Frontdoors Magazine June 2019 Issue

JUNE 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 6

From the In the Magruder family, giving back is a legacy of love SMILES AND BEYOND + CROWNS OF COURAGE + ANGELS ON PATROL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEHIND THE DOOR {the caniglia group}

FEATURED LISTINGS

Steve Caniglia

Shelley Caniglia

1121 W. Stella Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85013

321 E. Flynn Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85012

Prime location within the gated Palo Verde Greens subdivision with unobstructed golf course views!

Stunning, luxurious, Affinity showroom gourmet kitchen that will take your breath away and includes GE Monogram stainless steel appliances, wine refrigerator, 6 burner gas cooktop, granite countertops, farm sink and breakfast room. Beautiful wood flooring throughout all common areas and master bedroom.

High-efficiency LED lighting. One bedroom and bathroom downstairs and two bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs, as well as a spacious open den/ loft looking out to the welcoming living room below.

Huge balcony off master suite looking out to the golf course. 2 gas fireplaces, one in master bedroom and one in family room. 2 car garage and North/South exposure. Don’t miss out on this absolute gem!

Gated community of Villa Tercera. Quiet serene location, across from the community park. Double doors front entry. Open floorplan with vaulted ceilings, 2015 ceramic tile flooring in all common areas. 4 large bedrooms plus a bonus/game room and 2 baths.

French doors leading out to side patio and backyard.

Kitchen has a breakfast bar that opens to the great room. Master bathroom was updated in 2013 and has a walk-in tub with jets and large walk-in shower.

Original part of the house is 2187 sq ft. with an added room of 367 square feet, total 2554 square feet.

Inviting backyard with built-in entertainment center, BBQ, putting green, firepit and fountain. Solar panels are leased on a 15 year plan with 5 years left. Madison Schools. Close to all the new restaurants that North Central Phoenix has to offer!

The Caniglia Group

Shelley Caniglia: 602-292-6862 | Steve Caniglia: 602-301-2402 TheCanigliaGroup.com | UrbanConnectionRealty.com

STORY CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 2

JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 1 JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 1

MARCH 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 3

G RAN D CA N YO N CO N SERVA N CY HE LPS G R A N D CA N YO N N ATIO N A L PA RK C E L EB R ATE ITS CENTEN N IA L

1 0 0 Y ea rs

100 Ye ar s

FPO TITLE AREA ANGELA JOHNSON AND SHERRI BARRY CREATED A FASHION INCUBATOR THAT HELPS LOCAL DESIGNERS THRIVE

Rob and Melani Walton Discuss Philanthropy and Partnerships, From Local to Global

ARTICLE + ARTICLE NAME + ARTICLE NAMEPLACE HEALTHY EATS NAME + GETTING FIT FOR A CAUSE + BILLYʼS

On the Cover Shannon Barthelemy, Sandy Magruder & Kristine Thompson

Photo Credit: Thurlkill Studios Shot on Location: Saks Fifth Avenue Phoenix Makeup & Styling: Saks Fifth Avenue Phoenix

TOVREA CASTLE + CHILDHELP + CENTER DANCE ENSEMBLE

CINDERELLA AFFAIR + EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH CHERYL BURKE + VOYCE THREADS

EDITOR

PUBLISHER

Karen Werner

Andrea Tyler Evans

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER

Tom Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Erin Garcia ART DIRECTOR

Neill Fox GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lesley Kitts CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Judy Pearson Carey Peña Catie Richman

Ashley Ford MARKETING SPECIALIST

Lindsay Morris ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jillian Rivera BEAUTY PARTNER — MAKEUP

The Sparkle Bar BEAUTY PARTNER — FASHION

Saks Fifth Avenue Phoenix

CULINARY WRITER

Lisa Mullavey FASHION WRITER

Tyler Butler THE PAW REPORT

Be in the know

Virginia Nelson

FOLLOW FRONTDOORS MEDIA

PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNER

Thurlkill Studios

GENERAL INFORMATION & PRESS RELEASES

info@frontdoorsmedia.com 3104 E. Camelback Road #967, Phoenix, AZ 85016 480-622-4522 | frontdoorsmedia.com

Frontdoors Magazine is dedicated to the memory of Mike Saucier.

TABLE OF CONTENTS {june 2019, volume 17, issue 6}

EDITOR’S NOTE...................... 07 Heart-to-Heart 10 QUESTIONS WITH.......... 08 Linda Parker Smith BOOKMARKED....................... 12 Podcasts Worth a Listen OFFICE DOORS...................... 14 Tom Kertis of St. Mary’s Food Bank

44

CAREY’S CORNER................ 20 Love Life, Live Life

50

COVER STORY....................... 24 From the Heart NEXT DOORS.......................... 30 Building for a Cause GIVING IN STYLE.................. 34 Father’s Day Gifts That Give Back CHEERS TO THE CHAIR..... 38 Kristine Newman CHARITY SPOTLIGHT........ 40 Crowns of Courage KITCHEN DOORS.................. 44 Bring on the Barbecue A 2ND ACT.................................. 46 Halos and Holsters OPEN DOORS......................... 50 Swinging Into Summer With Trina Turk

24 NONPROFIT AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS FEATURED IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE: ++ American Heart Association

++ Daring Adventures

++ Pearce Family Foundation

++ Angels on Patrol

++ Foundation for Blind Children

++ Phoenix Children’s Hospital

++ Arizona Animal Welfare League

++ Girls Rule Foundation

++ Smiles and Beyond

++ Arizona Humane Society

++ Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation

++ St. Mary’s Food Bank

++ Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation

++ Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation

++ Bill & Joanne Stock Foundation

++ Banner Health Foundation

++ Mesa Arts Center

++ UMOM New Day Centers

++ Crowns of Courage

++ Mother’s Grace

EDITOR’S NOTE {on the job}

HEART-TO-HEART It seems like everyone has a heart disease story — a time when life took a hard pause when they or someone they love was affected by cardiovascular disease. Myself included.

The first happened about a decade ago when my husband, not yet 40, wasn’t feeling like himself.

He couldn’t put his finger on it; he was just tired and his pulse seemed odd. We went to see a doctor, who listened to his heart and ordered us to get to a hospital immediately. He was in atrial fibrillation and needed cardioversion and medication to set things right. Happily, he hasn’t had another episode since.

My father’s story didn’t end as well. We had just returned from a family trip to San Diego when he had an out-of-the-blue heart attack, followed by quadruple bypass, collapsed lungs, pneumonia and a host of other ailments that cascaded down in a quick and unwelcome torrent. After a New Year’s Eve celebrating with friends, he had a stroke and passed away on the first day of 2014.

These episodes were unexpected. Neither had a precursor or warning sign. But both turned my family’s lives and priorities upside-down.

Chatting with this month’s cover family, I was impressed by the way Sandy Magruder, Shannon Barthelemy and Kristine Thompson have rallied their passion, energy and Rolodexes in an effort to change health outcomes as they relate to heart disease. As former chair, committee member and current chair of the Greater Phoenix Heart Ball, respectively, these undeniably positive women talked about the American Heart Association’s

Know Your Numbers campaign, a simple way to monitor and take charge of risk factors to fight America’s number-one killer.

You can’t manage what you don’t measure, which is why knowing your risk is critical to preventing heart disease. And why taking part in the #KnowYourNumbers social media campaign can serve as a powerful nudge.

This issue shares other inspiring stories of people who’ve transformed challenges into ways of giving back. Whether it’s Joanne and Bill Stock, who built a home in Silverleaf to auction off to benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital in thanks for a Boston pediatric hospital saving their son’s life, or Lt. Jacqui MacConnell, who created Angels on Patrol after rescuing three children in one of the most horrific abuse cases she’s seen in her career, we are honored to spotlight people who’ve turned trials into triumphs.

Pain is something we like to avoid, whether it come in the form of sickness, financial challenges, or even the loss of loved ones. But by sharing our stories, perhaps we can help each other overcome whatever test we’re facing, and maybe even empower others to become their best selves.

Karen Werner EDITOR

@kwerner409

10 QUESTIONS WITH

LINDA PARKER SMITH Founder and CEO of Smiles and Beyond 1. Smiles and Beyond was formerly known as Smiles Beyond the Bars.

Why did the organization change its name?

After receiving numerous calls from victims of domestic abuse, I started to think that Smiles Beyond the Bars should expand its services. Plus, many of our formerly incarcerated women had been victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse, so adding this group seemed to be consistent with our original goals. I presented this option to some of our major donors and to our board, and everyone heartily embraced the idea. The board voted to 8  FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

update our name to better reflect our new mission, which is to provide the gift of restored smiles to women and men who have experienced domestic violence or incarceration and are committed to rebuilding their lives.

2. What kind of services does your organization offer?

Smiles provides the gift of healthy, restored smiles to carefully vetted recipients who are committed to turning their lives around. A corps of 70+ dentists and 10 labs provide in-kind dental and lab services to those needing our services most. The in-kind value of these services will run to more than $1 million

annually, with a goal of treating 75 patients in 2019. Having treated more than 300 former felons and now domestic violence victims, not one has returned to prison … an extraordinary 0% recidivism rate!

decay. Research notes that meth is the most discussed illegal drug in dental literature for its extensive effect on the drug user’s dental health.

3. Why is this work so transformative?

If a person has been a victim of domestic violence or has been in prison and out for at least one year and is clean and sober, they can fill out an application to be considered for our program. They must be in a faith-based organization; we do not discriminate which kind. After the application is completed and returned, an interview is conducted, along with a dental exam. References are checked and a decision is made to accept that person. That person is then matched with an appropriate dental team, based on their needs.

As a mom, can you imagine being ashamed or afraid to smile at your child’s birthday party or that all-important job interview? When one is self-conscious about smiling, one’s confidence is seriously compromised. When a person receives a new smile, his or her health improves and selfconfidence soars. Doors open to family, friends, fellow employees — relationships in general — and employment opportunities. Self-sufficiency to care for yourself and your family is something that significantly impacts one’s life for years to come.

4. What is the cost of the dental work a typical recipient receives?

Smiles concentrates on the “worst of worst” dental cases. In other words, we don’t do routine dental work that we refer to as “drill and fill,” but those cases that require replacement of teeth with the use of implants, crowns, bridges, etc. Each of these cases can range in cost from $20,000 to $60,000, depending on the extent of the dental treatment plan. And all of our dental services are donated by our corps of 70+ participating dental teams, as well as a major amount of lab services required.

7. How do you choose which patients will receive care?

8. What inspired you to start this organization?

In 2009, I was ready to make a change in my life after losing a close family member each year for several years. That same year, I attended a meeting of Alongside Ministries, a faith-based organization committed to the rehabilitation of women and men coming out of prison. I met

5. What are the most common dental conditions you see?

Severe periodontal conditions. Missing anterior and posterior teeth due to drug use. No teeth at all. And broken teeth or teeth black in color, again due to the use of drugs.

6. Why is drug use — specifically meth — so bad for teeth?

A common side effect of stimulant drugs, including meth, is xerostomia, which accelerates tooth

Thanks to the dentists and labs that donate their services, more than 300 people have gained new smiles, as well as confidence and hope for a brighter future.

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 9

10 QUESTIONS CONTINUED

a number of former inmates and noted the horrible condition of their teeth caused by prison life, previous drug use and poverty. Since I traveled extensively as a national dental practice management consultant, I was moved to do something. I reached out to a dental colleague, told him my idea and asked if he would take a case. That case led to others and additional dental teams anxious to experience the joy of seeing a deserving recipient get a second chance at life. And now Smiles is where it is today.

9. Can you share a story of a patient whose life was transformed after receiving dental care?

A woman named Vanessa comes to mind. She was a lovely young woman who had been in prison.

A tall, slender, beautiful young woman, she came into the program with black teeth. Her heart had been changed, but she had no confidence. She had the desire to be independent, and we gave

her a beautiful new smile. She got her son back and started her own cleaning service. Today, she has women working for her. She met a wonderful young man, they married and now have another child and are tax-paying citizens. To see someone change from a gang leader (which she was) to a great mother, wife and business owner is a dream come true for her, and to Smiles as well. We are changing the world, one smile at a time.

10. How can readers help your efforts?

Donations of any amount are gratefully received to support the cost of lab services and efficient case management. In addition, personal referrals to dentists are always welcome and needed. We also invite readers to attend our Women for Women fall luncheon on Oct. 2.

To learn more, go to smilesandbeyond.org.

“Buying a home out of state has never been so easy!

Elsa kept in constant communication, and looked out for our best interest from start to finish. To all of our Arizona friends, Elsa is the Realtor you need when you’re buying a home in San Diego!”

— John and Kathleen Graham

Your San Diego Real Estate Expert I’ve been so fortunate to help hundreds of families buy and sell their second homes in San Diego. I believe each home has a story to tell, and I love connecting my clients with their perfect getaway home.

Elsa Benedict 619.279.2536 elsa.benedict@compass.com DRE 01107823

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE PAW REPORT {PetSmart Charities}

NATIONAL PET PREPAREDNESS MONTH

BE THERE, FROM HERE

We may be miles away, but we can still be there for those in need Three thousand miles away from Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico One thousand miles from Hurricane Harvey in Houston Eight Hundred miles from the Camp Fire in Northern California Twenty-five hundred miles away from Hurricane Irma in the Florida Keys

Helping pets in need and those who love them Like you, we don’t let distance keep us from making an impact in communities that need our help. As Phoenicians prepare for the dog days summer, the rest of the country also prepares, only in a much different way. With the official start of National Pet Preparedness Month, millions of Americans plan in anticipation of the pending devastation, not only for themselves but also for their furry family members. At PetSmart Charities, we also prepare — we prepare to deploy funds and resources that help pets in need and those who love them.

Whether it’s helping local shelters with necessary funds to care for displaced pets, deploying truckloads filled with resources to storm-ravaged communities or helping reunite pets with their loving families — it’s the support from local pet-lovers like you that make relief efforts possible no matter where or when pets need our help.

SEND HELP

GIVE TODAY

SPREAD THE WORD

www.petsmartcharities.org/locator

www.petsmartcharities.org/give

www.ready.gov/pet-toolkit

During the month of June, stop by a PetSmart store to donate pet food and supplies to help local animal welfare organizations prepare for an unexpected emergency. Find a store near you for details.

More than 90 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to help pets in need. In 2018 alone, contributions made it possible to assist 44,000 pets in disasterstricken communities.

Use the power of social media to raise awareness about National Pet Preparedness Month with helpful resources from Ready.gov.

BOOKMARKED {what are you reading} Podcasts Worth a Listen

DENA PATTON

Co-founder and CEO of Girls Rule Foundation

R E C O M M E N D S : Good to Be Home; goodtobehomepodcast.com H E R TA K E “I love many podcasts, but Good to Be Home hits home because an incredible couple from Scottsdale hosts it.

It’s a weekly exploration of entrepreneurship, family and marriage with tons of great organizational tips, systems and life hacks. They are relatable, fun and you feel like you are listening to your best friends. Russ is the CEO of

MARC ASHTON

Design Pickle and gives great tips for growing a business, and Mika is a master organizer and lifestyle blogger with incredible expertise. The bonus is that together they also give priceless guidance on life and marriage. You can binge listen all of the past episodes and never get tired of it.”

CEO of the Foundation for Blind Children

R E C O M M E N D S : Invisibilia; npr.org/podcasts/510307/invisibilia H I S TA K E “Invisibilia is an NPR radio show and podcast that describes life that we cannot see or touch: behaviors, thoughts, human nature, etc. In 2015, I listened to a podcast called ‘How to Become Batman,’ which told several stories about how people with visual impairment learn to be blind. They don’t learn how to live with blindness; rather, those around

CATHERINE ANAYA

of Sisterhood of Super Women

teach them to be blind by the way they are treated.

The storytelling was simple, unexpected and true. Even in my world of raising a blind son and devoting my career to the world of vision loss, Invisibilia brought a voice to a story I had in my heart for two decades. Listening to Invisibilia always makes me say, ‘Hmmm. Interesting.’”

Media personality, host of MHGTV and founder

R E C O M M E N D S : The Women’s Eye; thewomenseye.com H E R TA K E “I love this podcast because it celebrates women with passion, grit and determination to change the world.

I’m a contributing host, so I’m able to help curate deep, empowering and inspirational conversations with women who are making a difference every day. Many of the

12 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

women I’ve featured are from right here in the Valley, which is full of passionate and philanthropic women who are all about making our community a better place for everyone. They share insight into their life journeys, their successes and how others can become changemakers.”

BOOKMARKED {what are you reading} Podcasts Worth a Listen

NICOLE PEPPER

Wellness manager at the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation

R E C O M M E N D S : Life Kit; npr.org/lifekit H E R TA K E “As the manager of the business and community-focused wellness initiative Wellness AtoZ, I love being able to share new ideas and tips to improve overall health. NPR’s new podcast Life Kit is one of my more recent favorites that shares small tips from experts in all areas of

ELIZABETH AYERS CLUFF

health and wellness. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone who wants to improve any area of their life.

From financial tips to improving sleep and even debunking myths of weight loss, this podcast breaks it all down to allow you to become the best version of yourself.”

Founder of Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation

R E C O M M E N D S : Episode 93, “The Fear of Failure,” of RISE Podcast with Rachel Hollis; risetogetherpodcast.com

H E R TA K E “Taking an idea you are passionate about and turning it into reality can be tough! Add the fear of failure and you can become frozen. Rachel Hollis talks about why carrying our fear keeps us from progressing and how it’s OK to not be perfect when we are following our passion or goals.

We become more obsessed with the goal and not with the process — we need to love the process to get to our goals.

Don’t waste today thinking ‘some day’ in order to become the person you are to be. Fall in love with the process; it will take away the fear, which will allow us to reach our goals.”

ANDY KRAMER PETERSEN President & CEO of Banner Health Foundation and Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation R E C O M M E N D S : Bedside Stories; available on iTunes, Spotify and Anchor H I S TA K E “This is Banner Health’s own podcast, highlighting some of the most captivating and emotionally compelling personal experiences that take place behind the scenes

in healthcare. These are short and unforgettable stories of inspiring successes, unexpected challenges and incredible moments with patients, medical staff and volunteers.”

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 13

OFFICE DOORS {valley changemakers}

TOM KERTIS

President and CEO of St. Mary’s Food Bank Karen Werner | Editor

St. Mary’s Food Bank — the world’s first food bank — traces its roots to 1967. John van Hengel was working at a soup kitchen when he had the idea of “banking” food. The idea was simple: create a place where people who had excess food could deposit it so people who needed food could withdraw it. He went to St. Mary’s Basilica in downtown Phoenix and asked for help. They provided a $3,000 loan, an old pickup and a defunct bakery on Central Avenue.

The first year, that food bank — which was named to honor St. Mary’s for the seed money, but isn’t affiliated with any religious organization — repaid the loan and gave away 250,000 pounds of food.

14 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

Today, St. Mary’s distributes that much food across Arizona every day.

Leading the organization is Tom Kertis, who became president and CEO in 2016. Formerly an executive at U.S. Foodservice, Kertis began volunteering at and donating to St. Mary’s in 2003. “I was in food distribution — warehousing, transportation — and frankly that’s what St. Mary’s is. We are a food distributor, going from where there’s excess food to where there’s a shortage, so this was right up my alley,” he said. “The opportunity came up to become CEO, I threw my hat in the ring, and here I am.”

St. Mary’s collects donated food from individuals, businesses, grocery stores and produce growers

and distributes it to those in need. About 750 people come to the organization’s Knight Center five days a week to pick up food, but St. Mary’s reach extends far beyond that. The organization distributes food to nearly 680 nonprofits throughout the state, including food pantries, homeless shelters and more.

“For instance, congregate feeders like Andre House get food from St. Mary’s and then are able to produce more meals for people that are homeless,” Kertis said. St. Vincent de Paul, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Hope for Hunger, Agua Fria Food Bank — the list of partner agencies getting food to those in need goes on and on.

Walk through St. Mary’s main warehouse on 31st Avenue and Thomas Road and you’ll find a soaring space with aisles of food organized by type, including canned and boxed foods and dry goods. Fresh produce and dairy items are stored in an enormous cooler, while volunteers pack boxes in an air-conditioned warehouse.

As large and impressive as the operation is, Kertis says it’s just scratching the surface.

“Hunger is a bigger issue than most people know,” he said. “One in seven people in Arizona

struggles with food insecurity, and nearly one in four children is impacted by it.”

Kertis is quick to point out that people don’t come to the food bank every month but instead use it as a stopgap measure. “The majority of people we serve are the working poor. They have a job, but they need assistance,” he said. “We find that many people are one paycheck away from being at the food bank.”

St. Mary’s helps to fill the gap that’s left after families provide what they can for themselves and after assistance from federal programs. “We do 45,000 emergency food boxes a month, which provide about 12 pounds of food. We do 12,000 senior boxes and 12,000 school backpacks a month for children to take home on weekends,” Kertis said.

This year, St. Mary’s will distribute about 95 million pounds of food, analyzing the need by ZIP code to determine hunger “hot spots.” Then St. Mary’s will partner with agencies to help put more food into those ZIP codes or do mobile distributions themselves. “That’s how we ensure we get food to everyone who’s in need,” Kertis said.

The Community Kitchen is a hands-on program that teaches people with barriers to employment to be successful in the food-service industry.

People who may have been incarcerated, homeless, drug-addicted or a victim of domestic violence take a 12-week culinary class, so they can get a job in a restaurant. “We see it as a key way of what we call ‘shortening the line’ — getting people out of the food line and on their own two feet,” Kertis said.

Family hunger is especially troublesome in summer, when kids are out of school and can’t rely on meal programs that are often provided. It’s also a time when, as Kertis said, “People kind of forget about the people that are hungry.”

Volunteers are the backbone of St. Mary’s Food Bank, helping the organization distribute 250,000 meals daily, six days a week.

To compound the problem, St. Mary’s gets the majority of its funding at the end of the year.

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 15

OFFICE DOORS CONTINUED

“Thanksgiving and Christmas are food-centric holidays, and we get a lot of donations then,” Kertis said. “But as we get toward summer those supplies start to diminish.”

So Kertis and his team are looking head-on at the food shortage they see in the near future.

“We have a heart to help people but we want to be efficient. It’s important for us to stretch donor dollars,” he said.

Speaking of, he hopes the community will lend a hand. “People can go to our website and sign up to volunteer, or they can donate food. The charitable tax credit is also very beneficial for us. It’s helped us increase the amount of money we can use to buy food,” he said. “Plus, when you donate to St. Mary’s, you’re donating to about 680 other nonprofits in our state because we spread that food and those funds far and wide.”

When he’s not distributing food, Kertis stays active.

“I love to mountain bike. I like to golf, ski, do a little jet skiing and off-roading,” he said. But, as he walks through St. Mary’s greeting volunteers and staff with hearty hellos, it’s clear that he really enjoys his job.

“It’s the greatest job I’ve ever had,” he said. “You’re not just feeding people, you’re changing their lives. Maybe even saving them.”

To learn more, go to firstfoodbank.org.

Gearing up for the summer months, St. Mary’s is thankful to donors who help keep the busy warehouse well stocked.

16 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

With Gratitude Frontdoors Media and The Sauce Foundation would like to thank these generous sponsors and event partners for a lovely celebration filled with heart!

Event Partners

A SPECIAL THANKS TO Collaborative Event Management Marylynne Christman

Marion Rhoades Photography

For information regarding awards and partnerships for the 2020 Society of Chairs Gala, contact Andrea@FrontdoorsMedia.com

A Standing Ovation

Nancy Hanley

Chevy Humphrey

Mike Fornelli

Rusty Foley

2019 Society of Chairs Honoree

Champion for Children Award

Diversity Hero Award

Key to the Community Award

Congratulations to the 2019 Society of Chairs Honorees!

Event Sponsors PRESENTING SPONSORS

SILVER KEY SPONSOR

Nancy Hanley TABLE HOSTS

AWARD SPONSORS

Lori Larcher Larcher Family Foundation

VIP SPONSORS Dr. & Mrs. P. David Adelson Banner Health Foundation

Laurie & Bud Florkiewicz Priscilla & Michael Nicholas

Phoenix Children’s Hospital Strunk Insurance Group, Inc.

CAREY’S CORNER {carey peña reports}

LOVE LIFE, LIVE LIFE In sickness and in health, local couple renews vows on a mountaintop Carey Peña | Contributing Writer

It was a clear, sunny day on Camelback Mountain. Hikers were out bright and early, anxious for fresh air and a good climb.

When I pulled up, Doug Clough was waiting with his wife, Karen. It was going to be an emotional day.

Doug and Karen have been married for more than two decades. Five years ago, their lives changed forever when Doug was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

Now wheelchair-bound and experiencing the increasingly heartbreaking symptoms of ALS, Clough had one wish: to renew vows with his beloved Karen high on Camelback Mountain, under the tree where he first proposed.

It took months to make this happen, but thanks to the nonprofit Daring Adventures, along with the Central Arizona Mountain Rescue Association and lots of friends in the community, there was a plan in place.

We followed Doug and Karen’s van up a side street near the mountain where Doug Fulton of Fulton Homes was waiting. He’s one of the incredible friends who made this day possible.

Fulton tragically lost his own brother to ALS, and he has a heart for this cause.

20 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

Together we made our way to the staging point, near a luxury home high above. Dozens of volunteers from Daring Adventures were waiting (their nonprofit focuses on improving the lives of people with disabilities and significant life challenges through the power of outdoor recreation). This mission would not be easy, but they were determined and well prepared. The day prior they all gathered for a practice run.

Daring Adventures secured a specialized allterrain wheelchair called the TrailRider, built in Vancouver, and made possible by a grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

For Clough, it was difficult at first to allow himself to be so vulnerable. All of these men and women would be lifting him from one chair to another and then maneuvering him up Camelback. Clough is a former athlete and self-described “tough guy.”

“My feelings were really mixed at the beginning,” Clough said. “I felt embarrassed, selfish, mad that I couldn't do it. Just a lot of negative emotions. After a short while, I could tell everyone really wanted to be there and be a part of this event. Then I started feeling thankful, happy and very humble.”

To watch this day unfold was quite something. I hiked alongside my friend, well-known auctioneer

Left and below: Daring Adventures, the Central Arizona Mountain Rescue Association and many friends came together to help Doug Clough ascend part of Camelback Mountain in order to renew his vows with his wife.

Above: It was a life-affirming day for Letitia Frye, Karen Clough and Carey Peña.

Above: Doug Clough at Joshua Tree, years before his ALS diagnosis. Right: Karen Clough on the day of the climb.

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 21

When Doug Clough was diagnosed with ALS in 2014, he never thought he would hike Camelback again. Thanks to dozens of volunteers, he recently did.

Letitia Frye, who works with the ALS Association and has gotten to know Clough well over the years. We watched with awe as the volunteers worked in coordinated effort to lift and push Doug in the TrailRider over the steep and treacherous rocks. When they arrived at the tree, volunteers backed away and gave Doug and Karen privacy to do the vow renewal and take communion.

“We talked about was how blessed we have been in good times and in challenging times,” Clough said. “I thanked her for her patience and prayers.

God has been refining me and I am better, much better. We talked about how these times of trial have produced some of the better changes.”

FINDING A CURE

in the fight against ALS. “There is currently, to date, no cure. There are three FDA-approved treatments out there that really only barely make an impact on the patient’s overall quality of life,” Sattler said.

One area of focus is improving the ability for ALS patients to breathe. “At the end of the day,” Sattler said, “an ALS patient dies from respiratory arrest because the muscles atrophy and degenerate.”

Researchers are working to find ways to slow the progression of the disease.

“The Ice Bucket Challenge really turned things around in regard to raising awareness of the disease,” Sattler said. “Everybody now knows what ALS is. And it also led to more money.”

As we climbed the mountain, I interviewed various people about why they wanted to be there. One of the women I met was Dr. Rita Sattler, who is an associate professor of neurobiology and neurology at Barrow Neurological Institute. Studying ALS and how to treat (and hopefully cure) it is her life’s work.

The ALS community is very collaborative, so research being done in Phoenix is shared nationwide, and worldwide, Sattler told me.

“We are exponentially gaining more knowledge about this disease, and with that comes more knowledge about how we can treat it.”

Later I went to visit Sattler in her lab at Barrow to learn more about the progress being made

CLIMBING A MOUNTAIN

22 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

Doug Clough is painfully aware that he has already

CAREY'S CORNER CONTINUED

The group of loving friends and volunteers who helped the Cloughs on this journey.

surpassed the range of average ALS survival: two to five years. His is a slower progressing ALS, but his condition is worsening.

He worries most about the toll it’s taking on Karen.

“She has it harder than I do,” Clough said. “She not only sees me get worse day by day, she also sees the dreams and plans for retirement have pretty much been taken away.”

It has also taken a tremendous financial toll. Clough says having ALS costs them between $200,000 to $250,000 per year, and that is without essential caregiving needs. Karen has filled that role.

Still, the couple remains positive and focused on living one day at a time.

“I wake up every day thankful to God that I have the day, and I try to make the most of it,” Clough said.

The day we met at the mountain was one of the best. Dozens of friends and strangers showed up out of love and concern for Clough and his family.

No one was there out of pity. And that, says Clough, is everything.

“I guess I would ask that people treat me as a

regular person, not being sad the moment you hear that I have ALS,” he said. “I wouldn’t want people to fear asking questions about how I am doing and even asking how they can help.”

Lots of passersby asked us what was going on as we ascended and descended the mountain.

Letitita Frye and I continued to share the story with one hiker after another. One woman stopped and said, “It’s nice to see that there is still goodness in this world.”

I walked away that Sunday feeling inspired. While we can’t do anything that will lessen the painful journey Doug and Karen are on, we can come together, as a community, to help them climb a mountain.

To see more, visit inspiredmedia360.com.

Carey Peña CONTRIBUTING WRITER

@CareyPenaTV

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 23

COVER STORY {by karen werner}

From the In the Magruder family, giving back is a legacy of love Growing up, sisters Kristine Thompson and Shannon Barthelemy share vivid memories of volunteering. Their parents, Sandy and Marion “Mac” Magruder, made it a way of life. Pitching in for the Golden Gate Guild, Crisis Pregnancy Centers, the Kiwanis Club, the Phoenix Thunderbirds and other charities formed some of their fondest recollections.

“The girls remember as little girls riding around with me picking up books for the Visiting Nurse Auxiliary book sale,” Sandy said.

“I remember going up to homes and picking up bags of books that people would donate,” Shannon said.

Such warm memories, of collecting donations for the Jerry Lewis Telethon and being ball girls at the Phoenix Open, made them who they are today.

It’s a legacy built over time and through generations. Sandy grew up on a ranch in western Colorado and attended a one-room schoolhouse through the eighth grade. Though proud of her own sturdy upbringing, she points out that it was her mother who rode 10,000 miles to get her education, trekking back and forth to school on a horse, back in the days before women wore pants.

“And a huge warehouse — it seemed huge — and mom saying, ‘This is the section where you can go and find a book to read.’”

Mac’s childhood was equally iconic. His father was war hero Marion Milton Magruder, the first commanding officer of Marine aircraft squadron VMF(N)-533, who led the squadron during the Battle of the Marshall Islands and Battle of Okinawa in World War II.

“I loved shopping for books at that event,” said Kristine.

Sandy graduated from the University of Colorado and married Mac, who became the

“And sorting them into categories,” added Kristine.

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Philanthropy is a family affair for (left to right) Sandy and Mac Magruder, Kristine and Shane Thompson, and Joel and Shannon Barthelemy.

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 25

COVER STORY CONTINUED

Above: Mac and Sandy on their wedding day.

Middle: The biography of Mac’s father, the legendary aviation commander Marion Milton Magruder.

youngest McDonald’s franchisee when he opened his first restaurant at age 23 in Grand Junction, a Western slope town. The couple quickly started looking for a larger market and got an opportunity to move to Phoenix in 1969. Together, they packed up their newborn Kristine and headed for the Grand Canyon State.

“It’s hard to describe how much it’s grown since then,” said Sandy. “The growth has been unbelievable but we’ve been blessed to get to know a lot of the families here. Our kids have grown up with their kids, and my grandchildren have grown up with their grandchildren. It’s been so much fun.”

Over the years, a few values have become synonymous with the family. The first is work.

Both girls worked in the family business from a young age. Kristine started working at McDonald’s when she was 13. A few years later, Shannon joined her, working at the restaurant at St. Joseph’s Hospital. “That was when the uniforms had the polyester darts,” she laughed, but quickly went on to extol the virtues of working for the fast-food giant.

“I think it’s one of the best jobs any kid can have. Aside from the technical stuff and organizational skills, it’s showing up on time, being responsible,” she explained. “And you

26 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

Above: Shannon and Kristine working at McDonald’s in the 80s.

learn how to treat people. Really, I think that was one of the biggest things that I took away.”

The next value that Sandy and Mac modeled was giving to others. “We’ve always believed that you should step up and give back,” Sandy said. “We are Christians and believe that if you’ve been blessed, you need to give back.”

“WE’VE ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT YOU SHOULD STEP UP AND GIVE BACK.” This year is a testament to that ethic as the three women come together to serve the Greater Phoenix Heart Ball. Sandy chaired the event 15 years ago, during its 45th year. And this year, for the event’s diamond jubilee 60th year, Kristine is chairing the gala and spearheading efforts in the Valley to raise money and awareness about the dangers of heart disease and stroke.

Like most families, theirs has been impacted by heart disease. Sandy’s father had a triple bypass when Kristine was 6. “I still remember him taking Kristine for little walks around the neighborhood when he was recovering,” Sandy said. “And my mom had several incidences of TIAs over the

years and passed away of a stroke a couple of years ago.”

Shannon’s family was also affected by heart disease. Her husband Joel’s father had his first heart attack at 42 and passed away from congenital heart failure.

And Kristine’s husband Shane had an experience that caused her family to take stock as well.

Approaching 50 and very fit, he had a physical and everything was fine. Three months later, he went in for knee surgery but the doctor refused because Shane’s blood pressure was off the chart.

“It happened that quickly,” Kristine said. “One of his missions is to tell people to get tested because if he didn’t take the appropriate medicine and had gone another year to his next physical, who knows what would have happened?”

That all of the women’s families have been touched by the disease isn’t a surprise. Heart disease is America’s number-one killer, but much of it is preventable. “One of the things that’s very important to me is to showcase the importance of getting ahead of heart disease and encouraging people to live their best lives,” Kristine said. “Once you are struggling with it, it changes a lot of your options. But if you can prevent 80 percent of it, that would be amazing.”

So Kristine is marshaling her connections and resources to make the 60th Heart Ball a success.

“It’s a lot of work, but a lot of fun,” she said.

“I love nothing more than meeting new people Below: The extended family on a recent vacation.

Disease and Women Heart disease is the NUMBER-ONE KILLER of women.

It causes ONE IN THREE women’s deaths each year — one every minute.

90 PERCENT of women have one or more risk factors for heart disease.

Only 20 PERCENT of US women believe it is their greatest health threat.

64 PERCENT of women who die suddenly from coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms.

43 MILLION women in the US are currently affected.

COVER STORY CONTINUED

Right: Married for 52 years, Sandy and Mac feel extremely fortunate. “We’re so proud of our kids, our grandchildren, and our sons-in-law, who are so generous,” Sandy said.

Your Numbers High cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and excess weight increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. That’s why it’s so important to monitor these factors as a first step in controlling the disease and improving your quality of life.

The next time you visit your healthcare provider, be sure to ask for your critical numbers to be screened and develop a plan, which may include diet, exercise and medication, to manage them.

28 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

and building new relationships, so it’s perfect for me, though it’s a pretty full-time commitment.”

Luckily, Kristine is being guided by tradition. “One of the things that makes this event unique is that the past Heart Ball chairmen stay involved,” Sandy said. “We have a governing council, because there are so many past Heart Ball chairmen.

We have a luncheon every year and it’s so fun to hear people talk about their memories.”

Though the governing council ensures continuity so the event doesn’t change radically from year to year, the group also understands that life has changed and that technology can help spread awareness of heart disease.

“We want to harness social media to bring awareness so that people know they can prevent this disease,” Kristine explained. As part of that, the group has instituted a #KnowYourNumbers selfie challenge, where committee members share pictures of themselves with a ball cap emblazoned with the hashtag, wherever they may be.

“It’s a way that the committee and their friends can be involved with the mission of spreading awareness on a daily basis, instead of going to one meeting here and there, and then to the ball,” Kristine said.

As she looks ahead to the Heart Ball this November, Kristine models her parents’ example as a way to handle expectations and stress. “One of the things they did such a great job teaching Shannon and me is that the pie is big enough for everyone. Just because someone else’s slice becomes bigger doesn’t mean yours becomes smaller,” she said. “That is incorporated into my views on fundraising.

If somebody’s passion is some other event, that’s amazing. I’m thrilled that they’re involved in the community because that still benefits everyone. That’s helped me not to be completely nervous about the amount of money raised, because I really do believe it blesses everyone when we’re all involved.”

As parents of three children respectively, Kristine and Shannon do their best to pass along the values of work and charity to their own children. Kristine’s three daughters have grown up volunteering with their Brownie and Girl Scout troupes, and her older girls have gone on to do charity work with their sororities.

And Kristine proudly shares how her youngest daughter, Tate, planned a fundraiser over the holidays. “I do a big Christmas coffee, and I don’t want people to have to do hostess gifts.

So Tate asked for donations to Maggie’s Place instead, and she had several SUVs full of donations that she and her friends gathered and took down. That was all her idea,” she said.

Shannon’s three sons are also being raised with a heart for philanthropy. “You don’t all of a sudden start giving when you grow up if it hasn’t been a part of your life,” she said.

“So we would take the boys once a month to different homeless shelters. We put together

bags to feed them, and my boys would do the dishes and carry the food for the families.

They would just sit and talk and listen. We wanted to start intentionally, when they were young, because of how we were raised.”

“EVERYTHING ELSE WILL COME AND GO, BUT HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS ARE WHERE YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.” The 60th annual Heart Ball marks a big year for the family, as Kristine serves as chair and Sandy serves as Sweetheart. It’s also an opportunity for all of the family — Sandy, Mac, Kristine, Shane, Shannon, Joel and all of their children — to celebrate the legacy of work, charity and faith that makes them who they are. And though life has changed since Sandy’s mom was riding to school on horseback and Mac’s dad was leading “Black Mac’s Killers” in WWII, many things remain the same. And that’s a message that this Heart Ball chairman would like to share.

“Life is so transitory right now and filled with technology, I think human interaction is at an all-time low,” Kristine said. “Raising kids in this environment, it’s important for me to teach them that there is a bigger picture out there. All these things don’t matter as much as human interaction and the impact you can make. Everything else will come and go, but human relationships are where you can make a difference.”

For more information on the 2019 Phoenix Heart Ball, go to phoenixheartball.ahaevents.org.

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 29

NEXT DOORS {ahead of the curve}

BUILDING FOR A CAUSE ‘Home With a Heart’ to raise funds for Phoenix Children’s Hospital Tom Evans | Contributing Editor

When some people want to raise money for a charity, they throw a fundraising event. Some people do golf tournaments, or 5K runs, or any number of other everyday activities. Some people just write a check and call it a day.

family was touched personally by the impact of a hospital like PCH in Boston when they were young parents.

When Bill and Joanne Stock wanted to raise money for Phoenix Children’s Hospital, they decided to do something different — build a huge luxury home in Silverleaf, then sell it and donate the profits.

“My son had hydrocephalus as a child,” Bill Stock said. “When he was sick, I felt totally helpless for the first time in my life. Hope became a shelter where I lived for a while. The hospital staff in Boston helped build that shelter, especially Dr. Scott, my son’s neurosurgeon.”

This was not necessarily an easy endeavor.

But it was one worth doing for the Stocks, whose

The Stocks started the Bill & Joanne Stock Foundation to guide their charitable impact, and

30 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

had the idea of building a house to raise funds for two PCH-related causes — Barrow Neurological Institute at PCH, and the 1 Darn Cool School, which helps children being treated at the hospital stay current on their academic progress.

But in order to make their vision work, they needed partners — builders, realtors, the people who would help make such a vision a reality. The Stocks could front the money, but they needed assistance to make the whole thing happen.

So Bill Stock reached out to Scottsdale-based homebuilder and realtor Steve Sommer, completely out of the blue.

“We’ve always done things for charity, but we have always wanted to build a home to raise money to help a specific need,” said Sommer, who is the owner of Sommer Custom Homes. “I’ve wanted to do this for 20 years. Then out of the blue, Bill Stock called me up and said, ‘Hi, I have this idea, and you might think I am crazy but this is what I want to do.’

It was the perfect phone call and perfect timing.”

Thus, “Home With a Heart” was born. But Sommer

The home, located at 9849 E. Legacy Lane in Scottsdale, includes five bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms.

knew that in order to maximize the fundraising impact, they’d have to walk the line between creating an exceptional home and keeping costs to a minimum.

Creating the exceptional home was in Sommer’s wheelhouse. And the Home With a Heart is an exceptional home.

“It’s 7,350 square feet of livable space, with the latest and greatest in technology and interior design,” Sommer said. “My daughter has an interior design company and she and her partner did the interior design, and it looks amazing. Fresh, light, bright — it’s everything someone is looking for in a new custom home.”

But how do you maximize the math? You ask a lot of people for a lot of favors. Fortunately, Sommer has been working with many of his contractors for decades, so he had a little sway. And he found the ask was easier than he anticipated.

“They have been fantastic, and very supportive,” he said. “We have been building since 1990 and have a lot of long-term relationships, and

JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 31

Homebuilding partners joined together for this special project that draws on the generosity of our community.

they have stepped up and helped us and the cause and the purpose. They see it’s not just another house, it’s about helping people and maximizing the profit for Phoenix Children’s.

Some of them have their own stories from PCH, so the impact is widespread. “It’s amazing how far-reaching PCH is and how many lives they have impacted. You don’t know that until you start talking with people about it,” Sommer said.

The Stocks and Sommer have a goal of raising at least $500,000 from the net proceeds from selling the home, which has just been completed in the past couple of weeks. The home, located in the tony Arcadia neighborhood of Scottsdale’s Silverleaf, is now on the market for $3,995,000, if you happen to have the means. Sommer is hosting an open house on June 7 from 2 to 4 p.m. to give prospective buyers a glimpse.

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It’s definitely not just another house, especially for Sommer.

“The experience has been amazing,” Sommer said. “It has been rewarding and so amazing — it’s not like I’m just working on it; it’s like I’m giving back every day I’m working on it. It has been a blessing for my family and me to be part of this.”

To learn more about the Home With a Heart, go to home4pch.com.

Tom Evans CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

@TEvans927

CONGRATULATIONS TO NANCY HANLEY For being honored at the Society of Chairs Gala

25 years of Unwavering Community Support...

Thank you for your incredible generosity to create a lasting legacy for Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

The chapel renovation and the ongoing gift for pastoral care will always provide a comforting, peaceful and prayerful chapel where all those who enter can pray, reflect, and meditate, now and in the future.

Your amazing generosity and commitment to helping those in need in our community is unmatched.

PHOENIX CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

2929 E. Camelback Road #122 | Phoenix, AZ 85016 | 602.933.4483 | GivetoPCH.org

GIVING IN STYLE

5 FATHER’S DAY GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK As Father’s Day approaches, many people are looking for gifts that communicate just how important these men are in our lives. To ease the process, we’ve rounded up some gifts that help several worthy causes.

Tyler Butler | Fashion Writer

PEANUT BUTTER AMERICANO PRODUCTS | pbamericano.com PB Americano is on a mission to create the most delicious, nutritious and socially beneficial nut butters on the planet. In fact, through the Fund for the Americas initiative, the company has contributed to economic and community development in 19 countries since 2013. Included in the list of causes positively impacted is none other than Local First Arizona. So grab a jar for your dad (and one for yourself) and know that you’re spreading good around the world. Purchase online or at one of many Arizona farmers markets.

34 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

1

HAND-CRAFTED WOODEN PENS BY JON MILLER FROM ON THE SIDE STUDIOS mesaartscenter.com/thestore On the Side Studios is a small art studio that specializes in fused glass creations, paintings, wood, luthiery and blacksmithing.

These mesmerizing pens are crafted and designed traditionally but with a modern flair.

Available at The Store at Mesa Arts Center, each purchase benefits Mesa Arts Center.

3

2 RESCUE BREW COFFEE, PRODUCED

BY FLAGSTAFF-BASED MATADOR COFFEE | aawl.org/rescuebrew Arizona Animal Welfare League, the state’s oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter, recently announced that its Rescue Brew coffee is now available at all AJ’s Fine Foods in Arizona. Roasted by Matador Coffee in Flagstaff, the coffee is local, ethical and bold — just like AAWL. Proceeds from each bag cover the cost of life-saving vaccines for one homeless animal.

Rescue Brew comes in four roasts: dark, sunrise blend, full city roast, and Swiss mountain mocha. Purchase through AAWL online or at AJ’s.

MEMBERSHIP TO PEARCE FAMILY FOUNDATION ANGEL CLUB pearcefamilyfoundation.com The Pearce Family Foundation supports families by paying bills for those who have a child facing a chronic or life-threatening illness. Their Angel Club is an online monthly giving campaign that allows the foundation to say, “yes” to every family who needs assistance with rent or utilities.

Show other dads in our community that there are angels around us. And bonus: With Father’s Day around the corner, keep in mind that donations at certain levels qualify for a hat.

4 JUNE 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 35

GIVING IN STYLE CONTINUED

5

SPECIAL EDITION STATE FORTY EIGHT T-SHIRT azhumane.org/2018/12/ahs-state-forty-eight Is your dad an animal lover? Here’s some good news.

State Forty Eight has partnered with Arizona Humane Society to raise money and awareness for the sick, injured and abused pets of AHS. To help end animal suffering in Arizona, State Forty Eight is offering $5 from every shirt sale directly to AHS. Shirts can be purchased at statefortyeight.com, at State Forty Eight’s retail locations and at AHS’s onsite retail store at both the Sunnyslope and South Mountain campuses.

Tyler Butler FASHION WRITER

givinginstyle.net

The spectacular.

The one-of-a-kind.

The iconic.

Tyler Butler FASHION WRITER

givinginstyle.net G U R H A N, JA R E D L E HR , R O B ER T P R O C O P, T AB B AH, T E M P L E S T . C L A I R 2 4 4 6 E C A M EL B A C K RO AD | 6 0 2 . 9 5 5 . 8 0 0 0

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5/20/19 7:52 AM

CHEERS TO THE CHAIR {

Society of Chairs }

Frontdoors is proud to recognize those who volunteer their time, treasure and talents to support local organizations in a leadership role.

How long have you been supporting UMOM? Since 2010, when our then-teenage daughter decided to forgo her gifts from Santa to buy presents for the teens living at UMOM. I joined the board in 2013 and now serve as president.

Why do you support the organization?

I truly believe in UMOM’s mission, and that one day there will no longer be a wait-list for shelter for youth and families here in Maricopa County. UMOM believes in their clients and provides the services and support they need to overcome barriers and sustain themselves out of homelessness. UMOM’s staff give of themselves every single day to help those who often just need to be shown that there are alternatives and solutions. I think I’ll always give my time, talent and treasure to this amazing organization.

Describe this year’s event.

Kristine Newman

Board president and co-chair of Buckles & Bangles fundraising event benefiting UMOM New Day Centers umom.org

This year, Buckles & Bangles is going to be better than ever! It’s a fun, Western-themed gala, and this year we’re celebrating the 10th anniversary of the event. It will include recognition of past award recipients as well as acknowledge the support of new individuals and corporations. The evening, which will take place on Oct. 25 at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, will include a new VIP event, live music and amazing silent and live auction items.

Favorite movie: “The Shawshank Redemption” Favorite restaurant: Bourbon & Bones — delicious steak, amazing appetizers and excellent service.

Favorite place to travel: Hawaii Thank you to our other June 2019 Cheers to the Chairs!

Nominee: Amanda White and Caitlin Goebel, Valley Kids Foundation

Talent I wish I had: To sing or play an instrument.

Fun fact about you: My husband Justin and I have a blended family

of six children. We like to say we’re the modern-day Brady Bunch, however we have four boys and two girls. They range in age from 21 to 7 and I describe our family as fulfilling chaos. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

To Nominate Your Event Chair, Co-Chairs, Honorary Chair or Board Chair, Contact publisher@frontdoorsmedia.com.

38 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

Potential for Limewash

5350ExeterBlvd.com

Cionne McCarthy & Susie Wesley 602.619.4550 | CIONNE.MCCARTHY@RUSSLYON.COM | 602.469.0227

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT {giving back}

CROWNS OF COURAGE Hair today, help tomorrow Ashley Ford | Assistant Publisher

THE STORY In 2014, Rachel Semro and her family experienced something far too many families must confront.

Rachel’s 10-year-old daughter, Ashlyn, was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called aplastic anemia and had to undergo a bone marrow transplant. For Ashlyn, the biggest fear in her cancer journey was losing her hair. Fortunately, Rachel and her husband found a company that makes wigs and, before Ashlyn lost her hair, cut it and had it transformed into a wig.

“We thought it could make a difference and help her through her treatment,” Semro said. “She wore it every day for almost a year while she recovered.

It helped increase her self-esteem, made her feel normal, and allowed her to go into public and not have people stare at her.”

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Seeing this emotional boost made Semro question why other children undergoing chemotherapy weren’t also wearing wigs. She quickly learned that many families in a medical crisis don’t have money to spend on wigs.

Medical bills, copays and taking off of work for countless doctors’ appointments are bigger priorities during treatment.

So Semro enlisted her good friend, Jessica Rinehart, and the two formed Crowns of Courage.

“Spending money on a wig just isn’t a priority.

So we knew we needed to start this program to provide halo wigs to any child undergoing chemotherapy, at no cost to the family,” Semro said.

Made from the patient’s own hair or donated locks, the halo wigs that Crowns of Courage provides give kids the courage and confidence they need to continue fighting their battles.

Crowns of Courage recipients often say that halo wigs make a difficult journey a little easier.

THE CAUSE Crowns of Courage is dedicated to giving free halo wigs to children who have lost their hair to chemotherapy. Each wig costs $250 to create and Crowns of Courage proudly passes none of that cost on to a child’s family.

has provided 170 wigs. “We started expanding to children we had seen online. We’d reach out and ask if they wanted a wig,” Rinehart said. “Any time we’d go to a new city, we’d visit the children’s hospital and see if they could utilize our services.”

A halo wig differs from a traditional wig in that the hair is sewn onto a breathable mesh cap so that it’s not hot or itchy to a child’s sensitive scalp. Kids just wear a hat, beanie or scarf and it’s nearly impossible to see that they’re wearing a wig, and even more important, that they are sick.

Semro and Rinehart also set up a very simple process for applying for a wig. The request form on the Crowns of Courage website requires just basic information, including the color of hair the child wants and the measurement of their head circumference. If the child hasn’t yet lost their hair, they are also able to send in their own hair. Crowns of Courage also relies on donated hair that can be used for creating halo wigs since each wig takes about two to three hair donations to make it full and thick.

In its first year, Crowns of Courage was able to provide 12 halo wigs to local Arizona children.

Since then, the nonprofit has expanded to more than 20 different states and, going into year four, 42 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

THE FUTURE Heading into year four of Crowns of Courage’s commitment to helping children, Semro and Rinehart have no plans of stopping. “Our mission and overall goal is to reach as many children as we can in the US until there is a cure for pediatric cancer,” Rinehart said.

The two just traveled to Chicago for a child life specialist national conference where they were able to speak with nurses who work directly with families and children and tell them about using Crowns of Courage as a resource in a child’s recovery. By getting their mission out to so many people who had never heard of them, they’re expecting to help a big influx of children in the coming year.

“A halo wig can help make an unimaginable time for these kids a little bit more bearable. It can make them feel like themselves and help them regain their confidence and strength while they’re going through their treatment,” Rinehart said.

Semro and Rinehart often ask their halo wig recipients how wearing their new wig makes them feel. Their favorite response from a child: “Like I’m not sick and like I don’t have cancer.”

To learn more, visit crownsofcourage.com.

CONNECTING WOMEN WHERE THEY WORK, LIVE OR PLAY Join us where you live, work or play to connect with like-minded women to share information, ideas, contacts and opportunities.

Ashley Ford ASSISTANT PUBLISHER ashley@frontdoorsmedia.com

Learn more at: centralphoenixwomen.org eastvalleywomen.org northvalleywomen.org womenofscottsdale.org

KITCHEN DOORS {bring on the barbecue} Lisa Mullavey | Contributing Writer

JOE’S REAL BBQ Gilbert | joesrealbbq.com Located in Gilbert’s historic district, Joe’s Real BBQ is a family-owned and -operated restaurant with history, character and amazing food. It’s located in a charming restored grocery building dating back to 1929. Off the main dining room sits a large outdoor patio, providing plenty of additional seating for lunch and dinner crowds. Joe’s boasts that they smoke their meats “for hours, using only Arizona pecan wood and no gas, electricity or shortcuts,” and what a difference that makes.

The result is a restaurant that’s always packed with a loyal following of customers. When we went, we started with a meat plate with brisket, pulled pork, a dinner roll and mac and cheese, which I loved because of the crispy breadcrumbs on top. We also got a barbecue sandwich with chopped brisket and a side of pork ribs and added creamed corn for our side. Their chopped brisket is hands-down my favorite with their pulled pork coming in a close second. The ribs are flavorful and cooked just right — the meat was tender and fell off the bone. For those who live outside of Gilbert, Joe’s is worth the drive.

ARIZONA WILDERNESS BREWING COMPANY Phoenix | azwbeer.com If you haven’t had a chance to check out Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company’s downtown location yet, add it to your list of places to visit this summer. Just opened in February, it’s the second location for the award-winning brewery and eatery. In addition to a wide selection of AZ Wilderness brews, there are many other beers available to choose from as well as wine and cocktails on tap. Their menu is filled with tasty small bites and sandwiches perfect for pairing with the ice-cold beverage of your choice. The afternoon I went, I ordered their honey hot pulled pork sandwich. AZ Wilderness starts with a soft bun topped with a hearty helping of slow-braised pulled pork tossed in their honey hot barbecue sauce. Jalapeño slaw adds a nice crunch and powerful kick. The sandwich is served with their delicious hand-cut duck fat fries. Get your taste buds ready, this sandwich is on the spicy side, but oh so good.

THE STOCKYARDS Phoenix | stockyardssteakhouse.com When I think of summer cookouts, my mind immediately conjures up the image of a juicy grilled steak. When it’s just too hot to grill outside, I head to a spot with deep local roots that I’ve been going to since I was a kid: The Stockyards. Known as Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, this Phoenix establishment opened its doors in 1947 and has since been the go-to restaurant for locals, tourists and politicians alike due to its Old West ambiance and traditional steakhouse fare centered around high-quality aged steaks and prime rib. I took my two sons to lunch here to celebrate the end of the school year. While they ordered grilled cheese off the kids’ menu, I went with one of my favorites, their rib-eye cooked medium rare, served with whipped potatoes and vegetables sauteed in butter and garlic. Their steaks are always perfectly cooked, which enhances the meat’s flavor. The Stockyards is open for lunch and dinner and features a happy hour menu in the saloon.

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Little Miss BBQ —— Sunnyslope Phoenix | littlemissbbq.com In 2014, Scott Holmes and his wife Bekke opened what is now known as Arizona’s most popular barbecue spot, Little Miss BBQ. Their Central Texas-style barbecue is so good that each day people wait in line for hours for their favorite menu items, most of which sell out before the day is over. Luckily for the Valley, Little Miss opened their Sunnyslope location at the end of 2019. This restaurant is much larger than the other with a bigger dining room and outdoor patio area. Also different is that this location has a bar that serves beer and cocktails.

Believe it or not, this location sells an average of 4,000 pounds of brisket a week! Not having tried Little Miss, I took the whole family on a Sunday around 11 a.m.,

which was perfect because we walked right in and didn’t have to wait. Planning for leftovers and eager to try a bit of everything, we ordered The Jefe, which came with (get ready) sliced prime beef brisket, chopped brisket, pulled pork, sliced turkey and sausage. We also tried their Sunday specialty, pork belly. For our sides, we chose mac and cheese, cole slaw and ranch-style beans. Everything was delicious, and the staff was super friendly and attentive, but our favorites were their brisket and pulled pork and their ranch-style beans, which were amazing. We had to take their pecan pie home for later, but it was worth the wait when we finally had room to try it.

A 2ND ACT {survivors giving back}

HALOS AND HOLSTERS Kindness flowing in the streets

Judy Pearson | Contributing Writer

Some police officers face a call that leaves them forever changed. For Phoenix police officer Jacqui MacConnell, one of those calls changed hundreds of lives as well. In 2003, she responded to a case involving three children. Two were 5-year-old twin boys who had spent their entire lives in a cage. Their older brother hadn’t fared much better. MacConnell’s heart broke.

“I wanted to help those kids — and so many others we saw facing hardships — any way I could,” MacConnell said. “I wanted to create an avenue for officers to go the extra mile for those they came into contact with during their shifts.

And I wanted to do it without miles of red tape.”

So in 2009, she launched Angels on Patrol with three main goals. First, the organization allows officers to help community members during and after an immediate crisis. Most people they encounter are below the poverty line. If the head of a household is arrested, they’re left even more destitute. Officers can request financial help from Angels on Patrol for the basic necessities in life, hopefully giving families the ability to take the next step to improve their situation. Officers also provide referrals for long-term resources.

Secondly, Angels on Patrol provides a change in the perception of law enforcement. “Officers often 46 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | JUNE 2019

come into contact with people at their lowest of lows,” MacConnell explained. “The last thing they expect is for us to be able to provide them assistance. Their view of us changes, and it becomes a lasting change.”

Finally, the organization helps community youth with enrichment opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. These include a Junior Ambassador program, paying for kids to have music lessons, and programs like the Bully Patrol Squad (which was started by a student through their school resource officer). Angels on Patrol has even supplied food during these activities.

“Our vision is to enhance law enforcement efforts by enhancing quality of life for the community,” MacConnell said. “But we also enhance officers’ lives. The job we do is difficult. Making positive changes in the lives of others gives us a real boost as well.”

In its 10 years, Angels on Patrol has helped 15,000 individuals Valley-wide. The organization has paid for high school graduation gowns, and assisted a high school senior who was living on her own and raising her 14-month-old daughter while working and trying to finish school. Angels on Patrol has fulfilled the dream of a young girl by sending her to a STEM camp. Her brother had been diagnosed

Police officers are changing lives one family at a time through Angels on Patrol, the nonprofit that helps officers go above and beyond their official call of duty.

A 2ND ACT CONTINUED

with cancer, and she wanted to become a doctor.

A Maryvale woman watched her daughter and granddaughter die from gunshots in her front yard.

At first, she had little faith in law enforcement.

But one of the officers — also an Angels on Patrol board member — helped her find resources to work through her shock and grief. That woman now considers the officer one of her kids.

Of course all that wonderful work requires funds, which Angels on Patrol raises through donations and a variety of clever events. Pistols and Pistons was a car show that introduced the organization to an entirely new group on donors. And Field of Dreams is a flag football tournament, with teams of police officers playing one another. Another is being planned for this fall.

For MacConnell and her team, the results of Angels on Patrol’s work almost leaves them speechless.

“Those three boys who inspired me to start this organization were adopted by a wonderful family.

I’ve stayed in contact with them all these years and I’m happy to report the two younger boys are about to turn 20 and graduated from high school last month. Their older brother just earned his second undergraduate degree from NAU and is preparing to go for his master’s.”

MacConnell marvels at all she and her team of angels have accomplished. “Our organization has been blessed from day one. Our dream is to expand our work statewide,” she said.

For those facing the dark side of life, MacConnell and her team are truly angels.

To learn more, go to angelsonpatrol.org.

Judy Pearson CONTRIBUTING WRITER

info@A2ndAct.org

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OPEN DOORS {publisher’s page}

Trina Turk & Frontdoors publisher — & Trina super fan — Andrea Evans

SWINGING INTO SUMMER WITH TRINA TURK Andrea Evans | Publisher

This year, an emerging trend in our nonprofit event scene has been the incredible number of national celebrities and industry leaders that have made a stop in the Valley to shine a light on local causes big and small. The spring fashion event calendar included a visit from one of my favorite designers, Trina Turk, to celebrate the opening of her new boutique at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The store opening benefited Mother’s Grace and thankfully Trina’s visit included time for an interview with yours truly. I did my best not to geek out too much while wearing one of my favorite blouses from her 2017 collection. Here’s what we chatted about.

AE: Summer is coming — and it gets hot in the desert — so we leave town. What should we wear while traveling?

TT: To me, in hot weather, thin cotton is the best thing to wear. And the most comfortable!

Our new collection includes paler colors, softer pastels, including a lilac color we are calling Seychelles Lilac. The main print from this mini collection is on a very lightweight cotton that has a bit of a texture to it.

AE: Can you tell me about the charitable causes you’re most passionate about?

TT: Two of the organizations we have partnered with on different events include Step Up Women’s Network (suwn.org) and P.S. Arts (psarts.org),

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both based in Los Angeles, where I live.

Step Up is a network of businesswomen who help young students from underprivileged communities that need financial help and mentoring to get them to college so they can pursue their dreams.

P.S. Arts is all about arts education and programs to replace the arts programs that have been cut in schools. Being a creative person myself, I know how important it is to have that opportunity to just play and try art.

We also get involved with local organizations with help from our store teams, including museums and animal rescues. In Palm Springs, where we have our flagship store and our largest team, we do a lot with their help.

Summer fashion from the 2019 Trina Turk/Mr. Turk Collection

Photos courtesy of Haute Photography

The new Trina Turk / Mr. Turk boutique at Scottsdale Fashion Square

AE: Any fun summer reads you’d like to recommend to Frontdoors readers?

TT: I just read “Fashion Climbing,” by Bill Cunningham, the famous street photographer for The New York Times. It’s an entertaining read about his early career as a hat designer with lots of photographs of him as a young man, before he started as a reporter and took streetscene photography viral on social media.

Another book I recently read that left a big impression on me was “Educated” by Tara Westover, who was raised in a strict Mormon family that wouldn’t let her go to school. She made the best of a bad situation and ended up going to Cambridge and Harvard. It’s a pretty amazing story and a very interesting book.

it’s time for another note of thanks for an incredible season filled with generosity in the Valley of the Sun. Thank you to everyone who shared their personal, heartfelt stories with us this past year. Thank you to every single staffer and contributor to Frontdoors Media — you guys rock!

And thanks to my friends who stepped up to support my personal efforts to give back to causes that have affected my family this year. I have learned from your examples and will continue to do my best to give it my all.

And with that, I am declaring the 2018–2019 event season a wrap!

Andrea

AE: Thank you, Trina! (Inside voice: Eeek!

That was awesome!)

Andrea Evans PUBLISHER Now, before you all go duck for air-conditioned cover, staycations and trips to cooler climates …

@AndreaTEvans

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