Images Arizona October 2018 by Images Arizona Magazine

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October 2018

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October 2018

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A FESTIVAL FOR THE SENSES

PAINT THE EARTH IN REDS Writer Amanda Christmann

Writer Fadi Sitto

AN INSIDE LOOK SEDONA OPEN Writer Amanda Christmann

QUEEN OF THE REINS

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Writer Amanda Christmann

PUMPKIN SPICE CAKE

Writer Amanda Christmann

Photography by Scott Baxter

Writer Kyndra Kelly

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October 2018

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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Christmann

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Baxter Bryan Black Kyndra Kelly Loralei Lazurek

ADVERTISING SALES Tatum Williams 480-280-9490 tatum@imagesaz.com

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2018 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited.

They say the more things change, the more they stay the same. As we enter into some big changes at Images Arizona, that old saying could not ring truer. This month marks the beginning of something beautiful with the opening of our sister venture, Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree’s Spanish Village. Just as our goal at Images Arizona magazine has always been to showcase the faces and places that make the North Valley special, so will the gallery shine a light on some of the most talented artists from Arizona and beyond. Through special events and artist highlights, we hope to continue to feature the people and the beauty that unite us all. As an art history major in college, for years, it has been my dream to open a contemporary art gallery. Through the years, Images Arizona has featured hundreds of artists and galleries, and we will continue to do so to encourage a rich and diverse art scene throughout our area. Just as there are a growing number of fantastic musical organizations that are creating a quilt of many musical colors for people to enjoy, our community, too, should be considered a destination for fine visual arts. Our first event at Grace Renee Gallery will be a trunk show by renowned Italian jewelry designer Laura Bicego. We will also be featuring paintings, sculptures, ceramics and more by contemporary artists Sam Pratt, Seth Fairweather, Kevin Irvin, Kathleen Hope, Christiane Barbato, Cecilia Calderon, and a growing list of incredible artists.

The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Local First A R I Z O NA

So join us in our new endeavor, and support the arts throughout the Valley! Change is in the air, and it’s beautiful! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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Writer Fadi Sitto Photography provided by Sedona Arts Festival

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Crisp renewed high desert air, the dawned sun and the euphoric feeling of being absorbed by a city full of continuous abstract beauty. I must be in Sedona. It’s time again to take the short ride up from Phoenix and become immersed in inspired art. The 2018 Sedona Arts Festival is finally here. This world-class fine arts festival consciously promotes mindfulness of the arts, supports diverse artists and shapes the Sedona community. This year’s festival will provide funding for all levels of art programs and scholarships for Sedona-area youth. Established with a vision and love for the arts, the Sedona Arts Festival is the largest, most prevalent arts festival in the area. With roots dating back to 1989, it was created to support, sponsor and showcase the charmed red rock city of Sedona as a true leader within the cultural realm of North America. The 28th Sedona Arts Festival is held on the campus of Sedona Red Rock High School, on Upper Red Rock Loop Road in West Sedona. This celebrated annual event has successfully evolved into one of the “mustexperience” art festivals in the country; unveiling the collected works of over 100 juried artists. High quality art and live music intertwined with the backdrop of the unique landscape of the area make this open-air gathering special. There is a new area of the festival called the Gallery Collective. Launched last year, this highly anticipated addition accompanies the highest caliber of presented art—pieces by local and regional artists to showcase their exclusive limited number of original works. Over 100 composed paintings, photographs, sculptures and jewelry will be displayed and offered for sale in the Gallery Collective tent. A portion of the proceeds from the collective tent will benefit the Sedona Arts Festival’s scholarships and grants program, which financially supports art education in the greater Sedona area.

October 2018

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Since the art festival’s inception almost 30 years ago, upward of $300,000 has been donated to the arts educational groups and graduating seniors pursuing their passion of higher education in the arts. “The most rewarding part of my job is having the honor of presenting those financial awards, knowing that we are supporting the future of art in our society,” said Sedona Arts Festival Executive Director Lori Reinhart. She points out that many people don’t realize that the festival is a fundraiser for their giving programs, financially supporting graduating seniors who are pursuing higher education in the arts with scholarships for college. The fundraising efforts also succeed in offering grants to local organizations that provide arts education to students K-12. What sets Sedona Arts Festival apart is the unwavering commitment to their mission. Countless volunteers and locals have worked tirelessly to ensure the future of art carries on. Lori says, “The Sedona Arts Festival was and still is instrumental in creating the busy fall season in Sedona.” Alongside the over 100 diverse and talented artists invited to this year’s festival is the return of featured master potters Laura Bugarini Cota and Hector Gallegos Martinez. These second-generation potters from Mata Ortiz Pottery are a renowned husband and wife artistic dream team from Mexico. They were introduced and affectionately mentored in the art of pottery by their equally talented parents in the Mexican village the studio is named after. Laura experimented with innovative methods and designs with her pottery works—something completely opposite of most established potters from her village. She was able to craft her own magnificently detailed bandwork design, a design that is recognized around the world as “Bugarini style.” Hector Gallegos was born to famous master potters who were known for their precise geometric style of pottery. Hector had other ideas though, and at an early age moved away from his parents’ style and toward his signature etched sgraffito works, incorporating meticulous animal designs. Laura and Hector are award-winning potters and a proud addition to the festival this year.

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Northern Arizona birds and the early fall winds aren’t the only thing you’ll hear at this year’s festival. Live music throughout the grounds is an integral part of Sedona’s grand event. The 2018 list of musicians is as interesting as their fellow artisans. Pioneering groups whose lyrical harmonies are inspired by the natural environment of Sedona will headline the event. William Eaton, Earth Speak and Rick Cyge with Meadowlark are among them. Four-time Grammy nominee Eaton has recorded 16 albums and tours here in the states as well as internationally. He is one of the world's leading designers of stringed instruments. His groundbreaking, multi-stringed instruments and harp guitars have been featured in exhibits and numerous publications. Earth Speak is a unique fusion of folk, new age, world music and jazz. The band’s blend of original and familiar favorites will be a cool backdrop of sounds as you stroll around the festival grounds. Members of the band include flutist-vocalist Claudia Tulip, percussionist-vocalist Susannah Martin and harp-bass guitarist Bart Applewhite.

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Rick Cyge is a talented finger-style guitarist with a discography that includes two solo albums and nine record releases with his group, Meadowlark. This vibrant collaboration performs an uplifting mix of music with a blend of distinctive musical influences such as Celtic, African and Mediterranean sounds motivated by nature’s splendor. Hungry anyone? The Sedona Arts Festival is known for feeding its guests. There will be a wide variety of food truck vendors, drinks and yummy treats to make the festival experience even better.

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Bring the kids, as there is plenty of artful fun and hands-on projects for everyone. The interactive KidZone experience gives children 12 and under the chance to create their own artwork with the help of local artists. We sometimes forget how lucky we are to be within close proximity of such an awe-inspiring, uniquely Arizona city. Sedona elevates and bombards all five senses with surreal calm. The rust-red rocks, the colorful artistic vibe and the inspiring composition of nature greets you on every corner. The Sedona Arts Festival is one more way to enjoy all this city has to offer.

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www.lastiendascavecreek.com October 2018

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COMMUNITY

2018 OCTOBER

Writer Amanda Christmann

Oct. 13, 14

ARIZONA TACO FESTIVAL Over 100 varieties of tacos will be available both days, all for just $2 each. Now in its 9th year, it's a taco-topia of epic proportions. Fifty restaurants dish out tacos while bars and beverage stations serve margaritas, cervezas, water and soda. Entertainment everywhere! $12 online; $15 at the gate. VIP tickets and tequila expo tickets available. Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. aztacofestival.com

Oct. 16

Oct. 20, 21

Held against the backdrop of

Boulder Creek Jaguar Pride

From holiday gifts and live music to

Sedona’s breathtaking red rock

Marching Band hosts a celebration

a carnival and yummy food, Anthem

vistas, the Sedona Arts Festival will

of instrumental music programs in

Community Park has it all! Free

present over 100 juried artists as

DVUSD high schools. Free. Boulder

parking and admission. 41703 N.

well as live music, food and art fun

Creek High School Football Field,

Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem.

for children. $10 in advance; $12

40404 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy.,

Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–4

at the gate; free for children 12

Anthem. 7–9 p.m. dvusd.org

p.m. onlineatanthem.com

VISIT SEDO

SEDONA ARTS FESTIVAL

Oct. 13, 14

ke a dri

me r 2018

and under. Sedona Red Rock High School, 990 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd., West Sedona. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun. 928-204-9456; sedonaartsfestival.org

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Oct. 19–28

ENCHANTED PUMPKIN GARDEN Halloween invades the Town of Carefree in the form of whimsical pumpkin carvings from master sculptor Ray Villafane and the Villafane Studios team for a fourth year. Free. Carefree Desert Gardens, 101 Easy St., Carefree. See website for times and special events. 480-488-3686; carefreepumpkingarden.com

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JOHNSON FAMILY: AGENTS OF CHANGE

Oct. 28

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“The Raven” read by Arizona

together world-class wine makers for

by hosting a dinner to benefit his

Curriculum Theater and “The Tell

a night full of perfect pairings and

Mission 31 Foundation to support

Tale Heart” read by Noah LeVia

delighting tastes. Proceeds benefit

seriously ill children and their

is having afternoon tea while you

local arts programs. $125–175.

families. $350. Mountain Shadows,

listen! RSVP. $50. English Rose

Four Seasons Scottsdale, 10600

5445 E. Lincoln Dr., Scottsdale. 6:30

Tea Room, 201 Easy St., Ste. 103,

E. Crescent Moon Dr., Scottsdale.

p.m. davidjohnson31.org

Carefree. 3–5 p.m. 480-488-4812;

5:30–9:30 p.m. cooksandcorks.org

carefreetea.com

Nov. 2

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COOKS + CORKS Scottsdale League for the Arts presents an evening to spotlight

Nov. 2–4

Nov. 3

Thunderbird Artists can’t wait for the

The Veterans Day Parade and Annual Cornhole Tournament are

25th Annual Carefree Fine Art & Wine

coming to Anthem! Route begins in Anthem at Gavilan Peak

Festival! Juried fine art, wine tasting,

Parkway and Memorial Drive, and ends at Anthem Community

microbrews, festival food and live music.

Center. Beer garden, picnic, tethered hot air balloon rides and

Featured artist is Canadian painter and

more. Pre-register for cornhole tourney. Anthem Community

sculptor, Gilles Charest. $3; free for

Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. 10 a.m.; Cornhole

children under 18; wine tasting $10. 101

at 11 a.m. aypaz.com

CAREFREE FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL

DAISY MOUNTAIN VETERANS PARADE

Easy St., Carefree. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 480837-5637; thunderbirdartists.com

PUMPKIN FEST AND CORN MAZE Enjoy over 40 farm-inspired rides and activities, games, animals, activities, pumpkin patch, shows and more! Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Columbus Day, Sept. 28–Oct. 28. Fridays are for barn dances, dinner at the barn (must RSVP), Magic at Night, and fire dancers. Saturdays, enjoy karaoke, Magic at Night and fire dancers. See website for times and admission. 12907 E. SR 169, Dewey. mortimerfarmsaz.com

October 2018

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October 2018

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Writer Amanda Christmann // Photography by Michael Wilson

In ancient times, Wind blew across the land, carrying with it the colors of the earth and heavens. He splashed cerulean blues across the seas and skies, and colored the trees with myrtle green and celadon. As Wind blew west over plains and mountains, he painted the soil in umbers and siennas, and the snowcapped mountains in radiant whites.

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Wind battled mountain passes, swirling and whirling, all the while casting rich and varied hues of browns and greens upon thrusting granite peaks and thick carpets of forests. While he worked, an arid new breeze emerged from the southwest. On Breeze floated some of the most brilliant colors of them all, inspired by the blaze-red sun itself.

Warm and full of youth, Breeze meandered swiftly through canyons and gorges, painting Desert’s sandstone in carmine and kaolin. She rose to meet jutting mesas and buttes as they punched through cloudless skies, splashing them with the colors of hot orange sunsets and the fiery flickers of flames. The lively Breeze danced across the desert, breathing life’s colors into stunning desert vistas and breathtaking mountain panoramas. At last, when the job was done, Breeze looked at the moon and said, “I have no more to give.” She closed her weary eyes and fell fast asleep. And with that, Moon rose colorless, greeting Sun as he drew nigh, and cast a glow on all that had been created. Desert, Sun, Wind and Breeze rested, and when they awoke again, every creature far and near wondered at the beauty.

Sedona

October 2018

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Sedona White Pocket

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Sedona

WHERE ART IS A 360 DEGREE EXPERIENCE

125 artists from across America showcase their exquisite work against Sedona’s stunning red rock back drop

PHOTO BY CORY BRUENING | SCULPTURE BY SCOTT LUCHANSKY

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“I’m such a sucker for a beautiful landscape,” he said. “What really excites me is making a memorable image of a scene few if any others have seen before. “I am always inspired by the morning light just before sunrise, and the late afternoon light just before sunset. I’m happiest when the light surprises me and makes a beautiful scene come alive.”

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October 2018

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Sedona

WHAT MAKES THE RED ROCKS RED? Throughout documented history and likely before, the red rock formations of Sedona and much of northern Arizona have been the subject of wonderment and lore. Beginning in the early 1920s—long before color film—they began showing up in Hollywood movies. Imagine the surprise of tourists when they realized that, not only were the landscape formations as stunning as on film, but the colors were more vivid than they could have imagined! The presence of hematite is what causes the deep red color of Sedona’s sandstone and soil. Hematite is also called iron oxide, and is otherwise known as rust. It’s ironic that something so sublime can actually be caused by the same process that turns other objects to ruin.

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Sedona

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN PHOTOGRAPHY “I got started in photography about nine years ago, when digital cameras made photography so easily accessible. I’ve been helped along the way by thousands of people if you include all the photographers who inspire me every day with their beautiful images. Also, resources available to everyone online help me get the most I can out of every image. “With so many photographs uploaded to the internet every day, you should find what genre of photography really excites you, and just immerse yourself in that part of the photographic world.” michael-wilson.com Instagram: @MichaelWilsonAZ

October 2018

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Sedona

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE ARIZONA EXPERIENCE? My most memorable Arizona experience was at the Grand Canyon, being the quintessential landscape of Arizona, was when I was camping on the rim of the Canyon. I was all by myself in a place where tourists donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go because it was a somewhat difficult area to get to, and the quiet morning sunrise over the Grand Canyon was such a pleasure.

Sedona

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Grand Canyon - Tatahatso

October 2018

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With cooler temperatures right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about pumpkin spice foods, fall décor and Halloween. For those in Carefree and the surrounding communities, the anticipation is ramping up for one of the most engaging and exciting annual community events—the Fourth Annual Enchanted Pumpkin Garden. Each year, people flock from around the Valley into Carefree to participate in the four-acre fall fest that showcases Halloween with food, fun and frighteningly fantastic carved pumpkin and gourd art courtesy of world-renowned artist, Ray Villafane, who also has an art studio in Carefree. The

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popular event takes place October 19-28 and incorporates the local community in just about every way. “The Enchanted Pumpkin Garden is a big deal for us and it’s a lot of fun,” says Carefree Vice Mayor John Crane, who has been a Carefree resident for more than 25 years and on the town council since 2012. He estimates that last year, the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden welcomed 50-60,000 guests during the week and a half-long event. “The beauty of it is that people come and they go, but they come back because the displays change since pumpkins

N OF CAREFR ~ T OW 4 T H A N N U A L EE ~

O ctober 19 - 28

NEW THIS YEAR!

Gourdy Ghouligan

and his Carefree Hooligans

Writer Lynette Carrington Photos Courtesy of the Town of Carefree

only have a shelf life of a few days,” Crane says. “There is a constant flow of people and it is a always a festive atmosphere.”

Magical Hours: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. FREE ADMISSION

He personally attends the event every evening and on weekends, meeting and greeting guests at the Town of Carefree’s booth that offers everything from information and Enchanted Pumpkin Garden merchandise to firstaid supplies, if anyone needs them. This year’s event features something for every member of the community, including live pumpkin carving

DAILY Live Pumpkin Carvings WEEKENDS Haunted Happenings Harvest Market / Family Carving Nights Costume Contests / Adopt a Pumpkin Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest / Beer Garden Culinary Delights

EnchantedPumpkinGarden.com October 2018

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with Villafane, pumpkin arts and crafts, music, storytelling, pumpkin pie eating contests for kids and adults, costume contest for kids and families, a jack o’ lantern craft beer garden, scarecrows, Villafane’s “pickled” pumpkin carvings, haunted house, a petting zoo and fall treats and food trucks. The Carefree corn maze and harvest market are also new this year and, as in years past, there is no charge for admission. The biggest draw of the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden is the wildly imaginative vignettes that portray Villafane’s carved pumpkins as an entire array of zany characters.

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Although he’s done work in New York and in Hollywood realm, he loves Carefree and sees the town as a part of his artwork. “I see the Town of Carefree as my studio, my garden and my toybox,” Villafane says, “It’s where I play—it’s my playground! In the same way, there is a comfort level for me here.” The Enchanted Pumpkin Garden is where Villafane really shines in his unique art, and he has created something new for this year’s event.

“I spent the better part of the last year in the studio developing characters, and I feel like I gave birth to a child,” Villafane says of his new creations that will debut at this year’s Enchanted Pumpkin Garden. Gourdy Ghouligan and the Carefree Hooligans are the new Halloween characters guests will have an opportunity to discover. Other local businesses and artisans are also included in the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden. Crane says, “We’ve created opportunities for businesses to participate by encouraging them to come up with coupon programs, and we have vendor booths and a market with local vendors.” Additionally, local restaurant Venues will supply the pumpkin pies for the pumpkin pie eating contests. Some non-profits also get involved with the event. For example, the Sonoran Arts League will sponsor this year’s beer garden, and the Desert Foothills YMCA sponsors family pumpkin-carving nights. Local business Storyteller Creations is making wildly decorative witches’ hats. A portion of proceeds from those sales benefits Foothills Caring Corps.

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“This year is a bit different because we’re moving some activities outside of the garden itself, down Ho Hum Street toward the historical Spanish Village,” Crane adds. “The idea is to get people to walk about the town more instead of spending the entire time in the garden.” He says that guests will then discover other businesses that are in Carefree through the route they will walk during the event. “This is a family activity for those young and old and of course, the kids love it,” Crane says. “For the people who reside in the town, this is great because it gives them a sense of pride. It’s great for all our neighbors within Maricopa County and farther away, too.” Through social media, the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden has received exposure around the world. “A few years ago, we even had a pumpkin that appeared on Monday Night Football,” Crane says. “This event does exactly what we want it to do. It places Carefree on the map and gets people to come up and visit the town and see what we have to offer.” carefree.org

October 2018

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

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Country music artist Wynonna Judd has been delighting audiences for 35 years, beginning with her iconic act with her mother Naomi and continuing through a successful solo career. Now, the five-time Grammy Award winner enters the stage as part of a Valley tradition that aspires to promote the arts. Judd and her band The Big Noise will perform 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17. The performance is part of Arizona Musicfest’s 2018–19 festival season, which will bring a diverse lineup of musical artists to the North Valley between Nov. 2 and March 15. Arizona Musicfest Executive and Producing Director Allan Naplan said the event, which is now in its 28th year, aims to provide accessible, affordable and entertaining performances to audiences in the North Valley—an area that might otherwise be underserved due to its absence of a formal performing arts center. “We have tremendous agility to create a performance experience that is really customizable, both for the artists that we present and also for the audience,” said Naplan, noting the organization makes use of the impressive audio and video technology of the North Valley’s churches and other venues to present unique concert experiences. Judd is the headliner of Arizona Musicfest’s fall lineup, which includes four other performances throughout the month of November. She is the fourth country artist to appear as part of the event over the years, following Rosanne Cash, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Lee Ann Womack. “We love having an artist of this caliber on the Arizona Musicfest stage,” said Naplan, noting Judd’s sound with The Big Noise mixes country with a little blues and rock. “Wynonna is a country artist who has gone so far beyond the country realm in becoming attractive to a much broader audience. We're excited to bring her to Arizona Musicfest.” Over the years, the festival has presented a number of top artists in a wide array of musical genres. Recent guests include Chris Botti and The Manhattan Transfer, while Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and Neil Sedaka are scheduled to appear later this season. The executive and producing director believes such artists are attracted to Arizona Musicfest because of the Valley’s especially enthusiastic crowds. “For any artist that's performing on the Arizona Musicfest stage, it's a really rewarding experience,” Naplan explained. “Even if they're doing hundreds of performances in a given season, they want to feel loved every night and they want to feel as though they're making a difference with the audience.” The venue sizes benefit both the artists and the audiences. Highlands Church, the site of Judd’s performance, seats 1,500 people. Naplan noted that the seating capacity is significantly less than that of a typical performing arts center, thereby fostering the feeling of a more intimate performance experience. “We can have a dialogue between the artists and the audience,” Naplan said. “I think artists leave feeling as though this was a really wonderful conversation that they had with the Arizona Musicfest audience.”

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Wynonna & The Big Noise

The event has grown exponentially in recent years, from about 7,300 attendees and 17 concerts per season to about 23,000 attendees and 27 concerts per season. And although Judd is drawing the most interest, there are plenty of other performances from which audiences can choose. Naplan hopes people will allow Arizona Musicfest to expand their musical palette. “When our patrons are attracted to a major artist [like Wynonna Judd], that helps to open up the door for everything else that we offer,” Naplan explained. “We love to see when someone comes as a first-timer then turns around and buys many tickets. It's nice that they are willing to come on a journey with us as we cross-pollinate their interests.” That journey begins with a Nov. 2 concert in which musical artists Kenny Metcalf and Patrick Farrell pay tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel, and continues with a Nov. 8 performance by The Bronx Wanderers. The Bronx Wanderers previously appeared as part of the event and havebeen brought back by popular demand.

Violins of Hope Gil Shaham

“It says a lot when people are that eager to hear an artist,” said Naplan, noting the group is known for their act at Bally’s Las Vegas in which they bring to life the music of the 50s, 60s and 70s. “The nostalgia of their act really speaks to our audience who gets to relive some of the classic tunes of their youth.”

Anderson & Roe

The Anderson and Roe Piano Duo comes to the North Valley as part of Arizona Musicfest Nov. 13, playing not only classical music but also reinterpreted contemporary music. The act takes audiences on a musical journey, and is on the cutting edge of classical chamber music. “These are two virtuosic pianists who are very exciting in what they do and how they're really attractive to all audiences.” Naplan explained. “They've become darlings of YouTube with thousands of hits and views of their interpretations of both classical music and also popular music that they have classicalized in their very inventive arrangements.”

Human Nature

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Arizona Musicfest’s fall event culminates Nov. 18 with the Young Musicians Fall Concert. Naplan

said the organization is committed to providing the Valley’s youth with quality access to music education and performance opportunities. That is, after all, one of Arizona Musicfest’s primary objectives. Money the organization makes from the concerts benefit those programs. “Our Valley is very fortunate to have some extraordinary young musicians,” Naplan said. “Arizona Musicfest wants to be a vehicle for them to advance their performance careers and their [education]. A chance to get in front of a very receptive audience is key to that process as they're evolving as young musicians.” While this is only the third time Arizona Musicfest has held performances in the fall, this year marks the first time the organization has presented a Christmas concert. The inaugural event brings The Ten Tenors and their “Home for the Holidays” concert to the North Valley Dec. 3. Naplan hopes the event will become an annual tradition as Arizona Musicfest continues to expand its footprint. “The Ten Tenors from Australia have a tremendous reputation for their programming and for their excellence in musicianship,” Naplan said. “They put on a fantastic Christmas show. We're excited to be able to jump into that realm because around that time people are looking for great entertainment options that celebrate the season.” Arizona Musicfest does so much more than entertain, Naplan added.

Autumnfest Arts & Crafts Fair

Oct. 20-21 Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Carnival opens Thursday evening. Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway

Event Features • Arts & Crafts Vendors • Pumpkin Patch • Decorated Pumpkin Contest (Enter by Oct. 12)

“In an at times broken world, the arts can provide an understanding of different cultures, of different people, and of different worldviews,” he said. “The arts has always been that tremendous vehicle for interpersonal relationships and understanding the world around us. The arts uplifts people and provides them with a wonderful experience.”

• Kids’ Zone • Hayrides & Train Rides • Live Music–Rhythm of the Sun (Sat.) & Snake Eyes (Sun.) • Food Court/Beer Garden • Firewise Days

azmusicfest.org

Music

Wynonna and The Big Noise Saturday, Nov. 17 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale $37+ 480-422-8449 azmusicfest.org October 2018

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Amado Peña - Hermanos

Amado Peña - Adios Mi Valle

Amado Peña - Patrones Bonitos

Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer

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Painter Amado Peña doesn’t know what to expect when he reunites with ceramist Rich Lopez for a unique collaboration at the Thunderbird Artists 25th Annual Fall Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival, but that’s part of the fun. It’s been four years since the two acclaimed artists merged their artistic styles for a special show, “Framing the Southwest,” at the prestigious American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA) in California. Lopez, a southern California artist best known for his intricate ceramic basket patterns, is new to the Carefree show. Peña, a talented painter and mixed media artist from New Mexico, is returning to Thunderbird Artists after more than a decade. The two friends will exhibit and sell original pieces in adjacent booths that include a center work station, where they will collaborate on unique ceramic basketry pieces that feature Peña’s paintings inside of each of Lopez’s ceramic baskets. Denise Colter, president of Thunderbird Artists, said patrons appreciate the chance to view artist demonstrations. “This is a rare opportunity to see two acclaimed artists work side by side to create original pieces of fine art,” she said. “Not only can you watch the process, you’ll be able to take a ceramic basket home with you since Amado will be painting his images with acrylic paint.” David Armstrong, AMOCA founder, said that the museum show with Lopez and Peña was well-received, particularly because their combined talents resulted in unique pieces. “The collaboration between two artists is not a new thing, but it’s not common. By combining their talents, they are able to create artworks that surpass their individual efforts,” he said.

CURIOUS RISK-TAKERS Why does the collaboration between Lopez and Peña work so well? While they have some things in common—both have Yaqui heritage, and both were drawn to art early in their lives—they draw their inspiration from different sources. Perhaps their success together can be

Peña-Lopez Collaboration

October 2018

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Rich Lopez - Ceramic Basket

credited to the fact that both artists are risktakers who share an insatiable curiosity to discover new ways of expressing their creativity. Lopez worked in sales before receiving a potter’s wheel from his wife on Christmas day 14 years ago. “She remembered how much I enjoyed ceramics in high school,” he said. “I hadn’t touched clay in 35 years. I threw 40 pots that day, and I’ve been in my studio seven days a week ever since. That’s how much it changed my life.” Passionate about creating new work and curious about new techniques, Lopez taught himself a geometric math pattern rhythm that he incorporates into his ceramic basket creations. He enrolled at a local college where an art instructor recognized his talent and encouraged him to find a niche to separate himself from others.

Peña-Lopez Collaboration >>

Rich Lopez - Ceramic Basket

“That night, I dreamed I was making a basket with a tool in my hand. I woke up early and made the tool from my memory of the dream. Then I applied it to the clay and created my first basket,” he said.

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Curiosity also drives Peña’s passion for creating bold, colorful paintings and mixed media pieces. He grew up in south Texas, where there weren’t many opportunities to develop his art, but he pushed himself to hone his drawing skills. After graduating from college, he taught art for 16 years until he decided to pursue his passion full-time. He earned a master’s in art education and opened his first art gallery in Santa Fe in the 1980s.

“Thematically, my work is influenced from many different sources,” he said. “Some of my ideas come from the pueblo where I live, but not everything is related to my tribe. I have a very stylized formula, and I’m always interested in seeing how my images translate onto different mediums, such as jewelry, leather and clay.” The Carefree festival will give Peña a chance to do just that on Lopez’s clayfired baskets. “I’ll be using acrylics to paint the baskets while they are in a bisque stage, which is very rare to see,” he said, adding that each piece will be sealed, and that each basket they collaborate on will be decorative, not functional. Individually, both artists will exhibit their own work in separate booths. Peña will exhibit new paintings and drawings, while Lopez will exhibit his new Taa’a limited series of ceramic baskets, which are 20- to 24-inches in diameter. “These baskets will be my largest series to date. Taa’a is Yaqui for ‘the sun,’ and this series is a tribute to the many blessings we receive from the sun. Each basket will be made from a 25-pound bag of clay, and they will all come with a letter of authenticity,” Lopez said. thunderbirdartists.com

Experience Thunderbird Artists Fall Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival Friday through Sunday, November 2–4 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Easy and Ho Hum Streets in downtown Carefree $3 for adults; free for children 17 and under; $10 wine tasting thunderbirdartists.com October 2018

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In October 2017, I was sent to the urologist because the results of a routine blood test came back with an unusually high PSA reading. The urologist put me through a series of other tests, including a biopsy of the prostate, and in early December 2017, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I was shocked. Really? Me? Cancer? More tests followed, including a bone scan, to determine if the cancer had spread beyond the prostate. All tests came back negative, meaning everything indicated that the cancer was still contained within the prostate. So far so good—if you can use the words “good” and “cancer” in the same sentence. Wednesday, March 28, 2018, I had surgery to remove the prostate and some surrounding lymph nodes. I spent two days in the hospital and was sent home with a catheter strapped to my leg and told to take it easy, which meant don’t work, don’t jog (I am a long-distance runner, for those of you who don’t already know), don’t lift anything, rest and drink lots of water. “Walking is good,” the nurse told me. Which she probably should not have said. I followed most of the instructions to the letter, but four days after surgery my step count was over 5,000 steps per day. I walked around the house. I walked around the back yard. I took the dog and went to the mailbox to get the mail and then —why not?—went over to the park so the dog could run around. Eight days after surgery, I had the catheter removed. By April 9, I was back at work at PostNet in Anthem. About three weeks after surgery, while walking the dog one morning on the trail, I jogged a few steps. No pain. Everything felt normal. Or almost normal. Not long after that, I was running (jogging very slowly) again. Just like that, I was back on my beloved trails. Dust on my running shoes. Water bottle in hand. Approximately six weeks after surgery, my wife and I went for a follow up visit to the doctor. I had taken yet another blood test to have my PSA level checked. The goal set by the urologist was to have a reading of no more than 0.5, which would indicate that the surgery had been successful and that I was cancer-free. If the reading came back higher than 0.5, then I might need to consider more options and more treatment.

Writer Lanny Nelson Photography Courtesy of Lanny Nelson

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You saved my life.

We sat in the tiny room and waited. And waited. And waited. At last, a physician’s assistant came into the room, opened his laptop, went over everything on my chart, and then he said the following words:

Now everything has changed. Now every day is a gift. Every run on the trail is a new run. At the age of 57, I have been given a second chance and allowed to live again. To live better. To love better.

“Your PSA reading was undetectable.”

I realize that not everyone is so lucky. I am a cancer survivor, but there are far too many cancer victims out there.

UN-DE-TECT-ABLE! No cancer! None to be found. The reading was not only zero; it was zilch. It was not there. The cancer was gone. Eliminated. A few minutes later the door opened, and the urologist walked in. He was literally beaming. His entire face was one big smile. He hugged my wife, who was crying. He hugged me. “Congratulations,” he said. “Absolutely fantastic!” I thanked him. “You saved my life,” I said. “You gave me more time on the planet. I can see my grandchildren grow up.”

I am humbled and grateful to God. I promise to try and do better with the extra time I have been given. Two words have changed my life: “cancer” and “undetectable.” Now I press on—with great joy. milesbeneathmyfeet.com

Anthem resident Lanny Nelson, known affectionately as “Lan the Running Man,” has logged about 75,000

Eight months. In eight months, I went from hearing that I might have cancer to hearing that all the cancer was gone. I went from hearing a doctor say, “You have cancer,” to hearing a doctor say the word “undetectable.”

miles in his running shoes. Recently, he embarked on a new, more challenging journey: surviving prostate cancer. Lanny has chosen to share his battle, and his hope, with our Images Arizona family.

October 2018

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Scott Baxter

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In a sport dominated by male coaches, Ashley Wilson-Hammer is breaking through the gender divide of reining with poise and confidence. While her boots may be smaller and she may be lighter in the saddle, there is nothing soft about her drive to be the best. With her dark brown hair tamed in a low ponytail and her well-worn hat shading sun-drenched skin, Wilson-Hammer walks with conviction down the aisle of a barn at Chaparosa, her training grounds near Rio Verde. In square-toed boots and weathered jeans, she’s the kind of comfortable that comes from a lifetime of success. It’s an ease that’s well-earned. Her tough-as-nails approach has garnered her, and the students and horses she trains, a sizeable cache of awards through the years.

October 2018

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Reining is a unique sport. Like its English sister, dressage, it requires riders to fluidly execute set patterns with correctness and precision. Both are incredibly athletic endeavors on both the part of the rider and the horse, and both require a level of teamwork that can only be described as symbiotic. Beyond that, however, the similarity ends. From 360-degree spins to sliding stops, reining takes the skills required on the ranch and turns them into an intricate dance of sorts. In competition, the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) approves patterns that are scored on an objective scale. Riders must coax 1,000-pound creatures to lope small, slow circles and large, fast circles, execute flying lead changes and perform roll backs, spins and breathtaking stops. The learning process requires unmatched discipline, patience and a little bit of luck—for both the horse and the rider. “It takes a dedicated commitment and a lot of hours in the saddle to be good at what we do,” Wilson-Hammer explains. “The rider has to become teammates with the horse. “The rider has to make it easy for the horse to do the right thing, and hard for the horse to do the wrong thing. Still, they can do everything right, but they’re still working with a horse that has very definite opinions and that, on any given day, may or may not want to do what they’re supposed to do.” She laughs as she says this—clearly out of experience.

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Still, it’s the horses that keep her coming back. “For me, this isn’t a career, and it isn’t ‘work.’ It’s my lifestyle. I’m out here when they’re sick. I’m out here putting on blankets in the winter. I’m out here giving them vitamins when they need them. It’s not something you get to walk away from after 5 o’clock, but I like it that way.” Farrier John MacKenzie calls out from behind a horse’s hoof: “It’s because you’re insane!” After another laugh, he adds, “It’s in your blood.” As a second-generation horsewoman (her father was a trainer, and her mother showed horses), the Kentucky native came by her work ethic and drive for competition honestly. She grew up training and showing horses, never dreaming of a different life. Her husband, Mike, rode the rodeo circuit for years before the two decided to “meet in the middle,” packing up their respective saddles in Washington State and the Bluegrass State to make their home in the Valley of the Sun. While Mike now runs a luxury

camping excursion company, she has been training horses and their riders in the Phoenix area for nearly 20 years. We tour the barn and are greeted by curious faces and nickers from a dozen or so of the 29 horses—mostly quarter horses with a few Arabians standing proudly in the mix—in her care. “These beautiful animals never cease to amaze me in their elegance, athleticism, grace and kindness,” she says. “Each horse I have worked with has a unique personality and a different athletic skill set. Learning how to communicate, coach and train these individuals is not only a challenge; I consider it to be an absolute privilege.” Wilson-Hammer’s clients include men and women, boys and girls, beginners and experienced riders. Some are owners who choose to watch their horses’ success from the stands, while others are hands-on riders who want to spend all of their free time with their horses. “No matter where you are or what your goals are, there is

October 2018

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something for everyone. That’s something I love most about this sport. There is always a place for you.” Though there are always challenges, WilsonHammer embraces them. “Watching an owner and their horse come together as a team, seeing their confidence and skill levels increase, observing a new horse owner begin to truly learn how to care for their horse—each of these moments make the blood, sweat and tears aspect of this career more than worth it. “As a trainer, being allowed to participate in this journey with a client and their horse, is so extremely rewarding, and humbling. In fact, it is mostly humbling, which is what makes those moments of sheer exhilaration. That ‘I am on top of the world!’ emotion is something you strive to make happen again and again for your client, and for yourself,” she says. It’s also an act of paying it forward. Cowhorse greats Jim Paul, 2006 Reining Futurity Champion, Randy Paul and Cal Cooper are among her most impactful mentors, serving as examples of when to push herself and her horses further, and when to have patience. They also believed in her at a time when many trainers and owners have been hesitant to support women in the industry. In the end, it is Wilson-Hammer who has earned respect, developing a sound reputation for hard work, dedication and an intrinsic instinct that goes beyond skill or knowledge. It’s all labor of love. “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” she says, her brown eyes shining. “By far and away, my happiest days and the memories I will carry with me have all been on a horse, with a horse, or surrounded by my horse people. I thank God each day for this opportunity.”

October 2018

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Bryan Black

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Standing tall on the southeast corner of Scottdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright is an aqua blue, 125-foot steel and glass spire that, love it or hate it, is an iconic Scottsdale landmark with an interesting history. In fact, there may be more to it than you know!

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Wright believed in simple, straight-forward design that eschewed what he thought of as excess: the overtly ornamental elements of architecture prior to World War I. Instead, he favored clean lines and the idea that shape and function should mimic the simplicity (yet complexity—he was a deep thinker) of the geometric patterns found in nature.

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Above all, however, he believed that form should be determined by function. Looking at the spire, especially in the daytime, it’s difficult to understand how it fits in to Wright’s principles. After all, though it is pretty when it’s alight at night, and it serves as a landmark for tourists and commuters alike, it doesn’t really do anything, right? If your mind has taken you along that line of thought, you’re right on. In fact, Wright didn’t conceive the spire as a stand-alone project, and he didn’t design it as it now stands. How it came to be is a fun nugget of history. In the late 1930s, President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated the New Deal, a series of programs, economic stimulants and public works projects meant to put Americans back to work after the Great Depression. In Arizona, one of those projects was to create an annex for the state capitol building. A rectangular, 68- by 167-feet, four story building, now occupied by the state’s supreme court, superior courts, law library, offices of the attorney general, state historian was constructed in 1938—in a very traditional style. Wright, who had begun wintering at Taliesin West in 1937, was not a fan. Says renowned area architect Michael P. Johnson, whose career includes teaching at Wright’s School of Architecture at Taliesin West, “Wright believed the design of the capitol was not apropos for state capital building. He thought it should be built by world’s greatest architect—which was himself.” At the time, Wright was working on a number of illustrious projects, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York.

Medley of Beatles hits including Imagine, Yesterday, She Loves You and All You Need is Love • Broadway favorites from Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Evita and West Side Story • Quintessential Blues pieces Blue Skies, At Last, The St. Louis Blues and more!

ANTHEM Saturday, Nov 3 @ 7:30 p.m. Cross of Christ Lutheran Church 39808 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy

SUN CITY Sunday, Nov 4 @ 3:00 p.m. American Lutheran Church 17200 N. Del Webb Blvd

For tickets and information: visit PMAZ.org or call 623-326-5172 Children 15 and under are free! October 2018

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In his spare moments, he set to work designing what he called “The Oasis,” a strikingly contemporary set of hexagonal structures with honeycombed glass canopies. Fountains and greenery were intertwined in the plan, in typical Wright style, to blur the line between nature and design, and a matching pair of symmetrical wings was added to house the House and the Senate. Atop each of the three wings, delicate-looking, towering, faceted spires reached for the heavens. Those spires inspired the one at Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard. So how did it get out there? Well, the problem with Wright’s concept was not in its execution; it was that he was never commissioned to build the capitol building in the first place. In 1954, when the design was finished, Wright began pitching his capitol building design idea to local Phoenix officials. He was met with a sound “thanks, but no thanks.” “That was a fantasy drawing of his,” says Johnson. “It wasn’t rejected because it was ahead of its time, even though that’s what’s been said. It was rejected because the state already had a capitol building and didn’t need a new one.” Sadly, Wright’s ideas for an innovative, unique capitol building were never realized. Had they been, Arizona could have had its own version of Portland’s Space Needle or the St. Louis Arch, drawing tourists and other visitors in by the busload. In 1959, when Wright died, his plans for the capitol were also laid to rest—for nearly half a century. When the Promenade Shopping Center was proposed for the Scottsdale Road corner, the developer not only wanted a focal point, but he also wanted something that would please the City of Scottsdale so they’d approve a zoning change. Wright apprentice Arnold Roy was happy to oblige, redesigning Wright’s original capitol spire to conform to building codes. The resulting proportions were different than Wright’s original plan, but it still has hallmark elements of Wright’s work.

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It begins with a slight whiff of something wonderful. Within a few hours, the scent of the summertime barbecues of childhood begins to fill the air, and by mid-day, it becomes an aromatic dinner bell for anyone fortunate enough to find themselves within a radius of a city block or two. This slow and steady perfection doesn’t only describe the barbecue at Liberty Station American Tavern and Smokehouse; it’s a metaphor for the way Paul Keeler, president of Keeler Hospitality Group, has developed his brand, and his philosophy for casual yet quality neighborhood dining. Together with his son, Matt, who serves as director of operations, and General Manager Monica Teligades, they’re slowly and thoughtfully creating solid building blocks for what surely will become a legacy. As the third in a series of endeavors, which includes Market Street Kitchen in DC Ranch and Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops in Omaha, Liberty Station has been the culmination of decades of successful and innovative experience in hospitality and dining for Paul, and a lifetime of leproach. Liberty Station is a family endeavor sure to be a delicious win for everyone. libertystationtavern.com

October 2018

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Daisy Mountain Veterans

For the 14th year in a row, Anthem’s streets will be bustling with festive floats, marching bands belting out patriotic tunes, and community members of all ages waving flags to honor and support our troops. The Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade kicks off 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3 near Boulder Creek High School at Memorial Drive. From there, parade participants will march northbound on Gavilan Peak Parkway before turning eastbound onto Anthem Drive and coming to a halt near Freedom Way at Anthem Community Center.

“It is really just an old-fashioned, small-town, grassroots parade where everybody sort of knows everybody,” said Crump, noting that the parade’s floats and other entries have an endearingly handcrafted charm to them. “Anthem has a real history of patriotism and supporting our veterans that continues today.”

The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s parade will honor veterans who served in Somalia, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Battle of Mogadishu/Black Hawk Down. Daisy Mountain Veterans are inviting those who served in the conflict to come forward as grand marshalls in the parade. The event aims to highlight the sacrifices of our veterans and show support to our troops who have protected our freedoms through service.

Sam Crump, president of Daisy Mountain Veterans, the umbrella organization for veterans’ activities in Anthem, said the event continues to get bigger and better every year, thanks to the efforts of the entire community.

“It’s just about supporting our community,” Crump explained. “It's things like this that make the community what it is. This is our signature event every year and I know that the veterans just really appreciate it.”

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Daisy Mountain Veterans has been determined to raise the bar this year, encouraging participants to add more color and creativity to their parade entries. He said that although everyone who registers at www.daisymtnvets.org by the Oct. 20 deadline is welcome, he hopes to see more people use their imaginations to show their appreciation of the men and women who have fought for our country. “When people put a little more time and creativity into it, it makes things more interesting,” said Crump, noting that he wishes more marching bands were able to participate. “Everybody always asks us why we don't have more marching bands. Unfortunately, this particular Saturday is always the statewide marching band competition.” Nonetheless, spectators can expect to see plenty of patriotic participants representing all age groups, from North Valley Young Marines and Anthem Youth for Troops all the way up to residents from the area’s senior living communities. Crump noted that one of his favorite entries in last year’s parade was a Merrill Gardens shuttle bus carrying several flagwaving senior citizens.

2018

One of the ways in which this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever before is the expansion of the charity picnic and cornhole tournament that takes place after the parade on the softball fields at Anthem Community Park. Anthem Young Professionals, a committee within the Anthem Chamber of Commerce, is organizing the post-parade activities. “It compliments the parade and creates more to do,” Crump said. “We're really excited because Anthem Young Professionals has brought in a whole

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new level of energy, and they're doing a super job. It's a good example of community cooperation.”

if not more this year but said the event’s primary purpose is to get people out of their homes and in the company of their neighbors.

Anthem Young Professionals president Sawana Grimmett said this is the fifth time the group has held the cornhole tournament, but only the second time it has organized the charity picnic and partnered with Daisy Mountain Veterans. Earlier events benefitted Anthem Pets, a non-profit organization that promotes responsible pet ownership, provides medical care for abandoned and abused animals and works to reunite lost pets with their owners.

“It's a great way to get out there, get involved, meet your neighbors and support not only local businesses but also a charity while you're at it,” said Grimmett, noting that participating in community events like the Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade and its accompanying charity picnic gives you a feeling of inclusivity and accomplishment. “I think that anytime we get out together and do really any kind of activity as a community, it benefits us overall.”

Gates for the charity picnic open at 11 a.m. In addition to several food trucks and a beer garden courtesy of the Rotary Club of Anthem, attendees will enjoy a video game trailer, an obstacle course, tethered hot-air balloon rides and a number of larger-thanlife games such as giant Jenga, giant chess and giant battleship. Each attraction is sponsored by a local business.

Grimmett said that the Valley’s weather is beautiful this time of the year and perfect for attending a parade and a picnic. Crump agreed, adding that he enjoys walking through the crisp autumn air to the parade and is fond of the feeling that the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are right around the corner. Still, he acknowledges that planning the 14th Annual Daisy Mountain Veterans parade is a daunting task.

The highlight of the event is the cornhole tournament, which takes place at 11:30 a.m. Grimmett said although day-of, walk-in tournament play may be possible, registration by Oct. 15 at www.aypaz.com is required to guarantee a team’s spot so that organizers have time to set up brackets and secure enough boards and bean bags. Registration costs $50 for each two-person team. “I think that it's just a fun game,” said Grimmett, explaining why Anthem Young Professionals chose cornhole over other potential games. “People get really competitive. They get really into it and a lot of camaraderie is built through it. We have had teams that have been with us throughout the five years.” Last year’s charity picnic and cornhole tournament yielded $4,200 for Anthem Young Professionals and Daisy Mountain Veterans. Grimmett hopes to raise as much

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“It's been a proud tradition,” said Crump, who is serving his first year as Daisy Mountain Veterans president. “I want to make sure it goes well. We put a lot of time and effort into it. So, for me personally, it's a point of pride to keep a great community tradition going. Someday we'll be celebrating our 25th and our 50th anniversaries.”

Experience Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade and Charity Picnic Saturday, November 3 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem Free to Attend daisymtnvets.org

October 2018

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Writer Amanda Christmann // Photography Courtesy of Sedona Visual Artists Coalition

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On the green banks of the Verde River, a short afternoon trip away from the Phoenix sun in the heart of Arizona wine country sits 14 acres of paradise.

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Over 100 years ago, a bunkhouse was built out of river rock on this historic ranch, and through the years it was cultivated and nurtured by the late world-renowned ceramicist Don Reitz. Reitz Ranch would become an education center for budding ceramic artists—a commune of sorts attracting the kind of folks driven by a need to create with their hands from the mud of the earth. Don himself spent decades sitting in a chair next to a kiln alongside the river, opening the door occasionally to toss in a handful of salt. He is often credited with reviving the ages-old technique of salt firing. Its snap, crackle and pops would result in his trademark speckled pieces, some of which remain in collections at the Smithsonian Institution, New York’s Museum of Arts and Design, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, and at the ranch itself.

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Also remaining is Reitz’s legacy. Following his death in 2014, Ted and Sheryl Leigh-Davault purchased the property and continued the tradition. Today, the kilns remain hot, and they have built a family of potters and ceramists. Reitz Ranch is just one of 35 stops along the tour of this year’s Sedona Fall Open Studios Tour Oct. 26– 28. This free event will allow visitors to create their self-guided route through artists’ private studios to see the creative process at work. This year’s event features 50 artists from Sedona, Village of Oak Creek, Cornville, Cottonwood and Clarkdale. Nearly every medium is represented, including ceramics, stained and fused-infused glass, ceramic and bronze sculpture, mixed media, photography, fiber, redwood and buckeye burl, painting and mosaics.

October 2018

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Fred Tomlin - Buckeye Chief Judy Feldman - Blue Wave

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It’s an event Mike Upp, president of Sedona Visual Artists’ Coalition and a ceramics artist, looks forward to all year. “It’s not like going to an arts festival or a gallery,” he explained. “Here, you are actually going inside the space where the artist is creating. Pretty much everybody on our tour is really into communicating what their processes are and trying to educate people as to what goes into working with the medium they’re in.” The open studios tour is perfect for people looking for a different kind of fun. “People are looking for immersive experiences,” Upp

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explained. “Here, they get to dive down deep and gain a much better understanding than going into three or four galleries and seeing paintings hanging on a wall. Here, we bring it to life.” There is plenty to be excited about this year. Among the fabulous artists is a new, old face. Internationally famous bronze sculptor John Waddell began his sculpting career in 1921 at the age of 10. Though his work was interrupted by a stint in the Army from 1942 to 1945, he went on to become one of the most renowned contemporary bronze artists in Arizona, with work featured in front of the Phoenix Art Center, Carver Museum and Cultural Center,

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Waddell, now 97 years old, was inducted into the Herberger Theater’s Hall of Fame in 2001. He and his wife, Ruth, who is a painter, will share their studio with visitors for the tour, along with dozens of other interesting and unique artists. “Demonstrations have always been a big part of the open studios tour, and this year we are going to expand that even more,” said Upp. “People really enjoy going to the studios and gaining insight as to how someone makes a glass vase, a ceramic pitcher, or how they turn a lathe to make a bowl.” And in some cases, as with Reitz Ranch, visitors can feel the pull of history—or even see it in the making. From his front porch, surrounded by some of the pottery created from fire, salt and his own two hands, Don Reitz would likely look upon the Sedona Fall Open Studios Tour and smile. After all, sharing art and a love for its processes is what he and so many other artisans strive to do, and the legacy lives on.

Experience Sedona Fall Open Studios Tour October 26–28 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday Noon–5 p.m. Sunday Map available online Free sedonaartistscoalition.org

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Writer Shoshana Leon Photography Courtesy of Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Auberge de Sedona and Jason Tinacci

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Wine lovers rejoice! An extraordinary event is coming to Arizona that will feature food and wine pairings curated by an acclaimed international chef and one of the world’s most celebrated winemakers, all in a spectacular setting. “An Intimate Weekend with Isabel and Michael Mondavi” takes place November 2 through 4 at the award-winning L’Auberge de Sedona Resort and Spa, located on the picturesque banks of Oak Creek. In addition to the gorgeous setting and stunning views, what makes this weekend so special is the unique opportunity for guests to experience sophisticated cuisine created by L’Auberge de Sedona’s executive chef Franck Desplechin, expertly paired with wines selected by Michael Mondavi and his wife Isabel. Events throughout the weekend highlight exceptional wine tasting experiences, and thoughtful food and wine pairings. The weekend festivities begin Friday with a “Meet the Winemaker” reception. Guests can enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres, and mingle with Michael and Isabel Mondavi. Saturday’s events include a wine and chocolate tasting with Sedona chocolatier Chocolita, a creekside lunch and a four-course winemaker dinner. The weekend concludes with Sunday brunch. During the weekend’s events, guests will learn about winemaking, tasting and pairing from one of the world’s most highly regarded vignerons. In 1966, Michael Mondavi and his father Robert cofounded the Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Valley. In 1999, Michael, his wife Isabel and their two children purchased Animo vineyard in Atlas Peak northeast of Napa to create the Michael Mondavi Family Estate. In 2008, Michael launched M by Michael Mondavi wines. Michael has ensured that all estate vineyards are farmed sustainably, with the winery achieving recognition as a Napa Green Certified Winery. Michael’s other industry honors include being named 2015 Person of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine and receiving the Who’s Who of Food and Beverage award by the James Beard Foundation in 1997. “An Intimate Weekend with Isabel and Michael Mondavi” is the first event of its kind in Sedona. “Isabel and I love to visit Sedona in the fall. Sedona is a wonderful place where people go to relax and this is an ideal time of the year,” said Michael Mondavi. “Taking place during the first part of November, just a few weeks after the completion of the 2018 harvest, it will be a pleasure to showcase some fermenting juices, barrel-aging wines, as well as beautifully finished and aged wine. “For wine lovers, this timing means we are able to share our wines from their infancy through to maturity, which is an experience that most food and wine lovers never have the opportunity to enjoy. I look forward to introducing wine lovers to some experiences they’ve not had before.” The Mondavis are working closely with Chef Desplechin and his staff to create pairings that highlight the complementary flavors of the wine and food with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients. “Along with many delicious wine tastings, we’ve come together to curate an array of pairings and events that showcase aspects of both food and beverage,” said Chef Desplechin, who joined L’Auberge in June and has cultivated more than 18 years of culinary experience at some of the world’s finest restaurants and hotels. October 2018

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“We’ve studied flavor profiles and seasonal ingredients to create a menu that pairs with each perfectly. We’ve realized there are many components to this, including knowing your product, weather patterns, seasonality and outside temperatures. Experiences from each event will blend and carry throughout the weekend, as they are all complementary to each other.”

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With its exquisite views and tranquil atmosphere, L’Auberge is the perfect location for the weekend. “L’Auberge is a unique place that reflects a special sense of healing, connection and relaxation, one where lasting memories are formed and romance is created,” said Chef Desplechin. “Our team understands every need when it comes to food and respects the nature, seasonality and sustainability of products. We’ve partnered with several local farmers in order for guests to receive a clear picture of the environment here in Sedona and the Verde Valley. Our team wants nothing more than to provide a truly hospitable and unique experience for our guests.”

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Although the menus for the events are still being developed, Chef Desplechin provided a sneak peek into one of the pairings for Saturday night’s four-course dinner: lemongrass poached lobster tail with mascarpone and tangelo parsnip tortellini and crisp pumpkin, finished with citrus lobster bisque and a drizzle of ancho chile oil. This dish will be paired with Animo by Michael Mondavi Heritage 2014 Sauvignon Blanc. The description of that single dish sparks the imagination of the potential of what is in store for the weekend as two experts come together to create a once-in-a-lifetime wining and dining experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. For those fortunate to attend, it will be an intimate and exclusive weekend that will not be forgotten. lauberge.com

Taste

An Intimate Wine Weekend with Isabel and Michael Mondavi November 2-4, 2018 L’Auberge de Sedona Resort and Spa 301 L’Auberge Lane, Sedona Individual tickets are available for the Meet the Winemaker reception. Several resort packages are available starting at $1,639. 888-587-7848 laubres@lauberge.com October 2018

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Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

There is nothing better than a warm, creamy plate of pasta in the fall time. The Boursin cheese in this dish adds such a depth of flavor, and creaminess unlike anything else! Boursin cheese is available at most grocery stores. Feel free to add protein of your choice to this dish. As-is, this recipe is vegetarian friendly.

Butternut Squash and Mushroom Pasta Ingredients: 1 cup cubed butternut squash 1 cup sliced crimini mushrooms 1/2 onion, sliced 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2 cups fresh baby spinach 1 block Boursin cheese 8 oz. pasta of your choice 1 cup pasta water Directions: In large pot, boil water to cook pasta. Cook as directed on package. Drain, saving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside. In large skillet, heat olive oil and add butternut squash. Caramelize for about 10 minutes, and then add mushrooms and onions. Once cooked to your liking, add the entire block of Boursin. Stir cheese until melted. Add in cooked pasta, then pour pasta water in slowly until sauce becomes desired thickness. Stir in spinach. Serve, and enjoy! kyndraclaire.com

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September 2018

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Pumpkin Spice Cake Fall is finally here, and this pumpkin spice cake is dense, moist and full of fall flavorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;without being overly sweet!

Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter, softened 2 eggs 1 3/4 cup flour 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup pureed, canned pumpkin 1/8 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8x8-inch or 9x9inch pan. In large bowl, beat sugar and butter for about 5 minutes until creamy. Scrape bowl and add eggs one at a time, beating until combined. In separate bowl, sift together flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a smaller bowl, combine pumpkin, milk and vanilla. With mixer on low, add dry and wet ingredients to butter and sugar, alternately starting and ending with flour. Spread in prepared baking pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool, cut into squares and serve with spiced whipped cream, below. To make spiced whipped cream: Whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar. Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon each of cloves and nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. kyndraclaire.com

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October 2018

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