Images Arizona: Anthem March 2016 Issue by Images Arizona Magazine

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Contents

Publisher Shelly Spence

Editor/contributing writer Jenn Korducki Krenn

Contributing writers Donna Kublin Amanda Christmann Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Rebecca Zaner Barb Evans Sue Kern_Fleischer Stephanie Maher Palenque Paula Theotocatos Lauren Strait Peni Long Shannon Severson Nigel Spence

Photographers Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Mike Harvey Karen Hamilton Monica Longenbaker Brandon Tigrett

Graphic artist Meaghan Mitchell

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 // imagesaz.com Submission of news for Community News section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black P. 40

Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright ÂŠ 2016 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 4

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You’d be surprised how much a cup of coffee can help grow your business.

Absolute Professionals Window Cleaning

Jeremiah Johnsen 623.694.0101

Computer Services & Remote Backup

Florence Bruemmer, Esq. 623.551.0380

Ty Harper 623.742.7338

Rick Jackson 623.694.7921

Law Office of Florence M. Bruemmer, P.C.

Attorney

Harper Physical Therapy

CPA / Investments

Lisa Jackson, CPA 623.455.9630

Mortgages, VIP Mortgage

Matt Garner 602.690.0586

Home Inspections, Printing & Shipping Services, PostNet Hummingbird Property Inspection

Sean Preston 602.312.6266

Lanny Nelson 623.551.1305

Real Estate, D.L. Jones & Associates Auto Service & Repair, Tobias Automotive

Daisy Mountain Painting

Casey Cottrell 623.551.3156

Flooring & Remodeling, Creative Home Enhancements

Dennis Jones 602.909.2845

Denny Kahler 623.551.5409

Andy Tobias 623.551.7474

AirDynamics A/C & Heating, Air Dynamics

Soft Water Plus Epic Carpet and Tile Cleaning

Brett Innocenti 602.300.3918

Pete Schneider 623.551.7383 Maki Insurance Group

Tim Maki 623.551.3585

Steve Pillow 623.552.5200

Where your image means everything!

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Aaron Eubank 623.879.8700 Hampton Inn Clearview Pool Cleaning & Repair

Cherety Tunnicliff 623.465.7979

Marketing Promotional Products, Awards, Apparel & Signage

Joe and Ruth Longo 480.454.1800

Kurtis Stumpf 480.203.4757 You’ve Got Maids

Anthem’s original business networking group.

David Speirs 623.242.8363

Local business owners are welcome to visit and see why we do this every week. And the coffee is great too. www.BNAonline.com

Join us this Wednesday, 7am at the Hampton Inn, Anthem. ch 2016 Im age s A Z.c om Interested in learning more about the BNA? Call Matt GarnerMar 602.690.0586.

Welcome S

Seasons change, life evolves — and Images Arizona transforms. This month, we said goodbye to a valuable member of our team, graphic designer and publisher’s assistant, Sam Paul. Sam’s immense talent has been present throughout these pages for many months now; his eye for design and easy camaraderie will be deeply missed, but we wish him all the best as he moves on to help his father with a new family business venture. While we eagerly await the discovery of our next designer, I’d like to thank Meaghan Mitchell for stepping up — from Nashville, no less — to help during this period of transition.

Meet The Lango Family P. 8

If her name rings a bell, it’s because prior to Sam, she was my partner in the design process of Images Arizona for nearly a decade. It’s been wonderful to be able to pick things up right where we left off. As always, I count my blessings for this tremendous staff of mine; month after month, no matter what challenges come our way, we band together to meet deadlines, write great stories and submit another top-notch issue to the presses.

Boulder Creek Targets Tempe P. 14

May your last days of winter be filled with happy endings, and may your first days of spring bloom with new beginnings. Cheers!

Fun For All Anthem Days

Music in the Garden

P. 46

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P. 48

Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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Meet THE

Longofamily

Writer Lauren Strait Photographer Loralei Lazurek

A Trophy That Led to Love and Business

Joseph & Ruth If you know a family you would like to nominate, please email shelly@imagesaz.com.

Joseph and Ruth Longo have always had big dreams. When Joseph moved to Tucson his senior year of high school, little did he know how his dream of playing football would also lead to a dance that would change his life. It all started when Joseph suffered a knee injury from playing football in his hometown of Las Vegas. His coach told him he would most likely be benched for his injury during his senior season, but his spirit knew better; he decided to search for a new football program that would allow him to play. “My sister lived in Tucson and told my dad that there were several great football programs out there,” says Joseph. “So my dad and I decided to move there for my senior year.” It was a big leap of faith for teenage Joseph to pack all of his things and move away from the hometown where he was raised, but it was his last chance to play the game he loved, and to possibly be seen by college scouts.

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For Joseph, his easygoing personality and charm didn’t

After high school, Ruth stayed in Tucson and attended

make it hard for him to make new friends. Known

the University of Arizona. Joseph headed back to Las

as the “Vegas kid,” he was quickly offered a starting

Vegas to play college football at the University of

position as quarterback, and led the team through a

Nevada, Las Vegas.

victorious season that year. “We continued to date long distance for awhile,” says Joseph remembers being asked by his friends to

Joseph. After three years of dating long distance, the

join them at the homecoming dance after their big

pair got married.

football win on the field. Attending dances wasn’t really Joseph’s thing, but after much convincing by his

After college, the two found jobs in the financial

buddies, he decided to go.

industry and worked their way up the corporate ladder. Joseph was offered a promotion in 2012,

Up until that night, Ruth and Joseph hadn’t really met.

which allowed them to move back to Arizona and be closer to Ruth’s family.

“We didn’t have any classes together, but I knew of him,” says Ruth. “I mean, he was the quarterback of

By this time, Joseph and Ruth had brought three of

the football team.”

their four children into the world, and Ruth decided she was going to be a stay-at-home mom.

Ruth was nominated for homecoming queen and that night, she was crowned. Shortly after, Joseph and her

Ruth loved staying home with her kids, but she always

locked eyes, and he asked her to dance. From that

found herself daydreaming of business ideas.

moment on, the pair were inseparable. “It wasn’t long after being home that my mind started “He was my first and only boyfriend,” says Ruth.

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racing about potential businesses to open,” she says.

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“I always wanted to be an entrepreneur, but have the work-life balance for our family.” Everything fell into place during an adventure to personalize a Father’s Day gift she had purchased for Joseph. “I went to the mall and purchased a few Cowboys and Yankees trinkets and thought it would be fun to personalize them from the kids,” she says. After running around all over the mall, spending a small fortune on engraving, something clicked, and she dreamed up a business that could do all of this as a one-stop shop. It was perfect because she could do the engravings during her downtime with the kids at home and make some money. After a lot of research, she purchased the equipment to make this dream come to life. “At the time we got the equipment, our boys were involved in the sports programs here in Anthem,” she says. “So, naturally, the Little League became our first customers.” As their business grew, they opened up a formal store called Anthem Trophies. Their business grew so rapidly that in 2015, they decided to expand again, offering a wide variety of promotional products with J and R Branding Solutions. “During this time, I was still working very long hours,” says Joseph. “I was tired of working such long hours and missing time with my kids, so I took a leap of faith and the two of us became full-time entrepreneurs.” Ruth is excited to be in business with her husband and to see her hobby grow into a full-blown business. “It’s so exciting to be discussing real business goals,” says Ruth. “Most importantly, we would like to be able to build this and then pass it on to our kids when they are old enough.” When Joseph and Ruth are not planning and expanding their business, they are spending time with their four children ranging from ages 2 to 8. The oldest three are boys and they are all sports lovers, just like their dad. Joey, the oldest, puts all of his energy into football, baseball and soccer. He enjoys his role as oldest

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brother and makes sure he reminds his brothers and sister who is in charge. Paulo is 7 and can often be found

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underneath the bleachers at his brothers’ games catching bugs and other small animals. He loves nature and soaks it in any chance he gets. His parents say he’s the best person to go fishing with because he will sit there, fish and tell you all kinds of fun stories. Michael is 5. Even though he is the youngest of the Longo boys, he is not afraid to tell anybody how he feels. He is a good blend of his older brothers and loves to play baseball,

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football and soccer. The youngest of the bunch is 2-year-old Sofia. When she is not busy bossing her brothers around, she is dressing up like her favorite Disney Princess, Sophia the First, and dreaming of her favorite animal — horses. During a recent visit to her grandpa’s ranch, her dream came true when she got to ride a horse for the first time. “She is very confident and not afraid of anything,” says Ruth. When the family isn’t making trophies (or winning them), they can be found hiking the mountains in their neighborhood, taking road trips and spending time with other families in the Anthem community. They are excited to be living their dream with the flexibility to be with their kids, all while managing their lives as entrepreneurs.

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Sports

Writer Tom Scanlon Photographer Patty Roberts Dopkowski

Boulder Creek targets Tempe Few things are more devastating in the world of sports than a batter swinging at an inside fastball and connecting — when it’s really, really cold. It can make strong men scream in pain, and hardly incentivizes younger

players to go out for a little pitch-and-hit in the dead of winter. This month marks the official beginning of professional baseball, with teams beginning practice around the Valley for the Cactus League (the other half of the professionals will begin Grapefruit League practices in Florida). In this instance, Anthem’s Boulder Creek High School players are far ahead of their big league idols, as they have already been at it for about six weeks. The third week of January, a ferocious blizzard dumped feet of snow across much of the country, with temperatures well below freezing and menacing winds. The only balls being thrown around in most states were made of snow, and a hit meant someone caught a snowball in the face. Here in Anthem, it was 72 degrees and sunny.

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Cutter Kitson

Mitchell Allen

Stepping into the batter’s box — again — was Mitchell

of the premier college programs in the country. It was

Allen. Last year, the powerful first baseman pounded six

brought to prominence by Tony Gwynn, a Baseball Hall

of BC’s seven home runs and had an impressive 32 RBIs

of Famer who played college ball at SDSU, then coached

in 33 games.

there for a decade until his death in 2014.

But that was hardly all the baseball he played; after

Allen will be playing for the Aztecs at Tony Gwynn

the high school season ended, he went on to play club

Stadium. If all goes well, he hopes to follow SDSU

baseball with the traveling T-Rex team, headquartered in

grads like Stephen Strasburg, Addison Reed and Justin

Scottsdale.

Masterson into the big leagues.

“I’ve been playing baseball my whole life,” says Allen, a

SDSU is coming off one of its best seasons, with a

grin cracking across his bearded-but-youthful face. “It

41-23 record and NCAA tournament appearance. Coach

never gets old. I play 12 months, all year round. I hate

Mark Martinez sounded excited about adding Allen to the

to stop playing baseball.” He chuckles, adding, “What

team.

else is there to do?” “Mitchell is another physical kid that fits the mold of our In November, Allen’s love of baseball paid off when he

program,” Martinez says, in a post about the school’s

signed a scholarship with San Diego State University, one

baseball recruits. “He has tremendous power and also

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

some arm strength on the mound. He is also a great hardworking kid and student. We are excited to pull him from Arizona.” A muscular 6-footer, Allen is one of the top-rated high school players in the state. But he is hardly cruising to his college career; instead, he wants to improve all facets of his game in his senior year and help BC win a championship. “I want to get my average up and have more RBIs,” he says, as he waited for a turn to bat in a scrimmage. “The more RBIs I have, the more chances the team will have to win more games.” Over the summer, while he and BC teammate Zach Baptist played for T-Rex, Allen tried to channel the great Tony Gwynn: “I worked on staying up the middle and hitting to the right side, something I want to apply next year at college.” An excellent athlete, Allen plays first base — typical of a slugger — but also pitches, able to bring some 90 mph heat. Indeed, it likely will be the pitching of Allen and a handful of others in the rotation that will determine how far BC can go this season. As usual, coach Joe McDonald has a lineup that can crush the ball. With a young team last year, pitching and defense were factors as the Jaguars got off to a horrid 0-6 start, before recovering for a respectable 14-14 record the rest of the season. As a team, BC batted an impressive .326, but allowed almost a run per inning. Many of the runs came from the team’s 77 errors. McDonald is looking for a big season. “We have been very young for two years now and will have the maturity to score more runs with our experience,” he says. “We have a lot of good team speed and some big bats to go with that.” The veteran coach, who has nurtured dozens of college players in his 11 years guiding the Jags, promises this will be a fun team to watch.

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Mitchell Allen

Daniel Carizosa

Zach Baptist

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“We will be very aggressive offensively and force the opponent to stop us,” he says. “This team has the potential to do a lot of really exciting things this year.” He is counting on his core group of seniors. Like Allen, Bryan Levine, who led the team in hitting last year with a .393 average, will be on the mound when he’s not in the field. Troy Osterode, who led the team with 16 appearances last year, and Easton Buckley will also be key senior pitchers. Pitcher/outfielder Tyler Larson and first baseman Cody Hopper are two more seniors with experience. Six talented juniors will be blended with the seniors: Mason Millett, who will be in the starting rotation; Coby Boulware, a shortstop coming off a .377 year; shortstop/third baseman Daniel Carrizosa, who hit .347 last year; talented second baseman/outfielder Baptist, a budding star who hit at a .383 clip last year, when he was named to the All-Section team; catcher Cutter Kitson, who will be a three-year starter; and centerfielder/pitcher Eddie Dopkowski. McDonald is also counting on contributions from juniors Carter Lay, Maverick Williams and Toby Allred. “We plan on being a contender this year and back in the postseason to make a run at it,” says the coach, who started the season just one victory shy of 200 for his career. “This year, we are taking it one day at a time with the concept, ‘Today is the most important day of the year.’ “Our goal is to get to Tempe Diablo Stadium. The Final 8 is played there and once you are there, anything can happen.” That sounds good to the likes of Mitchell Allen, who just can’t get enough baseball and plans to end his BC career with a bang before heading off to college ball. “This is my last year here,” he says, pounding a fist into his mitt. “I’m ready to get after it.”

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community arts // Culture // announcements Writer Barb Evans

April 15 Pinnacle Concert Series: Organized Rhythm Clive Driskill-Smith, a young English organist sensation, and Joseph Gramley, a young American percussion virtuoso, team up to present organ and percussion in a whole new way. $20-$35.

7:30 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Rd., 480-585-9448, pinnacleconcerts.com. Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

community calendar arts // Culture // announcements

celebrating “The American Dream” with two concerts featuring two of the most iconic of American music forms: Broadway musicals and jazz. $12-$20. 3 p.m. March

March 3

5: Sanderson Lincoln Outdoor Pavilion, 101 Easy St.; March 6:

DMFD CERT Training

American Lutheran Church of

The Daisy Mountain Fire

Sun City, 17200 N. Del Webb

Department offers community

Blvd., 623-326-5172, pmaz.org.

emergency preparedness

March 5, 6

training (CERT) with eight consecutive classes held

MIM Event: String Break (With a Side of Science)

Thursday evenings. You must attend all eight classes to be certified. Free. 7-10 p.m. Daisy

Join MIM for “String Break”

Mountain Fire Department

and have fun with instruments

Station 141, 43814 N. New River Rd., 623-695-1424, daisymountainfire.org.

from around the world like

March 3-6

banjos, violins and ukuleles.

MTA Presents “Legally Blonde the Musical”

Make a stringed instrument

Determined to win back her ex-boyfriend, sorority girl Elle Woods

craft, hear the giant octobasse,

follows him to Harvard and learns she has more legal savvy than

listen to local string musicians

she ever imagined while tackling stereotypes, snobbery and scandal.

and discover some “science

$16-$19. Check website for show times. Musical Theatre of Anthem,

of sound” STEM (science,

42323 N. Vision Way, 602-743-9892, musicaltheatreofanthem.org.

technology, engineering and

50 hot air balloons and partake in a weekend full of

math) activities. Included with

March 5, 6

paid museum admission. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Musical Instrument

March 4-6

special activities for the whole

Out West Balloon Fest and Fun Run

Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals

ProMusica Arizona Presents “From Broadway to B.B. King”

Dr., outwestballoonfest.com.

ProMusica Arizona Orchestra

Witness the launch of nearly

family. $4-$15. University of

Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.

and Chorale continues

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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements p.m. Avenue of the Fountains, between La Montana Drive and Saguaro Boulevard, 480-8375637, thunderbirdartists.com.

March 12 DAR Meeting Guest speaker Jim Oliveri, a

March 6

former United States Army

“Homes Through Time” Home Tour Get an inside look at a variety of special homes with this

Specialist who earned eight decorations while serving in

March 10-13

by the Cave Creek Museum.

International Sportsmen’s Expo and Arizona Boat Show

Check website for ticket

Check out Arizona’s largest fishing, hunting, boating and travel

self-guided tour presented

prices. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

consumer show, which has doubled in size at its new location

Cave Creek Museum, 6140

that includes two full buildings and more than 300 vendors. $12.

E. Skyline Dr., 480-488-2764,

Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5

cavecreekmuseum.org.

p.m. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd.,

March 6, 13, 20, 27 Anthem Farmers Market

sportsexpos.com/attend/scottsdale.

March 11-13

Arizona Wild West Fest

Fountain Hills Fine Art and Wine Affaire

Get your hands on fresh

Harken back to the days

produce, meat, jams, jellies

of cowboys, stagecoaches,

and more from a variety

rodeos and gunfights with

of local vendors selling

this inaugural festival that

their wares. Free. 9 a.m. to

will transform the town of

1 p.m. Anthem Community

Cave Creek into the rough-

Park, 41703 N. Gavilan

and-tumble cowboy enclave it

Peak Pkwy., 623-848-1234,

once was. Check website for

arizonafarmersmarkets.com.

event dates, times and venues. cavecreeklive.com.

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Juried, nationally acclaimed and award-winning fine artists from throughout the United States and abroad will showcase their works in paint, bronze, clay, glass, wood, mixed media, metal sculptures, photography, jewelry and more. $3 admission. 10 a.m. to 5

Southeast Asia, will speak about his time in Vietnam. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Outlets at Anthem, community room 435, ocotillo.arizonadar.org.

March 12 NVSO Presents Black Composers Tribute Guest violinist Sarah Schreffler performs “White Lafitte: Violin Concerto in F-Sharp Minor” at North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s spring concert honoring three prominent black composers. $5. 7 p.m., North Canyon High School Auditorium, 1700 E. Union Hills Dr., 623-980-4628, northvalleysymphony.org.

community calendar arts // Culture // announcements 9 a.m.; tap call, 10 a.m.; dance callbacks, 10:45 a.m. Audition preparation workshop available March 10 and 11, 6-7:30 p.m., for $35. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N. Vision Way, 602-743-9892, musicaltheatreofanthem.org.

March 14 North Valley Posse Recruitment Meeting

March 12, 13 MIM Event: Experience Ireland Make plans to experience Ireland at MIM’s fifth annual celebration of Irish music and culture. Enjoy music, crafts, Irish dancing, storytelling and more. Included with paid museum admission. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.

Attend this informational meeting to learn how you can

Have a weekend of fun with this Anthem signature event featuring a business expo, carnival, food vendors, select crafters, inflatables, salsa contest, live musical entertainment and more. Frazier Shows Carnival begins March 10. Check website for times and prices. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., 623-742-6050, onlineatanthem.com. villain who tries in vain to steal 101 Dalmatian pups

application process. Free. 6:30 p.m. Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, nvposse.org.

Fiesta Days Rodeo Parade, Mutton Bustin’ and Dance

MTA Casting Call: Disney’s “101 Dalmatians Kids”

12: general vocal auditions, 10:30 a.m. March 13: dance

Performers ages 11 to adult

call, 2 p.m.; callbacks, 3 p.m.

(no cut for ages 11-19) can

Audition preparation workshop

audition for this musical

available March 10 and 11,

based on the books by

production of a fur-raising

program, the hiring process, the training program and the

March 19

MTA Casting Call: “Mary Poppins”

adventure about an outrageous

will be briefed on the Posse

March 12, 13

for her new fur coat. March

audition for this no-cut

member. Interested recruits

Anthem Days

March 12, 13

Performers ages 6-10 can

become a North Valley Posse

March 12, 13

4-5:30 p.m., for $35. Musical

P.L. Travers and the classic

Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N.

Walt Disney film. March 12:

Vision Way, 602-743-9892,

general vocal auditions, 1:30

musicaltheatreofanthem.org.

p.m. March 13: dance call,

Kick off the Fiesta Days Rodeo with a historic parade in the morning, a traditional mutton bustin’ competition in the afternoon, and a celebratory dance in the evening. Parade: 9 a.m., downtown Cave Creek;

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community calendar arts // Culture // announcements

at Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo. $22-$28, includes

mutton bustin’: 2 p.m., Buffalo

rodeo. 7:30 p.m. Cave Creek

Chip Saloon arena, 6811 E.

Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th

Cave Creek Rd.; dance: 9 p.m., Cave Creek Roadhouse,

Luxury Living coming to Carefree’s Easy Street

6900 E. Cave Creek Rd.,

A $50 million, exclusive condominium project is coming to

cavecreekprorodeo.com.

Carefree. Located in the town’s center, Easy Street will feature

March 24-27

3,600 square feet offered at $600,000 to $2.5 million. Thirteen

Arizona Miniature Horse March Festival Miniature horses from Arizona and nearby states compete for awards and points to earn their eligibility for the AMHR National Show and the AMHA World Show in the fall. Free. 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. WestWorld of Scottsdale,

distinctive floor plans will be available with upgraded finishes and “smart wired” for multiple cable, telephone and internet options, as well as whole home automation. Groundbreaking is planned for June 2016, with completion expected by fall 2017. For more information, visit easystreetcarefree.com or stop by the sales center located at 33 Easy St. riding, bareback bronc riding, bull riding and barrel racing,

April 2

while spectators of all ages

Daryle Singletary

are treated to Western

Concert

performances from such

The Cave Creek Memorial

April 1-3

top acts as PRCA Clown of

Arena swiftly transforms

Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo

the Year Justin Rumford,

from rodeo arena to concert

bullfighter Don “Hollywood”

venue when American country

Yates and trick rider Whitney

music singer Daryle Singletary

Contestants take part in

Carter. Check website for

performs hits from his new

seven rodeo events including

times. Cave Creek Memorial

album “There’s Still a Little

tie-down roping, team roping,

Arena, 37201 N. 28th St.,

Country Left” immediately

steer wrestling, saddle bronc

cavecreekprorodeo.com.

following the PRCA performance

16601 N. Pima Rd., 623-4655034, azminis-mhaa.com.

44 luxurious condominiums ranging in size from 1,800 to

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St., cavecreekprorodeo.com. To purchase tickets: 480-840-0457, ticketforce.com.

April 25 BCHS Golf Fundraiser Support the Boulder Creek High School boys’ golf team with a fun day of golf at Anthem Golf and Country Club’s Ironwood Course. $125. 12:30 p.m. Anthem Golf and Country Club, Ironwood Course, 2708 W. Anthem Club Dr., 623-826-3511.

North Valley Escape Room Opens in Anthem The North Valley Escape Room, a unique puzzle-based entertainment experience for all ages, opened in Anthem in January and offers a great alternative for date night, team building, family fun, birthday

parties and fundraising. Located

bank provided meals and fixin’ bags

at 42302 N. Vision Way, the North

to supplement numerous families’

Valley Escape Room gives teams one

dinner needs during Thanksgiving and

hour to solve riddles, find clues and

Christmas. In November, 588 families

complete puzzles in order to escape

(1,611 people) received holiday meals,

the room. For more information, visit

and in December, 585 families (1,548

northvalleyescaperoom.com.

people) received meals. The Foothills

Anthem Named Best Master Planned Community for Children

located at 6038 E. Hidden Valley Dr.

Food Bank and Resource Center is in Cave Creek. For more information, visit foothillsfoodbank.com.

Anthem has been named a winner in Arizona Foothills’ “Best of Our Valley” contest as the “Best Master Planned Community for Children.” The award comes after 60 days of voting in more than 300 categories. More than 4,000 entrants were nominated, and millions of votes from across the Valley were tallied. As the People’s Choice Winner in the category, Anthem will be featured in April’s “Best of Our Valley” edition of Arizona Foothills magazine and listed on the “Best of Our Valley” list on azfoothills.com. Anthem Community Council representatives will attend the “Best of Our Valley” Bash in May to accept the award on behalf of the community.

Michael Markowski Wins Young Composer’s Fanfare Competition Twenty-nine-year-old Michael Markowski, formerly of Mesa, was announced as the winner of Arizona Musicfest’s “Young Composer’s Fanfare Competition” for 2016. Markowski’s piece, “Joyride,” was selected from four highly competitive submissions

Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center’s Adopta-Family Program Helps Thousands Over Holidays

Musicfest’s 25th anniversary. Markowski,

The Foothills Food Bank and Resource

who now lives in Brooklyn, New York,

Center reports that more than 150

first started composing the piece 10

individuals and organizations donated

years ago when he was at Dobson

monies and resources to its Adopt-a-

High School, but reimagined it for a full

Family program last holiday season,

symphony orchestra before submitting

which helped to brighten the holidays

it for the competition.

and was performed by the Arizona Musicfest Orchestra during the opening concert of Orchestra Week for Arizona

for 377 families, representing a total of 1,289 people. In addition, the food Mar ch 2016

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2015 Scholarship recipients Taylor Ellsworth and Samantha Pear

Calling All Applicants

Writer Peni Long

Rotary Club of Anthem Scholarships The Rotary Club of Anthem is now accepting applications

share ideas and take action to improve the surrounding

for its 2016-17 scholarship program. Established to

community. We believe in education and assisting the

recognize the outstanding scholastic achievements of

youth in our community and each year provide $1,000

local graduating high school seniors, the program awards

scholarships to five students within our area.”

five scholarships of $1,000 each to support full-time enrollment at any accredited community college, four-year

Applications are due to the scholarship committee by

college or university, trade school or vocational school

March 19 and will be awarded in April. The committee

for the coming academic year. Beginning this year, all

members evaluate applications based on academic merit,

high school seniors living in the Anthem area are eligible

community involvement and extracurricular activities.

to apply, regardless of which high school they attend in

A written essay is an integral part of the application

the region.

process. This year’s application reinforces the Rotary’s principles by asking applicants to describe how the things

For those not familiar with the Rotary Club of Anthem,

they think, say or do in a chosen career will be beneficial

current President Don Whitman says, “It is simply a group

to others.

of community leaders that get together regularly to

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

All applications received are reviewed by the Rotary team. According to Whitman, “We greatly enjoy the process of reviewing and selecting qualified recipients, and also the follow up with the students after they have begun to attend college. When the students come to a meeting and share their experiences, it solidifies how much benefit this program has on our community. Volunteering and giving back is very rewarding for all involved!” The scholarship application may be downloaded from the Rotary Club of Anthem website at anthemrotary.org, but students attending Boulder Creek or Sandra Day O’Connor High Schools may also obtain an application from their respective counseling departments. Scholarship applicants must not be related to a member of the Rotary Club of Anthem and should meet all of the following requirements: • Be a senior at Boulder Creek or Sandra Day O’Connor High Schools or a senior who is a permanent resident in the Anthem area attending another high school in the region; • Be accepted for full-time, postsecondary enrollment in the 2016 fall semester or quarter; and • Have earned a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The completed three-page application and essay should be postmarked no later than March 19 and mailed to the Rotary Club of Anthem scholarship committee at the address provided on the application. anthemrotary.org

Mar ch 2016

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The Jewel of the Desert

Writer Paula Theotocatos

Ar i z o n a B i l t m o r e

Rob Razavi is a man on a mission. The head historian

to the owners of a French bakery in the area, and

at the famous Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria

subsequently moved and went on to manage several

Resort, wants to share his vast knowledge of the

restaurants here. After a few years, he found himself at

Biltmore’s rich history that is an essential component of

the Arizona Biltmore.

the resort and makes it so special to its many visitors. And so he does, on regularly scheduled history tours.

“My first job at the Biltmore was as the lobby ambassador — the first lobby ambassador in its

Rob is a worldly man of French and Iranian parentage,

history!” Rob shares. He has always loved history and

who grew up in the south of France. After graduating

when a historian position came open, he applied for it,

from Georgetown University, he returned to the French

later moving up to head historian.

Riviera, where he started his own restaurant. That experience came in handy when, after the 1979 Iranian

The Arizona Biltmore was built in 1929 and has

Revolution, he moved to Walnut Creek, California

a colorful history. Contrary to popular opinion, its

and started a French bakery there. He got to know

architect was not Frank Lloyd Wright, but Albert Chase

something about Phoenix when he supplied product

McArthur.

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

“In the letter that Wright wrote to McArthur in June 1930, he admitted that the design of the Arizona Biltmore was from the pen of McArthur alone and that he himself had little input into the project,” Rob explains. “But some years later, one of his students asked him the same question and he told him, ‘Remember, that building speaks for itself.’” To add to the confusion, there is a replica of a stained window design called “Saguaro Forms and Cactus Flowers” on display at the hotel, which had been originally designed by Wright as a cover for Liberty Magazine in 1929. Also, his famous “Sprite” statues adorn the hotel gardens. And, one of the resort’s restaurants is called Wrights. Another connection to Wright is the “textile” or “Biltmore” blocks used to build the hotel. Wright had originally designed a square version of the blocks. “McArthur, contrary to Wright, designed rectangular blocks, which he believed would cover more

PROUDLY INTRODUCING

space in a shorter time, and made some of them

Merrill Gardens at Anthem

hollow, so they could be used also for insulation purposes,” Rob says. The blocks were copied and carved by Emery Kopta, an Austrian-born architect in Phoenix. They needed more than 250,000 of the blocks to build the hotel, and a block-making factory was set up on the southwest corner of the property, next to the canal for use as a water source. “The air conditioning was installed only in 1963 at a cost of a million dollars,” Rob adds. “Prior to that, the season would start in November and end

Merrill Gardens at Anthem is currently scheduled to open this Fall. It will be located in beautiful Anthem, Arizona. Enjoy being near shopping, outdoor recreation areas, hospitals and high-quality medical practices. Join us for our depositor event on Thursday, March 31! Call today to RSVP.

in April.” The original “Sprite” statues were designed by

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Wright for Midway Gardens in Michigan in 1914.

2800 W Rose Canyon Circle Anthem, AZ 85086

During the Depression in the 1930s, the Gardens went through a financial hardship and had to be demolished. It’s uncertain what happened next, but in 1945, the broken statues were found on a farm

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Im age s A Z.c om

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in Wisconsin and donated to the Taliesin East School

giant chess game on the lawn and the Aztec, Mystery,

of Architecture. In 1985, Olgovina Wright, Frank’s third

History and Gold rooms.

wife, had six new statues created from a mold and gifted them to the Biltmore.

The Catalina Pool, the resort’s first swimming pool, was constructed by Chicago chewing gum magnate, William

“She called them ‘Elf,’ ‘Fairy’ and ‘Saint,’ Rob explains.

Wrigley, Jr., who bought the hotel in 1930. Hollywood

“They look like Oriental saints. You can still find two of

celebrities loved it; it is rumored that Marilyn Monroe

them, which were originally in wood, at Wright’s Taliesin

lounged by its sparkling water, and Irving Berlin penned

West School of Architecture in Scottsdale.”

the perennial favorite song, “White Christmas,” there.

In addition to the “Sprite” statues, the stained glass

The history tour reveals several other surprises about

replica of Wright’s drawing and the Biltmore blocks,

the 87-year-old hotel.

the history tour also features the Catalina Pool, the

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

“During the 44 years that Wrigley and family owned the hotel, it was not open to the public,” Rob shares. “He was inviting presidents, dignitaries, the rich and famous and celebrities from Hollywood: Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, Martha Raye, Randolph Scott, etc. They were invited but were paying guests and the rate was $30 a night, which included three meals. “Another fascinating feature is our impressive and unique 30,000 square feet — or 400,000 units of 4-by-4 inches — of gold leaf ceilings, once the largest in the world next to the Taj Mahal.” Two rooms of the resort, the Aztec and Mystery, are particular favorites among visitors. “Our impressive Aztec Room, the original ballroom of the hotel built in 1929, is one of our historic rooms,” Rob says. “That is where President Reagan and first lady Nancy had their honeymoon reception and spent eight nights in our cottage L, in the northeast corner of our property. “The next favorite is our Mystery Room, or Smokers Room, which was for gentlemen only. During Prohibition in the 1930s, they would meet in this secret room and smoke cigars and drink alcoholic beverages.” For a tour of this great landmark, there is a $10 fee for individuals. For private group tours, there is a fixed rate of $250 for groups of 10 or more — up to 20 people — and a charge of $10 per individual up to 40. If there are less than 10 guests, it is recommended that they join the resort’s regular weekly tours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. There is no charge for hotel guests. 602-955-6600 arizonabiltmore.com Mar ch 2016

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Searching for Treasure

Writer Ed Winbourne

Daisy Mountain Rock and Mineral Club Every month, the Daisy Mountain Rock and Mineral Club

$28, you get a five-gallon bucket used to collect world

ventures out into the desert and treks up mountains in

famous Arizona petrified wood; or, you can negotiate

search of nature’s treasures. It’s this prospect of finding

with Gordon DoBell for pieces of log. Another fee-based

geodes, amethysts, black volcanic glass, petrified wood,

site is Peridot Mesa on the San Carlos Apache Indian

garnets and peridots that serves as the main driver

Reservation, where we dig for beautiful green peridot, a

behind our club’s growth over the past six years.

semiprecious gem.

Gathering at the Anthem Parkside parking lot, we convoy

In truth, not all field trips are designated for collecting.

to our destinations. Many of the collecting sites we visit

We have also gone to sites like Sunset Crater, east of

are on Arizona Bureau of Land Management land, which

Flagstaff, for a better understanding of Arizona geology.

means there is no fee for collecting, while other sites,

Another is the Richinbar Mine located north and east

such as DoBell Ranch in Holbrook, are fee-based. For

of the Sunset Point rest stop. The Richinbar is an

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

abandoned gold mine complete with a ghost town and Indian petroglyphs, all treasures in their own right. Rather than using picks and shovels we use cash, commonly referred to as the “silver pick” in rockhounding circles. Buying specimens at rock shops is second only to attending shows like the Quartzite Improvement Association Powwow Rock and Gem Show hosted January 20-24, and the world-famous Tucson Gem and Mineral show, which runs January 30 through February 14 this year. There are also many rock and gem shows held by clubs all over Arizona during the year. That said, being a club that knows where collectable minerals are and actually goes out and gets them has driven our growth — and if the way we have started out our new season is any indication, we are poised to grow some more. The club takes the months of July and August off to accommodate members’ summer vacation schedules, not to mention the fact that collecting in the desert in summer months can be dangerous due to heat and snakes. We kicked off our new year in September 2015 with a field trip to the Mogollon Rim, east of Payson. Our target was a well-known agate site. Agate is one of the most diverse and collectable of all specimens. It is sought out by those of us who cut and polish stones for display or jewelry, as well as members who simply appreciate its natural beauty. Agate is a silicate that has proven impossible to reproduce in the laboratory. Labs can simulate the heat and pressure that it takes to reproduce gems like diamonds, but it is the element of time that goes beyond the scientist and keeps agate a purely natural occurrence. It isn’t the many colors that agate comes in that eludes scientists’ efforts, but the banding that occurs in agate as it forms and grows, which can take millions of years. We explored a site that is known for having plentiful peach agate, as well as black-and-white zebra agate. The site is five miles south of state Route 260 in the Christopher Creek area. Every one of the 15 members and guests on the trip left with a bucket or bag filled with material. Two members of the club, Karl and Allen Lawson, took some of their finds to a jewelry maker in Black Canyon City and turned them into beautiful peach cabochons. Last October, the club went on a field trip to Date Creek Ranch, north of Wickenburg. The site is famous for quartz crystals. Like many wellknown collecting sites, it has been dug into and picked over by countless rockhounds over the years. Despite that, the wealth of crystals, some of which are water-clear and terminated — meaning the crystal is pointed

Mar ch 2016

Im age s A Z.c om

at both ends â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is astounding. A lot of the crystals are

but it is when they are placed under an ultraviolet light

small, but finding crystals more than an inch in diameter

that their true beauty comes out. They glow a gorgeous

and several inches long is not uncommon. Some of the

purple, with the caliche changing color from dirty white

crystals are smoky, stained brown by iron oxide that

to a brilliant orange. Some specimens have a bit of

mixed with silica as the crystal was formed. Others are

calcite that fluoresces red; the brightness of its red color

phantoms, with a smaller crystal that had formed earlier

depends on the level of manganese impurities the calcite

encased in a larger crystal that grew around it.

contains. Some specimens glow so brightly you would swear they have been heated and would burn if you

In November, the club ventured 75 miles west of Anthem

handled them, but they are cool to the touch.

to the Aguila area and the Snowball Mine. The search at the Snowball was aimed at finding fluorite. Fluorite

Our club prides itself on being an active organization,

crystals are green or purple and encased in a matrix of

bringing the beauty and mystery of the planet to life

caliche. By themselves, the fluorite crystals are attractive,

through our monthly field trips. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t limit ourselves

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

to that, however; our monthly meetings have hosted geologists, experts in meteorites, activists in restoring the Arizona Mining and Mineral Museum, jewelers and a whole host of other speakers. We have sought to educate ourselves about the world around us and have learned facts such as the age of Daisy Mountain (1.3 billion years) and its volcanic origin; that Gavilan Peak is a volcanic stalk that was active 20 million years ago; and that Anthem is in what is called the transition zone between the great basin of the Sonoran Desert and the Colorado Plateau. We’ve also discussed the recent earthquake near

Thank You!

Black Canyon City and where other faults exist in Arizona. Additionally, we have taken an important step in making our club an even more valuable asset to our community, and will host our third annual Rock and Gem Show at Boulder Creek High School on March 12-13. The show is important in that it brings to the North Valley an opportunity for all of its residents, be they from Anthem, New River, Desert Hills or Tramonto, to come see and enjoy some of Earth’s treasures. Vendors sell meteorites, beads, cabochons, rough material like petrified wood and jewelry of all kinds, as well as books and tools to find out more about rocks and minerals or make treasures of your own. The show also helps us raise money to carry on our work and expand it. Last year, we awarded a $500 scholarship to a graduating student at BC, Cameron Moreno, who is now attending Columbia University in New York City. We hope to continue to offer this scholarship and increase the monetary value of the award this year. We are also working to set up our own lapidary classes. We hope you’ll join us! 978-460-1528 facebook.com/Daisy-Mountain-Rock-And-MineralClub-864524046946291

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Photo Credit: Loren Anderson Photography Writer Peni Long

Art and Soul Dennis Rowland and Sydney Blaine Dennis Rowland will bring his heart, soul and voice to

he was invited to join the Count Basie Orchestra after

ProMusica Arizona’s next concert, “From Broadway to

auditioning for and being personally chosen by Basie to

B.B. King.” Taking the stage will demonstrate not only his

be his band’s vocalist, a magnificent musical honor.

talent, but also his courage, his strength and the saving grace of his wife and soul mate, Sydney Blaine.

Dennis toured with the Basie band for seven years, leading with his smooth jazz style. It was during one

Dennis was born in 1948 and grew up in Detroit, where

of those tours that he and Sydney met. At the time,

he took to music at a very early age. He was greatly

March 1980, Sydney was a student at the University of

influenced by jazz and Motown, and majored in music at

Hawaii and enjoying a cultural travel trip to Japan with

Kentucky State University. Back home, he taught music by

a girlfriend. Both she and the band were staying at the

day and honed his craft with performance gigs by night.

Akasaka Tokyu hotel.

A career-changing opportunity arrived in 1977, when

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

“It was life-changing on many

worldwide. Then, on the night of

levels, but months passed before

December 19, 2012, everything

our paths crossed again,” Sydney

changed. Dennis was driving

remembers.

to rehearse at Asbury United Methodist Church for a Christmas

Sydney relocated back home to

Eve service. He managed to

Arizona and attended Scottsdale

navigate through heavy holiday

Community College (SCC). She

traffic and park in the church lot,

then went on to Arizona State

but as he entered the chapel, he

University, graduating with a

suffered a massive stroke.

degree in broadcast production. But she was also able to share

“He was in such bad shape, he

time with Dennis during road trips

couldn’t even tell first responders

for the Count Basie Orchestra.

his name,” says Sydney. “They rushed him to St. Joe’s emergency

Basie passed away in 1984, and

room.” His heart had thrown a

after some time working in Los

clot that had lodged in the left

Angeles, Dennis relocated to

side of his brain.

Phoenix as his home base. He toured with Grover Washington Jr.

It was in the ER, during a crucial

and immersed himself in the music

intervention procedure with only

and theater scene here, also

4 percent risk of failure, that he

establishing an educational career

suffered a cerebral hemorrhage;

teaching in Valley high schools.

his damaged brain tissue was bleeding out. Dennis was not

Throughout the coming years,

expected to survive. Even then,

Dennis continued touring all over

however, he was surrounded by

the world and recorded three

fans. Sydney emotionally recalls

projects with Concord Records in

the intensive care unit neurologist

concert with former Basie drummer

consoling her.

Gregg Field and other renowned artists. He also became an

“She knew his talent, his presence,

instructor at SCC. Sydney’s career

and said she was deeply sorry

evolved, as well; her education

to see his name on her patient

led to internships with affiliate

list,” she says. “With a chaplain

television stations. She ultimately

standing by, she said I might

worked with PHXTV after a post-

need to think about making

graduation internship, progressing

arrangements.”

to senior writer-producer and then executive producer. The couple’s

But they fought back. After three

busy lives combined in marriage in

weeks in the hospital — part

1995.

of the time in a coma — and treatment by Barrow Neurological

Everything Changes

Institute doctors and therapists,

During the succeeding years,

Dennis was alive, but starting on

Dennis continued to demonstrate

a very long road to recovery. His

his talents through teaching,

brain and body needed to learn

music, theater and performing

everything all over again.

Mar ch 2016

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Photo Credit: Diane Banyai Photography

It was a difficult and stressful time for the couple. Sydney

brothers and sisters in music,” she says. “He’s a full-court

became caregiver, teacher, coordinator and cheerleader.

press inspiration.” As is Sydney.

She resigned from her business career, taking on a new and overwhelming role. But she is grateful.

Dennis’ smooth jazz interpretations will be on display as part of ProMusica Arizona’s next concert, “From Broadway

“We received immense and loving support from day one,”

to B.B. King.” Selections will include swing and Delta blues

she says. “Prayers and countless kindnesses — musician

music in the style of legendary jazz musician B.B. King

friends even provided music therapy to him in our home.”

and others, as well as Broadway favorites from the ‘50s and ‘60s. Performances are on March 5 at 3 p.m. at the

The Beat Goes On

Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion at 101 Easy St. in Carefree,

After many months of continuing speech and physical

and on March 6 at 3 p.m. at American Lutheran Church,

therapy, Dennis is back at work as an educator, teaching

17200 N. Del Webb Blvd., in Sun City.

music at SCC, and is performing once again. For Sydney, his evolving wellness is a tribute not only to his

623-326-5172

caregivers, but also to his remarkable commitment to

pmaz.org

recovery. 480-423-6333

“He’s about reclaiming his music, his place in the

dennis.rowland@scottsdalecc.edu

classroom with his students and his place alongside his

dennisrowland.com

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

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Cave Creek Fiesta Days

Rodeo Writer Shannon Severson Portraits by Photographer Bryan Black

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

Karl and Allison Stressman

“What’s going on in Cave Creek?” That’s a question being asked by rodeo committees across the country as the Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo (CCFDR), which began in 1977, steadily grows year after year — and now adds a live concert to the festivities with country music star Daryle Singletary. The fun begins with the historic parade through town, kids’ mutton busting and kickoff dance on March 19, and culminates in three days of entertaining performances and adrenaline-boosting competition from the finest that professional rodeo has to offer at the Cave Creek Memorial Arena, April 1-3. Tickets for the rodeo performances typically sell out quickly and are expected to do so again this year. National attention for CCFDR ramped up when the rodeo was nominated for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Small Rodeo of the Year Award in 2014, chosen among more than 300 small rodeos across the country by rodeo contestants and purveyors — a jury of their peers. But it has already outgrown its chaps, and now qualifies as a medium-sized rodeo. “The fact that we finished in the top five shows our hard work is paying off,” says Cave Creek Pro Rodeo Association president, Traci Casale. “Everybody in the PRCA now knows there’s a rodeo in Cave Creek, and a lot of them have come to see our rodeo since then. They want to see what we’re doing.” As Cave Creek homeowners, PRCA commissioner Karl Stressman and his wife, Allison, are excited to attend what they consider to be their hometown rodeo. With 624 rodeos in the PRCA circuit, the couple travels throughout the year but has family in the area, and enjoys the chance to see

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firsthand all the ways the event has grown. “Under Traci’s leadership over the last few years, they’ve had a 100 percent increase in their added money in just five years,” says Stressman. “That just doesn’t typically happen. Cave Creek has done the work and grown their rodeo to the benefit of not just the cowboys, but also local rodeo fans and now country music fans with the addition of the concert this year.”

101 Easy Street, Carefree AZ 85377 VisitCarefree.com Mar ch 2016

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Traci Casale, Nick Hannah, Karl Stressman and Allison Stressman

Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo Events March 19

9 a.m. - Historic parade in downtown Cave Creek 2 p.m. - Kids’ mutton busting Buffalo Chip Saloon Arena, 6811 E. Cave Creek Rd. 9 p.m. - Kickoff dance Roadhouse, 6900 E. Cave Creek Rd.

April 1

Noon – PRCA slack events 7:30 p.m. – PRCA Performance “Pink Night” Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St.

April 2

7:30 p.m. – PRCA Performance “Cave Creek Night.” Live concert immediately follows, featuring country music star Daryle Singletary Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St.

April 3

2 p.m. – Final PRCA Performance – “Wrangler National Patriot Day” Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St. Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

Traci Casale

Casale leads an all-volunteer

helping to finance the concert and

committee that works year-round to

have been an incredible sponsor for

orchestrate the seamless progression

us. They are such a gift to this rodeo.

of pageantry and performance,

Our Saturday night attendees will

relying on an army of volunteers and

get both the rodeo events and the

dedicated sponsors for every aspect

concert. It’s what all the big rodeos

of the event. Even Casale’s husband,

do; it’s something we’ve wanted to

Nick Hannah, has been recruited to

do for the past eight years, and now

lend a hand as head of security for

we’re doing it.”

the massive undertaking. The kickoff events in downtown Cave The increase in prize money is a

Creek on March 19 evoke old-

particular point of pride for the

fashioned, Western traditions. The

committee; each event now carries

CCFDR historic parade will make its

added money of $3,000.

way through town beginning at 9 a.m.; the unpredictable fun of kids’ mutton

“I’ve had contestants thank me

busting will be held at the Buffalo

directly,” says Casale. “Cowboys say

Chip Saloon arena at 2 p.m.; and at

they can’t eat a buckle and can’t

9 p.m., the CCFDR kickoff dance and

fill their gas tank with a pocketknife.

celebration will be hosted for the first

We are proud to really take care

time by Cave Creek Roadhouse, whose

of our contestants and show our

owners stepped in to offer their venue

appreciation for them.”

after the Buffalo Chip Saloon was destroyed by fire late last year.

For the first time, Cave Creek will host a concert after the April

The population of tiny Cave Creek will

2 performance, featuring Daryle

more than double when an expected

Singletary. Attendees will get to

crowd of 10,000 rodeo fans arrive at

kick up their boots right in front of

the Cave Creek Memorial Arena (on

the stage as it swiftly transforms

24th Street and Carefree Highway) to

from arena to concert venue. The

watch an average of 80 contestants

appearance was prompted by

per performance take part in the

Singletary’s recently released album,

seven rodeo events: tie-down roping,

“There’s Still a Little Country Left,”

team roping, steer wrestling, saddle

featuring a song of the same name

bronc riding, bareback bronc riding,

that mentions the Cave Creek rodeo.

bull riding and barrel racing. But the

When she heard it, Casale was

rodeo offers even more than thrilling

determined to bring Singletary to

competition; spectators of all ages will

perform in the very arena he sings

enjoy Western performances from top

about. She enlisted the help of

acts, including four-time PRCA Clown

Stressman to contact Singletary and,

of the Year Justin Rumford, bullfighter

after five months of communicating

Don “Hollywood” Yates (aka “Wolf” of

and logistics, the concert was set.

television’s “American Gladiators”) and trick rider Whitney Carter, brought in

“It’s go big or go home,” says Casale.

by Cervi Brothers Championship Rodeo

“It was a long progression. We couldn’t

Company, one of the top rodeo

have done it without our presenting

producers in the country. There will

sponsor, Sanderson Ford. They are

be local favorites, too — the Cowgirls Mar ch 2016

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Karl Stressman

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

Historical Association will perform in the arena nightly. It’s big time rodeo with small town character. “You won’t see the same show twice in Cave Creek,” says Casale. “Not even in the same weekend. That’s what we’re committed to.” At noon on April 1, the public is free to attend “slack” events, which allow entrants who didn’t get entered into one of the three PRCA performances to compete. Don’t be deceived by the term, though, because there’s nothing laidback about them; it’s still serious competition. Each of the three PRCA performances features a different theme. “Pink Night” festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. on April 1, with cowboys, cowgirls, contract personnel and fans wearing pink for cancer awareness. The CCFDR consistently donates to local cancer charities. The April 2 performance, also at 7:30 p.m., is known as “Cave Creek Night” to the locals. The rodeo color is turquoise, also representing the rodeo’s membership in the “Turquoise Circuit,” which encompasses 20 pro rodeos in Arizona and New Mexico. The Daryle Singletary concert immediately follows this rodeo. The final performance is “Wrangler National Patriot Day,” which celebrates the red, white and blue. It begins at 2 p.m. on April 3 and features the Luke Air Force Base (LAFB) Honor Guard and a perennial local favorite national anthem singer, Tech. Sgt. Marquia Giles, also from LAFB. The “Wrangler National Patriot Day” program acts as a rodeo USO, traveling the world to entertain our troops. Cave Creek’s continued ability to grow and draw a crowd contributes to both the local economy and the increased popularity of this original American sport. “We see continued growth potential as the sport of rodeo continues to grow,” says Stressman. “We’re in the entertainment business, just like any other eventdriven business. People have choices as to how to spend their money. We want to make sure we have the best product out there so that when they make that choice, they choose rodeo.” cavecreekprorodeo.com Mar ch 2016

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Fun for All

Writer Peni Long Photography by Anthem Community Council

Anthem Days | March 12-13 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Savor the final whispers of winter weather with friends

Laura Walsh (March 12) and The Walkens (March 13).

and family at the annual Anthem Days festival, a local

Food and beverages are available for purchase from

tradition welcoming residents and visitors alike. Now in its

various vendors and at the traditional Rotary Club of

17th year, the premier community event in the heart of

Anthem beer garden. The athletically inclined may want

Anthem offers family-friendly fun for people of all ages —

to participate in the OSR Physical Therapy multisport

not to mention great food, entertainment and an array of

challenges (March 12); Emma’s Run 5K and the new Daisy

local businesses and crafters eager to share their wares.

Mountain Half Marathon (March 12) — a good way to then justify indulging in the refreshments.

“Anthem Days is a great opportunity to showcase our local business community,” says Michele DeMichele,

Special attractions for the young and young at heart

special events and civic building operations director for

include a kids’ zone with inflatables, an Eggstravaganza

Anthem Community Council. “With something to do for

Egg Hunt (March 13) accompanied by the Hippity Hop

every age, it’s a weekend event the whole family can

Band and the Frazier Shows Carnival. The carnival opens

enjoy.”

two days before the rest of the event, with rides available March 10-11 beginning at 5 p.m. and on March 12-13

There is no admission or parking charge and the

at 1 p.m. (weather permitting). You will need to purchase

entertainment is free, including live music provided by

tickets for carnival attractions.

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

Last but not least among Anthem Days attractions is the ever-popular salsa contest, which features local entrants who have submitted a gallon of their homemade salsa to be judged and recognized as the best by a panel of specially chosen taste testers. If you are reading this before March 4, are at least 18 years old, have your very own secret recipe and do not make your income by cooking, then you, too, can enter your creation into this hotly contested event. But you might need to hurry, since only the first 20 entrants will be accepted into the competition. Salsa entries will be judged based on taste, appearance and overall impression, with gift cards awarded to the top three vote-getters on March 12. A Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Award plaque will be given to the salsa maker who earns the most popular votes from Anthem Days attendees. So come and spend a relaxing weekend at the park, enjoying the sights, tastes and sounds while getting to know your local organizations. 623-742-6050 mdemichele@anthemcouncil.com onlineatanthem.com/anthem-days Anthem Days March 12-13 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem

Mar ch 2016

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Music in the garden Writer Rebecca Zaner

JUNE 3

RUN BOY RUN | BLUEGRASS & FOLK

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

For more than 70 years, the Desert Botanical Garden has enchanted guests with the eye-pleasing beauty of the natural desert. This spring, the garden welcomes back the ear-pleasing beauty of Music in the Garden, a seasonal concert series showcasing local high-class talent. The 2016 concert series began in early February. Many favorites from past years have returned this year, though a number of new bands are also making their debut on the Ullman Terrace stage. This season’s lineup is not to be missed. Open to ages 21 and over, this adults-only outing is meant to be a relaxing and pleasurable evening for eating, drinking, socializing and enjoying top-notch music, all while strolling through the peaceful garden’s 140 acres of scenic landscape. Fine dining and beverage options are available at each performance. Guests may choose to reserve seating at the garden’s restaurant, Gertrude’s, or enjoy a special menu prepared specifically for each evening to accompany the musical theme. Each evening’s specials vary and are available at Ullman Terrace. Highlighted performances in March feature various genres, including blues, Celtic rock and pop favorites. On March 4, The Sugar Thieves will take the stage, entertaining the crowd with blues band tunes. Named 2014 Band of the Year by Phoenix Magazine, their performance is sure to be a swinging hit. The dining special for this evening includes grilled shrimp with creole sauce, steamed rice, red beans, corn muffins and honey butter. On March 11, The Brazen Heads, a Celtic Rock Band, will liven the crowd with their energetic “Celtic mayhem.” The band will showcase traditional and Celtic rock tunes. Following suit in Irish style, the dining special for this evening will include Irish bangers on rolls, caramelized onions, pub chips, cucumber salad and beer mustard. Mar ch 2016

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THE SUGAR THIEVES | DELTA BLUES

THE RAVE | BRITISH INVASION

THE BRAZEN HEADS | CELTIC ROCK CINCO DE MOIO | LATIN JAZZ

Ima g e s A Z . c oGUERRERO m M a rch 2QVLN 016 QUETZAL

| SALSA, BRAZILIAN, JAZZ & SOUL

BIG NICK AND THE GILA MONSTERS | BLUES

The March 18 concert features The Rave, a retro and nostalgic rock band. This evening’s theme is “British Invasion.” Guests will be transported back to the 1960s, enjoying popular tunes from The Beatles, The Kinks, The Yardbirds, The Animals and many other influential bands from that era. Special dining includes fish and chips, coleslaw, tartar sauce and malt vinegar. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo a little early this year with a performance from Cinco de Moio on March 25. This Latin jazz ensemble, driven by the masterful percussion of Dom Moio, returns to the garden to close out the month. Moio is considered one of the premier jazz musicians in Arizona. The Mexican-themed evening will feature a special dining menu of grilled mahi-mahi tacos, salsa verde, Mexican slaw, chipotle crema, rice and beans. The spring concert series continues on into April, May and June, with a final performance on June 24. Dates and concert times are listed as follows: • March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 8, 15, 22; May 6: 7-9 p.m., doors open at 5:30 p.m. • May 13, 20, 27; June 3, 10, 17, 24: 7:30-9:30 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in advance online or through the box office. Tickets are $20 for adult members and $25 for adult general admission. Tickets for minors will not be available for this adult-only event. Proper

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identification will be needed at the door. Because Desert Botanical Garden is a nonprofit foundation, donations and ticket sales go toward the preservation and upkeep of the garden. This event makes it possible for local up-and-coming artists to establish an audience by performing as professionals on a beautifully unique stage. 480-941-1225

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dbg.org/events/music-garden Mar ch 2016

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40127 N. Candlewyck Ln. Offered at $571,000 From the charming front courtyard to the splendid round entry hall, with its striking tiled medallion in the center of the floor; to the impressive backyard overlooking a beautiful natural vegetation wash and green landscaped golf course, you will be entranced with this lovely threebedroom, 3.5-bath home. Neutral large tiles, two-tone painted walls in neutral colors, plantation shutters and french doors complete the tasteful look of the home. The large family room boasts a classic stone fireplace. The kitchen is warmly decorated with rich cherry cabinets with pullouts, a built-in refrigerator, stainless appliances and slab granite counters. The same cherry cabinetry adorns all baths and the master bath also has a glass block wall surrounding the walk-in shower. Outdoors, the glamorous heated pool and stone pavered patio will further charm your visitors. The raised stone

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

seating area is partially enclosed with a stone wall and a fire pit sits at the center of the conversation area. This is a home just made for family fun and entertaining. Other amenities include a security system, security doors, surround sound/stereo, epoxy floors and custom cabinets in the garage, whole house water filtration, main water shutoff valve and a three-fourths-inch meter valve, which equals lower water bills.

Please call Linda for your private showing Linda Rehwalt

RE/MAX Professionals 39504 N. Daisy Mountain Dr., Ste. 106, Anthem 602-402-1136 lindarehwalt@azrealty.com

Mar ch 2016

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fighter gabe Writer Rebecca Zaner

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

At a Vermont hospital in December 2009, Gabe Almonte was born at 28 weeks due to his mom having severe preeclampsia. He weighed only two pounds, but was surprisingly healthy. He was growing stronger, gaining weight and learning to drink from a bottle. When Gabe reached 34 weeks, his family noticed he was becoming sick in the neonatal intensive care unit. He tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus; there had been an outbreak in the NICU among four babies, and Gabe was put on a ventilator after respiratory failure. After two weeks of declining health and also catching pneumonia and vancomycin-resistant enterococci, Gabe was flown by helicopter to Boston Children’s Hospital, where he stayed for another two and a half months in critical condition, with his family by his side. Upon leaving the hospital, they learned that Gabe suffered two strokes and brain bleeds, and had significant brain damage from his infections. They did not know what was in store for his future. At nine months old, Gabe was diagnosed with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a neuromuscular condition that affects body movement, balance, coordination and posture. Effects of the disease include vision, hearing, speech and cognitive impairments. There are many different forms; in Gabe’s case, it affects his hips, legs, feet and stomach muscles. Gabe’s mom and dad, Jadie and Jason, realized that without proper care, Gabe would be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. They determined that their best option was to relocate to a place where Gabe could receive extraordinary care, as that was not an option while living in Vermont. They decided to move to Arizona, settling in Anthem so that Gabe could receive treatment at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. They bought their house over FaceTime because homes were selling quickly, and they did not want to lose precious time for Gabe to receive therapy that could keep him out of a wheelchair. “He likes Arizona,” says Jadie. “He gets to swim every day and the climate is the best for his condition. Cold weather makes the spasticity worse. The hardest thing for him is that he really misses his family back east. He loves his family time. We call our family in Vermont and Florida every night.” There is currently no cure for Gabe’s condition; however, there are ways to manage it. He weighs only 35 pounds now, at six years old. It is hard for him to gain weight because he burns calories so quickly. He uses ankle-foot orthosis braces on his feet and canes to walk, as well as a wheelchair for longer distances. He has already received 12 Botox injections into his leg muscles to help loosen them, a spinal surgery called selective dorsal rhizotomy, as well as adductor, hamstring, calf and ankle tendon

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lengthening, which required him to wear casts and miss six

corrections. The tighter his muscles get, the more his body

weeks of school. Serial casting helps stretch his muscles in

is affected. He will always need leg braces and walking

between procedures, and muscle relaxers sometimes help

canes, but he can go a period of time without them if he

with night spasms in his legs.

remains in physical therapy.”

“Gabe will do great and then regress with each growth

Gabe receives stem cells and hyperbaric oxygen therapy

spurt,” says Jadie of her son. “You may notice one day

from a doctor in California who specializes in treatment

he’s walking with or even without his canes, and then the

for children with cerebral palsy and strokes. With stem cell

next day he needs his wheelchair. We just never know day

therapy, Gabe has many more possibilities instead of going

by day how his muscles are going to feel.”

through invasive surgeries every few years. It has been known to heal the brain injury and is permanent, unlike

Gabe was also diagnosed with cortical vision impairment,

any other treatment option for cerebral palsy. This is a

a visual perception disorder. Most of the damage to his

very expensive route to take, but the family believes it can

brain has affected his processing skills. He will most likely

be life-changing for Gabe.

need to repeat kindergarten this year to better understand letters, numbers, reading and writing. Unfortunately, his

“We will try anything if it can make his life easier or more

school does not provide proper therapy to teach these

manageable for him,” says Jadie.

skills, so it is harder for Gabe to learn. Gabe’s parents have recently been in touch with a blind foundation to

He will always have a life full of therapy, but the family

hopefully help Gabe progress in his education.

tries to incorporate different types to make it more fun.

“He works hard and enjoys school, but doesn’t get much

Gabe recently tried dolphin therapy in Key Largo, Florida.

time these days to be a kid,” says Jadie. “It was great for him,” Jadie says. “He arrived walking on his “This is something he’ll have for the rest of his life.

toes; he had little self-esteem and was very shy. After the

He will need more surgeries for tendon lengthening,

dolphin therapy, he was a new boy. He was running on his

femur correction, hip alignment and many other muscle

feet as he left with a huge smile. He even started singing.”

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

This type of therapy is also very expensive, so Gabe has regular physical therapy while waiting to see if he qualifies for a scholarship for dolphin therapy, possibly returning in the spring. Gabe also has a younger brother by only two years; four-year-old Nicholas is his best friend. “It is so great that Gabe has Nick by his side through the tough times,” Jadie smiles. “At the hospital, Nick will always tell Gabe to be good for the nurses and always offers him his hand or ‘blankie’ for support.” The brothers are very musical and love performing shows together. On a homemade wooden stage set up in the playroom, the boys sing and dance to Katy Perry songs under twinkling lights. When Gabe grows up, he wants to be a dolphin trainer or a rock star. He sings day in and day out and greatly enjoys swimming and playing outdoors. He loves socializing and being with friends and his brother. He is funny and has a great sense of humor. The community is drawn to him, and he loves the attention. To continue the extensive medical care that Gabe needs, We Care Anthem has started fundraising for the family. All money they receive on Gabe’s behalf goes directly toward his medical costs, which only continue to grow. “We Care is just wonderful,” Jadie shares. “This community has truly been amazing. We are planning an event on March 25, which is National Cerebral Palsy Day. The details are not finalized yet, but it will be at Rookies Neighborhood Sports Grill in Anthem. All proceeds will go toward Gabe’s stem cells and therapy not covered by insurance. “He will always have to manage this diagnosis. He joined a cerebral palsy group and has met many similar kids. Through them, we are learning that cerebral palsy is lifelong, but they can still be successful in life. People with cerebral palsy receive less care as an adult; it is more of a forgotten condition once they reach adulthood. No one talks about it, and there is not enough funding for those with this disease.” Jadie is her son’s advocate and caregiver and will do anything to help him manage his condition. She hopes that awareness about cerebral palsy will be shared within the community. Those living with this condition are among the strongest and sweetest people you will meet. Gabe is proof of that, as he slowly steals the hearts of Anthem. facebook.com/fightergabe/?fref=ts

Mar ch 2016

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Taking Flight

Out West Balloon Fest and Fun Run Writer Lauren Strait

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

Fifty hot air balloons will decorate

and cheer them on from above. Each

the sky during the second annual

runner will have a chance to race

Out West Balloon Fest and Fun Run

across the one and only hot air

at University of Phoenix Stadium in

balloon finish line in Arizona.

Glendale, March 4-6. The day of the event, race packet The event will be the largest balloon

pick up will be from 6-6:45 a.m. The

race in Arizona where pilots will be

run will start promptly at 7 a.m. and

competing for the Arizona State

the balloons will launch shortly after.

Champion title. Spectators will witness the launch and landing of

Runners can register at

the most beautiful vehicles in the

outwestballoonfest.com. Registration

sky and partake in a weekend full of

is $30 and includes a T-shirt, racing

special activities to keep the whole

bib, medal and admission to Out

family entertained.

West Balloon Fest Glow on the night of March 5.

“It not only generates a competitive edge for our balloon pilots, but it’s

All proceeds from the Fun Run will

also a magnificent sight to see by

benefit Cox Charities. Cox Charities

spectators,” says Vanessa Clifton, owner

will also be raffling off an iPad Pro

of Aerial Solutions, event operators for

to one lucky runner. The winner does

the Out West Balloon Fest.

not need to be present to win.

This year, spectators will be able

Balloon Glows

to watch the balloons launch each

On Friday and Saturday evenings,

morning, as well as watch them fly

bring the family out and enjoy special

toward the spectator field and glow

activities including live entertainment,

on Friday and Saturday evenings.

music, a special kids’ zone and, of course, more than 30 balloons on the

After each morning mass ascension,

ground lighting up the night.

the Prescott Regulators and their Shady Ladies will be putting on one

Bring your appetite — attendees will

of the best gunfighter shows in the

find dozens of food and novelty

Southwest. Other activities include

vendors, wine and craft beer tastings

tethered balloon rides, a kids’ zone,

and opportunities to mingle with the

a 5K Fun Run (March 5), live music

balloon pilots.

and much more. Tickets can be purchased at the

Fun Run

gate for both the morning and

The Gigablast 5K Fun Run benefiting

evening events; combination tickets

Cox Charities will be held on March

are also available. Additionally,

5. Runners will be following a course

tickets can be purchased online

that will wrap around University of

before the festival at a reduced rate.

Phoenix Stadium. As they run, they will have the unique opportunity to

outwestballoonfest.com

watch balloons launch into the sky Mar ch 2016

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Writer Barb Evans

The Scottsdale Philharmonic, a symphony orchestra

that includes everyone, from young people and families

comprised of 92 professionally trained musicians, has made

to senior citizens. The musicians perform for free, giving

it their mission to make classical music accessible to all.

their love of music and extraordinary talents as an act of philanthropy.”

Young and old, rich or poor, everyone can enjoy the

timeless beauty of classical music by attending one, or all,

The nonprofit is strictly volunteer only and funded by the

of the orchestra’s first-rate performances — for free.

contributions of the general public and business community.

“The Philharmonic does not charge admission,” says

“This is a unique orchestra,” says executive director

volunteer Fran Droll. “They want to reach an audience

Carl Reiter. “It’s a group of professional musicians who

Ima g e s A Z . c o m M a rch 2 0 1 6

dedicate their time and talent, and are eager to present the finest quality concerts to the public.” The organization also supports a youth orchestra, under the direction of concertmaster Myra Lin, that consists of serious young musicians in grades 6 through 12. They perform at several venues throughout the year. Founded in 2012, the Scottsdale Philharmonic’s fourth season began in October 2015 with a program that included works by Beethoven, Wagner, Barber and Smetana. The season continues into 2016 with three more concerts that celebrate even more notable composers. Under the direction of conductor, Robert R. Nichols, and associate conductor, Ajay Patel, the Scottsdale Philharmonic performs at Scottsdale Bible Church’s newly renovated auditorium with a seating capacity of 2,000.

The remaining concerts for the 2015-16 season include: • April 3: Featuring Wagner’s Lohengrin Prelude Act 1 and Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral, Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto with violin soloist Dr. Katie McLin and Copland’s Appalachian Spring. • May 22: Featuring Gould’s American Salute, Ives’ Variation on America and Symphony No. 2 Finale, Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, Schuman’s New England Triptych Movement 1 and 2, and Thompson’s Testament of Freedom. All concerts are held at Scottsdale Bible Church, 7601 E. Shea Blvd., in Scottsdale. Admission is free, but VIP tickets are available for $15 for preferred and guaranteed seating. Tickets can be ordered online or over the phone. 480-951-6077 scottsdalephilharmonic.com

Mar ch 2016

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Accountant Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC. 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130 Air conditioning/Heating Canyon State AC and Plumbing 602-996-1818 canyonstateac.com Airport transportation Anthem Shuttle 602-750-3001 anthemshuttle.com $500 On Time Guarantee Animal Care Desert Hills Animal Clinic 623-581-1558 dhanimalclinic.com Attorney Boates Law Firm 623-551-5457 anthemlaw.com Beauty Hair Care A Wild Hair 623-551-5561 awildhairaz.com Skin Care Merle Norman Cosmetics 623-551-9502 merlenorman.com Bike Repair Bicycle Vibe 2605 W. Carefree Hwy. #132 623-582-3111 Boutique Nothing in Moderation Located in Merle Norman 623-551-9502 Business Center Post Net Business Center 623-551-1305 postnet.com/az115 Business Groups Anthem Area Chamber of Commerce 623-322-9127 anthemareachamber.org

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Business Network of Anthem bnaonline.com Preferred Business at Anthem 623-551-0523 pbanthem.com College Paradise Valley Community College 602-493-2600 my.maricopa.edu Community Organizations New River-Desert Hills Community Association 602-432-2800 nrdhca.org Community Theater Musical Theatre of Anthem musicaltheatreofanthem.org 602-743-9892 Starlight Community Theater starlightcommunitytheater.org starlightcommunitytheater.com Custom cookies/treats The Baked Equation Melissa Barbakoff 602-568-9785 thebakedequation.com Dentist Bishara Dental 623-742-7220 46641 N. Black Canyon Hwy #7 Daisy Mountain Dentistry 623-551-5250 4205 W. Anthem Way, Suite #106 Sheppard Pediatric Dentistry 623-551-2992 3618 W. Anthem Way, Suite D104 Financial Planning Edward Jones - Doug DeMuth 623-551-0523 edwardjones.com Hasslacher Tax & Financial, LLC 623-551-2332 42104 N. Venture Court, B130

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Barry Goldwater High School Main Line 623-445-3000 Attendance 623-445-3090 Boulder Creek High School Main Line 623-445-8600 Attendance 623-445-8690 Canyon Springs Elementary Main Line 623-376-5200 Attendance 623-376-5290 Caurus Academy 623-551-5083 caurusacademy.org Creative Castle Preschool 602-740-9561 creativecastlepreschool.com Desert Mountain School Main Line 623-445-3500 Attendance 623-445-3590 Diamond Canyon Elementary Main Line 623-445-8000 Attendance 623-445-8090 Gavilan Peak Elementary Main Line 623-445-7400 Attendance 623-445-7490 New River Elementary Main Line 623-376-3500 Attendance 623-376-3590 North Valley Christian Academy and Preschool 623-551-3454 northvalleyca.org Sunset Ridge Elementary Main Line 623-445-7800 Attendance 623-445-7890 Westwind Prep at Northern 602-864-7731 westwindacademy.org Spa Services Hand and Stone Massage 623-551-6602 handandstone.com Therapeutic Massage by Maura 623-824-1663 41818 N. Venture Dr., Suite #120

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Recipe

Baked Artichokes with Blue Cheese Aioli Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

With artichokes at their peak this spring, take advantage of these beautiful buds by roasting them whole. Once cooked, the petals appear to bloom, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Though the spiny petals themselves are inedible, their fleshy base can be eaten and are the perfect vehicle for dunking into melted butter or aioli. Meanwhile, the tender heart is worth the work it takes to reach it. Serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or an unforgettable side dish.

Baked Artichokes Yield: 4 Servings 4 whole artichokes 1 lemon, halved ½ cup breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 tablespoons Parmesan or Romano cheese 2 tablespoons parsley salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil Blue Cheese Aioli for dipping (recipe below)

Blue Cheese Aioli Yield: 1/3 Cup 2 tablespoons blue cheese ¼ cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon juice ¼ teaspoon garlic, minced pepper to taste

Directions: To prepare the artichokes, remove the bottom layer of petals from each artichoke. With a serrated knife, cut 1 inch from the top of each artichoke and discard. Remove the stem. Using kitchen shears, trim the sharp points of each remaining petal. Place the artichokes into a pot and cover with water. Squeeze the juice from the lemon halves into the water and add a pinch of salt. If necessary, place a plate on top of the artichokes to keep them submerged. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the artichokes are tender (when the bottoms are easily pierced with a knife). Carefully drain the artichokes and set aside to cool. Preheat the oven to 375 F. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, cheese and parsley. Reserve. Once the artichokes are cool enough to handle, place them onto a baking pan with the petals facing up. Gently spread the petals apart and, using a spoon, carefully remove the center “choke” and its accompanying fuzz. Be sure to leave the base, or “heart,” intact. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the tops of each artichoke. Drizzle with olive oil. Cover the baking pan with foil and bake the artichokes for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until heated through and the tops are golden brown. Place onto a serving platter and serve with Blue Cheese Aioli.

Aioli Directions: In a bowl, stir together the blue cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic and pepper. Serve with baked artichokes. Mar ch 2016

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Recipe

Spring Ravioli Soup Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

While we love it tossed in marinara sauce, ravioli is also an outstanding addition to soups. Fresh, pre-made ravioli cooks in minutes, making for an easy, yet satisfying weekday meal. This recipe for Spring Ravioli Soup featuring shredded chicken, green peas and spinach, is both light and hearty for a seamless transition to spring.

Spring Ravioli Soup Yield: 4 servings

Directions: Place the chicken breasts and chicken stock into a large pot. Cover partially with a lid and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is

2 chicken breasts, bone-in and skinless 8 quarts low sodium chicken stock 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup onions, diced ½ cup celery, diced ½ cup carrots, diced 1 bay leaf 9 ounces cheese ravioli 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

tender. As the chicken simmers, skim the foam and excess fat from the top as needed. Carefully remove the chicken from the stock and set aside to cool. Meanwhile, add the garlic, onions, celery, carrots and bay leaf to the stock and partially cover once again. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone and shred it with two forks. Place the chicken back into the simmering liquid with the vegetables. Discard the bones.

½ cup peas, frozen or fresh 3 cups baby spinach

Add the cheese ravioli, parsley and peas to the soup and simmer until the

salt and pepper to taste

ravioli is tender. At the last minute, stir in the spinach and add salt and

Parmesan cheese, grated

pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Transfer the soup to serving bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.

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Mar ch 2016

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