ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO. 3418
Grayhawk
DC Ranch
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
1
Scottsdale
THE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE HEALING & WELLNESS
Add Years to Your Life & Life to Your Years! In as little as 3 months we can help you look & feel 10 years younger, lose weight, reverse chronic conditions, relieve pain, and increase function. SERVICES & PROGRAMS
The approach at the Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness is personalized and combines the best elements of preventative, regenerative, integrative, functional, and anti-aging medicine to help you achieve optimal health.
Fabio Almeida, MD, ABOIM, ABNM, ABOM Triple Board-Certified Physician Founder | Medical Director
Concierge Adult Preventative Care Integrative & Functional Medicine Integrative Cancer Care Nutrition & Culinary Medicine Anti-Aging Medicine Hormone Balance Weight Loss IV Therapy Bio-Energy Therapy Exercise & Fitness Coaching
Cindy Almeida, CNC Master Holistic, Sports & Obesity Nutritional Counselor
Kelly Montana, CPT, TPI Fitness & Performance Expert
Call to Schedule an In-Person or Telemedicine Visit
480-881-5621 2
THE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE HEALING & WELLNESS
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m February 20 22 Civana Resort - Spa - Sanctuary | 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree, AZ 85377 | drfabio.com
The MOHR Group
MORE THAN $300 MILLION SOLD!!
$3,500,000 Fabulous SW Contemporary on the base of Prestigious Boulder Strewn Black Mountain! Approximately 6000 square feet! Four Bedroom, 5.5 baths and Guest House! Call Ryan, 480-204-2619
$795,000 Three Bedrooms, 2.5 baths, in the center of the Eclectic town of Cave Creek! Never Lived In!!!! It’s Fabulous!
Carefree Montacino! $649,900 Coming Soon! Two Master suites in this Bruno model! Walk to the town of Carefree! Gated, gorgeous pool and spa.
DID YOU KNOW THAT IN 2021, UP TO 60% OF HOMES SOLD FOR OVER ASKING PRICE?
Call us at 602-980-7653 to find out how much your home value has risen! *As per the Cromford Report
Kendal, Ryan, Janet and Don SINCE 1985
GO TO MOHRHOMES.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION, DRONE SHOTS AND PHOTOS OR CALL US AT 602-980-7653 FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING. imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
3
“A Meeting of Cultures” by Sue Krzyston, 30” x 15”
SU E
KRZYSTON
A MY
LAY
B RY CE T R EVOR
PETTIT
SWANSON
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
SO U TH WE S T
CONT EMP O R A R Y
MYRON 4
“Promises to Keep” by Bryce Pettit, 68” x 40” x 20”
20 22
W ILD LI FE
WI LD LI FE B R O N Z E
L AN D S C A P E
WHITAKE R
R E A LI S M
A N D
C E R A MI C
A R TI S T A R TI S T
S C U LP TO R
WI LD LI FE S C U LP TO R
A RT IS T
C AREFREE’S THIR D TH U R S D AY A R T N I GH T T H U R S D A Y, F E B R U A R Y 1 7 F R O M 4 T O 7 P M
Sip, Shop and Celebrate with Live Music by NuWrld Jazz Quartet
“Twin Hearts” by Amy Lay, mixed media on canvas, 48” x 36”
“Touched by Dusk” by Trevor Swanson, 48” x 24”
SUE BICKERDYKE 26 years in Carefree
INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES, HOME FURNISHINGS & FINE ART GALLERY 36889 N. Tom Darlington Dr. Suite B1, Carefree | 480-595-0171 | suebickerdyke.com Hours: Mon. thru Sat. 9am - 5pm Allied ASID imagesar izona.c om February 2022
5
What's Inside?
TABLE OF CONTENTS
NATURALLY BEJEWELED THE ART AND JEWELRY OF PAULA CREVOSHAY
6
12
TO BE OR NOT TO BE... THAT IS THE EQUESTRIAN
26
RECIPES FROM THE HEART
38
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
COMMUNITY
18
CLOSE QUARTERS
32
RECIPE
50
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
7
From the Publisher Publisher Shelly Spence
Managing Editor Joseph J. Airdo
Graphic Designer
Meaghan Mitchell
Contributing Writers
Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles Shannon Severson
Photographers Bryan Black Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz
Advertising Sales
Alex Orozco 602-524-4912 alex@imagesaz.com
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com
L
Love is in the air this month throughout our community as people prepare for the Valentine’s Day holiday. Store shelves are filled with flowers, teddy bears and chocolates and restaurants are touting especially romantic menus for guests who are looking to create a magical evening for their significant other. Love can also be found throughout the pages of this month’s issue of Images Arizona, which celebrates not just romantic love but the many facets of it. With the stories in this month’s issue, we aspire to shine a light on the love that permeates and radiates throughout our incredible community in not just February but all year round. There exists such a remarkable exhibition of love for our neighbors, our local businesses, our hometown talent and our native landscape. Our community is comprised of caring, generous and actively involved individuals who are extremely passionate about what they do. We try to capture a small fraction of their unique and uplifting stories in this month’s issue. Even this month’s photo essay — in which photographer Peter Coskun shares with us some of the pictures of Arizona’s slot canyons he has taken — serves the dual purpose of bringing people closer together and showcasing our state’s natural beauty. Of course, this month’s issue of Images Arizona is also jam-packed with date night ideas. From enjoying a delicious dish in an elegant atmosphere to attending an exceptional concert of music designed to tug at your heartstrings, we have got you covered. As always, I encourage you to show your love to the local businesses, nonprofit organizations and artists that are found throughout this month’s issue. Together, they not only make this publication possible but also form the gorgeous tapestry that is our community.
Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc.
Cheers!
Copyright © 2022 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
8
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
SANDERSON LINCOLN
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
9
G R A C E
R E N E E
G A L L E R Y
FEBRUARY
ARTIST
Loren Yagoda CONTEMPORARY ARTIST
Rare opportunity to meet acclaimed contemporary artist, Loren Yagoda. Loren is a painter whose artwork invites viewers into her world as she dances her emotions onto canvas.
[
ARTIST RECEPTION Thursday, February 17 Wine & appetizers 4–7 p.m.
]
Grace Renee Gallery Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. By appointment Sun. and Mon. 480.575.8080 10
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
GraceReneeGallery.com 20 22
CONTEMPORARY
ART
GALLERY
CAREFREE
ARIZONA
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
11
12
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Crevoshay Jewels
Paula Crevoshay’s name is well-known among both jewelers and gemologists, and her work is displayed in impressive collections like the Smithsonian, Carnegie Museum and Gemological Institute of America.
I
It has been said that artists are not created so much as they are born. Inside their DNA is an intrinsic and compulsory need for creative expression. As real as eye color or curly hair, the animus of the artist permeates their thoughts and dreams and insists upon being heard. The artist has no choice but to listen. It is difficult to discern whether Paula Crevoshay’s passion drives her art, or whether art drives her passion. Like the light that shines through the vibrantly beautiful flora and fauna she creates, her art is a force that she cannot ignore. “It’s not about me at all,” she says. “I’m just supposed to do this. I see a stone and it tells me what it should be.” The result is some of the most breathtaking and renowned works of any modern artist, not only for their visual appeal but because every piece tells a story. Crevoshay uses some of the finest stones and precious metals on earth to tell romantic tales of nature, science and mythology. Crevoshay has chased visions and dreams, creating an oeuvre that inspires as much as it astounds. Her name is well-known among both jewelers and gemologists, and her work is displayed in impressive collections like the Smithsonian, Carnegie Museum and Gemological Institute of America. This award-winning judge, educator and designer takes a unique approach. “I am not a jeweler; I am a painter,” she says. “I paint with the light of the earth and I sculpt with her noble metals. “I hope to bring a greater understanding of the beauty of our world and how interdependent it is on everything else.” Unlike traditional jewelers, many of whom come from families who have honed their art for centuries, Crevoshay’s journey has taken a winding road. Her mother was an artist, poet, singer and writer; her father had earned two PhDs in chemical and mechanical engineering, developing multiple patents throughout his life. It was the perfect marriage between art and science, and Paula was the fortunate recipient of both skill sets. As a child, she played beneath a willow tree, watching light shine through its branches as they swayed
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
13
The Northern Parula is a beautiful warbler that breeds in humid forests in the eastern portions of the United States and Canada. This Crevoshay portrait evokes all the charm of seeing one in the wild!
Northern Parula Warbler
TENOR
“ 14
PARROT FAN
I am not a jeweler; I am a painter. I paint with the light of the earth and I sculpt with her noble metals. Paula Crevoshay
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
18K yellow gold fan pendant with Blue Zircon (82) = 4.70 cts., Blue Apatite (88) = 2.23 cts., Red Spinel (90) = 3.07 cts., Tsavorite (40) = 4.17 cts., Black Diamond (1) = 0.01 cts., Yellow Diamond (17) = 0.22 cts., Yellow Sapphire (43) = 0.47 cts.
and danced in the wind. She was fascinated by flowers, bugs and other creatures that crawled across the dirt carpet and up into its boughs. She watched with delight as bees pollinated flowers and as spiders spun their webs. These would later become her muses. Born with a rare genetic gift called tetrachromacy, Crevoshay sees approximately 100 times the number of colors that most people perceive. The world she lives in is vividly colorful, as is the art she creates. “I work with the light of the earth,” she explains. “It’s aesthetic, but it’s also scientific.”
INSPIRED BY LIFE Crevoshay earned her master’s degree in painting and sculpture from University of Wisconsin — Madison, then moved to New York to launch her career at the prestigious Mary Boone Gallery. However, as her later work would prove, she was not driven by aspirations so much as she was driven by inspiration. She fell in love with her late husband George, and together they left all they knew to spend four years at a Buddhist monastery. Crevoshay studied with His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teachers while George worked on his thesis. For 15 years, they worked, lived and loved in Southeast Asia — a time she playfully dubs their “Magical Mystery Tour.” Influenced by Asian ideals of the interwoven and inseparable nature of all beings, Crevoshay began her transition into jewelry design. Today, Crevoshay Jewels are among the most collectible gemstone artwork in the world. Informed by her curiosity imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
15
Because the Lotus has its roots in mud, grows through water and blooms in sunlight it has been adopted as a representation of mental and spiritual purity and enlightenment by diverse cultures ranging from the ancient Egyptians to modern Buddhists. The supreme grace of this beautiful bracelet shows the sensitivity that Crevoshay brings to the expression of another universal human symbol. This jewel is part of the 2013 one-woman exhibition titled Garden of Light at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.
18K yellow gold bracelet with Amethyst (12) = 5.53 cts., Amethyst (8) = 1.29 cts., Tsavorite (1) = 1.36 cts., Tsavorite (4) = 0.92 cts., Tsavorite (229) = 27.02 cts.
THE LOTUS BRACELET
This jewel was part of the exhibition titled The Shape of Matter – Through an Artist’s Eye at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science from October 21st, 2021 through April 20th, 2022.
Experience 16
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
APRIL
18K yellow gold Crevoshay ring with Red Zircon (1) = 27.50 cts., Cognac Diamond (40) = 1.42 cts., Red Garnet (26) = 1.10 cts.
18K yellow gold Crevoshay Giraffe pendant brooch with Cognac Diamond (59) = 3.14 cts., Cognac Diamond (15) = 0.89 cts., Black Diamond (133) = 1.65 cts., Emerald (2) = 0.52 cts., Part of Crevoshay's Endangered Species Treasury.
This jewel was part of the exhibition titled The Shape of Matter - Through an Artist’s Eye at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science from October 21st, 2021 through April 20th, 2022.
SUGAR AND SPICE
FLYING FISH OF MANDALAY 18K yellow gold, Diamond (64) = 1.83 cts., Apatite (174) = 10.57 cts., Black Diamond (58) = 4.71 cts., Pearl (4) = 0.75 cts., Opal (2)=5.85cts. With this fanciful flying fish Crevoshay takes us to visit a beautifully exotic realm in the far reaches of our own imaginations.
Paula Crevoshay March 11 and 12 | Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Grace Renee February 20 22Gallery | 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree | 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com
for the natural world, her use of noble metals and the finest gemstones is unmatched, both for its beauty and its ability to articulate that which must be felt and not spoken. For example, it was Rudyard Kipling’s 1890 poem “Mandalay,” a working-class British soldier’s pining for a beautiful woman he left behind in Burma, that inspired one of Crevoshay’s works: On the road to Mandalay, Where the old Flotilla lay, With our sick beneath the awnings when we went to Mandalay! On the road to Mandalay, Where the flyin'-fishes play, An' the dawn comes up like thunder outer China 'crost the Bay!
I am an artist. Money doesn’t drive me one bit.” In fact, she has turned down multiple opportunities to mass-produce her work, both because of her respect for the process and for her appreciation and adoration of the art itself. From pendants to earrings to rings, and everything in between, Crevoshay is a master painter, though it is jewels that are spread upon her palette. She’s so good at it that she has been dubbed the Queen of Color — one of the most significant compliments she could receive in an industry known for its chromatic brilliance. No one does color like Crevoshay.
From this verse, which inspired by Kipling’s own years in Southeast Asia, Crevoshay created a stunning brooch from beautifully textured gold and inlaid apatite, black and white diamonds, and four gorgeous pearls.
That color will be on vibrant display March 11 and 12 at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree, during an event that offers the rare opportunity to meet Crevoshay and explore her incredible collection.
As light refracts through its fins and body, the depth of the details inspires more than admiration; one can almost feel the loving and longing that Kipling described.
Crevoshay’s work has been featured in exhibitions from Los Angeles to Paris. She has penned four books and has been asked to speak at some of the most esteemed institutions in the world. An apt gemologist, her command of all aspects of her art are truly astounding.
A spectrum of emotions is elicited from Crevoshay’s work. From sea creatures to pollinators to endangered species and more, Crevoshay presents a vision of nature that is calming and enchanting while stirring the feeling of connection that we all share with the natural world.
QUEEN OF COLOR Her “Flying Fish of Mandalay” is just one of hundreds of one-of-akind works of art that has earned her acclaim, and sometimes fame.
Perhaps most impressive of all, however, is her work itself. It is as if each piece has coaxed its way out of her mind, from deep within her where her artist’s heart beats in rhythm with all of nature. She influences culture by beautifully reminding us of who we are — and our interconnected place in a complex but exquisite world. gracereneegallery.com
“I only do one-of-a-kind everything,” she says. “I never duplicate because imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
17
COMMUNITY February 2022
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Through Feb. 13 GREASE
Fountain Hills Theater will present its production of “Grease,” based on the classic film about two lovers who, after a whirlwind summer romance, are unexpectedly reunited. See website for price and times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
Through Feb. 20 GYPSY
Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “Gypsy,” a musical that tells the story of the dreams and efforts of one hungry, powerhouse of a woman to get her two daughters into show business. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org
Through Feb. 28
ANTHROBITES SERIES The Holland Center will welcome cultural anthropologist and artist Jan Downey for a virtual series that will examine the cultural lifeways of humans with whom we share the world. $175. 10 a.m. Mondays. hollandcenter.org
Through April 15 VITA TAX PROGRAM
IRS-certified volunteers will provide basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. Free. Tuesdays and Thursdays. By appointment only. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; mastersofcoin.org
Through May 2
WHAT MAKES ME ME
Scottsdale Arts Learning and Innovation hosts an exhibition that illustrates how making art helps individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities gain confidence in themselves, exercise empowerment in making aesthetic decisions and communicate who they are to you. The artists of What Makes Me Me are members at Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services and The Opportunity Tree. Free. Center Space Gallery at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleartslearning.org
18
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Feb. 3
GOLD PALETTE ARTWALK The Scottsdale Gallery Association will host a special Western Week-themed Gold Palette ArtWalk of participating studios and galleries throughout the Scottsdale Arts District, which resides along Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and north of Indian School on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue. Free. 6:30–9 p.m. See website for locations. scottsdalegalleries.com
Feb. 4
STEVE TYRELL CONCERT Grammy Award-winning vocalist Steve Tyrell will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert of reinvented and repopularized classic standards for a modern audience. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 4–13
BONNIE AND CLYDE Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its teen production of “Bonnie and Clyde,” which tells the story of the iconic criminal couple. See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-4831664; desertstages.org
Feb. 4–13
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER Christian Youth Theater will perform its production of “Peter and the Starcatcher,” a prequel to “Peter Pan” featuring 34 children from around the Valley. $20. See website for times. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th St., Cave Creek. 480-310-0366; cytphoenix.org
Feb. 5
LUCY LOVES DESI Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome L.A. Theatre Works for its unique radio-style production of “Lucy Loves Desi: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom,” which tells the tale of how the pioneering TV sitcom came to be with as much heart and humor as an episode of “I Love Lucy” itself. See website for price. 8 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Feb. 5
PARADA DEL SOL Scottsdale Charros will present the 68th annual Parada del Sol. The historic parade will be followed by the Trail’s End Festival — a big block party featuring live concerts, food and fun for community members of all ages. Free. 10 a.m. Old Town Scottsdale. scottsdaleparade.com
Feb. 6
FEEL THE LOVE Women’s Orchestra of Arizona will perform a concert of romantic music, including a medley of some of the greatest love songs of all time. Free; tickets available on Eventbrite. 3 p.m. Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. womensorchestraarizona.com
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
19
COMMUNITY February 2022
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Feb. 7
LITERATE FOODIE CLUB Literate Foodie Club will host a discussion of Jose Andres’ “Vegetables Unleashed.” The club’s volunteer cooks will serve a sampling of foods related to the book. $10. 12:30 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Feb. 7
A STAR IS BORN: THE CONCERT A trio of the best voices from Broadway and cabaret will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest to celebrate the music from all three film versions of “A Star is Born” while also paying tribute to other classic films about emerging stars. $35+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 8
GET LIT BOOK CLUB Desert Foothills Library will host a happy hour book club featuring Anne Gardiner Perkins’ “Yale Needs Women.” Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. Oregano’s Pizza Bistro, 37645 N. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Feb. 8
THE HISTORY OF JOURNALISM IN AMERICA The Holland Center will welcome Jim Sherbert for a lecture that will examine the history and future of American journalism. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Feb. 12
GOLDEN REEF STAMP MILL DEMONSTRATION Cave Creek Museum will offer demonstrations of Arizona’s only fully operational 10-stamp ore crushing mill. The museum will also showcase its new Arizona gold mining experience, which includes blacksmithing, a mine and gold panning. See website for price. 11 a.m.– 12:45 p.m.. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. 480-488-2764; cavecreekmuseum.org
Feb. 10 and 22
LIBRARY BOOK CLUB Desert Foothills Library will host a virtual book club featuring Sy Montgomery’s “The Soul of an Octopus.” Free. 10 a.m. RSVP. dfla.org
Feb. 10–13
ROMEO AND JULIET Ballet Arizona will present its production of “Romeo and Juliet,” featuring a score masterfully performed by the Phoenix Symphony. See website for price and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. balletaz.org
Feb. 11–13 FAIR GAME
Desert Foothills Theater will present its production of “Fair Game,” an original musical about fake news written by
20
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
local playwright Andrea Markowitz. $25; youth discounts available. See website for times. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-1981; dftheater.org
Feb. 12
LANDSCAPE DESIGN FOR REDUCED MAINTENANCE Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome horticulturist Noelle Johnson for a seminar during which she will highlight how to avoid and fix those areas in a garden that take a lot of work thereby resulting in a beautiful outdoor space with less maintenance. $5+. 9:30 a.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.
Feb. 12–Sept. 4
BEVERLY MCIVER: FULL CIRCLE Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present a multi-gallery survey show that captures the career arc and continued ascent of contemporary artist Beverly McIver. The exhibition will provide viewers with a look at how McIver’s work has evolved since her emerging artist exhibition at the museum nearly 25 years ago. $10; student, senior and veteran discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
Feb. 12 and 13
LOVE FROM SEA TO SEA Arizona Masterworks Chorale will perform a concert filled with romantic and dreamy selections to experience with your loved ones. $15+. Saturday 7:30 p.m. at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 6300 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Sunday 3 p.m. at Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. arizonamasterworks.com
Feb. 13
Learn with us! 2021 2022
Enrollment NOW OPEN
SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT Scottsdale Philharmonic will perform a concert of classical music. $15. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587, scottsdalephilharmonic.com
Feb. 13
TIM CULVER CONCERT Tenor Tim Culver will perform a concert of romantic music. See website for price. 3 p.m. Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E. Cave Creek Road, Carefree. ctlcarefree.org
CAVE CREEK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
is inspiring excellence in young minds. Explore our five A+ elementary schools – each with its own signature curriculum.
Registration online at: www.ccusd93.org/Page/8080
BLACK MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Performing Arts: Music, Dance, Drama Personalized & Project Based Learning Model
DESERT SUN ACADEMY
STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math French
DESERT WILLOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Accredited International Spanish Academy Spanish
HORSESHOE TRAILS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL National Blue Ribbon School On-Site Horsemanship & Equestrian Program Mandarin
llment Now Open 2021 Enro
480.575.2000 www.CCUSD93.org imagesar izona.c om
LONE MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Personalized Learning Model World Language Taught K-6 STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math
February
2022
21
COMMUNITY February 2022
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Feb. 14
MUSIC CITY HIT-MAKERS CONCERT Several Grammy and American Country Music awardwinning songwriters who have composed hit tunes for Nashville’s biggest stars will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest to perform a concert of classic and contemporary country favorites while telling entertaining, personal stories of the music-making and personalities of Nashville’s famed Music Row. $35+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 14
WATER WISDOM The Holland Center will welcome Heather Macre from the Central Arizona Project for a presentation about water conservation. Free. 6:30 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Feb. 17
CAREFREE ART NIGHT Explore fine art in the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain. Courtesy shuttles will be available to transport guests to participating art galleries around Carefree during an event that includes live music, refreshments and, of course, lots of fine art — including your next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com
Feb. 17
GOSPEL CONCERT
Feb. 17
ARTIST RECEPTION WITH LOREN YAGODA Meet contemporary artist Loren Yagoda and discover her incredible collection of expressive works that stimulate and explore, and meditative works that unwind and clear the mind. Yagoda’s artwork invites viewers into her world as she dances her emotions onto canvas. Wine and appetizers will be served. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
The Carolyn Eynon Singers will perform a concert of inspiring gospel music with the Arizona State University Philharmonia and the Arizona State University Gospel Choir. See website for price. 7:30 p.m. Arizona State University Gammage Auditorium, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. carolyneynonsingers.com
Feb. 18
KENNY G Superstar saxophonist Kenny G will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 19–27
SEDONA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Sedona International Film Festival will present its 28th annual event during which 150 films will be screened.
22
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
The lineup will include narrative features, documentary features, foreign films, shorts, animated films, student films and special programs as well as a diverse selection of workshops. See website for prices, schedule and locations. sedonafilmfestival.com
Feb. 20
FESTIVAL SINFONIA Maestro Robert Moody and the Festival Sinfonia will perform an intimate concert as part of Arizona Musicfest. $55+. 2 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 22
DESERT FOOTHILLS LIBRARY HAPPY HOUR Desert Foothills Library will host a family-friendly event with refreshments. Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Feb. 22
SARAH CHANG AND THE FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA Maestro Robert Moody will lead the Festival Orchestra — comprised of players from the nation’s finest orchestras — in a concert featuring acclaimed violin virtuoso Sarah Chang as part of Arizona Musicfest. $25+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 24
INON BARNATAN AND THE FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA Maestro Robert Moody will lead the Festival Orchestra — comprised
of players from the nation’s finest orchestras — in a concert featuring celebrated pianist Inon Barnatan as part of Arizona Musicfest. $25+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Tankless
Water Heaters Starting at:
Feb. 25
$4996*
A SALUTE TO THE WILD WEST Maestro Robert Moody will lead the Festival Orchestra — comprised of players from the nation’s finest orchestras — in a concert honoring the proud Western and indigenous heritage of our state and region as part of Arizona Musicfest. $25+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 25–March 6 LITTLE WOMEN
Fountain Hills Youth Theater will present its production of “Little Women,” which revolves around the lives of four sisters growing up during and after the Civil War. $18; youth discounts available. See website for times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480837-9661; fhtaz.org
Feb. 26 and March 6 THE MANY FACES OF LOVE
Sonoran Desert Chorale will perform a concert that celebrates love of singing, love of God and love of humankind. $18+; student and senior discounts available. Saturday 7:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Sunday 3 p.m. La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-3054538; sonorandesertchorale.org
• • • •
Enjoy Endless Hot Water Adjust Using WiFi Connectivity Increase Savings Little to No Maintenance
Prefer the Older Tech?
No Problem. That’s Easy For Us!
50 GALLON ELECTRIC
SUPPLIED & INSTALLED STARTING AT:
$1195*
50 GALLON NATURAL GAS
$1195*
Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment
**Pricing Expires 2/1/2021 imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
23
COMMUNITY February 2022
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Feb. 27
BEETHOVEN’S 9TH — ODE TO JOY Maestro Robert Moody will lead the Festival Orchestra — comprised of players from the nation’s finest orchestras — in a concert as part of Arizona Musicfest. $25+. 2 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 27
SCOTTSDALE CHORUS CONCERT Scottsdale Chorus will present a concert that blends four-part, barbershop-style harmony with innovative choreography and glittering costumes for a journey from the swing era to modern a cappella. See website for price. 3 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Feb. 27
UNITED WE SWING Salt River Brass will perform a concert of enthusiastic works from Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and the immortal Louis Armstrong. $18+; student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. Mesa Arts Center, One East Main St., Mesa. saltriverbrass.org
Feb. 27
VINTAGE HATS FUNDRAISER
Feb. 26–Oct. 9
BRAD KAHLHAMER: SWAP MEET Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present an exhibition of works by artist Brad Kahlhamer. The exhibition will include a central installation composed of a mobile home trailer studio with a built-out proscenium for performances and several new series of sculptures in addition to paintings and drawings. $10; student, senior and veteran discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
English Rose Tea Room will host a fundraiser — to benefit Desert Foothills Library —featuring tea, cakes and a chance to take home one or more of 50 vintage hats donated by Andrea Markowitz. $35. 3 p.m. RSVP. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St. Suite 103, Carefree. 480488-4812; carefreetea.com
March 4 and 5 M3F
A stellar lineup of musicians will take the stage as part of M3F. All proceeds from the event will benefit local charities such as Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. See website for prices and schedule. Margaret T. Hance Park, 1200 N. First St., Phoenix. m3ffest.com
March 4–20
CHESS: THE MUSICAL Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Chess: The Musical,” written as a metaphor for the
24
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Cold War by the men of the super-group ABBA. See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664; desertstages.org
March 5
ARCHAEOLOGY EXPO The Desert Awareness Committee at Spur Cross Recreational Area and the Foothills Chapter of the Arizona Archaeological Society will host an event featuring hikes to ruins and petroglyphs, seminars about tools that our ancestors used and a wealth of information about desert foods and medicines. Free. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
March 7
SIBLING REVELRY Tony-nominated sisters Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest for a concert of great songs and witty banter. $35+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
March 12
REMARKABLE TREES: A GLOBAL JOURNEY Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome master gardener and faculty emeritus of Mesa Community College Linda Larson for an inspiring and life-affirming story of the importance of nature in our lives. $5+. 9:30 a.m. Carefree Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686.
March 14
OUR DESERT SCRUB The Holland Center will welcome Glenn Fahringer from Earth Care Landscapers for a presentation about what you can do to help keep our desert land beautiful and protected from catastrophic fire. Free. 6:30 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
March 14 and 16 PAUL ANKA
Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka will take the stage as part of Arizona Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
25
To Be or Not to Be... That is the Equestrian In 2014, Chelsea Harden founded The H.E.A.R.T. Center, a nonprofit organization that provides alternative and intentional therapeutic learning opportunities to children with social learning challenges and related disorders.
C
Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Jasmine McAreavy
Chelsea Harden has always viewed horses as a lens to authentically view the world and to see what is directly in front of her. “With so much around us, especially today, that is highlight reels, it is so hard to differentiate what is real and what is not real,” Harden explains. “Being with horses has always grounded me and allowed me to see and work with others from a space that is authentic, is real and is accessible.” That is why in 2014 Harden founded The H.E.A.R.T. Center, a nonprofit organization that provides alternative and intentional therapeutic learning opportunities to children with social learning challenges and related disorders.
26
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Comprised of a micro-school, an equine therapy program and a recreational therapy program, The H.E.A.R.T. Center strives to empower individuals with special needs to build confidence and develop life skills through recreation- and activity-integrated educational programs. Harden acknowledges that Arizona is rich with equine therapy programs — which is of great benefit to the people who call our state home. “We have a variety of programs out here that clients have access to,” Harden says. “Each one targets a different group. We primarily focus on students with special needs — mostly being students on the autism spectrum or with related disorders. The thing that sets
ProSkill Now Offers us apart is that my vision has always been to take what we do with equine therapy and adaptive recreation camps and turn it into a school for kids with special needs.”
LOVE AT FIRST RIDE “I have always been drawn to horses,” Harden says. “I came across a therapeutic riding program when I was growing up as a teenager in California. When I was in high school, that is where I spent most of my time on the weekends. While volunteering, making friends and getting to know the students and staff, I fell in love with it. I knew that it would be a part of my life forever. I just did not know how.” While attending Arizona State University, Harden began learning about recreation therapy. As she grew as a professional, she was introduced through another local program to adaptive recreation camps — therapeutic programs and leisure activities for those with disabilities. “We were seeing such great progress in terms of not only attainment of goals but also the engagement of the students,” Harden says. “Parents were always happy to be able to have their kids in camp because they knew that their kids were really targeting a lot of their therapeutic goals in ways that were fun for them and ways that the students were interested in learning.” Having always recognized the potential of weaving such a program into education, she worked to make her dream a reality when the environment began to shift to private schools and micro-schools. “Here in Arizona, we have a wonderful community for school
choice and for people to take their children’s education into their own hands,” Harden says. “We knew that infusing learning goals into recreation — especially working with horses — was a model that really fit for the students that we serve. So we were able to take our therapeutic riding program and grow it into a micro-school for students with special needs.”
Insulation
The H.E.A.R.T. Center works with parents to build alternative education programs that best suit their child’s individual learning needs, thereby providing a unique high school experience and equine vocational program that, together, prepare them for post-graduation employment and volunteering opportunities. “I have worked really closely with the families that I have serviced for a long time,” Harden says. “I have had some clients that have been with me since they were five or six years old. Now they are in high school and getting ready to graduate and start that transition into adulthood. Being able to work with these families and build a program based on the needs of these students has been such a privilege.”
MAGIC MAKERS The H.E.A.R.T. Center program director Regan Mays says the mico-school is just one of three overarching programs offered by the nonprofit organization. “Within each program, we offer an array of services to choose from and we have specialized staff for each one so families are supported in creating individualized treatment plans that can truly fit their needs,” she explains. “Most of our students participate in
Benefits of a Properly Insulated Home • Extends your A/C system’s Lifespan • Today’s Necessity to Lower Utility Bills all Year Long • Stay Cooler in the Summer and Stay Warmer in the Winter • Limited Lifetime Guarantee on homes fully Reinsulated
Call to Schedule a
Complimentary Estimate
480.478.3384
Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
27
Led by founder and executive director Chelsea Harden (left) and program director Regan Mays (right), The H.E.A.R.T. Center strives to empower individuals with special needs to build confidence and develop life skills through recreation- and activity-integrated educational programs.
two or more programs so we can blend their academic, therapeutic and life-skill goals seamlessly together.”
The H.E.A.R.T. Center’s recreational therapy program is the nonprofit organization’s most diverse program.
The H.E.A.R.T. Center’s micro-school is essentially a blend of homeschooling and traditional school.
“It rotates through activities based on the season and what the students like to do,” Mays explains. “All students work with a certified recreational therapist and participate in activities like yoga, soccer and swimming.”
“It revolves around the horses and has two academic pathways — traditional high school or post-graduation, focusing on essential life and vocational skills needed for employment,” Mays says. “The best part of this program is how our students love coming to school. Their parents cannot share enough how thrilled it makes them to see their kids excited to wake up on a school day.” Meanwhile, The H.E.A.R.T. Center’s equine therapy program involves therapeutic riding, horsemanship and equine-assisted learning. “Students work with certified Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International [instructors] and have the opportunity to participate in local horse shows,” Mays says. “It involves working closely with the horses — which are magical beings. They provide companionship and a safe space for our students to feel free and be understood.”
28
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
The skills, self-confidence and empowerment people gain while participating in sports and recreation activities transfer into their daily lives and help them to become healthier, happier and more productive students and individuals. The program introduces people with disabilities to new ways of being healthy and active. Having seen first-hand how all three programs benefit students and their families, Mays — who has a brother who is disabled — firmly believes that her role at The H.E.A.R.T. Center is her heart’s passion and her soul’s purpose. “Everyone walks away from a riding lesson with a smile on their face and a bounce in their step,” says Mays, noting that she has enjoyed working with children and horses since she was just a child herself. “I started volunteering in high school with an equine therapy
program and gradually turned it into a career. The truth is that the horses are the magic makers. I just create the safe space for it to happen.”
A MOVING TRANSITION Harden says that although The H.E.A.R.T. Center is located in North Phoenix, it serves students throughout the Valley — from Anthem and Deer Valley to Carefree and Scottsdale. “We even have students that travel as far as from the East Valley to be part of our services because what we do is so niche and specialized,” she explains. There is no doubt that the services that The H.E.A.R.T. Center offers are of great value to Valley families. Therefore, Harden is committed to being able to continue to serve them. “We have been at this location in North Phoenix for seven years now and it has been wonderful for us,” she says. “However, our program has outgrown the space. The property is also being sold. It was too large for us to purchase so we found another space within 10 minutes of our current location that is a perfect fit and the perfect size for everything that we need to and want to be running with our students.” Harden is grateful that the situation has worked out as well as it has and feels blessed that The H.E.A.R.T. Center has such a wonderful community of families rallying around it to facilitate the transition — which, by the way, has to happen quickly. “We closed on the new property at the end of January and are going to be moving there at the end of February,” Harden says. “So it really is all hands on deck throughout
February for anybody who can help us build the new space.” Among the many renovation projects at the new site is an old house that needs new flooring, new paint and a couple of cosmetic shifts to make it more accessible for The H.E.A.R.T. Center’s students. “We also have quite a bit of landscaping needs in terms of leveling some spaces to create parking lots and more flat walkways,” Harden adds. “And we need to build the horse accommodations from the ground up. The barn that is there is not going to quite serve our needs. We are building a new arena, we are building turnouts, we are building all of the things that our students will need to be successful within the equine program.” Fortunately, the nonprofit organization is no stranger to renovating spaces as its current schoolhouse was at one time just a simple dirt stall. “This is just taking that on at a bigger level,” Harden says. Nonetheless, The H.E.A.R.T. Center founder and executive director acknowledges that she and her staff have got a very busy February ahead of them and a lot on their plate. Therefore, they are grateful for any and all help that they can get. “We will have volunteer workdays on the weekends,” says Harden, noting that community members — especially those with renovation experience or resources — can contact the nonprofit organization to offer their help and support with projects. “Any sort of financial assistance and support is also greatly appreciated.”
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
29
Being with horses has always grounded me and allowed me to see and work with others from a space that is authentic, is real and is accessible. Chelsea Harden Echoing the age-old adage that it takes a village to raise a child, Harden says that it will take every bit of the community’s support to ensure The H.E.A.R.T. Center is able to build up its new property to be its very best version for students. “But in terms of making it over there, making it happen and providing a safe and easy transition for our students and our horses, we are getting set up for success so that it works out well — even though it is on a short timeframe,” she adds.
PEACE, CALM AND UNDERSTANDING Harden is grateful that she has found a way to not only continue to use horses as that lens with which she can
30
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
authentically view the world and see what is directly in front of her but also bring students into that space — which she believes fosters an environment of peace and calm where learning is safe. “Being able to create that space and to share that with others is my favorite part about working with students,” Harden says. “It allows me to be a better version of myself, it allows me to be a better parent and it allows me to teach others to understand students with special needs in a way that people maybe do not think about all the time.” theheart-center.com Instagram: @theheart.center
STEP INTO THE CAREFREE ART GALLERIES Collect your next masterpiece in Carefree! THIRD THURSDAY ARTWALK FEBRUARY 17 FROM 4-7PM
GALLERY MICHÉLE 100 Easy Steet Suite 1 480-313-8447
MONIZE FINE ART STUDIO AND GALLERY 42 Easy Street 602-647-8421
SUE BICKERDYKE INTERIORS & ART GALLERY 36889 N. Tom Darlington Drive
WILD HOLLY GALLERY
22 Easy Street, Suite 235 480-595-8757
STEVE STENTO GALLERY 42 Easy Street 623-330-7647
CIOLIM GALLERY
30 Easy Street 480-575-7857
M & E STOYANOV FINE ART GALLERY
7275 Easy Street 480-488-7947
THUNDERBIRD ARTISTS GALLERY
99 Easy Street, Suite 235
GRACE RENEE GALLERY
37555 N. Hum Rd. Suite 101
ADELANTE
7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. Suite 7 480-575-8080
RC GORMAN NAVAJO GALLERY AT STUDIOWEST
7212 Ho Hum Rd. Suite 14 480-488-1285
31
2022
February
imagesar izona.c om
32
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Peter Coskun
W
Whether it is winter chill or love that is in the air, you are likely cuddled up a bit closer to someone special this month. Being physically close to those we love is an exceptionally important part of the human experience. It keeps us warm, helps us to feel valued, signals safety and trust, calms cardiovascular stress and increases compassionate response. In fact, a single, simple touch from another person can trigger the release of oxytocin — commonly referred to as the love hormone. We often look for places that facilitate that physical propinquity. Intimate restaurants, movie theaters and even our own living room sofas all offer the closeness for which we long. There is a natural phenomenon in Arizona that not only provides proximity but also spectacular beauty. It is impossible to navigate our state’s slot canyons — which are aesthetically gorgeous — without having to huddle up with whoever accompanies you. Even if you visit them alone, you are surrounded by a sense of intimacy. All of those aforementioned benefits of being physically close with those we love wash over us as a simple result of being hugged by the incredibly abstract canyon walls. It is just one of the many reasons that photographer Peter Coskun loves Arizona’s slot canyons. “You are essentially going within some of the earth's veins that have been molded for millions of years by chaotic events to create some of the most beautiful spaces,” Coskun says. “Various contours within the canyon can feel human at times. In the tighter, confined spaces, you really begin to feel that intimacy within the canyon.”
Hypnotized
Coskun skillfully captures on camera what it feels like to be deep in the heart of Arizona’s slot canyons, showcasing not only one of our state’s most beautifully abstract elements but also the incomparable intimacy that they naturally supply. May these images invigorate your imagination and make you feel more connected to the love that Mother Nature used to create the world around us.
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
33
“
I think by nature these very canyons are abstract as you can look up, down, side to side and still see something magical. When I look at my own slot canyon images, I see patterns, shapes, textures and light and how they all play together like an orchestra to create one masterpiece of sandstone. Peter Coskun
Fire Wave
Brimstone
34
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
Escape 20 22
Dance of the Light imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
35
About the Photographer Prior to moving from Philidelphia to Phoenix at age 13, Peter Coskun assumed that Arizona was pretty much a flat, sandy, cactus-filled landscape. “It quickly became apparent that this was not true,” he says. “In my junior year of high school, I took a photography class that had still used film. I learned how to develop my own photographs as well as the very basics of how to make a photograph — or so I thought.” A few years later, Coskun purchased his own digital camera. Although he would take photos of just about everything, he was especially drawn to photographing nature and the landscapes that surrounded him. “I began searching the web and reading photography books and finding photographers and artists who could inspire me,” he says. “The desire to travel and be outside with the camera became stronger and stronger. Eventually, I began going on a few short trips with friends to explore new places and it started to become a regular occurrence to be outside looking for something to photograph.” During his first solo trip to the Eastern Sierra area of California in 2012, he discovered that photography was what he wanted to do in life and began embracing the journey on which it was taking him. Coskun refers to each and every one of his photographs as a labor of love and passion into which he put his blood, sweat and tears. They represent experiences and moments in nature that he wishes to share with the world. He takes pride in the fact that many of his compositions are new or unique takes on either often photographed locations or new locations altogether. “My camera has taken me to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the western United States, and I expect it will take me to every corner of the world to further my exploration,” Coskun says. “I am eager and excited to see where this journey in life will take me.” pjcphotography.com Instagram: @petercoskunnaturephotography
36
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
Falcon 20 22
“
Your senses become heightened a bit as your eyes adjust to the darkness to reveal the rich colors of the sandstone and each sound is amplified by the rich acoustics within the canyon. The canyons are also significantly cooler as sometimes sunlight doesn't even reach the bottom of the canyon which can be felt against the sandstone walls. Peter Coskun
The Opera Singer
imagesar izona.c om
February
Lava Cake 2022
37
Writer Shannon Severson
i mages a rGoodman i zo n a .c o m February Photography by Ken 38
20 22
T
Tucking into a warm, steamy bowl of pasta is an exercise in comfort for many. James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Scott Conant took that feeling and first made it a career with his incredible culinary skills and now delivers recipes, stories and inspiration in his newest cookbook — “Peace, Love, and Pasta: Simple and Elegant Recipes from a Chef’s Home Kitchen.” While Conant is not new to the cookbook scene, “Peace, Love, and Pasta” is more personal. It is filled with stories from his Connecticut childhood, summers with his grandfather in Maine, his first job in a seafood restaurant kitchen, his work and travels throughout Europe, his success in the Big Apple and now the memories that he’s making with the two daughters he and his wife, Mel, are raising here in Arizona. “My first three cookbooks focused on restaurant-quality recipes and what I usually cook in a professional kitchen,” says Conant, who operates three restaurants in the United States — Mora Italian in Phoenix, The Americano in North Scottsdale and Cellaio Steak in New York. “Over the years, people often asked what I make at home; so this was the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the foods that I love cooking for my family. These dishes are staples at our house and have shaped the palates of my young daughters.” Alongside the vibrant photography, the recipes are accompanied by personal anecdotes and tips. For instance, in Conant’s most famous and most requested dish — pasta pomodoro — sauce is finished with a touch of butter for depth of flavor. It’s a restaurant hack that any home cook can incorporate to make a pasta dish memorably delicious. He also gives variations and multiple uses for recipes, encouraging readers to experiment and make substitutions where necessary. “The key to good cooking is the ability to adjust,” he says. “There is no such thing as everything just working out perfectly, whether it be at home or in a commercial kitchen at the restaurants. My advice is to identify the ingredients that you want then adapt to the ingredients that are readily available to you.” A big batch of tomato sauce, for example, can be kept in the freezer and pulled out as needed for repurposing in different recipes. Conant keeps short ribs, lamb, pork ribs and oxtail on hand for braising.
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
39
With much of the world’s hustle and bustle being put on hold in 2020, Scott Conant relished cooking at home more often with his daughters, Ayla and Karya.
“ 40
Over the years, people often asked what I make at home; so this was the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the foods that I love cooking for my family. These dishes are staples at our house and have shaped the palates of my young daughters. Scott Conant
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
“There is always an opportunity to adapt and apply the technique, which is the most important aspect,” he says. “You don’t necessarily have to follow a recipe exactly and that’s one of the things I wanted to get across with this book.”
NOSTALGIC MEALS AND COMFORT FOODS The ability to improvise is definitely one of the most important tools in an arsenal of culinary skill. Conant learned that principle early on. He describes his mother’s own resourcefulness when asked which recipe can take him right back to his childhood home with just one bite. “My mother’s Sunday tomato sauce with meatballs brings all the nostalgia,” he reveals. “She would sometimes add lamb shank, beef short ribs or even chicken feet to the sauce. You never knew what was going to be in there depending on what she picked up at the market. “But one thing was constant — she would put it on the stove every Saturday and let it cook overnight into Sunday. That sauce became a part of my childhood. I can still remember walking by that pot, grabbing a piece of bread and dunking it inside the sauce as it cooked with all that meat. This dish always brings me back to those happy moments of connectivity and memories of growing up.” With much of the world’s hustle and bustle being put on hold in 2020, Conant relished cooking at home more often with his daughters, Ayla and Karya. For him, Arizona has been a grounding experience compared to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban Manhattan.
With more time at home, it is only natural to wonder which recipe Conant cooks most often when he’s in charge of putting dinner on the table. The chef and cookbook author says that honor belongs to his chicken cutlets with burrata and melted baby tomato sauce.
Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment
It’s time for your
Heating
System
Safety Inspection!
“It’s just so craveable and simple to make,” he adds. “Every culture seems to have a version of this and I think it’s comfort food at its best. I’ve never met a chicken cutlet that I don’t love.”
ROMANTIC DISHES AND TURKISH DELIGHTS “Peace, Love, and Pasta” has plenty of recipes that are perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two. Among them, Conant recommends sigara börek — a Turkish dough stuffed with feta cheese and fresh herbs then fried until crispy — as something to snack on while cooking the rest of the meal. “For the main course, make the short rib risotto with caramelized onions,” he says. “It delivers the promise of soulfulness yet is refined with robust flavors. You can also opt for some vegetarian or lighter dishes from the cookbook, but I think these two are no-brainers for a special occasion.” The Turkish appetizer is part of an unexpected twist in “Peace, Love, and Pasta” that was inspired by his wife’s heritage — a chapter devoted exclusively to Turkish cooking. In it, Conant details his travels to Mel’s hometown of Bodrum and recounts, with both humor and a spirit of eager discovery, his favorite dishes and the people who introduced him to them.
Includes: • • • • • • •
Cleaning of Combustion Section Testing of all Furnace Safety Controls Furnace Control Board Operation Inspection of Gas Valve & combustion cycle Inspection of Blower motor operation Inspection of Draft Inducer operation Inspection of combustion gas venting
Call or Text
480.478.3384 to Schedule your Appointment!
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
41
James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Scott Conant delivers recipes, stories and inspiration in his newest cookbook — “Peace, Love, and Pasta: Simple and Elegant Recipes from a Chef’s Home Kitchen.”
20 22
February
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
42
“I have to say the manti recipe is just spectacular,” he says. “When we were shooting the photography for the book, that was the big winner of all the things that we had tested and tried over the course of a week. Everyone was most impressed with that Turkish ravioli served with yogurt, mint and a little spiced butter. It’s truly special.” Conant acknowledges that even he still has more to learn — a sentiment with which his mother-in-law might agree. “As we were testing some of the Turkish breads, my mother-in-law hovered over our shoulders, making sure we were doing everything right” he recalls. “And at a certain point, she just kind of moved us out of the way and took over like, ‘This is how you do it.’ It was a great learning lesson. I love those moments because there’s no better way to learn than from someone who’s been doing this for decades.”
QUICK CUISINE AND ENJOYABLE EATS Of course, with 35 years of restaurant experience under his belt, Conant has certainly mastered more dishes than could possibly fit into a single volume. But even celebrated chefs have busy nights when hungry tummies are growling and whipping something up quick is crucial. A vegetarian main that he makes when time is of the essence is rosemary lentils. They’re described as satisfying and healthy, whether at the center of the plate or alongside meat and seafood. While these green lentils stewed with olive oil, tomatoes and
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
43
44
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
caramelized shallots may be simple, they’re so well-loved that they have found their way onto the menu of nearly every one of his restaurants. “Another go-to is breakfast for dinner, right?” he posits. “Eggs in purgatory can be made on the fly with pantry staples and you could utilize the same tomato sauce from the pasta pomodoro recipe. [There is] nothing wrong with adding some crispy, warm, crunchy garlic bread. It’s good eating!” In the dream scenario of having all day to cook with no limits on time or ingredients, Conant would make things that his daughters enjoy most — such as truffle tajarin. “The tajarin pasta is made from scratch with a white truffle shaved over the top,” he says. “It’s delicious and makes [Ayla] super happy. I would also make the scialatielli pasta with stewed octopus. It’s one of my absolute favorites. Since I’ve written this book, Karya’s palate has developed a bit more, which makes me overjoyed. She loves the roasted pork shoulder, so I’d make that, too.” Perhaps amateur chefs can credit Conant’s move to the Grand Canyon state for giving him the breathing room to compile this collection of fresh, flavorful Italian — and Turkish — recipes from the heart. “Living here has allowed me to be more present and, most importantly, spend more time with my family,” he says. “I cherish the moments watching my daughters grow up and it’s all going by too fast.” scottconant.com Instagram: @conantnyc imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
45
Catching Stars Eighteen-year-old Jacob Currie is one of the stars on- and off-stage at Christian Youth Theater. He was nominated for an AriZoni Award for his portrayal of Tarzan in the production of the same name last spring.
A
Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Larissa Johnson
A theatrical production is much like a tapestry. From their seats, the audience sees a beautifully cohesive creation that stirs and delights the soul. But upon closer inspection, the threads of many hues and textures woven together are revealed. Scottsdale’s award-winning Christian Youth Theater is an educational nonprofit performing arts organization that welcomes children from all backgrounds and has been training and guiding the talents of young actors and singers for 15 years. There’s so much more to the program beyond the spotlight. “Our mission is to provide very family-friendly material for the kids to be doing as well as for our audience to enjoy,” explains Stephanie Carpenter, CYT’s artistic
46
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
director. “My own kids have grown up in the program and the families involved trust us to provide the type of environment where all kids feel welcomed.” CYT’s production of “Peter and the Starcatcher” will run Feb. 4–13 at Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center with 34 cast members ranging in age from 8 to 18. It’s a rollickingly silly prequel to “Peter Pan” and will be performed in the round — which is both a challenge and delight for director Elise Palma. “It’s such a magical experience to have the audience so close and to have the kids learn to stay in character when the audience is just three feet away from them,” says Palma, who has a master’s degree in acting. “They’ve had
the opportunity to focus on acting and comedic timing. It’s definitely a challenge because it’s a whole different directional style and skill set of acting for the kids. And it’s a company show, so there aren’t really leads or ensembles. The point is storytelling and glorifying God with the gifts he gave us. It’s a really minimalistic set so even the set pieces are the kids’ bodies. They’re learning a lot of things they haven’t had to do in other musical theater shows.” The theater offers classes for children as young as 4 years old and registration is open now for the next season, which will begin Feb. 21. They are taught by an array of talented instructors with backgrounds in dance, voice and acting. CYT also relies on the talents of parents — some of whom have extensive experience in lighting design, costuming and sets. “There’s so much that goes on behind the scenes that you don’t see from the audience,” Carpenter says. “We have been blessed with some amazingly talented parents who have come in to help. One of our set designers was nominated for an AriZoni Award and another has a degree in lighting design; they are incredibly talented.” To develop leadership and organizational skills as well as give young actors an active voice in the program, CYT has established H.Y.P.E. — an acronym for High School Youth Pursuing Excellence. The group meets for Bible study, plans social events that give the
imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
47
Elise Palma, director of Christian Youth Theater’s production of “Peter and the Starcatcher”
Christian Youth Theater artistic director Stephanie Carpenter
“
Ours is a very layered community that is looking for how to build everybody up. Stephanie Carpenter
theater community a chance to bond, hosts a fall festival and a Christmas celebration and provides mentoring sessions for younger or new participants. “Ours is a very layered community that is looking for how to build everybody up,” Carpenter says. “The fun is the reason they attend, but we do so much more as a community. The older kids spend time with the younger cast members. It’s a very nurturing, mentoring type of environment.” Eighteen-year-old Jacob Currie is one of the stars onand off-stage at CYT. He joined the program at age 12. “Peter and the Starcatcher,” in which he plays Black Stache — Captain Hook before he had the hook — is his 14th show in the CYT limelight. It’s actually Currie’s second time playing a version of the character. He won an AriZoni Award for his role as Captain Hook in CYT’s 2020 production of “Peter Pan.”
Experience 48
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
“There are characteristics I’ve taken from my former portrayal but there are new aspects, as well,” Currie explains. “It’s a cool challenge for an actor to play the same character but in a different way. He’s always comedic, but this is a very fun, over-the-top dramatic portrayal, which is so fun for me to do. “And performing it in the round is a whole other fun experience. It’s a very audience-facing show and it’s kind of freeing to be able to walk the stage where you feel like you’re involving the audience. They're at level or a little above you. You’re right there with them. There’s no separation. There’s nothing more energizing than a reacting audience.” Engaging audiences and his fellow actors, Currie is also the president of H.Y.P.E. and teaches acting and dance to children ages 4–7. The experience has been life-changing for him.
Peter and the Starcatcher Feb. 4–13 | See website for times | Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center | 33606 N. 60th St., Cave Creek February 20 22 $20 | 480-310-0366 | cytphoenix.org
“I’ve always had a hard time fitting in,” Currie says. “Being interested in theater but not in sports, it was difficult to make friends and I experienced a lot of bullying in school. I was getting to a dark place and it wasn’t a good situation. I felt safe and accepted at CYT. My family and I say that CYT saved me. It helped me get to the point where other people’s judgments didn’t affect me anymore and I no longer felt that need to be loved by everyone.” Currie has grown in confidence, leadership and stage talent. He also won an AriZoni Award for his portrayal of Lumiere in “Beauty and the Beast” in 2019 and was nominated for an AriZoni for his portrayal of Tarzan in the production of the same name last spring. Currie plans to pursue musical theater professionally and says he cherishes the time he has spent as a teacher and mentor. “Most of my friendships — especially my strongest friendships — have been from CYT,” Currie says. “I think so much of that comes from the fact that you’re creating something together. That automatically creates a strong relationship. I have super strong bonds with my friends from CYT. I still have great friendships with those who have graduated. You really build lifelong [bonds].” Those bonds are some of the many intangible benefits of being part of a youth community theater program like CYT. Carpenter points out that, beyond the curriculum of acting, singing, dancing and even stage combat, students involved in the arts tend to have a 15% higher GPA, a 34% higher graduation rate and higher SAT scores, along with better memory and focus, time management, social skills and better problem-solving and coping skills. “The performing arts impact kids holistically — intellectually, socially and creatively,” Carpenter says. “We welcome students who have never been on stage and those with a theater background. Our staff and teaching artists are consistently building programming that builds kids up and hopefully prepares them for a great future.” cytphoenix.org Instagram: @cytphoenix
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Vermillion festivals are a cultural experience. Discover a unique blend of art, music and cuisine from around the globe. A fusion of arts: visual, performing and culinary. Join us!
Tubac Festival of Arts February 9-13 Wigwam Festival of Fine Art February 18-20 Litchfield Park Art & Wine Festival March 5-6 Sonoran Arts Festival March 11-13
“New Day” in Red by Kim Seyesnem Obrzut 18.75’’ H x 7’’W x 6.5’’D
www.vermillionpromotions.com
623-734-6526 imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
49
RECIPE
Whipped Goat Cheese with Bacon and Dates Serves: 8
Ingredients: 6 ounces raw bacon slices 12 ounces crumbled goat cheese, at room temperature 1/2 cup greek yogurt 4 tablespoons honey, divided 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling 1 tablespoon water 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt Freshly cracked black pepper 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 2 large shallots, thinly sliced 12 Medjool dates, pitted and roughly chopped 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Toasted bread or crackers, for dipping
Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Lay the bacon in one, even layer in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Bake until crisp, 18–20 minutes. Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com
Appetizers should be easy, delicious and absolutely gorgeous. This whipped goat cheese with bacon and dates is all three and should be your go-to appetizer. I cannot envision any cocktail party without it!
Meanwhile, combine goat cheese, greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey, olive oil, water, salt and a few cracks of black pepper in a food processor. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Spoon the whipped goat cheese out onto a large plate or into a shallow bowl. Set aside. Transfer the cooked bacon onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Place the skillet — with all of the bacon drippings — over medium heat. Add rosemary sprigs and allow to fry on both sides until crisp. Transfer to the plate of bacon to drain. Add shallots to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until caramelized and tender. Stir in dates, apple cider vinegar and remaining 2 tablespoons of honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for just about a minute until reduced and sticky. Spoon the date mixture over the goat cheese. Crumble the bacon and rosemary leaves over top. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and a few more cracks of black pepper. Serve with toasted bread or crackers alongside for dipping.
50
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080 imagesar izona.c om
February
2022
51
52
i mages a r i zo n a .c o m
February
20 22
