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• Exclusivity: A limited number of memberships means an exceptional level of highly personalized care
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Interested in scheduling a tour and learning more about our program? Call 480-878-0730
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EDITOR IN CHIEF
Karen Werner
PUBLISHER & CEO
Andrea Tyler Evans
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR & COO
Tom Evans
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Neill Fox
ART DIRECTOR
Cheyenne Brumlow
CHIEF OF STAFF
Alicia Chandler
LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Zenobia Mertel
CONTRIBUTORS
Alison Bailin Batz
Traci Chandler
Julie Coleman
Michelle Jacoby
Shoshana Leon
FRONTDOORS TV HOST & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Carey Peña
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Lindsay Green
BEAUTY PARTNER
The Sparkle Bar
PHOTOGRAPHY
Scott Foust Studios
FRONTDOORS MEDIA ADVISORY BOARD
Latasha Causey
Russ Dickey
Rusty Foley
Sarah Krahenbuhl
Larry Lytle
Monique Porras Mason
Brad Vynalek
PHILANTHROPIC HONORS ADVISORS
Deborah Bateman
Linda Herold
On the Cover
Taryn Lopez Norley, president & CEO of ALS Arizona
info@frontdoorsmedia.com | frontdoorsmedia.com
Photo by Scott Foust
Make-up by Shelby Bowen of The Sparkle Bar
Ma gazi ne
Ma gazi ne
+ ALS Arizona + Angels on Patrol + Arizona Educational Foundation + Arizona State University + Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory + BHHS Legacy Foundation + Fiesta Sports Foundation + Mountain Park Health Center + The Phoenix Symphony + St. Vincent de Paul Dental Center
Valley of the Sun YMCA
the Limit
of St. Vincent de Paul
Crib Notes for a New Year
As we step into 2025, Frontdoors is here to shine a light on what connects and inspires our community. Whether it’s the people shaping our future or the things that make life here special, we’re here to celebrate it.
Partnering with us on this issue is BHHS Legacy Foundation, an organization devoted to enhancing health and quality of life across Greater Phoenix and the Tri-State region of northern Arizona. Over the past 25 years, BHHS Legacy Foundation has invested an incredible $150 million in nonprofits and programs, many of which you’ll read about in this issue.
“We’re excited to continue empowering organizations, improving lives, and building a future where everyone has the opportunity to live healthier, stronger lives,” said Gerald Wissink, BHHS Legacy Foundation’s CEO.
As I worked on this issue, I couldn’t help but feel hope and pride for our state and the people who pour their energy into improving it. Here are 10 uplifting lessons from this magazine I’ll carry with me into 2025:
1. Prioritize family and friends. The wise and well-earned advice of Taryn Lopez Norley, the president & CEO of ALS Arizona.
2. See the bigger picture. The new Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory offers an ideal vantage point.
3. Talk. ASU’s Friendship Benches remind us how powerful it is to simply listen.
4. Laugh. The thought of watching classic Looney Tunes accompanied by The Phoenix Symphony was so appealing that I had to buy tickets.
5. Collaborations are powerful! Forward-looking organizations like Fiesta Sports Foundation, Arizona Educational Foundation and Valley of the Sun YMCA prove this.
6. Take care of yourself. A cozy coat and natural skincare products could be a nice place to start.
7. Embrace the power of yes. One officer’s determination to help people in need sparked Angels on Patrol.
8. Celebrate the season. Pickleball outside after dinner? Whale watching in Baja? Winter holds unique charms.
9. Take it day by day. Dr. Ken Snyder, the big-hearted dentist leading St. Vincent de Paul’s dental center, swears by this approach.
10. Don’t forget string lights! They make everything magical, according to the owners of Cloth & Flame.
Thank you for starting 2025 with us. Here’s to a year of connection, inspiration and purpose.
Warmly,
KAREN WERNER EDITOR IN CHIEF
Transforming Lives Empowering Communities
Supporting health and quality of life for 25 years, BHHS Legacy Foundation has invested more than $150 million in nonprofits and programs across Greater Phoenix and the Tri-State region of northern Arizona.
Help build healthier communities with your Arizona Tax Credit donation. Visit BHHS legacy.org or call 602.778.1200 to donate now.
GEORGE
Conductor and co-creator
2
Bugs Bunny has long been an ambassador for classical music. How has he influenced people’s appreciation of the genre?
For so many people — including me — we got our first exposure to classical music by watching these iconic Looney Tunes as children, on Saturday mornings sitting in front of the television. Now, with “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” and its predecessor “Bugs Bunny on Broadway,” our audiences take their childhood (and ongoing) love for these animated shorts to a whole new level by experiencing an entire evening of the most iconic Looney Tunes (over a dozen), with the original scores played by a worldclass symphony orchestra. In 35 years, we have appeared with over 300 major orchestras worldwide, many of them over and over, to over 3 million people. And a huge percentage of that 3 million are not regular symphony-goers. Many of them are attending a symphony orchestra concert for the first time through our concert. So that’s our ongoing mission!
How does this concert bring audiences and classical music together in a way that’s fresh?
When people experience these cartoons with a live orchestra playing the original Carl Stalling and Milt Franklyn scores (as inspired by Wagner, Rossini, J. Strauss, von Suppe, Smetana, Liszt and so many others), they appreciate the music in a much more visceral way. The music is so much bigger and “in your face” in our concert, and the way the orchestra and the music integrate and interact with the characters and the cartoons on the big screen is brilliantly obvious. People say they will never listen to these cartoons the same way after experiencing these Looney Tunes in live performances.
3
Are there specific pieces of classical music featured in the concert that Bugs Bunny fans will recognize?
There are many iconic moments. “The Barber of Seville” overture comes hilariously to life in “The Rabbit of Seville.” It’s very funny ... we play the original “Barber of Seville” overture at the top of our concert, without animation. But the audience laughs during the “animationless” overture at the moments where funny things happen in the animated “The
Rabbit of Seville.” That’s how much this music is ingrained in our collective psyches. The same thing happens during “What’s Opera, Doc?” when Elmer sings “Kill Da Wabbit, Kill Da Wabbit.” That, of course, is the main theme from the Wagner opera “Die Walkure” and its heroic “Ride of The Valkyries.” But if you just sang the notes to people on the street, most would sing back “Kill Da Wabbit” rather than intoning Wagner. Again, a moment of animation and music seared in our subconscious.
For audiences who didn’t grow up with the cartoons, how does this concert create that same spark?
Because the cartoons and the music are both brilliant. So even people seeing them for the first time are immediately taken in by their artistic brilliance, the gorgeous animation, the huge nature of the music, the spectacular comedic pratfalls — the whole thing. These cartoons are as masterful and engaging today as they were on the day they were created.
In what ways do you think Bugs Bunny makes classical music more accessible for people who may be less familiar with it?
Bugs Bunny — as he appears as conductor, pianist, opera singer, ballet dancer, virtuoso of innumerable instruments and so much more — instantly takes the stigma out of classical music that some people have. The walls are broken down, the barriers disappear and non-classical people suddenly are experiencing the spectacular experience of a live symphony orchestra. There is a reason we have been constantly touring for 35 years — people cannot get enough of the concert, the characters, the cartoons.
As a conductor and creator of this concert, what is your favorite part about blending classical music with Bugs Bunny’s personality?
Thirty-five years into this experience, I still marvel at the brilliance of how the music and the animation work together so brilliantly. The music is not just an afterthought — it is an equal partner to the visual image. The original masterful directors — Chuck Jones, Friz Freleng, Bob Clampett and the others — loved classical music, but they also really loved
poking fun at the sometimes-pompous nature of (some) classical musicians. And Bugs Bunny is the master at taking that on. Just watch “Long-Haired Hare,” where Bugs goes after the imperious and puffed-up operatic baritone. It is hilarious to anyone who has ever seen that cartoon. “Long-Haired Hare” is one of my favorite moments in this concert, because it has so many inside jokes for classical musicians and classical music lovers who watch it, and who get the sublime subtleties. Yet, it is completely hilarious to people who know nothing about the classical music world. All of the cartoons are my favorites, but one I really love is “Baton Bunny,” where Bugs appears as the conductor of the orchestra, in a yellow tux. The premise is simple — Bugs conducting an orchestra. However, a pesky fly keeps ‘bugging” him. All conductors can identify with this, as we all have been bombarded by insects at outdoor concerts. But the other thing that is so incredible about this cartoon is the way Bugs conducts. He conducts absolutely authentically, using real conducting patterns. Any orchestra would be able to play this cartoon score just by watching Bugs. That’s how accurately Chuck Jones animated Bugs — Chuck really studied the way a conductor moves. It’s how genius that cartoon is!
Photo by Chris Lee, courtesy of The New York Philharmonic (2015)
Do you think Bugs Bunny has a favorite cartoon that features classical music?
I never speak for Bugs — I learned that a long time ago. He’s great at doing that himself, from the screen. I don’t think Bugs, however, has a favorite. Bugs loves everything he does equally ... he puts his entire persona, his entire being, and all of his stupendously-many talents into every frame of film on which he has ever appeared. One thing for sure, Bugs is also absolutely a classical music lover. In a conducting career that has stretched out over almost five decades, I’ve never met a human being with as many diverse musical and artistic talents as Bugs possesses. He is truly a “Renaissance Rabbit.”
How does this concert tap into the nostalgia of Bugs Bunny while also offering something new?
Well, of course, there are so many classic and iconic vintage Looney Tunes in the concert — “Baton Bunny,” “What’s Opera, Doc?,” “The Rabbit of Seville,” “Corny Concerto,” “Zoom and Bored,” “Long-Haired Hare,” “High Note” and more. But we are also really excited that Warner Bros. has provided us with five brand-new Looney Tunes for our concert, and they are spectacular. There are three new Wile E. Coyote/ Road Runner cartoons in 3D with amazing scores by leading current-day film composer Christopher Lennertz. They bring down the house, because they’ve never before been seen by audiences. And
two more newbies — “Dynamite Dance,” a sort of ballet between Bugs and Elmer set to the rollicking “Dance of the Hours” finale, and “Wet Cement,” a new Elmer and Daffy Looney Tune. Audiences are loving seeing these new masterpieces along with their beloved vintage cartoons.
Are there any special surprises you’re excited for audiences to experience?
One of the great aspects of this concert, besides experiencing the music live from a spectacular symphony orchestra, is for audiences to see these Looney Tunes on “the big screen.” So many of us first experienced them on a small-ish television screen — or these days, even smaller digital devices. But the Looney Tunes were not created for television. They were created for movie theaters. The Warner Bros. — Jack and his siblings — wanted to start every single Warner Bros. feature film with a Looney Tunes
or Merrie Melodies animated short. They were made for the big screen, so current-day audiences finally see them that way in this concert. And there are so many more details visible on the big screen than on your iPhone! Another surprise is the addition of a live audience. Because that’s how they were written, how they were “timed” — for live audience reaction. And when these cartoons are seen with a huge live audience, it becomes apparent that audience reaction is an indelible part of their soundscape and sound design.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
We are so happy to be back with the incredible Phoenix Symphony. This will be our third time, and I can’t wait. And neither can Bugs! We hope you come check out our shows. That’s all, folks!
To learn more, visit phoenixsymphony.org
Produced by Jacquie & Bennett
Dorrance and Bob Benson
Photo © Hans Gerritsen. Courtesy of Dutch National Ballet.
The Sky’s the Limit
The new Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory is a game-changer for Flagstaff
BY TOM EVANS
If you’ve been in Arizona for a while, you probably know that the planet Pluto was discovered at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, a place steeped in astronomical history. (Well, the “planet” part is a bit controversial, but nevertheless).
Arizona is a hotbed of astronomy thanks to its clear sky and plentiful mountains in rural areas. And while Lowell Observatory dates back to 1894, and there are other, more modern telescopes in the state, Lowell has a special place in astronomy history and in the history of its hometown, Flagstaff.
But Flagstaff community leaders had long wanted to build a place at Lowell that would dramatically enhance the experience for visitors and help the campus fulfill its potential as a center for learning.
On Nov. 16, 2024, that vision became a reality when the $53.4 million Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory opened to the public. Hundreds of people went through the doors of the new facility that day and were treated to all the new exhibits and features of the Discovery Center as well as special programming.
The Center promises to be a game-changer not just for Lowell but for northern Arizona as a whole, providing an entirely new experience for visitors to learn about the cosmos.
“The Astronomy Discovery Center embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery that has been at the heart of Lowell Observatory for more than a century,” said Dr. Amanda Bosh, the newly appointed executive director of Lowell Observatory. “This Center will inspire awe and curiosity in visitors of all ages, providing an unmatched experience that combines cutting-edge technology with the beauty of Flagstaff’s dark skies.”
Constructed a few hundred yards from the Pluto Telescope, the Discovery Center is now the most prominent feature on the Lowell campus, a three-story, 40,000-squarefoot facility designed to educate astronomy buffs of all ages. Some of its features include:
LOWELL UNIVERSE THEATER
A 180-seat theater with a two-story, 160-degree curved 16K LED screen, an LED screen on the ceiling and a stage for presentations.
THE ROOFTOP DARK SKY PLANETARIUM
A circular rooftop deck with heated seats and audio-visual features that turn sky-gazing into a totally different experience.
THE ORBITS CURIOSITY ZONE
A two-story exhibit for children to explore interactive activities that teach them about the cosmos.
ASTRONOMY GALLERY-STARDUST LAB
Full of interactive exhibits for children and adults to provide a deeper insight into our solar system and space.
ORIGINS GALLERY
The central feature of the indoor space of the Discovery Center, with a suspended artistic feature designed to depict the origins and evolution of the universe. And, of course, a café and gift shop to provide all the comforts needed to visitors to the Center.
The Discovery Center transforms the Lowell campus from a primarily nighttime attraction to an all-day, year-round attraction that can host families and field trips, locals and tourists from around the world. It promises to immediately become one of northern Arizona’s premier attractions and a significant economic impact driver.
To learn more, visit lowell.edu
CHEERS to the Chairs!
A preview of the Valley’s premier philanthropic events and who’s leading these important efforts
5th Annual Dancing with the Stars
DATE: January 10, 2025
BENEFITTING: Armer Foundation
CHAIR: Jennifer Armer armerfoundation.org/dancingwiththestars
Never Say Never Again 11th Annual Gala
DATE: January 11, 2025
BENEFITTING: Gigi’s Playhouse
CHAIR: Annie DenBoer gigisplayhouse.org/phoenix/gala
Brighter Tomorrow Luncheon
DATE: January 17, 2025
BENEFITTING: Jewish Family & Children’s Service
CHAIR: Peter Moraga jfcsaz.org
Barrow Grand Ball
DATE: January 18, 2025
BENEFITTING: Barrow Neurological Foundation
CO-CHAIRS: Cathy Kleeman & Susan Westra supportbarrow.ejoinme.org/2025BarrowGrandBall
our Third Annual Inspiring Hope Charity Gala, a night of philanthropy filled with live music, inspirational stories, a four-course meal, and so much more!
At Solari, we provide community-based crisis intervention services. Additionally, we offer a wide range of mental health services so we can adapt to each community's unique needs.
All proceeds to benefit Solari’s crisis and human services that are free and confidential to the community and available 24/7/365.
Savor the Symphony
DATE: February 6, 2024
BENEFITTING: The Phoenix Symphony CHAIR: Jenny Holsman Tetreault phoenixsymphony.org/events
Dance With Me
DATE: February 7, 2025
BENEFITTING: Ballet Arizona
CHAIR: Stephen Hardy balletaz.org/gala
Drive the Dream
DATE: February 15, 2025
BENEFITTING: Childhelp
CO-CHAIRS: Ty & Debbie Jenkins childhelp.org/events/2025-childhelp-drive-the-dream
A Be Kind Evening
DATE: February 22, 2025
BENEFITTING: The Be Kind People Project CO-CHAIRS: Lisa & Gordon James thebekindpeopleproject.org/a-be-kind-evening
Today’s Kids, Tomorrow’s Stars
DATE: March 1, 2025
BENEFITTING: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley
CO-CHAIRS: Basil Zaidi and Linda Little bgcaz.org/stars
Welcome Home Gala
DATE: March 1, 2025
BENEFITTING: Save the Family
CHAIR: Josie Woody savethefamily.org/gala
Honor Ball
DATE: March 1, 2025
BENEFITTING: HonorHealth Foundation
CO-CHAIRS: Catherine Tuton & Christina Reuss, MD honorhealthfoundation.org/event/honor-ball
Gala 2025: Night on the Nile
DATE: March 8, 2025
BENEFITTING: Arizona Opera
CHAIR: Jenny Holsman Tetreault azopera.org/events/night-nile
Wish Ball
DATE: March 8, 2025
BENEFITTING: Make-A-Wish
CO-CHAIRS: Teri Pierce, Chrissy Butz, Dena Zell & Keli Nichols wish.org/arizona/wish-ball-2025-art-wishes
BY ZENOBIA MERTEL
Jennie Wool Striped Trench
MAKEUP STUDIO
A Table in the Wild
Cloth & Flame redefines connection through outdoor events
BY MICHELLE JACOBY
Along table dressed with vibrant flowers and modern décor stretches beneath a canopy of softly glowing string lights. Twilight melts into a star-speckled desert sky and guests begin to arrive — navigating dusty trails that feel like they lead to the middle of nowhere. They have no idea what’s waiting for them.
As they pull up to the site, sweeping views of rugged desert peaks unfold before them. The landscape is bathed in golden light from the setting sun, and it feels almost otherworldly. But this isn’t just dinner — it’s an experience, one that lingers in memory long after the last plate is cleared.
This is the magic of Cloth & Flame, a company that has redefined outdoor dining and event planning. Co-founded by Matt Cooley, Cloth & Flame didn’t start as the polished brand it is today. In fact, it began with something entirely different: hot air balloon rides. Originally known as Float, the company started with a passion for offering one-of-a-kind experiences that left an impression.
“We ran a hot air balloon ride business for about three years,” Cooley said. “It had a dining component that people really loved. Over time, we noticed that guests were coming for the dinner more than the ride. That’s when we knew we were onto something.”
And just like that, the idea grew wings of its own. What started as a dinner add-on for balloon rides turned into standalone events, often held in the wide-open desert. Word spread fast, and the public dinners sold out almost instantly. People were drawn to the combination of good food, breathtaking settings and the chance to feel connected — to others, to nature, to the moment. Sensing they’d tapped into something special, the team rebranded as Cloth & Flame. The name speaks to the blend of natural elements and intimate gatherings they envisioned creating.
From the beginning, the team’s mission was more than just throwing pretty events. They wanted to honor the land itself, to create experiences that were deeply tied to the places they were held.
“The type of events we were doing were very wilderness- and desert-oriented,” Cooley said. “To pull them off, we had to start managing the properties themselves.”
This approach led to partnerships with landowners and the discovery of spaces with unique stories. Over time, these partnerships became a cornerstone of Cloth & Flame’s philosophy. The company isn’t just renting beautiful backdrops — it’s helping to preserve them. For example, they’ve partnered with a family-owned cattle ranch in the Superstition Mountains and the historic Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior. These collaborations don’t just protect the land; they celebrate its history and spirit.
As the success of Cloth & Flame grew, so did its vision. Enter Open Venues, the company’s newest venture, designed to connect clients with unforgettable event spaces. “What we’re looking for in a venue is a story — a space that says, ‘something important will happen here,’” Cooley said.
Unlike the standard, cookie-cutter venues that dominate the event industry, Open Venues prioritizes locations with character and history. From the century-old Icehouse in downtown Phoenix to the scenic Airport Mesa in Sedona, every space feels like it holds its own secrets.
Cloth & Flame’s signature style — transforming outdoor spaces into unforgettable experiences — has even sparked expansion into new markets, including California. From collaborations with culinary pop-up platforms to potential events at landmarks like the Oviatt Penthouse in Los Angeles, the company continues to push boundaries while staying true to its roots.
“What we’re really focused on is creating experiences that are about the location and the moment,” Cooley said.
At its heart, Cloth & Flame is about more than just stunning landscapes or beautiful tablescapes — it’s about connection. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, a wedding or a
community gathering, the company creates spaces where people feel like they belong.
For anyone dreaming of hosting their own outdoor event, Cooley offers a simple piece of advice: embrace the environment. Get your guests involved, and don’t forget string lights. “It transforms everything,” he said with a smile.
From humble beginnings in the skies to redefining the way we gather on the ground, Cloth & Flame has a way of leaving its mark. For those lucky enough to sit at one of their tables, it’s a reminder of life’s simple, shared magic — best enjoyed under the stars.
To learn more, visit clothandflame.com.
Lessons in Love
Taryn Lopez Norley’s journey of compassion at ALS Arizona
BY KAREN WERNER
Taryn Lopez Norley emits an upbeat energy that disguises the seriousness of her job. As president and CEO of ALS Arizona, she has spent 13 years leading an organization dedicated to supporting Arizona families facing the devastating realities of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS. Her journey has
shaped her perspective on life and leadership and, in the process, had an impact that has reverberated throughout the state.
Born in Kansas, Norley moved to Arizona at 4, when her father got tired of shoveling snow and packed up the family for Scottsdale in 1979. “I had a great childhood,” she said.
Norley flourished at Coronado High School, where she did everything from cheerleading to sports to student council.
After attending the University of Arizona and studying abroad in Spain, Norley discovered her calling. It began at a volunteer fair in college, where she signed up for a summer job with Camp Fire USA to take children camping for the first time. “I loved being able to show them new skills and do fun things outdoors,” she said.
That summer job led to an expanded role with the local organization after graduation. When its executive director left, Norley and another staff member were selected as co-interim directors. From there, Norley was tapped for the organization’s national staff to oversee a territory from Western Texas to Southern California.
“I was a road warrior,” Norley said. “I traveled a ton, and got to help the other nonprofits, whether it be trainings or help with their boards.”
During that time, she married Kirk Norley and felt a need to settle down. “I just got sick of traveling because I was by myself in these tiny towns in Texas. I’d only been married a couple of years, so I was like, it’s enough now,” she said.
Norley shifted to a fundraising position at Arthritis Foundation Arizona, where she worked for three years.
“I did the Walk and their gala, and then this position came up,” she said.
The job of leading ALS Arizona comes with built-in gravitas, as its clients are navigating one of the hardest diagnoses imaginable. “It’s physically and emotionally
The annual Bite Nite fundraising event celebrates the resilience and joy of ALS Arizona’s patients, caregivers, staff and volunteers.
At Camp Fire USA, Norley’s love for nurturing others blossomed.
Norley was senior class president and co-captain of her cheer squad at Coronado High School.
At Bite Nite with an ALS Arizona donor.
demanding,” Norley said of the disease. “Each patient will present differently. That’s why it’s so hard to get a cure or figure it out, because there are 100 different types of ALS underneath the umbrella of ALS.”
A progressive neurological disease formerly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS doesn’t affect the senses, such as seeing or hearing, and it usually doesn’t affect mental functioning. But eventually, people with ALS lose the ability to move, speak, swallow or breathe. “A lot of our patients were adrenaline junkies, too,” Norley said. “They’ve been into these extremely high-energy sports, like skydiving or running marathons.”
That essential unfairness helps crystallize ALS Arizona’s work: to assist patients and families in the here and now. “That’s what I love about this organization,” Norley said. “We’re actually providing equipment and things that are going to directly help them, right away.”
Central to its services is the medical equipment loan closet, a resource that provides costly devices, such as power wheelchairs and lift systems, to patients free of charge.
“The cost of equipment can be astronomical,” Norley said. “We’ve seen invoices for $89,000 wheelchairs. Even with insurance, families are left with an $18,000 copay.”
The organization also provides other equipment patients need, from tub sliders to raised toilet seats to bidets. “We really do try to maintain their dignity and keep them at home and safe,” she said.
ALS Arizona also works as an advocate for patients. Its interdisciplinary clinics at Mayo Clinic, HonorHealth and Barrow Neurological Institute bring together neurologists, dietitians, social workers and therapists to provide comprehensive care.
“Once a quarter, a patient will visit and sit in the room as everybody rotates through. They’ll see their respiratory therapist, their speech therapist, a dietitian. It’s a long day — sometimes three hours — but it’s worth it,” Norley said. “It is hard for them to get out of the home, so we love our centers. Patients can see everyone they need in one place, and we’re there every step of the way.”
ALS Arizona also offers outings that allow patients to reclaim a sense of normalcy and joy. “Our outings started because a wife came to one of our staff members and said, ‘My husband’s so depressed. I wish he could play golf one more time.’ My staff member was a recreational therapist, and she said, ‘Why can’t he? I can figure it out!’”
With impactful programs, compassionate care and innovative fundraising, ALS Arizona brings hope and community to one of life’s toughest journeys.
The resulting program, which is unique to Arizona, offers outdoor activities like river rafting and water skiing. “When I call for insurance, the underwriter goes, ‘You’re going to do what with ALS patients?!’” Norley said.
From adaptive golf to horseback riding, the activities provide a much-needed escape as well as a chance to create fun memories. “The families just love it,” Norley said. “We’re going to try skiing this year, and I’m excited about that.”
Trips are funded by organizations like BHHS Legacy Foundation, whose CEO Gerald Wissink has seen the program’s power firsthand. “I’ve had the honor of fishing with Taryn and some of the amazing families ALS Arizona serves. Legacy Foundation helped buy adaptive fishing poles and equipment for patients to fish with. We had an amazing day at Bartlett Lake!”
Those moments are a reminder of what’s truly important — an afternoon with family, taking a moment to connect.
“What I love about our programs is this community of hope, because it’s everybody together,” Norley said. “We bring the kids; we bring the grandkids. Everybody’s so connected that it truly feels like this family when you come in with us.”
ALS is an unforgiving disease, a cruel reality Norley and her staff constantly face. “We shed many tears, but we focus on what we can provide through the struggle. What’s really
important is being there for one another when you’ve been given the hardest diagnosis you could imagine.”
Norley points out that people are often afraid of terminal illnesses, and ALS Arizona patients frequently don’t have as much support as they need or would like. “That’s kind of where we step in. We try to focus on and be there for them,” she said.
In turn, the patients that ALS Arizona serves have provided profound insights. “They really point out to me what’s important in life. They’re like, ‘Taryn, go be with your son. Learn from me. You need to take advantage of those things. The other stuff can wait,’” she said.
So, despite the demands of her role, Norley is resolute about carving out time for family. Her 8-year-old son, Cameron, whom she calls her “rainbow baby” after years of fertility struggles, is at the center of her world.
“We love our Mama and Cam days,” she said, describing outings to Crayola Experience, local parks and Disneyland. “Having him later in life has made me much softer, both as a mother and as a leader. It’s given me a better perspective on what really matters.”
Norley’s approach to work-life balance has also influenced her leadership style. “I used to be a workaholic with high expectations for my team,” she said. “Now, I encourage my staff to prioritize their families and their well-being. That comes from working with a terminal disease, but also working so hard to have my own son. When we’re here, we’re focused, but life outside of work matters, too.”
She sees it as part of her job as a leader to support other parents who want a career. “I mean, I want to have a career, right? But I also want to do all the things. Like, I’m the room parent, and I love to volunteer at school, because I want to be in Cam’s life and have that quality time and be impactful,” she said.
Barely five feet tall, Norley was once known for having outsized expectations. “I joke that I am going to write an article for LinkedIn that having kids was the best thing that ever happened for my staff.
ALS Arizona families enjoyed hanging out with the Arizona Cardinals at Training Camp 2024.
It changed me from being like, ‘We’ve got to drive, drive, drive.’”
When asked what has driven her to stay in such a challenging role, Norley pauses before answering. “I think maybe my tenacity. You know, 13 years is pretty good. They always joke, ‘Don’t underestimate her,’” she said. “I may be small, but I’m tenacious.”
It’s that tenacity, paired with compassion, that has made Norley a beacon of hope for the ALS community in Arizona.
“I want to make sure that every family knows that there’s hope, and that they’re not alone,” she said.
To learn more, visit alsaz.org
www.WhiteHouseFlowers.com
Norley at a candlelight vigil in Washington, D.C., honoring those lost to ALS. The group visited Capitol Hill the following day.
Congratulations
2024 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY HONOREES
The annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration and awards is a program by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) — Greater Arizona Chapter. AFP is the premier organization for fundraising professionals and currently represents more than 265 members across the Valley.
To learn more, visit afpaz.org or scan the QR code below.
This year, AFP celebrated its 40th National Philanthropy Day Luncheon in the Valley on Friday, November 22nd at the Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our community.
Leadership Awards
Each year, these awards recognize the individuals and organizations that exemplify the highest standards of philanthropic responsibility and generosity. Selection for the seven major awards is completed by a panel of independent judges. Judges are selected based on their professional experience and represent a diverse group of community members and are different each year.
OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPISTS
Nita & Phil Francis
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISER
Adriana Murrietta
Nominated by The Colibri Collective
EMERGING FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONAL
Isaac Dizon
Nominated by Catholic Charities Community Services, Inc.
Spirit of Philanthropy Honorees
OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING EXECUTIVE
Maureen Jorden
Nominated by Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
OUTSTANDING YOUTH IN PHILANTHROPY
Karis Wales
Nominated by HonorHealth Foundation
The Spirit of Philanthropy Award recognizes outstanding nonprofit partners for their significant philanthropic contributions. Nonprofit organizations represented have selected special friends to honor who share their mission, vision and values.
Arizona Elks Association of Greater Arizona
Nominated by University of Arizona’s Steele Children’s Research Center
Barbara & Frank Bennett
Nominated by Child Crisis Arizona
Chadwick & Elana Campbell
Nominated by Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
Central Christian Church of Mesa
Nominated by A New Leaf
Gema Duarte Luna
Nominated by Boyce Thompson
Arboretum
Discover Financial Services
Nominated by Habitat for Humanity
Central Arizona
Flagstar Bank
Nominated by Catholic Charities Community Services, Inc.
George Flores
Nominated by Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project
Fore the Kids
Nominated by Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley
Tom Hatten
Nominated by Make-A-Wish Arizona
Jane Jozoff
Nominated by Desert Botanical Garden
Dr. Honora Norton
Nominated by Catholic Charities Community Services, Inc.
St. Bridget Catholic Church
Nominated by A New Leaf
Gerry & Kris Stenson
Nominated by Maggie’s Place
Debra Stevens
Nominated by HonorHealth Foundation
Bill Lewis & Richard Underwood
Nominated by American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona
Jennifer OʼConnell Down Syndrome Network (DSNetwork)
Tracy Lindbergh Sonoran University of Health Sciences
Kayla Kolar House of Refuge, Inc.
Kim Graham Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF)
Ellen Conn Childsplay, Inc.
Tami Bohannon Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
Christopher Hamby TheaterWorks
A Program With Heart
Fiesta Sports Foundation and BHHS Legacy Foundation team up to bring defibrillators to Arizona schools
BY TOM EVANS
Many Arizona schools are thin on resources. They’re focused on making sure each dollar is spent in the pursuit of providing the best possible education.
That means that sometimes critical ancillary needs can go unmet. And recently, the team at the Fiesta Sports Foundation found an important one.
people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest analyze the heart and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to reestablish an effective heart rhythm.
In Arizona, AEDs are only required in state buildings and dental offices, and there are no legislative requirements for CPR/AED training.
So, Fiesta Sports Foundation teamed up with BHHS Legacy Foundation, its partner on a number of community initiatives, to create the AED Assistance Program, launched to address this gap and raise awareness about the need for AEDs.
The Fiesta Sports Foundation, formerly known as the Fiesta Bowl organization, is undergoing a rebrand to better reflect its community-oriented mission. It’s primarily known for the Fiesta Bowl football game, but it also focuses on community outreach and charitable giving across the state.
The unmet need they identified could be a lifesaving one: They found that most Arizona schools do not have automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, which can help
“This program originated from a suggestion by one of our Yellow Jacket committee members, Dr. William Jaffe, a local cardiologist,” said Kristina Chumpol, Fiesta Sports Foundation chief of staff and VP of community investment.
“BHHS Legacy Foundation is proud to participate with Fiesta Bowl Charities in the funding and implementation of the much-needed program for selected area public schools,” said Gerald Wissink, BHHS Legacy Foundation CEO. “Having school staff members trained in CPR, plus making AEDs available in the schools and encouraging schools to develop emergency response plans, will make the schools better prepared to respond to any future sudden cardiac event, which will help in saving lives.”
“During a meeting with our CEO, Dr. Jaffe suggested there was an opportunity to provide AED equipment to schools and possibly nonprofits, and that conversation sparked the conversation.”
Chumpol said they discovered that Arizona, unlike some other states, doesn’t require schools to have AEDs on campus, which stood out to them as a critical gap that was primarily due to lack of funding.
“School budgets are already stretched thin, so this need often goes unmet,” Chumpol said. “It became clear that this was an area where we could step in to help.”
More than 40 percent of schools surveyed before the program launched did not have AEDs on campus due to cost, and another 34 percent said they did not have trained staff for AED use. BHHS Legacy Foundation’s mission is focused on both children and health, so they were a natural partner with the Fiesta Sports Foundation to launch the program.
Fremont Junior High School in Mesa, the Avondale Elementary District and five schools in the Tri-State region (centered around Bullhead City and including Arizona, Nevada and California) were selected for inclusion in the inaugural year of the program after surveys were conducted to identify need in Arizona public and charter schools.
In the program’s first year, the new equipment and accompanying training were implemented at 16 schools, impacting over 9,200 students and nearly 700 teachers — with the goal of expanding in the coming years.
“We’re preparing for the second year, launching in January, with plans to double or even exceed those numbers,” Chumpol said. “The long-term goal is fluid. Right now, we’re focused on reaching as many schools as possible and growing the program annually. But just as importantly, we want to spark conversations and awareness about this gap.”
Chumpol said that one key element to the program’s implementation is a “train-the-trainer” model adopted in partnership with the American Red Cross. It ensures the sustainability of the program by training multiple staff members across schools and districts to lead their own sessions.
“This cascade effect will allow hundreds of teachers, coaches and staff to become trainers themselves, keeping the program alive year after year,” she said.
And Chumpol said the organization is interested in seeing how they can most effectively grow the program, both inside and outside of schools.
“This was a natural place for us to start,” she said. “But I don’t see it being where we stop. Maybe there’s a world where this program continues to grow, such as at youth-serving nonprofits that we get involved with, because we think it’s very important.”
Schools interested in the AED Assistance Program may contact charities@fiestabowl.org For more information, visit fiestabowl.org
Whole Health Focus
Valley of the Sun YMCA evolves to support mind, body and spirit
BY JULIE COLEMAN
With a song so recognizable that it only takes a few notes before your foot starts tapping and your arms get poised for movement, the YMCA and its dedication to healthy living are known far and wide. The Valley of the Sun YMCA boasts a rich history as one of the oldest nonprofits in Arizona, providing a wide range of programs at its 11 branches and a resident camp in Prescott.
The Y’s “brand” has been a place you can go for physical activity. But as time has passed and the pandemic necessitated a new norm, wellness now also encompasses nutrition and mental and behavioral health.
“There are many more pieces to health than just going to the gym or being active,” said Damian Vega, Valley of the Sun YMCA associate vice president of
operations, healthy living and inclusion. “We are pivoting and partnering with organizations, such as Mountain Park Health Center, to figure out how we can provide some of those other resources. We can’t be the expert in everything and may not have all the answers, but we are very good at building relationships and can find people to help us get some of the answers.”
These sought-after answers of how to best develop healthy minds, bodies and spirits in a way that meets the needs of each unique YMCA community lie in strong community partnerships. One such collaboration began nearly 10 years ago between Mountain Park Health and The Legacy Foundation Chris-Town YMCA.
That particular YMCA branch had been awarded a
The Legacy Foundation Chris-Town YMCA Clinic represents an innovative approach to increasing access to healthcare for low-income and vulnerable children and families in the community.
Photos courtesy Mountain Park Health Center
$1 million grant from BHHS Legacy Foundation in 2007 to establish a community-based health clinic that provides dental, vision and other health services. They requested that Mountain Park Health Center assume operations of the existing Chris-Town YMCA pediatric clinic. Today, the clinic provides essential services, including dietitian support, dental care and behavioral health services, averaging 500 patient visits each month.
“We really like the partnership, and being co-located with the Chris-Town YMCA means a lot to us,” said Dr. John Swagert, CEO of Mountain Park Health Center. “It’s a special and unique connection to another kind of healthcare. They think about things similarly to the way we do and meet people where they are to bend the trajectory of their health in the right direction.”
The right direction for the Valley of the Sun YMCA has included reimagining its role in creating healthier communities by leading a diverse coalition of 22 Valley healthcare, education and community organizations committed to addressing barriers to health and wellness. Funded by a Maricopa County Public Health Policy Systems Change Grant in 2022, the Whole Health Initiative task force is a collaborative effort that has seen positive results in tackling health disparities in a short period.
“The Y is always evolving, and we’re identifying what we can do for the communities we serve,” Vega said. “What we’re not doing today, we may be doing three years from now as things evolve. There’s a whole canvas for us to explore.”
Outcomes of the Whole Health Initiative include breaking down silos among health organizations; implementing pilot programs, including a referral network system and coordination of mobile health units; opening a homeless youth program at the YMCA Lincoln branch, expanding health services to at-risk youth; and delivering free vaccines to the community via mobile units in partnership with multiple providers.
“It’s always a work in progress,” Vega said. “When you do this work, it’s never finished. There’s always going to be something else you could do to help more people.”
Ensuring every community member has access to the resources and services needed to lead healthier lives will require the YMCA’s continued innovation and adaptation. Given the nonprofit’s track record and the initiative’s momentum, there is little doubt the YMCA will remain the place to go for whole health.
To learn more, visit valleyymca.org and mountainparkhealth.org.
Wesley Community & Health Services has brought mobile healthcare to young adults in the PHX3650 Housing Program more than a dozen times, serving participants aged 18-24 at the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA.
A Day With KIM GRAHAM
AS TOLD TO JULIE COLEMAN CEO of Arizona Educational Foundation
4 A.M. >> IN THE STILL OF THE MORNING
When I wake up, I get a jolt of caffeine with a cup of coffee to wake my brain. I do a lot of grant writing at this time of the day because it’s quiet. My email isn’t exploding, the phone isn’t ringing, and most of my team is asleep. I also take time while my brain can focus on looking at my calendar and thinking about the day and week ahead to make sure I’m prepared.
My dog, Lola, runs our household and thinks the laptop is a competitor for my lap. She doesn’t like it when the laptop is in the way, so she lays across the keyboard while I try to type around her.
7 A.M. >> ARIZONA ROOTS
AEF was founded by Carolyn Warner, who was state superintendent of public instruction at the time. The Arizona Teacher of the Year and the A+ School of Excellence programs were run by the Department of Education, and she felt there was a huge disservice to the dedication of public-school employees, and the only time a public school was in the news was when something bad happened.
Carolyn created a nonprofit that celebrates excellence within public education because she felt this was missing from the narrative. She secured funding to launch AEF from Bill Shover with The Arizona Republic and Eddie Basha. The fact that AEF is grounded in these Arizona champions, along with its 41-year longevity, is rare.
10:30 A.M. >> VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE
My workweek is multifaceted. We never know what each day will bring, but we do know that we’re infusing good into the world by making public schools, educators and administrators feel valued.
AEF has a reach of over half a million students, teachers and administrators as well as programs in more than 2,000 schools statewide each year. Every day is different. There are days centered around our A+ School of Excellence program, and we have 150 to 200 principals statewide on a Zoom call in 75 breakout rooms adjudicating applications, or it may be Arizona Teacher of the Year selection, where we have 16 members of the education, business and higher education community in a room interviewing the teacher candidates. It may be a quiet day when I have a parent who just moved to Arizona call to ask if we can recommend a neighborhood with an outstanding public school.
and a Principals Leadership Academy for new principals or people on a principal track about to take over school leadership. Most leadership programs are for seasoned principals and focus on case studies or theory. AEF is instead focused on the nuts and bolts of what you need to be prepared on your first day of school.
3
P.M. >> RESPONSIVENESS AT HEART
12:15
P.M. >> A GOLD STAR FOR GROWTH
AEF existed for 35 years with one full-time employee. My goal since joining the organization six years ago has been to write grants and increase AEF’s capacity to serve more schools. To do that, we needed to add staff. During this time, we’ve gone from me being the only employee to now having a staff of 10. A few months ago, we moved from a one-person, 341-square-foot office to a 2,700-square-foot office on the BHHS Legacy Foundation campus.
We’ve experienced substantial growth. Now that we have a staff of talented individuals, I can come out of the weeds and focus on our vision and strategy, making sure everything we’re doing is aligned. Rather than being reactive, I’m now able to step back and watch everything we are doing come together. It’s making us better and our work higher quality.
1:30
P.M. >> PRACTICAL FOCUS
We hear about the teacher retention issue, but we don’t hear a lot about the principal retention issue. We’re losing principals as fast as we are teachers. Both groups will say that one of the reasons they leave the profession is due to a lack of support and recognition. This is where AEF does its best work. We have programs that provide teacher training
AEF is the heartbeat of public schools and tries to be responsive. We want schools to feel loved and appreciated, but it’s more than just celebrating their accomplishments. We know not every school has the same resources or serves the same community. Some schools need support to have the same opportunities as others.
An example of our responsiveness to the needs of public schools occurred when we conducted a survey to learn what AI training schools and districts were providing. We were surprised to find out that less than 30 percent of districts were addressing it this year. So we came out of the gate this school year with AI training for teachers and principals and also launched an AI in special education training program for special education teachers on how to use AI to meet each student’s unique, individual learning needs.
6 P.M.
>> ENDING THE DAY WITH JOY
Part of my job is to be an evangelist that public education impacts everyone. We all need to be concerned about what’s happening in public schools and make sure they have the support they need, because they are our future. They are our society.
After I wrap up my workday, my husband and I watch the local and nightly news together and have a nightcap. We also typically watch a cooking show, something that is joyful and requires no thinking.
To learn more, go to azedfoundation.org
NO CHILD MISSES A
MAKE ARIZONA STRONGER while getting a break on state income taxes! Consider donating to one of the Arizona Tax Credit Giving Guide participants on the following pages.
ARIZONA TAX CREDIT
Help her heal.
Every girl deserves safety, hope, and opportunity.
After her mother passed away, Tina felt lost and alone. Her grandmother quickly took her in. Even with her care, Tina’s past trauma kept her closed off to others, and she used substances to cope.
But eventually, all the feelings she tried to bury deep inside would come out in angry outbursts.
One day, things went too far, and she ended up in juvenile detention. So, she was referred to Florence Crittenton to start her healing journey.
When Tina came through our doors, she didn’t want help.
Over and over again, she would say, “I don’t need this, I’m just fine.”
But she was trying to convince only herself.
During her time in our care, she felt safe and opened up. Tina learned healthy communication skills and for the first time, she began to connect with her grandmother. She also resumed her education and completed two credits toward her high school diploma.
Today, Tina is back home with her grandmother and on her way to graduating from high school.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy.
Your donation is eligible for the AZ Foster Care Tax Credit of up to $526 for individuals or $1,051 for couples filing jointly. Your support gives local young women an opportunity to heal and grow from trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse, chronic neglect, homelessness, poverty, teen pregnancy, drug abuse, or mental instability.
Give now at flocrit.org/donate
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Keys to Change provides homelessness solutions throughout Maricopa County. Through prevention, intervention, and increased access to housing, Keys to Change aims to end homelessness for good.
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Fatherhood Program
Championing the father’s voice. The program inspires men to choose life and be involved and responsible parents.
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We
When Officers Say Yes
Bridging the gap between crisis and care
Origin
Angels on Patrol was founded in 2009 by Phoenix Police Lt. Jacqui MacConnell to give on-duty officers a direct resource for supporting at-risk youth and families in crisis. As an officer, Lt. MacConnell experienced first-hand the barriers officers face when trying to help individuals in need. She also recognized officers’ deep commitment to building stronger, safer communities — often using their own money to provide support. Since its inception, Angels on Patrol has touched over 22,000 lives through direct requests from police officers.
ORGANIZATION
Angels on Patrol
LEADERSHIP
Executive director
Melinda Cadena
Executive director Melinda Cadena (center) says Angels on Patrol connects families in crisis to vital resources through partnerships with law enforcement.
Mission
For officers, Angels on Patrol is known as a fast, reliable resource. As one officer put it, “When everyone else either does not answer or tells me no, you always say YES.”
“Being a trusted resource for officers is a role the organization cherishes,” said Melinda Cadena, Angels on Patrol’s executive director. “For the community, we hope to be a beacon of hope and a bridge for building positive relationships between law enforcement and the people they serve.”
Annual Budget
With a $250,000 annual budget, Angels on Patrol is unique in that it never charges police officers or the individuals in crisis who benefit from its assistance. “Our vision is to establish a sustainable, recurring budget that will allow us to expand statewide and serve every law enforcement department in Arizona,” Cadena said.
Most Surprising Thing About the Organization
Angels on Patrol’s crisis response program operates 24/7/365 to support the community’s most vulnerable individuals with incredible speed. For instance, an officer might submit a request in the morning for a domestic violence victim needing to flee the state. By early afternoon, the victim and their children could be on a flight to safety. With a small staff, Angels on Patrol responds to about 350 requests each year.
Program Highlight
Another standout initiative is Angels on Patrol’s support for officer-led community efforts. For instance, the Police Officer Thanksgiving Food Drive began with a single Phoenix Police sergeant feeding five families out of his own pocket. Angels on Patrol partnered with him three years ago, helping grow the program to feed 300 families in the Phoenix/Maryvale area this year — a testament to how small acts of kindness can create lasting community impact. Angels on Patrol participates in 10 major officer-run events each year.
Recent Challenges
At 15 years old, Angels on Patrol is a relatively young nonprofit with limited name recognition. And since it doesn’t serve the community at large, much of its outreach is focused on law enforcement and potential donors rather than widespread public marketing. The organization hopes to raise awareness of its mission and welcomes new supporters.
Future
This year marks Cadena’s 10th anniversary as executive director. Looking ahead, she is eager to fulfill more officer requests and participate in more community events.
“Leading this small but mighty nonprofit continues to be one of the greatest joys of my career,” she said. “It’s allowed me to combine my passion for serving others with my admiration for the work officers do every day.”
To learn more, visit angelsonpatrol.org
Breathtaking Baja
Cabo San Lucas offers oceanfront adventure and restful respite all winter long
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, Baja California Sur is a mosaic of stunning landscapes, rich history and endless adventure. From its buzzy beaches to its turquoise waters, the Mexican hotspot offers a diverse range of experiences waiting to be explored.
Cabo San Lucas — one of the world’s most spectacular tropical getaways — is the jewel in the austere crown of Baja California Sur and a quick two-hour flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Often shortened to Cabo, the sand-kissed town is part of the Baja region known as Los Cabos, which also includes
San Jose del Cabo. Like Phoenix, Cabo experiences sunshine nearly every day. Also, like Phoenix, the region — nicknamed the “Aquarium of the World” by Jacques Cousteau — boasts temperate weather throughout the winter and spring, as well as miles of sandy white beaches, crystal-blue water, and accommodations tailored to every type of traveler.
Pueblo Bonita Resorts, a family of lavish all-inclusive properties along the water, boasts three distinctive spaces in the heart of Cabo located conveniently next door to each other, allowing guests to choose their own adventure each day.
Courtesy Los Cabos Tourism
Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort offers adults-only luxury with access to a private beach, golf course and wellness spa. The resort features over 200 rooms, plus The Towers at Pacifica, an exclusive enclave of 47 suites, some with private plunge pools. Guests at The Towers enjoy 24-hour certified butler service, a VIP lounge, private terraces and sunset views. Dining highlights include Península Restaurant, showcasing fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with traditional Baja techniques, and Pescados, renowned for its excellent sushi and sashimi. For a special occasion, the resort can arrange a private beachfront dinner at sunset, complete with a custom menu, cocktails and even a photographer.
Beyond fine dining, the resort offers sparkling pools, cabanas, beach beds and cooking classes featuring ingredients from its garden. Guests can unwind at Armonia Spa, a 15,000-square-foot wellness retreat. The spa features traditional treatments, Baja-inspired therapies, and a unique “water journey” designed to boost circulation, reduce stress and enhance well-being.
Pacifica caters to couples, while Sunset Beach is designed for families, offering spacious suites, six pools (including a kids’ pool), a large kids club and daily activities. The property also features an Armonia Spa, a rooftop adults-only pool and upscale dining options.
Montecristo Estates provides a different experience with freestanding three-bedroom villas. Each includes a private infinity pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, maid and butler service, and access to the dining and amenities at both Pacifica and Sunset Beach.
The properties offer shuttle service to each other, the Cabo San Lucas Marina and downtown. Guests also enjoy access to the exclusive Quivira Golf Club, a Jack Nicklausdesigned course with ocean views from every hole, and the renowned Quivira Steakhouse at the very tip of the dramatic Baja peninsula.
Photo by Eli Werner
Photos courtesy Pueblo Bonita Resorts
Montecristo Room
Quivira Golf Club
Armonia Spa
Peninsula Restaurant
No matter where they stay, guests visiting during the winter and early spring are always witness to one of the most awe-inspiring seasonal attractions in North America in Cabo’s whale season. Now through late April, humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales and sperm whales are migrating through the area, enjoying the warm water. Cabo’s calm waves also offer whales the perfect place for both breeding and giving birth to their calves. So, yes, this means visitors are likely to see newborn whales breeching along with their mamas this time of year!
formation where the Pacific meets the Gulf of Mexico — an ideal spot for photos.
The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, perfect for snorkeling, SCUBA or SNUBA diving. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or relaxing on a yacht.
For thrill-seekers, outfitters like Cabo Adventures offer ATV and UTV tours, as well as combination excursions that allow visitors to sail through the sky in ziplines and rappel down waterfalls before enjoying drinks with their feet in the sand.
Culinary Evolution at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain
Executive chef Gregory James highlights seasonal ingredients and global flavors
BY SHOSHANA LEON
ORIGINALLY a celebrity-filled tennis club in the 1950s, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain opened as a resort in 2001. Elements restaurant at Sanctuary is known as a place to enjoy incredible views and special occasions and has been home to several prominent Arizona chefs. Executive chef Gregory James, who joined in November 2023, aims to maintain the restaurant’s reputation while infusing it with fresh direction.
“Since day one, I was tasked with maintaining our iconic restaurant and elevating it at the same time,” he said. “I want to respect and honor the past while moving the food in a new direction. We have lots of return guests that have been coming for years, so we want to respect them as well.”
James wants to ensure Elements continues to exceed diners’ expectations. “The menu has a great balance of items,” he said. “When diners visit Elements, they can expect thoughtfully sourced ingredients, iconic views and personalized service.”
Elements’ seasonal menu features globally inspired dishes, including raw bar selections, Hokkaido scallops, Chilean sea bass, Argentinian steaks, Iberico pork loin, and pasta.
Next to Elements is Jade Bar, which highlights Sanctuary’s legendary views with floor-to-ceiling windows and regularly offers live entertainment.
“Many of our guests visit the bar so they can get the full Sanctuary experience prior to or after their dinner at Elements,” James said. “Jade Bar is an extension of Elements with a more casual vibe.”
Menu highlights include crispy rice bites with spicy tuna and miso-ginger dressing, pork belly spring rolls, and signature cocktails showcasing Arizona flavors like the Desert Flower and a jalapeño-spiced margarita.
Another dining option at Sanctuary is Table XII, a private dining room that accommodates up to 14 people with customized menus and kitchen views.
James is thoughtful about Sanctuary’s culinary legacy and its future. “The Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Elements restaurant and Jade Bar have always been known for bold flavors, over-the-top indulgence and world-class service,” he said. “The menu will be evolving as we bring in more local farms and purveyors to bring a piece of Arizona to Sanctuary. We will explore flavors from all over the globe, mostly inspired by my culinary journey.”
To learn more, visit gurneysresorts.com/ scottsdale/dining
Photos courtesy of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa
Game On!
Pickleball-themed restaurants redefine dining and entertainment
WHILE many restaurants and bars offer classic games like darts, ping pong and pool, a new trend is making waves — pickleball-themed venues, blending food, fun and sports.
Chicken N Pickle, which has several locations across the U.S., opened its first Arizona location at Westgate in Glendale in August 2023, offering 11 pickleball courts, three bars, a variety of menu options and several other games.
“Arizona is a natural fit for Chicken N Pickle with its great weather and the popularity of the sport here,” said general manager Jon Stone.
Arizona ranks among the top 10 states for pickleball courts, reflecting the sport’s rapid growth. With 36.5 million players nationwide, pickleball has surged in popularity, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals.
“Pickleball is very accessible and approachable,” said Stone. “It’s easy and quick to learn. People love coming to Chicken N Pickle because it gives them the opportunity to disconnect from electronics and there are lots of fun ways to be interactive throughout the venue.”
In addition to the pickleball courts, the 2.5-acre facility features three bars and an open game yard with activities like ping pong, bocce ball and life-sized Jenga and Battleship.
Menu options include shareable plates like smoked wings, chorizo queso and guacamole, alongside rotisserie chicken with a variety of seasonings, sandwiches, wraps and salads. Guests can enjoy beer, wine, signature cocktails and mocktails, as well as happy hour and weekend specials.
Chicken N Pickle supports the local community through fundraising tournaments and offers different ways to give back to local nonprofits.
“Supporting the local community is a big part of who we are,” Stone said. “We want to help those around us.”
Another venue that combines pickleball, food and fun is Electric Pickle, which opened recently in Tempe.
“People that play pickleball like to have fun. The sport has a social, infectious energy. Electric Pickle offers the ultimate entertainment environment with games, live music, TVs and, of course, great food and beverage,” said Paul Frederick, the founder and coCEO of Electric Pickle.
The menu features global comfort food, including pizza, Mexican street tacos and sushi, along with specialty cocktails.
Architecture plays a big role in the Electric Pickle experience. “Electric Pickle is designed to feel like a resort and provide an escape,” Frederick said.
“It’s nostalgic with bright colors and thoughtful detail throughout, as well as a variety of games that everyone can enjoy.”
For more information, visit chickennpickle.com and electricpickle.com
Chicken N Pickle photos by Tim Fuchs
Nature’s Blend, Beauty’s Friend
Queen Creek Olive Mill’s family venture brings olive oil skincare to the spotlight
BRENDA
REA, her husband Perry, and their children moved from Michigan to Arizona in 1997, seeking sunshine and new opportunities. Eight years later, they opened Queen Creek Olive Mill, a destination known for its fresh olive oils and farm-to-table dining. Over the years, the family’s venture expanded to include an onsite restaurant, a second location at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale, and Olivespa, a line of olive oil-based skincare products.
“I started using olive oil to make skincare products in the early 2000s after reading about it and doing some research,” Rea said. “I tried it on my own skin and liked the results. I use essential oils to offer different scents while keeping it all-natural.”
The first iteration of Olivespa skincare products was created in Rea’s kitchen. She started selling them at the Queen Creek Olive Mill in 2010. By 2013, Olivespa’s demand required a dedicated production room at the mill. “There
weren’t many options for all-natural skincare products at the time,” Rea said. Besides the dietary benefits of olive oil, it is also packed with vitamins and antioxidant properties and works well as a moisturizer.
To complement the bath and body products, Rea added candles, all-purpose cleaning spray, baby products and men’s products to Olivespa. With a focus on sustainability and community, Olivespa donates products to local women’s shelters.
In November 2024, Olivespa’s growth prompted the opening of a larger facility in Phoenix, consolidating production, office space, a warehouse and a retail store. “It’s great to have everything in one location and to have so many people using our products and enjoying the benefits,” Rea said.
Olivespa products are available online, at the Queen Creek Olive Mill, the Scottsdale location and the Phoenix store. Bestsellers include olive oil soap, lip balm and face oils. The products are available in several scents, the most popular being lavender and vanilla.
Rea is currently developing a natural perfume, which she hopes to launch soon. “I’m passionate about Olivespa because it’s rooted in what I believe in,” she said. “It came from a need for all-natural skincare products for myself and my family. I wanted to share it and make it available to others.”
To learn more, go to olivespa.com
Photos courtesy of Olivespa
KEN SNYDER, DDS
Executive dental director of St. Vincent de Paul
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by Alan Cohen
HIS TAKE
“This is a book that keeps on giving 365 days a year. Actually, 366 days — Cohen even includes a passage for Feb. 29. Each day offers a one-page lesson on how we can best deal with the speedbumps and hurdles we all face in our day-to-day living. I find it to be the perfect way to jumpstart my day. It keeps me grounded and enables me to handle the day’s challenges. It also reminds me to be grateful and aware of the day’s many blessings that lie ahead.
Each vignette is a real-life example of how we can use our unique talents and assets to turn our lives into all we want them to be. Cohen concludes each page with a quote or mantra to impress on us that day’s takeaway.
The lessons are timeless, so as each new year approaches, I simply move my bookmark to Jan. 1 and begin again.”
St. Vincent de Paul’s charity dental clinic provides treatment and preventive care to children and adults without insurance and inspires thousands to healthier hygiene every year.
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WISDOM ON THE BENCH
ASU is making meaningful connections easier with the All-Ears Friendship Bench Program, made possible by funding from BHHS Legacy Foundation. What sets the initiative apart? Mentors from ASU’s Mirabella retirement community and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute — aged 55 and up — bring a wealth of wisdom and a listening ear to every interaction. This intergenerational exchange boosts mental well-being and nurtures a stronger community, one conversation at a time.
Mandy Patinkin 2/24
The Tenors 2/14
Michael Feinstein: My Tribute to Tony Bennett 3/3
The Barricade Boys 3/17