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Contents
Publisher Shelly Spence
Editor/contributing writer Jenn Korducki Krenn
Contributing writers Donna Kublin Amanda Christmann Larson Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Rebecca Zaner Barb Evans Lara Piu Stephanie Maher Palenque Paula Theotocatos Lauren Strait Peni Long Suzanne Wright Nigel Spence
Photographers Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Mike Harvey Michele Celentano Karen Hamilton Monica Longenbaker
Graphic artist Sam Paul
Advertising Consultant Brian Bluvas
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 // imagesaz.com Submission of news for Community News section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright Š 2014 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited.
True to the Game
The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
John Ashworth pictured Writer Nigel Spence Photographer Jordan Phillips P. 44
Local First A R I Z O NA 4
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Sep tember 2015
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Welcome
W
Within these pages exists an intentional balance between the fun-filled, feel-good stories about people and organizations doing great things for our community and those stories that, while often equally full of warmth and kindness, are a little bit harder to read about. In a perfect world, words like illness, pain, suffering or death would not be part of our vocabulary. But the reality is that we never know when bad news is headed our way, which makes writing stories that paint authentic pictures of the human experience — both the highs and the lows — that much more important, if only so we know we’re not alone.
Meet The Ferrara Family Writer Lauren Strait Photographer Keri Meyers P. 8
There’s no way of sugarcoating, for example, what the families who receive care from Ryan House (“Ryan House,” pg. 26) are going through. But despite the fact that the organization exists for a very sad purpose — providing care for children with lifelimiting or terminal conditions — it’s a comfort to also learn that through Ryan House, great joy can exist alongside great sorrow. This month, the highs and lows strike an even deeper personal chord. My daughter, Amanda, has been in the hospital due to an abnormally low number of white blood cells, a condition called febrile neutropenia. As we await an official diagnosis — of which there could be many possibilities — I find myself stunned by how quickly our lives have turned upside down. But on the other end of the spectrum, I am amazed by how immediate and all encompassing the support has been for Amanda and our family during this uncertain time. I’d like to especially thank the incredible staff of doctors and nurses at HonorHealth, as well as my faithful team at Images Arizona, for working tirelessly on our behalf this month and beyond. It makes me all the more grateful for the people and groups that exist to help families in difficult situations — and all the more eager to tell their stories.
L.I.N.D.A.’s Wish P. 26
Sincerely,
Ryan House P. 32
6
Autumnfest P. 22
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Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
Care Sonoran Health and Emergency Center Emergencies can be frightening. We think it doesn’t have to feel that way. That’s why we honor your right to emergency care that’s personal and focused on your unique needs — 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week. On I-17, south of Carefree Highway.
Scottsdale Healthcare and John C. Lincoln Health Network are now HonorHealth.
We are making healthy personal.
HonorHealth.com Sep tember 2015
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Meet THE
Ferrarafamily
Writer Lauren Strait Photographer Keri Meyers
Jeanine and Anthony Ferrara have always had a lot in common. Growing up, they lived on opposite
Anthony, Jeanine, Robert, & Kristen If you know a family
ends of the street in a New York suburb, where they both played in the high school band. Anthony played various woodwinds; Jeanine played clarinet. One day, Jeanine got the courage to ask Anthony for a ride to band rehearsal. “I didn’t really need one, but I asked him anyway,” she says. He agreed, and soon they ended up going out on a few dates. “We were married three years later.”
you would like to nominate, please email shelly@imagesaz.com.
There was a turn of events around the time of 9/11. Anthony worked at Prudential in Valhalla, New York. The company was closing down certain divisions along the East Coast and opening a main location in Scottsdale. At the time, the Ferraras had two young children, Kristen and Robert. At first, they weren’t sure what to do, but the pair eventually decided to uproot their family and move to Arizona, where they settled in Anthem. “It was hard to leave New York,” says Jeanine. “We come from big Italian families and it was difficult to leave them behind.”
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But it wasn’t long before the family adapted to the more
tree; her daughter, Kristen, 22, also works as a teacher’s
laidback lifestyle of the Southwest.
assistant at Gavilan Peak School.
“It’s so fast-paced in New York,” Jeanine explains, “and
She truly enjoys working one-on-one with kids. When the
we wanted to raise the kids in a more family-oriented
kids see her, they burst with excitement. She is quite
environment. The best perk for Kristen and Robert was
magnetic with them.
having a swimming pool in the backyard.” Kristen recently graduated summa cum laude with highest You can take the family out of New York, but you can’t
honors from Grand Canyon University and was the class
take New York out of the family. The Ferraras continue to
valedictorian of her program. Currently, she is enrolled in
enjoy their East Coast roots in a multitude of ways. When
a doctorate program at Midwestern University to obtain
Jeanine isn’t making her world-renowned lasagna, eggplant
her clinical psychology degree. She loves kids and her
Parmesan or baked ziti for her friends and family at her
goal is to work in the psychology department at Phoenix
Anthem home, she enjoys watching her husband play in a
Children’s Hospital.
saxophone quartet. “She has always been very driven and determined from a
10
“He is very talented and plays regularly at a church in
young age and gives her all in everything that she does,”
Sun City,” says Jeanine.
her mother says.
As a retired schoolteacher, Jeanine still stays involved
From an early age, she was involved in dance, which led
with kids by working in the cafeteria at Boulder Creek
to her passion for musical theater. Kristen participated in
High School and as a teacher’s assistant at Gavilan Peak
several plays with Starlight Community Theater, with her
School. And the “Big Apple” doesn’t fall far from the
most memorable role being Nancy in “Oliver.”
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Robert is equally talented, except his stage is greener in color. He was a star soccer player, playing forward and midfield when he attended Boulder Creek High School. He just graduated a year ago and now coaches for Anthem Soccer Club while attending Grand Canyon University. He also works at the Anthem Community Center and volunteers at Arrowhead Hospital shadowing physicians in the radiology department, with aspirations of becoming a radiologist himself. He stays very busy, all while maintaining a 3.87 GPA in the pre-med program. “They both work hard,” says Jeanine. “Mom pushes them, but I know one day they will appreciate it.” When the Ferraras are not in the classroom, at work, playing musical instruments or on the soccer field, they enjoy the cultural arts. On weekends, you’ll find them at a fancy restaurant or at the theater enjoying a musical, play or ballet. Although the Ferrara household has been through a recent transition with both children off to college, Jeanine says she is enjoying spending more time with her yorkipoo, Sammy, who is 12 years old. “He still acts like a puppy,” she laughs. “He thinks he is the man of the house!” Jeanine and Anthony just celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary and, upon reflecting about their life, Jeanine jokingly says the secret to a healthy marriage is “to argue a lot.” “But the key is to not be stubborn,” she says. “You need to compromise once in a while, a little bit of give and take!” Sep tember 2015
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From left to right: Cooper Salmen, Emily Martin, Maddie Kemnitz, Dakota Rubie
Sports
The “Year-rounders”
Writer Tom Scanlon Photographer Tony Poleo
Anthem swimmers strive for success What better way to beat the heat and enjoy summer than to jump into a swimming pool? It’s how thousands of kids around Anthem spent their off-school months: plunging into pools, frolicking in the water or simply relaxing in reclining chairs. Then there are the ones for whom the pool tolls, calling them not for fun and relaxation, but for training, goal setting and grueling workouts. They fight through their personal walls, all to cut the time it takes to hit the physical wall — even by fractions of seconds. The casual treaders still outnumber them, and always will, but the numbers of serious young swimmers around Anthem is growing by the year, says Scott Newell. And he would know, as he coaches both the Anthem Dolphins Swim Team that competes in the spring and summer and the Boulder Creek High School varsity swim team that battles other schools in the fall and winter. “Our high school team is going to be very deep,” Newell says, not intending to pun from the pool. “We’re going to have a lot of kids: 30 or 40 girls alone, another 20 boys.” It’s not just the numbers, but also the level of seriousness that is deepening. “A few years ago, we had 50 kids and maybe eight to 10 swam year-round,” he says. “This year, of 50 kids at least 40 are year-round club swimmers. That’s great for me because I coach both teams, so it’s exciting.” The high school state tournament will be held November 7-8 at Mesa’s Skyline Aquatics Center. Several Boulder Creek swimmers will have shots to qualify and perhaps even compete for a state title. Those who
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From left to right: Ryan Anderson (10), Anthony Poleo (12), Ethan Anderson (12), Alex Helwig (12) and Jon Carlo (12)
Emma Sayers
make it to the state competition will feel all the hard work
Cooper Salmen
tournament last year hope to finish even higher this year.
they did over the summer pay off. Few swimmers suddenly have dramatic improvements; for most, shaving off time is a
For the boys, Cooper Salmen, Dakota Rubie and Anderson
long, painful process.
Cline will look to build on promising sophomore seasons in their junior year of high school.
The club competition “is not as rah-rah as high school,” Newell notes, yet it can be an important stepping stone to
The 2015 swim team also has two sophomores the coach is
those looking to make a splash when the school season
keeping a close eye on: his kids.
begins. “They’re not top 10 yet, but they might work their way up Newell is excited to see how the boys and girls of summer
if we don’t drive each other crazy,” the coach says of his
will perform in the school swimming season. Krista Kolkebeck
daughter, Julia, and son, Brendan. They’re not twins, but
has taken her batch of Boulder Creek records off to Arizona
close in age and mannerisms.
State University, where she will be competing as a freshman on the varsity swim team, and Katie Moore, off on a
“They might as well be twins; they have their own language,”
swimming scholarship to the University of North Texas, has
Newell says with a laugh.
also graduated from last season’s girls’ team, which finished sixth in the state.
While the varsity swim season began the first day of Boulder Creek’s 2014-15 school year, some of the most promising
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But Emily Martin, back for her senior year, has been
swimmers around Anthem aren’t even old enough for high
impressive in the summer swim season. And Madison Kemnitz,
school. In late July, Jon Carlo (“JC”) LoVullo won a state club
Ali Steinbach and several others who competed at the state
championship in the 11-12-year-old boys 50 freestyle with a
Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
stunning time of 27.53 seconds. Newell notes that the day before, JC had lost out in the 100 freestyle by a fraction of a second. “He got angry the next day and won by a lot,” he says. JC is just one of a talented group of young swimmers that includes Ethan Anderson, Alex Helwig and Anthony Poleo. “That group of boys have all been at state level since they were 9 or 10,” Newell says. “JC doesn’t really know how good he is; he walks with his head down. The rest of the boys are just nice, they act goofy and have fun.” The next generation of Anthem girl swimmers is led by record-setting preteens Hailee Cox, Abbey and Caitlyn Newell and 8-year-old sensation Emma Sayers. There are now swimming families — or maybe we should call them “schools,” a la fish — around Anthem; younger brothers and sisters get tuned in to the excitement of swim meets with the inevitable thrilling, razor-close finishes. They see the medals around the necks of their older siblings and the trophies they come home with. Most important, they learn the value of hard work, getting up early, eating well and grinding away long hours in the pool to get better, little by little. Though this isn’t a glamour sport like football or basketball, swimming often offers better odds of winning scholarships. Several Boulder Creek grads have combined excellent grades and solid swimming careers to score academic/athletic scholarships. The success of Boulder Creek swimmers in the past few years seems to be trickling down to the younger swimmers, who are expanding their training routines. “The high school age group has grown a lot,” Newell says. “They realize you can’t just walk into high school and think you’ll be good at it. If you really want to be good at it, you’ve got to commit to more than 12 weeks.” In other words, when school’s out, pool is in. In the coming months, the Anthem Dolphins of summer will see how far their fins can take them as Boulder Creek Jaguars, swimming into the fall — and perhaps even into college. Sep tember 2015
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community arts // Culture // announcements Writer Barb Evans
Sept. 18-27 Arizona Restaurant Week Discerning diners can try new restaurants and cuisine throughout the Valley during this 10-day dining tour produced by the Arizona Restaurant Association. Check website for participating restaurants and menus. arizonarestaurantweek.com. Photographer Grace Stufkosky. Pork Osso Bucco from Liberty Market.
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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements
Sept. 9 “Long May She Reign” Celebration Tea Celebrate the day that Queen
Sept. 5Feb. 28 Exhibit: Masterworks of Spanish Colonial Art This landmark exhibition features a selection of 18thcentury Spanish colonial paintings recently acquired by the Phoenix Art Museum from the estate of Gerry S. Culpepper and the Diane
Elizabeth II will become the longest serving monarch ever
Sept. 3-29 September is National Honey Month and to celebrate, Butterfly Wonderland will host a number of special events throughout the month, including a Celebration of Honey event, a visit from the 2015 Honey Princess, honey samplings and more. Check website for complete list of event dates and times. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via De Ventura, 480-800-3000, butterflywonderland.com.
Sept. 6
Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., phxart.org.
Hawaiian Luau and Pig Roast
Sept. 5, 6
Experience the ultimate
MIM Event: Experience India Museum for its third annual celebration of East Indian music and culture featuring vibrant musical and dance performances and hands-on
souvenirs, live music, a special
National Honey Month at Butterfly Wonderland
and Bruce Halle Foundation.
Join the Musical Instrument
with a lot of royal ephemera,
Hawaiian luau complete with traditional Hawaiian dancers, activities. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Included with paid museum admission. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.
two pig roasting buffet stations, face painting, lei making, a live reggae band and more. Purchase tickets online or in store. Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Rd., 480-488-1906,
menu and a chance to win a $100 gift card. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St., 480-488-4812, carefreetea.com.
Sept. 11-26 Starlight Community Theater Presents “Bugsy Malone” Two gangs, comprised completely of children, square off in a 1920s rivalry of Capone-ian standards in this play directed by Susan Gibson. Check website for show times. $15. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., Ste. 9, 623-252-6815, starlightcommunitytheater.com.
haroldscorral.com.
Sep tember 2015
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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements
Sept. 12 Java & Jammin’: Sophia Humbert Sophia Humbert, Gavilan Peak School student and recipient of the Upscale Singers’ 2014 First Place Scholarship Award, performs. 9:30-11:30 a.m.,
Guerrero, a Mexican-American
Free. Anthem Civic Building,
photographer who was born
3701 W. Anthem Way,
and raised in segregated
623-742-6050,
Mesa. 9 p.m. PBS, check local
onlineatanthem.com.
listings for channels.
Sept. 13Dec. 19
Sept. 22
MIM Fall Concert Series Enjoy more than 40 concerts ranging from Colombian folk group Cimarrón (Oct. 1) and South Pacific fusion band Te Vaka (Oct. 25) to 13-year-old pianist and composer Emily
An Evening with Author J.A. Jance Join New York Times bestselling author and Bisbee native J.A. Jance as she discusses her more than 50 novels, including the Joanna Brady series; the J. P. Beaumont series; the Ali Reynolds series; the Diana Walker thrillers and her poems/memoir, “After the Fire.” Registration required. $10. 6:30 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., 480-488-2286, desertfoothillslibrary.org.
Bear (Oct. 3) and singer/ songwriter Bruce Cockburn (Nov. 9). Check website for complete list of performers, times and ticket prices. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.
Sept. 16 Business Roundtable Local business owners,
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Sept. 20
operators and property
W. Anthem Way,
Bee Lecture and Tea with Emily the Bee Keeper Discover the secret life of bees and get a taste of fresh honey with Arizona’s queen bee, professional beekeeper Emily Brown. Call for reservations. $30. 3-5 p.m. The English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St., 480-488-4812, carefreetea.com.
managers can learn more
623-742-6050,
about the resources available
onlineatanthem.com.
Sept. 23
Sept. 18
Break-the-Fast Buffet Dinner
from the Anthem Community Council and its Economic Development Committee at this roundtable that includes breakfast, a panel discussion and more. Registration required. Free. 8-10 a.m. Anthem Civic Building, 3701
Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
Pedro Guerrero: A Photographers Journey PBS series “American Masters” covers the remarkable life and work of Pedro E.
The North Valley Jewish Community Association hosts this traditional Break-the-Fast buffet dinner. Adults, $25; children, $13; children under 3, free. 5 p.m. Anthem Country
community calendar arts // Culture // announcements Club’s Ironwood Grille, 2708 W.
Anthem Way, 623-465-9500,
Anthem Club Dr. Contact Fran
outletsanthem.com.
Kesselman, 623-322-0957 or
Oct. 3
fkesselman@cox.net, by Sept. 16 to reserve.
Mind and Body Interactive Expo
Sept. 23
Take health matters into your
Acci-don’t: Teen Safe Driver Program
own hands with a variety of speakers, activities and
Anthem-based insurance agent
demonstrations that promote
Justin Simons presents this
the benefits of health and
program that focuses on a
happiness. Free. 10 a.m. to
variety of safety issues, tips
2 p.m. Anthem Civic Building,
and the financial impact safe,
3701 W. Anthem Way,
Oct. 3
unsafe and distracted driving can have on teens’ lives. Parents and teens welcome. 7 p.m. Free. Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, 623-742-6050,
623-742-6050, onlineatanthem.com.
Hope for Horses Gala Support Triple R Horse Rescue’s efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home horses and burros with this third annual gala featuring live music by Mesa based singer/songwriter Mary Hoffman and band,
onlineatanthem.com.
a formal dinner, exciting programming and live and silent auctions.
Sept. 24-Oct. 4
37220 Mule Train Rd., triplerhorserescueaz.com.
MTA Presents “Shrek, The Musical Jr.”
$75 per ticket. 5-9 p.m. Carefree Resort and Conference Center,
Sept. 26
Oct. 3
opens their season with this
DAR Presents Free Genealogy Workshop
Outlets at Anthem Shopping Extravaganza
Musical Theatre of Anthem production based on the
The Ocotillo Chapter National
Get your shopping done with
Oscar-winning DreamWorks
Society Daughters of the
a day full of great deals,
Kerry Freeman Earns National Award
Animation film, “Shrek.” Check
American Revolution presents
exclusive discounts, free lunch,
The National Association of
website for ticket prices
this free genealogy workshop
wine tasting, live music, prizes
Enrolled Agents presented
and show times. Musical
for prospective members. 9:30
and more. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Anthem agent Kerry
Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N.
a.m. to 12 p.m. Anthem Civic
$20 per ticket; purchase at
Freeman, owner of Freeman
Vision Way, 602-743-9892,
Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way,
shopx2015.eventbrite.com.
Income Tax Service, with its
musicaltheatreofanthem.org.
ocotillo.arizonadar.org.
Outlets at Anthem, 4250 W.
Excellence in Public Awareness
Sep tember 2015
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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements award. The award is to
Services, is $70 per person.
acknowledge contributions
For more information and/
that have immediate and/
or membership application,
or long-term impact on
contact Fran Kesselman at
making enrolled agents more
623-322-0957, fkesselman@
readily recognized nationally,
cox.net or visit nvjca.org.
regionally or locally as the tax professional of choice.
Application Process Open for Anthem Youth Advisory Council
Freeman conducted a “flyover” marketing campaign last winter during the Valley’s two
Summer Reading Program Aided by Anthem Veterans Memorial
largest sporting events: Super Bowl XLIX and the Waste Management Phoenix Open. For more information, call
The Anthem Veterans Memorial (AVM) served as an educational aid for students learning about patriotism while participating in the North Valley Regional Library’s Summer Reading Program.
623-518-2157.
NVSO Announces New Concertmaster North Valley Symphony
Anthem residents John Ravita, a World War II Navy veteran, and Jose Torres, an active-duty Army captain and Bronze Star recipient, assisted in the lessons given over the summer at the memorial. Classes, clubs and organizations of any age are invited to schedule lessons at the AVM by contacting Liz Turner at
Orchestra (NVSO) announced
elizabethturner@yahoo.com.
Craig Triplett as its new concertmaster for the upcoming
applications for its Anthem Youth Advisory Council (AYAC), a group of 13 youth that inform the ACC of issues and needs concerning youth. Youth in grades 7-12 can apply to learn how local government works and how community services are provided; raise awareness
NVSO before accepting the
Hashanah, Erev Rosh Hashanah,
about the ACC, its mission
2015-16 season. Triplett began
position of concertmaster this
September 13, 6:30 p.m.; Rosh
and proposals among Anthem
playing the violin at 9 years
year. For more information, visit
Hashanah, morning service,
youth; share ideas about
old in St. Louis, Missouri, and
northvalleysymphony.org.
studied violin and viola at Southern Illinois University for two years before transferring to Northern Arizona University (NAU) on scholarship. He received his bachelor’s of music performance degree on the viola from NAU in 2002, and served as principal violist for
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The Anthem Community Council (ACC) is accepting
North Valley Jewish Community Association Celebrates High Holidays The North Valley Jewish Community Association will celebrate High Holidays with the following services led by Rabbi Janet Bieber: Rosh
Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
September 14, 9 a.m.; Yom
youth issues, needs and
Kippur, Erev Yom Kippur, Kol
community enhancements;
Nidre, September 22, 6:30
and develop leadership
p.m.; and Yom Kippur, morning
and operational skills and
and Yiskor service, September
contribute to the future
23, 9:30 a.m. A traditional
development and enhancement
Break-the-Fast dinner follows
of Anthem. Apply online at
at an additional charge.
onlineatanthem.com/ayac by
Annual membership, which
September 8. Terms begin
includes the High Holiday
October 7.
Sep tember 2015
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Writer Stephanie Maher Palenque
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
Local residents know David and Karyn Rosol’s legendary,
The barbecue episode in which the Rosols appeared
mouthwatering barbecue served at their Anthem restaurant,
aired on August 18 and featured a contest among
Q-to-U BBQ. Barbecue competitors across the nation are
three restaurants that serve barbecue (the other two
also well aware of the Rosol’s award-winning dishes. But
establishments were from Atlanta and Washington, D.C.).
what the Rosols didn’t realize is that their barbecue was
The Rosols were told to prepare a signature dish, and they
on the radar of celebrity couple, Ice-T and Coco, and the
chose pulled pork nachos, as they felt it best represented
producers of their new talk show, “Ice & Coco” — that is,
the Southwest.
until they received a phone call asking them to fly to New York City.
When all was said and done, even though Ice and Coco loved the pulled pork nachos, their dish came in second,
The Rosols happily obliged, and in a whirlwind 24 hours
edged out by a sweet potato soufflé.
flew to New York, taped their 10-minute segment and flew back home to Anthem. David is still amazed at how quickly
“Perhaps Coco’s pregnancy had something to do with the
it all happened.
fact that she favored the vegetarian side dish?” David wonders.
“We flew out to New York on a Thursday at 5 p.m. and by Friday at 4:30 p.m., we were heading back to Phoenix,” he
In any case, Q-to-U BBQ will always be a winner. The
says.
Rosols recently picked up more awards to add to their ever-growing collection, including a win in brisket, second
But those 24 hours were packed with a lot of new
place in chicken and a No. 6 ranking overall at the Fifth
experiences and memories. The show, which is taped in
Annual Holbrook Ace in the Hole BBQ Cook-Off. Next up is
front of a live audience and available in limited markets,
a challenge in Wendover, Nevada.
including Phoenix; Atlanta; Washington, D.C. and Detroit, was picked up for nine episodes. Depending on the success of
q-to-u-bbq.com
the show, the contract may be renewed and syndicated.
623-465-7800 Sep tember 2015
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Writer Lauren Strait
A stranger saved a little boy’s life after the boy had fallen
“All of the sudden, I noticed that the puppy was in the
into a pool. Thirty-four years later, the families reunited in
house,” she says. But she knew she had locked the dog
a most unique way.
out. She turned toward the back of the kitchen and saw that the patio door was open, and Ryan was nowhere to be
Andy and Louise Tobias grew up in Central Phoenix. Louise
found.
often spent time at her mother’s home a mile away, and this day was no different. The two of them got to talking
It was a mother’s worst nightmare. Louise walked into the
in the backyard while Louise’s 22-month-old son, Ryan, was
backyard and found her son face down in the pool.
playing catch with the new family puppy. “I scooped him up so quickly and gave him mouth to “My mom and I decided to head inside so I could help
mouth,” she says.
her get ready to go to the beauty salon,” says Louise. She grabbed her son and locked the puppy outdoors. Eventually,
When he wasn’t responding, she ran across the street with
Louise kissed her mom goodbye and started cleaning things
Ryan in her arms to find help at a neighbor’s house. When
up in the kitchen.
the neighbors didn’t answer, she darted back into her mother’s front yard and tried mouth to mouth again. At this
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
point, she panicked and ran into the house to call 911.
“Nancy told me she was planning Dennis’ retirement party and felt that one of the best gifts to give her husband
Out of nowhere, a man in an IBM truck whipped around the
was to invite us to the event,” says Andy. She explained to
corner, saw what was going on and administered CPR on
Andy that her husband talked about “that little boy” often
Ryan.
and wondered about him and how he grew up after all these years.
“He told me to stay in the house on the phone with 911 until the paramedics arrived while he continued to
“It was an amazing feeling to hear that both of our families
resuscitate him,” Louise says.
felt so connected to each other after 34 years,” says Andy. He told Nancy they would be honored to join them for the
Before she knew it, Ryan was off to the hospital and the
event and quickly went to work to get Ryan and his wife,
stranger had disappeared.
Jenny, out to Arizona from their home in Portland.
“From that point on, everything was a blur,” she says. Ryan
Nancy wanted to keep their attendance a secret so she
spent a few days in the hospital and, thankfully, made a
could surprise her husband.
miraculous full recovery. “When we arrived at the party, they had someone waiting After the trauma of the incident had receded, Louise
for us outside,” says Andy. The Tobias’ were kept out
continued to think about the man who helped save Ryan’s
of view for a while, mingling discreetly with guests and
life. She didn’t know his name, but did know he worked at
enjoying the appetizers as people went around sharing their
IBM and decided to write a letter to the company, thanking
stories about Dennis.
the man who saved her son’s life. Nancy made her way to the center of the gathering and Over the years, Andy and Louise have talked about how
immediately started telling the story of the day Dennis was
lucky they are to have been able to raise Ryan into the
driving around the corner in his work vehicle and came
young man he has become. They’ve gotten to see him
upon a tragic scene of a little boy not breathing and his
graduate high school and college, and recently get married
mom calling for help.
to the love of his life. “Everybody was tearing up at that point,” says Andy. One day, Andy received a mysterious email out of the blue from a woman named Nancy. She explained that she had
Nancy turned around and said to her husband, “Ryan is
found a letter in her husband Dennis’ box of work papers;
here.” At that moment, the family walked out. The first thing
he had recently brought his things home from his office in
Dennis said to Ryan was, “I remember kissing those lips.”
preparation for retirement. The letter was written by Louise to thank an IBM worker for helping to save her son’s life.
Everybody laughed.
Nancy had never seen this letter before, but it reminded her of the award her husband had won that year from IBM.
The most touching part of the event for Andy was hearing
They had given him a Humanitarian of the Year award for
his son thank Dennis for his life.
his help in saving a little boy’s life. “Ryan told me when I called him about coming to this party Nancy immediately wanted to reach out to the Tobias
that he was so incredibly grateful for all the things he has
family, as she had a great idea. She searched the Internet
done in his life, and he wanted to thank Dennis for that,”
and found Tobias Automotive on the Better Business
he says.
Bureau website, along with an email address, and decided to write to them. It wasn’t 10 minutes before Nancy and
The families hugged and promised one another they’d stay
Andy were on the phone together.
in touch.
Sep tember 2015
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Writer Peni Long
And they’re off! Once again, walkers and runners at the
more the merrier — and more money raised to support
Linda’s W.I.S.H. 5K run/walk will take on the challenge
the continued fight to find a cure for breast cancer, as
and fun of this annual fundraising event. On September
well as those who need help to cope with the diagnosis
26, runners and walkers of all ages will join in what has
and its aftermath.
become an inspirational tradition since its inception in 2001.
Together We Make a Difference Last year’s event raised a net $15,000 from race
26
Dedicated to the memory of founder Linda Kacmarsky,
entry fees, sponsorships and related donations, and
the event attracts participants from all over the North
the Boulder Creek High School girls won the coin
Valley. Last year’s race drew more than 400 participants
collection challenge with a grand total of $522. Every
to the beautiful Persimmon golf course at the Anthem
penny counts, and this year all will be donated to the
Country Club, also the site for this year’s event. The
HonorHealth Breast Health and Research Center (formerly
Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
John C. Lincoln), a local community focal point for research and services to those affected by breast cancer. According to Frank Kacmarsky, board president of the Linda’s W.I.S.H. 501(c)(3) organization and Linda’s husband, the goals of the race and the board of directors are to raise funds for HonorHealth, create a wellness event to help those who cannot help themselves and honor those who fought and lost the battle with breast cancer, as well as those who are still fighting. An important aspect of this event and its relationship with HonorHealth is that the funds raised stay in the community. “This was important to us,” explains Frank. “Every dollar helps someone right here in our local area — someone who may be like Linda. This event is a constant reminder of Linda’s kindness and passion. We can never fill her shoes, but hopefully we can keep her dream alive.” Linda lost her fight with cancer in 2010, but her legacy is an enduring one and this event is its heart. HonorHealth will use the donated funds to support patients, their families and caregivers by providing an abundance of unique services, including financial assistance, nutritional education, transportation, wigs and prosthetics, genetic counseling and specialized support groups. These services will be offered at no cost to those who will benefit from them. Some of Us Race, Some Just Enjoy Participants of all skill levels and ages are welcome to take on the challenge of the hills and dales of the golf course terrain. Those who wish to race and compete will be given timing chips and bibs, and the top three of all age classes for men, boys, women and girls will receive a medal at the conclusion of the event. But if you just want to walk and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Persimmon course, that’s OK, too. You will meet kindred souls, enjoy camaraderie and the feel-good spirit of the event enhanced by the light breakfast, gift bag from Valley sponsors and bottled water along the way. It’s a spiritual and spirited event, one that many participants return to every year. Jill Tetsell, walker and supporter, says, “It is inspiring to see so many people come together to support and honor friends, family and strangers alike. How awesome it is to walk in this beautiful community and at the same time know the effort is going to keep the spirit and hope for a cure alive.” Carol Ward echoes Jill’s sentiments. “The caring and support from this community is amazing and rewarding,” Sep tember 2015
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
she says. “I was diagnosed in 2004 and as a survivor, I appreciate the goodwill attached to this event.” Expect a few emotional moments at the kickoff, when some who may be in the middle of the cancer battle join hands to support each other and the event. But all in all, it’s a feel-good, I’m-really-glad-I’m-doing-this moment, well worth the time and the entry fee. Registration for Linda’s W.I.S.H. is $30 per individual, $10 per child under 12 years of age or $75 for families with up to four children until September 25. After that, the entry fees go up, so registering now is a good idea. It also helps sponsors and coordinators make sure that enough gift bags, water, T-shirts and breakfast goodies are on hand. To register, visit active.com and follow the steps to enroll. Sponsors Supporting the Event This year’s presenting sponsor for Linda’s W.I.S.H. is New Balance, a business with a philosophy of “listen, learn and refine” for its athletic footwear products and a continuing commitment to the cause. “When we were approached to be a sponsor for this event, it was very easy for us to say ‘yes,’” says Richard Grounds, vice president at New Balance. “It was a way for us to continue to be involved with this great cause in the name of a great lady. Also, when we heard that the money raised would be staying here in our local area, it meant a lot to us.” Sponsor packages at the levels of Rose-Colored Glasses ($1,500), Pink Ribbon ($1,000) and Product ($500 and $250) are still available for local businesses and individuals. Each comes with benefits before, during and after the event in terms of both publicity and product or business presence. If you wish to become a sponsor at one of these levels, the application is available at lindaswish.com under the “Our Sponsors” tab or you can contact Frank at kacmarskyf@gmail.com. Getting There Participants from outside the Anthem Country Club have easy access through the main gate located on Anthem Way just off of I-17. The gate will be easily identified by the race-inspired pink decor. The friendly guard gate staff will direct you to the course, which is just up the way on Anthem Club Drive. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the event kicks off at 8 a.m. After you sign in, enjoy the morning by spending some time with event sponsors and talking with friends, new and old. Then get ready, set, go — to help fulfill Linda’s wish for a cure. lindaswish.com kacmarskyf@gmail.com Sep tember 2015
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Writer Paula Theotocatos
Baby boomers — those people born during the post-World
1992, the Merrill family approached Pettit; they wanted to
War II years of 1946 to 1964 — are the fastest growing
diversify the company’s interests from timber — it had been
segment of the senior population in the United States.
in business since the 1890s — to something that would
Already, the youngest of them have turned 65. During the
create value and give something back to the community.
next 14 to 15 years, the oldest baby boomers will become
Pettit suggested senior housing, and they thought it was a
senior citizens, followed closely by the Generation X (1965-
great idea.
1980) demographic population. There will be a continued need for senior services while not skimping on quality of life
“I believed that Merrill could build a very high-quality
issues.
presence in the senior housing market,” Pettit explains. “It has been a very rewarding 23 years.”
On July 29, 2015, Merrill Gardens held a festive groundbreaking ceremony on the grounds adjacent to
Merrill Gardens recently went through a period where they
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Catholic Community for
systematically sold off 62 communities.
the newest addition to the Anthem Community: a senior residential community.
“They were older buildings, which we didn’t think would serve the seniors well,” Pettit says. “We put that capital to
Bill Pettit is president of R.D. Merrill Company, the parent
work building new buildings, which are better designed and
company of Merrill Gardens. In 1971, after 18 years in the
will do a better job serving our residents.”
banking industry, where he had been president of a regional bank, Pettit moved from the East Coast to the Northwest. In
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
Currently, there are 28 Merrill Gardens communities in the
United States and 10 new projects being built across
And, if they want to sleep in, they can come down for
the country. Merrill Gardens has also been in China for
breakfast later.”
four years in an advisory capacity and will build its first community there next year, which they will actively manage.
An abundance of activities will be offered, ranging from on-site parties and entertainment to day trips, shopping
What was it about the Anthem community that attracted
and special events.
Merrill Gardens to the area? “We like to create a great balanced mix of bringing “Someone I know here in Anthem called me and showed
internal activities in and getting our residents out of the
me a site, saying that Anthem was a wonderful community
building,” Pettit explains. “For any of the Anthem events,
but desperately needed a senior living community,” Pettit
for instance, we will have transportation available to take
explains. “About three weeks later, a neighbor of mine in
them there. They will be encouraged to participate.”
Seattle who has a second home here in Anthem came over and told me that his wife had Alzheimer’s disease
“Internally, our activities range from Wii bowling or tennis
and he was at a loss; he couldn’t find any place in
games that we play not only in the building but also at
Anthem to provide her with quality support, and she could
outside tournaments with other senior communities. We
no longer take the cold winters in Seattle. Those two
also host lecture series and bridge groups, and we focus
things made me decide on Anthem. I like the atmosphere
on physical as well as mental well-being. When residents
here; it’s very residential as opposed to retail and we will
get up in the morning, they will typically see five to seven
fit right in.”
activities they can choose from. It’s their choice; we facilitate, but they are free to select what they want. Our
The 120,000-square-foot facility will have 127 private
teams work with the residents to ensure they are not living
resident apartments: 40 studios, 50 one-bedroom, 17
in isolation and can enjoy life again.”
two-bedroom, 16 memory care single apartments and four shared memory care apartments. Prices have not
Other amenities include: building-wide Wi-Fi; parking for 81
been set but will likely range from approximately $2,000
cars; a tech center of computers where residents can do
to $5,000 a month in rent, payable on a month-to-
FaceTime or Skype with their loved ones, print documents
month basis. Included in the rental fee are all utilities
or photos, etc.; a wine bar in the bistro area with regularly
(with the exception of phone service), meals, activities,
scheduled happy hours; a dining room open to the kitchen
weekly housekeeping, scheduled transportation and on-
where you can see meals being prepared; a full-time
site maintenance. Assisted living services are charged
activities room for games and hobbies; a wellness program;
separately from the monthly rental, based on the individual
library; beautiful courtyard in the middle of the building
needs of each resident.
with seating for reading and socializing; heated outdoor pool with swim lanes on one side and a circular area on
A staff of 60 to 75 will support the facility, including a
the other for exercise classes; full kitchens, washers and
licensed nurse. Some staff will be there on a 24-hour
dryers in each apartment; and a concierge program with
basis.
services ranging from obtaining tickets to a favorite show and getting packages to the post office, to dog walking
“We will have a contract with a physician service who can
and dry cleaning services. Pets are also welcome.
make house calls,” Pettit says. “We will also provide free transportation to residents’ personal doctors.”
As Pettit sums it up: “Our goal is to make residents’ lives easier and help them to live the lives they want. We don’t
Merrill Gardens exclusive “anytime dining” will be offered in
believe in rules. Residents can live as they want to with
the restaurant-style dining room, with no set meal hours.
full choices. Everything that we do is a self-test in the
Independent living residents will have a choice of adding
company: are we doing it because we want to make our
a third meal to their program. Assisted living residents will
jobs easier or are we doing it to help a resident live the
have at least three meals a day.
life he or she wants? The most enlightened companies are not organized to limit residents’ choices because it’s more
“Our dining room is typically open from 7 a.m. to 7:30
convenient for the company. That’s our test to ourselves.
p.m.,” Pettit says. “If people are out shopping, for instance,
We try to look at every decision through the eyes of the
they don’t have to rush back to make a set lunch time.
resident, not our eyes as employers.” Sep tember 2015
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Writer Rebecca Zaner Photographer Keri Meyers
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
I
“It’s rare to hear people speak about joy in a place that
much of it to die. Doctors said she wouldn’t live past the
deals with such heavy issues. Ryan House is something
first two weeks, let alone delivery. I was told to pick a day
beyond what you can ever really describe.”
to end the pregnancy. That was very difficult. Most women, upon hearing such news, eventually choose to terminate
For over five years, Ryan House has served the Phoenix
the pregnancy. I just couldn’t do it. I chose to ride it out. I
community as a unique care provider for children with
thought it could be the greatest two weeks of my life with
life-limiting or terminal conditions. One of only two
her. I am so blessed to say that now we’ve spent eight
organizations of its kind in the United States, Ryan House
wonderful, miraculous years with her!”
provides critical care to children and their families at no
cost in a warm and loving environment. Relying fully on
Fatima’s older brother Jaad spoke so highly of his sister.
the kindness and support of donors and sponsors, families
He is 16 and they are best of friends. “She has a very
of children with critical needs have one less burden when
limited vocabulary, but my name was one of the first
it comes to providing the best care possible for their
words she said. I teach her how to make noises and sing.
babies.
She’ll bob her head to rhythms. She loves to blow kisses. Being the only man in the house, I had to step up and
Ryan House offers various types of care, including
mature faster than many of my friends. Fatima is the most
pediatric respite, palliative, therapeutic and end-of-
caring kid you’ll ever come across, even though she can’t
life services. Ryan House is focused on enhancing the
express it the same way you and I do.”
children’s quality of life, relieving suffering and fears,
as well as providing grief and bereavement support to
Because Fatima requires around-the-clock assistance,
families.
Michelle was introduced to Ryan House as a means of easing her responsibilities as Fatima’s constant caretaker.
While Ryan House has cared for hundreds of children over
the years, they can only serve a maximum of nine children
“At Ryan House, the staff enjoys her like we enjoy her.
at a time. The number of impacted families seems large,
She is not a burden,” Michelle shared. “It is truly a
but there are still hundreds more who are not fortunate
magical place. My daughter loves being there. It’s like a
enough to receive Ryan House care, and there is always
vacation for her and a much needed break for me, as a
an extensive waitlist for the facility.
single mom. Ryan House is like gold. Everything is taken care of.”
Fatima Faye is among the few currently being cared for
by Ryan House. She has cerebral palsy. Born with a rare
Ryan House is like a disguised hospital for children. There
brain abnormality, half of her brain was removed when she
are registered nurses and caretakers at the facility and all
was only a day old.
required medical needs are provided, while at the same time, the facility looks like a home. Every wall is painted
“She has a neural tube disorder and is mostly paralyzed
with bright colors and patterns to depict a children’s
from the neck down. She’s visually impaired and requires
camp. Each child’s bedroom is named as a camp cabin:
special assistance for everything in life,” says Fatima’s
Camp Fire Cabin, Once Upon A Time Cabin, and more.
mother, Michelle Dumay. “I knew during my pregnancy
There’s a spacious family room and family-style kitchen,
that she would have many special needs if carried to full
an outdoor playground, and a special bathtub to offer a
term. There was an opening in the back of her skull that
spa-like experience.
allowed a huge portion of her brain to develop on the
outside of the skull. When forming, the plates didn’t close
Ryan House believes it is important to provide a fun
and the brain became exposed to amniotic fluids, causing
atmosphere so that each child can still enjoy being a child
Sep tember 2015
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Fatima Faye’s family
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
and not just a patient. There are many rooms, including
memorial services are held in the tranquility of the
an arts and crafts room, music room, sensory room
garden. There is also a very powerful tribute to all the
and a specially designed indoor swimming pool. There
children who have passed away at the house, each one
is also a multimedia memory-making room with a green
represented by a hand-painted ceramic tile with their
screen and video camera for children to make films of
name on it. Each tile is glued together in a long stretch
themselves and document their own individual journeys.
of art winding around the garden wall. Katie has a place
These videos are then given to families as special
on this wall in the form of a ladybug.
mementos after their child has passed.
After dreading the transition, the Wagners came to
Ryan House is a beautiful place for children to
realize it was the best thing they could have done for
enjoy during challenging times, but the reality of the
Katie at the end of her life.
organization is that it exists for a very sad purpose.
“We could not tell you everything we loved about Ryan
“Sadly, it’s not uncommon to talk about the death of a
House. There was nothing ‘facility’-looking about this
child here,” Michelle said with tears in her eyes. “I am
place. Everything is carefully disguised to make it cozy
fortunate to still have time with Fatima, but you can
and warm. It felt safe. Katie’s favorite thing to do in her
always tell when a child here is ready to leave us. There
last two years was to soak in the bathtub with bubbles.
is a silence, a calm, and a peace. I once watched a
At Ryan House, we would dim the lights, put on music,
father holding his lifeless baby in his arms walk down
and of course add bubbles. Even if Katie only stayed for
the hallway for his last time. That must have been the
five minutes, she treasured this bath. It was where she
hardest walk of his life. But even during those most
felt normal.
unbearable moments, Ryan House was walking right
behind them, supporting them every step of the way.”
“We have many priceless memories there. We loved that
our entire family and close friends could join us anytime.
Steve and Jacque Wagner experienced a similar journey
Ryan House welcomed everyone. We ate as a family. We
when their daughter Katie was at Ryan House. Katie was
sat on the patio in rockers and cried together. The kids
diagnosed with stage four rhabdomyosarcoma cancer.
would form wheelchair chains and race down the halls.
She battled the disease for two years and passed away
The staff would laugh with us, cry with us and offer us
in September 2013 at age 17. The last few weeks of her
whatever assistance they could possibly provide. We like
life were spent at the Ryan House.
to call them our family. The idea that we didn’t have
to navigate the most difficult part of our journey alone
“Initially, I didn’t want to hear anything of the Ryan
was extremely comforting. We were terrified of what the
House. The idea simply felt ugly and cold. After 11 days
end would look like. The graciousness and compassion
of me caring for Katie around the clock, administering
of these people is like none we have ever experienced.
meds every half hour, listening to her struggle to
They touched our lives deeply.”
breathe, and never sleeping, I knew we needed help.
I couldn’t do it anymore,” Jacque recalled of her last
In order for Ryan House to continue touching the
weeks with Katie. “When we were told by our hospice
lives of more deserving families, they need support
nurse that it was time to transition to Ryan House, we
and donations from loving hearts throughout the
couldn’t breathe. We were terrified. The hardest thing we
community. There are many ways to get involved with
have ever done was drive out of our driveway knowing
the organization. You can individually donate money
that she would never again return home with us. That
directly as a tax-deductible, charitable gift, or start a
night we began an 11-day stay at a place we called
company drive or sponsorship; volunteer as in-house
home for a little while before Katie closed her eyes here
care volunteers, community volunteers, public speakers,
on earth and opened them in heaven.”
administration, and corporate volunteers; or as a teen
volunteer with the Teen Bureau. All areas help spread
Ryan House has a beautiful outdoor garden for families
the Ryan House message and rally funds for the
to sit and pray, reflect or simply cry for a while. Many
children. Sep tember 2015
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The Wagner Family
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
Ryan House also has many fundraisers, including the Grandparents Guild and Kids for Ryan House, which allows children of all ages to volunteer and help raise money for children who are less fortunate. There are annual fundraisers, including the Run for Ryan House taking place in March, and the White Christmas event happening in December. There are also wish lists and drives to donate items. Giving gift cards also helps the team purchase necessary items. Be sure to visit the official website for more information on all the ways to support Ryan House. Every little thing counts toward helping a child in need. “We are forever connected to Ryan House and to the people there,” Jacque says. “I am certain that, because of them, our journey at the end was made a little lighter and a little brighter. We were recipients of the most amazing care at no cost! We could never pay back what they have given to us. So from our hearts, the deepest part, please help us pay it forward. There simply are not enough words to say about how we feel about Ryan House. “At first, it was a terrible place that felt cold in my thoughts. It wasn’t the place I was dreading; it was the journey of losing my daughter. Ryan House is now a safe place that feels like home. I don’t feel sad when I go there; I feel inspired. Inspired to step out and do something for someone else.” ryanhouse.org Sep tember 2015
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Writer Tom Scanlon
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
T
Theater is not about awards — especially for young
The awards honor outstanding work by youth in the
people. Youth in theater is about the intensity of
arts across the nation. The 10th Annual National Youth
collaboration, a team working together to discover
Arts Awards considered more than 400 productions, with
answers to questions such as, “How do we make this
shows from more than 150 groups in 70 cities.
thing work?” Or, “How do we remember lines and know where to go and what to do and how to feel?”
Awards for MTA included Outstanding Production for “Cats” and Ensemble for “Into the Woods” and “The
Theater for youth offers some of the greatest lessons
Wizard of Oz,” plus two ultimate individual awards.
available, almost indescribable growth moments in which
Julia Davis and Mason Reeves were singled out for
even those shy in nature figure out how to tap into
Artist of the Year awards (both were featured in “Into
their inner creativity and bring it out for all to see.
the Woods”). Julia also performed in “Cats” and “Les Miserables,” while Mason performed in “Dreamgirls” and
Indeed, compared to light-bulb moments where young
“Hairspray” at Desert Foothills Theater, where his mother
people shine on stage and then bask in the glow of
is the managing director.
hard-won applause, can awards even hold a candle? Jackie Hammond, MTA’s producing artistic director, is Even so, recognition is nice. Long after their shows have
just a little bit proud of the two budding stars.
closed, dozens of youth in the North Valley are taking curtain calls, earning encores in the form of national
“I would have to say that with Julia, there has been
honors.
tremendous growth, and she had the opportunity to shine in three completely separate roles this past
The Musical Theatre of Anthem (MTA) scored 14
season, which showcased her strong acting and
National Youth Arts (NYA) awards, with an additional
impressive vocal chops,” says Hammond. “She did
59 nominations, for its 2014-15 season. Starlight
everything from singing an Italian comedic aria in
Community Theater scored five awards, plus a bundle of
‘Cats’ to playing the beloved ingénue, Cosette, (in ‘Les
nominations.
Miserables’).”
Sep tember 2015
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As for charm, it doesn’t get much better than what
Other individual standouts?
Mason exudes. As the Baker in “Into the Woods,” he was on stage for most of the nearly three-hour show, and
“I think all of the kids are great,” the MTA co-founder
the crowd couldn’t get enough of him.
says. “Zoe Tanton played the very demanding role of Anne Frank (‘The Diary of Anne Frank’), and she received
“He had such an infectious energy,” Hammond glowingly
an ariZoni nomination and a National Youth Arts award
recalls, “that the audience just fell in love with his
for her portrayal. I could go on and on about all of our
performance. Mason is probably one of the hardest
kids though!”
working, most passionate actors I have had the pleasure of working with.” Sounds like a long career is in store for him.
Additional NYA award winners are: -Alex Martinez, Supporting Actor in a Musical, Cinderella’s
40
“I am so proud of all our cast members for their hard
Prince/Wolf in “Into the Woods”
work and dedication, and grateful to our wonderful
-Nathan Sheppard, Supporting Actor in a Musical, Marius
production staff,” adds Hammond. “We are so thankful
in “Les Miserables”
for the support of the community, our sponsors and our
-Maggie Eley, Supporting Actress in a Musical, Witch in
wonderful families.”
“Into the Woods”
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-T.J. Rossi, Supporting Actor (Junior Division), Cowardly Lion/Zeke in “The Wizard of Oz” -Mychal Leverage, Featured Actor in a Musical, Enjolras in “Les Miserables” -Sherry Henderson, Choreography for “Cats” -Jacob Hamilton, Hair/Makeup Design for “Cats” -Jackie Hammond and Shawna Weitekamp, Musical Direction for “Cats” MTA’s “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “Into the Woods” were also nominated for Outstanding Production. Individual NYA award nominees from the Anthem theater included Taylor Ellsworth, Sallyann Martinez, Jacob Blalack, T.J. Rossi, Savannah Foy, Davin Kallevig, Julia Toussaint, Nicholas Gearing, Jose Soto, Jacob Hamilton, Alex Martinez, Rick Grimes, Michael Hoover, Nick McHatton, Jacob Meyer, Maggie Eley, Jayda Mendiola, Brianna Novicki, Emily Spets, Ann Emilie Tjorhom, Ava Tyson, Corbin Blair, Chris Poulios, Brody Wurr, Erin Burgard, Lily Castle, Grace Davis, Nicole Koster, Alexis Rosenbaum, Ava Siegel, Tatum Sosnowski, Emma Suttell, Noelle Hammond and Ellie Kunnari. “The Pied Piper of Hamelin” and “The Diary of Anne Frank” ensembles were also nominated for NYA awards. Karin Ikesaki, Peggy Sullivan, Daniel Kersh, Sherry Henderson, Cris Wo, Sarah Brayer, Lynzee Foreman, Jim Gradillas, Sherry Henderson and Laura O’Meara were nominated for behind-the-scenes work. And Evan Thompson, Joan Shepard and Joe Bousard received a New Work nomination for “The Pied Piper of Hamelin.” This month, MTA launches its eighth season with the sure-to-entertain “Shrek the Musical Jr.” It opens September 24 and plays through October 4. Starlight Community Theater also scored big, with five NYA awards and 15 additional nominations. Skyler Washburn scored a Lead Actor NYA award as Charlie Brown in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Also from that show, Brandon Brown as Snoopy and Lilly LeBlanc as Sally were honored with Supporting Actor/Actress awards, as was the entire cast for Outstanding Ensemble. Christian Graca, who directed the show, also received an NYA award.
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“We are very happy for Skyler Washburn, Brandon Brown and Lilly LeBlanc winning NYA awards as they each are very gifted, talented actors who work hard and have great camaraderie with all of their cast mates,” says Raquel Jarvill, president of Starlight. “All three recognized for their roles in ‘You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’ along with their director, Christian Graca, are past recipients of many nominations and awards from ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence and National Youth Arts Awards.” Starlight nominees included Lauren Michaud, Derick Haenitsch, Griffin LeBlanc, Savoy Graca, Kaitlyn Stark, Calista Quint, Jessica Reed, Will Rippenkroeger, Abigail Marshall, Jesse Pike, Makinlee Wright, Molly Jimmerson, Mike Rippenkroeger, Glenda and Dorann Matson and Nathalie Velasquez. “Starlight Community Theater congratulates all of our nominees for getting recognized among other great candidates within their categories,” says Jarvill. “We are very thankful for the continued and growing support of our community as we continue to provide live theater to entertain and enrich our community as well as provide educational opportunities through a variety of theatrical experiences both on and off the stage.” Starlight has a busy September, with “Bugsy Malone Jr.” — “the pint-sized, pin-striped classic is a tonguein-cheek tribute to the gangster films of the 1920s,” according to the theater website — followed by that supercalifragilisticexpialidocious lady, “Mary Poppins.” Starlight and MTA are likely to be stacking up even more awards this month. Both of the youth-oriented theater groups have multiple nominees for the 201415 ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence. “Zoni” (yes, rhymes with “Tony”) winners will be announced on September 21 at an awards ceremony at the Tempe Center for the Arts. musicaltheatreofanthem.org starlightcommunitytheater.com
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Writer Nigel Spence John Ashworth’s portrait by Jordan Philips All other photos by Geoffrey Cunningham
G
“Golf is a science, the study of a lifetime, in which
In spite of, and perhaps because of evolution of the
you may exhaust yourself, but never your subject. It
game, John Ashworth is a bastion of the Golfer’s
is a contest, a duel, or a melee, calling for courage,
Creed and a trusted keeper of the game. From setting
skill, strategy and self-control. It is a test of temper,
the standard in golf attire with his own signature
a trial of honor, a revealer of character. It affords
brand, to developing a new, sophisticated golf wear
the chance to play the man and act the gentleman. It
company, to resurrecting an historic San Diego course,
means going into God’s out-of-doors, getting close to
Ashworth has made golf his lifetime study and passion
nature, fresh air, exercise, a sweeping away of mental
and exemplifies the true spirit of Forgan’s words.
cobwebs, genuine recreation of tired tissues.” Raised in San Diego, a young Ashworth was introduced The game of golf has evolved tremendously since
to the game by his parents, in an atypical way.
David Forgan first spoke these words, a part of what he authored as the Golfer’s Creed, in 1899. As the
“My mom tried to get us all to go to Sunday school
son of a master golf club manufacturer hailing from
together. And I just hated it,” Ashworth recalls with
St. Andrews, Scotland, Forgan traveled to Canada and
smile. After much complaining, his mother gave him
then the United States, watching the game grow every
a choice: it was either Sunday school with his family
step of the way. But as quickly as it grew, not even
or caddie for his father. The choice was easy for the
Forgan could have envisioned the game today.
free-spirited youngster.
Technological advancements in every aspect have
At 7:30 a.m. Sunday mornings, John would caddie for
changed the game; it could be argued for better or
his father, who had a regular foursome at the San
for worse. The riding mower, horticultural practices
Luis Rey Downs Municipal golf course. It was not long
and automated sprinkler systems changed the surface
before John was enamored with the game.
upon which the game is played. Progress in club manufacturing has advanced to allow the ball to fly
“I loved everything about it. My senses were on
further, straighter and faster than ever before, leading
overload, surrounded by the colors and textures of a
to courses needing to be designed longer with more
golf course void of houses. It was like being in this
hazards to increase difficulty.
never-ending park with an acoustic audio track of random silence and quiet conversations of grown men
Perhaps never has the game seen greater disparity
interrupted by the crack of persimmon woods and
between the best and beginning golfer. Perhaps that
metal spikes on occasional concrete. Little did I know
disparity is part of the reason that participation is
that I was signing up for a lifetime of adventure in
going the way of leather carry bags, sub four-hour
and around the game of golf.”
rounds and wound golf balls.
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When it came to playing, John was a natural. He rose
Started in 2011, Linksoul is “more of a philosophy
quickly through junior ranks then high school golf, and
than a brand.” In short, it is the collective life’s work
attended the University of Arizona, where he completed
of a group of people who believe in making things
a bachelor of science degree in agronomy while also
with their hands, with the people they love, for the
playing on the golf team. But if there was one thing
good of their families and surroundings. They come
about golf that John had not worked out, it was his
from a long line of golfers, craftsmen and artists who
college uniform, which he describes as “silly looking
see it as their mission to reconnect people to the soul
polyester clothes that I couldn’t stand but was forced
of the game.
to wear.” Operating out of the Linksoul Lab, a 5,000-square-foot After a short stint as an assistant golf course
refurbished furniture store in Oceanside, California, you
superintendent and a year on tour caddying for
will find Ashworth, his longtime friend and designer
friend Mark Weibe, John found himself working in a
Rebecca Bray and Ashworth’s nephew, acclaimed artist
sporting goods store. One of his responsibilities was
Geoff Cunningham, moving the Linksoul line forward.
to purchase merchandise for the golf department. He
The open workspace is laced with persimmon woods
was once again faced with the fact that the selection
and leather golf bags and acts as a storefront, design
ranged from bad to terrible. When the sporting store
center, and art gallery. But don’t expect to catch them
closed down, he and friend Jerry Montiel decided to
on Friday afternoon as the company has an MGF
do something to make golf apparel cool.
policy – Mandatory Golf Friday.
Founded in 1987, Ashworth Inc. would become a ragsto-riches story that saw it reach the pinnacle of the golf apparel world within a decade of its inception. But like so many companies that grow so quickly, external pressures led to philosophical differences; the young man from San Diego whose famed Golfman logo was on the chests of major champions and golfers worldwide walked away from the company that bore his name. John would visit the links land of Scotland on an extended sojourn, drawing inspiration from the rugged
I loved everything about it. My senses were on overload, surrounded by the colors and textures of a golf course void of houses.
land where bunkers are naturally swept out of sand dunes and paddocks. Golf carts don’t exist and golf courses are just naturally there, not contrived or manicured. Golfers are a part of the scene, not necessarily the main attraction. The wind off the North Sea is a stark reminder of who built the courses and icy waves that crash into craggy outcrops provide an ocean spray where only the toughest of gorse and heather survive. Juxtapose this against the sundrenched coast of Southern California where surfers ride waves watched by hundreds of people who have escaped the heat of the day with a trip to the beach. Somewhere between these two environments lies the heart of Ashworth’s new company, Linksoul.
On display inside the lab is a clothing line where Southern California cool meets Scottish style in a traditional Japanese color wave. It is understated sophistication, a similar concept that John brought to the world in 1987, but with modern textiles. Feather light outerwear, cotton/cashmere blended sweaters and layering pieces, shorts that you can walk, run, play golf and swim in are all complemented by 100 percent cotton fitted shirts. It is more lifestyle than golf, but why wouldn’t you want to be able to work and play? It was not long before PGA Tour players were once again reaching out to John, and a small stable including John Merrick, Ryan Moore, Geoff Ogilvy and Lucas Glover now walk the PGA Tour fairways
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wearing Linksoul and grace the pages of Linksoul catalogues. With Linksoul up and running, another project caught the attention of Ashworth, a project dear to his heart. Center City Golf Course, the first course built in San Diego County, had been run into a state of disrepair. The course, affectionately known by locals as Goat Hill Park, was being sold to a developer with the intent of turning it into a soccer stadium before Ashworth and a group of community-minded people went about overturning the decision at an historic town hall meeting. A new management team, including Ashworth and Cunningham, was put in place and volunteer tradesmen and citizens have all contributed to the revitalization of Goat Hill Park. As John explains, “It’s been a journey for the last two years, but the city has agreed to a 30year lease with two 10-year options if we meet certain criteria, which calls for $3.6 million in improvements to the property over time, including a renovation to the golf course, improving our agronomy and irrigation practices, (building) a new clubhouse and event space, and adding a community garden. “We decided our approach would be different than most, it’s altruistic and completely communitybased. We will be the home of the North County Junior Golf Association, and we will operate as a non-profit with the goal of being sustainable and hope to be profitable once we fix up the site in order to provide scholarship opportunities for our local youth that become involved in our junior programs and caddie academy.” John Ashworth has studied the game. He has walked away from a duel but learned to stand up for what is right. He has demonstrated great character and has come out on top. He has protected a park and made those walking the fairways more comfortable in doing so. He is living the Golfer’s Creed and making it possible for others to do the same. linksoul.com Sep tember 2015
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Writer Rebecca Zaner Photos by Tawn Smith and Tracy Rougemont
Maricopa County alone has more than 1,000 children in
were brothers, ages 5 and 7. A year later, we adopted
shelters who are in need of homes and loving families.
another boy, and then my niece’s baby girl straight out
Imagine how high that number would be if factoring in all
of the hospital. After adopting one more boy, we then
the homeless children in the state of Arizona? Or in the
decided to try fostering, since we jumped right into
nation? For many of these children, hope is all they have.
adoption. Throughout the fostering process, we were given
For some, they are granted the greatest of gifts: families
many babies that had come from drug-exposed homes.”
with big, open hearts. After a six-month trial period of fostering each child, all “Most people don’t adopt because they think it’s too
nine children to walk through the Camasto’s door have
expensive,” says Kelley Camasto, a foster and adoptive
been or will be adopted.
parent for more than 10 years. “The truth is, adopting a child is free in the state of Arizona.”
“It was a lot to take in at first,” says Kelley’s oldest son, Adam, now 16. “We came from nothing. This home looked
Kelley is now parenting a total of nine children (ages 6
like a mansion. It was scary at first, but now it’s really fun
months to 16 years) with her husband, Paul. Of the nine,
living with a big family.”
six are their legally adopted children and three are still foster children, but in the process of being adopted.
In the state of Arizona there is a “four under 5” rule in the foster system, which legally allows only four foster
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“We couldn’t have kids on our own,” Kelley shares.
children under the age of 5 per adult in a home at one
“Through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Arizona, we were led
time. There is a grace period of roughly six months that
to adoption. Ten years ago, we adopted two boys. They
a child will be with a family under foster care. After that
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time, they will either be returned to their family (assuming positive progress has been made by the birth parents to regain custody) or the foster parents will be given the option to adopt or continue fostering. “The process only sounds challenging,” says Kelley. “We went through classes to receive certification and once certified, we could choose from a large list of children based on what looked like a good fit for our family. After making a selection, we were placed on a list and as soon as a child in our selected category became available, we received a phone call to accept that child.” When children are pulled from their family environment, they are given health inspections; however, very little is known about their makeup and genetic history. Foster parents accept these children as they come. “The kids are not typically thankful upon arrival,” Kelley shares. “They test your limits and push your buttons, but only because they don’t know if you’re going to leave them. As a foster parent, you have to really navigate. It’s overwhelming to know what they’ve come from.” The Camastos started a group called Anthem Foster Adoption Connections to find and connect with other families in similar situations. The group now has more than 80 members. It provides support and guest speakers, as well as creates unique bonds and friendships.
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Scanning Faxing Email Binding Laminating Folding Cutting Graphic Design Shipping
Mon - Fri 8:00am - 6:00pm Sat 10:00am - 2:00pm 3655 W Anthem Way, Ste A109 Anthem, AZ 85086-2599 www.postnet.com/az115 az115@postnet.com 623-551-1305
Nathania and Chris Vanderham are members of the group and also good friends of the Camastos. The Vanderhams started the fostering process a year ago with two young siblings, a boy and a girl. They spent six months with the Vanderhams before returning to their family. “We have three children of our own,” Nathania shares. “We knew adoption wasn’t right for our family, but we love fostering. It’s a rewarding experience to know that these kids wouldn’t have found a loving family if not for us. Even during those six months, they were provided stability, structure and discipline. They saw what a family could really be like.” Nathania and Chris recently received two little girls, sisters ages 9 and 10. They are excited to share their home again and enrich the lives of deserving children through the foster system. “The attachment and love alone is something these kids will take with them even if they leave us for another family,” says Chris. “It is our way of giving back, since we have been so fortunate in life,” Nathania adds. Darren and Kathy Skogen are also new to the fostering scene. A year ago, living in New River, they joined a Christian Family Care Agency Safe Families for Children program at their church. The program allowed them to assist struggling families by taking care of their children during challenging times. Sep tember 2015
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Last September, the Skogens fostered four children, in addition to balancing their own teenagers. “I volunteer in the neonatal intensive care unit and sometimes watch Child Protection Services take babies right from the hospital,” Kathy shares. “My decision to foster was to help these sweet babies. Twelve hours after we became certified, Darren and I received a call that there was a baby for us. At 3:00 that morning, we drove to the hospital in our pajamas and were handed a beautiful 1-month-old baby boy. He was so high on drugs from his birth mother even after we took him home.” Earlier this summer, the Skogens received a baby girl to foster straight from the hospital, also drug exposed. The baby boy is now 4 months old and his health is still fragile, but improving. “As a foster parent, you take care of all their needs,” says Kathy. During the fostering process, the parents act as legal guardians. The state of Arizona is a family reunification state, meaning that children will be placed with their birth family first and blood family second. Only if family is unsuitable will the child then be offered for adoption. Foster children will always have the chance within the first six months to return to their family if approved. Only when the children are fully severed from their family connections can they be adopted. Arizona pays for the adoption so that children can find homes without it being such a burden. “Baby girl is likely to return to her family,” says Kathy. “Her mother visits often and is getting better. If baby boy’s parents are severed, we would love to adopt him.” Each foster parent sees hope for a brighter future. Through their community group efforts as well as personal family efforts, they hope to make their voices heard so that the children’s voices can be heard. It is up to those more fortunate to advocate for these kids. “We teach every one of our kids that their history is nothing to be ashamed of,” says Kelley. “It only makes them stronger. It’s what they choose to do with that strength that will make them a good person.” “We made a family pact with all our children,” adds Paul. “When they grow up, they each have to give back what has been given to them by adopting or fostering at least one child.” There are thousands of children waiting for homes and families. If the community could give back and open their hearts and their doors for even one child, like these families have done, what a world of difference that would make. facebook.com/groups/anthemfosteradoptionfamily/ dcs.az.gov/services/foster-care-and-adoption/steps-becoming-foster-parent Sep tember 2015
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Writer Donna Kublin
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Nature provides us with magnificent gifts: majestic scenery
evolved from keeping a travel journal, which, along with her
that is wide, deep and stunning; close-up details only
photographs, enabled her to reconnect with her feelings at
revealed by slanted sunlight; cloud formations full of
the moment she was there. She uses the journal to create
mystery. Perhaps it’s a colorful flower petal singular in
the narrative in words for each painting.
its vibrancy, a slender branch twisting just so or a leaf exquisite in its shape. Such glimpses appear and disappear
“Knowing the story behind the creative process makes a
in the blink of an eye, but for a split second, time stands
piece even more memorable and special,” say Don and
still, breathing stops, the beauty and spirit of life intensifies
Linda Kesner, who are also collectors. “Each artist’s view of
and we feel awe.
the world is unique and it isn’t often that collectors get to know the inspiration and insight behind each piece.”
So it is with the artwork of award-winning oil painter Lucy Dickens. Her realism is not about reproducing a scene, but
Dickens did not start out to be an oil painter. At age 19,
rather capturing magical moments. In this regard, she has
she married her high school sweetheart, Richard, and they
a gift. She is able to reveal spirit and enable viewers to be
began a family and birthed a business. She worked full
part of the experience as she makes a special connection
time and while she dabbled in sketching, had a full and
with her subject matter and honors its essence — and
busy life with no time for creative outlets.
people respond. About 10 years ago, while her daughters were in high “When I look at Lucy’s paintings, I’m inspired,” says Bob
school and her business commitments lessened, she was
Reitdorf, an art collector. “From an artistic viewpoint, they
able to focus on her interest in art. It all started with her
are phenomenal. But it is not the artistic value that draws
desire to try and create a mural for her new home. Her
my attention; it is how they make me feel.”
husband brought home sheetrock and she began painting.
Dickens is also a fine art storyteller.
Once she put brush to canvas, she knew this was what she was supposed to do. She stepped out of the family
“I’m drawn to scenes that take my breath away,” she
business to concentrate on her art full time and be with
explains. “It’s those moments of beauty that cause me to
her daughters.
feel, to reflect and to give thanks. A scene that has a power, placidity and intensity that draws me in, I strive to
Dickens worked to “be the sponge” in any way she could
capture. There is a story in these segments of time and
learn, including attending workshops at the Scottsdale
therefore, a story in each painting.”
Artists’ School and other venues; reading books and viewing videos; working with artists she admired; studying
She creates narrative scenes of her travels as well as of
great works of art; going to museums and galleries; and
Arizona in both paint and words, as she aims to take
so on.
people along on the journey with her. Her approach
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“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” - Pablo Picasso
“I would consider my education self-directed study, with
She creates her paintings at her spacious, well-appointed
countless hours in the studio and outdoors exploring,
studio, a would-be game room that to her surprise, her
pushing the envelope and trying new things,” she says. “I
husband converted to a studio while they were on a
switched to oil about seven years ago and never looked
recreational vehicle trip. The ultimate “while you were out”
back. I love it and know there is still so much more to
project, coordinated by her husband and mother, became
learn. I think we never stop growing, or never should.”
an important step in taking her work to the next level.
Her faith has had a profound effect on her life and her
Dickens wants to share her art and sees it as part of her
work. It guided her to find her calling, to successfully
life’s purpose.
navigate the life changes it required and to find her voice. She discovered that she had a talent for seeing, capturing
“I believe that when I create an original, it is for one
and painting magical moments. Many of the scenes in
special person,” she says. “I don’t know who that person is,
Arizona came from where she and her husband hiked,
but they make a connection to my painting and it warms
biked off-road and camped. As she traveled, she also found
my heart when that happens. But beyond that, I want to
scenes that she wanted to share. She is currently working
reach others who are really moved by my art and my story.
on her Spain series and also has series from trips to
I feel strongly that I must, in some quality way, make my
Turkey, Greece, Italy, and the eastern United States.
art available beyond those who can purchase an original. That is why I offer prints and gift items.”
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She also believes that brushstrokes are the footprints of
ADVANCED ONLINE CLASSES
an artist’s emotions. In this regard, her steps are made with clear intention, each full of conscious choice and action, and the effect of her art is visceral. “Lucy’s work brings beauty into our homes,” says Colette Kallock, an avid collector. “They bring a sense of peace when we look at them and make us feel good.” Dickens’ painting “Joyful” was selected to appear on the directory cover of the Sonoran Arts League’s 2015 Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour being held November 20-22 and
“The online courses are designed to allow students to broaden their academic experience as a supplement to the classroom, facilitate accelerated learning for future grade levels and/or provide greater flexibility in scheduling.”
27-29. During the tour, she will be at Quail Run Studio,
Nate Kretzmann,
Studio 32, located at 8679 E. Preserve Way in Scottsdale.
Executive Director
“Joyful” captures the beauty of a prickly pear cactus
NVCA is now offering 40 year round online courses for middle school and high school students. Through a designated web-based portal, NVCA will offer classes that include Math, Health, Science, History, English, Foreign Languages, and Electives including art, design, and music appreciation.
that to the surprise of many, actually blooms red. Dickens explains how the painting got its title, which is taken from her story that accompanies it: “Upon completing the painting, I wasn’t sure what to title it, then decided on how I felt while painting. There are times when painting everything seems to fall in line, joy
For more information about NVCA’s online curriculum contact ShannonL@northvalleyca.org or call 623.419.3005.
fills my heart and continues to expand. I feel like I am painting in the spirit and everything else just washes away but the painting evolving before me. It is such an incredible feeling and one so hard to describe. This is why I paint, what draws me so and the drive and desire to share these moments. It doesn’t happen all the time, yet I am thankful when it does and hope for this more often as I progress as a painter and storyteller.” She and her husband have broken ground for a new home in Carefree, which she hopes at a future point will be one of the studios on the tour. Her work can be seen by appointment at her studio/ gallery in Glendale, at Xanadu Gallery online and at a juried group show at Desert Foothills Library in Cave Creek until October 3. In addition, she will have two coastal paintings in the Arizona Art Alliance Juried Exhibit at the Holland Gallery of Fine Art from September 26 through October 29, with a reception on October 10 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. She will also have a holiday open studio and gallery on December 12 at her gallery in Glendale. lucydickensfineart.com Sep tember 2015
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Y
Yoga. One minute, it was considered by mainstream America to be an exotic yet odd Hindu practice, and the next minute every soccer mom and hipster dad is doing down dog in lululemons. In the 65 years since Richard Hittleman and Indra Devi independently opened studios on the East and West Coasts, each writing books and making appearances that seduced housewives from New York City to Amarillo, and from Hollywood to Detroit, to stand on their heads on their lime green, no-wax, cushioned vinyl flooring, quite a bit has changed. By the 1970s, yoga and spiritual teachings became part of what Midwesterners thought of as “West Coast weirdness.” But, like other trends throughout the century, eventually it caught on. Today, yoga studios are not only a trend; they are part of a growing awareness of the mind/body health connection, and it looks like they are here to stay. Even in our communities, the positive effects of yoga are quickly earning followers. With several different types of yoga to choose from, including a sliding scale of serious fitness-oriented styles, to spiritual or meditative types, to classes that focus on healing injuries and medical conditions, just about anyone can benefit from yoga. Research has proven yoga has several physical benefits, including core and overall strength, flexibility and balance. On an emotional level, yoga also builds mental wellness by improving concentration and memory, developing patience and creating challenges that help those who practice it to gain confidence by facing fears and limitations. The Anthem Community Center and the Anthem Civic Building offer several different types of yoga, so if you’re new to the overall practice, you may want to get your om on at more than one class to find a good fit. Instructor Seth Nichols has been practicing yoga since long before it was a fad. He picked up the book, “Essence with the Elixir of Enlightenment” by by A.H. Almaas as a senior at University of California Santa Barbara in 1999, and was fascinated by Eastern philosophy. His reasons for beginning
Writer Amanda Christmann Larson Photographer Marc Bigelow
yoga were far less esoteric.
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“My girlfriend at the time had the book, ‘Autobiography of a Yogi,’” explains Nichols. “I asked her where she got it, and she told me her yoga teacher gave it to her. I said, ‘Cool! What’s her name?’ and she said, ‘Eddie,’” he laughs. “I said, ‘I’m going to have to go see this Eddie.’” As it turned out, Seth and Eddie became friends, and they remain in touch today. He also gained more than a friend. “I get so much out of yoga,” he says. “For me, it’s never really been a physical thing, but the physical gains are definitely positive by-products of practicing. For me, it’s more about getting quiet and finding my center, as cliché as that sounds.” Nichols has been teaching since 2005 and went through intensive teacher training in 2006, just as the demand for yoga teachers to become certified began to build steam and training became available. He’s seen yoga become more mainstream in the years since. He teaches vinyasa yoga, one of the more intense forms of many available. “Vinyasa yoga is, by design, a physically challenging practice,” Nichols says. “Although not easy, it is a simple practice. The essence is linking the breath to the movement and maintaining a steady breath within the posture. That being so, anyone with a decent amount of physical capability can enjoy my class and derive the many benefits from this practice.” Designing yoga apparel has also become a favorite pastime for Nichols. After seeing designs that didn’t represent him or his yoga philosophy, he has developed his own line of yoga shirts. “I wanted something I could relate to,” he says. “I made them, really, for me at first, but people liked them. I started making a few extras and they sold out right away.” He now showcases his designs on his Facebook page, Vinyasa Apparel. Nichols teaches Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:20 a.m. There are also other styles of yoga offered through the community. So whether you’re in it for the stretch or for some serious physical and mental gains, you can’t go wrong with yoga. With every breath and every pose, you just may find it’s exactly the right fit.
96% of customers would refer The Maids to friends and family. onlineatanthem.com facebook.com/vinyasaapparel
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This richly appointed home offers stunning views of a rare private mountain preserve in the rear of the property with an eastern exposure. This richly appointed home offers stunning views of a rare
And, you won’t want to leave the oasis of a back yard
private mountain preserve in the rear of the property with
with its soothing fountains, elevated outdoor fireplace and
an eastern exposure. The ultimate in privacy is yours in
beautiful stacked-stone barbeque island. Other sought-
the desirable split master plan. The home features dark
after extras include a security system, cabinets in the
beamed ceilings in the formal dining/living room area and
laundry room and garage, epoxy floors in the garage and
glamorous travertine stone floors throughout. A beautiful
extended pavers in the front and back of the home. This
stone fireplace is the focal point of the family room. The
home has it all.
cooks in the family will prize the GE Monogram stainless appliances in the kitchen, along with lovely granite counters and built-in refrigerator and double ovens.
Linda Rehwalt
In addition, there is a media room or den/office option.
39504 N. Daisy Mountain Dr., Ste. 106, Anthem
The luxurious master bath is appointed with rich granite, a jetted tub and raised vanities, along with a custom-built walk-in closet.
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Ima g e s A Z . c o m Sept em ber 2 0 1 5
RE/MAX Professionals 602-402-1136 lindarehwalt@azrealty.com
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Absentee Homeowner Services Carefree Property Services 480-575-6600 carefreepropertyservices.com Accountant Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC. 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130 Air conditioning/Heating Canyon State AC and Plumbing 602-996-1818 canyonstateac.com Airport transportation Anthem Shuttle 602-750-3001 anthemshuttle.com $500 On Time Guarantee Animal Care Desert Hills Animal Clinic 623-581-1558 dhanimalclinic.com Attorney Boates Law Firm 623-551-5457 anthemlaw.com Beauty Hair Care A Wild Hair 623-551-5561 awildhairaz.com Skin Care Merle Norman Cosmetics 623-551-9502 merlenorman.com Boutique Nothing in Moderation Located in Merle Norman 623-551-9502 Business Center Post Net Business Center 623-551-1305 postnet.com/az115 Business Groups Anthem/North Gateway Chamber of Commerce 602-495-6483 northgatewaychamber.org
Preferred Business at Anthem 623-551-0523 pbanthem.com College Paradise Valley Community College 602-493-2600 my.maricopa.edu Community Organizations New River-Desert Hills Community Association 602-432-2800 nrdhca.org Community Theater Musical Theatre of Anthem musicaltheatreofanthem.org 602-743-9892 Starlight Community Theater starlightcommunitytheater.org starlightcommunitytheater.com Dentist Bishara Dental 623-742-7220 46641 N. Black Canyon Hwy #7 Daisy Mountain Dentistry 623-551-5250 4205 W. Anthem Way, Suite #106 Sheppard Pediatric Dentistry 623-551-2992 3618 W. Anthem Way, Suite D104 Financial Planning Edward Jones - Doug DeMuth 623-551-0523 edwardjones.com Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130 Garage Door Daisy Mountain Garage 623-322-4530 daisymountaingaragedoor.com Habilitation, REspite & Attendant care Arion 623-238-4349 sdykhuizen@arioncaresolutions.com arioncaresolutions.com
Health & Fitness Sports Conditioning Harper Physical Therapy 623-742-7338 41818 N. Venture Drive, Suite #120 Healthcare provider Arizona Vein & Laser Institute 602-298-8346 arizonaveinandlaser.com insurance Auto/home/life/renters/health/ retirement/Auto Loans & refinancing American Family Insurance John Kovach Agency 623-551-7900 johnkovachagency.com Farmers Insurance Glenn Grossman 480-588-9310 Maki Insurance 623-551-3585 makiinsurance.com State Farm - Nanette Miller 623-742-6866 nanette@nanettemiller.com Senior health plan specialist Generations Consulting Group 623-866-3222 keith@gcgagent.com Investing/Retirement Edward Jones - Doug DeMuth 623-551-0523 edwardjones.com Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130 Jewelry/gold buyers AndrewZ Diamonds & Fine Jewelry 623-551-6892 andrewzdiamonds.com Landscape Design and Maintenance Iddings & Sons Landscaping, Inc. 623-465-2546 623-297-7584
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Desert Foothills Gardens Nursery 480-488-9455 33840 N. Cave Creek Rd. Massage Hand and Stone Massage 623-551-6602 handandstone.com Therapeutic Massage by Maura 623-824-1663 maurasmassage.com
Plumbing Canyon State AC and Plumbing 602-996-1818 canyonstateac.com Proskill Services 623-551-7473 proskillservices.com Pool Maintenance Aquatic Solutions 602-881-0353
Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Jen Gentry 623-251-5518 42104 N. Venture Drive, C-122 drjengentry.com
Realtor RE/MAX Professionals Linda Rehwalt 602-249-SOLD azrealty.com
Outdoor Lighting Let There be Light 480-575-3204 lettherebelightllc.com
Restaurants Dara Thai Cafe 623-551-6676 3655 W. Anthem Way Ste B-127
Orthodontics Cordon Orthodontics 623-465-5478 42201 N. 41st Dr., #102 Wood Orthodontics/Wyatt Wood 623-792-7323 3618 W. Anthem Way, Suite D108 Pediatrics Angel Pediatrics 623-551-0442 3654 W. Anthem Way Suite B-114 Twin Pediatrics 623-551-9825 42211 N. 41st Dr. Suite 153 Pest Control Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com Photography Keri Meyers Photography 425-419-3999 kerimeyersphotography.com Physical Therapy Harper Physical Therapy 623-742-7338 41818 N. Venture Drive, Suite #120
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Ocho Locos 623-551-8580 3655 W. Anthem Way Screens C&S Screens 623-582-8592 cssreens@cox.net Schools Anthem Elementary School Main Line 623-376-3700 Attendance 623-376-3790 Anthem Preparatory Academy 623-465-4776 anthemprep.org Barry Goldwater High School Main Line 623-445-3000 Attendance 623-445-3090 Brighter Beginnings Preschool 602-619-4202 brighterbeginninspreschool.com Boulder Creek High School Main Line 623-445-8600 Attendance 623-445-8690 Canyon Springs Elementary Main Line 623-376-5200 Attendance 623-376-5290
Caurus Academy 623-551-5083 caurusacademy.org Creative Castle Preschool 602-740-9561 creativecastlepreschool.com Desert Mountain School Main Line 623-445-3500 Attendance 623-445-3590 Diamond Canyon Elementary Main Line 623-445-8000 Attendance 623-445-8090 Gavilan Peak Elementary Main Line 623-445-7400 Attendance 623-445-7490 New River Elementary Main Line 623-376-3500 Attendance 623-376-3590 North Valley Christian Academy and Preschool 623-551-3454 northvalleyca.org Sunset Ridge Elementary Main Line 623-445-7800 Attendance 623-445-7890 Westwind Prep at Northern 602-864-7731 westwindacademy.org Spa Services Hand and Stone Massage 623-551-6602 handandstone.com Therapeutic Massage by Maura 623-824-1663 41818 N. Venture Dr., Suite #120 Termite Treatment Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com Urgent Care John C. Lincoln Urgent Care in Anthem 623-434-6444 Veterinary Desert Hills Animal Clinic 623-581-1558 dhanimalclinic.com
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Water Softener & Filtration Rayne of the North Valley 623-234-9047 raynewater.com Weed Control EST Enterprises, Inc. 623-742-6923 estentinc.com Titan Pest Control 623-879-8700 titanpest.com Website design Fox Designs Studio 623-340-7455 foxdesignsstudio.com Window Treatments Carefree Coverings 602-617-2920 34522 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite 100B Worship Arizona Hills Community Church 623-465-0202 arizonahills.org
Christ’s Church of the Valley 623-376-2444 ccvonline.com Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 2503 W. Anthem Way Meeting times 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. Cross of Christ Lutheran Church 623-551-9851 anthemcross.org Crossroads Christian Fellowship 602-740-5964 42425 N. New River Rd.
Pioneer United Methodist Church 623-551-0802 pioneerumcaz.org Pureheart Christian Fellowship 602-866-8850 pureheart.org Spur Cross Cowboy Church 623-556-7935 spurcrosscowboychurch.com
Deer Valley Worship Center 623-582-1001 dvworship.com
St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church 623-486-8665 stharalambos.org
Desert Hills Presbyterian Church 480-488-3384 deserthills.org
Sun Valley Baptist Church 623-986-1687 sunvalleybaptist.org
Desert View Bible Church 623-298-4900 desertviewbible.org
Valley Life Church 623-850-8777 valleylifeaz.com
Calvary Chapel Desert Hills 623-434-5060 calvarychapeldh.com
Grace North Church 623-551-0007 gracenorth.com
Chabad Jewish Center of Anthem 42302 N. Vision Way Suite #106 623-551-8348
Hosanna Christian Fellowship 623-512-6213 hosannaanthem.com.
Chapel Bellavista 480-502-0707 arizonaministers.com
New Creation Community 623-261-6904 newcreationcommunity.org
Canyon Church of Christ 623-889-3388 canyonchurch.org
New River First Assembly of God 623-465-7455 newriverag@yahoo.com
Carefree Vineyard Church 623-551-1133 carefreevineyard.com
Northgate Church 34835 N. 7th Street Phoenix, AZ 85086
Catholic Community of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne 623-465-9740 diocesephoenix.org
North Ridge Community Church 480-515-4673 northridge.org
Christ’s Church at the Crossroads 623-466-7964 thecrossroadsaz.com
North Valley Jewish Community Association 623-322-0957 nvjca.org
North Valley Assembly of God 623-516-8734 northvalleyag.com
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Recipe
End-of-Summer Orzo Salad Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
Savor the end of summer and its accompanying bounty with this ravishing orzo pasta salad. Brimming with summer produce like juicy grape tomatoes, fresh green beans and corn, this pasta salad also gets an extra boost thanks to a simple, yet flavor-packed lemon basil vinaigrette. In addition, the rice-shaped orzo has a delightfully chewy bite that complements the vibrancy of the salad. Include this on your Labor Day menu as a gorgeous side dish and bid a proper adieu to summer.
End-of-Summer Orzo Salad Yield: 4 servings
Directions: Cook the orzo in salted, boiling water until al dente according to the package’s directions. Drain and rinse the pasta to release
1 cup orzo, dry 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces and blanched 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1 cup corn kernels ½ cup red onion, minced ½ cup lemon basil vinaigrette (see recipe) salt and pepper to taste
excess starches. In a bowl, combine the cooked orzo with green beans, tomatoes, corn and red onion. Drizzle the salad with lemon basil vinaigrette and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the basil leaves, lemon juice and garlic into the bowl of a food processor or blender. Turn on the food processor or blender and slowly drizzle in the olive oil until emulsified. Season
Lemon Basil Vinaigrette ½ cup packed basil leaves 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 garlic clove ½ cup olive oil salt and pepper to taste
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to taste with salt and pepper.
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Linda’s Your
Anthem Resident Real Estate Consultant
Serving Anthem and Tramonto
(602) 249-SOLD (7653) (800) 783-9047 azrealty.com 85086news.com lindarehwalt@azrealty.com
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