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FROM SAGUARO TO SHAMAN: BRIAN JOHNSON
ARIZONA'S GOLDEN HOUR PHOTO ESSAY
IDAKATHERINE GRAVER "ONE LIVED LIFE"
By Katherine Braden
By Grace Hill
By Lara Piu
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHECK PLEASE! CHEF MARK TARBELL SAVORS LIFE
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By Kenneth LaFave
By Monica Longenbacker
Cover Photo by Bryan Black
By Grace Hill
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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE ICE CREAM POPS
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
EDITOR/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenn Korducki Krenn Amanda Christmann
ART DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT Jennifer Satterlee
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ana Petrovic
STAFF WRITER Grace Hill
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beth Duckett Monica Longenbaker Kenneth LaFave Gregory Granillo Shannon Severson Katherine Braden Lara Piu
PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Monica Longenbaker
ADVERTISING SALES Loren Sheck
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.
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July is upon us, and as summer heat hangs thick in the air, there are two things I’m excited about that not even these dog days can suppress. The first is our July photo feature: Arizona’s Golden Hour. There is likely not a one of us who hasn’t appreciated the beauty of an Arizona sunset. So many evenings I have watched this brushwork of nature evolve and wished for a camera to capture the moment. Photographers Karen Raahauge and Cheyenne Rouse have done exactly that for us, and in the most stunning of ways. I am thrilled to share their work with you. The second thing I’m eager to share is the launching of our VIP subscriber program. This is a great new opportunity for our subscribers to receive discounts and special offers from some of the best businesses in the area. When readers subscribe to Images Arizona for $24 per year — just $2 each month — they receive a VIP card that affords them discounts and special values they can’t find anywhere else. Our VIP program rewards subscribers and supports our magazine’s mission of sharing the faces and places that make our community great through original writing and photography provided by talented local contributors. Whether you are a winter visitor, want a perfect gift for someone who lives outside of our circulation area, or just want to make sure that you always have a copy of Images Arizona, visit imagesarizona.com/subscribe. Enjoy our July issue of Images Arizona! The best compliment we can receive is your continued support for local businesses, and for the opportunity to once again share our love for our community with you!
Copyright © 2017 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
Cheers, Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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Writer Katherine Braden Photographer Loralei Lazurek
“I’m a different kind of artist,” Brian Johnson tells me, laughing. I can’t help but agree. Brian’s chosen medium is saguaro cactus arm skeletons found in the Arizona desert. He hand-dyes cotton the colors of the desert and uses them to weave the skeletons together, crafting copper feathers to crown the pieces before settling braided collars made from turquoise, sheet copper, cotton or leather around the neck of each “shaman.” “I explain my shamans as being spirits of Native American warriors in the desert,” Brian tells me. “They speak to me.” Brian moved to Phoenix from El Paso in the early 90s to get a fresh start. It was during a hike in the desert that he found saguaro skeletons. “When I saw them, I was fascinated,” Brian says. “I envisioned a Native American chief with a breast plate and bones. I took the arms home and knew exactly what to do with them: I wanted to create a vision of a Phoenix bird rising.” Brian had intended to make a piece for himself, but when he showed the shaman to a few friends, they loved it and connected him to an art gallery owner. The next thing he knew, he was part of an art show for Thunderbird artists.
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For the next few years, Brian sold his shamans, taking a break in the late 90s before beginning again in 2012. Now, he’s in several galleries, part of the Sonoran Arts League, and he just attended his first Arizonan Fine Art Expo. With a full-time job in property management, Brian creates art in his free time. I ask Brian if he’d like to become a full-time artist, and he tells me he wants to wait until retirement, which is still a few years away. He doesn’t want the chore of having to produce art for a living. “I make [the shamans] because they speak to me. It’s nice I’ve been making money, but I do them more for my own satisfaction,” says Brian. He finds satisfaction in his audiences’ reactions as well. “People are so kind and say the nicest things about my work,” he says. “They really think the world of what I make.” They marvel at his intricate weaving and are impressed by his unique style. The most common comments he receives, however, are about how magnificent his pieces are. It’s easy to see why: the wall hangings command an entire room. “When you first see them, you feel like you have to bow,” Brian says, laughing. “I never thought of them as religious, but they are spiritual. They’re great spirits of Native American warriors. I have this respect for them. They’re just so special.” Each piece is different because every cactus has its own story to tell. It takes a saguaro 100 to 200 years to sprout an arm. “God,” says Brian. “What those things have been through and seen. It’s fascinating.” Unlike some artists who struggle with inspiration, Brian tells me his art comes naturally to him. “I envision how I want them completed and know what I want to see when I’m done,” he explains. Most of his pieces are 2 feet by 3 feet, though July 2017
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Most of the time you need a loom to have control of the ropes, but I already know what to do. It just comes to me.
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the larger ones are sometimes as big as 5 feet by 8 feet. Each takes about a week to complete. Another thing to note: Brian is completely self-taught. He developed his weaving technique by making dream catchers in high school. People often question how he weaves, telling him it’s too perfect or it looks like it was done on a machine. “It’s all free hanging and hand-woven, no looms or anything. Most of the time you need a loom to have control of the ropes, but I already know what to do. It just comes to me.” Brian tells me his mother has Blackfoot blood in her. He believes that’s one of the reasons his art comes so easily and his shamans speak to him so clearly. “When I did my first few pieces, I went to an astrologist. The first thing he said was that I was a textile designer in my previous life,” Brian says, laughing. Previous life or not, Brian and I both agree his pieces are unique. Brian can be found at Cellar 433 in Jerome and Hogan Trading in Moab, Utah, and he will be at Hidden in the Hills in November. He also does custom work for clients who have something specific in mind. He can go into any interior, look at the colors, shapes, and sizes, and put it all together in a weaving. “I feel like I can’t make enough of [the shamans], but I don’t feel like I’m mass-producing the same thing,” Brian says. In the beginning, however, he worried the pieces were too similar. He was concerned he was making duplicates. “But then I started looking at different pictures of Native American chiefs, and although they’re very similar, they’re totally different.” It’s just like the cacti, he tells me. Each one has a remarkable story. Each is steeped in history and commands respect. And, like the desert they originated from, they’re equally unique, majestic, and colorful. brianjohnsonaz.com
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COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Grace Hill
Experience JULY 1-31
ODYSEA AQUARIUM’S SUMMER OF SHARKS Marvel at the largest and most diverse shark exhibition in Arizona and enjoy special programs and activities celebrating these magnificent sea creatures. See website for admission prices and hours. OdySea Aquarium, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale; 480-2918000, odyseaaquarium.com.
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JULY 1 RED, WHITE & RAWHIDE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR This Independence Day event includes music, food, fireworks, live action stunt show, and attractions and rides. Advance tickets $20; at door $25; kids 5 and under free. 4-10 p.m. Rawhide, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler; 480-502-5600, rawhide.com.
JULY 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN FLASHLIGHT TOURS Every Thursday and Saturday through Sept. 2, guests can explore the Desert Botanical Garden after sunset. Bring a flashlight. 7-9:30 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., 480-941-1225, dbg.org.
JULY 10 CASTING CALL FOR MTA’S SCHOOL OF ROCK MTA will hold auditions for the non-instrumental roles for their upcoming production of “School of Rock.” 9 a.m. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N. Vision Way, Anthem; 623-336-6001, musicaltheatreofanthem.org.
JULY 14 NEW RIVER/DESERT HILLS TOWN HALL MEETING The NR/DHCA will hold a town hall meeting at the Anthem Civic Building. Speakers include Chief Mark Nichols of Daisy Mountain Fire Department and Chief Michael Thompson of Sun City Fire & Medical Department. 9-11 a.m. 3701 W. Anthem Way, Anthem; nrdhca.org.
Photo courtesy Odysea Aquarium July 2017
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Events JULY 1
RED, WHITE & BLUE CARS FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY This month’s Scottsdale
Motorsports gathering, “Red, White & Blue Cars for Independence Day,” will feature 400-600+ cars, including rare high-performance and collector cars. Free admission. 7-10 a.m. Scottsdale 101 Shopping Center, 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix; scuderiasouthwest.com.
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JULY 14-15 JUDY COLLINS AT THE MIM This summer, the Musical Instrument Museum presents popular folk music artist, Judy Collins. $63.50-$73.50. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.
JULY 20-23 MTA PRESENTS SCHOOL OF ROCK This rock-and-roll musical, based on the film starring Jack Black, will feature 14 new songs by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Adults $19; students, seniors and children 12 and under $16. See website for show times. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N. Vision Way, Anthem; 623-336-6001, musicaltheatreofanthem.org.
JULY 21 TIM & FAITH’S SOUL2SOUL TOUR Country music’s favorite couple heads to Arizona to deliver a memorable concert. See website for ticket prices. 7:30 p.m. Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland, Glendale; 800-7453000, gilariverarena.com.
Photo courtesy Scottsdale Motorsports July 2017
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JULY 10 ARIZONA MUSICFEST FALL FEST TICKETS Single tickets will go on sale July 10 for Arizona
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Musicfest’s 2nd annual Fall Fest. The concert series begins on Nov. 3 and will include shows by Super Diamond, Dennis Rowland, Mary Chapin Carpenter and more. For tickets, call 480-422-8449 or visit azmusicfest.org.
CASTING CALL FOR MTA’S MADAGASCAR JR. This no-cut production for ages 8-16 follows your favorite Central Park Zoo animals as they hilariously
travel to far-off Madagascar. 9 a.m. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42323 N. Vision Way, Anthem; 623-336-6001, musicaltheatreofanthem.org.
JULY 28-AUG. 25 LIVE & LOCAL FRIDAYS 2017 Enjoy an evening listening to local Arizona bands at the Virginia G. Piper Theater. Arrive early for cocktails. See website for admission prices. 8 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale; 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org.
JULY 31 HARRY POTTER BIRTHDAY BASH Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Harry Potter series. Includes themed teas, “muggle” foods, trivia challenge, sorting ceremony, costume contest, free gifts and special guests! Call for reservations. Witches/ wizards $30; muggles $35. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St., Ste. 103, Carefree; 480-488-4812, carefreetea.com.
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Photo courtesy Arizona Musicfest
MERRILL GARDENS ANTHEM DRESS YOUR BEST EVENT On June 9, Merrill Gardens of Anthem, a senior living community, pampered residents with hairstyles and makeup at their Dress Your Best social event. Merrill Gardens thanks Michael Alexander Salon of Anthem for donating services and time.
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DAISY MOUNTAIN AND BLACK CANYON FIRE DISTRICTS CONSOLIDATE Black Canyon fire board and Daisy Mountain fire board unanimously voted to execute a resolution of consolidation. The official consolidation date is July 1. Black Canyon’s four full-time employees were hired by Daisy Mountain. The Black Canyon station is expected to become Fire Station 143, and will be Daisy Mountain’s fifth station.
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Photo courtesy Hummingbird Society
Events JULY 28-30
SIXTH ANNUAL SEDONA HUMMINGBIRD FESTIVAL
Held at the Sedona Performing Arts Center and various spots around Sedona, the Sedona Hummingbird Festival provides three days of presentations by renowned hummingbird experts, self-guided garden tours, exhibits, birding trips, and more. Tickets available at door or online. Sedona Performing Arts Center, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd., Sedona; 800529-3699, hummingbirdsociety. org/hummingbird-festival.
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AUG. 8 PROMUSICA ARIZONA CHORALE AND ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS Vocalists must read music, have choral singing experience and prepare a one-minute song. Instrumentalists must have an intermediate/advanced skill level and prepare a one-minute piece. To audition, contact Patti Graetz at pgraetz@ pmaz.org. 7-9 p.m. Crosswinds Presbyterian Church, 20125 N. 15th Ave., Phoenix; 623-3265172, pmaz.org.
Announcements DAISY MOUNTAIN FIREFIGHTERS HONORED
In May, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) incoming commander Dave Black and past commander Dennis Hider presented the 2016 VFW Public Servant; EMT of the Year; and Firefighter of the Year awards. Captain Dave Hamilton was honored with EMT of the Year. Firefighters Jeremy Kennedy, Rodney Stubbs and Connor Waite were honored with Firefighter of the Year Award. Dave Hamilton was again recognized as the captain of Engine 145 B-shift crew along with engineer Randy Kennedy.
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Photo courtesy ProMusica Arizona
JCMF JOINS FORCES WITH MICHAEL PHELPS FOUNDATION JCMF Children’s Charities and the Michael Phelps Foundation announced their new collaboration on May 20. Together the foundations will promote water safety education through the foundations’ educational programs including JCMF’s Josh the Otter water safety program. The Rotary Club of Anthem has funded Bonnie Markham, Jana Erion, Dick Tetzell and Jennifer Merrill to present the Josh the Otter program to Anthem preschools.
FOOTHILLS FOOD BANK NEEDS DONATIONS Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center, a crucial organization providing emergency food, financial assistance and other life necessities and resources to Desert Foothills individuals and families, needs monetary and food bank donations. For more information, call 480-488-1145 or visit foothillsfoodbank.com.
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When people think of Phoenix, they don’t think of green pastures or of golden prairies. They definitely don’t think of white winters or of blue ocean views. While the Valley doesn’t showcase those specific views of color, it does provide shockingly vibrant colors in a different way: in the Arizona sky.
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Writer Grace Hill Photographers Karen Raahauge and Cheyenne L. Rouse
Photographer Karen Raahauge July 2017
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Photographer Karen Raahauge
Arizona sunsets are some of the most beautiful in the world. With the rainbow of colors contrasted against the monochromatic desert, viewers get to watch nature create a masterpiece that bursts forth from the heavens above.
Photographer Karen Raahauge
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No matter where you are in the Valley, this view will take your breath away. Of course, there are certain spots that provide the best views of these amazing sunsets. Whether you’re a lover of outdoor adventure or a supporter of all things indoor, there’s a special place for you to enjoy nature’s brushstrokes in the sky — a place during Arizona’s Golden Hour.
Karen Raahauge Hometown: I grew up in the Dallas, TX area, but lived most of my adult life in Denmark. Current Residence: Northeast Mesa, AZ. Photography experience: “I’ve been interested in photography for a long time, but didn’t start taking it seriously until we moved to Arizona a few years ago. I was completely captivated by the beauty all around me, and I have a natural love for the outdoors, so being able to combine that and capture how a particular moment makes me feel, has become an ever-evolving goal.” Your advice on photographing sunsets: “I’m always looking for clouds, since the sky can be a bit dull without them. Sunsets during the monsoon are the best in my opinion, especially after a day of rain. And try to stick around 20-30 minutes after the sun sets. A lot of times, the sky really lights up then and gives you a show.” Favorite Arizona sunset location: “We live just a few minutes from the Tonto National Forest, the Lower Salt River and Usery Mountain Regional Park, so those are my go-to spots. I would say the Wind Cave Trail in Usery has some of the most expansive, stunning sunset views in the Valley.” Your thoughts on digital retouching: “I feel some editing (in landscape/nature photography) is necessary at times in order to convey what the eye can see. Our eyes are capable of perceiving colors and tones that no electronic device can even come close to. My objective is to share how I see a particular moment, and how it makes me feel.” karen.raahauge.com
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Photographer Karen Raahauge
Outdoor Enthusiast You know this kind of person just by looking at them. These individuals just can’t wait to be outside. From rock climbing to bungee jumping, their bucket list includes as many outdoor adventures as possible. Their best sleep happens while camping in the middle of nowhere, and they feel most at peace standing on the edge of a cliff, looking out into the great wide world. For them, nature is not something that surrounds them so much as it is a part of them.
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Because they have already witnessed many sunsets from many different vantage points, finding a new place might be a challenge. Go Paddle AZ’s full moon campfire paddle tour might be exactly what they need. Departing from Pleasant Harbor Marina, kayakers will paddle towards Honeymoon Cove. As they do so, they’ll head right into the sunset. gopaddleaz.com
Nature’s Calm Admirer There are those who still enjoy the outdoors, but like to sweat less and observe more. They find the slower pace of walking on the beach or lying in a hammock under the stars a perfect way to spend an evening outside. To them, the peace that nature provides is much more appealing than the adrenaline rush it provides for the outdoor enthusiast.
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A sunset music cruise on Lake Pleasant makes for the ideal experience for this type of person. The two-hour cruise delivers a top-notch experience by presenting music by Valley artists of different genres. What could be more relaxing than listening to good music while enjoying delicious adult beverages under a magnificent sunset? lakepleasantcruises.com Indoor Only Please Whether they stay indoors all year long or just during the summer months, these individuals would rather enjoy the view away from heat, bugs, sweat and any other less than pleasant aspect of outdoor life. Thankfully, there are countless places that provide
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Cheyenne L. Rouse Hometown: Miami, FL Current Residence: New River, AZ Photography experience: “As a professional photographer since 1989, I spent 20 years shooting adventure sports photos for stock photo industry. I owned Ancient Light Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale from 2010 to 2012, then decided to take my show on the road. I now travel the West doing over 45 art shows and festivals each year, selling my fine art photographs.” Your advice on photographing sunsets: “Just be there. Get out of the house when the clouds and light look like they are going to put on a show and shoot, shoot, shoot.” Favorite Arizona sunset location: “Depends on the season, but I love the quiet places with not many people around: Bartlett Lake, Cave Creek, Lost Dutchman and my quiet New River neighborhood.” Your thoughts on digital retouching: “I think whatever you have to do to make your vision come to life in your photograph you should do it. I tell people when they come into my booth at my shows that they are not only looking at a photograph but a moment in time that spoke to my soul. They are seeing exactly what I saw and how I was feeling when I shot that photograph. That is the art of photography. Photography is an art, and the art is being able to express your passion for what you are photographing through your photograph.” ancientlightphotos.com
Photographer Cheyenne L. Rouse July 2017
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optimal sunset views in a more secluded (and air-conditioned) location. You just can’t beat the view found in the Compass Arizona Grill. As Arizona’s only revolving rooftop restaurant, it’s become a prime spot for not only admiring the sunset, but also taking a 360-degree look at the Valley. For those looking to observe the sunset without any obstructions while staying indoors, this location beats all others. compassarizona.com These are just a few places that provide spectacular views of our beautiful Arizona sunsets. Try one or try them all. You won’t regret it — we promise! Share your sunset photographs with our Images Arizona Facebook or Instagram pages using the hashtags #iamAZproud and #imagesAZ.
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Full Service Print Shop Banners Signs BluePrints Cards Magnets Stickers Labels Invoices Notary
Scanning Faxing Email Binding Laminating Folding Cutting Graphic Design Shipping
Mon - Fri 8:00am - 6:00pm Sat 9:00am - 3:00pm 3655 W Anthem Way, Ste A109 Anthem, AZ 85086-2599 www.postnet.com/az115 az115@postnet.com 623-551-1305
Photographer Cheyenne L. Rouse July 2017
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Writer Lara Piu
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The great thing about breakfast is that it comes with a side of promise for a new day. This month, breakfast will be even more promising thanks to the third annual Arizona Breakfast Weekend. Held July 27 through 30, the weekend celebrates the first meal of the day with uniquely crafted dishes and special prices at some of Arizona’s best early morning spots. “For two years now, Arizona Breakfast Weekend has been
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wowing diners around the state,” ARA president and CEO, Steve Chucri says. “We look forward to its continued success and growth for years to come.” More than 50 restaurants across the state are expected to participate. Popular breakfast restaurants like Hash Kitchen’s Scottsdale and Arcadia locations, the Original Breakfast House, Paul Martin’s, Ticoz, Perk Eatery, and The Market by
Brunch Omelletes and French Toast Photo courtesy Paul Martin's
Jennifer’s will offer fare at three price points: $7, $10, and $15. July 28 and 29, some will also offer “breakfast for dinner”; check the website for details. Ticoz will offer signature breakfast items such as corn tortillas in a green chile sauce topped with three eggs, diced tomatoes queso fresco, black beans. with a choice of a bloody mary or mimosa at Ticoz for $15. July 2017
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Raspberry Chocolate Chip Pancakes Photo courtesy Original Breakfast House
Breakfast Tacos Photo courtesy Perk Eatery
Herb Fried Chicken and Waffles Photo courtesy Hash Kitchen
The Market by Jennifer’s features stacked enchiladas made with carne adovada, pinto beans, crispy corn tortilla, organic eggs, creme, queso fresco, avocado, pickled shallot, lime and cilantro for $15. Perk Eatery will serve bacon breakfast tacos with bacon, eggs, pico and cheese, also for $15.
Chilaquiles Photo courtesy The Market by Jennifer's
Produced by Arizona Restaurant Association, the weekend provides a platform for Valley chefs to feature elevated, fresh, new breakfast ideas. According to its website, the organization’s goal is to “position Arizona as one of the top culinary destinations in the nation by increasing awareness of the many dining opportunities available in the state, as well as stimulating business and revenue for restaurants throughout Arizona.” “We like to think that Arizona Breakfast Weekend presents restaurants with new opportunities — whether to offer diners a totally new menu or to tweak and expand their existing breakfast and brunch menus,” Steve adds. “Arizona Breakfast Weekend brings the same level of culinary excellence, creativity and diversity as diners have come to expect from Arizona Restaurant Week — but with the added benefit of starting off your day with us.” arizonabreakfastweekend.com
Carne Asada Scramble Photo courtesy Ticoz
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Writer Grace Hill Photography courtesy Ciolim Gallery
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For the past 15 years, Victoria Reins has taught Valley students of all ages the skills necessary for creative expression. However, time with her students ultimately inspired Reins to create something of her own. What was conceived was something beyond the canvas. It was a teaching studio in the North Valley she would call Ciolim — Artistry in Motion. “[I] served on the Scottsdale Artists School board and taught three years at the school in the beginning art program for people who wanted to learn to paint but had no place to go to,” she says. “I brought what I learned from there, north to Desert Mountain and then to Ciolim.” Ciolim started to come together for Reins about four years ago. After looking for the right space, she finally found a space in Cave Creek where individuals seeking a more intimate art class would find exactly that. Each class has a limit of eight students, which allows the highly experienced instructors to teach skills of all mediums in a way that is similar to one-on-one instruction. Through the beginner, advanced beginner, intermediate and advanced classes offered, the instructors can focus their instruction based on the students’ specific needs.
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“Our concept is to offer small classes with the best instructors that we can find throughout the United States,” explains Reins. “Our instructors have taught many years, and it was important to us that they offer to share important criteria that they have learned through the years. They care.” Reins also provides open studio sessions every Thursday, which usually have a waiting list. For July, the open studio sessions are scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. July 6, 13, 20 and 27. Beginning in October, individuals looking for a more casual and fun painting class can attend the brushstrokes class, which will be offered one Sunday per month. “Brushstrokes was established for the person who just wants to spend a fun afternoon painting. All materials are supplied,” says Reins. “We made a conscious effort to upgrade the paintings so that everyone would want to hang them rather than put them in the garage. It takes a bit longer but we have had extremely positive feedback on how they enjoyed the afternoon.”
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For those individuals not interested in creating, they can still head to Ciolim to admire the professional art by national artists that Reins features in her gallery. She says, “Our fine art in the gallery is made up of artists that have established reputations over the years doing museum shows and most of the recognized art venues throughout the United States. They are members of the Western Artists of America, American Women Artists, International Guild of Realism, Oil Painters of America and other prestigious organizations.” Through the small teaching classes with skilled instructors and the affordable fine art in the gallery, Reins has created “artistry in motion” at Ciolim in every single way. Ciolim’s summer hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed Sundays and Mondays. The next season begins in October and will include 26 classes. ciolim.com 480-488-7947
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Visit our Information Center located a half mile south of Anthem Way on Venture Drive. TheEnclaveAtAnthemSeniorLiving.com | (623) 282-3283 | 42015 North Venture Drive | Anthem, AZ 85086 A SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITY ANT Images July 2017
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PVCC at Black Mountain | 34250 North 60th Street | Scottsdale, AZ 85266 | 602.493.2600 | paradisevalley.edu/blackmountain
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1641 W. Silver Pine Dr.
R E / M A X P r o f e s s i o n a l s | L i n d a R e h w a l t | 6 0 2 - 4 0 2 - 1 1 3 6 | l i n d a r e h w a l t @ a z r e a l t y. c o m
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This Anthem Country Club residence will entice any prospective homebuyer with sought-after features found in every corner. In the 3,711-square foot home, space abounds with a formal dining room, an eat-in-kitchen and a breakfast bar – a perfect layout for large families, holiday gatherings and/or casual entertainment. The split bedroom floorplan and front entry office space also provide privacy and quiet space. Among the 3.5 bedrooms, the gorgeous master bedroom shines with luxury. It includes a fireplace, sitting room and walk-in closet. Additionally, the full master bathroom comes with a separate shower, a bathtub with jets, double sinks, and a private toilet room. The desirable features continue with 9-foot flat ceilings; 7-inch crown molding; 5-inch baseboards; 20-inch tile flooring with listello tile accent; slab granite countertops; stainless Kohler fixtures; custom drapes; designer paint and lighting; shutters; family fireplace and much more. The true gem awaits in the backyard. The breathtaking negative-edge solar-heated pool with unobstructed views of the golf course, surrounding mountain vistas and city lights will immediately transport the homeowner to a high-end resort vacation. Other custom features in the backyard include relaxing elements like the heated spa, fountain and fireplace.
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
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Writer Kenneth LaFave Photographer Loralei Lazurek
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As a well-known chef and restaurateur, Mark Tarbell makes it his business to know the best food cities on earth, among them Paris, Venice, New York and San Francisco. This year, he has added a new one to the list: Phoenix. “I could not have anticipated how much fun it was going to be going into all these Valley restaurants,” Tarbell says. “I always thought we’d grown up as a restaurant town in the last five years or so, but I didn’t realize just how much.” Tarbell refers to his latest gig as the new host of “Check, Please! Arizona” on Arizona Public Broadcasting Service. He can be seen on episodes of the show’s seventh season every Thursday at 7 p.m. Each episode of “Check, Please! Arizona” features three restaurants reviewed by ordinary citizens. The reviews take the form of a roundtable discussion with the host. Design and ambiance are elements of the discussion, but the focus is the food, whether it’s a well-made hamburger, a perfectly grilled salmon or an excursion into ethnic cuisine. Tarbell replaced Robert McGrath as host at the head of this season. McGrath, the founder of Roaring Fork restaurant, launched the show and guided it through its first six seasons, four of which won Emmy Awards for local programming. It’s a whole different kind of cooking from whipping up some chicken fennel sausage to go with your house-made ribbon pasta — a Chef Tarbell specialty.
“I facilitate the energy and conversation of people, many of whom have never been on television before,” Tarbell says, explaining the host’s job. "The show has forced me to get out. Usually I'm in the restaurant, but now I'm trying three restaurants for every episode.” Tarbell’s restaurant on East Camelback Road is an icon of Phoenix dining and part of the first wave of fine dining, locally-owned Phoenix-area restaurants in the 1990s. The restaurant’s motto, “Caviar with a side of spaghetti,” reflects its owner’s belief in cuisine that combines sophisticated cooking with the satisfaction of comfort food. It’s a place where you can order an elegant seared lemon sole served over potatoes Lyonnaise, then go for the splurgy homemade chocolate molten cake for dessert. Since Tarbell’s started up more than 20 years ago, it has been known for fresh local produce and innovative menu items. Along with Vincent on Camelback and Christopher’s Restaurant and Crush Lounge, it spearheaded the birth of Phoenix as a foodie city. The only winning challenger on season five of “Iron Chef America,” Tarbell has received numerous awards. He was nominated for Best Chef Southwest by the James Beard Foundation, and Tarbell’s won a Best Restaurant title from Food and Wine magazine. Do the chef’s inventions come from the stove or the head? “Most of what I do, I do in my head — I have a vivid imagination,” Tarbell says. “I
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just think of the flavors together. Anything can trigger it, even a picture or a photograph. I once did a cookbook project sitting on the couch, writing up recipes out of my head. Then I asked Anne Ballman [business manager at Tarbell’s] to cook them in her kitchen to see if they worked.” They did. “That’s just experience,” he modestly claims. “It’s not rocket science.” Perhaps not, but it’s rocket fuel, of a sort. Tarbell’s and the others sparked a surge of restaurant activity in Phoenix, especially in the last half decade or so. The range and quality
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of Valley restaurants surprised the new host of “Check, Please! Arizona.” “I didn’t realize how much is out there,” he says. “There are certainly some well-known chefs, but what really took me by surprise is all these mom-and-pop projects with their microbreweries and great food.” Small, out-of-the-way places can offer the greatest culinary surprises worldwide, Tarbell believes. As an example, he recalls a visit to Venice, Italy. “Of course, Venice is very touristy,” he says. “But I made a connection with someone who led me to a little fish joint
where all the gondoliers ate. It was a tiny, 8-by-10 shack, and the food was absolutely stunning. It’s the little underground places in back alleys that contain the biggest surprises.” He has had similar surprises hosting “Check, Please! Arizona,” but prefers you watch the show to find out what those local places are. When Mark Tarbell goes to a restaurant, how much of the experience is the food, and how much is the environment, service, etc.? “It’s pretty much equal,” he says. “But if there’s a number one, it’s being treated well. That’s why we train our servers in hospitality. So perhaps it’s the people, number one, and then the food.” The next question gets a smile from Tarbell: What do you do in your personal time? "I love that question, because it assumes I have time to spare,” he replies. “I don't have a lot. But I really love being outdoors, hiking the preserves. I've always been an avid hiker because there's so much richness in the desert. I hike the Phoenix preserves, South Mountain Park and the Superstitions.” He is overly modest about his hiking abilities — a photograph on the website for Tarbell’s shows him standing on top of a mountain that just happens to be the Matterhorn in the Alps. If or when more time opens in the future, Tarbell says he will return to an early enthusiasm: trail biking. But for now, it’s food, food, food — cooking it, eating it and talking about it. "I've loved working on ‘Check, Please! Arizona,’” he says. “Reading a script from a teleprompter is more challenging than I thought because you have to behave as if they are your own words. But everyone connected with the show, the whole crew, has been a complete joy and made it easy for me." Like all broadcast work, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Tarbell taped as many as three episodes a day. “The first day on the job was 10 hours long,” he remembers. By the end of the current season, “Check, Please! Arizona” will have covered 250 Arizona restaurants. Will there be a season eight with Tarbell returning as host? He’s signaled his interest, he says. “Maybe they’ll say yes.” azpbs.org/checkplease tarbells.com
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A picture tells a thousand words, but for artist IdaKatherine Graver, it is a thousand dots that tell a life story. After quietly working in the background for the last four years, she’s re-emerged in the public eye with her new acrylic-on-wood fine art collection, “One Lived Life.” “Things feel ready,” IdaKatherine says. “When I moved the pieces out of this studio world, I could hear one say, ‘I’m so glad to be leaving this room.’” Each piece tells the story of a person’s journey through IdaKatherine’s unique means — layers upon layers of dots. She meticulously places them alongside other painted shapes; it’s her way of making sense of the world. “I’m always looking for why are we here,” IdaKatherine says. “I need there to be meaning in life. I’m not comfortable without meaning.” In February she unveiled “One Lived Life” in the Studios at Bentley Projects exhibition area, where she also has a working space. She moved into the approximately 350-square-foot vaulted celling art studio in April 2014 to create larger-than-life pieces for the series. Today, some of her pieces measure up to 8-feet by 8-feet. Many of them took more than six months to create. So far, there are six in the new series, which IdaKatherine says is a taste of what’s to come. She creates the dots by laying wood planks flat on sawhorses. This allows her to drop each dot with precise intention. “Dots, to me, are a way of looking at time and space, so it’s always like a moment or a time,” she says, explaining the meaning behind the colors. “Color is my mother tongue. The golden ones are a more abundant, joyful, peaceful moment, and the dark ones are more of an effort, the unknown, and the difficult. I don’t really have a science for it, but it’s my language.”
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Writer Lara Piu Photography Bryan Black and John Dowd of Clutch Photos
In Background "Heaven and Earth," mixed media, 8' x 12' July 2017
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Left:"One Lived Life #3," mixed media, 96" x 96" Right: "Refugee From Aleppo," mixed media, 96" x 96" Bottom: "Lucas," mixed media, 44" x 68"
Each piece in the series depicts the good, the bad and the ugly of life, and IdaKatherine’s interpretation is magical. Stories of happy lives, difficult ones and even the life of Emily Dickinson are told. The bottom of each painting represents the conditions a person was born into; the mid section represents the person; and everything upward and outward from that is the person’s interaction with the universe. IdaKatherine explains, “I feel like everything we do creates something unseen,” she says. “In America we’re moving so fast that we’re not feeling that anymore. I think that everything that someone does makes part of the universe.” In one piece, “A Well Lived Life,” she follows a life born unto fertile ground, community, health and abundance. In this piece, the subject has made the most of their time on earth, she explains. “They’ve had a lot of good fortune and they’ve created something that looks something like this.”
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Framed in a gold altar-like structure is “Lucas,” a darker story. It walks through the life of IdaKatherine’s oldest son’s best friend. He was someone they loved very much who was hard-hit by mental illness.
“He was so golden, and all of a sudden it was taken away,” she remembers. “Because of his circumstances, he knew people from all over the world, but as he was sick, people pulled away because they were not comfortable with [his mental illness]. I think his world got quite small.” Although his life ended in suicide, the piece shows how Lucas had a tremendous impact. “When he died, he had the most amazing service. People came from all over the world. [The service] took 10 hours. I’ve seen a great change in the world as a result of his death; his essence spread over many people.”
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Top: "Holiday," mixed media, 54" x 22" Left: "One Lived Life #3," mixed media, 96" x 96"
I've never made one single decision that would let me be a banker.
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Not one.
Another story of struggle is told in “A Refugee from Aleppo,” I which IdaKatherine paints a person living in the war-torn country. At the bottom is the beautiful Arab culture, and their good and not-so-good ideas, she explains. It tells the story of the Sunni, the Shia and the individual, and their effort to survive. “It’s still quite a beautiful life,” she explains. “I feel like we should be celebrating the courage of the people of Aleppo.” The “One Lived Life” collection is perhaps a natural succession to IdaKatherine’s earlier series, “Heaven and Earth,” “Divine Anatomy” and “The Way Things Work,” which also explore life and living themes. “I’m always wanting to make sense of things from a distance, although I cannot understand them right now. There’s kind of a motion. I think over time things are better. It’s slow, but I feel like it’s working toward better. “ IdaKatherine has first-hand experience with generational improvements. Her mother, also a brilliant artist, struggled greatly to find artist peers, but IdaKatherine was able to trade babysitting time with neighborhood moms, which allowed her to be an artist and raise her and her husband’s three sons. “That was a big blessing,” IdaKatherine says. In fact, both of her parents were formally trained artists; her father attended Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan and her mother attended Pratt Institute’s School of Art in New York. After graduating, her parents moved to southeastern Texas where they created a spacious art studio and foundry. They rubbed off on IdaKatherine, who’s been painting since near-birth. Her father has a cast of her first piece, a fish she drew in the sand at 18 months old. He made canvas her childhood toy. “When we were bored, he would say, “Oh! Well, I will set up a still life and you can do contour drawing,” she jokes. “We didn’t take many vacations, but when we did, we went to museums.” As an adult, IdaKatherine desired a more typical life and considered becoming a banker, but like the dots in her paintings, her life choices were intentional, resulting in the path she’s on today. “I've never made one single decision that would let me be a banker. Not one.” idakatherinegraver.com July 2017
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Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black
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Ed Mell’s naturalistic landscapes are transportive masterworks that capture the sweeping vistas of the Southwest’s mountains, mesas, and monuments and the billowing clouds that soar above them. From his landscapes and figurative paintings to his bronze sculptures, Mell’s use of angle, light and shadow infuse his subjects with dramatic power and inspire a sense of awe. It’s a perspective that first came about after the Phoenix native had ventured far afield to New York City in pursuit of a career in advertising, but an experience on a Hopi reservation soon made him realize his heart — and his home — were right back here in the Grand Canyon State. Mell’s Coronado district studio sits just a few blocks from where he grew up. His gallery, which opened April 2015, is nearby in what used to be a small neighborhood grocery store. Gallery director Ken Richardson manages it with the participation of Mell’s wife, Rose Marie. It’s also the same area where he raised his two sons, Taylor and Carson. Taylor is an artist currently living in Phoenix and Carson is a television writer and illustrator living in Los Angeles with a soon-to-hit-the-small-screen animated series for TBS. They grew up coming to Mell’s studio after school, soaking up the knowledge and camaraderie of their father and his fellow artists. Mell himself spent his childhood immersed in art. In those days, he was always drawing and discovered his passion for the automobile, something that remains today as he is an avid car collector. “In high school, I wanted to be a car designer,” says Mell. “Even in grade school I was drawing cars. It’s sort of a symbol of freedom, of the future, especially in the 1950s. Some of the artwork for concept cars was just off the charts. I have one or two pieces I’ve collected. Consequently, a lot of the cars I’ve owned match my aesthetic.”
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After attending Phoenix Junior College, Mell attended Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, where he studied to become an art director. “I was able to get a good technical background,” says Mell. “Color theory, illustration, graphic design — all of the things I think are important, and I still draw on them.” Mell landed jobs with Young and Rubicam, and with Kenyon Eckhardt in New York City, working on high-profile accounts and living at the speed of big city life. “I saw people living the dream in New York, but it wasn’t my dream,” says Mell. When a friend asked if he’d like to teach in a summer arts program on a Hopi reservation in northern Arizona, Mell jumped at the chance. In 1971, he spent the first of two summers teaching in the program. “It was a nice escape,” says Mell. “I went from New York City to a village of 200 atop a mesa. The Hopi reservation and Monument Valley were new to me. There were so many things I hadn’t experienced until I came back. That was a big influence.” By 1973, Mell had permanently moved back to Phoenix and began painting in oil. His graphic design background is revealed in his early work (though he still creates modernist pieces today) and it tends toward the minimalistic, with more muted colors and strong angles. He soon met a legendary helicopter pilot who would afford him the chance to gain a perspective of the land that few have had the opportunity to see and it would change his future. Jerry Foster was a larger-than-life helicopter reporter for Channel 12 (KPNX) news and, after Mell threw out the hint that a helicopter offered the ideal vantage point for an artist, Foster offered a four-day trip. The only instructions were to pack light and to meet atop the KPNX building. His adventure with Foster took him to the top of San Francisco Peak, to several of the formations in Sedona, then down into the Grand Canyon when it was still legal to land there. Next, they flew to Marble Canyon, all the way to Lake Powell. The views were spectacular and, for Mell, it cemented a direction for his art. “Needless to say, there were moments of terror and bliss,” says Mell. “I was viewing the scenery with so much adrenaline running through. I was very fortunate. A lot of those things you can’t do anymore in a helicopter. There was such a degree of excitement that, when I returned, I tried to tap into that in some way.”
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“Chiseled Light," oil on linen, 22" x 28"
"Steel Mesa I," oil on linen board, 10" x 20"
“Showers at Sundown," oil on linen, 40" x 80"
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The excitement and drama in Mell’s work has attracted a slew of avid collectors across the United States and around the world. His pieces often begin as a series of miniature paintings. From those, he may create several canvas studies, combining elements that he likes from the smaller pieces to become an average-sized painting. Sometimes collectors ask for larger pieces. He just completed a 40-inch by 80-inch painting depicting a monsoonal downpour across a landscape of red rock monuments. A small run of about one lithograph per year is issued with a master lithographer out of Texas. The colors and the feel of the original shine through. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, Mell is also known for his depictions of flowers — often cactus blooms, figurative studies of people and animals, and bronze sculptures, which he began creating in 1985. His sculptures feature the same angular elements as his paintings and are similarly full of movement, with palpable energy. Two of his sculptures that can be viewed locally are “Jack Knife,” derived from one of his paintings, which sits at the center of Old Town Scottsdale’s Main Street Arts District, and “Rising Phoenix,” which occupies Cesar Chavez Plaza outside Phoenix’s old City Hall. A large copy was also gifted to Phoenix’s sister city, Hermosillo, Mexico.
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A new thrill was seeing his art come alive on stage as the backdrop for the world premiere of composer Craig Bohmler’s “Riders of the Purple Sage” by Arizona Opera. The project was the first of its kind, and Mell completed the series of paintings that were used as guides for set designers. The scenery in the adaption of Zane Grey’s novel went from diorama to massive set, with a background LED screen and 28-foot-high foreground pieces of Surprise Canyon in a scene that slid on and off set via massive cables. A documentary about the process is forthcoming and there are plans for the wildly successful show to travel to other venues in the future. “The set designers are real pros,” says Mell. “It was a very fun and satisfying and experience. I’ve never been involved in a standing ovation before, but they called me out on stage to join them for the curtain call.” It was a new experience, but certainly won’t be the last. For his part, Mell continues to paint, sculpt, enjoy road trips, classic car shows, and time with family — doing what he loves in the place he’s (almost) always lived: Phoenix. edmellgallery.com
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Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black
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The world of philately (collection, appreciation, and research of postage and imprinted stamps) may be a foreign one to many, but for philatelist and author Mike Aldrich of Aldrich Stamps, it has been a lifelong passion and thriving business pursuit since he was just 13 years old. His expertise extends beyond stamps, however, and he is a trusted consultant for all manner of collectibles, from coins and bullion to sports cards and watches. The St. Paul, MN native recalls how his grandmother introduced him early on to what would eventually become his career. “I began collecting at age 11,” says Aldrich. “By 13, I was buying and selling via a national stamp newspaper. My parents had to submit the ads for me because I was too young.”
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From that time forward, Aldrich aligned his life with stamps and pursued a business degree at St. Thomas College with the aim of using that knowledge to propel his career in stamps. While he had other jobs during his school years, Aldrich credits buying and selling stamps with financing his education. “As the second child in a family of 11 kids, buying and selling stamps put me though college,” says Aldrich. “Otherwise, I couldn’t have gone. Right after graduation, I started working in stamps full-time.” Founded as an auction company in 1980, Aldrich Stamps continues to be a family endeavor. From the beginning, Jan, Aldrich’s wife of 28 years, has been his business partner and primary administrator, creating sales catalogs and handling customer relations. “I have a few thousand clients who would agree that Jan is a world-class desktop publisher and administrator,” says Aldrich. “Publishing the auction catalogs ourselves allows us the flexibility to do things our own way, and is a huge financial advantage as well.” Aldrich’s business takes him around the country to mingle with other dealers and collectors for up to 22 shows each year. As a member of the Council of Philatelists at the Smithsonian Institute, a recently retired board member of the American Stamp Dealers Association, and a dealer member of the American Philatelic Society, he is also a sought-after speaker. Aldrich has lead live auctions for some particularly valuable items. The “Inverted Jenny” is one such stamp with a storied past and a huge following, even outside philately. As the story goes, in 1918, the US Postal Service printed a 24-cent stamp with an image of a Curtiss Jenny airmail delivery biplane, but the airplane image was upsidedown. A lucky collector, William T.
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Robey, purchased a sheet of 100 and noticed the error. Defying the postal service’s demands for its return, these stamps went on to be legend. They’ve been bought, sold, and even stolen over the years, with a particularly high-quality block of four going for $2.7 million in 2005.
about anyone. In other countries, particularly in Asia as changing economic philosophies mean more disposable income, collecting is seen as a status symbol. Throughout the world, it’s a passion that brings people together from all backgrounds and walks of life. For Aldrich, it’s ultimately a business of connection.
“A couple years ago, we were asked to hold one of our auctions Airpex, a national show in Mesa,” says Aldrich. “We were fortunate to offer an example of the Inverted Jenny stamp at auction for the first time in Arizona, and it went for around $132,000.”
“Our philosophy has always been to build relationships with collectors,” says Aldrich. “There are people I’ve done business with for 30 years and never met in person. I’ve built relationships with thousands of collectors, clients, and families.”
The stories behind stamps inspired Aldrich to begin writing short stories for American Stamp Dealer and Collector magazine, and eventually a novel, “Imagine No More Lies,” in 2013. Available on Amazon, it’s a story of invention and intrigue with a distinct philatelic twist. His second novel (not stamp-related) is now in the works and will be published later this fall. Aldrich runs six to seven stamp auctions per year from his home in Cave Creek, and as the reach of the internet has grown, so has that of Aldrich Stamps. It is now the largest dealer and auction house in Arizona. Its eBay store alone boasts more than 20,000 philatelic items. With online access, people from around the world and rural regions who wouldn’t customarily have access can now collect rare stamps. In the United States, it’s an affordable hobby for just
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Aldrich finds it particularly satisfying when he finds a stamp that fills a hole in a client’s collection. Some search their entire lives for one elusive, rare stamp or coin. He’s actually seen collectors brought to tears when they find that last item. While the thrill of finding philatelic unicorns is one part of his business, he is always happy to consult with new clients, providing information and acting as a trusted source of advice. So what should an amateur collector know about buying and selling stamps, or any collectibles, for that matter? One of Aldrich’s primary selling tips may be surprising. He advises that for maximum results, collectors shouldn’t leave the sale of their collections to heirs. “For the most part, collectors only sell once,” says Aldrich.
“When it comes time, they need to personally pick someone to work with in the selling process. Don’t leave it up to a family member, lawyer, or trust. I counsel people to sell their collections while they’re still alive. I’ve seen too many people ripped off. Most dealers are very honest, but it happens. It’s important to set up a relationship with a trusted dealer to avoid that.” Another tip is that “old” doesn’t always translate to high value. Generally, the market is so replete with stamps issued since 1940, when the post office began issuing stamps in large number, that most are worth face value or less. He suggests the main aim of collecting should be to have fun. These days, Aldrich doesn’t collect for himself so as not to compete for material with his clients. Nevertheless, he’s always on the lookout for stamps that his clients are looking for. He and Jan are enjoying their lives in Arizona, fishing, hiking, golfing, playing tennis and staying involved in their church. He writes more and is able to pick and choose what he really wants to do. “I’m one of the lucky people in the world who really enjoys their job,” says Aldrich. “The stamp collecting business has provided me with a great career and we’ve had loads of fun. Someday, I will wind down the auction side of the business, but I expect to be involved in philately my entire life. I enjoy the many friends I’ve made here in Arizona and around the world.” 480-488-1616 aldrich@aldrichstamps.com aldrichstamps.com
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Writer Lara Piu Photography courtesy The Park
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A new 21-and-over playground with food, music and drinks in an indoor, air conditioned park is elevating the meaning of “adulting.” That’s exactly what Bob Garland and Phil Richard had in mind when they opened The Park, a new indoor street food and beer garden venue in the heart of downtown Phoenix.
acts like Rock Lobster, Neon, Elvis Before Noon, and Ashley Red appear.
“We recognized the trend and popularity nationwide of street food truck food, and figured out a way to feature these festival dishes in a brick and mortar location,” Bob says. “It’s a great opportunity for the food truck operators themselves, to give them a more permanent home to showcase their products, increase their exposure, and grow their business, and it gives The Park customers and endless selection of gourmet offerings from these individual chef operations.”
“Conceiving, designing and building this operation has been a very rewarding passion project for Phil and I,” Bob explains. “This fresh new concept in restaurants has been very well received by patrons from all over the Valley, as well as downtown dwellers.”
Located near Talking Stick Resort Arena, Chase Field, and the downtown convention center, The Park features a 19-foot by 13-foot video wall and a huge stage where live music national
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The entrepreneurs say they’re glad they took their music-meetsfood-meets-indoor playground concept into reality.
They designed the 11,000 square-feet venue to foster a sense of community. Traditional park elements like nature inspired dining spaces, communal tables, high-end lounge seating, green foliage, a tree-canopied garden and a nightlife playground facilitate interaction.
Enjoy
The Park
3 S. 2nd Street Phoenix 602-362-5627 thepark.bar
Food truck vendors such as Taste of New Mexico, Pedal Haus, and Frosted Frenzy Cupcakes rotate weekly offering appetizers, salads, soups, tacos, paninis, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, seafood, pasta and sweets. In The Park’s community kitchen, guest chefs like Jennifer Russo of The Market by Jennifer’s interpret street food menus for brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner and latenight happy hour. “We choose the very best offerings from the highest quality food truck operators in the area, and they set up shop in our vast kitchen, and deliver their dishes to Park customers,” Bob adds. “Gourmet street food, prepared by the passionate owner/ operators themselves.” The Park’s permanent food resident, Loot ’n’ Booty BBQ, offers award-winning barbecue. “Our house menu features Loot ’n’ Booty BBQ signature dishes, including the very best brisket sandwich and BBQ ribs you'll find anywhere in town,” Bob says. “Sterling Smith, owner of Loot ’n’ Booty has been winning accolades and barbecue competitions all over the country.” There’s also a self-serve wall with fine wines and more than 24 craft beers, including Pedal Haus Light Lager and Belgium Wheat, Hop Knot IPA, and Kilt Lifter. “It has everyone talking,” Bob adds. thepark.bar
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This potluck standout combines two of summer’s most iconic salads: the caprese salad and pasta salad. Tender pasta is tossed with pillows of pearl mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and seasoned with garlic oil and balsamic vinegar. This salad is big on flavor and will stand up well to the summer heat.
Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
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Caprese Pasta Salad Yield: 6-8 Servings Salad ingredients: 8 ounces short-cut pasta (such as miniature farfalle) 1 pound cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped 1½ cups mozzarella pearls ¼ cup garlic oil (see recipe below) 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar salt and pepper to taste Garlic oil ingredients: 1 cup olive oil 6-10 garlic cloves, smashed Salad directions: Boil pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, basil, mozzarella pearls, garlic oil, and balsamic vinegar. Mix well and season to taste with salt and pepper. Garlic oil directions: Combine olive oil and garlic cloves in a small sauté pan or saucepan. Place over low heat and gently cook for about 1520 minutes. Be sure the pan is not too hot or the garlic will burn. Remove pan from heat and let oil sit for at least 10 minutes (up to two hours). Once oil is cool enough to handle, pour it through a strainer to remove garlic pieces. Reserve oil.
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Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops Yield: 12 ice cream pops Ingredients: 1 pint strawberry ice cream, slightly softened 1 cup heavy whipping cream 4 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 15 vanilla wafer cookies, crushed (about 1/2 cup crumbs) 1/4 ounce dried strawberries, crushed (about 2 tablespoons crumbs) 12 wooden or lollipop sticks
A cross between an ice cream bar and strawberry shortcake, these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Pops are a fun treat for the whole family to enjoy. A strawberry ice cream center is covered with whipped cream and a crunchy cookie coating, then presented on a stick for easy snacking. With just a few simple ingredients, these bite-sized treats will disappear before they even have a chance to melt.
Directions: Cover a quarter sheet pan or plate in parchment paper and set in freezer until cold. Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop balls (about 2 tablespoons each) of strawberry ice cream onto frozen sheet pan or plate. Place them back into freezer for about a 30 minutes or until ice cream balls are frozen solid. Meanwhile, prepare the whipped cream. Place heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl with sugar and vanilla extract. Beat whipping cream using a mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs and dried strawberry crumbs in a bowl. Set aside. Once the ice cream balls are frozen solid, insert a wooden or lollipop stick into each one. Dip the ice cream balls into the whipped cream and twist them around until completely coated. Then dip into the cookie and dried strawberry mixture until coated. Place ice cream pops back into the freezer until completely frozen. Enjoy!
Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
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