com

Goodyear Ballpark celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2019. The 10,000-seat Goodyear Ballpark plays host to the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians.

It’s one of the more family-friendly parks in the Cactus League, featuring inflatable attractions and a kid-sized wiffle ball field on the first base side.

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PARKING The lot has 3,000 spaces. Free parking is available on an .6-mile stretch of Wood Boulevard.

BEST PLACE TO SIT In the outfield grass, aim for left field to avoid the sun and have a view of the centerfield scoreboard.

ATTRACTIONS AMUSEMENT AZ Batting Club 3530 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa, 480.325.3438, azbattingclub.om Play like a kid or learn to play like a pro. AZ Batting Club offers lessons, camps and birthday parties. The pro shop is the best place to find baseball and softball equipment year-round.

Castles N’ Coasters 9445 N. Metro Parkway E, Phoenix, 602.997.7575, castlesncoasters.com Castles N’ Coasters provides families with the much-loved theme park experience. The theme park has multiple rides with everything from roller coasters to go-karts. Other attractions include mini-golf courses and over 150 arcade and pinball games.

Fat Cats 4321 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert, 480.498.3325; 5846 E. Longbow Parkway, Mesa, 480.498.3323; 20660 E. Riggs Road, Queen Creek, 480.841.6044, fatcatsfun.com Kids — and adults — will enjoy this mainstay that offers traditional and nighttime bowling, arcade, glow golf and movies.

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Great Wolf Lodge 7333 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.948.9653, greatwolf.com The Great Wolf Lodge debuted in fall 2019 in Arizona with its expansive resort/waterpark in Scottsdale, within walking distance of Salt River Fields. The resort features an indoor water park, mini golf, arcade and eight dining options all under one roof. iFly Indoor Skydiving 9206 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.712.4359, iflyworld.com Why jump out of a perfectly good airplane when you can get the same skydiving experience from the ground. iFly is sure to get your adrenaline flowing without worrying about a parachute not opening.

Jake’s Unlimited 1830 E. Baseline Road, Mesa, 480.926.7499, jakesunlimited.com Jake’s Unlimited is a one-stop entertainment destination offering rides, attractions, games and the ultimate sports viewing experience for college football bowl games. Inside the 90,000-squarefoot venue, there are more than 50 55-inch TV screens, two massive 144-inch TVs, a “High Score” dining room featuring stadium-style

seating and TVs, and two full-service bars offering signature cocktails and beers on tap.

Main Event Entertainment 8545 S. Emerald Drive, Tempe, 480.753.1200 1735 S. Santan Village Parkway, Gilbert, 480.462.2200 10315 W. McDowell Road, Avondale, 623.936.5300, mainevent.com If you’re looking to entertain the entire family, look no further. Main Event Entertainment offers something for everyone in its massive facility, which features games, bowling, dining, bars and special events.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 480.312.2312, therailroadpark.com Take a ride on the Paradise and Pacific Railroad, an antique carousel, or visit the historical railroad exhibit. Rides operate from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free; rides are $1.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 9051 E. Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480.291.7555, medievaltimes.com

A dinner theater event like no other.

Medieval Times includes a two-hour jousting tournament paired with a four-course meal. Be ready to get your hands dirty — utensils aren’t included.

Topgolf 9500 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.240.2402; 1689 S. Santan Village Parkway, Gilbert, 480.240.1282; 6101 N. 99th Avenue, Glendale, 623.218.2243, topgolf.com Topgolf is the home of competitive golf games for all ages in climate-controlled bays.

Other great experiences offered at Topgolf include golf simulators, video games and food like the delectable doughnuts with syringes loaded with fi lling.

ZOOS, AQUARIUMS AND GARDENS Butterfly Wonderland 9500 E. Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480.800.3000, butterflywonderland.com Experience the Butterfly Emergence Gallery, where metamorphoses occur in real time, and the Conservatory, a magnificent, lush rainforest pavilion where thousands of butterflies from

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DOWNTOWN LITCHFIELD PARK • AWARD WINNING FESTIVAL

25TH ANNUAL Litchfield Park

Art & Wine Festival Art & Wine Festival Sat & Sun

March 4-5

9 am-5 pm

• Wine Tastings from AZ Wineries • Craft Beer from Local Microbrewers • Dozens of festival eateries and food trucks FREE ADMISSION FREE PARKING

• Entertainment by The Blues Review Band, Inka Gold and more!

FEATURING OVER 150 FINE ARTISTS & CRAFTSMEN

101 W. Wigwam Blvd • Litchfield Park, Arizona • Next to the legendary Wigwam Resort Take I-10 to Litchfield Rd. (Exit 128) and go north to Wigwam Blvd.

623-935-9040 www.litchfieldpark.gov

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COLORADO ROCKIES

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480.362.9467 saltriverfields.com coloradorockies.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies share Salt River Fields, a luxurious, massive facility that boasts healthy food, huge concourses, lots of seating and a massive lawn.

PARKING The lot has more than 4,000 spaces: hybrid parking spaces courtesy APS. GATES Gates open an hour and 40 minutes before game time; times may change for doubleheaders.

BEST PLACE TO SIT Check out the two party decks, on the top deck of the stadium, in the infield. The section has seats and a stand-up bar for more casual viewing.

Sunday

around the world fly freely. Other interactive displays include the Honeybee Extravaganza, Spineless Giants, a stingray and shark observation pool with daily feedings in the Tropical Waters of the World exhibit, the Butterfly Treasures gift shop and the café.

OdySea Aquarium 9500 E. Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480.291.8000, odyseaaquarium. com Penguins, otters, sea lions and more than 500 other species of marine life call the OdySea Aquarium home along Loop 101 near Scottsdale. The 2-million-gallon aquarium, which cost more than $100 million, is among the largest in the United States.

Phoenix Zoo 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 602.286.3800, phoenixzoo.org The Phoenix Zoo was voted one of the top five zoos for kids in the country, but there’s something for everyone within its 125 acres and 1,200 animals.

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park

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16501 W. Northern Avenue, Litchfield Park, 623.935.9453, wildlifeworld.com The West Valley’s premiere zoo features rare animals, including albino alligators and white tigers. With more than 600 species and 6,000 animals on display, there are always new arrivals at park. Other babies on display include a baboon, spider monkey, flamingos, penguins and several hoofed animal species, including wildebeests and other youngsters throughout the 100-acre park.

Desert Botanical Garden 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 480.941.1225, dbg.org The Desert Botanical Garden is a 140-acre botanical garden located in Phoenix and holds multiple species of cactuses, trees and flowers that can be found all over the world. It also features a garden shop and a butterfly pavilion.

The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix 1125 N. Third Avenue, Phoenix, 602.274.8700, japanesefriendshipgarden.org The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix provides a place where people can go to experience the nature and culture of Japan. The

location offers over 50 varieties of plants. Other features include a koi pond, a tea garden and a tea house.

LIVE ACTION GAMING Octane Raceway 9119 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 602.302.7223, octaneraceway.com Octane Raceway is the perfect place for an adrenaline rush. The 1/3-mile track is the only full-time indoor/outdoor track in the United States, so come and give it a try. All drivers younger than age 18 must have a parent or guardian present or waiver with permission.

MUSEUMS Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum 2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa, 480.924.1940, azcaf.org One of Phoenix’s top-rated attractions, the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum is home to war artifacts and hundreds of exhibits.

The friendly, knowledgeable docents will bring to life tales of combat heroes who overcame tremendous obstacles to serve our country.

Watch aircraft mechanics at work and book a ride on one of the museum’s seven flying warbirds.

Arizona Museum of Natural History 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa, 480.644.2230, arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org The Arizona Museum of Natural History is the only facility of its type in the Valley.

Arizona Science Center 600 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.716.2000, azscience.org The Arizona Science Center gives a hands-on lesson in fun. Equipped with a planetarium, IMAX theater and a variety of scientific exhibits, the center is a huge hit with children. But the child in everyone will enjoy the over 300 interactive displays on biotechnology, human psychology, magnetism and a whole host of other captivating topics.

Heard Museum 2301 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.252.8840, heard.org World famous for having one the most extensive and fascinating collections of Native American art, the Heard Museum has been a Phoenix landmark for more than 75 years.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

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KANSAS CITY ROYALS Surprise Stadium 15850 N. Bullard Avenue, Surprise 623.222.2222 surpriseaz.gov

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The 2015 World Series champs, the Kansas City Royals, and the Texas Rangers share the 10,500-seat Surprise Stadium that features a spectacular lawn. The 124-acre site is routinely praised for its well-conceived design with lots of shaded seating.

TICKETS For ticket information, game schedule and more, visit surprisespringtraining. com or contact the Surprise Recreation Campus Box Office at 623.222.2222.

BEST PLACE TO SIT Much of the stadium is shaded in the afternoon, but the infield upper deck provides canopied seating. The lawn is spacious and gives attendees plenty of room to spread out.

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Musical Instrument Museum 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim.org The Musical Instrument Museum is the biggest museum in the world of its type, with a collection of more than 15,000 musical instruments.

Phoenix Art Museum 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix,

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602.257.1222, phxart.org Open since 1959, the Phoenix Art Museum was expanded to 203,000 square feet in 2006.

The museum’s collection includes 18,000 works of art from around the world.

ARENAS/STADIUMS Chase Field 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com Chase Field is more than the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. It’s a multiuse facility

that has hosted or will host the Royal Rumble, Elton John, Zac Brown Band, Billy Joel and the Guaranteed Rate Bowl.

Desert Diamond Arena 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, desertdiamondarena.com Desert Diamond Arena is a multipurpose facility located at Loop 101 and Glendale Avenue.

The arena anchors the 223-acre, $1 billion development Westgate Entertainment District.

Footprint Center 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7800, footprintcenter.com Centrally located in Downtown Phoenix’s Legends Entertainment District, the venue is home to the NBA’s Phoenix Suns and WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury.

Musical Instrument Museum

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Mullett Arena 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 480.564.3497, mullettarena.com Mullett Arena, the new home of the Arizona Coyotes and the ASU hockey team, is a 5,000seat arena located in Tempe. The arena offers a one-of-a-kind viewing experience for NHL games due to its small seating size. Whether it’s for hockey or any other type of event, Mullett

Arena provides a fan experience where every seat is the best in the house.

State Farm Stadium 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, statefarmstadium.com Home to the Arizona Cardinals, the annual Fiesta Bowl and numerous other sports and entertainment events and activities, State Farm Stadium incorporates the first retractable natural grass playing surface in North America and the first completely retractable roof operating at an incline. The stadium’s exterior skin of shimmering metal panels reflects the shifting desert light while 21 vertical glass walled slots incorporated into the building exterior offer fans inside the stadium outstanding views of the desert horizon.

PERFORMANCE/CONCERTS ASU Gammage 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com Distinctively designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, ASU Gammage is the largest university-based art presenter in the country. It hosts several Broadway plays and musicals as well as smaller productions.

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

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LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM Tempe Diablo Stadium 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe 480.350.5205 tempe.gov/diablo angels.mlb.com

DESCRIPTION Perched on the side of Tempe’s rocky Twin Buttes, the stadium complex shares the picturesque landscape with the adjacent Buttes Resort and is one of the Cactus League’s most centrally located ballparks.

PARKING Stadium lots are close, but you need to arrive early, as the 1,350 spots fill quickly.

TICKETS Ticket prices vary by opponent, available at angels.mlb.com.

BEST PLACE TO SIT It’s tough to beat the sizeable grass berm seating in left field.

CONCESSIONS In the left field, guests will find the good stuff — street tacos, barbecue chicken, beef, ribs and pork. Nachos, soda, beer and hot dogs are found in the park as well.

continued from pg. 30 Arizona Financial Theatre 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, arizonafinancialtheatre.com Arizona Financial Theatre is a 5,000-seat venue located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. It marries the classic theater style with the pulsating excitement of modern arena technologies. The theater’s stateof-the art music and sound systems are perfect for concerts, comedy performances as well as theater and family-friendly shows.

Crescent Ballroom 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com Th is ultra-cool concert venue is also an active bar in the front, fi lled with an artsy crowd that sips local brews and jams on tasty homemade burritos.

Handlebar J 7116 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale, 480.948.0110, handlebarj.com One can’t leave Arizona without taking in a bit of country music. Bands play routinely throughout the week.

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Marquee Theatre 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline. com Located 1 mile north of ASU in Tempe, the Marquee Theatre has housed performances by Nine Inch Nails, Muse, Kings of Leon, the Black Keys, A Perfect Circle, Godsmack, Fall Out Boy, Prince, Social Distortion, Eric Church and Greta Van Fleet, to name a few.

Rhythm Room 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.612.4981, rhythmroom.com Perhaps not the most elegant of music clubs in the area, but the Rhythm Room hosts some of the most popular blues and jazz acts in the country.

COMEDY CB Live Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 602.910.5161, cblive.com CB Live is unique, separated into two sides by a retractable, soundproof sky wall. On one side is a restaurant “in the round” — a full-service eatery, bar and hotspot with a

270-degree view of the stage, which features nightly entertainment from local bands, acoustic acts and DJs. The kitchen is always open and features chef-driven comfort food favorites with a healthy twist from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays, including a kids menu. On the other end is the live side, a, state-of-the-art music, comedy and multiuse venue with the latest in lighting and video technology.

Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy High Street, 5350 E. High Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, 480.420.3553, az.houseofcomedy.net Live from Phoenix, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy showcases some of the top acts in comedy. Visiting comedians have appeared hundreds of times on national and international television and are widely regarded as groundbreaking and talented artists.

Stand Up Live CityScape, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.6100, phoenix.standuplive.com The buzzworthy comedy showcase features big-name national acts, specialty drinks and global food. Check out the adjacent Copper

Blues before or after shows.

Stir Crazy Comedy Club Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E206, Glendale, 623.565.8667, stircrazycomedyclub.com Stir Crazy Comedy Club is an intimate venue with a classy lounge feel in the heart of Westgate Entertainment District above Whiskey Rose.

Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre Cornerstone, 930 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.921.9877, tempeimprov.com Comedians generate laughs in this dinner theater setting with a full menu, bar service and a VIP area.

EXPERIENCES Radford Racing School 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Suite 3, Chandler, 480.403.7600, radfordracingschool.com Radford Racing School offers drivers the chance to live out their super car dreams.

Packages feature experiences with a Dodge SRT Hellcat and a Ligier JS F4 Open Wheel Formula race car.

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LOS ANGELES DODGERS Glendale Camelback Ranch 10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix 623.302.5000 camelbackranchbaseball.com dodgers.com

DESCRIPTION Home to the White Sox and Dodgers, Camelback Ranch was completed in 2009 and boasts a capacity of 13,000 — including 3,000 lawn seats, 12 luxury suites and a party deck. It is adjacent to a manmade lake.

PARKING Parking in the complex’s 4,000 spots is free and at the driver’s risk. The west lot off 107th Avenue is closest to Camelback Ranch.

TICKETS Available at dodgers.com or 623.302.5000.

A Glendale resident pass provides $5 for Sunday to Thursday games at The Ranch, subject to availability.

Those are online purchase only at camelbackranchbaseball.com.

BEST PLACE TO SIT Clearly, in front of the first-base concourse, where 100-foot shade structures were added.

OUTDOORS OFF ROAD RENTALS Gold Canyon ATV Rental 480.426.9611, goldcanyonatvrentals.com Gold Canyon ATV Rental is “Arizona’s exclusive East Valley off-road rental company.” With two locations, the company offers drive-off-the-lot trail access. Call for guided or unguided trail ride. Full- and halfday rates available.

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Sedona Off-Road Center 145 W. State Route 89A, Sedona, 928.284.4735, sedonaoffroadcenter.com With the biggest selection of off-road vehicles and quad rentals in Sedona, Off-Road Center provides everything you need to create your own tour.

INDOOR CLIMBING Phoenix Rock Gym 1353 E. University Drive, Tempe,

480.921.8322, phoenixrockgym.com Learn how to climb at one of the region’s best indoor climbing facilities.

Arizona On the Rocks 16447 N. 91st Street, Scottsdale, 480.502.9777, azontherocks.com Come visit Arizona’s largest indoor climbing gym. Also features yoga workouts.

Arizona On the Rocks

OFF-ROAD TOURS A Day in the West Jeep Tours 2900 W. State Route 89A, Sedona, 928.282.4320, adayinthewest.com Adventure and extreme outdoor fun in the Sedona Red Rocks — explore Sedona’s rich movie history, panoramic views and countless photo opportunities.

Gold Canyon ATV Rental

Friday

Desert Dog Off-Road Adventures 17212 E. Shea Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480.837.3966, azadventures.com Desert Dog offers off-road packages.

Earth Wisdom Jeep Tours 2900 W. State Route 89A, Sedona, 928.282.4714, earthwisdomtours.com Learn the facts, feelings and fallacies of Sedona’s vortex power spots, explore breathtaking scenic vistas punctuated by frequent narratives by experienced guides.

Great Ventures Tours 2481 AZ-89A, Sedona, 928.282.4451,

continued on pg. 36

FOR TH THE HE

WIN IN N

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Place your bets in person, online or on the mobile app.

EXPECT MORE AT LOOP 101 & NORTHERN & DDCAZ .COM Bet with your head, not over it. Call 1-800-Next Step. An Enterprise of the Tohono O’odham Nation.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

MILWAUKEE BREWERS

American Family Fields of Phoenix 3600 N. 51st Avenue, Phoenix 623.245.5500 brewers.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The Brewers remain one of only a handful of Cactus League teams to have its own stadium, the 7,000-capacity American Family Fields of Phoenix, formerly known as Maryvale Baseball Park. With gorgeous sightlines, a huge concourse and a massive lawn, American Family Fields of Phoenix upped the ante with a yearlong renovation.

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BEST PLACE TO SIT Brewers infield seats are among the cheapest in the league. The lawn is massive, so tickets are almost always available.

continued from pg. 34 greatventures.com Explore the Grand Canyon in comfort.

See the Navajo reservation, Wupatki Sinagua Indian Ruins, Sunset Crater and Volcanic Fields and more. Daytime and sunset tours available.

Pink Jeep Tours 204 N. State Route 89A, Sedona, 1.800.873.3662, pinkadventuretours.com Pink Jeep Tours takes guests deep into the Red Rock country of Sedona.

Red Rock Western Jeep Tours 2900 W. State Route 89A, Sedona, 928.282.6667, redrockjeep.com Entertaining Western guides take guests into the best of Sedona’s Red Rock back country, from rock-crawling adventures to easy, around-the-town sightseeing.

Redstone Tours Sedona 928.203.0396, redstonetours.com Experience the Grand Canyon with knowledgeable guides. Tours available for

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Hopi Lands, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon Railway and Colorado River Rafting.

HIKING STATEWIDE Arizona State Parks azstateparks.com Arizona is home to 31 state parks and boasts some of the most beautiful, diverse natural scenery on earth, including rugged mountains, painted deserts and breathtaking caves.

PHOENIX Camelback Mountain Summit Trail, 4925 E. McDonald Drive, 602.262.7901, phoenix.gov/parks One of the nation’s top hiking destinations attracts visitors from around the world.

Piestewa Peak Summit Trail Various entry points, 602.262.7901, phoenix.gov/parks Surrounding the base of 2,608-foot Piestewa Peak, the Phoenix Mountains Park

Camelback Mountain, north side

and Recreation Area, and Dreamy Draw Recreation Area are gateways into diverse desert landscapes that offer everything from fantastic views to secluded valleys.

SCOTTSDALE McDowell Mountain North Trail 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Drive, Fort McDowell, 480.471.0173,

maricopacountyparks.net An easy hike that takes wanderers into the Sonoran Desert.

TEMPE “A” Mountain Fifth Street at College Avenue, Tempe Get a bird’s-eye view of the Valley via a paved trail and a series of stairways that lead to the peak.

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OAKLAND ATHLETICS Hohokam Stadium 1235 N. Center Street, Mesa 480.644.4451 hohokamstadium.com oaklandas.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION Oakland A’s moved into Hohokam Stadium at the Chicago Cubs moved to Sloan Park in 2014. This is a reunion of sorts for the A’s, who held Spring Training in the old Rendezvous Park from 1969 to 1976 and were the first tenants in the original Hohokam Stadium built in 1977.

PARKING Parking is limited; arrive early to grab one of the 3,000 spots available in the surrounding soccer fields.

BEST PLACE TO SIT Most of the Terrace Box seats, sections 200 through 212, are shaded. Or grab a blanket and enjoy the outfield lawn.

Ticket holders should make sure they’re within sight of the sweet HD scoreboard display.

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TROON GOLF ARIZONA Looking to tee it up while in town for Spring Training? Look no further than Troon Golf Arizona, where you can experience the Grand Canyon State’s best courses at the best available rates.

Here are some of Troon’s “must-play” courses:

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club 18 Holes, Maricopa, 480.367.8949, akchinsoutherndunes.com Sprawling across more than 320 acres, AkChin Southern Dunes provides a welcoming, laid-back ambiance; a place where the world melts away and the game of golf becomes the focus. Amid uninhibited, 360-degree views of Arizona’s magnificent desert expanses this Fred Couples and Schmidt-Curley-designed golf course was created in the tradition of some of the world’s most coveted courses.

Boulders Resort & Spa 36 Holes, Scottsdale,480.488.9028,

The Westin Kierland Golf Club

theboulders.com Experience the $4 million enhancements at Boulders Resort & Spa featuring new greens, bunkers, cart paths and challenging play on the sun-splashed terrain, where

you’ll test your handicap on two awardwinning, Jay Morrish-designed courses that stretch across an enchanting desert landscape and are listed among the finest in the United States.

Eagle Mountain Golf Club 18 Holes, Fountain Hills, 480.816.1234, eaglemtn.com

continued on pg. 40

*LUCKY STRIKE FILTER $52.64CTN - $5.84PK

*PALL MALL $66.32CTN - $7.18PK

TAX INCLUDED

TAX INCLUDED

*CAMEL $69.75CTN - $7.59PK

*MARLBORO $82.21CTN - $8.76PK

TAX INCLUDED

TAX INCLUDED

*PRICING IS ACCURATE AT TIME OF PUBLICATION BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE, PRICING IS FOR MOST POPULAR STYLES AS OUT THE DOOR PRICE WITH TAX INCLUDED.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

SAN DIEGO PADRES Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria 623.773.8700 peoriaspringtraining.com padres.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 MULTIPLE APPEARANCES The San Diego Padres entered Major League Baseball in 1969 with a color scheme of brown and gold, to which they returned in 2020. That year also marked the return of the Padres to the postseason for the first time in 14 years.

The club has made two appearances in the World Series, in 1984 and in 1998.

NOTABLE VETERANS Names who have played for the ballclub include Tony Gwynn, Dave Winfield, Trevor Hoffman, Jake Peavy and Adrian Gonzalez.

INSIDE SCOOP The complex features premier indoor and outdoor group and event areas, a children’s playground and shaded seating in the stadium. The stadium’s burnished reputation for the best variety of food and craft beer is well deserved.

continued from pg. 38 Nestled in the ravines of the McDowell Mountains and colorized by dramatic sunrises and sunsets, Eagle Mountain beckons those who desire an outstanding golf experience. Designed by Scott Miller, Eagle Mountain features contoured fairways and immaculately maintained emerald greens that wind through natural box canyons, rolling hills and lush desert valleys in harmony with nature.

Golf Club of Estrella 18 Holes, Goodyear, 623.386.2600, estrellagolf.com Crafted by Nicklaus Design, with Jack Nicklaus II as the primary designer and located within the master-planned community of Estrella, this par-72, 7139yard layout features undulating fairways and elevated tee areas that traverse the natural contours of the desert terrain.

Longbow Golf Club 18 Holes, Mesa, 480.807.5400, longbowgolf.com Located in North Mesa, Longbow Golf Club is just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Old Town Scottsdale.

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The award-winning Longbow Golf Club was honored as one of the “Top 100 Resort Courses in the Country” and ranked as “One of The Top 20 Best Courses You Can Play in Arizona” by Golfweek Magazine.

Longbow is “The Essence of Arizona Golf ” and a must-play when you are planning a trip the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.

Lookout Mountain Golf Club 18 Holes, Phoenix, 602.866.6357, lookoutmountaingolf.com Lookout Mountain Golf Course is a nine-time winner of the Golf Digest Four Star Award, has been recognized as one of “America’s Best Golf Courses” by Zagat and has been chosen as one of Arizona’s “Top 10 Golf Courses” by readers of Arizona Business Magazine. At Lookout Mountain, there is nothing like playing 18 holes among the vivid beauty of the Sonoran Desert and lush Phoenix North Mountains.

The Phoenician 18 Holes, Scottsdale, 480.423.2449, golfthephoenician.com Following an extensive redesign in 2018 by

Scottsdale-based architect Phil Smith, The Phoenician Golf Club transformed itself, introducing a diverse collection of offerings that honor both guest and destination. The 18-hole course displays the unique beauty of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, while capturing the iconic views of the resort, Camelback Mountain and the Valley of the Sun, matching the reputation and quality of the award-winning resort.

Sterling Grove Golf + Country Club 18 Holes, Surprise, 623.213.7000, sterlinggroveclub.com Designed by the legendary Nicklaus Design team, Sterling Grove Golf + Country Club is the West Valley’s newest golf experience. Rooted and inspired by West Valley farming and agriculture, Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club combines diverse and timeless architecture, gardens and groves, and an abundance of water, with stunning views of the White Tank Mountains.

Troon North Golf Club 36 Holes, Scottsdale, 480.585.7700, troonnorthgolf.com Troon North Golf Club stands as a

hallmark of the Scottsdale desert golf experience with two 18-hole courses stretching through the natural ravines and foothills in the shadows of Pinnacle Peak.

Set amid the grandeur of the Sonoran Desert, the two nationally recognized courses, the Monument and Pinnacle, gracefully wrap around the northern slopes of landmark Pinnacle Peak. Th is dramatic terrain creates a striking setting by which all other facilities are judged.

The Westin Kierland Golf Club 27 Holes, Scottsdale, 480.922.9283, kierlandgolf.com Punctuated by the expansive and dramatic beauty of the Scottsdale desert, The Westin Kierland Golf Club, a Scott Miller-designed golf course, features 27 holes with more than 300 bunkers; large, cool lakes; dry washes; and stands of desert trees. Coupled with the luxury of a resort destination, The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa is surrounded by views and sweeping vistas of Camelback Mountain, Mummy Mountain, Pinnacle Peak and the McDowells.

For more information, visit troongolfaz. com.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS Scottsdale Stadium 7428 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale 480.312.2586 scottsdaleaz.gov/stadium sfgiants.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The Giants are always among the hottest tickets in town. With its downtown location, Scottsdale Stadium is crammed with pre- and post-game activity options. Make sure to secure tickets before heading down to the game; scalpers typically get top dollar, especially on weekends.

PARKING The team encourages drivers to arrive early because the lots fill quickly.

Disabled parking is located in the city court parking lot and the civil venter parking structure.

CONCESSIONS Staff says the “fancy food” is in the outfield — barbecue, garlic fries, beer and soda.

Sunday

AVONDALE Coldwater Golf Club 18 Holes, 100 N. Clubhouse Drive, Avondale, 623.932.9000, coldwatergolfclub. com Located in Avondale, Coldwater Golf Club offers a championship golf experience combined with service levels and course conditions that surpass the expectations of golfers visiting the facility. The Forrest Richardson-designed course features spectacular elevated tees, deep swales and cascading fairways that create rolling terrain and dramatic, undulating golf holes that break the mold of most West Valley Phoenix golf courses. Each hole at Coldwater Golf Club offers its own character, beauty and challenges that, together, create a golf experience that will challenge players of all skill levels and inspire golfers to play the course repeatedly.

BUCKEYE Verrado Golf Club 36 Holes, 4242 N. Golf Drive, Buckeye, 623.388.3000, verradogolfclub.com

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With breathtaking views at the base of the White Tank Mountains, a thrilling course design, and delicious fare in the Verrado Grille, Verrado Golf Club combines the finest elements of Arizona golf with the highest standards for service. The Victory Course’s 18 holes were recently added. An 18-hole championship golf course, the Founder’s Course at Verrado Golf Club features a dramatic mountainside setting with massive rock outcroppings, large desert washes, picturesque box canyons and dramatic elevation changes. The course also offers magnificent views of the nearby White Tank Mountains and the Phoenix skyline. From the tips, the course plays to nearly 7,300 yards and will give even the most accomplished player a thrilling test of golf. However, course architects John Fought and PGA Tour player Tom Lehman created the course with generous landing areas and five sets of tee boxes ensuring players of all abilities a legitimate chance at par.

CAVE CREEK Dove Valley Ranch Golf Club 18 Holes, 33750 N. Dove Lake Drive, Cave Creek, 480.488.0009, dovevalleyranch.com Dove Valley Ranch Golf Club is a desertstyle golf course with hints of tradition, such

Rancho Manana Golf Club

as ample fairways and subtly contoured greens.

The layout is very playable but strategic enough to test the course-management skills of every player. The front nine opens as an easy warmup. The remainder of the course meanders through rejuvenated open desert.

Rancho Manana Golf Club 18 Holes, 5734 E. Rancho Manana

Boulevard, Cave Creek, 480.488.0398, ranchomanana.com Voted one of Arizona’s most scenic golf courses, Rancho Manana offers stunning views of mountains, cactus and wildlife on an 18-hole, par-70 course lined by striking homes and an expansive country club.

continued on pg. 44

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- Kent Jacobson

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48o-991-4ooo www.ranchrealty.com

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

SEATTLE MARINERS Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria 623.773.8700 peoriaspringtraining.com mariners.com

DESCRIPTION Opened in 1994, the 12,000-plus-seat Peoria Sports Complex is home to the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners.

PARKING Parking is plentiful; all overnight parking is prohibited. Ride-share pickups and dropoffs can be accessed at Stadium Way. BEST PLACE TO SIT For afternoon games, those seated in sections 205 to 219 and 105 to 121 on the third-base line and lawn seating in left field have the sun at their backs.

INSIDER TIP For 2023 Spring Training, Peoria residents have an opportunity to save 25% for up to four games. Peoria residents can purchase tickets at a reduced price. Online purchases will select the best available option in each price point. Tickets may be purchased at the ticket office windows or online.

continued from pg. 42 CHANDLER Ocotillo Golf Resort 27 Holes, 3751 S. Clubhouse Drive, Chandler, 480.917.6660, ocotillogolf.com Designed by Ted Robinson, this 27hole championship course features lush fairways sprinkled with mature trees and colorful f lower beds. The soothing, yet challenging, water features offer breathtaking beauty like an elegant oasis in the desert, providing golfers a day unlike any other in the Valley.

FOUNTAIN HILLS SunRidge Canyon Golf Club 18 Holes, 13100 SunRidge Drive, Fountain Hills, 480.837.5100, sunridgegolf.com Golf at SunRidge Canyon is an adventure, where nature plays a profound role. Nestled between the canyon walls and foothills of the McDowell Mountains, on the edge of Scottsdale, this Keith Foster layout features scenic elevation changes, bold design features and the signature “Wicked 6” stretch of finishing holes.

It’s no wonder why SunRidge Canyon is

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consistently ranked in the top 25 “Best Courses You Can Play” in Arizona by Golfweek and Golf Magazine. It also hosted the 2014 PGA Club Professional Championship of Canada.

GILBERT Trilogy Golf Club at Power Ranch 18 Holes, 4415 E. Village Parkway, Gilbert, 480.988.0004, trilogygolfclub.com Nestled between the San Tan Mountains and the notable Arizona landmark Superstition Mountains, Trilogy offers luxurious surroundings as well as challenging golf. A little bit natural forces, a little manmade design, the course can be tricky, but that’s half the fun.

GLENDALE Legend at Arrowhead 18 Holes, 21027 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale, 623.561.1902, legendatarrowhead.com Touted as one of the friendliest courses around, the Legend is a traditional golf haven with wide fairways and ample greens. Open to the public, this course is

one of only two in Arizona designed by Arnold Palmer and, despite the numerous water hazards, offers enjoyable play for all skill levels.

GOODYEAR Tres Rios Golf Course 18 Holes, 15205 W. Vineyard Avenue, Goodyear, 623.932.3714, estrella-golf.com Originally designed by golf course architect Red Lawrence, this traditional par-71 championship course has been around since 1962, yet it’s one of the newest courses in the Valley after a complete renovation.

Palm Valley Golf Club 36 Holes, 2211 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, 623.935.2500, palmvalleygolf.com Because Palm Valley is home to two courses — one that caters toward experienced golfers and another easier course for new players — everyone can take part in the game.

PEORIA Trilogy Golf Club at Vistancia

18 Holes, 12575 W. Golf Club Drive, Peoria, 623.328.5100, vistancia.com Rated an ultra-prestigious five out of five by Golf Digest, this club has it all at an extremely reasonable rate. There are five tee boxes to choose from on the par-72 course. Because the total tee ranges vary from 5,573 yards to 7,259 yards, players of all skill levels can enjoy a round.

SUN CITY WEST Sun City Golf/Grandview Golf Course 18 Holes, 14260 Meeker Boulevard, Sun City West, 623.544.6013, suncitywestgolf. com With seven courses, Sun City West is considered heaven to golfers. The area boasts four regulation (par 72) and three executive (par 60) courses from which to choose. Twilight rates begin at 1:30 p.m.

Golf courses designed by Billy Casper and Greg Nash. The Recreation Centers of Sun City West has seven 18-hold courses of golf. Arizona’s premier active adult golf community.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

TEXAS RANGERS

Surprise Stadium 15850 N. Bullard Avenue, Surprise 623.222.2222 surpriseaz.gov/files/springtraining texasrangers.com

Game schedule March/April 2023 DESCRIPTION The Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers share the 10,500-seat Surprise Stadium that features a spectacular lawn.

The 124-acre site is routinely praised for its well-conceived design with lots of shaded seating.

PARKING There are more than 1,600 parking spaces at Surprise Stadium. Surprise Stadium offers free parking to all guests. Accessible parking is available and located outside third-base gate.

INSIDER TIP The Surprise Stadium teams with the Surprise Sundancers, the official Spring Training volunteer organization of the Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers and City of Surprise. A nonprofit, the Sundancers have more than 750 members who provide services at the Surprise Stadium and other city special events.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

SEEING ‘STARS’

Andrew McMahon reunites with Weezer, Green Day

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

W

hen Andrew McMahon was a teen in California, he adored Green Day and Weezer. He showed his love of them by playing in a tribute to both acts called Tweezer.

“We played three shows,” McMahon says with a laugh. “We were pretty good, as far as cafeteria lunch performers go.”

Fast forward to 2004 and he met his heroes. His former band, Something Corporate, opened for Weezer on its Australian tour.

“That was life changing, getting back into that sphere,” he says.

Now, he’ll reunite with Weezer and Green Day when Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness joins the bands to play Innings Festival’s first day on Saturday, February 25.

“It really hit me,” he says about the schedule. “It makes me nostalgic.”

Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness is gearing up to release its fourth album, “Tilt at the Wind No More,” on March 31. He expects to preview a few songs from the record at Innings.

“My goal, at least by Innings, is to learn the song ‘Lying on the Hood of Your Car,’” he says.

“We have (the first single) ‘Stars’ in the mix. Until the record comes out, we’re going to lean on the tunes that are out.”

He recorded “Tilt at the Wind No More” with producer Tommy English, whose also turned the knobs for McMahon’s 2017 effort “Zombies on Broadway.” He says while he was recording, he pined for that moment of freedom and youth.

“I’m so proud of it,” he says about “Lying on the Hood of Your Car.” “When you do this for as long as I have, you’re always on the hunt for something that feels like magic, something to hang your hat on. That song is really special.”

McMahon wrote the first verse in 2019 and loved it, but struggled with the storyline.

“It has this sort of nefarious, scary setup for a story, possibly,” he says. “When I came back to it last January/February, suddenly this is a song about me and my friends and my early romantic relationships, and how we were driving around after curfew. It’s all

centered around the freedom of our cars.

Through that lens, I connected the dots and finished the song.”

The songs were written in various sessions.

“Stars” was started before the pandemic.

He finished “New Friends,” but once the pandemic hit and the world locked down, he switched gears and penned the book “Three Pianos: A Memoir.”

By writing “Three Pianos,” he cleared his head of trauma — his father’s struggle with addiction and his public battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in 2005 at the age of 23.

“I was clearing the deck of a lot of trauma and history that I hadn’t quite confronted,” he says. “It set me up for the writing sessions that followed this album and started the process of me getting back in the studio.

“I’ll be turning 40 when the record come out. I will have been on the road for more than half of my life. I wanted the songs to reflect that, to reflect the places I had been through, an aspiration to be free of past trauma and to be looking forward to the future and what could be.”

Over the last two decades, McMahon has

experienced musical rebirth many times and has consistently arrived on the other side stronger.

The East Coast-born, SoCal-based artist first co-founded the pop-punk outfit Something Corporate in 1998, serving as the group’s singer, pianist and songwriter and leading the band to major chart success in the early 2000s.

Soon after, McMahon resurfaced with the more personal solo project Jack’s Mannequin, finding success through three studio albums. In 2014, McMahon released his debut album under his own name and new moniker, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, featuring the breakout top 5 alternative radio singles “Cecilia and the Satellite” and “Fire Escape.”

Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness — McMahon (lead vocals, piano), Bobby Anderson (guitar), Jay McMillan (drums), Mikey Wagner (bass) and Zac Clark (keys) — has since released the hook-packed albums “Zombies on Broadway” (2017) and “Upside Down Flowers” (2018), amassing over 275 million total streams to date, performing at such marquee festivals as

Lollapalooza.

McMahon has also sold nearly 2.5 million albums across all of his musical projects, received an Emmy nomination for his work on the NBC show “Smash.”

Additionally, in 2006, McMahon founded the Dear Jack Foundation after surviving ALL. The nonprofit charity provides programming that directly benefits adolescent and young adults diagnosed with cancer to improve quality of life and create positive health outcomes from treatment to survivorship for patients and their families.

For more information or to donate, visit dearjackfoundation.org.

McMahon says there’s an existential bent to the music, a sense of trying to pass on some of his wisdom.

“The crazy, early stages of life can be kind of tricky and test your mettle,” he adds.

He admits he’s had a difficult few years. He learned to breathe and take the good when he could get it right.

“I understood that if I’m standing on two feet and I have a roof over my head and I’m feeding my family, I’m doing better than a lot of people,” he says.

“I appreciate that on the hard days. I had to find a way to celebrate the fact that I’m alive. I tried to write some of that into this music.”

Innings Festival WHEN/WHO: Saturday, February 25: Weezer, The Black Crowes, The Offspring, The Pretty Reckless, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, The Glorious Sons, Heartless Bastard and Annie DiRusso Sunday, February 26: Eddie Vedder, Marcus Mumford, The Revivalists, Mount Joy, The Head and the Heart, Umphrey’s McGee, Magic City Hippies, Paris Jackson and Hazel English WHERE: Tempe Beach Park & Arts Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe COST: Tickets start at $112 INFO: inningsfestival.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 24 4 TO 6 P.M. SATURDAY, MARCH 25 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M. SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center | Scottsdale and McDowell Scottsdale Family ArtsFest at SkySong is a free, two-day festival of creativity that includes performances and exhibitions by Scottsdale Unified School District students, family friendly arts activities by Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation, Alli Ortega Empty Bowls fundraiser, interactive demonstrations from City of Scottsdale departments, and culinary delights from local food trucks throughout the SkySong campus.

For more information on the event, visit www.skysong.com/artsfest A Partnership Between

EMPTY BOWLS

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DEALING CARDS ASU graduate trades stats for collectibles

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

C

ole McAuliff is passionate about collector cards.

Two years out of graduating ASU, studying sports business and statistics, the Tempe man has found success with monthly shows. He hosts an annual Spring Training event, too.

The Arizona State Card Show Spring Training Spectacular is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday, March 24; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 25; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 26, at the Phoenix Convention Center.

“This is the biggest one yet,” says McAuliff, a Fountain Hills High School graduate. “It’s 64,000 square feet and 390 dealer tables.”

Hosted by McAuliff ’s Collectibles on College, the fifth Arizona State Card Show boasts hundreds of dealer tables showcasing sports card collections, sports memorabilia, TCG (Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic, MetaZoo), coins, Funko-Pops and comics.

The dealers will actively buy, sell and trade.

Kids 12 and younger are admitted free.

He’s planning special guests for the show.

In the past, he’s hosted former quarterback Jake Plummer, cornerback Byron Murphy, D-backs first baseman Christian Walker and legendary pitcher Rollie Fingers. Among the guests this year is D-backs outfielder Jake McCarthy, whose appearance date and time is being confirmed.

142% surge in domestic sales of the products.

More than 4 million sports, collectible card games and nonsport trading cards were sold in 2020 than the year prior.

Sports business analyst Darren Rovell spoke to eBay in 2021.

“Never have I seen trading cards show such a steep increase in popularity and value,” he said. “Gross sales in basketball cards have exploded in the past year, increasing by more than 300%. And in just the past couple of weeks, there have been cards selling for more than $500,000 in the collectible card game and sports cards industry on the marketplace.”

Arizona State Card Show WHEN: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, March 24; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, March 25; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 26 WHERE: Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $7.50 INFO: collectiblesoncollege. com, etix.com, facebook.com/ CollectiblesOnCollege Monthly Card Shows WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first Saturdays of each month “I’m going for the baseball, Spring Training approach, having relevant guys from the Cactus League,” he says. “I have three who are, hopefully, on the cusp of confirming.”

McAuliff held his first event in 2018, as a small monthly show on College Avenue, inspiring the brand’s name. Since then, he

started the Arizona State Card Show to elevate and grow the hobby of collecting.

Not everyone collects pristine products.

McAuliff says he knows a collector who focuses on cards in poor condition.

According to an inaugural study by eBay, the State of Trading Cards report, there was a

WHERE: University Presbyterian Church, 139 E. Alameda Drive, Tempe COST: Visit website for charge INFO: collectiblesoncollege. com, facebook.com/ CollectiblesOnCollege

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TOP25

By Connor Dziawura

Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace THROUGH APRIL 2 The revelry continues! Medieval enthusiasts shan’t want to miss the opportunity to go back in time with this 35th annual festival. Enjoy a 50-acre village; 16 stages; an arts and crafts fair; jousting tournaments; feasting fit for a king; and loads of other entertainment, from circus and falconry performers to games and rides. See related story.

12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon, 520.463.2600, arizona. renfestinfo.com, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays, $21-$100

Best Picture Nominees

THROUGH MARCH 12 Leading up to the Academy Awards, cinephiles can catch up on missed 2022 films or just revisit them in anticipation at AMC and Harkins theatres locations.

The 10 nominees are “All Quiet on the Western Front,” “Avatar: The Way of Water,” “The Banshees of Inisherin,” “Elvis,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” “The Fabelmans,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Tár,” “Triangle of Sadness” and “Women Talking.” AMC’s showcase has been running since January, with Harkins adding showtimes with its own Best Picture Film Fest from March 3 to 12. Who do you think the Oscar will go to this year?

Various AMC and Harkins Theatres locations, amctheatres. com, harkins.com, various date and times, $5-$40

Eagles

MARCH 1 Welcome to the Hotel California at this Phoenix show. The legendary Eagles — Don Henley, Joe Walsh

and Timothy B. Schmit, with Vince Gill — will play the famed album of the same name from front to back, accompanied by an orchestra and choir, followed by a set of their greatest hits.

Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7800, footprintcenter. com, 8 p.m., $244-$264

Beer, Bourbon, Barbeque Festival

UPFRONT

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE mgmstudios.com/creed-iii

M3F Fest

MARCH 3 AND MARCH 4 The popular annual festival is back, with Maggie Rogers headlining the first day and Jamie xx the second. Other heavy hitters on the two-day lineup are Polo & Pan, Quinn XCII, Ashe, Coin, Toro y Moi, Purple Disco Machine, the Jungle Giants, Evan Giia and more.

Plus, check out art activations and the vendor village, and try some grub and beverages. Rest assured knowing 100% of proceeds go to charity.

Hance Park, 1200 N. First Street, Phoenix, m3ffest.com, 1:30 p.m.

Friday, 1 p.m. Saturday, $90-$275, free for kids 10 and younger

Phoenix Scottish Games

MARCH 3 AND MARCH 4 SanTan Brewing Company, Pedal Haus Brewery and SanTan Spirits are hosting this two-day festival. Georgia Chrome, Hit Rewind and Banana Gun’s Kevin Lloyd will perform the first day; Justin Hitson, The Zeppelin IV, Banana Gun and Mr. Skynyrd comprise the second day’s lineup. And, of course, there will be a host of vendors with all the best beer, bourbon, barbecue and more.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, https://bit. ly/3YMVJ50, 4 to 11 p.m. Friday, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, $15-$30, free for kids 6 and younger

MARCH 3 TO MARCH 5 Celebrate Scottish heritage at the Caledonian Society of Arizona’s 58th annual Highland games. These three days of sport and culture in the East Valley include traditional Scottish athletics, live music and dancing, clan displays, genealogy, a car show, a Clydesdale horse exhibit, food and drink, and more.

Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, phoenixscottishgames.com, 5 to 8:45 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, $15-$150, free for kids 10 and younger

“Creed III”

“Dancing with the Stars: Live!”

OPENS MARCH 3 Actor Michael B. Jordan is making his directorial debut with this third installment in the “Creed” franchise, a successor to the legendary “Rocky” films.

Jordan once again stars as Adonis Creed, son of Apollo, as he prepares to reenter the ring to face off against childhood friend and former boxing prodigy Damian “Dame” Anderson (Jonathan Majors), who has just been released from prison and is looking to prove himself.

Also starring Tessa Thompson, Wood Harris, Mila Davis-Kent, Florian Munteanu and Phylicia Rashad. Rated PG-13.

In theaters,

MARCH 5 The popular Disney+ reality series is back on tour, with two stops in Mesa.

The performance will feature pros from the show as well as special guest stars.

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., $50.25-$575

Phoenix Suns vs.

Oklahoma City Thunder

MARCH 8 The Thunder will make the trek down to the Valley to face off against the Suns in their first home game of the

month. Tickets are going fast, but basketball fans can also catch the game on TV via Bally Sports AZ and radio via KMVP 98.7 and KSUN. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7800, nba.com/suns, 7 p.m., $109-$134

Cave Creek Sculpture & Wine Festival

MARCH 10 TO MARCH 12 The town of Cave Creek’s inaugural Sculpture & Wine Festival, this threeday event is the perfect place for art enthusiasts to get out and mingle with the community. Juried fine art will be on display, across a range of mediums, with plenty of wines, spirits, microbrews and food to try. Attendees can browse the marketplace, with musicians like Afterglow setting the mood all the while. A percentage of admission goes to area nonprofits.

Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists. com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, $5

“Scream VI”

OPENS MARCH 10 Ghostface takes Manhattan! After the events of “Scream” (no, not the 1996 classic, but last year’s reboot/sequel of the same name), the four survivors leave Woodsboro for New York — where they once again find themselves stalked by a new masked killer. Tyler Gillett and Matt Bettinelli-Olpinhe once again direct after taking the reins from the late, great horror maestro Wes Craven, with the ensemble cast seeing Melissa Barrera, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Jenna Ortega, Hayden Panettiere and Courtney Cox reprising roles alongside newcomers like Jack Champion, Henry Czerny, Liana Liberato, Dermot Mulroney, Devyn Nekoda, Tony Revolori, Josh Segarra, and Samara Weaving. Not yet rated.

In theaters, screammovie.com

Arizona Aloha Festival

MARCH 11 AND MARCH 12 Say “Aloha!” in Tempe with this free, family-friendly festival. Activities galore,

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including (but not limited to) music and dance performances, storytellers, cooking demonstrations, hula lessons, ukulele jamming, kids make-and-take crafts, a marketplace and, of course, food.

Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 602.697.1824, azalohafest.org, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, free admission

Irish Fountain Fest

MARCH 11 Kick off the week leading up to St. Patrick’s Day with these Fountain Hills festivities. Fun for the whole family, the event centers around a 560-foot fountain that will, quite literally, turn green at 4 p.m. But before and surrounding that exciting centerpiece, check out music and dance performances, a kids zone, food trucks, a beer garden and more.

Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480.816.5100, experiencefountainhills.org, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., free admission

“The Last Five Years”

MARCH 15 TO APRIL 2 Jason Robert Brown’s acclaimed musical relationship examination is coming to the Hormel Theatre. Directed by Dwayne Hartford, the performance alternates between past and present, exploring multiple perspectives. The Phoenix Theatre Company describes it as intimate, bittersweet, emotional and ingenious, elaborating that it “chronicles the triumphs, heartbreak and intricacies of two artists in New York City.”

The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre. com, various dates and times, see website for prices

“Inside”

OPENS MARCH 17 A one-man show led by the always interesting Willem Dafoe, this psychological thriller is about an art thief who must use his cunning and innovativeness to survive after he gets locked inside a New York penthouse with priceless works of art during a heist. It’s also the directorial debut of filmmaker Vasilis Katsoupis. Rated R. In theaters, focusfeatures. com/inside

Taylor Swift

MARCH 17 AND MARCH 18 Taylor Swift is returning to the Valley

for not one but two shows, with Paramore and Gayle providing support.

Billed as The Eras Tour, it sees Swift supporting the release of last year’s “Midnights” as well as the ongoing series of her re-recorded back catalog.

Paramore, meanwhile, just returned after a five-year absence with the post-punk revival album “This Is Why.” State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 602.379.0102, statefarmstadium.com, 6:30 p.m. each day, sold out

Spring Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival

MARCH 17 TO MARCH 19 Downtown Carefree once again transforms with the return of this annual festival. The spring iteration is now in its 28th year, with the seasonal event as a whole going on 88. Around 150 juried fine artists’ works, spanning a multitude of mediums, will be on display, complemented by tasty food, sampleable wines and spirits, and live music. Wildlife photographer Mary Hone and sculptor/charcoal artist Al Hone are the featured artists, with Tim McGraw tribute artist Vegas McGraw as the featured entertainment.

A percentage of admission will go to the Veteran Heritage Project.

101 Easy Street, Carefree, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists. com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, $5

Boots in the Park

MARCH 18 Country music fanatics will gather in Gilbert for this one-day party featuring performers like Chris Young, Trace Adkins, Dylan Scott, Frank Ray, Ella Langley and Joe Peters. Line dance with your friends while enjoying the tunes, and check out all the park has to offer with regard to craft food and cocktails. Attendees can also play games and try their hands at giveaways, with more in store.

Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, bootsinthepark.com, 1 to 10 p.m., $59-$3,200

The Magnetic Fields

MARCH 20 Multi-talented musician Stephin Merritt’s beloved indie project has a decades-spanning discography to pull from at this North Valley show.

With a humorous outlook and a sense of ambition — albums include “69 Love Songs” and “50 Song Memoir”

— the acclaim songwriter/producer/ multi-instrumentalist Merritt, cellist Sam Davol, banjoist/guitarist John Woo, percussionist/pianist Claudia Gonson and singer Shirley Simms have been garnering for over three decades can’t be understated.

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim. org, 7 p.m., $49.50-$64.50

Arizona Jazz Festival

MARCH 24 TO MARCH 26 The annual jazz experience is back on High Street, bringing a slate of more than 20 artists to the North Valley.

Anthony Hamilton headlines the first day, with Morris Day and the Time on the second, and Stephanie Mills and Musiq Soulchild to end the weekend.

Food and drinks will also be available.

High Street, 5415 E. High Street, Phoenix, azjazzfest.com, 4 p.m. Friday, noon Saturday and Sunday, see website for tickets

“John Wick: Chapter 4”

OPENS MARCH 24 The “John Wick” franchise is showing no signs of slowing down. With this fourth installment in the can and a fifth in the pipeline, the titular John Wick is now finding himself on the path to defeating the High Table, though he must first face off against new enemies and old friends to earn his freedom. The ensemble cast includes Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada, Shamier Anderson, Lance Reddick, Rina Sawayama, Scott Adkins, Clancy Brown, Natalia Tena, Marko Zaror and Ian McShane. Not yet rated.

In theaters, johnwick.movie

NHRA Arizona Nationals

MARCH 24 TO MARCH 26 It’s the final chance for drag racing enthusiasts to see the Arizona Nationals, with the National Hot Rod Association’s annual duel in the desert, a popular attraction since 1985, coming to an end. This year’s event also features the new #2Fast2Tasty Mission NHRA Challenge, “pitting the semifinalists against each other during Saturday qualifying in the pro classes for a chance at bonus money and points,” according to the NHRA website.

Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler, 1.800.884.NHRA (6472), nhra.com, 7:30 a.m. each day, $20-$250

102.5 KNIX Barbeque & Beer Festival

MARCH 25 Why barbecue in the backyard with the family when you can come out and do it with the whole community?

More than 30 pitmasters will show off their skills, with lots of beer, spirits and other food items to pair. Enjoy activities like a lumberjack show, line dancing lessons and competitions, ax throwing, a kids zone, food eating competitions, yard games, vendors and lots more. All the while, artists like Chris Jason, Craig Morgan, Hailey Whitters, Conner Smith and Jaty & the Black Stallions will keep the tunes running.

Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler, forty8live.com/ chandlerbbq, noon to 10 p.m., $65$5,895, free for kids 12 and younger

AIDS Walk Arizona Festival and 5K

MARCH 25 It’s a “Brand New Day” for Aunt Rita’s Foundation. That’s the theme for this year’s AIDS Walk, through which Aunt Rita’s has been raising funds and awareness for 15 years. That’s not the only anniversary, though, with the hosting organization celebrating 35 years of work to eliminate HIV/ AIDS. Known as the “Connector of the HIV Community,” Aunt Rita’s donates proceeds to covering costs of programs and services by partner agencies. Register to run or walk, or just donate to the cause; there will be entertainment, too.

Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 602.882.8675, aidswalkaz.org, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $10-$45, free for kids 12 and younger

Arizona Bike Week

MARCH 29 TO APRIL 2 Bike Week is back! Close out the month and welcome spring with the 26th annual event, where motorcycle rally and rock concert meet via two main areas. The PowerYard features entertainment and activities like bike and stunt shows, live music, exhibitions, contests and games, happy hour parties, food and beverages, vendors and more. RockYard headliners in the evening include Texas Hippie Coalition (Wednesday), Billy Idol (Thursday), Megadeth (Friday) and Staind (Saturday).

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.644.8191, azbikeweek.com, various dates and times, $15-$150

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Renaissance Festival brings revelry and ruckus

By Summer Aguirre

T

ake one step into the Festival Village of Fairhaven, and you’ll get whisked away to 16th century Europe for a medieval adventure full of jousting knights, sea fairies and circus performers.

One of the largest renaissance festivals in the nation, the annual Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace returns for its 35th year with old and new amusements and antics.

With a cast of nearly 2,000 costumed characters roaming a 50-acre festival village, guests can immerse themselves in the Middle Ages with an artisan marketplace, whimsical circus, peoplepowered rides and games, jousting tournaments and nonstop theater performances.

From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through April 2, festivalgoers of all ages can revel in the village’s many festivities at the foothills of the Superstition Mountains on U.S. Highway 60.

“We have a festival that’s always been in one place, one spot, for going on three and a half decades now, and people count on that and

make it a tradition to come see us,” says Jerome Hill, the festival’s promotions coordinator and the King of the Fools. He says he believes their 35th year is a testament to their standing power as an attraction in Arizona.

“If we did a whole year of not promoting the festival for any reason and still opened, people would still know where to find us, because we’ve become that lasting, impactful legacy in Arizona,” he adds.

In commemoration of the Renaissance Festival’s 35th year, each weekend will have a special theme. Throughout March, the event will celebrate pirates and BrewFest, wizardry and magical creatures, the art of theater, Celtic culture and artist appreciation before the Fool’s Masquerade Final Huzzah on closing weekend, April 1 and 2.

“One thing that I really like about the Renaissance Festival is that it always has been, and is always just going to be like a full-family outing — families with kids or people that just want to come on their own. There’s sort of an all-ages appeal to it,” says Grayson ColemanShelby, one of the festival’s performers.

Over the course of nine weekends, he says the festival offers “a little bit of everything.”

A focal point of the event is the festival artisan marketplace. An elaborately adorned openair collection of storybook shops, studios and galleries, the marketplace is a shopper’s paradise.

Over 200 talented artisans offer handmade wares fitting all budgets, ranging from pottery, to clothing, to home décor. Some even perform demonstrations right in front of festivalgoers, creating time-honored crafts like glassblowing, blacksmithing, woodcarving and coin stamping.

“A lot of the merchants have the same goods they’ve been making and selling themselves for years,” Coleman-Shelby says.

The marketplace also features a spread of cuisine and beverages.

At the village’s many food stalls, visitors can feast their way through turkey legs, shepherd’s pie, soup bread bowls, funnel cakes, steaks-on-astick and a variety of meads.

The Piazza Pub is a new addition, serving mixed charcuterie boards and a selection of wine and beer in a cozy courtyard setting.

Transylvanian Treats is also new this year and

offers custom-made European chimney cakes that have received rave reviews.

“Spend time investigating all the different food stalls, you might find stuff you didn’t know we had here,” Hill hints.

The pinnacle of the festival’s culinary experience, however, is The Pleasure Feast, held

by Captain Rook and his fearsome, rascally pirates. During an hour-and-a-half five-course meal with beverages at the Old Manor Hall, the pirate crew provides surprise entertainment complete with upbeat music.

Tickets for the feast are $100, and they include a souvenir limited-edition toasting goblet to take home. Seating is limited with only two events a day at noon and at 2:30 p.m.

The village comes to life with entertainment, which includes three competitive jousting tournaments a day, and interactive games and people-powered rides like giant rocking horses, paintball battles and climbing towers.

There is also a 16-stage theater presenting endless comedy, music and swordplay.

One of this year’s new additions is The Renaissance Men, a thrilling sword-fighting comedy show. Coleman-Shelby and Daniel Christopher, who play the characters Rowland and Florian, battle it out for the audience’s validation and the title of The Renaissance Man. “It’s family-friendly, because we want to be able to have people of all ages be able to watch the show,” Coleman-Shelby says. “It’s high energy, it’s high excitement.”

The Renaissance Festival’s team is always working on new attractions to give guests the opportunity for a fresh new experience, while bringing back beloved favorites.

“You can come here probably the entire

weekend and still not really explore everything.

It takes a really long time to really get into the nooks and crannies of everything that festival has to offer,” Coleman-Shelby says. “That’s one of the really cool things, an attraction that’s always evolving and appealing to a broader audience base.”

Whether one has visited the Renaissance Festival once or a dozen times, they are always able to transport to another time and place and leave their troubles at the gate for a little while.

“You get to have this fun, immersive experience, and that just sticks with you for a long time,” Coleman-Shelby says. “A lot of people find that it’s a yearly thing that they almost need every year just to get through (something), and we help them with that.”

The jousters, mermaids and pirates look forward to sweeping you away on a medieval escapade to the Festival Village of Fairhaven.

Arizona Renaissance Festival WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through April 2 WHERE: Arizona Renaissance Festival grounds, 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon COST: Tickets start at $33 for adults, $21 for children ages 5 to 12.

Children ages 4 and under are free.

Discounts are available at the box office for military and seniors 60 and older. Parking is free.

INFO: 520-463-2600, arizona.renfestinfo.com

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STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

ALL I NEED IS YOU Chris Janson headlines KNIX BBQ and Beer Festival

By Josh Ortega

F

ire up the grill, chill the drinks and crank the sound for the KNIX Barbeque and Beer Festival presented

by KNIX 102.5FM and Forty8 Live.

Arizona’s largest annual barbecue event returns for its 14th year to Tumbleweed Park in Chandler on Saturday, March 25, with Chris Janson, Craig Morgan, Hailey Whitters and Connor Smith taking the stage.

The ultimate barbecue experience features a full day of sustenance, suds and sounds including more than 30 barbecue pit masters; multiple themed bars; line dancing; a massive March Madness sports bar; a lumberjack show; a kids zone; and an expanded VIP area starting at $225, with catered barbecue, private bars, shaded areas, standing pit access in front of the stage, restroom suites, VIP-exclusive entertainment, soft seating, fire pits and a commemorative lanyard.

A portion of proceeds from the event will be donated to various nonprofits.

CHRIS JANSON The Academy of Country Music winner says he’ll go hunting in Florida in between stops of his Heavy &

Western Tour.

The outdoors holds a special place in the Missouriborn singer’s heart, with honors such as receiving Bass Pro Shops’ Fisherman’s Best Friend Award as well as the Tennessee Wildlife Foundation’s Dan and Cherie Hammond Sharing the Harvest Award in May 2022 for his conservation efforts.

His signature black Bass Pro Hat has raised nearly $1 million for conservation efforts like the Harpeth Conservancy, Hunters for the Hungry, Tennessee Riverkeeper.

If you want to “rock your face off in the name of country music,” Janson says he’ll be there playing his fun-loving hits like “Fix A Drink,” “Good Vibes” and triple-platinum “Buy Me A Boat.” He’ll draw from deeper emotions with the more thoughtful truths like “Done” and “Things You Can’t Live Without” and ACM Video of the Year “Drunk Girl.”

“If you got heavy weight on your shoulders, this is the perfect concert to come to, to let it off and, you know, just blow some steam,” Janson said.

Janson shows his true self with his new single “All I Need Is You,” part of his debut with Big Machine Label Group in partnership with his own Harpeth 60 Records. The song tells the story of how nothing compares to the woman he loves, his wife Kelly Lynn — and not getting caught up in the biggest buck of the season, the newest Chevrolet, or whatever’s caught our eye.

“Fun songs feel good, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t great musicianship underneath,” Janson says. “Recording this was a blast — and there’s so much more music coming this year.”

While he enjoys golfing in the Valley, Janson says he welcomes everyone to the show with good vibes.

“If you’re looking to get blessed, feel good, forget about your worries and cares, sing along to some hit songs that you know, we’re going

continued on pg. 64

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continued from pg. 62 to be playing it and I’ll be singing it loud and proud,” Janson says.

CRAIG MORGAN Army veteran, country music artist and author Craig Morgan says “it wasn’t my plan, it was God’s plan.”

Before Morgan had such hits as “Redneck Yacht Club,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “International Harvester,” he served more than 17 years in U.S. Army.

Now, the country music legend who’s played more than 60 shows a year for 20 years will make a stop at the BBQ & Beer Festival in Chandler.

“First of all, I’m not a legend,” Morgan says.

“Secondly, I do every show is if everyone there had never heard it.”

Morgan says Janson has opened for him over the years and someone he’s known for nearly a decade “before he had a hit.”

“He’s got some great songs,” Morgan says.

“Songs that I think the majority of our fan base can relate to.”

A man who knows service from his military time, Morgan has spent a lot of time fighting “one of the greatest undisclosed tragedies” in our country: human trafficking.

“I’ve seen what it does to people,” Morgan says. “So, I want to do everything I can to try to stop it.”

His latest album, named “God, Family, Country (Deluxe Edition)” like his memoir, debuted in November. It has five new songs.

Morgan says he spent eight months putting this together and though it may have some similarities to his previous work, it’s something new and fresh.

“So, I think they’ll find some similarities in the storylines, but they’ll definitely hear some freshness in the melodies and the lyrics and even my voice,” Morgan says. “I feel like my voice on this album was stronger than it’s ever been.”

Morgan says he’s tried to bridge the gap between the more traditional sound and stay in the realm of more modern songs.

“I hope that when they leave there, they felt loved, they felt inspired, motivated and some sense of happiness and joy in their lives because of what we did that day,” Morgan says.

CONNER SMITH The influx of social media has changed the music industry with voices like Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen.

Songwriting seemed like an “attainable” job and by the time he was 6 years old, he was writing his own. Signing at the age of 9 with

his first label as and becoming so immersed in songs and where they came from, the Music City native signed with The Valory Music Co. on October 3, 2019, and officially joined the Big Machine Label Group. He’s only 22 years old.

“So, it’s been a crazy journey, man, but I’m just thankful I get to live my dream every day,” Smith says.

He’ll perform as an opening act at the KNIX BBQ and Beer Festival.

The summer going into his senior year of high school, Smith recounts opening for Sam Hunt in front of 35,000 people in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“I was just this normal kid in high school who was just going to baseball practice and then all of a sudden, in the middle of my summer, I got to open up for Sam Hunt,” Smith says.

More memorable opportunities rolled in in 2022 when he supported Thomas Rhett at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, and debuted at the Grand Ole Opry in May. “It’s one of those things that just lives up to the hype,” Smith says. “You hear about Red Rocks and Opry all the time, but it really is as special as they say.”

He has special memories of finding his sweet tooth in the Valley.

While visiting with his brother’s best friend in Spring Training, Smith discovered Novel Ice Cream in Downtown Phoenix in 2021, and says it’s become his “favorite thing in the world.”

Typically, Smith says he gets in a regular

donut with vanilla ice cream but last time indulging in vanilla ice cream with Captain Crunch on it.

“So, every time I’m in Phoenix, I have to run by it,” Smith says. “So, I think last time I was there, I grabbed two.”

He’s also into football, showing some love to his hometown team, the University of Tennessee Volunteers, with his “Orange and White” music video that’s garnered more than 100,000 views on YouTube.

Smith has made some trips to Arizona a handful of times including when he opened for Thomas Rhett in Phoenix and looks forward to making a return trip to the Valley a part of his big plans in 2023.

“It’s going to be a big year,” Smith says. “So, excited to spend a little of that time with you guys in Arizona.”

KNIX Barbeque and Beer Festival w/Chris Janson, Craig Morgan, Hailey Whitters and Conner Smith WHEN: Noon to 10 p.m.

Saturday, March 25 WHERE: Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler COST: Tickets start at $55; kids 12 and under free INFO: forty8live.com

HARDCORE REBORN 66

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Expect the unexpected with Phoenix’s American Standards

By Alex Gallagher

F

or over a decade, American Standards has found success creating enigmatic, in-your-face sound.

Vocalist Brandon Kellum attributes the band’s sound and song structures to its commitment to never forcing itself to make music.

“Our mantra has always been never force it, so we never get in a room and beat ourselves up over trying to write a song. We always want it to come naturally and organic,” he says.

Because of this, Kellum says he takes note when he’s inspired.

“The way that I write lyrics is I have a notepad on my phone and anytime I’m watching a movie, I’m reading a book or anytime something hits my ear in a certain way, I put it on my notepad and then I go back to the notepad when it’s time to put lyrics to songs,” Kellum says.

Over the past three years, Kellum realized a common thread among his lyrics.

“I started noticing lyrically that a lot of what I had been writing over the last couple of years had been centered around this idea of chasing happiness, especially chasing happiness in the form of material possessions and social status,” Kellum says. “Because of that, I wanted to have the overarching theme throughout these singles to be that concept and put a different spin on each to make that lyrical theme of the name of the album and the way that we released it.”

The result is the three-tune EP titled “Dopamine Dealer,” which American Standards released track by track from December to February.

Kellum equates the release style to the EP’s overarching theme.

“We started thinking about how it’s ironic how short the attention spans are since we kind of all grew up going places like Zia Records and would wait until 10 p.m. to get that new album,” he says. “Now, we’ve seen the like world change from the album to the single.”

The Trevor G. Browne High School alumnus also likens the title to the release structure.

“We thought it would be kind of ironic to

put out a series of singles that we wrote as a slow drip at a slow drip of dopamine — that’s essentially the play on it. Then, at the end, we gave people this EP,” Kellum says.

Although the EP largely features elements of the band’s signature brazen sound, it also marries rap and pop.

“We also wanted (‘Dopamine Dealer’) to be something that gets progressively further from what people would expect from us,” Kellum says.

“Our first song, ‘The Dealer,’ was probably the most American Standards-sounding song on the EP. ‘The Tourist’ has a very bass-driven verse, but then it gets into the bridge where we featured local rap artist God Samaritan — which you would never expect in a hardcore band. ‘The Vagrant’ is a very upbeat song that’s almost a poppy song that has a lot of parts that I feel are sonically different from anything we’ve done.”

Kellum also says the EP lays the foundation for a new album that could be released before the year’s end.

“As we lead into the full-length that we’re already recording now — which will hopefully be out by the end of the year — the EP lets people know that our music can go any direction at this point because we have three songs that, although are American Standards sounding, are still progressively growing upon what we’ve done in the past.”

Kellum says American Standards may play new songs at the newly opened Egyptian Motor Hotel, which has a concert venue, on Friday, March 24.

“Every show that we’ve done back since the pandemic has been a huge event and I feel like this will be one of our first shows back from the pandemic that’s just an American Standards show,” Kellum says.

Heavy Breather w/Live Longer Burn Everything and American Standards WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, March 24 WHERE: Egyptian Motor Hotel, 765 Grand Avenue, Phoenix COST: $10 INFO: fanlink.to/americanstandards

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NHRA’s Erica Enders is ready for a 6th win

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

T

he impending closure of Wild Horse Pass Motorsport Park means the end of an era for fivetime Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders.

Enders’ family has a long history with the Valley. A former record-breaking waterskier, her father, Gregg Enders, helped dig Firebird Lake near the track. They frequented Manzanita Raceway in Phoenix, prior to its closure.

“Before I raced professionally, I always traveled to Phoenix to race, even though it’s a long haul from Houston,” she says. “That’s even as kids and junior dragsters. It’s sad that it’s coming to a close.”

Enders will have one more shot with the 28th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals at the Chandler track from Wednesday, March 22, to Sunday, March 26.

“I think you can look forward to some pretty outstanding performance there,” Enders says.

“We’re on the heels of our fifth world title last year. Our expectations are set pretty high.”

Enders, 39, is in her 19th professional season, but she has been racing since she was 8. She grew up watching Gregg race as an amateur, along with her sister, Courtney Enders. In 2003, The Disney Channel released a movie about the sisters called “Right on Track.” Erica was portrayed by Beverley Mitchell, while Brie Larson played Courtney.

In 1993, she won the Division 4 Junior Dragster championship in the 8- to 9-year-old class. Two years later, she was crowned Junior Dragster Driver of the Year. She now boasts 37 career wins.

“At 16, we joined the Lucas Oil Series, which is like the minor leagues,” Enders says.

“I did that for five years. Then I got a deal to drive professionally at the end of 2004.

Back when I was a kid, when they’d ask what I wanted to be when I grew up. Other kids would answer doctor, lawyer, astronaut. I

of a life getting to do what we love.”

In 2018, she began driving a Pro Modified entry for Elite Motorsports, a twin turbo 2019 Camaro. The following year, Enders escaped serious injuries when her Chevrolet Camaro caught fire at the end of a qualifying run in the NHRA Pro Mod class in Ohio.

The challenges of racing have kept her passionate throughout the years.

“The challenges intrigue me,” she says.

“Pro Stock is a challenging car to drive.

You’re pretty busy inside the cockpit, having to shift and whatnot. It’s a cool class. No matter how much seat time you have or years you’ve done this, it’s still tough. It’s really humbling. That’s what keeps me coming back. I want to be the best.”

NHRA Arizona Nationals always wanted to be a race car driver, and I’ve been blessed to accomplish that dream.”

Girls look up to her, she says. In 2006, she was the first woman to qualify No. 1 in Pro Stock, in Topeka, Kansas. She broke the national speed record in Pro Stock at 213.57 miles per hour in Gainesville, Florida. The accolades continued.

“I remember being a fan and going to see

the women I looked up to,” Enders says.

“I stood outside the pit waiting to get autographs. I see the same sparkle in some of those kids’ eyes. It’s been a surreal, pinch-me moment. I try to make it the best experience I can for them.

“The first time someone asked for my autograph, I was a kid racing juniors. I thought, ‘So, this is where I’m going.’ We’ve had a blast

WHEN: Various times Wednesday, March 22, to Sunday, March 26 WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler COST: Tickets start at $44 INFO: nhra.com

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POPULAR SCIENCE Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson finds some opinions collide

By Grey Gartin

A

merican astrophysicist Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson has popularized science since the early 1990s.

Over the years, however, the way Tyson communicates the ideas of science and the truths of the universe has evolved. He says the “system has broken in recent years, where people are cherry-picking their own truths.”

He’ll share his thoughts about this and “cosmic collisions” during a stop at the Arizona Financial Theatre on Thursday, March 9.

“The stuff that goes bump in the night — the galaxies, stars and black holes that collide in space — knows no end,” Tyson says.

“There might even be intersecting universes, parallel universes, for example, and then there are particles that collide, asteroids that collide.”

Although the idea of gargantuan objects striking each other at unfathomable speeds can seem dark, some of these cosmological events resulted in the reality in which we live, he says.

“The asteroid that took out the dinosaurs 65 million years ago pried open an ecological niche enabling the newly shaped mammals of the day to evolve into something more ambitious than just a tree rodent, scurrying, trying to avoid getting eaten by T-Rex,” he says.

His presentations are fully illustrated with videos, slides and simulations. The information changes from date to date, as there are around a dozen topics from which event coordinators can choose.

Tyson has devoted his life to the study of science, spending time leading institutions such as Hayden Planetarium in New York City. Meanwhile, he brings complex knowledge to people across the globe.

New research allows Tyson to reference findings that give him and those he presents to “a deeper, more sensitive awareness of what’s going on,” he says. One of the more recent breakthroughs in astrophysics was the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope in December 2021.

“Now the James Webb telescope, it’s truly

transcended the Hubble telescope, not only in how far away it can see but the level of detail it provides and the new windows it was opening to phenomena in the universe,” he says.

The James Webb telescope has been so valuable because it has much greater light-gathering power than the Hubble telescope. Because of this, the longer, dimmer wavelengths of light are studied in more detail. It allows researchers to see further back into the timeline of the universe.

Tyson recognizes that most people don’t spend a night out listening to an astrophysicist’s lecture. However, space has increasingly become a topic of interest in recent years. He said there is certainly an “appetite” for this information, and he sees it as his job to provide that information to the public.

Aside from the lecture series, Tyson released the book “Starry Messenger: Cosmic Perspectives on Civilization” late last year.

The book is a departure for Tyson as it offers scientific perspectives to social and political issues.

Tyson is active on social media, reflecting on his followers’ comments. He adjusts the way he presents the information to make sure the objective truth, “brought to you by the methods and tools of science,” can land on the most ears possible, he said.

“It’s helped to sharpen my communication tactics.”

He said that we need to teach “science as a possibly unique method of approach to establishing what is and is not objectively true in the world.” This would help us to better consider our biases and unseen influences on measurements, according to Tyson.

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: “Cosmic Collisions” WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 9 WHERE: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $59.50 INFO: livenation.com

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74

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

PRESSURE’S OFF Meeting fans is addictive to ‘Dancing’ cast

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Dancing with the Stars” pro Emma Slater loves the “Dancing with the Stars” tours. After all, she’s not being judged by like the of Len Goodman.

“It’s more relaxed, as the pressure is off,” she says. “It’s a different experience. We get to hang with other professional dancers who we are best friends with. It’s really a fantastic time for us.

I think that translates to the show. We get to meet the people who watch the TV show. We don’t get to do that in the studio.”

“Dancing with the Stars: Live! The Tour” has two shows — 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. — on Sunday, March 5, at the Mesa Arts Center.

The tour, which launched January 6 at MGM National Harbor in Washington, D.C., celebrates the show’s 31st season. Besides Slater, the tour features Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Sasha Farber, Kateryna Klishyna, Gleb Savchenko, Britt Stewart and “So You Think You Can Dance” winner Alexis Warr (who

now appears on “Dancing with the Stars”).

“Dancing with the Stars” season 31 runner-up and star of “The Bachelorette” Gabby Windey will join the cast for the entire tour, while fellow season 31 castmates Vinny Guadagnino, Daniel Durant, Heidi D’Amelio and Charli D’Amelio will join the cast on select dates.

Slater says it’s fun to meet with fans on tour.

“I always get, ‘You’re so much smaller than I thought you were,’” Slater adds with a laugh.

“I can’t tell you how many times I get that.

People think you’re a monster. In real life, I’m only 5-foot-4. But everybody is so nice and so flattering. It makes us excited to see them so excited. I’m blown away by their interest in what I do. There’s nothing more addictive than making people happy — especially with something like ballroom dancing that we love and can be celebrated.

Dancer Mandy Moore choreographed the numbers in the show.

“She is just an absolute legend in the space,” Slater says.

“She just choreographed ‘Babylon,’ this massive film. She curated the most wonderful, energetic, stunning, marvelous show that I’m really excited to be a part of. There’s some beautiful storytelling in there; some sweet moments that pull on the heartstrings. There are moments of comedy and playful storytelling that I think will excite the audience.”

This year, “Dancing with the Stars,” the TV show, was on Disney+ instead of ABC. Slater says it was the right move for “Dancing with the Stars.”

“Disney+ was great,” she says.

“It marked the return of Conrad Green, who was an executive producer we had. He finally returned this season. He’s just a genius in what he does. He knows the show so well.

He elevated the show to new heights again.

That was an incredible feeling to be a part of.

Alfonso (Ribeiro, host) was exceptional. He’s phenomenal. He’s a personal friend of mine.

I’m so happy to see him do well.”

“Dancing with the Stars: Live! The Tour” WHEN: 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 5 WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa COST: Tickets start at $45 INFO: 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com

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EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH AMERICAN

Angry Crab Shack Various locations, angrycrabshack.com This mom-and-pop chain offers many boil options — from shrimp, crawfish and lobster to blue (seasonal) and Dungeness crab. Guests are asked to choose their favorite seafood items, sauces and spice levels. Angry Crab Shack has an array of other specialty items like fried frog legs, alligator nuggets and freshly shucked raw oysters.

Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers Various locations, coldbeers.com Cold Beers and Cheeseburgers’ award-winning patties are hand-formed from fresh ground chuck and can be customized in a variety of ways. The rotating beer menu offers more than 130 beer choices — tap, bottled or canned. Check out the new location in Chase Field.

Detroit Coney Grill 6953 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.597.4300; 699 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 119, Tempe, 480.350.7707, detroitconeygrill.com From authentic Detroit Coneys to madefrom-scratch burgers, down to the hand-cut fries using only Idaho potatoes, everything at Detroit Coney Grill is fresh. Having been schooled in the grocery industry, owner David Najor knows the importance of fresh food served right.

Dillon’s Kansas City BBQ Various locations, dillonsrestaurant.com Dillon’s offers barbecue in a variety of settings.

Try Dillon’s Bayou at Pleasant Harbor Marina, which provides a spectacular view of mountains and water. Meanwhile, Dillon’s at Western Trails Ranch is a 12-acre venue with two saloons, a restaurant, live music, team roping and concerts.

The destination at Wildlife World Zoo allows guests to dine among sharks. At Dillon’s Arrowhead, diners get the best barbecue in town.

Fat Tuesday Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Glendale, 623.759.7800; 680 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 106, Tempe, 480.967.3917, fattuesdayaz.com Straight from Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Fat Tuesday is a drink and food destination. Fill a 14-inch cup with countless flavors of frozen

daiquiris while indulging in authentic New Orleans cuisine.

Final Round 5030 S. Mill Avenue, Suite D20, Tempe, 480.456.3663, finalroundaz.com Check out breakfast here on the weekends and 60-cent wings on Mondays.

Gallagher’s 7575 N. 16th Street, Phoenix, 602.997.0084; 3220 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix, gallaghersaz.com Family owned and operated, Gallagher’s is where visitors and Arizonans can find great food and service. Peppered with HD televisions, Arizona’s family of local sports grills also features off-track betting, karaoke, trivia and exciting ball games. It boasts a good value price and homestyle service, which attracts return customers.

The Haymaker Restaurant Co. Various locations, haymakeraz.com For years, the family has been serving the best breakfast, bourbon and burgers — using only fresh 100% Angus chuck. The locations feature the West Valley’s best breakfast, served throughout the day.

Hooters Arizona Various locations, hootersarizona.com Sports playing on television! Cold beers!

Seafood! Burgers! And delicious wings! Hooters has it all, and it’s served by the world-famous Hooters girls. Who could ask for more? Hooters is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week with locations across the Valley to serve guests.

The Lola Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard, Glendale, 623.877.5225, thelolaaz.com Farm-fresh food hits the table as family-style sharables, rustic salads, desserts and cocktails.

Expect to find bright colors and playful plating at this pioneering destination.

The Moon Saloon 16554 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, 623.773.2424, themoonsaloon.com This easygoing hangout offers sports on television and a menu of specialty sliders, burgers, wings and pizza.

Myke’s Inside the Cider Corps taproom, 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, 480.687.8526, mykespizza.com Myke’s welcomes fans to its Downtown Mesa location with deals that fill the bases.

Myke’s Pizza offers nine styles from a pepperoni marinara to a white sauce potato and bacon. The menu also features a house salad, hummus with house-made pitas, chocolate chip cookies and seasonal vegetarian/vegan dishes.

Netta Cheta’s on Mill 3224 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.912.1711, nettachetas.com Netta Cheta’s is locally owned and operated by Tempe residents Adrian and Ronetta Yracheta.

The breakfast and lunch restaurant turns into a special events venue at night.

New York Bagels ‘N Bialys Various locations, nybbaz.com New York Bagels ’N Bialys brings the best of New York to Arizona. Breakfast includes Challah French toast and Benedicts. Lunch is just as craveable, ranging from turkey sandwiches to Reubens. Don’t overlook the homemade soups, fresh salads, smoked fish, burgers and drink specials, as a full bar awaits.

The Nook: A Daytime Eatery 3321 E. Queen Creek Road, Suite 101, Gilbert, 480.988.2100, thenookaz.com The Nook specializes in serving delicious, fresh food and friendly service. Homemade sausage gravy, scratch-made soups and fresh juice are made daily by its dedicated team.

Pete’s Fish and Chips 22 S. Mesa Drive, Mesa, 480.964.7242; 3920 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.268.1828; 1017 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe, 480.968.6265; 4121 N. 44th Street, Phoenix, 602.840.0630; 1111 E. Buckeye Road, Phoenix, 602.252.9341; 5516 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, 623.937.6001; 2628 W. Van Buren, Phoenix, 602.278.3351; 9309 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 623.936.3111, petesfishandchips.com Family owned and operated since 1947, Pete’s Fish and Chips has been serving “deep-fried

goodness” for more than 76 years.

Philly’s Sports Grill Various locations, phillyssportsgrill.com Locally owned and operated by ASU alumni, Philly’s Sports Grills have become superb neighborhood watering holes. Tons of craft beers, as well as master mixologists and awesome food, keep the locals returning.

September’s Bar & Grill 500 W. Southern Avenue, Mesa, 480.969.5373, septembersbarmesa.com Karaoke is featured on Saturdays, while Sundays see free pool. Happy hour is 2 to 7 p.m. daily.

The Social on 83rd 8350 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, P83, 623.486.4343, thesocialaz.us Foodies looking for gourmet delights have just found the right place. The Social on 83rd serves quality food made from locally sourced ingredients in an upscale atmosphere. At The Social on 83rd, the staff serves delights such as center-cut Manhattan strips, 24-hour braised short rib, five-spice pork belly and its house specialty Social wings.

The Stockyards Steakhouse 5009 E. Washington Street, Suite 115, Phoenix, 602273.7378, stockyardssteakhouse.com In 1947, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, opened its doors with a menu focused solely on its historical past: beef. Staying true to its heritage, The Stockyards features only the finest corn-fed, aged steaks and prime rib. With an emphasis on hearty flavors, The Stockyards’ “New West Cuisine” embraces the culture and culinary trends of the Southwest.

Tailgaters and Il Primo Pizza Various locations, tgpizza.com Tailgaters and Il Primo Pizza are known around town for good times. After all, the food and the fun start here. So, come “tailgate” before, after or during any sporting event. The restaurant proudly shows as many televised and pay-perview events on its 30-plus large-screen TVs. Time Out Sports Bar & Grill

continued on pg. 78

2ND PLACE

BESTOF

2022

2022

BESTOF

2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Best Mexican Food

Reader Recommended

Best Mexican Food

BESTOF

2021

2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016 Best of Chandler

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING 78 continued from pg. 76 What’s Crackin’ Café BRITISH/IRISH

Twin Peaks Restaurant Various locations, twinpeaksrestaurant.com Twin Peaks offers its customers delicious food, cold beer and a welcoming staff, known as the Twin Peaks Girls. The comfortable, mountain lodge atmosphere entices you to sit back, relax and enjoy the game. It houses more than 60 flat-screens.

Vero Chicago Pizza Various locations, verochicagopizza.com Masters of their craft, dedicated to quality, Vero Chicago Pizza has more than 30 years of experience in the pizza industry. During that time, it has perfected its trade. It delivers a superior product to its patrons, using its expertise and the high-quality ingredients. Vero Chicago Pizza’s simple mission is to bring authentic Chicago-style pizza to all the other great cities around the country.

6663 E. McDowell Road, Mesa, 480.264.6832, whatscrackincafe.com Enjoy all-day brunch, craft beers and mimosas on the dog-friendly patio this spring.

Besides food, enjoy weekly music, monthly paint-and-sip events, lottery machines and trivia.

ASIAN

Kabuki Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.9160; Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard, Glendale, 623.772.9832, kabukirestaurants.com The beautifully decorated restaurant features inventive dishes meant to impress longtime sushi lovers and hook first-timers.

Squid Ink Sushi 9947 W. Happy Valley Road, Peoria, 623.561.7747, squidinksushi.com Passionate about food, Squid Ink staff serves a colorful blend of traditional and fusion sushi.

Guests can relax on the patio or inside at the bar after watching the game.

Cornish Pasty Company 960 W. University Drive, Tempe, 480.894.6261, cornishpastyco.com, visit the website for other Valley locations This modern local chain specializes in traditional British-style pasties. Make sure and try the red wine sauce. You’ll want to drink it out of the cup.

English Rose Tea Room 201 Easy Street, Suite 103, Carefree, 480.488.4812, carefreetea.com Established in 2002, the English Rose Tea Room boasts a romantic, shady patio for tea al fresco.

It celebrates all-things British, from scones and crumpets to cottage pie or a Ploughman’s lunch.

Sonson’s 6060 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480.845.8485; 1430 W. Warner Road, Gilbert, 602.300.0344, sonsonspastyco.com Traditional Cornish pasties are on the slim menu here. The menu may not be robust, but the pasties are to die for.

GERMAN

Haus Murphy’s 5739 W. Glendale Road, Glendale,

e

FREE DOUGH NUGGETS

(Must mention coupon when ordering) Agua Caliente Plaza 480-998-1734 6990 E. Shea Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ, 85254

Pita Jungle 4340 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.955.7482, pitajungle. com, see website for additional locations Pita Jungle is known for its healthy food and hip atmosphere. Most of the menu is vegetarian or can be modified to be made vegetarian, and Pita Jungle’s wraps and salads are second to none.

ITALIAN

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante 19420 N. 59th Avenue, Suite C-117, Glendale, 623.777.1868, bottegaristorante.com Neighborhood family owned and operated,

continued on pg. 80

After the Game &

ic Beer

mest Receive a 16oz. Do for Only

With Purchase of Any Pizza

Ranch Center 480-860-2611 9393 N. 90th St. Scottsdale, AZ, 85258

Mijana 1290 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe, 480.829.4959, mijanaonline.com The Lebanese restaurant features falafel, shawarma, kebabs and mezza — they’re all delicious.

Before or Show Your Ticket Stub

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623.939.2480, hausmurphys.com Whether they’re craving authentic German cuisine or the giant pretzel with a side of Polka and a huge beer, visitors won’t be disappointed.

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602.455.1000 1729 N. Dysart Rd.

N Dysart Rd

1762 S. Greenfield Road, Suite 111, Mesa, 480.926.8500, sportsbarmesa.com With elevated comfort food, Time Out Sports Bar & Grill is a comfortable place to watch the game. The bar boasts 20 beers on tap. It is the premier, family-friendly sports bar in Mesa.

 Rosati’s Pizza & Sports Pub W McDowell Freeway West

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

MORE THAN A MUSICAL. IT’S A WAY OF LIFE.

REGIONAL THEATRE PREMIERE

79

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING 80 continued from pg. 78 623 E. Adams Street, Phoenix, nicely with the award-winning margaritas, which

this authentic Italian restaurant serves Neapolitan-style pizzas, homemade pastas, soups, salads and desserts. Weekly specials are featured. The restaurant uses fresh imported and mostly organic non-GMO ingredients.

Gus’ New York Pizza 13824 W. McDowell Road, Suite 100, Goodyear, 623.935.4488; 829 S. Rural Road, Tempe, 480.829.3995; 7333 E. Shoeman Lane, Scottsdale, 480.423.5555; 6020 N. 59th Avenue, Suite 4, Glendale, 623.937.4877; 2755 N. 91st Avenue, Phoenix, 623.936.1200, guspizzagoodyear.com An Arizona tradition for nearly 40 years, Gus’ New York Pizza & Bar has been dishing up its Big Apple goodness to generations of Arizona diners.

The family behind this restaurant and sports bar works hard to offer something for everyone.

Guests can watch their favorite teams battle it out while enjoying a delicious assortment of pizzas (it’s the home to the 32-inch NY Giant pizza), wings, Stromboli, subs and fresh salads. It hosts a wide-ranging drink selection, happy hour deals and other specials to “keep your spirits high.” Enjoy the full menu indoors, outdoors or at the open bar.

Pizzeria Bianco

602.258.8300; 4743 N. 20th Street, Phoenix, 602.368.3273, pizzeriabianco.com Be ready for a wait — but it’s well worth it.

With a seating capacity of 42, Pizzeria Bianco can have waits up to four hours. However, as proprietor Chris Bianco has said, “it is ridiculous that it’s four hours, but it’s 23 hours to fly to Australia.” Some good things take a long time.

There is no delivery or takeout.

Rosati’s Pizza and Sports Pub Various locations, myrosatis.com The Windy City defines Rosati’s Pizza and Sports Pub, as it offers Chicago-style thin, traditional and deep-dish pizzas; Italian beef; large wings and pastas. Beer is plentiful, as are televisions to watch sporting events. Close to the ballparks, Rosati’s is a required stop for Spring Training fans.

Takeout, delivery and catering are also available.

MEXICAN/SPANISH/ SOUTHWEST

Caramba Mexican Food Various locations across the Valley, 623.979.4444, carambamex.com The fast-casual Caramba eateries have been serving authentic Mexican food to the Valley for more than 25 years. Dishes at the six Valley locations are prepared fresh daily, and they pair

are made with premium tequilas.

Carlos O’Brien’s 7000 E. Mayo Boulevard, Building 21, Phoenix, 480.367.0469; 2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Building 14, Phoenix, 623.582.0679, carlosobriens.com Since 1978, Carlos O’Brien’s Mexican Restaurant has built its reputation on outstanding service and huge portions of awardwinning dishes.

La Ristra New Mexican Kitchen 638 E. Warner Road, Gilbert; 140 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, laristraaz.com La Ristra New Mexico Kitchen brings the best of New Mexico cuisine and pours more than 150 tequilas.

Old Town Tortilla Factory 6910 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.945.4567, oldtowntortillafactory.com Regional dishes and the best of the Southwest meet at this restaurant, like carne y camerones (filet of beef with grilled shrimp). The cozy cottage and romantic patio among a variety of trees give this restaurant an elegantly casual ambiance,

but a full bar and 120 premium tequilas for its award-winning margaritas keep this place lively.

Appetizers may include cups of spinach con queso, carne asada fries, two street tacos of choice, and tomatillo pork nachos. To complement are sangrias, Texas margarita and well cocktails.

Valle Luna 3336 W. Bell Road, Phoenix, 602.993.3108; 1949 W. Ray Road, Chandler, 480.786.3100; 16048 N. Cave Creek, Phoenix, 602.867.9100, valleluna.com Valle Luna offers a warm, inviting space for those looking for great Sonoran food. Fast and friendly service is what you will find at Valle Luna, which prides itself on a family-friendly atmosphere and delicious specials.

TREATS

Unbaked 3712 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale, 480.912.5490, getunbaked.com Unbaked serves edible cookie dough (in a cup or cone), cookies and ice cream. Catering is available. Milkshakes — and for those who insist — baked cookies are also on the menu. Unbaked is the home of the boozy shake and “shotz,” where almost any dessert can be injected with liquor for a truly unique experience.

tacos, queso, margs

q locations in r

TM & © 2023 Rusty Taco, Inc.

Tempe, Scottsdale and Gilbert

-0701782

& homeruns

11 CHEAP THINGS PHOENIX TIX THEATRE CELEBRATE WAFFLE DAY AT THESE PLACES

OFFERING STUDENT DISCOUNTS

MARCH 2023

EST. 2002

A

World

APART

ASU freshman’s book making an impact

contents

4

student life 2

11 Waffle Day Eateries

Celebrate the holiday at these spots

features 7

A World Apart

ASU freshman's book, 'Dear Tariq,' making an impact

8

See You at the Theater

Students of all ages can buy discounted tickets

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine VICE PRESIDENT

Michael Hiatt EDITOR

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cole Januszewski, Annika Tomlin DESIGNER

Veronica Thurman DESIGNER SUPERVISOR

Shannon Mead

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Nadine Johnson

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Aaron Kolodny

8

POP QUIZ WE KNOW HOW MANY TESTS AND QUIZZES YOU TAKE, BUT WE THINK THIS ONE WILL BE YOUR FAVORITE. HERE IS A QUICK QUIZ ON SOMETHING POPULAR OR IMPORTANT WE THINK YOU NEED TO KNOW.

The symbols (#$@%*) used by cartoonists to indicate swearing are called what?

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College Times is a nationally registered trademark.

Reproduction of material in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

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A. Profanicon B. Graggle C. Grawlix D. Gibberish

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ECOLLEGETIMES.COM | MARCH 2023 1

Answer: C. Grawlix, also known as obscenicon, is a combination of various typographical symbols or other unpronounceable characters that replaces a profanity.

STUDENT LIFE

11 WAFFLE DAY EATERIES ANNIKA TOMLIN • COLLEGE TIMES ZuZu

International Waffle Day is celebrated on Saturday, March 25. First baked in Sweden, waffles are now served worldwide. Here are 11 places across the Valley to get waffles during the day.

11. HEARTH ‘61

Hearth '61

The vegetarian-friendly Hearth ’61 is the place to go for a classic waffle dish. The crispy, thick Belgian waffles come with fresh berries, sweet cream and powdered sugar.

Keep the sweetness going with a gluten-free breakfast smoothie blending orange juice, banana, honey, yogurt, strawberries and pea protein.

Hearth ’61, 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, mountainshawdows. com/dining/hearth

1707

10. ZUZU

ZuZu dishes up a daily brunch menu, including its fried chicken and waffles. Mary’s half chicken, pork belly, hot honey, sweet corn, pickled chiles and scallion rest atop a fluffy waffle. Wash it down with a purple people eater made with botanist gin, blueberry lavender syrup, lime juice and prosecco float.

ZuZu, 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, hotelvalleyho.com/zuzu

Thirsty Lion Gastropub

9. THIRSTY LION GASTROPUB Trying to figure out where to go on Saturday morning to celebrate International Waffle Day? Look no further than Thirsty Lion Gastropub.

It serves up spicy fried chicken and waffles. Marinated in jalapeno

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EXPIRES 6/30/2023 EXPIRES 6/30/2023 6/30/2023 EXPIRES 6/30/2023

student life

Queen Creek Olive Mill Wicked Brews, Bites & Spirits

buttermilk batter, crispy fried chicken tops a Belgian waffle with maple pepper bacon and maple syrup.

Thirsty Lion Gastropub, various locations across the Valley, thirstyliongastropub.com

8. WICKED BREWS, BITES & SPIRITS Listed on its weekend brunch menu, Wicked Brews, Bites & Spirits offers a chicken n’ waffle tower between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The mix of flavors dish includes fresh, hot waffles served with crispy chicken bites

and eggs topped with bacon bites and drizzled with syrup. Don’t forget about the potato medley on the side. Pairs nicely with a dirty mary or bottomless mimosas.

Wicked Brews, Bites & Spirits, 4921 E. Ray Road, Suite 103, Phoenix, wicked-bbs.com

7. QUEEN CREEK OLIVE MILL Queen Creek Olive Mill’s del Piero Kitchen shakes things up with a vanilla bean olive oil waffle served with maple syrup and whipped butter. Patrons can purchase the vanilla bean-infused

olive oil at the Mill along with a variety of others to transform a homemade batch of waffles. An additional menu option is its chicken and waffles made with crispy chicken breast and smokey Calabrian chile whipped butter.

Queen Creek Olive Mill, 25062 S. Meridian Road, Queen Creek, queencreekolivemill.com

6. PEDAL HAUS BREWERY Start the festivities with a hearty weekend brunch at Pedal Haus Brewery in Downtown Phoenix.

Pedal Haus Brewery

Between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests can dine on Pedal Haus Brewery’s take of fried chicken and Belgian waffles topped with warm berries, maple butter and truffle hot honey. Don’t forget to peruse the variety of beers and brunch cocktails on the menu to pair with the savory dish.

Pedal Haus Brewery-Downtown Phoenix, 214 E. Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, pedalhausbrewery.com

YOUR VOTE CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT. Election Day is March 14 in Phoenix Districts 6 & 8!

One vote can make a big difference in shaping your community, especially in local elections. Citizens Clean Elections Commission has the education tools and resources you need to vote informed and be heard on issues that matter to you.

Visit azcleanelections.gov, or call 877-631-8891.

26103-4_CCEC_23Interim_10.375x5.25_CollegeTimes_Ad.indd 1

ECOLLEGETIMES.COM | MARCH 2023 3

2/15/23 9:17 AM

student life

Hash Kitchen

decked out with addons like strawberries, bananas or chocolate chips ($2 each) or mixed berries and jam ($3). For those more interested in brunch, Morning Squeeze has chicken and waffles that include half a Belgian waffle topped with fried chicken, sausage gravy and maple syrup.

Morning Squeeze, 4233 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 690 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 110, Tempe; 1 N. First Street, Phoenix, morningsqueeze.com

Over Easy

5. OVER EASY

Over Easy offers a different take on a typical waffle dish in its Golden Waffle Dogs. As seen on Food Network’s “The Best Thing I Ever Ate,” hearty sausage links are dipped in vanilla waffle batter and fried until golden brown. Served on a stick makes them easy and fun to dunk in syrup. Over Easy also prepares chicken and waffle served with a blend of hot sauce and real maple syrup.

Old-fashioned malted waffles also grace the menu for customers wanting a classic.

Over Easy, various location across the Valley, eatovereasy.com

4. DAILY DOSE Daily Dose prescribes a variety of waffle creations. Putting a twist on a classic, Daily Dose offers peanut butter and jelly waffles topped with banana, peanut butter and house-made berry compote. Another vegetarian-friendly waffle is the strawberries and creme waffle, a Belgian waffle topped with

fresh strawberries, vanilla creme anglaise and whipped cream. For diners looking for a savory dish, go for the chicken and waffles created with bacon-crusted chicken, waffles, harissa aioli and two eggs prepared the customer’s way.

Daily Dose, 4020 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 101, Scottsdale; 96 S. Rockford Drive, Suite 105, Tempe, dailydosegrill.com

1. LO-LO’S CHICKEN AND WAFFLES

3. HASH KITCHEN Hash Kitchen has sweet or savory brunch fare. Celebrate the holiday with Hash Kitchen’s herb fried chicken and waffle, which includes herb-fried chicken, fried leeks and a warm pour of maple reduction.

Have a sweet tooth? Try the fresh berries waffle topped with freshly made whipped cream. In the mood for a classic? Traditional waffles with whipped butter, powdered sugar and warm maple reduction are also available. Make these creations gluten free for an additional 99 cents.

Hash Kitchen, various locations across the Valley, hashkitchen.com

Morning Squeeze

2. MORNING SQUEEZE

Daily Dose

4 ECOLLEGETIMES.COM | MARCH 2023

This groovy breakfast and lunch spot offers Belgian waffles for $10 that deliciously pair with butter and maple syrup. They can also be

Lo- Lo's Chicken and Waffles

Lo-Lo’s is the master at chicken and waffles. From the Baby Ray, featuring three pieces of chicken smothered with gravy and onions with two waffles, to Nay-Nays with two waffles, two eggs and a bowl of grits, the choices are endless. Don’t forget about the trademark Lo-Lo’s, which includes three pieces of chicken prepared Southern style with two waffles. Other options include chicken breast, legs and a combination of multiple parts all with one or two waffles.

Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles, various locations across the Valley, loloschickenandwaffles.com

A World APART

ASU FRESHMAN’S BOOK, ‘DEAR TARIQ,’ MAKING AN IMPACT

Pedal Haus Brewery

PHOTO COURTESY XXXXXXXX

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI • COLLEGE TIMES

“

Authenticity” is a word that frequently pops up in conversation with ASU freshman Selena Morse.

She is the co-author of the new book “Dear Tariq,” which began as a project at Concordia International School Shanghai with classmate Geo Chen.

The story behind “Dear Tariq” is inspiring. Chen and Morse collaborated with Jordan Hattar of Help4Refugees.org and young humanitarian rights activist Alex Myteberi. During their meetings, Morse and Chen learned about Myteberi’s story and were inspired by his empathy. Myteberi penned a letter to President Barack Obama, asking him to help a Syrian boy named Omran Dagneesh, who survived an

airstrike in his home country.

Myteberi’s story and compassion moved Chen and Morse to write the children’s book. “‘Dear Tariq’ was a collaborative effort with a variety of people,” she says. “It was mostly all youth, and that was very intentional. The coauthor (Geo Chen) and I started on the book our junior year of high school.”

The book tells the story of two children — one living affluently in the United States and another facing the reality of the Syrian conflict and refugee situations that many experience around the world.

The American boy is moved by the Syrian child’s life and reaches out.

“He develops a sense of empathy

and turns that into support for his brothers and sisters in Syria by developing relationships with them,” Morse says.

They become friends through letter writing.

“It’s a story of turning compassion into action and how kids can make a change in the world with the resources they have,” Morse says.

The group’s mission is simple. They want to change the perspective of refugees, encourage people to share their stories, and teach young kids about the importance of empathy.

The proceeds will also be going to Sirin Hamada and other refugee families.

“After we got in contact with her, we moved forward with having the

book published. Having her involved added another level of authenticity and accurate representation,” Morse says of Hamada’s involvement on the project.

Available on Amazon, “Dear Tariq” is much bigger than just a book, it’s a unique collaboration of youth advocacy. Working with other students, Morse continues to help raise awareness, empathy and compassion around the Syrian refugee crisis.

“I’m looking forward to where the future takes this,” she says.

“Dear Tariq”

newdaystorytellingadvocates.com/dear-tariq ECOLLEGETIMES.COM | MARCH 2023 7

SEE YOU AT THE THEATER STUDENTS OF ALL AGES CAN BUY DISCOUNTED TICKETS

BY COLE JANUSZEWSKI • COLLEGE TIMES

M

iddle school, high school and college students with ID can buy $15 tickets to Phoenix Theatre Company shows an hour prior to start time.

“The student rush program is something that we have specifically for people who have a student ID,” says Lorin Phillips, the company’s assistant box office manager.

“I think, initially, it was intended for college-aged students or maybe high school-age students, but it’s become something that we will honor for anybody with a student ID.” Phillips says the program was started to attract a younger crowd.

“We wanted people of a younger age to also be able to see our shows during the school year and be involved with theater all year round,” Phillips says.

“The student price really helps with that.”

8 ECOLLEGETIMES.COM | MARCH 2023

The Phoenix Theatre Company has witnessed an uptick in students attending shows due to word of mouth.

“I started here as a student myself, where I was working part time, and so I had a lot of friends who would come to the theater to use the student rush program,” she says.

“A lot of times, especially during the school year, it’d be every night we would have some students coming up — especially if it was a show that was really popular toward a younger age. So, I’ve seen it grow for sure.”

The Phoenix Theatre Company has a Young Ambassador Society program, which offers $39 tickets to adults under the age of 40 for all shows from Tuesday to Friday.

“We have lots of conversations with people who don’t realize that this program is available,” Philips says.

“They may have been a little bit

dissuaded by our regular ticket prices, but when we have a conversation that this program is available, suddenly they’re much more excited. I think more people are actually asking for it on the phone.

It’s something that they will call and ask us about. I think that just having more word of mouth has been great for that program (as well).”

She also said that there are “some really exciting shows coming up.” Specifically, she mentioned three shows that both the Student Rush program and the Young Ambassador Society program could attend.

“The next show that we’re doing, after ‘An American in Paris’ is ‘The Last Five Years,’ which I found to be very popular with people who are students around my age or younger,” she says.

“It’s a little bit more of a mature story, but I feel like the college-age crowd has

really connected with that musical. It’s a very beautiful musical.

“Another really exciting show that is coming up is ‘The Prom,’ which is perfect for high school age and anybody else who just wants to see a beautiful love story and a story of acceptance,” she says.

Phillips calls it a “very high-energy show” that’s perfect for those in high school.

“Then we’ll be having ‘Dream Girls,’ which is an incredible show full of glitz and glamor,” she adds.

“It’s just a really beautiful story. So, there are lots of things to get excited about.”

Phoenix Theatre Company

1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre.com

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By Josh Ortega

W

ith Spring Training just around the corner, Huss Brewing Co. is ready for thirsty fans at its new Papago Brewing Company taproom at Mesa Riverview — realizing a dream of owners Jeff and Leah Huss.

The taproom, occupying the former home of The Brass Tap at 1033 N. Dobson Road, is inside a stand-alone 2,100-square-foot, 104seat taproom and restaurant that will pour an ever-changing selection of 60 craft draft beers, plus packaged beers to go.

Its opening earlier this month coincided with Huss’ refresh of the Papago brand. Leah spent 14 years as co-owner of the original Papago Brewing Company in Scottsdale and helped pioneer the local craft beer scene, including the creation of Papago’s signature beer, Papago Orange Blossom.

Leah and her husband Jeff made the new taproom a personal passion project and says she long dreamed of reintroducing the Papago Brewing experience to the East Valley — not with a rehash or a replica of the old taproom but a new iteration.

“I really wanted to envision what Papago Brewing would look like in 2023,” Leah says.

“So, we’ll still have elements of a traditional European-style beer pub and vintage furnishings, yet very fresh and forward looking.”

Besides freshly crafted brews spanning the entire Huss family of beers, the new taproom will also feature local beers from Arizona,

along with small-batch and experimental beers. It includes past favorites such as Elsie’s Milk Stout and Hopago IPA, all paired with a compact menu of premium bar bites like the sausage and pretzel board as well as 12-inch pizzas, paninis, sandwiches and salads.

Most important, Leah says they’re excited to build on the solid craft beer foundation built by Brass Tap owners Jesse and Jason Rowe.

“They’ve been great stewards of the Mesa craft beer scene, and we’re excited to introduce Huss and Papago to the neighborhood,” she says.

The quiet locale at Mesa Riverview runs contrary to what’s happening for the rest of their locations — especially their taproom inside the Phoenix Convention Center.

Brewmaster Jeff — a diehard Chicago Cubs fan — looks forward to the next month and a half when Cubs fans will fill nearby Sloan Park as part for Spring Training.

Starting on Saturday, February 25, Papago will open for lunch at 11 a.m. and offer free shuttle from Papago Brewing Co. to Sloan Park for those attending Cubs Spring Training games.

MaLeea Cole-Briggs, Mesa Riverview property manager, says the taproom is a

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welcome addition to the center coming at an opportune time.

“The opening of Papago Brewing Co. couldn’t have been better timed,” Cole-Briggs says in a statement. “The pub’s wide selection of craft beers and old-world ambiance will provide a comfortable gathering space that we are sure our guests, including the area’s top sports fans and tourists, will heartily embrace.”

Leah and Jeff have 35 years of combined experience in the brewing industry.

Jeff, a former head brewer for BJ’s Brewing in Chandler, attended the Siebel Institute in Chicago and the Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany.

Huss Brewing Co. opened in 2013 with taprooms inside the Tempe brewery.

In 2016, Huss acquired the Papago Brewing Company in Scottsdale, creating the newly formed Huss Family of Beers and transforming Huss into the third-largest brewer in the state.

Although the Scottsdale taproom eventually closed, Leah and Jeff made sure Papago’s pioneering spirit lived on, purchasing Papago Brewing Company in 2016 and expanding the product line to include Papago Cherry Blossom and the brand-new Papago Blueberry Wheat beers.

And now approaching nearly two decades of existence in the Arizona marketplace, Huss has taken the iconic brand to the next level with newly designed cans.

“This refreshing and iconic brand is almost 18 years old, so we wanted to give it a bright and fresh new feel,” Leah says. “The new cans really showcase the oranges and refreshing nature that has made Papago Orange Blossom one of Arizona’s favorite beers for almost two decades.”

Papago Brewing Company 1033 N. Dobson Road, Suite 104, Mesa 480.219.9922, papagobrew.com

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

BREWPUBS Cider Corps 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa, 480.993.3164, cidercorpsaz.com The veteran-owned and family-run Cider Corps is Arizona’s first cidery and taproom in Downtown Mesa. Its specialty craft ciders come in a range of styles, like Sangin’ Sangria, Mango Foxtrot and “Camuleflage.”

Four Peaks Brewery 1340 E. Eighth Street, Suite 104, Tempe, 480.303.9967, fourpeaks. com, check the website for other Valley locations Four Peaks is home of some of Arizona’s finest microbrews. Hidden on a back street in Tempe, Four Peaks honors Eighth Street with 8th Street Pale Ale. Huss Brewing Co. 1520 W. Mineral Road, Unit 102, Tempe, 602.441.4677, hussbrewing.com, check the website for other Valley locations The family-owned, locally brewed taproom serves up 24 beers on tap, including rotating Huss favorites, as well as wine, cider and local and international guest craft beers.

O.H.S.O. Eatery + nanoBrewery 4900 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.955.0358, ohsobrewery.com, check the website for other Valley locations O.H.S.O. stands for “Outrageous Homebrewer’s Social Outpost,” and it means every word of it, blending a restaurant, local nanobrewery and a dog-friendly social hotspot.

Saddle Mountain Brewing Company 15651 W. Roosevelt Street, Goodyear, 623.249.5520, saddlemountainbrewing.com

Saddle Mountain Brewing Company is the first microbrewery in Goodyear and is beloved by its customers and the community. It offers a full menu along with a variety of Taildragger craft beers all made in-house. There is something for everyone here, considering its wide variety of styles to choose from. The award-winning brewer ensures the beers are all top-notch and enjoyable.

SanTan Brewing Co. 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, 480.917.8700, santanbrewing.com The Arizona-based, award-winning taphouse features diverse pub grub, a large selection of beer brewed in-house and, at times, occasional live music. SanTan houses a wide variety of Southwestern-style ales and lagers brewed to be refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for any situation.

CLUBS/BARS Bodega 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite 110, Glendale, 623.877.7673, bodegaaz.com South Beach-themed Bodega boasts the flavors of Miami and Cuba in the heart of the Westgate Entertainment District. Specialty cocktails and dishes bring plenty of vibrancy to the palette. From brunch to nightlife, guests can escape to Bodega any time during the day.

Boulders on Broadway 530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe, 480.921.9431, bouldersonbroadway.com This hideaway offers a large draft beer selection and more cold craft and domestic bottles in the fridge.

Gallagher’s Sports Grill 7575 N. 16th Street, Phoenix, 602.997.0084, gallaghersaz.com,

check the website for other Valley locations Family owned and operated, Gallagher’s is where visitors and Arizonans alike can find great food and service. Peppered with highdefinition televisions, Arizona’s family of local sports grills also features off-track betting, karaoke, trivia and exciting ball games. It boasts a good value price and homestyle service, which attracts return customers.

Giligin’s Bar and Shrimp Hut 4251 N. Winfield Scott Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.874.2264, giliginsbar.com Known as a “sandbar and shrimp hut,” Giligin’s makes patrons feel as if they’re on vacation.

Headquarters Grill Bar Sushi 16041 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center Drive, Peoria, 623.547.5577, headquartersaz.com An upbeat, energetic American-style bar and grill with a twist located in the P83 Entertainment District, Headquarters features everything from tried-and-true classics to fresh, hand-crafted sushi. With a full bar, 32 taps and more than 60 televisions on-site, this is a premier place to grab a drink, some food and catch a game.

Max’s Sports Bar 6727 N. 47th Avenue,

Glendale, 623.937.1671, americangreyhoundracing.com Established in 1979, Max’s features more than 100 flat-screen televisions, a recently redeveloped smoking patio, and broadcasts of almost every major sporting event for fans to watch and follow their favorite teams.

Ostrich Bar 10 N. San Marcos Place, Chandler, 480.917.4903, crustrestaurants. com/the-ostrich Located in the basement of Crust Chandler, the speakeasy is a neighborhood craft cocktail lounge inspired by the city’s rich history, dating back to 1912. Classic drinks, historical furniture and timeless service aim to establish the East Valley as a craft cocktail destination. There are no signs on the door. Look for the red light and meet the group in the basement.

Old Town Tavern 7320 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, 480.945.2882, oldtowntavernaz.com This little bar, located in Old Town Scottsdale and nestled right on the path leading to the Scottsdale Civic Center Park, is a gem for everyone who loves good times, live music and amazing cocktails. It offers a full bar, outdoor patio and upper deck, and smoking area and is wheelchair accessible.

CASINOS

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PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

EVERYBODY WANTS SOME Fan Halen embraced in Van Halen’s hometown

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

F

an Halen wasn’t nervous about playing The Mixx in Pasadena, California, the hometown of its namesake, Van Halen.

Several years ago, Fan Halen played at a Pasadena bar for Greg Renoff, who penned the book “Van Halen Rising.”

A who’s who of Van Halen fans, friends and family filled the venue.

“All the people in and around the band back then participated in the book and they were there,” says Fan Halen guitarist Derek Fuller. “The pressure, as you can imagine, was intense. We were a little concerned. But people came up to us and said, ‘We just went back in time.’ It was really, really special.

“From that standpoint, the pressure is a little bit off. We’ve performed in front of the most critical people.”

Fan Halen headlines Casino Arizona on Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18, to celebrate the music of the “Hot for Teacher” band.

“We love the music,” Fuller said of Van Halen. “We’re fans just like everybody else.

We celebrate that music and that era when

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

they ruled rock ’n’ roll.”

Based in Huntington Beach, California, Fan Halen was founded more than 10 years ago and has since played around the world, including Japan, South and Central America, Canada and Mexico.

Fan Halen focuses on Van Halen’s first six albums, from 1970 to 1984 — not “Van Hagar,” when Sammy Hagar replaced original singer David Lee Roth.

The band features vocalist Ernie Berru, who uncannily resembles Roth. Fuller recreates Eddie’s riffs and enthusiastic live persona.

Bassist Andy Catts is a doppelganger for Michael Anthony — in terms of looks, musicianship and vocals. Alex Van Halen’s drumming comes courtesy of Michael Thompson, who brings a 1981 18-piece double-barreled bass drum Ludwig kit.

“If you’re a tribute band and you have a passion for that music, it transcends into your show. We lived it, breathed it. It’s what we love.”

Fuller says Fan Halen worked for about three years to perfect its live show.

“The biggest compliment is someone who said, ‘That just took me back to 1979, the Forum, when I was in high school. I brought a date,’” Fuller says. “‘That show changed my life and your show brought me right back.’

“When we’d see rock shows like Aerosmith and Kiss, it was just four dudes kind of rocking out. Nothing was wrong with that.

When Van Halen came out, it was like a party. David Lee Roth was this ringmaster doing the splits off the riser and Eddie playing guitar, jumping around like crazy, too. It was just a party, and you couldn’t help but feel so elated. We bring it, too.”

BRINGING THE SOUND As a teenage guitar player in Hacienda Heights, Fuller started following Aerosmith and Ted Nugent — until Van Halen came on the scene.

“Hundreds of millions of other guitar players and I gravitated toward them,” Fuller recalls. “It was so different and so impactful.

It was an easy choice for me. There’s only one choice for me: It was Van Halen.

Fan Halen WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18 WHERE: Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale COST: Tickets start at $15 INFO: casinoarizona.com, ticketmaster.com, fanhalen.net

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINO | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com Wild Horse Pass is the largest of Gila River Hotel Casinos’ three locations, offering more than 1,100 slot machines and table games including blackjack and roulette. The AAA four diamond-rated hotel accompanies a 1,400-seat entertainment venue that hosts premier acts and six restaurants to choose from for a premier dining experience.

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino 15091 S. Komatke Lane, Laveen 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino features over 1,300 slot machines and table games along with a premium player’s club lounge and a 600-seat entertainment venue. Customeracclaimed guest service creates an ideal experience at the boutique hotel, and with signature dining options.

Lone Butte Casino 1077 S. Kyrene Road, Chandler 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com More than 1,200 slots and table games highlight the action at Lone Butte Casino, along with six restaurants including Aroma Coffee & Pasticceria and Coverall Deli.

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9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com Casino Arizona 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com Talking Stick Resort boasts 240,000 square feet of gaming, including a wide selection of penny slots. Casino Arizona has more than 900 ticket-pay multidenominational slot machines, live blackjack and other table games, and live fast-action keno. Both locations offer a wide range of dining and nightlife options — Talking Stick Resort boasts several venues for entertainment.

DESERT DIAMOND CASINOS & ENTERTAINMENT

Desert Diamond West Valley Casino 9431 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale 623.877.7777, ddcaz.com/west-valley Conveniently located near the Westgate Entertainment District, Desert Diamond Arena and State Farm Stadium, the casino features more than 1,400 slot machines, ample parking and a food court. The Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise’s two-year expansion of the casino is finally finished.

The casino upgraded to a full-scale casino and resort with a larger gaming floor, restaurants, bars, Class III games, table games and other

amenities.

Desert Diamond Casino-Tucson 7350 S. Nogales Highway, Tucson Desert Diamond Casino-Sahuarita 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment Why Highway 86, Milepost 55, Ajo 1.866.332.9467, ddcaz.com Sahuarita boasts a showroom that has featured 98 Degrees, Chris Daughtry and Willie Nelson. Watch all the big games at Sahuarita’s sports bar.

CASINO DEL SOL

5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson 1.855.765.7829, casinodelsol.com The Pascua Yaqui Tribe is a federally recognized tribe with nearly 19,000 enrolled members. The tribe owns and operates several enterprises including Casino Del Sol, a AAA four diamond-rated casino resort and one of the Best Hotels in Arizona named

by U.S. News & World Report; Casino of the Sun; Estrella at Casino Del Sol, a 151room hotel; AVA Amphitheater, a 5,000seat open-air concert venue named Casino Arena/Amphitheater of the Year by Casino Entertainment Awards; Sewailo Golf Club, a par-72 championship course designed by Native American professional golfer Notah Begay III; and the Del Sol Marketplace.

WE-KO-PA CASINO RESORT

10438 N. Fort McDowell Road, Fort

McDowell 480.789.5300, wekopacasinoresort.com With a huge gambling area, it’s almost impossible to play all the games available.

The casino sports over 800 slot machines, three-card poker, blackjack and more.

Also available are keno and bingo areas, with the bingo hall having nonsmoking and smoking sections. When you get hungry, Ahnala is a nice place to have a casual sit-down for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try Ember for a fine-dining experience featuring a dining space that overlooks the scratch kitchen. The menu is complemented by a specialty cocktail menu, whiskey library and an extensive wine list.

HON-DAH RESORT & CASINO

777 Highway 260, Pinetop 1.800.929.8744, hon-dah.com If you aren’t enticed by the slots, poker, delicious food and drinks and the wonderful hotel, then how about this?

Hon-Dah Resort & Casino is perfectly located for those winter sport lovers and offer fantastic accommodations for snow sports. If you’re into fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, skiing, snowboarding or all of it, then this hotel is for you.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINO | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

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FAMILY

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FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

UNDER THE BIG TOP Circus Americana creates family, lifelong memories

By Summer Aguirre

C

ircus Americana believes that the Big Top is its living room — and each person who steps into its tent becomes a part of its family.

Presented by the Chandler-based Taylor family, the all-human extravaganza creates the nostalgia of a vintage circus while presenting a contemporary twist. From death-defying acrobatic feats to innovative acts with a comedic flair, Circus Americana invites guests of all ages to encounter an enchanting blend of illusion and spectacle.

For its opening in the Valley this spring, Circus Americana is slated for performances every Thursday to Sunday from Thursday, March 16, to Sunday, April 2, at Bell Bank Park in Mesa.

“I think people love having experiences, and we think this is just an absolutely wonderful experience — coming to the circus is an experience,” says the Taylor family patriarch, Martin, who is a fire artist, juggler and stilt walker. “People can come to enjoy the thrill, the excitement, the love, the tenderness of the show itself with their family, and they’ll bring home memories for a lifetime.”

Launched as The Taylor Family Circus in the early 2000s, Circus Americana consists of the core Taylor family, which includes Martin and his wife, Barbara, and their seven children. The kids range from school-age to adults, and all are performers in the show.

The Taylors are joined by over a dozen other individuals, some of whom are extended family members, that accompany them as performers on stage and manage concessions and merchandise.

Christened “Circus Americana” to honor the American traditions of the circus, the Taylor family’s circus is equivalent to stepping into “The Greatest Showman” with a modern-day flair.

Martin says their production is geared toward

families, adding that those who like a “fun, loving, wholesome, apple pie type of show” will enjoy themselves at Circus Americana.

A typical show is split into two acts, consisting of a variety of performances for the audience to gasp in awe.

Kicking off with a mesmerizing stage illusion and magic show segment, the numbers range from vampires contorting in impossible positions to an exciting aerial fire-eating performance.

Elia Taylor, the family’s eldest daughter and a choreographer, acrobat and contortionist, performs a skillful pointe ballet routine on the tightrope. She is one of the few individuals in the world who has mastered this art.

“We also usually have one of my cousins.

He is a strongman, one of the most amazing in the world. We’re so honored that he’ll be doing this show with us,” Elia says. “He does bending metal and is a fabulous whip artist — he puts out candles with a single whip, it is pretty amazing. I hold my breath when he does his act.”

After enjoying the spectacles of the show, guests can hop into the circus ring for a meetand-greet and photo opportunity with the strongman, pirates, mermaid, music box dolls and the rest of the cast.

“Circus is such an amazing art form. There’s so many different facets of it. And when you’re given the opportunity to practice circus, you want to be able to do a little bit of everything,” Elia

says. “So that’s the great thing about our circus, is that we’re given the chance to be a part of so many different skills, get to be a part of so many different places and get to meet so many different people.”

What sets Circus Americana apart from other productions is its intimacy and the opportunity for its performers to connect with each and every one of their audience members.

“When you’re in our circus tent, because every seat is only like 5 to 10 feet away, everyone is so close that you could reach out and touch them, so you can see them,” Elia says.

Not only does this make the experience more personable for spectators, but for the performers as well. They love interacting with their audiences and value each individual person.

With the circus’ personable setting, the cast has witnessed little girls in awe at the acrobats and wanting to go up high in the air just like them, little boys thrilled to shake the strongman’s hand and be lifted by him, and excited grandmothers who want to go onstage and hang out with the clowns.

“As a performer, you get to see that wonder and enjoyment on every one of those faces,” Elia says.

“It’s very rewarding. It’s why we love what we do.

It’s pretty beautiful.”

Being able to share the thrilling experiences of the circus, or even just a single unforgettable moment, is a privilege for the Circus Americana

team.

“We believe that as circus performers and as children of God, that we are supposed to take care of people,” Elia says.

“The moment you’re in our circus, you’re family, and we’re here to take care of you because we love you already,” she adds.

The family circus has entertained audiences as far away as Kentucky. While they’ve spent more time on the road in recent years, the Taylors love to perform in their home state in Arizona.

“We’re just thrilled to be able to do what we love to do and to share that, and we’re excited that Bell Bank Park is giving us that opportunity,” Martin says. “It’s an absolutely stunning and beautiful facility, and it’s going to be an absolutely wonderful experience for anybody who comes out — they will enjoy the show and the park.”

Circus Americana WHEN: Various times Thursday through Sunday from March 16 to April 2 WHERE: Bell Bank Park, 6321 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa COST: $25 general admission (bleachers), $45 VIP (seats) INFO: circusamericana.com

MUSIC

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LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $12-$15

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR

By Connor Dziawura

MARCH 1 The Black Hole

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets at the door

Eagles

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $244-$395

Josue’s Haunted Honkytonk Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

MARCH 3

Acoustic Songs and Stories w/ Marcia Ball and Tinsley Ellis

Don’t Panic, Tarot Blood and Sons of Providence

Tina Tinas w/Roger’s Tom Jones and the Motown Blossoms

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15-$20

Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater, 3 p.m., $32-$48

The Grand Pricks

MARCH 6

The Rebel Lounge, 5:30 p.m., $10-$13

M3F Fest w/Jamie xx

Hance Park, 1 p.m., $90-$275

Mania: The ABBA Tribute

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $25-$55

Jake Wesley Rogers Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $25

Kimbra

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $27

Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

Marauda

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $30

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

Alfredo Rodriguez and Pedrito Martinez Duo

Marc Anthony

Paul Cherry and The Mattson 2

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 8 p.m., $40-$52

Desert Diamond Arena, 8 p.m., $61-$451

Rodney Atkins

A-Trak w/Lance Fairchild

Gila River Resorts & Casinos Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $45-$75

Bob James

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

MARCH 7 Adam Melchor

Samia

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Sandra Bassett

Future Teens

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Swords & Steel

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

North by North

The Haymarket Squares

The Nile, 6 p.m., $15

The Spill Canvas

Jerro

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $30-$1,500

MARCH 2

M3F Fest w/Maggie Rogers

Acoustic Songs and Stories w/ Marcia Ball and Tinsley Ellis

Hance Park, 1:30 p.m., $90-$275

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Mad Caddies

MARCH 5

Lucki

Walter Studios, 9 p.m., $15-$27

Mark Guiliana

Tempe Center for the Arts, 8 p.m., $42-$52

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $35-$70 Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50 The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $13-$15 The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

Bktherula

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22-$125

Cory Branan

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Cuco

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., sold out

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin The Nash, 4 p.m., free

N8NOFACE

The Underground, 7:30 p.m., $15

Pokey LaFarge

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $20$25

The Southbound Rider Band: A Tribute to the Music of the Legendary Allman Brothers Band The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets at the door

Valley Bar, 6:45 p.m., $16 Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $16.50-$1,500

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $25

Norma Jean

The Nile, 7:30 p.m., $23-$73

OG Nixin

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $15.50

Riley Green

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $75

RollingDusk

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Whethan

Women’s Blues Band Showcase

American Authors

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $25

Albert Cummings

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7:30 p.m., $40-$65

Sik-K

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $40-$150

Simple Minded Symphony Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Static-X

The Van Buren, 6:30 p.m., $30-$105

Stephen Sanchez

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17

Arlie

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

MARCH 8

Beth Lederman

Charlie Parr w/Marisa Anderson

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Billie and Blues Eyes featuring John Pizzarelli and Catherine Russell

Cradle of Filth and DevilDriver Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29.50-$70

The Nash, 7 p.m., free

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Steena Murray Mainstage, 3 p.m., $44-$64

Visions of Atlantis

Francine Reed

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $18-$20

The Nash, 3 p.m., $37-$45

MARCH 4

Freddie Dredd

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $20

Bossa Nova 77

Lostboycrow

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $6-$21

Remi Goode & Gabe Lehrer and Hot House Orchids

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., sold out

Steve Adelson

Musica Jazz & Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $22.50

Brian Lopez

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $18

CH3

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$125 Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16

Scottsdale Civic Center, noon, free

On

Skegss

Superstition Jazz Orchestra Thee Sacred Souls Tiffany Day

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

MARCH 9

MARCH 11

102.5 KNIX Secret Show

Big Pete Pearson

Marquee Theatre, time TBA, see website for tickets

Mesa Jazz & Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $25.45-$34.45

Apes of State

Bleeding Through

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

Carrie Underwood

The Underground, 7 p.m., $12 The Nash, 4 p.m., free

DVSN

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $32.50-$157.50

Tessa Karrys, and Carlos Azarte and the Kind Souls

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Steena Murray Mainstage, 7 p.m., $28-$48

Enjambre

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15-$18

The Underground, 6 p.m., $18

MARCH 13

Old 97’s

Los Lobos w/Gaby Moreno

G.B. Leighton

Runa

Gideon

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $60-$150

Poi Dog Pondering

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., sold out

Styx

Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $40-$125

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $45

Viper Club and popsiclestickairport

Steve ’N’ Seagulls

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $12-$15

The Rhythm Room, 4 p.m., $20

MARCH 10 Cafuné

The Devil’s Back

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Dream, Ivory

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Escape the Fate

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $25

House Party R&B w/Geo Bowman The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Max Cooper w/Alix

Walter Studios, 9 p.m., $15-$22

Rebecca De La Torre w/Bohemian Insurgence The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Styx

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $40-$125

Vanic

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $15-$20

Yheti

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $23-$1,500

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $55 or free for kids 12 and younger

The Nash, 3 p.m., $37-$45

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $5

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $10-$15

Trey McLaughlin & the Sounds of Zamar

Doni & Dara

Kash’d Out

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $15

Marca Registrada

decker.

Scottsdale Civic Center, noon, free

Dixie Longate

We3 w/Sheila Earley

Enumclaw

Legendary Shack Shakers

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $18

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$35

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

Exploding Oranges

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15

Phoenix College Combos & Big Band

Celebrity Theatre, 7 p.m., $39-$169

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Steena Murray Mainstage, 3 p.m., $15-$48

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $27-$30

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Steena Murray Mainstage, 7:30 p.m., $28-$68

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $20-$25

The Beths

Dave Potter & Retro Groove

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Krooked Kings

MARCH 16

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Gretchen Menn and Daniele Gottardo

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $18-$83

Tank and the Bangas

Deke Dickerson

J White & the Dubbs

Of Good Nature

97

Desert Diamond Arena, 7:30 p.m., see website for tickets

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $71-$544.25

The Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., tickets available at the door

Vérité

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$39

Jimmy Buffet

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

OV7

The Nile, 6:30 p.m., $20

Eddie 9V

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $28.50-$33.50

Matt Vandal

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Our Last Night

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $26

Prince Daddy & the Hyena and Drug Church The Nile, 6:30 p.m., $22

Quarters of Change

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$19

Ruthie Foster

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25-$28 Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

We Are the Union, Catbite and Kill Lincoln The Underground, 6 p.m., $20

MARCH 17 ATLiens

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $30

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$54.50

Grupo Arriesgado

Sultan + Shephard

MARCH 14

Haliene

Terminally Ill and Skull Drug

Acoustic Alchemy

The Hostage Situation

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $20-$1,500 Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15-$20

Turn the Page (Bob Seger tribute by the Sam Morrison Band)

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $38.50-$54.50

Andi

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15

Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $25

Fleshgod Apocalypse and Obscura

MARCH 12

Magic Giant

Altan

Queensrÿche

Musical Instrument Museum, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., $44.50-$49.50

Clark Gibson

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$22 Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $30-$60

MARCH 15

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Aetherus

Death to All

AJ Lee and Blue Summit

The Nile, 6 p.m., $35

Doll Skin

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Dumbo Gets Mad

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$38.50

Matt Nathanson

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $47.50

Hirie

The New Amsterdams and Kevin Devine

Jon Snodgrass

Selwyn Birchwood

Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $20-$35 Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $19-$23 The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $54.50-$650 Darkstar, 9 p.m., $20-$100 The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., $10-$15

Lew Tabackin/Randy Brecker Quartet

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $47-$55

Liar’s Handshake

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., free

Simon Doty

Walter Studios, 9 p.m., $19-$22

Spyro Gyra

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., sold out

Tanya Tucker

Talking Stick Resort’s Salt River Grand Ballroom, 8 p.m., $45-$55

Taylor Swift

State Farm Stadium, 6:30 p.m., sold out

Whiskey Myers

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $49.50

MARCH 18 Banda Cuisillos

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $40-$120

continued on pg. 98

RETURN OF THE WITCH 98

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Delta Rae preparing to say goodbye — for now

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

T

he folk-rock band Delta Rae is preparing to take a hiatus to work on a musical.

First the Durham, North Carolina-based act will bring its mysteriously themed tour to the Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix on Monday, March 27.

“This is the ‘Return of the Witch’ tour,” singer Brittany Hölljes says.

“For a lot of people, that is a mysterious moniker. But for us, it is just an acknowledgement of this character we’ve created and has been embodied in a lot of our songs.”

The tour is honoring the transition to the musical, which they hope will go to Broadway.

Hölljes and her two brothers/bandmates, Ian and Eric, spent the pandemic working on the musical. It gave them a place “to call home,” she says.

“Our fans are really the reason we’re able to do anything,” she says. “They helped us stay afloat during the pandemic by joining our fan club. When they joined, we gave them sneak previews of the musical as it was being written.

“We have a lot of people invested in it from a fan standpoint as well. Having this creative outlet during the pandemic was incredible. We

continued from pg. 97 Dr. Fresch

also released two albums during the pandemic.

So, we had a lot going on.”

The Crescent Ballroom show — and the rest of the tour — have a two-fold mission.

“It’s been really exciting. This tour is a little bit like, A, it’s been a while since we’ve seen you. Come check it out as, B, we transition to this next new thing.”

Hölljes says the Crescent Ballroom show is going to be stripped down and “super earthy.”

“It’s going to be mystical and witchy for sure,” she says with a smile. “If you’re into tarot or astrology or just like earthy harmony and music, I think you’ll like the show a lot.”

Hölljes, Ian and Eric have been performing together since they were young. They performed in musicals, choirs and a cappella groups in school.

“We always sang,” she says. “I would argue.

‘We’ll be near each other, but whatever. Fine.’ It wasn’t until they went to college that I think we all started to respect each other as individual artists and listen to each other’s voices in a way that proved I was a huge fan of theirs.”

Known for its song “If I Loved You” with Lindsay Buckingham, Delta Rae was founded when Hölljes was 19, in 2009. Hölljes agrees that this tour is bittersweet.

“The band is always going to be a huge focus of our lives,” she says.

Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $25

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 7 p.m., $50$70

Harmonica Blues Band Showcase The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Inzo

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $21-$1,500

KenMODE

The Underground, 7 p.m., $14

Kolton Moore & the Clever Few Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $20

Minnesota

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $20

Mismiths

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $10

Moontricks w/Equanimous Walter Studios, 9 p.m., $22-$26

“However, as we start families and stuff, touring is going to be less of the driving force of the band. We’ll keep making albums together and we’ll keep playing shows together as we can. We now have four babies in the band and everybody is nesting and exploring all of their various passions.”

Hölljes says it’s “a fun time to diversify.”

“Unfortunately, the pandemic derailed a lot of stuff,” the newlywed says. “I think it gave everybody permission to get married and

have babies. We’re definitely in the phase of preparing for parenthood.”

Black Violin

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$46.50

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $42-$68

Delta Rae WHEN: 8 p.m. Monday, March 27 WHERE: Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com

MARCH 20

Taylor Swift

Japhar Pullen and Gabriel Bey & Friends

Elle King

Scottsdale Civic Center, noon, free

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $40-$60

Together Pangea

Jessie Murph

The Magnetic Fields

Vader

Kelli Baker Band

State Farm Stadium, 6:30 p.m., sold out Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $18-$22 The Nile, 6 p.m., $26

Vance Joy

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $45-$360

Walter Trout

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

MARCH 19 Algiers

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15 The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Los Amigos Invisibles

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30

Stan Sorenson

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$64.50

Michael Rudolph Cummings

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Nav

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $69.50-$199.50

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Protomartyr

True Heart Troubadours: Tim O’Brien with Jan Fabricius and Mary Gauthier with Jaimee Harris

Tropa Magica and The Mauskovic Dance Band

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

continued on pg. 100

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Doll Skin to call it quits after Phoenix gig

By Alex Gallagher

L

ongtime Doll Skin drummer Meghan Herring says it’s surreal a decade ago her biggest goal was to form a mostly female band that would compete in Rock Rev. — a battle of the bands-style competition at her school, Desert Mountain High School.

Herring, also a student at the School of Rock Scottsdale at the time, recruited her peers — vocalist Sydney Dolezal, guitarist Alex Snowden and bassist Nicole Rich — to form a band.

Not only did the band win the competition, which had a pool of nearly 15 bands, but it captured the attention of now-former Megadeth bassist and Scottsdale resident David Ellefson.

Ellefson approached the band nearly a year after its victory to serve as Doll Skin’s manager and producer. The band agreed.

Its first EP, “In Your Face” — produced and released by Ellefson’s label EMP Label Group — hit the airwaves in 2015 and immediately garnered the attention of promoters.

“I started feeling it, particularly, when we did the second year of Warped Tour because we were having crowds in random states and in places that we either never played before or we played before there was a small crowd and now there’s a big one,” Herring says.

Dolezal, however, awaited the next big accomplishment.

“It’s interesting because I feel like we’ve always been asked the question of when will you know that you’ve made it? And before we got on Warped Tour, I always said when we got on Warped Tour and before we went to Europe, it was always when we went to Europe,” Dolezal recalls. “It never felt like I was reaching a point that I wouldn’t feel like there was more to do.”

SEPARATE WAYS

GET OUT OF TOWN With the support of Ellefson and the musicians’ parents, Doll Skin made enough money to buy an RV to tour. The band hit the road in early 2015 for its first tour, a four-gig West Coast run opening for Ellefson’s project, Metal Allegiance.

The tour offers continued. In 2016, the band played 110 shows, supporting the likes of Otep and Hellyeah, and landed a headline tour.

After the tour, the band returned to the studio. The result, “Manic Pixie Dreamgirl,” which debuted in June 2017, spawned the Top 40 hit “Daughter.” It also landed the group on the Vans Warped Tour.

Herring says she didn’t feel successful until after Warped Tour.

BUILDING A COMMUNITY One unexpected accomplishment was the creation of community within its fan base.

Doll Skin referred to its fans as its “Family of Strangers” — an ode to the first track on its debut EP. That changed when an unexpected visitor crashed a writing session for “Love is Dead and We Killed Her” in a Big Bear Lake, California, cabin.

Each morning, they awoke to rat feces and became fixated on finding the unpleasant visitor. They never did. However, the rat inspired the album artwork and they redubbed their fan club “The Rat Pack.”

With a new community forming after the release of the record in June 2019, Dolezal felt that the band had succeeded.

“Right before the pandemic, we were doing some touring, we were hitting some headlining shows that were doing so well, and that was when I thought, ‘This is our crowds, this is our show, and there’s a lot of people here.’ It started to hit me and was really cool,” recalls Dolezal, an alumnus of Arizona School for the Arts.

Doll Skin had just finished a tour with New Found Glory when the COVID-19 pandemic was declared.

“Right before the pandemic, it felt like we were starting to take off, which was upsetting, as we were making so much traction and then the world had to shut down on it,” Dolezal says.

Rich and Snowden left the band, which was sidelined from touring in 2020, to pursue other interests.

Snowden joined the nu-metal band Tallah alongside her longtime boyfriend Max Portnoy, son of metal drummer Mike Portnoy. Rich owns an LA jewelry shop called “Strawbaby.”

This left Herring and Dolezal in unfamiliar territory, having to replace two founding members. They found two equally capable musicians — guitarist Tori Ross and bassist Tay Fischer. In July 2022, the band was dealt a further blow when Herring departed, citing mental and physical health concerns.

Although Dolezal pressed on with drummer Syd McVicker for another jaunt, the singer admits it didn’t feel the same.

“As much as I love the people that I decided to bring with me on tour when I was still trying to make it work without Meghan and Alex and Nicole, it felt like I was not making music with my friends anymore,” Dolezal says.

Dolezal says this was compounded by rising costs for touring musicians.

“Everyone I bought on the tours with us all needed to be compensated because they had invested all of the emotional labor into it, and I couldn’t expect them to just set aside their life

continued from pg. 98

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $18

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $60-$190

Morbid Angel

Fit for an Autopsy

Titus Andronicus

Lúnasa

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $16

MARCH 21 Badflower

The Nile, 7 p.m., $27-$30

The Jive Aces

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $20

Mapache

Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $30-$60 The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

MARCH 22

The Nile, 6 p.m., $25

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

and make all the sacrifices I’ve made,” Dolezal says. “Merch costs also started going up, and so did the cost of the RV that we had, and instead of being able to have the four of us pitch in, like it always had been, it just became me.”

Because of this, Dolezal plans to disband Doll Skin.

FOR OLD TIMES’ SAKE After talking with Herring, they decided to say farewell by reuniting with the original lineup for one last show. They will play deep cuts and the new single “Melancholia.”

“I am so deeply grateful for everyone who is still listening to us, and I wish it didn’t have to end like this,” Herring says. “But I’m just happy that we were able to make this show happen and get the original four together.”

Dolezal has a similar sentiment.

“There are not enough ways that I can say I love you to the Rat Pack for me to feel like I can get it across,” Dolezal says. “If I could give them the world I would, but in the meantime, I hope that they enjoy the show and enjoy the final single.”

Doll Skin w/Rio Wiley, Lilac Cadillac and Bite The Hand WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, March 12 WHERE: The Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix COST: $18 INFO: dollskinband.com, rebellounge.com Arizona Financial Theatre, 7 p.m., $39.50-$118.50

Weedeater

The Underground, 7 p.m., $25

MARCH 23 Caloncho

Arcy Drive

The Resinators, Desert Fish and Indica Roots Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $15-$20

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

CIX

Skillet and Theory of a Deadman

continued on pg. 102

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE MARCH 2023

101

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102

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

THE RESURRECTION OF ROCK Theory of a Deadman defies extinction with ‘Dinosaur’

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski ancouver-born Theory of a Deadman’s four musicians are speckled throughout North America.

Singer/guitarist Tyler Connolly lives in Los Angeles, while guitarist/ backing vocalist Dave Breen is in Montgomery, Alabama; bassist Dean Back is outside of Vancouver, British Columbia; and drummer/ backing vocalist is in Las Vegas.

So, Back is anticipating a reunion with his Theory of a Deadman bandmates on the upcoming dates on the Rock Resurrection Tour with Skillet and Saint Asonia. The jaunt comes to Arizona Federal Theatre on Wednesday, March 22.

“Since COVID, we haven’t been out on an extended touring run,” Back says. “We did a quick little run of Australia and New Zealand with Halestorm. The Skillet/Saint Asonia tour is going to be a lot of fun. The four of us live in different cities around North America. Unless we’re on tour, we don’t spend a lot of time together. I’m excited to get back with the boys and join my other family.”

The band is pushing the next chapter of its career, the album “Dinosaur,” which releases Friday, March 17.

“We’re going to bring big production,” Back says. “It’s going to be a big rock show — so much fun.

“We’re going to have some new songs, some old songs. We’ve been at it for over 20 years.

This is our eighth record. It’s getting harder and harder to pick a set list. Early on in the tour, the set list may change a little bit. By Phoenix, we

should be all streamlined and ready to go.”

With “Dinosaur,” the title track, which opens the collection, packs a powerful punch musically and emotionally, with the lyrics, “Hey, kids, boys and girls, now we’ve really done it. It’s the end of the world. … Now, we’re going out, going out like the dinosaur.”

“Head in the Clouds” shows off Theory of a Deadman’s ability to flawlessly harmonize and write the quintessential rollicking pop song.

The breezy breakup song “Two of Us (Stuck)” takes the refrain of the Grover Washington Jr. and Bill Withers classic “Just the Two of Us” and twists it into trademark Theory of a Deadman aggression. “‘Two of Us (Stuck)’ is a cool song,” Back says. “Tyler wrote it while everyone was in quarantine. You hear so many songs of couples not really surviving the pandemic and being quarantined together for so long. It starts off nice and romantic but turns a little darker toward the end.”

“Dinosaur” is Theory of a Deadman’s followup to 2020’s “Say Nothing.” The forthcoming record was produced by Martin Terefe, whose credits include Jason Mraz and Yungblud, and recorded in Sweden’s Atlantis Studios.

Terefe also turned the knobs for Theory of a Deadman’s 2017 album “Wake Up Call,” but that was recorded in London. “‘Dinosaur’ came together really great and organically,” Back says. “It was a cool, new experience for us. We recorded the first half in Stockholm, Sweden, at the studio ABBA used to record at. They did some other rock records there. Ghost was just recording there.

“We were there for three weeks. We banged out all the drums, bass and guitars. It was

cool to live in Stockholm for three weeks. My family is from Denmark, so I love being in Scandinavia.”

Working with Terefe is “incredible, super comfortable,” Back explains.

“Martin’s like a fifth member,” he adds.

“He’s a crazy scientist. He hears all these things we don’t hear. He comes from more of a European musical background. He hears samples and mood stuff, synth sounds, etc.

He’ll be playing a song and he’ll say, ‘I have an idea. Let’s add some keyboard and cool, moody sounds.’ That really bring the songs even more to life.”

Theory of a Deadman has sustained its popularity for 20 years. They founded the band while jamming together in basements throughout high school in their hometown of North Delta, British Columbia.

Founded in 1999, Theory of a Deadman was the first band signed to Chad Kroeger’s 604 Records in 2001. The following year, they released their self-titled record.

In addition to 2008’s double-platinum breakthrough album, “Scars & Souvenirs,”

Theory of a Deadman has released the goldcertified “The Truth Is…” in 2011 and has scored a procession of hits.

When the bassist looks back on his twodecade career, he immediately thinks of the early days.

“It doesn’t seem like that long ago,” he says.

“I think about all the records we’ve released and what we’ve done since. We’ve been at it for quite a while. I just love performing. I love seeing fans and feeling the energy of being in a live venue with music. It’s addictive. During the couple years of lockdown, it was something I really missed in my life. Being able to tour again and getting it back feels like home.”

continued from pg. 100

Young Misery

and the Platters

Red Baraat

Zakir Hussain & Masters of Percussion

A Flock of Seagulls w/Strangelove

V

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Duel

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Eluveitie

The Nile, 7 p.m., $30

The Higgs

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $12-$15

Jimmy Carpenter Band

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

Kevin Kaarl

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., sold out

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7:30 p.m., $35-$65

MARCH 24 Andy Frasco & the U.N.

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $22-$52

Dom Flemons

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $28.50-$44.50

The Drifters, the Coasters

Gila River Resorts & Casinos Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $35-$65 The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $27.50

Garrett Jones

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $27-$35

Joan of Arkansas

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Layz

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $14.25-$19

Maná

Footprint Center, 8:30 p.m., $74.50-$975

Skillet and Theory of a Deadman w/Saint Asonia WHEN: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 22 WHERE: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $39.50 INFO: ticketmaster.com

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $13-$18

Roger Sanchez w/Pete Salaz Walter Studios, 9 p.m., $15-$27

Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $20-$65

Sugaray Rayford

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $22

MARCH 25 continued on pg. 104

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‘ON CLOUD NINE’ 104

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

American Authors’ Zac Barnett is having his ‘best day’

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

them.

Lead singer Zac Barnett’s mom lives in the Valley, and his fiancée grew up in Glendale.

“It’s awesome to go there,” Barnett says via Zoom. “I always have a bunch of family — the in-laws, my mom, all of them.”

On Sunday, March 5, Barnett is bringing his band back to Arizona to play an intimate show at Last Exit Live in Phoenix. He’s considering accepting requests, but the gig will showcase the band’s fourth studio album, “Best Night of My Life.”

“We’re playing small venues because it’s our first proper headlining tour in a while and we’re just starting to go into this album cycle,” he says. “And it just felt right. We wanted to keep it understated and just ease back into it.

“You can also expect all the feelings and heartfelt fun. You’re going to be laughing, crying and laughing again. No, it’s going to be a really, really beautiful show.”

“Best Night of My Life” is a companion piece to American Authors’ biggest hit, “Best Day of My Life.” Thanks to that single, Barnett has been able to live out his dream “in, essentially, the fullest capacity.”

“I always tell new, up-and-coming artists

and just professionals in general that it doesn’t happen overnight,” he says.

“We had to work endless years and hours working part-time jobs so we could press our own CDs. You just have to keep touring, never stop writing, never stop exploring and never stop collaborating.

“Because we were networking and booking our own tours, we met a producer who we kept writing with and we were able to write ‘Best Day of My Life,’ which changed everything.”

He says he loves the song, which has become a highlight reel favorite like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

“Everyone can sing it,” he says. “It doesn’t matter if you’re 18 years old or 58 years old, everyone’s going, ‘Just a small-town girl.’ It’s one of those things. I like to think ‘Best Day of My Life’ has that effect. When the chorus comes on, you may have never heard it, but subconsciously, you know it.”

Celebrating a decade in the business, American Authors is proud of “Best Night of My Life” as well.

“It’s really special,” he says. I’m telling people that it’s the most American Authors-sounding album that the Authors have ever done. We wanted this album, from beginning to end, to really encompass everything we’ve done over the last 10 years.

“So, we really wanted to take influence and these little nuggets from our entire career and just have those sprinkled into this album everywhere.”

Essentially, it’s a greatest hits of American Authors’ sound.

He’s looking forward to bringing that sound to the Valley, which he first visited 10 years ago.

“We had a friend who took us out, and he took us to Old Town Scottsdale,” he says.

“So, we’re barhopping and I’m in love with it. I thought it was amazing. It was so clean.

It’s beautiful. The weather’s great. I loved it so much that my crew — the American Authors guys — started calling me the Scottsdale (spokesman). I couldn’t stop talking about it.

When I moved out West (to LA), my mom, who likes to follow me around the country,

said she wanted to move to Phoenix.”

His fiancée’s parents moved to Scottsdale, so Barnett was on “cloud nine.”

“I still love it — if not more.”

continued from pg. 102

Puddle of Mudd

MARCH 26

MARCH 27

Carmela Y Mas

Delta Rae

Cisco and the Racecars, and Kim Weston

Harry Mack

W

hen American Authors brings the Best Night of My Life Tour to Last Exit Live, it will be a sort of hometown show for

The Amalgamated

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Free Throw

Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $20-$25

The Funky Latina Music Festival w/The Brown Boyz, Elyzr, Danny Bonilla, Big Bad Brond, Lissett Denis and DJ Awdre Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Kristin Korb Trio

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $47-$55

Maná

Desert Diamond Arena, 8 p.m., $384.50-$444.50

Meet Me @ the Altar

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $19-$22

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $35-$70

Queen Nation

Gila River Resorts & Casinos Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $35

Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show

Mesa Jazz & Blues Theater, 3 p.m., $24.50

Scottsdale Civic Center, noon, free

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Steena Murray Mainstage, 8 p.m., $38-$54

Copeland

The Sugar Thieves

Dave Henning

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $100

American Authors w/Billy Raffoul WHEN: 8 p.m. Sunday, March 5 WHERE: Last Exit Live, 717 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: lastexitlive.com, weareamericanauthors.com

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25 The Van Buren, 8:30 p.m., $47

Roseanne Cash

Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $62-$102

MARCH 28

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Girl God

Morgan Wade

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30

Mark and Maggie O’Connor

Vanessa Collier

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

Token

Wasted Eternities

Yeat

The Underground, 6 p.m., $10

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $27 Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $49.50-$173.50

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20 Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $44.50-$54.50

Michigander

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Tejon Street Corner Thieves

continued on pg. 106

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105

A SEA OF LOVE 106

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BREWS & SPIRITS | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Depeche Mode tribute is winning over skeptics

trangelove’s Brent Meyer has been honoring Depeche Mode since 2006.

But finally, he has found his “dream team” in singer Leo Luganskiy, acoustic/ electronic drummer Chris Olivas, and keyboards/percussionists Julian Shah-Tayler and James Evans.

“We’ve rotated out members until we landed our superhero Avengers dream team,” says Meyer, the “Martin Gore,” music director and multi-instrumentalist. When questioned, he’s “clearly” the Thanos of the group.

Depeche Mode has been in the band members’ blood for some time, thanks to the strength of the material.

“Depeche Mode has everything — fun, dancey beats, an emotional maturity and depth, especially as they evolved from the early ’90s onward,” Meyer says. “They expanded their sound. It challenges us and keeps us connected to it in an honest way. We connect with those feeling like we had when we were young fans of Depeche Mode.”

Strangelove is on tour with ’80s stars Flock of Seagulls, and the jaunt comes to The Van Buren on Friday, March 24. Touring with an original band gives credibility to Strangelove, even though Shah-Tayler released a much-acclaimed album, “Elysium,” recently, and Olivas is a

former member of Berlin.

“I think one of the attractions of us doing the tour was getting to perform for exactly the right audience who weren’t aware we existed because of us operating within the tribute paradigm,” Meyer says.

“People in their 40s and 50s who love new wave is the target demographic, and Depeche Mode may be one of their favorite bands.”

Shah-Tayler adds that a tour with Flock of Seagulls keeps it fresh for Strangelove.

“We’re used to headlining,” says Shah-Tayler, who hails from Leeds, England. “On this tour, we’re with the people who made the music. It keeps us humble and shows us different aspects of touring. We haven’t not headlined for the entire time I’ve been in the band. It’s humbling and marvelous as well.”

Songs from throughout the Depeche canon are recreated from the band’s debut, “Speak and Spell,” to 2017’s “Spirit.” Stage set pieces and in-show costume changes recall Depeche Mode’s different eras.

In the Valley, Strangelove has headlined and sold out the Chandler Center for the Arts and several shows at the Marquee Theater and The Van Buren.

“It’s nice to come back to some of these same venues, but in a different context,” Shah-Tayler says.

Although Strangelove is successful, ShahTayler admits that sometimes there’s a bit of pushback among music fans because it’s a tribute act.

“We’ve been getting some very, very, very excellent reactions, though,” he adds. “They’re very gracious with us — especially Mike (Score, Flock of Seagulls singer) and his wife.

“Depeche Mode fans are incredibly passionate about Depeche Mode, and they’ve been very embracing of us. We call them #depechefamily.

We love them. We know we have people we get along with. We do meet-and-greets after every show. We meet such wonderful people and, certainly, Arizona has some vociferous Depeche fans and I love it.”

The “David Gahan” in the band is Luganskiy, who was born in post-Soviet Union Russia and has lived in Brooklyn since he was a teen. He embodies Gahan onstage, from the Essex accent to dance moves and hand gestures. He says Depeche Mode’s songs are tricky.

“Ironically, the hardest songs to learn are the ones that are my favorite,” Luganskiy says. “There are some unexpected intricacies. For example, ‘In Your Room’ has lots of unconventional vocals and you don’t want to do it robotically. I keep relieving that intense emotion all the time.

“I call them so-called fun obstacles, even though that’s my toughest stuff.”

Depeche Mode is releasing a new album, “Memento Mori,” on March 24. Meyer calls it the perfect time for Strangelove’s tour.

“It only helps us when people are enquiring about us doing shows,” Meyer says. “On this tour, Depeche Mode is only playing eight cities in North America. It’s a pretty sparse tour. They’re expected to come back later in the year and fill in some gaps. That’s where we step in. They’re not playing Miami, but we are.”

Shah-Tayler adds, “It really helps that Martin talks about us in a positive light. We’re playing the songs that Depeche Mode normally doesn’t play live.”

continued from pg. 104

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

MARCH 31

Mod Sun

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

S

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $14-$18

Weyes Blood

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $24

MARCH 29 Alter Bridge

Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $45-$

Eddie Zuko

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $18-$50

MARCH 30 Bubba and the Big Bad Blues The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Exanimate

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $5

Radmilla Cody

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10$15

Reba

Footprint Center, 6:30 p.m., $74.75-$174.75

Reunion!: Bruce Forman, Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $44.50-$49.50

Hell

Flock of Seagulls w/Strangelove WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, March 24 WHERE: The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $27.50 INFO: thevanburen.com, depechetribute.com

The Nile, 7:30 p.m., $26

The Underground, 7 p.m., $15

Onyx

Holly Channell: A Tribute to Dorothy Fields

Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $27-$35

Jersey Boys Meets Mamma Mia

Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $25

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $25-$150 Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Snakehips

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $27.75-$1,500

Joanne Shaw Taylor

Thaikkudam Bridge

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $39-$99

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $60-$100

John Primer & Bob Corritore All Star Blues Revue

Tito Puente Jr.

Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $34-$76

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

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Room and Show packages starting at $426

Saturday, April 15, 2023

Saturday, April 29, 2023

Saturday, May 06, 2023

Tax & Resort fee included. Two room nights, Two tickets and transportation to and from LAUGHLIN EVENT CENTER!

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