ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO. 3418
Grayhawk
DC Ranch
november 2021
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Scottsdale
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The MOHR Group
MORE THAN $300 MILLION SOLD!!
Perched on Black Mountain! Classic territorial home with amazing views $1,700,000
Over 1 Acre! NO HOA’s! $1,195,000! Stunning Home!
IT’S SOLD
This fixer up in Carefree sold for OVER the seller’s asking price!
OVER 100 ACRES! Lush Sonoran Desert with AMAZING Views! $1,250,000!
Beautiful Condominium Gated! $400,000
BLACK MOU VIEW LOTS
NTAIN
FOR SALE
Panoramic Vi ews from this Elevated Lot Black Mount on ain $795,000
y8 n! $500,000 Bu ert Preservatio Backing to Des s! s like Hundred acres but feel
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. november 2021
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“The Night Shamon” by Amy Lay, mixed media on canvas, 72” x 36”
SU E
KRZYSTON
A MY
LAY
B RY CE T R EVOR 4
SO U TH WE S T
CONT EMP O R A R Y
PETTIT
SWANSON
MYRON
“Promises to Keep” by Bryce Pettit, 68” x 40” x 20”
W ILD LI FE
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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 A R E F R E E ’ S T H I R D T H U R S D AY A R T N I G H T THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18 FROM 4 TO 7PM
Sip, Shop and Celebrate with Live Music by NuWrld Jazz Quartet Bring your chairs to enjoy NuWrld jazz socially distanced outside
Clockwise: Ceramic wall plaques by Myron Whitaker, ceramics, 8” x 8” “Quail Family,” Trevor Swanson, painting on patina metal, 30” x 20”
“The Glow of the Moment” by Sue Krzyston, oil on canvas, 20”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 november 2021 imagesar iz ona .c om Hours: Mon. thru Sat. 9am - 5pm Allied ASID
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LEGACY + LUXURY Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of Grace Renee Gallery
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COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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THE WANDERING DONKEY Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Carl Shultz
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS 25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
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Writer Susan Kern-Fleischer Photography Courtesy of Sonoran Arts League
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WALKING BASTARD’S ROAD Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Brian Morrison
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APPLE CROSTATAS Writer and Photographer Francine Coles
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR Joseph J. Airdo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles Susan Kern-Fleischer 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 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. Copyright © 2021 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Fall really is one of my favorite times of the year. In addition to all of the exciting events — like the Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour and the many shows and concerts produced as part of our community’s performing arts organizations’ new seasons — you need only take a single step outside and look around at the breathtaking orange, yellow and red foliage to be reminded of just how amazing and precious life is. Autumn’s leaves encourage each and every one of us to take time to appreciate the magical and miraculously showstopping production that Mother Nature puts on for us each year. We are fortunate to live so close to copious trails and wildlife areas that we can hike and really take in these presentations of beauty. It also reminds us to be grateful, to take advantage of every opportunity that we have to enjoy the world around us with our loved ones and to never take anyone or anything for granted. On that note, I was recently also reminded that life is short when a dear friend of mine, Paul Keeler, passed away. In addition to being a good friend and a genuinely caring person, Paul was also a beloved restauranteur with deep roots in the Cave Creek, Carefree and Scottsdale communities. As founder and CEO of Keeler Hospitality Group, he had a monumental impact on the community. I will miss him tremendously as I am sure many others will as well. I encourage you to use the gratitude that you gather from having seen the fantastic fall foliage to draw those you love closer to your heart. I also urge you to utilize it to honor our nation’s veterans and give back to others in the community. And, finally, I hope that you will bring it with you to the Thanksgiving dinner table, as you celebrate with your family. Thank you for being a part of ours.
Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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Arizona Musicfest
THE STARS RETURN TO MUSICFEST Over 30 Concerts Between October and April • Pick Your Own Seats Online
ABBA THE CONCERT
LeANN RIMES
RAY ON MY MIND
CHRIS MANN 1/ 7
JOHN LLOYD YOUNG 1/ 10
BERNADETTE PETERS 1/28
SERGIO MENDES
STEVE TYRELL
SARAH CHANG
BEETHOVEN’s 9th PAUL ANKA 3/14 & 16 — ODE TO JOY! 2/27 ANKA SINGS SINATRA
10/ 3 1 & 11/ 1
KENNY G 2/ 19
11/ 13
2/22
PINK MARTINI 3/22 50 YEARS OF ROCK & ROLL 3/28 WITH CHINA FORBES
11/ 19
1/ 31
THE TEXAS TENORS 4/ 1
CELEBRATES THE TONY BENNETT SONGBOOK
2/4
EMANUEL AX 4/21 IN RECITAL
480.422.8449 • AZMUSICFEST.ORG All Concerts In North Scottsdale
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— CONCRETE & CLAY —
NOVEMBER 4
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Meet artists Kathleen Hope and Jodi Walsh during an event that showcases each of their incredible collections. Hope mixes cements from an array of materials — including dried pigments, paper, plaster and marble dust — to create pieces with textured layers and unexpected details. Meanwhile, Walsh utilizes a process called oritatami nendo — or folding clay — to create unique pieces that, inspired by nature, resonate across cultures and styles.
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— FOPE ITALIAN FINE JEWELRY —
NOVEMBER 5–6
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Explore a vast collection of elegant jewelry from this Italian designer. Extra inventory will be onhand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which boasts incredible attention to detail and high quality, representing an everevolving interpretation of Italian style.
— SLOANE STREET JEWELS —
NOVEMBER 11–12
Thursday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Wine and Appetizers: 4–7 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080
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# | b e r 2E. | 480.575.8080 | GraceReneeGallery.com Historic i m Spanish a g e s a r i z o n aVillage . c o m nov e m7212 02 1Ho Hum Rd. 7, Carefree, AZ
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— ITALIAN DESIGNER JEWELRY WEEKEND —
NOVEMBER 19–21
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Friday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday Wine and Appetizers: 4–7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Explore a vast collection of elegant jewelry from Italian designers such as Roberto Coin, Mattia Cielo, Alessandra Donà, Nanis, FOPE and Marco Dal Maso during this exclusive weekend-long event. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces.
Located in Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ | 480-575-8080
Grace Renee Gallery is a refreshingly beautiful way to explore fine contemporary art in the breathtaking shadows of the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona. Artfully designed jewelry, inspiring sculptures, spectacular wall art, stunning ceramics and more await.
UPCOMING EVENTS — AARON HENRY JEWELRY —
DECEMBER 3–4
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— JACQUELINE EARLE: PLAYFUL DIAMONDS —
DECEMBER 10–11
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Meet the designer behind this nearly magical jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special oneof-a-kind pieces, each of which features diamonds that are strung rather than set, allowing each stone to capture light in a fun and playful manner.
| GraceReneeGallery.com Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7, Carefree, AZ | 480.575.8080 november 2021 imagesar iz ona .c om
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Writer Shannon Severson // Photography Courtesy of Grace Renee Gallery
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Relationship is at the heart of Sloane Street Jewelry, a luxury brand with the mother and daughter team of Frances and Charlotte Gadbois at the helm. The pair feels strongly about cultivating personal relationships with their customers — many of whom have supported them from the launch of their very first offerings more than seven years ago. “Jewelry is such a personal experience and we love being a part of the joy jewelry can bring to people’s lives,” Charlotte says. “We are blessed to also have a few big collectors who have been such champions of the brand.” Sloane Street Jewelry’s line makes its exclusive Arizona debut at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree’s Historic Spanish Village during a special event November 11 and 12, at which the talented designers will be in attendance. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special oneof-a-kind pieces — each of which goes beyond the tangible expression of style by embodying the timeless elegance of every woman. “We are excited to begin this partnership with Shelly [Spence] and Grace Renee Gallery and to get to know her wonderful client base,” Charlotte says. “We are proud to have a new home for Sloane Street in Arizona and are very much looking forward to what the future holds. We are certain it will be bright!” Frances and Charlotte’s elegant pieces display attention to detail, express the wearer’s personality and are equally comfortable as standalone pieces or casually mixed with other favorites. Colorful, classic, playful and wearable are the terms that many use to describe the unique pieces this model-gorgeous duo designs.
THE BEGINNINGS OF BLING
Frances and Charlotte began Sloane Street Jewelry during a poignant time. After the passing of Frances’ mother, Diana Frances Margaret Hutchinson, they found themselves discussing the future and what might be next for the two of them. Unexpectedly, their next step would be together.
Charlotte was studying for a career in broadcast sports journalism. Meanwhile, Frances was considering retirement after selling her previous jewelry business to her partner. “We talked about the possibility of working together and what that would look like and, more importantly, what we would do,” Frances recalls. “We cycled through a few business ideas in the fashion space and ultimately landed back at the idea of starting a new jewelry brand.” The two knew the industry and felt pulled in the direction to start something together. “We started scribbling a business plan on a train napkin and then realized we needed a name,” Frances says. “As we were discussing names, ‘Sloane’ came up and I reminded Charlotte that when I was little, my mother would take me to Sloane Street in London and we had so many memories there together as a family. The name really resonated with both of us and we both thought it would be a beautiful homage to my mother, seeing as we had come together because of her.” Sloane Street Jewelry benefits from the multigenerational sensibilities of its founders. It was important to both Frances and Charlotte to have classic, timeless pieces that would appeal to a broad age demographic and be immediately identifiable. “Something that was really important to us when we started designing the debut collection was having a recognizable product with a certain DNA that ran through every piece,” Frances explains. “My background is in interior design and there is a paint finish called ‘strié’ where you use a tool to comb the paint while it is still wet and it creates this beautiful ribbed texture, so we decided to recreate that in our collection. This finish created a richness in the gold that surpassed all of our expectations! The ‘strié’ has become our signature and you’ll see it throughout the entire collection.”
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Charlotte adds that Sloane Street is designed to be beautiful and meaningful; pieces that will become part of a family legacy, just like she and her mother.
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Jewelry is such a personal experience and we love being a part of the joy jewelry can bring to people’s lives. Charlotte Gadbois
“We wanted to design a product that appealed to both my mom and myself,” she says. “Something that would be able to be passed down through generations and still be timeless. We always say we are ‘on-trend, but not trendy’ and that speaks to the concept we try to bring forward in every design, of being fashionable and relevant while staying true to our traditional roots.”
PROCESS OF REFINEMENT
The pair’s design process begins a year before each seasonal collection’s debut. They take the opportunity to go into “lockdown” and completely immerse themselves in creativity, collaborating on ideas and each of their visions. Frances explains that they begin by throwing all of their ideas onto their kitchen table and roughly scribbling a few of them down on paper. “Then we grow on the concepts from there,” she says. “Being English, we are very inspired by European architecture and pull a lot of inspiration from our travel experiences, which obviously was very difficult with the COVID restrictions. It has been hard to feel creative when we can’t be out and seeing what is going on in the fashion world.” Every piece is carefully sketched with exacting precision and direction for the production team. Frances and Charlotte are involved in every step — from concept to the final, sparkling product. Charlotte notes that new ideas often occur to them at the oddest of times, when they are the most exhausted.
“We will be walking through a hotel lobby or running to catch a plane and Frances will stop dead in her tracks and whip out her sketchbook and scribble down a pattern in a carpet, tile or even ironwork in a banister,” she explains. Frances’ strong relationship with Sloane Street Jewelry’s Bangkok-based manufacturing team dates back 20 years. Each stone is handcut to the Gadbois’ specifications. For the Caviar One-of-a-Kind collection, the pair travels extensively to source special stones. The collection isn’t what they would consider seasonal, but it does vary because every piece is designed around the stone itself. When an especially striking stone is discovered, it ignites the creative process. “We are loving big, heavy gold right now — specifically chunky gold necklaces and how those pieces are layering with our fall collection colors,” Frances says. “We came out with black and white for fall and we love how rich it is in contrast with the big textured gold.”
BENEFICIAL BAUBLES
While gemstones and precious metals are the most obvious components of Sloane Street Jewelry, beneath the shimmer lies two hearts of gold. Since Frances lost her mother to Alzheimer’s disease, it made sense to use their platform to make a difference in the fight to eradicate the disease and support families in their own struggles, partnering with Alzheimer’s OC based near their hometown in Southern California to create pieces that specifically support the cause. Charlotte says that philanthropy has always been a major pillar in their family so it was only natural that those values carry over into their business.
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While gemstones and precious metals are the most obvious components of Sloane Street Jewelry, beneath the shimmer lies two hearts of gold in designers Frances and Charlotte Gadbois.
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“It was a very natural partnership with Alzheimer’s, considering we had made lemonade out of lemons and found a silver lining to a not-so-positive situation,” she explains. “Our main goal is to aid the efforts to find a cure for this devastating disease that affects far too many. Since partnering, we have been overwhelmed with the number of individuals we have met along the way who have had loved ones taken by the ravages of Alzheimer’s. It has been such a powerful source of connection and comfort.” Sloane Street Jewelry has also created collections for CASA OC, which aids abused and neglected youth, as well as Laura’s House, an emergency shelter and comprehensive domestic violence agency in Orange County where Charlotte serves on the board of directors. The causes are deeply personal to the entire Gadbois family. “Giving back, for us, is more than just building collections for financial gifts to organizations,” Charlotte says. “As a family, we have been involved in charities throughout the community for many years — specifically CASA OC. “My dad, Richard, has been an active member of the board of directors for CASA for more than 25 years. He instilled in us at a young age to be generous, not only with finances but with your time and heart; and to not just be a part of organizations on the surface but to dig in and connect; and hope that through the work that you do, you can improve lives — even if it is just a few. That becomes a domino effect. “So when I was asked to become a member of the board of Laura’s House, it was a natural transition from CASA. There is always more that can be done. But for now, I am so fulfilled that not only are we able to aid in fundraising for these organizations, but that we are able to make a difference — even if it is just a small one — in hopes that we can leave this world a little better than we found it, in the words of the great Ralph Waldo Emerson.” gracereneegallery.com
EXPERIENCE
Sloane Street Jewelry Debut Nov. 11 and 12 Thursday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery | Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree | Free 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com
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COMMUNITY
2021 NOVEMBER
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Through Jan. 9
SPANISH LEGACIES Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ ArtReach Space hosts an exhibition tracing the 75-year history of Spanish dance in Arizona through photographs, videos and artifacts showcasing how the art form came to existence in our state. Free. Tuesday– Saturday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. The ArtReach Space at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdaleartslearning.org
Through Nov. 7
Nov. 1
60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-
Black Theatre Troupe presents its
ABBA: The Concert will take the
production of “Sunset Baby,” a play
stage as part of Arizona Musicfest.
Nov. 4
about a former Black Revolutionary
$49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church,
SUNSETS AND SIPS
and political prisoner who is desperate
9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road,
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
to reconnect with his estranged
Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
will host a happy hour event that
SUNSET BABY
ABBA: THE CONCERT
daughter. See website for price and times. Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., Phoenix. blacktheatretroupe.org
Through Dec. 5 THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW
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488-1090; hollandcenter.org
includes a beverage of choice and
Nov. 2–30
LEARN TO DO REALISTIC WATERCOLORS The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a four-week
access to select spaces. $35. 5–7 p.m. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-8602700; franklloydwright.org
Nov. 4
workshop during which participants
CONCRETE AND CLAY
The Phoenix Theatre Company
will learn techniques for capturing
Grace Renee Gallery will welcome
presents its production of “The Rocky
landscapes in fleeting sunlight, quick-
Kathleen Hope and Jodi Walsh for
Horror Show.” See website for price and
sketch plein air pictures, lifelike
an event that showcases the artists’
times. The Phoenix Theatre Company,
characters, watercolor postcards and
incredible collections. Hope mixes
1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-
landscape perspectives. $200. 9 a.m.
cements from an array of materials
254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N.
— including dried pigments, paper,
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
plaster and marble dust — to create pieces with textured layers and unexpected details. Meanwhile, Walsh utilizes a process called oritatami nendo — or folding clay — to create unique pieces that, inspired by nature, resonate across cultures and styles. Wine and appetizers will be offered. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
Nov. 5
AMAZING ART WITH AMAZING STORIES The Holland Center will welcome Nicolette Bonnstetter for a virtual Zoom discussion about works of art with interesting backstories. $5. 10 a.m. RSVP. hollandcenter.org
Nov. 5 and 6
FOPE ITALIAN FINE JEWELRY Explore a vast collection of elegant jewelry from this Italian designer. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which boasts incredible attention to detail and high quality, representing an ever-evolving interpretation of Italian style. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
Nov. 5–7
CAREFREE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL Thunderbird Artists will host an event boasting 160 juried artists, live music, local food vendors and a wide array of vintage wines. $3; $13 includes eight wine-tasting tickets and a souvenir glass). 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Carefree, 101 Easy St., Carefree. 480837-5637; thuderbirdartists.com
Nov. 5–7
THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE NATIONAL EVENT Desert Warriors of the Southwest Mounted Archery will host a national archery competition. See website for schedule. Desert Warriors of the Southwest Mounted Archery, 31811 N. 166th St., Scottsdale. 414-617-3843; sw-mountedarchery.com
Nov. 5–14
CANAL CONVERGENCE Scottsdale Arts will host its annual 10-day event that features light-based artworks, a wide variety of creative workshops, exciting performances, introspective artist talks, captivating augmented reality experiences, educational tours and more. See website for prices, schedule and locations. canalconvergence.com november 2021
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Nov. 11 and 12
SLOANE STREET Meet the mother and daughter team behind this elegant jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which goes beyond the tangible expression of style by embodying the timeless elegance of every woman. Free. Thursday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
Nov. 5–21
Nov. 6
Nov. 6
Fountain Hills Theater will present
COMPOSERS IN CONCERT
its production of “Disenchanted,” a
Desert Foothills Library will host
Gabriel’s Angels will host a magical
musical about Snow White and her
a concert of music composed by
evening under the stars, featuring a
posse of royal renegades who toss off
Jubilate Conservatory of Music
signature cocktail reception, dinner,
their tiaras to reveal what really
students. Free. 1 p.m. Desert
live entertainment, auctions and
happened “ever after.” See website for
Foothills Library, 38443 N.
raffles. $300. 6 p.m. Paradise Garden
price and times. Fountain Hills Theater,
Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-
at the Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E.
11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain
488-2286; dfla.org
Missouri Ave., Phoenix. 602-266-
DISENCHANTED
Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
Nov. 6
CRAFT FAIR AND BAKE SALE
20
NIGHT OF PAWSABILITIES
0875; gabrielsangels.org
Nov. 6
MOVING DAY PHOENIX
Nov. 6 and 7
The North Scottsdale Movers
FROM THE HEARTLAND
American Legion Post 34 will host a
and Shakers team will walk for
The Arizona Masterworks Chorale
craft fair and bake sale featuring 16
Parkinson’s during the third annual
will perform a concert of music
vendors, raffle items and homemade
Moving Day Phoenix event, which
designed to inspire memories,
baked goods. All proceeds will
is part of a nationwide series of
nostalgia and the feeling of coming
support veterans and their families.
fundraisers to benefit the Parkinson’s
home. $15+. Saturday 7:30 p.m. St.
Free. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. American
Foundation — whose goal is to
Mary’s Episcopal Church, 6533 N.
Legion Post 34, 6272 E. Cave Creek
make life better for those living
39th Ave., Phoenix. Sunday 3 p.m.
Road, Cave Creek. azpost34.com
with the disease. 9 a.m. Kiwanis
Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N.
Park, 5500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe.
Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley.
movingdayphoenix.org
arizonamasterworks.com
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Nov. 7
ARTS AT THE ROCKS ORGAN CONCERT Desert Hills Presbyterian Church’s organ committee will host its second dedication concert for its state-of-the-art Rodgers Infinity 361 digital and pipe combination organ. The concert will feature Maestro Hector Olivera. Free. 3 p.m. Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N Tom Darlington Dr, Scottsdale. 480-488-3384; deserthills.org
Nov. 7–Dec. 24
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER Childsplay will present its production of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” a musical adaptation of the beloved television holiday special. $13+. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. childsplayaz.org
Nov. 7–March 6
LANDSCAPES OF EXTRACTION Phoenix Art Museum will host an exhibition that examines the history, impact and art of mining in the western United States, featuring more than 65 works created from the 1910s through today that depict regional landscapes of enterprise and illustrate how mining has altered the natural environment on a spectacular scale.
VETERANS: A TRIBUTE Photographer David Reesor will present a look at World War I and World War II cemeteries around the world. Free. 10:30 a.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Nov. 9
Cactus Shadows High School
• World Languages Taught: French, Spanish, Mandarin • Sci-Tech Lab • Athletics and Clubs All Elementary Schools offer Pre-K & FREE all-day Kindergarten ols and Pro ho g Sc
november 2021
IFIED SCH
OO
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UN
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EK
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ols and Pro ho g Sc
• Advanced Placement (AP) • International Baccalaureate Diploma Program • Athletics and Clubs To enroll call or go online to explore your options 480.575.2000 | www.CCUSD93.org C AV
hollandcenter.org
• National Blue Ribbon School • On-Site Horsemanship and Equestrian Program • Mandarin Taught K-6
Sonoran Trails Middle School
E
Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090;
Horseshoe Trails Elementary School
R E C
the American Industrial Revolution. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland
• STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math • French Taught K-6 • Personalized and Blended Learning
C AV
The Holland Center will welcome Jim Sherbert for a lecture about
• Personalized Learning Model • World Language Taught K-6 • STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math
Desert Sun Academy
ms ra
THE AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION LECTURE
Lone Mountain Elementary School
UN
IFIED SCH
ICT
Nov. 9
• Accredited International Spanish Academy • Spanish Taught PreK-6
TR
hollandcenter.org
• Performing Arts: Music, Dance, Drama • Personalized and Project Based Learning Model
IS
Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090;
Desert Willow Elementary School
D
prey, archaeological ruins and more. Free. 6:30 p.m. The Holland
Black Mountain Elementary School
A+
Foundation will host an exploration of plants, rocks, predators,
ICT
The Desert Awareness Committee of the Foothills Community
YOUR CHOICE IS SIMPLE .
TR
A TOUCH OF THE DESERT
IS
Nov. 8
Your child’s educational options are numerous.
D
Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org
A+
$23; youth, student and senior discounts available. Phoenix Art
OO
L
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Nov. 12 and 13
ARIZONA PINNERS CONFERENCE The Pinners Conference and Expo will host a two-day event featuring more than 100 hands-on classes and more than 250 vendor shopping booths, providing attendees with the opportunity to develop new skills, shop the latest trends while supporting small businesses and create finished projects of their own. $10. Friday 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. az.pinnersconference.com
Nov. 9
GET LIT BOOK CLUB
instruments remarkable in beauty,
Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands
craftsmanship and cultural significance.
Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road,
$10; youth discounts available. 9
Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Desert Foothills Library will host a happy
a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument
hour book club featuring Ryan Holiday’s
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix.
“Trust Me, I’m Lying: Confessions of a
480-478-6000; mim.org
Media Manipulator.” Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. Black Mountain Tavern and Distillery, 30855 N. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
HOLIDAY BAZAAR
BEETHOVEN’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY PLUS MORE The Carolyn Eynon Singers will perform
Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church will
a concert that celebrates not only
host its 14th annual holiday bazaar,
the 250th anniversary of composer
featuring more than 60 vendors
Ludwig van Beethoven's birth but also
offering homemade items. As the event
Desert Foothills Library will host a
the connective and therefore healing
benefits Foothills Food Bank and
virtual book club featuring Maggie
qualities of music as a whole. $25; youth
Resource Center, guests are encouraged
O’Farrell’s “Hamnet.” Free. 10 a.m.
and group discounts available. 3 p.m.
to bring non-perishable food items
RSVP. dfla.org
Scottsdale Center for the Performing
and/or consider making a monetary
Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-
donation. Free. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Our
499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Nov. 11 and 23
LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
Nov. 12
22
Nov. 12 and 13
Nov. 13
Lady of Joy Catholic Church, 36811
TREASURES: LEGENDARY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
N. Pima Road, Carefree. oloj.org
Musical Instrument Museum will debut
LEANN RIMES CONCERT
a new special exhibition that, spanning
Singer-songwriter LeAnn Rimes will
6,000 years of history, features standout
a day of exploration and discovery,
take the stage as part of Arizona
during which participants will receive
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
Nov. 13
Nov. 13
DESERT DISCOVERY DAY Desert Foothills Land Trust will host
the health benefits of hiking in nature
Gathering Place at La Casa de Cristo
as they enjoy breathtaking views and
Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale.
participate in interactive experiences at
azmusicfest.org
stations along the Harry Dalton Trail. Each station will include information about the unique flora, fauna and history
Nov. 16
of the Sonoran Desert. Free. 10 a.m.–2
EXTREME STRINGS
p.m. RSVP. Jewel of the Creek Preserve,
Musical Instrument Museum will
44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek.
welcome Steve Adelson, William Eaton
480-488-6131; dflt.org
and Bill Dutcher for a concert featuring
Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment
It’s time for your
Heating
Safety Inspection!
several string instruments. $28.50. 7
Nov. 13
PANCAKE BREAKFAST AND VETERANS RACE The Kiwanis Club of Carefree will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser.
p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-4786000; mim.org
Nov. 16
the AT&T Veterans Race. $10; youth
SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER
discounts available. 7–11 a.m. Sanderson
Cave Creek Museum will host a
Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree.
spaghetti dinner fundraiser. $18+;
kiwaniscarefree.org; attveterans.org
youth discounts available. 5–7 p.m.
This year’s event will coincide with
System
Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek
Nov. 13 and 23
TEXAS BARBECUE AND CIGAR DINNER Sticks Golf and Cigar Lounge will host
Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2764; cavecreekmuseum.org
Nov. 17
Sticks Golf and Cigar Lounge, 37555
SONGS FROM THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK
Hum Road, #109, Carefree. 480-575-
Desert Foothills Library will host a
0993; sticksgolf-cigarlongue.com
concert featuring vocalist Jan Sandwich
an event featuring a happy hour, dinner and live music. $150. 5–9 p.m. RSVP.
and pianist Frank Smith as well as
Nov. 14
RISE UP FOR VETERANS FUNDRAISER
Felix Sainz on upright bass. Free. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
The Rancho Milagro Foundation will host a fundraiser supporting our veterans that will include a barbecue,
• • • • • • •
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
Nov. 17–Jan. 2
a raffle, a ranch and garden tour and
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS
more. $50. Noon–4 p.m. RSVP by Nov.
The Phoenix Theatre Company will
6. ranchomilagroaz.com
present its production of “Million
live equine therapy demonstrations,
Includes:
Dollar Quartet Christmas,” featuring
Nov. 15
BRIA SKONBERG CONCERT
holiday hits through the lens of Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company,
Jazz trumpeter and vocalist Bria
1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-
Skonberg will take the stage as part
2151; phoenixtheatre.com
Call or Text
480.478.3384 to Schedule your Appointment!
of Arizona Musicfest. $39+. 7:30 p.m. november 2021
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Nov. 14
SLIDER THROWDOWN The Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation will host its annual culinary battle, featuring samplings of delicious slider burger creations made by local food trucks and vendors. The event — which benefits the nonprofit organization’s mission to create positive childhood experiences for youth in foster care and prepare them for successful adulthoods through programming and scholarships — will also include live entertainment, shopping and a silent auction. $40. Noon–3 p.m. High Street, 5415 E. High St., Phoenix. affcf.org/ sliderthrowdown
Nov. 18
CAREFREE ART NIGHT
throughout Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale. Free. Fridays,
Explore fine art in the breathtaking
WREATH-MAKING CLASSES
shadows of Black Mountain.
Joi Prater of Joi Prater Interiors
Courtesy shuttles will be available
will host a series of holiday wreath-
to transport guests to participating
making classes, which will include
art galleries around Carefree during
light refreshments and beverages as
an event that includes live music,
well as all materials needed to create
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
refreshments and, of course, lots
a merry masterpiece — a wreath,
Desert Stages Theatre will present its
of fine art — including your next
French ribbons, ornaments, pinecones
production of “The Sound of Music,”
masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See
and other embellishments. $79. Friday
based on the 1949 memoir of Maria von
website for participating galleries.
5:30–7:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–
Trapp — “The Story of the Trapp Family
visitcarefree.com
Noon; Sunday 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Joi
Singers.” See website for price and
Prater Interiors, 748 Easy St., Carefree.
times. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre
602-930-8679; joipraterinteriors.com
at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback
Nov. 19
RAY ON MY MIND Master pianist and vocalist Kenny
Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.–5 p.m. See website for locations. 480575-6624; hiddeninthehills.org
Nov. 19–Dec. 19
Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-
Nov. 19–28
1664; desertstages.org
Charles as part of Arizona Musicfest.
HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST STUDIO TOUR
$35+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church,
The Sonoran Arts League will
ITALIAN DESIGNER JEWELRY WEEKEND
9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road,
present the 25th anniversary of
Explore a vast collection of elegant
Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
its free, self-guided tour, featuring
jewelry from Italian designers such
191 artists at 45 studio locations
as Roberto Coin, Mattia Cielo,
Brawner will take the stage portraying the music and life story of Ray
24
Nov. 19–21
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
Nov. 19–21
Alessandra Done, Nanis, FOPE and Marco Dal Maso during this exclusive weekend-long event. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
Nov. 21
YOUNG MUSICIANS FALL CONCERT Arizona Musicfest will present its fall concert featuring some of the best young classical talent in the state. $20. 2 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. azmusicfest.org
Nov. 26
CHRISTMAS IN HAWAII Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro for a special holiday concert. See website for price. 8 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Nov. 26–Dec. 19
BALLET ETUDES’ THE NUTCRACKER Ballet Etudes will present the 35th anniversary of its production of “The Nutcracker.” See website for price and times. Nov. 26–Dec. 5 at Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Dec. 11–19 at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. balletetudes.net
Nov. 26–Dec. 30
ELF: THE MUSICAL Arizona Broadway Theatre presents its production of “Elf: The Musical,” based on the 2003 film in which a baby mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole where he is raised as an elf. As a grown man, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his father and discover his true identity. See website for price and schedule. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org
Nov. 26–Dec. 31
MCCORMICK-STILLMAN RAILROAD PARK HOLIDAY LIGHTS McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will host a winter wonderland of holiday lights and displays. $15. 6–9:30 p.m. McCormickStillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. therailroadpark.com
november 2021
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Nov. 21
SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA CONCERT Scottsdale Philharmonic Orchestra 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
Nov. 27
THE MIRACLES HOLIDAY CONCERT
Nov. 27
Arizona musicians, a curated market
welcome The Miracles for a concert
SCOTTSDAZZLE SING-ALONG AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
of holiday music through the
The city of Scottsdale will kick off
Scottsdale Center for the Performing
Motown lens. $64.50+. 2:30 p.m.
its signature seasonal celebration
Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale.
and 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument
with beautifully lit holiday décor and
scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
classic Christmas tunes performed
Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
by MusicaNova Orchestra. Hot
Musical Instrument Museum will
coffee, cocoa and light bites inspired
Nov. 27
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY to shop for holiday gifts and more at the community’s many locally owned
See website for dates. Noon–4 p.m.
Nov. 29 and 30
Musical Instrument Museum will
scottsdazzle.com
welcome Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada and numerous special guests
Nov. 27–Dec. 19
scottsdazzle.com and visitcarefree.com
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will host a series of indoor
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
food and beverage offerings. Free.
E Camelback Road, Scottsdale.
offering special deals and promotions.
retailers — many of which will be
holiday activities, and specialty
7 p.m. Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135
SHOP AND BE MERRY HOLIDAY MARKET
and operated boutiques, galleries and
of fine arts and crafts, children's
IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA
by the season will be provided. Free.
Images Arizona encourages its readers
26
holiday events featuring live music by
for a show featuring top Irish music, song and dance through a holiday lens. $33.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Dec. 2
HOLIDAY WINEMAKER DINNER UNDER THE STARS LDV Winery and Merkin Vineyards will host a holiday winemaker dinner.
Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080;
Water Heaters
gracereneegallery.com
Starting at:
Dec. 10 and 11
Way Bridge, 7124 E. Stetson Drive,
JACQUELINE EARLE: PLAYFUL DIAMONDS
Scottsdale. scottsdazzle.com
Meet the designer behind this nearly
$155. 6–9 p.m. RSVP. Marshall
Tankless
Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum
$4796*
magical jewelry collection. Extra
Dec. 3
THE CHRISTMAS SERENAD3
inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which features diamonds that are strung rather than set, allowing
Powerhouse vocal trio The Serenad3
each stone to capture light in a fun
will take the stage as part of Arizona
and playful manner. Free. Friday 10
Musicfest. $49+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands
a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers
Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road,
4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org
Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum
Dec. 3
WINTER ARTISAN MARKET The Sonoran Arts League will host a showcase of local artists and makers of unique, handmade holiday gift options. Free. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-4881090; hollandcenter.org
Dec. 3 and 4
AARON HENRY JEWELRY Meet the father and son team behind this luxury jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces, each of which is hand-crafted, bringing classical Old World quality to modern design. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–7 p.m; Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com
FOOD BANK EXPANDS SERVICES Foothills Food Bank and Resource
• • • •
Enjoy Endless Hot Water Adjust Using WiFi Connectivity Increase Savings Little to No Maintenance
Center has created numerous sharing programs to better partner with citizens. Through mobile
Prefer the Older Tech?
distributions to Coolwater Church
No Problem. That’s Easy For Us!
and a senior center in New River, the center now provides more outreach to people who lack transportation. The center is also planning a number of permanent micro-pantries for
50 GALLON ELECTRIC
SUPPLIED & INSTALLED STARTING AT:
$1195*
50 GALLON NATURAL GAS
$1195*
organizations that can provide access to food in secure locations such as schools, churches and libraries. Additionally, the center has developed a market day during which seniors receive individually
Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Water Treatment
packaged frozen meals, produce, bakery goods and deli items. foothillsfoodbank.com
**Pricing Expires 12/1/2021 november 2021
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COMMUNITY MOURNS RESTAURATEUR Keeler Hospitality Group founder and CEO Paul Keeler passed away Oct. 9. A beloved restauranteur with deep roots in the Cave Creek, Carefree and Scottsdale communities, Keeler’s impact on his team members and guests will be treasured for a lifetime to come. His larger-than-life personality, unwavering faith in God and kind spirit of hospitality will be missed by all who knew him.
NEW PERFORMING ARTS CENTER OPENS
grants to 71 Arizona nonprofit
Dame Preparatory seniors Carlo
organizations, including $1 million to
Lanza, Keira Ryan and Madison
Notre Dame Preparatory recently
Notre Dame Preparatory, as part of
White National Merit Commended
celebrated the grand opening of its
the largest single-day grant initiative
Scholars. Meanwhile, Notre Dame
St. Catherine of Bologna Performing
in Arizona’s history. ndpsaints.org
Preparatory senior Radia Wong
Arts Center. Named after the patron
since the school opened in 2002. The 20,000-square-foot building
Foothills Food Bank and Resource
College Board recently named Notre
houses the Pitre Family Theater,
Center is seeking donations of
Dame Preparatory juniors Alejandro
classrooms for instrumental and vocal
family games, gift cards and more
Heredia and Sophia Barlo and senior
musical instruction and a state-of-art
to brighten the holiday season
Jacob Wetherell 2021 National
recording studio for video production
for children, families and seniors
Hispanic Scholars. ndpsaints.org
classes and the school’s media
throughout the community as part
broadcasting club. ndpsaints.org
of its 19th annual Adopt-a-Family
saint of the arts, the center is the first new building on the campus
program. The center will host festive
NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY RECEIVES SURPRISE GRANT
drive-through client parties in early December. foothillsfoodbank.com
Trustees of the Virginia G. Piper
STUDENTS RECEIVE NATIONAL MERIT RECOGNITION
Charitable Trust recently awarded
The National Merit Scholarship
a total of $123 million in surprise
Corporation recently named Notre
Photo by Emily Moran
28
earned the rank of a semifinalist and
RESOURCE CENTER SEEKS HOLIDAY DONORS
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
will continue in the competition in hopes of becoming a National Merit Scholarship winner. Additionally, the
november 2021
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Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Carl Shultz Food Photography Provided by Wandering Donkey
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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
Over the last 10 years, Lance and Beth Smith navigated turning one successful food truck into four. From there, Epic Catering Concepts was launched in 2017. This past July, they established a McDowell Mountain and DC Ranch brickand-mortar restaurant — Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar.
T
The birth of the Wandering Donkey food truck seems not so long ago for Lance and Beth Smith. Although Lance’s roots began successfully in the corporate world more than three decades ago, his passion for food began as a very young man. Preparing meals — sometimes extravagant ones — for large groups of family and friends brought him great joy and satisfaction. At the age of 20, his culinary skills were elevated significantly while traveling through Mexico and working under the tutelage of renowned French chef Jacques Fontaine, a graduate of the world-famous Cordon Bleu in Paris in 1948. An avid Food Network enthusiast, a certain show caught Lance’s eye, prompting him to leave the corporate world. It changed the life trajectory for him and his wife, Beth.
“The Wandering Donkey food truck is one of the longestrunning trucks at the Arizona Cardinals games,” Lance says. “They actually sought us out at a First Friday event. We’ve served everyone from former coach Arians to Larry Fitzgerald, Carson Palmer and Kurt Warner — just to name a few. Many professional athletes have eaten at our trucks and contracted us to do events at their homes. We’ve found the restaurant is also attracting superstar former athletes.”
WANDER IN
With all of the great feedback from customers, the Smiths decided it was time to set down some roots. Since they have personal connections to the North Scottsdale/Cave Creek area, a location on the corner of Bell Road and Thompson Peak Parkway seemed like the perfect spot. Plans began for Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar’s first permanent home.
Over the last 10 years, they’ve navigated turning one successful food truck into four. From there, Epic Catering Concepts was launched in 2017. This past July, they established a McDowell Mountain and DC Ranch brick-and-mortar restaurant — Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar.
“We recognized early on that people are looking for more than just good food,” Lance says. “They’re looking for an experience. One of the things that sets us apart is the ambiance and vibe of the place. It’s quickly becoming the neighborhood’s bar and restaurant of choice. People want a good neighborhood watering hole, as well as a place to bring family.”
The establishment — which boasts a 2,000 square foot outdoor patio, is dog-friendly and has a fire pit ready for the cooler months — is quickly becoming a popular neighborhood gathering place for people and pups.
The interior is alive with color: a food truck replica serving up “Build It Your Way” burritos, bowls and tacos is a fun twist. Patrons enjoy the work of local artist, Leila Parnian, who created murals and a custom bar that’s a real showstopper.
FOOD TRUCKIN’
“People come in just for that bar top,” Lance says. “It’s beautiful. Leila does graffiti art and created three different, big murals on the walls with spray paint — though you’d never know that’s what it is. She’s done projects across the country. Our customers love to take pictures with her art.”
That was in 2012, a time when the food truck craze was in its infancy and mostly centered around Los Angeles.
Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar officially opened July 29 of this year. After some construction stops and starts due to supply chain and staffing challenges, the summer opening was actually a blessing. The off-season gave the pair a chance to fine-tune the menu, equipment and staffing, and to be ready for the fall influx of snowbirds and tourists that blow in beginning in the fall.
“I was watching ‘The Great Food Truck Race,’” Lance recalls. “I said to Beth, ‘We should get one of these!’ Six months later, our first truck, Grilled Addiction, hit the streets of Phoenix.”
Lance says that daily Google searches for the term “food truck” numbered an average of 26,000 that year. Within a year, that number grew to 26 million. Today, there are more than 400 million inquiries. In Phoenician terms, the Smiths are among the original food truck pioneers here in the Valley. In 2012, the Smiths launched the Wandering Donkey food truck and, along with their catering company, they gained an excellent reputation that had them tempting thousands of tastebuds at events and corporate functions all over the Valley.
TEMPTING TASTEBUDS
Beth says that she and Lance believe in quality. “We started that with our food trucks,” she explains. “Our sources are held to the highest standards and customers know
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In 2012, Lance and Beth Smith launched the Wandering Donkey food truck and, along with their catering company, they gained an excellent reputation that had them tempting thousands of tastebuds at events and corporate functions all over the Valley.
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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m nov e m b e r 2 02 1
they’re getting food and drinks that taste good and are made with the best ingredients.” For those who might have discovered the restaurant by first visiting the truck — or wish they had — there is the food truck menu option. The creative, sit-down menu represents the regional fare of all the states of Mexico along with craft cocktails, many of which feature tequila, of course. Lance says the menu revolves around nine different specialty taco plates. “Our Mother of All Quesadillas is made using a 200-year-old recipe from Sinaloa,” he notes. “It’s stuffed with stewed pork and Oaxaca cheese. It’s big enough to share or there’s enough to take home leftovers and fry them up with an egg for breakfast the next morning.” The menu also features twists on stateside favorites like a Sonoran dog on Indian fry bread and Grandes Nachos Burros Errantes — which seem like the perfect indulgences while watching the Arizona Cardinals on the big screens. The Smiths have designated their spot as a Cardinals bar and take pride in the fact that the sound is always set to “on” for the games. There are also lobster tacos, fish tacos made with beer-battered sea bass, ribeye and tri-tip tacos — among others. Lance notes that the Birria tacos are an absolute hit with diners. “Birria is a big craze in Mexian cuisine right now,” he explains. “They’re traditionally done with goat. We do it with lamb, but most in the U.S. make it with beef. Ours are unique and people love them.” The Smiths also take great pride in their out-of-the-box bar menu. Their mixologist, known as “Ice Man,” created a drink selection of thirst-quenching selections, many of which feature House Cazadores, their elevated well tequila.
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Having opened July 29 of this year, Lance and Beth Smith’s Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar — which boasts a 2,000 square foot outdoor patio, is dog-friendly and has a fire pit ready for the cooler months — is quickly becoming a popular neighborhood gathering place for people and pups.
The traditional El Dorado Cadillac Margarita shares the spotlight with the Honeybee — a blend of Patron Reposado tequila, triple sec, fresh lemon juice, honey and a buzz button, a flower that releases a mouth-tingling compound for a cooling effect. Meanwhile, Beth’s favorite is Drink of the Dead, made with Vida de Muertos mezcal, fresh lime juice, sage honey and egg white.
The Smiths’ Epic Catering Company has been given the contract to provide food and drinks for the 2022 Bird’s Nest at the PGA Waste Management Phoenix Open, as well as serving more than 15,000 VIP guests and the production teams. It doesn’t stop there. Epic Catering will also bring ten Valley food trucks to the event — a high-profile opportunity if there ever was one.
As the popularity of Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar grows, the Smiths have added $3 taco Tuesdays and live music on Thursday through Saturday nights, based on musician availability. Every day, tequila flights please the connoisseur or the beginner. Both rocks and frozen margaritas have plenty of variations, so customers often come back to try a new flavor the next time.
It’s all part of the Smiths’ intention to be involved with the Thunderbirds Charity in this prestigious community event that gives back so much to the less fortunate in our community.
GREATEST GRUB ON GRASS
The enthusiasm that Lance and Beth bring to their business is clear. Their passion for food and drink and dedication to hospitality comes through in their voices as they talk. Wandering Donkey Taqueria and Tequila Bar is an extension of their home and the two love seeing the reactions of their happy customers.
With the burgeoning success of their crown jewel, you might think that the Smiths are ready to settle in for a while. Not so fast, though, as new adventures are on the horizon for the catering arm of their business.
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“We love supporting the community in any way we can,” Lance says. “We are all about playing a positive role in our neighborhood and across the Valley.”
“
We recognized early on that people are looking for more than just good food. They’re looking for an experience. Lance Smith
Beth says she and Lance like to welcome everyone into their restaurant as family. “We’ve made a lot of great friends in a short period of time,” she explains. “We just enjoy people’s company and we enjoy being at the restaurant and making sure people are happy and enjoying themselves. We just enjoy being there. Lance and I are good at different things and we recognize that in each other. That reflects in our business.” Lance agrees and, looking back, he sees how getting out of the corporate world and catapulting into restaurants and catering is really the fulfillment of what he and Beth were meant to do. “It’s really true that when you do what you love, you’ll never work another day in your life,” he says. wanderingdonkey.com epiccateringconcepts.com november 2021
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Singer-songwriter Lee Perreira’s 16 X 16 nonprofit organization’s mission is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our community — all while inspiring others. Photo courtesy of Musical Instrument Museum
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Singer-songwriter Lee Perreira believes that the most significant turning point in his entire life occurred when he began incorporating benevolence into each and every thing that he does.
went to a guitar lesson and my arms were not long enough. At some point, my grandparents bought me some cheap little mail-order guitar from a catalog and I kind of messed around with that.”
“We may think to ourselves, ‘What can I do to make a difference?’” Perreira says. “Sometimes that may seem like a daunting thing to even think about. I also felt weird and almost insecure about it.
Perreira spent much of his free time as a teenager learning and playing the guitar. At age 17, he linked up with a group of guys who had a band. That path led him to another band called Isle of Essence, with which he stayed and put all of his efforts into for about nine years.
“I have some friends who would always bring their mom out to see me play and, one day, they came out to my show and their mom was not with them. They said that they had to put her in a home. I did not even have to think about it; I brought the show to her. That was the seed. Once I did that, I really started to see and feel how I could make a difference.” Drawing from personal experience, Perreira determinedly set aside that aforementioned insecurity and connected with three Arizona-based charities. Having seen his mother abused, he reached out to Chrysalis; Having lost his grandfather to dementia, he reached out to the Arizona Healthcare Foundation; And having an aunt who had lost a child to cancer, he reached out to the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. “Not only did that give me a purpose, but it also made me present my best self,” Perreira says. “When I walk into a hospital and I play for children with cancer or walk into a shelter for women and children who have been abused or walk into an Alzheimer’s or dementia home, I have to present my best self. “I smile at everybody. I feel like I have no choice but to present the best version of myself. Seeing how I can make a difference and seeing instances where my best self was required was truly the turning point in my life.” But performing his inspirational music for the individuals at these facilities was only the beginning of what has become a much bigger and more profound humanitarian effort.
WHISKEY LULLABY
“Even younger than 12, I wanted to play guitar and sing,” Perreira says. “Back then, they only had full-sized guitars. I
“At a certain point, the lives of the people in the band were no longer parallel,” Perreira says. “I ended up going back to school at the age of 26 for music at Phoenix Community College. I studied music there for two years and that was really the launch of me becoming a full-time musician.” By the time he graduated, Perreira had already begun teaching guitar lessons and gigging a few times a week. In fact, for a period of about five years, he was performing on stage nearly six or seven nights out of every week — sometimes even two or three times in a single day. After all, his father always taught him that if there was work available, he should work. And work he did, averaging more than 300 events per year throughout the United States. “I have found that real confidence comes from the work,” Perriera explains. “I have found that doing the work sharpens your skills and really breeds confidence. When you get to another level, you know that you have earned it.” Today, Perreira can be a bit more selective about when, where and how often he performs — a sign that he has gotten to that other level and has earned it. Acknowledging that it is hard to place him into any particular genre, the singer-songwriter describes his music as blues-infused rock ‘n’ roll. “I grew up with the blues,” he explains. “I grew up with improv. I play a song and it is not the same way every time. I kind of put my own spin on things. I come from that bluesy, funky rock ‘n’ roll background.”
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Scan this QR code with your phone or visit anchor.fm/imagesaz to listen to the podcast version of this story, featuring samples of Lee Perreira’s music.
Lee Perreira is invigorated by his 16 X 16 performance this year, noting that he felt as though he was at his absolute best — physically, mentally and spiritually Photo Courtesy of Lee Perreira
Acknowledging that it is hard to place him into any particular genre, singer-songwriter Lee Perreira describes his music as blues-infused rock ‘n’ roll. Photo Courtesy of Lee Perreira
Although two of his most played and requested songs are “Whiskey Lullaby” and “Like a Train Off Track,” Perreira says that the song that provides the most insight about him is the title track off his album “What’s That Got to Do with My Dreams?” “The point of that song is that life is going to throw curveballs at you,” Perreira says. “We have to stay focused on our dreams. I think that is an important thing to remember. The day can sometimes take us a little sideways. That is just life. The day is not always going to go the way that we think and expect. But if we constantly work on the things that will improve our future life, I feel like that is the most important thing. And that is what that song is about.” Perreira adds that at least 90% of the songs that he writes come from personal experience. “You would think that it is the songwriting process or the creation of the song that is the most therapeutic but, for me, I have found that it is the reminder of the song,” Perreira says. “I will play a song that is several years old and think, ‘Listen to yourself. You wrote some really cool stuff here that maybe you should apply right now.’”
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It is that very perceptive insight that led to his success as not only a musical artist but also a philanthropist.
LIKE A TRAIN OFF TRACK
Running has always been an extremely significant part of Perreira’s life. At a very young age, he would watch his grandfather run 4–6 miles every other day — regardless of weather conditions or any other factors. His grandfather often spoke of how the activity benefitted both his physical and mental health. As a child, Perreira hated running. However, by his late teens, he began mirroring his grandfather — a man to whom he says he owes a great deal — by working regular 4- to 6-mile runs into his routine. As with all musicians, Perreira was constantly on the lookout for his big break. Seeing all of the good that Ellen DeGeneres put out into the world, he contacted the talk show host to share with her everything that he had been doing with the hope of receiving an invitation to appear as a guest on her show. He even submitted videos to the talk show host’s EllenTube website — one of which includes the nucleus of what would
eventually become known as 16 X 16, Perreira’s nonprofit organization. “I ain’t going to stop till I get there, baby,” Perreira says in the video, recorded during one of his 4- to 6-mile runs. “I’ll run all the way to LA if I need to. Maybe that’s an idea.” So he did. In 2019, Perreira ran from Phoenix to Burbank, California via a series of 16 marathons in 16 days. More importantly, though, he did so in the name of the three Arizona-based charities with which he had been involved — Chrysalis, the Arizona Healthcare Foundation, the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children — as well as the Ellen Fund. It was so successful that Perreira not only vowed to do it again in 2020 but also turn it into a nonprofit organization. Its mission is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our community — all while inspiring others. Through a number of individual contributions, fundraising events, business sponsorships, ticket sales, donations and more, Perreira raises money for local charities in need. Of course, true to the significance of his song “What’s That Got to Do with My Dreams?” the world had other plans as the COVID-19 pandemic reared its ugly head as he was preparing for his sophomore sprint. “But the bottom line was kids with cancer, victims of abuse and the elderly do not stop needing our help,” Perreira says. “So we pivoted. We did 16 marathons in 16 days in 16 different Arizona cities. And the response was amazing. So many people now had an opportunity to physically support me, to be on the side of the road with signs and cheer me on. It was just a really amazing thing.” He embarked on his third 16 X 16 run this year, opting to up the ante by doing it during Arizona’s scorching summer season.
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In 2019, Lee Perreira ran from Phoenix to Burbank, California via a series of 16 marathons in 16 days. More importantly, though, he did so in the name of three Arizona-based charities. He organized similar events in 2020 and 2021. Photo Courtesy of Lee Perreira
“On the last day this year, I attempted to do 100 miles in one day and I also wanted to try to hit the four main mountains,” Perreira says. “I got dropped off at South Mountain and hiked South Mountain. I ran to Camelback Mountain and hiked Camelback Mountain. I ran to Squaw Peak and hiked Squaw Peak.” With hiking North Mountain still ahead of him, Perreira acknowledged that it was starting to get a bit late in the day. In an attempt to beat nightfall, he pivoted his plans and instead ran to State Farm Stadium where he completed several laps before beginning his trek to North Mountain, which would serve as his finish line. “I started running to Glendale Stadium from Squaw Peak and that was the night of a crazy storm,” Perreira says. “The last hour that I ran, I was in a complete torrential downpour with thunder and lightning. I was soaked.” He ultimately came up short of his 100-mile goal but was lovingly reassured by his fiancé, Serenity Risvik, that he had accomplished more than enough and that he could attempt his century run another time — ideally one that does not coincide with the monsoon.
WHAT’S THAT GOT TO DO WITH MY DREAMS?
Perreira acknowledges that running 16 marathons in 16 days is incredibly challenging — even for someone who,
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like his grandfather, runs 4–6 miles every other day. “Each day is different,” he explains. “It really forces me to go into the day without expectations. I have a goal in mind — 26.2 miles. Some days that takes me five hours and 20 minutes. Other days that takes me seven and a half to eight hours. Some days I feel amazing. Other days I feel physically beat up and maybe mentally depleted.” Nonetheless, Perreira is invigorated by his 16 X 16 performance this year, noting that he felt as though he was at his absolute best — physically, mentally and spiritually. It is a feeling that could not be more polar opposite from the one that engulfed him just eight years ago. “We all have gone through our trials and tribulations,” Perreira says. “Late 2013 to early 2014 was a real trying time for me and for my family. I have one brother and he passed away Dec. 19, 2013 from heroin abuse. During that time, I was not handling my life well either. I got three DUIs in six months. I fought my case for three years and, in 2017, the final ruling came down. I lost my case and I had to go to prison.” Cue yet another instance of the significance behind Perreira’s song “What’s That Got to Do with My Dreams?” as that is where the singer-songwriter ran his very first marathon.
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There is so much growth that has occurred in me as a person — not just from me running 48 marathons for charity in the last two and a half years and raising more than $40,000 for these charities. Lee Perreira
“There is not a lot to do in there,” Perreira says. “I ran, I read and I kept to myself. I was not necessarily surrounded by inspiring people so I just kind of did my own thing. I was looking for ways to make the time go by and, as I was increasing my running while I was there, I thought to myself, ‘I wonder how many laps it would be around the yard to equal a marathon.’ “It turned out to be a little more than 102 laps. I literally created my own 9- to 10-week plan to ramp up to run a marathon. It was the Sunday before Father’s Day in 2017 when I ran a marathon in Florence West and it took me a little more than five hours. “Something did not necessarily go my way but look what has come out of it. I would never want to go back there but I do not regret it. It has strengthened my relationship with my fiancé and it has made me a better person. I had a lot of time to think, reflect, read uplifting books and run a marathon.” One year later, Perreira released “What’s That Got to Do with My Dreams?” He celebrated by running the full Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon in about four hours and 15 minutes. Less than one hour later, he was performing on-stage immediately after Everclear finished its set.
initially reached out to Perreira and discussed inviting him onto the show but nothing ever materialized. The singer-songwriter does not mind, though. “This, to me, is the most beautiful thing,” Perreira says. “I would not change anything about it because, honestly, if she answered the door yearone, this probably would have never turned into a nonprofit and I probably would never have done this again. “I also would not have become the person that I am today. There is so much growth that has occurred in me as a person — not just from me running 48 marathons for charity in the last two and a half years and raising more than $40,000 for these charities.” Perreira says that the response from the community has also led to a positive change within himself. “So many people were inspired,” he explains. “I had a woman come to a show six or nine months after I completed year-one and give me a book that she had spent years just sitting on. After hearing my story, she finished her book. That is the kind of stuff that has encouraged me to continue down this path.” leeperreira.com 16x16inc.org
As for “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” the daytime program’s producers november 2021
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Tam Ryan
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Originally published in 1844 as “The NewEngland Boy's Song about Thanksgiving Day,” Lydia Maria Child’s poem has become the quintessential celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, evoking childhood memories of traveling through an autumn dreamscape on the way to a Norman Rockwell-esque dinner with relatives. The poem includes references to “the white and drifted snow” because, in the early 19th century, New England was enduring the Little Ice Age — a colder era with earlier winters. In 1949, with a few modifications, Danny Kaye and the Andrews Sisters turned Child’s poem into a Christmas carol called “A Merry Christmas at Grandmother's House,” re-associating the classic lyrics with a different season and holiday. However, with references to blowing wind that “stings the toes and bites the nose” as well as “hurrahs” for pudding and pumpkin pie, the poem-turned-song, for many, will always elicit fall imagery and all of the intense emotions that come with the Thanksgiving holiday. The very visceral notion of being surrounded by brown tree trunks, green pine needles and leaves of yellow, orange and red produces both nostalgia for Thanksgivings past and anticipation for the festive family celebrations that are right around the corner. These thoughts and feelings are among the best representations of just how much sentimental significance a single image can contain. As such, photography truly is a form of visual poetry. Photographer Tam Ryan, whose mother was a writer and poet, gains inspiration for capturing nature in its many forms from a poem by Robert Frost called “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” That is perhaps one of the reasons her work is so astonishing. Images Arizona is honored to share some of Ryan’s alluring autumn scenes in this month’s photo essay. Arizona may be a bit warmer than New England but its beauty this time of the year is just as breathtaking. It is our hope that these scenes elicit the thoughts, feelings and maybe even memories of traveling over the river and through the wood to a wonderful fall holiday with family. november 2021
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Hiking through Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior has easy to moderate trails. I especially like the trail through the Eucalyptus Forest. It is the trail that leads you to the Herb Garden. Just a short distance past that is where I have seen the most vibrant fall color. Tam Ryan
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My mother was a writer and poet. I remember my introduction to poetry through some of my mother's books. One of my favorites was by Robert Frost, ‘Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.’ The last stanza of the poem speaks to my continuing inspiration for photographing nature in many forms — such as forests, lakes, streams, wildlife and birds. Tam Ryan
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The other inspiring locations that I have photographed are along the West Fork Trail at Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona. The trails lead to stream crossings which are easy enough to cross. For some, walking sticks are recommended. Every new corner you turn is as beautiful as the last. Tam Ryan
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ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER Photo by Ron Ricci Tam Ryan received her first 35mm camera at age 10 from her father, who learned darkroom photography from prominent New York photojournalist W. Eugene Smith. “That starter camera sparked my interest in photography,” Ryan says. “Everywhere I went, I had my camera.” Raised on the East Coast, Ryan was introduced to the American West via visits to family on the Western Slope of Colorado. She quickly became fascinated with the region's unique attributes and vast landscapes. During a visit to Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert with a photography group in 2012, she developed a particular interest in photographing birds. “I had lived in Mesa since 1997 but had never known about that birding area,” says Ryan, noting that, since then, the preserve has become one of her favorite places to photograph. “I have met many photographers [there] who have become personal friends or who have helped me identify some of the birds.” Ryan is especially drawn toward snowy egrets, great egrets and great blue herons but, as the artist has had the privilege to call the Desert Southwest home for more than 40 years, her photographic interests now also include abstracts in nature, desert flora, desert wildlife, macro and landscapes. Ryan, whose photography has won numerous awards and been featured in several calendars and publications over the years, believes that one of the greatest assets to her work is her zoom lens as it allows her to get close enough to capture incredible images of birds and other wildlife. “Giving them some distance is the best way to capture images that do not disturb their natural habitat,” she explains. tamryan.com tamryan.smugmug.com november 2021
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Writer Susan Kern-Fleischer i mCourtesy a g e s a r i zof o nSonoran a . c o m Arts novLeague e m b e r 2 02 1 Photography
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Jon Linton’s “Barrio Viejo” photograph of the front entrance of a colorful adobe home was chosen to grace the cover of this year's highly collectible Hidden in the Hills artist directory.
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Longtime Desert Foothills art enthusiasts may recall how Hidden in the Hills co-founder Judy Darbyshire hand-drew maps during the first two years of what has since become an iconic studio tour. Those photocopied maps were then personally distributed by each of the artists as well as posted throughout the Cave Creek and Carefree communities. As the event grew, the Sonoran Arts League invested in publishing a comprehensive four-color artist directory, with each one having become quite collectible. Each year, artists and art collectors alike wait in anticipation to see which talented artist’s work will grace the directory cover.
HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE
Horseshoe bend
This year, which mark’s the event’s silver anniversary, the Hidden in the Hills committee chose Jon Linton’s “Barrio Viejo” photograph of the front entrance of a colorful adobe home to be the featured cover artwork. Hidden in the Hills co-chair and gourd artist Jane Boggs says that the photograph beautifully captures the sentiment of Hidden in the Hills’ 25th annual event, which has grown to become Arizona’s largest and longestrunning artist studio tour. “After a challenging year, we are eager to welcome collectors and art enthusiasts to our studios for what is sure to be a memorable artist studio tour,” Boggs explains.
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE
SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN
The free, self-guided tour returns the last two weekends of November, featuring 191 artists at 45 studio locations throughout Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale. Some studios are off the beaten path while others can be found near familiar roads. Part of the fun is the chance to discover a diverse mix of talented artists — many of whom will demonstrate during the event.
SEEKING TRUTH AND NEW HORIZONS
An acclaimed photographer and activist who advocates for the homeless and other underserved populations, Linton is best known for his “I Have a Name” street photography series as well as his serene and stunning black and white landscape photography. Hidden in the Hills co-chair and mixed media sculptor Joanie Wolter says that this year’s cover art selection is especially significant because it is the first time that a photographer’s work has been featured on the artist directory cover.
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Laughing Glass Studio
Functional and Sculptural Glass Art
480-488-6070
4944 E. Sawmill Circle, Cave Creek Open by appointment year round! Carole@LaughingGlass.com
#23 JULIE GILBERT JEWELRY
Living The Dream Arts 6711 E. Highland Rd. Cave Creek
HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST STUDIO TOUR AND SALE
CAROLE PERRY & DON CARROLL
juliegilbertjewelry.com juliegilbertjewelry@gmail.com
Title: Turquoise Sunflower Story: The Sunflower is said to bring the recipient good fortune and lasting happiness. Medium: Argentium Silver, Sterling Silver and Turquoise
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BARBARA GOLDBERG Acrylic
602-538-1811
7831 East Carefree Estates Carefree BarbGoldbergArt.com Barb@BarbGoldbergArt.com
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By virtue of being selected as the Hidden in the Hills cover artist, I am already changing the trajectory of my career. I’m now inspired to expand my body of work to include additional imagery in color, and I’m looking forward to unveiling my new work during the artist studio tour. Jon Linton
“We had many strong entries,” Wolter says. “But ‘Barrio Viejo’ really stood out. It conveys a warm, welcoming message that resonated with us — and we’re thrilled that Jon will exhibit his new work during the tour this year.” Although the Phoenix resident has been immersed in the art world for more than two decades, this is Linton’s first year participating in Hidden in the Hills. He will exhibit and sell his work at painter Stuart Yankell’s Studio No. 24 in Cave Creek. “Barrio Viejo” is atypical for the talented artist, who primarily exhibits black and white photography. “I was reluctant to move away from black and white imagery,” Linton says. “I’ve always felt that in the absence of color, you see a certain truth that is left behind. But ‘Barrio Viejo’ did not feel honest absent color — and its truth provides new horizons.” After graduating from Eastern Illinois University with a liberal arts degree in 1987, Linton went on to work for
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST STUDIO TOUR AND SALE
"Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" 30" x 30" x 2.5"
NANCY BREIMAN FINE ART Oil Painter
480-262-5698 29682 N 67th St. Scottsdale, AZ
nbreiman@gmail.com nancybreiman.com
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HIGH DESERT CREATIONS A Whole Lot of Country – A Whole Lot of Rock & Rustic
A Whole Lot of Country — A Whole Lot of Rock & Rustic
Ralph Lauren in New York City. A displaced Chicagoan, the former art magazine and book publisher says that he was surprised and humbled to be chosen as the cover artist for this year’s milestone Hidden in the Hills event. “I’m honored and also moved by having my work highlighted in such a prominent way,” he says. “By virtue of being selected as the Hidden in the Hills cover artist, I am already changing the trajectory of my career. I’m now inspired to expand my body of work to include additional imagery in color, and I’m looking forward to unveiling my new work during the artist studio tour.”
Hidden In The Hills Studio Tour & Sale
Studio #14 31616 N. 70th St. Scottsdale, AZ 85266
"Where The Wild Things Are"
IN SEARCH OF PEACEFUL RESOLUTIONS
In honor of Hidden in the Hills’ silver anniversary, this year’s artist directory will also feature diverse art from three talented artists on the back cover for the very first time in the event’s 25-year history. Cynthia Downs-Apodaca is a talented contemporary jeweler who incorporates precious stones into her pieces to create stunning designs. While her creative process is spontaneous, she is meticulous with her constructive techniques.
"Unbridled"
Kathi Turner Mixed Media Jewelry Designer
highdesertcreations.com @HighDesertCreations kathi89445@yahoo.com | 775-304-6756
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE
A Boston native, Downs-Apodaca worked in the corporate world for 30 years before discovering her passion for metalsmithing. “I took a class at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design to learn how to bezel a stone and my eyes opened to all types of possibilities,” she says. “I felt like a kid in a candy shop.” That pivotal experience led to a move to Tucson in 1995, where her metalsmithing career took off. An award-winning artist, she designs her jewelry to engage the wearer with movement and light. While she appreciates the beauty of diamonds and rubies, Downs-Apodaca prefers to work with unusual stones and fossils, including jasper, azurite, tourmaline and other rare minerals and gemstones. “Sometimes when I pick up a stone, I immediately see what I will do with it or I just know I will work with it at some point in the future,” she says. To create her Lapis Royalty Cuff, which is featured on the back cover of this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory, Downs-Apodaca manipulated delicate silver wires together to form a strong, durable cuff that features the deep blue, semi-precious stone prominently in the center, surrounded in 22-karat gold. This is Downs-Apodaca’s 22nd year participating in Hidden in the Hills. Tour guests can find her at Jane Boggs’ Studio No. 30 in Cave Creek, where she will exhibit a new selection of woven cuffs alongside many other designs in silver and gold. In addition, she will showcase a new line of pendants called “Precarious.”
<From left, contemporary jeweler Cynthia Downs-Apodaca, ceramicist Sylvia Fugmann Brongo and surrealistmagic realism painter Linda StoreyLondon will have their art featured on the back cover of this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory.
JUDY BRUCE Mixed Media
480-437-9995 7162 E. Stevens Rd. Cave Creek judybruceart.com
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE Cynthia Downs-Apodaca - Lapis Royalty Cuff
Artist Cynthia Downs-Apodaca
“Each piece creates a preciously-balanced design, which finds its center in spite of itself,” Downs-Apodaca explains. “The idea really springs from how unpredictable our nation’s situation has been. The designs are meant to be hopeful in that all issues can find their center and be peacefully resolved.”
APPRECIATING FORGIVENESS AND BOUNDARIES
Host of Studio No. 38 in Cave Creek, ceramic artist Sylvia Fugmann Brongo finds inspiration for her vessels, bowls and wall art from Mother Nature. Each clay piece is slab-formed and she often uses natural elements — like fossils or cholla cactus skeletons — to create texture. Fugmann Brongo grew up in upstate New York, near Rochester. Throughout high school and college, she experimented with painting, sculpture and fiber art, but she always came back to clay. “Clay is so forgiving,” she says. “And yet, I enjoy the challenges of knowing its boundaries, whether I’m waiting to remove it from a mold or I’m firing it in the kiln. If it’s too stiff, it will break apart. If it’s too soft, it can collapse.” In 2006, she moved to Cave Creek, where she found new inspiration for her art as she explored the Southwest. A true adventurer, she purchased a Winnebago Travato RV in 2018. Since then, she has traveled to more than 31 states, covering more than 40,000 miles.
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HITH Studio 22
Nicolette’s Contemporary Studio New Location - Same Great Art 6314 E. Morning Vista Lane, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
North
Scottsdale Rd
Morning Vista
64th Street
Dixileta
Dynamite
Tracy Paul
Nicolette Maguire Bonnstetter
Lynn Ballinger
Studio 22 Exhibits Every Other Year. Join Us This Year to See What We Have Been Creating! November 19,20,21 November 26,27,28 HIlary Wells
Allison Shock
Larry Brecker
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SARAH FOSTER StoneCreekJewelry.com
SARAH FOSTER StoneCreekJewelry.com ROBIN RAY RobinRayArt.com
Six artists represented with demonstrations daily at 2 p.m. november 2021
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE Sylvia Fugmann Brongo - Blaze
Artist Sylvia Fugmann Brongo
“Blaze,” her breathtaking vessel featured on the back cover of this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory, is the largest piece that fits in her kiln. Using gravity as a tool, she created “Blaze” upside-down over a form to create a swirling effect. The one-of-a-kind vessel features soft-carved layers on the outside with subtle negative spaces that give viewers a glimpse at the bold, colorful, shiny glaze inside. Like “Blaze,” many of Fugmann Brongo’s pieces have a 3D effect that captures a sense of movement. She enhances each piece with many layers of airbrushed colors to elicit thrilling or soothing emotional responses. She fires each piece in a kiln for 8–10 hours before giving it 24 hours to cool. Sometimes she needs to go back and add more color. “The kiln gods can take control,” says Fugmann Brongo, noting that those pieces have to be fired for a second or third time. During Hidden in the Hills, Fugmann Brongo will exhibit a new series of bold, contemporary vessels, bowls and wall pieces along with whimsical, colorful garden sculptures.
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Meet the artists & discover new art! Pick up your artist’s directory or go online to plan your free self-guided artist studio tour. Visit 45 studios featuring 191 artists in diverse mediums. Nov. 19, 20, 21 + Nov. 26, 27, 28, 2021 Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10am–5pm
Cave Creek • Carefree • North Scottsdale 480.575.6624 • Hidden In The Hills.org
Credits: (Left) ©2021 Jon Linton, Barrio Viejo, Photography (Right column) ©2021 Sylvia Fugmann Brongo, Blaze, Clay ©2021 Cynthia Downs-Apodaca, Lapis Royalty Cuff, Jewelry ©2021 Linda Storey-London, Barely Able to Contain It, Oil
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE Linda Storey-London - Barely Able to Contain It
LETTING ACCIDENTS HAPPEN
A surrealist-magic realism painter who loves to explore the mystery of the natural world, Linda Storey-London strives to convey the sense of awe and wonder that she sees in animals, landscapes, biology, astronomy and geology. She also likes to include humor in her work. Because her father was in the military, Storey-London spent much of her childhood moving around the country. She credits her mother for igniting her passion for art. “My mom was an amazing artist, but she was also very shy and she never exhibited her work,” says StoreyLondon, noting that, an elective art class at Washington State University completely turned her head around. “I learned how all things are related and I became fascinated with exploring the natural world through art. After that class, I switched my major from science to fine art.” A teacher for more than 37 years, Storey-London enjoys painting with oil, which allows her to easily change direction or paint over any mistakes. She also loves that it is sensuous, rich and transparent.
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HIDDEN IN THE HILLS ARTIST FEATURE Artist Linda Storey-London
“I am a spontaneous painter, and the outcome is always better when I let my muse be in control,” says StoreyLondon, adding that some of her paintings have up to 20 paintings underneath. “I always tell my students that they may start out with an idea for the painting, but it’s important to let the accidents happen. It will always be better in the end.” The back cover of this year’s Hidden in the Hills artist directory features her oil painting, “Barely Able to Contain It.” “It started out as a collection of old painters’ jars and pots on a bench in a studio,” Storey-London explains. “I began playing with different textures, which turned into the various flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. Then the bench disappeared and the pots began to levitate. The painting had its own ideas and life — and it was a delight for me to play and participate in its evolution.” During her first year participating in Hidden in the Hills, Storey-London will exhibit a variety of paintings at Michael D’Ambrosi’s Studio No. 39 in Cave Creek that she describes as “crazy and fun.” “My paintings are thought-provoking and uplifting,” she says. “But most importantly, I hope people will be inspired to look at the world differently.” hiddeninthehills.org
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im a g e s a19–21 r i z o n a and . c o mNov. nov26–28 e m b e r | 210 02a.m.–5 1 Nov.
EXPERIENCE
p.m. | See website for locations | Free | 480-575-6624 | hiddeninthehills.org
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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Brian Morrison
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It may seem like a Hollywood cliché: U.S. Marine veteran returns home from combat to face hidden battles within his own mind. He drinks too much, gets in trouble with the law and finds salvation after experiencing his own dark night of the soul. Except this isn’t Hollywood. Jonathan Hancock’s story is much more real; and he’s still writing the ending. Six years ago, Hancock began a 5,800-mile journey that would not only begin to heal his own wounds but that continues to help other veterans to understand and adapt to life after combat. Hancock’s journey began in 2004 when, as a young Marine, he was deployed to Iraq as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment — nicknamed The Magnificent Bastards. His unit fought in the first Battle of Ramadi and suffered more casualties than any other infantry battalion. Two hundred men in his 1,000-man unit were killed or wounded. For those who survived, the battle didn’t end when they finally flew home. Hancock’s story could have ended badly — very badly. In fact, it almost did. He returned from the horrors of combat and tried to slide back into his old life. He resumed college and did well for a short time before alcohol consumed him and trouble found him. After a suicide attempt, he became desperate. “I had to lay myself naked on the altar of humility,” Hancock says. And so he went for a walk. September 11, 2015, with 70 pounds of gear on his back, Hancock left his Maryland home in the middle of the night to find the men he served with and Gold Star families of those he’d lost. He didn’t know what he expected to find, but along the way, he not only found himself; he found a sense of purpose and direction that he thought had been destroyed by bullets and bombs. His journey would take him on a meandering trail across the country, down dirt roads and solitary paved highways. He camped where he could — sometimes stealthily — and only occasionally checked into a motel for a warm shower.
Jonathan Hancock’s journey began in 2004 when, as a young Marine, he was deployed to Iraq as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment — nicknamed The Magnificent Bastards. His unit fought in the first Battle of Ramadi and suffered more casualties than any other infantry battalion.
In Slidell, Louisiana, he met Brian Morrison, who graduated from the same high school. Morrison began to film Hancock’s trek and put together an award-winning documentary called “Bastard’s Road.” In his hard-hitting film, Morrison was able to capture the complex emotions that Hancock, his fellow Marines and their loved ones experienced. From behind his lens, he also documented a remarkable change in Hancock.
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Six years ago, Jonathan Hancock began a 5,800-mile journey that would not only begin to heal his own wounds but that continues to help other veterans to understand and adapt to life after combat.
As Hancock’s beard and hair grew wilder and his body underwent a healthy metamorphosis, his eyes became brighter and his smile became wider as, pound by pound, an invisible weight disappeared from his shoulders. “Ultimately, I learned that I am absolutely stronger than I actually know,” Hancock says. “I have a massive amount of courage I can rely on that I previously thought wasn’t there. It was cathartic for me, but it also helps others. Fortunately, we’ve also got this film to continue to reach veterans who need this message.” It wasn’t only physical pain he endured. “When I started to process everything, it was a roller coaster,” he explains. “It’s basically cognitive therapy with movement, 20–30 miles a day.” In total, he knocked on the doors of 75 people, including 11 Gold Star families, before completing his journey in an emotional homecoming of sorts — yet better this time — at Camp Pendleton. He was met by fellow Marines and Gold Star families who were not only moved by his walk, but who understood what it was like to return to civilian life after combat.
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PTSD — Redefined Jonathan Hancock estimates that 25– 30% of the surviving 2/4 Marines are living with post-traumatic stress. He intentionally leaves the word “disorder” out of that term. “I don’t say ‘PTSD,’” he notes. “I don’t like the word disorder. It’s not a disorder to have trauma. It’s about challenges caused by the experience of trauma. “I think we need to change the conversation about mental health when it comes to PTS. We’re not broken; we’re strong. We need to change the way we look at brain health and ways in which our memories process. It’s all about learning to build a toolbox and understanding how to cope.”
Shortly after Jonathan Hancock returned from the horrors of combat, alcohol consumed him and trouble found him.
Missing were those who fell in combat, as well as seven members of his unit who died from suicide upon returning home. Though not there in person, their lost lives became part of Hancock’s greater purpose: to provide resources and support to stop the alarming number of suicides among veterans. Today, Hancock is a new man, thanks in part to nearly 6,000 miles of introspection. Now a Phoenix resident, he heads his own nonprofit organization, called “Bastard’s Road Project,” taking other veterans on life-changing excursions to encourage them to talk about their experiences and to let those they love inside. “You have to call each other and continue to seek out connections,” he says. “We don’t get through anything alone in combat, so why do we think we have to get through it alone on the civilian side? “It doesn’t matter if it has been two weeks or 10 years. No time has passed as soon as you get on that phone.” november 2021
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The award-winning documentary “Bastard’s Road” captures the complex emotions that Jonathan Hancock, his fellow Marines and their loved ones experienced.
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Have you been delaying the inevitable?
Please Don’t Thank Me for My Service
If yes, it’s Time to Replace!
How many times has each of us heard or said the words, “Thank you for your service?” It may seem kind to say them to men and women in uniform, but Jonathan Hancock proposes an alternative. “We don’t know how to respond,” he says. “If we were in combat, it’s like, ‘What are you thanking me for? Being in prolonged gunfights, killing a kid or watching my buddy die and not being able to do anything about it? “We’d do better as a nation if we left ‘thank you for your service’ behind and changed it to, ‘Welcome home.’”
Bastard’s Road Project’s mission, in his words, is: “Walk long distances, figure some sh!t out.” And it seems he has done just that. Hancock came to Arizona in 2017 to attend Thunderbird School of Global Management, where he earned his degree in 2019. Earlier this year, he married his wife, Tiffany. His son, whose touching love for his dad is evident in the documentary, will be 11 years old next month. He lives in North Carolina with his mother, but visits Phoenix regularly. With any luck, he says with a gleam, his family will soon grow. Hancock’s newfound purpose is to spread the message he learned on his own — the message that saved his life. “It’s time to start understanding veterans instead of allowing yourself to be force-fed the false narrative by
Hollywood and the news,” he says. “If you truly care, you must start providing veterans with opportunities and start volunteering with veterans’ nonprofits to experience how veterans are really helping each other. “For veterans, it’s imperative that we begin to open up. We don’t exist in the age of Vietnam. We don’t exist in a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ society. We don’t exist in a country that restricts what we can say. It is incumbent upon vets to take the first step and reach out to each other. “There aren’t many ways we can be hurt doing that, but there are many ways that it can help.”
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And for Hancock, the journey toward healing, hope and purpose will continue … one step at a time. bastardsroad.com bastardsroadproject.org
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Grayhawk Golf Club
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Every round of golf at Grayhawk Golf Club comes with a healthy side of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert lifestyle — a relaxed atmosphere that provides an experience unlike any other in the entire world. It is that offering that has led the public club, which recently celebrated its silver anniversary, to be widely considered one of the absolute best golf courses in Scottsdale Boasting a unique, edgy golf experience driven by the type of service and conditions usually found at private clubs, much of Grayhawk Golf Club’s success over the past 25 years can be attributed to its first and only director of golf — Joe “Shoe” Shershenovich. Although he grew up playing all sports, Shoe says that he really excelled at golf. “I really enjoyed the game but simply had no idea about the business side of golf,” Shoe adds. “I am very fortunate to work with the leadership team at Grayhawk in a sport I love — and still very much enjoy playing today.” Although Shoe is responsible for nurturing Grayhawk Golf Club into the relaxed, well-rounded golf experience that it is today, its story actually begins with a meeting between Grayhawk’s founders — Gregg Tryhus and Del Cochran. “Gregg and Del sat down and thought about the things they would like in a club,” Shoe explains. “They wanted a place that takes the game seriously, the lifestyle and service seriously, but have the freedom to create a very different experience. Hosting special events, and having fun doing it, also was a big part of the vision.”
TEEING IT UP
Grayhawk Golf Club opened for play in 1994, just as the high-end daily fee, member-for-a-day movement hatched. Talon was the first of its two courses to debut. Designed by 1981 U.S. Open and 1979 PGA Champion David Graham and golf course architect Gary Panks, Talon boasts a 6,973-yard layout that provides breathtaking views of the nearby McDowell Mountains as well as the Phoenix/Scottsdale skyline. One of the course’s most notable features is the unique way in which its back nine is built around a series of deep box
canyons with a handful of holes laid out along steep drop-offs and thick stands of Mesquite, Palo Verde and Ironwood trees. Grayhawk’s Raptor course debuted one year later. Designed by famed golf course architect Tom Fazio, the par-72 course stretches 7,151 yards from the back tees and unfolds over the gentle hills and across shaded natural arroyos found in this picturesque corner of the Sonoran Desert. Usually set up for championships, Raptor offers thrilling challenges that command players’ respect through a highstakes game of risk and reward. Most of its fairways are generous, featuring large greens with sweeping undulations. Speaking of championships, Grayhawk Golf Club has played host to a number of them over the years, with Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie, Tom Lehman and Mike Weir being just a few of the golf pros claiming wins in the process. Grayhawk Golf Club hosted its first professional championship — now known as the WGC-Dell Match Play — in 1995, 1997 and 1998. In 2000, the club hosted the predecessor of the Hero World Challenge. It then hosted the Tommy Bahama Challenges in back-to-back years in 2004 and 2005. And from 2007 through 2009, it hosted the Frys. com Open, giving Raptor the distinction of being among only a handful of Arizona courses outside of TPC Scottsdale to host a PGA Tour tournament. Professional championships are only one piece of Grayhawk’s golf puzzle, though, as it is also a strong supporter of amateur golf. For example, Raptor hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Golf Championship earlier this year and will do so again in both 2022 and 2023. Moreover, 60,000 boys and girls on teams spanning all 50 states make their way through local and regional qualifiers to compete in the PGA Jr. League Championship at the club. “We’ve ended up covering a wide range,” Shoe muses. “Youngsters could potentially play here at the PGA Jr. League Championship, then the NCAAs and maybe even another PGA Tour event someday.”
HOLE IN ONE
Grayhawk Golf Club offers much more than just golf, though.
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Residents of Grayhawk — as well as golfers — enjoy coming to experience the relaxed atmosphere in a public, welcoming environment. Joe “Shoe” Shershenovich
“Grayhawk leadership always wanted the club to be a part of the residential and golf community,” Shoe explains. “Residents of Grayhawk — as well as golfers — enjoy coming to experience the relaxed atmosphere in a public, welcoming environment.”
high standards and expect us to meet their expectations every visit. We do our best day in and day out in every department to be as consistent as possible to back up our reputation. It is a fun challenge in a very competitive Scottsdale golf market.”
Grayhawk’s clubhouse, which opened alongside Raptor in 1995, is a timberbeam, stacked-stone beauty that features both a golf shop and a trading company. Meanwhile, its restaurants — such as The Quill Creek Café and Phil’s Grill — attract golfers and non-golfers alike thanks to their innovative indoor-outdoor patios, which were designed with Scottsdale’s wonderful weather in mind.
After all, Shoe knows that just as hundreds of golf’s best compete for championships, hundreds of thousands of everyday golfers compete for pride. Therefore, shopping, dining and simple relaxation and recreation with family and friends are key parts of Grayhawk Golf Club’s success.
In 2012, Isabella’s Kitchen opened just across Thompson Peak Parkway from the clubhouse and quickly became a North Scottsdale hot spot. Shortly thereafter, Grayhawk Golf Club launched the Morning Joint — more frequently referred to as Mojo by regulars — proving that the club really does aspire to provide its guests with an enjoyable, well-rounded experience. And it succeeds in doing so. Shoe reiterates that Grayhawk Golf Club’s elevation beyond golf to become a unique destination with something for everyone is what its leadership has always aspired to offer. “We had a lot of ideas that, from day one, are still in place,” he says. “It was a pretty simple formula of surface and service that we executed. Our guests have
Home to 36 holes of tour-tested golf that are open to everyone, the club has broadened its appeal to become one of the community’s most treasured gems. “Scottsdale — and Arizona in general — is an extremely strong golfing community,” Shoe says. “It is part of our lifestyle here and people enjoy coming to see what Scottsdale and Arizona golf is all about. Our local golfing community is very proud of our offerings and of the destination in general. “What is most important is most of our key/senior leadership has been with this organization for many years. We have a strong bond, all sharing the same goal to make it better each day, and that means a lot to me. It is still a lot of fun to come to work each day.” grayhawkgolf.com
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Writer and Photographer Francine Coles
thefancypantskitchen.com
Apple Crostatas
There is no better way to celebrate autumn in Arizona than with apple crostatas. Unlike a pie, these are meant to look rustic — which means the crust is basically foolproof and any little imperfections look perfect! This recipe celebrates the very best of the season! Serves: 6
Ingredients:
FOR THE DOUGH: 2-1/2 cups bread flour 1/3 cup whole wheat flour 4-1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small chunks 1/2 cup ice water 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Directions:
To make the dough, pour bread flour, whole wheat flour, sugar and salt into the bowl of a food processor and mix to combine. Drop in chunks of butter then process in 8–10 long pulses, scraping the bowl often, until the ingredients look like coarse crumbs and hold together when pressed. Stir together ice water and vinegar in a measuring cup, then pour the liquid over the dough as you pulse the machine. Scrape the moist dough onto a work surface, shape into a log and divide into thirds. Press each piece into a disk, wrap tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next day, working between sheets of parchment, roll each disk of dough into an 8-inch circle. Cut each piece into a 7-inch circle, cover with parchment and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to two days. To make the filling, stir sugar, flour and lemon zest together in a large bowl, then stir in butter and lemon juice. Quarter and core apples, leaving peels on, and slice very thinly. Place apples
FOR THE DOUGH: 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 5 teaspoons bread flour 1 lemon, zested and juiced 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 4 medium sweet apples (such as Golden Delicious, Fuji or Gala) FOR ASSEMBLY: 1 egg, for finishing Coarse sugar, for finishing
into the bowl and use your hands to toss until completely coated with the sugar mixture. To assemble, working with one circle of dough at a time, peel away the top sheet of parchment then pile apples in the middle of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border all the way around. Press apples to make a compact mound then fold the edges of the dough over the filling and press together, allowing apples to peek through the center. Repeat with remaining circles of dough and apples. Refrigerate for up to one day. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer crostatas to the sheet. Stir a splash of water into egg and brush the sides of each crostata with the mixture, avoiding the top rim of the dough. Sprinkle the sides with coarse sugar then bake until crust is beautifully golden and a knife inserted into the apples meets little resistance, about 45 minutes. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Scan this QR code with your phone or visit anchor.fm/imagesaz to listen to Season’s Eatings, Images Arizona’s exclusive podcast featuring Francine Coles’ holiday cooking tips.
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7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080 november 2021
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