Images Arizona October 2019 by Images Arizona Magazine

Tramonto Anthem Desert Hills New River

ECRWSS Local Postal Customer

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

October 2019

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DAMIEN ESCOBAR

Friday, October 11 | 7:30 p.m. $55.50–$75.50

His musical career spans over a decade, and his inspiring journey of making it big, losing it all, fighting to rebuild, and getting a second chance at success is as much a part of his brand identity as being among the top violinists in the world.

“Damien is a master of his craft. He mixes genres like jazz, classical and hip-hop effortlessly.” —Volume Magazine

Upcoming Concerts Che Apalache October 6 EmiSunshine October 10 Kurt Elling October 18 MusicaNova Orchestra: Beethoven to Tap Shoes Inspired by Dance around the World October 20 Matthew Whitaker October 22 SFJAZZ Collective October 24 Matt Dusk October 27 And many more!

2019 Concert Series sponsored by

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

October 2019

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Join us for Future Freshman Nights! Barry Goldwater High School - November 14 Boulder Creek High School - November 20 Deer Valley High School - November 21 Mountain Ridge High School - November 13 Sandra Day Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor High School - November 6

www.dvusd.org/futurefreshman 4

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October 2019

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MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Lanning,

A Bryant Nagel Gallery

COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Amanda Christmann

TACO SPIRIT Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of The Arizona Taco Festival

FERRARI FRENZY Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photographer Bryan Black

GIVEN’ ‘EM PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT Writer Amanda Christmann Cover Photography by Loralei Lazurek

HONEY PEAR TART Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

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NOW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

THERESA VOGEL

Owner | Executive Director and Client Engagement Specialist

Anthem resident, Theresa Vogel, has had a life long interest in fitness. She became a member of Sweat and immediately loved the members and community feel of the gym and jumped at the opportunity to acquire this business and become one of the owners. “I love the gym atmosphere and I am really looking forward to making significant improvements to the business along the lines of adding new equipment, technology, and most of all making the client experience second to none,” says Theresa Vogel. Since the acquisition 3 months ago numerous changes have been made to improve the membership experience: New equipment (and more on the way)! Evaluation of technology to enhance the Sweat experience at the gym, at home and when on the road Focus on creating simplicity and transparency for the members across the business Creating mechanisms for membership feedback at all times

ONE WEEK FREE Come experience the difference at Sweat! Call today!

“Sweat is more than just a gym, it has become our community! Sweat offers a positive atmosphere, supportive staff, strong accountability...all in a clean environment. We actually love working out now because of the results & camaraderie!” Theresa & Jerrod Hoeft

623.551.5753 Small Group Training

Private Training

Weight Loss & Toning Challenges

Inbody Analysis

23 Club Accountability Coaching

623.551.5753 | 3655 W Anthem Way, Ste A129, Anthem, AZ 85086 | sweatchallenge.com October 2019

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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Christmann

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Hanie

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Kyndra Kelly Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz

ADVERTISING SALES Cooper Langston 480-544-8721 cooper@imagesaz.com

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2019 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Local First A R I Z O NA

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There’s excitement in the air! It’s October, and as we begin our own version of autumn in the desert, our streets, parks and community spaces are coming back to life! The month of October kicks off a dynamic season full of performances, exhibits and shows—all of which provide us with opportunities to appreciate the talented actors, artists, musicians, and even a professional pumpkin carver or two, who live among us. From Ray Villafane’s Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, to artists Todd Volz, Casey Cheuvront and Sylvia Fugmann Brongo, to filmmaker Amber McGinnis, and jewelry designer Sweta Jain, we’re proud to share these stories of creativity. We hope you are inspired to appreciate the processes—and the passion— that goes into their work. The arts form the most colorful threads in the beautifully woven tapestry of our community. The experiences and connections they provide are priceless, and they enrich our lives in so many ways. There is no “heart” without “art.” and music, art and theater are the soul of our community. I hope this month’s Images Arizona stories encourage you to get out, get involved and enjoy all they have to offer! Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

October 2019

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imagesarizona.com

Laura Bicego is the force behind the successful Italian jewelry line, Nanis, Oc tob e based r 2 019 out of Vicenza.

O N E

Y E A R

A N N I V E R S A R Y

C E L E B R A T I O N

CONTEMPORARY JEWELRY + ART

Meet renowned jewelry designer Laura Bicego,

whose Nanis collection is classically timeless and stunningly fashionable. Be the first to see Laura’s

[

newest creations at our annual event. Private Design Collection Her exquisite 18-karat gold creations are one-of-a-kind. Just like you.

October 11 & 12

Friday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. with wine & appetizers 4–8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

]

Located in Historic Spanish Village 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 Open Daily: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 480.575.8080

GraceReneeGallery.com

October 2019

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Lanning, A Bryant Nagel Gallery

Art is an illusion for ceramics artist Todd Volz. Upon first glance, what appears to be steampunk-style creations are, from Volz’s hands, something entirely different. Like steampunk art, Volz’s work is inspired by the post-industrial age, but gone are the moving parts, functional gears and science lab odds and ends of classic steampunk art and fashion. They are replaced by clay, wood, metal and fabric, carefully constructed to look exactly like something they are not—and a little bit like something that has never existed.

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“I create ceramic sculptures and functional objects that resemble obscure mechanical devices from our industrial past,” he explains. “A lot of people have said my work has a steampunk aesthetic, but that’s not something I necessarily agree with. I’m not sure I relate to art that way, but obviously, there is a similarity in things [steampunk artists and I] both appreciate.”

MAKING MEMORIES H WESTERN STYLE

OLD WEST SPIRIT NEW WEST TALENT

Volz, with his long, brown-red beard and rimmed glasses, looks every bit the part of an artist as he sits atop a stool in an office at University of Wyoming. Now a Colorado resident, he is teaching here during a sabbatical placement. In addition to passing along techniques and philosophies to aspiring students, he’s experiencing a bit of a homecoming. A native of the tiny town of Wheatland, Wyoming, where the most current census still counts fewer than 4,000 people, Volz was raised with an appreciation for hard work and recognizing the slowly turning cycle that connects people, nature and history. Those ingrained memories come out each time he spends hours creating rivets or screws in clay, or covers his work with a patina that adds years of perceived history to a newly-fired piece of clay. “I grew up in a small town in Wyoming,” he explains. “My family didn’t farm, but I grew up around agriculture. I worked on farms, and in high school I liked to work on old crappy cars. “I have memories of being in my dad’s workshop with all the little glass jars of bolts and washers and things lined up on the shelves. Those things interested me when I was growing up, and something about them still interests me today.” Today, he recreates those tiny moving parts and others, casting them in ceramic and giving them an aged metallike patina that fools the eye into believing that he’s created something that could actually work. They’re inventive and whimsical, and much more than meets the eye. His work is often so convincing that people search for elusive “on” switches, and turn them about in their hands taking guesses as to what they actually do. These moments bring Volz the greatest satisfaction. It’s all about the dichotomy of the recognizable versus the unfamiliar—fact versus fantasy.

6130 East Cave Creek Road • Cave Creek, AZ

www.lastiendascavecreek.com October 2019

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“Anything that looks like it’s riveted or metal—it’s always clay,” he says. “I’m thinking more of trying to bring out the idea of history, and to make people think backward in time.” In today’s world, the functionality of something may not be obvious at first glance. Had one never seen an iPhone, for example, it would be difficult to equate it to a telephone. An uncharged iPad would have little resemblance to a fountain pen, a typewriter, or anything else that has been used to compose letters or other written communication. In the past, however, whether it was a piece of manufacturing equipment during the Industrial Revolution or a Victrola phonograph, the purpose of just about anything was relatively conspicuous. Volz’s work is an homage to that era, yet the reality is that, in his process of creating something that appears functional, there is no functionality. At the same time, from Volz’s imagination come mechanicallooking pieces and parts that appear to be familiar, yet even if they were real, their function would be ambiguous. It’s the unspoken question marks (or sometimes the spoken questions) that make him smile. This master of artful disguise is finding that he has room to both evolve, and to return to his own past for inspiration. “Teaching has been interesting here,” he says. “Coming back to Wyoming, it’s back to wood-fired pottery, soda-fired pottery— I’m back to my roots.”

FROM THE BEGINNING “In high school, I had an elective choice of either music or art,” Volz says with a laugh. “That’s what you have in a small town—music or art. I decided it would be an art class.” He fell in love with his ability to express himself artistically, but coming from a salt-of-the-earth upbringing, he didn’t imagine that art could be his vocation. “I graduated as salutatorian of my class with a good GPA, so I did pretty well in high school, but college was an entirely different league. “In college, I went thinking I would do something like pharmacy—something that would make me some money. I had

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to take art as a general survey class, and when I did, it was the one thing that I thought was something I could get into.”

watershed moments in his life; at other times, they represent a feeling or memory he experienced.

And so he did.

Either way, he isn’t keen on sharing most of those meanings, not because he’s secretive, but because he wants the viewer to attach their own interpretations and ideas to his work.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in art education from University of Wyoming, and went on to earn his master’s degree from University of Idaho.

“

Anything that looks like it’s riveted or metal—it’s always clay. I’m thinking more of trying to bring out the idea of history, and to make people think backward in time.

“

Todd Volz

“Early on in graduate school, I was doing the same thing I had been doing as an undergrad—referencing natural, organic surfaces,” he says. “I began working on pedestal displays, building big pots and making them sort of sit into these wood structures I was creating. On one particular structure, I tried to use threaded rods and bolts, and I really liked the look of it.” In some ways, it was a throwback to his early days, in the shop with his dad, when he’d been fascinated by the jars of odds and ends that sat neatly arranged on the shelves above the workbench. “I decided then that that’s what I’m interested in,” he says. “That’s what I want to create.”

A CONTINUUM OF ART Volz has enjoyed both teaching and honing his craft for two decades now, earning acclaim in his field and helping young ceramics artists hone their craft and find their artistic voices. He’s also learned a bit about himself, infusing the energy and emotion from events that have occurred in his life into his ceramics and pottery.

Today, Volz is still hard at work in the studio, not only creating intriguing fauxfunctional pieces, but also large wall art and pottery. Both aspects of his art have allowed him to explore new expressions and to engage in new perspectives. “I feel like, early on, it was just about figuring out the technical aspects of things. I’ve always appreciated the aesthetics, but back then it was more about figuring out how to do everything. My technical skills have developed, and now it’s easier to think about imbuing my work with narrative and meaning.” Volz’s ceramics were on display at Northern Arizona University throughout the spring in an exhibition called Circuitous. Currently, several of his pieces are available at Lanning, a Bryant Nagel Gallery in Sedona, where he has already begun to earn his share of admirers who, like Volz, appreciate life’s ironies. “Over the last 20 years I’ve been doing it, I’ve seen a lot of things change,” he says. “I try to maintain a little bit of balance. I’m not trying to be a trompe l'oeil artist, but I like the notion that people are fooled at their first impression.” lanninggallery.com

The names of his pieces, intended to resemble serial numbers, derive from encoded messages and dates that only he knows. Sometimes they represent

October 2019

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— LAURA BICEGO’S PRIVATE COLLECTION —

OCTOBER 11–12

.. .

Friday: 10 a.m.– 8 p.m. with Wine and Appetizers: 4 – 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

.. .. . .. . .. ..

.. ..

. ..

Meet renowned jewelry designer Laura Bicego, whose Nanis collection is classically timeless and stunningly fashionable. Be the first to see Laura’s newest creations at our annual event.

— ITALIAN DESIGNER JEWELRY WEEKEND —

NOVEMBER 8–10

Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Wine and Appetizers: 4 – 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

.. .. . .. . .. .. . ..

. ..

From highly polished silver by Pesavento to chic South Sea pearls by Alessandra Dona, to the exquisite hand-textured gold by Nanis, experience three different designers—ultimately feminine and uniquely Italian.

— PAUL PLETKA “ SARSI ” PAINTING —

NOVEMBER 14

.. .. ..

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“Sarsi,” a Paul Pletka original painting, from a private collection and is now on display and available for purchase for the first time ever, exclusively at Grace Renee Gallery.

Thursday: 4 - 7 p.m. Wine and appetizers served

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

480.575.8080

— GOSHWARA JEWELRY — ..

NOVEMBER 15–16

Friday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wine and appetizers: 4 - 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

.. . .. . .. .. . ..

. ..

Sweta Jain’s collection infuses couture with a sumptuous variety of color. Soft shapes and playful sophistication make this jewelry showcase one you won’t want to miss.

Grace Renee Gallery is a refreshingly beautiful way to explore fine contemporary art in the breathtaking shadows of the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona. Artfully designed jewelry, inspiring sculptures, spectacular wall art, stunning ceramics and more await.

UPCOMING EVENTS — ARTIST RECEPTION WITH PETER KUTTNER —

NOVEMBER 21 ..

Thursday: 4–7 p.m. Wine and Appetizers.

.. .. .. .. .. ..

Artist Peter Kuttner’s work embodies a simple yet thoughtful contemporary retrospective. Meet Peter and see for yourself why his work has been featured in national publications, popular films and television shows, museums and private, royal, and corporate collections worldwide.

— AARON HENRY JEWELRY — .. .

NOVEMBER 22–23

.. ..

Friday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wine and appetizers: 4 - 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

.. . .. .. ..

. ..

Meet the father and son team behind this luxury jewelry collection. Each brilliant piece is hand-crafted bringing classical Old World quality to modern design.

GraceReneeGallery.com

October 2019

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COMMUNITY

2019 OCTOBER

Writer Amanda Christmann

Oct. 4, 5

HAND-CRAFTED NAVAJO RUGS Grace Renee Gallery features selections from one of the largest personal collections of authentic Navajo rugs from the 1930s to the 1950s. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd., #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

Oct. 4–20

MARTIN BLUNDELL: THE WESTERN LAND Martin Blundell: The Western Land opens to showcase the works of this accomplished landscape artist who so successfully captures the grand vistas, plateaus, rock faces and vast

join Musical Theatre of Anthem’s new

and journey under the sea! Performances

comedy troupe, The Improv Squad,

Dec. 5–8 and Dec. 12–15. 42201 N.

to learn the art of improvisation,

41st Dr., Anthem. 623-336-6001;

comedic timing, character creation

musicaltheatreofanthem.org

and physical comedy. Rehearsals will

Oct. 5

be held Oct. 8–Nov. 12 from 6:45–

OKTOBERFEST IN FLAGSTAFF

8:45 p.m. Performance will be Nov. 19 at 7:30 p.m. $175, includes t-shirt. Limited to 20 participants. 42201

It’s fall fun in the pines with over 6,000

N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem.

Reception 5–8 p.m. Oct. 4; artist talk

attendees, 6 food vendors, and lots of

musicaltheatreofanthem.org

at 5:45 p.m. Free. See website for

beers to choose from. Beer stein holding

details. Bryant Nagel Galleries, 431

contests, frozen t-shirt contest, wiener

SR 179, at Hozho in Sedona. 928-

man race, brat eating contest and more.

282-6865; bryantnagelgalleries.com

$10 online; $15 at the gate; kids 12

skies unique to the desert Southwest.

Oct. 5

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. AUDITIONS

6–18. See website for fees and schedule,

and under enter free. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW

Wheeler Park, 212 W. Aspen Ave.,

Big Ideas Forum presents this tour-

Flagstaff. flagstaffoktoberfest.com

de-force video about the rapidly approaching future. Discussion will

Oct. 8–Nov. 19

Musical Theatre of Anthem is holding

THE IMPROV SQUAD

auditions for young performers ages

Teens 12–17 years old are invited to

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Oct. 10

follow. Free. 6:30¬–8 p.m. Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, Anthem. bigideasforum.info

Oct. 10

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR SHARES ART Jeanne Bonine, a 25-year breast cancer survivor, shares messages of hope through beautiful paintings and prose. Free. 2–7 p.m. Thunderbird Artists Gallery, 99 Easy St., Suite 235, Carefree. thunderbirdartistsgallery.com

Oct. 11

BCHS CARNIVAL Inflatables, food trucks, live music, carnival games and more before the homecoming game to benefit Boulder Creek High School. $5 wristbands. 5–7 p.m. 40404 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. dvusd.org/bchs

Oct. 16, 17

TASTE OF CAVE CREEK Enjoy samples from more than 30 local restaurants and bars, a beer garden, live music and more. $10 entry; free for children 12 and under; food and drink samples $3¬–$5. 5–9 p.m. Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. tasteofcavecreek.com

Oct. 18–27

ENCHANTED PUMPKIN GARDEN Halloween once again invades the Town of Carefree in the form of whimsical pumpkin carvings from master sculptor Ray Villafane. Haunted house, giant slide, obstacle course, carnival games, petting zoo, pony rides and more! $15 Friday–Sunday; $10 Monday–Thursday; children 2 years and under enter free. See website for hours. 480-488-3686; enchantedpumpkingarden.com

Oct. 19, 20

AUTUMNFEST IN ANTHEM Autumnfest will return to Anthem Community Park to close out the community’s 20th anniversary year. Arts and crafts, carnival rides and games for everyone! Pick out your pumpkin at the pumpkin patch, live entertainment, train rides and more. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Anthem Community Park, 41730 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. onlineatanthem.com

October 2019

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Oct. 11, 12

MEET LAURA BICEGO Renowned jewelry designer Laura Bicego, whose Nanis collection is classically timeless and stunningly fashionable, will be visiting Grace Renee Gallery from her home in Italy for this annual event. Free. Friday 10 a.m.–8 p.m. with wine and appetizers 4–8 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd., Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

Oct. 20

AN AFTERNOON WITH EDGAR ALLAN POE

and artist Gary Bennett. Free. 1:30–3

to All the World featuring a global

p.m. 19251 Oasis Dr., Black Canyon

selection of inspirational music. See

City. 602-738-8381; facebook.com/

website for times, pricing and venues.

blackcanyonheritagepark

623-326-5172; pmaz.org

English Rose Tea Room will be holding one of its signature fun events, An Afternoon with Edgar Allan Poe, including an actor reading of The Raven. Gothic dress, pale palor and fun are welcome! 3–5 p.m.

Relieve stress with this new class,

BIG IDEAS: LONGEVITY

which includes deep breathing, moving meditation, stretching

is there a magical cure for aging? Join

and healing energy. Everyone is

201 Easy St., Ste. 103, Carefree. 480-

the discussion at this Big Ideas Forum.

welcome. $5. Mondays 6:30–7:30

488-4812; carefreetea.com

Free. 6:30¬–8 p.m. Anthem Civic

p.m. North Valley Regional Library,

Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, Anthem.

40410 Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem;

bigideasforum.info

Sundays 8:30–9:30 a.m., Sonoran

Oct. 20

WATER, BLACK CANYON CITY & ME This afternoon art exhibit and concert by ProMusica will feature Women in Song and will be held at Black Canyon

Oct. 24

QIGONG IN ANTHEM

Foothills Community Center, 31910

Dec. 14, 15

JOY TO ALL THE WORLD Tickets are available now for

Community Health Center. Art by Black

ProMusica Arizona Chorale and

Canyon Heritage Park contest winners

Orchestra’s holiday concert, Joy

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N. Foothills Dr., Anthem.

ANTHEM LEADERS LOOK TO GILBERT Anthem Chamber of Commerce’s Area Leadership Academy (AALA) is looking to Gilbert to see how

N OF CAREFR ~ T OWF I F T H A N N U A L EE ~ the city transformed its city center into a strong business community with a vibrant restaurant scene, open spaces for families and more. Anthem leaders hope to seize opportunities and tackle challenges through collaboration with other local government and state officials. For more information, contact

™

program director Sawana Grimmett 480-370-6349 or Anthem Chamber of Commerce executive director Heather Maxwell at 623-322-9127.

ANTHEM IS A WINNER Now in its 20th year, the Anthem community has earned

O ctober 18 - 27

Admission

several awards this year, including “Best Outdoor Facility” by

$15 per person

American Sports Builders Association; a five-star rating from

FRI - SUN

StarGuard Elite for Anthem Community Center’s lifeguard

$10 per person

team; two communications and marketing awards from City-

MON - THURS

County Communications and Marketing Association; “Top

Kids under 2 are free

25 Places to Live in Metro Phoenix” by Phoenix Business Journal; “Best Event” for the 2018 Veterans Day ceremony from Arizona Talent in Event Concepts Association; and a nomination for “Best Places to Work in the Valley” for Anthem Community Council from Phoenix Business Journal. Images Arizona magazine congratulates ACC for a job welldone! onlineatanthem.com

PROMUSICA WOMEN RECEIVE GRANT ProMusica Arizona’s vocal ensemble, Women in Song, has have been awarded $4,400 by the City of Peoria to offer free performances at public venues and senior communities in Peoria during the 2019-2020 season. Supported by the grant, Women in Song will be featured performers at Peoria Main Library and at senior living facilities in Peoria. pmaz.org

MTA IMPROV SQUAD Musical Theatre of Anthem’s latest endeavor is a load of laughs! Performers ages 12–17 are invited to join The Improv Squad, a comedy improv group that focuses on comedic timing, character creation and physical comedy. Rehearsals are Tuesdays, Oct. 8¬– Nov. 12. Performance Nov. 19. See website for details. $175. 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem. musicaltheatreofanthem.com

Even t Hours

Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Carefree Desert Gardens | Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion 101 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377

EnchantedPumpkinGarden.com October 2019

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Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of The Arizona Taco Festival

Passion. Competition. Discovery. Tacos! The Arizona Taco Festival is celebrating its 10th “Taco-versary” with creative new festivities and a new, larger location. For the first time, WestWorld of Scottsdale’s 300-acre expanse will be home to the “taco playground” for an expected 30,000 to 40,000 taco lovers over the course of the weekend, Oct. 12–13. Taco competitors will vie for the coveted multiple awards, including the grand champion trophy and $10,000 in prize money, along with major bragging rights. The event has burst from its weekend confines to spur a slew of lead-up events, including free chef demonstrations at Williams-Sonoma at Biltmore Fashion Park, the last of which will be Oct. 3 from 6:30

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to 8 p.m. with Chef Richard Hinojosa, co-founder and executive chef of CRUjiente Tacos. “We give traditional street tacos a new look with a refined approach, and introduce flavors and techniques from around the world,” says Hinojosa of his taco philosophy. “I want to reinterpret tacos in a modern and unique way while keeping the integrity of what a taco is. Each taco has it’s own identity and is delicately plated with well-sourced ingredients, balanced flavors and textures." Suny Santana of Taco Chelo created Rajas con Crema, a summer vegetable taco inspired by his mother’s recipe for his demonstration. He will also compete at the festival. “I’m really excited,” says Santana. “I’ve helped others compete in the past. Now that we have our own taqueria, I knew we had to go compete at the Taco Festival.” The week preceding the festival is brimming like an overstuffed taco with fabulous events. For example, celebrity chef Beau MacMillan of Sanctuary on Camelback will host the Extreme Taco & Margarita Throwdown at Hotel Valley Ho Oct. 7. There will be a $5 suggested donation to benefit the Epilepsy Foundation. “The concept seemed easy when we have so many great chefs in the Valley and so many great craft cocktail guys and gals,” says MacMillan. “Why not bring them all together and let them put their culinary prowess to the test in the shape of and form of a taco/ margarita? This is where the ordinary becomes the extraordinary, and I am ready to eat and drink!”

October 2019

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At another event, the Valley’s top mixologists will compete in Margarita Wars at the Merc Bar, judged by famed master mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim. More events are in the works for the week. Believe it or not, this first-in-the-nation taco festival and competition has its roots in BBQ. Founder Rick Phillips is a native New Yorker who has a background in the food world and in the publishing industry as the originator Desert Living and Item magazines and EaterAZ food blog. He created Arizona’s first barbecue festival in Old Town Scottsdale. “Afterward, I couldn’t wait another year to host a festival. What else could we do? Tacos were the obvious choice.” Without pause, he began planning the first experiential taco competition. “It was a party,” says Phillips. “Taco people are a different crowd from the serious business of BBQ. They want to eat tacos and drink margaritas. We are still serious about the competition though, and have a lot of rules in place to keep the integrity of the contest. We want to be the Wimbledon of taco events.” After two years in Old Town Scottsdale, Phillips moved the festival to Salt River Fields. This year’s taco playground will debut at the much larger 300-acre Westworld complex. “I think people are going to see a lot of thoughtfulness in this year’s event,” says Phillips. “We are going

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to have color commentators in a big booth narrating the event, which will be broadcast throughout the property on Jumbotrons and all the TVs. “Remote cameras will go inside the judges tent, allowing people to view the competition as it happens in real-time. We are even changing up our cooking demonstrations hosted by AZ Foodie to get the attendees involved in prepping ingredients and giving them visually appealing recipes made for social media sharing. It’s about engagement.”

THE COMPETITION More than 60 taco vendors will compete for taco domination this year. Festival attendees can sample creative steak, pork, seafood, veggie and vegan tacos for $3 a pop and vote in the People’s Choice competition. The panel of Taco Society-sanctioned judges includes media personalities and food connoisseurs. They spend their days sequestered for hours at a time in the judges’ tent, blind-tasting taco delicacies from Arizona’s top taquerias, food trucks, and top chefs. Only one taco will win the top prize. Making the best taco is serious business. Phillips recalls Chef Matt Carter nervously ringing him up the night before the inaugural competition, wondering aloud what his exact strategy should be. “He said, ‘What do I do? I have a crazy, complicated, authentic recipe, but I’m afraid it will be the Taco Bell taco that beats me,’” Phillips says. “It’s a real thing. We do a lot of training with the judges to educate their palate and their minds. Great chefs are making duck confit tacos and using tweezers, but I remind them that the judges aren’t all Michelin chefs from San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles. Many are regular folks, and we all have a memory connection to foods of our youth, comfort food tastes. “Sometimes the most unlikely person or establishment wins. At our Austin competition, a chain restaurant took home the top award. There was social pushback, but we had the scores to show that it was legitimate. “There are five proprietary categories in which to compete. You have to really compete in all five and bring your A-game, because anyone can win. My mantra has always been, ‘It’s always about Taco Spirit,” says Phillips. “There’s aloha spirit and there’s taco spirit. Just do your best and lay it down.” October 2019

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EXPERIENCE 10th Annual Arizona Taco Festival Oct. 12–13 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | WestWorld of Scottsdale | 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale | $15 General Admission per day or $25 Weekend Pass $150 iCantina dayOc ortob $220 Pass | Tequila Expo and Holy Hot Sauce Expo require additional tickets | aztacofestival.com m a g e s a r iVIP z o n aper .com e r Weekend 2 019

THE PARTY With plenty of room to spread out, the Arizona Taco Festival is introducing new attractions and bringing back crowd favorites, like the Ay! Chihuahua beauty pageant, interactive photo booths and chili pepper and taco-eating contests. A centerpiece of the festival will be the Lucha Bar, a tent with wrestling luchadors and bleacher seating with its own bar, described as having a Tijuana-meets-Quentin Tarantino vibe.” When the luchas aren’t grappling, live bands and DJs entertain celebrants. Some like it (really, really) hot, so the Holy Hot Sauce expo tent will offer 100 styles of hot sauce to sample and purchase, along with a chance to vote on your favorites, all curated by Vic Clinco, who gained renown for having the largest private collection of hot sauces in the world. The Taco Society culture tent, co-curated by local artist Gennaro Garcia will celebrate all things taco-centric in fashion, art, photography and music. Along similar lines, the folks who brought the Instagrammable “Tacotopia” experience to life in Tempe have created a Millennial Playground with taco seesaws, guacamole ball pits, and taco-themed toys. For an extra fee, Chef Michael DeMaria of M Culinary will privately cater the VIP Cantina along with a full premium bar, ample lounge seating, games and entertainment. The tickets include RFID bracelets with $35 food credit to spend on samples throughout the festival. It’s important to note that all vendors will be cashless this year. What’s a celebration without a wedding? One lucky couple will get married Day of the Dead-style on the main stage, which will be venue to dozens of spectacles and contests throughout the weekend. While it might seem outlandish, Phillips attests that he, too, is planning a most unusual vow renewal for his tenth anniversary. “I’m going to surprise my wife by renewing our vows at the Taco Bell Chapel in Las Vegas,” Phillips revealed. That’s true taco spirit. Events and tickets are updated on the festival’s website. Single-day general admission tickets are $15 each. Military discounts and VIP packages are also available. aztacofestival.com

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6738 E. Cave Creek Road | 480-488-9542 October 2019

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Writer Shannon Severson // Photography Courtesy of Anthem Community Council

In the North Valley, signs of autumn may not include brightly colored foliage and piles of falling leaves, but the promise of cooler days is heralded by a much-anticipated community event: Autumnfest. This year, Autumnfest weekend will be Oct. 19 and 20, coinciding with the community of Anthem’s 20th anniversary year. The carnival portion will open on the evening of Thurs., Oct. 17 and run throughout the weekend at various times. The free, all-ages event is open to the public and runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Arts and crafts vendors from around the Valley will set up shop at Anthem Community Park to offer art, jewelry, handmade goods, tasty culinary offerings, photography, candles and a variety of other items for sale to the public. “This is the perfect opportunity with the holidays coming up to purchase gifts, décor, tasty treats and other fall-inspired delicacies while enjoying Anthem’s beautiful community park and all that it has to offer,” says Michele DeMichele, director of special events for the Anthem Community Council (ACC). For the young and young-at-heart, there is plenty on offer. Thursday night, Oct. 17, thrill-seekers will enjoy the carnival rides and games set up by Frazier Shows Carnival, including a Ferris wheel, swings, carousel and other fun rides. While rides and games vary in price, all-you-can-ride wristbands will be available during select times. Hours will be posted online.

October 2019

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For the little ones, free tractor-pulled hayrides through the community park and bounce houses/inflatables (fees apply) will be favorites. Daisy Mountain Railroad will also be “on-track” for fun. At the food court and Rotary beer garden, food, beer and wine will be available for purchase. Live entertainment will be provided throughout the weekend at the main pavilion from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Strolling musicians and balloon artists (free) will entertain attendees all across the property Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. A visit from Smokey Bear is part of Saturday’s Firewise Days, in partnership with Daisy Mountain Fire Department. Community safety information and the chance to see a fire truck up close are part of this special engagement. Back by popular demand is the decorated pumpkin contest. Families, churches, schools, businesses and nonprofits enter to show off their best decorating skills, vying to win a grand prize 20th-anniversary swag basket and $50 Visa gift card in each category. “We had an amazing turnout of pumpkins last fall, showcasing so much creativity in our community,” says Kristi Northcutt, ACC’s director of public affairs. “We encourage last year’s participants to return, and we hope that lots of new folks will join the fun in celebration of our community’s 20th anniversary.” The public will vote for their favorites and every entry will receive a commemorative 20th-anniversary t-shirt. The top three vote-getters in each category will receive prize ribbons. Entry paperwork is due by Oct. 11 at 5 p.m., and additional guidelines are posted online. Let the autumn fun begin! onlineatanthem.com

October 2019

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Bruce Taubert

Wildlife photographer Bruce Taubert knows better than most people that stumbling around in the desert is not easy at night. “There are things that stick you and things that bite you out there,” Taubert says. “The coyotes are howling, the owls are hooting and the rattlesnakes are buzzing. You have to get over that fear of being out there in the dark by yourself. “Most photographers are not as comfortable doing that as they are going out at sunset and taking a nice picture of the ocean.” Taubert braves the night—and all of the eerie sights and sounds that accompany it— to capture remarkable photographs of creatures of which many people are absolutely terrified. Bats, owls, spiders, toads and ravens have all become synonymous with Halloween due to their creepy appearance. But “creepy” is a subjective construct. “They are no more creepy than a lot of people that I see downtown or in local bars and things like that,” Taubert says with a laugh. “And they are certainly no more dangerous. They are creepy only in the sense that people do not understand them very well and that they are different. People have a natural fear of things like that.” Nonetheless, the fear that people experience is justified. Many of the creatures that people are commonly afraid of can hurt you and any wild animal will bite you in order to defend itself. Taubert wants people to understand that these creatures—especially the scary ones—do an awful lot of good things for the ecosystem. That is why he has spent the last 25 years photographing them. “Most of my stimulation for photographing creepy crawlies is to help people see them,” Taubert explains. “You cannot value what you cannot see. People did not really start to value whales and dolphins until they started seeing photographs of them. I am hoping that they can maybe value these creatures a little bit more if I show them images of them.” Images Arizona magazine hopes to facilitate Taubert’s admirable mission by sharing his photography of creatures that usually send shivers down our spine. We implore you to resist the natural urge to look away and behold the many unique physical characteristics that make these creatures of the night so immensely fascinating. October 2019

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During the reproductive season, owls are aggressively defending their territories, so I use a bird call and get them to call me back. You have to be relaxed around them, though, because a great horned owl can hurt you. If you get too close to their nest, they will hit you with their talons. Bruce Taubert

October 2019

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ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER Bruce Taubert grew up hunting and fishing in Madison, Wis. His mother was a wedding photographer who repeatedly tried to entice him to try his hand at photography. However, he was far more interested in studying wildlife. In college, Taubert became involved with a project looking at an endangered fish in the Connecticut River. He fine-tuned his career goals and obtained a Ph.D. in wildlife management. “At first, I was more interested in wildlife biology,” Taubert says. “But then I started to realize that, if you have good information, you can do better things with animals than if you have bad information or no information at all. So I became interested in wildlife conservation.” Taubert’s career eventually brought him to Arizona, where he spent about 27 years with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. He worked his way up the ranks to become assistant director and began photographing wildlife to help the organization’s research biologists obtain higher-quality images. His interest in photography did not truly take off until about 25 years ago when he became aware of ecologist, conservationist and wildlife photographer Merlin Tuttle, who founded a nonprofit organization for bat conservation. “He is a wonderful photographer,” Taubert says. “His photos do more to help people understand bats than anything that can be done on a scientific basis. I started to see the connection between public information journalism and wildlife conservation, and I realized that photographing animals may be a better way of selling how valuable they are to the public.” Though he retired from the Arizona Game and Fish Department several years ago, he maintains his career in wildlife photography. Taubert has traveled and photographed animals around the world and has conducted workshops in several states in the U.S. and in Africa, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Canada. His work is prominently displayed in a number of magazines, including Arizona Highways, Science, Arizona Wildlife Views and Conservation International. Taubert’s bat photography can be found in several different books, scientific publications and magazines, as well as on a poster titled “Bats of Arizona.” In his book “Wild in Arizona: Photographing Arizona's Wildlife,” Taubert shares his experience and insight on the best places and the best times to photograph animals in Arizona.

brucetaubert.com imagesarizona.com

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MAKE YOUR WALLET HAPPY. Save. Combine Home & Auto. Nanette McClelland-Miller, Agent 39504 N Daisy Mtn Dr Ste 114 Anthem, AZ 85086

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Spiders are easy. You just have to get over your fear of getting bit. Even the little guys can bite you. The big thing is getting them to sit still, though. They are very much afraid of you. If you move too fast, you are going to scare them away, so you have to move slowly around them. Bruce Taubert

October 2019

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Toads are best photographed in wet areas. I have to wade into cesspool waters and sometimes muddy fields where I am up to my knees in mud in order to get to them. You do not do that with a suit and tie on. You cannot be afraid to get dirty. Bruce Taubert

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Putting a flying bat in front of your lens and getting a precisely lit and focused picture is really difficult. You need to have specialized gear. You have to either work with scientists to capture bats and photograph them in an artificial situation or you have to go into caves. And people do not like caves. They are nasty little places. Bruce Taubert

October 2019

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Musical Theatre of Anthem's production of “The Music Man” received a National Youth Arts award for Outstanding Ensemble.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Musical Theatre of Anthem

Savannah Foy never imagined that she would be honored with a National Youth Arts award when she played Jerusha Abbott in Musical Theatre of Anthem’s production of “Daddy Long Legs” earlier this year. The 17-year-old Anthem resident simply set out to do her best and make her loved ones proud. “Whenever I am facing something difficult and doubt whether I can overcome it, I remember what amazing people I have been blessed with who love, support and believe in me,” the Anthem Preparatory Academy student says. “They are what inspire me to keep moving forward.” Foy is just one of several young performers in the Valley recognized in August during the 14th Annual National Youth Arts Awards, which honor outstanding work by youth in the arts. More than 700 productions in schools and youth arts companies were considered for awards this year. Winners were selected from nominations by a panel of more than 50 judges and reviewers.

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Noelle Hammond stars in Musical Theatre of Anthem's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown."

Julia Hughes stars in Musical Theatre of Anthem's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown."

Alexis Rosenbaum stars in Musical Theatre of Anthem's production of "Sweeney Todd."

“

At Musical Theatre of Anthem, we train the performers in all aspects of performing arts and run our rehearsals as a professional theater would. We set high expectations, and the performers work hard and rise to the occasion.

“

Jackie Hammond

Desert Stages Theatre, Greasepaint Theater, TheaterWorks, Scottsdale Community Players Spotlight Youth Theatre, Stagebrush Theatre and Starlight Community Theater were among Arizona’s other performing arts organizations honored with awards by National Youth Arts this year. Several of the Valley’s schools were also recognized—including Chaparral High School, Desert Mountain High School, Horizon High School, North Valley Arts Academy, Notre Dame Preparatory School, Saguaro High School and Sandra Day O’Conner High School. Foy, who started performing in shows at Musical Theatre of Anthem about eight years ago, credits her love for and now-recognized aptitude for theater to the organization’s directors and production staff. “Through performing at Musical Theatre of Anthem, I have had the privilege of working with some of the kindest, most supportive and most influential people,” Foy explains. “Many of its directors and production staff are the people who inspire me to be my

best—not only as a performer, but also as a human being. Over the past eight years, they have helped shape me into the person that I am today.” Foy was not Musical Theatre of Anthem’s only winner. Six more of the organization’s performers and performances received National Youth Arts Awards, including 14-year-old Anthem resident Julia Hughes, who was named Junior Artist of the Year. The Boulder Creek High School student appeared in four of Musical Theatre of Anthem’s productions this past season, including “Freckleface Strawberry,” “The Giver,” “James and the Giant Peach” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Like Foy, Hughes credits Musical Theatre of Anthem’s directors and production staff with giving her the guidance and support she needed in order to make the National Youth Arts recognition possible. “Being named ... Junior Artist of the Year is such an amazing honor,” Hughes says. “It has motivated me to continue

October 2019

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Savannah Foy stars in Musical Theatre of Anthem's production of "Daddy Long Legs."

to work hard and improve my craft. I took some steps out of my comfort zone, and it was challenging but very rewarding. I experienced a lot of growth in those times when I struggled with a role or a particular song was too difficult.” Musical Theatre of Anthem’s other award winners included Alexis Rosenbaum, Kate Creed, Noelle Hammond and Christopher Poulios— all of whom were recognized for their supporting performances in the organization’s productions. The company’s production of “The Music Man” also received a National Youth Arts award for Outstanding Ensemble. Musical Theatre of Anthem’s producing artistic director Jackie Hammond appreciates the recognition her organization and its performers received from National Youth Arts but believes that every performer has something to learn and offer. “At Musical Theatre of Anthem, we train the performers in all aspects of performing arts and run our rehearsals as a professional theater would,” Hammond says. “We set high expectations, and the performers work hard and rise to the occasion.” Hammond has been involved in theater for the past 30 years. She has worked with children who have gone on to star in Broadway shows, national and international tours and professional theater across the country. “Whether it is a golden-age musical like ‘The Music Man,’ a contemporary musical such as ‘You’re a Good Man,

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Charlie Brown,’ a musical with comedic characters and quirky roles or an intimate two-person love story like ‘Daddy Long Legs,’ we provide a variety of material where the kids’ abilities are stretched,” Hammond adds.

the art of organization

She says that the performers and performances recognized by National Youth Arts show a wide range of what Musical Theatre of Anthem has to offer. In addition to producing eight to 10 stage productions each season, Musical Theatre of Anthem offers a number of workshops, a summer performing arts institute, an improv troupe and more. Musical Theatre of Anthem’s shows this season include “Little Mermaid Jr.” Dec. 5–15; “The Wizard of Oz” Feb. 20–March 8; “Children of Eden” April 30–May 3; “Cinderella Kids” May 7–9; and “Annie Jr.” June 8–20. Hughes believes her experience in the performing arts has not only taught her a great deal, but it has also gifted her with a lot of lifelong friends with whom she has made many treasured memories. “This award has motivated me to continue to grow in my performance abilities and learn as much as I can from as many different areas as I can,” Hughes says. “I hope to tell a story in my unique way, and hope that it makes even just one person feel the way I feel when I am in the audience.” Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Dr., Suite B100, Anthem musicaltheatreofanthem.org

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Live the dream—Arizona-style! What’s better than living life with endless desert skies and gorgeous Arizona weather? How about doing it from your own private oasis in one of the Valley’s most desirable gated neighborhoods, Anthem Country Club! Wake up each morning to the soothing sounds of Sonoran Desert wildlife just outside the back door of this 3+ bedroom, 3.5-bath sought-after Monterey model home. You’ll love the feel of travertine and hand-scraped hardwood floors beneath your feet in the spacious 3,039-square-foot home. From 12-foot ceilings, to plantation shutters, to remote-controlled window shades, luxury abounds in this home, and with a formal dining room, family room and great room, there are plenty of spaces to entertain. An indoor gas fireplace will keep you warm when winter temperatures drop, and thermal break low-e windows will help to keep you cool. Step into the kitchen, where cooking is a dream. Raised-panel cherry cabinets, slab granite, GE stainless monogram appliances, a large built-in refrigerator, and a 5-burner gas range are just a few of the conveniences you’ll love. Each bedroom is spacious and inviting, while custom closets help to keep living spaces clutter-free. A separate office space allows you to separate business from pleasure in this comfortable retreat, and a three-car garage with a 4-foot extension and epoxy flooring provides plenty of space for vehicles and all of your toys! This home does not end indoors. A custom pool, premium spa, an outdoor gas fireplace, a BBQ island and stunning lanai offer all of the amenities you need to host great weekend get-togethers or to indulge in your own private vacation— all of this with a desert preserve hillside view that provides privacy and a closeup view to some of the desert’s most hidden secrets. This one won’t last! Schedule your showing today!

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

October 2019

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Arizona’s streets and freeways in November will be populated with several hundred Ferraris, all driving in different directions to grand adventures around our state. The cars—and their owners—will be visiting the Valley to participate in the Ferrari Club of America’s Annual Experience, an event that is expected to benefit Arizona in a variety of ways, but most notably by exposing our spectacular cities to some very wealthy individuals. This is thanks, in part, to Peter Volny—an Australianborn car enthusiast who now takes pride in calling Arizona his home. “For me, cars are therapy,” Volny says. “They are a source of relaxation and pleasure. When I get into a car on a Sunday morning and it is quiet and I can go out and play, I forget all of life’s hassles and problems.” Volny’s obsession with automobiles goes back to when he was just a kid. He recalls that even at the age of 2 or 3 years old, he was fascinated by cars. That fascination expanded and intensified as he grew older to the point that he acquired his first car—a racecar—at the age of 16. Volny did not even have a driver’s license, but that did not stop him from pursuing his passion. “I tried my hand at racing cars, but I just did not have the necessary skills to make a good living out of it,” he says. “That career in racing took me into automotive marketing, and that is where I had a business.” Volny’s career in automotive marketing wound up being lucrative, allowing him to fully explore and enjoy his interests in not only automobiles, but also travel. To-date, he has visited 162 countries and lived in seven of them—including Canada and England. However, he wholeheartedly says that of all the places in the world he has been, Arizona is the one in which he is happiest living.

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photographer Bryan Black

October 2019

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Peter Volny and his wife Linda arrived in Arizona 15 years ago and decided to make it their permenant home. He now serves as the sponsorship and PR director of the Ferrari Club of America's Desert Region.

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Volny arrived in Arizona about 15 years ago and fell in love with the state. He and his wife Linda decided to make it their permanent home. In 2011, he purchased a red 2010 Maserati Gran Turismo MC. In 2014, Volny founded Concours in the Hills—an annual high-performance car show in Fountain Hills. This past February’s event featured 941 cars, saw more than 25,000 spectators, included 108 dealers and sponsors, and raised more than $155,000 for Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The Ferrari Club of America’s Desert Region participated in the event and, because Volny’s Maserati had a Ferrari motor in it, they invited him to join the organization. The next year, Volny solidified his association with the brand with the purchase of a red 1972 Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona— the same model that is owned by Barrett-Jackson Auction Company CEO and Chairman Craig Jackson. Founded in 1962, the Ferrari Club of America now has more than 6,500 members across 16 regions and 51 chapters across the United States, Canada and Mexico who participate in social gatherings, parties, track events, rallies, drives and charitable events. More than 200 of those members belong to the Desert Region, which comprises all of Arizona and Southern Nevada, including Las Vegas.

Celebrate America!

Recognizable and uniquely American music including Broadway favorites, folk tunes, spirituals, patriotic music, and a salute to servicemen and women in the stirring piece, Armed Forces: The Pride of America Friday, NOVEMBER 1 | 7:00 p.m. * Glendale Civic Center, Glendale SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | 7:00 p.m. Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, Anthem SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 | 3:30 p.m. American Lutheran Church, Sun City For tickets and information: Visit PMAZ.org or call 623-326-5172 *Free performance funded by the City of Glendale's Centerline Arts & Cultural Initiative

Volny, who now serves as the Desert Region’s sponsorship and PR director, saw an opportunity to do something positive for Arizona by bringing the Ferrari Club of America’s Annual Experience to the state. The event, which draws hundreds of participants and cars from around the world, features a swap meet, a Concours d'Elegance, a rally, a track event and banquets in a different city each year. “I thought that bringing it here would expose Arizona to a lot of people with high net worth,” says Volny, noting that Ferrari is often acknowledged as one of the leading brands in the world and arguably the leading automotive brand in the world. “These cars are expensive. The least expensive new Ferrari that you can buy is in excess of a quarter of $1 million. And they go up into the millions.” Volny adds that used Ferraris—particularly the classics— can be very expensive. For example, one Ferrari Club of America member last year spent $72 million on a 1963 Ferrari. Therefore, the organization’s members tend to be older, more mature and distinctly wealthy individuals.

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“They are going to come to Arizona and see how beautiful it is here,” Volny says. “Some of them, like me, will become permanent residents while others will buy holiday homes here.” So, three years ago, Volny submitted a proposal to the Ferrari Club of America to host its Annual Experience in Arizona. The national organization accepted his proposal and work began on planning the massive event. The Ferarri Club of America’s Annual Experience will take place Nov. 6–10 and feature two days of track time at Apex Motor Club in Maricopa, a cocktail party at Phoenix’s Penske Racing Museum in Phoenix, and a Concours d'Elegance at Scottsdale Sports Complex. Several half-day, full-day and overnight drives are also planned, including to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Kartchner Caverns and Pima Air and Space Museum. “It was originally estimated that we would get about 300 people to come along if we were lucky,” says Volny, noting that last year’s annual meeting was held in New York. “Now they are estimating that we are going to get more than 600 people. So it is a pretty big event. It is going to be very prestigious for Scottsdale, Phoenix and Arizona.” Because of the unexpected bump in attendance, Volny and his roughly 70 volunteers have had to scramble to make changes in order to accommodate everyone. For example, the host hotel—Scottsdale’s Doubletree Resort—sold out in less than two weeks, so arrangements had to be made with six or seven other hotels.

Restaurant reservations also had to be renegotiated or, in some cases, changed altogether due to seating limitations. “It is a big project and there have been tons of challenges,” Volny says. “It has become virtually a fulltime, unpaid job. As my wife keeps telling me, I did not work this hard when I had my own business and was earning a very nice living. Now I am working harder, I am not earning anything and it costs me a lot of money.” Volny picks up a lot of the expenses out of his own pocket but does not mind because he is having fun fully exploring that passion for cars that has given him pleasure throughout his entire life—and sharing it with others. “This will be, by far, the most prestigious car event ever held in Arizona,” says Volny, who is also one of the directors of Scuderia Southwest—another organization that is known for its “cars and coffee” gatherings held 7–10 a.m. the first Saturday of every month at the Scottsdale 101 Shopping Center. In addition to his Ferrari and Maserati, Volny owns a 2006 Ford GT and a 2014 Audi RS7—both also red. He says that most Ferrari Club of America members own multiple cars because Ferraris are not the ideal cars for driving around on a daily basis. “If you have got a car worth $1 million, you do not want to park it in the Costco parking lot,” Volny explains. As for all of those Ferraris that will be driving around Arizona’s streets and freeways next month, Volny says that we need not worry about the high-performance vehicles causing any problems beyond being eye-candy for those of us who dream of one day sitting behind the steering wheel of one of them ourselves.

H E M N T

Autumnfest October 19-20

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 Fair Food Court & Beer Garden Decorated Pumpkin Contest (prizes) Pumpkin Patch Live Music Strolling Magician Balloon Artists Kids’ Zone (fees apply) Train Rides (fees apply) Hayrides Carnival (opens Oct. 17)

“The vast majority of us are very sensible driving around the street,” he adds. “I have got cars that do well over 200 miles an hour. But as we drive along Shea Blvd., my wife says, ‘You are like a little old man. You the slowest car out here.’ I try to explain to her that, on a racetrack, everybody is going in the same direction and nobody is texting, so I feel a lot safer on a racetrack than I do driving around the street.” fca2019.net

OnlineAtAnthem.com/Autumnfest October 2019

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Town of Carefree and Villafane Studios

We all know our little corner of Arizona is home to some of the most wonderful weather, people and things to see and do in the country, and the Town of Carefree is no exception. Beyond breathtaking views and brilliant night skies, Carefree is known for its sundial, its fabulous resorts, and something a bit unexpected here in the desert: pumpkins. For the fifth year, master sculptor Ray Villafane and the Villafane Studios team will be creating their Enchanted Pumpkin Garden to celebrate the magic of the season. Carefree Desert Gardens will once again come alive with October’s most colorful (and rotund) residents Oct. 18 through Oct. 27. Villafane is a world-renowned pumpkin and sand artist, and once again, he’ll be carving out some imaginative fun with his animated pumpkin vignettes. In fact, they’re the talk of the town when October rolls around. This year’s festival promises to be the biggest and most wonderful yet, with demonstrations, live music, pie-eating contests, costume contests for both humans and pets, and a host of other activities.

October 2019

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For the fifth year, master sculptor Ray Villafane and the Villafane Studios team will be creating their Enchanted Pumpkin Garden to celebrate the magic of the season.

Everyone will have a gourd time Friday and Saturday nights, when Valley favorites take the stage. The Walkens Band; American Idol Season 17 favorite Wade Cota; and Steve Miller tribute band Pompatus of Love, featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Steve Miller Band guitarist Greg Douglass, are among the fantastic performers. Every year brings something new to the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, and the town will be spicing things up in 2019 with the debut of the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off Saturday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m. on Community Stage, just outside of Carefree’s Historic Spanish Village. The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off is expected to attract the chunkiest pumpkins in the state, thanks to the town’s partnership with Arizona Giant Pumpkin Growers Association. Hopefully this year’s crop of colossal squash will break a world record—and you can be part of the fun! All of the pumpkins entered in the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off will remain at the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, where Villafane and his team will do their magic and turn them into delightful characters before our eyes Other highlights of this most happy, haunted weekend are Bashas’ Adopt-a-Pumpkin patch, where proceeds will benefit Desert Foothills YMCA; the Four Peaks Brewery Jack-o’-Lantern Beer Garden operated by Sonoran Arts League volunteers; the Harvest Market with some of the best fall-themed treats in the Southwest; and the Haunted Happenings area with activities for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t miss this year’s Enchanted Pumpkin Garden! Admission is $15 per person Friday through Sunday, and $10 per person Monday through Thursday. Children two years of age and under are admitted free. carefree.org villafanestudios.com

Ray Villafane is a world-renowned pumpkin and sand artist who carves out imaginative fun with his animated pumpkin vignettes.

October 2019

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Writer Shoshana Leon Photography by Brian Poore

For more than 25 years, people have enjoyed great food and drink, live entertainment and the company of friendly folks at the Taste of Cave Creek, which takes place October 16 and 17 at Stagecoach Village. This year’s two-day event is expected to attract more than 6,000 people from near and far who come to experience the flavors of Cave Creek restaurants, bars and breweries. “What started as a few restaurants and one or two beer companies has grown to over 30 restaurants, including several food trucks, over 15 craft breweries, numerous wine and tequila tastings, and tons of live music and fun,” said Cave Creek Town Marshal Adam Stein, chair of the event. “Where else can you try so many restaurants in one location? Come to the Taste of Cave Creek and find your new favorite restaurant!” Taste of Cave Creek does more than showcase all Cave Creek has to offer; it fosters a strong sense of community.

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“The event is a celebration of Cave Creek that brings neighbors together,” said Marsal Stein. “Cave Creek prides itself on being a small town where everyone is a neighbor and no one is a stranger.” Taste of Cave Creek features samples from a variety of area eateries and drinking spots, a beer garden and live music. Entertainment will be provided in the gazebo by Fosterson Music Oct. 16 and Crown Kings Oct. 17. Lindsay Vogt will perform in the beer garden both nights. Restaurants participating in the Taste of Cave Creek include Bryan’s Black Mountain Barbecue, Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse, Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine, Indigo Crow Restaurant and Bar, El Encanto, Harold’s Corral, Grilled Addiction, Wandering Donkey, It’s a Divine Bakery, Le Sans Souci, The Horny Toad, The City Creamery and many more. New to this year’s event is a vodka challenge hosted by Frankly Organic Vodka, a local company offering five flavors of organic vodka. Local bartenders will compete to see who makes the best drink using Frankly Organic Vodka. Chef Carlos Marquez from Indigo Crow Restaurant and Bar will try to defend his title after winning last year’s vodka challenge. In addition to great food, drinks and entertainment, Taste of Cave Creek supports local charities, including the Foothills Food Bank, Foothills Caring Corps, Tierra Madre Horse and Human Sanctuary, and several others. “Every year we look forward to this great event,” said Marshal Stein. “I think my favorite part is seeing all our friends and neighbors coming out and enjoying our awesome local restaurants. It’s a perfect way to experiment with restaurants in the area and find your next favorite. You can come out, have fun, enjoy the food and just relax.” tasteofcavecreek.com

EXPERIENCE Taste of Cave Creek Oct. 16–17 | 5–9 p.m. | Stagecoach Village | 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd. $10 entry; free for children 12 and under | $3–$5 per sample tasteofcavecreek.com

October 2019

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Casey Cheuvront

There are few places more inspirational for dreamers, poets and artists like the stunning red vistas and sprawling cliffs of Sedona. In November, the provocative scenes of Schnebly Hill, Red Rock Crossing and more will be the subjects of plein air painters, who will put their brushes to canvas to the muse of some of the most beautiful nature in our country. Local oil painters are invited to join the fun!

CALL FOR OIL PAINTERS 15th Annual Great Paint-Out i m |a Nov. g e s a r i16 z o n| aVisit . c o mFacebook Oc tob e rand 2 019 search â&#x20AC;&#x153;OPA 15th Annual Great Paint Out: Sedona, AZâ&#x20AC;? to register | 480-274-8166 | caseycheuvront.com 58Sedona

For the first time in its 15-year history, Oil Painters of America will host its Great Annual Paint-Out among the red rocks, inviting oil painters to spend time in the Arizona outdoors to see what they are moved to create. An art sale and reception at Sedona Arts Center will follow, and prizes will be awarded. Local artist Casey Cheuvront, whose enthusiasm for life is nearly as tangible as the vivid colors and contrast of her paintings, is hosting the main event Nov. 16. Dozens of artists are expected to attend, and it will, no doubt, be a highlight of the year for oil painters from all over. The annual event is hosted by volunteers from the United States, Canada and Mexico each fall. Despite our state’s phenomenal beauty, it has been left out of the schedule in past years for lack of hosts—until Cheuvront changed that. “Sedona Arts Center recently awarded me a scholarship to one of their fabulous workshops,” she said. “I thought, ‘Hey, it would be great to go paint in Sedona with some new people! I could host that thing for OPA! Maybe the Sedona Arts Center would want to tell their members about it!’” One thing led to another, and the event began to come together. Sedona Arts Center offered to host the reception and sale, and Cheuvront’s wide circle of friends and acquaintances began to contribute prizes. “I thought I'd give the winner a nice bottle of wine,” she said. “Then a friend offered to donate a ‘plein air painter's pamper pack’ by Arbonne. She got me thinking, so I started asking for support for the painters. “So far, I have gift certificates from Eric Silver at Blue Ridge Oil paints for $300, a commitment from Blicks for $275 worth of gift certificates, Source Tek is sending painting panels, and I am just waiting to have a minute to connect with Jerry's Artarama, another Art Supply store. Even my wine club might help out.” Painters are encouraged to attend, both for the opportunity to create something new, and to connect with others who are moved to express themselves through oils. “People love painting, and painters, and the idea of painting out in Sedona—well, it's magical,” she added. caseycheuvront.com October 2019

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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography Courtesy of Sonoran Arts League

It’s a startling statistic. As you read this, one in six of our Arizona neighbors is facing food insecurity, struggling each month to choose between paying bills and stocking the refrigerator with enough food to feed themselves and their children. The face of hunger has changed dramatically in recent years. Seniors on fixed incomes, many whom arrived at retirement age just as the bottom of the stock market dropped out in 2008, find themselves having to decide whether to buy groceries or pay for vital medications. A growing number of our neighbors find themselves in the encompassing category of “working poor.” Though they get up each day and go to work—sometimes multiple jobs—they still don’t make enough money to cover basic costs of living. One car repair, rent increase, or medical emergency can put them into a spiral of debt that can take months or years to recover from.

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Thankfully, there are plenty of us willing to pitch in when the going gets tough. Among them are the artists, planners, students and volunteers of Cave Creek’s annual Empty Bowls project. Each year, dozens of talented artists and friends of Sonoran Arts League create and donate a remarkable variety of bowls to Foothills Empty Bowls Lunch & Art Auction. The bowls are auctioned off in an online auction that began Sept. 3. These stunning bowls will continue to be created throughout the month of September, leading up to the big event. October 8, in coordination with World Hunger Day, you can show your support by attending a luncheon at Harold’s Corral in Cave Creek. Harold’s will serve what is sure to be one of the most mindful meals of the year in the ceramic and glass bowls. Additional artwork donated by the event’s dedicated artists will be auctioned, and 100% of the proceeds will go to Foothills Food Bank. Individuals are encouraged to donate $15 to the cause and select their own unique bowl made by Arizona artists, and keep it as a lasting reminder of world—and local—hunger. It’s the 19th season of that area residents have pitched in to make a difference through Empty Bowls, which was originally conceived by resident Carol Perry.

WHERE DOES IT GO? For many people, including elderly neighbors and children, Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center is one of the most important assets of our community.

October 2019

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In July of this year, the food bank had already served nearly 5,000 people, providing over 89,000 pounds of food, 2,200 lunches and weekend meals for area children, and providing over $42,000 in temporary help so that people could pay rent, medical bills, utility bills, gasoline, and other bills that would have otherwise been crippling. As housing prices and costs of living continue to rise, the need for help is only expected to increase. “This has always been an amazing event with a great turnout,” said Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center executive director Pam DiPietro. “Since the Great Recession of 2008, the lines at food banks have continued to grow longer, including persons who formerly donated to those food banks,” she added. “Emergency food providers are stretching to a breaking point. These are just some of the needs that we can address together.” foothillsfoodbank.com

EXPERIENCE Empty Bowls Art Auction Through 1 p.m. Oct. 18 | foothillsfoodbank.com

Empty Bowls Luncheon i m a gCorral e s a r i z o| n6895 a . c o mE. Oc tobCreek e r 2 019 Cave Rd., Cave Creek | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | $15 donation | foothillsfoodbank.com 62Harold’s

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October 2019

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Honey Pear Tart Simple ingredients, super delicious! Feel free to take the core out of the pears for easier eating. I enjoy the way this dish looks with the entire pear, but taking the core out is just as easy!

Ingredients: 1 package frozen puff pastry 2 tablespoons butter 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 peaches 1/4 cup honey 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cardamom ice cream, if desired

Directions: Thaw puff pastry according to directions on package. This may take a day or a few hours. Preheat oven to 400 degrees, or heat according to puff pastry package. Halve pears and place in a 12-inch skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter on medium-high heat. Cook for about 4 minutes. Pour honey over peaches, and sprinkle cardamom on top. Turn heat to low. Place puff pastry directly over peaches. Gently push down into corners surrounding peaches. Cut off excess, or just fold under. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let sit for 1 minute, then turn out onto a serving plate. Top with ice cream and honey. Yum!

Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

kyndraclaire.com

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October 2019

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Fall Salad with Pumpkin Maple Vinaigrette Full of fall flavors, this salad is perfect to serve at your next fall gathering! Greens called for are just a suggestion. Feel free to use any combination that you like or may have on hand. You may substitute another vinegar if you don't have sherry. Try apple cider or white wine vinegar. Hemp oil is found in the refrigerated section of "health food" area of your store. It is delicious in a vinaigrette!

Ingredients: Salad: 2 cups fresh baby spinach 2 cups baby butter lettuce 1 cup chopped fresh kale 1 cup watercress leaves 2 red apples, chopped or sliced 1/2 cup candied pecans 1/8 cup roasted pepitas 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped 1/2 cup dried cranberries, shaved or crumbled parmesan or crumbled bleu cheese Vinaigrette: 1/2 cup olive oil (or combination of olive and hemp oil) 1/4 cup sherry vinegar 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon crushed garlic 1/2 teaspoon crushed dried thyme salt & pepper to taste

Directions: In a large shaker top jar, combine vinaigrette ingredients and shake well. Store in refrigerator until ready to use.

Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

kyndraclaire.com

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In a large serving bowl, combine spinach, butter lettuce, chopped kale and watercress and toss. Top with apples, pecans, pepitas, bacon, cranberries and cheese. Drizzle with pumpkin vinaigrette to taste and serve. Store leftover vinaigrette in refrigerator for up to a week.

October 2019

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