Images Arizona August 2019 by Images Arizona Magazine

Tramonto Anthem Desert Hills New River

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO. 3418

August 2019

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Upcoming Concerts Sasha Masakowski: Art Market August 8 Hans Olson: The 50th Anniversary Show August 11

OTTMAR LIEBERT

Tia Fuller: Diamond Cut August 12

Monday, September 2 | 6 & 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 3 | 7 p.m. $43.50–$48.50

New York Voices August 15

One of the most successful instrumental artists of the past decades, Ottmar Liebert presents his brand of Spanish-inspired easy listening music. “Beautifully haunting” —Guitar Magazine

Radney Foster August 16 John Jorgenson Quintet August 22 Band 2 featuring Tim Ries, Bernard Fowler, and Guests August 27 And many more!

2019 Concert Series sponsored by

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MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ

August 2019

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INVISIBLE CHAINS J. MICHAEL WILSON Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Carl Schultz

COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Amanda Christmann

ARIZONA ICONS JON LINTON Writer Amanda Christmann Photographer Jon Linton

SEDONA WINE COUNTRY Writer Fadi Sitto Photography Courtesy of Sedona Adventure

Tours and 360 Adventures

STAY COOL WITH SUMMER DINING SPECIALS Writer Shoshana Leon Photography Courtesy of Aaron Markus, Hermosa Inn, The Phoenician, Mountain Shadows and Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

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BROWN SUGAR CINNAMON GRILLED PEACHES WITH WHIPPED RICOTTA Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

August 2019

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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Christmann

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Hanie

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph Airdo Amanda Christmann Sue Kern-Fleischer Kyndra Kelly Shoshana Leon Shannon Severson Fadi Sitto

PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Baxter Kyndra Kelly Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz

ADVERTISING SALES Cooper Langston 480-544-8721 cooper@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 © 2019 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved.

It’s August in the Valley of the Sun, and every year at this time, exhaustive heat feels heavy in the air as the days seem to drag on endlessly. While other parts of the country suffer bitter cold winters, it’s the overdose of August sunshine that pushes Phoenicians to retreat indoors. It’s a small price to pay to enjoy nine months of spectacular weather each year. Times like these make me wonder if we would appreciate the beautiful days if we didn’t also endure the uncomfortable ones. It seems that, in order to realize the good things we have, sometimes we have to experience life without them. There is no better illustration of this than this month’s photo essay, Arizona Icons, featuring the striking black and white landscape photography of Jon Linton. As the pages came together, I found myself paying special attention to photographs of places I’ve seen time and again—the Grand Canyon, Superstition Mountain and Horseshoe Bend, to name a few. Yet they look and feel remarkably different without the vivid hues we’re all accustomed to. Of course, unlike the contrast of the stifling summer heat to our pleasant winter air, Jon’s images are not an antithesis to the stunning beauty of Arizona’s iconic land and formations. They’re a complimentary look at the world around us, and they invite us to see things in a different way—which is a lesson we can all gain wisdom from.

Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Local First A R I Z O NA

Enjoy this month’s magazine! Once again, thank you for making Images Arizona magazine part of your lives. I will always be grateful for you, and for this special community we all call home. Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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August 2019

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Yei - Sandpainting Size: 37” x 35.5” Weaver: Lillie Clawson Trading Post: Redrock

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O R I G I N A L C O L L E C T I O N O F W O R K F R O M SKILLED NAVAJO WEAVERS

HAND - CRAFTED COLLECTION

NAVAJO RUGS CIRCA 1930 - 1950’s

For centuries, Navajo weavers have preserved their culture and history in the carefully woven strands of rugs and other textiles. A collection of authentic Navajo rugs amassed over 70 years is now featured at Grace Renee Gallery.

Yei - Sandpainting Size: 49” x 44.5” Weaver: Unknown Trading Post: Redrock

Granado Red Size: 50” x 39.5” Weaver: Margrette Milan Trading Post: Redrock

Yei - Sandpainting Size: 37” x 35.5” Weaver: Lillie Clawson Trading Post: Redrock

Yei - White Size: 54” x 33.5” Weaver: Unknown Trading Post: Redrock

Crystal Size: 68” x 37.5” Weaver: Mary Jane Nez Trading Post: Redrock

Storm Size: 84” x 50.5” Weaver: Unknown Trading Post: Redrock

Historic Spanish Village

7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7, Carefree, AZ 85377

GraceReneeGallery.com

480.575.8080

August 2019

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Carl Schultz

In a quiet corner of Carefree, the knowing eyes of two bronze sentinels stand guard in front of Grace Renee Gallery. Remarkable for their artistic quality, the expressive faces of this equine pair are well-suited to their names: Power and the Passion. Yet art imitates life. The true beauty of these majestic sculptures lies not in their obvious visual appeal, but in the stories behind the finer details. In the early 1990s, artist J. Michael Wilson spent many months using bronze to create two larger-thanlife horses that would eventually be installed in front of a then-new building in downtown Glendale, California. It was, and remains, the tallest building in the city, and his horses, called Power and the Passion, were meant to honor the past and inspire future generations.

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Wilson had been creating commissioned work for several years, including work for Mattel Toys, Lloyds Bank, the 1984 Summer Olympic Games and University of Southern California. His bronze sculptures of both human and equine forms were striking, and he was in high demand when the Glendale developer called. Thirty years later, Wilson isn’t in a hurry as he explained the story. The cadence of his carefully measured words is an expression in itself. We both settled comfortably into our chairs as he spoke. “The whole thing behind Power and the Passion is …” he said, his words trailing off as he processed just where he wanted to begin. He took a quick but sizeable breath and continued, growing more animated as he spoke. “As an artist, I see all of these sculptures in front of buildings, and I’ve always thought, ‘Why can’t you integrate the sculpture with the building somehow and have the two work together?’ “In my head, I saw this team of really powerful horses, and I thought, ‘Wow! Yeah! What if we have these two powerful horses working together?’ Then I started thinking about everyone in the building and how they would also be working together, and that was a great way of tying the two concepts together.” He sat upright in his chair as he explained the idea that had bloomed in the corners of his mind so many years ago. He’d imagined the two spirited horses bound by chains to the building, working in concert to pull it forward. He envisioned the strain in each muscle of their bodies as determination and raw power drove them onward. The building itself would become part of the artwork, with a portion pulled out as if moved by the horses’ might. He built his story to a crescendo, then nearly half a lifetime of regret seeped in his voice.

Come see two exquisitely cast bronze

“Everybody loved the idea except one person—the architect,” he said, flopping back in his chair.

sculptures, the Power and the Passion,

Unwilling to change the lines he’d drawn, the architect had nixed the idea of incorporating the building into the artwork. Bound by his role as a commissioned artist, Wilson was forced to capitulate.

Village offered for sale by Grace Renee Gallery.

showcased in Carefree’s Historic Spanish

August 2019

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The developer seemed determined to carry the concept, through. “He said, ‘That’s okay. We can still attach cables to the building and make it appear as if the horses are pulling it.” Wilson spent countless hours creating the molds, then refining his work. His own desire for perfection—not for his own purposes, but to please his employers—often drove him to work through the night. He painstakingly shaped every muscle, vein and hair on the horses’ bodies, and he made indentations in the figures where the cables would fit for the final installation. Before the molds were destroyed, Wilson recast only the heads of Power and the Passion and designed pedestals for them. After years of standing proud on a large local horse ranch, they are now looking for a new home at Grace Renee Gallery. Like a parent sharing photos of their children, Wilson shares a picture of his bronze horses. “The one that’s down, that’s Power; the one that’s up, that’s Passion. When I was making them, I often thought they could have been called ‘Agony and the Ecstasy,’ because those were better descriptions of what I was feeling. “They are the largest pieces I had ever done, and it was quite an undertaking.” On the day of the install, the horses were settled into their permanent home, save for the cables, which were to be installed the following morning. “The developer said, ‘You know what? I think they look just fine without the cables on. Let’s leave the cables off.” Once again, Wilson had no authority to make his own artistic decisions.

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“If you look closely, those horses have indentations on their muzzles where cables were going to go,” he explained. “Now, I see that they are a metaphor. We all have invisible ties that keep us from doing things.”

BREAKING THE CHAINS For a moment, we both remained quiet, gathering our thoughts. As fellow creatives, we understood the unspoken.

MAKING MEMORIES H WESTERN STYLE

OLD WEST SPIRIT NEW WEST TALENT

For artists, musicians, writers, photographers and others in our eclectic tribe, our work is often not entirely our own. Most of us want desperately to be untethered so that we can be free to express ourselves in our own unique way, yet we are bound by responsibilities, economics and expectations. “It’s always a struggle for me to find a happy medium between what the person who is commissioning it wants and my own ideas,” Wilson said. We commiserated on the fact that we often find ourselves viewing our work through the perspective of a real or imagined audience. Our idea of “good” work has less to do with our own self-expression than it does about gaining approval from others. For Wilson, change is in the air. “I am 66 years old, and I’ve been doing this for 37 years. Now that I’m getting a little older and have some work behind me, I’m feeling a little more freedom to explore who I am as an artist,” he said. “I just keep telling myself that I’m not sculpting for an audience anymore. I’m sculpting for myself. It doesn’t matter if no one understands it; it’s something I have to do for myself.” Recently, he has left old habits and comfortable spaces behind and began a new series of pieces. For starters, he’s set aside his oil-based clay. “I tend to overwork my pieces,” he said. “With oil-based clay, I can take as long as I wanted because it won’t dry out on me. Last December, I thought, ‘What would happen if I use something that has a time limit on it?’”

6130 East Cave Creek Road • Cave Creek, AZ

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He shifted his medium to plaster, and for the first time in his career, began focusing on small-scale figures. “Every day has been revealing new stuff to me,” he said. “It’s really exciting—kind of a departure from what I normally do with my work. “I’ve been feeling this change coming on for close to 10 years, but I’ve been so afraid to allow myself to do it,” he said. “People expect your work to look like the other pieces you do.” Passion lights his eyes from the inside as he speaks of his latest work. “I’m just seeing so much beauty in these simple forms,” he told me. “At the core of it is the freedom to create anything I want and know that it’s just as legitimate as anything else I’ve done, even if it’s just for me.” And so Wilson is emerging, unbound and untethered. With his release has come not only an evolution in his work, but in his thoughts on the legacy he would someday like to leave. “I was thinking about it as I was working this week,” he said with a thoughtful inflection. “It’s kind of a like an entry in a journal. What I do today is my entry in today’s journal. It’s, ‘This is who Michael was today.’ “It doesn’t mean it’s who I will be tomorrow or who I was yesterday. It’s just who I am today, and that’s good enough. “I want to be authentic. I want people to know who I was, not who I was made to be.” We both smile knowingly as we relax into our cushions. “See what happens when you ask me about art,” Wilson says with a grin. “I just go on and on.” gracereneegallery.com

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Upcoming Community Events The following events are free and open to the public. Please join us! STAR PARTIES JAZZ CONCERTS 10-YEAR Sept. 26, 2019 Oct. 24, 2019 ANNIVERSARY Oct. 24, 2019 Apr. 16, 2020 Oct. 12, 2019 Nov. 21, 2019 STEAMtastic Jan. 23, 2020 Feb. 20, 2020 Mar. 5, 2020 Mar. 19, 2020 Apr. 16, 2020

More Info:

paradisevalley.edu/blackmountain 34250 North 60th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266 602.493.2600

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or national origin in their programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information visit: http://www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.

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COMMUNITY

2019 AUGUST

Writer Amanda Christmann

Aug. 3

GEORGE LOPEZ Funnyman George Lopez has built a solid career on laughs, and now you can see him live at Gila River Hotels & Casinos’ Wild Horse Pass. Guests under 21 must be accompanied by ticketed guest 21 or older. 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $47+. 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler. playatgila.com

Aug. 2

SEDONA STAR PARTY

special talks, live demonstrations, hands-on activities, a cash bar and more. 6 p.m. $12 for non-members.

SEDONA SUMMER

Be prepared for a journey across

600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-

Since acquiring two separate galleries

nature’s celestial majesty at the

716-2000; azscience.org

two years ago, it has been a goal of

Sedona Star Party. Hear a 30-minute

Bryant Nagel Gallery to eliminate

presentation from the Astronomers

the segregation of Native American

of Verde Valley on a large LED screen. Telescopes to view the constellations and planets and a laser-guided constellations tour will be reoccurring throughout the evening. 7 p.m. Lower softball field, 525 Posse Ground Rd., Sedona. 928204-1123; sedonastarparty.com

Aug. 2

FREE FUN FOR LITTLE ONES Children’s Museum of Phoenix is always fun, but it’s free on First Friday evenings! Children love the interactive displays, and there’s plenty to keep them busy. 5–9 p.m. 215 N. 7th St., Phoenix.

Aug. 2

SCIENCE WITH A TWIST Adults are invited to Arizona Science Center’s First Friday event with music,

Aug. 2–31

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childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

artists into a separate gallery, and to exhibit prominent Native American artists such as Tony Abeyta and Stan Natchez alongside such prominent international artists as Gregory Deane and Hans Schiebold. Sedona Summer showcases nearly 90 artists in Sedona’s cooler climes. Opening reception Aug. 2, 5–8 p.m. 431 SR 179, A1-2, at Hozho, Sedona. 928282-6865; bryantnagelgalleries.com

Aug. 6

PROMUSICA AUDITIONS ProMusica Arizona will be holding auditions for its 17th performance year. The beloved PMAZ chorale and orchestra are comprised of volunteer community members. Be part of this exciting group! Audition details online. 7 p.m. Crosswinds Presbyterian Church, 20125 N. 15th Ave., Phoenix. pgraetz@pmaz.org; pmaz.org

Aug. 10, 11

YOUTH ORCHESTRA AND STRINGS AUDITIONS If you are a young person who can meet weekly to rehearse and are willing to commit to the necessary practice, NVSO wants you in one of their three youth orchestras. Youth ensemble auditions for all levels, including beginners with one year of experience or more. Schedule your audition as soon as possible. Details online. Kirk’s Studio for the Performing Arts, 1836 E. Deer Valley Dr., Phoenix. cindyk@northvalleysymphony.org; northvalleysymphony.org

Aug. 10, 11

EXPERIENCE ELVIS The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll has left a legacy greater than most artists.

INJURY SCREENING

Experience a full line-up of exhibits and interactive displays, including puppet-making for young ones, a guitar exhibit, a photo booth and film screenings. See website for schedule. Free with museum admission. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

August 2019

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Aug. 17

DANKE SHOEN It’s Wayne Newton live at Gila River Hotels & Casinos’ Wild Horse Pass! Join Mr. Las Vegas for an evening of greatest hits and showbiz stories. Guests under 21 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult 21 or older. 8 p.m. $37+. 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler. playatgila.com

Aug. 14

Aug. 17

Liberty Station American Tavern

If you’ve ever wanted to know how

11TH ANNUAL FITZ’S SUPPER CLUB

and Smokehouse’s Terravita location

your favorite eateries use prickly

Join Larry Fitzgerald and his

will host Zin and Q, pairing

pear to make delicious treats, now is

celebrity friends at Dominick’s

favorite house wines with barbecue

your opportunity. Desert Awareness

Steakhouse at Scottsdale Quarter for

dishes. RSVP. 5 p.m. $55. 34522 N.

Committee of the Foothills

a night of entertainment, cocktails,

Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. 480-595-

Community Foundation will show

food, and a silent and live auction

9930; libertystationtavern.com

you how to gather and prepare

to benefit the Larry Fitzgerald First

prickly pear fruits. Try smoothies

Down Fund. $850+. VIP reception

Aug. 14

and lemonade, and see what the

5:30 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m. 15169

prickly pear tastes like fresh from the

N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale.

INDOOR PICNIC

cactus. Free. 8 a.m. Desert Awareness

larryfitzgerald.com

Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine’s casual

Park, corner of Cave Creek and

summer gatherings feature guest chefs,

Vermeersch Rds., Cave Creek. 480-

brewers, winemakers, distillers and

488-1090; azfcf.org

ZIN AND Q

PRICKLY PEAR FEST

Aug. 26

Aug. 27

merchants. 6 p.m. $35. 6710 E. Cave

WELL, WELL …

Creek Rd., Cave Creek. 480-488-8031;

If you are a well owner or user,

cartwrightsmoderncuisine.com

you’ll want to check out “Water, Black Canyon City, and Me.” Hear from experts familiar with Black Canyon City, New River and Desert

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Hills water issues. Fills quickly. RSVP. 5–8 p.m. Free. Cañon Elementary School, 34630 S. School Loop Rd., Black Canyon City. Call Lani Lott 602-738-8381; bit.ly/well_workshop; facebook.com/blackcanyonheritagepark

Aug. 28

CHARCUTERIE—ARIZONA-STYLE

I DON’T JUST SEE A CUSTOMER. I SEE YOU. I’m here to get to know who you really are so I can help life go right. Let’s talk today.

Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine owner Chef Brett Vibber will host Chef Joe Rodger from Sedona’s Indian Gardens Café

Nanette McClelland-Miller, Agent

and Market for a special five-course collaborative dinner featuring desert-sourced charcuterie selections. Enjoy live

39504 N Daisy Mtn Dr Ste 114 Anthem, AZ 85086

music, beverage tastings and more. RSVP. 6:30 p.m. $95.48–

623-742-6866

$127.30. 6710 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. 480-488-8031;

nanettemiller.com

cartwrightsmoderncuisine.com

RSVP FOR DOWNTON ABBEY WEEKEND In celebration of the return of the Downton Abbey Dowager and her family that we have loved for years, the English Rose Tea Room is hosting Downton Abbey Weekend Sept. 14 and 15. Dress in your favorite Downton costume an enjoy trivia, best-dressed awards, photos and a few surprises. RSVP early. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $60 includes afternoon tea and goody bag. 201 Easy St., Ste. 103, Carefree. 480-488-4812

DON’T MISS THIS SEASON OF SONG! Music lovers are in for a treat with Arizona Musicfest’s 29th season show-stopping lineup of 27 performances Nov. 8 through March 13. Tickets are on sale now for Grammy award winner Michael Bolton; chart-topping, multi-talented entertainer Vanessa Williams and more. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

THURSDAYS AT KEELER’S Things are heating up at Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse with the announcement of the restaurant’s live music schedule. Local performers take the stage Thursday evenings through August 29. 6–9 p.m. 7212 East Ho Hum Road, Carefree. 602374-4784; keelerssteakhouse.com

ART ON DISPLAY Thunderbird Arts Center in North Phoenix is proud to present Thunderbird Art Works, a new initiative that pairs local artists with local businesses. The goal is to bring art out of the studios and into public spaces. Elevate Coffee Co. at 2530 W. Happy Valley Rd. Suite 1273; Natalino Italian Restaurant at 610 E. Bell Rd.; and Thunderbird Arts Center at 1106 E. Grovers Ave. will showcase local artists through Sept. 13. Be sure to visit and support local businesses and local art.

August 2019

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Writer Fadi Sitto Photography Cowboy Poets of America

Sharlot Mabridth Hall, one of the first true cowboy poets, was born in 1870 and died in 1943. She wrote about a summer parade at the rodeo that continues today in Prescott, Arizona. With any luck, you can hear a contemporary cowboy poet read her words at this year’s Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering. “There is never a loss for words, and the poets here speak from their hearts,” says perennial Cowboy Poet Gathering attendee and Prescott resident Allison Brader. “I never miss this event. I just love it here.” Prescott, Arizona is known for being one of the cowboy capitals of the world. The city comes alive this month with spirited cowboy poetry during its Annual Gathering of Cowboy Poets at Yavapai College Performing Arts Center. More than 40 cowboy poets and singers will perform for three days, sharing the heritage and culture of the American cowboy. Along with live entertainment, workshops and local cuisine, organizers of the Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering believe in educating new generations about the authentic way of the cowboy and how their poetry and music continues to develop and evolve.

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“

Gone are the silent riders, and only the sun beats down on the trampled, barren arena and the chute gates weathered brown they’ve ridden back to the days that were but before a play is made three cheers for the unseen men who passed In the old cow men’s parade. Sharlot Hall, “Poems of a Ranch Woman” (1953)

The event also features free day sessions during which attendees can meet cowboy poets and singers to enjoy stories, ask questions and learn about the colorful history that celebrate our Western heritage. Cowboy poetry originated just after the Civil War during the great cattle drives. Cowboys had plenty of time to ponder, with long days on ranches and dusty trails for surroundings and circumstance. Many of them put their words to rhyme. It has since evolved into a competitive narrative art form, with enduring gatherings worldwide. The rhyme and rhythms come from the heart. It comes from experience. The Arizona Cowboy Poetry Gathering gives select artists who enjoy composing, writing and reciting cowboy poetry an opportunity to get up on the stage and share poems, songs, and stories that are most important to them. “Some will make you laugh, some might bring a tear to your eye, and some might make you think about what’s

August 2019

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important to you. Most cowboy poetry and music is not Western novel and movie fare. It comes from real life, out here in the real West,” says Jim Buchanan, Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering’s board president. This year’s event is keeping its focus on the working cowboy, their land and their livestock. This is evident when you see the event’s collectible poster titled A Cup of Joe by Joe Netherwood, which features a cowboy on a horse receiving coffee from a fellow cowboy. Gathering patrons can come in and view original paintings and sculptors by Joe Netherwood, Bill Nebeker, Steve Atkinson, Shawn Cameron and Marless Fellows. Regional scenery, animals and real-life cowboys are all captured in their one-off pieces and depict the American West. New to the show will be five selected up-and-coming Western artists and their art on display in Yavapai College Art Gallery, adjacent to the lobby where the show takes place. Those who arrive early are invited to experience more about the cowboy lifestyle during Coffee with the Cowboys Saturday morning. Nightly poetry recitals and live musical performances begin Thursday and go until Saturday evening.

EXPERIENCE The Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering Yavapai College Performing Arts Center | August 8–10 | 8 a.m.–10 p.m. | 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott | 928-713-6323 | azcowboypoets.org i m a g e sfor a r i zentertainment o n a . c o m Aug ust 2 019and pricing schedule 22See website

Thursday night will feature awardwinning performer Trinity Seeley. Friday night’s featured performer is Chris Isaacs, three-time winner of the Academy of Western Artists Will Rogers Award. The trio The Cowboy Way, made up of Doug Figgs, Jim Jones and Mariam Funke, will be the featured act Saturday.

the art of organization

“We think this year’s poets and singers are the finest group of reciters and singers available,” says Buchanan. “We’ll give them five venues to perform in and open our doors to the greatest audience in existence.” Even with all the pomp and pageantry, the events take place in an intimate setting. The Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering invites men and women who are now, or who have been in the past, part of the working cowboy’s environment and workplace. “It’s the dedication of our more than 100 volunteers that make this event possible year after year,” Buchanan says. Here in the Northern Arizona highdesert terrain and the center of the area’s ranching lifestyle, this gathering commemorates the end-of-the-cattledrive festivities that defined the Old West. An unmistakable camaraderie complete with tall tales, poetry, singing, dancing, thick steaks and strong drinks. For 32 years, Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering has been an anticipated featured event in the Southwest. It has succeeded in preserving and perpetuating the values, traditions and history of cowboy poetry and music as it was enjoyed for decades past, and is being presented in the contemporary form today. azcowboypoets.org

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Modern luxury meets masterful design Modern luxury meets masterful design with this 5+ bedroom, 4.5 bath, 4,300-square-foot luxury Anthem Country Club home. There is plenty of room for visitors in the well-appointed guest casita, and no detail has been overlooked. More than $300K in upgrades make this home absolutely remarkable. A heated Pebble Sheen pool and spa with Pentair WiFi constructed in 2016, extensive travertine decking, a dreamy outdoor kitchen and fireplace, wrought iron and French doors, and new rain gutters have been added to the exterior. A three-car extended garage leaves plenty of space for vehicles, storage and all of your toys! Enter through the courtyard and into a dramatic rounded entryway, and the upgrades continue. A family room built for entertaining, a custom wine cellar, an enhanced audio system created for viewing five different TVs, stone floors and new luxurious carpet are just a few of the custom features. A gas fireplace in the family room creates a warm ambiance in the winter months, while the outdoor gas fireplace makes for the focal point for gatherings with family and friends. The kitchen is nothing short of breathtaking, with professionally finished lightcolored cabinetry throughout, leathered granite counters, a classically tiled decorative back splash, stainless appliances and more. Cooking has never been more fun than it will be on the professional gas stovetop. With so many beautiful features, this home is a gem, and it’s located in the phenomenal gated Anthem Country Club. Walking and biking paths, children’s playgrounds, a clubhouse with a recreation room, tennis courts, a community media room, heated community swimming pool and spa, and a fantastic golf course are all part of the comfortable Anthem lifestyle. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! To find out more, call Linda today!

Please call Linda for your private showing. Linda Rehwalt RE/MAX Professionals 602-402-1136 lindarehwalt@azrealty.com

August 2019

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of HonorHealth, JW Marriott and Lincoln Electric

One of the Valley’s most well-known names in medicine was not a doctor at all. In fact, he was an electrical engineer who turned a capital investment of just $200 into some of Arizona’s most notable businesses. John C. Lincoln will forever be known as one of the Valley’s most innovative business leaders. He used a little capital and a lot of forward thinking to create one of the country’s most reputable manufacturing companies, which then led to the creation of John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital, the Camelback Inn and other Arizona anchors. John Cromwell Lincoln was born July 17, 1866 in Painesville, Ohio. While in high school, he developed an interest in electrical engineering—an interest that he brought with him to Ohio State University. At the end of his third year in college, Lincoln felt as though he had learned all he could about electrical engineering in school and left without a degree. Over the next seven years, Lincoln held positions at a number of electric companies and even set up a small shop in his home where he took on small jobs. One of his personal clients, Herbert Henry Dow, paid Lincoln $200 to redesign a motor—a capital investment he used to found the Lincoln Electric Company.

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“He is a notable entrepreneur,” says Arizona State University emeritus history professor Dr. Philip VanderMeer. “He fits into a category or class of people throughout the country who were developing companies in the very late 19th and early 20th centuries and expanding these companies with a lot of innovation and intelligence.” Lincoln used his company to conduct research and to experiment with the electrical devices that he invented. By the end of his life, he was granted 54 patents for a variety of inventions—from variable speed electric motors to electric arc lamps and welding metals. “He was very innovative,” Dr. VanderMeer says. “He was an industrialist but he was also doing research and developing patents and so forth. He is quite interesting in that sense. Lincoln Electric took advantage of new technology by working on motors and batteries, then it became quite important because of its work with building.” Lincoln’s work with the Lincoln Electric Company was so significant that, in 1913, Ohio State University awarded him an electrical engineering degree honoris causa. The degree was predated to 1888—the year he left the college. It was at the Lincoln Electric Company that he also developed an interest in welfare capitalism, introducing programs that benefitted his workers like paid vacations, employee stock ownership, an employee suggestion program and incentive bonus programs.

IMPROVING ARIZONA’S HEALTHCARE Lincoln’s first and second wives—Myrtle Virginia Humphrey and Mary Dearstyne Mackenzie—passed away in 1913 and 1917, respectively. In 1918, at the age of 52, Lincoln married Helen Colvill. The pair first visited Arizona in 1930 and, shortly thereafter, they decided to move to the Valley. Helen had been diagnosed with tuberculosis, and it was believed that Arizona’s dry air and climate was better than that of Ohio for respiratory illnesses. They made their home near 32nd Street and Camelback Road, buying 320 acres—most of which they obtained by paying delinquent taxes, amounting to about $20 per acre.

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“You generally see a pattern of people migrating to different areas, but people moving for health issues is not something that is restricted to particular economic classes,” Dr. VanderMeer says. “When someone as wealthy as Lincoln is pulled to the Valley because of the health benefits, they begin looking around for opportunities. He had the capital, the skills and the contacts. All of those were real advantages in terms of economic development in the Valley.” Helen recovered within two years and, in 1933, the couple became involved with the Desert Mission—a comprehensive, faith-based community center founded by the First Presbyterian Church in 1927 in Sunnyslope. The facility provided medical, social and religious services, with a focus on tuberculosis sufferers, to those who could otherwise not afford it. In 1938, Lincoln and his wife gifted the organization $2,000 to purchase 20 acres of land between Dunlap and Hatcher and from Second and Third streets, and eventually helped expand it into the area's first medical clinic and emergency station. Lincoln often covered the operating expenses of the fledgling hospital, which was renamed John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital in 1954 in honor of his significant contributions to its concept and construction. HonorHealth’s John C. Lincoln Medical Center occupies the location today with 262 beds and one of the first level-one trauma centers in the Valley.

MAKING PHOENIX MORE COSMOPOLITAN Lincoln made many other real estate investments after arriving in Arizona, with one of the most notable being a 300-acre parcel situated between Mummy and Camelback Mountains in Paradise Valley. Sportswriter and publicist Jack Stewart approached Lincoln with the idea of building a pueblo-style hotel that would reflect the Southwestern and Native American cultures. Lincoln agreed, received stock in payment for the land and even contributed the cash necessary for the initial construction of what would become the Camelback Inn.

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John C. Lincoln is a person who had an impact on Phoenix through the hospital that he developed, through Camelback Inn and through the Lincoln Institute, which has partly headquartered here in the Valley,' Dr. VanderMeer says. 'But I think that he is also illustrative of the way in which Phoenix has always been connected to the rest of the country.

“This was an area that was ripe for development,” Dr. VanderMeer says. “Lincoln was always one for sensing good business opportunities and he took advantage of this. It was quite important to have the kinds of facilities that would attract people of wealth who wound up benefitting development in the Valley.” The Camelback Inn opened Dec. 15, 1936 with accommodations for 77 guests. Lincoln served as president of the resort, which became a popular destination for Hollywood celebrities and political leaders. Its earliest visitors included Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, Bette Davis and J.W. Marriott, Sr.—whose son would later buy the resort. Lincoln’s other real estate investments included 2,400 acres of land near Higley; 70 acres of citrus near Mesa; and a 2,000acre ranch with 197,000 acres of range land rights in Yuma County. Lincoln’s charitable contributions continued as well, as he helped build the main lodge at the YMCA Sky-Y Camp in Prescott in 1938 and a new YMCA facility in downtown Phoenix in 1944. Lincoln was also involved in Arizona’s copper interests, initially leasing the old Vulture Mine near Wickenburg only to later abandon mining efforts there during World War II. In 1944, he was named president of the Bagdad Copper Company. “True to form, Lincoln began looking into different technological innovations and ways to improve the operation,” Dr. VanderMeer adds.

lectures and establishing the Lincoln Foundation, which continues to contribute substantially to the Henry George School in N.Y. and the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy in Cambridge, Mass. “He remained active until the end of his life,” Dr. VanderMeer says. “He was still mentally alert and interested in the larger issues and causes that drove him most of his adult life.” Lincoln was experimenting with highspeed crushing rolls when he died on May 24, 1959, at the age of 92. Two years later, he was posthumously granted his 55th patent for a spring cushion that is still utilized in automotive seats today. And in 1998, he was finally inducted into the American Mining Hall of Fame. “John C. Lincoln is a person who had an impact on Phoenix through the hospital that he developed, through Camelback Inn and through the Lincoln Institute, which has partly headquartered here in the Valley,” Dr. VanderMeer says. “But I think that he is also illustrative of the way in which Phoenix has always been connected to the rest of the country. “Here is a guy who reflects an impulse that inspired reformers across the country. Lincoln was part of that, starting in the 1890s, and he maintained that enthusiasm throughout his entire life. “He had a way of raising issues and important questions that people here needed to grapple with, and he is one of the people who made the Valley more cosmopolitan and connected it to the rest of the world.”

CHANGING THE WAY WE LOOK—AND SEE Lincoln remained very busy during his later years, writing books and pamphlets on land and land taxation, providing economics

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photographer Jon Linton

A good photograph is seen with the eyes but a great photograph is felt in the soul.

If ever there was a truly inventive mind, it’s that of Jon Linton. Not only does Linton have the ability to view landscapes through an uncommon perspective, but he is also able to capture the synchronicity between color and emotion through the ironic use of black and white photography. Linton’s landscape photography is riveting, and it eschews the convention. Most of us think of the spectrum of oranges in Antelope canyon or the contrast of blue sky against the towering monoliths of Monument Valley. He removes what we think we know and replaces it with a perspective no less beautiful, but that alters how we feel.

Horseshoe Bend Located in Glen Canyon just outside of Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is the result of 20 million years of erosion. The Colorado River maintains a temperature of about 40 degrees as it flows through this dramatic canyon.

By stripping away color, it is as if he’s removing pretense, exposing the unflagging permanence of landscapes that have endured long before (and likely long after) the timeline of humanity. Each month, Images Arizona is proud to feature the work of a talented photographer. A few months ago, we showcased Linton’s work from his “I Have a Name” project documenting and validating the lives of people living on the streets. This month, we are delighted to share a very different side of his work.

August 2019

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Dirt Roads and Deserts The Arizona desert was home to indigenous people for millennia before European-originating settlers claimed land as their own. Even today, Western lore has painted a dreamy picture of dirt roads and wide open spacesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which really do still exist in our state today.

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White House Ruins These centuries-old ruins in Canyon de Chelly National Park were likely built around 1070 AD. They are believed to have been abandoned in the late 1300s.

Superstition Mountain Towering over Apache Junction in Pinal County is Superstition Mountain. Famous tales from here include the legend of the Lost Dutchman.

JON LINTON’S LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY After immersing himself in the troubling underworld of the streets of Phoenix and tirelessly advocating for people facing homelessness, Linton’s soul was weary. He turned to the quiet solitude of nature. With the weight of nothing but his camera and his own thoughts, he began photographing landscapes. With each click of the shutter, he began to heal from the wounds he’d endured in his fight.

ARIZONA ICONS Arizona’s most recognizable places—the Grand Canyon, Humphrey’s Peak, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley and Saguaro National Park, to name a few, have been captured in photographs by dreamers, tourists and marketing companies for over a century. From the red rocks of Sedona to rugged Superstition Mountain, Arizona’s landscapes have captured the imagination of humans for 25,000 years. Jon Linton’s keen eye for light and shadows and his innate unique perspective turn what we think we know about these places on end. The photos that emerge from his camera highlight the timelessness and raw beauty of the land that surrounds us, and the places that make our Arizona home special.

Today, landscape photography has provided Linton with both beauty and a full-time career. He continues to advocate for the nation’s homeless, as well as for kindness through his “Let’s Be Better Humans” project. He has passed his torch of passion along to others, who tirelessly continue his mission, but his own flame is no less bright. jonlintonphotography.com

Barren Desert One of the most common misconceptions about our Sonoran Desert is that it is barren. Of course, those of us who live here know better. Yet there are places where the arid desert floor weathers and cracks under the burden of suffocating summer heat. Though monsoon rains will replenish and renew, this, too, is an Arizona icon. August 2019 imagesar iz ona .c om

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER Jon Linton is a Chicago native, though he has called Arizona home for the better part of three decades. Linton’s first experience with a camera came around the age of 13 or 14 when he borrowed his mother’s 35 mm Minolta to capture photographs of the neighborhood where he lived. He developed his eye for detail and recognized early that, through film, he could express his individuality. He graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a liberal arts degree and entered into the NYC fashion industry in 1987. It was a colleague who introduced him to the art gallery business, and there he found his passion. In 1998, he decided to build a platform to highlight the many talented area artists he’d met. He began publishing ArtBook, a high-end art magazine, and created several books of art featuring artists from throughout the Southwest and beyond. During his publishing career, Linton shared friendship and office space with a man who fell prey to addiction. Linton watched helplessly as his friend’s life unraveled around him. “Addiction is an ugly, ugly creature,” said Linton. “His decent to the bottom wasn’t a slow elevator ride; it was a freefall. In a short period of time, he lost his marriage, his business and his home, and he ended up homeless on the streets of Phoenix.” As he watched his friend decline, he gained new understanding of what it was like to live on the streets.

Red Rocks of Sedona Sedona’s topography is most famous for its colors, and it feels entirely different when viewed in black and white.

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Though he had always been compassionate, knowing someone who was helpless to fight the forces that led him to homelessness gave Linton a higher level of empathy. When that friend died, Linton was profoundly affected. He turned to his camera and took to the streets. The result was a profound exhibit called “I Have a Name” that traveled through galleries and public spaces. He then collaborated with fellow photographer Brian Boner to create an installation called “Pillow.” Sponsored by Phoenix Institute of Contemporary Art and displayed from a container on Roosevelt Row, Pillow was a relatable way to humanize the plight of far too many homeless people within the Phoenix community. ihaveaname.org

Flagstaff Humphrey’s Peak is the tallest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet.

Monument Valley Navajo Nation’s spellbinding Monument Valley is one of the most majestic Arizona—and American—icons. Its sandstone monoliths tower 400 to 1,000 feet above the earth.

Grand Canyon This enormous Arizona icon is easy to identify, even in black and white.

Ponderosa Pines Eastern Arizona is the site of the largest stand of towering ponderosa pines in the world. These trees have been threatened by massive wildfires and drought in recent years.

Window Rock This spectacular monument is located near a Navajo town bearing the same name. Until 1936, it was known by its ceremonial name, Niʼ Ałníiʼgi, which translates to "Center of the World.”

August 2019

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Writer Fadi Sitto Photography Courtesy of Sedona Adventure Tours and 360 Adventures Opening photo by Kelsey Knight

When it comes to rolling wine country hills and terroir, Northern Arizona doesn't usually come to mind, but it should. “You can’t help but feel connected to the earth and dirt and all the happiness it gives back to you when sampling the wine here,” says Byron Clammas, a tour guest from Scottsdale visiting Javelina Leap Vineyard, just one of the many popular Verde Valley wineries. Arizona winemaking dates back to the late 17th century when Franciscan missionaries planted the first vineyards in the state, with early Sedona settlers getting the ball rolling—people like Heinrich Schuerman who arrived in Sedona in 1884 and planted an orchard and vineyard. A few years later he was selling apples, peaches and wine to the loggers in Flagstaff and the miners in Jerome. The Verde Valley offers the climate and sourced access to water that grapes need to thrive. The plentiful sunshine and dramatic evening cool-downs, combined with rich volcanic soil, create an ideal environment for robust boutique vineyards. These small-production vineyards showcase the passion of the local winemakers. If you're a wine aficionado, taking a day or two to follow the Verde Valley Wine Trail should be on your bucket list. Each stop along the wine trail allows you to tour the grounds and sample locally made wine. Sure, you could simply make that two-hour drive up north, schedule a wine tour and be cheerfully on your way to a pleasant Verde Valley experience. However, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and spontaneous, why not discover this award-winning wine region in a more unique way?

August 2019

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Arizona winemaking dates back to the late 17th century when Franciscan missionaries planted the first vineyards in the state, with early Sedona settlers getting the ball rolling...

KAYAKING AND WINE One unique way to discover local wineries is by kayak. Organized by Sedona Adventure Tours, this exhilarating way to explore the region’s beauty with the main goal of arriving at wineries is an adventure-seeker’s dream come true. Their Classic Water to Wine Tour begins with a one-hour kayak trip on a scenic stretch of the Verde River with just enough ebbs and flows to get your heart racing. The floating trip ends in the shade of massive cottonwood trees at the confluence of Oak Creek and the Verde River, where you’ll take a pathway up through the vineyards to the Tuscan farmhouse at Alcantara Vineyards. Alcantara Vineyards are a tourist favorite on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, featuring premium wines and welcoming sommeliers to guide you through your personal wine tasting. The Verde River is still one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets, and kayaking to reach wineries is a remarkable way to discover the geology, archeology, flora, and fauna of the region.

BIKING AND WINE If you’re one that’s always looking for another way to add some exercise to the mix of your day, you’ll want to check out the Grape Escape Bike Tour organized

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by 360 Adventures. There are different biking skill levels, and you’ll have plenty of time to get that perfect photo. This outing offers you the choice between a 10-, 20- or a 37-mile bike ride from Sedona to Page Springs Wine Cellars. There, you can bask in a fivewine flight tasting, a guided cellar tour and all the bells and whistles a notable winery provides its guests. With sun-drenched bike rides through Red Rock Country, towering rock formations and deep vistas, Sedona offers the wine-touring cyclist many challenges, personal rewards and an abundance of fun. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely family sightseeing ride or an all-day adventure, biking to your glass of wine could be the right fit for you.

AIR AND WINE If you’re hoping for a bird’s-eye view of Arizona’s wine country, a short flight from North Phoenix’s Deer Valley Airport will make your trip to Verde Valley extra special. Another off-the-cuff way to discover the wineries is through a scenic air tour with 360 Adventures. You’ll fly past the ridge of Pine Mountain and be delighted by the view of the Verde Valley, Montezuma’s Well and, of course, the red rocks of Sedona.

Once you’ve landed at the Sedona Airport, you’ll be escorted to your private luxury limo bus and travel to three distinct area wineries. A charming picnic lunch awaits you at one of the vineyards, and your adventure continues as you’ll have the opportunity to sample exquisite wines in friendly tasting room settings. Your relaxing day concludes with complimentary drop-off at the Sedona Airport. The return flight back to Phoenix travels above the Mogollon Rim, past Sycamore Canyon and then on to the historic mining town of Jerome. Your journey will end with a view of Lake Pleasant before landing at the Deer Valley Airport. Expect an eight-hour day for your entire unique jet-set wine getaway. Whether you’re with friends or celebrating a special occasion, you’ll discover Verde Valley vineyard destinations to be rich in taste, history and diverse beauty. sedonaadventuretours.com 360-adventures.com

August 2019

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One of the best things about summertime in Phoenix is that many restaurants and resorts offer special menus and dining events. With fewer visitors coming into town and residents escaping to cooler temperatures during the summer, there are many opportunities to enjoy spectacular dining experiences across the Valley of the hot, blistering, summer sun.

CARTWRIGHTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MODERN CUISINE During the summer months and into the fall, Cartwrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Modern Cuisine in Cave Creek hosts monthly collaboration dinners and casual indoor picnics with live music, guest chefs, beverage tastings, and local suppliers and merchants.

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CARTWRIGHT’S MODERN CUISINE

J&G STEAKHOUSE AT THE PHOENICIAN IN SCOTTSDALE Cartwright’s celebrates the food of Arizona and local suppliers in the summer and all year long. “We have foraging teams all over the state collecting wild foods of Arizona to showcase at our restaurant,” said Cartwright’s chef-owner Brett Vibber. “We pair that with close relationships with our farmers and suppliers. “I want our food to tell a story of the past, the present and where we are going. My hope is that our passion for what we do is transferred onto every guest’s plate.”

CARTWRIGHT’S MODERN CUISINE

Writer Shoshana Leon Photography Courtesy of Aaron Markus, Hermosa Inn, The Phoenician, Mountain Shadows and Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Cartwright’s Aug. 28 dinner features Arizona charcuterie with Chef Joe Rodger of Indian Gardens Café and Market in Sedona. The Sept. 25 dinner highlights Arizona meats with Chef Dom Ruggiero of Hush Public House, a Scottsdale restaurant that opened earlier this year to high praise from critics and diners. “When you get two chefs together who are passionate about their craft, you can make magic happen,” said Chef Vibber. “I feel like people are a lot more interested in learning about where their food comes from, and it has been exciting to watch. “These dinners serve as networking events where chefs get to meet farmers and suppliers, and diners get to meet chefs and winemakers. It is also nice for my kitchen crew to be exposed to new ideas that help them continue to grow as chefs.”

August 2019

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LON’S AT HERMOSA INN

Local resorts provide summer dining options with stunning settings and acclaimed restaurants led by some of the Valley’s most talented chefs. In addition to staycation deals and spa discounts, many resorts offer special summer menus and dining series to attract locals. LON’s at the Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley offers a threecourse Taste of Summer menu for $49 through Sept. 15. “The menu highlights summer produce, including squash blossoms from McClendon Select and Abby Lee tomatoes,” said Melanie Volkers, director of sales and marketing at the Hermosa Inn. “Locals look forward to summer when stuffed squash blossoms are back on the menu. This summer, they are stuffed with chorizo and cheddar, and served with corn pudding and pickled peppers. Another Taste of Summer favorite is the cucumber gazpacho with Dungeness crab, marinated melon and piquillo pepper emulsion.” For a truly unique summer dining experience, guests can enjoy a five-course menu for $69 in LON’s wine cellar with an optional wine pairing for $35 Thursday through Sunday.

HEARTH '61 AT MOUNTAIN SHADOWS

“Our wine cellar is our most coveted private dining room,” said Volkers. “Typically, the only way guests can dine in the wine cellar is if they are attending a private event. However, every summer we open it on weekends.” Those reservations are available seven days in advance.

TALAVERA AT THE FOUR SEASONS At Talavera at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, the Summer in Seville menu for two is available Wednesday through Sunday during August. The $98 menu includes sangria or txakolina, a Spanish sparkling white wine, tapas and vegetable dishes to share, and Talavera Chef de Cuisine Samantha Sanz’s summer version of her signature paella. “Summer in Seville is perfect for date night or a fun time with friends,” said Chef Sanz. “The menu is designed for sharing and is focused on seasonality. We have beautiful dishes that showcase the bounty of summer, like our corn paella with chorizo de Bilbao, clams and prawns.” In addition to the Summer in Seville menu, Talavera is offering monthly interactive dinner experiences for $125, including the Latin Heat dinner Aug. 29, and Nights in San Sebastian Sept. 19, featuring pintxos—small appetizers that are popular in the Basque region of northern Spain.

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“The team wanted to come up with a concept that would be fun and interactive for our guests,” said Chef Sanz. “The Latin Heat dinner is inspired by the rich culture of Latin America. We will have dishes like arepas, mofongo and ceviches, and refreshing cocktails, perfect for our August weather. “The San Sebastian dinner will have interactive pintxo stations, offering a variety of fun little bites packed with flavor and inspiration, paired with Spanish ciders and txakolina.”

MORE SPECIALS TO SAVOR Other resort restaurants offering summer dining specials include Different Pointe of View at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs in North Phoenix. Known for its breathtaking views, excellent service and romantic ambience, Different Pointe of View’s summer prix-fixe menu for $44 has three courses with optional wine pairings. Menu options include lobster bisque, sea bass, steak, creme brûlée and lemon blueberry cheesecake. Elements at the Sanctuary Resort in Paradise Valley has a three-course, prix-fixe menu for $54 and half-off select bottles of wine Sunday through Wednesday until Aug. 28. Sanctuary is also hosting intimate Breaking Bread wine dinners Aug. 10 and 24. J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician in Scottsdale offers a three-course meal for $45 through Sept. 19 with options including raspberry gazpacho, charred corn ravioli, flat iron steak and warm chocolate cake. The Phoenician also offers summer specials on afternoon tea, flatbread and a bottle of wine for $25 at Mowry & Cotton, and Champagne Saturdays Aug. 3 and 17 featuring champagne options, hot and cold appetizers, and desserts.

FOUR SEASONS TALAVERA

In addition to a three-course menu for $46 and halfprice bottles of wine Sunday through Thursday during the month of August, Hearth ’61 at Mountain Shadows in Paradise Valley continues its monthly Sunday Supper Club throughout the summer with guest chefs partnering with Executive Chef Charles Wiley to create four-coursers paired with beverages. Guest chefs include Mel Mecinas of Scottsdale National Golf Club Aug. 18, and Beau MacMillan of Sanctuary Resort Sept. 15. While it may be too hot to stand over the stove or man the grill during the steamy Phoenix summer, there are plenty of opportunities to leave the kitchen and enjoy fine wine, local fare and good company at some of the Valley’s best restaurants and resorts.

FOUR SEASONS TALAVERA

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Writer Fadi Sitto

i mCourtesy a g e s a r i zof o nMelindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a . c o m Aug 2 019 Photography Alley,ust Honor Amongst Thieves and Mystery Room 44

Phoenix knows how to honor its colorful past, and its speakeasy bars are no exception. Today, Phoenix’s modern version of the speakeasy thrives in popularity by staying true to historical roots. From 1920 to 1933, though booze was illegal and outlawed due to Prohibition, it flowed easily in numerous Arizona hideouts found only through word-of-mouth. What did Prohibition look like here in Phoenix? As with many Western cities, there was little enforcement. If one place was forced to close down, a new hideaway would open up nearby in no time at all. These secret speakeasy bars were often hidden in the backrooms of laundromats, butcher shops and behind unmarked doors. It was vital to keep these lucrative operations as discreet as possible. This open Wild West environment soon attracted these underground bars, as well as gambling dens and brothels. In dingy, dimly lit back rooms, women in flappers and men in three-piece suits danced the Charleston, coolly smoked cigarettes and imbibed in forbidden liquors and brews. The mafia was not too far behind, as these Phoenix speakeasy bars attracted notorious characters like Al Capone and John Dillinger. The term “speakeasy” came from the practice of speaking “easy” about the whereabouts, so as not to tip off the authorities. Once Prohibition ended, speakeasy-spots ceased to be relevant, but the allure of these secret bars has been carried onward into Arizona’s retro establishments today.

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Phoenix is home to several famed speakeasies that still offer hidden rooms, back-alley entrances and premium cocktails derived from the Prohibition era.

MELINDA’S ALLEY One such establishment is Melinda’s Alley. There are no signs, and you might have to know someone who knows someone who knows someone. In 2016, when Melinda’s Alley was ready to re-open for business, the business’s sign was spelled with an “e.” Shortly after the bar opened, it was discovered that the historical woman’s name was “Malinda,” but it was decided that the original misspelled name would stay. This speakeasy can be found down the alley between Monroe and Adams Streets, inside the cellar of the Renaissance Hotel. A massive mural of Malinda Curtis, an intriguing figure in Phoenix lore, draws visitors to a nearly hidden door that leads to the storied establishment. The historical accounts and rumors behind Malinda Curtis are nothing short of fabulous. Malinda was a woman who lived in the red-light district area of downtown Phoenix. She liked her gin and the neighbors knew it. She had several run-ins with the law over the years as well; she was once accused of using her feminine charms to seduce another woman’s husband. Curtis also became known for her big heart. She would often take in strangers or homeless people who were down on their luck and give them money to get back on their feet. As you walk in Melinda’s Alley, you’re struck with the vintage curiosity of it all. This speakeasy seats less than 50 people and the décor will keep your eyes wide open. The space houses antiquated couches, early 20th century light fixtures, mirrors and retro art. “I think people trust us here, they trust us making their drinks,” says the bartender (who, adding to the secrecy, wished to remain nameless) here at Melinda’s.

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After taking the seemingly endless walk through the hotel lobby to the secondfloor secret corridor, you’ll be greeted by wait staff in 1920s attire and a return to Prohibition-era drinks. Open only for three hours on Sundays and with limited space, you’ll definitely feel like you’re somewhere secretive and exclusive.

HONOR AMONGST THIEVES

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These secret speakeasy bars were often hidden in the back rooms of laundromats, butcher shops and behind unmarked doors. It was vital to keep these lucrative operations as discreet as possible.

No doubt, the lure of an ever-changing cocktail menu is a major part of why people seek out this bar. There are only five drinks on the menu, and it changes every week.

THE MYSTERY ROOM If you’re visiting the Camelback Corridor neighborhood of Phoenix, The Mystery Room is the secret legendary spot you may have never heard of, but should have. Within the historic Biltmore Hotel lies a hidden speakeasy, only accessible by a secret password that changes often. “I’m looking for John Galt,” “I have the missing eye to the blind tiger,” and, “Keep your heart above your head and your eyes wide open” are just a few of the passwords from the bar’s past. New passwords are posted without notice on Twitter, but if you ask the concierge nicely, you may get the new code—but no guarantees. The Mystery Room offers up a speakeasy experience that just may be the most authentic of all speakeasies in Phoenix. This is because the space has been used since the Prohibition in the 1920s, originally opened under the name, “Men’s Smoking Room.”

Another Phoenix hideaway that honors the history and atmosphere of authentic speakeasies is Honor Amongst Thieves. This uptown Phoenix hidden lounge is tucked above Stock & Stable Restaurant on 7th Street and is known for having some of the most elaborate and innovative cocktails in the city. Entrance to Honor Amongst Thieves can be found via a staircase located around the back of Stock & Stable, but the rumor is that there is a lesser-known way to find your way to this hidden gem if you’re ready to walk through a hidden kitchen cooler door. As you perch high up and place your elbows on the pristine wooden bar top, it’s easy to soak in the period nostalgia. With no windows and faint lighting, you’ll feel like you’re getting away with something by taking that awaited sip. For those who can keep a secret, Honor Amongst Thieves is the place for you. If you’re drawn by uniquely Phoenix experiences, these Valley hangouts are well worth the effort to find. Once you visit one speakeasy, you may never look at a regular sports bar or neighborhood pub the same. @melindasalleyaz @arizonabiltmore honoraz.com

August 2019

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Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of HeroZona Foundation

Arizona boasts one of the highest veteran populations in the country with more than 532,000 men and women who served in the armed forces in our midst—10.8% of the state’s population. Arizona vets are also among the nation’s most educated: 29.4% have a bachelor’s degree or better, which exceeds the higher education statistics for the general population. Despite those statistics, it’s often difficult for vets to transition back to civilian life and fully realize their career potential. HeroZona Foundation, a non-profit foundation co-founded by U.S. Army Desert Storm veteran Alan “AP” Powell, was established to tap into the deep well of talent these heroes represent, connecting them to job opportunities and providing them with the chance to get involved in charitable efforts. “As a U.S. Desert Storm Gulf War veteran, I understand first-hand how difficult it can be for vets reentering the workforce,” says Powell. “My desire to use my contacts for the greater good of humanity, specifically veterans and students, is what led me to found the HeroZona Foundation.” Powell notes that a lack of resources, education and guidance discourages veterans and students from pursuing entrepreneurship. HeroZona Foundation is working to change that. It has partnered with notable community stakeholders over the years—including late U.S. Senator John McCain, Arizona Electric Power Company (APS), Arizona State University, the Phoenix Suns and the Goldwater Institute— to increase opportunities for vets to be involved year-round. The foundation’s annual Phoenix Tools 4 School has impacted more than 40,000 students and family members with school supplies collected and then distributed in backpacks at a fun summertime event that drew an estimated 15,000 attendees in 2019. Students kindergarten through 8th grade were given a free breakfast before participating in a carnival with the Arizona Diamondbacks mascot, Baxter, the Phoenix Suns’ Gorilla and ASU’s Sparky, and then receiving their backpacks. Rising 7th and 8th graders had the

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option to participate in higher education workshops presented by Maricopa Community Colleges and ASU. “Tools 4 School is Arizona’s largest backpack drive,” Powell says. “We impact over 10,000 families by providing them with school supplies and college readiness workshop. Many of our volunteers are veterans and we have support from the Travis L. Williams American Legion Post 65.”

“

As a U.S. Desert Storm Gulf War veteran, I understand first-hand how difficult it can be for vets re-entering the workforce,' says Powell. 'My desire to use my contacts for the greater good of humanity,

“

specifically veterans and students, is what led me to

found the HeroZona Foundation.

HeroZona Foundation is dedicated to the personal career growth of veterans. One of the biggest events of the year is HeroZona National Veteran Summit, which takes place each November. This year marks the third year that veterans and their spouses will be able to attend the career fair and a special business fair for veteran-owned businesses. “The summit empowers veterans through entrepreneurship, employment and education,” explains Powell. “We had a record number of more than 1,500 U.S. veterans attend the 2018 summit over the course of three days. More than 75 organizations participated in the career and business fairs in an effort to network, hire and do business with veterans. “We had a special fireside chat with the ‘People’s Shark,’ Daymond John and HeroZona co-founder, entrepreneur-inresidence at Singularity University and managing director for kittyhawk.io, Aaron Bare. Our keynote speaker was veteran advocate Justin Constantine.” One of the efforts to employ veterans in the communities where they live is HeroZona’s Veterans Reach to Teach initiative. It’s a solution-based approach to the 1,700 teacher vacancies in Arizona. What better way to fill that gap than by connecting interested veterans and their spouses to serve in the classrooms? HeroZona guides them through the process of earning their substitute teaching and/or permanent teacher certifications.

HeroZona regularly hosts bridge forums, which connect an exclusive panel of police chiefs with community stakeholders. Some forums have included high school students and veterans. At last year’s National Veteran Summit, a special forum was held to discuss ways to better support veterans with recruitment, hiring, opportunities in community service, veterans in crisis and support systems. The success of the foundation proves there’s no end to what can be accomplished when the community comes together and the skills of veterans are put to good use. “We receive more support and grow every year,” Powell says proudly. “My plan is to continue on this path. I hope to carry on in educating the public about how we can help our future leaders and veterans through all of HeroZona Foundation’s programs and engagements. We are also gearing up for the launch of our Celebrate Arizona event in February 2021, which will celebrate the diversity and cultural aspects of Arizona.” For Powell, it has been personally satisfying to see veterans getting help, recognition and service experience within their communities. “It’s an honor to have served our great country in the military,” he says. “To now be giving back to both the community and fellow veterans has always been my life’s mission. “I’m so grateful to all of our community stakeholders and Valley leaders who believe in me and support our foundation’s goals. Our veterans are truly our great nation’s heroes, and they deserve to have the resources and education to thrive when they leave service.” herozona.org

August 2019

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Brown Sugar Cinnamon Grilled Peaches with Whipped Ricotta The perfect summertime treat for the whole family! If you already have the grill fired up, why not make dessert on it too? Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4 peaches 2 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 2 pieces prosciutto 1/4 cup granola Honey Whipped Ricotta: 1/2 to 1 cup ricotta splash of heavy cream 1 tablespoon honey dash of cinnamon

Directions: Bake prosciutto until crispy; let cool. Heat grill pan and brush with butter. In a small dish, melt the butter, add brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir to combine. Cut peaches in half. Brush each half of peach with butter mixture. Once grill is hot, place each peach butter side down. Let grill for 3 to 5 minutes, until caramelized and golden brown. While cooling slightly, make honey whipped ricotta. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whip until light. Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

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Serve peaches with whipped ricotta. Top with honey, granola and prosciutto and enjoy!

August 2019

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