Grayhawk DC Ranch Scottsdale
PRSRTSTD US 3418POSTAGEPAIDPHOENIX,AZPERMITNO. CustomerECRWSSLocalPostal
2 imagesarizona.com May 2022 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080
The MOHR Group MORE THAN $300 MILLION SOLD!! Kendal, Ryan, Janet and Don SINCE 1985 The MOHR group has earned the Prestigious Pinnacle Award for top sales/earnings- only 9 Pinnacle Awards were given out in Realty Executives. $2,150,000 Oversized 4 car garage with work shops, Integrablock, Solar, 5 power walls and over 90 solar panels. 5071 sq ft! Fabulous! GO TO MOHRHOMES.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION, DRONE SHOTS AND PHOTOS OR CALL US AT 602-980-7653 FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING. $2,997,000 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 Just under 7000 sq feet resting on the foothills of majestic Black Mountain! 360 Degree Views! Six fireplaces, 6 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths Walkout Basement with kitchenette! $3,250,000! Land and Luxury! We represent some of the best view lots available and can introduce you to a Luxury Builder that fits your home desires! Call us for more information!
4 imagesarizona.com May 2022 GRACE RENEE GALLERY MAY ARTIST
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.
With bold color and gestural brush strokes, Martin’s contemporary landscape art is captivating and unique.
GraceReneeGallery.com480.575.8080
ARTISTThursday,RECEPTIONMay19
Wine & 4–7appetizersp.m.
Grace Renee Gallery
CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE ARTIST
Martin Blundell
[ ]
5imagesarizona.com May 2022 CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY CAREFREE ARIZONA LEFT PAGE : “Desert Sky” 36” by 48” ABOVE : “Storm over72”Sedona”by48”
6 imagesarizona.com May 2022 22 What's Inside?TABLE OF CONTENTS1834BEAT THE HEAT 30 COMMUNITY 18 NO PLACE LIKE HOME OPTIMA MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN VILLAGE 24 10 MISS SCOTTSDALE 3412RECIPE READERS SNAPSHOT A VERY STRIKING CEREMONY
NAVARRA COLLECTION Located in Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ | 480-575-8080
While you wait for our next issue, continue doing what you have been doing — creating inspired works, supporting local businesses and helping one another thereby establishing a truly exceptional community that we are very privileged to showcase in this magazine. I cannot wait to see what you all will do over the next few months that we will get to feature this fall.
I also believe that, over the past year, Images Arizona has published some of its best stories to date — direct reflections of the community itself. However, there exist some byproducts of the pandemic that have created new challenges that we are all now having to navigate. As I wrote last month, one of those challenges is a paper shortage.
Contributing Writers
P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. imagesarizona.com623-341-822185377
Shelly shelly@imagesaz.com623-341-8221Spence
Publisher
Joseph J. Airdo AmandaShannonFrancineChristmannColesSeverson
Images Arizona
Two years ago last month, when the entire world essentially came to a sudden standstill as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, I described in this space the resilience of our incredible community. I wrote that I had no doubt that its talented individuals, innovative businesses and generous organizations would emerge from the uncharted waters that we had unfortunately found ourselves in stronger than ever.
Shelly Spence
As I look around today, I am so proud to see that I was right. Over this past year alone, our community’s artists have created some of their most imaginative work yet — and in ways that often expand far beyond the canvas or the stage. Our community’s stores and restaurants are busier than ever, with enhanced services that add value and convenience to our lives. And our community’s nonprofits have found new and improved ways to help those they serve.
Publisher,ShellyCheers!Spence
Joseph J. Airdo Graphic Designer
Photographers
Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. 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.
Images Arizona will temporarily pause publication this summer but its writers and I will remain hard at work as we prepare some extraordinary content for this fall. We will also be periodically posting small stories, podcasts and more on our newly designed website — imagesarizona.com — throughout the summer.
Meaghan Mitchell
Managing Editor
From the Publisher
8 imagesarizona.com May 2022
Bryan Black Francine Coles LoraleiCarlLazurekSchultz
Advertising Sales
Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication.
T
Images Arizona magazine 623-341-8221shelly@imagesaz.com
For the past four years, Scottsdale residents Dave Roesch and Shannon Grenz-Roesch have explored and hiked many Arizona trails with one another. During one such adventure two years ago, the then-dating couple discovered the Merry-Go-Round rock formation in Sedona and agreed that if they were to ever get married, it would be on that rock.
10 imagesarizona.com May 2022
“The weather cleared long enough for our ceremony and some spectacular photos,” Grenz-Roesch says. “I had no idea the lightning was striking behind me in this epic photo. My veil blew out for a final picture and then blew off my head over the cliff, never to be seen again. It started raining and we all made a beeline for the Jeep. It was truly a fun, challenging adventure in gorgeous natural Arizona scenery!”
“In August, he proposed to me while hiking in Bryce Canyon and, on October 5, we eloped in between rain storms on this beautiful-but-dangerous cliff,” Grenz-Roesch says. “It poured rain all day as I sat in a salon getting my hair and makeup done. The weather forecast called for a one-hour break between storms that afternoon and we decided to go for it.”
Photo by Stacy Burk Photography
Stacy Burk Photography and minister Karen Lynn met the couple at the bottom of the mountain and everyone rode to the top of the hill in a Jeep Rubicon. From there, they hiked a quarter mile to the cliff and Grenz-Roesch changed into her wedding dress behind a huge boulder.
Photo by Nicole Walker
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Since then, Deleon has dedicated her pageant platforms to educating others about suicide and mental illness with the hope that she can help save the life of someone who, like Justin, may be suffering in silence. That is especially true of her reign as the current Miss Scottsdale.
The 22-year-old Tempe resident is studying film and media production as well as psychology at Arizona State University.
“I have always wanted to come into filmmaking with a purpose,” Deleon says. “I made my first mental healthrelated film at a state convention when I was 17 years old. Since then, every project that I have completed throughout college has been about mental health and illness in some capacity.”
Deleon considers her greatest accomplishment to date to be her senior film — “Day by Day” which showcases the reality of many individuals with an externally perfect life, but internal, ongoing mental health struggles. The movie’s message is simple: One cannot change the past, nor predict the future. So when it comes to mental health, it is crucial to focus on the present and manage the craziness of life day by day.
Although her first experience was with a different pageant system, she was always eager to enter the Miss America system, inspired by its emphasis on community service and making a difference in the lives of those around you. Deleon knew all too well the importance of having a positive impact on others.
Stephanie Deleon was 12 years old when she saw a poster promoting a local pageant on the wall of her piano studio in Sierra Vista. An avid pianist, she entered the pageant at the encouragement of her mother, who said she was already prepared for the talent portion and may as well give it a shot.
S
DAY BY DAY
“It tells the story of a day in the life of an active, wellrounded high school senior in the 90s who has a great support system in her family, friends and boyfriend but unknowingly lives with anxiety and anorexia,” she explains. “It is about her journey to self-acceptance in a time where [mental health and illness] was not nearly as normalized or talked about as it is today.”
Over the next several years, Deleon accumulated a number of titles — including Cochise County Cinderella Miss, Virginia State Cinderella Teen, Cochise County's Outstanding Teen, Miss Sierra Vista, Miss Estrella Mountains and Miss Maricopa County.
The same year that Deleon had first spotted the pageant poster on the wall of her piano studio, she lost her 16-year-old cousin to suicide.
“I was 12 years old when he died,” Deleon says. “But I did not know his cause of death until a few years later. And that was a very eye-opening experience. Justin was a super-driven, involved, intelligent human being. It was a big shock to my family because, on the outside, he was so happy and loved by everyone. We had no idea that he was going through a lot of internal battles.”
“You never know what someone is going through,” Deleon says. “So I think that it is very important to always be a light for people and to be a helping hand to those who need it the most.”
13imagesarizona.com May 2022
“Talking about suicide does not encourage it,” she explains. “It only jump-starts that conversation that needs to be had and could possibly help provide the resources that people need.”
You never know what someone is going through. So I think that it is very important to always be a light for people and to be a helping hand to those who need it the most. Stephanie Deleon
“I did my very first talk directly about mental health and illness in 2017 to a local Boy Scout troop,” she says. “I have been so lucky to talk directly about depression and suicide through presentations at elementary and middle schools. Of course, I vary the intensity so it is a very safe process, but it is important to let [children and teens] know that their emotions are valid and that they do not just grow out of whatever it is that they may be feeling.”
aswellasproductionmediaandfilmstudyingisDeleonStephanieScottsdaleMissDeleonStephanieofCourtesyPhotoUniversity.StateArizonaatpsychology
DETERMINED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Deleon’s social impact initiative during her current run for Miss America — For a Brighter Day — is centered around depression and suicide prevention. Previously referred to as platforms, social impact initiatives have
Deleon acknowledges that while there has been much improvement in society’s willingness to discuss such subjects, there is still a stigma attached to them — especially suicide.
TeenOutstandingScottsdale’sMisswithright(onDeleonStephanieScottsdaleMiss andsummerthisArizonaMissoftitlethewintolovecourse,ofwould,Lin)Sophia tointendsfirstsheHowever,competition.AmericaMissnationalthetoadvance DeleonClaritabyPhototitle.localherofoutmostthemake
Moreover, after having lost her cousin to suicide, Deleon believes that those conversations can and should start at a young age.
“
14 imagesarizona.com May 2022
“Obviously,title.no
one needs a title to make a difference in their community,” she says. “But it has certainly helped significantly. I am so grateful to be part of this organization because it really jump-starts the networking that you can do.”
Crowned Miss Scottsdale, Deleon would, of course, love to win the title of Miss Arizona this summer and advance to the national Miss America competition. However, she first intends to make the most out of her local
in recent years become a much more prominent part of the Miss America competition and its preliminaries.
The Miss Valley of the Sun Scholarship Organization is an official local preliminary to the Miss Arizona and Miss Arizona's Outstanding Teen competition. The organization crowns title-holders for Phoenix, North Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale and — beginning this year — Anthem and Cave Creek.
Since its inception in 1921, the historical and social significance of Miss America has evolved from a boardwalk beauty pageant to the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women, awarding more than $45 million each year. Before one can compete to become Miss America, one must first win a title at the state level.
15imagesarizona.com May 2022
Deleon is eager to connect with local businesses and organizations and find out how she can help them promote the work that they are doing within the community. She is especially enthusiastic about
Miss Scottsdale Stephanie Deleon (on far left) believes that sisterhood is critical in a world where people break each other down. Photo by Nicole Walker
16 imagesarizona.com May 2022
Miss Scottsdale Stepahnie Deleon (fifth from right) says that, although they are competing against one another for the same title, she and her fellow local titleholders genuinely love and support one another. Photo by Nicole Walker
Most importantly, Deleon adds that those who look at her and think that
Instagram:missvalleyofthesun.com@missscottsdaleaz
“Sisterhood is so critical in a world where people break each other down,” says Deleon, noting that although they are competing against one another for the same title, she and her fellow local titleholders genuinely love and support one another.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
“I have also realized the value of virtual impact,” says Deleon, noting that the COVID-19 pandemic encouraged everyone to think outside of the box on how we can connect with one another. “So I want to release monthly mental healthrelated short films.”
And to those who may need to hear it, Deleon offers the following words of very loving wisdom:
Having done some work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, she is also interested in creating a nonprofit that will provide people with much-needed resources about mental health and illness.
She is also keen on using her knowledge and skills to help her fellow local titleholders promote their own social impact initiatives through the medium of film.
supporting the people who make the community what it is.
Aspiring to one day be involved in the film industry in some capacity, Deleon is especially interested in working in television because of the medium’s ability to show character development and one’s journey over time which, in turn, can lead to much more accurate and impactful representations of mental healthrelated issues.
17imagesarizona.com May 2022 Prefer the Older Tech? No Problem. That’s Easy For Us! • Enjoy Endless Hot Water • Adjust Using WiFi Connectivity • Increase Savings • Little to No Maintenance WaterTanklessHeaters Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment SUPPLIED STARTINGINSTALLED&AT: 50 NATURALGALLONGAS50ELECTRICGALLON $1349*$1349* Starting at: $4996* **Pricing Expires 4/1/2021
she could not possibly understand the thoughts and feelings that are plaguing them may be surprised to learn that even Miss Scottsdale struggles with anxiety.
“Having a title in this organization has not only allowed me to help others, but also learn to put myself first; because I cannot fill other people's cups if mine is not full,” she says. “This has provided me a purpose outside of my own and helped me realize not only the potential that I have to help other people, but also the potential that I have within myself.”
“As cliche as it sounds, you are not alone in your battle,” she says. “You may see other people doing great things but you are not less than because you are not doing the same things. You are just as important to your family, to your loved ones and to this world as everyone else. Here I am as a living sentiment to the fact that you can be going through so much stuff but are just as important to this world as those around you. You, too, can make a difference to other people. And it matters.”
MusicaNova Orchestra will present the world premiere of Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4. $30+. 2 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleperformingarts.org
YOU COME, TOO
SOMETHING ROTTEN
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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
May 1
Phoenix Chorale will perform Thomas Tallis’ 40-part Renaissance masterpiece “Spem in Alium.” Through bespoke staging concepts in each venue, the audience will experience total immersion in the sound of 40 solo voices, each singing a different line of music and all joining together to create a phenomenal sound. $42+; discounts available for students, seniors and active military. 3 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. phoenixchorale.org
May 1
Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix will perform a concert of water-themed choral music — including sea shanties, rivers, weeping and baptism. See website for prices. 3 p.m. Camelback Bible Church, 3900 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley. orpheus.org
The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a four-week workshop during which participants will learn techniques for capturing landscapes in fleeting sunlight; quick-sketch plein air pictures; lifelike characters; watercolor postcards; and travel journaling. $200. 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-4881090; hollandcenter.org
SPEM: SONGS OF HOPE AND LOVE
May 1
May 2
LITERATE FOODIE CLUB
MUSICANOVA ORCHESTRA CONCERT
May 1
May 4–June 19
Sonoran Desert Chorale will perform a concert of music that celebrates coming home, coming together, making a spiritual journey and spending time with loved ones. $18+; student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-305-4538; sonorandesertchorale.org
18 imagesarizona.com May COMMUNITY2022May3–24
The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Something Rotten,” a musical extravaganza about conniving-but-clueless brothers who hatch a plan to cook
WATER IN THE DESERT
TRAVELING WITH WATERCOLOR
May 2022
May 7 and 8
JUAN GABRIEL
Rosie’s House will host its annual ovation gala, featuring entertainment, a silent auction, dinner and a hosted bar. Rosie's House students will take center stage with impressive performances and stories of the life-changing impact of music. See website for price and time. The Camby, Autograph Collection, 2401 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. 602-2528475; rosieshouse.org
Ballet Arizona will pay homage to the legendary performer and music of Mexican singer and songwriter Juan Gabriel, who captured the hearts of millions worldwide and whose works have transcended generations. See website for price and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. balletaz.org
19imagesarizona.com May 2022
NUNSENSE
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its teen production of “Be More Chill” See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-4831664; desertstages.org
May 7
May 6–15
up the next big stage hit. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
Fountain Hills Theater will present its production of “Nunsense,” in which five nuns stage a variety show. See website for price and times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
May 6–22
May 5–8
NEW WORKS: MADE IN AMERICA
BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE
BE MORE CHILL
Arizona Masterworks Chorale will perform a concert of music by today’s most thrilling composers. $15+. Saturday 7:30 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 801 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. Sunday 3 p.m. at Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. arizonamasterworks.com
English Rose Tea Room will host a celebratory afternoon tea in preparation of the release of the new major motion picture “Downton Abbey: A New Era.” Costumes are essential while “Downton Abbey”-inspired gifts, music and photo opportunities will be available. $55. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. RSVP. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy Street, Carefree. 480-488-4812; carefreetea.com
SPRING RESTAURANTARIZONAWEEK
May 10
Desert Foothills Library will host a book club featuring Li Cunxin’s “Mao’s Last Dancer.” Free. 10 a.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. School House Road, Cave Creek. dfla.org
VISIONS ‘22
BANKING IN AMERICA
Photo from Match Market + Bar by Timothy Fox Photography
May 10
The Holland Center will welcome Jim Sherbert for a lecture about the history of banking in America. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
The Phoenix Symphony orchestra will perform John Williams’ iconic score live to picture during a special screening of “Jurassic Park.” See website for price. Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. phoenixsymphony.org
RETURN TO AFTERNOONDOWNTONTEAPARTY
GET LIT BOOK CLUB
Desert Foothills Library will host a happy hour book club featuring Serena Valentino’s “Villains” series. Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. Mountain View Pub, 7033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. dfla.org
20 imagesarizona.com May COMMUNITY2022
May 13–15
May 12 and 24
JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT
Scottsdale Arts Learning and Innovation will open a new exhibition showcasing the skills and inspiration exchanged between students and professional artists during art workshops throughout the school year. Free. Center Space Gallery at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleartslearning.org
May 13–Oct. 2
May 14
May 20–29
The Arizona Restaurant Association will host its annual event during which participating dining establishments will offer special three-course menus that showcase their culinary breadth and talent. $33+. See website for locations.
arizonarestaurantweek.comWriterJosephJ.AirdoMay 2022
will learn songs and dances from shows such as “Encanto” and “Moana.” The camps will also feature talent shows, dance parties, acting games, arts and crafts and special performances for parents. $595. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Notre Dame Preparatory High School, 9701 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. dftheater.org
Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. balletaz.org
AN EVENING AT DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN
CELEBRATE MUSIC FROM HAWAII
Ballet Theatre of Phoenix will perform three short ballets to celebrate the season — including “Etudes,” “Enchanted Garden” and Paquita.” $30. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Herberger Theatre Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix. 602-9573364; ballettheatreofphx.org
May 14 and 15
Ballet Arizona will perform a work with choreography that embraces and showcases the vast natural backdrop of the desert. See website for price.
WINNIE THE POOH KIDS
In anticipation of its summer tour to the East Coast, Phoenix Boys Choir will perform a concert exploring the rich heritage and music of the American Southwest alongside several guest artists — including the Yellow Bird Apache Dancers and youth from the Tradiciones Dance Company. $20+. Saturday 7 p.m. at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa; Sunday 3 p.m. at Willow Canyon High School, 17901 W. Lundberg St., Surprise. boyschoir.org
THE CURIOUS SAVAGE
May 31–June 24
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Once Upon a Mattress.” See website for price and times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-4831664; desertstages.org
Desiring to connect personally with book lovers and to promote an appreciation of reading and the literary arts, a group of local authors will host an event during which attendees may meet and greet the community’s countless talented writers. The event will also feature a free raffle as well as an opportunity to purchase additional raffle tickets for gift baskets and other prizes while net proceeds from the festival will benefit local literacy programs. Free. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., desertfoothillsbookfestival.comScottsdale.
June 4 DESERT FOOTHILLS BOOK FESTIVAL
Tuesdays–Saturdays 8 p.m. Desert
21imagesarizona.com May 2022
Scottsdale Philharmonic will perform a concert of classical music. $15. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdalephilharmonic.com480-499-8587,
Galleries throughout Carefree will host an event that offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy live music and refreshments as they stroll through the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain in search of their next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com
Desert Foothills Theater will host a pair of one-week summer camps in which participants aged 7–13
May 19
Don Bluth Front Row Theatre will present its production of “The Curious Savage” — a heartwarming comedy about an elderly widow who inherits a fortune and befriends a lovely group of misfits after her stepchildren commit her to a sanatorium. $28+; youth, senior, student and military discounts available. Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com480-314-0841;
CONCERTPHILHARMONICSCOTTSDALE
THEATER ARTS SUMMER CAMPS
June 3–12
May 19–June 25
May 29
May 15
BALLET THEATRE OF PHOENIX SPRING RECITAL
CAREFREE ART NIGHT
May 17–June 2
May 14 and 15
ON THE VIRGINIAARIZONAROAD:TOWEST
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS
Fountain Hills Youth Theater will present its production of “Winnie the Pooh Kids.” $18; youth discounts available. See website for times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
Musical Instrument Museum will celebrate the music of Hawaii with live performances and educational workshops. See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
June 3–12
22 imagesarizona.com May COMMUNITY2022
THE COLORADO RIVER AND THE GRAND CANYON
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its youth production of “Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka, Jr.” 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
URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL
May
The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Always... Patsy Cline,” in which tales of musician Patsy Cline’s life on the road are told with down-home country humor and brought to vibrant life through her music. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
July 1–10
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
June 14
Detour Company Theatre will present its production of “Once Upon a Mattress.” Free. 3 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleperformingarts.org
June 8–Aug. 7
ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE
Detour Company Theatre will present its production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Free. 7 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleperformingarts.org
July 8–24
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS
ROALD DAHL'S WILLY WONKA, JR.
Fountain Hills Theater presents its production of “Urinetown: The Musical,” in which a water shortage has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets, forcing citizens to use public amenities regulated by a single malevolent company. See website for price and
Writer Joseph J. Airdo2022
IMMERSIVE KLIMT ARRIVES IN SCOTTSDALE
Impact Museums and Lighthouse Immersive this spring debuted an immersive art installation featuring the works of Gustav Klimt. World-renowned master of digital art Massimiliano Siccardi brings patrons through Klimt’s evolution from thousands of handdrawn sketches to works from the pinnacle of his golden phase — such as the “The Woman in Gold,” “Tree of Life” and “The Kiss.” $39.99. Lighthouse ArtSpace Phoenix, 4301 N. Scottsdale Road, immersiveklimt.com.Scottsdale.
June 10 and 11
The Holland Center will welcome Jim Sherbert for a lecture about the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
June 11 and 12
Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse general manager Michael “Fish” Fischer has been appointed to head the Carefree Restaurant Association. Fischer has a rich background in the restaurant industry, including working at the Hard Rock Café in Florida before coming to Arizona in 1998 and working with legendary chefs such as Eddie Matney and Tomaso Maggiore and at the likes of the Arizona Biltmore Resort’s many restaurants. In 2012, he briefly left Arizona for an opportunity with Keeler Hospitality Group’s first restaurant — Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops. He eventually returned to Arizona to help the company open Keeler’s Neighborhood carefreerestaurants.comSteakhouse.
Six years after a tragic fire took the anchor building in the center of Cave Creek’s Frontier Town, Wade Hansen and Denise Goode have put their creative and culinary talent to work, introducing Hansen’s Cowboy BBQ. Rusty antique trucks and horse trailers have been renovated into bars and food service windows; the back porch houses several large outdoor grills and smokers; and the Frontier Town Stage plays host to a variety of talented musicians playing old school country music. 6245 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave hansenscowboybbq.comCreek.
AT FRONTIER TOWN
July 11–29
• Testing of
• Inspection
COWBOY BBQ OPENS
THEATER ARTS SUMMER CAMPS
times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
23imagesarizona.com May 2022 Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment Call or 480.478.3384TexttoScheduleyourAppointment! It’s time for your A/C System Safety Inspection
LITTLE WOMEN
ADVANCESTHEATER IMPROVEMENTSTOWARD
Includes: + point Inspection all Functional Parts of Refrigerant Cycle Lines
The Phoenix Theatre Company recently launched the final phase of its Centennial Capital Campaign in support of construction of a state-ofthe-art, 500-seat theater along with the creation of an arts innovation and training wing to support its community service programs. Technical improvements will include a full fly loft, below-stage traps and a stage large enough to accommodate pre-Broadway show development. phoenixtheatre.com
Desert Foothills Theater will host a trio of one-week summer camps in which participants aged 7–13 will learn songs and dances from shows such as “Encanto,” “Frozen” and “Moana.” The camps will also feature talent shows, dance parties, acting games, arts and crafts and special performances for parents. $285. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. dftheater.org
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre will present its teen production of “Little Women.” 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
July 29–Aug. 7
• Standard Cleaning of System • Testing and Flushing Drain
• 30
GETSASSOCIATIONRESTAURANTNEWLEADER
Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Optima
It only takes a short drive through the North Valley to realize that a Pandora’s box of development has been opened wide. The estimated 2,000 jobs being created by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., and 3,000 jobs being created by Intel expansion are leading many to believe that the Valley of the Sun is the next Silicon Valley.
25imagesarizona.com May 2022
Other industries are hopping aboard too, bringing tax dollars, jobs and an influx of people — all of whom need things to do, places to eat and somewhere desirable to Developmentlive.is not going to stop. The question is, “How do we control it?”
Innovators like award-winning architects David C. Hovey and his son, David Hovey, Jr., are answering
that call, and they’re doing it with the kind of thought and foresight needed to preserve the lifestyles and beauty that bring people here in the first place.
The proposed development would eventually consist of six 11-story buildings with up to 1,500 condominiums and apartments, as well as 31,000 square feet of commercial space that can be used for amenities such as a high-end restaurant, a café and/or
Experiences have become a top priority. From how we work to how we vacation and where we choose to live, we no longer want to live to work; we want to work to live — and where we live matters.
“Optima has developed award-winning Arizona projects,” Hovey says. “We believe our proposal for Optima McDowell Mountain Village will enhance Scottsdale and stimulate healthy sustainable growth.”
The site is currently zoned for commercial use, but rather than building another car dealership or strip mall, Optima’s team envisions a dynamic and thriving community interconnected to the greater Scottsdale community by bicycle trails, public and open spaces and a community amphitheater for concerts, performing arts and other fun events.
Because of this, the Valley has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Every generation leaves its mark on our collective culture. Technology, world events and education mold our views of the world and our place within it, shaping our values and defining what is — and what is not — important in life.
Those values are undergoing a monumental shift. We are perhaps the first generation to honestly ask ourselves if we are really living the lives we want to live, and to trade convention for happiness.
E
Even if you don’t know the Hovey name, you likely know their work. Optima Biltmore Towers, Optima Camelview Village, Optima Sonoran Village and Optima Kierland are all beautiful examples that there is a viable intersection between sustainability, lifestylebased communities and visually attractive spaces. Arguably, there is not a neighborhood where Optima has built that has not been enhanced by their projects.
Their latest proposal, Optima McDowell Mountain Village, is a stunning residential and commercial development they hope to build on what is now a dusty vacant lot on the south side of Loop 101 near Mayo Avenue and Scottsdale Road on the cusp of Scottsdale Airpark.
26 imagesarizona.com May 2022
“Optima McDowell Mountain Village provides a live, work, play environment that will appeal to a wide range of buyers and renters drawn to the architecture, open space, active lifestyle, sustainable design, health-based, amenity-rich community and service offerings, as well as its premier Scottsdale location,” Hovey says.
Outdoor plans for the encompassing land include a comfortable balance of indigenous plants and trees, and also children’s play areas, health and wellness features, a sculptural fountain, a putting green and seating and lounge areas complete with fire pits where people can congregate and relax. A 14-foot-wide bike and pedestrian path will wind through the property and connect to the City of Scottsdale Bicycle Master Plan of trails and routes.
From the bottom up, glass-enclosed 15-foot groundfloor levels greet residents, and cascading plants and open spaces provide a relaxing respite from the summer sun. Ground floors will also hold management offices and business centers with conference rooms.
Upstairs, fitness centers that look out over the courtyard will include basketball courts, strength and aerobic training equipment, a yoga studio and locker rooms.
27imagesarizona.com May 2022
coffee bar, office suites, a bicycle shop, a boutique spa or wellness center, schools or perhaps a bank.
WHAT WILL OPTIMA OFFER?
As bucolic as the outdoor areas will be, it’s the structures themselves that will be the stars of the show.
All parking will be below-ground, reducing the environmental footprint on the 21.88-acre parcel and leaving room for a 10-acre public park and 80% total open space — a significant feat, but not unusual for Optima, whose team has won multiple awards for sustainable design.
Any good architect knows that buildings are meaningless if they don’t enhance the lives of the people who live and work in them, and Optima intends to add value in spades.
The buildings are designed in Optima’s signature contemporary, eco-conscious style, with complex elevations that step in and out to emulate the shape of the McDowell Mountains that it overlooks. Private terraces with stunning waterfalls of greenery, also an Optima signature, blur the line between indoors and out.
“
We have designed the buildings to emulate the colors of the desert with bronze glass, railings, planters and privacy screens made of Cor-ten steel which weathers over time to warm brown and desert tones. C. Hovey
David
At the top, rooftop decks feature 50-meter Olympic-sized swimming pools surrounded by chaise lounges, running tracks that will follow the perimeter of the roofs, locker rooms, outdoor fireplaces, barbecues, seating areas, perimeter plantings and sheltering arbors covered with vines. These will provide spectacular views of the McDowell Mountains to the east, beautiful sunsets to the west, Pinnacle Peak to the north and Camelback Mountain to the south.
Some have relocated because remote work options that opened up in
recent years have provided workers the option to live anywhere they want — and Optima Kierland is a place people want to live. Others have come in with the corporation boom that’s bursting in the Valley. Still, others have traded home ownership for the lower maintenance and greater convenience that Optima offers.
Though time will tell, Optima planners expect the demographics of Optima McDowell Mountain Village to resemble those of its sister, Optima Kierland. Located just 2.5 miles to the south of the proposed McDowell Mountain site, residents there range in age from 25 years to 75 years and older. They are singles, couples, empty nesters, families and retirees.
“We have designed the buildings to emulate the colors of the desert with bronze glass, railings, planters and privacy screens made of Cor-ten steel which weathers over time to warm brown and desert tones,” Hovey adds.
Facebook:optima.inc @optimainc Instagram: @optimainc
Optima has put together a proposal for Scottsdale’s Design Review Board, Planning Commission and Airport Review Board, which it must pass through because it is in Scottsdale Airpark. It must also gain Scottsdale City Council approval. Optima President David Hovey, Jr. hopes to have that process completed by late summer/early fall.
29imagesarizona.com May 2022 Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment Call to Schedule Complimentarya Estimate 480.478.3384 • 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 Benefits of a Properly Insulated Home ProSkill Now InsulationOffers
WHAT’S NEXT?
Homes will range in size from approximately 675 square feet for a studio to 2,221 square feet for a three-bedroom option — and like the rest of the plan, they will be comfortable and aesthetically attractive. Also, because of Optima’s vertical integration, buyers may combine homes and fully customize.
WHO WILL LIVE AT OPTIMA MOUNTAINMCDOWELLVILLAGE?
Optima has repeatedly addressed these issues with creativity and innovation that helps to build quality industries, happy people, and communities that enhance our area. After all, there is no place like home, especially when “home” is our much-loved Sonoran Desert.
“Optima McDowell Mountain Village will draw the interest of residents interested in simplifying their lives without sacrificing quality,” explains Hovey, adding that residents have the option of opting into concierge services to bring convenience literally to their doors.
At Optima Kierland, there were several buyers who combined upwards of three homes.
It is no secret that Scottsdale needs housing, but not at the cost of the environment or of the lifestyle that people come here to enjoy.
IMMERSIVE ART
Descend from the street level in the heart of Scottsdale and enter the world of Viennese modernist painter Gustav
Klimt was a leader of the Viennese secession that transformed European arts culture in the late 19th century. Despite the traumatic loss of his father and brother and the raging of the first world war, the artist continued to produce and evolve in his subject matter and use of color.
Writer Shannon Severson
Beat the Heat
FeverofCourtesyPhoto//ConcertsCandlelight
30 imagesarizona.com May T2022
But there’s no need for seasonal hibernation or an allout escape if you’re looking for some one-of-a-kind entertainment this summer. The buzz word of the moment is “immersion,” with indoor experiences that offer a feast for the eyes, ears and mind — while simultaneously providing a super simple way to beat the heat.
At Immersive Klimt: Revolution, the iconic artist’s work is put into historical perspective as you are surrounded by projected images and accompanying music from both Klimt’s era and more recent years, that is a completely enveloping — and even meditative — experience.
There’s no doubt that Phoenix has a reputation for fantastic outdoor experiences... for most of the year. However, when our temperatures grow infernal, we tend to hunker down indoors or get out of town entirely.
Klimt, who is probably most well-known for his “Golden Phase” in which he used gold leaf in “The Kiss.”
“Klimt’s often surreal work kept bending the boundaries of reality in a manner made for this kind of allencompassing show,” Ouzounian says. “His seductive works like ‘The Kiss’ acquire even more power when blown up to 50 times their original size. And the way that images, sound and color all unite wind up giving the viewer a truly sublime experience.”
More than 31,000 people have attended the experience in venues all over the Valley.
This May, The Children’s Museum of Phoenix will be the site of tributes to contemporary artists Taylor Swift and Queen by the Listeso String Quartet, as well as the music of pop sensation Ed Sheerhan. At The Phoenix Art Museum, patrons have their choice of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons or romantic jazz performances featuring Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and more. Several of these
Phoenix is one of 80 worldwide cities to host performances of this type in churches, libraries, mansions and museums. Classical music lovers, jazz fans and pop aficionados alike will probably find a performance that suits their taste.
Richard Ouzounian, creative consultant for Lighthouse Immersive — which produces immersive experiences with Impact Museums for Klimt and Vincent Van Gogh in the same Lighthouse Artspace — says the motto for the show is, “Surreal. Seductive. Sublime.”
If you close your eyes, music can transport you to another time and place, stirring emotions and memories as the melody ebbs and flows. When you open your eyes at a Candlelight Concert, you’re also in a beautiful space.
MOOD-LIT MUSIC
31imagesarizona.com May 2022
Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience // Photo Courtesy of Fever
Wonderspaces “The Immigrant” by Michael Murphy. Photo by Yadira Villarreal
XSuperflybyPhoto//Experience“Friends”The
32 imagesarizona.com May 2022
Immersive Klimt: Revolution
Photo Courtesy of Immersive Klimt: Revolution
“Watching a crowd wave a candle in the air as they sing along to ‘We are the Champions’ or seeing a little girl dance with her mom to ‘Under the Sea’ with background animal noises at the Phoenix Zoo are things you’ll only catch at a Candlelight Concert,” Jad adds.
Meanwhile, Wonderspaces — a 16,000-square-foot art venue inside Scottsdale Fashion Square — has, over the last three years, featured 60 different artists from all over the world. The installations are visually impactful and often interactive, all meant to make the viewer think, discuss and feel a sense of wonder.
See website for dates, times and locations $30+ | candlelightexperience.com
Candlelight Concerts
Immersive Klimt: Revolution
Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience
Lighthouse Artspace 4301 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale $35+ | immersiveklimt.com
See website for times Paradise Village Gateway 10845 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix $30.50+ | friendstheexperience.com
Phoenix is just the second city to launch Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience after the innovative and collaborative exhibition’s successful opening in Chicago last year.
$24; youth, student, senior, teacher, military and healthcare worker discounts available wonderspaces.com
by Perceptual Art pioneer Michael Murphy — a 3D halftone sculpture created from 2,300 wooden balls that, when viewed from a distance, reveal the image of the artist’s partner. Another is “Radiance (Infinity Box No. 6)” by Matt Elson — a two-person experience where the view from the arranged windows changes with your position.
The “Friends” Experience will wrap up its run May 8 in Phoenix after having been a huge hit for both casual and superfans of the iconic 90s sitcom. Visitors walk through 12 rooms filled with set recreations, history and fun facts about the show. There are many photo opportunities and, just like the characters, everyone ultimately winds up at the Central Perk coffee shop with the legendary orange Meanwhile,couch.a
There’s no need for thisentertainmentone-of-a-kindlookingescapeorhibernationseasonalanall-outifyou’reforsomesummer.
artists will be featured in June performances indoors and outdoors at Butterfly Wonderland.
Those four exciting experiences are merely the tip of the iceberg, though, when it comes to the infinite number of ways that you can have fun while simultaneously beating the heat this summer.
Wonderspaces
Feverup communications specialist Farah Jad says that Candlelight Concerts provide classical music fans an opportunity to be reminded of why they fell in love with the genre and music fans of all genres an opportunity to hear some of their favorite songs in a new way.
Merging art and technology, visitors take a self-guided tour through a brightly-colored, creative world filled with large-scale light installations, massive sculptures and murals by street artists from Arizona and across the country. Projection mapping and sound reactive LEDs, including a healing Solfeggio frequency dome, draw visitors to participate in the art itself.
Experience
One of Wonderspaces’ newest installations is “The Immigrant”
Genie’s Secret Bazaar: An Exploratory Magical Adventure
FRIENDS, GENIES AND MORE
See website for dates and hours
See website for dates, hours and location $30+ | geniessecretbazaar.com
The “Friends” Experience Through May 8
ANDTECHNOLOGYWONDER
See website for dates and hours
Scottsdale Fashion Square 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale
Immersive Klimt: Revolution
waitlist is forming for Genie’s Secret Bazaar: An Exploratory Magical Adventure — an experiential event set to debut in June at a secret venue. Visitors will explore a space modeled after the classic Arabian Nights tale of “Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.” Doors open to reveal secret rooms where magicians, games, fortune tellers and other performers will entertain. Guests will also be able to purchase exotic food and drinks from around the world.
“
33imagesarizona.com May 2022
Visit Images Arizona’s website — imagesarizona.com — to discover additional air-conditioned adventures all summer long.
See website for dates and hours
Artopia 313 W. Apache St., Phoenix $29+ | artopiaexperience.com
Deglaze the skillet with wine, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Cook until the liquid has almost completely evaporated, about 3 minutes. Add broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and maintain a slow simmer for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil with the remaining spice mixture. Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 40–45 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day, turning the chicken thighs occasionally.
Add peas to the skillet. If using fresh peas, heat for 3 minutes. If using thawed frozen peas, cook until warmed through, about 1 minute. Toss in mint then season with more salt, if needed. Remove bay leaves.
34 imagesarizona.com May 2022
Crispy Chicken Thighs
Writer and Photographer Francine thefancypantskitchen.comColes
3 large leeks (white and pale green
1/8 teaspoon cayenne Kosher salt
Directions:
4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced) 2 bay leaves
RECIPEItisverydifficultto make crispy chicken thighs without searing them on the cooktop and making a huge-splatter mess, right? Wrong! With this method — along with the freshest spring ingredients — you will not have to go to a restaurant for amazing crispy chicken anymore!
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil parts only, sliced 1/4-inch thick)
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel then season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place chicken thighs on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Roast until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crackly and crisp, 40–45 minutes.
Arrange vegetables on a platter, top with chicken thighs and serve immediately.
In a medium bowl, combine garlic, paprika, cayenne and 1-1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub one tablespoon of the spice mixture under the skin of the chicken thighs, making sure to leave the skin attached.
1 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredients:
About 15 minutes prior to the end of roasting the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add lemon zest and bay leaves and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 20 seconds.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup fresh peas (may substitute thawed frozen peas)
Serves: 4
2 pounds skin-on, bone-in Freshly ground black pepper chicken thighs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup mint leaves (torn if large)
5 2-inch long strips of lemon zest 1/3 cup dry white wine
imagesarizona.com May 2022 www. gethomegrown.net 1-888-85GROWN MADE IN USA ROC# 331531 " T h e U l t i m a t e G a r d e n H o u s e " EXPERIENCE THE PLEASURE OF GARDENING YEAR ROUND... WITHOUT THE HASSLES. PEST PROOF CRITTER PROOF FULLY EQUIPPED / TURNKEY NATURAL POLLINATION OPTIONS CLIMATE CONTROLLED OPTIONS LIFETIME WARRANTY NOW NCLIMATE OW CLIMATE CONTROLLED!! CONTROLLED!!
