Images Arizona April 2021 by Images Arizona Magazine Carefee/Cave Creek Edition

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“The Night Shamon” by Amy Lay, 72” x 36” mixed media on canvas

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“Promises to Keep” Bryce Pettit, 68” x 40” x 20”

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BALM FOR YOUR SOUL Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Joseph J. Airdo

ALL EARS Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Samantha Starr

DAVID AND JILL KIMMERLE Writer Amanda Christmann

Photography by Carl Schultz

RIDING DESTINY Writer Joseph J. Airdo Cover Photo by Carl Schultz

HONEY CITRUS SHEET PAN CHICKEN Writer and photographer Kyndra Kelly

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Apri l 2021

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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR Joseph J. Airdo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Kyndra Kelly Shannon Severson

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Brandon Dunham Kyndra Kelly Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz

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

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2020 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Local First A R I Z O NA 10

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Spring is finally in full swing and our incredible community is filled with extraordinary examples of the season’s sensational beauty. Wildflowers are blooming, blanketing our majestic mountains in a remarkable rainbow-like range of colors. Many amusing members of our Sonoran Desert wildlife are grazing and sunbathing in our backyards, producing for us the most fascinating and life-affirming nature documentaries just outside our windows as they socialize with other species. There truly is no better place on Earth to experience the sheer extravagance of spring than right here in our own North Valley neighborhoods. The impressive grandeur takes on even greater meaning this year as so many of us have spent the last 12 months cooped up inside as we did our part to keep our families, friends, neighbors, business associates and other loved ones safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We are not completely out of the woods yet — and I encourage you to take proper precautions to maintain the health of both yourself and those around you — but I am overjoyed that we can finally experience many of the things that bring elation to our day-to-day lives again. In addition to simply stepping outside to enjoy our fresh Arizona air and all of the amazing sights and sounds that are unique to our extremely special little place on this planet, I urge you to show your support to our local businesses as they anticipate this long-overdue return to normal. Best of all, many shopping, dining, performing arts and social activities can be enjoyed outdoors — at parking lot venues, on shaded patios, on specially designed stages and on our various breathtaking trails — thereby allowing you to support our local businesses, experience spring’s splendor and spend quality time with the important people in your life all at the same time. Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

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After more than a year of very few live music performances, Allan Naplan — executive and producing director of Arizona Musicfest — eagerly anticipates the nonprofit organization's Outdoor Concert Series this spring.

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

Thirty years ago, Arizona Musicfest held its first collection of concerts that not only enriched our community’s cultural experience but also benefitted its educational arts programs. The nonprofit organization was therefore eager to commemorate the moment — three decades in the making — with its most sensational season to date. Organizers began booking 30 performances, many of which featured exciting celebrity artists to help celebrate the special anniversary year. Then, just as everything was if not fully planned then at least completely confirmed, the COVID-19 pandemic forced much of the world — especially live entertainment — to shut down. “Our immediate reaction was to cancel or move all of our fall concerts because, at the time, there was some optimism that perhaps by then COVID-19 would be a thing of the past,” says Allan Naplan, executive and producing director of Arizona Musicfest. Organizers then set their sights on January as the start date for the season, conceiving the idea of fewer, socially distanced concerts with dramatically reduced capacity at its various indoor venues. Whereas Arizona Musicfest concerts typically see attendance of up to 1,500 patrons, each of this season’s performances would be capped at about 500. But as the pandemic lingered on, those plans, too, were scrapped. “We were seeing a very significant spike [of cases] in our state,” Naplan explains. “We knew that the holidays

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were coming up soon which was going to inevitably create even more concern and spreading. So it became very obvious that even with our reduced plans, indoor concerts were not going to be a reasonable expectation.”

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However, just when it appeared as though all hope for a concert season was lost, organizers adopted an outdoor programming plan, paving the way for six stellar spring performances — most of which will take place at the newly-created Musicfest Performance Pavilion on the campus of Highlands Church in North Scottsdale. The venue utilizes two large parking structures with solar roofing, thereby providing ample shade for patrons attending the mid-afternoon and early evening concerts. A full mobile stage, dressing room trailers and luxury port-a-potties have been brought in to accommodate the comfort and enjoyment of performers and audience members, as have all of the production elements to ensure superb sound quality — all while safeguarding patrons with plenty of space and fresh air.

COMFORT AND FAMILIARITY

“The pandemic has taught us of the importance of music in our lives,” Naplan says. “It has served as comfort, solace, distraction and entertainment when we have had our lives so restricted. People have been telling us how music has helped sustain them during this very challenging year. Music has always been the balm for your soul.” Naplan adds that music also creates a sense of nostalgia — something that is

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in very high demand lately as a result of the pandemic. Arizona Musicfest will meet that demand Saturday, April 17 when The Kingston Trio takes the stage. In addition to performing hits like “Tom Dooley,” “Where Have All the Flowers Gone, “Five Hundred Miles” and “MTA,” the three artists — each of whom have intrinsic links to and experience with the original ensemble — will share personal memories that recall the iconic trio’s performances and journey as folk music made its extraordinary ascent to the pinnacle of popular culture and the top of the music charts. “During this extended and tragic pandemic, people are reflective, thinking about their lives, others’ lives and potentially lives that have been lost,” he explains. “Music has always been that source of comfort and familiarity. We know that people love music in the best of times but it is also that in the worst of times they turn to the comfort of the song that is familiar. That brings them joy or solace. Music has always had that ability to be a vehicle for or extension of emotions.” Before The Kingston Trio has its turn at the wheel, The Black Market Trust will take the stage Monday, April 12. Self-described as a “Smithsonian of American music,” the ensemble will perform an eclectic and familiar mix of jazz, swing, rock and blues standards — all infused with a fresh European gypsy sound. “The Black Market Trust is a group that I had heard a number of years ago and thought I really needed to get to Arizona Musicfest,” Naplan says. “They are doing major standards from Frank Sinatra and the Beatles with a flavor of gypsy jazz, which is a wonderful sound with wonderful instrumentation. They are a really exciting ensemble with a Rat Pack type of coolness.”

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CREATING COMMUNITY

Naplan says that the absence of live music from groups like The Black Market Trust and The Kingston Trio has been a tremendous loss — especially when you take into consideration the effect that a shared musical experience can have on 1,500 people who are all laughing, singing, clapping and cheering with one another. “Music in a live performance creates community,” he explains. “So the fact that we have not been able to engage in live performances means that we have all missed that element from our lives.” Naplan is thrilled that Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor series will help fill that void and finally give audiences an opportunity to reconnect not only with live music but also with one another. “What I am hearing from our very dedicated donors and patrons is great enthusiasm to participate in these outdoor concerts,” he says, noting that said enthusiasm is especially high for Arizona Musicfest returnees Ann Hampton Callaway and Tony DeSare. Callaway, a celebrated cabaret star will make her third appearance at Arizona Musicfest Tuesday, April 20, joined by her quartet for a special performance that will feature hits by some of the greatest female divas of all time. “Ann Hampton Callaway has quickly become a favorite of Arizona Musicfest’s audiences,” Naplan says. “She previously did a concert of Barbara Streisand songs. Last year, she celebrated the music of Linda Ronstadt. This year, it will be a mixed bag of repertoire that she loves performing. She has a wonderful reputation for reinterpreting songs.”

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DeSare — who Naplan describes as an extraordinary pianist, singer, arranger and composer with elements of both Frank Sinatra and Billy Joel — will then perform an exhilarating concert featuring music of the Great American Songbook, rock ‘n’ roll, Tin Pan Alley and more Saturday, April 24. Arizona Musicfest will close out its outdoor series Saturday, May 1 with Festival Orchestra Chamber Players — a select group of the nation’s finest orchestral musicians, led by Maestro Robert Moody and featuring acclaimed soloist Cathal Breslin. “That concert will be performed on the Sanctuary Patio at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, which is a very beautiful space with beautiful stone walls that will create a very nice, natural acoustic,” Naplan says.

TOUCHING LIVES

In addition to comfort and community, the concerts will also allow Arizona Musicfest to continue to touch people’s lives through the unparalleled power of the arts. After all, the money that the nonprofit organization makes from the concerts it produces benefits a variety of music education programs in the Valley. Programs, which are provided at no charge to area schools, include Musicfest Strings, Musicfest Mariachi, Musicfest Winds, Musicfest Strummers, Music and Sound/Found and Around, Musicfest Jazz and The Music of Arizona — the organization’s signature multicultural program. Meanwhile, Musicfest’s Young Musicians Competitions, Young Musicians Performance Series and the Musicfest College Scholarship Program serve the finest young musicians in the Valley, while Music Alive! — a unique lifelong learning and creative aging series — features dynamic programs for the community’s older adults. “The fact that we can touch people’s lives from birth through very senior is very important,” says Naplan, explaining that music can inspire youth as well as keep older adults cognitively stimulated. “There is enormous value in music and we are grateful to be a vehicle for that as Arizona Musicfest.”

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“

The pandemic has taught us of the importance of music in our lives. It has served as comfort, solace, distraction and entertainment when we have had our lives so restricted. People have been telling us how music has helped sustain them during this very challenging year. Music has always been the balm for your soul. Allan Naplan

As for those previously scrapped plans for Arizona Musicfest’s celebratory 30th season, Naplan says they have not gone away; they have merely been postponed. “Every single concert that was meant to be presented this year will now be presented next year,” he says. “I can promise you that we will have a really phenomenal lineup next year, which is coming together extremely well. We have also added many other artists so next year we are planning to get back to our full schedule as if nothing has changed. There will be 30 concerts between November and April and we are very excited about that.” azmusicfest.org

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COMMUNITY

2021 APRIL

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

April 6

ARIZONA GIVES DAY Coming off a record-breaking year when donors generated $6.1 million, Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits and Arizona Grantmakers Forum will host a 24-hour statewide online fundraising event to help raise awareness about Arizona nonprofits and the critical role they play in our communities and state. azgives.org

Through April 18

Through May 10

Arizona Broadway Theatre will take

Desert Foothills Land Trust has

audiences back to the music, style and

been selected as a benefactor by

freedom of the 1960s with a show

Creative Connections Fine Art for its

that features new arrangements of

virtual art exhibit and auction. The

classic tunes like “To Sir with Love,”

exhibit preview runs through April

“Downtown,” “Son of a Preacher

28. Bidding for the online auction

the most up-to-date information

Man” and “Goldfinger.” Traveling in

opens April 29 and closes May 10.

at press time, some events may be

time from 1960 to 1970, the musical

creativeconnectionsfineart.com

Keep in mind Although Images Arizona magazine has made every effort to publish

canceled or rescheduled to comply

SHOUT! THE MOD MUSICAL

chronicles the dawning liberation of women — from the rise of Dusty

with social distancing measures and

Springfield, Petula Clark and Cilla

other factors associated with the

Black as independent women with

COVID-19 pandemic. Please use

major careers to their American

the contact information provided to confirm dated details.

i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m Apr il 2 02 1

ART FOR LAND’S SAKE

Through Aug. 22

counterparts, redefining themselves in

DIEDRICK BRACKENS: ARK OF BULRUSHES

the face of changing attitudes about

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary

gender. See website for price and

Art debuts an exhibition with new

times. Arizona Broadway Theatre,

works by artist Diedrick Brackens

7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-

that incorporate textiles with ideas of

776-8400; azbroadway.org

agency to advance change. In this series

of works, Brackens forms visual allegories

and Whitney Houston, Nayo Jones

of emancipation by intertwining symbology

will perform an outdoor concert with

from the Underground Railroad and the

pod seating. $40+. 7:30 p.m. Scottsdale

exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, offering

Civic Center Park, 3939 N. Drinkwater

a meditation on liberation, the climate crisis

Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

and the power of craft. $10; youth, student

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

and senior discounts available. Wednesday– Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

Through Aug. 22

DIVISION OF LABOR: WOMEN SHIFTING A TRANSNATIONAL GAZE Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

April 2

ART, COFFEE AND CONVERSATION The Holland Center will welcome Nicolette Bonnstetter for a virtual look at who decides what art is. $5. 10 a.m. RSVP. hollandcenter.org

April 3

and Gabriela Muñoz to guest co-curate an

BROADWAY PERSPECTIVES CONCERT

exhibition that begins with a selection of

Four Broadway artists of color will

nearly 20 works chosen through the unifying

celebrate their identity through their art by

context of labor and the gaze. Additionally,

recreating their most memorable musical

the two artists are collaborating with

performances and honoring the icons that

Ammi Robles and the DouglaPrieta Trabaja

came before them. $28+. 8 p.m. Scottsdale

collective to create new works following a

Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E.

historical continuum through a collaborative

Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

process foundational to their artistic

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

has invited local artists M. Jenea Sanchez

practice. $10; youth, student and senior discounts available. Wednesday–Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

April 1

April 3

YOUNG ARTIST RECITAL MusicaNova Orchestra will host a concert designed to give young classical musicians the opportunity to perform for live audiences. The concert, which will be presented

CAREFREE ART WALK

virtually, will feature cellist Vincent Claes and

Stroll, shop, dine and enjoy an evening

pianists Kyler Duncan and Kathy Chen. Free.

celebrating the arts in downtown Carefree

2 p.m. musicanovaaz.org

while helping to support local businesses and local creativity — which makes our Arizona culture a better place to live, work and visit.

April 5

other participating galleries. Enjoy a diverse

A TASTE OF THE DESERT SEMINAR

display of artistic styles and mediums, meet

Desert Awareness Committee will present

the artists, enjoy refreshments and engage

a seminar that will teach attendees how to

in conversation about art and architecture.

collect and prepare their own foods in the

Free. 4–8 p.m. See website for participating

desert. Free. 6:30 p.m. The Holland Center,

galleries. visitcarefree.com

34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-

Begin at any gallery, then continue on to

1090; hollandcenter.org

April 2

NAYO JONES CONCERT With a vocal range that has been compared to the likes of Natalie Cole, Nancy Wilson Apri l 2021

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April 10

ARIZONA SAGE ART MARKET The Holland Center will host its 6th annual event during which attendees will be able to purchase works of art from a variety of mediums — including painting, jewelry, glass art and more. Thirty juried artists will participate in the event, which shares proceeds with the Holland Center — a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing arts, education and community in the area. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; azfcf.org

April 6

SCHUBERT: THE SOULFUL AND THE SUBLIME

April 6

WRITE A MEMOIR TO REMEMBER

April 9

CONRAD TAO CONCERT Pianist and composer Conrad Tao

The Holland Center will welcome

will present a concert of classical

Pianist Jeffrey Siegel will explore

guest Patricia L. Brooks for a

music. In-person and livestream

Schubert through a concert of

virtual presentation that will help

ticketing options available. $29+.

beautiful melodies, life and death

participants capture the essence

8 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the

struggle, serenity and irresistible

of their untold story and produce

Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second

charm. $25+. 7:30 p.m. Scottsdale

a memoir. $20. 10 a.m. RSVP.

St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

Center for the Performing Arts, 7380

hollandcenter.org

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

April 6–30

April 10

E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-4998587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

In honor of the 25th anniversary

THE ARTRAGEOUS GALA

of Rosie's House, Billie Jo and

Scottsdale Arts has pivoted its

Judd Herberger will match every

elegant fundraising event to become

The Holland Center will present

dollar donated to the nonprofit

a love-themed virtual celebration

a webinar about how to properly

organization — which provides

of the visual and performing arts.

prepare water leaks, air conditioners

free music education programs for

Viewers will experience an array of

and watering systems for the

Phoenix's disadvantaged youth — up

artistic offerings — dazzling new

upcoming summer season. $10. 4

to $25,000. rosieshouse.org

art, cutting-edge augmented reality

April 6

SUMMERIZE YOUR HOME WEBINAR

p.m. RSVP. hollandcenter.org

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$25K FOR THE 25TH

experiences and stunning guest

performers — all designed to remind attendees of the love they have for the arts and the impact the arts have on the community. Although viewing the event is free, supporters can elevate their streaming experience with decadent sips and sumptuous bites provided by Atlasta and other exclusive treats. Free+. 7 p.m. scottsdaleperformingarts.org

April 10

GOLDEN REEF STAMP MILL DEMONSTRATION Arizona’s only fully operational ten-stamp ore crushing mill will run several outdoor demonstrations at Cave Creek Museum. Watch history come alive as the ten 1,000-pound stamps slam down in synchronized precision and hear the pounding echo against the desert foothills — just as it did more than 140 years ago. Also on exhibit outdoors on the museum campus are various pieces of equipment from the early mining days of Arizona and many agricultural tools used at local farms and ranches. See website for times. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. 480-488-2764; cavecreekmuseum.org

April 10

VISION KIDS: COLLAGE AND ASSEMBLAGE Referencing the work of renowned modernist sculptor Louise Nevelson, Chandler's Vision Gallery will host a class during which Ellie Richards will teach youth aged 6–16 to assemble sculptural compositions using objects found in everyday life. The workshop, which will be offered virtually on Zoom, is designed to inspire children's creativity and give students the opportunity to develop important avenues for self-expression. Free. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. RSVP. visiongallery.org/vision-kids

April 11

CRYSTAL BOWL HEALING CONCERT FOR A CAUSE The Space Healing Center and Local Jonny’s will present a sound healing concert during which attendees will take part in various meditative practices that ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating afternoon. The healing experience aims to induce a meditative state with crystal bowls, gongs and other instruments. $25. 4–6 p.m. Local Jonny’s, 6033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 602-492-6643; thespaceaz.com

April 12

THE BLACK MARKET TRUST CONCERT Self-described as a “Smithsonian of American music,” The Black Market Trust will perform an eclectic and familiar mix of jazz, swing, rock and blues standards — all infused with a fresh European gypsy sound — as part of Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor concert series. $30–$45. 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Musicfest Performance Pavilion at Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org Apri l 2021

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April 15

GOLD PALETTE ARTWALK The Scottsdale Gallery Association will host a Gold Palette ArtWalk with the participation of member art studios and galleries throughout the Scottsdale Arts District — which resides along Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and north of Indian School Road on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue. As part of the city of Scottsdale’s Western Week, the event will feature western artists and live music from Desert Dixie. Free. 6:30–9 p.m. scottsdalegalleries.com

April 12

FIXED-INCOME WEBINAR Financial Advisor Lisa Upper will

Center for the Performing Arts, 7380

scottsdaleperformingarts.org

E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-4998587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

April 13

April 17

explain the basics of fixed-income

WILLIAM TECUMSEH SHERMAN LECTURE

investments, the seven characteristics

The Holland Center will welcome Jim

of and the advantages of laddering

Sherbert for a lecture about William

ARIZONA SILENT SERVICE MEMORIAL DEDICATION

and how fixed income may be part of

Tecumseh Sherman, who was second

The Arizona Silent Service Memorial

your investment strategy. $10. Noon

in command of the Union forces in the

Foundation will hold a formal

and 6 p.m. RSVP. hollandcenter.org

Civil War. $10. 4 p.m. The Holland

dedication ceremony for a 14-foot-

Center, 34250 N 60th St, Scottsdale.

long, 11-foot-tall monument

480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org

commemorating United States

host a webinar during which she will

April 13

ASU PHILHARMONIA AND GOSPEL CHOIR CONCERT

submarine veterans. Free. 10 a.m.

April 16

Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix.

will perform as part of the long-

MARIACHI REYNA DE LOS ANGELES CONCERT

standing ASU Concerts at the Center

The acclaimed contemporary female

series. In-person and livestream

mariachi group Mariachi Reyna de

viewing options are available. $10.

Los Angeles will take the stage for

THE KINGSTON TRIO CONCERT

4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the

a night of classic mariachi songs

In addition to performing hits like

Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second

with a twist. $25+. 8 p.m. Scottsdale

“Tom Dooley,” “Where Have All the

ASU Philharmonia and Gospel Choir

St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;

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arizonasilentservicememorial.org

April 17

Flowers Gone, “Five Hundred Miles” and “MTA,” The Kingston Trio will share personal memories that recall the iconic trio’s performances and journey as folk music made its extraordinary ascent to the pinnacle of popular culture and the top of the music charts as part of Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor concert series. $30–$45. 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Musicfest Performance Pavilion at Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

April 17

A TASTE OF THE DESERT Desert Awareness Committee will stroll through Desert Awareness Park in small guided groups for an up-close look at the food-producing plants. Members will discuss the harvesting

We’re here. We’re ready.

techniques and offer ideas on food preparation as well as offer tastes of some prepared foods. Free. 9 a.m.–Noon. Desert Awareness Park, 38100 N. Vermeersch Road, Cave Creek. 480488-1090; hollandcenter.org

April 19

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Phoenix Boys Choir’s artistic director and conductor Herbert Washington and Coastal Sound Music Academy's youth choral director Carrie Tennant will join the Phoenix Chorale’s artistic director Chris Gabbitas for a virtual discussion about the importance of youth singing and the innovative methods of instruction employed by choral educators during the COVID-19 pandemic. Free. 6 p.m. phoenixchorale.org

April 17

ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY CONCERT Celebrated cabaret star Ann Hampton Callaway will be joined by her quartet for a special performance that will feature hits by some of the greatest female divas of all time as part of Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor concert series. $30–$45. 5:30 p.m. Musicfest Performance Pavilion at Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. 480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

April 23–May 16 NUNSENSE

Arizona Broadway Theatre will present a play in which a nun

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accidentally poisons 52 of her sisters prompting the surviving sisters to put on a talent show to raise money for the funerals. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org

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Apri l 2021

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April 24

EARTH DAY EVENT The town of Carefree will host a family-friendly Earth Day event featuring a number of local organizations that will help educate and empower the community to take better care of the Sonoran Desert, the planet and one another. Organizations that will be in attendance include Desert Foothills Land Trust, Central Arizona Conservation Alliance, Rural Metro Fire and Wild at Heart. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., Carefree. visitcarefree.com

April 24

VISION KIDS: GAME ON Chandler's Vision Gallery will host a class during which Melissa Sclafani

E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale.

featuring 50 adult, teen and youth

480-422-8449; azmusicfest.org

performers in dance, music and musical theater. The celebration is a unifying

April 24

the genres of ballet, tap, jazz, musical

will teach youth aged 6–16 to design

LUX AETERNA CONCERT

and build their own arcade-inspired

The Phoenix Chorale will present a

Indian classical dance, belly dance,

game from recycled cardboard. The

virtual broadcast of its concert that

contemporary and more. $20+; youth

workshop, which will be offered

conjures the healing inspiration of

discounts available. 4–6 p.m. Cactus

virtually on Zoom, is designed to

light that shines down upon us. The

Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N.

inspire children's creativity and

broadcast will include a gorgeous

60th St., Scottsdale. 480-625-3900;

give students the opportunity to

choral arrangement of Sir Edward

dancefusionaz.com

develop important avenues for self-

Elgar’s “Nimrod” along with works

expression. Free. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

by Palestrina, Poulenc and texts by

RSVP. visiongallery.org/vision-kids

Walt Whitman. Other highlights will

April 24

TONY DESARE CONCERT Pianist, singer, arranger and composer

of the Great American Songbook,

April 25

LUNCH AND LEARN: RAVIOLI

Chorale for Gabriel Fauré's evocative

Marcellino Ristorante will host a

“Pie Jesu,” taken from his “Requiem.”

cooking class during which chef

Free. 7 p.m. phoenixchorale.org

Marcellino Verzino will teach

Tony DeSare will perform an exhilarating concert featuring music

theater, hip-hop, Broadway, ballroom,

Boys Choir joining the Phoenix

include soloists from the Phoenix

participants to cook a delicious

April 25

pasta filled with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese and topped

as part of Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor

DANCE FUSION SHOWCASE

concert series. $30–$45. 2 p.m. and

Dance Fusion and Dance Fusion

5:30 p.m. Musicfest Performance

delectable lunch of the chef’s dish, a

Teen Division/Dance Fusion Youth

Pavilion at Highlands Church, 9050

fresh organic salad and Marcellino’s

Academy will host a showcase

delicious biscotti. $50. 1 p.m. RSVP.

rock ‘n’ roll, Tin Pan Alley and more

cultural experience that will include

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with sweet butter and fresh sage. After the class, guests will enjoy a

Marcellino Ristorante, 7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale. 480990-9500; marcellinoristorante.com

April 29

VIRTUAL BOOK LAUNCH Changing Hands Bookstore will host a book launch for “The Greatest College Health Guide You Never Knew You Needed.” In addition to authors Dave and Jill Henry, the virtual event will also feature other guest speakers who will share their insight and expertise about how young people can take care of their minds and bodies into college and throughout the rest of their lives. Free+. 6 p.m. changinghands.com

April 30 and May 1

OH SOLO WAINWRIGHT: AN EVENING WITH RUFUS Vocalist, songwriter and composer Rufus Wainwright will perform a concert of songs from his self-titled debut album “Poses” and his second album “Want One.” $55+. 8 p.m. Friday; 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

May 1

FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA CHAMBER PLAYERS CONCERT A select group of the nation’s finest orchestral musicians, led by Maestro Robert Moody and featuring acclaimed soloist Cathal Breslin, will close out Arizona Musicfest’s outdoor concert series. $30–$45. 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Sanctuary Patio at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 480-4228449; azmusicfest.org

May 2

SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT Scottsdale Philharmonic will perform a concert of classical music. $15. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

May 8–Sept. 5

VOICE-OVER: ZINEB SEDIRA Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents an exhibition of the personal and political work of artist Zineb Sedira, who creates work with expansive themes around memory, migration and the archive. Posing important questions on the relation between history and aesthetics, trauma and form, the artist has established herself as a significant voice in a global contemporary art world conversation. $10; youth, student and senior discounts available. Wednesday– Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org Apri l 2021

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ASCENT AT THE PHOENICIAN BREAKS GROUND Replay Destinations recently broke ground on Ascent at The Phoenician, a planned private residential community located adjacent to The Phoenician. Influenced by Camelback Mountain, the luxury residential project will incorporate desert elements into its design, weave in elements of the Jokake Inn to the creation of the community space and pay homage to the region’s cultural landscape with unique interior interpretations. Ascent at The Phoenician, 6900 E. Camelback Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale. 480-5344086; ascentatthephoenician.com

May 11

CAROLYN EYNON SINGERS CHORAL REHEARSAL Carolyn Eynon Singers will host a choral rehearsal that is open to the public. Free. 6:45–9 p.m. North Scottsdale United Methodist Church, 11735 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-529-2630; cesingers.com

LOCAL ARTIST JURIED INTO PRESTIGIOUS SHOWS Scottsdale artist Sherry Blanchard Stuart has been juried into the American Plains Artists Signature Show, the Oil Painters of America’s 30th Annual National Juried Exhibition of Traditional Oils and the 18th Annual Miniature Masterpiece Art Show and Sale. sherryblanchardstuart.com

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NEW TRUSTEES JOIN SCOTTSDALE ARTS

more than $86,000 in one day to benefit the school’s Saints Fund,

Scottsdale Arts recently added four

which provides current-use dollars

new members to its board of trustees.

for tuition assistance, technology and

New trustees include Dino Camuñez,

— this year — sanitation and health

managing director of private banking

supplies to keep students and faculty

at Sunflower Bank; J.P. Dahdah,

safe on campus. ndpsaints.org

founder and CEO of Vantage

Linda K. Peterson, president and

PHOENIX ART MUSEUM DIVERSIFIES COLLECTION

CEO of Executive Solutions for

Phoenix Art Museum has expanded

Healthcare. scottsdalearts.org

its Lenhardt Contemporary Art

Retirement Plans, LLC; professional artist Priscilla Nelson Johnson; and

Initiative, which — made possible

NOTRE DAME PREPARATORY STUDENTS RAISE FUNDS Students in the NDP Live Club at Notre Dame Preparatory in Scottsdale recently hosted an eighthour telethon-style livestream as part of the school’s annual Mardi Gras Giving Day. Students raised

through the support of Valley philanthropists Dawn and David Lenhardt — will now support the diversification of the institution's contemporary art collection. Funding from the initiative will be allocated to acquire works by artists who are contributing to discourses on race, gender and other social concerns that are relevant to the Phoenix

community and society at large — including Black, Indigenous, Latinx and women artists. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-2571880; phxart.org

SUNBURST DEBUTS AT SKYSONG “Sunburst,” a new public artwork whose design and installation was commissioned by Scottsdale Public Art, has joined the city of Scottsdale’s permanent art collection at Arizona State University’s SkySong campus. Suspended by steel columns, “Sunburst” was inspired by a form of a spherical astrolabe — an ancient instrument used to observe and calculate the position of celestial bodies. The artwork’s three steel rings rise above a small plaza and house color-changing dichroic glass panels that reflect and transmit different colors and patterns onto the surrounding area. SkySong, 1365 SkySong Blvd., Scottsdale. scottsdalepublicart.org

THE UPSCALE SINGERS MAINTAIN MISSION Although its in-person performances have been placed on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Upscale Singers’ commitment to musical opportunities for youth has not changed over the past year. The group continued to fund its student vocal scholarship program with the help of a generous grant from Kiwanis Club of Carefree. The program — known as the Cheryl Siebs Memorial Vocal Scholarships — provides young singers in the North Valley with monetary awards for private vocal instruction. This year, a total of $3,000 was awarded to winners. Scottsdale’s premier adult singers anticipate a return to in-person concerts later this year but, in the meantime, have turned to music videos to satisfy their joy of performing and share it with their fans. upscalesingers.com

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Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of Local Jonny's Tavern and Café

In the heart of Cave Creek, a little place called Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café has welcomed visitors since 2014. Jonny Oughterson and his wife, Lauren Van Winkle, took what began as a small café and bar alongside a bike shop and grew it into a full-sized restaurant and outdoor music venue. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the couple had to transform again. Fortunately, they had the support of an appreciative community to help make it happen — and to come back even stronger. “We are a town whose core is the food and beverage business,” Oughterson says. “Every egg we sell directly affects the community and people understand that.” Early in the pandemic, loyal customers would drop large amounts of money into the Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café tip jar. “One gave $1,000,” Oughterson explains. “He lives in Colorado during the summer and said he wanted us to be here when he came back. He was in tears telling me that if I needed anything he would help. I was crying, too. I said, ‘I want to do this on my own, but just knowing you have our back gives me the energy to keep going and to get through this.’ To have people in our corner is all the help I need.” Oughterson and Van Winkle can recount many similar stories of when they have been brought to tears by the generosity of their loyal customers. “Even the mayor came in for a drip coffee and gave us $100 for the employee tip jar,” Van Winkle says. “There were so many people like that. We had so much support without even asking. It’s the only way we made it through. We felt so blessed.”

INNOVATION AND TRADITION

Oughterson and Van Winkle had to get really creative during the pandemic, adding curbside service — which still remains a big part of their business today — as well as selling groceries, amping up social media blasts and shifting from counter-service to full-service. They did everything they needed to do to stay afloat. Despite the challenges, Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café even managed to nab an award last year for the best breakfast spot in the North Valley. Customers eagerly adopted the curbside service the restaurant came up with to meet the demand for their baked goods, veggie breakfast burritos and “Jonny’s Famous” pancakes topped with house-made granola and fresh blueberries. Oughterson, Van Winkle and the entire Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café team put in a lot of pre-pandemic sweat equity to open The Tavern at Local Jonny’s in 2019, taking over the bike shop space and renovating the side patio at great expense. The front porch now has plenty of seating and

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the patio is shaded by trees and canvas sails against a backdrop of new redwood fencing that makes for a cozy feel. Oughterson has plans to install a misting system and fans for the warmer months. Despite the hurdles, increasing outdoor seating was the perfect recipe for adjusting to capacity restrictions as business comes roaring back. The menu — including happy hour specials — was revamped and expanded, with old lunch favorites like fish tacos, salads and juicy burgers now also available at dinner Wednesday through Saturday nights. In the evenings, diners can tuck into new entrees like pan-seared salmon and barbacoa beef roast. “From day one, our motto is that we don’t want to be pretentious,” Oughterson says. “Starting with our coffee experience — I want people to come in and feel comfortable ordering their favorite ‘big chain’style coffee drink or a black coffee. Same with wine. We are upping our wine game, but I just don’t want to have people talking about terroir. We have knowledgeable bartenders without the pretentiousness. We want to keep it ‘Creeky.’”

MUSIC, HISTORY AND OLD FRIENDS

The inviting outdoor space now has live music on Friday and Saturday nights, trivia on Thursday nights and a bring-your-own open mic night on Wednesdays. “We have had a lot of positive feedback, especially from people who are still nervous about going out,” Van Winkle says. “We are taking every precaution and we take it seriously because it’s our responsibility to operate safely. I’m really grateful that we have been able to continue on as we have been and we will keep going. The Cave Creek community has been so good to us.” The side patio is akin to Cave Creek’s backyard, where everyone can feel like a local. The response has been enthusiastic — particularly with the introduction of live music. It’s apropos that entertainment is returning to this, the original location of the legendary Cave Creek Coffee Company and Wine Bar, then affectionately known as C4.

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7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080 Apri l 2021

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“

We wanted a place where our community and likeminded, friendly neighbors could hang out. We wanted to create a spot where people felt welcomed, taken care of and at home amongst friends. Lauren Van Winkle

The venue was known for live concerts and Oughterson has a personal connection to it as he worked the bar and security for many years. Now, he’s put his own spin on the building, even constructing The Tavern’s outdoor tables from the old C4 bleachers. He is excited to bring musical talent from around the Valley back to this historic stage. On the café side, Fire Creek Coffee — roasted by Oughterson’s former boss, Mike Funk — is still brewing. Funk remains a great personal friend and supporter of Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café. “Mike helped us tremendously when we first got this place going,” Oughterson says. “He used to let us withhold payment for coffee in the summers so we could catch up on our bills and then we would pay double during the busy season. He used his own personal money to help us with equipment and helped wherever he could. He said, ‘I’m investing in you guys because I think you’re going to make it.’ We are now his second-biggest account.”

PASSING THE BATON

Van Winkle did the lion’s share of running the business for the first four years while Oughterson took the lead raising their two young children, now ages 3 and 7. Without business or culinary degrees, she says they learned each lesson the hard way as the little eatery grew bit by bit. The couple decided to switch up duties last fall, giving Van Winkle some much-needed time to re-center after an extremely stressful year. “Lauren and I were really lucky,” Oughterson says. “She likes numbers and the business aspect and I am very much a people person; taking care of employees and talking to customers is a big thing for me. She ran the show for four years and was ready for a break, but I still rely heavily on her knowledge and experience.”

FOOD

Local Jonny’s Tavern and Café m a g e sCreek a r i z o n Road, a . c o m Cave Apr ilCreek 2 02 1 | Sunday–Tuesday 8 a.m.–2 p.m. | Wednesday–Saturday 8 a.m.–9 p.m. | 480-488-7473 | localjonnys.com 6033 E. iCave 34

General manager Becca Harding — another long-time local and dear friend — has played a big part in the adjustment and expansion. “Becca does a lot of work to keep Local Jonny’s running smoothly,” Oughterson says. “She’s taken such a big load off of our shoulders. You can teach someone to do a job, but you can’t teach them to care — and she does. It’s neat how we are all from this small town and working together in this industry.” Oughterson and Van Winkle say their loyal customers are still checking in on them. Keeping small, family-owned businesses like theirs is now at the forefront of people’s minds and has been one of the silver linings of a very challenging year — one that pushed both to their limits. But there isn’t an ounce of quit in these dedicated business owners; there never has been. “We never planned on being restaurant owners,” says Van Winkle, a native of Washington state who first met Oughterson when she took his place managing another former town favorite, Fire Creek Coffee, while he worked as a commercial salmon fisherman in Alaska for the summer. “I say we wanted a coffee shop, but aside from that, we wanted a place where our community and likeminded, friendly neighbors could hang out. We wanted to create a spot where people felt welcomed, taken care of and at home amongst friends.” Oughterson and Van Winkle's dedication to the customer experience and their strong community connections have made their vision a reality as they head into an even more successful future for Local Jonny's Tavern and Café. localjonnys.com Apri l 2021

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Rabbits and quail co-exist and get along with each other just fine. Rabbits will sometimes fight with one another, which is why jackrabbits sometimes have holes in their ears, but they get along very well with other creatures. Cottontails can get quite tattered ears because they fight with one another from time to time as well. Samantha Starr

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Samantha Starr

If you live in one of our stunning Sonoran Desert communities and look outside your window at any given time of the day, there is a fairly good chance that you will see a pair of long ears peeking up amongst the wildflowers. Rabbits have become synonymous with peace and harmony, their presence in our yards representing the tranquil beauty for which our North Valley neighborhoods have become known. This month, their significance momentarily intensifies with any one of them capable of being the Easter Bunny, preparing to hide colorfully dyed eggs for our children to find. Therefore, it is the perfect opportunity to celebrate their genial charm. Images Arizona’s photo essay this month showcases a number of wildlife photographer Samantha Starr’s exceptionally charismatic rabbit pictures — many of which she took right in her very own yard. “I have bird feeders, water dishes and a water feature in my yard that are for the birds and whatever other critters that come through,” says Starr, noting that she has seen everything from bobcats and coyotes to javelinas and raccoons wandering around just outside her Apache Junction home.

Of all her wild visitors, rabbits offer some of the most joy as they frolic and play with one another as well as amicably coexist with other creatures like quail and lizards. Cottontail rabbits, with their fluffy white tails and forbearing black eyes, may be the most adorable animals in the Sonoran Desert. Then there are the amusingly wide-eyed expressions on the faces of the far-less-common jackrabbits, whose skyscraper ears are truly a sight to behold. Starr says that although there were two months last summer when three jackrabbits frequented her yard, they are fairly elusive creatures. She adds that your chances of seeing one in the Valley may be best at Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler but maintains that their wariness makes them extremely difficult to find let alone photograph. Fortunately, Starr has the patience, the luck and the skill to capture both cottontails and jackrabbits — the latter of which are actually hares, not rabbits, technically speaking — on camera. She and everyone at Images Arizona hope that their amiable appearance in this month’s issue brings a smile to your face and a happiness in your heart.

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SOURCE OF HAPPINESS Photography has become a form of therapy for Samantha Starr. The hobby and art form has encouraged the Apache Junction resident, who works as a bookbinder, to spend plenty of time outdoors.

I think that if you spend a lot of time watching rabbits, you can pick up on their body language. You can see when they are worried. You can see when they are annoyed. You can see when they are angry. Rabbits have emotions. Those emotions are not on the same level as humans but they are interesting to watch. Samantha Starr

“Sometimes my work can be a little bit stressful and I find that I really enjoy being out in nature, searching for interesting things,” explains Starr, noting that some of her favorite places to explore are Hereford, Sierra Vista, Madera Canyon and Gilbert Riparian Preserve. “Capturing moments and being able to just stare at them and enjoy them longer is a lot of fun and very peaceful.” Moreover, photography has also been somewhat of a saving grace over the past year. Whereas many others suddenly found it impossible to partake in the things that bring them joy, Starr’s source of happiness not only survived but also boosted her physical health. “Photography has gotten me walking instead of just sitting around being a couch potato during this pandemic,” she explains. “I am just glad that I am into something that I am still able to do. If shopping in the mall was my favorite thing to do, then I would have been in trouble this past year.” Photography has also opened the door to new friendships, with Starr receiving tips, support and — most importantly — camaraderie from those in Arizona’s photographer community. It is therefore a very personal piece of her life and one that she is hesitant to put a price on. “I have had a few people ask me if I sell my prints,” Starr says. “That is something that I am still considering. I have not jumped on it yet, though, just because I really enjoy my photography and I am worried that if I turn it into a job then it is going to be something that I am not going to like as much anymore.” Nonetheless, Starr enjoys sharing her photography on social media — and has even developed a bit of a following. “[I] hope that the images bring people smiles,” she explains. “That is one of the main reasons I share my photos on social media. If I can give someone a bright spot in their day then I am accomplishing something. While I enjoy the technical aspect of learning photography and composing nice images, having those images speak to people in some way matters more. If ever people needed a reason to smile or laugh, it is now.”

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I am usually the type who will do bursts of photos and hope that one or two of them come out really nice. It is amazing how you can take a whole group of photos but there are just those one or two that work out right. Maybe in one photo, the rabbit’s eyes are closed or its head is turned so you cannot see its eyes. And eyes are very important in photography.

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ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER Originally from Connecticut, Samantha Starr arrived in Arizona about 19 years ago. She has spent her life in a variety of occupations, initially exploring jobs in the medical industry before eventually becoming a bookbinder for her family’s business — all the while also being a full-time mom. When her son went off to college, she felt compelled to find a hobby to occupy her time. Having always received compliments from friends about the photographs she captured on her smartphone, Starr decided to see what she could accomplish with a real camera. The Apache Junction resident began studying the principles of photography on the internet, learning how shutter speed, ISO and aperture affect exposure. After all, she did not want to spend a bunch of money on a camera just to use it in auto mode.

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“I had no idea what I wanted to photograph, though, so I just bought a camera body and one all-purpose lens that went from 18 to 250 millimeters,” Starr says. “I figured that way I could have something I could do a little bit of everything with until I figured out what my focus was going to be.” Starr then took an online photography class from which she learned the function of every button, switch and menu item on her camera. Then, she simply went outside and started practicing her craft. Before long, she found her focus as she fell in love with nature and wildlife photography — especially bird photography.

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Today, Starr spends just about every weekend outdoors with her camera. Moreover, her camera is in her hand for at least an hour or two every day as she continues to delve deeper into the art form, finding new things to photograph and new ways to see the world around her.

480.463.1696

Facebook: @samanthastarrnaturephotography

**Pricing Expires 5/1/2021 Apri l 2021

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Smokey, a black Labrador retriever who was found at an animal control facility after his owner died, is now a veteran fire dog in Toledo, Ohio.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Marie Peck

Cave Creek resident Marie Peck remembers a call she received some time ago from the mother of a 23-year-old veteran who had recently returned from several tours of Iraq. The young man was struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, refusing to leave his home, eat or even bathe for 16 weeks. He had even attempted to take his own life. The veteran’s mother asked Peck if a visit from a search and rescue dog might lift the young man’s spirits. “I had a beautiful German shepherd that I brought by,” Peck says. “The young man came out and his eyes were directly on the dog. I handed him the leash and there was an immediate change in him. His shoulders dropped as he started asking questions about the dog.” Peck informed the young man that she was the dog’s advocate and, as such, it was her responsibility to ensure that the dog was safe with him and vice versa. “He looked at me straight in the eye, which he had not done to anyone, and he said, ‘Ma’m, this dog will give me a reason to live,’” Peck adds. “His mother fell to her knees when she saw the change in him. He ended up going to college, taking the dog with him, and all is good.” Peck is founder and director of The Fetch Foundation, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to saving lives in the animal and human communities through innovative strategies and unique programs that support, equip and train first responders.

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“

These dogs come from every kind of environment. We vet them, train them and give them a life of purpose. Marie Peck

For the past decade, The Fetch Foundation has worked to provide a safe place for homeless dogs that have been neglected or abused. Moreover, through its Homeless 2 Hero program, Peck has been able to cultivate the untapped potential in canines whose very lives may have previously hung in the balance and give them a career in which they serve a purpose beyond what anyone thought possible.

OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST

HIGH END, LOW-VOLTAGE, OUTDOOR LIGHTING

A LIFE OF PURPOSE

Peck was working as a photographer more than 20 years ago when she started attending training sessions with her brother and sister-in-law — both of whom were FEMA search and rescue canine handlers. Observing the amazing behavior and obedience of the dogs — not to mention their absolutely brilliant noses — she decided to become a handler herself.

LIGHTING, IRRIGATION, LANDSCAPE

www.lettherebelightllc.com (480)575-3204 info@lettherebelightllc.com Licensed | Bonded | Insured

“I was watching my other team members and people from across the United States purchase puppies for upwards of $10,000,” Peck says. “Those puppies would wash out because they just did not have the temperament. I knew that I could go to the pound any day of the week and find a dog of the right age, the right temperament and the right breed and train it to do the job without having to worry about wash out.” Peck implemented that strategy for search and rescue canines and found it to be super successful. “These dogs come from every kind of environment,” says Peck, noting that some are from shelters or even off the street while others have been surrendered by their owners who are no longer capable of taking care of them. “We vet them, train them and give them a life of purpose.”

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Top Left: Mavis, a deaf puppy who was rescued from a hoarding situation, was taught sign language and placed with a young girl who was deaf herself. Bottom Left: Marie Peck is founder and director of The Fetch Foundation, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to saving lives in the animal and human communities through innovative strategies and unique programs that support, equip and train first responders. Bottom Right: Nala, a yellow Labrador retriever who was about to be euthanized for destroying her owners’ home, now works in human remains detection in Prescott.

The Fetch Foundation began placing search and rescue dogs across the country. However, some of the dogs that Peck took in would calm down so much that they could not effectively perform search and rescue duties. Therefore, Peck decided to expand the career opportunities available to them — particularly in service and therapy positions. Since then, dogs have gone on to assist individuals with mobility issues, supply medical alert support and provide stress relief for first responders, including those working in 9-1-1 call centers. Others, like the German shepherd Peck placed with the 23-year-old man mentioned earlier in this story, have become a veteran’s best friend, decreasing the often devastating effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. “We recently placed very large standard poodle that was previously left out in the streets for a gentleman with Parkinson's,” Peck says. “All this man needed was a buddy to help him stand up from a sitting position. This dog had very little training when we got her. Because of her size and temperament, she now lives with this gentleman and has a life of purpose.” The career opportunities are endless. The only constant is the life-saving impact that extends both ways between dog and human — an impact that may have otherwise been impossible without the connection that The Fetch Foundation achieves through its Homeless 2 Hero program.

TALES OF TALENTED TAILS

Although some dogs — especially those in search and rescue positions — stay with Peck, others are fostered out to handlers. The Fetch Foundation’s foster-based approach ensures that a dog does not have to live out its life in a kennel and instead lives in a home as a family member.

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They then go to work each day — just like their human counterparts. “It starts with obedience for some,” Peck says. “Others are smart enough to only need direction once. But sometimes we will get that big, fat, lazy Lab and it will take a little bit longer. But that is OK. We are in it for the long haul.” Speaking of the long haul, Peck adds that once The Fetch Foundation pulls and places a dog, the nonprofit organization is committed to that dog for the entirety of its life, keeping in contact with its handlers and tracking its many success stories on the job. There are inevitably those dogs that, for one reason or another, are unable to progress into careers. Some may never be able to capture the ideal temperament while others may be discovered to have a torn ligament or Valley fever. Peck is adamant that she will never place an unhealthy or unsuitable dog in a career. After all, lives are often at stake. However, The Fetch Foundation will always find an incredible home for each and every one of the dogs that come through the organization. Peck has a treasure trove of tales about the dogs that The Fetch Foundation has placed over the past decade — from Smokey, a black Labrador retriever who was found at an animal control facility after his owner died and is now a veteran fire dog in Toledo, Ohio to Nala, a yellow Labrador retriever who was about to be euthanized for destroying her owners’ home and now works in human remains detection in Prescott. There is also Mavis, a deaf puppy who was rescued from a hoarding situation, taught sign language and placed with a young girl who was deaf herself;

Dr. Seuss, a German Sheprador who was rescued from a domestic violence situation and now accompanies a Phoenix police detective on high-stress calls; and Finnigan, a black Labrador retriever who was abandoned by his owner at a boarding facility and is now a proud member of FEMA Task Force 1 in New Mexico.

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Emma, the first dog for which Peck served as a handler, is a white Labrador retriever who is now retired but first trained in bed bug detection before later being scented over to human remains detection. Peck laughs as she recalls the time Emma detected bed bugs in a Joseph City motel and struck fear in everyone who believed she had detected human remains. Then there is Poppy, a terrier that Peck pulled from another rescue up north. Believing that Poppy was the cutest dog she had ever seen, Peck initially intended on putting her to work in commercials. But she quickly discovered that the dog had a knack for assisting autistic children. “We are talent agents for these dogs,” says Peck, noting that Poppy, now a certified therapy canine, visits a young boy who has difficulty eating due to sensory issues. “That is why we take in the older dogs. We do not want puppy behavior. We want to see what a dog is made of.” And believe it or not, Peck is actually allergic to dogs. She simply pushes through the side effects and has built up her immunity over time, knowing how the work that she does through The Fetch Foundation’s Homeless 2 Hero program greatly benefits so many lives — both two- and four-legged.

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David and Jill Kimmerle believe that they’ve got more than cars to sell. They’ve got experiences to share, and a luxury line of vehicles that deserves a second look, listen and touch. That is why they have launched the nation’s first full-service Sanderson Lincoln Boutique at Scottsdale Quarter.

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Writer Amanda Christmann // Photography by Carl Schultz

As time marches on, so has the way we live. Online ordering and same-day delivery have changed the way we shop, Zoom meetings have eliminated the need for office spaces, and mobile apps have replaced the need to stand in bank teller lines or even sit down at restaurants. In all of our efficiency, we are lacking the one thing we need most: connection. David and Jill Kimmerle haven’t lost sight of the important things — family, friends and community — and they’re betting that plenty of other people feel the same. The Kimmerles, who are best known first for their charitable giving and second as the faces behind Sanderson Ford, are counting on the fact that personal experience will never be replaced, and they’re taking a cue from history.

100 YEARS AGO …

A little over a century ago, the Lincoln Motor Company was struggling. Launched during World War I as an airplane engine manufacturer, the company struggled to transition into peaceful times. In late 1920, about a year after the war ended, Lincoln produced its first automobile — the Model L. Production was slow and profits trickled in even more slowly. Henry Ford purchased Lincoln Motor Company for half of its $16 million value in 1922, and a nowfamiliar name, Edsel Ford, took over much of the

management. His goal was to create a line of luxury vehicles to rival the biggest names of the time — Duesenberg, Marmon, Peerless, Packard and PierceArrow, but he had a long way to go. From its outset, the Model L was considered by many consumers to be too conservative — even outdated. It wasn’t the sleek and fast (relatively speaking) cars that Ford and Cadillac were producing, and it didn’t have the coachbuilt luxury that Duesenberg or RollsRoyce had rolled out. It had yet to find its niche. Edsel Ford rolled up his sleeves and made changes. He didn’t take the route other carmakers were going. Instead, he took a look at what no one else was doing and decided to forge his own path. Other makers were lowering manufacturing costs in order to sell cars as cheaply as possible. Instead, Ford upgraded the Lincoln. He started by building a huge new factory and honed the manufacturing process for efficiency. He spiffed up the design of the Model L and offered customers the same level of customization that made Duesenberg, Marmon, Peerless, Packard and PierceArrow household names in luxury vehicles. They listened to their buyers and built relationships, and their efforts paid off. Within one year, the company turned a profit. The next year, 1924, President Calvin Coolidge could be seen riding in his Lincoln Model L — the first state limousine to be used by a president.

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Whether or not a Lincoln will eventually end up in their driveway really isn’t the point at Sanderson Lincoln Boutique at Scottsdale Quarter. David and Jill Kimmerle are interested in reintroducing the Lincoln name into the luxury car-buying conversation.

By 1930, the Lincoln Motor Company had truly found its place at the top of American carmakers. It had found its own niche and would remain at the top for many years. But time never stops and change is the only constant. In recent years, despite inarguably maintaining “nice” luxury vehicles, the Lincoln brand has struggled to emerge from its pedantic image and onto American roads. Just four years ago, the company re-launched a beautiful new version of its Continental luxury sedan to a market that was moving away from cars and into bolder, bigger SUVs. Though the launch was wellexecuted and with the help of famous Hollywood actor Matthew McCaughey, the brand still struggled to find relevance with buyers. This year, Lincoln execs made the tough decision to switch to an entirely SUV-based lineup. For sellers like the Valley’s Sanderson Lincoln and its CEO David Kimmerle, rolling with the changes has been a challenge; but like Edsel Ford did so long ago, he and wife Jill have done it their own way.

WHAT COMES AROUND GOES AROUND

When local residents hear the name “Sanderson,” they think cars — but they also think community. Sanderson Lincoln and Ford have become synonymous with good works. Countless organizations throughout Arizona that help children or veterans have benefited from the company’s $1 million per year charitable giving goal. In addition, events like the Cave Creek Rodeo, polo matches, Restaurant Week, Fashion Week, and presentations at Musical Instrument Museum have been made possible due in part to the generosity of the Kimmerles.

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In Carefree, the Kimmerles built Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion to bring people together, and the outdoor stage has hosted everything from theater to the annual Halloween festival. Throughout the metro area, they’ve used their gifts and talents to promote the arts, enjoy friends and neighbors, and encourage the one-on-one interactions that have been lost to technology. The Kimmerles believe that they’ve got more than cars to sell. They’ve got experiences to share, and a luxury line of vehicles that deserves a second look, listen and touch. Over the last couple of years as Lincoln redefined their buyer and modified their message, the Kimmerles were less interested in following the flashy new showroom trend that’s taken over auto rows from Los Angeles to New York. They wanted to bring back the personal experience so many of us remember from days gone by. “In the luxury lines, people are automatically going to BMW, Audi and Mercedes,” David says. “But now Lincoln is back with a beautiful luxury product. But who knows about Lincoln? When people are looking for a luxury brand, who says, ‘Let’s go to a Lincoln dealership?’” To encourage the shift, and in the same spirit of innovation that carried Lincoln this far, they launched the nation’s first full-service Sanderson Lincoln Boutique at Scottsdale Quarter. Located among trendy restaurants and fashionable clothing stores, shoppers can step inside the one-of-a-kind shop, enjoy a cup of coffee and experience what sitting in the lap of luxury truly feels like.

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For David and Jill Kimmerle, selling cars is part of the plan but is never the endgame. Ultimately, their desire to do something different and be something better is what has motivated their decision to launch Sanderson Lincoln Botique and to be in the business they're in — the people business.

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Located among trendy restaurants and fashionable clothing stores, shoppers can step inside the one-ofa-kind shop, enjoy a cup of coffee and experience what sitting in the lap of luxury truly feels like. Sure, shoppers can see the company’s four models — including the flagship Navigator, which earned 2021’s MotorTrend #1 Luxury 3-Row SUV of the Year. And, of course, they can take one of those or an Aviator, Nautilus or Corsair for a spin. But beyond that, they can check out what Lincoln is all about in a no-pressure, friendly kind of way that simply isn’t part of the culture at a modern car dealership. “People walk by the boutique and say, ‘Let’s just see it,’” Jill says. “That’s what we want you to do. If you’re thinking about purchasing a luxury car, of course we want you to see Lincoln — but not in a pressured experience.” In fact, even though the boutique is the first in the nation to actually sell cars, there are no salespeople in sight. Each and every one of the boutique’s employees was hired from the hospitality industry, and their focus is solely to share what Lincoln has to offer.

A REFLECTION OF THE COMMUNITY

After more than 100 years of making and selling cars, Lincoln has a lot that makes it stand out. The interior of the Sanderson Lincoln Boutique is a reflection of the community it serves. Visitors can browse art from local galleries, check out local events and updates on a video screen, and enjoy coffee, tea or infused water. They can even

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David and Jill Kimmerle haven't lost sight of the important things — family, friends and community — and they're betting that plenty of other people feel the same.

relax and enjoy the cool air in warm summer months, with no pressure to so much as peek inside the window of a new car. Culinary events, author signings, high-end jewelry and designer premieres complete with champagne and hors d’oeuvres are all in the plans for this fun concept shop. They’ll even bring the fun to your door with in-home cooking or designer demonstrations — all transported, of course, in a beautiful Lincoln. For those who want to check out all Lincoln has to offer, they can touch, see, smell and hear all of the options firsthand. They can also piece together their dream vehicle on a virtual screen while sitting in comfortable chairs. Whether or not a Lincoln will eventually end up in their driveway really isn’t the point. The Kimmerles are interested in reintroducing the Lincoln name into the luxury car-buying conversation. For those who would rather check out a new car from the comfort of their own homes, Sanderson’s got that covered too. Customers can build a car virtually from their favorite chair and a Sanderson hospitality host will bring it right to their door for a test drive or to hand off the keys. Sanderson Lincoln has earned the designation of Lincoln’s top Black Label dealer in the nation; and Black Label service really does surpass expectations. Lincoln staff meets customers where they are — at

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their homes or offices — for service calls, to program garage door openers and key codes, sync phones and gate openers, or to drop off loaner vehicles when needed. Anytime car washes and premium maintenance come standard with Black Label service. Exclusive Black Label themes like Yacht Club, Chalet, Flight and Gala channel buyers’ personalities through mood boards of sorts, packaging premium custom top-end features in stylish and sensible combinations. Even without Black Label additions, people are impressed and are taking another look at a name they may not have considered in the past. For the Kimmerles, selling cars is part of the plan but is never the endgame. Ultimately, their desire to do something different and be something better is what has motivated their decision to launch the boutique and to be in the business they’re in — the people business. And, in the tradition of the innovation that built the Lincoln brand, the Kimmerles are bucking the trend and forging their own path to success. “It all goes together with who we are,” David says. Sanderson Lincoln Boutique at the Scottsdale Quarter 15345 N. Scottsdale Road, #140, Scottsdale 480-572-1400 sandersonlincoln.net

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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Carl Schultz

Donna Cece offers a variety of trail rides through the scenic Sonoran Desert and the foothills of the Tonto National Forest at Arizona HorsebackiAdventures, miles m a g e s a r i z owhich n a . c oismlocated Aprfour il 2 02 1 north of Cave Creek, on the edge of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area.

As I casually meandered around Donna Cece’s Arizona Horseback Adventures property, which is located on the site of an 1870s gold mine, I could not help but feel as though I had been transported back in time to the era of the Old West. I took a moment to enjoy the view of Arizona’s absolutely breathtaking desert landscape from the front porch of Cece’s quaint western ranch. I admit that although I have lived here my entire life, I cannot recall the last time that I simply stood still and appreciated the natural beauty of our majestic mountain vistas. Hearing some scraping of the dirt behind me, I turned to see a 150-pound sulcata tortoise gazing up at me from the ground. The mere sight of such an ancient creature further facilitated my relaxation. It was then that I also noticed a pair of goats, whose enormous eyes epitomized a serene state of mind. Cece suddenly called me over to where she stood, beside the most gorgeous white horse I had ever seen. “This is Destiny,” Cece said. “She is going to take very good care of you today.” A short time later, I was riding Destiny through the very desert that I had previously been staring at in sheer amazement. Located four miles north of Cave Creek, on the edge of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area, Arizona Horseback Adventures offers a variety of trail rides through the scenic Sonoran Desert and the foothills of the Tonto National Forest. The property also features a cute little cantina, which Cece makes available for parties and events. It is Cece’s goal to give each and every one of her visitors a chance to step away from the hectic hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet solitude of a virtually undisturbed wilderness environment on one of her very well taken care of horses, guided by her staff of informative, professional wranglers. “It is a great way to connect with nature and de-stress while outside, breathing in the fresh air in a safe environment,” Cece says.

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It is Donna Cece’s goal to give each and every one of her visitors to Arizona Horseback Adventures a chance to step away from the hectic hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet solitude of a virtually undisturbed wilderness environment on one of her very well taken care of horses, such as Destiny (bottom left).

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FOLLOW WHAT MAKES YOUR HEART HAPPY

Cece has been riding horses since she was about 5 years old. Having grown up in the country part of New Jersey, she had early aspirations of embarking on a career that kept her close to the horses that she so loved. However, at the behest of her parents, she did not pursue those dreams and instead became a physician assistant in orthopedic surgery. “I was working in Manhattan when 9/11 happened,” Cece says. “I went to ground zero and volunteered down there as a medical person for about a week and a half until FEMA came in. That pretty much changed my decisions about life. You see that and you start to want to follow what makes your heart happy as opposed to what makes you money.” Cece then moved to Puerto Rico — where she had previously spent some time surfing, scuba diving and riding horses — and did some horse and dog rescue work there. Having family in Arizona, she frequently visited the Valley, working as a wrangler for Spur Cross Stables. Four years ago, Cece decided to move to Arizona full-time and, in October 2019, she bought the ranch and renamed it Arizona Horseback Adventures. “It was a childhood dream of mine to work with horses and it is wonderful that it came back to that,” Cece says. “I was working with them in Puerto Rico as well but having my own business working with them has always been a dream of mine. I get to make the decisions and care for the horses the way that I know they need to be cared for.”

FOR THE LOVE OF HER HORSES

Of course, although Cece’s dreams were coming true, it could not have happened at a more inopportune time. “We got rained out the weeks of both Thanksgiving and Christmas that year,” Cece says. “Those are two of the biggest weeks that we have.” Then things took a turn for the worse as 2020 reared its ugly head. Because it is an outdoor business, Arizona Horseback Adventures was allowed to remain open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. But, of course, business dropped dramatically. “Then we had to deal with the hottest summer on record,” says Cece, noting that she reduces the number of trail rides during Arizona’s scorching summer months and only operates in the somewhat more mild morning hours. “And the kids camp that my horses normally go to work in the summer was canceled [due to the pandemic] so I had 30 horses left with me to feed.”

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Donna Cece (pictured second from left) is riding her own destiny at Arizona Horseback Adventures. In addition to being a horse person, as she loves her horses with a very caring heart, she is also an absolutely genuine people person as well.

Things went from bad to worse when not one but two wildfires raged in Cave Creek. Cece was fortunate that neither fire damaged the ranch’s property but it was far from a cakewalk evacuating 30 horses as quickly as possible. “The second fire breached the road — our only entrance and exit to the ranch — so we were basically driving out with flames on both sides of us,” Cece says. “I thank God that none of my animals were injured. And I am also so thankful to the community. There were so many people who helped me get my horses out of there.” As business continued to remain sparse in the latter half of 2020, Cece picked up three other jobs so that she could keep some of her more valued employees on staff — and keep Arizona Horseback Adventures afloat. “I waitressed, I bartended and I went out to Colorado to work for another dude string out there,” Cece explains. “I sent money back to Arizona to feed the horses because, after all, I cannot tell them, ‘Sorry, there is no work today so you cannot eat.’” To make matters worse, because Cece was a relatively new business owner, she did not qualify for any of the economic help that was available to other business owners during the pandemic. If it had not been for the kindness of a few community members who donated a few bags of feed and bails of hay to her, Arizona Horseback Adventures may have not survived. “I was not sure if I was going to make it,” Cece explains. “But the two things that kept me going were my love for my business and my love for my horses. I look at each and every animal on my property as one of my babies. They all have a personality, they all have a name and I know and love each and every one of them.”

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A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE

Cece is well aware that many other people in the community — including those with whom she is very close friends — were hit much harder by 2020. She has therefore been hesitant to request help. “There were a lot of other things going on at the same time,” she says. “How do I ask for things when there were two fires with people who had lost their homes? I felt like there were people who were in more dire straits or greater need than myself.” Shortly after acquiring the ranch prior to the pandemic, Cece had begun planning a number of improvements on the property. She intends to one day follow through with those plans but, for now, her priority is making sure that her animals are fed and well taken of. “People who know me know how hard I work and how much I care about these animals,” she says. “When people come out now, they say, ‘Your horses look great.’ That is such a huge compliment to me and means so much in my heart because I work really hard to make sure that they do.” Speaking of Cece’s heart, she has enough space in it for not only her own horses but also others — especially those who have wound up in kill pens. “There is an overabundance of horses now due to people not being able to take care of them and they end up going to a kill pen,” Cece explains. “Kill pens are pretty horrendous places. If no one pays their bond, they go over the border and get made into meat.” Cece recently rescued three horses from a kill pen in Texas, adopting them into her Arizona Horseback Adventures family. She rehabilitated them and now uses them on the trail rides.

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Through Arizona Horseback Adventures, Donna Cece is without a doubt doing what makes her heart happy. And she is a glowing example of how when one follows their heart, they make the world a better place.

EXPERIENCE

Trail Rides m a g e s a r i z o nAdventures a . c o m Apr il 2 02 1 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek | $47+ | 480-488-9117 | arizonahorsebackadventures.com Arizona iHorseback | 44029 60

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It was a childhood dream of mine to work with horses and it is wonderful that it came back to that. I get to make the decisions and care for the horses the way that I know they need to be cared for. Donna Cece

“I feel really good that I got to give these three horses a second chance at life,” says Cece, noting that there are a number of other rescue horses at the ranch as well.

RETURN TO THE RANCH

While riding Destiny, with whom over the course of 90 minutes I felt as though I had developed a very sincere connection, I noticed that it was actually Cece who was riding her own destiny. In addition to being a horse person, as she loves her horses with a very caring heart, she is also an absolutely genuine people person as well. Not only does Cece provide an exceptional experience for her customers — whom she encourages to visit Cave Creek’s other incredible businesses, art galleries and restaurants — but she also greets each and every person she passes on the trails with a smile and a few warmhearted words. Cece is without a doubt doing what makes her heart happy. And she is a glowing example of how when one follows their heart, they make the world a better place. arizonahorsebackadventures.com Apri l 2021

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Writer Shannon Severson Photography Courtesy of Annie’s Flower Truck

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People who are choosing flowers are creating a little memory. We have had people drive up crying or leave crying. Flowers touch us on an emotional level. Ann Barker

There’s just something about a vintage Volkswagen bus that brings a smile to your face. It’s a vehicle that seems to possess a personality all its own and just the sight of one evokes the carefree imagery of beach boys and flower children in simpler times. So why not combine the beloved bus with a sales concept that spreads a little joy around the city? That’s just what Annie’s Flower Truck founder Ann Barker decided to do. Her popup flower business launched in November and the unique approach is driving sales and smiles. It’s a career reinvention for Barker, who had a successful corporate career in event marketing before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “I’m really grateful to have done all the things I’ve been able to do,” Barker says. “I had an amazing career in event marketing and sports marketing. As the pandemic hit, I knew it wasn’t going to be the same — at least not anytime soon. I started thinking, ‘What can I do?’” While scrolling through Instagram, Barker came across photos of women around the world who have flower truck businesses. It was a pandemic-perfect concept: it’s outdoors, it’s easy for people to maintain social distancing and it creates a convenient way to partner with brick and mortar businesses that are eager to draw attention to their location and provide enhanced services. The flexibility of a traveling business also makes Annie’s Flower Truck ideal for private and corporate events. “Every pop-up is a mini-event,” Barker says. “It creates a memorable experience that people want to share with others. I began building the idea and figuring out what it

would look like and what it wouldn’t. I wanted to put some fences around that.” Being Phoenix-based means there are also some guardrails on the seasonality of the business, which she anticipates will be active annually from November through April.

A BIT OF NOSTALGIA

Inspired by a personal mentor who bought flowers for his wife each week from the moment they started dating, Barker has always had an appreciation for the power of a beautiful bouquet. “It’s something anyone can do to brighten someone’s home or office,” she says. While launching and operating a business is no walk in the park, Barker has been able to tailor her plans to her new, slowerpaced life outside of the very busy, nonstop schedule she kept in her previous career. That simplification naturally lent itself to a bit of nostalgia in her choice of vehicle: a 1964 Volkswagen single cab bus in a soft, minty green hue. “My first car was a Volkswagen,” Barker recalls. “I first learned to drive in one. I was drawn to the VW single cab bus and it’s a pretty rare find. As I started my search, I came across a guy in Vacaville, California who is known for restoring old VW buses. He ended up selling me his family’s personal bus. It was meant to be.” The response from the public and the local business community has been enthusiastic. Every Thursday, Barker posts her weekly schedule on Instagram and a monthly calendar on her website, so it’s always easy to find where to buy her blooms. One of her mainstays is right outside Tarbell’s Wine Store on Camelback Road and 32nd Street.

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“We pop up outside Tarbell’s every Friday from 1 p.m. until 4 pm,” Barker says. “People are stopping by to pick up a bottle of wine or golf balls at Van’s, and then come by the truck to pick flowers by the stem. That keeps the price flexible. We wrap each market bouquet in brown paper and tie it with string and off they go. We have many repeat customers.” Tarbell’s is an example of Barker’s business partnerships. This past Valentine’s Day, she and chef Mark Tarbell teamed up for a Bubbles with Blooms promotion. Patrons could pair a specially designed contemporary bouquet with a vintage Pol Roger Brut Rose Champagne. “One of the things Mark has done so expertly during these times is create a takeout model that is extremely good,” Barker explains. “We added this promotion as a Valentine’s option that was convenient and special.” Other locations Barker has paired up with include Sip Coffee and Beer, Melt by Melissa and Sonoran Optima Village in Scottsdale; Carsten Salon in Phoenix; and Liberty Market in Gilbert. “We have a lot of customers who are looking for something different than they can find just anywhere,” Barker says. “We introduce new flowers and many people bring their kids by on the way home from school. It’s a Friday afternoon tradition.”

CREATING MEMORIES

The open, welcoming setup encourages people to get creative. Barker says she likes to let each customer be the expert. She has some men who have made it a habit to come around for flowers every week. They may be hesitant at first, but she encourages starting with what appeals to them or the intended recipient and says she’s noticed that gentlemen often come up with really brave arrangements that are quite amazing.

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Meanwhile, women often pick out flowers to gift to their friends as a gracious gesture or pick-me-up. “People who are choosing flowers are creating a little memory,” Barker says. “We have had people drive up crying or leave crying. Flowers touch us on an emotional level.” While floral design isn’t her bailiwick, she does sell spa bouquets which are quite popular. Stems of baby blue eucalyptus are bound with string and can be hung in the shower; the steam that is created keeps sinuses clear and turns every shower into a spa experience. “When people choose flowers, they’re doing it to give as a gift or to make someone happy or it’s to take care of themselves, which is so important these days,” Barker says. Another frontier for this little bus-thatcould is private and corporate events. Annie’s Flower Truck has booked bridal showers and member appreciation events at private clubs. With so many gatherings happening outdoors, businesses and party hosts can have the truck as a bountiful event centerpiece, giving guests the chance to make their own bouquets to take home as sweet-smelling keepsakes. “Events are my biggest focus for expansion,” Barker says. “I love rotating around on Saturdays, meeting local businesses that we can collaborate with and interacting with the community. As things continue to open up, I would love to work with companies to create memorable employee appreciation events.” As Barker has reinvented her career, Annie’s Flower Truck is transforming the way the Valley buys flowers –– at a groovy little bus that’s creating memories and spreading happiness. anniesflowertruck.com

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Honey Citrus Sheet Pan Chicken This simple-yet-delicious dinner can be quickly prepared for a healthy weeknight meal with very little cleanup required. The combination of honey and citrus in the marinade — which doubles as a sauce — is the perfect match for the chicken and vegetables. Serves: 4

Ingredients: 1/3 cup honey 1/3 cup raspberry orange or blood orange juice 1 tablespoon coconut aminos 1 tablespoon crushed garlic 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro Salt and pepper (to taste) 1 medium red onion (sliced) 1 large sweet potato (peeled and cut into chunks) 3–4 carrots (peeled and cut into chunks) 1 jalapeno (sliced) 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the honey, juice, coconut aminos, garlic, Dijon mustard, cilantro, salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and let marinate while you prepare the vegetables, 20–30 minutes. Add the onion, sweet potato and carrots to the prepared baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes. Remove vegetables from oven and nestle the marinated chicken amongst them on the baking sheet. Scatter jalapeno slices over the pan, drizzle with remaining sauce, season with salt and pepper and place back into oven for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

kyndraclaire.com

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Turn oven to broil for 5 minutes to further brown the chicken and vegetables, if desired. Remove from oven and allow to cool and reconstitute its flavorful juices for 5 minutes before serving.

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