Buffalo Collection

Where Luxury Meets the American West

Experience Buffalo Collection

BY MARY STANGER

T“The people who come in express the way it affects their senses – the smells of the bison leather, the warmth of the wood. You can tell everything was made with love.”

Photos courtesy Buffalo Collection

This is the way Michael Levenberg, co-owner and founder of Buffalo Collection, describes the furniture line he and his wife Laura created together years ago. Located in the heart of historic downtown Scottsdale, their showroom features extraordinary, hand-crafted, heirloom furniture, home décor and accessories – all of which blend luxury with the rugged American West. And, for many people – whether they have heard about the collection, seen an ad or read about it in a magazine, they don’t really understand and appreciate it until they’ve set foot in the store and experienced it firsthand. “It is very experiential in here,” Michael said. “We want people to come in and look, touch and feel what we have to offer.” Buffalo Collection contains work from more than 50 craftsmen and artisans, and includes everything from exquisite paintings and bronze sculptures to gorgeous wood tables and furniture. Every item in the store is made in the USA and personally hand-picked by the Levenbergs, who travel often to meet with each of their artists. Many of their artists have been with them from the very beginning of the company’s founding, and the owners take great pride in representing each of them. And, while the two share business responsibilities, it is Laura who provides the layout and design, putting her touch on the showroom. “I like everything to look beautiful from all sides and all angles,” she said. “Each item has a purpose and

its own space with room to breathe. Using natural elements like wood and stone brings nature into a space, creating texture, interest and warmth in a wonderfully subtle way.” ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE The couple take great care when producing their products to be environmentally responsible as well – and they have from the start. It all began on a beautiful ranch in Colorado. The land was settled on by a botanist who restored the native buffalo range and ended up developing a commercial buffalo meat business in the process. Guest lodges were eventually built on the land and the available buffalo hides were used to make furniture that could withstand the rugged cowboys, ranchers and hunters passing through. Michael, who was in the art gallery business at the time, and Laura were visitors to the ranch and collaborated with the local artists to build what is now known as Buffalo Collection. Unlike much of the furniture we see today on the market that is spray-painted and thin cow leather applied, the bison leather used for Buffalo Collection is made to last, minimizing what will end up in landfills. “We build in craftsmanship of the highest quality so each piece should last at least 100 years. They are so strong, you’ll never wear through them through normal usage,” Michael said. The buffalo leather they use is aniline-dyed, without the use of chromium that would end up in the environment and potentially our water supplies. “We did not want to use spray paint, so the colors are dyed all the way through the hide,” Michael said. In addition, and contrary to what some may think, the buffalo on the ranch were not raised to be used for the leather. The buffalo population was introduced first to restore overgrazed land, then to be used for meat, as a means of producing leaner, healthier meat. Their leftover hides were then put to good use and turned into durable, high-quality furniture. “We try to put all the various pieces to use,” says Michael. “There are a lot of things we do consciously and subconsciously, but ultimately everything we do is for the good.” Michael and Laura are passionate about being environmentally responsible in everything they do. Even the wood is sourced responsibly, with all of their wooden furniture frames made from replanted maple. Using maple—one of the strongest, most durable types of wood—complements and adds to the strength, durability and comfort of the bison leather used in their furniture. One of their suppliers has a license from the Forest Service to gather wood from fallen and dead trees, which is then made into products for Buffalo Collection. Not only does this aid by cutting down fewer trees, but it also helps to thin the forest, removing potential fuel for forest fires. Buffalo Collection’s tagline, “A State of Mind and A Way of Life,” conjures up thoughts and feelings of attitude for the Levenbergs. “Similar to our branding ad with the cowboy relaxing in the chair in the field on the ranch, under his cowboy hat, with a bison approaching—a feeling of whatever comes your way, you can handle it.” With approximately 50% of their furniture custom made, it’s a true compliment when customers are fascinated with and fall in love with Buffalo Collection furniture. Stay tuned for a new Buffalo Boutique, opening in November. Visit www.buffalocollection.com for more information.

Family room designed with Buffalo Collection furniture and accessories.

Michael and Laura Levenberg, owners of Buffalo Collection.

GREENShe’s GREENHe’s

BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART

Nothing beats the crisp cool air and color-changing leaves of fall. We love it! Not to mention more holidays and fun new fall-themed products to try! We grabbed a few interesting or unusual seasonal foods to try this month. Hope you enjoy reading, and may they spark some creative ideas for your holiday celebrations.

Kite Hill

Butternut Squash Ravioli, non-dairy recipe

He Said: I'd be genuinely concerned if I was a dairy farmer. These companies keep getting better and better at making milk alternative products. The pasta was the exact right consistency without using eggs as a binder, and the filling was delicate, smooth and sweet. These don't even need sauce. We used olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper and they were delectable.

She Said: You have no idea how excited I was upon finding dairy-free ravioli! Finally! I wouldn't say Kite Hill hit a home run here, but I did enjoy it. The squash was a little sweet and the almond milk ricotta was similar to dairy with a dry, grainy (but pleasant!) texture. A simple vegan butter garlic sauce rounded out the sweetness. Yum! Terra

Sweets & Apples Vegetable Chips

He Said: Terra chips have been making tasty snacks for forever. I really like their original root vegetable chips, so I was expecting to like this sweet limited-edition bag. The apples in this bag ruined it for me though. They weren't dried to a crunchy chip like the sweet potatoes, more like a fruit leather. I'm not normally bothered by food texture, but I just can't do chips and fruit leather at the same time.

She Said: The Terra company must have some masterful chefs on staff because I swear the sweet potato chips taste just like churros. Well, about a ton less sugar, and a little less cinnamon flavor, but it was hard to stop eating them. Good thing they're yummy because the bag is about 90% sweet potato and 10% apples (which were chewy anyway). Immaculate

Organic Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

He Said: If you've read any of our past reviews, you'd know that I am not a pumpkin spice guy. So I wasn't too happy when Jen picked these out, but I soldiered on like a good product reviewer. One bite and an astonished smile appeared on my face. These were crunchy, gooey and sweet with a hint of clove in the icing that rounded the flavor out perfectly. Way, WAY better than the original.

She Said: Oh man, BAKE THESE if you're having company over, or need to sell a house! Our house smelled heavenly, and these tasted even better. The perfect amount of pumpkin flavor totally elevated this comfort food to a whole new level. And now I've got a renewed respect for pumpkin spice flavoring.

High J Orchards

Organic Honeycrisp Chunky Applesauce

He Said: Honeycrisp apples are the best apples ever made. So, naturally, this should be the best applesauce ever made, right? Well, not exactly. High J made it a bit too chunky for me and I found the flavor a bit too bright and crisp. Maybe I'm an old-fashioned applesauce kind of guy.

She Said: I'm not used to chunky apples in my sauce, so that was weird. Tasted like straight-up pie filling, but cold, and not as sweet. Smooth applesauce is definitely the way to go. Let's leave concoctions like this for apple crumbles, crisps and pies. Oooh, sounds like a delicious idea!

GREENScenes

November Events Throughout Arizona

CENTRAL PHOENIX November 13

Tour O.H.S.O. Brewery in Downtown Gilbert

Award-winning Brewery O.H.S.O. is opening its doors to give the public a peek behind the curtains. The brewery will be offering guided tours of their two story Ale and Lager House in the heart of downtown Gilbert. Guests will have the opportunity to see a breakdown of the small-batch brewing process, along with having ample time to speak with a brewer, ask questions, and sample beer straight from the tanks. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to get an insider’s glimpse of one of the most prominent breweries in the Valley. The tour will be 45 minutes in length and will start at 11:00 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com/e/tour-ohsobrewery-in-downtown-gilbert-tickets-178328283697.

November 7

Embrace Market

Embrace Market is a must-see production created and run by local vendors. This vintage market features numerous handmade products, small local businesses, craft coffee and delectable food trucks. Embrace Market invites you to join in with the local community and start this holiday season off on the right foot. The market will be held at Pinnacle High School on Sunday, November 7th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and admission is free. For more information, please visit www.embracemarket.com.

November 14

theTASTE Food Festival at SanTan Village

Hosted by open-air shopping center SanTan Village, your favorite Gilbert and SanTan Village restaurants will be coming together to provide you with seasonal dishes, bourbon and wine tasting and celebrity chef demos. Enjoy a fun, light-hearted atmosphere featuring live music, raffle prizes, and more. General admission tickets are currently on sale for $45.00 and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters nonprofit. See more information regarding this event at www.happeningnext.com/event/thetaste-at-santan-villagefood-festival-eid3a08a38e5v.

November 20

Uncorked: Arizona Wine Festival

With its prominence around the nation, Phoenicians are ecstatic that this top-tier wine festival will be making a stop right in their backyards. Whether it’s a date night or an outing with friends, Uncorked will provide you with an evening of food and drink discovery. Uncorked is known for their beautiful venues, delicious food trucks and exceptional wine. The event will be held in the iconic Heritage Square historical district in the heart of downtown Phoenix. Uncorked invites every visitor with open arms, as their events appeal to both the wine connoisseur and the occasional drinker. More information can be found at www.uncorkedwinefestivals.com.

NORTHERN ARIZONA November 6

Na’cho Beer Festival

In honor of National Nacho Day, some of northern Arizona’s top-rated breweries will be hosting Na’cho Beer Festival. The event will feature live music by Flagstaff’s Tha Yoties, nachos from Farm a Go Go food truck, and some of the finest brew in the state. Expect a fun and welcoming atmosphere, as children under 12 get in free and dogs are encouraged to join in on the fun. Proceeds will also be benefiting Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters. Find all the details you need at www.facebook.com/ events/1225896514573354.

November 13

Wine and Mead Making for Beginners

One of the highly-anticipated events happening in the Flagstaff community is a beginners workshop for wine and mead making. Participants will be given a simple breakdown of the basics and will be able to walk away with all they need to know to start making their own wine or mead out of fruits, flowers and vegetables. The class will be held by wine-maker Mike Dechter. Do not miss this opportunity to learn a new skill and meet some new friends! Tickets are $25.00 per participant and can be purchased at www.knau.org/community-calendar/event/679079.

November 9

Plant-Based Junkfood in Flagstaff

For our vegan friends, along with food-lovers in general: this one's for you. Vuture Food, a company that fixes their focus on creating plant-based junk food, will be at last making it to Arizona from their Los Angeles neighborhood. They saw no better place to be than Flagstaff. Vuture will be partnering with Wanderlust Brewery to put on a three hour long event featuring your tastiest plant-based bites and craft beer. Make sure you do not miss this one and find all the details you need here: www.allevents.in/ flagstaff/plant-based-junk-food-in-flagstaff/200021671613107.

BUSINESS November 10

Next Level Networking

If you are looking to meet local business owners, professionals, and like-minded people, Next Level Networking, hosted by Kimberly O'Bannon of Networking In Action, is for you. The afternoon will start with drinks and appetizers and will then transition to a time of organized speed networking. The vision for this event is to foster lasting, positive relationships amongst business-minded individuals. Register online at www.eventbrite. com/e/next-level-networking-happy-hour-speed-networkingtickets-159549176883.

SOUTHERN ARIZONA November 7

Santa Marana Farm Fair

Santa Marana Christmas Tree Farm can be seen as the hub for all things festive in Southern Arizona. Join in on the fun at this year’s farm fair featuring over 50 vendors, food trucks, live music and a petting zoo. The farm can be found only 15 minutes from Tucson and will be sure to immerse you in the holiday spirit. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ events/826882894648888.

November 21

Cranksgiving Bicycle Scavenger Hunt

There is no better combination than having fun while also lending a helping hand. If you enjoy physical activity, engaging with the local community, and helping others, Cranksgiving hosted by Trek Bicycle Store is for you. Cranksgiving is an onbike scavenger hunt where participants will be sent to various grocery stores to find Thanksgiving-themed items for donation. This is a food drive that will be sure to help you meet friends and make an impact on your local community. Details can be found at www.facebook.com/events/trek-bicycle-store/ cranksgiving-2021/187063233406670.

November 6

Bravo Vino Wine Festival

On November 6, Tucson will have the opportunity to visit the food and drink Mecca: Bravo Vino Wine Festival! The festival will be centered around wine from over ten different wineries and will offer a variety of different delicacies from local food trucks. With over 40 vendors and live music throughout the whole day, Bravo Vino Wine Festival is sure to exceed your expectations. See more information at www.visittucson.org/event/bravo-vino.

November 9

Chamber Connections at Joe’s Real BBQ

Seize this opportunity to meet other professionals, gain insight on local business ventures, and enjoy some top notch BBQ! Hosted by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, this evening is designed around the mission to enhance the business climate in Gilbert and develop mutually-beneficial relationships within the business community. Admission is $15.00 and includes lunch and a beverage. Register online at https://business.gilbertaz.com/ events/details/chamber-connections-midday-6092.