October 2020
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October 2020
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ARIZONA FOOTHILLS 911 Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Bryan Black
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COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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LOCAL FACES Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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OMINOUS LIMBS BEAUTIFUL BRANCHES Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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Photography by Dave Theroux
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DEEPER TONES YIELD DEEPER CONNECTIONS Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Loralei Lazurek
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BAKED MEATBALLS Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly
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YOUR WEST VALLEY
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR Joseph J. Airdo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Hanie
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph J. Airdo Sue Kern-Fleischer Kyndra Kelly Shannon Severson
PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Brandon Dunham 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 © 2020 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited.
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We have likely all used the phrase, “Stop the world, I want to get off,” from time to time as life’s inevitable stressors have bore down on us. Over the past several months, it may have seemed as though we got our irrational wish as the world finally did stop momentarily — or at least slow down — as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is no doubt that the past several months have caused tremendous hardship and pain, but they have also allowed and even encouraged us to see ourselves, our families, our friends and our neighbors in a new light — one that we tend to turn a blind-eye to during our normally hectic day-to-day lives. My family and I have had quite a lot of doctors and hospitals in our lives lately. These past several months have been incredibly challenging for me, as they have been for many others. As a result, I have been reminded of just how important my family is to me. Moreover, my children have been my guiding light and my strength, offering much needed help and support to me during this difficult time. I have never been as proud of each of them as I have been over these past several months. Family dinners have become more regular and suddenly have a newfound importance. I consider myself to be exceptionally fortunate to have had a little extra time to spend with my family over these past several months — time that is typically forsaken but that I will now make every effort to retain for it is truly a precious commodity. My heart is with anyone and everyone who has experienced hardship and pain over the past several months. It is my hope that this month’s issue helps that new light on the many amazing people in our community to shine even brighter.
The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
Cheers!
Local First A R I Z O NA 6
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Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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Learn more and take a virtual tour at HonorHealth.com/SonoranCrossing October 2020
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ANCIENT + OLD TRUNK SHOW Fri. & Sat.
| Oct. 16-17 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Grace Renee Gallery | Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ | GraceReneeGallery.com i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m Oc tob e r 2 02480-575-8080 0 8
ANCIENT + OLD TRUNK SHOW Fri. & Sat.
| Oct. 16-17 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Grace Renee Gallery | Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 480-575-8080 | GraceReneeGallery.com October 2020 imagesar iz ona .c om 9
Last year, Summy Parker founded Arizona Foothills 911 — an organization that is dedicated to responding to emergency situations in Carefree, Cave Creek, Desert Hills, New River, North Scottsdale and Rio Verde.
Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Bryan Black
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On May 17, a wildfire started off Desert Hills Drive in Cave Creek. Known as the East Desert Fire, the wildfire spread rapidly over the course of just a few hours, threatening several homes and eventually burning nearly 1,500 acres. Unfortunately, the incident was only the first in a series of wildfires that ravaged North Valley communities this summer as it was quickly followed by the Ocotillo Fire — also in Cave Creek — which burned an additional 980 acres and destroyed 20 buildings, including eight homes. Less than one month later, the Aguila Fire destroyed six structures and burned nearly 900 acres in Desert Hills. In a year of so much unprecedented misfortune, our wildfire season has only exacerbated the heartache experienced by our communities. However, it has also given our communities an opportunity to rise up and show what truly makes them special. “I think that right now there is so much bad stuff going on in the world,” says Cave Creek resident Sunny Parker. “We have a huge election going on and people are very opinionated about what they feel. But when you are talking to animal lovers and people who have livestock — like those who make up our North Valley communities — it is a whole different story. Nobody cares about anything other than ensuring that their neighbors are being taken care of.” Last year, Parker founded Arizona Foothills 911 — an organization that is dedicated to responding to emergency situations in Carefree, Cave Creek, Desert Hills, New River, North Scottsdale and Rio Verde. She and countless other volunteers helped people not
only evacuate their homes but also have a safe place to keep their pets and livestock during each of the three wildfires that ravaged our communities this summer.
A HUGE UNDERTAKING
“It started with a promise I made,” Parker says. “My son Brian was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and he slipped into a coma minutes after we got to the hospital. They told me that he had zero chance of making it. They said that he would not survive. “I made a promise to the man upstairs that if He spared my son’s life, I would spend the rest of my life doing something good. Brian is now not only alive and well, but everything is perfect. So I am keeping my promise.” Shortly after Brian recovered, Parker traveled to California for a horse show with which her daughter was involved. While there, she witnessed the California wildfires first-hand. Noticing that California’s landscape was not too different from our own, she began to worry about potential wildfire danger in our North Valley communities. “I knew then that it was not a matter of if it was going to happen but a matter of when it was going to happen,” Parker says. “I came back home and realized that there was nothing in the area that covers what could possibly happen. I discussed doing something about it with a few people and while they all said it was a great idea, they thought it was too huge of an undertaking.” Parker proceeded anyway, creating a Facebook page just to see what would happen. She slowly saw
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Photographer John Fritz
Photographer John Fritz
Photographer John Fritz
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the page’s number of followers increase as she began discussing the significance of wildfire awareness and preparation with people in North Valley communities. At Images Arizona’s press time, Arizona Foothills 911’s Facebook page had more than 9,000 followers.
A COMMUNITY IN CRISIS
Arizona Foothills 911’s first real test occurred when the East Desert Fire started. Parker received permission to use Cave Creek’s Frontier Town as a staging area for the incident as volunteers helped evacuate residents, pets and livestock. “I just put out a plea on Arizona Foothills 911’s Facebook page and within minutes I had 20 people offering to help with horse trucks and trailers,” Parker says. “We got everybody out that needed to get out and we began to plan a meeting so that we could figure out how to do things better.” However, before that meeting could take place, the Ocotillo Fire started. “We did not have the time to do that and it really did not matter,” Parker explains. “What mattered was that we did it. People were counting us to help them figure out not only how to get out themselves but also how to get their animals out and find places for them where they would be safely returned to them. During that particular situation, we got a lot of new volunteers.” In addition to a career in physician credentialing, Parker had been working at Wal-Mart in Cave Creek so that she could put aside money to register Arizona Foothills 911 as an official nonprofit organization to help secure things that will improve its operations. “During [the East Desert Fire], I had been up for 40-something hours and I had to go to work the next day,” Parker says. “I did it and I managed to get through it. But when [the Ocotillo Fire] broke out, I realized that I had to give this everything I had or it was not going to work.” Parker’s supervisor at Wal-Mart graciously granted her a leave of absence, giving her the time to truly help the community through the crisis. She now considers Arizona Foothills 911 to be her full-time job.
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Summy Parker and countless other volunteers helped people not only evacuate their homes but also have a safe place to keep their pets and livestock during each of the three wildfires that ravaged our communities this summer.
“After the overwhelming feeling that I got during the Ocotillo Fire — the hurt and the fear I saw in the people who were counting on me — I knew that I could not possibly give the residents of this area everything I have got If I have commitments to other things,” Parker says. “It became obvious to me that I had to do this 100% of the time.” Less than one month later, Parker received confirmation that she had made the right decision when the Aguila Fire threatened Desert Hills. “I was driving, saw the smoke and within 20 minutes we had [Cave Creek’s] rodeo grounds opened as we started moving people,” Parker says. “A lady called me from California and said she needed my help to get her elderly parents out safely. We had veterinarians who came out to help injured horses. We had hundreds of animals there. We had llamas, pigs, goats and sugar gliders — you name the critter and it was there.”
A NEW SET OF PROBLEMS
As Arizona’s wildfire season has thankfully come to a close for another year, Parker acknowledges that Arizona Foothills 911’s work is never over. She is now shifting her focus to educating North Valley communities about preparedness procedures and safe practices in emergency situations. One of the most important lessons that she hopes to bestow upon people is to avoid doing anything that may interfere with emergency personnel being able to quickly and safely do their jobs. For example, as fascinating as wildfires may appear, Parker is begging people not to pull over to the side of the road to take pictures and videos.
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“You can really be impeding what the fire department is doing,” she explains. “You can watch the news later. Seconds can literally cost lives. Every second that firefighters are out there is one second too long and if we can get them out of there faster by not being in their way then we need to do that.” Parker is also focused on the aftermath of this year’s particularly active wildfire season. As much of the vegetation in North Valley communities is gone, the inevitable flooding as a result of this fall and winter’s thunderstorms has become an enormous concern. “That is going to cause a whole new set of problems, particularly because we do not have any idea which way the water is going to go,” Parker says.
ANSWERING THE CALL
Of course, wildfires and other natural disasters are only one segment of the emergencies to which Arizona Foothills 911 answers the call. “When the COVID-19 pandemic started, I received a phone call from a woman whose son had some disabilities,” Parker says. “A cat that was his support animal was left behind in Washington. I flew all the way to Washington and picked up this kid's cat. It was amazing to me because the airport was like a ghost town and I was the only person on the plane. It was so weird.” Since founding the organization, Parker has picked up and delivered prescriptions for people who were unable to do so themselves and even facilitated assistance for people whose horse trailers have broken down on the side of the road. “We are here for any emergency situation that is not the type of
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Sunny Parker is now shifting her focus to educating North Valley communities about preparedness procedures and safe practices in emergency situations.
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Sunny Parker is also focused on the aftermath of this year’s particularly active wildfire season. As much of the vegetation in North Valley communities is gone, the inevitable flooding as a result of this fall and winter’s thunderstorms has become an enormous concern.
emergency that would require a real 911 call,” she explains. “I am hoping at some point to be able to have all of the materials and things that we need to ensure that Arizona Foothills 911 becomes a really strong place where people can come to us and know that no matter what they need we can help them.” Parker reiterates that she fully intends to honor the promise she made to the man upstairs and do this for the rest of her life. She admits that it is a lot of work but she has never felt more rewarded by a job. “To be able to do something like this, to change somebody's life — even in the case of the young man who just needed his cat back — is what makes it all worth it,” Parker says. “We are doing something to change people's lives for the better. I believe that we as people have got to do the best that we can for each other and try really hard to stay as positive as we can at all times so that we can be better people. “We all have it in us to be better. You can look around all you want and you are going to see everything negative under the sun. But one person can make a difference. You alone have the ability to change someone's life for the better — or for the worse, so choose wisely.”
Parker adds that her son's situation completely changed her as a person and she is eternally grateful for that. However, she acknowledges that she alone does not make up Arizona Foothills 911. “The credit goes to every single person who volunteers, every single person who is on the phone, every single person who goes out to grab a trailer and pick up a horse,” she explains. “It is this community that makes Arizona Foothills 911 so strong. I could never have done any of this without the support of this incredible community that we live in.” Parker adds that North Valley neighbors stepped up to the plate in a way that she never even dreamed they would have. She considers the amazing outpouring of support to be the true definition of a community — something that is somewhat unique to the North Valley. “I think that there is something very special to be said about the type of communities we live in,” Parker explains. “We are just different. I think that we are still considered part of the Old West, so we have that lifestyle of people helping people just because it is the right thing to do.” facebook.com/groups/AZFH911
COMMUNITY Arizona Foothills 911 To request assistance, call 480-204-4443. To volunteer, e-mail arizonafoothills911@gmail.com.
October 2020
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COMMUNITY
2020 OCTOBER
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Oct. 1–11
FALL CAREFREE RESTAURANT WEEK Carefree Restaurant Association will organize an opportunity for the community to sample new and exciting menu offerings and, in doing so, continue to support local restaurants. Throughout Fall Carefree Restaurant Week, participating restaurants will showcase their menus at discounted prices. Some restaurants will offer a two-course lunch while others will offer a three-course dinner for dine-in or take-out. See website for prices and locations. carefreerestaurants.com
Sept. 1–Oct. 16
Sept. 19–Dec. 5
Organizers have shifted this year’s
Chandler's Vision Gallery is hosting
Foothills Empty Bowls Project
a series of art classes taught by
fundraiser to a virtual format,
professional artists for youth. Made
benefitting Foothills Food Bank
possible through the support of
and Resource Center’s efforts to
the Chandler Cultural Foundation,
provide emergency food, financial
Vision Kids classes are streamed
the most up-to-date information
assistance and other life necessities
online via Zoom each Saturday
at press time, some events may be
and resources to individuals and
and provide children with the
families in the Desert Foothills
opportunity to create art that
area. Individuals can bid on art and
represents their own creativity.
purchase bowls donated by members
Participants develop important
other factors associated with the
and friends of the Sonoran Arts
avenues for self-expression and
COVID-19 pandemic. Please use
League. Each bowl comes with a
an understanding of the creative
gift certificate for a spaghetti meal
process as they learn techniques in a
at Harold’s Cave Creek Corral.
variety of media — including pencil,
foothillsfoodbank.org
watercolor, ceramics, photography
Keep in mind Although Images Arizona magazine has made every effort to publish
canceled or rescheduled to comply with social distancing measures and
the contact information provided to confirm dated details.
FOOTHILLS EMPTY BOWLS PROJECT
VISION KIDS CLASSES
and more. Free. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. visiongallery.org/vision-kids
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More coverage. Less spendage. Oct. 1
CAREFREE ART WALK Stroll, shop, dine and enjoy an evening celebrating the arts in downtown Carefree while helping to support local businesses and local creativity — which makes our Arizona culture a better place to live, work and visit. Begin at any gallery, then continue on to other participating galleries. Enjoy a diverse display of artistic styles and mediums, meet the artists, enjoy refreshments and engage in
24/7 Claim Service | Personal Service Multi-line Discounts* Nanette McClelland-Miller, Agent
623-742-6866
nanettemiller.com Fry’s Shopping Center: Next to Verizon and Tru Burger
conversation about art and architecture. Free. 4–8 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com
Oct. 3
JUNIE B. JONES AUDITIONS Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “Junie B. Jones: The Musical, Jr.” Auditionees aged 6–14 should prepare a musical theater song. Optional 90-minute audition preparation workshops will take place 4:30 p.m. Oct. 1 and 2 for a $35 fee. $325; sibling discounts and scholarships available. 10:30 a.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
Oct. 3
OUR TOWN AUDITIONS Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “Our Town.” Auditionees aged 5–19 should prepare a musical theater song. An optional 90-minute audition preparation workshop will take place 6:30 p.m. Oct. 1 for a $35 fee. $325; sibling discounts and scholarships available. 1:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
Oct. 3
REACHING FOR THE LIGHT CONCERT Sonoran Desert Chorale will offer the first of its four regular concerts in this year's virtual season. The online concert will combine new virtual repertoire and recorded material from previous live concerts, all packaged in a beautiful video created especially for the occasion. It will include songs of hope and encouragement as we collectively reach for better times. Free. 7:30 p.m. sonorandesertchorale.org
October 2020
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Oct. 8
ART + CHOCOLATE ARTWALK The Scottsdale Gallery Association will host an Art + Chocolate ArtWalk throughout the Scottsdale Arts District — which resides along Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and north of Indian School Road on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue. Guests can peruse galleries and view local and national art while being serenaded by a steel drum band. Participating galleries will feature chocolate tasting courtesy of local chocolatier Cerreta Candy Company. Free. 6:30–9 p.m. See website for participating galleries. scottsdalegalleries.com
Oct. 10
GOLDEN REEF STAMP MILL DEMONSTRATION
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Oct. 12–18
Oct. 14
The Tour de Scottsdale will switch
PHOENIX ART MUSEUM REOPENING
Arizona’s only fully operational
gears to a virtual format for its 17th
Phoenix Art Museum will reopen
ten-stamp ore crushing mill will
annual event, allowing hundreds of
to the general public, implementing
run several outdoor demonstrations
road warriors to keep the cycling
new health and safety precautions
ahead of Cave Creek Museum’s
spirit alive and stay active and
designed to help keep patrons as
planned Nov. 1 reopening. Watch
healthy while still supporting the
safe as possible during their visit. A
history come alive as the ten
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy.
number of new, vibrant installations
1,000-pound stamps slam down in
Riders will have several registration
and exhibitions will be available
synchronized precision and hear the
options to complete ride miles on
upon reopening, including Stories of
pounding echo against the Desert
their own. Participants can ride the
Abstraction: Contemporary Latin
Foothills — just as it did more
official Tour de Scottsdale courses,
American Art in the Global Context
than 140 years ago. Also on exhibit
log miles around their city or even
and Teresita Fernández: Elemental.
outdoors on the museum campus are
in their home or fitness center on a
Additionally, the museum has
various pieces of equipment from
trainer. In addition to the traditional
extended exhibitions that patrons
the early mining days of Arizona and
30- and 70-mile rides, the virtual
may not have had the chance to
many agricultural tools used at local
event will introduce a new 15-mile
experience prior to its closure,
farms and ranches. See website for
course and a 5-mile fit family ride.
including Ansel Adams: Performing
times. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E.
Those who register and complete
the Print and India: Fashion’s Muse.
Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. 480-488-
any of the distances will receive a
A soft reopening for members is
2764; cavecreekmuseum.org
commemorative, distance-unique
scheduled for Oct. 1. See website
medal as well as a virtual goodie bag
for prices and hours. Phoenix Art
and other perks. tourdescottsdale.net
Museum,1625 N. Central Ave.,
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m Oc tob e r 2 02 0
TOUR DE SCOTTSDALE
Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org
October 2020
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Oct. 23 and 24
ANTHEM PUMPKIN PICKING Anthem Community Council will host a new-look pumpkin patch. Residents may reserve timeslots to visit the patch via an online registration system beginning Oct. 1. The patch will be split up into five smaller patches and families will be asked to stay within one zone during their timeslot as they browse for pumpkins. Each registered Anthem household who visits the patch will receive two complimentary pumpkins. Children will receive foam face kits to decorate their pumpkins as well as bagged popcorn and other treats. Friday 3–7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Softball Field No. 4 at Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem. onlineatanthem.com/autumnfest
Oct. 16–30
from vendors who participated in
silent auction, a door prize ticket
the event the past two years will be
and inclusion in the keynote video
available on Anthem Community
that explores the magic of Camelot
Council’s website so that dedicated
through the hearts of its riders
Anthem Community Council will
festivalgoers can enjoy shopping
and supporters. $100+. Camelot
host a virtual pumpkin display on its
from the comfort and safety of their
Therapeutic Horsemanship, 23623
social media accounts, highlighting
own homes. onlineatanthem.com/
N. Scottsdale Road, Suite D-3, Box
the creativity of residents and
autumnfest
259, Scottsdale. 480.515.1542;
VIRTUAL PUMPKIN DISPLAY
organizations in the community. Residents may submit pictures of their decorated pumpkins beginning Oct. 1. onlineatanthem.com/autumnfest
Oct. 16–Nov. 30
VIRTUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR
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camelotaz.org
Oct. 19–23
STARRY KNIGHTS FUNDRAISER
Oct. 23–Nov. 1 DRACULA
Camelot Therapeutic Horsemanship
Starlight Community Theater
will pivot its annual Starry Knights
will present its production of
event to a virtual format, raising
“Dracula” — a stage adaptation of
funds to support its efforts to
the horror classic. $15. See website
In lieu of Anthem’s Autumnfest,
offer free lessons in horsemanship
for times. Starlight Community
which has been reimagined in
to children and adults with
Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind
response to social distancing
physical disabilities. The nonprofit
Drive, Phoenix. 623-336-6001;
measures as a result of the
organization is selling Camelot Prize
starlightcommunitytheater.com
COVID-19 pandemic, an online
Packs — exclusive gift boxes that
catalog of arts and crafts products
contain early access to an online
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m Oc tob e r 2 02 0
Oct. 24
Nov. 8
A supporter of Free Arts of Arizona since its inception, Larsen Gallery
ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra will livestream a concert of
will host an art auction through which it will donate funds to the
outstanding musical talent in small ensembles and solo performances.
organization to benefit its Professional Artist Series. Highlights include
A limited number of tickets will be available for those who wish to
work from Jim Dine, Andy Warhol, Sam Francis, Logan Hagege, Allan
attend in person. 4 p.m. See website for price and location. 623-326-
Houser and Ed Mell. Free. 10 a.m. Larsen Gallery, 3705 N. Bishop
5172; pmaz.org
LARSEN ART AUCTION
Lane, Scottsdale. 480-941-0900; larsenartauction.com
Oct. 31
HARRY POTTER HALLOWEEN
MUSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE CONCERT
ART & FOODIE STAMPEDE SET FOR SPRING Sonoran Arts League has scheduled a celebration of the businesses related to art and food in Carefree and Cave Creek for next spring.
English Rose Tea Room will host a Harry Potter-themed Halloween
Art studios, galleries, specialty shops and restaurants may participate
party. The event will feature special guests and prizes for best
by having at least one artist demonstrating during the event. Set for
costumes. RSVP. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy
the last full weekend in April in the primary commercial zones of
St., Suite 103, Carefree. 480-488-4812; carefreetea.com
Carefree and Cave Creek, the event aims to attract Arizona residents back to the towns after the usual street fair and snowbird season has
Nov. 6–10
SCOTTSDALE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL The Scottsdale International Film Festival will pivot to a virtual format for its 20th annual event, giving moviegoers the opportunity to travel the world and enjoy cinema from the comfort and safety of their own homes. Using innovative technologies, the virtual festival will allow participants to easily build a customized schedule. With a selection of comedies, dramas, documentaries, thrillers and more, audiences are certain to find their niche watching one, several or all of the films in the festival schedule. scottsdalefilmfestival.com
Nov. 7
ended. Express interest in participating and submit related fees by Jan. 30, 2021. 480-239-2463.
CHORALE OFFERS VIRTUAL EVENTS Sonoran Desert Chorale is reaching out to the Valley and beyond with a series of virtual programs designed to share the nonprofit performing arts organization’s sound with audiences in the comfort of their own homes on the electronic device of their choice. The first Saturday of each month, the Slim Concert Series revisits previously performed pieces presented in new combinations accompanied by photos and graphics. The third Saturday of each month, the Singer Sketches Series shares stories about the chorale’s singers’ lives. sonorandesertchorale.org
The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships will produce a polo
HONORHEALTH OPENS SONORAN CROSSING
event with a new focus on social distancing and a key focus to
HonorHealth has opened its sixth medical center — a three-
help schools, nonprofit organizations and charities hit hard by the
story, 210,000-square-foot, 70-bed hospital that features not
COVID-19 pandemic. The event will begin with Arizona Polo Club
only a healing environment with mountainous views but also
taking on the Brooklands Polo Team. EPR Polo will then introduce
an outdoor healing garden that allows visitors to gather their
The Celebrity Cruises Match Up, supporting Arizona Equine Rescue
thoughts peacefully with all of nature’s comforts. The medical
and Southwest Wildlife. In the final match, Morehouse College Polo
center offers 24-hour emergency care, comprehensive obstetrical
Club will take on the Women’s All-Stars in a “Battle of the Sexes.”
and gynecological care and a broad number of surgical services.
$20+. 10:45 a.m.–6 p.m. WestWorld of Scottsdale’s Polo Field, 16601
Sonoran Crossing Medical Center, 33400 N. 32nd Ave., Phoenix.
N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 480-423-1414; thepoloparty.com
honorhealth.com/sonorancrossing
STELLA ARTOIS POLO CLASSIC
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HEIDI’S VILLAGE OPENS IN PHOENIX A once-in-a-lifetime project is now a reality with this summer’s opening of Heidi’s Village — an animal shelter and veterinary clinic that is the first of its kind in Arizona. The animal welfare organization partners with existing animal shelters and rescue organizations to provide temporary boarding for dogs and cats when their space and resources are limited. Medical intervention, grooming, behavioral modification and wellness services are offered on-site. Its mission is to foster a community where animals are treated with respect, dignity and compassion to decrease the number of animals abandoned and euthanized. Heidi’s Village, 600 N. 40th St., Phoenix. 602-241-4640; heidisvillage.org
MIM REOPENS WITH NEW OFFERINGS
BALLET STUDIO OPENS NEW SPACE
Musical Instrument Museum has
Ballet Theatre of Phoenix has opened
reopened its doors to guests, who
a new 7,800-square-foot studio in
NORTH VALLEY SYMPHONETTES NAMES NEW DIRECTOR
will discover many new offerings
Phoenix. The studio’s instructors
North Valley Symphony Orchestra
on display at the museum — such
follow the American Ballet Theatre's
has welcomed Maurine Fleming
as a 14-foot pipe organ as well as
national curriculum with an emphasis
as the new director for North
a 1922 Steinway piano and stage
on classical ballet. Classes are held
Valley Symphonettes, the nonprofit
outfit owned by legendary songstress
throughout the year for students of
performing arts organization’s
Roberta Flack. The museum’s Congo
all levels in multiple styles of dance.
middle-school aged ensemble.
Masks and Music: Masterpieces
Ballet Theatre of Phoenix, 6201 N.
Fleming will initially be responsible
from Central Africa exhibit has also
Seventh St., Phoenix. 602-957-3364;
for conducting weekly virtual
been extended into 2021. Musical
ballettheatreofphoenix.org
rehearsals as well as managing
Instrument Museum has thoroughly
to support the health and safety of the community. Large events, programs,
The shelves of Maricopa County
eventually working with students
concerts and guided tours remain
Library District come to life via a new
in-person once it is safe to do so.
cancelled but virtual programs are
weekly podcast in which librarians
northvalleysymphony.org
being offered. $20; discounts available
discuss books, music and apps.
for children and teens. 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
“ShelfLogic” is available on Apple
Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E.
Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and
Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000,
Stitcher as well as on Maricopa County
mim.org
Library District’s website. mcldaz.org
implemented new measures designed
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student education and growth
MARICOPA COUNTY LIBRARY DEBUTS PODCAST
reviewed its daily operations and has
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through virtual assignments for North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s youngest musicians before
PICKIN’ IN THE PINES POSTPONED TO 2021 Organizers have postponed the 15th Annual Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass and Acoustic Music Festival, rescheduling the event for Sept. 17–19, 2021. All 2020 tickets will be honored in 2021 while most — if not all — of the 2020 lineup will be in attendance. Pepsi Amphitheater at Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff. 480-656-9940; pickininthepines.org
WOMEN IN SONG RECEIVES ARTS GRANT ProMusica Arizona’s vocal ensemble, Women in Song, has received funding from Peoria’s arts grants program, which is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the city by fostering and supporting cultural opportunities for both local artists and the general public. The $4,910 grant will be used for outreach events to bring musical entertainment to senior living communities, memory care facilities and the Peoria Community Center. pmaz.org
INJURY SCREENING
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IMAGES ARIZONA 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree | 623-341-8221 | imagesarizona.com It has been my absolute pleasure and honor to publish Images Arizona each month for the past 21 years. I have been extremely fortunate to meet so many amazing people through my work on this magazine, which remains committed to covering the many incredible individuals and outstanding organizations that make our community so very special. I am also passionately dedicated to support my fellow local business owners, each of whom create unique experiences that represent the extraordinary culture of Arizona. These local business owners not only strengthen our community but also define it. From the local restaurant owner to the local real estate agent, these are the people who shape the way we live, work and play. Throughout the pages of this month’s issue, we introduce you to many of these exceptional individuals who not only make Images Arizona possible but also define our community. I encourage you to share in my hometown pride and support these local business owners — all of whom are strong, resilient and creative individuals. I am immeasurably proud to live in such a remarkable community that is nourished and reinforced with local business owners who are genuinely invested in enhancing the way of life for all of our neighbors.
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DR. JEN GENTRY 42104 N. Venture Drive | Suite B-122 | Anthem | 623-251-5518 | drjengentry.com Having suffered from chronic disease since early childhood, Dr. Jen Gentry (pictured on left with her medical assistant Angela Miller) has unofficially been a part of the traditional medical establishment for many years. During her health battles, she learned firsthand that medicine should be much more than just using drugs to treat symptoms and diseases. In her quest to seek out alternatives to conventional medicine, Dr. Gentry discovered the philosophy of naturopathic medicine. She learned that lifestyle choices and nutrition — not drugs — were the answer to wellbeing. Having improved her own heath, she felt that it was her responsibility to provide this medical alternative to others. Dr. Gentry now offers her skills and passion for natural healing at her Anthem practice. By firmly adhering to the basic principles of naturopathic medicine, she promotes health and healing on all levels — physically, emotionally and spiritually. Her goal is to empower her patients with knowledge that enables them to reach and maintain optimal health. Dr. Gentry’s clinical focus and expertise are in areas of clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, homeopathy, physical medicine and women’s health. Her special interests include helping patients overcome hormone imbalance, infertility, pre/peri-menopause, PCOS, thyroid disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, asthma, allergies and autoimmune disorders.
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ANTHEM LAW 42104 N. Venture Drive | Suite D126 | Anthem | 623-551-5457 | anthemlaw.com At Anthem Law, attorneys Sam Crump and Nichole Oblinger strive to provide reliable and experienced legal representation backed by a tireless commitment to meeting the real needs of their clients. They build their success on the foundation of meeting the day-to-day legal needs that affect local business owners, families, workers and individuals. With nearly 30 years of experience as an attorney, elected official and entrepreneur, Crump is now the owner of Anthem Law, focusing on business and estate planning matters. He is married to Colleen, a registered nurse with whom he has four adult children. Oblinger is a transactional and litigation attorney, whose practice focuses on family law, business law, business litigation and disputes and real estate and property matters. The Arizona native lives in Anthem with her husband and two children. Together, Crump and Oblinger bring the level of legal quality that one would expect to find in a highprofile, downtown Phoenix law firm and combine it with the kind of one-on-one personal service you might find in a small-town, solo practice.
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COULTER NISSAN 13301 N. Autoshow Ave. | Surprise | 623-207-9156 | coulternissan.com With so many happy drivers in the greater Phoenix, Surprise and Peoria areas, it is easy to see why Coulter Nissan is the Valley’s trusted source for Nissan vehicles. Helping customers find their next car is only the beginning of the Coulter Nissan experience. From there, Coulter Nissan’s team of financing experts help customers drive home the car that they have been eyeing on their own terms. Of course, nobody wants to be forgotten after the purchase of a new or used Nissan. That is why Coulter Nissan’s state-of-the-art auto repair center is staffed with highly trained individuals and equipped with the latest Nissan parts. Coulter Nissan is a family-owned and operated business with great customer service that goes all the way back to 1923.
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CULTIVATE HAIR SALON 42201 N. 41st. Dr. | Suite 144 | Anthem | 623-640-0480 | cultivatehairsalon.com Cultivate Hair Salon was built from an intense passion — a passion for people, for love, for kindness and, most of all, for making every guest that walks into the salon look and feel their absolute best by the time they walk out. When owner and stylist Shelby Davis (pictured on far left) is not spending time with her family, she can be found at the salon with her amazing team (also pictured), creating new relationships with guests and sharing her passion with the world. “I created Cultivate Hair Salon to invoke a different salon experience — one not just based on producing luxury results but instead a space focused on ensuring you feel just as stunning as you look,” Davis says. “I wanted the environment to be full of fun-loving and caring people who will build a relationship with you and simply aim to amplify each client’s profound and unique beauty.” Cultivate Hair Salon provides a fresh, clean, and delightful retreat from everyday worries. Davis and her team of stylists strive to be different, building an environment that celebrates each person’s natural beauty and enhances the gorgeous person they are — on the inside and the outside.
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THE REHWALT GROUP 602-402-1136 | lindarehwalt@azrealty.com | azrealty.com Linda Rehwalt’s goal is to guide people through one of the most important decisions of their lives — buying or selling a home. Her compassion and ability to listen, coupled with her keen business and marketing talents have made her one of the Phoenix area’s top Realtors. An Anthem resident, Linda (pictured on right) does much more than just guide clients through the process. She gives them access to a team of experts — The Rehwalt Group — who manage every detail of a transaction smoothly and professionally. She offers them the benefits of the latest real estate technology and gives them access to her own knowledge, superior negotiation skills and client care. “My clients are really the key to my success,” Linda says. “They are who have made it possible and I also couldn’t do it without my wonderful team. They set the standard for client service and customer care and I am proud to lead a group with such dedication, integrity and expertise.” Bill Rehwalt (center) serves as Linda’s listing manager, instilling each listing with a fantastic first impression. He also works as a buyer’s agent to find each client’s dream home. Meanwhile, Linda’s closing manager Donna Lecki (pictured on left) acts as a client’s closing concierge, ensuring each closing is delightful and stress-free.
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CLEAN JUICE 39504 N. Daisy Mountain Drive | Suite 118 | Anthem | 623-233-1444 | cleanjuice.com Clean Juice offers so much more than just fresh juices, smoothies, cold-pressed juices and cleanses. Its products are made in-house, fresh to order and contain no added sugars, no harmful pesticides and no antibiotics. Clean Juice offers so much more than just fresh juices and smoothies and made-in-house cold-pressed juices and cleanses. Its menu also features everything from light snacks to full-on meals. From acai bowls and Greenoa Bowls (salads) to toasts and wraps, Clean Juice has everything you need to feel energized and productive throughout your day. Owners Michael and Sydney Trojanek met at Grand Canyon University, where they were both collegiate athletes in baseball and softball. Their two children are following in their footsteps as athletes. They aspire for their children — and their neighbors — to be fueled and educated on the benefits of organics and a healthy lifestyle. Michael and Sydney are excited to bring a healthy option to the community. The entire Clean Juice team believes wholeheartedly in a healthy body and a strong spirit — and it aims to provide the opportunity to use Clean Juice to apply this to customers’ everyday life.
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CREATIVE CASTLE 4130 W. Opportunity Way | Anthem | 602-740-9561 | creativecastlepreschool.com Rose Urness grew up on the Island of Bermuda and was educated under the world-renowned British schooling system. She attended the University of South Florida receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in child psychology. Throughout her college years, Urness worked with behaviorally challenged and developmentally delayed children. Upon graduation, she became the lead child counselor in a foster shelter where she discovered her passion for teaching young children. She then returned to college to earn her professional teacher credential with a Cross — Cultural Language and Academic Development endorsement. After teaching for a number of years in Florida, California and Virginia, Urness pursued a postgraduate degree in education. She received her Master of Science degree from the Darden College of Education at Old Dominion University. In 2005, Urness and her family moved to Anthem and began looking for a private, non-daycare preschool that offered small class sizes, bachelor degreed teachers and a nurturing environment. After considerable research, she decided to design a new school based on her high standards as an educator and expectations as a mother.
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MAKI INSURANCE GROUP 4215 W. Anthem Way | Suite 113 | Anthem | 623-551-3585 | timmaki.com After graduating from college, Tim Maki left Michigan in December 1978 with the intention of moving to California. However, when his car broke down at Bell Road on I-17, he decided to stay in Arizona. He fell in love with our state’s wonderful weather and has never once regretted his decision. Tim taught school for 9 years during which time he and his wife, Marie, had three children. Maki then entered the insurance field and worked with a captive carrier for 20 years before opening an independent agency in 2007 — right as the economy tanked. Although it was a tough time to start a business, that only strengthened Maki’s drive, perseverance and enjoyment of his career. Today, Maki believes that his clients are his greatest asset. Whether you need coverage for your car, home, business, health or life, Maki Insurance Group’s goal is to establish a firm relationship of mutual trust and service with each of its clients. Maki Insurance Group aspires to sell and service insurance products to an expanding base of qualified individuals and businesses. Maki’s team is committed to the continuing improvement of its method of operation in an honest, profitable and consistent manner to the public.
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NANETTE MILLER STATE FARM 39504 N. Daisy Mountain Drive | Suite 114 | Anthem | 623-742-6866 | nanettemiller.com As partners in the success of the Anthem office, Nanette Miller State Farm’s team takes care of its customers first by delivering exceptional service. The team’s loyalty to its customers is unsurpassed. Proudly serving Anthem and its surrounding areas since December 2000, Nanette Miller was honored to be chosen as Anthem Chamber of Commerce’s Business Person of the Year in 2013. Her State Farm insurance agency is greatly involved in giving back to the community, supporting events like Anthem Days and the local Veteran's Day parade. The agency’s annual Mardi Gras fundraiser — its signature event — has raised more than $200,000 over the past 18 years. Nanette Miller State Farm creates an environment that its customers like to visit while taking care of their insurance needs, aiming to support the community in everything that they do.
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DAISY DREAM HOMES 3715 W. Anthem Way | Suite 110 | Anthem | 623-879-3277 | daisydreamhomes.com Daisy Dream Homes’ agents are ready to help each person reach their real estate goals by making their customer’s needs their No. 1 priority. Realtor Doreen Drew (pictured on right with Designated Broker Amy Wylie) prides herself on helping her clients find a place that they can call home. “Our population is a global one, with friendly neighbors from around the world,” Drew says. “We are just minutes from beautiful Lake Pleasant and all the activities of nearby Phoenix. The area offers an abundance of recreational and cultural activity's year-round. Anthem is close to boating, camping, hiking, sporting and musical events here and around the Valley.” Drew recognizes that home-buyers and home-sellers have a choice when it comes to working with a real estate professional. That is why she and her team of Daisy Dream Homes agents work hard to earn a person’s trust and help them to discover the smarter way to buy or sell a home.
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Joye DeGoede is one of just three artists who were invited to participate in the Phoenix Zoo’s Art on the Wild Side exhibit, which runs through 2021.
Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Photography Courtesy of Joye DeGoede, Heidi Huston and Greg Bubb
T
There’s quite a party going on in painter Joye DeGoede’s studio. Party guests include a zebra eating sweet treats, two monkeys eating cupcakes and a pair of donkeys enjoying a bottle of tequila. DeGoede’s party guests — which also include bears, bobcats, horses, cows, bunnies, flamingos and hummingbirds — come to life in a whimsical collection of oil paintings that she affectionately named and trademarked “JoyEful Party Animals.” But it hasn’t always been a party for DeGoede, who also paints colorful florals, architecture and landscapes, as well as portraits, figures and still life paintings. Early in her career, she was much more serious about her subject matter and message. Now she expresses her creativity fully, embracing the positive aspects of life.
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DeGoede is one of 140 artists participating in Arizona’s largest and longest-running artist studio tour, Hidden in the Hills, during the last two weekends of November. Coordinated by the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, this year’s 24th annual, free, self-guided tour takes place at 35 socially-distanced, private studios throughout the scenic Desert Foothills communities of Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale. DeGoede will be a guest artist at Joanie Wolter’s Cuvee Art Studio 13 in North Scottsdale. Wolter, a mixed media artist who serves as the event’s co-chair, says it has been a particularly challenging year for artists due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re excited to move forward with the league’s signature event, especially at a time when art can bring so much joy and healing to the world,” Wolter says. “We're taking extra steps to ensure the safety of guests at each studio. Other than masks and extra sanitizer, it will be business as usual with our talented, diverse artists sharing their beautiful, creative art.”
VALUABLE LESSONS
DeGoede grew up in Provo, Utah at a time when art was not offered in her school. “I was very creative as a child and I was fortunate in that my parents recognized my passion for art,” DeGoede says. “I began taking art classes from the acclaimed painter Carol Harding when I was 11 years old. My mother would drive me 45 miles to her studio in Pleasant Grove every Thursday until I was 18.”
Celebrating Till the Cows Come Home by Joye DeGoede
Harding — a realism painter — became DeGoede’s mentor, teaching her valuable lessons about painting landscape, still life and figurative oils. Later, while attending Westminster College in Salt Lake City, DeGoede found another mentor in her art teacher — renowned painter Don Doxey, who is best known for his photo-real western still life paintings. “I was fortunate to grow up in an area that was hot in the arts, but we didn’t know it at the time,” DeGoede says. DeGoede graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science degree in fine art with an emphasis in medical illustration. She also holds an associate degree in commercial and graphic art. Her decision to study medical illustration paid off as she credits her knowledge of anatomy with her success painting people and animals. “I never paint something I don’t know,” DeGoede says. “If I’m not familiar with a subject, I become obsessive studying it.” After college, DeGoede aspired to work full-time as a professional artist. However, she moved to Arizona in 1983 and, a decade later, she was Baby It's Cold Outside Home by Joye DeGoede October 2020
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Sweet Tweets by Joye DeGoede
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Sugar High by Joye DeGoede
Never Forget Family by Joye DeGoede
a single mother working as a teacher at Northwest Community Christian School.
purpose, but she also knew that leaving her teaching position would be a huge risk.
“I thought I had to kiss my art dreams goodbye,” she says. “But even then, I never stopped creating. I would get up at 4 a.m. or stay up until 2 a.m. drawing or painting. During most lunch hours, I would draw with pencil, pen and ink. I was struggling to make ends meet but I never gave up on my art.”
Torn by what to do, she sought advice from her aunt Joye — her mother’s twin sister after whom she was named.
DeGoede continued to teach elementary and secondary school, moving from her first job at the private Christian school to Deer Valley Unified School District in 1997. She transferred to Cave Creek Unified School District in 2001. She also remarried and began devoting more time to her art, becoming a member of the Sonoran Arts League in 2000. The serene desert gave DeGoede inspiration for her paintings of flora, fauna and landscapes.
SOLACE IN ART
In 2007, DeGoede’s life took a dramatic turn when her husband passed away. Although her grief was heavy, she found solace in her art. As time progressed, DeGoede found herself looking within, questioning her career choices and struggling to make a change. Seeing firsthand how precious life was made her realize she wanted to pursue her passion for painting full-time. The fear of making a change was almost paralyzing. After working 18 years as an art teacher and painting in her free time, DeGoede knew that she needed to focus on one career path and put her soul fully into it. She always knew that art was her life’s
“Aunt Joye and I always had a special bond,” DeGoede explains. “When I shared my desire to pursue art full-time, she said, ‘Honey, take a deep breath, go pour yourself a scotch and let’s talk.’ “That conversation prompted me to create a fun, uplifting painting for her of a little rabbit with a glass of scotch. I named the painting, ‘Hop Scotch’ and posted a photo of it to Facebook. It sold before I could send it to her and I knew I had made the right choice.” DeGoede left her teaching position at the end of the school year in 2012. With a refreshed outlook on life, her art took an unanticipatedly fun turn. “My works juxtapose reality with fantasy, inspiring the viewer to see the fun in the mundane and the vast opportunities for joy in our everyday world,” the artist says. "I love painting the surrealistic mixture of animals imitating human habits and in their natural habitat to bring empathy to wildlife conservation.”
JOYEFUL RABBIT TRAIL
DeGoede’s decision to focus on her art fulltime has taken her on a global adventure she never could have imagined. She is now the head artist-in-residence at the Sonoran Arts League’s Gallery at el Pedregal.
three-year exhibition at the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro. Her paintings — including Governor Jan Brewer's official oil portrait — are also in the Arizona Governor's Office’s permanent collection. DeGoede is also one of just three artists who were invited to participate in the Phoenix Zoo’s Art on the Wild Side exhibit, which runs through 2021. The artist’s work has been so wellreceived that she rented a studio in the Troon area of North Scottsdale. “I usually have 25 to 30 paintings in progress at all times and some of the canvases are very large,” DeGoede says. “My partner, Greg, has been very supportive but it became obvious that I needed more room.” Normally this time of year, DeGoede would be traveling to prestigious shows across the country. However, most of the events have been cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s one reason why she is eagerly anticipating Hidden in the Hills. “I’m looking forward to unveiling new paintings during the art tour,” she says. “I hope my work will shake up the way we see and appreciate the everyday life around us. Life is too short not to laugh, smile and enjoy our time here. I haven't strayed from my original artist statement, which invites people to join me on a ‘Joyeful rabbit trail.’” joyesart.com
In 2019, DeGoede was invited by the U.S. State Department’s Arts in the Embassies program to display her paintings in a
ART TOUR
24th Annual Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour Nov. 20–22 and Nov. 27–29 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Private studios throughout Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale Maps and artist directories available online and at Sonoran Arts League’s Center for the Arts | 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Suite 144 | Cave Creek Free Admission | 480-575-6624 | hiddeninthehills.org October 2020
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Next to a dead tree, you often see new growth sprouting. The cycle continues whether we are here or not. Dave Theroux Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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An image of a leafless tree often conveys an incredibly eerie mood. Frequently associated with Halloween, the sight of a dark trunk of wood with bare branches twisting into the sky closely resembles a large, ominous creature with fingers or tentacles reaching up in preparation to capture you. There are very few inanimate objects that are as intimidating., Even in the absence of dark clouds and shadows, leafless trees send shivers down the spines of most onlookers. Of course, movies like “The Wizard of Oz,” “A Monster Calls” and even “Guardians of the Galaxy” have not helped their image. Leafless trees also suggest something far less spooky but still linked to this time of the year. After the hottest Phoenix summer to date ever on record, a chill can finally be felt in the air as autumn descends upon us. Green leaves change color and eventually fall off their branches completely, leaving behind an inevitable symbol of the season. This year, however, leafless trees take on an entirely new meaning. Whether it is truly dead or simply awaiting new growth in the spring, leafless trees encourage us to see the world around us in an entirely new light.
Photographer Dave Theroux acknowledges the menacing and gloomy connections leafless trees possess, but he is also able to see past all of that to bear witness to their inherent beauty. His artistic angles reveal the enchantment of these trees as he also captures their unique textures and fascinating shapes. He also often spots new growth sprouting nearby or a glimmer of green hiding on the top of seemingly dead trees, illustrating that life always finds a way. These are undoubtedly very strange times. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way that many of us live. Social distancing and face coverings appear to be the new normal — at least for the time being — and 2020 gives off quite a grim appearance. But that is all a matter of perspective. Just look at the many persevering businesspeople and benevolent ways that our neighbors have helped one another as featured throughout this issue of Images Arizona. Dire as it may seem, there is beauty in this situation — just as there is beauty in leafless trees. We hope that Theroux’s breathtaking work featured in this month’s photo essay inspires you to see both.
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Leafless trees convey a certain mood. I took most of these photos in October and November of different years. It is often cold and there may be a little bit of snow on the ground. They convey that fall gloom, if you will. Dave Theroux
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I am fascinated with all of the foliage out here — the leafless trees as well as the trees that look like they have been dead for years but are still green on top. I am fascinated by the textures and the shapes that they end up in. It is just really interesting. Dave Theroux
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Sedona resident Dave Theroux is never without his camera. “Anytime my wife and I go hiking or travel, I always have my camera with me,” says Theroux, noting that he often explores Arizona’s beautiful desert land. “I need to take pictures while I am out there. For me, it is just part of the hike.” Theroux first became enamored with photography when he was just 12 years old. He particularly enjoyed black and white photography and spending time in the dark room back when he was still shooting on film. As a teenager, he contributed to his high school yearbook and even entered his work into a few contests. He enjoyed the artform so much that he took several courses on the subject upon entering college. After graduation, Theroux pursued a career as a software architect — something that he says has had a slight benefit on his photography. “It helps with understanding the software that is involved in processing images after they have been taken,” he says. As Theroux was encountered with life’s other obligations, his interest in photography began to ebb and flow. “I would pick it up and take a lot of pictures and then put it away and forget about it for a while,” he explains. “Then I would eventually come back to it again.” Two years ago, Theroux and his wife moved from New Hampshire to Sedona — a move that has had a profoundly positive impact on his photography. “It is very different living here than living on the East Coast,” says Theroux, noting that the weather and climate lend themselves to plenty of exploratory hikes. “Moving to Sedona has rekindled my interest in photography. It is hard not to take pictures here. There is just so much to see and so much to photograph.” Although the 56-year-old has dabbled in some astrophotography, his interest lies — as it always has — primarily in nature and landscape photography more than anything else. “I enjoy going out into the desert outside of Sedona toward Lake Powell, Page, and Petrified Forest [National Park],” Theroux says. “The Grand Canyon is, of course, spectacular as well, although difficult to photograph just because there is so much of it. Since my wife and I have been out here, we have been slowly exploring as much as we can.” davidtheroux.smugmug.com
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Well-roundedness, dedication and discipline propelled Paradise Valley High School junior Alexander Drace to excel as a musician and to become the very first violist to win North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Summerford Concerto Competition.
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Loralei Lazurek
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From a very early age, Alexander Drace surrounded himself with a wide array of musical genres. His mother instilled within him an appreciation for pop music while his father encouraged him to value heavy metal rock. He even developed a profound admiration for orchestral music, including solo pieces and concertos featuring violins and violas. It is perhaps that well-roundedness — along with a lot of dedication and discipline — that propelled the Paradise Valley High School junior to excel as a musician and to become the very first violist to win North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Summerford Concerto Competition. While attending elementary school in Kentucky, Drace was placed in a music theory class that jump-started his connection to music. “It was just a basic class with a recorder and a piano but I really enjoyed it and I decided to talk to my music teacher about getting more involved with music,” Drace says. “She talked to me about the different possibilities of what I could do in middle school.” One of those possibilities was joining orchestra — a sound that Drace believes conveys deeper emotions than other band ensembles. He initially considered making the violin his instrument but eventually decided that the viola was a more appropriate fit. “I just like the deeper tones of it,” Drace says. “That is a small detail but it makes it more melodious than the violin.” Drace’s family moved to Arizona when he was starting eighth grade. After middle school, his interest in the instrument began to wane so he left orchestra off of his schedule during his first semester as a high school freshman. But, as it turns out, absence really does make the heart grow fonder and he rejoined orchestra at the start of his second semester. “It takes a lot of dedication and persistence,” Drace says. “No matter how hard it gets and no matter how tired you feel, you just have to push through. Even if it is only for 30 or 45 minutes a day, just picking up the instrument and playing a couple of scales is key.” The reintroduction solidified Drace’s dedication to the viola. In June 2019, Drace successfully auditioned into North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s intermediate ensemble — North Valley Youth Strings. The ensemble’s director Orlando Moss says the talented musician was a very valuable member of the group, leading its viola section. “I found Alex to be conscientious, and a hard-working student who consistently demonstrated his leadership by communicating with his peers that helped improve the section for rehearsal and concert purposes,” Moss says. Youth directors quickly recognized Drace as a strong violist and, upon the second semester, invited him to audition for the nonprofit performing arts organization’s advanced ensemble — North Valley Youth Orchestra. He easily aced the audition and joined the group at the start of this year.
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Drace decided to double down on his dedication and take part in North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Summerford Concerto Competition. The annual competition consists of composing answers to six essay questions, obtaining a letter of recommendation and auditioning in front of a panel of judges. “I tried my absolute hardest and practiced more than I have ever practiced on anything else,” Drace says. “I worked very hard on perfecting [my skill].” Drace ended up winning the competition, earning not only notoriety but also a handmade viola — valued at more than $5,000 — from local luthier Jody Summerford. “Earning this viola is a dream come true,” Drace says. “I am excited about this opportunity to prove myself as a serious violist. Winning this new viola will help me delve deeper in my musicianship.” North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s musical director Joshua Lynch is incredibly proud of Drace. “In the time that I have known Alex, I have seen the beginnings of a true artist,” Lynch says. “Confident, yet humble, Alex brings a remarkable work ethic with him wherever he goes and displays a character integrity like I have never seen. Winning this viola has opened a crucial door for him. I — as well as the rest of the community — eagerly await Alex's next move.” Drace, of course, has a couple more years of high school ahead of him during which time he intends to continue expanding his musical horizons. However, upon graduation, he is currently considering majoring in physics, astrophysics or mathematics in college and minoring in music performance. Ultimately, the young musician believes that playing the viola has gifted him with a connection to music that extends into other areas of his life.
Having won North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Summerford Concerto Competition, Alexander Drace earned not only notoriety but also a handmade viola — valued at more than $5,000 — from local luthier Jody Summerford..
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“The more I can increase my skill level as a musician, the deeper I can connect emotionally,” says Drace, adding that competitions like North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Summerford Concerto Competition have been his primary motivation. “I have deeper emotions and can experience them in a different way. And becoming better at that helps me connect with other people.” northvalleysymphony.org
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1920 W. MUIRFIELD COURT, ANTHEM Offered at $595,000
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Resort-Style Living All Year-Round Experience what it feels like to be on vacation every day from the comfort of your own home. This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath Anthem Country Club home features inside and outside amenities that allow you to enjoy resort-style living all year-round. The Monterey model is an absolute favorite, boasting a spacious look and feel that makes the most out of everyday living. Featuring a split master open plan, gorgeous 12-foot ceilings, beautiful stone floors and attention-grabbing plantation shutters, you will immediately fall in love with this home the moment you walk through the door. A family room with a gas fireplace sits adjacent to the kitchen, making entertaining a breeze. The kitchen bar features island seating, raised panel cherry with pullouts and granite countertops. A gas cooktop, built-in microwave, refrigerator, disposal, dishwasher and wall oven simplify cooking resort-quality meals for your family as well as for guests. Take the party to the backyard, which features extensive turf, multi-level seating areas and a barbecue island. Two gas fire pits ensure outdoor occasions can be hosted on even the chilliest winter night. But summers are when this stunning resort-style backyard truly shines as it boasts a refreshing pool that features a water cascade as well as a jetted spa. Back inside, a spacious master retreat with his and her vanities, a soaking tub and a walk-in shower complete the vacation experience. A second master retreat offers a private bath as well as an exit to the backyard. This luxurious home features 2015 exterior paint, a 2019 irrigation system and a 2020 5-ton air conditioner. The home’s oversized three-car garage also includes air conditioning as well as custom cabinets and overhead storage. Laundry cabinets and sink, rain gutters and an outdoor sump pump round out its notable amenities. This breathtaking home gives a brand new meaning to the word “staycation.” Call Linda today to schedule your viewing!
Please call Linda for your private showing. Linda Rehwalt RE/MAX Professionals 602-402-1136 lindarehwalt@azrealty.com
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Brody Wurr's first lead role came in Spotlight Youth Theatre's 2019 production of “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson”.
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Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Joanne Wastchak
At just 18 years-old, Brody Wurr has the ability to delight an audience just as easily as he can strike up a conversation about music, literature or philosophy. His accomplishments in acting, singing, dancing and musicianship have taken him from Phoenix to Los Angeles and Nashville — with plenty of bright opportunities on the horizon. Standing out from the crowd hasn't always been easy. “I started as a dancer at age 6,” Wurr says. “It’s out of the ordinary. People don’t really like ‘different.’ Some kids are raised on that mentality and even some adults. I remember one year I had a history teacher who encouraged the bullying I experienced from other students. I changed schools a lot because of those situations.” Now a senior in high school, Wurr has been homeschooling to fit his schedule of acting, voice and instrument lessons and practice. Wurr plays guitar, piano, bass and ukulele. His love of traditional jazz music plays a heavy role in his own blend of rock, jazz and pop. Switching to homeschool strengthened and invigorated his learning experience, as well. “There’s a quote I like from Elon Musk about there being a difference between schooling and education,” Wurr says. “Since I left public school, my education has shot through the roof. I don’t want to be a passenger in my own life. The philosophy I’ve been reading has me thinking about that a lot recently.”
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NATURAL TALENT
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There’s a quote I like from Elon Musk about there being a difference between schooling and education. Since I left public school, my education has shot through the roof. I don’t want to be a passenger in my own life. The philosophy I’ve been reading has me thinking about that a lot recently. Brody Wurr
One might say Wurr’s drive to steer his own ship comes naturally. He’s the youngest of three boys who all love music. His father, Phil, is a Phoenix Fire Department captain who spent his own youth traveling the world with his family’s band. Wurr’s parents have always supported their children in whatever they have wanted to pursue. The family even moved to central Phoenix to live closer to acting opportunities. Wurr began acting when he was 11 years old. His mother, Kristen, signed him up for a summer camp production of “Charlotte’s Web” at Musical Theatre of Anthem and he fell in love with acting. Moreover, having a dance foundation in hip-hop, ballet and tap gave him a huge leg-up. Wurr began acting when he was 11 years old. His mother, Kristin, signed him up for a summer camp at Musical Theatre of Anthem and he fell in love with acting. Moreover, having a dance foundation in hip-hop, ballet and tap gave him a huge leg-up. “My mom always tells the story that when I came home from the first rehearsal, I told her, ‘I know what I want to do for the rest of my life,’” Wurr says. That experience also connected him with a group of lifelong friends who share his passion for the arts. They’ve acted, danced and sang together for years. They have even formed their own rock band. “It was nice to find my crowd,” Wurr says. “I got to have ‘bro-ish’ relationships with people who didn’t want to beat me up. When we started the band, I was just singing. But then it really started picking up when I began playing guitar and that began my passion for playing music and songwriting."
DREAMS COME TRUE
Wurr’s talents have propelled him to increasingly prominent venues and the momentum has surprised even him.
He recalls attending a 2016 production of “White Christmas” at Arizona Broadway Theatre. As he watched the actors play their parts, he envisioned that he might someday be on the same stage as an adult. That dream came true much sooner. The following year, he landed a supporting role as The Artful Dodger in Arizona Broadway Theatre’s production of “Oliver!” Wurr’s first lead role came in Spotlight Youth Theatre’s 2019 production of “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson.” “That show was so much fun,” Wurr says. “It was pure rock ‘n’ roll.” “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” was named Outstanding Production of the Year by National Youth Arts Awards, which also gave Wurr its award for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Musical. Wurr also received the award for Best Actor in a Major Role by ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence. Earlier this year, Wurr entered the Arizona Young Artists’ Competition at Herberger Theater Stage West — a concert-style event where high school and college performers vie for top honors in acting, classical and musical theater voice and dance. Wurr bested 46 other singers to win the Judge’s Choice Award in the musical theater category, earning a $1,500 scholarship to further his education. It was Wurr’s first-ever competition. “As we narrowed down the competitors, Brody was in the mix of the top four very quickly,” says Mark Feary, who is the Arizona Young Artists’ Competition’s vocal coordinator and also serves as musical director of Valley Youth Theatre and music faculty at Grand Canyon University. “His technique is solid and I think he’s a really great communicator. His material choices were good for the competition. I think Brody has some good things that are going to line up for him. He understands what he’s doing. He’s very comfortable in his own skin and performing in front of people.”
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“Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” was named Outstanding Production of the Year by National Youth Arts Awards, which also gave Brody Wurr its award for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Musical.
OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit this spring, the performing arts scene ground to a halt. Ever-resourceful, Wurr has maintained a schedule of virtual acting and voice classes and just recently returned to inperson tap classes. He has been reading more, listening to favorite podcasts like “Philosophize It” and helping his father with small construction projects around the house — including a new floating bookshelf for the library he’s amassing. He even recently landed a job at a downtown coffee shop. Foremost, Wurr has used the unplanned break from the stage to hone his music skills. Wurr and his brothers, Grady and Sean, have been recording their own music on rudimentary equipment. They are planning for an upgrade soon. It’s a bit of family history repeating itself as well as one more avenue to explore and one more adventure to be had.
For his performance in “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson,” Brody Wurr also received the award for Best Actor in a Major Role by ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence.
“I’ve wanted to do music for a while,” Wurr says. “I was fully engulfed in theater and had begun pursuing it a little. Now that theater is gone, it’s given me the opportunity to put music at the forefront. That’s something I can see myself doing in the future. By no means do I want to stop doing theater because I absolutely love it. But while theater continues to be on hold, there has been time to pursue music.” Through the contacts he’s made with his instructors — particularly his voice coach, Jason Catron — Wurr visited Nashville twice to do some songwriting. It was another dream come true. “There’s a movie called ‘Waking Life’ about a man who goes from dream to dream discussing ideas,” Wurr says. “That’s how it was in Nashville. Every person I met began with a long conversation about philosophy, religion or society. I loved it. “I worked with Kipp Williams, who is part of the music industry there, and we began with a game of chess. He said something that stayed with me along the lines of, ‘Not taking advantage of the opportunities given to you is called laziness.’” There’s no laziness in this young man. As day-to-day life continues to be unpredictable, there’s something that can be counted upon — seeing and hearing much more of the talented Brody Wurr.
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Musically Fed
Over the past four years, Phoenix-based nonprofit organization Musically Fed has provided more than 20,000 meals to the homeless, hungry and food insecure — meals that had previously been enjoyed by U2, Kenny Chesney, The Zac Brown Band and Fleetwood Mac. Each of those music acts — and many more — partner with Musically Fed to ensure that unused backstage meals are put to good use rather than going to waste. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to mobilize the entertainment industry in the nation’s fight against hunger. After all, in the United States alone, almost 40% of the food supply is wasted each year. Musically Fed works with artists, promoters, management and venues to donate unused backstage meals to community organizations not only here in Arizona but also those across the country. The nonprofit organization identifies opportunities, procures resources and coordinates all aspects of food handling, transportation and distribution, making it easy for promoters and performers to benefit those who might otherwise be malnourished or go hungry. This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made Musically Fed’s mission more significant than ever, as people not only in our community but also across the country — and beyond — have struggled with side effects such as loss of income and inability to find food. However, every cloud has a silver lining. And although this particular cloud may seem darker and more ominous than any that we have ever experienced before, Musically Fed has been using its resources and program to find the silver lining in this situation, relocating and repurposing food from the myriad of
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Musically Fed’s growth has been nothing short of miraculous, and I am so proud of our colleagues in the music business and our teams of volunteers for making a difference. We hope it now inspires the rest of the entertainment industry — including the fans — to get involved. Maria Brunner
canceled events that would otherwise go to waste and ensuring that those hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic continue to have a source of sustenance.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Scottsdale resident Maria Brunner founded Musically Fed in 2016 in honor of her husband who was a proud Vietnam veteran. When he passed away, she suddenly realized that she — like many people in our country — did not know a whole lot about the veteran community. “I just thought that they were taken care of and that they did not have a worry in the world,” Brunner says. “But that was not true. In reaching out to other Vietnam vets in Phoenix, I learned that many of them were in need. Those who live on the street do not eat on a regular basis, and what they do eat is not necessarily healthy. Many local organizations were — and still are — struggling to help.” Brunner, who has worked in the entertainment industry for the past 30 years, began thinking about ways that she could make a difference in the lives of the many men and women who have fought for our country. She was especially interested in developing a viable program that would repurpose unused backstage catering from concerts and festivals. “You hope that you order well enough so that there is very little food to toss at the end of the night,” Brunner explains. “But the reality is that you have to be fluid based on crew needs, local crew needs and artist needs. And most good caterers will say that they never want to run out. So there is often food that has been untouched, is very safe and could be repurposed if one thought long enough about how to do it.” Brunner reached out to Talking Stick Arena’s general manager Ralph Marchetta, Arizona Catering’s owner Mitch Katz and Jake Berry — a production manager who
happened to have U2 rolling into town for rehearsals and a show — and shared with them her idea. With their help, Musically Fed was able to repurpose the unused backstage catering from U2’s rehearsals and concert and provide more than 300 meals to outreach programs in the community. Two weeks later, Brunner repeated the program for Kenny Chesney. “Kenny is a big veteran supporter,” she says. “We ended up getting them to let us try a dry run through his first night of rehearsal.” Chesney and his team liked the program and the positive feedback they received in response to it so much that they made Musically Fed their tour partner. Through their generosity, Brunner learned how to implement her mission in cities across the country. “When entertainment is up and thriving, we are normally working with three to five artists on their national tours doing in each city exactly what we do here,” adds Brunner, noting that The Zac Brown Band and Fleetwood Mac also invited Musically Fed along on their national tours to feed the homeless, hungry and food insecure throughout America. Last year alone, with the help of Terry Burke — president of Southwest music for Live Nation — and other partners, Brunner was able to serve more than 6,000 meals to Arizona charities. Notable recipients include Mana House, Ryan House, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Catholic Charities, Resurrection Street Ministry and Hospice of the Valley.
A GLIMMER OF LIGHT IN THE DARK
Musically Fed’s mission became even more significant this year when health
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From left: Maria Brunner, executive director of Musically Fed; Bill Berry, executive director of Resurrection Street Ministry; Ty Bittner, director of operations for Levy Restaurants at Talking Stick Resort Arena; Dan Walton, Resurrection Street Ministry; Ray Ferazani, general manager of Purchasing for Levy Restaurants at Talking Stick Resort Arena and Chase Field
precautions and social distancing efforts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic made members of the community who are already at risk even more vulnerable. The nonprofit organization’s publicist Andrea Kramer says that having to stay home, not having an income and not having a source of food has taken a real toll on families who were already hurting before the COVID-19 pandemic. “While most of us are fortunate enough to see the craziness at Costco and stock up our pantries, most of these families do not have that luxury,” Kramer says. However, the many concert, festival and sporting event cancelations — although devastating both in the moment and in long-term impact — suddenly resulted in an abundance of unused food. Musically Fed was in a unique position to salvage that food and find a glimmer of light during a very dark time in our history. Earlier this year, the nonprofit organization forged a partnership with Staples Center’s lead chef Manny Slomovits of Levy Restaurants, repurposing food from Grammy Award celebrations into 1,600 meals for those in need. In the wake of event cancelations at Staples Center as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Slomovits and Musically Fed combined their efforts again to assist vulnerable community members who may otherwise have been overlooked. “We discovered that there was an awful lot of food that was going to go to waste because of canceled events,” Kramer says. “We got in contact with Los Angeles Mission and The Midnight Mission and split 7,000 pounds of food between the two organizations, who see between 500 and 1,000 people each day.” Brunner adds that, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people who have sought the services of those organizations — and others — dramatically increased. The Staples Center’s donation alone was repurposed as 20,000 meals. Several other entertainment venues and organizations, including the Phoenix Suns, have made similar contributions to Musically Fed over the past several months. These generous contributions enabled the
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nonprofit to make this incredibly challenging time of ravaged supermarket shelves and school closures just a little bit easier on people — including families with children who rely on schools for daily sustenance. More recently, the organization pivoted its mission to feed local concert and live event workers — a segment of the population whose livelihood has been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since March, Musically Fed has facilitated the collection and distribution of more than 25,000 meals and hundreds of groceries for these individuals who were the first to lose their jobs and will quite likely be the last to return to them.
A PRODUCT OF OUR COMMUNITY
Brunner is grateful for and proud of the positive impact that Musically Fed has had on not only our local community but also the country, but she knows that there is much more that can be done. “I am wondering how many of these restaurants that stayed open for takeout toss food at the end of every night,” Brunner says. “If you have worked 18 hours in your shop, I do not know that you necessarily want to load [unused food] into your car and deliver it somewhere.” She encourages community members to not only support their local restaurants but take their commitment even further by asking them about unused food, educating them about repurposing efforts and even offer to deliver it to those in need. “[Musically Fed’s] growth has been nothing short of miraculous, and I am so proud of our colleagues in the music business and our teams of volunteers for making a difference,” Brunner says. “We hope it now inspires the rest of the entertainment industry — including the fans — to get involved.” She adds that when she founded the nonprofit organization more than four years ago, she intended for it to be a way for the entertainment community to make a difference in the lives of others.
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Autumnfest Welcome to this reimagined fall favorite! Given the circumstances we’re working with due to COVID-19, we’re getting creative with our approach this year!
IN-PERSON PUMPKIN PATCHES October 23–24
(Fri. 3-7 p.m. & Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.) • FREE pumpkins (limit two per Anthem household, via online reservation) in the new-look pumpkin patch. • Several smaller patches in Community Park ensure safe social distancing and reduced occupancy. • More details, like how to reserve a time and your pumpkins, will be posted online.
VIRTUAL PUMPKIN DISPLAY October 1–31
You’ll be invited to post a picture of your carved or decorated pumpkin(s) on the ACC’s Facebook event page (once it goes live—watch our Facebook page closely!), on any ACC Facebook-related pumpkin post, or on your own social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) and use the hashtag #AnthemPumpkins2020.
ONLINE ARTS & CRAFTS CATALOG October 16–November 30
Since the arts & crafts vendors can’t come to us, we’re bringing them to you! This year, many of your favorite Autumnfest vendors will be taking part in an online arts & crafts catalog. Get your holiday shopping list ready!
OnlineAtAnthem.com/Autumnfest
“My hope is through this very rough, trying, challenging and life-shaking time, humanity overall will find that in itself, learn that we are all a product of our community and help one another,” Brunner says. musicallyfed.org
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Baked Meatballs Try this great alternative to pan-fried meatballs. They are healthier and result in much less mess, cutting cleanup time! Use seasoned bread crumbs or experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to amp up the flavor and make them your own! Makes: 30–35 meatballs
Ingredients: 1 pound grass-fed ground beef 1 cup regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated) 1/2 cup milk 2 eggs (beaten) 2 tablespoons dried parsley 1 clove garlic (minced) 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty foil and spray well with cooking spray or coat with olive oil. In a medium bowl, crumble ground beef. Add bread crumbs and parmesan cheese, tossing to mix. In a measuring cup combine milk, eggs, parsley, garlic and salt and pepper. Add to meat mixture and mix just to combine. Using a medium ice cream or cookie scoop, scoop mixture onto prepared pan. Place meatballs fairly close together, as this will fill up a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly. Enjoy!
Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly
kyndraclaire.com
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