Images Arizona (March 2024)

T h e a p p r o a c h a t t h e C e n t e r f o r I n t e g r a t i v e H e a l i n g & W e l l n e s s i s p e r s o n a l i z e d a n d c o m b i n e s t h e b e s t

e l e m e n t s o f p r e v e n t a t i v e , r e g e n e r a t i v e , i n t e g r a t i v e , f u n c t i o n a l , a n d a n t i - a g i n g m e d i c i n e t o h e l p y o u a c h i e v e o p t i m a l h e a l t h .

I n a s l i t t l e a s 3 m o n t h s w e c a n h e l p y o u l o o k & f e e l 1 0 y e a r s y o u n g e r , l o s e w e i g h t , p r e v e n t d i s e a s e , r e v e r s e c h r o n i c c o n d i t i o n s , r e l i e v e p a i n , i n c r e a s e f u n c t i o n , a n d i m p r o v e q u a l i t y o f l i f e !

C o n c i e r g e A d u l t P r e v e n t a t i v e C a r e I n t e g r a t i v e & F u n c t i o n a l M e d i c i n e

I n t e g r a t i v e C a n c e r C a r e N u t r i t i o n & C u l i n a r y M e d i c i n e

A n t i - A g i n g M e d i c i n e

H o r m o n e B a l a n c e

W e i g h t L o s s

I V T h e r a p y

B i o - E n e r g y T h e r a p y

E x e r c i s e & F i t n e s s C o a c h i n g

Fabio Almeida, MD, ABOIM, ABNM, ABOM

Triple Board-Certified Physician Founder | Medical Director

Cindy Almeida, CNC Master Holistic, Sports & Obesity Nutritional Counselor

Kelly Montana, CPT, TPI Fitness & Performance Expert

S ANDERSON LINCOLN S ANDERSON LINCOLN

Locally owned and operated, Carefree Outdoor Living is a convenient resource for all your outdoor needs. The age of the outdoor room has arrived and Carefree Outdoor Living has firmly established itself as the go-to resource for innovative outdoor room components, designs and patio furniture.

36889 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Suite C-5 Carefree, Arizona 85377

CarefreeOutdoor.com

info@carefreeoutdoor.com

BRYCE PETTIT WILDLIFE BRONZE SCULPTOR

TREVOR SWANSON LANDSCAPE AND WILDLIFE ARTIST

MARI GIDDINGS & JOE AXTON MIXED MEDIA

JANE WORD LEATHER PILLOWS

SUE KRZYSTON SOUTHWEST REALISM ARTIST

AMY LAY CONTEMPORARY WILDLIFE ARTIST

What's Inside?

Trailblazing Women of Country 4/1

Ladysmith Black Mambazo 3/25

Judy Collins 3/22

Rita Moreno In Conversation 3/16

Gunhild Carling 3/12

Festival Orchestra Week 3/5-3/10

From the Publisher

Shelly Spence Managing Editor

Joseph J. Airdo Graphic Designer

Meaghan Mitchell

Contributing Writers

Joseph J. Airdo

Francine Coles

Rebecca L. Rhoades

Shannon Severson

Photographers

Francine Coles

Loralei Lazurek

Advertising Sales

Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271

cindi@imagesaz.com

Images Arizona

P.O. Box 1416

Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com

AAs the promise of spring whispers in the air, many of us feel a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours create the perfect opportunity and often even serve as inspiration for us to immerse ourselves in activities that nourish our souls.

This month’s issue of Images Arizona celebrates the diverse passions and hobbies that enrich the lives of those in our community. From the tranquil strokes of a paintbrush to the adrenaline-fueled adventures of outdoor enthusiasts, there exists a kaleidoscope of interests that make Arizona one of the most unique and enjoyable places to live in the entire world.

From sports to photography, every hobby has a story to tell. Sometimes these stories are heard in the roar of an engine or the melody of a song. Other times, they are held within the intricate craftsmanship of artisans, whose creations infuse our homes with warmth and our ears, necks, wrists and fingers with character.

Our hobbies are not merely pastimes but pathways to self-discovery, connection and fulfillment. They bring real joy into our lives and, in the case of collecting Barbie dolls or antique automobiles, can even transport us back in time so that we can repeatedly relive precious moments from our childhood.

It is my sincere hope that by exploring the stories and photographs found throughout the pages of this month’s issue, you will be encouraged to embrace your interests, pursue your passions and find new avenues for self-expression or reconnect with those you previously put on pause.

Cheers!

Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com

623-341-8221

Photography by Loralei Lazurek

GRACE RENEE GALLERY MARCH ARTIST

JENNYFER STRATMAN

BRONZE ARTIST

Meet Jennyfer and experience her bronze sculpture that is rich with emotion, content and form. Jennyfer explores the interconnectedness between self, the earth and the cosmos with her thought-provoking sculpture.

ARTIST RECEPTION

Thursday, March 21

Wine & appetizers 4–7 p.m.

Grace Renee Gallery

Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377

Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

By appointment Sun. and Mon.

480.575.8080

GraceReneeGallery.com

ABOVE

This past winter, Tom Forbes and his girlfriend Katy visited Grand Canyon Deer Farm in Williams. Having previously visited the farm one year prior and loved the experience, the couple decided to make it an annual tradition.

“We love going in the winter as there is just something special about running around with the deer in the snow,” Forbes says. “They sell cups of food in the gift shop. Once you are out with the deer, they will all swarm you at once when they realize you have food on you.”

Located on a section of old Route 66, the 10-acre farm — which has been providing up close and personal experiences with nature since 1969 — is also home to wallabies, llamas, coatimundi, bison, peacocks and an umbrella cockatoo named Mozart.

“Feeding the deer is definitely the most exciting part of the visit, but one of my favorite animals to see is the zonkey — which is a cross between a donkey and zebra and is not something you often get to see,” Forbes adds.

tomforbesphotography.com

instagram.com/markeandersonphotography

Photo by Tom Forbes

2023 was the year of Barbie. The 11.5-inch plastic doll has enchanted little girls and collectors for more than six decades. But last year, the blond-haired, blue-eyed beauty went from iconic plaything to cultural zeitgeist, thanks to the release of Greta Gerwig’s award-winning blockbuster of the same name. Amassing more than $1.4 billion in ticket sales, “Barbie” was the highestgrossing movie of the year and Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing movie of all time. Everywhere you looked, from outfits to interiors, Barbiecore dominated.

Now, a new museum exhibition explores the story of Barbie’s evolution through the lens of fashion and design.

Writer Rebecca L. Rhoades // Photography by Jason Harper Photography and Courtesy of Illusion Projects and Mattel

Barbie’s offerings change with time based on who the popular designers of the moment are. Her evolution and fashion really are a little microcosm of the evolution in Western fashion over the similar time period.

Karan Feder

Developed in collaboration with creative design and production company Illusion Projects and toy company Mattel, “Barbie: A Cultural Icon” at Phoenix Art Museum “examines the Barbie brand’s 60-plus-year history and the doll’s global impact on pop culture through a wide-ranging showcase of more than 250 vintage dolls, life-size fashion designs, exclusive interviews and narrative sections that consider the style trends, careers and identities that Barbie has embodied and popularized over the decades.”

Author and costume historian Karan Feder curated the traveling exhibit, which debuted in Las Vegas in October 2021. Many of the dolls and artifacts on display come from the private collection of Las Vegas resident David Porcello.

“David is a collector of vintage fashion, and part of that is miniature Barbie fashions,” Feder says. “His collection is unique because it fits into a silo. He is interested in collecting only the fashions, not really the dolls, from 1959, when Barbie was first introduced, to 1999. His goal is to collect every single piece of fashion made for Barbie during that period of time.”

Unlike today, when new outfits, especially limited-edition designer outfits, come packaged on dolls, early Barbie fashions were sold separately. The first doll was marketed in the now instantly recognizable blackand-white striped jersey swimsuit.

Feder notes in her recently released coffee table book, “Barbie Takes the Catwalk,” that Barbie’s first wardrobe consisted of “22 marvelously designed ensembles priced between $1 and $5.” These and the rest of Barbie’s sartorial canon are on display, juxtaposed with full-size human fashions from the same eras.

65 YEARS OF STYLE

Barbie burst onto the shelves in 1959. Her creator, Ruth Handler, co-founder of Mattel, named the doll after her daughter, Barbara. Often known as the first fashion doll, Barbie instantly became a cultural phenomenon. Her stylish outfits, glamorous lifestyle and ever-changing persona captured the imagination of generations — including some of the world’s top fashion designers.

The first designer to receive credit on Barbie’s box was Oscar de la Renta in the mid-1980s, but the mini fashion icon’s closet was already filled with outfits that were influenced by celebrities and catwalks around the world. From minimalist, elegant frocks inspired by Oleg Cassini’s designs for first lady Jacqueline Kennedy to the exaggerated sleeve and shoulder treatments favored by Nolan Miller and Emanuel Ungaro in the 1980s, Barbie’s fashions have always followed current trends.

“Barbie’s offerings change with time based on who the popular designers of the moment are,” Feder explains. “Her evolution and fashion really

The Power of Pink

Just like 2023 was the year of Barbie, it was also the year of pink. In Greta Gerwig’s film, everything from the fantastical world of Barbie Land to the costumes of its lead characters were awash in the bright, feminine hue. Star Margot Robbie even stole the spotlight at every premiere thanks to her wardrobe influenced by classic Barbie-pink fashions.

As a result, the color — Pantone 219 C — was suddenly popping up everywhere, especially on clothing. The Phoenix Art Museum is celebrating the complex history of this color with “The Power of Pink,” a new exhibition that complements “Barbie: A Cultural Icon” through July 7.

According to the museum, the exhibition “traces the history of the hue and the evolution of its role in fashion, from its origins in 17th-century France, where it was worn by both men and women of status, luxury and power, to 1940s North America, when mass-marketing efforts began to gender the color, assigning pink to girls and blue to boys.”

For fashion historian Karan Feder, curator of the Barbie exhibition, the ancillary exhibit will further explore Barbie and fashion, tying the two together through the evolution of the color.

“Because so much of this exhibit shows life-size, human-size vintage fashion next to Barbie fashion, it allows museums with costume and textile collections to bring out pieces from their own archives and showcase them next to Barbie pieces from the era to make their own connections,” Feder says. “The Phoenix Art Museum is able to do this because they have such a world-

class costume collection, and it’s a super-exciting extension of this touring exhibition.”

Garments by renowned designers such as Gianfranco Ferré, Christian Dior, Valentino, Yves Saint Laurent and more will be on display.

“Our presentation of ‘Barbie: A Cultural Icon’ offers a timely opportunity for us to draw upon our incredible fashion-design collection to explore Barbie’s favorite color,” said curator Helen Jean in a press release. “Just like Barbie, the color pink sparks conversations, and just like Barbie, pink is having its day in the spotlight. We look forward to considering the history, politics and science behind this popular yet polarizing color.”

Feder notes that early dolls had more red and black clothes than they did pink ones. She says that it wasn’t until the late 1980s–early ’90s that the bubblegum hue became forever associated with Barbie. In 2023, Pantone, which provides color standards for everything from graphic design to fashion, named its Barbie Pink the Color of the Year.

“Barbie Pink is uplifting and inspires confidence, courage, vigor and vibrancy — everything we need in a post-pandemic world,” the company says. “People want to escape, and they are latching onto something colorful and nostalgic and playful. When you think about color being a language that expresses what is taking place, this dynamic, energizing pink and its association with Barbie is about being daring and unafraid and taking chances.”

Christian Dior, Suit jacket, 1952. Wool and velvet. Collection of

Phoenix Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Donald D. Harrington.

Valentino, Dress, c. 1982. Silk crepe with sequins and dyed feathers.

Collection of Phoenix Art Museum, Gift of Georgette Mosbacher.

Norman Norell, "Mermaid" evening dress, 1960-1972. Silk jersey

embroidered with sequins. Collection of Phoenix Art Museum,

Gift of Mrs. Kelly Ellman.

are a little microcosm of the evolution in Western fashion over the similar time period.”

The museum exhibition traces this evolution, spotlighting diverse characters within the Barbie universe and connecting them to contemporary fashion trends, perspectives and identities.

“The really fascinating thing about this exhibit that no other Barbie exhibition has done is this concept of showing vintage fashion as it relates to Barbie fashion side by side,” Feder says. “So you can say, ‘Oh yeah, I totally get why that Barbie fashion happened.’”

In a press release announcing the exhibition at Phoenix Art Museum, Helen Jean, the museum’s Jacquie Dorrance curator of Fashion Design, said, “Barbie has always been associated with innovative fashion, wearing pantsuits and dresses, rollerblades and workout clothes, right in line with the trends of the time. Over the past decade, however, we’ve seen Barbie shift from a mirror of trends to a trendsetter, no longer simply wearing the silhouettes and styles most prominently promoted to girls and women but instead dictating what those fashions are or can be. She’s inspired runway fashion collections over the last 10 years.”

“Barbie: A Cultural Icon” is divided into six distinct sections: the doll’s origin story and all 22 original ensemble outfits; the influence of the Space Age; the creation of Christie, the first Black doll; the arrival of Ken; and the creation of the Barbie Dreamhouse.

Visitors will see the iconic fashions of the 1970s, including Groovy Style, beachwear and disco-themed

Beautiful Original Art

Transform Your Space with Contemporary Art

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designs. The 1980s and ’90s present a selection of diverse dolls that represent a range of ethnicities, body types and careers. The exhibition culminates in the 2000s, spotlighting the continued diversification of characters within the Barbie universe and connecting them to contemporary fashion trends.

Also on display will be more than 50 historical objects and life-size fashion designs, video interviews with Barbie designers on five custom-made Barbie Dreamhouse TVs, and even a life-size Barbie Mirror-Pink Corvette in which guests can take photos.

Many of the pieces in the exhibition are being displayed for the very first time.

“There are some pieces that Mattel didn’t even recognize,” Feder says. “They were so obscure that Mattel was like, ‘We’ve never even seen that piece before!’ That’s cool.”

“There are so many items to look at. But one of my favorite things is when a person stops in front of one piece and says, 'Oh my God, I remember that one!’ All of a sudden, they’re brought back to exactly when they were 9 years old, and they remember that one outfit that they just adored. So there are those nostalgic moments that you will come across as you traverse through the exhibition. When you’re least expecting it, you’ll be brought back to your childhood.”

phxart.org

“Barbie: A Cultural Icon”

Through July 7 | See website for hours Phoenix Art Museum

1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix

See website for price | phxart.org

The hallmarks to Aaron Henry jewelry are design integrity, gemstone quality, fine craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each brilliant piece is hand-crafted bringing classical Old World quality to modern design.

Come by 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to meet designer, Aaron Furlong.

Aaron Henry Designs

18-karat gold with diamonds, sapphires and fine gemstones.

COMMUNITY

March 2024

March 2

SALUTING STORIES OF SERVICE GALA

Veterans Heritage Project will host its annual gala, which will honor an outstanding veteran for inspiring our next generation and making a positive impact in the community and recognize a former student for applying the lessons learned from their veterans and demonstrating character in their daily lives. This year’s Storyteller honoree is Rose Mattie — whose military career spans 17 years and first shared her service story through the Veterans Heritage Project’s after-school program in 2016. This year’s Alumni Service honoree is Mark McCullough — who, as one of the original students in the program from 2005 to 2008, interviewed six veterans and was instrumental in the design and publication of three volumes of “Since You Asked,” a collection of veterans’ legacies. Guests will hear from both honorees, as well as enjoy mystery boxes, a live auction and the opportunity to win $10,000 through the At-TEN-tion Pays Raffle. $250. 5 p.m. Chateau Luxe Event Venue, 1175 E. Lone Cactus Drive, Phoenix. gala. veteransheritage.org

Through March 31

SHELTERS IN THE DESERT GUIDED TOUR

Taliesin West will host a morning tour that takes guests on a 90-minute hike through the beautiful desert trails behind its historic core. Along the way, they’ll see and learn about the apprentice shelters, famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s learning-by-doing philosophy and the deep connection between architecture and nature. Sundays and Mondays. $49+; youth, student and member discounts available. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-860-2700; franklloydwright.org

March 1–10

‘THE ODD COUPLE’

Desert Foothills Theater will present its production of Neil Simon’s classic play “The Odd Couple.” $30. See website for times. The Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. dftheater.org

March 2 and April 6

DESERT AWARENESS PARK TOUR

The Desert Awareness Committee will host a leisurely 90-minute stroll through a native desert park. Guests will learn about the plants of the Sonoran Desert upland and how they survive, as well as other insightful information about the natural environment in which we live. Free. 10 a.m. Desert Awareness Park, 38100 N. Vermeersch Road, Cave Creek. hollandcenter.org

March 3–10

FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA WEEK

Arizona Musicfest will present a series of concerts featuring the Festival Orchestra. $51+. See website for schedule. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

March 9

‘BEAUTIFUL DESIGNS FOR SMALL SPACES’

Carefree Desert Gardens will welcome certified desert landscape designer Katie Coates, who will share ideas to help create your own oasis in smaller spaces — whether a small yard, courtyard, balcony, patio or even several smaller areas within a larger space. $5+ donation. 9:30 a.m. Carefree Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-3686; carefree.org

March 9

KIWANIS PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Kiwanis Club of Carefree will host its annual breakfast, featuring all-you-can-eat pancakes with syrup, berry compote, sausages, orange juice, coffee and tea. Adults $10; children $5. 7–11 a.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. kiwaniscarefree.org

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

March 12

GET LIT BOOK CLUB

Desert Foothills Library will host a happy hour discussion of “The Rose Code” by Kate Quinn. Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. See website for location. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

March 12

GUNHILD CARLING

Swedish musical sensation Gunhild Carling will perform a concert as part of Arizona Musicfest. $39+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

March 14

CAREFREE ART NIGHT

Galleries throughout Carefree will host an event that offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy live music and refreshments as they stroll through the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain in search of their next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. carefree.org/third-thursday-art-night

March 14

LIBRARY BOOK CLUB

Desert Foothills Library will host a discussion of “The Dictionary of Lost Words” by Pip Williams. Free. 10 a.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

March 16

CAVE CREEK RODEO DAYS PARADE

A precursor to its annual four-day event, Cave Creek Rodeo Days will host a parade at 9 a.m. in downtown Cave Creek, followed by mutton bustin’ at 2 p.m. at Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St., Cave Creek. A cornhole tournament and a kick-off dance will then take place at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., respectively, at Harold’s Cave Creek Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. See website for additional details. cavecreekrodeo.com

March 16

‘RITA MORENO: IN CONVERSATION’

Rita Moreno will grace the stage for an intimate event as part of Arizona Musicfest. Far from your typical Q-and-A, the evening will unfold as a vibrant tapestry woven from the entertainment icon’s 92 years of life, laughter and lessons learned under the bright lights of Hollywood and beyond. $53+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

COMMUNITY

March 2024

March 8 and 9

SARAH GRAHAM JEWELRY

Acclaimed jewelry artist Sarah Graham takes you on a journey of timeless elegance and organic wonder at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree. Meet the artist, explore her captivating collections and discover exquisite pieces crafted from nature’s whispers — cast Jacaranda pods, microscopic marine forms and more. These textural tales, defined by muted palettes and striking contrasts, empower women with subtle femininity and effortless style. Find your perfect statement piece at this captivating event. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

March 16 and 17

‘EXPERIENCE IRELAND’

The Musical Instrument Museum will host an event that celebrates Irish music and culture. Activities will include a musical craft, an opportunity to play a concertina, engaging lectures, an Irish stepdance workshop and lively performances from Irish-related artists. See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available.

9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

March 17

‘SONGS FROM ACROSS THE POND’

Carolyn Eynon Singers will perform a concert of music from English, Scottish and Irish composers. $25+; youth, student and group discounts available. 4 p.m. St. Barnabas on the Desert Episcopal Church, 6715 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. cesingers.org

March 19

MURDER MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

Desert Foothills Library will host a discussion of “When Blood Lies” by C.S. Harris. Free. 4 p.m. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

March 19 and 21

‘MEDICINAL USE OF DESERT PLANTS’

The Desert Awareness Committee will host a two-part class during which attendees will be introduced to the plants growing in our desert that have been used medicinally for centuries. During the lecture portion, attendees will learn about the properties that make the plants both technically and aromatically medicinal. During the workshop portion, attendees will learn to prepare poultices, infusions, tinctures and ointments using some of the plants. $35. 10:30 a.m. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

March 21

‘BETTER DAYS: THERE IS HOPE’

As part of the Living Music Performance Series’ 10th anniversary season of concerts, the Watoto Children’s Choir will sing, dance and share stories of restoration and hope. Free. 7 p.m. Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E. Cave Creek Road, Carefree. 480-488-2081; ctlcarefree.org

March 21

JENNYFER STRATMAN

Tour a collection of artwork rich with emotion, content and form during a special reception for artist Jennyfer Stratman. Expressed primarily through figuration and natural elements, Stratman’s work explores

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

interconnections between everything from the subatomic to the galactic. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

March 21–24

CAVE CREEK RODEO DAYS

Cave Creek Rodeo Days will present its 47th annual event, featuring three thrilling Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association performances as well as a night that will showcase the bull riders and bullfighters that bring fans to their feet. See website for price and schedule. Cave Creek Memorial Arena, 37201 N. 28th St., Cave Creek. cavecreekrodeo.com

March 22

JUDY COLLINS

Legendary singer-songwriter Judy Collins will perform a concert as part of Arizona Musicfest. $53+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

March 22 and 23

AARON HENRY DESIGNS

Meet American luxury jewelry designer Aaron Henry during a special event showcasing an exquisite selection of his brilliant pieces, each of which has been meticulously handcrafted to bring classical Old World quality to modern design with the finest craftsmanship and utmost attention to detail. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

March 24

‘DEAD ELVIS AND OTHER GEMS’

MusicaNova Orchestra will perform a classical tour de force inspired by the King of Rock and Roll. The concert will also feature a rare concerto for two clarinets. $33.50+. 6 p.m. The Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. musicanovaaz.org

March 25

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

Designated “South Africa’s cultural ambassadors to the world” by the late former South African President Nelson Mandela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform a concert as part of Arizona Musicfest. $39+. 7:30 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

COMMUNITY

March 2024

Writer

March 16

CHAMPAGNE MUSIC SALON

ProMusica Arizona will host its annual Champagne Music Salon, featuring performances from the organization’s talented soloists and small ensembles as well as hors d’oeuvres, desserts, champagne, wine and other beverages. 6 p.m. See website for price and location. pmaz.org

March 28–31

‘CONTEMPORARY MOVES’

Ballet Arizona will present three diverse works from masterful choreographers — including Ib Andersen’s “Rio,” Paul Taylor’s “Piazzolla Caldera” and Nayon Iovino’s “Inner Layer.” $35+. See website for times. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. balletaz.org

April 1

‘TRAILBLAZING WOMEN OF COUNTRY’

As part of Arizona Musicfest, CMT’s 2022 “Next Woman of Country” Miko Marks, Nashville singer Kristina Train and a five-member all-female band will take the stage in a show that features the music of Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton. $39+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

April 5

DANCE WITH ME GALA

Ballet Arizona will celebrate artistic director Ib Andersen for his 24-year legacy during its annual fundraising gala, which will include dinner, dancing and a special performance. $600. See website for time. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. balletaz.org

April 5

WORLD DOCTORS ORCHESTRA

As part of Arizona Musicfest, 85 physician musicians from around the world will perform a concert that will benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Virginia G. Piper Medical Clinic. $25+. 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

April 5 and 6

ARIZONA SAGE ART MARKET

The Holland Center will host a unique Main Street shopping experience featuring more than 40 juried artists with a diverse selection of mediums. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480488-1090; hollandcenter.org

April 6 and 7

‘STAGE, SCREEN AND BANDSTAND’

Upscale Singers will perform its spring concert, featuring music from “Oklahoma” and “Westside Story” as well as “Moon River” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” $35; youth discounts available. Saturday 7 p.m. Sunday 2 p.m. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. upscalesingers.com

Joseph J. Airdo

AAccording to a recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, nearly 50% of adults in the U.S. attempt to lose weight each year. Motivated by factors such as improving overall health, preventing diseases, improving physical fitness and self-esteem and simply doing so for the benefit of family members, losing weight is one of the greatest challenges our country faces today.

Many experts define “successful weight loss” as a 10% reduction in body weight, maintained for at least a year — which, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can improve your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. By this measure, according to a study published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, only about 20% of people who try to lose weight are successful at doing so.

Writer Joseph Airdo // Photography Courtesy of The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness

And keeping it off beyond that first year is even more difficult. According to a research review in Medical Clinics of North America, people tend to regain more than 50% of the weight they initially lost within two years. That figure increases to 80% within five years.

Needless to say, diet and exercise — although important and beneficial — may not be effective enough to achieve weight loss for many. Fortunately, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness offers a medical weight loss program that specializes in helping clients who have been unsuccessful with previous weight loss methods, or who have tried over and over to lose weight yet keep regaining all the pounds they have lost.

PERSONALIZED AND DOCTOR-SUPERVISED WEIGHT LOSS

Rather than relying on fad diets, calorie counting and endless exercise, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program integrates FDA-approved medications with a natural and holistic approach to address the

Dr. Fabio Almeida M.D. ABIOM, ABNM, ABOM Medical Director Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness

biological and physical issues that have led each client to this point. The Center provides this medication in an easy to use once a week injection pen that allows precise individualized dosing – no other weight loss program does this!

In addition to losing weight and keeping it off, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program also provides clients with the tools they need to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes as well as feel more energized and healthier. Clients also have the option to receive multivitamins and metabolism-boosting injections that assist in reducing stored fat and building lean muscle.

Client Benefits

l Monthly GLP-1a (Semaglutide – the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wygovy) Prescription and Management

l Initial Metabolic Lab Testing and Analysis

l Inbody Body Composition Analysis

l Quarterly Metabolism, Thyroid and Hormone Testing

l Customized Weight-Loss Plan / Nutritional Consultation

l Telemedicine Support and Messaging with Expert Medical Team (office visits optional)

l Discount access to:

l Bio-Energy and Hyperthermia Therapy

l NAD+ Therapy

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE & EFFECTIVE WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM AVAILABLE

The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program is designed to help clients be the healthiest they have ever been, in the best body that they have ever had. Regardless of the amount of weight one wants to lose, the spa-like clinic’s Integrative Nutrition Team monitors and guides each patient throughout the process of reaching their goal.

The clinic’s clients typically lose 15–20% or more of their body weight — an average of 53 pounds — in 6–12 months. Best of all, the program ensures that clients keep the weight they lost off for life. That is because, unlike other programs, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program looks not only at scale weight but also takes into consideration body fat, muscle mass and water weight, which all affect one’s ultimate goal.

The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ expert staff even works with clients after the completion of the program to help them maintain the mindset of keeping their bodies healthy and energized. Whether you need to lose just 10 to 20 pounds or more than 50 pounds to optimize your weight, contact The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness to get a personalized assessment, start losing weight and take the first step to change your life today!

PPaul Diefenderfer’s studio and personal project laboratory sits in a small valley off one of Cave Creek’s scenic backroads. Here he pursues his art, chips away at the huge task of constructing his sustainable dream home from retired shipping containers and serves the community with his knowledge and talents — and those abilities are numerous and sundry.

“Dief,” as he is more commonly called, started life as an Air Force kid, moving around the country and eventually becoming a computer programmer. He settled in Arizona in 1973 and made Cave Creek his home in 1992.

After living so long in an arid clime, he has become a true “desert rat,” as that is the name of this blacksmith’s personal forge. He has beaten kidney cancer and is monitoring his prostate cancer. He operates both a technical rigging business and one of the first indoor rock climbing gyms in the country — Phoenix Rock Gym, which he founded.

At Desert Rat Forge, Dief designs and builds bespoke metal projects that are both useful and artistic. He is a volunteer with Arizona Foothills 911 and is experienced in search and mountain rescue, both for humans and wildlife — and that’s just scratching the surface.

During our interview, a javelina wanders through, exploring the under-construction home on the property. Dief isn’t fazed one bit, though he does have stories about these local creatures making a mess of his work a

Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Loralei Lazurek

I like the adrenaline. I like doing stuff like white-water rafting, mountain biking and navigating the waterways of the Grand Canyon in a 14-foot boat. I have the ability to learn by watching others and then I go out and try it.

Paul Diefenderfer

time or two; once even getting into a store of wine bottles and ending up inebriated beneath one of the containers. He accepts it as part of living alongside nature, sharing the space and adapting to the wildlife and plants around him.

FORGING A LIFE

It might seem that a man most accustomed to programming computers from a desktop wouldn’t find his purpose in almost all things outdoors-focused, but Dief has always enjoyed adventure.

“I like the adrenaline,” he reveals. “I like doing stuff [like white-water rafting, mountain biking and navigating the waterways of the Grand Canyon in a 14-foot boat]. I have the ability to learn [by watching others] and then I go out and try it.”

His work as a blacksmith began 25 years ago as a hobby.

“I was at a Magic Bird Arts Fair,” Dief recalls. “I was drawn to a blacksmith who was actually making stuff [at his booth]. If he had just been selling it, I would have probably walked right by; but he pulled the metal out of the forge and started hammering. I asked if he’d train me and I would work for free. He couldn’t do that because he lived in Camp Verde, but he recommended a club I could join and I’ve been doing [metalwork] ever since.”

Paul Diefenderfer is a volunteer with Arizona Foothills 911 and is experienced in search and mountain rescue, both for humans and wildlife.

Inside his studio, Dief has tools old and new — some antiques that he is refurbishing. At the outset of what became Desert Rat Forge, candleholders, hooks and simple artwork were first in his repertoire — and he still creates a series of those items for the Sonoran Arts League’s Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour each fall.

His bread and butter, however, which is also his preferred work, are one-of-a-kind commissioned pieces, artistic and utilitarian. His work can be seen around Cave Creek, including the eight-foot spirit circle sculptures at Desert Foothills Library and Stagecoach Village.

“I don’t do production pieces,” Dief says. “I don’t want to do the same thing over and over. If you came and said, ‘I need 100 of something,’ I’d say to go find someone else. I do unique pieces of art.”

Customers rarely come to him with set plans; rather, they present an idea or vision and Dief makes it happen. He’s made metal gates, custom fixtures and fences. His biggest project was a 4-foot-wide, 100-foot-long pedestrian bridge for a private residence — a massive undertaking. In addition to passing muster with local codes and regulations, the bridge stood up under even more pressure when a fire truck accidentally rolled onto it. The truck’s grille was damaged, but the bridge was none the worse for wear.

“The client wanted something lightweight that looked like it was floating,” Dief recalls. “It was held up by a single post every 10 feet, built without machinery. I did it by hand and bucket from post to post. It hovers 8 feet above the wash. When I was finished, it looked like no one had touched the [ground beneath]. There was minimal disturbance.”

IN THE DETAILS

An eye for detail, a desire for growth and a passion for creation flow through everything Dief does. Here on his land, he designed and is constructing a home and garage next to his studio. He notes that most guests end up in the living room and kitchen of a house when they visit, so half of this open-concept home is a central living room with a platform for live music performances from dear friends. A Pilates studio and garden room overlook the great room. There are also standard sleeping areas and a kitchen space.

“I’m not a structural engineer by training,” he says. “But I designed all the structural elements, the half-ton trusses, and we hired an engineer to calculate my work. I ‘overbuilt,’

but I wanted it that way. I can hook up a hoist anywhere in the house and pull up a ton if I want to.”

The entire home is covered by that strong, double-layered roof. It not only keeps the home cool but will also serve as a funnel for rainwater collection and for visual appeal in the form of a waterfall cascading past what will be a massive wall of glass in the great room, overlooking the wash below and a landscape of cacti, boulders and brush.

“I am working with the terrain,” Dief says. “Everything is on stilts. So many architects and builders want flat pieces of land and they cut out [what was originally there]. Most people didn’t want this plot of land because they want a big house. In America and probably most modern cultures, the default answer is you need a bigger house, not a betterdesigned house.”

The interior of Dief’s better-designed house will have custom metal counters, door handles and even switch plates, all made in his own forge. The collected water will irrigate both the natural landscape that surrounds his house and the plants he has placed out of the way of wildlife: a rooftop container garden and salvaged steel beam posts on the ground with tiered platforms that hold potted plants, keeping them clear of curious and hungry javelinas.

In the desert around his house and neighborhood, Dief has made an intentional effort to regularly eliminate the invasive and nonnative stinknet weeds that contribute to wildfires and crowd out important plant species, even bringing in a specialized steam machine developed in Australia that can kill young weeds with high-pressure steam. He also uses vinegar and soap on very young plants. He is careful not to use anything toxic that would hurt animals or other plants and has made videos posted on Facebook’s Cave Creekers Infamous Bulletin Board page about how to prevent fires and revegetate the land.

Paul Diefenderfer designs and builds bespoke metal projects that are both useful and artistic.

It’s hard physical work as he is clad in heavy boots and arm gauntlets and wears a respirator as he traverses hillsides and gullies, but it benefits his own land and that of the neighbors around him. He’s also set up a sprinkler system that waters a 30-foot radius around his house to prevent brush fires when he is welding on the house.

“People don’t fully comprehend how quickly a fire starts,” he says. “I want people to do something about the stinknet because if it’s ignored, it gets worse and worse. I won’t use herbicides. I’m on a well; I don’t want to drink that. I want the natural desert to thrive. I want to experiment with helping people who have cleared their land with poisons to then reseed it [with slower-burning sagebrush and Palo Verde] so you end up with a healthy desert.”

His approach to living alongside nature and encouraging it to thrive is reflected in how he manages animals and reptiles: Remove the opportunity.

“I don’t kill anything just because,” Dief says.”Here’s the scoop: When someone moves out of a house, someone else sees the house, buys it and moves in. It’s the same thing with animals. If you create a vacancy, someone else is going to say, ‘Look! Here’s a house!’ So you have to remove the habitat. You need to get rid of the nooks and crannies where rats or snakes would hang out. If you kill a rattlesnake, it doesn’t remove the problem. More will come.”

Dief traps and relocates creatures, and it usually only takes a few times before they stop coming around. He encourages people not to use poisons to kill rodents because the predator that eats the rodent — an owl or hawk, for example — is then also poisoned and dies a terrible death.

This compassion for animals is carried through in his volunteer work with wildlife rescue all over the Valley. He’s saved baby javelinas from culverts and a beaver in Tempe, spent days tracking a bobcat with its foot stuck in a trap and has a small arsenal of nets and crates ready for when he’s called upon to help. What’s his secret?

“You can’t react,” he says. “Animals’ senses are greater than ours; if you go up and they’re in distress and you’re agitated, it will freak them out. It’s about regulating reactions. I’m not under the delusion that I’m an animal whisperer; they can bite, they have claws and most are incredibly strong. You have to respect that.”

Only

why,

HELP ON THE ROCKS

As we speak, Dief’s phone is receiving multiple alerts. He’s always “on call” as a volunteer for animal and human rescues. In the past, there weren’t such robust public search and rescue teams, so after taking a rock climbing class in 1975, he put his skills to use with the all-volunteer Arizona Mountaineering Club Rescue Team, receiving a national certification.

He was an operations leader for the organization and was often called for night searches on the steep, rocky slopes of Camelback Mountain, once carrying down an injured rock climber with a broken femur. The group dissolved in the 1980s as the city of Phoenix developed its own personnel.

Paul Diefenderfer started life as an Air Force kid, moving around the country and eventually becoming a computer programmer. He settled in Arizona in 1973 and made Cave Creek his home in 1992.

He’s still putting that knowledge to work with the Arizona Foothills 911 organization, recruiting and training local volunteers. He was part of the team of 60 volunteers who found lost hiker Kathleen Patterson after a three-day search at the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in September 2022. The experience cemented his determination to lead training sessions.

Dief explains that, while sheriffs have their own search teams, the vast land area is tough to cover with just a couple dozen officers. The first day is a “hasty search” in which all trails and easy spots are checked. On subsequent days, searchers set out to examine washes, mines, caves and ridges — anywhere to which someone could have wandered.

In previous cases, helicopters were within a couple hundred feet of lost hikers’ bodies but because the human eye detects movement, it is difficult to spot a non-moving target. Searchers on the ground, combing trail by trail and acre by acre, are often the key that picks the lock of finding missing persons.

“Our strength is that we know the area,” Dief says. “We are in the process of formalizing training and utilizing Spur Cross Conservation Area to [conduct practice searches].”

Wherever he sets his sights, Dief simply doesn’t let obstacles get in his way.

A plaque hangs in one corner of the Desert Forge Studio and it’s Dief’s personal motto. It reads, “1440” — which is the number of minutes in a day — and “Do what you can do. It’s amazing what you can do if you don’t know you can’t do it.”

Building a house, forging a huge metalwork project or piece of art, rescuing humans or animals or regenerating the desert, Dief has decided to be unstoppable in the things that matter to him.

“That’s how you build mountains,” he says. “One rock at a time.”

desertratforge.com ourdesertnest.com

Legends of the Arena

TThe little town of Cave Creek has always made its mark on the Western heritage of Arizona and this year’s Cave Creek Rodeo Days, March 21–24, will continue that tradition. The parades and beauty queens, the dust and glory, the beating of hooves in the arena and the roar of the crowd are the sights and sounds that have drawn crowds for nearly 50 years.

“Celebrating more than 47 years of tradition, the Cave Creek Rodeo stands as a cherished hallmark of our community, embodying the essence of our rich Western heritage,” says Mike Poppenwimer, president of Cave Creek Rodeo Days. “This iconic event brings together families and friends for an unforgettable experience, uniting us in the spirit of camaraderie and celebration.”

CROWNS, KIDS AND CORNHOLE

A dedicated planning team, sponsors and scores of volunteers plan all year to make this series of events happen. Even in the cooler days of January, the Cave Creek Rodeo Days Royalty Horsemanship Competition is held at the Cave Creek Memorial Arena, followed by a celebratory Royalty Banquet at the Holland Community Center. Those winners are part of the excitement of the family-friendly parade and competitions that herald the official beginning of festivities.

Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Cindi Calcinari

Celebrating more than 47 years of tradition, the Cave Creek Rodeo stands as a cherished hallmark of our community, embodying the essence of our rich Western heritage. This iconic event brings together families and friends for an unforgettable experience, uniting us in the spirit of camaraderie and celebration.

Mike Poppenwimer

On Saturday, March 16, the Cave Creek Rodeo Days Parade will proceed through the center of town with the participation of local youth and community groups, veterans, members of the equine community and more.

That afternoon and evening bring a crowd favorite: mutton bustin’, where fearless little ones hold on for dear life to the backs of sprinting sheep — helmets included, of course. As afternoon turns to evening, Harold’s Corral hosts the Cave Creek Rodeo Days Cornhole Tournament and Kick-off Dance.

ROPIN’ AND RIDIN’

Thursday, March 21, begins the four-day series of competition, vendors, food and fun at the Cave Creek Memorial Arena with “All Bulls, All Night.” The event debuted last year and was a massive success. The gates open at 5 p.m. each night through Saturday, with arena performances beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 22, ushers in the first Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association performance. Attendees can expect to see cowboys, cowgirls and animal athletes competing in calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling, steer roping, barrel racing and more.

When it comes to the bucking broncos and fearsomely strong bulls, “rough stock” is used to test the human competitors, and those animals can earn appearances at the National Finals in Las Vegas each December, where only the best humans and animals perform.

On Sunday, March 24, the gates open at noon and the final PRCA performances begin at 2 p.m.

SEATS FOR THE SCENE

As the Cave Creek Rodeo is one of the top rodeos in the Turquoise Circuit, expect tickets to quickly sell out — both general admission and upgraded experience tickets like Stockman’s Club and Chute 6.

Stockman’s Club is a limited-capacity seating area with unlimited beverages, a host bar, a complimentary buffet at each performance and admission to the general admission area for access to vendors. Tickets are $150 per person. Special arrangements can be made for handicapped access through the Stockman’s Club chairperson.

Chute 6 is the next level up from Stockman’s Club and is limited to just 20 members, with arena-side seating and a private bar on the exclusive platform. The 18-and-up space is not handicapped-accessible, and the cost is $200 per person.

From any seat, each day of the Cave Creek Rodeo is fast-paced, oldfashioned Western entertainment and part of the ongoing legacy of the town, its people and Arizona’s singular history. cavecreekrodeo.com

OOne of photographer Mark E. Anderson’s favorite pastimes while growing up in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, was sitting trackside and watching the trains as they sped through town.

“I always wondered where they were going and imagined myself as a railroad hobo jumping into a boxcar and racing off to adventures unknown,” Anderson says.

However, he was not always as thrilled to see large locomotives so up close and personal.

“I have no memory of this, but my older brother tells a story about our dad taking us to watch the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad,” Anderson explains. “He says that when our dad took me up close to the engine, I freaked out and began kicking and screaming.”

Anderson believes that feeling the wind from the cars and having the engineer whistle or honk at him later during his childhood provided him with an adrenaline rush through which he was simultaneously facing and ultimately conquering his fears. He eventually even asked his father — a builder — to help him construct a model train platform in their home’s basement.

“I laid out track and did my best with little money and skill to construct buildings and scenery, creating my own little railroad,” says Anderson, noting that he would often request model train accessories as gifts for Christmases and birthdays. “I had some pretty cool scale engines that would go around our Christmas tree, where I would run them for hours until my mom told me to go to bed.”

Although one could say that Anderson’s railroad has since been decommissioned, he still has all of its pieces. He has also retained his interest in trains into adulthood.

“My interest in trains is their magnificent power — 3,000 horsepower per locomotive, to be exact, and several locomotives per train,” Anderson says. “The earth shakes, your chest shakes and they are loud. You could die under those wheels. Then, after a mile or more of cars go by, it is suddenly quiet again. Being so close to something so big and powerful really gives you some perspective in life. I am not all that — and my fears are not all that either.”

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Mark E. Anderson

As a kid, I asked my dad to build a train layout in our basement. I laid out track and did my best with little money and skill to construct buildings and scenery, creating my own little railroad. I had some pretty cool scale engines that would go around our Christmas tree, where I would run them for hours until my mom told me to go to bed. Mark E. Anderson

“

My interest in trains is their magnificent power — 3,000 horsepower per locomotive, to be exact, and several locomotives per train. The earth shakes, your chest shakes and they are loud. You could die under those wheels. Then, after a mile or more of cars go by, it is suddenly quiet again. Mark E. Anderson

“As a young boy, I would get on my bicycle and go watch the trains speed through town. I always wondered where they were going and imagined myself as a railroad hobo jumping into a boxcar and racing off to adventures unknown. Mark E. Anderson

About the Photographer

While growing up, Mark E. Anderson always looked up to his brother, who was 12 years older than him. Therefore, when his brother took up photography upon returning home from the Navy, it was only a matter of time before Anderson pursued the hobby himself.

“I bought my first camera, a Pentax K1000, and my brother taught me to use it,” says Anderson, who went on to pursue a career as an Entertainment Technician Certification Program rigger but never lost his passion for photography — especially the aerial and landscape varieties. “Once my children were all grown, I decided to retire from rigging to focus on aerial and landscape photography full time.”

Anderson is particularly drawn to the fact that photography is an emotional medium capable of making someone laugh, cry, remember or be transported somewhere else.

“When people are emotionally connected to something, out come the cameras,” says Anderson, citing birthdays, concerts, events, marriages and births as examples of emotional events that people desire to capture. “Emotional reactions are often reproduced poorly, but a high-quality reproduction can bring back those emotions in a powerful way. That is where the magic is.”

The Gilbert resident’s favorite subject is the beauty that surrounds us, which he says is sometimes natural and other times produced — such as art, music and dance. He also likes taking a closer or different look at things that are commonplace — such as trains, cranes, boats and shipping — and especially rare or even one-time events — such as fires, storms, snow and accidents.

“I am a man of faith and being in nature is a spiritual experience for me,” Anderson explains. “It is humbling to contemplate the complexities of creation — the beauty of a sunset, the power of a storm. I strive to capture those images as I experience them through my lens. For this reason, I prefer raw images; my editing is limited to removing the occasional speck of dust or cropping an image to fit a layout.”

Of the many lessons that photography has taught him, the brevity of time is the one that Anderson feels has been most significant.

“A scene can change quickly as the sun sets, the clouds move, the weather changes,” he says. “While one might think a landscape doesn’t move, it is actually quite fluid, and a photographer must be ready to capture an image when the conditions are right. All of this is true in life as well. A play, a dance, a meeting with a friend, time with a loved one: all are but a breath. Make the most of every moment that comes to you.”

instagram.com/markeandersonphotography

SSarah Graham believes that when we are exposed to art, we become less satisfied with what everyone else has and more drawn to what is unique. She finds this phenomenon to be true not just of paintings and sculptures but also of home decor and especially jewelry.

“Once you see or wear something truly different, the same old just does not cut it,” Graham says. “A big diamond is beautiful, but when you add a bit of design, contrast, texture and uniqueness, people stop you on the street to comment on your jewelry.”

From a unique creative process that blends oldworld techniques with cutting-edge technology to a distinctive, organic aesthetic that has become her signature, Graham creates exciting and elegant jewelry that subtly commands attention while simultaneously displaying a woman’s selfconfidence in taste and style.

As if the textural tales of her designs — a result of the inspiration she draws from the natural world — were not enough of an eye-catching element, her jewelry also boasts a matte black finish of oxidized cobalt chrome that is juxtaposed with 18-karat yellow, rose and white gold, set with colored diamonds.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Sarah Graham

Sarah Graham “

“The very act of choosing and wearing my jewelry shows that you, too, are an artist,” Graham says. “You have an eye for the unique and the confidence to stray from what everyone else is doing. My collectors often say to me, ‘I wish that I was creative like you.’ I point out that they are creative, or they would not be wearing my jewelry.”

The designer and metalsmith adds that jewelry is not about showing off your wealth; it is about showing off your true self.

“My relationship with my collectors is a collaboration of artists who notice, appreciate and spend their money on the beautiful little details in life,” she says.

CHANGING DIRECTIONS

Growing up, Graham was immersed in a vibrant world of creativity, as her mother was a highly skilled craft artist. Surrounded by colorful tapestries and exquisite objects, her artistic desires were nurtured from an early age.

“I always collected beads and made simple jewelry as a kid, but never considered it could be a career,” says Graham, who initially pursued a practical path, earning a bachelor’s degree in international business and working in the corporate world for some time.

Upon creating a bracelet as a heartfelt gift for her sister, Graham sought out a skilled jeweler to bring her design to life. This led to a job at a pawnbroker’s shop in Southern California, where she was exposed to jewelry of all different styles as well as the in-house bench jeweler — alongside whom she used one of her days off to work.

Jewelry has no purpose other than to make you happy. So if you aren’t having fun, then it isn’t doing its job.

Sarah Graham’s pieces — which span more than two dozen collections — are currently carried at galleries in more than 20 states across the U.S. In Arizona, they are exclusively available at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree.

Captivated by the harmonious blend of nature and fashion in the jewelrymaking process, Graham then made a bold decision to pursue a career in jewelry design.

“I was fascinated simply by the process of making something out of nothing and decided I wanted to be able to do that myself,” she says.

Graham embarked on a transformative journey, spending two years traveling the world and drawing inspiration from the diverse jewelry collections showcased in museums, galleries and stores.

She then diligently honed her skills through a two-year apprenticeship under a master goldsmith, which she says gave her a very strong foundation in all the techniques for jewelry creation. With unwavering determination, she immersed herself in learning every facet of the craft, undeterred by the challenges of earning a living as an artist.

Following a full-time position as a bench jeweler, Graham started her own business in 2000 — and she remains amazed that she “can make something from nothing.”

“As I have aged, my appreciation for all of the sparkle and bling has increased,” the jewelry designer says. “But it started as just a love of creation, and that is still what brings me the most joy. I will add that the materials used to create jewelry bring an extra level of joy. Gold, in particular, is just so lovely, soft, malleable and beautiful that you cannot help but be happy when working with it.”

MELDING TECHNIQUES

Graham’s jewelry-making process includes just about every technique available, and she often incorporates several techniques on the same item.

From a unique creative process that blends old-world techniques with cutting-edge technology to a distinctive, organic aesthetic that has become her signature, designer and metalsmith Sarah Graham creates exciting and elegant jewelry that subtly commands attention while simultaneously displaying a woman’s self-confidence in taste and style.

“I use Old World processes, like wax carving and handfabricating metal, and the latest technology, like CAD and 3D printing, and everything in between,” she says. “For example, I may design a piece in CAD, print the wax, add the texture and detail by hand, then make rubber molds and cast in gold.”

The result is jewelry that is organic and textural, with a muted palate that is subtly feminine yet substantial; unique, yet universal in its appeal.

“My aesthetic has historically been based on inspiration from nature,” Graham says. “For many of my designs, I have cast directly from found items, like decayed wood and jacaranda pods.”

The artist has recently strayed somewhat from the subject and instead found inspiration in architecture and vintage designs.

“But the two consistent design themes that have existed in all of my collections since I started 25 years ago are the application of rich texture and the incorporation of cobalt chrome, which I oxidize to a deep, matte black finish,” she says. “The contrast is what makes my jewelry recognizable. And no one else uses it the way I do.”

Graham’s pieces — which span more than two dozen collections — are currently carried at galleries in more than 20 states across the U.S. In Arizona, they are exclusively available at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree. Among the collections carried is Confluence, which is named for the coming together of friends, ideas and inspiration.

“When my friend and fellow jeweler Tamar Collins needed a jewelry bench built, she asked my husband, a woodworker, to build it for her,” Graham says. “Unbeknownst to me, in return he asked her to design a piece of jewelry for me. When the bench was finished, I was very surprised to be presented with the most gorgeous, handmade 22-karat gold necklace.

“She had made each piece by dripping molten gold into water to achieve a multi-dimensional cup shape — like a moment frozen in time. The design was just too great not to share; so together we worked on the design to come up with our Confluence collection, reproducible in 18-karat gold and cobalt chrome. Each beautiful cup

holds a pearl or diamond in the most precious way, and always reminds me of how lucky I am to have such talented and generous friends.”

Grace Renee Gallery also stocks Graham’s Chroma collection, which boasts brilliant diamonds in simple gold bezels surrounded by a cobalt chrome skirt.

“It has a very classic feel while still being very unique,” the designer says.

DESIGNING HAPPINESS

This month, Grace Renee Gallery will host a special event during which guests will be guided on a journey through the timeless elegance and organic wonder of Graham’s jewelry. On March 8 and 9, attendees can meet the acclaimed artist, explore her captivating collections and find the perfect new statement piece.

“I simply want my collectors to feel happy and beautiful,” Graham says. “And if they have an achievement or person or event they are celebrating by purchasing my jewelry, I hope it serves as a lasting reminder of that. I strive to make the process enjoyable. I always say, ‘Jewelry has no purpose other than to make you happy. So if you aren’t having fun, then it isn’t doing its job.’”

Other things that make Graham happy are her hobbies — reading, skiing and traveling — and participating in charitable causes. Each year, she raises funds for Namaste Direct, a nonprofit organization that makes microloans to women entrepreneurs in Central America, by holding an all-day jewelry demonstration and luncheon for supporters.

“If I were to take up another creative hobby that involved making things, it would be ceramics,” Graham adds. “I love clay and pottery! Mine would be very textured and would definitely somehow incorporate a lot of gold!”

gracereneegallery.com

Experience

Sarah Graham Jewelry

March 8 and 9 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Grace Renee Gallery | Historic Spanish Village

7212 E. Ho Hum Road, #7, Carefree 480-575-8080 | gracereneegallery.com

BBeginning with a 1902 Curved Dash Oldsmobile — one of the world’s first popular vehicles of which a record number were produced — and culminating with a Kensington Green 1959 Cadillac Eldorado convertible with bucket seats, strolling through the Janet Cussler Car Collection in Scottsdale is like stepping back in time and being able to see five decades of innovation, art and societal progress all at once.

The vintage automobile collection, housed in a by-appointment-only private viewing space, represents owner Janet Cussler’s love not only for her late husband — best-selling author Clive Cussler — but also for fine art and history.

“An automobile is a rolling piece of artwork,” Janet says. “It is also reflective of our society and our history. Each one tells a story — of the industrial revolution, of the advancement of women’s rights, of different [fashion eras] and art periods and more.”

CRUISING WITH CLIVE

Having developed a love for classic cars during his youth, Clive started collecting vintage automobiles in the 1970s — many of which can be seen at a museum in Arvada, Colorado, that was opened in 2005 by his children, to whom he gifted his collection.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Loralei Lazurek

“

An automobile is a rolling piece of artwork. It is also reflective of our society and our history. Each one tells a story — of the industrial revolution, of the advancement of women’s rights, of different [fashion eras] and art periods and more.

Janet Cussler

Housed in a by-appointment-only private viewing space in Scottsdale, Janet Cussler’s vintage automobile collection represents her love not only for her late husband — best-selling author Clive Cussler — but also for fine art and history.

That same year, Clive met Janet, whom he then married in 2008. Deciding to make Paradise Valley their permanent home, the couple sought a few daily drivers with which they could get around town and supplemented their 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster — which Clive had already owned — with a 1930 Packard 734 Speedster Runabout.

Not long after that, Janet gave Clive a 1931 Ford Model A as a Christmas gift, which he modified with racing carburetors. The following year, Clive returned the favor and gifted Janet a red 1955 MG TF1500.

“It did not take long, but with my love of antique cars as rolling pieces of classical art as great as Clive’s, he and I were looking forward to the next car auction, networking with friends and purchasing our next favorite pre-war car,” Janet says. “One car led to another until we had to take our sports court down so that we could put up temporary tents [to house them].”

However, those tents were quickly filled, prompting the couple to rent space for their ever-growing collection of vintage vehicles.

“Then a fire engine showed up in our driveway,” says Janet, noting that Clive had bought her the 1917 Ahrens-Fox for her birthday. “I thanked my husband, then politely said to him, ‘It is absolutely gorgeous, but it will not fit in my jewelry box.’ His immediate reply was, ‘Well, then let’s buy a bigger box.’

“We moved the cars from our sports court and rental spaces into a warehouse, but it was too full so we had to buy another space next to it. We then filled that one and another one and another one until we finally had four spaces filled with more than 40 cars, two airplanes and, of course, the fire engine.”

Janet Cussler’s classic cars are beautifully displayed across 7,500 square feet of viewing space in Scottsdale that is gorgeously arranged to accommodate by-appointment-only private and corporate events.

VINTAGE VIBES

Sadly, Clive passed away in early 2020. However, his memory continues to live on through his captivating adventure novels, such as “Gray Ghost” and “Raise the Titanic.” Moreover, the love that he had for both Janet and classic cars is still very strongly felt through the vintage collection that he and his wife accumulated and enjoyed together.

“Each of these cars has a story,” says Janet, who has a bachelor’s in fine art and a master’s in education. “It has some memory of how we bought it, why we bought it and the significance that it had to Clive because of his historical background and the significance that I related to having studied art and art history. And we enjoyed them together. We both saw the beauty in them and the ingenuity of what went into them.”

Janet’s cars are now beautifully displayed across 7,500 square feet of viewing space in Scottsdale, which is gorgeously arranged to accommodate by-appointmentonly private and corporate events.

Among her collection — which is mostly dedicated to prewar vehicles — are a 1906 Packard Model S; a 1907 Mitchell Model E Runabout; a 1908 Columbus 10HP Two-Cylinder Autobuggy; a 1911 Ford Model T; a 1914 Pathfinder Touring; a 1916 Pierce Arrow SevenPassenger Model 66-A-4; a 1917 Cadillac Opera Coupe; a 1919 Kissel 6-45 Speedster; a 1919 Locomobile Model 48 Six-Fender Town Car; and a 1937 Cord 812 Sportsman Coupe.

Of course, the collection also includes the 1959 Cadillac Eldorado, which Janet notes is the largest-finned automobile ever built.

“She is an icon of beauty,” Janet says. “She is also one of a kind. There is not another one that is finished like her. By the way, there is a reason that you refer to your car as a she; because she is expensive.”

Janet adds that many people may not realize that women have played a very active role in the development of vehicles. In fact, a woman was the first person to drive an automobile from one town to another.

“Mr. [Carl] Benz had made this contraption but did not really think that it could truly travel anywhere,” Janet explains. “He had gone away for the weekend and Mrs. Benz decided to take it out with her children to visit the next town. When her husband returned from his trip, he was absolutely flabbergasted at the fact that she was able to do this.”

Other women who made significant contributions to automotive history include Alice Huyler Ramsey, who was the first woman to drive an automobile across the U.S., and Mary Anderson, who is credited with inventing the windshield wiper while touring New York in a trolley car on a snowy day.

Sprinkled throughout the viewing space are also other collectibles that amplify the antique ambience — such as Mobil gas signs and pumps as well as several mannequins sporting examples of authentic driving attire and other outfits that women wore during each era.

“I have a 1908 day dress and a 1910 tea gown from Paris,” Janet notes. “Of course, I also have a flapper dress from the Roaring ‘20s. And I honestly believe that some of these [outfits] outdo even Ralph Lauren.”

CHARIOTS OF CHARITY

With so much passion for and knowledge about automobile history, Janet loves to share her collection with others. Therefore, in addition to offering the viewing space for private and corporate events, she also occasionally hosts charitable activities — such as last month’s Champagne, Chocolate and Cars fundraiser to benefit Carolyn Eynon Singers.

The daughter of a car dealer and wife of a car collector, Carolyn Eynon Singers’ namesake and founding director, Carolyn Eynon, shares Janet’s profound appreciation for vintage automobiles.

“Janet and I met five years ago at a social event for a car club,” Carolyn explains. “Two years ago, she graciously

opened her museum to my choir’s annual fundraiser and it was such a marvelous success — not just due to her wonderful hospitality but because of the uniqueness of her collection.”

Therefore, Carolyn was extremely pleased to present her fundraiser among Janet’s collection again this year.

“I really admire her historical knowledge, her artistic flair and her appreciation for both the interior and exterior of cars,” says Carolyn, noting that her choir members — who are used to singing in auditoriums, churches and public parks — find performing in Janet’s masterfully curated and beautifully designed private museum to be a very special experience.

Moreover, it allows Carolyn Eynon Singers to present exciting choral programs, such as “Songs from Across the Pond” — which, set for Sunday, March 17, at St. Barnabas on the Desert Episcopal Church in Paradise Valley, will feature music from English, Scottish and Irish composers.

“My choir is a 501(c)(3),” Carolyn says. “I do not have a big budget. But because of Janet’s hospitality, we have found success.”

Janet is more than happy to help.

“Carolyn’s group is absolutely wonderful,” she says. “I grew up with music and dance. I once lived right outside of New York City, surrounded by theater, the symphony, opera and ballet. So [the performing arts] have always been another passion of mine.” janetcusslercarcollection.com

MMove over, hot potato! There’s a new(ish) game in town with a vegetable-derived moniker: pickleball. It’s a sport with a funny name, but a massive, growing popularity that draws from all age groups and generations.

According to USA Pickleball, the number of pickleball participants grew 159% to 8.9 million in the three years between 2019 and 2022 and it is estimated that more than 36.5 million people participated in the sport over those years. For comparison, the sport of tennis grew just 33% in the same time span.

Here in Arizona, pickleball is experiencing a similar surge in popularity that is spurring an entrepreneurial boom to serve picklers, both casual and uber-competitive. Professional athletes, including the Phoenix Suns’ Kevin Durant, Super Bowl quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady and LeBron James, not only play themselves but have invested in professional teams.

“Pickleball has been exploding across the country in recent years as the fastest-growing sport in America, but Arizona certainly stands out as one of the meccas of the sport,” explains Melissa Zhang, director of communications and content for USA Pickleball, the national governing body of the sport headquartered in Arizona.

THE SWEET SPOT

Pickleball is a racket sport that could best be described as a mix of tennis, badminton and table tennis. It is played with a perforated plastic ball and a specific type of paddle that’s smaller than a tennis racket but larger than a table tennis paddle. It’s played on a rectangular court that is considerably smaller than a tennis court but has a similar appearance.

Writer Shannon Severson // Photography Courtesy of Pickleball is Great

Pickleball has been exploding across the country in recent years as the fastestgrowing sport in America, but Arizona certainly stands out as one of the meccas of the sport. Melissa Zhang

Originally invented in 1965 by a trio of Bainbridge Island, Washington, fathers looking to entertain their bored children, the sport can be played by singles or doubles and games are played to 11 points but must be won by two points. The rules are fairly simple, and because of the small court size, it’s great for people of all athletic abilities — though the fleet of foot will definitely have an advantage.

The USA Pickleball website has videos about how to play, official rules, links to find local courts and tournaments, club information and merchandise links. Apparel and equipment are big business for manufacturers who develop shoes, eyewear and clothing especially for pickleball participants. However, the entry costs to get started in the sport are quite affordable, and many schools and community centers have public courts.

The approachability and slower-moving pace of pickleball make it great for beginners and for intergenerational playing opportunities. It’s also known for being a social game, and many communities and friendships are built around it.

For the casual or competitive “pickler,” businesses are popping up all over the Valley to facilitate play, and those with indoor courts are especially popular.

In the Glendale area, Chicken N Pickle is a restaurant with indoor and outdoor courts in the Westgate Entertainment District, and The Pickleball Space offers lessons, drop-in play, leagues, events and a membership option.

PickleMall, with its first indoor facility inside Arizona Mills mall in Tempe, is a business that reimagines the use of large shopping malls with underutilized space. An app is used to book court time, and cameras are always rolling so players can review game footage, track their performance and find ways to improve.

For free public access, the city of Phoenix has 24 indoor and 44 outdoor courts around the Valley.

The other end of the spectrum is the private club model and that’s coming, too. Center Court Pickleball Club will soon open members-only locations in Scottsdale, Glendale and Gilbert, with varying membership levels for individuals, friends and family. Each of the locations have 10 full-size, individually fenced indoor pickleball courts in a climatecontrolled environment. The usual club amenities will be offered, including locker rooms, showers, a wellness space, food and drink options, certified pickleball pros and a retail shop.

HAVE PADDLE, WILL TRAVEL

One of the most popular ways to get involved in the sport of pickleball and its community is to participate in tournaments.

Born in Hawaii and now living in Phoenix, entrepreneur Mike Hoxie is the founder of Pickleball Is Great, a tournament management company. His business, which began as a side job in 2016 while he was living in the Pacific Northwest, has grown exponentially and he now employs five active tournament directors, with four more in the pipeline.

“Things really started to happen in 2018,” Hoxie recalls. “I ran out of vacation time and left my job. My son agreed to give up the extras like vacations so that I could start it as an S corporation. That first year, I hired more tournament directors and we did 46 tournaments.”

The COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on things in 2020, but it presented the opportunity for Pickleball Is Great to expand into warm-weather states with fewer gathering restrictions, including Utah, Arizona, Texas and South Carolina. Business roared back in 2021 with 68 tournaments, and his success continued apace. In 2023, his company

Photo Courtesy of USA Pickleball

operated 91 tournaments in 12 states. The number of participants can vary from as few as 50 to as many as 1,500.

As Pickleball Is Great expands, the goal is for each director to administer 20 tournaments per year in their region, with Hoxie heading one home tournament and one on the road each month. He’s traveling much more than that now, but it’s the “cost” of being known for excellence.

“We run a tight ship,” Hoxie says. “Most tournaments are a mess. People know we are going to make sure they get their money’s worth and plenty of playing time. They say, ‘When you want to run a tournament right, call Mike.’”

Round robin tournaments are Hoxie’s bread and butter; he says they give players more games for their money and it’s what he recommends for players just getting started in the tournament scene. The events usually last four days. Players start out by self-rating their level and get feedback along the way. He also divides players by age; “seniors” includes anyone over the age of 50, and they generally play for the first two days of the tournament on weekdays. Younger players are scheduled on weekends, and seniors can certainly join their children, a younger sibling, niece or nephew.

“Organizing it like this grows both sides of the market,” Hoxie explains. “It’s very all-inclusive so everyone can play. We work with US Senior Pickleball and make sure seniors get to play seniors so it’s an even match. Dividing everyone this way is how I feel I can service the whole market and create a fair experience for everyone.”

The average tournament lasts three to four hours, and Hoxie makes it a

point to give players ample notice about arrival times, what to bring and all the details they need to know.

“Round robins are more fun,” he says. “We do a playoff afterward to make sure the right people make it to the playoffs since ratings are not accurate. Some are double-elimination and are more competitive. If you lose twice, you go home, so you could be there [for] seven hours or less than an hour.”

Wherever he holds a tournament, Hoxie encourages participants to plan to attend one of his Hawaii tournaments. This June, the Hawaii Pacific Rim Pickleball Cup, termed “an international event of aloha,” will be on the Big Island of Hawaii.

“We start on time and end on time and then we get to do happy hour together,” Hoxie says. “Then people can get to the other activities they enjoy on the islands.”

There’s a family reunion aspect to many tournaments; picklers tend to combine pleasure travel or visiting relatives with pickleball tournaments being held in the area. Many long-term friendships are born of the camaraderie at these events.

Hoxie not only runs his own tournaments but is also hired by organizers and charities. For example, a Boys & Girls Club in Virginia has contracted with him to run a combination black-tie event and pickleball tournament — an effort for a good cause that will blend in competitive fun on the court.

His business’s good reputation has earned him contracts in 12 states to operate pickleball state championships in each.

SOUTHWEST CIRCUIT

While Hoxie was no stranger to Arizona before relocating, he has enjoyed the deeper dive into the state’s pickleball community.

“During snowbird season, the Southwest market has players from all over the country,” Hoxie says. “It’s amazing to see the variety of player types. I’ve been to many parts of the state already and every time I run a tournament, there are more people from more areas who see what we do. People like that we keep them informed. I think that is why players tend to travel to wherever we are; they like the job we do.”

The proximity to Flagstaff, Prescott, Palm Springs, Las Vegas, Albuquerque and Tucson makes it easy for locals to travel to tournaments in less than a day.

This month, Pickleball is Great will hold events in Wickenburg, Mesa, Gilbert and, though not confirmed at press time, most likely Scottsdale and Prescott.

Arizona will also have the national spotlight later this year, as Zhang explains.

“With the recent announcement of pickleball’s national championships coming to Mesa this fall, the Valley of the Sun boasts a very strong presence in our sport,” Zhang says. “We expect to see continued expansion of pickleball in Arizona, from facilities to tournaments, over the months and years to come.”

pickleballisgreat.com

usapickleball.org

NNestled within the diverse tapestry of Arizona’s cultural landscape lies a vibrant thread woven with the rich history and enduring influence of Irish heritage.

“Our state was founded by a lot of Irish folks,” says Ciara Archer, operations director of Arizona’s Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library.

According to authors Janice Ryan Bryson and Kathleen Shappee Wood in their book, “Irish Arizona,” the first documented Irishman in Arizona was Hugo O'Conor, who established the Presidio of Tucson for the Spanish government in 1775.

Other notable Irishmen who left their mark on our state include former Yavapai County Sheriff Buckey O'Neill, the Brophy and Riordan families and the Sisters of Mercy, who in 1895 established the Phoenix area’s first hospital, St. Joseph’s.

Therefore, owing so much of its history and landscape to Irish influence, it is only natural that our state’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are among the best in the entire country. From parades to green fountains, the traditions, tastes, sounds and spirit of Ireland can be experienced this month in communities across Arizona.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FAIRE

Set for Saturday, March 16, at 10 a.m., the 41st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will stroll down Third Street from Oak Street to Margaret T. Hance Park in Phoenix, where until 5 p.m. attendees can enjoy a traditional Irish faire.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Sedona St. Patrick's Day Parade

// Photo by Donna Shoemaker

Owing so much of its history and landscape to Irish influence, it is only natural that our state’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are among the best in the entire country.

Highlights of the faire include local and international Irish bands, Irish dancers, Irish sports and traditional St. Patrick’s Day foods and beverages such as corned beef and cabbage, Irish beer and Busker Irish Whiskey.

“We are going into our 41st year, and it all started with a passionate mixture of Irish-born and Irish Americans with a love of Irish culture and heritage,” says Jeff Aspland, president of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire. “It takes passion from a dedicated group who are willing to work through hurdles of time and change to persevere over four decades.”

A particularly notable new addition to the event is the Arizona Irish History Walkway, where attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the Irish individuals who helped build our state.

“As the community has grown, so should our parade and faire,” Aspland says. “We are here to share and celebrate the Arizona Irish community and reference ‘Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day’ when considering the diverse community in Arizona.

“The biggest thing that makes the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire unique in Arizona is the weather. Our patrons wear shorts and a bit of sunscreen. It is rare to get that weather in Chicago, Boston or New

St. Patrick's Day Parade and Faire

York on St. Patrick’s Day. We also bring a Southwestern flair with our theme of ‘The Greenest Day in the Desert;’ our [parade] floats have clovers and cacti.”

The following day, the nearby Irish Cultural Center will host its official St. Patrick’s Day events, including a ceili — a family-oriented Irish social dance.

SEDONA ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Those who want to complement their green with a splash of red can travel north to Sedona — where, on Saturday, March 16, at 10:30 a.m., the city’s Parks and Recreation Department will host its 52nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

“The Sedona St. Patrick’s Day Parade stands out with its breathtaking backdrop of stunning red rock formations, creating a uniquely picturesque setting for this event,” says Josh Frewin, the department’s manager. “This celebration in Sedona offers a distinctive blend of Irish spirit and Southwestern charm, making it an experience that sets it apart from any other St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Arizona.”

Once staged on the main thoroughfare of Highway 89A, the parade now marches down Jordan Road from Jordan Historical Park south to Mesquite Avenue.

“The Sedona St. Patrick’s Day Parade enriches Arizona’s cultural tapestry by fostering a sense of community unity through a celebration that transcends cultural boundaries,” Frewin says. “It serves as a vibrant example of how diverse traditions can come together, showcasing the commitment to embracing and celebrating various cultures and their influences, ultimately enhancing the richness and diversity of Arizona’s cultural landscape.

GREENING OF THE FOUNTAIN

One of America’s most well-known St. Patrick’s Day traditions takes place in Illinois, where the Chicago River has been dyed green each March 17 for the past 60 years. However, did you know that one of Arizona’s communities also celebrates the holiday in a similar fashion?

“It all started on St. Patrick’s Day in 1978 when a young homebuilder rode his horse into a local tavern to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and his heritage,” says Bowen “Bo” Larsen, community relations director and public information officer for the town of Fountain Hills.

This then led to a $250 bet to turn the town’s fountain green and water-ski around it the following year.

“So, on St. Patrick’s Day 1979, with a large crowd watching from shore, the world-famous fountain was dyed green, and all of the bettors skied around [it] as planned, except for one [who] could not get up on the skis,” Larsen adds. “Now, 45 years later, what started as a bet in a bar has become the annual Greening of the Fountain in Fountain Hills on St. Patrick’s Day.”

The tradition will continue this year on Sunday, March 17, at noon, when 55 gallons of environmentally friendly dye will be injected into the fountain’s jet spray, thereby turning the water emerald green. Built in 1970 in Zurich, Switzerland, by Fountain Hills developer Robert P. McCulloch, the fountain reaches a full height of 560 feet, making it the fourth tallest in the world.

Sedona St. Patrick's Day Parade // Photos by Donna Shoemaker

Greening of the Fountain // Photo Courtesy of the Town of Fountain Hills

Altan // Photo Courtesy of MIM

“The dye causes no harm to the water,” says Larsen, noting that the fountain irrigates the surrounding park, which is home to a variety of wildlife.

At sunset, the fountain will also be bathed in green light to extend the town’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration well into the night.

EXPERIENCE IRELAND AT MIM

At the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, guests have the opportunity to travel to countries around the globe — including Ireland — all yearlong through the fascinating cultural lens of the many musical instruments on display in its galleries. Among them is a 200-year-old Irish harp.

“Irish harps are commonly known from their use as the symbol of Guinness Beer,” says Naomi Primeau, MIM’s public programs specialist. “There is also a violin from 1762, which is a tangible example of fiddle music in Ireland. Another instrument is uillean pipes from 1950. These provide another interpretation of bagpipes. Rather than blowing into the bag like a typical bagpipe, the player uses a bellows operated by pumping the arm.”

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day weekend, MIM will on March 16 and 17 shine an even brighter spotlight on the Emerald Isle with its Experience Ireland event, which is part of the museum’s popular Signature Event series that focuses on a different region of the world, genre of music or musical icon each month.

“MIM always aims to showcase an appreciation of the world’s diverse culture through music, which we refer to as ‘the language of the soul,’” Primeau says. “Through the historical storytelling of instruments and performances, our museum is able to capture how music connects the world — which will be seen through our Experience Ireland program.”

Activities will include a musical craft, an opportunity to play a concertina, engaging lectures, an Irish stepdance workshop and lively performances from Irish-related artists — including Altan, whose repertoire features touching old Irish songs and hard-hitting reels and jigs.

“This program specifically celebrates the beauty of the Irish culture by focusing on how music has impacted society throughout history and that alone sets us apart from other celebrations around the Valley,” Primeau adds. “The Irish have been in Arizona since the early 18th century. Although the population size of the community has not been the largest in the Valley, they have contributed immensely to Arizona as a whole through shared histories, culture and music.”

OOne of the most iconic features of Arizona — and a photographic favorite for its visitors — is its desert flora. From the towering saguaros that grow only in the Sonoran Desert to the many succulents and cacti that burst with gloriously colored blooms, the arid landscape’s plant life is a botanist’s and nature lover’s dream.

In fact, some of the state’s most popular attractions are its public gardens, including Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Tucson Botanical Gardens and Tohono Chul, also in Tucson.

And just an hour east of the Valley, in the foothills of the Picketpost and Superstition mountains near Superior, is the country’s largest desert arboretum. Boyce Thompson Arboretum, the oldest public garden in Arizona, showcases 19,000 desert plants from the Southwest and around the world.

AN OASIS WITH A PURPOSE

Boyce Thompson was founded in 1924 by Col. William Boyce Thompson, an engineer, financier and philanthropist who created his wealth in the mining industry. He was the founder and first president of Inspiration Consolidated Copper Co. in Globe-Miami and Magma Copper Co. in Superior.

Writer Rebecca L. Rhoades // Photography Courtesy of Boyce Thompson Arboretum

“

When you’re here, it feels like you’re in a Disney movie.

Sharon Elliot

Following trips to Russia before and after the Revolution of 1917, the New York native became concerned about his home country’s food source and developed an interest in plant research and cultivating for food.

In 1920, he established the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, now the Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, in an effort to improve agriculture, protect the environment and enhance human health.

Thompson was also enamored with Arizona’s desert landscape, and about the same time as he established the institute, he built a winter home, a 7,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style mansion called Picket Post House, overlooking Queen Creek in Superior. It was here, on hundreds of acres of mountainous terrain, that he decided to establish a desert plant research facility, and in 1924, Thompson founded his eponymous arboretum to serve as a “living museum” to the desert’s unique flora. It was incorporated as the first nonprofit institution for scientific purposes in Arizona in 1927.

Sadly, Thompson only enjoyed his desert gardens for a few years. He passed away in 1930, leaving the arboretum with little financial support following the stock market collapse of 1929. A passionate director carried on Thompson’s vision with very little funds to do so until 1964, when the property was joined by the University of Arizona, which co-managed it and reinvigorated

the research program. The arboretum now partners with Arizona State University to allow student research and continue Thompson’s original mission. In 1976, BTA was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, visitors can stroll through 135 acres of gardens and view plants from the U.S., Mexico, Australia, Madagascar, India, China, Japan, Israel, South America, the Middle East, Africa, the Mediterranean and the Arabian Peninsula. In total, 3,900 taxa (species, cultivars, hybrids, varieties) are organized into 12 distinct settings, including two rose gardens, a cactus and succulents garden, a pollinator garden, a legume garden, an herb garden and a children’s garden.

The largest garden at BTA is the Australian Deserts Exhibit, which stretches over approximately 10 acres and encompasses 1,280 plantings, including the largest and most diverse stand of eucalyptus trees in North America. The centerpiece of the exhibit is Mr. Big, a red gum eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) that stands almost 120 feet tall. Planted in 1926 as a 3-year-old, 6-foot sapling, Mr. Big now measures more than 22 feet in diameter and is the largest known tree of its species on the continent, according to the Arizona Forest and Fire Management agency.

Another popular attraction is the Clevenger House. This historic three-room 1900s stone-and-mortar structure was the property’s original homestead. It is built into the mountainside of Queen Creek Canyon, with the rocky cliffs forming one of the home’s walls. Thompson’s grandchildren used the home as a playhouse. Kids today, on the other hand, love playing on the suspension bridge that traverses the creek and offers views of Picket Post House on the cliffs above.

The arboretum’s creekside location also provides rich riparian habitats for birds and other desert creatures.

“You’re getting interaction with wildlife when you visit here,” says Sharon Elliot, director of marketing and communications for BTA.

Javelinas, coyotes, bobcats and even gila monsters have been spotted among the greenery. On a recent January afternoon, visitors were treated to the sight of a large band of coatis that were snacking on berries in the treetops.

The arboretum is an important birding area, as well, with more than 275 different species sighted on the property, including 62 species of Special Conservation Status in

Arizona. In 2007, BTA was designated as an Audubon Important Birding Area, and guided bird walks are available from October through May. Butterfly walks and evening programming that explores bats, scorpions, lizards and other nocturnal critters are also offered throughout the year.

CHAMPIONING PRESERVATION

In 2020, the arboretum opened the 13-acre Wallace Desert Garden. Set within BTA’s natural desert landscape, the stunning collection of desert-friendly flora from around the world was donated in late 2014. It was part of the private garden of geneticist and philanthropist H.B. Wallace, who passed away in 2005.

Wallace, who made his fortune in egg and poultry production, began cultivating his garden after retiring to Scottsdale in 1987. He included many rare cacti and succulents from as far away as Central America, Australia, the Arabian Peninsula and Madagascar. He also set up a foundation to help ensure the preservation and safekeeping of the plants after his death, but the recession of the mid-2000s negatively affected the garden’s funding, placing the property in jeopardy.

In 2014, the foundation approached BTA with an offer: Would it accept a donation of the entire garden — more than 5,000 mature trees, shrubs, cacti and succulents?

According to the arboretum’s website, the entire endeavor was coordinated and completed by Logan Simpson Architects, Native Resources International, the Wallace Desert Gardens board and staff, and BTA. Together, the team developed and designed a natural setting that includes 1.5 miles of winding trails and a bridge over Queen Creek.

It took two years to prepare, three months to execute and two years to cultivate each piece of flora. The project included the

transfer of 2,200 boxed plants, some as tall as 25 feet, as well as 4,000 smaller specimens. One hundred semitruck trips were needed to transport all of the plantings.

More than 50% (861) of the 1,223 taxa are new to the arboretum. Of the aloes, boojum trees, thorny African bushes, crested saguaros and more, 205 species are considered threatened. Sixty-two species are rare or endangered.

“The Wallace garden and the gateway emphasize how we differ from a lot of [other local botanical gardens],” Elliot says. “Seeing the collection here against the backdrop of Picketpost Mountain is just stunning. We designed the garden so that some of the trails start to wander through the base of the mountain, so it’s a neat experience.”

The main trail is also wheelchair accessible and will guide visitors in a single direction.

A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

To commemorate its 100th anniversary, the arboretum is planning special activities and celebrations throughout the year. The festivities kicked off in September 2023 with the 100 Tree Spree, an initiative to plant 100 native trees at institutions, schools and nonprofits in the local area. In mid-January, a garden art exhibition of cactus sculptures painted by Arizona artists opened. “Shiny Splendor,” which runs through October, showcases artistic interpretations of the hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus boyce-thompsonii), which was discovered in 1926 on the property and named after Thompson.

Docent-led Legacy Tours that explore the history of BTA and Thompson’s vision are offered throughout April. And on March 24, the arboretum will host a Founder’s Celebration, a free event in honor of Thompson that will include a variety of activities for all members of the family, including live music, scavenger hunts, tasty treats and much more.

“We get comments all the time from people who’ve lived in Arizona for years and say they never knew we were here, and that’s a shame because they’ve been missing out,” Elliot says. “Not to sound cliche, but when you’re here, it feels like you’re in a Disney movie. There are birds and butterflies sweeping past you. We have beautiful views of the creek and Picketpost Mountain. The aloes start blooming in January, and February can be the start of wildflower season. There’s always something to see here.”

btarboretum.org

DINING GUIDE

Giordano’s Trattoria Romana

TThough owner Adele Giordano describes Giordano’s Trattoria Romana as “the best-kept secret in Carefree,” its many mouthwatering menu items have made that a secret impossible to keep.

Antipasto highlights include baked clams, stuffed and served in a luscious lemon sauce; bruschetta, crostini topped with a tasty tomato and basil mixture; and jumbo shrimp cocktail, chilled and served with a heavenly horseradish sauce.

Giordano’s menu then features an impressive variety of main courses, including eggplant parmigiana — fresh eggplant that has been lightly breaded, topped with melty mozzarella cheese and served on a bed of pasta with marinara sauce — and pollo fricassee — chicken with sliced sausage, sweet peppers and capers, served on a bed of pasta with white wine sauce.

Seafood options include shrimp scampi, cioppino frutti de mare and salmon, shrimp or lobster fra diavalo. Diners may also choose between pollo (chicken) or

vitello (veal) and select their preferred preparation — parmigiana, marsala, piccata, piemontese, saltimboca, Giordano, francese or gorgonzola — resulting in a virtually endless list of irresistible meals.

That is perhaps why guests keep coming back to Giordano’s Trattoria Romana, which has become one of the most talked-about, in-demand and high-profile restaurants in the entire town of Carefree. Therefore, reservations via OpenTable are highly recommended.

Authentically capturing the feel and ambience of a little Italian eatery in New York, Giordano’s Trattoria Romana offers patrons a casual yet classy dining experience that is comfortable, relaxed, memorable and, most of all, absolutely delicious.

Authentically captures the feel and ambience of a little Italian eatery in New York.

RECIPE

Pecan-Stuffed Mushrooms

Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

For the Mushrooms

1 pound mushrooms (about 25 large mushrooms)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 shallot, minced (about 1/4 cup)

1/2 cup chopped pecans

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup parsley, minced

4 ounces goat cheese

1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (or gluten free bread crumbs)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Honeyed Pecans

25 pecan halves

2 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon olive oil

Pinch of salt

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Carefully break off the stems from the mushrooms. Chop the stems extremely finely, discarding the tough ends.

These little beauties are stuffed with an irresistible filling of mushrooms, pecans and goat cheese, then topped with honeyed pecans. They make for an absolutely delicious appetizer for any occasion!

Heat the butter over medium heat in a small skillet. Add the shallots, pecans, mushroom stems and garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until everything has softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the warm ingredients to a medium-sized mixing bowl and stir in the goat cheese, parsley, bread crumbs, salt and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Spread out the mushroom caps on a large baking sheet. Working with one mushroom at a time, brush both the inside and outside with olive oil (or melted butter) and stuff with 1 teaspoon of filling. Place on the center rack of the oven and bake for 20 minutes.

While the mushrooms are baking, heat the honey and olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over low heat. Add the pecan halves to the skillet and stir until they are completely coated. Continue to cook over medium-low heat until the pecans have taken on a slightly darker color, about 3–4 minutes. Spread the pecans on a piece of parchment to cool.

Once the mushrooms have finished baking, top with candied pecans and serve immediately.

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