ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO. 3418
Desert Mountain
Carefree
SEPTEM BER 2021
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Cave Creek
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THE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE HEALING & WELLNESS
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Civana Resort - Spa - Sanctuary | 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree, AZ 85377 | drfabio.com
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2 0 2 2 L I N C O L N B L AC K L A B E L
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Phoenix - 2121 W Bell Road Scottsdale - 15345 N Scottsdale Road, K140 SEPTEM BER 2021
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7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. #7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 | For appointments 480.575.8080 SEPTEM BER 2021
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COME DANCE WITH ME Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Arleen Hazen
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COMMUNITY EVENTS Writer Joseph J. Airdo
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STYLISH SIPS Writer Shannon Severson
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AQUATIC TRANQUILITY Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Mark Laverman
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LAKE LIFE Writer Shannon Severson
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NO-BAKE BLUEBERRY PIE Writer and Photographer Francine Coles
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Interior Design Services, Home Furnishings & Fine Art Gallery
Clockwise: “Quail Family,” Trevor Swanson, painting on patina metal, 20” x 30” “My Rabbit Buddies” Amy Lay, mixed media on canvas, 36” x 24” “Raccoons” Bryce Pettit, bronze Ceramic wall plaques Myron Whitaker, ceramics, 8” x 8”
B RY C E
P E T T I T
T R E V O R A M Y
L AY
M Y R O N
W I L D L I F E
S WA N S O N
W I L D L I F E
C O N T E M P O R A R Y W H I TA K E R
B R O N Z E
S C U L P T O R A R T I S T
W I L D L I F E
C E R A M I C
A R T I S T
S C U L P T O R
SUE BICKERDYKE 26 years in Carefree
INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES, HOME FURNISHINGS & FINE ART GALLERY 36889 N. Tom Darlington Dr. Suite B1, Carefree | 480-595-0171 | suebickerdyke.com Hours: Mon. thru Sat. 9am - 5pm Allied SEPTEM ASID BER 2021 imagesar iz ona .c om
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR Joseph J. Airdo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joseph J. Airdo Amanda Christmann Francine Coles Shannon Severson
PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek Carl Schultz
ADVERTISING SALES Shelly Spence 623-341-8221 shelly@imagesaz.com
S
September is the absolutely perfect time to enjoy our state’s many amazing lakes. The monsoon and all of the turbulent weather occurrences that came with it have subsided. The scorching summer heat has also abated to far more tolerable temperatures — albeit ones that still make a dip in the water feel just fantastic. My personal favorite is Bartlett Lake for a variety of reasons. First of all, it features some spectacular amenities, including the Bartlett Lake Marina Boat Club that makes it possible for you to use watercraft ranging in type from pontoons to Sea-ray boats. Its yearly fee is far less than the cost of boat ownership which — when you factor in insurance costs, slip fees, maintenance, repairs and storage — can become quite expensive. Secondly, Bartlett Lake offers some of the most picturesque views Arizona has to offer. Boasting 2,815 acres of water surface, the lake is surrounded by majestic mountains as well as a stunning display of desert plants and wildflowers. Moreover, fishers report having a lot of luck hooking largemouth and smallmouth bass at Bartlett Lake, which is just 17 miles northeast of Carefree — probably the best reason it is my favorite Arizona lake. Bartlett Lake Marina owner and operator Bryan Church is also a friend of mine and an incredibly nice guy who has been committed to preserving and maximizing the potential of this Arizona gem for more than 25 years now.
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 © 2021 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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Among many other stories that showcase our state’s greatness, this month’s issue of Images Arizona includes pieces that dive deeper into Arizona’s lakes (pun intended), offering a look at their recreational opportunities, scenic extravagance and wildlife wonder. It is my hope that these stories encourage you to appreciate and take advantage of our state’s breathtaking bodies of water before summer officially bids us adieu for yet another year. I also want to welcome to our Images Arizona team food blogger Francine Coles, an incredibly creative chef who will be sharing her inconceivably delicious recipes with us each month — beginning with a no-bake blueberry pie that is simply sublime. Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
20 Passenger Party Boat!
Join the Boat Club and teach your kids the fun of water sports!
We rent Jetskis!
U N D E R P E R M I T W I T H T H E T O N T O N AT I O N A L F O R E S T S E RV I C E
SEPTEM BER 2021
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G R A C E
R E N E E
G A L L E R Y
FEATURE
ARTIST
INTRODUCING
Maura Allen
CONTEMPORARY WESTERN ARTIST
Real and romanticized, the West is the center of Maura Allen’s work. Maura’s work is in museum, corporate and private collections in the West—and beyond.
Grace Renee Gallery Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 Summer Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. By appointment Sun. and Mon. 480.575.8080 12
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GraceReneeGallery.com
CONTEMPORARY
ART
GALLERY
CAREFREE
ARIZONA
ABOVE :
LEFT PAGE :
Summer Harvest I, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 32” by 24” Summer Harvest II, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 32” by 24”
Defiance, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 60” by 40”
Historic Spanish Village | 7212 E. Ho Hum Rd. # 7 | Carefree, AZ 85377 Summer Hours: Tue.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. By appointment Sun. and Mon. 480.575.8080
GraceReneeGallery.com
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From left: Natalie Holt, Mary Alice Hegreness, Darlyne Smith, Jan Snow, Mary King, Diana Wilkinson, Arleen Hazen, De Hawk, Mary Cary, Joyce Bridge and Arlene Kamarata
Writer Shannon Severson // Photography by Arleen Hazen
From left: Jeanette Doyle, Jan Snow (hidden”), Diana Wilkinson, De Hawk, Arleen Hazen, Mary King, Arlene Kamarata and Joyce Bridge i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m SE PT E MBE R 2 02 1
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Music is one of the most powerful creative forces in the human experience and dance is the physical manifestation of that force. A talented group of tap-dancing ladies called the Desert Cactus Kickers is proving that dancing is also a lot of fun regardless of one’s age.
are supportive of one other behind the scenes and then there are those famous legs.
Having entertained Valley denizens for nearly 30 years, the women are known for their beautiful costumes, high energy choreography and gorgeous legs — all of which have earned them the nickname “The Rockettes of Arizona.”
It’s that enthusiasm, star quality and sense of fun that has been the soul of the group since its origin.
To be a member of the Desert Cactus Kickers, one must be 50 years of age or a grandmother. The age requirement may be the group’s niche but the incredible talent of its members is what makes it unique. The ladies have performed around Arizona and Nevada, often in Carefree at the Sanderson Concert Pavilion, in parades and competitions and have found particular satisfaction in visiting assisted living and memory care facilities. They even tried out for NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” a few years back –– and got quite a bit of screen time on the show. “It’s a wonderful group,” says Mary King, the director of the Desert Cactus Kickers. “We’ve been going strong for 28 years and we are recruiting new members. We play all around the Valley and we are looking forward to getting back to performing.” Originally a native of California with a background in the entertainment industry, King found the group when she moved to Cave Creek from Prescott. She was looking for a tap dance group similar to one she enjoyed up north. “I walked in on them and could tell it was a much more professional group than my previous one,” she says. “But they were so wonderful and said if it takes you a year to get up to speed, that’s fine. Well, it didn’t take a year, but the group works with everyone. We even had a legally blind woman dance with us. Everyone dances and performs as they can.” A nonprofit performing arts organization, the Desert Cactus Kickers uses the donations they receive to cover costs that include practice space, travel, costumes and a piano player who entertains the crowd during costume changes. Any overflow of funds goes toward visiting locations that couldn’t afford to host them otherwise. It’s all about spreading joy and entertaining the crowd.
“People say, ‘Oh my God! Look at those legs,” King says. “I won’t tell the secret, but it has something to do with spandex.”
THE DANCING QUEEN
The Desert Cactus Kickers began in 1993 with founder Arlene Kamarata. At the age of 87, she’s still performing with this dynamic dance troupe and is known to her proud grandkids as “The Dancing Queen.” “I danced with the Dancing Grannies in Flagstaff one summer,” Kamarata says. “When I came home, I missed it terribly. So my husband, George, said, ‘Why don’t you start your own group? Just put an ad in the paper and see if anybody else is interested.’” Soon, a group of about eight women were meeting at her house and decided to make it official. A dance teacher and studio were located. All they needed was a name. “We used to drive up Cave Creek Road into town and there was a cactus that looked like a dancer with her leg up and arms raised,” Kamarata says. “We took a photo with it and said, ‘Let’s call ourselves the Desert Cactus Kickers.” Over time, the group longed to learn more routines and less back-to-basics teaching since they were all relatively experienced dancers. Kamarata began teaching what she knew from the Flagstaff group, kicking off a tradition of having group members as teachers and choreographers. That’s not to say there weren’t a few doubters, though. “One woman told us we were busting our brains for nothing and that we wouldn’t last three months,” Kamarata says. “I wish I could tell her we are still going strong.” Kamarata has many treasured memories of the group, including how her friends have supported her and how her late husband, George, was dedicated to helping the dancers in whatever way he could. One winter, when the group had nighttime practices at a studio in a dimly lit area, there was an adjacent property that was home to some unsavory characters. George was concerned for the women’s safety.
King says it’s a gregarious and dedicated troupe that is “on” whenever they’re performing. They are hard-working, they
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From left: Jennette Doyle, Joyce Bridge, Darlyne Smith, Arlene Kamarata, Sue Neubauer, Mary Cary, Mary King, Jan Snow, De Hawk, Diana Wilkinson and Arleen Hazen
From left: Sue Neubauer, Arlene Kamarata, Darlyne Smith, Diana Wilkinson, Arleen Hazen, De Hawk, Mary King, Tammy Pistole, Mary Cary and Joyce Bridge
Darlyne Smith, Mary Cary, Jan Snow, Sue Neubauer, De Hawk, Tammy Pistole, Arleen Hazen and Arlene Kamarata
From left: Mary Cary, Mary King, De Hawk, Jan Snow, Arlene Kamarata and Tammy Pistole
“My husband came up every night in the winter,” Kamarata says. “He would walk everyone in, wait in his car with a gun then walk everyone back to their cars. My husband loved these girls so much. He never missed a single show.” When Kamarata suffered personal losses, including her husband’s passing and her sister being killed in an automobile accident, the group was there to support her. “My dancing sisters were so good to me and so wonderful,” Kamarata says. “We are more than just friends; we are more like sisters. It was beautiful.” Kamarata decided to pass the torch to former director Arleen Hazen in 2013 but remains a central figure in the group. “I tell them all the time that I’ll keep dancing as long as they let me,” she says. “Physically and mentally, I feel that it’s helped me. I’m not as graceful as some of them, but I think I’ve held up pretty good.”
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“
We used to drive up Cave Creek Road into town and there was a cactus that looked like a dancer with her leg up and arms raised. We took a photo with it and said, ‘Let’s call ourselves the Desert Cactus Kickers.
SHUFFLE, BALL CHANGE
Hazen found the group in 2003 when she moved to the area and was invited to check it out by a neighbor. “I’d tap danced when I was young and enjoyed it, but it was long gone — or so I thought,” Hazen says. “I said I’d like to try it out and my friend called me the night before practice started and said, ‘We’re going tomorrow.’ I agreed and I’ve never looked back.” Hazen’s creative and technical talents have been a huge contribution to the crew. She began by cueing up CDs for practices and performances and now utilizes digital tunes via Bluetooth. Since the group only practices together once per week during the season, it’s important to have video breakdowns of the choreography primarily by Jan Snow so the women can practice at home. Choreography talent runs deep in this group, so there are also dances choreographed by members Tammy Pistole, Mary Cary and Sue Neubauer. Hazen’s photography skills capture the colorful spirit of the Desert Cactus Kickers’ upbeat performances. When she’s on stage, she hands over the set-up to one of the dancers’ husbands to film and snap pictures. Hazen is also an adept seamstress. “We have done a lot of sewing over the years and sometimes make our own costumes,” Hazen says. “We have a two-man horse I made and we’ve used it in our Christmas show and in a couple of Western dancers. Mary [King] helped me with it. When you put two people inside, it comes alive. We named her Lily the Philly; people really like her.”
Arlene Kamarata When some health challenges began to arise for Hazen, she looked to King to take on the director role in October 2020. She remains heavily involved with the group and is working on the choreography videos for a new routine to the classic, “Singin’ In The Rain.” She says the group typically adds at least two new dances to its repertoire each season and is looking forward to being back in action as pandemic health restrictions ease.
THE MIRACLE OF MUSIC
Something that King, Kamarata and Hazen universally cite as a standout experience is their visits to assisted living and memory care facilities — something that had to be suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Studies show that music memory is the last to go in Alzheimer’s Disease,” King says. “People may not remember their own names, but they remember every word to the songs. They get up and dance. It’s pretty thrilling.” The Desert Cactus Kickers sometimes arrives to see memory care residents quietly slumped in their chairs, heads down and non-reactive. Then, the music starts, the dancers assemble — often with props like lariats, canes, hats and umbrellas. As the troupe taps, spins and kicks, heads raise, eyes twinkle, toes tap and the memories come roaring back. “It’s so rewarding,” Kamarata says. “These people grab us and hold us and thank us. When the music begins and their heads rise and their hands are moving, sometimes it makes me want to cry. You can see they want to get up and dance with you.” That camaraderie and personal satisfaction keep members in the group year after year. Looking back, Kamarata marvels at what began as her dream to dance again. “I keep saying, ‘How in the world did all these beautiful, wonderful women find us?’” she says. “It’s been quite an adventure for me. I’ve already told my kids that if I die on the dance floor, I’ll be doing what I love so I don’t care. My headstone has to say, ‘Come Dance With Me.’ I’ve already told my kids. “We are pretty darn lucky that we got the cream of the crop and it all just fell into place. We are looking for new members, too. We need some new, younger blood and anyone older who can dance. We would love to have them, too, and we will hopefully continue on as the Desert Cactus Kickers.” desertcactuskickers.com
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COMMUNITY
2021 SEPTEMBER
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Sept. 4–Jan. 30
MIMI O CHUN: IT’S ALL CAKE Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present an exhibition featuring New York-based artist and designer Mimi O Chun’s soft sculptures, which capture moments that reflect the world in which we live. $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
Through Sept. 5
SAY GOODNIGHT GRACIE
recently released from a five-year prison sentence for manslaughter,
Fountain Hills Theater takes audiences
times. Arizona Broadway Theatre,
on a guided tour through an American
7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-
PICTURES TELL STORIES: CHILDREN’S BOOK ILLUSTRATIONS
century told through the eyes of George
776-8400; azbroadway.org
Scottsdale Public Art hosts an
finds her second chance working at a restaurant. See website for price and
Burns, who savored each day from his impoverished youth on the lower East side to his career in Vaudeville; his
exhibition featuring artworks
Through Sept. 5
from the collections of two retired librarians — Cathy Bonnell and
marriage to Gracie Allen; and their rise
A STITCH IN TIME
to success on stage, screen, radio and
Inspired by a current exhibition at
of original artworks from picture
TV. See website for price and times.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary
books in their collections and know
Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N.
Art, students from two local high
how these images and books play a
Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-837-
schools have created a series of
vital role for young minds to see and
9661; fhtaz.org
artworks that speak to resilience and
understand their place in the world.
empathy. Free. The ArtReach Space at
Free. Civic Center Public Gallery at
Scottsdale Center for the Performing
Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839
Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale.
N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale.
scottsdaleartslearning.org/exhibitions
scottsdalepublicart.org/exhibitions
Through Sept. 5
THE SPITFIRE GRILL Arizona Broadway Theatre presents a musical about a woman who,
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Through Sept. 20
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Mary J. Wong — who have hundreds
Through Oct. 6
KATALIN EHLING ART EXHIBIT Desert Foothills Library hosts an exhibit of Katalin Ehling’s artwork — from fashion drawings and batiks to watercolors and autobiographical collages. Free. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Through Oct. 17
AND IT’S BUILT ON THE SACRED Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art hosts a full-room installation by local artist Jacob A. Meders. Taking found objects and painting traditional markings of Indigenous people on them, Meders reconsiders how meaning can be layered and reclaimed in these commodities. $10; youth, student, senior and veteran discounts available. See website for hours. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org
Through Nov. 28
FASHION’S SUBVERSIVES Phoenix Art Museum hosts an exhibition that spans the 19th century through today and showcases nearly 40 examples of garments and accessories — from the humble denim jean to the scandalous bikini — that broke from culturally accepted norms and forever changed popular fashion and the fashion industry. $23; youth, student and senior discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-2571880; phxart.org
Sept. 1
DEATH CAFÉ Aspiring to help people make the most of their finite lives, Desert Foothills Library will host a gathering to talk about death and dying. Free. 12:30 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
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Sept. 7–Oct. 15
FOOTHILLS EMPTY BOWLS ART AUCTION The Empty Bowls Project will host an online sale and auction of art and bowls created and donated by members and friends of the Sonoran Arts League. The 22nd annual fundraiser, which benefits Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center, will conclude with a lunch and art auction to honor World Hunger Day 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15 at Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. foothillsfoodbank.com
Sept. 3
HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN CONCERT
specials at Big Earl’s Greasy Eats. Meanwhile, Local Johnny’s will offer a water slide bounce house, live
EXPERIENCE INDIA
music and two full bars with drink
Musical Instrument Museum will
Musical Instrument Museum will
specials. Finally, Bryan’s Barbeque
celebrate the culture of India with
welcome the Western swing–gypsy jazz
will host a character lunch and
live music and dance performances,
trio Hot Club of Cowtown, whose
live music while pinball games and
curator talks and other family-
hoedowns, traditional tunes and
food trucks will be on tap at The
friendly activities. $20; youth
Western swing-inspired music preserves
Eddy. Free. 3–9 p.m. See website for
discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
musical traditions that have often been
schedule and location information.
Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E.
overlooked by the mainstream and
480-488-9129; frontiertownaz.com
Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
alternative music worlds. $38.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-4786000; mim.org
Sept. 4
JAMES MCMURTRY CONCERT
Sept. 6–16
Musical Instrument Museum will
HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICES
welcome acclaimed singer-songwriter
The North Valley Jewish Community
James McMurtry. $33.50+. 7:30 p.m.
Association will celebrate the High
Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E.
Holidays with evening and morning
The town of Cave Creek will host a
Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000;
services for Rosh Hashanah, an
free, family event to benefit Arizona
mim.org
evening service for Kol Nidre and a
Sept. 4
CREEKWEST SUMMERFEST
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Sept. 4 and 5
Foothills 911. Attendees may enjoy
morning and Yiskor service for Yom
shaved ice, a bounce house, drive-in
Kippur. All services will be led by
movies and a full bar with drink
Rabbi Robert Bonem. A traditional
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break-the-fast buffet dinner will follow at the Anthem Country Club for an additional charge. $106; included in annual membership. Call or email Fran Kesselman for dates, times and additional information. The North Valley Jewish Community Association, 39506 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Suite 122-198, Anthem. 623-322-0957; fkesselman@cox.net; nvjca.org
Sept. 7
CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER Hospice of the West facilitators will lead a gathering of caregivers. Free. 10 a.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Sept. 7
JERRY DOUGLAS BAND CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome Dobro guitar master Jerry Douglas, who incorporates elements of country, bluegrass, rock, jazz, blues and Celtic music into his distinctive musical vision. $44.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST
HIGH END, LOW-VOLTAGE, OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Sept. 7–28
LEARN TO DO REALISTIC WATERCOLORS The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a fourweek workshop during which participants will learn techniques for capturing landscapes in fleeting sunlight, quick-sketch plein air pictures, lifelike characters, watercolor postcards and LIGHTING, IRRIGATION, LANDSCAPE
landscape perspectives. $200. 9 a.m. RSVP. The Holland Center,
www.lettherebelightllc.com (480)575-3204 info@lettherebelightllc.com Licensed | Bonded | Insured
34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Sept. 8
VIEUX FARKA TOURÉ CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome guitarist Vieux Farka Touré, who has established himself as one of the world’s rare musical talents with a distinct style that pays homage to the past while looking toward the future. $38.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 9 and 10
KARLA BONOFF CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff, whose songs have become hits for Bonnie Raitt, Wynonna Judd and Linda Ronstadt. $38.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
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Sept. 11–Jan. 16
OSCAR MUÑOZ: INVISIBILIA Phoenix Art Museum will host the first retrospective of work by renowned Colombian artist Oscar Muñoz presented in the United States. The retrospective features a wide selection of roughly 50 works created by the artist over five decades that explore themes of time, memory, history and knowledge. $23; youth, student and senior discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-2571880; phxart.org
Sept. 9 and 28
LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
Sept. 10–26
Desert Foothills Library will host a
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST
book club featuring Louis Bromfield’s
Starlight Community Theater will
production of “Rumors,” a play about
“Early Autumn.” Community members
present its production “One Flew
the fallout over the self-inflicted gunshot
may choose to participate Sept. 9 on
Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” See
of a deputy mayor. See website for
Zoom from the comfort of their own
website for price and times. Starlight
price and times. Fountain Hills Theater,
home or Sept. 28 in-person at the
Community Theater, 1611 W.
11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain
library. Free. 10 a.m. Desert Foothills
Whispering Wind Dr., Suite 9, Phoenix.
Hills. 480-837-9661; fhtaz.org
Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road,
starlightcommunitytheater.com
Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Sept. 10–19
Sept. 10
INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES
RUMORS
Fountain Hills Theater will present its
Sept. 10–26
Desert Stages Theatre will present
SISTAS! THE MUSICAL
its production of “Into the Woods.”
Black Theatre Troupe will present its
INTO THE WOODS
See website for price and times.
production of “Sistas! The Musical,”
Desert Foothills Library will host a
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at
a nonstop celebration of African
screening of “Mustang” from Turkey.
Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback
American women told through Top
Gary Zaro will host a post-screening
Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale.
40 music. See website for price and
discussion. Free. 3 p.m. RSVP.
480-483-1664; desertstages.org
times. Helen K. Mason Performing
Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N.
Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St.,
Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek.
Phoenix. blacktheatretroupe.org
480-488-2286; dfla.org
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Sept. 10–19
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Sept. 11
FUSED GLASS PICTURE FRAME CLASS The Holland Center will welcome glass artist Karen Ledin, who will instruct participants how to make their own picture frame. $50. 10 a.m. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Sept. 11
HYBRID HYPNOSIS The Holland Center will welcome certified hypnotherapist Michele Guy Syne, who will teach participants simple tools to improve one’s quality of life, allowing for lasting shifts in perspective. $45. 9 a.m. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Sept. 11
PETER ROWAN CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome singer-songwriter Peter Rowan, who will perform a concert of bluegrass music. $33.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 11–Jan. 23
FOREVER BECOMING: YOUNG PHOENIX ARTISTS Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present works by emerging Phoenix-based artists. The collection speaks to the resilience and determination of a new generation of artists who expose the complexities of becoming within the rapidly evolving ethos of today. $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 SEPTEM BER 2021
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Sept. 15–18
ARABIAN NATIONAL BREEDER FINALS The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona will host the Arabian National Breeder Finals, rolling out an outstanding halter/breeding showcase that will offer prize money, prestige and opportunities for breeders and Arabian horse enthusiasts. This year’s event, which will include newly added performance classes and foals, will also feature exhibitors selling jewelry, clothing and equestrian artwork as well as food and drink cabanas. Free. See website schedule. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16425 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. scottsdaleshow.com
Sept. 12
Sept. 14
Sept. 14
The Space Healing Center and Local
The Holland Center will welcome Jim
Scottsdale Center for the Performing
Jonny’s will present a sound healing
Sherbert, who will provide a lecture
Arts will welcome civil rights icon
concert during which attendees will
that will encourage participants to
and chart-topping soul/gospel/R&B
take part in various meditative practices
think about who we also need to
pioneer Mavis Staples. See website
that ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating
thank for our freedom. $10. 4 p.m.
for price. 7:30 p.m. Scottsdale Center
afternoon. The healing experience aims
The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th
for the Performing Arts, 7380 E.
to induce a meditative state with crystal
St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-
Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;
bowls, gongs and other instruments.
1090; hollandcenter.org
scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Sept. 14
Sept. 15–Oct. 24
Desert Foothills Library will host a
The Phoenix Theatre Company will
happy hour book club featuring Lama
present its production of “Camelot,”
CRYSTAL BOWL HEALING CONCERT FOR A CAUSE
FOUNDING FATHERS YOU NEVER HEARD OF
MAVIS STAPLES CONCERT
$25. 4–6 p.m. Local Jonny’s, 6033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 602492-6643; thespaceaz.com
Sept. 13 and 27
HEALING PATHWAY
24
GET LIT BOOK CLUB
CAMELOT
Rod Owens’ “Love and Rage: The
an epic story of love and betrayal,
Hospice of the West facilitators
Path of Liberation Through Anger.”
featuring the legendary love triangle
will lead a gathering that will guide
Free. 5 p.m. RSVP. See website for
of King Arthur, Guenevere and
individuals through their personal
location. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
Sir Lancelot. See website for price
process of grief. Free. 9:30 a.m.
and times. The Phoenix Theatre
Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N.
Company, 1825 N. Central
Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-
Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151;
488-2286; dfla.org
phoenixtheatre.com
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Sept. 16
LITERARY SALON
Sept. 17–26
foothills area through education, research and interpretive exhibits. Free.
Desert Foothills Library will host an
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, JR.
informal discussion of books, film
Desert Foothills Theater will present its
and theater, with this month’s focus
production of “High School Musical,
being race relations. Free. 10 a.m.
Jr.,” a stage adaptation of Disney’s
Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N.
hit movie musical. $25+. See website
Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-
for times. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts
488-2286; dfla.org
Center, 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale.
BAROQUE TO THE FUTURE
480-575-2039; dftheater.org
MusicaNova Orchestra will perform
Sept. 17
LITTLE KNOWN WAR STORIES OF WWII
1–4:30 p.m. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. 480-4882764; cavecreekmuseum.org
Sept. 19
a concert featuring music from
Sept. 18
composers of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. $33+. 2 p.m. Musical
Desert Foothills Library will host
LEARN HOW TO DRAW EYES
a screening of “Hell to Eternity.”
The Holland Center will welcome
Gary Zaro will host a post-screening
Nicole McCaigue, who will teach a
discussion. Free. 3 p.m. RSVP.
virtual class during which she will
Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N.
walk participants through the process
CHICAGO
Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-
she uses to create lifelike eyes with
Arizona Broadway Theatre will
488-2286; dfla.org
colored pencils. $40. 10 a.m. RSVP.
present its production of “Chicago,”
The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th
the iconic Broadway musical set
St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-
amidst the decade of the roaring
1090; hollandcenter.org
twenties. See website for price and
Sept. 17–26
PICKIN’ IN THE PINES Flagstaff Friends of Traditional Music
Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 19–Oct. 30
schedule. Arizona Broadway Theatre,
Sept. 18
7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623776-8400; azbroadway.org
Pines bluegrass and acoustic music
RUTHIE FOSTER CONCERT
festival. In addition to a stellar lineup
Musical Instrument Museum will
of musicians, the festival will also
welcome Austin, Texas-based musical
feature educational workshops and
artist Ruthie Foster, who will perform
KANDACE SPRINGS CONCERT
a band contest, camping and kids’
a concert of blues music. $38.50+.
Musical Instrument Museum will
activities. See website for prices and
7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument
welcome Nashville-based singer,
schedule. Pepsi Amphitheater at Fort
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
songwriter and pianist Kandace Springs,
Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill
Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
whose comely alto becomes a conduit
will host its annual Pickin’ in the
Loop, Flagstaff. pickininthepines.org
Sept. 17–26
ARIZONA RESTAURANT WEEK
Sept. 22
that touches upon soul, jazz and pop.
Sept. 18
SMITHSONIAN MAGAZINE MUSEUM DAY Cave Creek Museum will celebrate
$38.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 23
The Arizona Restaurant Association
Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day
will host its 14th annual Fall Arizona
by offering free entry to guests who
BOOKBINDING CLASS
Restaurant Week — a 10-day
present Museum Day tickets available
The Holland Center will welcome Lynda
dining extravaganza during which
at smithsonianmag.com. The 51-year-
Abare, who will teach participants the
participating restaurants around
old museum’s mission is to preserve the
art of Japanese stab bindings. $45. 10
Arizona will offer special three-course
artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture
a.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th
prix fixe menus. $33+. See website for
and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining
St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-
locations. arizonarestaurantweek.com
District and the Cave Creek/Carefree
1090; hollandcenter.org SEPTEM BER 2021
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Sept. 17–Oct. 9
A PERFECTLY PLEASANT PARTY WITH PARSLEY PERIWINKLE Parsley Periwinkle will host a memorably hilarious interactive refresher on how to be social. From party games to zesty conversation, hidden talents to secret desires, Periwinkle will remind guests how much fun it can be to make new acquaintances and questionable decisions. $30. Fridays and Saturdays 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. FilmBar, 815 N. Second St., Phoenix. yesandproductions.org
Sept. 23
VIRTUAL ART BUS: PHOENIX AIRPORT MUSEUM
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
Scottsdale Center for the Performing
Sept. 25
UNDER THE JELL-O MOLD Arts will present writer and actor
Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
The Holland Center will offer a
Jennie Fahn’s solo comedy — told
guided virtual tour of the Phoenix
in anecdotes, characters and song —
HYBRID HYPNOSIS: EMOTIONAL RELEASE
Airport Museum, which includes
about how she dealt with her very
The Holland Center will welcome
an art collection of 900 works
colorful character of a mother during
certified hypnotherapist Michele Guy
showcasing Arizona’s unique artistic
what turned out to be the final act
Syne, who will teach participants
and cultural heritage. $20. 10 a.m.
of her mother’s life. See website for
how to experience emotional release
RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N.
prices and schedule. Scottsdale Center
from stress, fear, bad habits, painful
60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-
for the Performing Arts, 7380 E.
memories, emotional trauma and
488-1090; hollandcenter.org
Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587;
procrastination. $20. 9 a.m. RSVP.
scottsdaleperformingarts.org
The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th
Sept. 23
THE SKATALITES CONCERT
26
Sept. 23–26
St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-
Sept. 24
1090; hollandcenter.org
Musical Instrument Museum will
JULIAN LAGE TRIO CONCERT
welcome The Skatalites, which proudly
Musical Instrument Museum will
presents the music of Jamaican ska.
welcome Julian Lage Trio, whose
RICKIE LEE JONES CONCERT
$33.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument
lyrical writing reveals a love for early
Musical Instrument Museum will
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix.
rock and blues as well as songbook
welcome singer-songwriter Rickie Lee
480-478-6000; mim.org
standards and the bold, memorable
Jones. $54.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical
compositions of jazz idols. $33.50+.
Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo
7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument
Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
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Sept. 25
Sept. 25–Jan. 23
BRAD KAHLHAMER: SWAP MEET Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will present an exhibition in which New York City-based Native American artist Brad Kahlhamer draws inspiration from the ethnographic experience of fieldwork at swap meets throughout the Southwest. $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
Sept. 26
THE SECRET SISTERS CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome Americana and folk duo the Secret Sisters — Laura and Lydia Rogers. $33.50+. 2:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 26
THE SMALL GLORIES CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome roots powerhouse duo the Small Glories, who will perform a concert of folk-pop melody and instrumentation featuring songs of love, loss and environment, delivered with soaring, interwoven vocals on various combinations of stomping clawhammer banjo, guitar and harmonica. $28.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 27
CAVE CREEK MUSEUM DOCENT TRAINING Cave Creek Museum will offer in-person docent training for individuals interested in serving as museum volunteers. Free. 9–11:30 a.m. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. 480-4882764; cavecreekmuseum.org SEPTEM BER 2021
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Sept. 27
CARBON LEAF CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome Virginia quintet Carbon Leaf, whose musical style drifts between Americana, indie rock, folk, bluegrass, Celtic and pop traditions. $38.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 27
TOMMY CASTRO AND THE PAINKILLERS CONCERT
Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Oct. 1–10
Sept. 30–Oct. 3
Fountain Hills Youth Theater will
Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
CAPTAIN PRESTON: THE PIRATE SCOURGE
Musical Instrument Museum
MATILDA, JR.
will welcome guitarist, singer and
Musical Theatre of Anthem will
Preston: The Pirate Scourge,” a story
songwriter Tommy Castro, whose
present its production of “Matilda,
about a pirate and a governor’s bored
repertoire is a dynamic mix of
Jr.,” a story about a special little girl
daughter who join forces to find the
1960s-influenced guitar-fueled blues,
with an extraordinary imagination.
fabled Pearl of Poseidon. $18; youth
testifying Memphis-soaked blue-
$25+. See website for times. Musical
discounts available. See website for
eyed soul and Latin-tinged East San
Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st
times. Fountain Hills Theater, 11445
Jose funk. $33.50+. 7 p.m. Musical
Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001;
N Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480-
Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo
musicaltheatreofanthem.org
837-9661; fhtaz.org
Oct. 1
Oct. 1–10
present its production of “Captain
Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Sept. 29
JIGJAM CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will
The Holland Center will welcome
its production of “Clue.” See website
welcome acclaimed quartet JigJam,
Nicolette Bonnstetter for a virtual
for price and times. Scottsdale Desert
who blends the best of traditional Irish
conversation about the many creative
Stages Theatre at Fashion Square,
music with bluegrass and Americana in
females who have fought and
7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite
a new genre that has been branded as
succeeded against the restraints society
0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664;
“I-Grass” (Irish-influenced bluegrass).
placed on them. $5. 10 a.m. RSVP. The
desertstages.org
$28.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument
Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090;
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CLUE
ART CONTROLLED BY WOMEN
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hollandcenter.org
Desert Stages Theatre will present
Oct. 2
SANDRA BERNHARD: A DECADE OF MADNESS AND MAYHEM Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome performer, actress, singer and author Sandra Bernhard for a unique and raucous mix of cabaret, stand-up, rock ’n’ roll and social commentary. See website for price. 8 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Oct. 2
BLKBOK CONCERT Musical Instrument Museum will welcome uniquely gifted pianist BLKBOK, who uses his dexterous neo-classical arrangements and melodic scores to audibly illustrate experience across pivotal moments in American history. $23.50+. 7:30 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Oct. 3
PABLO ZIEGLER CHAMBER QUARTET CONCERT Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will welcome the Pablo Ziegler Chamber Quartet for a concert of pieces from the band’s latest release “Radiotango.” See website for price. 7:30 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Oct. 4–7
PAINTING A PORTRAIT IN OIL Instructor Susan Lyon will provide instruction on painting from a live model. $795. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Scottsdale Artists’ School, 3720 N. Marshall Way. 480-990-1422; scottsdaleartschool.org
The
Kiwanis
Club
of
Carefree
is
pleased
to
announce
the
promotion of Sandra Carrier to the new position of Executive Director. It is time for this position to be created to guide Kiwanis
Oct. 5–26
LEARN TO DRAW BETTER The Holland Center will welcome Larry Charles for a four-week
into the future. The Executive Director will be the face of Kiwanis and will work with the Board of Directors to ensure the mission, strategy, and goals of Kiwanis of Carefree are achieved. Sandra
Carrier
will
be
responsible
for
developing
and
workshop during which participants will learn techniques for
implementing
drawing proportions, shading, rendering a face likeness and
enhancement of the Club and Foundation’s image by working
more. $200. 9 a.m. RSVP. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St.,
closely with other professionals, civic, and private organizations,
Building B, Scottsdale. 480-488-1090; hollandcenter.org
including the local Towns.
strategic
plans
and
objectives
toward
the
This is a significant milestone in the future of Kiwanis of Carefree
Oct. 6
and a major step forward in our transition toward serving the community
even
more
effectively.
Please
join
LE VENT DU NORD CONCERT
congratulating Sandra Carrier.
Musical Instrument Museum will welcome Le Vent du Nord, whose
Stronger together,
vast repertoire draws from both traditional sources and original
Kimberly Marie Jack, President of Kiwanis of Carefree
us
in
compositions while enhancing its hard-driving soulful music rooted
CAREFREE
in the Celtic diaspora with a broad range of global influences. $33.50+. 7 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
KIWANISCAREFREE.ORG |
KIWANISMARKETPLACE.ORG
SEPTEM BER 2021
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Oct. 1–3
PRESCOTT AREA ARTIST STUDIO TOUR The Prescott Area Artist Studio Tour will feature more than 100 artists throughout the Prescott/Quad-City area, offering attendees an opportunity to visit with the artists, observe the creative process and purchase one-of-a-kind works of art. Numerous mediums will be on display, including painting, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, digital art and more. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. See website for locations. prescottstudiotour.com
Oct. 9
ART MOVES US FUNDRAISER
Oct. 30
HALLOWEEN BOO-BASH
a club or program at elementary, middle and high school levels, allowing students of all age levels to
JoyEful Gallery: Joye DeGoede
The Kiwanis Club of Carefree will
participate in volunteer opportunities.
Fine Art will host an art and wine
host an event featuring festive fun and
foothillscaringcorps.com
reception to benefit the Parkinson’s
games. Free. 10 a.m–5 p.m. Carefree
Foundation. Members of the North
Desert Gardens, 101 Easy Street,
Scottsdale Movers and Shakers team
Carefree. kiwaniscarefree.org
for this November’s Moving Day
FOOD BANK HOSTS SENIOR MARKET DAY
and accept donations. Attendees will
NONPROFIT PARTNERS WITH EDUCATORS
be entered in a raffle drawing for
Foothills Caring Corps this summer
prizes. Free. 3–5 p.m. JoyEful Gallery:
which neighbors aged 55 and over
hosted Cave Creek Unified School
Joye DeGoede Fine Art at El Pedregal
may receive fresh produce and bakery
District’s superintendent, administrators
at the Boulders Resort, 34505 N.
items, health-conscious food boxes
and principals for a day of learning and
Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 760-505-
and individually wrapped frozen
service, focusing on how an ongoing
2563; joyefulgallery.com
meals. Mondays 10 a.m.–Noon.
partnership could benefit the nonprofit
Foothills Food Bank and Resource
organization, neighbors, older adults
Center, 6038 E. Hidden Valley
and persons with disabling conditions
Drive, Cave Creek. 480-488-1145;
as well as provide a fulfilling experience
foothillsfoodbank.com
Phoenix walk for Parkinson’s will be in attendance to recruit participants
for students, parents and teachers.
30
Discussions revolved around forming
i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m SE PT E MBE R 2 02 1
Beginning Sept. 13, Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center will offer a food sharing program through
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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m SE PT E MBE R 2 02 1
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Arizona Game and Fish Department
A
Arizona is currently home to 35 native species of fish — 34 of which have been identified as species of greatest conservation need in our state and 20 of which have been federally listed as threatened or endangered. Although these incredible creatures have adapted amazingly well to many things over the years — most noteablely periods of drought and flash floods — their populations have recently seen sharp declines as a result of climate change, human impact, non-native fish predation and habitat loss and alteration. Conservation is obviously vital. “There is certainly conservation through the lens of recovery efforts of less common species,” says Andy Clark, who serves as the statewide sportfish program supervisor for the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “But there is also conservation through a sportsman's viewpoint, where we encourage things like catch and release and habitat enhancement projects.” Clark says that it is important for people to understand the economics of conservation efforts — particularly how recreational opportunities ameliorate what the Arizona Game and Fish Department can accomplish. “We have got the Endangered Species Act, which is a great piece of legislation but is typically underfunded,” Clark explains. “There are activities that many agree are necessary [to the conservation of our native
species of fish], but it is very difficult to find funding to do those activities. If you incorporate recreational opportunities, you then get some funding as well as some acceptance from a larger group of people who appreciate those species for more than just being on an endangered species list.” In other words, providing fishing opportunities at Arizona’s lakes, creeks, rivers and streams is an essential component to conservation of our state’s native species of fish for future generations.
CATCH AND RELEASE
Two such native species are the Gila trout and the Apache trout — both of which are not found anywhere else in the world but in the desert southwest waters of Arizona and New Mexico. “Those two species are very unique,” Clark says. “Folks from all over the world like the idea of only being able to catch these fish here. There is something special about going to where a species lives, enjoying its habitat, catching one, looking at it up close, taking some pictures and releasing it back into the stream. That is a very satisfying endeavor for people.” The Arizona Game and Fish Department cultures and stocks Gila and Apache trout where appropriate — including in waters near the White Mountains and throughout the central mountains of our state, where they were historically found.
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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m SE PT E MBE R 2 02 1
“We have also branched out into some other places to which they were not historically found but they can provide an added recreational benefit while not impacting other threatened or endangered species as much as a rainbow or brown trout might,” Clark adds. “It is all about having that recreational opportunity so people appreciate catching the native trout in addition to the non-native trout.” Enhancing and promoting native trout fisheries for the Gila and Apache trout promotes awareness and provides funding for things like habitat enhancement projects. Such projects see the Arizona Game and Fish Department add or modify existing habitat structures to increase shading of an area thereby decreasing the temperatures of those waters and creating more pools in which fish can populate. “The roundtail chub — also known as the Verde trout — is another species that is endemic to the Colorado River system,” Clark says. “Roundtail chub are very sporty fish. They readily take lures, are not hook shy and can be quite aggressive so they are a lot of fun to catch. It is just another example of a native species whose numbers have dwindled over the years and one that our department has really tried to promote appreciation of.” Clark adds that catch and release opportunities have been extremely popular in largemouth bass, rainbow trout and other trout fisheries for many years. “Anglers understand that there are more anglers than there are fish,” he explains. “So if you were to harvest everything you caught, we would run out of fish pretty quickly. And it is expensive to raise and stock
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“
Catch and release makes people feel like they are contributing to the conservation of fish species as well as to the preservation of their favorite fishing places. Andy Clark
fish continually. Catch and release makes people feel like they are contributing to the conservation of fish species as well as to the preservation of their favorite fishing places.” One place where catch and release fishing is especially important is Becker Lake, located near Springerville. Stocked with trout that grow to more than 20 inches in length, the lake is designated as a blue ribbon fishery and allows only artificial flies and lures with single-point barbless hooks.
ALL ABOUT BALANCE
Of course, there are some places where harvesting your catches is permissible — such as lakes around Arizona’s rim, some of the desert impoundments in the Salt River chain of lakes, Lake Pleasant and Bartlett Lake. “In those areas, it is certainly fine if people want to take a few fish home and enjoy them on the dinner table,” says Clark, noting that largemouth bass, bluegill and
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i m a g e s a r i z o n a . c o m SE PT E MBE R 2 02 1
channel catfish are among the species that are stocked frequently or have very healthy populations. “It is all about balance.” Therefore, as much as fishing as a recreational activity is encouraged, it is important to research the regulations of any given body of water prior to heading out with your pole. Fortunately, the Arizona Game and Fish Department has made it easy, listing management plans for more than 100 of Arizona’s lakes, rivers, creeks and streams on its website. Clark says that those management plans encompass six different regions throughout the state — each of which possesses unique experiences for anglers. “The fishing opportunities mimic the diversity of our state,” Clark says. “For example, Southeast Arizona has got a lot of sky islands, grasslands and big mountain ranges that spring out of nowhere. The lakes
in that area are surrounded by big oak trees and there are some really special feels to them. The scenery and therefore experience that you get there is much different than you might enjoy in the White Mountains, where it is all about conifers at a higher elevation with alpine-type meadows and flowing water.” Moreover, the Arizona Game and Fish Department also operates a community fishing program that ensures that recreational fishing opportunities are never too far away for any resident, utilizing city park lakes and ponds across Arizona.
UNIQUELY AQUATIC
Ultimately, Clark hopes that residents are aware of just how extraordinary Arizona is when it comes to aquatic species so they are encouraged to keep it that way for future generations. “When you look at the largemouth bass fishing tournaments that get all of the notoriety on TV, a lot of that originated in the southeast part of the country where lakes are no more than 8- to 10-feet deep. When you fish in Arizona, you have got reservoirs that are several hundred-feet deep. “Arizona is a very unique place to fish for the same types of species but with different techniques and environments. People here can catch a world-class flathead catfish or striped bass at 70+ pounds. We also have a very unique population of 5- to 6-pound redear sunfish in the lower Colorado River. That is not the size you see normally throughout the United States. Those are extremely large, unique, trophy-type fish.” azgfd.com
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Writer Shannon Severson
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Cocktails can be simple, containing just two perfectly measured ingredients, or they can be complicated affairs with ingredients that require all manner of muddling, juicing, chopping and even setting aflame. Scaled-down or over-the-top, a quaff is that much more special when the surroundings — and company — are on the sophisticated side. Here in the Valley, high-style spots with heavy design inspiration are attracting patrons and becoming a hallmark of our food and beverage scene. In these spaces, every color, fabric, texture and finish is intentional, and each drink is crafted to delight the eye and the palate.
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FLINT by Baltaire 2425 E. CAMELBACK ROAD | PHOENIX | 602-812-4818 flintbybaltaire.com
Located in the Biltmore neighborhood, FLINT by Baltaire is two experiences in one, with indoor-outdoor spaces on the main floor — which also features executive chef Scott Paget's menu of wood-fired dishes inspired by the Coastal Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions of the world — and a rooftop bar with picture-postcard views of Piestewa Peak and city lights. This spot is a concept launched by the success of Baltaire Steakhouse in Los Angeles and, while the menu by managing director Travis Strickland at FLINT is almost entirely unique to Phoenix, that airy, hip midcentury vibe and wideopen space lend a breezy elegance that definitely hints at its California roots. “FLINT has wood finishes, walnut shutters that draw open and create a seamless transition to the outdoors,” says Amber Jamal Eckerlund, the director of marketing for Alliance Hospitality Group. “The spaces are open and inviting. We utilize a lot of brass finishes and our suspended brass backbar in our interior is an eye-catching centerpiece.” Olive green is a prominently featured color that reflects the Mediterranean concept and there are olive trees on the terrace whose tendrils are placed in vases on the tables. The kitchen and wine room are glass-enclosed so guests can see all the goings-on of the talented culinary crew.
Photos Courtesy of FLINT by Baltaire
Upstairs, the rooftop bar is decorated in sophisticated speakeasy-style with tufted banquets, bentwood bar stools and crystal chandeliers illuminating it all beneath the night sky. Best of all, the outdoor space has a retractable roof so it’s comfortable year-round. While the seating may be allseason, the bar offerings change with the weather. “We really focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients,” explains general manager Tim Hass. “We utilize produce and fresh herbs — many great local products.” Two unique offerings include the Aguita de Melon with Mezcal Naran, rum, Cointreau, thinly sliced cantaloupe, pineapple and lemon and Drop the Beet, a brilliantly purplehued cocktail with Gray Whale Gin, beetroot, fresh ginger, lemon and yogurt for creaminess. Hass says his team is responsible for creating the cocktail recipes together and customers enjoy chatting up the bartenders about what is on the menu or in the works. There’s a great sense of pride amongst the bar team, almost all of whom have been in FLINT’s employ since the beginning. FLINT will celebrate its two-year anniversary this October and anticipates hosting a slew of private events, along with a special New Year’s Eve coursed dinner and rooftop party with a live band sponsored by Veuve Cliquot.
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Zinqué 4712 N. GOLDWATER BLVD, SUITE 110 | SCOTTSDALE 623-745-9616 lezinque.com
Zinqué is a French-inspired restaurant and bar with a charming entry patio shaded by the spreading arms of a leafy-green tree and a warming fireplace for when the weather turns cool. Plenty of outdoor seating invites leisurely enjoyment of cocktails, wine and small plates. “It’s a casual, come-as-you-are, day-to-night place for locals to gather, work and socialize with delicious, approachable food and drink in a beautiful space,” says co-owner Kristin Dossetti. “Meant to feel like a chic friend's home-away-from-home, Zinqué has warm wooden tables, eclectic artwork, a hand-wrought iron storefront, charred cedar and cozy banquettes.”
Photos by Trevor Turk and Courtesy of Zinqué
Zinqué’s interior is dark and cozy, mixed with bright, warm natural lighting and lots of greenery that make the space very inviting. All around are spots to gather by twos or in groups of friends or soonto-be friends. The signature cocktails here are unique, proprietary recipes developed with special attention to the quality of ingredients, visual presentation and flavor profiles designed to pair with the food and ambiance. “We have created recipes using our in-house infused spirits with flavor profiles including kiwi, passion fruit, pomegranate, basil, and cucumber, to name a few, and added our Zinqué twist to classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or Espresso Martini,” Dossetti explains. “So, whether you want the smoky flavor of mezcal balanced with raspberry and hibiscus, the sweetness of passion fruit paired with dill, a spicy Fresno chili margarita or Green Chartreuse mixed with kiwi, we have a cocktail for you. We even created colorchanging infused gin.” The upbeat, hip vibe of Zinqué is upscale but not fussy. Dossetti says the restaurant prides itself in its food, service and ambiance that can be experienced in different ways throughout the day. At 7 a.m., Zinqué opens with an early morning menu offering cappuccino, croissants and other Parisian pastry and coffee delights. Their casual lunch menu has become a favorite for both shoppers and guests who utilize it as a cozy, remote non-work-from-home space. Evening offerings lend themselves to date night or special occasions and Saturdays and Sundays are brunch-ready with mimosas on hand from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. This fall, expect live music on Saturday nights and a special latenight menu.
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Toca Madera 3736 N. GOLDWATER BLVD. | SCOTTSDALE | 480-930-4357 tocamadera.com
wood in the ceiling pieces almost looks like a wave. It’s visual interest that carries through and influences how your eye sees the room. We pour our all into everything.” Photos by Shelby Moore and Courtesy of Toca Madera
Every sense is employed as you take in the scene — a beautiful skylight allows natural light by day. As the sun dips low, the ambiance adjusts, flames light up inside glass fixtures, the overhead lighting dims and the music changes. Johnston describes it as a metropolitan feel, but one that gives a sense of being somewhere else. “It feels like you’re stepping into a really cool place in Mexico City or Europe,” she explains. “It’s dark and dim and very sexy. It holds your attention. You come for two hours and stay for four. A lot has to do with design and decor, but also our food, beverage and service.”
Some of the most memorable experiences are those that transport you from the normal, everyday routine into an environment that is fascinatingly foreign by comparison. Toca Madera is a modern Mexican restaurant and lounge that feels like you’ve stepped into a richly crafted treasure box. “Toca Madera’s creator, Tosh Berman, has implemented an acute attention to detail for each and every aspect of the restaurant,” says Charity Johnston, vice president of operations for Noble 33, the hospitality collective behind Toca Madera. “You definitely see it in the design. There’s a symbiosis that makes it so beautiful and intriguing.” Wood, leather, stone and even rope lend texture that flows from one room to another, accented by sculptural brass fixtures and art in the style of Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos holiday that honors ancestors of the past. The restaurant celebrates the occasion in grand style every Nov. 1. But Johnston says any occasion is made more enjoyable by the thoughtfully curated environment, food and drinks. “Toca Madera means ‘knock on wood’ in Spanish and we use a lot of wood — maple and dark oak, their lines flowing into other materials are very intentional,” Johnston says. The
Dan Whitfield, vice president of marketing, says the environment and Dia de los Muertos style carries through into the carefully crafted “farm to glass” cocktails on offer. The signature Los Muertos cocktail encapsulates the aesthetic and was created to mimic a woman wearing a flower crown and the customary face makeup of the holiday. Hand-selected Reposado Barrel-Select El Tesoro Tequila is the foundation of this cocktail, colored black using activated charcoal in the agave syrup. Fresh lime and blood orange juice add a bittersweet tinge and even the simple syrup is infused in-house with Hibiscus flower. The garnish is a lime wheel topped with a crown of edible flowers. To finish, a sugar cube carved into a skull is set aflame and cinnamon is sprinkled over the top to produce a shower of sparks. “People taste what they see — with their eyes, nose and mouth,” Whitfield says. “Every detail matters. You can’t just have something that looks good and has amazing theatrics if it doesn’t taste good. The look of the cocktail paints the picture and serves as entertainment value. The proof is in the taste.” The Toca Madera team prides itself on the captivating beauty of the restaurant and its commitment to excellent service, entertainment and interactive elements — such as a nighty DJ who is sometimes accompanied by live musicians and overhead aerialist performances.
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MercBar 2525 E. CAMELBACK ROAD | PHOENIX | 602-508-9449 mercbaraz.com
MercBar began its life as a legendary watering hole for the wellheeled in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood. When owner and renowned entrepreneur John McDonald found out there was a space open in his hometown of Phoenix, he jumped at the chance to open a Western outpost. It was 1996, the height of “Sex And The City’s” popularity and its accompanying resurgence of cocktail culture. His business partner in the MercBar — New York native Rick Phillips — looks back on McDonald’s leap as a huge risk, but one that paid off and gave the pair a chance to reimagine the Manhattan location’s Adirondack ski lodge look into something a little different for Phoenician clientele. “We went for a more midcentury desert vibe initially,” says Phillips referencing the wood-paneled ceilings and walls. “It was unintentionally New York. We did that organically. When people come here, it’s a great compliment to hear them say, ‘I don’t feel like I’m in Phoenix. Great design you don’t notice, you just feel. If you just walk into a room and have a good feeling — exciting, interesting, cozy — you’ve achieved something with your design.” Photos by Joanie Simon and Courtesy of Merc Bar
A pre-pandemic remodel actually worked in the bar’s favor as McDonald and Phillips updated the space, adding new and more furniture to create a denser and more intimate — as opposed to just cluttered — space. “We wanted to fill up the spaces and not have blank walls, corners or nooks,” Phillips explains. “We filled it with art, plants and fun objects. We set up the room to have vignettes so each group has their own little living room-style vignette.” McDonald and Phillips have created a decidedly upscale, sophisticated bar with a dress code, doorman and no attitude. The expectation is that patrons who take the time to dress for the occasion will appreciate exactly what MercBar has to offer: a space that evokes metropolitan luxury, a warm glow of lanterns, candles and gold-hued accents illuminating oversized chairs and banquettes in pale pink, deep blue and rich red. “We’re not trying to be for everyone but we’re also not trying to be for a particular demographic or age group,” Phillips says. “There are young people who get it. They dress stylishly and they feel good. It’s aspirational, it’s not about a luxury brand. We’re about the total ecosystem — the drinks, the great music, the consistency of product.” At the bar, patrons can enjoy seasonal and classic cocktails. Beverage
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director Casey Wallin’s summer favorites include the Wild Strawberry Spritz with Aperol Apertivo, Champagne, Wild Strawberry Giffard Fraise De Boise, lime juice and club soda and Thread The Needle, which contains Botanist Gin, Don Ciccio and Figili Finocchietto (fennel), Suze Apertivo and Cocchi Americano. On the horizon for MercBar is an expanded food menu, a private membership club aspect with reciprocity in other cities and a subscription program for wine and spirits that will include community-building events like classes and tastings. Reservations are recommended.
WILD STRAWBERRY SPRITZ Recipe Courtesy of MercBar 2 ounces Aperol Apertio 3/4 ounce Giffard Fraise De Bois (Wild Strawberry) 2 ounces JP Chenet Champagne 1/2 ounce lime juice 1 ounce club soda Ice Freeze-dried strawberries (for garnish)
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Few things on earth are as relaxing as lounging lakeside, wading in the water or simply sitting on a boat, staring at the beautiful light that bounces off the canyon walls. Fortunately, Arizona boasts a lot of lakes in every nook and cranny of the state from which to choose. Created by the damming of Glen Canyon, Lake Powell offers nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline and 96 major canyons. It is the perfect place to go boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, sailboating or waterskiing through waters that straddle the Arizona-Utah border. Meanwhile, Lake Pleasant — formed by the Waddell Dam on the Agua Fria River northwest of Phoenix — is a popular destination that is among the closest lakes to the metropolitan area. In addition to the above activities, adventurous visitors may even scuba dive there. Another lake that does not require an excessively lengthy drive is Bartlett Lake, where fishers report having a lot of luck hooking largemouth and smallmouth bass. Boats and small watercraft can be rented at the lake's marina or you may simply sit lakeside and enjoy some of the most picturesque views Arizona has to offer. Of course, the otherworldly granite boulders surrounding Watson Lake near downtown Prescott certainly give those views a run for their money. Or head to the Arizona-Mexico border and stay overnight at the campsite near Patagonia Lake; take in the stunning scenery and wonderful wildlife during a tour on Canyon Lake; or enjoy an evening jog around Tempe Town Lake, surrounded by the gorgeous lights of a bustling downtown Tempe.
Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Mark Laverman
Nature, travel and adventure photographer Mark Laverman can attest to the ephemeral elegance and transcendental tranquility of each and every one of our state’s lakes and it is our pleasure to share some of his work featuring these bodies of bliss in Images Arizona’s photo essay this month. We hope that they serve as a reminder that summer is almost over — so get out there and enjoy their calming qualities before Arizona’s long-awaited cooler air finally arrives. SEPTEM BER 2021
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A lot of the lakes in Arizona are in canyons so you have got this stark contrast of blue water against sheer reddish-orange rocks. That is super dramatic. I always look for complementary colors when I photograph. My two favorite colors to photograph in one image are blue and orange because they are sort of opposite on the color wheel so they are very complementary. When you get that soft, warm light on canyon walls or red rock against blue water, that is just a beautiful color combination. 46
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Mark Laverman
I was born and grew up around the Great Lakes. When you're in the Midwest, there are all kinds of lakes, and a lot of those little lakes have people living right on them. But in Arizona, there is almost no one who lives right on the shore of a lake because most of them are just dammed-up rivers. Mark Laverman
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We have a little jet ski that we take out to Bartlett Lake. I like going there versus Lake Pleasant because it is a little more canyon-like with not as many people. I like to stay late on Sunday nights, when everybody has left for the weekend and the water calms down. I like to stay till sunset, cruise around and look at the beautiful light on the canyon walls. Mark Laverman
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ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Mark Laverman spent much of his childhood in suburban Chicago, Illinois. He discovered a passion for photography during second grade, at which time he began attending camera club meetings with his father. “He was a dad who did not worry about me using his camera equipment,” Laverman says. “So even when I was a little kid, he let me use his 35-millimeter camera — which was quite exotic back in the 70s.”
Surrounded by forest preserves, Laverman began exploring and photographing nature. He quickly fell in love with the hobby and art form. He even joined his high school’s yearbook club and eventually got to travel, camera in-hand, while in college. Laverman’s parents moved to Arizona in 1985, which introduced him to the state’s photogenic beauty. “I was like a kid in a candy shop,” he says. “I fell in love with Arizona. Being someone who loves nature and the outdoors, I could not believe all of the diversity in this state and how much there was to see and do.” Laverman moved to Arizona full-time in 1988 and, 11 years later, joined the Phoenix Camera Club — a collective of photography enthusiasts that has been in existence since 1932. He is currently the president of the organization. Specializing in nature, travel and adventure photography, Laverman photographs widely in the Southwest as well as in many international locations. He has photographed in more than 25 countries — such as Nepal, Tibet, Cambodia, Peru, Chile, China, Kenya, Tanzania, Turkey and Antarctica, including ascents of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Ararat. Laverman’s images have appeared in numerous national and local magazines, newspapers and books as well as corporate marketing collateral and advertising. They are also included in many private and corporate collections. In 2011, Laverman was named Photographer of the Year by the American Advertising Federation Metro Phoenix in connection with an Arizona Office of Tourism advertising campaign that was entirely based on 16 of his images. marklaverman.com
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Bravada Yachts Photos Courtesy of Bravada Yachts
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Water is healing. It hydrates, cleanses, and soothes the body, mind and spirit. Here in the desert, the presence of water is especially welcome and our Valley is fortunate to have lakes overflowing with active options for the whole family that build indelible memories. Some enjoy lakes now and again, but others truly live the “lake life,” arranging their time and talents around water sports and recreation. There are even those who choose to live on the water part- or full-time. Bravada Yachts makes luxury houseboats in Tolleson and their creations can be found floating on the waters of Lake Pleasant and Lake Powell with more being built for use on Roosevelt Lake and Lake Mead. What makes these houseboats different lies beneath their beautiful exteriors and finishes. The materials used in every aspect of their construction make a difference in resistance to deterioration and overall ease of maintenance. “Team Bravada puts a heavy, laser focus on building safer and more comfortable vessels while leveling up the architectural design,” says Robert Gutierrez, president of Bravado Yachts. “Our team of designers, engineers and fabricators looked at the materials currently used in the industry and asked, ‘Why?’ “[W]e determined we could make them stronger, lighter and reduce common problems that most houseboats have like mold, mildew, rotting wood, low R-values [insulation strength] and low fire ratings. We have solved these problems and with the Volvo Penta partnership, we've seriously improved performance and handling over older Bravada vessels.” Most recently, Bravada’s designers launched the Atlas V-Series on Lake Pleasant with the “Upgrade,” an 80-foot custom vessel with four bedrooms, 2.5 baths, two kitchens and a waterslide. It’s the first million-dollar houseboat on this particular lake. The company has plans to expand its offerings in the near future with wake surf boats and mid-range day cruisers. The growing demand for luxury lake craft like these is emblematic of the growing popularity of time spent on the many sparkling clear waters across Arizona.
Writer Shannon Severson
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Lake Pleasant Photo by George Andrejko and Courtesy of Arizona Game and Fish Department
LAKE PLEASANT
Just off Carefree Highway in the far reaches of northern Peoria, Lake Pleasant Regional Park spans 23,000 acres for recreational uses including camping, boating, fishing, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboard yoga, scorpion hunting and nighttime stargazing by Tony La Conte’s Stargazing for Everyone. Scuba diving is even a popular attraction, with Lake Pleasant being known as one of the top spots for inland scuba diving in the West. Far beneath the 10,000 acres of water, at depths of up to 260 feet, lies the original Waddell Dam along with rock walls, canyons and old structures. Two marinas serve visitors, both with ample parking. Pleasant Harbor Marina is closest to Carefree Highway. Diners can enjoy meals and entertainment at Dillon’s Bayou Restaurant and Bar. There’s also a general store and options to rent all manner of watercraft, have a go at hydro-flying or enjoy the giant waterslide. If you’d rather let someone else take the rudder, there are daily boat cruises and evening dinner cruises. On October 9, the Peoria Country Fest will take over the lake with live performances, bull riding and food trucks. At Scorpion Bay Marina, there are similar rentals for all manner of boats and water toys as well as hiking options and dining at Scorpion Bay Grill. Even if you don’t have your own houseboat, Scorpion Bay plans to introduce overnight experiences in “floating cabins” for the ultimate lake escape. Pleasant Harbor Marina, 40202 N. 87th Ave., Peoria, 623-235-6130, pleasantharbor.com Scorpion Bay Marina, 10970 W. Peninsula Blvd., Peoria, 928-501-2628, scorpionbayaz.com
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Saguaro Lake Photo by Mark Laverman
SAGUARO LAKE
Formed by Stewart Mountain Dam in 1930, Saguaro Lake is the last of the Salt River reservoirs to be built. The 22-mile shoreline is rimmed by mountains and canyon walls and has a bounty of its namesake cactus scattered all around the landscape. Saguaro Lake’s north end has Butcher Jones Beach, a day-use area with picnic areas and a nature trail. You might be surprised by the white sand beach, ready for building sandcastles or a tan. Swimmers splash in the crystal blue water that some compare to the hue of Caribbean waters. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the wild Salt River horses that roam the area. The Butcher Jones Trail begins near the beach and is an easy to moderate 4.9-mile round-trip hike with minimal change in elevation. It’s a very popular trail and a great way to see various lake river vistas, a marshy inlet and many desert plants and trees. Most of the water activity centers around the Saguaro del Norte Recreation site near the dam, which includes the Saguaro Lake Marina. Like the other lakes in the area, there are spots to launch your own boat or rent one for the day, picnic tables and a restaurant — Shiprock Restaurant, which features an all-you-caneat fish fry each Friday evening as well as a seafood-centric menu. If you’d rather take a cruise than hike, fish or manage a boat yourself, Desert Belle Cruises has a 50-year tradition of delighting passengers with its double-decker, air-conditioned cruise. Options include an 80-minute narrated cruise that focuses on the wildlife and desert flora and fauna and a live music sunset cruise. Both options are offered year-round. From October through June, Desert Belle Cruises also offers a wine and music cruise with $5 wine specials and an Arizona craft beer and live music cruise. Saguaro Lake 14011 N. Bush Highway, Mesa 480-986-5546 saguarolakemarina.com SEPTEM BER 2021
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Bartlett Lake Photo Courtesy of Bartlett Lake
BARTLETT LAKE
Bartlett Lake boasts 2,815 acres of water surface for boating just 17 miles northeast of the town of Carefree. Surrounded by mountains and teeming with wildlife, desert plants and a stunning display of wildflowers each spring. The marina here is a family-run operation led by Bryan Church, who has taken on the care of this treasure, making improvements that increase accessibility for visitors to enjoy. In addition to boat and jet ski rentals, there are opportunities to tour around under your own steam by renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. If you’ve got a crowd to entertain, a two-story 45-foot pontoon yacht can carry 20 passengers for a floating party. Onshore, there is space to picnic or camp. If you’re not in the mood to cook, there are two dining options. Oar House serves up soft-serve ice cream, sandwiches, salads, hot dogs and burritos. The Cove At Bartlett has a more expansive menu, including catfish sliders, the Bartlett OG burger and an artichoke with parmesan aioli and chili butter. Something especially unique about Bartlett Lake is its Bartlett Lake Marina Boat Club, a lower-cost alternative to boat ownership. Private membership entails a yearly fee for the use of 14 boats at the marina that range in type from pontoons to Sea-ray boats. The club takes care of things like insurance costs, slip fees, maintenance, repairs and storage. Bartlett Lake, 20808 E. Bartlett Dam Road, Tonto National Forest, Carefree, 480-221-0503, bartlettlake.com
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Canyon Lake Photo by Mark Laverman
CANYON LAKE
Canyon Lake is the smallest of the Salt River reservoirs at 950 acres of water when full, but it has a personality all its own. Yellow bass, walleye, rainbow trout and panfish swim beneath the water and bighorn sheep, deer and javelina can occasionally be spotted amidst the rock formations and steep canyon walls that border the winding fingers of the lake, which create many secluded spots to refresh and relax. Canyon Lake is also a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, scuba diving, camping, swimming at the Laguna Beach area, bird watching, wind sailing or skimming across the lake on Jet Skis and wakeboards. Canyon Lake Marina and Campground has all the usual marina services as well as campsites and RV sites. Tortilla Flat Campground also offers campsites year-round. The lakeside Well Done Grill at Canyon Lake is a familyoperated restaurant that serves up burgers, salads, crab cakes and a best-selling pulled pork sandwich along with a full bar of cocktails and beers on tap. The history of boating on Canyon Lake stretches back to 1925 when the 35-foot S.S. Geronimo could carry 50 passengers with its 35-horsepower engine and a cruising speed of about 15 mph. More recently, the Dolly Steamboat cruise company has been navigating the lake’s waters since 1983. Today, it transports 142 passengers, is 103 feet long and is powered by twin 225-horsepower John Deere marine diesel engines with airconditioned options. Passengers can choose from a 90-minute, six-mile Canyon Lake scenery cruise, a two-and-a-half-hour twilight dinner cruise or an astronomy dinner cruise during which am expert presentation on the solar system is given beneath a sky full of stars that are visible from the deck. Canyon Lake 16802 N.E. AZ-88, Tortilla Flat 480-288-9233 canyonlakemarina.com
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Rock bands are synonymous with free-wheeling, adventurous attitudes and a healthy dose of mischief — and maybe even a rebellious streak. The four Phoenix natives who comprise Promise To Myself, an alternative pop-rock band, are all of those things, but they also have a mile-wide charity streak that runs through everything they do. Lead vocalist and bass guitarist Karl Nagy, rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist Zack Bruge, lead guitarist Brad Stockton and drummer Tony Galvan have made building community and donating to worthy causes part of the culture of their band from its very origin. As high school seniors, they performed their first gig at Rock the District — a band competition fundraiser for Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation. That event connected them with their manager, Stacy Nupoff, and they continued to be part of the fundraiser over the years as judges and mentors for other young musicians.
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Photo Courtesy of VGroup Photography Writer Shannon Severson
“I believe if you don’t use your platform for good, then why have a platform?” asks Bruge, a broad-shouldered guy with a wide smile and easy laugh. “Ours isn’t that big yet, but why not use what we have?” Promise To Myself has continued to build upon that foundation of goodwill and it has had a busy couple of years doing it. In November of 2020, the band played an online “live-a-thon” concert for Family Violence Awareness Month to benefit Wellspring Family Resource and Crisis Centre. This past March, the band released the song “Twenty” to benefit SafeBeat — a program whose mission is to provide affordable, high-quality preventative heart screenings for all active children in an effort to reduce sudden cardiac death in youth. The title of the song references the 20 children who die each day from undetected cardiac arrhythmia.
COFFEE FOR A CAUSE
Most recently, Promise To Myself has released its own coffee brand, Up All Night, in partnership with Expressions Coffee Roasters — an Arizona producer of custom blend teas and coffees. It’s fitting since the band members are self-confessed coffee addicts and their 2018 debut EP, “One For The Runaways,” can be heard at all Dutch Bros locations nationwide. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the RnR Memorial Foundation, which helps kids with a passion for hockey with equipment, fees and camps. RnR Memorial Foundation was founded by Tracy and Brent Stark after Tracy’s sons, Ryder and Radek, were tragically killed by their own father just before Christmas in 2016. Up All Night coffee will share the boys’ story and the mission of the foundation on its packaging. “Promise To Myself is just an incredible group of young men and for them to take on this cause is so amazing,” Tracy says. “When the boys passed away, we took money that people had donated to our family and decided to do something in their name. Hockey is what my kids lived for and now I can help other kids play the sport.
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“My mission is to live their life for my boys and live it to the fullest. I don’t want sad angels. I want them to look down on me and say, ‘That’s my mom and she’s awesome.’” Nupoff connected the band members with the Stark family and the partnership has been going strong since 2018. The band produced T-shirts and a hockey jersey to benefit the foundation. It also hands out heartshaped stickers with the RnR logo, asking fans to take them on their travels and use an identifying hashtag when they post pictures to social media. “Tracy has been a dear friend of mine,” Nupoff says. “When the band was saying they’d like to do something charitable, I introduced them to Tracy — who has a home in Arizona — and they fell in love with each other. The stickers help spread the word about who Ryder and Radek were and now the boys can see the world through everyone else’s eyes. Every year on their birthdays we post a challenge to do something good in their names and post it on social media.”
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Photo Courtesy of VGroup Photography
Promise To Myself released 10 songs in 2020 and filmed several music videos, working with the challenges of social distancing and finding collaborators who were already within their close circle.
Photo Courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography
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I believe if you don’t use your platform for good, then why have a platform? Zack Bruge
The foundation has raised about $12,000 in its hometown of White Court, Alberta, Canada and has helped 10 kids so far. “We are always trying to find ways to help RnR and we have done several fundraisers for them,” says Nagy, whose gregarious personality makes him a frontman who can engage a crowd and communicate for a cause. “They’re top-of-mind. We’d talked about producing coffee for a few years and we wanted to join forces with RnR for the coffee. We designed a hockey jersey with the logo and we are super excited about it.”
COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION
Bruge and Stockton first founded Promise To Myself after meeting in a Pinnacle High School guitar class. They bonded over music and the fact that they both had Bs in their names. They needed a singer and Nagy had the pipes, but not the requisite B — at least at first glance. But once he revealed that his middle name was Brandon, they were back in business and off to a great start. “It’s funny to think that if Karl didn’t have a B in his name we wouldn’t be in the band together,” Bruge says.
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Promise To Myself has released 15 songs over the past three years. The band also signed to The Orchard (Sony), played the Vans Warped Tour and performed at the National Association of Music Merchants — which drew quite a bit of attention.
Photo Courtesy of Harry Buedel Photography
Photo Courtesy of RnR
Most recently, Promise To Myself has released its own coffee brand, Up All Night, in partnership with Expressions Coffee Roasters — an Arizona producer of custom blend teas and coffees. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the RnR Memorial Foundation, which helps kids with a passion for hockey with equipment, fees and camps.
Drummer Galvan is the exception to the B-rule as well as having a different high school alma mater; he attended Paradise Valley High School. The four represent a range of talent, personalities and musical tastes. Stockton, who comes across as thoughtful and quiet, works with Nagy to compose the band’s music while Nagy and Bruge collaborate on lyrics. The focus is on a good hook and trusting that the rest will come together. Their upbeat, poppy but guitar-heavy style is fun and catchy. They avoid pigeonholing their music into any one genre as their own influences are so wide-ranging: Karl favors All Time Low, The Band CAMINO and K-Pop; Zack likes 21 Pilots and Wu-Tang Clan; and Brad listens to rapper Machine Gun Kelly — a diverse collection of influences if there ever was one. Promise To Myself has released 15 songs over the past three years. The band also signed to The Orchard (Sony), played the Vans Warped Tour and performed at the National Association of Music Merchants — which drew quite a bit of attention. Just as the band was prepping for a live show to celebrate the release of its second EP, “I Might Be Crazy,” the COVID-19 pandemic shut down its opportunity to perform at live venues. “When we found out the pandemic was going to cancel our release party, we decided to release it anyway,” Nagy says. “We figured we might as well just keep it out and knew, for the foreseeable future, nothing
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was going to happen. We started doing YouTube videos, skits and livestreams. We began writing the third album right away. We released both ‘killmeslow’ and ‘Changes.’” The band ultimately released 10 songs in 2020 and filmed several music videos, working with the challenges of social distancing and finding collaborators who were already within their close circle. “killmeslow” was filmed in the Nevada wilderness, miles into a dry lakebed. “We didn’t even have an actress for the video,” Stockton says. “My little brother’s ex-girlfriend made the cut. We filmed in the middle of nowhere, which is all you could do in a pandemic. Our director, Daniel Miller, is amazing. He’s shot several of our videos.” With restrictions easing, Promise To Myself is back on stage. The band released its latest single, “C H E R R Y L I M E A D E” in July and, at Images Arizona’s press time, was scheduled to play an August show at The Nile where it planned to integrate trampolines on the stage. It’s that high energy that fuels Promise To Myself’s shows and the band members’ creative process. “We go where the dopamine takes us,” Nagy says. Bruge adds that the band members feel a connection when fans support them. “We can’t do what we do without them,” he says. “We want to help people. If we don’t give back, then we can’t expect much back.” promisetomyself.com
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Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Patricia Brusha
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For the past two years, Patricia Brusha has been honoring the memory of her late daughter, Courtney Michaels, by championing her vision to express compassion for and uplift the many men and women who are taking the daunting-yetcrucial steps to overcome addiction and alcoholism. What began as a seemingly small effort has grown to become a full-fledged nonprofit organization, complete with a charity boutique in Cave Creek where stories of both tragedy and inspiration are exchanged, healing broken hearts and delivering comfort and motivation to carry on to those who need it most. And each story starts with a purse — a simple-yet-essential object that contains many of one’s most treasured personal belongings, gives one something to which they can cling and says to the world, “I have value.”
MOTHER AND DAUGHTER
“Courtney was a bright, intelligent, funny, lively girl,” says Brusha, with very obvious emotion in her voice. “She
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On June 4, 2019, Patricia Brusha’s daughter, Courtney Michaels, passed away at the far-too-young age of 28 after having been diagnosed with stage 4 cirrhosis of the liver from years of alcohol abuse.
sincerely cared about the people in her life. She had a habit of just reaching out spontaneously to let someone know she was thinking about them, cared about how they were doing or just wanting to tell them she loved them.” However, Brusha adds that her daughter experienced difficult times during her life and struggled with alcoholism. “Alcoholism does not discriminate,” Brusha says. “It affects people of all ages, races, financial status, etc. And it affects the whole family.” Having seen some of her friends die of overdoses, Michaels mustered the courage to enter a rehabilitation facility for the first time at age 24. “Over those next four years, she went to rehab multiple times and just had a very hard time beating this addiction,” says Brusha, noting that her daughter spent time at the Renascent Addiction Treatment Centre in Toronto, Canada, and Aurora Behavioural Health System in Tempe in an effort to get better.
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Every purse has a story. When women bring me a purse, they share with me the story behind that purse and tell me their connection to an addiction. Patricia Brusha
At the end of November 2018, Brusha became ill and needed to be hospitalized. She also suffered from alcoholism but saw herself as a “functioning alcoholic.” However, having been told that her hospital stay would be at least a week, she knew that she would experience withdrawals. “Truth be told, I drank every day,” Brusha says. “I never really thought about what a hypocrite I was, always telling Courtney that she had a problem with drinking and yet I never sought help myself.” The day after Brusha was released from the hospital, Michaels was diagnosed with stage 4 cirrhosis of the liver from years of alcohol abuse. Both her liver and her kidneys began to deteriorate at a rapid pace and six months later, on June 4, 2019, Michaels passed away at the far-too-young age of 28.
COURTNEY’S ANGELS
Before Michaels’ passing, she told her mother about an idea that she had. “We had both quit and were both going through programs,” Brusha says. “It was during this time that she really felt that she had beat the disease. She had talked about how she did not feel dignified each time she left rehab, bringing her things out in a plastic grocery bag. “She would call me and ask me to bring her a purse from Goodwill because she felt like she was walking out of prison instead of having just done something good for herself. So she and I started to collect purses, thinking that when people graduate, they need to carry their things out in something that will allow them to have a good first impression to the world.” Brusha explains that although a patient typically enters a rehabilitation facility with very few personal belongings, one tends to accumulate a number of different items SEPTEM BER 2021
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Courtney Michaels’ mother, Patricia Brusha, transformed her heartbreak over losing her daughter to alcoholism into a story of inspiration and compassion for others who are overcoming addiction in their own lives.
during their stay — including prescriptions, journals, pens, workbooks and gifts from visitors. “When you are leaving rehab, you are a different person,” Brusha adds. “But the world has not changed. It is kind of scary. And when you are walking out with things in a plastic grocery bag, you feel very vulnerable.”
However, as Brusha’s home began to fill up with hundreds of purses at a time, she decided to open a Cave Creek boutique in October 2020 that would allow her to not only accept and store donations but also sell some of the more high-end handbags, jewelry and accessories, with proceeds going toward the purchase of the items with which each purse or backpack is filled. It was an instant success.
Michaels aspired to change that, hoping that she could do something that would encourage women to hold their heads high, be proud of their amazing accomplishment and leave with something that showed their value. Unfortunately, Michaels passed away before she could see her vision come to life. But Brusha transformed her heartbreak over losing her only biological child to alcoholism into a story of inspiration and compassion for others who are overcoming addiction in their own lives. “At Courtney’s July 13, 2019, memorial, I asked that, in lieu of flowers, people donate purses,” Brusha says. Brusha and her team of “Courtney’s Angels” received 400 purses that were then donated to Renascent Addiction Treatment Centre, which has approximately 400 graduates per year.
PURSE-IMPRESSIONS
Brusha continued her efforts under the banner PurseImpressions and, since then, has donated more than 2,200 handbags to patients exiting 11 different rehabilitation facilities across the US. Each purse — or backpack, in the case of men — is stuffed with personal hygiene items, makeup, journals, feminine products, socks, hats and a note from Michaels that reads, “In these five minutes, everything is OK.”
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“There are two things that I have learned throughout this journey,” Brusha says. “Everybody knows somebody who is going through an addiction and women have a lot of purses. It really has become the sisterhood of the traveling purse. “Women will spend a lot of money on purses so, when they are done using them, they do not want to just throw them away. They want them to have a purpose. And every purse has a story. When women bring me a purse, they share with me the story behind that purse and tell me their connection to an addiction.” Since opening Purse-Impressions Charity Boutique, Brusha has met numerous people with sad and sometimes even tragic stories — stories of overdoses, children who have passed far too soon and more. “But they feel like there is now a place that they can talk about it,” Brusha says.
ONE RECOVERING ALCOHOLIC AT A TIME
Having heard these stories, Brusha remains more determined than ever to make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction and alcoholism and raise awareness about the seriousness of the problem — which she believes is going unnoticed.
“Cigarettes have been recognized as something that can be detrimental to your health and they have taken away advertising for those but alcohol is still everywhere,” Brusha says. “Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, alcohol was designated an essential service so that people were able to get it to-go. I believe that is because if people did not have it, they would go into detox. “There are still commercials for alcohol on TV and everything is associated with drinking — sporting events, Cinco de Mayo, St. Patrick’s Day ... it is something that is so accepted yet it is such a toxic, dangerous and addictive substance to so many people.” As challenging as it was to lose her daughter — someone who Brusha describes as having been her best friend — she believes that Michaels’ passing has had a silver lining in that it has given her a purpose, a motivation and a drive to change not only herself but also the world, one recovering alcoholic at a time. “It has been my therapy,” explains Brusha, noting that a fundraiser is being planned for November at the Holland Center. “It has given me a way to reach other people and to do something greater than myself and greater than the tragedy. It has taken a lot of courage because it is very scary to say to the world that my daughter was an alcoholic because I feel like that is a reflection on myself. “But that is why I am very proud to say that I am now two-and-ahalf years sober. So it has helped me on my own personal journey of recovery and it has helped me to do things that give back to the world by doing something that was an idea that Courtney had, thereby keeping her memory alive. “We have handed out 2,200 purses and backpacks in the last two years. So we have touched 2,200 different souls out there — which is what keeps me going and helps me survive.” However, it is safe to say that Brusha and, posthumously Michaels, have touched many more than just 2,200 different souls. That number only accounts for those men and women who, upon exiting rehabilitation facilities, have received purses and backpacks courtesy of Purse-Impressions. As Brusha said, alcoholism is a family disease, therefore the efforts of her and the rest of “Courtney’s Angels” have touched the souls of at least quadruple that amount. And if you take into consideration the number of people who have heard Michaels’ story and consequently gained the courage to seek help for their addiction, felt good about where their purse or other donation was going or simply been able to share with Brusha their own story about alcoholism, the total number of souls touched increases exponentially to what is certain to be a staggering total — one that would make Michaels feel incredibly proud and accomplished. purse-impressions.com SEPTEM BER 2021
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No-Bake Blueberry Pie Nobody wants to turn on an oven in the midst of Arizona’s sustained high temperatures. Not only does this no-bake blueberry pie prevent you from having to unnecessarily heat up your home, it is also gorgeous to look at, easy to make and tastes delicious!
Ingredients: For the Crust: 1-1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 sheets of crackers) 6 tablespoons butter (melted) For the Filling: 4 cups blueberries (rinsed and dried) 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons water (divided) 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Pinch of kosher salt For the Whipped Cream: 2 cups whipping cream 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions: Add melted butter to graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl and, using a fork, mix well. You want every crumb coated in the butter as this will be the glue that holds the pie crust together. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and pat flat with your hand. Then use a kitchen glass to press flatter, starting at the center and working out to and up the sides. Set aside. Add 1 cup of blueberries to a saucepan with 1/2 cup of water. Choose any of the blueberries that are soft or slightly bruised for this step. Cover and bring to a boil. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix cornstarch with the remaining 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. When the blueberries and water have come to a boil, reduce the heat to simmer and stir constantly until the blueberries have begun to burst and the juices are starting to thicken, about 3–4 minutes. Continuing to stir constantly, add the cornstarch slurry, sugar, lemon juice and salt to the saucepan. Simmer for another minute or two, until the filling becomes translucent. Immediately remove from the heat and add the remaining 3 cups of blueberries. Carefully pour filling into the pie crust and smooth out the top. Refrigerate for 2 hours.
Writer and Photographer Francine Coles
thefancypantskitchen.com
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Just before serving, beat whipping cream in the bowl of a stand mixer until stiff peaks start to form. Add confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract and blend until just incorporated. Top pie with whipped cream then decorate with additional blueberries and edible flowers.
The MOHR Group
MOHR THAN $300 MILLION SOLD!!
Approximately 2.5 acre View Lot on Majestic Black Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views! You can see Pinnacle Peak and beyond to the East, Camelback and the valley to the South and the sunsets in the West. Twinkling city lights and warm summer breezes are the best from this hillside lot! $850,000
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BLACK MOU FOR SAL VIEW LOTS
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Majestic Blac k Mountain ab utting almos 200 acres of th t e Black Mount ain Preserve! Amazing view s from this bo ulder strewn lot in the pres tigious gated Hawksnest community. $9 95,000
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North Scottsdale-Carefree Office 34305 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266
P. 480-488-2400
$3,350,000 A custom Desert Mountain Tuscan estate with exceptional attention to detail. Reeds & Vandi 480-262-1284
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8 Lots of 4+ acres each - Adjacent to the Preserve - Private in Mountains $ 695K - $1.1M Debbie Omundson, more: www.CarefreeProperty.com
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