Trends March 2024 E-MAG

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Information

Publisher: BILL DOUGHERTY

Editor-in-Chief: BETTY McRAE

Advertising Managers: PATRICE METZLER

480.276.2282 | pmetzler@trendspublishing.com

SUSIE WESLEY

602.469.0227 | susiewesley@gmail.com

Executive Consultants:

TRISHA ANTHONY | SUZANNE EDER | HEATHER MORRISON

Art Direction:

STEPHANIE SWEET, SWEET DESIGNS

Fashion Photographers: SCOTT FOUST | JOHN HALL

Senior Society Photographers: SALLY AND PETER KRZYKOS

Director of Social Media: MCKENNA WESLEY

Trends Makeup and Hair Stylist: LAURA FLAGLER | KAREN HALL | MARY BETH YORK

Design and Style Editors: CHRISTOPHER COFFIN | BARBARA KAPLAN | PATSY LOWRY

Travel Editors:

JULIE BOWE AND DYAN GETZ | LAUREN AND IAN WRIGHT

Fashion Editors: SAMANTHA DEROSE

Health and Wellness Editors:

MICHELLE MCINTYRE | JOHN SPEAD | JODI STERN

Protocol Editor: HEATHER WAGENHALS

Society Editors:

EILEEN BAILY | CAROL BENNETT | GEORGE BENNETT

J.J. BREWER | GRACE CARPENTER | VERONICA COOK

JACCI DIXON | KIRK JARRETT | GAIL LITTLETON

MICHELLE ROONEY | PALMER SAYLOR III | KATHY SCHEIB

FRANK SCHMUCK | BOB STEARNS | NICHOLE STEARNS

CONNIE SUNDAY

Certified Public Accountants:

THOMAS S. HOLLY, CPA, PLLC

Printing:

INTERACTIVE PRINT SOLUTIONS

Music Production:

CHRIS BECKLEY/THE PRODUCTION GROUP

Fashion Coordinator:

MARGARET MERRITT

Trends Charitable Fund Board members are Marilyn Alexander, Nikki Balich, Charlene Berge-Blum, Lee Courtney, Harriet Friedland and Penny Gunning

SUBSCRIPTIONS: To guarantee receiving every issue of TRENDS, send a check for $25 (one year), $45 (two years) or $70 (three years) to Trends executive office (address below). Subscription will start the next month of publication. No refunds.

Please send checks and address changes to: TRENDS Publishing

5150 E. Orchid Lane, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Phone: 602.561.9997 | Website: www.trendspublishing.com

Trends Magazine is also distributed at several locations, please visit www.trendspublishing.com for locations.

Published monthly October – May by Trends Publishing.

Editorial E-mail: editor@trendspublishing.com

Advertising E-mail: pmetzler@trendspublishing.com

© 2024 ISSN 0742-034X

LA DOLCE VITA The Season October to June

By Bill Dougherty

People are talking about the Barbie exhibition at the Phoenix Art Museum. The Barbie film that resurrected the Mattel doll from a generation that looked to other toys, shot the product and the film to meteoric popularity once again. The all-things pink exhibition has been operating on a sold-out basis daily has brought out steadfast collectors and socialites alike. All have Barbie stories from more than 60 years ago to the present. Curator Karan Feder has done a brilliant job with the exhibition. This should make Sybil Harrington Director and Chief Executive Jeremy Mikolajczak incredibly happy. After all he and his fine new team are responsible for returning the Museum to the former glory of the Jim Ballanger era and for that we are all very thank full.

Have you had enough of Swan mania yet? The FX network’s newest offering Feud: Capote vs The Swans is currently all the rage in the social swim. Although the show has taken some liberties the program seems very well done. I’ve often said that Harriet Friedland is Phoenix’s answer to Babe Paley. Both ladies are engaging, socially impeccable, beautiful, and nice to everyone. There are many who could learn from their actions. Sadly, some will never learn.

GOTCHA ...

Be extremely careful of a group of ladies, all friends and all mean spirited. This group is often photographed together, run like pack animals through the social community and spend their time trading in malicious gossip. Any good psychologist will tell you that people who gossip are not happy people. If you pull back the veneer on any of these women, you instantly see how miserable they truly are. How pathetic.

Helen Jean, Karan Feder and Jeremey Mikolajczak

Remembering Ed Mell

By Eileen Bailey

Artist Ed Mell was that rarity: an Arizona native who was born in Phoenix. After Phoenix College, he earned his degree in advertising art at Art Center College of Los Angeles, and from there to New York City. He worked for a large ad agency and also created National Lampoon covers. Disenchanted with the Big Apple, he returned to Arizona to teach art on the Hopi Reservation. Back in Phoenix by 1973, he transitioned from illustration to painting Arizona in all her glory: her sunsets, mountains, and cactus flowers.

In 1974 at age 32, Ed met Gail Petersen, a 19-year-old ASU student. They married in 1977 and had two sons, Taylor and Carson. Taylor passed away in 2018; Carson is a screenwriter and novelist who lives in Pasadena with his wife, documentarian Kelly Loudenberg, and their daughter, Dusty Jean.

In 1993, the Scottsdale Public Arts program commissioned Ed to create a bronze sculpture of his bucking bronco named “Jack Knife.” This massive work of art dominates the intersection of Main Street and Goldwater Blvd.

Over the past 30+ years, Ed has had annual sell-out exhibits of his work at prestigious Santa Fe and Scottsdale galleries and Medicine Man Gallery in Tucson. “Ed was always striving to reach another level of competency,” said art dealer and friend Mark Sublett, “and always generous to young artists.”.

Ed’s life changed dramatically once he met Rose Marie Stremel in 2001. The couple married in 2005.

Last September they went to Santa Fe to see Bonnie Raitt in concert. Two weeks later they learned that Ed had terminal cancer. “Both our lives just changed in an instant,” said Rose Marie. She took loving care of Ed 24/7. On Feb. 21, he passed peacefully at home with Rose Marie and Carson holding his hands.

Ed Mell’s remarkable life will be celebrated by his family and close friends at a private gathering in Scottsdale. His art will live on forever.

Stress-Free Entertaining!

By Patsy Lowry

“You must do things you think you cannot do.”

If you really want your relationships to deepen, strengthen and thrive, I encourage you to throw caution to the wind and invite a few good friends to lunch or dinner. So many people tell me that entertaining is too stressful, so they don’t ever invite anyone into their home. In your increasingly busy and overwhelming lives, you might feel that entertaining is too big a responsibility.

Think about what makes you feel uncomfortable and insecure. What don’t you normally like to do? Share your concerns with one of your guests and ask him/her to help you. He/she will probably be delighted to “step-up-to-the-plate.”

Only invite close friends for your first occasion. You will gain confidence with planning and taking care of as many details in advance as possible.

Start with simple recipes that are easy and delicious. If you don’t like to cook, buy pre-cooked food or hire someone to help you cook, serve and clean up.

No one cares if you don’t personally cook the food, only that it is tasty and delicious. You might ask a guest to bring one course if that would make you less anxious. After all, it’s the people who make the meal special. Your guests will feel appreciated and special because you invited them into your home for an intimate experience.

If you follow a few easy steps, you will gain confidence with each occasion and learn that entertaining in your home is well worth the time, expense and effort. The main thing is to “Keep it simple.” Delete the word “perfection” from your vocabulary.

– Eleanor Roosevelt

As Arthur Ashe aptly stated, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” Embrace your fears and enjoy all that the occasion will bring to your life.

GOOD LUCK!!!!

STRESS-FREE IDEAS:

1. Keep your guest list manageable – six guests total is a good number to start with if you are unaccustomed to entertaining.

2. Send a reminder the day before the lunch/dinner with the time, dress code and your address.

3. Set your table a few days in advance. The more that you can prepare before your guests arrive, the better.

4. Have the lights turned on, soft background music and place fresh flowers everywhere.

5. Greet your guests at the front door with a welcoming smile, a compliment and a hug.

6. Set a starting and closing time in advance. This is very beneficial for your guests and everyone will be appreciative.

7. Serve wine or champagne and sparkling water. Have plenty of ice on hand.

8. A dress code is always helpful. The hosts should be a little dressier than their guests and ready at least fifteen minutes before the starting time.

2024 Trends & Ideas for Living Room/Great Room

By Barbara Kaplan, IFDA, Allied ASID

Be the First to Have The New Year’s Big Trends! Being aware of upcoming Trends can be a fun way to instantly update your home’s decor and style. Living room and great room trends may be as simple as a new statement piece of furniture, a new grouping of pillows or a new lamp.

Here are some mindfully chosen dynamics for new palettes, new textures, new ideas for what makes a house a home. You can make changes to your décor as you evolve into the holiday season and beyond. Whichever of these trends resonates with you, they all lead to living rooms or great rooms you’ll want to spend time in. See previous Trends issue for Trends and Ideas #1-19.

20. DARK WALLS – REALLY!

Very dark walls are in!!! Do not fear them but embrace them. Dark tones feel incredibly inviting. We’re seeing that dark walls are feeling like the hug we all feel we need. But to enhance the statement and keep them from looking and feeling too overwhelming, add in some brighter accessories that complement the color you have chosen. Even yellow or hot pink cushion will add to the fun.

21. CITY CHIC

Bringing the urban city apartment look right up to date, with a certain downtown chicness! The “city” look of brick walls or wall paneling look intense painted out – softening the backdrop – with a muted color hue. Consider only painting the brick and not the grout. The city is always out there!!! Choose a color palette to set the tone for your home to shed light on your personality! As you enter the space you immediately learn something about the inhabitants without speaking a word.

www.BarbaraKaplan.com

The real challenge is discovering what personality you want to convey. “Recreate that urban city buzz and energy with a smorgasbord of vibrant eclectic furnishings, accessories, and art, against a smooth and sophisticated backdrop tone. The room will speak, “I’m confident and I’m new.”

24. 20TH CENTURY REVIVAL

Mid-century modern furniture design pieces are greatly appealing right now. To many people including original vintage furniture and objects in their spaces is important. Many people are aware that putting something old within a new space is a good way to inject warmth and character into a room. However, sourcing the right vintage piece for an interior can do much more. The perfect armchair, chair, or coffee table can help make a space more significant, interesting, and calm. It is all about the feeling you want to convey. Include a 20th century item of quality, say a table or chair from the mid-1950s or 60s, and you instantly add a higher level of design to your living/great room.

25. GENTLE YELLOW

For a living/great room, the use of yellow can create a relaxed and inspiring interior. It works beautifully with blues, teals, greens, and reds, and of course white. Using grey, this will help create the illusion of space.

Beware when choosing yellow, however. It can be a difficult shade to work with, but pick the right one and choose the best colors to complement with yellow and it can transform a room into a comfortable and happy room. If painting all four walls seems like too much, you can be inspired by this living/great room trend and just take it up onto the ceiling for a subtler look.

Maria Martinez (1887-1980), the San Ildefonso Pueblo ceramicist who became one of the most widely celebrated artists of her time and whose work continues to influence new generations of artists, has been conspicuously excluded from the discourse on American Modernism. In 2024, Phoenix’s Heard Museum will present an original exhibition and scholarly catalogue titled Maria & Modernism that seek to reconcile this oversight of American art history.

Maria Martinez with 1942 black-on-black jar made in collaboration with Julian Martinez.

Photograph by Jerry Jacka, 1976.

Beth Ames Swartz Retrospective

A great group of art enthusiasts and collectors joined together at the Phoenix Art Museum on a brisk winter night. They were there to celebrate famed artist Beth Ames Swartz, who captivated our state and the world in the early 1970s and decades after. An opulent cocktail reception started early around 5pm and many caught in traffic arrived just as guests were migrating to the stately museum’s theater. Suzanne Johnson of Gnosis LTD showcased her brilliant documentary of the internationally recognized artist. The piece spanned from the early 1970s to the present day and celebrated the various nuances, styles and moods of the great painter. Ms. Swartz continues to paint today and that makes this crowd and so many others so very pleased. A special thank you to Sybill Harrington Director and CEO Jeremy Mikolajczak for hosting such an important artist and such a grand legacy.

Jennifer McCabe with J.P. and Erin Dahdah

Christy Vezolles

Beth Ames Swartz

Jeremy Mikolajczak

Mame Kratz and Suzanne Johnson

Jane Kunde and Sallie Brophy

Patsy Lowry

Anna Thommason

UNMATCHED EXPERTISE IN PARADISE VALLEY LUXURY REAL ESTATE

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Make informed decisions with our detailed market an alyses. We provide a comprehensive understanding of current trends, pr icing strategies, and investment opportunities in Paradise Valley.

Beyond the property, we offer insights into the Par adise Valley lifestyle. From renowned schools to exclusive social hotspots, our team goes beyond real estate, providing you with a comprehens ive understanding of the community.

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(602)524-1677

jill@pvluxre.com

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL ARIZONA

The Westin Kierland played host to one of the most anticipated events of the season: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona opened its doors to a smashing group of merrymakers and donors alike. Big Night Out, as the gala has been called for years, brought out some of the most respected people in our community as well. The mission-driven organization’s primary focus is to showcase the talents of power and

mentorship and honor the creativity of youth in Maricopa County through guidance and support. This year the bash was chaired by Jill Watts and Shawn McClain. They did a spectacular job! Dapper Dan: Oscar De las salas in a beaded tuxedo jacket. Ketonya Bankston stole the show in pale peach and vibrant beauty. You missed a brilliant night!

Todd & Myra Wenberg Jac Arbour and Claire Twombly

Irma Deihl and Joen Romero

Michael and Ketonya Bankston

Kristina Sabetta Laura Lucky and Lisa Vandenburgh Oscar De las salas and Gary Jackson Shawn McClain and Jill Watts

John Parker and Laurie Kerr

Howard and Lisa Bell

HEART BALL KICK OFF 2024

Alarm clocks went off early as a slew of beautiful and talented ladies headed to Saks Fifth Avenue. The much-anticipated kick-off for the Phoenix Heart Ball, the second-oldest charity ball in the state, didn’t disappoint. Pam Risoleo, 2024 Chairman, did a fine job with the early morning festivities. Victoria Granberry and Marilyn Alexander were given awards for their spirited and countless efforts and dedication

to the Ball. Past ball chairs Chris Gustafson, Lynne Love, Carole Moreno and Sarah Suggs modeled beautiful clothing from the store, as did models from The Agency Arizona. Maragret Merritt did a splendid job with the fashion show and showcased a spectacular show. Roberts Catering kept the champagne flowing and the food divine. What a spectacular morning!

Lynne Love, Lisa Portigal, Lauri Termansen, Erika Dickey and Susie Muzzy

Harriet Friedland, Nan Howlett, Penny Gunning, Pam Risoleo, Jamie Lendrum and Gee Gee Entz

Carolyn Jackson and Pam Risoleo

Cheryl Nocifera, Victoria Granberry and Amanda Garmany

Carol Dries and Eileen Yeung

Kim Cullum and Racquel Miller

Sandy Magruder and Cionne McCarthy

Pat Watts, Kimberly Afkhami, Laurie Florkiewicz, Pam Risoleo, Diane O’Malley and Dee Dee Vecchione

Catherine Tuton and Suzy Hilton

Libby Cohen and Rebecca Collins

A Tennis Shoppe in Arcadia

Who are the Owners of Arcadia Tennis Shop?

Arcadia Tennis Shop was founded by three busy mothers, Sarah Ragland, Trude Kronenberg, and Kerry Moreland, who became fast friends through the game of tennis. We all love to wear tennis clothing that looks polished, feels luxurious, and allows us to play hard. We wanted a shop that carried clothing that could take us from the courts and throughout our busy day.

What is Arcadia Tennis Shop?

Arcadia Tennis Shop is a curated collection of women’s tennis apparel. We seek to empower women on the court through strength, confidence, and comfort.

What is your mission?

We believe when you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good you play well.

We absolutely love your logo. Can you tell us about it? Our logo seeks to pay homage to the community of Arcadia and its historical orange groves. We wanted to keep it traditional, preppy and clean. We had such a positive response to our logo we created a Private Label around it. We offer hats, sweaters, socks, and jackets with our logo.

What do love about the game of Tennis?

• Tennis is a community

• Every game begins with LOVE

• Miss hits can be winners

• Each point is a new opportunity

• A comeback is always possible

• Celebrate the wins

• Learn from the losses

• Believe in yourself

• You can look as good as you play

What unique services do you provide?

We provide curated gift packages, team uniforms, events/tournaments, and personalized shopping.

What if you do not play tennis?

While we focus on court sport apparel, only 50% of clothing is focused on tennis and pickleball. We also provide chic, ready to wear styles to easily wear off the court.

Where can you find you?

On any given day you can find us three at the shop, on the courts, or chasing 7 kids.

Instagram: @arcadiatennisshop

Website: www.arcadiatennisshop.com

Address: 3545 East Indian School Road, Suite 2, Phoenix, AZ 85018

Scylvia-Elvira Danese

“The Fairy Godmother of Fashion”

You deserve to look great! Our extensive collection of beautiful fabrics and trims are perfect for dressing you in suits, tuxedos, formals, MoB, MoG, Bridal, Bridesmaids gowns and casual wear made specifically for you and your style.

–Owner and Designer Scylvia-Elvira Danese

‘The Boob Whisperer’

9 out of 10 women are wearing the WRONG size bra.

8 out of 10 don’t know how to put it on.

• This creates pain in your neck muscles

• Puts pressure on your organs

• Makes your back hurt

• Gives you bad posture

• makes your clothes not fit properly

• and the worst part as if that isn’t enough … IT MAKES YOU LOOK FAT!!!!

I do a FREE BRA FITTING, and in 5 minutes I make you look as if you lost 10 pounds.

I’ll show you how to put it on, how to wear it, and if we don’t have your size we order it.

We don’t give you “the sister size” as they call it.

If you are tired of having your boobs everywhere except where they should be on your body, call the ‘The Boob Whisperer’.

'The Fairy Godmother of Fashion' and 'The Boob Whisperer'

MEN, we are NOT afraid of your suit alterations! We do it ALL and do it BEST!

NATIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN  FOUNDATION GALA 2024

A festive group of philanthropists and community leaders gathered at the Arizona Biltmore for the National Italian American Foundation Gala. Cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres were passed on the Spire lawn at dusk. Then guests made their way into the stately ballroom for a three-course Italian dinner which was selected by renowned chef Joey Maggiore. Everybody swooned! Several community leaders where honored as well. They included: Paul Penzone, Carla Consoli, Gio Osso

and Sal Di Ciccio, for their tremendous efforts in the culinary and philanthropic worlds. Clarissa Burt served as the host of the evening. Afterwards guest moved and grooved to the sounds of Gooch Big Band. The proceeds from the evening served to benefit Boys Hope and Girls Hope and SARRC. It was brilliant! Carolyn Ross stole the night in a stunning beaded gown.

Joey, Melina, Giuliana and Christina Maggiore

Paul Penzone

Chris Garagiola

Mike Farrar with Pete Melucci and Massimo Sommacomapagna

Emilia with Sal and Anna DiCiccio

Mike Farrar with Carolyn Severino Ross and Paola Tulliani

Samantha’s Favorite Finds

By Samantha DeRose

Move over pink, purple is having a moment this spring and I am here for it.

You can shop this Chanel bag at High Society Resale Boutique located at 10805 N 71st Way.

Don’t love the idea of a sheer piece of clothing? You can also rock the trend with mesh flats.

You can shop these Jimmy Choo “Elisa” ballerina flats at Neiman Marcus located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

As the weather heats up, don’t be afraid to show a little skin. Sheer elegance with touches of color or texture are key this season.

You can shop this Collina Strada silk-organza top at Neiman Marcus located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Florals for spring are a given, but this year we are seeing a vibrant resurgence with bold 3D florals taking center stage.

You can shop this “Daisy” cuff at Oliver Smith Jeweler located at 8787 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite 116.

We often see metallics take over winter collections, but this spring, there’s a surprisingly fresh range of shimmering pieces.

You can shop this Zac Posen ruffletiered metallic dress at Neiman Marcus located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Chandelier earrings continue to be a popular choice because they’re glamorous, available in many options and go with everything.

You can shop these multi color sapphire and diamond earrings at E.D. Marshall Jewelers located at 10261 N. Scottsdale Rd.

SOLARI CRISIS AND HUMAN SERVICES INSPIRING HOPE GALA 2024

Now in its second year, Solari unveiled its magnificent gala for 2024. The crisis and human services organization this year decided to give the Phoenician Resort a try and what a magnificent idea that turned out to be. The awareness of suicide prevention and crisis hotlines was

once taboo but thanks to this monumental organization, awareness has come full circle. A beautiful cocktail reception kicked off the festivities followed by dinner, speakers and entertainment. It was brilliant in its efficiency and effectiveness, too.

Richie Martinez with Lauren and Brandon Schilling

Larry Fitzgerald with Apollo and Marcus Fitzgerald

Charles Bradley

Bobby and Jenna Gehisolfo

Megan and Kevin O’Keefe

Donovan McNabb

Jason and Beata Blank

Donna Jordan and John Ruiz

Coverage courtesy of Jacci Dixon and Kirk Jarrett

Logan Stanton, Tiffany and Brendan O’Connor, Melissa Cappello Justin Chase and Kristy Siefkin

It’s Better to Travel

By Kim Hester and Dean Ditmer

Meet Kim Hester, also known as “The Travel Whisperer”. Kim’s career in the travel industry spans over four decades. After working for multiple top luxury hotels, she shifted to the corporate reward travel arena, planning exotic international group reward trips for the top sales producers and clients of Fortune 500 companies. Kim has traveled to 132 countries and in her current capacity as Vice President of JNR Incorporated she is ready to share her travel expertise with Trends readers.

During his decades long career in the broadcast media industry, Dean Ditmer came to Scottsdale to take on the role of President of 12 News and remains a resident of The Valley after moving on to new career opportunities. During his tenure with television stations in multiple markets, Dean created and hosted many client incentive travel programs on behalf of his stations. He has now shifted to working with JNR Incorporated designing exclusive international luxury group trips full time, in collaboration with Kim Hester.

Together, Dean and Kim are crafting fantastic travel adventures exclusively for the “Friends of Trends”. Whether you want to beat the heat over the summer months or simply enjoy traveling with your peers creating special memories in any season, Dean and Kim are ready to take you on the trip of a lifetime!

Best travel events you have organized?

A costume ball in a French chateau, viewing the Northern Lights from glass igloos in Arctic Finland, exclusive dinners everywhere from the Vatican to the African bush to Balinese temples.

Biggest challenge you overcame?

Multiple re-bookings of dozens of programs during Covid. Then keeping everyone safe when the programs finally took place.

Hot destinations right now?

Scandinavia, Patagonia, Vietnam/Cambodia, New Zealand, Greenland, African safaris. Anywhere the new, small luxury cruise ships and “yachts” by Explora, Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are sailing.

Hot travel trends?

Adventure and immersion in local culture. From gorilla trekking in Uganda to kayaking in Antarctica to cooking with a celebrity chef, people want an authentic, memorable and highly customized travel experience.

Best travel tip?

Air travel has become highly complicated with more delays and snafus than ever. Be sure you have multiple back-up plans for when things go awry, then bring a good book and a large dose of patience.

Why JNR?

JNR is a boutique travel company – big enough to have clout with travel vendors and small enough to offer exceptional personal service. The in-house air department provides 24/7 travel assistance. A large percentage of JNR employees have been with the company 20+ years and operate as a cohesive team.

Where do you want to go next?

We value your input so please use this link to tell us about your dream trip on the online survey at https://tinyurl.com/trendstravel. Then embark on a customized journey designed exclusively for the “Friends of Trends” to the best places on the planet!

YOUR UNCONDITIONAL LOVE FOR PETS IS NOW A PERMANENT FIXTURE

The Arizona Humane Society Board of Directors and Facility Development Committee recognize and thank our most dedicated, generous animal champions for making the dream of a leading-edge animal welfare and medical complex for our community a reality.

CAMPAIGN CABINET

Daryl & Chip Weil, Honorary Chairs

Cindy & Mike Watts, Co-Chairs

Patty & Keith

Withycombe, Co-Chairs

Dyan & George Getz

Melinda Gulick

Jamie Middleton

Andrea & John Pappas

Suzanne Pearl

Ann Siner

KEY COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Animal Arts

Andrew Cheney

Dick Berry

Echo Coffee

R. Craig Coppola

Goodmans

Interior Structures

John Kemp - CRH Americas

Ryan Companies

Charles Schiffner

Tom Steimel

Suntec Concrete

Dr. Willard White

Panda Luncheon 2024

What is PANDA?

People Acting Now Discover

Answers, affectionately known as PANDA, is a women’s organization made up of more than 200 board members from across the valley with diverse professional and philanthropic backgrounds. PANDA is proud to be 100% volunteer-based. The board members work hard year-round on fundraising events and campaigns to benefit the Steele Children’s Research Center.

Why was PANDA founded?

The PANDA story begins in the 1980’s in Tucson. Louise Thomas, a neighbor and friend of PANDA co-founder Robyn DeBell, was a young mother with a nine-year-old son who passed away from nonHodgkin’s lymphoma. From her grief, Louise vowed to start a facility to find treatments and cures for devastating childhood diseases. The Steele Children’s Research Center was founded in 1986 and opened its doors in 1992. Years later, Robyn DeBell partnered with friend and co-founder Penny Gunning to increase awareness and fundraising for the pediatric medical research occurring in Tucson at Steele. PANDA was officially founded in 1999.

Why did PANDA decide on a children’s fashion show as its primary fundraiser?

PANDA’s founders understood the need to set themselves apart from the many other social events in the valley. They sought an experience that would involve multiple generations, while also teaching children the importance of philanthropy. As a result, PANDA’s “Children Helping Children” Fashion Show and Luncheon was created. The first models walked the runway at PANDA’s inaugural event in 2000. After May’s 24th annual event, nearly 1,200 children will have modeled in the fashion show!

What is PANDA fundraising for this year?

Each year, PANDA focuses their fundraising efforts on a specific project or need as determined by both the board and the physician-scientists at the Steele Children’s Research Center. This year, PANDA will raise money to bring a first-of-its kind pediatric biobank to Arizona. The information added to the biobank from one child could benefit another child in the future by providing more efficient diagnoses and insights into how their unique genetic

makeup affects their response to treatment. This is the future of personalized, pediatric medicine at Steele.

What makes PANDA’s “Children Helping Children” Fashion Show & Luncheon so unique?

PANDA’s event is all about fun! On Saturday, May 11, 2024, the women of PANDA will gather with their generous supporters at the Arizona Biltmore to share in the meaning of PANDA’s mission: helping discover treatments and cures for devastating childhood diseases. PANDA’s annual “Children Helping Children’’ Fashion Show & Luncheon presented by Fox Restaurant Concepts is always a joyful, colorful event that truly showcases the magic that our community can create when we join together to help sick kids.

Who is in charge of putting together this year’s event?

Four incredible women stepped up to take on the monumental task of producing the annual Fashion Show & Luncheon as well as overseeing community and fundraising campaigns throughout the year. The Chairs, Stacy Medeiros Holzhauer, Molly Kaufman, Ashley Richardson and Emily Snell as well as PANDA’s President, Kim Willems, are are looking forward to seeing over 1,300 supporters at the May event.

Tell us about the 2024 theme.

Each year, PANDA’s Chairs choose a theme to represent the meaning and feel of the event. This year’s theme, “Here Comes the Sun,” represents hope and positivity. Every morning when the sun rises we have an opportunity to find promise in a new day. PANDA works hard year-round to ensure that every child facing serious illness can experience carefree, sunshine-filled days.

SCOTTSDALE′S TOP LUXURY MEDSPA

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Logan

A Few Minutes With David Monn, The Ultimate Entertainer

What was your background before you became a renowned gala planner?

I arrived in New York at the age of 17 with the aspirations of becoming a fashion designer. After working with one of the prominent fashion houses, I transitioned to interior design and later ventured into the world of fine jewelry for several years. Consequently, my journey led me to blend these experiences into creating events that intertwine fashion relevance, spatial planning in architecture and design, and the organizational skill gained from leading a sizable company.

Understanding the business intricacies and earning respect in the industry for my expertise have been key components of my journey.

What do you consider the perfect event and why?

Regarding the perfect event, I believe it stems from creating meaningful moments grounded in truth rather than frivolity. The components of the event must align with a purpose, resonating authenticity, scale, and detail. And when you put those components together, something magically happens without effort.

For me, the perfect event unfolds as a captivating story in real time, centered around the individual or purpose it serves.

Have you ever had something go wrong at a grand scale event and had to quickly produce a solution?

Reflecting on my beginnings, I acknowledge the invaluable lesson from my initial mentor, emphasizing the importance of staying three steps ahead to anticipate and address anything that could go wrong. You will never be successful with plan B, you will always need plan D.

So, to say that something has gone wrong on a gran scale with an event, it has never happened and I hope never will because we have, through the process, constantly been looking at and finding solutions. I would say there was one problem that I did have, many years ago. We did not anticipate that it would rain for three weeks solid on the lead up to an event. We had to have a crane tow out a truck that got stuck in the mud. So, there you go.

To what do you attribute your tremendous success?

When contemplating my success, I attribute it to a combination of blessings, opportunities, and dedicated hard work. I view each project as an art form, aiming to make a positive impact and making a difference.

If you were able to plan any gathering in the world, who would it be for?

If given the opportunity to plan any gathering worldwide, it would undoubtedly be the opening ceremony of the Olympics – a grand and globally significant event.

What 7 people living or dead would you invite to your dinner party?

Lastly, if I were to host a dinner party with seven guests, dead or alive, my eclectic list would include Winston Churchill, Nancy Reagan, William Shakespeare, Catherine the Great, Madame de Pompadour, J.M.W. Turner, and Francois Vatel. Each brings a unique perspective and historical significance to the table.

Tod

Captain O’Neils

NKL Antiques

Benjamin Mann Interiors

Carol

Acanthus Antiques

Michelle Ray Jewelry

Finer

The

Michelle Wilbur Bakelite

Ballet Arizona presents

BALANCHINE

May 2 – 5, 2024

with The Phoenix Symphony at Symphony Hall

Experience three ballets by the Father of American Ballet, George Balanchine. Artistic Director Ib Andersen is one of a handful of artists worldwide entrusted by the Balanchine Trust to stage these masterpieces.

Produced in part by Bob Benson

Ballet Arizona dancers in La Valse. Choreography by George Balanchine. © The Balanchine Trust. Photo by Rosalie O'Connor.

La Valse

Prodigal Son Square Dance

Don’t miss the excitement happening this season at The Phoenix Theatre Company!

, The Phoenix Theatre Company has been a staple of the Valley—producing work that inspires hope and understanding, facilitating joy in healthcare settings nationwide, and training the next generation of theatre artists through summer camps and the nationally known Pope Professional Apprenticeship Program. The Phoenix Theatre Company is not only the largest professional regional theatre company in the state, with nearly 500 performances each year on multiple stages, but it’s also the first arts organization in Arizona. Located on the corner of Central and McDowell and with free parking and the onsite ArtBar+Bistro we are a great choice for a date night or a girl’s (or guys!) night out.

Ed Mell, Master of the Southwest

By Palmer Saylor III

Ed Mell epitomizes not only the American Southwest painter but also the American Southwest itself. He possesses an understated grace, humility, and mastery uniquely reflected in his body of work in paint and sculpture. Known as Arizona’s native son, Mell’s influence permeates our state. His work seems to rival the very silent beauty and profound solitude of the American desert landscape he attempts to capture. If you live in Arizona or have ever visited, you’re familiar with his work and influence on our entire state’s aesthetic. His work resides in the Phoenix Art Museum, public spaces, his gallery and in countless private collections. Ed’s work is a perfect balance of Arizona’s inspirational surroundings, his personal influences, and his love of Modernism. He is a master of the Southwest.

Born in 1942, in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, he clearly felt at home finding solace in the vast expanses of the Arizona sky that stretched out before him at an early age. He attended the Art Center College of Design in 1967, subsequently moving to New York to start a career as a commercial artist, illustrator, and Art Director. But his work turned a corner from 1973 to 1978 when he returned to Arizona to paint.

Mell’s early paintings, rendered in muted tones and bold strokes, captured the austere beauty of the Southwest with an honesty and simplicity that belied his years. Eventually, his love of Modernism began to find its way into his work. It is no doubt that all the art deco architecture and museums of New York had an effect on his work. Mell’s style, influenced by the works of Maynard Dixon and Edgar Payne, began to explore the interplay of color and form, experimenting with bold palettes and dynamic compositions that brought his landscapes to life. Ed redefined the artist’s “earth-toned” palette by

adding and infusing vibrant cadmiums and light-fast thalos. He used his knowledge of color to steep his palette in these vibrant, richly saturated colors and gradients. He used his knowledge of the golden mean and his Love of Art deco to create his signature and fabulous angular-edged compositions.

However, it was not only the colors and shapes that defined Mell’s work; it was the sense of atmosphere, of mood, that permeated each canvas. They are windows into the essence of the Southwest, capturing the timeless rhythms of sun and shadow, wind, and rain against rugged mountain lines. One could climb right into his paintings. You can feel the cold of his rainstorms, the prick of a rose thorn, and the warmth of the sun on any of his sunsets. His blazing landscapes were a clean and organized representation of what we all see if we all take the time to look close enough at our gorgeous desert surroundings. In Mell’s hands, the desert became more than just a backdrop; it became a character in a book, with its own stories to tell and topography to reveal. Ed’s work most appropriately became the backdrop quite literally for the Phoenix’s Opera’s debuted production of Zane Gray’s “Riders of the Purple Sage”. Ed’s panoramic enormous, life-sized backdrops seemed to be the only option and absolutely elevated that performance. I actually gasped out loud when the curtain opened. It just seems there is no surface, room or space his work could not tastefully enhance.

His sculptures, too, spoke to this deep connection to the land, capturing the spirit and vitality of the animals that roamed the Southwest with the same stylized and angular shapes. From the majestic bison to the desert bighorn, each sculpture was a testament to Mell’s reverence for wildlife and his commitment to preserving its beauty and the Southwest aesthetic in time. His “jackknife” sculpture in old town Scottsdale is nothing short of iconic.

Yet for all his skill and mastery, Mell remained a reluctant figure in the world of art, steering clear the trappings of fame and fortune in favor of a life lived close to the land in privacy. He found inspiration right here at home in the quiet solitude of his modest studio and the untamed wilderness beyond. Ed remained, at heart, a solitary figure almost unaware of his contribution to our state and the art world, steadfastly humble.

Ed Mell occupies a revered place among the greatest American Southwest painters. In my mind, he stands out as a unique outlier among all modernist painters. Today, as we stand on the threshold of a new art era, Mell’s work serves as a symbol and reminder of the enduring power of art to transcend time and space, capturing the ineffable beauty and mystery of the world around us, while technology hurries us through this same world without notice. In Mell’s work, we find not just a reflection of the Southwest, but a confluence of two art movements tempered by seasoned skill and originality. I have a few friends that had met and knew Mel. I wish I could have met Mel. Personally, I relate to his work through a similar path as an artist: pursuant an education, commercial artist work as an illustrator and Art Director on both coasts, and eventually settling here in Arizona as an abstract landscape oil painter. I can’t deny his influence on my own work. Ed passed away February 21 of this year. He was 81. He leaves a legacy on the art world, on Arizona, on those who knew him,

and on future generations of Southwest painters who carry a torch; they will be indebted to his trailblazing spirit for decades to come. And thanks to Ed Mell, none of us will see another Arizona sunset the same ever again.

Gateway Celebrity Fight Night Celebrates 30th Anniversary in the Valley

Gateway for Cancer Research’s Vice Chair & Chair and Founder Reflect on Gala’s History & Look to Future Gateway Celebrity Fight Night is a longstanding community fixture in the Valley, and this year is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

This star-studded affair draws the biggest names across sports, stage, and screen to Arizona to win the fight for charities. In 2022, the event was brought into the Gateway for Cancer Research family with a renewed purpose and sharpened fundraising focus. Gateway Celebrity Fight Night delivers a knockout blow to cancer with 100% of event proceeds directly funding the innovative, earlyphase clinical trials that Gateway has been supporting since its founding in 1991.

Dr. Stacie Stephenson, Gateway’s Vice Chair and author of national bestseller GLOW, brings a critical lens of holistic, patientcentered care that ensures Gateway’s research focuses on the whole person. “Gateway is ALWAYS and ONLY about the patient,” said Dr. Stephenson. “Functional and integrative medicine is the next frontier of patient-centered care, and we’re proud that Gateway is at the forefront.”

Mr. Richard Stephenson founded Gateway in memory of his late mother and continues his dedication to early-phase clinical trials for the 5,370 people every day who are diagnosed with the disease. “There are so many of us in the ‘cancer club,’ and it’s growing ever larger,” said Mr. Stephenson. “By humanizing our own battles, we all become stronger.”

Gateway Celebrity Fight Night 2024 is set for April 27th, 5:30pm, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Arizona and will be emceed by *NSYNC member Joey Fatone, with musical direction by David Foster and appearances by GRAMMY-winning singer Michael

Bublé, EXTRA’s Lawrence Zarian, singer-songwriter Katharine McPhee, and more.

For Gateway Celebrity Fight Night tickets, visit http://www. celebrityfightnight.org/.

CHILDHELP DRIVE THE DREAM GALA 2024

An opulent group of people gathered at The Phoenicia Resort a few weeks ago. Childhelp Drive The Dream now in its 65th year raised its respective glasses to “The Power of Love Throughout the Years.” Co-Founders Yvonne Fedderson and Sara O’Meara welcomed a sell-out crowd of some of the most respected people in the community. Gala chairs Carol and Jim Hebets did an exceptional job with this year’s

event. Dru Hammer and Scott Schirmer co-chaired the evening, too. Lots of local and national celebrities were also on hand to lend their support to the organization. Childhelp has been at the forefront of combating child abuse across the country for many years. Belle of the Ball Anna Popova wore canary yellow to the floor.

Coverage courtesy of Carol and George Bennett

Suzanne Turtkovic and Andrew Dianna

Celeste and Curtis Dickman

Chappel Hart Band

Yvonne Fedderson and Sara O’Meara

Veronica Penzone and Antoinette Thomas Jill and Burt Alanko

Carol and Jim Heebts with Dru Hammer

Ralph and Marna DeVane

Kim and Rod Cullum

Steve Ingrassia and Anna Popova

Larry and Mary Kay Mueller

Todd Krim and Christa Allen

Sherry McKinnon and Renae Tomasewski

Michael and Stacey Steele

Kathie Lee Grifford

Paul and Veronica Penzone

Max Murgatroyo and Peta Chmergovskiy

Jannelle and John Grady

Sukriti and Robby Uppal

Lillian Mabe and Alex Johnson

An New Era for the Phoenix Heart Ball

1983-1990

In this next group of 8 Past Heart Ball Chairmen there was a lot of innovation and creativity. There was expansion of the committee as well as in the number of attendees and net proceeds. Many of these new traditions which are still in place today were established. Fund raising platforms by the some of the chairmen were part of their year such as earmarking funds for pediatric heart disease.

American Heart Association

• Advocated and saw through a ban on smoking on air flights

• Nobel prize winning research on controlling blood cholesterol with funding primarily by AHA

• First cholesterol lowering drug approved

• First drug approved for infants with heart and lung defects

• An AHA diet statement with recommendations for limiting saturated fats and total fats was published

• First AHA cookbook on reducing sodium was published

Phoenix Heart Ball in the ‘80s – Did you know….

• 1983: 474 attendees and $100,000 in net revenue to 1990: 800 attendees and $500,000 in net revenue

• The Heart Ball venue was held at 3 different locations –Arizona Biltmore, Gainey Ranch Hyatt and The Phoenician

• The Heart Ball HB logo was designed and adopted

• Firsts: Sweetheart, Vice Chairmen, Chairman Elect, Honorary Chairman and Thank You Party

• The youngest Heart Ball chairman is in this group

• We went from reservations and financial information kept on index cards in a file box to computerized spreadsheets.

Chairmen

thru the ’80s

Heart Ball Committee – Gee Gee Entz Chair 1983

“Our 12 member committee worked hard to get total underwriting for everything by individuals and companies, as well as the Entrée which was underwritten by 18 different Doctors! Our theme was “A Victorian Garden” where 474 guests enjoyed the oversold evening. This was the last year we were in the Grand Ballroom at the Arizona Biltmore hotel.”

Jamie & Peter Lendrum 1985

“Most everyone has experienced losses of family and friends who have had CVD. Within the year of my chairmanship, I lost both my father and maternal grandmother to heart related deaths. I had been drawn to be on the Heart Ball committee because I hoped to make a difference but with these losses during my year as chairman, it gave me a deep commitment to this cause which has continued.”

Harriet & Jack Friedland 1984

“There were only 10 women on my committee – basically every committee was just 1 person. At the end of the evening the first “After the Ball Party” came to be spontaneously in a hotel room provided by the Arizona Biltmore –we ordered room service.”

Left to right in a circle: Pat Leach, Beth Matthews, Karen Horton, Betsy Boich, Glenna Shapiro, Toni Simmons, Jean Rae Gaskin, Betsy Stodola, Jamie Lendrum, Julie Hopper, GeeGee Entz, Harriet Friedland

Beth & Bob Matthews 1986

“My memories of my Heart Ball are of love and fun and the fact that Barry Goldwater attended the Ball in memory of his late wife, Peggy, who I had dedicated the Ball too.”

Pat & the late Gordon Leach 1987

“During the years I was in leadership roles for the Heart Ball as Heart Ball Chairman and subsequent visionary to the Halle Heart Center and Children’s Museum, some of us would attend the AHA National meetings. From that I realized the impact that the AHA was having on heart disease prevention, the strategies in place for increased peer-reviewed research and the continuous breakthroughs resulting in a reduction of CVD annual deaths.”

Sue & Jay Stuckey 1988

“The Heart Ball was important to me as, both Jay’s and my family have struggled with heart disease. My year was the first time we held the Ball at The Phoenician. The hotel was under construction during my year and unfortunately there was a fire. We were unsure if the hotel and ballroom would be opened until the last few months before the Ball.”

Cay Cowie with her son Brandon 1989

“I had been trained in CPR by AHA and was able to use that training on a pregnant woman who collapsed while waiting for dinner. It occurred to me then how many lives could be saved if proper equipment was immediately available for those who needed it. So my year as chairman, our goal was to raise

to be

Penny & Larry Gunning 1990

“Research was the focus of my year –raising awareness to the importance of research and designating our proceeds to stay in the state of Arizona. There was a special interest placed on pediatric heart disease and early detection, which is still a priority of mine today.”

Past Chairmen 1989

money for defibrillators

placed in public areas.”

Penny Gunning with Cay Cowie and Thelma Kieckhefer (sweetheart) 1989

Left to right in a circle: Beth Matthews, Betty Rosenzweig, GeeGee Entz, Sue Stuckey, Barbara Bonoff, Ruth Kaspar, Georgia Green, Pat Goldman, Mary Helen Clancy, Jamie Lendrum, Harriet Friedland

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Cocktails with George and Martha

By Philip Gefter

No one was really prepared for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf when the Edward Albee play debuted on Broadway in 1962. But theater goers were even more surprised when the play shot to the silver screen in 1966. The film starred Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton and was directed by Mike Nichols.

Philip Gefter has done an outstanding job in Cocktails with George and Martha, titled for the two main characters in the play and film. But he goes a step farther to dissect the boozy relationship between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Many said at the time that it was simply the Burton’s home life but with a very clever script.

Decades later Who’s Afraid of Virgina Woolf is still hard to watch. The film is set on a wintry night on a university campus. It explores the crumbling marriage of a middle-aged couple and shell-shocked newlyweds, that drop by for a drink. The film remains excellent and the book serves as an eloquent travel guide into one of the wildest suburban cocktail parties imaginable. An excellent read.

and CAKES

Chef Robert Richter established Robert’s Catering, Inc. and Cakes in 1980, creating traditional comfort foods, French cuisine, cutting edge contemporary cuisine, and simply the best cakes for the most discriminating palette, yours.

480.963.4040

RobertsCatering.net

WEDDING BELLS

COUPLE

Alex & Ryan Casillas

MEET THE PARENTS

Lisa and Gary Allard

Monica and Derek Casillas

THE RING

Cassy Saba and Shane Co. INVITATIONS

Bayou Letterpesss

WEDDING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

Mountain Shadows Resort

WEDDING PLANNER

The Ivy Social and Hudson Gret Weddings

MUSIC

Amani Jae Entertainment

DECORE

Floral: Array Design

The Event Co. and Material girls

PHOTOGRAPHER

Haley Fox Photography

BRIDE’S GOWN

Schaffer’s Birdal – L’amour by Calla Blanche

GROOM’S TUX

JPJ

HONEYMOON

Kauai, Hawaii

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

• The Comstock worked their magic with amazing skin prep for the bridal party

• After the Tone Phone to capture messages was a huge hit and very special

• Drone and video footage by Kennidy Nicole Films … a must!

THE

SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE

SCOTTSDALE FLAGSHIP

SHOPS AT GAINEY VILLAGE