North Valley Magazine 0108

Inside: events giving back inspiration healthy eats green cars

ultimate

Beautiful

kauai

Weight Loss

secrets

tropical nature as it was intended

And tie a

Yellow Ribbon

Kinch!

around it

packages from home supporting our troops

burning up the valley’s music scene

Barrett-Jackson’s

Steve Davis

talks cars

Restaurant · 3rd Annual ·

December/January 2009

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Awards

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December/January 2009

Contents

I N EV ERY I S S U E

15 PUBLISHERS’ NOTE 16 CONTRIBUTORS 18 CONNECT WITH US

F E AT U R ES

22 Third Annual Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards

Both new and familiar names grace this year’s Readers’ Choice Restaurant Award winners. Check out which restaurants your fellow readers consider the best in the Valley.

48 A Driver’s Market: Barrett-Jackson’s Steve Davis Talks Cars

22

Barrett-Jackson’s president Steve Davis gives us insight into the world of Barrett-Jackson and his own journey through the car-collecting world. Also, enjoy first-car stories by six prominent locals.

53 Holiday Gift Guide

Don’t finish your holiday shopping before consulting our Holiday Gift Guide!

80 The Beautiful Island of Kauai

Discover why Hawaii’s pristine island of Kauai makes a classic getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, couples in love, and travel enthusiasts.

N V P E O P LE / P L AC ES / T H I N G S

35 LOCAL PROFILE: Pat McMahon 35 BOOK GIVEAWAY: Hidden Arizona 36 GIVING BACK: Arizona’s Children Association 38 AZ FUN FACTS: The Fall of Santa Claus 40 MIND & BODY: The Gift of Good Health 41 MUSIC: Kinch: Burning Up the Valley’s Music Scene 42 ASK THE TECHNO 44 ART & CULTURE: Set Designers Make ‘Improbable Fiction’ Possible

46 CHARITY SPOTLIGHT: And Tie a Yellow Ribbon around It: Packages from Home

80

December/January 2009

Contents

S T Y LE

32 DESIGN SENSE: Design Your Style: So Nice to Make a Home for the Holidays

72 JEWELS: Six Secrets to Finding the Best Values When Shopping for Jewelry

EN T ERTA I N I N G

76 BY THE GLASS: Like Bogart and Bacall: Wine and Food Pairing 92 FLAVOR: Winter Warm-Up 92 FLAVOR HOTSPOTS: Pizza & Wine 93 DINING GUIDE

H E A LT H

62 HEALTH & FITNESS: Ultimate Weight-Loss Secrets: Five Experts’ Tips That Will Change Your Life

92

64 BEAUTY: Chocolate and Pumpkins: Nature’s Treats for our Complexions

BUZZ

58 TECHNOLOGY: Gadget Gift Guide 60 DAY TRIPPERS & WEEKENDERS: ‘Tis the Season 68 AUTO TRENDS: Smart Car: An Economical and Fashionable Accessory

70 BOOK REVIEW: The Last Lecture 78 RELATIONSHIPS & DATING: Ask the Dating Coach 83 BOOK GIVEAWAY: Hidden Kauai 84 HOT LIST: Winter Delights 86 EVENT CALENDAR 97 HOROSCOPES

68

P E O P LE & P L AC ES

30 Best Buddies Spirit of Friendship Celebration 56 AFW hosts twelfth annual Sandra Day O’Connor Awards Luncheon 66 Uncorked & Unplugged 94 Scottsdale Fashion Week

PA M P ER ED P E T S

88 ASK THE VET: Adopting a Pet for Christmas 90 ADOPT-A-PET: Good Friends Who Need Great Homes!

32

the world’s greatest collector car auctions™ westworld, scottsdale - january 11-18, 2009

the cars

the taste

the place

the style

hundreds of amazing vehicles auctioned in all categories a unique eight day lifestyle experience | nearly 40 hours of live tv coverage on hundreds of vendors and sponsors | fashion shows | automobilia | live entertainment

it all comes together here

visit barrett-jackson.com or call 480.663.6255 consign, register to bid or make your reservations today!

PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT Adam Toren adam@northvalleymagazine.com Matthew Toren matthew@northvalleymagazine.com

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Crystal Huckabay crystal@northvalleymagazine.com Editorial Assistant Cassaundra Brooks cbrooks@northvalleymagazine.com Copy Editor Kate Karp kate@northvalleymagazine.com Food Editor Samantha Turner Editorial Interns Alana Stroud, Bill Raznik, Rachael Blume

CONTRIBUTORS Diana Bocco; Cynthia Boggs; Gerald Calamia; Leona Christensen; Lea Friese-Haben; Alfonso Gonzales; Rob Graham; Laura Henry; Keith Jones; Jon Kenton; Kevin Madness; Diane Maier; Alison Malone; Ben Miles; Greg Rubenstein; Tyson Qualls; Matt Sheker; Marshall Trimble; Michael van den Bos; Shannon Willoby; Andrew Zychowski

PHOTOGRAPHERS Director of Photography Eric Fairchild Photographers Michelle Brodsky, Mark Susan, Caroline Gutierrez, Larry Rubino

ADVERTISING sales@northvalleymagazine.com (602) 828-0313 Sr. Account Executive Eric Twohey

DESIGN/PRODUCTION Art Director Mike Watters Designers Jeff Ducklow, Greg Palmer, Elsie Woo

CIRCULATION Distribution Manager Mark Lokeli Proud member of:

NORTH VALLEY MAGAZINE is published six times a year for distribution aimed at higher-income households in such areas as Anthem, Carefree, Cave Creek, Tramonto, North Scottsdale, Desert Ridge, DC Ranch, Grayhawk, Estancia, Desert Hills, Troon North, Desert Mountain, McDowell Mountain Ranch, and Arrowhead Ranch. You can also pick up North Valley Magazine at many businesses, including specialty shops, salons, spas, auto dealerships, libraries, children’s and women’s specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, health clubs, hotels, medical offices, and many rack locations. Statements, opinions, and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their own, and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editors or North Valley Magazine staff. Although North Valley Magazine has made every effort to authenticate all claims and guarantee offers by advertisers in the magazine, we cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. No part of North Valley Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at any time. Periodicals postage rate is paid at the Phoenix, Arizona and other post offices. Postmaster: Please return all undeliverable copies to North Valley Magazine, 711 E. Carefree Hwy. Suite 205, Phoenix, AZ 85085.

Yearly subscriptions available; six issues mailed directly to your mailbox for $19.95 per year (within the U.S.).

All rights reserved. ®2008 North Valley Magazine. Printed in the USA.

A Toast to the New Year A

s 2008 draws to a close, we look forward to a more peaceful and prosperous world in the New Year. For many, this past year has been, to say the least, difficult. We at North Valley Magazine encourage you to remain confident that better days are ahead!

Let us show you how to create some magic this season. Enjoy the holidays with friends and family at one of the fine restaurants from the third annual Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards. The results are in, and regardless of your preferences, you’re sure to find a restaurant to suit your taste, whether you’re craving ethnic fare, need a place for a business meeting, or want Sunday brunch. How about restaurant gift certificates for the holidays?

To make holiday shopping easier, we have compiled a list of gifts from the practical to the fun and ecofriendly. Be sure to peruse our Holiday Gift Guide for ideas.

Check out our Technology article as well for some great gadget gift ideas.

How about a subscription to North Valley Magazine for your family and friends?

If you are looking for a fun day trip or weekend excursion for the family, Day Trippers and Weekenders has ideas for those who like to give and those who like to receive. Our Hot List includes a trendy New Year’s Eve party, holiday festival, and weight-loss superberry.

Our Events Calendar showcases some holiday fun and some post-holiday events to bring you into the New Year. ’Tis the season of giving, but most charities run year-round, so see our Giving Back article for a charity that gives children hope, a family, and a future. Our special Charity Spotlight highlights an organization that sends our overseas troops a piece of home, a thank-you, and a boost in spirits.

January in Scottsdale means Barrett-Jackson is back! Barrett-Jackson president, Steve Davis, takes off his sunglasses for a candid interview with North Valley Magazine, and six well-known locals reminisce about their first cars.

Thank you to all of our advertisers and readers. We wish you a wonderful end to 2008 and all the best for 2009. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

publishers’ note

Vol 4 Issue 1

Cheers!

Matthew Toren matthew@northvalleymagazine.com

Adam Toren adam@northvalleymagazine.com december / january 2009

northvalleymagazine.com

15

contributors

December/January 2009 PHOTOGRAPHY Eric Fairchild, a commercial photographer with fifteen years experience, owns and operates Phoenixbased Fairchild Photography, a complete digital and traditional film photography studio.

Specialties include advertising, people, editorial, architecture, and automotive photography. photos@northvalleymagazine.com

Mind & Body Keith Jones is a fourteen-year Valley resident. The beautiful Arizona sun helps fuel his passion for helping others. As founder of Total Being, Keith “inspires you to inspire others.” mindandbody@northvalleymagazine.com

Techno Jon Kenton is principal consultant and owner of JRDR Marketing.

Originally from London, he has been living in Arizona with his family for the last eight years. Jon has worked in computing and communications for over 20 years. If it connects to a TV, camera, network, or computer, Jon has probably used it. techno@northvalleymagazine.com

Theater & Book Reviews Ben Miles is a theater critic and educator with membership in both the American Theatre Critic’s Association and the Los Angeles Drama Critic’s Circle.

Currently, Ben teaches at the Art Institute of California. His latest book is titled SPEECHES: An E-Guide to Effective Speechmaking. reviews@northvalleymagazine.com

BY THE GLASS Matt Sheker owns and operates The Winery, located in Anthem. It opened its doors to the North Valley in 2004. Matt and his wife Theresa describe their business as “a unique vintage experience.” wine@northvalleymagazine.com

DESIGN SENSE Diane Maier is an accomplished interior designer and the owner of Casa Paloma Home Interiors & Design, located in the North Scottsdale Marketplace at Scottsdale Road and Lone Mountain. Diane is an expert in green interior design, abundant living, and feng shui concepts, all of which will be covered in her forthcoming book, Create Your Best Life, By Design! designsense@northvalleymagazine.com

16

northvalleymagazine.com

december / january 2009

Contributors

Auto Trends Greg Rubenstein is a freelance automotive journalist and deputy editor for iZoom.com, an auto enthusiast Web site. He has been writing about and racing cars for twenty-five years. autotrends@northvalleymagazine.com

JEWELS Andrew Zychowski, owner of Andrew Z Diamonds and Fine Jewelry in Anthem, is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and is an IJO master jeweler. As a second-generation jeweler with twenty-five years of experience, his motto is “Brilliance You Deserve.” jewels@northvalleymagazine.com

Adopt-a-pet Michelle Brodsky is a Phoenix native whose passion for animals began at a very young age. Her talent for photography was not discovered until later on.

When not tending to her small zoo at home, she helps educate the minds of high school kids as an assistant teacher of photography. michelle@northvalleymagazine.com

horoscopes Laura Henry has been studying astrology and metaphysics for over 25 years and is available for readings via phone or in person.

She uses astrology to assist people wishing to discover their strengths, challenges, and gifts in this lifetime, as well as examining future trends for clients to maximize opportunities for personal growth. Readings are taped and completely confidential. laura@northvalleymagazine.com

Giving Back & Barrett-Jackson Kevin Madness began his writing career by forging excused absence forms in elementary school and later honed his skills as a journalist at Michigan State University.

He then moved into a motor home and now travels far and wide writing and performing music. kevin@northvalleymagazine.com

ASK THE VET Rob Graham, CVT, has worked in the veterinary medicine industry for over twenty-two years as a technician in private practices among other duties and currently as an office manager for Animal Health Services.

Rob and his wife live in Northwest Phoenix and have raised six children between the two of them.

They have two dogs, a cat, a snake, and some fish. askthevet@northvalleymagazine.com

Health & Fitness Diana Bocco is a writer, published author, writing coach, and consultant with over ten years experience in the publishing field. Diana teaches writing classes at CoffeeHouseforWriters.com and is the author of two upcoming books. diana@northvalleymagazine.com

Arizona Fun facts He has been called a cowboy singer, a humorist, and a storyteller, and is Arizona’s official state historian, but Marshall Trimble’s most treasured title is teacher.

He hopes people will realize the importance and fun involved in Arizona history and culture. marshall@northvalleymagazine.com

relationships Lea Friese-Haben is Arizona’s number-one dating expert.

She is happily married to Cpt. Greg Haben of Southwest Airlines and has three children. Lea is a certified holistic practitioner and is a regular guest on channels 3, 10, 12, and 15. relationships@northvalleymagazine.com

Flavor Alison Malone has lived in Australia and has traveled to such destinations as Fiji, England, Thailand, Spain, Nepal, the Cook Islands, Portugal, New Zealand and France. When not at her laptop, she can be found strolling on the beach, carving up the slopes, and poring over travel guides, cookbooks, and interior design magazines at local bookstores. flavor@northvalleymagazine.com

Photography Mark Susan is a fashion and editorial freelance photographer based out of Scottsdale.

He grew up in Seoul, Korea before moving to Wisconsin, and graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor of science in economics. Mark enjoys traveling, experiencing new restaurants, playing golf and tennis, and spending time with friends and family. mark@northvalleymagazine.com

travel Shannon Willoby is an Arizona native. She attended Arizona State University, where she received a degree in English literature. She is currently a freelance writer. shannon@northvalleymagazine.com

Connect with

North Valley Magazine

To get in touch: North Valley Magazine 711 E. Carefree Highway, Suite 205, Phoenix, AZ 85085 Telephone: (602) 828-0313 • Fax: (623) 587-4818 Web site: NorthValleyMagazine.com General e-mail: info@northvalleymagazine.com.

For submissions and suggestions: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Letters may be e-mailed to

letters@northvalleymagazine.com. They may also be sent via mail or fax to Letters to the Editor at our address. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.

EVENTS CALENDAR: Submit press releases or event descriptions in

writing to Cassaundra Brooks at events@northvalleymagazine.com.

Be sure to include event title, date, time, place, details, cost (if any), and contact number or Web site. The deadline for February/March 2009 consideration is January 1.

PRESS RELEASES: Submit press releases via e-mail to

Cassaundra at cbrooks@northvalleymagazine.com.

STORY QUERIES: Submit one-page queries to us by mail,

attention Editorial Department. Accompany any queries with clips and a fifty-word biography.

STORY SUGGESTIONS: We welcome editorial suggestions

from our readers. Please e-mail story ideas to cbrooks@northvalleymagazine.com, or mail or fax them to the attention of the editorial department.

To advertise your product or business: Contact the sales department by phone at (602) 828-0313, ext. 1, or by e-mail at sales@northvalleymagazine.com.

To subscribe or obtain back issues: SUBSCRIPTIONS: To subscribe to North Valley Magazine, or to

Coming Next Issue

make changes to an existing subscription, call (602) 828-0313 ext. 2, or visit our Web site.

The

available for $8.95 each, including postage. You may order past issues on our Web site. Please allow five to seven days to process. It is North Valley Magazine’s policy not to mail, e-mail, or fax copies of articles that have appeared in the magazine.

sports Issue

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION Call: (602) 828-0313 • E-mail: sales@northvalleymagazine.com

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december / january 2009

BACK ISSUES: Back issues from up to two years are currently

Where to find us: North Valley Magazine has racks in prime locations across our distribution area. For the rack location nearest you, e-mail info@northvalleymagazine.com. We also mail magazines to various neighborhoods. If you would like to ensure that your place of business receives several copies, or would like to submit your place of business for a future rack location, please send a request via e-mail or regular mail to Mark Lokeli at mark@northvalleymagazine.com.

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2008 Readers’ Choice

Restaurant Awards We may not all have eclectic palates, but we typically have discerning ones when it comes to the foods we do like. North Valley Magazine has asked once more

for your favorite places throughout the Valley to go and eat, and the results for

our third annual Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards are in! Many of last year’s

winners have again found a place on our list—well done!—but some newcomers have made their way to the top of their respective categories. If you’re looking to branch out and try something new, consult this list for the restaurants that your

peers agree are the best in the Valley! We have thirty-seven flavorful categories to stimulate your taste buds and get you out and about in the Valley dining scene.

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»

AFTER HOURS

Armitage*

You’ll love the Old-World ambience that makes Armitage perfect for winding down after work or enjoying a pre-dinner drink.

If you stay on into the night, prepare for the lights to dim and the music to pick up tempo, transforming Armitage into an energized nightspot.

DC Ranch on Market Street 20751 N Pima Rd., Suite 120 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 502-1641 armitagewine.com

BARBECUE

El Paso Grill & Bar-B-Que*

El Paso Bar-B-Que has come a long way from its 1995 entry into the barbecue casual dining segment of the restaurant industry. Its several locations can get you kicking up your heels and wiping your mouth just about anywhere.

4303 W. Peoria Glendale, AZ (623) 931-2438 elpasobbq.com

AMERICAN

8877 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85253 (480) 922-5666 foxrestaurantconcepts.com/bloom.html

APPETIZERS

Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion*

The first Roy’s opened in Honolulu in 1988.

Try Chef Yamaguchi’s popular Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine—a tempting combination of exotic flavors and spices mixed with the freshest local ingredients, with seafood featured.

Desert Ridge 5350 East Marriott Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85054 (480) 419-7697 roysrestaurant.com

Yard House*

If it’s beer, it’s here. The Yard House is an upscale casual eatery known for the world’s largest selection of beer, from the known to the obscure. Each location features a transparent keg room containing more than 600 barrels, some 1,000 gallons of beer, and an endless fleet of tap handles. There are plenty of unique American cuisine menu items to wash down.

21001 N. Tatum Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85050 (480) 563-9273 yardhouse.com

CHINESE

Bloom

Bloom serves New American Cuisine in a crisp, contemporary, and comfortable setting. The distinctive menu at Bloom features a seasonal selection of New American cuisine with both European and Asian influence. Enjoy the bar that features over 75 wines by the glass and an open kitchen that gives guests the opportunity to see behind the scenes.

BURGERS

Flo’s

Flo’s presents modern innovative Chinese dishes in a contemporary Asian atmosphere, with attentive service, all with reasonable prices and a tip of the hat to the Southwest.

BREAKFAST

The Good Egg*

This is no yolk—this place has more ways to eat eggs than you can shake a skillet at.

Omelets, frittatas, crepes—there’s an incredible list of combinations and possibilities. Not an egghead? Sandwiches, salads, and other breakfast offerings are provided for those who aren’t “ova-ly enamored.”

15027 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy.

Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 661-8883 flosrestaurants.com

14046 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 483-1090

BREWERY

Gordon Biersch*

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant in Glendale features an eclectic beer garden, an impressive bar area equipped with TVs and speaker system, and spacious patio seating. The upscale casual restaurant offers a haven for fresh microbrew beers and delicious made-from-scratch menu items.

18545 N Allied Way Scottsdale, AZ 85054 (480) 342-9860 gordonbiersch.com

COFFEE SHOP

Cave Creek Coffee Co.

Whether you’re looking for a great cup of coffee, an exceptional glass of wine, unique food, or intimate entertainment, Cave Creek Coffee Co. offers you the experience you’re seeking.

6033 E. Cave Creek Rd. Cave Creek AZ 85331 (480) 488-0603 cavecreekcoffee.com

* Plus other Valley locations december / january 2009

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2008 Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards » COMFORT FOOD

Chompie’s*

The Borensteins came to the Valley from Queens, New York in 1979 to make the entire Valley eat, dollink, eat—and eat deli.

Chompie’s is an exciting New York-style deli-restaurant and bakery featuring freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries and, of course, world-famous bagels and bialys in 35 “hot” varieties.

Mercado Del Rancho Center 9301 E. Shea Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 860-0475 chompies.com

CONTINENTAL

Binkley’s in Cave Creek

Binkley’s prepares classically influenced contemporary American cuisine to order each day, with a revised daily menu featuring the freshest seasonal ingredients, using local and organic foods whenever they are available. Everything from appetizer to dessert (except the bread) is made in the Binkley kitchen, with special dietary needs accommodated.

6920 E. Cave Creek Rd. Cave Creek, AZ (480) 437-1072 binkleysrestaurant.com

DELI

Dilly’s Deli

Dilly’s Deli simply offers great food, great service, and great value, which you’ll notice in the aroma of homemade breads, bread bowls, cookies, and brownies freshly baked on-site as you look on and covet!

14202 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 596-3354 dillysdeli.com

ECLECTIC

Backstreet Wine Salon

The Salon is both a retail wine shop and a quiet, comfortable European-inspired wine bar and bistro. The menu and wines available by the glass change daily.

3603 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018 (602) 550-7900 backstreetwine.com

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Sauce*

Sauce provides a variety of thin-crust red and white pizzas as well as fresh salads with house-made dressings, lasagna, and grilled panini made with fresh-baked bread. Their wine selection is accompanied by Italian and domestic beers, and the warm, inviting atmosphere makes the dining experience as enjoyable as the food.

Sauce Norterra 2470 W. Happy Valley Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85085 (623) 414-4866 foxrestaurantconcepts.com/sauce

DESSERT

The Cheesecake Factory*

The Cheesecake Factory is an upscale casual dining restaurant offering more than 200 menu selections that include appetizers, pizza, pasta, seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches, and fifty delectable cheesecakes and desserts!

15230 North Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 607-0083 thecheesecakefactory.com

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december / january 2009

FRENCH

Zinc Bistro

A New York-style Parisian bistro in the Arizona desert charms the Scottsdale dining scene. Enjoy the oyster bar where shellfish is brought in daily—the freshest oysters, clams, mussels, and lobster in the desert.

Kierland Commons 15034 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85281 (480) 603-0922 zincbistroaz.com

GREEK

My Big Fat Greek Restaurant*

Greek food is one of the healthiest cuisines and has a Mediterranean flair of cooking created by the gods. Virgin olive oil, fresh ingredients, selected herbs, and just the right amount of spice are the cooking secrets cherished and kept for thousands of years. If it’s Greek to you, you’re in the right place.

4218 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ (480) 949-8900 mybigfatgreekrestaurant.net

INDIAN

Jewel of the Crown

Nestled in the historic downtown district of Scottsdale, Jewel of the Crown is a highly acclaimed restaurant that serves gourmet Indian cuisine. The elegant ambience, wide selection of authentic Indian delicacies, and full-service bar are some of the reasons customers have made this restaurant their first choice.

TWO CATEGORY WINNER!

STEAK HOUSE Business MEETING

Fleming’s DC Ranch*

Fleming’s features the finest in prime beef and a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders, and indulgent desserts in a fine-dining atmosphere. Fleming’s 100, the celebrated wine list, boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass.

7373 Scottsdale Mall, Suite 1 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-949-8000 jewelofthecrown.com

20753 N. Pima Rd., Bldg. R North Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 538-8000 flemingssteakhouse.com

ITALIAN

Arrivederci

Arrivederci offers intimate dining with exquisite Italian fare. With a romantic ambience, marvelous sauces, and food all made from scratch, you may think that you’re in Italy.

7101 E. Thunderbird. Rd. #103 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 922-8225

* Plus other Valley locations

JAPANESE

Sushi Roku*

Sushi Roku showcases traditional Japanese fare with modern twists. Among the main dishes, you’ll find scallops with stuffed shishito peppers, and whole flash-fried striped bass with spicy ponzu sauce. Of course, sushi and sashimi are also prominently featured.

7277 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 970-2121 sushiroku.com

MEXICAN

The Spotted Donkey Cantina

Southwestern and Western flavors merge at Spotted Donkey Cantina at El Pedregal.

The best drinks downtown, unique food, and a festive atmosphere are quickly earning Spotted Donkey Cantina a reputation as the place to dine in Scottsdale.

34505 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85266 (480) 488.3358 spotteddonkeycantina.com

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2008 Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards »

THAI

Pink Pepper

If you’re craving spicy food and can’t get enough of it, treat yourself to the great lunch buffet at the Pink Pepper. If you like flavor but can do without the hot stuff, Pink Pepper can certainly please the more sensitive taste buds as well.

245 E. Bell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85022 (602) 548-1333

BEST PATIO DINING

Olive & Ivy Restaurant & Marketplace

The Chart House*

Old world meets new at Olive & Ivy, which blends the provocative flavors and timeless elegance of the Mediterranean with contemporary California chic. Olive & Ivy is a lively neighborhood hot spot offering something for everyone, as well as Scottsdale’s largest outdoor patio.

From top-of-the-catch seafood, succulent steaks, and decadent desserts, Chart House has a menu tailored to complement local cuisine while introducing a hint of the exotic. Overlooking Camelback Mountain and a picturesque lake, an evening at Chart House will give you a cool respite from the Arizona heat.

7135 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 195 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 751-2200 foxrc.com/olive_ivy.html

7255 McCormick Pkwy.

Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 951-2550 chart-house.com

PIZZERIA

Patsy Grimaldi’s DC Ranch*

Grimaldi’s pizzas are made with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, and dough made fresh daily. The fresh toppings range from the finest sweet Italian sausage to the most flavorful red peppers, all masterfully roasted in Grimaldi’s coal-brick ovens.

DC Ranch 20715 N. Pima Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 515-5588 patsygrimaldis.com

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RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW

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december / january 2009

ROMANTIC

The Melting Pot*

Fondue is a fun and interactive dining experience—and for more than three decades, The Melting Pot has defined the niche across the American dining scene.

At The Melting Pot, fondue truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience where patrons can dip into something different.

8260 N Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 607-1799 meltingpot.com

SEAFOOD

Ocean Club*

Dine your finest at this ultra-high end coastal version of the steak house that offers the best in upscale seafood. The clubby, avant-garde atmosphere features live entertainment nightly in the O Bar. 15045 N. Kierland Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ (480) 443-8555 mastrosoceanclub.com

SPORTS BAR

FOX Sports Grill

FOX Sports Grill invites guests to relax in a socially comfortable atmosphere where a contemporary American menu and diverse specialty drink and wine list coupled with uncompromised sports and entertainment viewing offers something for everyone.

16203 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 368-0369 foxsportsgrill.com

* Plus other Valley locations

SOUTHWESTERN

Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn

Lon’s at the hermosa is Arizona’s only remaining authentic hacienda. Enjoy award-winning artful American cuisine on a spectacular patio or by one of the glowing fireplaces. Lon’s uses bold flavors and compelling combinations that reflect a contemporary take on the multitude of foods originating in the Western Hemisphere.

5532 N. Palo Cristi Rd. Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 (602) 955-7878 lons.com

VEGETARIAN

Mandala Tea Room

Mandala’s philosophy is to provide healthy environmentally friendly plant-based foods that are good to eat. Tasty organic dishes are prepared daily with the freshest seasonal, organic, genetically unmodified vegetarian ingredients. All dishes are completely vegan: dairy-, egg-, and animal-free.

7027 E. 5th Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 423-3411 mandalatearoom.com

CELEBRATION

Mastro’s Steakhouse

Mastro’s offers an unparalleled dining experience, featuring a cutting-edge menu of the finest in prime steaks and fresh seafood, accompanied by live music and dancing seven nights a week in the piano bar. A stylish dinner for two or a group of friends.

Mastro’s Steakhouse* 8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd. (480) 585-9500 mastrossteakhouse.com

HAPPY HOUR

Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille*

Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille was inspired by the great classic seafood restaurants of New Orleans, San Francisco, and Boston.

Eddie and Guy have great respect for the freshness, flavors, and techniques of these regions and provide you with the freshest seafood available, along with prime-grade steaks, in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

20715 N. Pima Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 538-8468 eddiev.com

LADIES’ LUNCH

English Rose Tea Room

It’s four o’clock, and time for the traditional English afternoon tea. Choose from an extensive menu of authentic English foods served with loose-leaf teas. Be it a simple scone with Devonshire cream or the elaborate Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, there is something for every Anglophile.

201 Easy St. #103 Carefree, AZ 85377 (480) 488-4812 carefreetea.com

SUNDAY BRUNCH

The Herb Box*

The Herb Box sums itself up with “innovative world creations.” Endless new recipes come from taking what is freshest at the farm stand and being open-minded enough to having an idea drive the chef in the kitchen. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus are vast and varied, ensuring an entrée for every palate.

DC Ranch on Market Street 20707 North Pima Road, Suites 140-145 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 289-6180 herbboxcatering.com

WINE BAR

Uncorked Wine Bar

Uncorked encourages guests to “Eat, Drink, Relax...Repeat.” Offering twenty different flights of wine, Uncorked is the perfect place for everyone to unwind and enjoy their favorite wine, or find a new favorite. Uncorked also offers specially selected and prepared cheese trays, delicious sandwiches and salads, and to-die-for desserts.

16427 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 130 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 699-9230 uncorkedwinebar.com

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People & Places 30

Best Buddies Spirit of Friendship Celebration » Best Buddies of Arizona, private Scottsdale estate Photography by Joe Shivago and Rocket Phillips Good Morning Arizona’s Tara Hitchcock emceed Best Buddies of Arizona’s fifth annual fund-raiser in which more than 350 guests, dressed in their finest white attire, were chauffeured to a private Scottsdale estate in all-white Audis. Patrons raised $220,000 for the charity while enjoying handcrafted Bacardi white mojitos, an Herb Box-catered dinner, music by DJ William Reed, a live and silent auction, dancing, and special appearances by the Suns Gorilla and Suns Dancers and other celebrity guests. bestbuddiesarizona.org

northvalleymagazine.com

december / january 2009

!HOY -ATEY 2ESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY OR WALK THE PLANK

3ATURDAY -ARCH

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Discover Hidden Treaures with The Craniofacial Foundation of Arizona

Treasure Hunt ☠Silent & Live Auction ☠Dinner ☠Dancing

FireSky Resort and Spa | Scottsdale, AZ

480.753.1800 or visit AZCranio.com to register online 4HE #RANIOFACIAL &OUNDATION OF !RIZONA IS A C NON PROl T ORGANIZATION

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Scottsdale’s Premier Consignment Boutique Featuring new and gently worn fashion items and accessories from familiar store names and top designers.

True to its name, Bon Achat (a good bargain) is a charming fashion Boutique offering premier brand fashions at affordable prices.

E.Fra

nk L

480.368.0999

15090 N. Northsight Blvd. Suite 105 Scottsdale, AZ. 85260

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oyd W rig

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Design Sense

Take Your Home to the Next Level!

Consult With Our Design Team!

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northvalleymagazine.com

Your Style

By Diane Maier

Floors Showers Back Splash Patios

32

Design

december / january 2009

So Nice to Make a Home for the Holidays

S

et the mood in your home this holiday season with a decorating plan that celebrates the real you.

Embrace your year-round personal decorating style. Keep in mind that you are dressing your home for the holidays and not redecorating it. Integrating a theme can create interior harmony that flows from room to room. Your choice may feature a personal collection that is packed away during other seasons or a

holiday tree with a special theme. Place smaller themed trees in bedrooms, the guest room, and even the kitchen to add a holiday spark to every area of your home.

Your fireplace should be a focus of your holiday decorating style, second only to your tree. Hang a large wreath on or over the fireplace, position candleholders of different heights on the mantle, and add containers of foliage to the mix. Add personal items such as a cherished vase, a child’s sled, or

Embrace your year-round personal decorating style. Keep in mind that you are dressing your home for the holidays and not redecorating it.

Color is a very personal decision and a true reflection of you. Select hues that complement your existing choices. Match warm with warm and icy cools with whites and silvers. some other unique accessory. Branches and garland tie the theme together nicely.

Not sure what colors to use? Take your inspiration from your dining room chairs for ribbons, garlands, flowers, candles, and place settings. Choose complementary colors that create a seasonal feeling. Perhaps you’ve seen a piece of fabric that would make an elegant runner or spied a festive ribbon with a charming color scheme.

Color is a very personal decision and a true reflection of you. Select hues that complement your existing choices. Match warm with warm and icy cools with whites and silvers. Jewel tones lend themselves to fancy beaded fruits, rich fabrics, and embellished candles. Earth tones and deep reds bring out the rustic feel of a truly Tuscan holiday.

For the greatest impact, use only one color of candle—and then use them everywhere!

Placing greenery or a garland adorned with ribbons and ornaments on your chandeliers adds character, impact, and charm. Staircases can also be very dramatic when decorated for the holidays. Use this architectural detail of your home to tie your plan together.

Holiday wreaths also create unity of design wherever they appear. A wreath on the powder room mirror is a festive, unexpected touch. Even the wreath on the inside of your front door can become extraordinary by attaching two long lengths of ribbon to its bottom. As your holiday cards arrive, use straight pins to affix the back of the card to the ribbon. Be careful not to pin the cards closed so that friends and family can enjoy the good tidings and the photos inside.

Add store-bought or homemade gingerbread figures to wreaths and garlands, and hang them from lengths of ribbon in the windows of your kitchen for a truly “hearthwarming” touch. Display others among plates in your china cabinet or plate rack.

Candy canes added to simple arrangements of red roses create a simple and incredibly elegant holiday bouquet. Small wrapped gifts piled in an urn or basket by the front door make it easy to say “Thank You!” when neighbors and friends drop by with an unexpected treat for you.

Your best holiday ever begins with a decorating plan that reflects the real you!

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december / january 2009

Giving Back: Family Matters – 36 –

Fun Facts: The Fall of Santa Claus – 38 –

Kinch: Burning Up the Music Scene – 41 –

NV

Set Design at AZ Broadway Theatre – 44 –

YOUR NORTH VALLEY. YOUR MAGAZINE. p eo p l e p l a ces

L o c al P r o f il e

t hin g s

Pat McMahon The Wallace & Ladmo Show’s “Gerald,” Revealed!

By Alana Stroud

I

f you grew up in Arizona, you’ve more than likely seen the celebrated television show The Wallace & Ladmo Show, which ran from 1954–1989 on KPHO Channel 5. Arizonans young and old enjoyed watching the comedic children’s program and even being a part of the studio audience. The show’s slew of visitors would act out silly skits in between cartoon segments, then take trips through the audience to pass out those coveted Ladmo Bags—you know you wanted one! Recurring guests such as Gerald, Captain Super, and Aunt Maud were all portrayed by the multitalented Pat McMahon, who brought more than 100 characters to life on the show. The real character of Pat McMahon, however, is the best one of all.

When North Valley Magazine approached Emmy-winning Pat McMahon for an interview, he immediately picked up the phone to stay away from the “cold and impersonal e-mail.” That showed him for who he is: a down-to-earth, friendly staple of Arizona’s past and present showbiz and broadcasting circuit. Fame certainly hasn’t gone to his head; though he does think he bears a rather uncanny resemblance to Brad Pitt.

Always the wisecracker, as any comedian is prone to be, John Patrick McMahon has led quite an interesting life straight from the beginning. Born in Leavenworth, Kansas to parents who were vaudeville performers, he was introduced to show business

and world travel at a young age. “By the time I was 13, I had been in all the states and umpteen countries,” McMahon says. “It was a great education.”

McMahon spent his time watching comedians, magicians, jugglers, and especially chorus girls. He attended a strict all-boy Catholic school, then college, and later joined the Army, but McMahon couldn’t be deterred from his call from his life’s blood—the performing arts. “Even if I hadn’t been a broadcaster and an actor, I would probably have wound up as a lounge singer,” he says. Look out, Wayne Newton!

Today, you can hear McMahon daily on 92.3 KTAR, where he takes great pride in his writing and editorials that he has provided the Valley with for the past twentyfive years. His daily McMahon Group radio show provides sharp commentary from a slew of fascinating guest stars, while his Sunday show, The God Show, “connects with the spiritual pulse of the Valley.” He also hosts a daily live hour of television on KAZTV at 9 a.m., where he engages in conversation with the most popular newsmakers of today, and heads his own creative company, The Idea Factory. The local theater community has even named the McMahons as The First Family of Arizona Entertainment.

Pretty impressive for a man who wore a pageboy wig!

McMahon’s life has certainly been a wild ride, but of all the exciting things he’s done, which of them was the most meaningful and memorable? He surprisingly

replies, “When I was a kid, I made a list of adventures I wanted to have…scuba-diving, parasailing, travel…I’m now on my 27th list.” And for that question every Arizonan surely wants answered—who was his favorite character to play on The Wallace & Ladmo Show? There was no hesitation.

“Gerald. He was the consummate bad boy—the antithesis of Ladmo. He was my favorite because it replaced years of therapy.”

As for our favorite character? There’s none better than Pat McMahon.

Enter to win!

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Visit NorthValleyMagazine.com to enter. Books available to order at ulyssespress.com.

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p eo p l e

A supportive family is, unquestionably, an essential part of child development. Sadly, it is not ubiquitous.

FamilyMatters Yes, There Are, and Yes, It Does

By Kevin Madness

T

he distinguished British leader Winston Churchill famously declared: “There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened, and maintained.”

A supportive family is, unquestionably, an essential part of child development.

Sadly, it is not ubiquitous. To some children, home can seem like a hopeless and scary place, and others who are worse off have no home or family to speak of.

This is where Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA) comes in; through their child welfare and family education services, they work to provide every child 36

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in Arizona with a stable home that is safe and nurturing.

The organization was founded in 1912 as an orphanage. It has since expanded into a full-service child welfare and behavioral health agency that includes over 40 programs throughout every county in the state.

Perhaps the most essential services they provide are adoption programs. Along with connecting potential parents with children in need of permanent homes, AzCA offers education, decision counseling, and postplacement services for the adoptive families.

The need for adoptive parents is both immediate and dire. As of March 2008, Arizona had 9,721 children in out-of-home care, according to the Division of Children, Youth and Families semiannual report.

This is primarily due to abuse, neglect,

or abandonment. Without the help of organizations like AzCA promoting adoption, these children can grow up in state care, unfamiliar with the love and solidarity of family and inexperienced in real-world situations. Hence, permanent adoption is sought in each case.

Helping needy children often begins with helping the families. Through AzCA, resources and information are available for not easily resolvable issues that a family member may have. These are called prevention programs and are intended to keep problems from escalating into dangerous concerns.

“We know from experience that working with children and families is more effective and less expensive than trying to remedy the effects of ineffective parenting

down the road,” says Fred Chaffee, AzCA’s president and CEO. The organization has developed a number of outstanding prevention programs.

The New Directions Institute provides training for parents and caregivers to maximize their children’s brain development, based on the latest findings in the field of neuroscience. The Parent Connection is a resource center in Tucson that offers workshops, parenting classes, and support groups aimed at building positive relationships between parents and their children.

“One family wrote us about The Parent Connection,” Chaffee says. “They said, ‘The Parent Connection saved our lives. We had no support in raising our children. We sometimes call the staff for their expert advice on particular issues like sibling rivalry and discipline. Every family should have access to this kind of nurturing.’”

The inspiring work that AzCA does would not be possible without the support and goodwill of regular Arizonans. The organization is always accepting volunteers, and their number nearly doubles that of actual employees. The public can also help AzCA by participating in upcoming fund-raising and charity events such as the Annual Penny Pitch Golf Tournament in Yuma and the Gifts of Hope drive that collects holiday gifts for needy families.

Seeing the future in a hopeful way may be inconceivable to a neglected child, a grandparent struggling to raise a toddler, or

an infertile couple desperately wishing for children, but where there’s AzCA, there’s also education, and with education comes hope and action.

“We work with children and families every day whose hope has been shaken by the circumstances of their lives,” Chaffee says. “It is our challenge to provide effective programs and services that will help restore their hopes, big and little, that will make the difference for the rest of their lives.”

UPCOMING AzCA EVENTS TO BENEFIT CHILDREN December 13, 2008 KTTI Sixth Annual Penny Pitch Golf Tournament. Cocopah Golf Resort, Yuma. Contact Dubia Zaragoza for more information at (928) 210-3132 or e-mail dzaragoza@arizonaschildren.org.

The Gifts of Hope drive to collect holiday gifts for needy families runs to the holidays. Contact Leah Stegman at (602) 234-3733 or e-mail lstegman@arizonaschildren.org.

For a complete list of all AzCA’s programs, visit their Web site at arizonaschildren.org.

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The Fall of

a z f u n f a cts

Santa Claus

By Marshall Trimble Arizona State Historian

T

he Great Depression was in full bloom, and hard times had fallen on the rural communities of Tempe and Mesa that Christmas of 1932.

It was the height of the Christmas shopping season, and local merchants were feeling the pinch. Not only was business 38

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slack but it also looked as if the annual Christmas parade was going to be a bust.

John McPhee, colorful editor of the Mesa Tribune, looked at the dismal faces and determined to inject some spirit into Christmas. McPhee loved promotional schemes, but he outdid himself on this one. “Why not,” he asked, “hire a parachutist to dress up in a Santa suit and jump from an airplane? He could then

d r i v i n g

Parachuting was considered a dangerous stunt. For that matter, aviation was still a novelty. Lindbergh had flown the Atlantic only five years before. And never had Santa dropped from the sky dangling beneath a billowing canopy. lead the parade through town. People will come from everywhere to see it, and while they’re here, they’ll go Christmas shopping.”

Parachuting was considered a dangerous stunt. For that matter, aviation was still a novelty. Lindbergh had flown the Atlantic only five years before. And never had Santa dropped from the sky dangling beneath a billowing canopy.

“Splendid idea,” the merchants agreed. Their eyes sparkled with gleeful anticipation. They could almost hear the cash registers ringing like Christmas bells.

McPhee managed to find an itinerant stunt pilot who was willing to make the jump, and a deal was struck. But on the morning of the event, the stunt man failed to appear. McPhee was finally able to locate his man at a local saloon, screwing up his courage on a barstool. By the time McPhee got there, the man was so screwed up that he couldn’t get off the barstool.

“What now?” the worried merchants wanted to know.

“Fear not,” said irrepressible editor. “I’ll borrow a department store dummy, dress him in the Santa suit, and have the pilot toss him out of the airplane. I will then appear in another Santa suit and lead the parade through town. No one will know the difference.”

An ingenious idea, the merchants agreed.

The news had traveled fast, and hundreds of spectators had gathered to witness the event. All eyes gazed anxiously skyward as the drone of the airplane’s engine could be heard off in the distance. Then they saw it—the plane circling overhead. The doorway opened, and a figure in a red suit appeared in the doorway. The crowd began to cheer.

Then it happened. Santa seemed to leap out of the plane into the wild blue yonder. At first, Santa appeared to be in free fall, and the crowd’s cheery mood quickly changed to horror. Santa began to tumble end over end, down, down, down like a lead balloon. Splat.

Santa landed face down in the field. Mothers covered their horrified children’s eyes. Fathers stared in disbelief.

Through it all, McPhee remained undaunted. He jumped out of his hiding place as if nothing had happened and proceeded to lead the parade through town. But the public wasn’t buying—literally and figuratively. Would-be shoppers loaded their kids up and went back to the farms. Merchants muttered unpleasantries as they stood in the doorways of their empty stores. McPhee was about as welcome around town as a coyote in a hen house.

The editor left town for a few days, hoping that the event would be forgotten. It wasn’t. Upon his death some 36 years later, the front page of the newspaper noted his passing with this banner: “John McPhee, the Man Who Killed Santa Claus, Dies.”

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Mind & Body

The Gift of

Good Health

By Keith Jones

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M

ost agree that our economy is experiencing challenges on several fronts. This is not especially good news during the holiday season. With so much uncertainty about our economic future, you can still do something special for yourself. You can give yourself the gift of health and fitness.

With Americans dealing with a volatile stock market that has impacted their investments and a housing market that has lost value, it is important not to add poor health to the list of concerns. A health issue can devastate a person both financially and physically. With the stakes so high, taking charge of your health is something each person should take seriously.

Let’s talk about nutrition. I believe nutrition is 65 percent of the way you feel and look. Concentrating on nutrition is the most effective way to improve your health.

If your goal is to lose weight, add muscle, or tone your body, good nutrition is essential. Please consider the following tips: • Consume five to six small meals per day that are appropriately balanced with carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Be sure to consult your doctor.

• Eat foods that support your health and fitness goals. Consider eliminating fatty foods. Your heart will love you.

• View eating healthy not as deprivation but rather as an act of self-love.

When it comes to fitness, get in motion. I recommend the following: • Perform cardio exercise for at least 30 minutes, three days per week.

• Wear a heart-rate monitor when performing any fitness activity to ensure that you are exercising safely.

• Incorporate resistance training into your fitness routine. This will promote muscle growth, shape, and tone.

Great health is the most valuable gift you can give yourself and your family.

music

Kinch

Burning Up the Valley’s Music Scene

By Alana Stroud

D

Photography by Christine Valenzuela

on’t confuse Kinch with hobbyist garage bands with no ambition—these guys are hoping for the real deal and are working very hard toward careers as musicians. Members Andrew Junker, on vocals and piano, bass player Bryan Witt, drummer Jake Malone, and guitarist Brian Coughlin aren’t exactly hoping to make it big in the traditional sense, although Andrew has admitted, “We’d just like to be able to make enough money to do it full time, put out lots of records, and tour cool places. So yeah, maybe that is making it big.”

Considering the talent the band wields behind their respective instruments, making it big shouldn’t be a hard thing to accomplish. Kinch has been compared to the likes of Ben Folds Five and Oasis as well as The Strokes, a band they list as an influence, and Kinch has opened

for bands like Local H. Having recently toured some of the southern states to promote their debut album Advances (which they gladly allow to be downloaded on their Web site at no cost), they have since made their way back to Arizona to continue performing locally in cities like Tucson, Phoenix, and Tempe.

With Andrew’s background in classical piano, Brian’s history playing in a jazz band, and Jake’s appreciation for harder rock, the songs brought to the table aren’t always what end up being recorded. Each member has his own style, and perhaps that’s why Kinch’s sound is so diverse and likeable. Check out the tracks “Girls Are Such a Problem” for a bubbly piano-riddled ditty and “All I Done” for some gripping guitar riffs and stirring lyrics. You’ll soon see what all the commotion is about!

Get a feel for these local rockers on MySpace or at their Web site kinchband.com.

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lll#WajbZXjhidb]dbZh#Xdb From left, Andrew Junker, Jake Malone, Brian Coughlin, and Bryan Witt december / january 2009

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Miss Not a Single Episode!

Q

I have to admit that my wife and I watch a lot of TV and recently missed a crucial episode from one of our favorite shows. We realized we could download it from iTunes, so that’s what we did, thinking we could then burn a DVD and watch it on the TV. No matter what I do, I can’t get it to work. What am I doing wrong?

A

There is good news and bad news here. First the good: you are not doing anything wrong. The bad news is, it won’t work no matter what you do. The issue here is DRM, or Digital Rights Management. I am sure you are aware of all the controversy surrounding digital music and now video. The effect on the music and movie industries from pirated copies has been well documented. The digital media revolution was stuck without some way for the original publishers and copyright holders to protect their works. The creation and implementation of DRM technologies has been how the industry has decided to handle the problem.

Any purchased digital music from sources such as Sony, Apple, and Microsoft, etc., is now protected by DRM systems that will only allow it to play in the application that downloaded it. I know that all you want to do is watch the show you purchased on your TV rather than see it on your computer, but there is no way to differentiate between somebody creating a 42

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DVD for this innocent reason and another who would download a movie, make thousands of copies, and sell them.

There are a couple of legitimate solutions. If you intend to do this on a regular basis, you could purchase something called Apple TV. This is a small device that hooks up to your TV and can play iTunes content either downloaded directly or previously purchased on your computer. If your iTunes computer is a laptop or you have one at home, you can connect it to your TV. Most laptops now have an S-Video connection, which will let you attach to one of your TV inputs. If you have a relatively new HDTV, it’s likely to also have a PC input port that allows it to act like a computer monitor. With a VGA cable, you can connect them and watch the show that is playing on your laptop on your big screen. You will have either to play the sound from the laptop or use an audio cable adaptor to take the headphone output and plug it into the TV. There are a number of software packages that claim to be able to legally deal with the issue through encoding conversion. This would mean that they, and now you, are playing with the gray areas of copyright law. I would stay well away and choose a clean, legitimate solution.

Would This Make Me Look Thin?

Q

I recently took a bunch of portraits of family members and would like to do some touch-ups to remove blemishes, wrinkles, etc. Do I have to use Photoshop or something similar, and how would I go about it?

A

Yes, you could use Photoshop, which is a highly sophisticated tool that allows very tight control on even a pixel-by-pixel basis. It would take way longer than there is room in this article to explain, but an Internet search for “Photoshop portrait touch-up tutorials” will yield many great resources. It will also take significant time and patience to achieve.

If you would like a simpler and highly effective solution, check out Portrait Professional (portraitprofessional.com) by Anthropics Technology Ltd. This is an awesome software package, and the examples on their Web site are real. It does work—I use it!

They have a free downloadable trial copy, so you can experiment on your own images. Just remember that when it comes to touching up photos and especially portraits, less is more.

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Photography courtesy of Arizona Broadway TheatrE construction photo by kelly o’connell-weigel

p eo p l e

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art & Culture

Eye of Newt, Toe of Frog, and a Trapdoor or Two Set Designers Make ‘Improbable Fiction’ Possible

By Cassaundra Brooks

S

hakespeare wrote in his famed comedy As You Like It, “All the world’s a stage.” In theater itself, the stage must encompass the world, and the set designers and crew are responsible for creating a tangible world for the characters—and a believable one for the audience.

Building a set is both an artistic and technical undertaking, and since most plays and musicals give little more direction than listing specific locations that need to be represented, much of the look of the set is left to the discretion of the design team.

“The designers, producers, and directors arrive at a concept or approach to each show,” says Paul Bridgeman, Arizona Broadway Theatre’s technical director. “The designers—e.g., scenic, costume, props, sound, lights—have only their imaginations to limit their designs.” Healthy doses of research and discussion go into each project as numerous options and visions are considered.

The flexibility in design also allows theaters of all sizes to put on shows of varying magnitudes. Sets can be built to accommodate an array of budgets, stage sizes, levels of available technology, and director’s vision. With the exception of modernizations and alternative productions on longstanding scripts, which will 44

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obviously look vastly dissimilar, traditional productions of the same play or musical can have striking set differences. The Phantom of the Opera sets at the Queen’s Theatre in London and the Arizona Broadway Theatre in Peoria will not look the same, though the basic concept and overall mood of the scenery will match.

Often, as in the case of Arizona Broadway Theatre, a cache of stock scenic pieces serves as “basic building blocks” that can be used multiple ways. This not only cuts down on cost but also is time-effective, as sets often must be built and torn down quickly. However, these foundational pieces are rarely recognizable, as scenery seldom appears in more than one show. According to Bridgeman, stock flats and platforms comprise the underlying structures that are repeatedly disassembled and utilized again.

In addition, all scenery is painted fresh for each individual production.

While the creative talents of painters, carpenters, prop makers, directors, and others work together to create the artistic aspect of a set, the technicians must find ways to make the designs practical. Sets must be quickly and stealthily—or at the very least creatively—transitioned between each scene and each act, and sometimes even during a scene. This is where pulleys, wheels, and trapdoors come in handy!

Bridgeman says of Arizona Broadway Theatre, “We have a fly system to raise large drops or scenic pieces. There can be traps in the floor. Units can be double-sided, rotated, tracked, and unfolded. We own a large turntable that can rotate a two-foot circle of stage.”

Lighting can also dictate the success of a set, and not just for set transitions. Colored lights, dimmers, spotlights, and flashing lights all may evoke the mood of a scene.

Lighting can showcase a character’s emotions, contribute to the backdrop, establish or alter positions in time and space, and create the illusion of movement. It works in congress with the tangible set pieces and colors to transport the audience into the world that is the stage.

An actor’s passionate monologue may captivate an audience, but a well-designed set is the catalyst for a mesmerizing performance—and overall audience experience. Set design and creation is an art form that is increasingly taught and studied but is frequently underappreciated by the masses. What Bridgeman refers to as “theater magic” is created through the collaboration of talented designers, actors, musicians, operators, directors, choreographers, and technicians. If you have ever attended theater, you have witnessed that magic firsthand.

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NV c h a r i t y sp o tl i g h t

And Tie a Yellow Ribbon around It

By Cassaundra Brooks

W

ar has not breached American soil for quite some time. For those of us with no immediate family in combat zones overseas, it’s easy to shove the limited battles we currently fight on foreign land to the back burners of our minds. Little mention has been made in recent months about our troops who are on active duty, but as families gather around the dinner table this holiday season, the empty seat that dad, brother, sister, or friend typically occupies is painfully obvious. Thanks to Arizona’s own Packages from Home, there are a number of ways we can remind our troops that we miss them, whether we know them or not.

When Kathleen Lewis discovered in 2004 that her son Christian was the only soldier in his squad in Iraq receiving any packages from home, she and some friends decided to adopt the entire squad and began sending them care packages.

Interest in her project increased exponentially after an interview with local AM radio talk show host Bruce Jacobs on KFYI 550, and by November of the same year, Packages from Home became a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Packages from Home currently averages at least 1,500 parcels per month for deployed American troops at no cost to them. Roughly 100 drop-off locations have sprung up in twenty-two Valley cities. Their event calendar has filled up with fund-raising activities. Donation drives and packing parties have become increasingly popular.

Although boxes are addressed to individual American troops, Lewis says that our men and women always divvy up the contents of their care packages with the other soldiers in the squad who may not have received any. That way, no one is left out.

The people of Afghanistan and Iraq also may get the idea that Americans are people who care about them; some of the mailed 46

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items are intended for citizens of those countries who are in hospitals, orphanages, burn units, and other dire situations.

With the economy on the fritz, some may wonder whether they can afford to become active. One of the best aspects of the organization is the diverse number of ways to get involved, regardless of financial situation. If you’ve got some extra “greenery” around the house, Packages from Home accepts monetary donations to pay postage. The Web site provides a long list of suggested donation items based on what troops say they need, and since items may be dropped off at any number of convenient locations, you may spend as much or as little on necessities as you wish. Perhaps you’d rather volunteer your time by helping to pack, raising funds through various events, collecting donations from your community, and donating your secretarial, administrative, and other professional skills.

If your talents lean toward the creative, Packages from Home welcomes knitted and crocheted blankets, helmet liners, and various other cold-weather items. Perhaps personalized holiday reminders are your

specialty. And there is always a need for general letters of support, encouragement, comfort, and appreciation. According to Lewis, “The guys absolutely adore anything the kids make. [Drawings] are the first things out of box and up hanging on the walls.” Photos are a big hit as well—even a simple picture of a tree.

This season, take a little time to remind our servicemen and women fighting around the world that they are in our thoughts. A short letter, a pair of socks, or even a can of tuna convey a thank-you. And what better time to start sending our thanks than this season of thanksgiving? As Lewis passionately states, “I can’t think of anything better to do with my time at this stage in my life than to give to those troops—to those men and women who are willing to give their lives for this country.”

For more information, including drop-off center locations, details on how to volunteer, a list of needed items, writing guidelines, and an event calendar, visit packagesfromhome.com or call (602) 253-0284. The packing center is located at 1201 S. 7th Ave.

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A Driver’s

Market Barrett-Jackson’s Steve Davis Talks Cars

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Steve Davis

By Kevin Madness

C

all them what you will: gear heads, motor heads, car nuts, auto enthusiasts, or simply collectors.

Driving into Scottsdale on a Mecca-like sojourn, they come from far and wide to behold the world’s most coveted cars.

Some have come to buy and some to sell, but most are here in January to experience the unique spectacle that is the Barrett-Jackson auction, complete with celebrity appearances, world-class entertainment, and unforgettable classic cars changing hands in five-, six- and sevenfigure sales.

In the middle of this dramatic production is the ever-sunglassed president of Barrett-Jackson—Steve Davis, a far-famed collector and gear head in his own right.

Davis has long been a leading figure in the industry, making his name as the owner of Valley Oak Auto and champion of a legislative bill that preserved classic cars by exempting them from California’s smog restrictions. Today, Steve Davis has never been more visible; frequently quoted in the press and seen on TV, he is considered something of a sage in the world of car collecting. Davis put the brakes on his activity for an interview with NVM. North Valley Magazine: Years ago, when you were involved with Barrett-Jackson as a customer and consignor, did you know then that you wanted to be a part of the company?

Steve Davis: When I first attended Bar-

rett-Jackson as a customer, I always looked

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A Driver’s Market forward to loading my vehicles and heading to Arizona. It was my favorite time of year, and literally became an integral part of my California business plan. At my peak, I was consigning and selling forty-plus vehicles in a single trip at Barrett-Jackson, and was one of their top consignors. I had a great relationship with the entire Jackson family, and worked with Russ, Nellie, Brian, and Craig over the years. It wasn’t until Craig took over the company in 1997, after the death of his older brother, Brian, that I considered becoming a part of the company.

As Craig wrestled with taking over the company under very taxing circumstances, I reached out as a friend and long-time customer. We have been working together ever since.

NVM: What are your duties as president?

SD: My responsibilities include overseeing

and managing all operations and departments related to auction sales as well as formulating and initiating strategic plans with the CEO and executive team.

NVM: Can you explain America’s fascination with classic cars?

SD: America’s fascination with classic cars is

undeniable. They evoke memories and provide a snapshot of times past. In many cases,

this snapshot represents a significant time in one’s life and brings back fond memories.

Whether it was your first car, the car you always wanted but couldn’t afford, or the car you once had and always wished you had back, they have an appeal that is both unique and universal. They are pure Americana.

NVM: What is your favorite car that you have appraised?

SD: At auction, my favorite was also the

most expensive—it was Carroll Shelby’s Twin-Supercharged 427 Super Snake Cobra. In working with the consignor, I actually had to do some forensiclike investigation, which included surgically scraping through several layers of paint with a razor blade to authenticate the car and document the provenance. Upon successfully documenting and ultimately consigning this unique vehicle, it proceeded to bring five million dollars over the block, setting the record for the highest price ever paid at auction for an American car. It was very exciting, and I was very proud of that effort.

NVM: Will the state of the economy affect auction prices or the collector’s market in general?

SD: This economy impacts everyone—all

you have to do is pick up a paper or turn

on the television to be reminded how bad the current economy is. As we have just completed our inaugural Las Vegas event in this economic climate, we have a real-time measure of the current market. We were happy with the results of our Las Vegas event, and it reinforced the notion that passion-driven purchases, like collector vehicles, represent a tangible asset that is still very appealing to some consumers, especially those that love cars and are seeing their stocks in their portfolio shrink daily.

The passionate appeal and pride of ownership these collector vehicles provide is not diminished by a rumor on Wall Street, nor do they evaporate daily as a result of the performance of the stock market.

NVM: What are the challenges or difficulties that can arise in appraising the value of classic cars?

SD: Evaluating collector vehicles is a very

tricky exercise. As the values rise, it is very important to represent your vehicles accurately. Making sure you are selling what you are representing is paramount. Verifying the provenance and authenticity is critical in selling your vehicle successfully at auction.

Decoding the numbers and inspecting the paperwork are sometimes a challenge, but something that needs to be done. At Barrett-Jackson, all the vehicles are sold with no reserve, which means the highest bidder is buying the vehicle. Our team of auctioneers, the best in the world, dictates the opening bids and the tempo of the sale.

Every auctioneer has their own style and personality, which also adds to the entertainment value as well as the highest prices over the block.

NVM: What are the future plans of BarrettJackson?

SD: Barrett-Jackson’s future is very bright.

We just launched our latest auction in Las Vegas and are very excited at the prospect of growing that event. We have many projects in the pipeline and many opportunities we are exploring. We will continue to build on our success and expand our reach with our television and Internet presence, which touches millions of people.

Focusing on what we do best, building our brand, and carefully exploring every opportunity that comes our way will allow us to grow into the future and expand our position as the innovative leader in the collector car world.

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myfirstcar

Local Celebs Reminisce

Brandon Webb

Tara Hitchcock

Scott Pasmore

Make: Chevrolet Model: S-10 Blazer Year: 1988 Year purchased: 1995 Price paid: $7,500

Make: Honda Model: Accord LX-I Year: 1989 Year purchased: 1989 Price paid: unsure

“One of the reasons I picked this vehicle was because my best friend had just bought one when he turned 16. We all enjoyed going fourwheeling and mudding and getting our trucks really dirty, then driving them to school for three or four days like that until we finally got them cleaned.”

“I bought my first car with money I made selling CUTCO knives. Let’s just say I was very convincing with my cutting-leather presentation! I’m sure my parents helped out a little. It was a 1989, and I took it to school at Boston College and proceeded to get many parking tickets with it! I loved that car and, to this day, it’s one of the best I’ve ever owned—been through many blizzards with me.”

Make: Ford Model: Mustang Convertible, pristine condition, light blue, white top, 3-speed Year: 1966 Year purchased: 1977 Price paid: $2,000

John Holmberg

Rande Gerber

Eddie Matney

Make: Jeep Model: Wagoneer (red) Year: 1978 Year purchased: 1978 Price paid: $5,000

Make: Dodge Model: Cornett 328 Year: 1966 Year purchased: 1978 Price paid: $50

“I got my first car from my dad when I was 17, and at the time it was probably the biggest car on the road. This was a great thing, since all my friends could pile in safely and we could drive around for hours, stopping for pizza and visiting all our other friends’ houses. It was like driving a tank, and got about six miles to the gallon. I would love to have that car today, although I would convert it to biodiesel or electric and be able to fit my entire family with all their skateboards and surfboards and still have room for the dogs.”

“When I bought my car in 1978, this 1966 car had only 32,000 miles and I bought it for $50.

I got it painted, put new tires and wheels on it, and a few months later, sold it for $800 to buy a Mustang II. I loved that car.”

Pitcher, Arizona Diamondbacks

Host, Holmberg’s Morning Sickness, 98 KUPD Make: Jeep Model: CJ7 Year: 1986 Year purchased: 1986, but I didn’t get it until 1988 Price paid: Ask my dad, but if I remember, the sticker was like $9,700.

“My older sister got it first, so it was a handme-down. And on my sixteenth birthday, I tried to park it on the riverbank and it slid right into the water. Got towed, and I cried in public while a real man towed me out.”

Anchor, Good Morning Arizona

Owner, Stone Rose Lounge

TV anchor, Good Morning Arizona

“My dad got it for me when I was only 15 back in 1977, and I didn’t have my license yet, so I would drive it 25 feet back and forth on the driveway. After six months of that, I finally turned 16 and got my license. Little did I realize at that time what a great car this was and would be. Sure wish I had it today.”

Chef, Eddie’s House

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A

B y C a ss a u n d r a B r o o k s

s the holidays descend upon us, the economy is descending, period. But be of good cheer! This season offers great economic opportunities even on luxury goods, and if you spend wisely, you’ll be helping yourself and the economy as well as bringing joy to your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for something practical, fun, relaxing, ecofriendly, or fit for the entire family, we can help with your shopping list. This season, know that your money will be well spent on gifts worth giving. We know you’ve checked your list once—look over these hot items to check it twice!

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53

Fleur De Lis Collection NightRider Jewelry features this edgy collection made of .925 sterling silver. Included are a buckle, $1,395; a medium pendant, $425; and a 22-inch 4.0MM toggle chain, $305. A $1,000 14-carat gold and black onyx ring mixes with .925 sterling silver to complete the collection.

Available at Ganem Fine Jewelry, (480) 820-1122. nightriderjewelry.com

Love Your Planet Angie Hobo and Wallet Make a fashion statement with this unique handbag by Isabella Fiore. Made of luxuriously supple leather, this bag has a flattering slouchy shape, beautiful hardware, and colorful artwork with a positive message.

Available in black and caramel at Fans & Fashionistas for $595 and $185, respectively. (623) 587-1400

Sprint Pro Wireless Samsung Instinct With its elegant form, all-in-one touch screen, mobile Internet, Sprint TV, Sprint Music, Bluetooth, Sprint navigation, and more, the Instinct is the phone that gives you instant access to everything you want.

Call (623) 587-9350 or visit 3134 W. Carefree Hwy. in Phoenix and Arrowhead Mall next to Dillard’s eprowireless.com

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Adventures by Disney What is it to truly be an adventurer? To travel above and beyond and see what most ordinary tourists will never see. Be immersed in your destination’s way of life—and share with your family a world filled with wonder, enchantment, and remarkable adventures in 23 itineraries at some of the planet’s most spectacular destinations. From exploring Galapagos with a naturalist to hiking with huskies through the Alps, you’ll be there as the world’s authentic wonders come to life.

Don’t know what to bring to the office party? This ultimate gift basket packed with happy holidays mugs, Brown & Haley Candy Cane Roca, mulling spice mix, Route 29 vanilla caramels, and much more will add a sweet touch.

Contact your Vacation Specialist at Elan Travel in Glendale (623) 561-1111 or in Carefree at (480) 488-8268. elantravel.com.

Custom baskets also available. (480) 515-2758 or giftbasket-occasions.com

The Ultimate Office Party Gift Basket

The Fabulous Foursome The all-time favorite among Par Exsalonce clients, the Fab Four is a fun, relaxing miniday at the spa. It includes a Swedish massage, the Par Exsalonce Signature Facial, a manicure and pedicure, and a tantalizing snack. $250.

(480) 860-0717 or parexsalonceaz.com

Enphase Microinverter This ecofriendly device is revolutionizing the solar grid tie system. With Enphase, you can start with one solar panel and one micro inverter ($1,200). It has unprecedented reliability and efficiency. As an added incentive to go solar, the manufacturer promises to pay you for the energy it is not producing if it is ever down. You can also access your system via the Internet.

To install, call HiTekGuru at (602) 904-2400 or visit hitekguru.com.

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55

People & Places 56

Arizona Foundation for Women hosts twelfth annual Sandra Day O’Connor Awards Luncheon » Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, 2400 E. Missouri Ave. Photography by Mark Susan AFW’s annual luncheon honored two outstanding women for their significant contributions to society and their inspiration to women. This year, Governor Janet Napolitano received the Sandra Day O’Connor Award, while the Marilyn R. Seymann Award went to Jeanne L. Herberger. azfoundationforwomen.org.

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december / january 2009

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57

Technology

Gadget Gift Guide

By Jon Kenton

T

he holiday season is with us once again, and whether you are adding to your own personal wish list or racking your brains for gift ideas, I thought I would help by outlining a few of this fall’s latest gadgets and gizmos.

New cell phones and PDAs continue to hit the market. Touch screens (perfect for Smart phones) are appearing everywhere.

HTC’s Touch Pro combines a slide-out keyboard with touch-screen technology— the best of both worlds and very iPhonelike. The TouchPro runs Windows Mobile 6.1, and has great connectivity options— Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and even GPS. Expect to pay $300–$400 with a service agreement.

For BlackBerry fans who like flip phones, the Pearl Flip 8220 will be of interest. The 8220, the first clamshell design from RIM, has everything you would expect of a BlackBerry, including multimedia capabilities, camera, browser, and e-mail. It also has built in Wi-Fi. Pricing is around $349, and T-Mobile will be one of the providers.

This fall, most camera manufacturers are 58

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continuing to introduce new and updated D-SLRs. New mid-range models include Pentax’s K-m, Panasonic’s Lumix G1, and the 50D from Canon. With resolutions ranging from 10–15 megapixels (50D) and a slew of features including auto dust removal and anti-shake technology, they are all great options for stepping up into the realm of Digital SLR photography. If high resolution in a pocket-size point-and-shoot package is more your thing, check out the Canon SD 990 IS. Fifteen MP, manual controls, image stabilization, and their DIGIC 4 processor for great results and fast response times all make this a powerful package for approx $340.

In the world of gaming, titles such as Rock Band and Guitar Hero have turned our living rooms into grand concert stages. This September, Rock Band 2 was announced.

This updated version has many enhanced features and new modes; there’s also a new and improved drum kit. The game comes with 100 songs, and there’s a constant stream of new downloadable tunes released every month. Also be on the lookout for Guitar Hero World Tour. The folks at Guitar Hero are now matching the Rock Band

configuration with the addition of a drum kit and microphone.

E-books and e-book readers are gaining in popularity. They are able to hold many hundreds (or thousands, with additional memory cards) of titles in a lightweight portable package. Popular models include the Reader Digital Book from Sony, iRex Technologies’ Digital Reader Series and iLiad Book Edition and, of course, the Kindle from Amazon. With hundreds of thousands of titles from classics to current bestsellers and a wide selection of newspapers and magazines, there is no shortage of things to read. Prices range from $300 to more than $600, depending on size and features.

Love scratching your head while trying to solve Sudoku? Then how about adding an electronic version of the game to your wish list? Excalibur Electronics have created a touch-screen PDA-style version of this ever-popular puzzle. It has over 800 different puzzles, graded from easy to difficult and all created by Will Shortz, The New York Times Crossword Puzzle Editor.

There are a couple of different-size versions ranging from $20–$80. Hours of fun—but keep some Advil handy!

d r i v i n g

p a s s i o n

RegisteR to bid at www.barrett-Jackson.com or 480.663.6255 hundreds of vehicles, all auctioned at no reserve

38th annual scottsdale auction January 11-18, 2009

WestWorld of Scottsdale

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59

day trippers and weekenders

’Tis the Season

By Alana Stroud

For Those Who Like to Give Hope for the Holidays Golf Marathon Encanto 9 Golf Course • Dec. 08, 2008 2300 N. 17th Ave. • Phoenix, AZ 85007

Help raise some serious bucks for Phoenix Rescue Mission. Rally support while sinking birdies and eagles! Play 100 holes of golf and sponsor yourself for at least $1 per hole. Your $100 donation is payable in advance and is tax deductible. What’s in it for you? Breakfast, lunch, and continuous refreshments—as well as the opportunity to earn some great prizes, depending on the amount of pledges you have raised.

(602) 346-3321 or phoenixrescuemission.org

Fifth Annual Walk ’n’ Roll Dog Walk Tempe Town Lake • Jan. 31, 2009 620 N Mill Ave. • Tempe, AZ 85281

Come enjoy a 5K fun walk and wheelchair roll around Tempe Town Lake with your best friend—though dogs aren’t required!

There will be a silent auction, live bands, lunch provided for walk participants, and doggie games all day long. All proceeds benefit Power Paws Assistance Dogs Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides assistance dogs to adults and children with disabilities.

(480) 945-0754 or walknrolldogwalk.org

Montezuma Castle Castle Road, Camp Verde, AZ Open Daily: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

(September through May)

Got some relatives visiting from out of town for the holidays? Show them a breathtaking Arizona treasure—Montezuma Castle. This fantastic relic stands in a cliff recess a hundred feet above the Verde Valley and was a five-storey, 20-room dwelling built in the twelfth century.

Also at the park are Tuzigoot and Montezuma Well. Entrance fee is $5 for ages 16 and up; children are free.

(520) 567-3322 or nps.gov/moca 60

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For Those Who Like to Receive Challenger Space Center 21170 N 83rd Ave. • Peoria, AZ 85382

Open your mind to the gift of knowledge this season at the Challenger Space Center in Peoria. With constantly changing exhibits, evenings of stargazing, hands-on activities, and simulated space missions, young and old alike will have fun with a day at the CSC! (623) 322-2001 or azchallenger.org/public.htm

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

Make a day of selecting that perfect Christmas tree with your family—in one of Arizona’s five national forests. First, obtain a permit tag for $15 per tree from Big 5 Sporting Goods, and then it’s first come, first served! So collect the kids, get on your cold-weather clothes, and head out to your favorite (or closest) forest—and don’t forget the saw. But don’t procrastinate—you only have until December 24 to harvest your tree!

(602) 225-5258

Snowbowl Flagstaff, AZ

Why just dream of a white Christmas? Pull out your new winter gear and join the throng of Valley residents at Snowbowl for some skiing and snowboarding this year. Stay at one of the four lodges or grab yourself a cabin for the weekend, sip some cocoa, and enjoy a warm fire away from home.

(928) 779-1951 or arizonasnowbowl.com december / january 2009

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61

health & fitness

R

“Relax and enjoy yourself in the utterly civilized pleasure of taking time for tea.”

Ultimate

Weight-Loss Secrets

Situated in the heart of beautiful Carefree Arizona, the English Rose Tea Room has developed a reputation for providing exquisite English cuisine in a truly unique and authentic Victorian atmosphere. Attention to detail is apparent in our furnishings and decor, and extends to our outside dining patio, which offers a lovely English garden setting.

Five Experts’ Tips That Will Change Your Life

By Diana Bocco

W

inning the weight-loss game can be a challenge, but there are ways to improve your odds for long-term success.

Here is what the experts have to say about it:

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“Keeping a food log is one of the most effective tools for weight management, whatever plan you may be on,” says Ilana Katz, MS, RD and CEO of Optimal Nutrition for Life. Being honest with yourself allows you to really analyze your eating behavior and determine where to focus your attention on lifestyle changes. When the plate’s clean, logs give you the real deal in black and white. Furthermore, logs give you great inspiration when you are losing, and great data for constant grocery lists and meal-planning sheets.

2

Michelle May, M.D., author of Am I Hungry? What to Do when Diets Don’t Work, recommends always asking yourself why you’re eating before you take the first bite. “If you think about food all the time, eat when you’re bored or stressed, have trouble passing up tempting food even if you aren’t hungry, or eat differently when you’re alone, then your weight problems aren’t just about what you’re eating, but why you’re eating in the first place,” May says.

3

If you don’t have time for a full workout, move anyway. “Shorter spurts of exercise spaced throughout the day offer benefits, too,” says Dr. Randa Bascharon, D.O., sports performance specialist and board-certified athletic trainer. Setting aside time to exercise can be a tough challenge. But if you use a little creativity and compromise, you will be able to fit exercise into your day.

“When thin people eat, they are often more mindful eaters, enjoying their meal by savoring the delicious smells, tastes, and visual appeal of their food.”

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According to Jackie Keller, the founding director of NutriFit, there are three major diet pitfalls: skipping major meals (especially breakfast), which can contribute to overeating later on; losing perspective by focusing only on long-range goals, ignoring the small victories; and not rewarding yourself. “Always make a list of non-food rewards and when you’ve reached each realistic short-term health or weight goal, pick a prize from your list,” Keller says.

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Introducing Skin Medica’s Vitalize peel

One thing most experts agree on is that thin people typically have healthy relationships with food. “When thin people eat, they are often more mindful eaters, enjoying their meal by savoring the delicious smells, tastes, and visual appeal of their food,” says Lisa Talamini, RD, chief nutritionist and program director for Jenny Craig. “When they’re physically full, they’re able to resist the temptation to continue eating, setting aside any uneaten food and moving on to their next activity.”

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63

beauty

Chocolate & Pumpkins Nature’s Treats for our Complexions

By Cynthia Boggs Spa Director

C

hocolate and pumpkins are not only scrumptious to eat and delicious symbols of the time of the season but also act as organic antioxidants when applied to our skin, creating smooth, clear complexions.

The scent of pumpkin reminds us of the welcome change of seasons here in the desert, signaling to us that cooler days are here and the holiday season is upon us. What an even greater way to celebrate by using nature’s gift of chocolate and pumpkins, which are carefully crafted into luxurious cosmetics to beautify and soften our skin!

We all have experienced that deep feeling of contentment after eating a warm slice of pumpkin pie, and those enzymes within the pumpkin really do aid in digesting that fabulous holiday meal! So, inside and out, it is a wonderful food for all of us. Enzymes naturally found in pumpkin have a deeply effective exfoliating effect on the skin, and for those who are sensitive to chemical peels and glycolic products, they are surprisingly detoxifying ingredients!

The use of pineapple, papaya, and mango, to name a few of the many fruits 64

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that react as organic skin softeners, is a proven way to refresh our complexions, and pumpkins have the most active concentrations of those enzymes.

Chocolate is a universally loved scent, and many will be surprised to learn how it can benefit our skin.

Chocolate contains a high amount of antioxidants that clear free-radical molecules from our skin, allowing our body to heal faster, and the natural caffeine and lipids gently stimulate the capillaries to flush toxins and soothe dry skin.

Love and chocolate are historically intertwined as physiologically powerful responses of joy and an endorphin-triggered euphoria. This is due to the natural components of the cocoa beans that are flush with caffeine and other natural nerve stimulants that for centuries have been compounded into exotic drinks, delectable candies, and cosmetics.

Can there be a better way to celebrate autumn than a with a pumpkin or chocolate skin-care treatment?

Maybe a quick indulgence of a warm nutmeg-scented latte and, of course, a chocolate truffle to welcome in one of the best seasons and reasons to live in our beautiful Sonoran desert in the North Valley.

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PEOPLE & PLACES 66

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Uncorked & Unplugged Âť Desert Ridge Marketplace, Loop 101 and Tatum Blvd.

Photography by Larry Rubino Quite a crowd gathered under the stars to celebrate gourmet foods, fine wine and spirits, and live entertainment. All proceeds are directly applied to youth-development programs for the 15,000-plus members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. uncorkedandunplugged.org

Gift Basket Occasions

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Celebrating a special occasion? We are sure to have a gift basket that will be the perfect finishing touch!

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december / january 2009

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auto trends

When Safety Really Matters: Recaro Child Seats

An Economical and Fashionable Accessory

By Greg Rubenstein

Y

ou don’t so much drive a Smart as wear one like an accessory. A cute curiosity here, the “smart” (yes, the brand logo is all lowercase) is a familiar microcar to the rest of the world. It’s sold in 36 countries in a myriad of two- and four-seater styles with electric, gasoline, or diesel engines.

U.S.-spec Smarts went on sale in early 2008, with a single vehicle available in three variants: Pure, Passion Coupe, and Passion Cabriolet.

All U.S. Smarts use a three-cylinder oneliter gasoline engine good for 71 horsepower.

Weighing 1,800 pounds, the diminutive Smart (two can fit in a single parking space) can go from zero to 60 mph in a bit under 13 seconds.

Top speed is a white-knuckle 90 mph.

Driving the Smart is a bit of a challenge until you become accustomed to its automated manual five-speed. It drives like an automatic, except that to obtain smooth shifts requires lifting off the gas at the right moment. Learning to anticipate the shift timing is the real 68

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trick, but once mastered, relatively smooth acceleration is possible.

Dynamic handling is fun, if basic, thanks to wide (for its size) tires and its super-short wheelbase. The ride is choppy, however, and freeway driving is not for the easily intimidated as it takes full concentration to keep the Smart in a single lane at speed.

Aside from its aesthetic charm, the Smart’s forte is economy, where it scores an EPA rating of 33/41 mpg city/highway. I observed a much lower 25 mpg in mixed city and highway driving.

Base price on the Smart Fortwo passion convertible is $16,590. Options including an alarm, power steering, and heated seats bumped the price up to a not-so-smart $18,585, but at least there are more price-for-size appropriate choices. The Pure has a base price of $11,590, and the passion coupe starts at $13,590.

The Smart isn’t all that dumb when it comes to safety. In IIHS crash testing, it earned the top rating for front- and side-crash protection, while its seat/head restraints scored the second-highest rating of acceptable for protection against whiplash in rear impacts.

Although the Smart earns good crash ratings, it’s not an appropriate vehicle for a teenage driver. It’s simply too small and too difficult to drive safely. For someone who drives with a small child, space equals safety, so the Smart is out in that regard, too. Perhaps even more important than crumple room is the right child-safety seat, and in that regard, there is no security quite like that offered by a Recaro child seat.

For decades, Recaro has produced seats for high-end sports cars like the Porsche 911, Audi RS4, and Ferrari 599, along with some of the finest and safest seats used in all types of auto racing. For the parents who want the best for their children, Recaro also makes a full line of child safety seats.

I recently tried out the $249 Recaro Young Sport, a 9-month to 2-year-old forward-facing child seat that looks every bit the part of a miniature race-car seat, complete with padded fivepoint harness. Installation was a snap, and getting junior in or out isn’t any more difficult than seats that offer less side-impact protection.

Available in the North Valley at USABaby, Babies”R”Us, better baby boutique shops, and online, Recaro offers a full line of highest-quality seating for infants to preteens. If you’re into safety for your children, you need to look at Recaro.

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book Review

the last lecture Hyperion Books, 2008, 208 pages, ISBN: 978-1-4013-2325-7

The Last Lecture

By Ben Miles

C

arnegie Mellon University has a speakers series titled “The Last Lecture.” Many colleges offer such symposia in which professors are invited to present a talk to students, fellow faculty members, and administrators that reflects upon education, values, and whatever the speaker considers to be the most important lesson or lessons he or she can impart, as if it were their final chance to do so.

In the case of Carnegie Mellon computer science Professor Randy Pausch, requesting his participation in “The Last Lecture” program was literal. Professor Pausch had been recently diagnosed with terminal cancer when he accepted the challenge of delivering a Last Lecture at the university. Pausch’s topic, which he called “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams,” became a YouTube sensation.

In his lecture demonstration, Pausch shows CAT scans of his tumor-ridden pancreas, does one-armed push-ups, projects slide images of his lovely family—a wife and three young children—and fills view70

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ers with wholesome morsels of workaday wisdom, such as a prescription for apologymaking. Pausch assures us that “a bad apology is worse than no apology at all,” and we also learn that a proper apology has three parts: The wrongdoer must communicate the following, in this order: What I did was wrong, I feel bad that I hurt you, and How do I make it better?

Pausch declares, “I don’t know how not to have fun. I’m dying and I’m having fun.”

After experiencing the video of Pausch’s presentation, it’s difficult not to be won over by the professor’s mindful, albeit middlebrow, middle-class approach to living. In one memorable moment, Pausch declares, “I don’t know how not to have fun. I’m dying and I’m having fun.” In this inspiring instant, Paucsh garners our unmitigated

respect and appreciation while allowing us to also consider, or reconsider, the meaning of our own lives.

Randy Pausch died on July 25, 2008, but his insight and wit are ours to keep, not only through video (see it at theLastLecture.com) but also in a bestselling book written with Jeffrey Zaslow, named, of course, The Last Lecture. The small reader is divided in to six simple sections and has embedded within it the lecture points; they are worth reading and rereading, just as the video bears watching and rewatching.

The book, in essence, is the story of Pausch’s journey through the Last Lecture process. For instance, did he want to spend his last days prepping for a talk? Or, would he rather have spent that time with his soon-to-be widowed wife and their children? That dilemma requires a thorough search of the soul. Pausch’s nuanced chronicle makes that touching spiritual choice a vivid experience for readers. The Last Lecture, we hope, won’t be your last nonfiction reading assignment, but it may be the most important one that you’ve had in some time.

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jewels

6 Secrets

to Finding the Best Values When Shopping for Jewelry

By Andrew Z

E

veryone wants good value when making a purchase, so here are six things for you to think about before you head out on your next jewelry-seeking adventure. Before I reveal the six secrets, let’s remember that the lowest price is not necessarily the best value unless product, service, and terms are identical. You know the old saying: Always compare apples to apples.

1

If a store advertises “50 percent off everything!” you may want to turn around and run out as fast as you can! Be leery of what may be deceptive pricing. If an item was priced at double its normal price on Monday and

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then advertised as 50 percent off on Tuesday, this is not a discount.

It’s a come-on as old as when the first jewelry peddler polished a diamond and put it into his cart. You may wonder how far they’re willing to stretch whatever passes for the truth just to make a sale.

2 3

Ignore the hype.

T r u s t yo u r I N S T I N C T .

A small local jeweler has access to the same wholesale prices that a large chain store or large online seller might have.

As far as diamond quality goes, a little knowledge—and a little education—is a good thing. If you are in the market for a new diamond, try to spend a little time learning about the four Cs of diamond quality (Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat Weight). This information is readily available in the library, online, or in most jewelry stores. Try to find an unbiased source such as the Gemological Institution of America so that you avoid biased marketing information that might be questionable. Once you have some understanding of the four Cs, you can make a better decision on which diamond characteristics—clarity for example—are worth paying more for and which are not as important to you.

4

How often will you wear a particular piece? Will it give you the mpc (miles per carat) that you want? Paying more for something that you might wear every weekend may be a better value than paying less for something only worn twice a year. Look for versatility. Are jackets available for those earrings, or maybe an enhancer for a pendant? These are add-ons that can bring about multiple looks for the same core piece of jewelry.

5

Don’t skimp on quality of manufacture. By this, I’m referring to everything other than gemstone or diamond quality. Look for a secure clasp such as a “lobster claw” on a chain or bracelet.

Is the shank of a ring heavy enough to your eye? Look closely at prongs. Are they equally spaced and equal in size? Is the style durable enough for your lifestyle?

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6

Always ask what guarantees and service policies are offered.

Also, ask if the retailer offers a diamond trade-up policy on purchased diamonds and if there are any minimum upgrade requirements.

Well, there you have them: Six secrets that really aren’t secrets at all, but just common-sense considerations. The best jewelry values aren’t usually a secret or some type of fantastic deal. They are found when you work with jewelers of integrity who respect you and appreciate your business. So now, all you have to do is go out and find a jeweler whom you trust and feel comfortable with, use a little old-fashioned common sense, and have fun finding a beautiful piece of jewelry—with value!

The best jewelry values aren’t usually a secret or some type of fantastic deal. They are found when you work with jewelers of integrity who respect you and appreciate your business.

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ou donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to settle anymore for dry crackers when you tour wine country in Napa Valley.

My wife and I recently returned from Napa, where we attended several wine tours and food/wine-pairing events.

Several wineries have culinary staff on site for private events, and the wineries firmly believe food and wine are inseparable. We were invited to join some friends at the Jarvis Harvest Party and also attend the Chalk Hill food-pairing tour. These turned out to be two of the more memorable experiences.

At Chalk Hill, we started off with peppers stuffed with shredded fish. The appetizer was paired with an estategrown Chalk Hill sauvignon blanc.

Normally, the citrus aromas of the sauvignon blanc would overpower the vegetal characteristic of the pepper; however, the crisp floral aromas, lively characters of tropical fruit, melons, and grapefruits, and silky-texture finish complemented the pepper appetizer perfectly. Next came the Saddleback rabbit with cranberry sauce paired with the Chalk Hill pinot noir. The pinot noir has a smoky finish and a velvety leather flavor along with raspberries and cherries; it was the perfect complement to the slightly gamy flavors of the meat. The third and final course was braised beef tenderloin with slightly astringent cheese sauce paired with the Chalk Hill Estate-grown cabernet sauvignon. The cabernet had a black currant and jammy cherry taste with hints of mint and chocolate. The

Wine and Food Pairing

wine was complex, yet had soft tannins and paired well with the beef, bringing out the smokiness of the meat.

The following day, we attended the Jarvis Fall Harvest Party. We started off with the Finch Hollow Estate chardonnay paired with grilled shrimp and goat cheese on a toasted baguette. The buttery French style of the chardonnay with characteristics of ripe peach and rich nectarine balanced well with the aperitif. The Jarvis merlot, with its full, round, rich flavors and soft low-tannins, was paired with Peking duck enriched with a soy-based hoisin sauce. A spicy vegetable-filled spring roll and beef tenderloin slices on delicate sweetbread were paired with a cabernet franc. The cabernet franc, with its darker fruit and tobacco earthy aromas, paired well with the spices from both dishes. The cabernet sauvignon was paired with chocolate to bring out the dark, rich roasted cocoa flavors.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to travel to Napa to experience food and wine pairing, as most fine-dining restaurants offer these special dinners. Some restaurants will even coordinate with a specific winery and invite the winemaker. These dinners are extraordinary because it allows everyone at the dinner to get two different points of view. The winemaker can explain how he draws certain aromas and characteristics out of the wine, while the chef can expound upon why certain foods paired well and complemented the wines. Try a special wine- and food-pairing dinner. You will be impressed.

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Pull That Net from under Him

Dear Coach Lea,

Ask the Dating Coach

My boyfriend says he loves me but can’t make a commitment at this time. He claims that I am the love of his life and that I will be the

By Lea Friese-Haben one he walks down the aisle with—when he is ready. I am 36 years old and we have been together for four years, and I feel as if he will never set a date. I also am noticing that he has women calling him and texting him all of the time. When I have questioned him, he claims that I am just paranoid. I am desperately in love with this man. What should I do?

Dear Desperate,

Have you heard the term safety net? It sounds as if your boyfriend has one foot in the relationship and one foot firmly planted into bachelorhood. He likes the stability of a relationship but is keeping his options open. He hasn’t married you for a reason—he is waiting around for a better deal. Give him the shape-up-or-ship-out

speech and be prepared to mean it. Don’t waste your time or your integrity making threats you won’t follow through on. Spend time with family and friends and develop your own interests so that you have a support system in place should you part ways.

Good luck!

Say Uncle to This One Dear Coach Lea,

I have been divorced for almost seven years and have recently started dating my ex’s younger brother. (He is ten years younger than I am). We have so much in common and I really am having a great time. My sister says this is a bad idea and that it could create problems for me with my ex and our two children. What do you think?

Dear Mrs. Robinson,

This can be an incredibly confusing situation for your children. If you currently have an amicable divorce, this could change that, too. I would also ask you to look at holidays and future family get-togethers, as this could create a great deal of stress and discomfort for all parties. Play the friend card with your ex-brother-in-law and find someone else to date who is at least a fourth cousin.

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Hung Up Dear Coach Lea,

I have been dating a guy for about a month now and I am positive that he’s The One. When we are together, I can’t believe how happy I am. When we are not together, it is agony waiting for the phone to ring. There are times when he doesn’t call for days and I am absolutely devastated. When we are together, things are fabulous and then when he leaves, I fall apart. I can’t eat, sleep, or do anything but wait for him.

Dear Lady in Waiting,

You are confusing love with heightened hormones. Love is something that comes with time and is something that comes after attraction. I am concerned that your well-being hinges on a phone call from this guy. Put some balance in your life with friends, hobbies, and things you love. A man can be a part of your life but shouldn’t be your entire life. (No one needs or wants that kind of responsibility). Love yourself, and others will, too. december / january 2009

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travel

By Shannon Willoby

A

s the setting for over sixty movies, from Elvis Presley’s Blue Hawaii to the more recent Tropic Thunder, firsttime visitors to Kauai might be surprised to discover that they’ve already seen some of its beauty through the magic of film. And because Kauai is filled with ecological delights that make for stunning big-screen backdrops, it’s an ideal vacation destination.

Kauai, often called the Garden Island, is a popular tourist spot thanks to its perfect year-round weather of 70–80 degrees, 50 miles of white sandy beaches, the majestic Na Pali coast, Waimea Canyon (nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), laid-back atmosphere, and endless outdoor activities, but the island’s ancient myths and culture are also fascinating draws. And with only 3 percent of Kauai developed for commercial and agricultural use, plenty of the island’s natural state is there to see and discover in many ways—hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, zip-lining, surfing, all-terrain vehicle adventures, horseback riding, nature walks, world-class golf, helicopter tours, and more.

Whether you’re looking for a little family fun or a romantic getaway, read on for tips on where to stay and what to do while you enjoy Hawaii’s oldest and most unspoiled island, Kauai.

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Sheraton Kauai Resort (866) 716-8109 • sheraton-kauai.com

If you’re looking for a tropical oceanfront property with an intimate feel, the Sheraton Kauai Resort on Poipu beach is it. Opt for the beach or ocean wing if you want to face the sea or choose the garden wing to overlook a pretty garden and waterfall area. Head to the Sheraton’s Activity Center for snorkeling and scuba equipment, boogie boards, and beach cabana rentals, or take a relaxing walk along Poipu beach. Guests will enjoy a variety of on-site delicious dining options, from Shells Steak and Seafood Restaurant to the more casual al fresco dining choice, Oasis Bar and Grill. For an eco-friendly twist, guests can attend the Sheraton’s Monk Seal Program on Wednesday nights at 6 p.m.

This free presentation put on by the Kauai Monk Seal Watch Program teaches about one of the most endangered species on the planet. With only about 1,300 Monk Seals in Hawaii—around 25 in Kauai alone—the Monk Seal Program shows why protecting this species is so important.

Photography of the Sheraton courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Hawaii

The Beautiful Island of Kauai

Photography courtesy of Hanalei Colony Resort

Photography courtesy of Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club

Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club (800)-220-2925 • marriotthawaii.com

For a luxury property with all the amenities, try the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club. And while the lavish bedding, on-site koi pond, tropical garden, and talkative parrots just outside the lobby are sure to hit big with you, the main attraction just might be the hotel’s pool. With 1.8 million black and light blue mosaic tiles, swim-up hot tubs, and 26,000 square feet of water, it’s the largest single-level pool in the state. But if it’s the beach you’re after, miles and miles of soft sand and swimmable ocean lie just steps behind the pool, which means that much of your time at the Marriott will probably be spent outdoors enjoying the natural beauty of Kauai either from a provided lounge chair with a tropical drink or by taking advantage of the nearby snorkeling, water skiing, hiking, and horseback riding. When you’re ready for a fantastic meal, you’ll get to choose from five open-air restaurants, including the resort’s Aupaka Terrace, where 100 percent biodegradable flatware and to-go containers are used, and the famous beachfront restaurant Duke’s Barefoot Bar and Grill.

Hanalei Colony Resort and Day Spa (800) 628-3004 • hcr.com

Built in 1969, Hanalei Colony Resort just might be Hawaii’s original eco-friendly resort. To its credit, the Hanalei Colony Resort has never offered any in-room distractions, and that includes televisions, phones, and radios. If you absolutely must, Internet access is available, but don’t let anything divert your attention from the beauty of this oceanfront condominium property. Each charming condo is equipped with a full kitchen, perfect for those looking to save some cash by preparing their own meals. For a delicious meal at the resort, head to the Hanalei Gourmet for Mediterranean-inspired fare. Named one of Kauai’s three best restaurants by Honolulu Magazine, the food is accented by the restaurant’s prime beachfront location. Shopping and coffee breaks coexist perfectly at the on-site NaPali Art Gallery and Coffee Shop. But if it’s ultimate indulgence you’re after, treat yourself to the Hanalei Day Spa. A variety of services is offered daily, from luxurious facials to invigorating body wraps. Guests can opt for their massages to be done by a talented therapist either beachside or in the spa.

Holo Holo Charters

Photo by Shannon Willoby

(800) 848-6130 • holoholocharters.com

Choose the morning Na Pali Snorkel Sail by Holo Holo Charters and you’ll spend five hours out on the ocean admiring the natural beauty of Kauai.

You’ll see cascading waterfalls and mysterious sea caves along the cloudcapped Na Pali coast, and possibly even sea turtles, dolphins, or whales may prove the highlight of any trip.

Breakfast, lunch, and alcoholic beverages are served on the boat—the latter after snorkeling, of course. Sunset and sightseeing cruises are also available. december / january 2009

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travel

Photography courtesy of Ho’opulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill

Princeville Ranch Adventures

Ho’opulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill (808) 651-3399 • haraguchiricemill.org

Get a taste of Hawaii’s past and present with a tour of historic Haraguchi Rice Mill and Taro farm. As Hawaii’s last standing rice mill, the Haraguchi Rice Mill tour is an entertaining and informative lesson on Hawaii’s agricultural and cultural past.

Family-owned, the 1880s rice mill and working taro farm are located in a wildlife refuge filled with nene goose, Koloa duck, and endangered water birds. Try a tasty taro smoothie and a full picnic lunch that includes farm-grown items such as poi, a local Hawaiian favorite made from taro.

True adventure seekers will love the Jungle Valley Adventure by Princeville Ranch Adventures. Kayak, hike, and zip-line deep into Kauai’s rainforest interior led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Two zip-lines await the daring, but if you’re afraid to give it a try, don’t worry. The guides are reassuring and patient regarding any safety questions and fears. After your exhilarating zip, you’ll walk down to a twin waterfall swimming area while the guides set out a lunch of deli sandwiches, chips, and cookies.

Photography of Kauai courtesy of Kauai Visitors Bureau

(888) 955-7669 adventureskauai.com

Outfitters Kauai (888) 742-9887 • outfitterskauai.com

Photo by Shannon Willoby

For an exciting outdoor adventure and a tropical trek down a once-royal river, try the Wailua River Kayak offered by Outfitters Kauai. As you paddle down Wailua River, the vibrant green plants and moss-covered cliffs surround you, making it easy to understand why Hawaiian royalty used to call it home.

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s time for an easy to moderate hike (be advised that if it’s recently rained, a muddy trail makes this hike very slippery and a lot harder) led by a friendly guide. The payoff is a breathtaking 100-foot waterfall, swimming hole, and provided lunch—well worth any slips in the mud.

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Ready to plan your trip? Regardless of how much time you have to spend in Kauai, be sure to sample everything this beautiful island offers, from relaxing beaches and outstanding seafood to outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. And no matter what type of Hawaiian experience you hope to have during your stay, whether it’s tasting local delicacies, participating in your first luau, going on a whale watch (whale season is December–April), or simply relaxing outdoors, the perfect climate and warm waters of the Pacific will make it possible year-round.

Photography of Kauai courtesy of Kauai Visitors Bureau

photography courtesy of the National Tropical Botanical Garden

Visit the Kauai Visitors Bureau Web site—kauaidiscovery.com—for additional information.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve (808) 826-1053 • ntbg.org

Take a walk through ancient Hawaii at the Limahuli Garden and Preserve. With the Makana Mountain and Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, it’s no wonder the American Horticultural Society named the Limahuli Garden and Preserve the best natural botanical garden in the United States. The garden has a variety of native and invasive species as well as a plantation-era garden and the Limahuli Stream—one of the last untouched waterways left in Hawaii.

Esprit De Corps Riding Academy (808) 822-4688 • kauaihorses.com

Saddle up for A Taste of Kauai horseback tour with Esprit De Corps Riding Academy. After an instruction on the basics, you’ll grab the reins and learn how to make your horse walk, turn, back up, and trot. You’ll get a true riding experience with this tour, and once you’re out on the trail, your guide will tell you stories about the land, point out spots where Jurassic Park was filmed, and even show you which edible fruits you can pick off trees along the way—fresh strawberries, pineapple guavas—yum.

Enter to win!

Hidden Kauai is your guide to dramatic mist-shrouded cliffs, endless stretches of white-sand beach and verdant, river-striped valleys. Specialized maps, highlighted listings, and easy-to-follow directions take you to the Garden Isle’s secret gems: secluded snorkeling spots, cottage inns, remote waterfalls, and the restaurants that locals love.

Visit NorthValleyMagazine.com to enter. Books available to order at ulyssespress.com.

december / january 2009

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hot list

Winter Delights

By Alana Stroud

Volunteering

Join in the fun during this holiday season—volunteer! There’s no better way to give back to the community and share your life’s blessings than to give to those less fortunate. There are many centers around the Valley where you can go to wrap presents, serve food, provide home deliveries for various needs, and so many other ways of expressing generosity.

Miracle on Main Street Kierland Commons • Greenway Pkwy. and Scottsdale Rd. Nov. 29, 2008

Join the festivities at Kierland Commons on the Saturday after Thanksgiving for some holiday cheer! Bring the kids for complimentary horseand-carriage rides, pictures with Santa, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, and shopping for Mom and Dad! Enjoy this and much more, including a tree lighting at sunset, without having to travel all the way to the North Pole.

(480) 348-1577 or kierlandcommons.com

Azlimo.com

Got a big date? Prom night? Ladies’ night out? Whatever your special occasion may be, azlimo.com has you covered. With several limos and packages to choose from, they’re sure to have something that caters to your needs. Fully stocked minibars, satellite TV, and fun interiors are bound to keep you and your guests entertained during your night on the town.

(480) 635-8887 or azlimo.com

Westgate Rocks New Year’s Eve Party Westgate City Center • 5 p.m.–2 a.m.

9400 W Maryland Ave. Glendale, AZ 85305

Ring in the New Year in style at the bustling Westgate City Center. You’ll enjoy performances by nationally recognized entertainers, dining, dancing, DJs, and two large-scale LED video monitors to watch New Year’s countdowns and other programming.

21 and older only.

(623) 772-4000 or westgateaz.com

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Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

Though gas prices have been going down, there’s no better time to purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle than now. How lucky we are that automakers of every brand have caught on to this fad! No matter who your favorite automaker is, with a little research you’ll most likely find they have a new model vehicle that will get you up to (and possibly beyond!) 35–40 mpg.

F ANS

Cesar Chavez: Autobiography of La Causa

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F ASHIONIS T A S H a n d b a g Fa s h i o n s & his hers

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By Jacques E. Levy, Barbara Moulton, Jr., Fred Ross, and Jacqueline M. Levy

one-stop Holiday shopping

When you read this intimate look into the Mexican-American activist’s life and work, you will truly understand what it means to fight for your rights and enjoy the freedom that can only be found in America. Cesar Chavez is one of the pillars of Arizona’s history.

Acai Berry

This up-and-coming superfood is becoming widely known for its powerful antioxidants and help in losing weight. Similar to a blueberry yet resembling a grape, this fruit has been said to boost energy levels, help alleviate diabetes, improve circulation, and provide many important vitamins. As always, you should consult a doctor before taking any supplements.

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Six for the

Holidays

1

December 1–28

2

December 1–January 4

3

December 6 and 13

4

December 12–14

5

December 23

6

December 24–30

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Charles Dickens timeless classic comes to life onstage. azbroadwaytheatre.com

2008 ARIZONA CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS This two-mile drive-through the light festival features more than 7,000,000 lights and 300 themed and animated displays synchronized to music. Admission $10–12 per carload; discounts available with canned food donations. (602) 424-7822 or ArizonaCelebrationofLights.com

PROMENADE SHOPPING CENTER’S SECOND “HOLIDAY WITH THE ARTS PRESENTATION” Events will include carriage rides and a variety of performances by the School of Ballet Arizona, Phoenix Boys Choir, Sonoran Brass Quintet, Arizona Puppet Theatre, and more.

Scottsdale’s Vista del Camino Food Bank will be holding a food collection drive.

(602) 667-0599

FIRST ANNUAL CAREFREE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Carefree’s Town Center becomes a winter wonderland of activities for celebrating the season. A Christmas parade, a demonstration of professional painting techniques by artists from the Sonoran Arts League, gift wrapping, music, live theater, numerous lights, and more will help make this festival an event for the family. CarefreeChristmasFestival.com

MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER At the Dodge Theatre. (480) 784-4444 or eveningstarproductions.com

ZOOLIGHTS The seventeenth annual event transforms the Phoenix Zoo into a holiday lighting event with millions of lights and 400 animal-shaped light sculptures. Great fun for children and families!

Admission $9, or $7 for zoo members.

(602) 273-1341 or phoenixzoo.org

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December 6–7

F.Q. STORY HOME TOUR The Story neighborhood, boasting architecture that dates back to the 1920s, will be open to the public for its annual tour.

(602) 258-9282.

December 10–17

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Don’t miss this classic by the Phoenix Symphony, performed at various locations. (602) 495-1999 or phoenixsymphony.org December 26, 2008– January 24, 2009

CINDERELLA The beloved tale of a young girl and her fairy godmother comes to the Greater Arizona Puppet Theater. It’s a wonderful show for the kids. (602) 262-2050 or azpuppets.org December 31

INSIGHT FIESTA BOWL BLOCK PARTY This New Year’s Eve bash attracts more than 100,000 people annually to Tempe’s Beach Park and Mill Avenue districts. Enjoy fireworks, over

forty local bands and entertainers, beer gardens, dueling pianos, freestyle motocross jumpers, and much more. (480) 967-2001 or fiestabowl.org December 31, 2008–January 18, 2009

HAIR: THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE-ROCK MUSICAL The year is 1968. The hippies are rocking out in New York City’s Central Park. And this revolutionary musical celebrates its fortieth anniversary here in Phoenix. Contains mature language and nudity. arizonatheatre.org January 17, 2008– February 14, 2009

“BEHOLD THE BRILLIANCE” GLASS ART SHOW Eight acclaimed glass fine artists from throughout Arizona will exhibit and sell their new work at the inaugural event at the nonprofit Cattletrack Gallery, sponsored by the not-for-profit Arizona Glass Alliance.

(480) 361-9151

January 2–February 8 » THE LION KING The colorful show comes to Gammage Auditorium.

(480) 784-4444 or asugammage.com

January 16–18

MARICOPA COUNTY HOME & GARDEN SHOW Get ready for exhibits, vendors, seminars, demonstrations, contests, ask-an-expert sessions, and workshops at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. Admission: adults, $5; kids ages 3–12, $2; and ages 2 and under are free. (602) 485-1691 or maricopacountyhomeshows.com

December 5–7 » FORTIETH ANNUAL TEMPE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Join the crowds at one of the country’s top twenty art festivals. At Tempe Town Lake from 10 a.m. to dusk.

If you would like to have your event listed in the Events Calendar, send information by January 1 to Cassaundra at events@northvalleymagazine.com.

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• • • • • • • • •

for your special pet

Preventative Medicine Vaccines Laser & Orthopedic Surgeries Microchip Identification Nutritional Consultation Advanced Dental Care Behavioral Medicine Spa Services and More!

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ask the vet

A trusted vet

Adopting a Pet

This Season

By Rob Graham, CVT

W

inter is a popular time for people to get a new pet for the family. I’m pretty sure I’ve seen a Rockwell scene with a child getting a big wet kiss from his new sibling. Before you run out and adopt a pet, it’s important to take several things into consideration.

First of all, make sure that a pet is right for your family. Taking a new pet home to your family is like bringing in another child. There will be feeding, training, and veterinary bills to consider.

Puppies need to go outside frequently, so your lunch break may turn into a puppy walk. Someone will need to be able to feed a new puppy or kitten several times a day. You should also be prepared for the damages a young animal can cause in your home—chewedup shoes, clawed couches, and so on.

You would not believe the number of unwanted pets that are dropped off at shelters during the holidays. Make sure that everyone in your family is willing and able to take on the added responsibilities of a new pet.

If everyone agrees that a new pet is right for your family, you now need to make sure you are adopting or purchasing a healthy pet. There is nothing worse than bringing in a new family member only to find out that it has a medical condition that can not only be costly but also deadly. It’s so easy to

go to a shelter or rescue group and buy a puppy or kitten on impulse because they are soooo cute and fluffy! Even though shelters and reputable rescue groups and breeders are watchful about pet diseases, you need to be sure your new friend is also healthy.

Before you bring home a new pet, ask the shelter official, the rescue caregiver or the breeder (and make sure that you take time to research a reputable and responsible one) to see medical records, and make sure that they’re legitimate. Puppies and kittens should receive their first set of vaccines between the ages of six and eight weeks.

Make sure that you’ll be allowed to return the pet if a veterinary exam reveals any abnormalities. After you have adopted a pet, you need to have them examined by a veterinarian ASAP. Your veterinarian will make sure the pet is healthy, up to date on vaccines, and free from parasites. Internal parasites are not only dangerous for your pet but can also be dangerous for you and your children.

If you are considering a new pet this season, please take these things into consideration so that a joyful moment doesn’t turn into a nightmare. If you have specific questions about adopting a pet or legitimate rescuers—either breed-specific or not—contact your local veterinarian for advice.

Contact Rob Graham at askthevet@northvalleymagazine.com.

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adopt-a-pet

Good Friends Who Need Great Homes Photography by Michelle Brodsky

Cats Maggie and Tommy are pair-bonded kitties who do not like to be apart for more then fifteen minutes. They love to cuddle and play, but only when they are the only cats around. Once they fall in love with you, they will both try to fit on your lap. Since they are a true pair bond, they have to go together and would prefer to be the only pets—but you get them both for the price of just one!

Their joint adoption fee is $50, which includes their spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

Lawrence’s favorite things to do are to run and play. Sometimes he is even active during cuddle time, giving gentle love nips to new people (or when he is in a new environment). When he is really mellow, he loves to hang out right next to you on the sofa. His adoption fee is $50, which includes his neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

Uncle Jarod is seeking a calm home where he can relax in a little patch of sunlight and bask in the love of his people. He is not too fond of adult cats but loves kittens so much that he lives in a room filled with them. He is often found curled up in a pile of them.

He would be excellent as an only cat or as a helper for a foster kitten home. Uncle Jarod’s adoption fee is $50, which includes his neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

Dogs Jackson is a 2-year-old pit bull terrier/Labrador mix.

A playful and active guy, he likes to play fetch—although sometimes he forgets to bring it back—tugof-war, or any game you would like. He is a lone ranger, kind of selective about whom he gets along with among his furry friends, but he knows he will love you. Jackson’s adoption fee is $125, which includes his neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

The shelter staff call this 5-month-old Yorkshire terrier/miniature Schnauzer mix Buster (a.k.a. BustA-Move). He is a very playful puppy who likes to play with toys and will even carry them around in his mouth.

He is very affectionate and his foster parents say he is already crate-trained. He is good with kids and loves car rides. Bust-a-Move’s adoption fee is $350, which includes his neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

Please don’t be intimidated by one-year-old Pork Chop’s size. If you sit on the floor next to this pit bull terrier mix, he cannot help but crawl into your lap and give you kisses. He’s really just a big old softy. He is very excited to continue his training as well! He is an extremely intelligent guy. Pork Chop promises to greet you with a wide grin and a wag of his tail!

His adoption fee is $100, which includes his neuter, vaccinations, and microchip.

These pets may already be adopted. Please visit aawl.org for a current listing of pets available for adoption at the Arizona Animal Welfare League. All dogs and cats have been spayed or neutered, are updated on their shots, and will go home with a microchip inserted. The Arizona Animal Welfare League is open from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Tuesday–Friday, and 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. AAWL is located at 30 North 40th Place in Phoenix. For more information, call (602) 273-6852.

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Flavor

Flavor hotspots

Rare Earth Coffee & Wine Bar 28190 N. Alma School Pkwy., Ste. 209 Scottsdale AZ 85262 Phone: (480) 513-6252 Rare Earth Coffee & Wine Bar serves up a warm atmosphere and friendly service to match its fine wine, gourmet pizza, crisp salads, decadent desserts, and soothing jazz music. The balcony deck provides a grand and peaceful view of the McDowell Mountains in the shadow of Pinnacle Peak.

Crust Pizza & Wine 6989 N. Hayden Rd., Ste. A9 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 Phone: (480) 948-3099 crustscottsdale.com Step into Crust Pizza & Wine for a little slice of Sicily. Their freshly made pizzas are cooked in stone ovens. Rusticastyle pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, and salads served in a unique crust bowl pair well with their selection of wines.

Try the one-of-a-kind “crustini” or your favorite white or red wine.

Sauce Pizza & Wine Sauce Norterra 2470 W. Happy Valley Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85085 Phone: (623) 414-4866 foxrc.com/sauce Sauce Pizza & Wine is part of FOX Restaurant Concepts, a collection of original boutique restaurants throughout several states. A variety of thin-crust red and white pizzas adorn the menu, which also features fresh salads with house-made dressings, lasagna, and grilled paninis made with freshly baked bread. Their wine selection is accompanied by Italian and domestic beers, and the warm, inviting atmosphere makes the dining experience as enjoyable as the food. Several Arizona locations.

Winter Warm-Up Two elegant, foodie-friendly recipes give life to simple winter vegetables

By Alison Malone

W

hen cool weather prevails outdoors, nothing warms up the inside like the aromas of festive fare bubbling away in the kitchen.

Whether part of a weeknight dinner or a holiday potluck, these elegant side dishes are welcome additions to any table.

Spiced Winter Squash 1 two-pound butternut squash, peeled, halved lengthwise, and cut into one-inch wedges 2 fennel bulbs cut into one-inch wedges 1 large red onion, root left on and cut into half-inch wedges 4 tbsp olive oil 1 ½ tsp cumin 1 ½ tsp cinnamon 1 ½ tsp chili powder ½ tsp turmeric A pinch of sugar Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Combine squash, fennel, and onion with olive oil and spices. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper and spread evenly in a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast vegetables until tender and golden, turning once, about 45 minutes. Serves six.

In the recipe for winter squash, which pairs well with a lighter meat such as roasted lamb, pork loin, or Cornish game hens, the fennel flavor balances the sweetness of the squash. The sweet potato dish, meanwhile, pairs earthy sage with the rich nuttiness of brown butter.

The next challenge? Mastering the art of roasting a 20-pound turkey.

Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter and Sage 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into half-inch cubes ¼ cup unsalted butter 5 fresh sage leaves ¼ cup whole milk Salt and pepper to taste Cover sweet potatoes with water in a heavy pot and add one teaspoon of salt.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook uncovered until tender, about 20 minutes.

Drain potatoes in a colander and transfer back to pot. Mash potatoes with a masher or run through a food mill, then cover to keep warm.

Heat butter and sage leaves in a heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden, about five minutes. Remove sage leaves and add brown butter and milk to the sweet potatoes, season generously with salt and pepper, and garnish with the fried sage leaves. If not serving immediately, the potatoes can be kept warm in a bowl over simmering water or can be made the day ahead and reheated. Serves six.

Recipes developed by Hilary Malone

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DINING GUIDE

English Rose Tea Room Thank you from North Valley Magazine!

We at North Valley Magazine would like to thank all our readers who voted in our Third Annual Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards for making this year’s list of winners a true representation of the Valley’s best.

And we’d also like to thank all our winners for giving our readers—and us—the most enjoyable dining experiences in the Valley of the Sun!

201 Easy Street # 103 • Carefree, Arizona 85377 (480) 488-4812 • www.CarefreeTea.com Situated in the heart of beautiful Carefree, Arizona, the English Rose Tea Room has been described as the finest Tea Room in the Southwest. Observing the English tradition of Afternoon Tea is our trademark. We offer an extensive menu of authentic English foods served with loose-leaf teas. From a simple scone with Devonshire cream to the Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, from a traditional medium- or full-bodied black tea to an herbal tisane, there is something for every discerning Tea Lover’s palate.

Silver Spur Saloon

Barcelona

(At Frontier Town) 6245 E. Cave Creek Rd. Cave Creek, AZ 85331 480.488.3317 silverspursaloon.com

15440 Greenway-Hayden Loop • Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 603-0370 • barcelonaarizona.com

Come celebrate with us at our location in Frontier Town at the North Valley’s only 1880’s “Old West” Town.

Kids Under 12 Eat FREE with this ad (one child per adult).

Scottsdale’s premier destination for elegant dining, Barcelona offers the best in cocktails and live entertainment to go along with its award-winning wine list and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Ribeye steak or swordfish steak; Prime filet or salmon filet. Whether you fancy steaks, seafood, or other specialties, Chef Bryan Williams delivers Barcelona’s “New World” food with great “Old World” charm! Each selection is an excellent combination of flavor, freshness, and eye-pleasing presentation.

Ketzal Mexican Grill 2815 W Carefree Hwy, Suite 101 • Phoenix, AZ 85085 (623) 879-1175 • www.ketzalmexicangrill.com

Reserve a place in the dining guide for your restaurant by calling our sales department.

(602) 828-0313 ext. 1 e-mail: sales@northvalleymagazine.com.

Inspired by the traditions and great flavors of northern Mexico, Ketzal Mexican Grill is home to innovative, fresh, and delectable fare. In Ketzal Mexican Grill’s authentic menu you will find mouth watering carne asada, chicken, fish and shrimp dishes. Our authentic tortillas are handcrafted using traditional flour imported from northern Mexico. We offer an extensive bar menu, including many imported and domestic beers, wines, tequilas, and amazing margaritas!

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People & Places 94

Scottsdale Fashion Week Âť 7100 E. Camelback Rd. Photography by Mark Susan Fashion week has once again hit Scottsdale, and collections from Banana Republic, Marciano, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Dillardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and more hit the runways. scottsdalefashionweek.com

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Advertise:

602.828.0313 • sales@northvalleymagazine.com

ADVERTISE HERE Make the connection in North Valley Marketplace, a guide of products and services commonly referred to for quick hits and ideas on who to call for everything!

North Valley Magazine 711 E. Carefree Hwy, Suite 205 Phoenix, Arizona 85085 Tel: (602) 828-0313 www.NorthValleyMagazine.com

MARKETPLACE Medina’s Housecleaning I’d like to clean your house! My clients describe me as cheerful, trustworthy, and consistent. I have excellent references and reasonable rates. Give me a call to confirm the most convenient day to have your house cleaned thoroughly.

Trustworthy people – 18 years experience. Available: Weekly – Bi-weekly – Monthly – One Time Cleanings – Spring Cleanings – Move In – Move Out Cleaning Call For Free Estimates: Francisca: (623) 551-9576 office (602) 574-2020 direct

KIDS + HORSES = HAPPINESS

Christine’s K-9 Bed & Breakfast

Call us at 480-515-4495 to join our “Barn Buddies Youth Group” Details are available on our website.

No equipment required-just bring your enthusiasm and love for animals!

At her “Home of Obedient Buddies,” Christine offers Boarding in a Kennel Free Environment. Day Care or Extended Stay and Obedience Lessons are available. With 39 years of experience with Dogs, you can’t go wrong in finding the best care for your pet.

TWIN L PERFORMANCE HORSES www.twinlperformance.com

pet portraits and more Still in need of last minute holiday cards? Call today for an appointment.

Mention this ad and get $25.00 off.

Contact Michelle Brodsky at 602-510-1929 or email cowdreamz@cox.net

Call Christine Filler, Dog Trainer, at 602.717.7909 for more details. cfiller1@msn.com 35038 N. 10th St. • Desert Hills, AZ 85086 www.christinesk9bandb.com Get your holiday reservations in early!

JRDR Marketing We are a marketing and business consulting firm providing strategic management and marketing services.

• Strategy and Business Planning • Business and Competitive Intelligence • Marketing and Promotional Plans • Writing Services • Product Photography

Visit us at: www.jrdrmarketing.com or call 602.288.8393 and schedule a no obligation initial consultation.

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Betty Fear, Accountant 602-793-0140 • www.fear-betty.com accountant@fear-betty.com Remember that 12-31-08 is your deadline to get your projected payments and other accounting changes completed!

Curious? Contact Vi Pope & Kirsten Wesley 602.938.2048 www.shaklee.net/100glasses/vivix Independent Shaklee Distributors

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Aries

(Mar 21–Apr 19) In December, you become

the seeker as you travel, teach, and broaden your horizons in any and all ways that you can.

January finds you at the top of your game in the career/status sector of your chart. Use this time to do whatever it takes to move up or move out, if that is what you desire—the stars are on your side!

Taurus

(Apr 20–May 20) In December, things really

begin to heat up. It’s no holds barred as you expose yourselves physically, intellectually, and emotionally to each other. As far as relationships go, you’re boldly going where you’ve never been before. Hold on tight! January features travel, philosophy, teaching, broadening your view of the world, and possibly going back to school. There’s a lot of luck dealing with foreign people and ideas, being open to a new worldview.

Gemini

(May 21–Jun 21) December looks good for re-

lationships. You meet on intellectual as well as physical levels. This one is deep—no skating on the surface of life. Sometimes, love asks us to reveal more of ourselves than we’re used to. This is one of those times. Stocks, shared resources, personal transformations are lucky for you in January. Going deeply into relationships and your own thoughts and feelings is highlighted for you as well.

the next two months focus heavily on them.

January is light, romantic, looking good, pleasing each other.

Leo

(July 23–Aug 22) In December, you’re in your

element—creative, romantic, and likely to be right in the Christmas spirit. You’ll create an abundance of magic this year—your enthusiasm and joy are infectious! January focuses on work, health, service. You could find yourself getting into shape at the gym or using your lion heart to help those less fortunate.

Virgo

(Aug 23–Sept 22) There’s a lot of action at

home in December, possibly entertaining outof-town relatives or friends visiting for the holidays. Focus on peace—it looks like you might be feeling a little stressed. January starts your year with creativity, fun, romance! Put on your dancing shoes or take an art class. Virgo’s creativity type is one with a practical purpose—something that has a use.

Libra

(Sept 23–Oct 22) Lots of communication in

December—you’re voted most likely to get your holiday cards done early and sent out on time as you tell people how much you really care. Bravo for you! January finds you working closer to home, whether that’s moving, redecorating, or family “stuff” that just needs to be worked out there.

Cancer

Scorpio

on health, work, service. Cancers are known for their compassion. If you’re not already helping out, it’s easy to find a person or place that needs you. Someone can always use the gentle Cancer touch. It’s all about relationships for you in January. Actually,

tention toward financial matters as well as personal values. Scorpios are very good at making money—playing their hands close to their chests and having good instincts for timing. Notice where you spend your money and time this month. It indicates what’s important

(Jun 22–July 22) In December, your focus is

(Oct 23–Nov 22) December turns your at-

• by laura henry

(Dec 22–Jan 20) December brings a more peaceful, meditative tone. You desire to delve inside your heart and listen quietly to hear the music of the spheres.

You’re in an awesome starting position for the New Year, Cap! You’ve got lots of power, confidence, and money; luck is still on your side. A great month to go after what you want.

horoscopes

Capricorn

to you, revealing what makes you tick. January is full of communication of all kinds for you.

You may take a night course, start that book or journal you’ve been meaning to write; your head is buzzing with information!

Sagittarius

(Nov 23–Dec 21) In December, you emerge

renewed, back to your usual jovial self! You’ve got energy and enthusiasm to spare. You’re the life of the party as usual, sparing no expense to look and feel your best! Money and personal finances look very good for you in January. That raise you’ve been waiting for could finally come through.

Aquarius

(Jan 21–Feb 18) In December, you’ll really be

decking the halls! Four planets in your zodiac house of friends, hopes, and wishes indicate a terrifically happy holiday season filled with love, friends, and lots of socializing. On January 6, the planet Jupiter moves into your sign until January 18, 2010. Jupiter is known as the Greater Benefic, and when it’s in your sign, it’s a time of general good luck financially and personally—a time of very lucky breaks. The more effort you make to enhance the luck that is already there, the more Jupiter will support that.

Jupiter has a twelve-year cycle. Don’t waste it!

Pisces

(Feb 19–Mar 20) In December, your career

kicks into high gear. A tremendous amount of power is just waiting to be tapped. You could get a promotion or, if you’re looking for a change in employment, then this is the month to go aggressively after what you want. You start the year with a focus on dreams, hopes, wishes and humanitarian ideals. Get involved in things that make the world a better place, and your efforts come back to you like breadcrumbs on water.

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