Images Arizona: Carefree November 2016 Issue

Hidden

Hills

in the

Carefree

Cave Creek

ECRWSS Local Postal Customer

Desert Mountain

SPECIAL

ARTISTS BILL AND ELLEN LEIBOW November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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Contents

PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

EDITOR/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenn Korducki Krenn

ART DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT Jennifer Satterlee

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ana Petrovic

STAFF WRITER Grace Hill

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Gregory Granillo Stephanie Maher Palenque Shannon Severson Katherine Braden Lara Piu Rebecca Zaner

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Michele Celentano Monica Longenbaker Brandon Tigrett

ADVERTISING SALES Loren Sheck

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

Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2016 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited.

The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.

Hidden in the Hills Special Nature’s Beauty Revealed: Artist Couple Ellen and Bill Leibow Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Photographers Loralei Lazurek P. 104

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Local First A R I Z O NA

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Welcome

I

It’s an annual event that many residents in the Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale communities — not to mention visitors from all over the world — look forward to all year long. Hidden in the Hills, the Sonoran Arts League’s signature event that brings excitement, enrichment and artistic awareness throughout the two weekends that bookend Thanksgiving. This November, the renown studio tour and sale celebrates 20 years.

Stories of the West: Artist Curt Mattson P. 52

Picture this: When the original Hidden in the Hills artist studio tour began, none of the participating artists had a website, and only a handful even had cellphones. Word-of-mouth combined with occasional postcard mailings were the informal marketing strategies to promote the original 44 artists and 19 studios.

And yet, as is always the case when you’re onto something good, the quality of the event spoke for itself. Two decades later, Hidden in the Hills features an astonishing 188 artists at 47 studios, and the League has grown from fewer than 75 to more than 650 members.

Enclosed is this issue is the official studio map for this year’s tour. Whether you’re a Hidden in the Hills newbie or a seasoned veteran, take some time to plan your journey and make the most of every minute the artists have graciously provided to glean insight into their creative process. Great conversations and potentially lifelong connections await you.

Youth Invasion: PGA Junior League Golf Championships P. 22

Congratulations to this year’s event co-chairs, Pat Bell-Demers and Jane Boggs, as well as the many other League members and artists who have helped make Hidden in the Hills such a huge success.

Here’s to the next 20 years … and beyond!

Enjoy!

On and off the road

Baked Gnocchi

P. 98

P. 129

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

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Tenacious

Tumbleweed

Writer Grace Hill

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On a fateful drive through Texas, Walter and Doris Husbands, like many before them, came across a tumbleweed moving its way down the road. Doris, who had never encountered one before that moment, felt unsure about how to maneuver around it. Walter, on the other hand, was quite familiar with tumbleweeds and instructed her to “just drive over it.”

And so she did. But they soon found out that particular tumbleweed wasn’t going to let them pass by without a fight.

About a mile down the road, it was apparent who had won when they pulled the car over and Walter removed the pesky and determined tumbleweed from beneath the car. Doris then made a quick decision that, unbeknownst to them, would forever change their lives. She felt that the tenacious tumbleweed needed to remain with them. So they brought it home and, instead of finding its place in some dark corner of the garage, it became a showpiece inside their house.

“After several years of spray paint and tinsel, Halloween ghosts and Christmas ornaments, our mascot tumbleweed just fell apart into an eclectic display of dried sticks and stems in a beautiful array of colors, resting in the bottom of an old clay pot,” explains Walter. “The first thought in my artist’s brain was, ‘If I can get those bits and pieces to stick together, I can sculpt something unique.’”

A lifelong, self-proclaimed part-time artist, Walter went to work on the tumbleweed. He believed that something beautiful would birth from the broken pieces.

As he started dyeing and pressing the tumbleweed into something that could not only hold together but also be aesthetically pleasing, it was evident that this would be no easy feat.

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Event

Tumblestone Tumbleweed Gems & Jewelry Trunk Show December 2-3 Etania Gems & Jewelry 6140 E. Cave Creek Rd., Ste. 5 Cave Creek

Consequently, what started as a weekend hobby eventually turned into a full-time obsession for Walter. However, the more he failed, the more determined he became to create the art he knew would eventually emerge from the tumbleweed.

Walter was becoming just as determined as the tumbleweed had been that day in Texas.

“The first try failed,” says Walter. “So did the second and third — and so did the 78th! With the needed equipment becoming more complex, supplies costlier and patience waning, my commitment often failed me. But I continued to come back to the vision of tumbleweeds resting in the bottom of that old clay pot.”

Thankfully, Walter continued to believe in his vision, and in September 2012, after those many failed attempts, he created

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his very first “fossilized” tumbleweed. As he cut into the brick, he knew his hard work had paid off.

He says, “When I finally held the very first tumbleweed gem in my hand, with my wife and grandson gathered around, we knew something never seen before had just blinked into existence … and that moment is truly the beginning of my family’s journey.”

That journey eventually led them into developing a family business: Tumblestone Tumbleweed Gems & Jewelry.

Five other family members now work with Walter and Doris. Together, they start the process by gathering mature tumbleweeds from the Arizona desert. After debarking them, they dye the tumbleweeds using vivid, plant-based pigments for color. Once dyed, the sticks become compressed for 30

days, which produces a brick of fossilized tumbleweed.

Lastly, pieces of differing sizes, shapes, colors and grain patterns are cut from the brick. The gems are then used to make vibrant, one-of-a-kind necklaces, earrings, bracelets, brooches, compacts, ornaments and cabochons. Nothing that remotely looks like a tumbleweed.

“I would have never kept a tumbleweed,” Walter says. “I grew up in Arizona and at the time [in Texas], had what I would call a regional, natural distaste for them. That was a long time ago, though. Now when I look at them, I see the story they tell of hard, dusty miles, of endless fence lines and of the lean body of the earth rising to be caressed by the sky.”

It is hard to imagine that Walter might not have taken a second look at that random tumbleweed blowing across Texas, when it now holds such a special place in his and his family’s lives.

And, of course, he sees the remarkable beauty he can create from a bunch of sticks. tumblestonejewelry.com November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Grace Hill

NOV. 4-5

10TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY BAZAAR The annual holiday bazaar at Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church in Carefree will feature more than 70 vendors selling items of pottery, jewelry, artwork, fashions and accessories. Additionally, there will be a Book Nook of gently used books, a Corner Café with breakfast and lunch options, and a Sweets and Treats Shop selling delicious home-baked goodies.

Proceeds from the bazaar will go to community projects focused on making a positive difference. Free.

Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church, 36811 N. Pima Rd., 480-575-5238, oloj.org.

NOV. 4-6

23RD ANNUAL CAREFREE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL

2ND ANNUAL GRAND PRIX OF SCOTTSDALE GATSBY WEEKEND The Roaring ‘20s are back! The public is invited to attend this Gatsby-themed weekend, which includes period 1920s dress and a black-tie gala; a lawn party with wine, spirits, craft beer and restaurant tastings; an exhibition and race of open-wheeled vintage mini racers; a kids’ race and special kids’ zone; and Charleston competitions. The event proceeds will benefit early childhood

More than 150 award-winning fine

programs. 480-527-9779,

artists will showcase their artwork

grandprixscottsdale.com.

in the 23rd annual Carefree Fine

NOV. 5

Art and Wine Festival. Paintings, drawings, charcoals, pastels, sculptures, bronzes and handblown glass are just some of the work that will be displayed.

Featured artist will be oil painter Darrell Thomas. Attendees will also enjoy live music and the tasting of delicious wines, rums and microbrews. Adults, $3; children 18 and younger, free; wine tasting, $10. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Carefree Desert Gardens and Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com.

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LIGHT THE NIGHT FUNDRAISING WALK

This year’s Light the Night Fundraising Walk is hosted by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and will celebrate the survivors of blood cancers through music, entertainment and the carrying of illuminated lanterns. The night, dedicated to bringing awareness to blood cancers, will end with a showstopping display of fireworks.

5-7 p.m. Phoenix Municipal Stadium, 5999 E. Van Buren St., lightthenight.org.

NOV. 2-6

13TH ANNUAL CAVE CREEK WILD WEST DAYS Hosted by the Cave Creek Merchants and Events Association (CCMEA), this family-friendly event will feature all sorts of fun-filled activities, including bathtub races, mutton bustin’, pig racing, cornhole, bull riding, a horseback poker ride and half pie-eating contest. There will also be a bachelor/bachelorette auction with proceeds benefitting CCMEA, a Miss Wild West Days contest, gun raffle, parade and motorcycle run. With music

by Jan Marrou and a special performance from the Prescott Regulators and Their Shady Ladies, it’s sure to be a wild good time. Free. 480-437-1110, wildwestdayscavecreek.com.

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NOV. 5-6

46TH ANNUAL LITCHFIELD PARK FESTIVAL OF ARTS The Litchfield Park Festival of Arts returns for its 46th year.

For two days, art enthusiasts and the general public can peruse original art pieces and crafts from more than 250 fine artists and craftsmen.

There will also be live music and entertainment, delicious food booths, festival eateries, sidewalk cafes and wine

Get Out NOV. 9-13

CHARLES SCHWAB CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

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tasting. Free. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Downtown Litchfield Park, 101 W. Wigwam Blvd., 623-734-6526, vermillionpromotions.com.

NOV. 9

ARIZONA ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY MEETING The latest society meeting features Todd W. Bostwick, Ph.D., RPA, who was a Phoenix

The championship returns to

city archaeologist for 21 years

the beautiful and award-winning

at Pueblo Grande Museum and

Cochise golf course, a Jack

is currently the director of

Nicklaus Signature course at

archaeology at the Verde Valley

Desert Mountain in Scottsdale.

Archaeology Center in Camp

The event will allow fans

Verde. He will be presenting

to watch the 36 top points

“The Megalithic Temples and

leaders of the PGA Champions

Tombs of Malta: Early Religion

Tour. Daily tournament grounds

and Ritual in the Mediterranean,

tickets start at $30 and weekly

3,600 B.C.-2,500 B.C.” Reception

passes are $70. Youth 18 and

begins prior to the meeting

under are free all week when

at 7 p.m. Free. 7:30-9 p.m.

accompanied by a ticketed

Good Shepherd of the Hills

adult. Desert Mountain Golf

Episcopal Church, 6502 E.

Club, 10550 Desert Hills Dr.,

Cave Creek Rd., azarchsoc.org/

schwabcup.com.

desertfoothills.

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NOV. 5

7TH ANNUAL HERBERGER THEATER FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

The Festival of the Arts is a family-friendly event and will include live music, theater and dance performances, a children’s activity area, film shorts, food, pet adoptions, craft beer tasting and more!

Proceeds will benefit the Herberger Theater’s youth outreach programs. Free.

11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., 602-254-7399,

NOV. 11

CAREFREE’S VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION The eighth annual Veterans Day Celebration in Carefree will feature exciting patriotic and military music by Don Morosic and his Main Event Swing Band.

The event will also include life stories from veterans of the armed forces. Light refreshments will be served and Packages from Home will also collect items to send to troops.

Free. 3-5 p.m. Carefree Desert Gardens and Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., 480-4883686, carefree.org.

NOV. 14

TRRFCC FAMILY FUN NIGHT

The annual TRRFCC fundraiser will be held at The Buffalo Chip and will include a bake sale, face painting, raffles, horse painting, silent auction and a chuck wagon dinner.

TRRFCC, which stands for Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship, is a nonprofit organization working to make a difference in the lives of K-8 students through horsemanship.

Free. 5-8 p.m. 480-272-0929, trrfcchorsemanship.org.

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herbergertheater.org.

NOV. 14

FCC CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT The 6th annual charity golf tournament at Mirabel Golf Club in Scottsdale raises funds for the Foothills Caring Corps, a nonprofit organization supporting older residents in the Northeast Valley. The event will also include hole-in-one prize opportunities, raffle prizes, auction items, drinks and hors d’oeuvres. $400. 8:30 a.m. Mirabel Golf Club, 37100 N. Mirabel Club Dr., 480-488-1105, foothillscaringcorps.com.

NOV. 15

CAVE CREEK MUSEUM’S MINER’S DINNER A beautiful night under the stars awaits guests as they dine outside by the historic Golden Reef Stamp Mill at the Cave Creek Museum. After the chuck wagon dinner, guests will be able to see the stamp mill in action, along with watching blacksmiths at work, panning for gold and enjoying the music of Down Home Arizona. The night will also include a silent and live auction.

Reservations requested. $55 per person. 4-8:30 p.m. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr., 480488-2764, cavecreekmuseum.org.

NOV. 18

UNDERSTANDING FLAVORED OILS AND VINEGARS Presented by Merle Lehman, owner of Gourmet Blends AZ, this class will discuss the best barrel-aged balsamic vinegars and citrus- or herb-infused olive oils, plus how to purchase them locally. The class will also include tastings of different oils and vinegars. $19.99.

3 p.m. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Bldg. B, 480488-1090, azfcf.org.

Whether you need to let go of an item that no longer fits in your home or liquidate an entire estate, J. Levine is the easiest and most effective solution for consignment.

November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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NOV. 11-12, DEC. 2-3

ETANIA GEMS AND JEWELRY TRUNK SHOW The November 11-12 trunk show at Etania Gems and Jewelry will feature local jewelry artist Jennifer Hanscom, who beautifully creates sterling silver pieces that are timeless and elegant. The December 2-3 trunk show will feature Tumblestone Gems and Jewelry, which makes oneof-a-kind jewelry pieces from tumbleweeds found around the state. 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Etania Gems and Jewelry, 6140 E. Cave Creek Rd., 602-4290505, etaniagems.com.

NOV. 18-20

DEC. 3

The Big Heap will return for its

Join Santa and his helpers for

last show in Cave Creek and

a holiday event at Las Tiendas.

will feature urban and boho

Guests will meet local artists

furniture, clothing, accessories

at Bryan’s Black Mountain

and exotic relics — something

Barbecue, Western Delights,

you won’t see at every show.

Saddle Up Gallery and Etania

The event will also include

Gems and Jewelry. Guests will

artists, live music, gourmet food

also enjoy the baked goods of

trucks and performances. $7;

Las Tiendas newest addition,

kids 12 and under, free. 9 a.m.

It’s a Divine Bakery Shop. And

to 3 p.m. The Big Heap, 3841 N.

kids will love meeting the Mobile

Schoolhouse Rd., 480-329-6118,

Minis, tiny horses all dressed for

thebigheap.com.

the holiday season. 6-8 p.m. Las

THE BIG HEAP RETURNS TO CAVE CREEK

NOV. 18-20, 25-27

20TH ANNUAL HIDDEN IN THE HILLS The much anticipated Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale of Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale is back and celebrating its 20th year. With more than 180 local artists in 47 studio locations, this year is sure to be a hit! Participants can expect to admire and buy impressive paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more. Free, self-guided tour. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 480-575-6624, hiddeninthehills.org.

NOV. 19-20

AZDANCE PRESENTS A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS A joyous Christmas it will be when guests attend AZDance’s holiday event. Many talented dancers will dance to favorite Christmas and holiday music under the artistic direction of Kenda Newbury. AZDance is a nonprofit professional dance company that integrates professional dancers with those who have different abilities.

Check website for ticket prices, show times and location. 602787-7738, azdance.org.

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SANTA AND FRIENDS HOLIDAY EVENING

Tiendas Center, 6130 E. Cave Creek Rd.

DEC. 9-11

CAREFREE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Save the date! The ninth annual Carefree Christmas Festival will return the second weekend in December. This family-friendly event offers a magical winter holiday in the Arizona desert.

There will be a stunning display of lights, an appearance by Santa, real snow, a holiday gift market, nighttime carriage rides and much more. Free.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Carefree Desert Gardens and Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 100 Easy St., 480-488-2051, carefreechristmasfestival.com.

SONORAN ARTS LEAGUE FINDS NEW LOCATION Sonoran Arts League has found a new home at Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek. Sonoran Arts League executive director Pat Bell-Demers says, “This new space will allow us to consolidate resources into one location and permanently house programs, offices, classrooms, meetings, events and public art spaces.” The address for the new location is 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Ste. 143 and 144. The League’s Gallery at el Pedregal will remain at el Pedregal. For more information, visit sonoranartsleague.org.

MAGIC BIRD FESTIVALS ANNOUNCES 2016-17 SCHEDULE Magic Bird Festivals is happy to announce the schedule for their popular Southwestinspired festivals, featuring live music and performances, international cuisine and artist exhibits. The schedule is as follows: Carefree Southwest Art and Indian Market, November 25-27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 9th Annual Carefree Christmas Festival, December 9-11, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday; and Carefree Artisan Gifts and Chocolate Festival, February 10-12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit carefreeazfestivals.com or call 480-488-2014.

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NOV. 19

3RD ANNUAL AMERICAN MADE MATTERS DAY Support American-made products during Watson’s Hat Shop’s third annual American Made Matters Day. The event will showcase the high-quality hats manufactured and built right inside Watson’s Hat Shop, and will also feature American-made watches by professional watchmakers A.M. Cook Wristwatch. Also included in the evenings activities will be raffle prizes and food and drink selections by Indigo Crow. Watson’s Hat Shop is the Arizona ambassador for the American Made Matters organization. Free. 4-8 p.m.

Watson’s Hat Shop, 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd., Ste. 148, 480595-9777, watsonshatshop.com.

ARIZONA MUSICFEST KICKS OFF 26TH SEASON Arizona Musicfest is better than ever before! Starting off the season, from October 28 through November 7, is Arizona Musicfest’s inaugural Fall Fest, a four-concert schedule featuring Melissa Manchester and the Midtown Men: The Original Cast of Broadway’s Jersey’s Boys.

New and old patrons can also expect 23 concerts throughout the season, which includes Chris Botti, Mirage: Visions of Fleetwood Mac, The Manhattan Transfer, A Broadway Romance and many more. For more information on ticket prices, show times and locations, visit azmusicfest.org or call 480-8400457.

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL AWARDS CASH GRANTS The Soroptimist Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women provides cash grants to women who are bettering their lives through additional schooling and skills training.

To be eligible for the award, applicants must be women who provide primary financial responsibility for themselves and their dependents; attend an undergraduate degree program or a vocational skills training program; and need financial assistance. The application deadline is November 15, 2016.

For more information, contact Cynthia Driskell at 480-488-9095 or cdpt@aol.com.

American Made

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NEW BUTCHER SHOP OPENS IN CAREFREE A new whole animal butcher shop, The Meat Market, opened in Carefree this past October.

Shoppers looking for healthy and delicious protein will find natural, local, pasture-raised beef, pork, chicken and lamb at The Meat Market. In addition, they will have access to dry aging, custom cuts, handmade sausage and grab-and-grill meats. Hours of operation: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed Mondays.

For more information, visit themeatmarketcc.com or call 480-575-4358.

CRAIG BILLIARDS OPENS IN SCOTTSDALE Craig Connelly, who previously owned and operated Connelly Billiards, is back in business with his new company, Craig Billiards. The American-made, high-quality pool tables found in Craig’s showroom are the perfect addition to any home.

Craig offers several tables that will suit an individual’s style and taste, including classic designs, modern designs, rustic tables, designer series and more. For more information, visit craigbilliards.com.

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PGA Junior League Championships

Writer Greg Granillo Photography by Lonna Tucker

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W

We’ve been hearing about it for years now — play is down at courses across the nation, equipment sales are tanking and the demise of the game of golf is upon us. As if that weren’t bad enough, according to the National Golf Foundation, the number of golfers in the U.S. dropped from a high of 30.6 million golfers in 2003 to 24.7 million in 2014.

In response to these numbers, the PGA of America has spent the last few years searching for new ways to appeal to the country’s next generation of golfers.

Enter PGA Junior League Golf.

It’s one of the game’s fastest-growing programs, and Grayhawk Golf Club is rolling out the red carpet for the league’s championship matches November 19-21.

5 TH ANNUAL CAREFREE

November 25 - 27, 2016 ( Friday, Saturday & Sunday )

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Carefree Desert Garden 100 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ

FREE ADMISSION - Vetted Southwestern and Native American Fine Arts and Crafts - Live Music and Native Hoop Dancing - Tasty Food Concessions

magicbirdfestivals.com | 480-488-2014

“We’re honored to host the 2016 PGA Junior League Golf Championship,” says Joe Shershenovich, Grayhawk Golf Club PGA director of golf.

“Growing the game of golf is a goal we all share, and hosting this championship is a great opportunity for junior golf in Arizona.”

What is PGA Junior League Golf?

Started in 2011 as a key initiative of PGA REACH, the PGA of America’s charitable arm, PGA Junior League Golf is a national program for boys and girls ages 13 and under. Rather than an individual competition, kids play a scramble format on teams with their friends, complete with numbered jerseys. Each team is captained by a PGA or LPGA teaching professional, who provides instruction and direction.

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Event

PGA Junior League Golf Championships November 19-21, 2016 Grayhawk Golf Club (Raptor Course), Scottsdale

Krando Nishiba celebrates after holing a 35-foot birdie putt in a playoff that gave Team California the win over Team Georgia in last year's PGA Junior League Championship

“The fact that they are playing a scramble relieves a lot of the pressure that comes with playing individually,” says Bob Doyle, PGA player development regional manager for the Southwest.

The scramble format, in which players can choose the best shot between the two of them and both play from that spot until they hole out, encourages teamwork and problem solving.

“If they hit a bad shot, their partner can help bail them out and they don’t feel discouraged,” says Doyle. “It gives everyone the chance to make bogeys and pars, so the kids enjoy the game more and progress faster.”

Krando Nishiba is carried off the ninth hole at Disney's Palm Course after he clinched the 2015 PGA Junior League Golf title for Team California.

Over the past two years, participation in the league has grown by 233 percent. Today, it has more than 30,000 youth participants and 2,500 teams in 48 states and all 41 PGA sections. The program even boasts superstars Rory McIlroy, Rickie Fowler, Michelle Wie and Lexi Thompson as official PGA Junior League ambassadors.

The Southwest section of PGA Junior League Golf, which includes Arizona and Las Vegas, went from 22 active teams in its first year to 46 teams in 2016. Doyle believes that number will hit 100 in the near future.

“We have definitely seen an uptick in the number of junior golfers out there playing, and it’s encouraging for the future of the game,” he says.

Team Concept is a Real Winner Despite rumors of golf’s demise, this summer’s Ryder Cup posted record television numbers, including the mostwatched day in Golf Channel’s 21-year

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history on the first day of competition.

Across all three days of coverage from Hazeltine National Golf Club, the Ryder Cup averaged 4.3 million viewers, peaking with 6.4 million on Sunday on NBC. Overall, average viewership was up 95 percent compared to the 2014 Ryder Cup in Scotland.

So what is the secret to its popularity?

Is it intense patriotism? Or is it simply more entertaining to see individuals come together as a team to achieve victory, and to have fun doing it?

It turns out it’s a little of both. Grayhawk’s Shershenovich, who attended this year’s Ryder Cup at Hazeltine in Minnesota, says the environment was electric, and he can certainly see the allure of the biennial event.

“Golf is traditionally an individual sport, so it’s one of the few times we get to see golfers playing in a team competition,” says Shershenovich. “The pros embrace it, they cheer for each other and they have fun. It seems more real. If I’m a kid watching on TV, it’s powerful stuff.”

After watching Reed, Fowler, Spieth and company fist-pump and chest-bump their way around Hazeltine last month, there’s no denying that the boys were having the times of their lives while representing their country. For Doyle, that’s what the appeal is all about.

“It’s all about team, an association with a city or town or country — for the Ryder Cup and these kids,” he says. “They play for their buddies, their home course. It’s a big point of pride.”

Grayhawk Rolls Out the Red Carpet Grayhawk is no stranger to big events, having hosted the PGA Tour’s Frys. com Open, Andersen Consulting World Championship of Golf, Williams World Challenge (which benefited the Tiger Woods Foundation) and the Thunderbird November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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Arizona’s representation in the 2016 PGA Southwest section championship came to an end on August 28, when the all-star team from the East Valley, consisting of players from Augusta Ranch, Grayhawk and other area courses, was eliminated by a team from the Summerlin area in Las Vegas. The following PGA Junior League Golf All-Star Teams went on to win their regional competitions and have advanced to the PGA Junior League Golf Championship at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, November 19-21:

Midwest Region: Team Illinois, Cog Hill Golf Club (Lemont, Illinois) Mideast Region: Team Ohio, Mallard Creek Golf Club (Columbia Station, Ohio) Southeast Region: Team Georgia, Crooked Stick Golf Club (Alpharetta, Georgia) Mid-Atlantic Region: Team New Jersey, Royce Brook Golf Club (Hillsborough, New Jersey) Northeast Region: Team Connecticut, Suzy Whaley Golf Academy (Cromwell, Connecticut)

Western Region: Team Northern California, Las Positas Golf Course (Livermore, California) Southwest Region: Team Texas, Twin Creeks Country Club (Cedar Park, Texas) Mississippi Valley Region: Team Alabama, Participants from Bocking Golf Academy at Burningtree Country Club (Decatur, Alabama), The Ledges (Huntsville, Alabama), Valley Hill Country Club (Huntsville, Alabama) and Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove (Owens Cross Roads, Alabama)

Although they didn’t make it to the finals, Grayhawk Golf Club fielded team this year, led by captain Joe “Shoe” Shershenovich (left) and coach Brian Miller (right).

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International Junior. The PGA Junior League Golf Championships at Grayhawk will be no different, as the club plans to treat the tournament much like a PGA event.

“Arizona may never host a U.S. Open, but to us, this is a major,” says Shershenovich, who sees the event following in the footsteps of baseball’s Little League World Series, hosted annually in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

“When a kid wins their regional and makes it to Williamsport, it’s a once-in-alifetime experience,” he says. “The level of volunteerism and community involvement is tremendous. I just know our golf community has the potential for the same level of support.”

This year, Shershenovich is focused on setting the standard for future PGA Junior League Golf Championships.

“When the kids compete here in November, we look forward to providing each of the eight teams with the same prestigious experience that the world’s best receive,” Shershenovich says. “It will certainly be unforgettable for the 10 kids who win the championship, but we’re going to ensure that the other 70 kids and their parents who make the trip also have an amazing experience.”

The PGA Junior League Golf Championship features nine-hole matches played in a popular two-person scramble format, with points awarded based on number of holes won. Final scoring is based on the record of matches won, tied and lost. For the championship event at Grayhawk, each team will play three matches between November 19-20 to determine a winner in the East and West divisions. Those two teams will then compete for the championship title on November 21. Spectators are welcome during all days of competition. pgajlg.com November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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Hidden

Hills

in the

FEATURED

COVER ARTIST LINDA KORSTAD

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If ever there was an artist who could inspire others to follow their dreams, it’s Linda Korstad. The South Dakota native overcame many hurdles on her way to becoming an accomplished mixed media sculptor, but she never gave up. Her hard work and persistence paid off, as Korstad’s whimsical piece, “Wishing and Hoping,” was chosen by the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League to be this year’s featured piece of fine art on the 20th annual Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale artist directory.

Photographer Faberman Photography

Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Photographer Greg Korstad

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The artist directory has become a staple of the popular tour, which features a record 188 artists at 47 studios this year during the last two weekends of November. While patrons can customize and download a map at hiddeninthehills.org, the four-color, glossy artist directory includes a comprehensive listing of participating artists with an image of their art; a large, easy-to-read map of the studios; and advertisements from participating artists.

Carole Perry, the event’s marketing chair, says the artist directory has become a collectible over the years.

“Back in 1997, our budget for the entire tour was $250, so we didn’t start printing the artist directory until 1999,” says Perry, a glass artist who has opened her studio to patrons for all 20 years of the tour. “Our first cover featured a brilliant piece by Claudia Hartley. As Hidden in the Hills grew, we found that people not only collected the directories, they looked forward to learning who the featured cover artist was.”

Each year, participating artists are invited by the Sonoran Arts League to submit original pieces for consideration during a cover artist selection process, which took place in May. More than 100 pieces of art were submitted before the committee chose Korstad’s piece for this year’s milestone anniversary artist directory.

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“There were some amazing entries, as there are every year, but Linda’s sculpture stood out,” Perry says. “We all actually wanted it for the cover last year, but as we were using multiple images that year, we couldn't seem to make it all fit together aesthetically. The minute we saw her submission this year, I think everyone knew this was the absolute statement piece for our new directory image, and it had to fill the cover.”

A Scottsdale resident, Korstad exhibits her work in a Prescott gallery, Van Gogh’s Ear, and she has been a juried artist in the prestigious Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale in Loveland, Colorado for eight years.

Her career path took her on many turns, and it wasn’t until she gave herself permission to completely trust herself that she pursued sculpting as her vocation.

“I pursued art several times during a span of 30 years,” Korstad says. “There was something holding me back each time, but I always ended up returning to art in the form of photography, printmaking, painting and now sculpture.”

With a business administration degree, Korstad landed a job in her 30s in advertising. Following her love for animals, she eventually settled into a career of training, exhibiting and breeding Afghan Hounds, a striking breed of dogs known for their long silky coat and aristocratic, aloof demeanor. Her love affair with these hounds combined with hard work lasted 25 years, and resulted in many nationally-recognized champions.

When a back injury made it difficult for her to continue her passion with the Afghan Hounds, she decided to revisit her first love and explore the possibilities of art-making.

She was drawn to working with clay, and with the encouragement of her husband, Greg, she immersed herself in her work. She also made a point of surrounding herself with talented ceramist friends and seeking the help of mentors.

“I’m like a little fish in a big pond,” she says of her artist colleagues, whom she holds with such high regard. “Being in their presence inspires me to be better.”

Her whimsical creations begin with clay components using iconic shapes and forms. These components combined with found objects are reconfigured in a subtle,

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! dule ouse e h c S nH ouse Ope / H m n e.co Ope sdal day t n t u o S llSc dmi n i W

Timeless Design.

Real American Architecture.

The Modern Western Ranch collection of homes by Bob Bacon with Gail Archer

A Bacon Signature Neighborhood • Scottsdale address, 5 minutes from the center of Carefree • Oversized 3-4 car garages & car collector barn options • 3-5 bedrooms & multiple fireplaces • Wolf, Sub-Zero gourmet kitchens • Multiple outdoor living areas • Outdoor kitchens by West of Memphis BBQ • 20 gated acres — only 8 homes • $2.3-2.7M For a private tour, call Davis Driver at 480-788-0401

www.WindmillScottsdale.com

2 New Homes Under Construction: Lot 4 “Joshua Tree” – March Occupancy Lot 6 “Acacia” – January Occupancy

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contemporary way, with a slight humorous spin to create her mixed media sculptures.

“I love to incorporate recycled materials in my work,” she says, adding that she’ll sometimes spend the day scouring thrift stores, flea markets and antique shops for quirky items. “I spend a lot of time experimenting with repetitive concepts, so I’ll often buy multiples of oddities and store them in my studio bins until I’m ready to play.”

Her colorful studio houses two kilns, dozens of paint canisters and glazes, buckets of brushes and bins of sculpting and texturizing tools. It is full of sculptural pieces in various stages of completion.

“Sometimes I’ll start a piece and need to wait until that special something shows up to complement it,” she says.

“When working with clay using hand-built techniques, I’ve learned timing is everything. It can be a hurry-up-andwait process, but the time is worth the wait.”

Yellow Post-it notes and magazine clippings are strewn around her studio, helping her keep track of her thoughts and inspirations.

“When ideas come to me, I add them to the list, and Greg helps me organize my list of lists,” she says, laughing.

Korstad, who will exhibit and sell her mixed media pieces at studio 14, says she still has to pinch herself about being selected as this year’s Hidden in the Hills featured artist.

“Becoming a full-time artist has been quite a journey, and being recognized in this way is a true honor,” she says.

“My current work is the result of working with a talented team of mentors and my intense drive for pushing the materials to a high level of finish. Although the prospect of getting the work to a higher level can be daunting, I have learned to surrender and just let things happen.”

The Sonoran Arts League is selling the 20th anniversary Hidden in the Hills artist directories for $5. Proceeds help raise funds for the League’s youth scholarships and other educational programs. The directories can be purchased at the League office at 6051 E. Hidden Valley Dr., Ste. 2.

480-575-6624 hiddeninthehills.org

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Original 8 HIDDEN IN THE HILLS

Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Opening photograph Sal La Rocca

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No one can believe it’s been 20 years since the first Hidden in the Hills artist studio tour began, especially eight artists who were there that first year and have participated either as a studio host or a guest artist for the past two decades.

The diverse group includes painter Virginia Brooks (host, studio 41), potter Judy Darbyshire (host, studio 6), batik/mixed media artist Katalin Ehling (host, studio 20), wood turner Morrie Elmer (guest at studio 33), sculptor Gordon “Gordy” Mischke (guest at studio 46), pencil artist Dick Mueller (host, studio 43), glass artist Carole Perry (host, studio 16) and ceramist/ mixed media artist Robin Ray (host, studio 11).

Twenty years ago, none of them had a website, and only Dick Mueller and Morrie Elmer had cellphones. For most artists back then, marketing their original pieces of art before Hidden in the Hills was done through wordof-mouth and occasional postcard mailings that many of them would hand address. In 1997, it took six people less than two hours to address all the names in the League database. Today, it would take 30 artists a half day just to place pre-printed address stickers on all of the maps needed to mail to the current database.

The original idea was for an event that would give the community an opportunity to observe and engage in the creation of art, with an emphasis on process more than purchase.

“In contrast to the proliferation of tent shows for existing art lovers, we were looking for a way to make art approachable for those who did not yet appreciate or embrace it,” says Carole Perry.

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While some, including Elmer, joke that the event could easily have been called “Lost in the Hills” in the early days, Hidden in the Hills has become a key element in branding the League and its expanding membership.

Dick Mueller Pencil Artist

With only a few hundred dollars for promotion in 1997, the first tour was a big success, thanks to the tremendous efforts and enthusiasm of the original 44 artists in 19 studios, and the leadership of event co-founders, Judy Darbyshire and Jan Taylor.

“Things were much looser back then, and we didn’t have many challenges when it came to putting up the signs,” Gordy Mischke says. “It was really a hands-on operation.” Mischke hand-painted 4-by-8 sheets of plywood for the highway signs, and several artists volunteered to silkscreen individual studio signs at the high school where Robin Ray was teaching.

With the tiniest budget for collateral material, Darbyshire drew the iconic Studio Tour maps for the first two years, and the photocopied maps were distributed by the artists and posted throughout Cave Creek and Carefree.

Some participating artists had sales the first year, and some did not, but everyone felt it was a huge success in the way of exposure and reception by the community. Mueller recalls, “We had some patrons visit on horseback back then, and now I see close to 1,600 people in my studio each year.” He adds that many of the visitors today are tourists, and one even recognized him in the Minneapolis airport this past summer.

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“We found it...Hidden in the Hills!”

ARIZONA’S PREMIER STUDIO TOUR

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS! Engage in the passion and the artistic process at the 20th Annual Hidden in the Hills free, self-guided studio tour and sale!

Purchase original works of fine art directly from nationally recognized and emerging artists.

November 18-20 & 25-27 10 am to 5 pm each day • Cave Creek, Carefree & N. Scottsdale

FREE ADMISSION The collectible 136 page full-color directory shown at right features all participating artists, includes a map and can be purchased in advance for only $5 online at HiddenInTheHills.org or by calling the Sonoran Arts League at 480.575.6624. You can also customize your tour using the interactive map found at HiddenInTheHills.org.

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Carole Perry Glass Artist

Demand Soars The second year, the tour expanded from one weekend in November to the two weekends that bookend Thanksgiving, an important timeframe for the League’s signature event that is easily remembered by everyone.

Past presidents Ralph Deuschle and Alan Hochman were instrumental in generating the funds necessary to begin producing the highly collectible artist directory in 1999.

With each passing year, the demand to see more fine art soared, and the event grew to include more host studios and guest artists. Some artists even moved into the area with the goal of joining the League and participating in Hidden in the Hills.

Each of the eight artists remember good years and challenging years, especially during the Great Recession.

No one year stands out, though Virginia Brooks is pretty sure she is the only host artist who had a patron fall into the pool.

“She was a good sport about it,” Brooks says, laughing. “She was admiring the work of my guest artist, Steve Stento, and was backing up to take a photograph of it when she lost her footing and fell into the deep end.

Steve jumped in to help her. While her camera and his cell phone were damaged by the water, neither was hurt, thankfully.”

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Watching Artists Evolve All eight artists credit Hidden in the Hills not only with helping their careers, but also with pushing them to grow as artists.

Mueller exhibited graphite pencil drawings on paper during the first tour.

“Color pencil now constitutes twothirds of my work, and I also do more

landscapes and wildlife,” he says.

Darbyshire had been selling predominately craft fair-appropriate pottery since the 1970s, when she first joined the Cave Creek Craft Council, the Sonoran Arts League’s predecessor.

But having an open studio not only inspired larger, more intricate works, it also allowed for her to exhibit other media for the first time.

Her acrylic paintings retain a style formerly developed while working in a commercial art department, and have the aspect of retro illustrations.

“My background as an artist benefits my pottery with thoughtful design, often figurative, quirky or influenced by my long involvement in Southwestern archaeology,” she says.

Now, at 73, her participation in the studio tour has enabled her to gradually withdraw from other shows and galleries, in order to concentrate on a new collection for each year’s Hidden in the Hills tour.

Katalin Ehling is especially nostalgic during this, her last Hidden in the Hills tour. With a career spanning more than four decades, Ehling traveled the world, finding inspiration in Europe, Japan, China, Hungary, Java, Bali and other remote and exotic locations.

Closer to home, she was part of many Southwest galleries’ stable of artists in Scottsdale, Denver, Taos and Santa Fe. “My work has changed and evolved by leaps and bounds,” Ehling says. “The first 15 years, I mainly showed batiks. At that time, I was concentrating solely on batik on cotton with Southwest images of pueblos, Navajo weavers, mothers and children, and New Mexico and Northern Arizona landscapes. Since then, I have added mixed media, collage, batiks on paper and encaustic monotypes.

The works have also evolved to abstract, non-representational imagery.”

Ehling says she is grateful that the studio tour pushed her to try new things.

“I delight in seeing that I was never stuck in a mode, but always pushed myself to grow and try new mediums and subject matter,” she says. “Had I not done that, I might have quit a long time ago.” She adds that after Hidden in the Hills, she will continue

Judy Darbyshire Potter

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pieces also include precious opal, which you won’t see anywhere else. It makes for a very unique piece of wood art.”

For Brooks, who in 1997 was new to Carefree, making the personal connections and building relationships was a key motivation for participating in the artist studio tour.

"I feel very fortunate that we see many of the same people come back year after year to see how our work has evolved,” Brooks says of her and her guest artists. This year, her own work has expanded from landscapes of the American West, Tuscany and Provence to now include peaceful atmospheric paintings.

to create art, experiment with new techniques and enter national and international exhibitions.

Hidden in the Hills is the longest-running consecutive show Elmer has done. And while he still creates wood-turned hollow vessels that are inlayed with precious stones, he says the work he does now is much more extensive.

Katalin Ehling Batik/Mixed Media

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“It’s a further refinement of what I was doing,” Elmer says. “I use more and different colored stones and local woods that require a lot more inlay. Back then, I wasn’t too excited about heavily distressed wood — now I look for those pieces. My newer

Glass artist Carole Perry says she is still creating the glass tapestries that she was doing two decades ago, but they have evolved significantly, and today they are in prized glass collections around the globe. Perry has also expanded her work to include more functional pieces, like dinnerware, “big funky wall pieces,” and other contemporary glass art.

Perry, who is a member of Local First Arizona and advocates for buying from locally-owned businesses, says the patrons have been a large part of her creative success.

“My growth has been tremendous in part because about 10 percent of the 2,000 people who come through my studio each year recommend ideas about how I can further experiment with my art,”

Celebrate 20 years with owners Carole Perry and Don Carroll!

Sculptural Glass ... ... and Functional Glass

And Introducing ...

New Guest Artist ~ Fine Jeweler MANON

Virginia Brooks Oil Painter

Studio 16 ~ Hidden in the Hills 480.488.6070 www.LaughingGlass.com studio@LaughingGlass.com November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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Morrie Elmer Wood Turner

she says. "It usually takes three to five months to complete all the commissions that result from each year's tour."

Those who have followed Gordy Mischke’s work have seen his architectural creations evolve from concrete to steel, copper and stone abstract sculptures; wood carvings; etched glass; gates; fences; doors; and more. And while he credits Hidden

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in the Hills with landing a large commission with the Radisson at Fort McDowell Casino, he is proudest of his “Desert Madonna” sculpture that stands at the entrance to the Town of Carefree’s amphitheater.

“I constructed that piece to be raffled to kick off the League’s youth art scholarship fund during one of the first tours,” he says. “Through a quirky chain of events, the person

who won it moved, and perhaps donated it to the town.”

Youth art is very dear to Robin Ray’s heart and is a big reason Ray was so instrumental in launching Hidden in the Hills’ Youth Art Studio 1 two decades ago. In 1997, Ray was a single mother, teaching visual arts at Cactus Shadows High School and art classes at Paradise Valley Community College at night.

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Robin Ray Ceramist & Mixed Media

“Our mission and the one critical requirement of every participating artist have never changed.

We must all be able and willing to share our process and inspiration for creating our art.�

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“Hidden in the Hills was the one thing that kept me alive in my community as an artist,” Ray says.

“It gave me a depth of experience that I could share with my students.”

While she has always worked with clay, Ray was also weaving 20 years ago. Now “the looms are in storage forever,” and her creativity has evolved to include mural paintings and more whimsical, expressive mixed media animal sculptures. Her work also has developed to include more Raku pottery.

Sharing with the Community When the Sonoran Arts League board approved the first Hidden in the Hills artist studio tour 20 years ago, no one could have guessed how much the event would affect the League, its members and the community.

This year’s 20th annual event, which is co-chaired

by League executive director Pat Bell-Demers and board member, gourd artist and studio host Jane Boggs, features 188 artists at 47 studios, a phenomenal accomplishment that none of the original participating artists could have imagined.

Even more impressive is the fact that the Sonoran Arts League, which had fewer than 75 members in 1997, now has more than 650 members.

“Our mission and the one critical requirement of every participating artist have never changed,” says Boggs. “We must all be able and willing to share our process and inspiration for creating our art.”

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Gordon "Gordy" Mishke Sculptor

Education has always been a key goal with Hidden in the Hills.

While the Youth Art Studio 1 started off at Desert Foothills Nursery, the exhibit moved to Desert Foothills Library several years ago. Now, students in third through 12th grade submit their work to be juried into the exhibit in the spring. This year, 120 pieces were submitted for review and 50 pieces were chosen to be on exhibit at the library from November 1-29. A free celebratory reception will take place on November 10 from 6 to 7 p.m.

All eight artists who were part of the first Hidden in the Hills tour say they’ve developed a special bond, just by being part of the event for the past two decades.

Several commented on how rewarding it is to form friendships with returning patrons and have the chance to meet new visitors.

“It has given us a chance to make a difference in the community we love,” Darbyshire says, “and it justifies spending our lifetimes doing what we do.” hiddeninthehills.org

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THE WEST ARTIST CURT MATTSON

STORIES OF

Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Photographer Bryan Black

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It’s a bit off the beaten path, but a trip to Curt Mattson’s studio 9 during the 20th annual Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale is well worth it, especially if you love the explosive action of buckaroos and the lore and grandeur of the West.

Set on two and a half acres with Cave Creek Regional Park as a backdrop, Mattson’s home and studio embody the spirit of the West with breathtaking sculptures, evocative oil and watercolor paintings and freehand charcoal drawings, each one telling a unique story about cowboys, cowgirls, horses, cattle and life on the ranch.

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“Cowboy art is inherently narrative, and I strive to bring people into the contemporary and historic worlds of the buckaroo, horsemen and horsewomen,” Mattson says, adding that his goal is to enrich the lives of others. “I’m only successful if my work is uplifting, compelling and brings beauty into other people’s lives.”

Growing up on a ranch with 50 horses, Mattson began riding at the age of 5. He credits his ranching experience with helping him achieve precise composition for each original piece he creates.

“Whether I’m sculpting, painting or drawing, I’m able to capture the movements and rhythm of the horses, cattle and buckaroos because my life has been centered around that world,” he says.

Always pushing himself to improve and refine his skills, Mattson has a very strict daily regimen. Each morning, he and his wife and business manager, Wendy, take “the boys,” horses Trucker and Quinn, out for a ride. Then he draws in the morning in one studio, sculpts in the afternoon in a second studio and finishes at night by painting in the same studio where he draws.

Drawing is a fundamental skill that Mattson works hard to perfect through his freehand charcoal drawings.

“I work very hard at it,” he says, adding that a good story is important, but it’s not enough. “I have tremendous respect for the great illustrators who were disciplined in their studies. Strong design is critical for art to be excellent. My artistic challenge is to create work that is so compelling, no one can walk by it.”

Best known for his sculptures, Mattson has won numerous prestigious awards, including the Cyrus Dallin Award for Best Sculpture at the Quest for the West Art Show and Sale at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis; the Cowboy Artists of America Founders’ Award; Best of Show at the Phippen Museum Fine Art Show in Prescott; and Best of Show at the National Western Fine Art Exhibition and Sale in San Dimas, California.

“I have a very high view of sculpture,” Mattson says. “It’s a long-lived medium, and I owe it to my collectors to create work that stands the test of time.”

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While Mattson is a great storyteller, he’s very particular about which stories he sculpts.

“A story has to be sculptural and worthy of a bronze,” he says. “A great bronze will tell a good story and be accurate 100 years from now. Not only does it have to be anatomically correct, its mass, texture, light and design must work together to tell an accurate story.”

Walking into his sculpture studio, one is struck by the beauty of finished bronzes on display. Propped up near his sculpture stand is a guitar and his black Nevada snap-brim cowboy hat.

Certificates of awards and honors cover part of the wall, and in the corner is a mirror.

“The mirror helps me assess the reverse image of a piece I’m working on,” he says. “It’s important to keep a fresh eye as you progress with your work so you can make corrections.”

Much of his work focuses on showing how smart horses are and how well the horseman relates to them. “I don’t think we know one-tenth of how smart they are,” he says of the horses.

While some other artists work from photos, Mattson depends on his innate knowledge to sculpt.

“I’ve been immersed in this way of life, so I know the difference between a cowboy team roping and one who works on the ranch,” he says. “The gear is different and even their behavior is different. On the ranch, the buckaroos work hard to keep the cattle quiet. That’s not something you’d know if you’re taking photos during a rodeo.”

He is most proud of his breakthrough pieces where suddenly, something clicks. Two recent examples include “Over The Moon” and “Souvenir Collectors.” Other examples include “Wild Horses, Wilder Women” and “Test of Wills.”

On average, he produces limited editions of nine bronzes, and on occasion, he’ll have the foundry make limited editions of 20 for smaller pieces.

“I try to keep the price points where my work is affordable, but at the same time as close to one-of-a-kind as possible,” he says.

While Mattson had dabbled in watercolors in the 1990s, he began painting seriously with the medium a few years ago after seeing famed watercolorist Edward Borein’s paintings on display at the Cowboy Hall of Fame.

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“I’ve always loved his work, and I felt learning this new, challenging medium would teach me to see differently, which is vital for innovation,” he says.

Soon after, Mattson expanded his skills to include oil painting, pushing himself to try a different medium that was technically opposite of painting with watercolors.

“Oil paintings have always been a big part of cowboy history and they are more marketable, but I’m more passionate about working in watercolor,” he says.

“They have a feel you can’t get with any other medium.”

Mattson will exhibit new sculptures, paintings and drawings during the Hidden in the Hills tour, including new limited edition watercolor slates that start at $50. Prices for his original fine art reflect his breadth of work, ranging from just a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Visitors to Mattson’s studio will also have the chance to meet his guest artist, jeweler Beth Benowich.

“Cowboy art is part of our country’s DNA; horsemanship is better now than it’s ever been, and it’s an exciting time to view and own Western art,” Mattson says. “There’s so much depth in the stories, and cowboy art holds up against every genre of art, if it’s excellent.”

The 20th annual Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale takes place during the last two weekends of November (November 18-20 and 25-27). A signature event of the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, Hidden in the Hills features 188 artists in 47 studio locations throughout the scenic Desert Foothills communities of Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale.

480-575-6624 hiddeninthehills.org

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Heroes TO HOMETOWNS

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America’s freedom is not an entitlement; it is a privilege. There are thousands of men and women who fight for our freedom and protect our well-being every day. Among these brave heroes are wounded service members who, because of injuries they’ve sustained, can no longer serve in the military. When these service members transition back into their hometown communities, they need many different types of aid to try and return to a normal life.

Enter Arizona Heroes to Hometowns, a nonprofit organization that works toward what may seem like a simple mission — giving our injured soldiers and veterans the welcome home they deserve — through a complex web of support programs and assistance.

“The goal of our organization is to help our wounded heroes financially, physically, socially and spiritually to find their new normal,” explains Kathy Pearce, the organization’s CEO and founder.

Arizona Heroes to Hometowns consists of loving families and supportive community members, all of whom wish to help wounded soldiers continue life as happy and appreciated individuals. Its programs focus on the important transition

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Writer Rebecca Zaner Photographer Michele Celentano

between life in service and life at home. Resources include counseling, mentoring, therapy, financial assistance and medical transportation. Having these services easily available gives veterans a greater chance for long-term success. The program also provides special services to improve the soldiers’ happiness and mental health, such as homecoming parties, holiday celebrations and recreational activities.

By providing wounded warriors with resources to ease the transition, veterans experience a less stressful change.

“My son was in the Army and was deployed to Iraq 11 years ago,” Kathy shares. “He was 22 at the time. He was seriously injured and when he returned home, the transition was extremely hard on him. That’s when I realized he was lonely and depressed. Certain resources were unavailable to him.

He had surgery and physical therapy for years, but I knew that something was missing. It was then I decided to start this program. I want to help others like my son discover their new normal. Their lives have changed and that’s OK. They need to know that.”

Kathy started Arizona Heroes to Hometowns at the end of 2010. It has been going strong from the beginning, thanks to

many generous donations, and her hope is to provide even more services. Unfortunately, many veterans experience high divorce rates because of financial trouble and emotional hardship. Arizona Heroes to Hometowns offers small group classes and seminars that aid veterans with goal setting, finance, education and alternative medicine.

“Just being able to keep one family together is a wonderful thing,” says Kathy. “Although because of our efforts, we help many more than just one family.”

To enrich veterans with social and emotional support, Arizona Heroes to Hometowns makes meeting other veterans an available and easy option. There are many wounded soldiers who feel more comfortable being with others like them — others who have experienced similar hardships of the military. When veterans meet and interact with fellow veterans who have served and returned home, they can connect on a level that not many people can even come close to sharing.

“I’ve had veterans tell me that they met some of their best friends through our program,” says Kathy. “At one of our veteran dinners, a Marine and an Army soldier who had never met shared stories of their military lives and became friends. We call them battle buddies.”

Along with forming new bonds and friendships that help veterans move forward in life, Arizona Heroes to Hometowns is sometimes able to provide fun activities, such as tickets to sporting events and games, concerts and special holiday meals. During Thanksgiving, the organization offers Turkeys to Troops, raising money throughout the year to provide grocery gift cards for families of veterans all over Arizona. The families then use that money to buy a turkey.

Over the summer, Arizona Heroes to Hometowns partnered with local food banks to begin preparations to provide 2,500 food boxes that will support military families during the upcoming Thanksgiving season. The organization continues to seek donations for these boxes, which each include a $25 gift card to buy a turkey or ham for the holidays.

Donations are being accepted through November 11.

“We currently help more than 1,800 families,” says Kathy. “We helped half as many during our first year and have grown so much. Our programs have doubled in size and our locations have expanded, as well. We started with only one location, and now we have six.”

Another of the organization’s biggest fundraisers is their annual event, Salute a Soldier 5K, a run that is held every March. Race participants can choose to run the 5K or walk a mile.

Wounded heroes who choose to participate receive free entry, as the program covers their cost. The family event gives wounded veterans an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and get back out into the community in a positive way.

Arizona Heroes to Hometowns is always in need of volunteers, but they are especially vital during the holiday season. Volunteers are needed to help fundraise, buy holiday presents, wrap gifts and, of course, run the events that give our wounded service members a warm welcome home. azheroestohometowns.org

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CAVE

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A few games into the football season, after the Green Bay Packers and their star quarterback got off to a sluggish start, many know-it-alls were sneering to each other: “Aaron Rodgers is done. He’ll never be back to what he used to be.”

Months earlier, after a Cave Creek landmark burned down, not just a few cynics made their snap decisions: “The ol’ Buffalo Chip is done. It will never be what it used to be.”

Before the fire, the bar had been quenching Creekers’ thirsts since it opened as the Maverick in 1951. Years later, former Packers legend Max McGee caught the place, and it became a Green Bay mecca.

A few weeks ago, fans who gathered here roared as Rodgers tossed four touchdown passes. With much work still to be done before the mid-October grand opening, dozens were chanting, “Go Pack go,” washing down those delicious cheese curds with beer and raving about the Buffalo Chip’s resurrection.

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Writer Tom Scanlon Photographer Bryan Black

What do people like Greg Smith — here with his wife on a visit from Wisconsin — think about folks who wrote off Rodgers?

“Not much,” Smith says, with a scowl and characteristic Midwestern understatement.

Many, however, did agree with the sentiment that the Chip won’t be what it was.

“It’s a lot nicer,” says Manda Scott, 25. Her friend, Lance Whitman, 26, agrees: “This is a cool place.”

“I think,” sizes up Smith, 65, “it’s going to be better than it was.”

Yes, the ol’ Chip probably did need a little makeover — just not quite this way. Arson is suspected in the blaze that sent smoke over Cave Creek on Thanksgiving 2015. The 5,000-foot saloon burned down, leaving more than 100

Established 1978

SEEKING FINE ART & JEWELRY FOR AUCTION

employees out of work for the holidays and beyond.

Some might have said, “Time to throw in the towel.”

Larry Wendt, who bought the Chip in 1999, was ready to give up, and who could blame him? On Thanksgiving morning, he drove up to the saloon at 6 a.m., primed to serve up a huge day: a Packers game, plus 400 reservations for dinner. Wendt opened the door and was greeted by choking smoke. He called 911. The fire department showed up, put out the visible flames, set up some fans and told him they had good news and bad news. Good news, the damage didn’t look too bad. Bad news, arson was suspected, and he wouldn’t be able to open until an investigation was done.

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The firefighters left, investigators showed up — and, suddenly, the place erupted like a bonfire. The fire reignited in the attic, and before firefighters could return, the half-century-old wooden structure was completely engulfed in flames.

Somewhat miraculously, Chip — the life-size fiberglass buffalo perched on the roof — made it out of the fire with minor injuries. No such luck on signed photos from the Max McGee days, scores of other mementos and a million memories that fed the insatiable fire.

Ten months later, the day after the Chip and Rodgers jointly announced their returns, Wendt was going over blueprints, changes and final touches with project managers, as workers pounded nails, power sawed wood and dug holes near the door for a few newly-donated statues. He took a break to talk to a journalist, who of course wanted Wendt to relive the big fire.

“My first thought,” says Wendt, a former lawman, “was I’m just going to walk away. This is my retirement. After 18 years, when you have your place burned down, you feel someone doesn’t want you here.”

That view quickly got spun around. Wendt was told there was a suspect who lived out of state, a fact that was important to the saloon owner, since it wasn’t a local.

Indeed, Wendt found out he and his place were treasured

by Arizonans.

“There was such an immediate outpouring from customers, the community, the town government,” Wendt says, shaking his head in appreciative amazement.

Support came from as close as Cave Creek, where $50,000 was raised for the Chip staff, and as far as Wisconsin, where Gov. Scott Walker called on the day of the fire to tell Wendt to hang in there.

And then came a call from (insert John Facenda voice) the Green Bay Packers.

Having heard about the fire and the loss of memorabilia, the Pack was not about to leave its Arizona audience hanging.

The team donated photos and other "insider" items. Others donated assorted artwork, from non-football bronze statues of pioneer women (long a Prescott mainstay) to an eerily detailed sculpture of Bart Starr, who tossed touchdowns to McGee while leading the Packers to titles in the 1960s.

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Redefining cancer care starts here.

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The message was clear: “We’re behind you, and you’ve got to rebuild!”

So when the smoke cleared (literally), Wendt collected his thoughts and, like the tough old cowboy he is, climbed back in the saddle. It was a rough ride, with months of planning and permitting. He got the green light for groundbreaking just about four months ago, and is amazed he’ll be able to reopen for the big fall/winter season.

“I want to thank the community from the bottom of my heart and my family’s heart for the support,” he says.

Wendt partially opened the Chip in January, mainly for bull riding. The big riding ring out back wasn’t damaged, though the saloon was toast. Now the doors are open, seven days and nights a week.

Wendt is proud of the Old West look of the saloon, with walls, tables and the long bar top fashioned out of Douglas fir and telegraph poles from a Northern California mill that closed.

saloon that is much more than just a football bar. The Buffalo Chip brought bull riding back to Cave Creek and had live bands playing every night, with dancing and “Church at the Chip” on Sundays.

The big fire burned a hole in the middle of Cave Creek, with all those varied communities wondering if the saloon could ever fully return. The burning down of their Cave Creek homeaway-from-Wisconsin put a dagger in the hearts of Green Bay fans — even though the Packers made the playoffs last year, they had a quick exit (thanks, Larry Fitzgerald), and many considered it an off year.

Now, with Rodgers in top gear, the Pack is back.

And, as 20-somethings clink beer bottles and high five with elders, the Chip is hip. It’s a no-brainer for Ali Coshun, wearing shorts, cowboy boots and an Aaron Rodgers jersey.

“I’m a Packers fan,” she says, “so I love it here!” buffalochipsaloon.com

The rebuild captures the spirit of this crazy old one-stop

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MYTH AND MAGIC FORTOUL BROTHERS Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Michele Celentano

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Gabriel and Isaac Fortoul grew up just across the Hudson River from bustling New York City, in densely populated Union City, New Jersey. The brothers’ Colombian-born parents, creative talents in their own right, encouraged their sons’ pursuit of the arts, which range from painting to sculpture, film to fashion. The result is their work under the name 40Owls, an artistic entity that is ever-changing.

Blending indigenous themes and pop art, with bold lines and mythical imagery, the Fortouls have developed a style all their own that has garnered international attention.

They’ve capitalized upon it with savvy social media

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engagement, enabling them to develop their broad range of interests and a loyal following that is eager to know what the next iteration will be. While they’ve paid careful attention to every detail of what they put forth, there’s nothing about it that feels calculated. Their work and their partnership have evolved organically.

I met Gabriel at a bungalow in Phoenix’s historic Garfield District that’s half studio, half residence. Isaac was traveling through Colombia at the time of our interview, reconnecting with relatives and also assessing the possibility of the duo creating art there in the near future. The front

room of the home is in a state of deconstruction, having served as a do-it-yourself pop-up gallery in the past and now acting as a workspace. With a family background in construction and architectural design, breaking down a project and starting from scratch is in their blood. The walls of the home’s residential side are covered with several of the large canvases they’re known for, along with smaller pieces and several sculptures. It’s a place the brothers have used, off and on, as a home base for nearly 10 years, leaving and returning as their vision for the next step in their collective career has evolved … a mix of completion and possibility.

“We always knew, even as children, that we were going to work as creatives,” says Gabriel. “We were always so close and did everything together. Our parents were very supportive of us living a life outside of traditional platforms. They encouraged us to try different things and not to settle for something easy.”

Early on, the brothers pursued seemingly incongruous paths.

Isaac attended art school in Philadelphia for graphic design and worked as an artist. Gabriel, who is three years older, was a stockbroker on Wall Street. But when the tragedy of September 11, 2001 hit, quite literally, close to home, it prompted reflection — and a very big move.

“I think there are always major signs in life, and you can choose to ignore them or really take them for what they are,” says Gabriel. “It wasn’t the end of the world, but if it had been the end of this physical manifestation we have now, why waste time? It was our sign to do something else. We wanted to go somewhere that we didn’t have familiarity or comforts. It could have been anywhere.”

“Anywhere” turned out to be Phoenix, a place they’d never been. They purchased one-way tickets and traveled around a bit, appreciating a new kind of beauty.

“Most people think of the desert as a barren sort of wasteland where nothing can thrive or exist,” says Gabriel, “but as you come to understand it and recognize it, you see that it’s abundant in life-forms and these life-forms are very resilient.

They can make it through almost anything. They survive on the bare minimum and they’re beautiful. That resiliency is something that we see in ourselves.”

Gabriel describes their attraction to the raw energy of the area, which they settled upon after Isaac had a vision that confirmed their future was downtown. This connection to magic and the spiritual plane is a thread that runs through their story and their work. The Phoenix arts community was free of significant interference or interruption, with a rules-don’t-apply, Wild November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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West mentality that spoke freedom to the brothers. It was — and is — a young city on the cusp, where there is ample opportunity to become a trendsetter, without the limitations of other, more established cities.

“We saw a possibility to have a career in the arts and do it independently, outside the gallery system,” says Gabriel. “We knew we wanted to create this cultural entity. We were really fresh and green at the time and didn’t know how any of this operated, but we wanted to create. It was pure passion and excitement.”

By 2004, they had made a name for themselves in the Phoenix art scene, and were known for hosting decidedly un-stuffy art affairs in the form of after-hours lounges. Gabriel smiles and admits the gatherings walked a fine line between party and exhibition, but

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art remained central to the mix of music, fashion, film, dancing and self-expression. All of it was fueled by the brothers’ desire for an interaction of the minds — meeting and socializing with a broad range of people in the way that came naturally back in New Jersey. They rented a home next to a gallery and did all their own set up and promotion, building their website and hand drawing mini fliers that stood out from the standard, polished gallery postcards. People began collecting them.

“Looking at it now, we were setting the framework for what we’re doing now on a more professional level,” says Gabriel.

“After a few years, we decided to go back to New York City as artists with a different set of eyes, taking the momentum of what we were doing here and sharing it with a major city where people from all different countries could see it.”

They returned to New York in 2007 and, through much determination, networking and social media engagement, landed their first major exhibition at Tribeca’s Dame Dash Gallery in 2010. They went on to connect with the preeminent Latin American museum, El Museo del Barrio, and in 2012, collaborated to promote multiple artists in their own Chelsea gallery under the name 40Owls. They were drawing crowds, accolades and collectors. Then came the familiar itch to do something different. A new chapter began.

“We were searching for the evolution of the artwork, and that’s when our current style began,” says Gabriel.

“We manifested these visuals at the same time and started working together on pieces. We needed to set aside working with other artists and just focus on the two of us. We were able to show the Phoenix community what we’d been doing, how we’d progressed.”

They were inspired to create something universal, using bold lines and shedding symbols for a timeless feeling that draws from ancient influences with a modern twist.

It’s a less-is-more approach that has a strong message: the answers, the meaning of life, are found in connection.

Earth, nature, fertility, prosperity, family, lunar and solar energies — all these elements are universally recognized by the human race. The hope exemplified in the Fortoul Brothers’ art is that we reconnect with those basics and see the oneness in one another. They don’t choose to present problems in their pieces, because they feel that doing so would add to the negativity in the world. Instead, they seek to present the answers.

“It’s about reconnecting with nature and the earth and with ourselves, more than anything,” says Gabriel. “Once we realize that all the magic is here, all the answers, it’s opening our eyes and recognizing it. I think we need to respect those things.”

The enthusiastic response of collectors to their first exhibition as Fortoul Brothers in November 2014 was a bit unexpected — it confirmed that their base had expanded in their absence and that returning to Phoenix was the right move. With social media, they’re able to work from Phoenix and ship their art to exhibitions anywhere else in the world.

They’ve maintained a foothold on the East Coast, completing a series of public art murals in their hometown in the summer of 2014, and had extremely successful exhibitions in Los Angeles and Phoenix this past spring.

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They’re always open to the next wind that will blow in a new idea, a new magic.

Recently, Gabriel began planting a garden, including a mix of tropical fruits and native plants, inspired by the wisdom of a time when people lived off the land. He also sees a future where fashion, film and working with musicians will all be tied together by visual arts. Then there’s the goal of spending time in Colombia. It’s all about timing, but he knows it’s on the horizon. He says that he has had prior visions of everything that has happened up to now. The ideas are there for what is to come, but the moment has to be right.

The Fortouls have a number of projects currently underway, including a collaboration with Design Within Reach, Scottsdale in November; possible public art installations in Los Angeles; and, in September, they donated their time and talents to create a mural as part of Phoenix Raceway Charities’ renovation of Roanoke House, Phoenix’s first Ronald McDonald House.

“We’re going to have a lot of color, vibrancy and positive imagery, which is prevalent in all the work we do,” says Gabriel. “We’ll do something amazing.

At least for a second or a minute to cheer them up and remind them of the magic in life and the great things that are here, to give them strength to get through what they’re currently dealing with.”

The mural is one more way for the Fortoul Brothers to put positivity into the world, perpetuating the best kind of magic through art.

“It’s not about receiving, it’s about giving back,” says Gabriel. “We all do that in different ways. For us, it’s about the artwork and any knowledge people can see from it is our form of magic, our passing of fortune. It’s cyclical and infinite. What you give, you will receive.”

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GRAND PRIX OF SCOTTSDALE Writer Lara Piu

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The second annual Grand Prix of Scottsdale roars through the city’s downtown area throughout the first weekend in November. Inspired by the Grand Prix of Monaco, this unique vintage mini race enables racing teams, spectators and participants alike to step back in time and experience the glory of the Roaring ‘20s.

Surrounded by classic vintage cars from that era, the event is a three-day cinematic celebration complete with a lawn party, gala, food, music, vintage kart racing and, of course, awards. All of the hoopla supports downtown Scottsdale while raising a ton of fun and money.

“We have created a legendary event that will forever be recognized as a tribute to American heritage, community accord and a first-of-itskind experience that started in our hometown of Scottsdale,” says Jack Gee, Grand Prix of Scottsdale

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co-producer. “There is nothing more rewarding than to see an idea turn into reality and become a success.”

Experience

Grand Prix of Scottsdale November 4-6 Downtown Scottsdale Gala: $100 Lawn party: $40 Kids’ race participants: free Main event spectators: free

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More than 20,000 people are expected to experience this Gatsby-like event that turns back the clock on the streets of downtown Scottsdale.

Festivities commence with a Gatsby Under the Stars Gala, held November 4 on the Marshall Way Bridge. The gala is hosted by the Grand Prix’s charity partner, Southwest Human Development, a nonprofit serving 135,000 children and their families each year through more than 40 early childhood programs and services.

New this year is the Gatsby Lawn Party on November 5 and 6, also

hosted by Southwest Human Development. This event will provide an eclectic culinary festival experience complete with more than 30 craft beers and wines, with food provided by some of the Valley’s top chefs. Guests are encouraged to wear their finest Gatsby-style attire while enjoying big band music, choreographed dance performances and a special cigar bar complete with club seating.

Also on November 5, Concours d’ Kids will host race-themed crafts, games and a mini Grand Prix driving experience for younger drivers, appropriately named the Grand Prixni.

The main event Grand Prix is held at 11 a.m. on November 6. Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane will serve as the master of ceremonies and pace-car passenger for the race, where up to 40 vintage mini racers branded with a variety of local businesses, corporations and charity logos will navigate around a more than half-mile road course with teams of six drivers.

The festivities wrap up at 5 p.m. with the vintage victory trophy presentation, hosted

by Victory Brewing Company.

The main event is free; visit the website for an auxiliary event timeline and pricing. grandprixscottsdale.com

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I

It was 1979 when Eddie Jones left his job at architectural firm Lescher & Mahoney (now known as DLR Group) and set up an office in the third bedroom of his house.

“I was still young, dumb and fearless,” Eddie says. “I’m not an entrepreneur, but there was exhilaration in taking responsibility for [my] own life.”

He never looked back.

That year, he built his first house commission in cutoffs and flip-flops every day. However, he tells me chuckling, he’d still be in the third bedroom of his house if it weren’t for his brother, Neal, who joined him in 1986. Both brothers graduated from Oklahoma State University, and Neal has a Master of Architecture and Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

JONES STUDIO Writer Katherine Braden Photographer Brandon Tigrett

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Public and private architecture, interior design, graphic design, public art — Jones Studio always has six or seven projects in the works. They designed the Cardinals training center in Tempe, collaborated with Ennead Architects on Arizona State University’s Beus Center for Law and Society, and created the 53-acre Mariposa Land Port of Entry in Nogales. They’ve designed private residences, college campuses and performing arts centers. You can find their work from Oklahoma to the Oregon coast, as well as Mexico, Japan, China and Northern Vietnam.

It’s not all glitz and glamour; the firm also designs manufacturing facilities and assembly plants. That’s because it’s never about the size of the commission. Instead, Eddie focuses more on the opportunity, the chemistry and the shared goal of excellence.

“People churn those kinds of projects out, and most of them suck, unfortunately,” he says. “They don’t understand the impact they have on our communities and the environment. But our attitude is that people have to work in this building at least eight hours a day. They deserve a healthy environment that will enrich their lives. If mediocrity is acceptable, don’t call us.”

Eddie’s passion and zeal lie in his belief that all architecture has been and will continue to be a powerful and culturally meaningful force.

“I’m as happy designing an outhouse if it has potential as I am doing very complicated projects,” he says.

Another secret to the success of Jones Studio: collaboration.

“We’re successful because there are so many great minds contributing to every single project,” Eddie says. He loves collaboration, even though in the 1960s, individualism and originality were the focus of architectural education.

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“I’m so glad I relinquished [that attitude],” he says.

For the architects of Jones Studio, every day is different.

“I never know what I’m walking into in the morning,” says Eddie.

“Sometimes, I’m the administrator or teacher. Other times, I’m the field worker, slinging the hammer.” The 11 others who work in his studio also share his passion, and it shows.

The last few years have been notoriously difficult for architects due to the 2008 housing slump. But while others were closing their doors, Jones Studio actually doubled in size. Eddie tells me the Mariposa Land Port, the largest construction job in Arizona in 2008, saved their studio.

“It was a huge, complex job at every level, but it’s been received so positively,” he says. “The effort, frustration, pain and suffering of birthing a building comes back to you when people don’t even want to go home at night. I never get tired of that kind of payment.”

The company has also won 195 awards since its beginning. But when I ask Eddie about it?

“There’s a box full of awards that we don’t even display,” he tells me. “If the architecture doesn’t speak for itself, hanging the award on my wall won’t convince anyone. I appreciate every award we get, but it’s not the reason we do it. It’s more about knowing what’s really important.”

“Clearly, environmental stewardship is also really important to you,” I say.

“Well, isn’t it to you?” Eddie asks. “All of my heroes practiced responsible design throughout the centuries.” Back when he began, he says, environmental sustainability wasn’t mainstream, yet it

has always been a focus of his. Whether this means utilizing rainwater for garden irrigation, making the most of natural light and orientation or just responsible building practices, Jones Studio remains a firm believer in good stewardship. They operate on the principle that the building and landscape depend upon, and are inseparable from, each other.

“We don’t just say it,” Eddie tells me, “we do it, again and again.”

His main influencers are Bruce Goff, Frank Lloyd Wright and Al Beadle. In fact, Jones Studio just moved from their Al Beadle-designed office this past April.

After 32 years there, they designed and built their own office in Tempe.

The metaphorical implications are not to be missed. Indeed, they forge ahead, building the future. Yet they remain ever mindful. Their work is timeless and modern, but not unattainable. The buildings buzz with warmth and energy, inviting you to explore and savor.

“I want Phoenix to be the best city in America,” says Eddie. As for other longterm goals: “Keep it real, fun, fresh and relevant. Keep it joyful, in a word.”

I ask Eddie what makes Jones Studio different from other architecture firms.

“I think [our] longevity and success is the direct result of commitment to an ideal,” he says. “All of us have ideals when we are young, yet for many they become eroded. Like any profession, [architecture] can be crushing unless you're one of the few who won’t give up, won’t let go, won’t allow life to beat the ideal out of you.

“We never allowed ours to become eroded. We remain eternally optimistic.” jonesstudioinc.com

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Farm to Kitchen West SUPPER SERIES Writer Grace Hill

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Imagine a rustic burlap table runner stretching across a long wooden farm table. Mismatched wine glasses have been left at each place setting. An arrangement of garden flowers sits in the heart of the table and becomes a continuation of the surrounding natural beauty. A delicious aroma of a home-cooked meal made from fresh ingredients lingers in the air. It’s truly a picturesque scene, and one not often found in urban settings.

Yet The Simple Farm and Kitchen West Restaurant will offer exactly that kind of down-to-earth dining experience during their Farm to Kitchen West Supper Series.

Beginning at 6 p.m., each supper in the series starts with a casual meet-and-greet with fellow diners. Then a threecourse, communal-style meal, made from local, fresh ingredients grown at The Simple Farm, follows at 6:30 p.m. Each item served will be excellently prepared by Kitchen West’s executive chef, Rick Dupere.

“The menus were all created with Lylah telling me what crops she will have in season,” says Dupere. “Maybe a few surprises. The majority of [the dinner] is family style for sharing and interacting. Cooking everything while not wasting any juices or flavor.”

The next dinner at The Simple Farm, titled “Hashknife Night Celebrating the Pony Express Campfire Chuck Wagon Cooking,” will occur on November 18. The meal will include an appetizer of kohlrabi arugula salad and pomegranate and Arizona apple. Then comes the main course of The Simple Farm okra chili verde, fennel butter tortilla, chimichurri carved hanger roast, smoked brisket potato hash and glazed cumin seed carrots.

The meal will conclude with a blueberry slump dessert.

In addition, a perfectly selected Arizona wine will complement the seasonal food.

Event Schedule NOVEMBER 4 - 6, 2016

Thunderbird Artists Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival

NOVEMBER 25 - 27, 2016 Carefree Southwest Art & Indian Market

DECEMBER 9 - 11, 2016 9th Annual Carefree Christmas Festival Snow sculpture by world-renowned artist Ray Villafane CarefreeChristmasFestival.com Amidst the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion at the Carefree Desert Gardens.

Open 365 days a year.

Life as it should be! Carefree.

101 Easy Street Carefree AZ 85377 | 480.488.3686

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Taste

Farm to Kitchen West Supper Series Nov. 18, Jan. 27, March 24, May 19: The Simple Farm 9080 E. Cactus Rd., Scottsdale Dec. 16, Feb. 24, April 28: Kitchen West Restaurant, 7700 E. McCormick Pkwy., Scottsdale 480-596-7522 Meet and greet: 6 p.m.

Dinner: 6:30 p.m. $75 per person (not including tax and gratuity)

As guests enjoy their meal, Lylah and Michael Ledner, owners of The Simple Farm, will join Dupere to discuss local, organic farm produce and quality cooking.

Evenings at The Simple Farm become a complete farm experience as a tour occurs during the course of the night.

Guests are encouraged to wear appropriate farm attire — especially comfortable walking shoes — as there will also be time to meet the adorable Nubian dairy goats who call the farm their home. The Simple Farm dinners are scheduled for November 18, January 27, March 24 and May 19.

On December 16, February 24 and April 28, the supper series will take place at the Kitchen West Restaurant, which is located at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. Guests can still expect the same rustic dinner experience in the restaurant’s private room. Following the meal, a relaxing wine reception will commence on the adjacent patio.

With the purpose of creating an intimate, communal gathering, the event only allows for a maximum of 16 guests. Therefore, those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve a seat as soon as possible. Each meal in the series costs $75 per person (not including tax and gratuity).

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8th Annual

STAGECOACH VILLAGE ARTS FESTIVAL

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Stagecoach Village bursts to life this holiday season with the return of the Stagecoach Village Arts Festival produced by Vermillion Promotions.

Now in its eighth season, the highlyanticipated festival, scheduled for November 25-27, prepares to delight fans both old and new.

With more than 100 juried fine artists and craftsmen from around the world included in the weekend event, festivalgoers with varying tastes in the arts will have no problem finding something to love. Among the impressive original art pieces,

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Writer Grace Hill

guests will discover paintings, bronze sculptures, stone, glass, metal, wood, mixed media, fine photography, jewelry and more!

Two local artists, painter Beth Zink and sculptor Kim Obrzut, will showcase their original works during the festival.

Attendees will see firsthand the extraordinarily beautiful and colorful botanicals that Zink brings to life in her paintings. They will also admire and appreciate the Hopi maiden sculptures in bronze that Obrzut skillfully creates in honor of her Hopi heritage.

Additionally, guests will enjoy the amazing live entertainment scheduled for the event. Filling the air with wonderful sounds are Bluesman Mike Anderson, Inka Gold (a traditional Native American musical group) and EstunBah (the premier Native sound of the Southwest). Additionally, a presentation of skill and beauty will be given by Tony Duncan, the five-time world champion Native American hoop dancer and performing artist, and the colorful Yellow Bird Dancers, the professional and authentic Native American song and dance performing group.

Experience 8th Annual Stagecoach Village Arts Festival November 25-27 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Stagecoach Village 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd. Free admission 623-734-6526 vermillionpromotions.com

With so much to see and do at the festival, attendees of the event can reenergize by visiting the many eateries located in Stagecoach Village. Indigo Crow Restaurant and Bar, Brugo's Pizza Co. & Bistro and The Village Coffee & CrĂŞperie are just a few of the places where delicious menus can be found and, of course, tasted.

Whether guests are shopping for lastminute holiday gifts, seeking a personal piece of art for the home or needing a day of relaxation and enjoyment, the eighth annual Stagecoach Village Arts Festival makes for the perfect event.

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ARIZONA Writer Grace Hill Photographer Brenna Zumbro

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Many people can describe their lives as being complex, busy and stressful — so much so that they often rely on others to prepare their meals. For some, dining out, fast food and microwaves have become an everyday occurrence and means of survival. If people have one less thing to worry about, like cooking, then isn’t that better in the end?

A growing trend supported by many health-conscious people argues that in fact, it isn’t better. Spending more time cooking and eating quality food actually de-stresses a person. A healthy, home-cooked meal then becomes an event that heals the mind, body and soul, something that busy and stressed out individuals absolutely need.

This finding would suggest, then, that more time should be spent in the produce aisle. However, to truly retrain the way the mind thinks about food, November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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FACTS ABOUT ARIZONA FARMS (FROM THE ARIZONA FARM BUREAU, AZFB.ORG) • Arizona agriculture is a $17.1 billion industry, with more than 15,000 farms and ranches.

• Most farms in Maricopa County are less than 10 acres.

• Dairy is Arizona's leading agricultural product.

• Yuma County is known as the “Winter Salad Bowl Capital.” They produce almost all of the veggies consumed in the United States during the winter months.

• Pinal County is home to one of the few remaining sheep ranches that herd their sheep to Coconino County by foot using the historic sheep driveways in the state.

• Arizona ranks second in the U.S. in head lettuce, leaf lettuce, romaine lettuce, cauliflower and broccoli production.

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one must look beyond the grocery store and take a much different approach to selecting what to eat. An approach that provides a deeper connection with the Earth’s bountiful crops. This can be done by selecting foods directly from local farms.

Both large and small farms offer a myriad of seasonal items that not only taste better but are nutritionally better for us. Since they do not require shipping, individuals can eat produce at its ripest and freshest. Even during the colder months, while other states deal with freezing temperatures, local farms are able to grow an abundance of produce. In addition, farms provide access to animal products, such as meat, eggs and milk.

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Of course, these foods can be found at the grocery store. However, purchasing directly from local farms encourages communication between the community and the farmers. This relationship provides consumers with an understanding on what, how and when food grows best on the farm.

It also communicates what role the farm plays in sustainable agriculture.

Ultimately, if a person wants to know what they are eating, then purchasing directly from local farms makes the most sense.

If a trip to a local farm seems too large of a task, then look to alternative resources for local food.

Community-supported agriculture (CSAs) and farmers markets bring the food closer to home. Some CSAs even deliver food directly to your doorstep. Additionally, many local butcher shops sell only sustainablyraised meats from local farms, instead of factory-farmed meats. And getting farm fresh food doesn’t mean that dining out can’t be an option any longer. Certain restaurants now offer a farm-to-table experience, where they only provide menu options from local food sources.

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With the growing desire to return to more natural ways of living, now makes for a perfect time to get to know the local farms and pick food that will nourish the body. Don’t think of it as something that should be done; think of it as something that must be done. It’s time to heal the mind, body and soul.

Share your favorite local farm experiences with our Images Arizona Facebook or Instagram pages using the hashtag, #iamAZproud.

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Brenna Zumbro Hometown: Payson Current: Flagstaff

Professional experience: When she was a high school senior, Brenna received her first camera from her grandmother for Christmas. In college, she studied journalism, and from there went to photography school per the recommendation of a professor. She graduated from the prestigious Brooks Institute of Photography in 2008, after studying under National Geographic photographer Chuck Plate. With Chuck as her inspiration and her studies under her belt, Brenna has been building her business ever since Why is it important to you to document farms in photographs? “I want people to know where their food comes from and show how much work goes into the process. I want to give the food and the people who grow it value, so that people start to support local farming.”

Describe your favorite farms to photograph and/or your favorite farm photograph? “It all depends. All the farms I’ve been on have been unique for different reasons. The largest farm I’ve photographed was Duncan Family Farms. It’s pretty amazing how much they grow. From the technology they use to the people they employ, it was pretty amazing. The most impressive part was that Arnott, the owner of the farm, still spends time in the field and knows the people who work for them. For a different reason, I love Rabbit Run Farm and others like it. They are small farms and the people on them work harder than anyone I know. They really care about what they produce and are always trying to improve.” brennazumbro.com

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A JOURNEY THROUGH

ODYSEA

Writer Grace Hill

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Fall in love with ocean life at Scottsdale’s newest attraction, the OdySea Aquarium.

This marine-life adventure destination opened on September 3 and holds the title of the largest aquarium in the Southwest. Located next to Butterfly Wonderland in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the two-level, 200,000-square-foot facility wows even the most unimpressionable person.

The Aqua Lobby starts the experience in an unforgettable way. Guests eyes immediately capture an array of brightly colored fish swimming in large glass spheres that hang from the ceiling. And if that does not surprise guests, the shark tank visible inside the bathroom should do the trick!

After the lobby, a journey begins down the windy paths of the aquarium. With more than 50 exhibits, 30,000 animals and 500 species living at OdySea, a full immersion into the underwater world occurs. An unparalleled adventure such as this requires a few hours to complete in its entirety.

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Along the journey, guests encounter sea life of various kinds. The American and Rainforest River exhibits showcase animals like freshwater turtles and true piranhas.

The Otter Banks feature adorable Asian small-clawed otters. And the ever-popular South African penguins call Penguin Point home. Guests then travel to Stingray Bay to touch the cownose rays and bamboo sharks. Those hesitant for such an up-close encounter might start at the Tide Touch Pool. With more than 37 feet, this touch pool boasts many small creatures, including sea cucumbers, sea stars, hermit crabs and sea snails.

The Deep Ocean Escalator then plunges guests into a tunnel, where eagle rays, whitetip reef sharks and rescued sea turtles swim all around them. From there, guests’ eyes enlarge as they come across the magnificent Sharks of the Deep exhibit — a feature that holds more than 200,000 gallons of water and more than eight different species of sharks, including California leopard sharks, scalloped hammerheads, blacknose sharks and bonnethead sharks.

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While many familiar animals call the aquarium home, guests also find bizarre sea creatures like the moray eel and the nautilus. Beyond the bizarre, the Jewels of the Caribbean exhibit features clown fish, banded butterflyfish, sea horses and giant jawfish. Guests then move to the Great Barrier Reef attraction where all sorts of sea life live, including angelfish, harlequin tuskfish, foxface and a variety of red-breasted Maori wrasse fish.

In addition, the Living Sea Carousel, a one-of-a-kind feature of OdySea, whisks guests away through a living sea adventure. The aquarium also has a 3-D theater that provides guests with an in-depth discovery of “Underwater Giants,” an exclusive OdySea film. Lastly, the SeaTREK experience allows participants 9 years and older to suit up and go underwater surrounded by thousands of colorful and curious sea creatures from the Indo-Pacific region of the world.

Guests feeling a little fatigued or famished by the excitement of the day’s journey can refresh themselves at the Lighthouse Cafe, a 28-foot authentic lighthouse. The menu offers delicious items like the artisan brick-oven pizza and gourmet burgers, as well as a nice selection of beer and wine. Once guests have finished the day’s journey through the underwater world, the final stop should be at the OdySea Treasures Gift Shop to purchase a keepsake item of the day.

The OdySea Aquarium showcases the amazing world of the ocean in the most beautiful and spectacular way. Don’t miss out on this experience. Take a trip there today! odyseaaquarium.com

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Experience

OdySea Aquarium

480-291-8000 9500 Via De Ventura, Scottsdale Sunday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Adult (Ages 18-61): $34.95 Child (Ages 3-12): $24.95 Student (Ages 13-17 or with college ID): $29.95 Senior (Ages 62+ with ID Card): $32.95 *Children 2 and under are FREE

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On and offthe road

Writer Tom Scanlon Photographer Brenna Zumbro

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There is biking, and then there is biking.

Cyclists in the North Valley are fortunate to have the option of riding on the road or trails.

Road riders will tell you the bike lanes are great.

Fatalities are on the decline, very likely due to increased bike lanes, like the ones that now wind through Cave Creek and North Scottsdale.

The United States Department of Transportation recently released data showing 818 bicyclist deaths on U.S. roads in 2015, up 12 percent from 2012 but down from 1,003 bicyclist deaths in 1975. And though 45,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic last year, that number was down from 50,000 in 2014 and 52,000 in 2010.

Fortunately for cyclists in these parts, there are choices that include trails. Zipping through the rolling hills of the desert, there are no red lights — or brake lights. No lane-changing cars, trucks and SUVs to worry about, no parked vehicle ready to open a door and send you somersaulting. Statistics on fatalities of off-road bicycling are not easily found, which suggests it is way safer than road biking.

Adrienne Goldberg, board member of the Desert Foothills Mountain Bike Association (DFMBA), doesn’t need any stats to convince her that riding trails is safer than road biking.

“I much prefer to fear a rattlesnake than a driver texting,” she says with a laugh.

Riders will experience a taste of the road and a main helping of the desert when they race in the Cave Creek Cactus Classic (C4), produced by DFMBA, on November 12. The event starts at Local Jonny’s

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and Flat Tire Bike Shop at 8:30 a.m. Racers, along with a police escort for safety, start on Cave Creek and Spur Cross roads. When the pavement ends, so does the police escort, as racers continue on single-track trails with some of the most magnificent scenery the North Valley has to offer. The C4 course winds through two Maricopa County parks, the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and Cave Creek Regional Park, then continues on the Cave Creek trail system. The final leg of the 23-mile race is back on pavement, but riders won’t have to worry about the text-and-drive crowd. This short, single-lane road section of the C4 course on Cave Creek Road will be closed to motor traffic.

After the race, a Kids Kross fun race is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., in a desert course set up behind the Cave Creek Post Office.

Ages 18 months to 14 years are invited to the Kids Kross event, which has a $12 entry fee. Registration for the adult race costs $60 before November 4, $75 after.

Lorraine Montuori, president of DFMBA, notes this year’s addition of a Strider Adventure Zone — those hot toddler bikes that don’t require pedaling. Five Strider bikes will be available for the no-pedal crowd to use. The Strider Adventure Zone will be open shortly after the start of the event until 11 a.m., and

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then will move over to the Kids Kross location behind the Cave Creek Post Office between 1:30-2:30 p.m.

“It’s the cutest thing on two wheels,” says Montuori.

C4, known as a “real mountain bike race,” also provides a great family day. Both adults and kids get to play in the dirt. Proceeds from the event benefit DFMBA’s trail-building and maintenance programs.

In Tom Wolfe’s book, “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test,” about Ken Kesey and his band of Merry Pranksters, you were either on the bus or off the bus. Here in Cave Creek, the DFMBA is on the road — and off the road.

Back in 2012, the group (then known as the Cave Creek Bicycle Association, or CCBA), rallied more than 100 cyclists to attend Cave Creek Town Council meetings, generating support for bike lanes in Cave Creek and Carefree. When the road lanes were finalized, DFMBA turned its attention back to the desert.

According to Montuori, DFMBA volunteers put in hundreds of hours on trail maintenance, building and advocacy. She notes hikers, runners and equestrians also benefit from their trail work.

Last year, REI granted DFMBA funds to build a connector trail, linking the northern section of the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve to Cave Creek Regional Park.

“This allowed the interconnection of hundreds of miles of trail, from Phoenix all the way up to Mayer,” Montuori says.

This year, REI kicked in another $10,000, allowing DFMBA to build a trailhead at the connector trail. Montuori expects the trailhead to be built in 2017.

“Again,” she notes, “our work benefits multiple user groups. This project has been a catalyst for the town. Several other organizations are volunteering to enhance this project. We anticipate this new trailhead to become a significant recreational resource for the area.”

Laying down or maintaining a trail in the desert isn’t as easy as it used to be, by the way. Goldberg says new trails involve attorneys, land surveys, experts on sustainable trails, etc. It’s all aimed at building trails that provide users with the trail experience they want while minimizing disruption to the desert.

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Part of the Desert Foothills Mountain Bike Association’s mission is to educate the public on how to behave off the roads. Below is a list of basic trail etiquette (from dmfba.org): • Respect: A courteous, common sense approach to other trail users will diminish negative encounters on the trail.

• Communication: For bikers and hikers, first make yourself known to stock and rider. A simple “Howdy” works to get attention. Then, step downhill and off trail.

• Horses uphill: Horses and mules are prey animals. That means they think everything wants to eat them, even the hiker with a large, scary backpack and especially the fastmoving biker chasing them. When startled, frightened critters go uphill. You should move downhill to avoid an encounter with a 1,000-pound panicked animal.

• Yield appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting is a good method. Anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners.

Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to bicyclists headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.

• Protect the desert: The North Valley has unsurpassed opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Sonoran Desert. Help protect our accessibility by playing nicely with your neighbors and treating trails with reverence.

Always practice “Leave No Trace” ethics and pitch in to give back.

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How to Yield • Yielding to equestrians: As you approach an equestrian, you call out a friendly greeting from far away. Slow the heck down, too. You want to start talking from about 50-75 feet away if you can. Horses spook easily, so try asking how the person on the horse would like you to get by. Would they like you to get off and walk (this is great for horses that are really skittish) or should you pass slowly at the next safe spot?

• Yielding to hikers: This isn’t a race, so yelling “On your left!” probably isn’t the best thing.

In years of practice, we’ve found that the best thing to do is to slow down. Then just say something like “Hi there! Great day.” People usually wake up to your presence without alarm.

Hikers have the right of way, so if they don’t feel safe moving to the side of (or off) the trail for you, please wait it out.

•Yielding to other bikes: Uphill traffic gets the right of way.

If you’re bombing down a hill, stop and let them by.

Yes, we all have had many a buzz killed having to stop for uphill traffic. It happens, but it’s much worse losing all momentum on a killer grind up the hill.

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Nature's

Revealed

beauty

ARTISTS BILL AND ELLEN LEIBOW

Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer Photographer Loralei Lazurek

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Long-time visitors to the Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale may know Ellen and Bill Leibow, a talented painter and photographer couple who have participated in the free, self-guided tour for more than 16 years at gourd artist Jane Boggs’ studio 17.

Married for 24 years, the Leibows reside in a mid-century ranch house on Camelback Mountain that’s not only home, but also a center for their creativity. Ellen’s painting studio is on one side of the house, and Bill’s photography studio is on the other side.

“We meet for lunch in the middle,” Ellen jokes, adding that they’ve each learned to respect each other’s space, and that it is also nice to have a second set of eyes to review and critique work. “I tend to get absorbed in my painting, and when I’m stuck, I’ll ask Bill for his opinion.”

Before they got married, neither was an artist. Bill was a successful endodontist and Ellen worked in child health policy. They met through a blind date that a mutual friend arranged, and Ellen was quickly impressed.

“He had a Marc Chagall painting on his wall,” she says, adding that she studied art history in college and had always loved fine art.

Not long after they married, Ellen began taking painting classes at Scottsdale Community College and workshops through the Scottsdale Artists’ School.

“I started with watercolor and played with pastel, but I fell in love with oil,” she says. “It’s an almost sculptural medium, with a rich, juicy texture.”

Fortunate to have several valuable mentors, she worked hard to develop her skills and her eye for color.

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A plein air workshop with Macpherson in 1998 fueled her desire to create impressionistic paintings of landscapes and still lifes. The workshop affected her so much that she bought one of his paintings, “Steamboat Springs, Aspen,” that hangs in their dining room.

“One of my first mentors, Kevin Macpherson, told me to come see him after I completed 500 paintings,” she says. His point was welltaken, and after a time, she gained an unconscious confidence.

“I’ve painted so much, I developed muscle memory for mixing colors,” she says, adding that she loves bright, bold, intense colors.

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“I love the dream-like quality of impressionism, and Kevin’s painting inspires me every day to excel in my work,” she says.

For Bill’s 45th birthday, Ellen surprised him with a photography excursion to Canyon de Chelly in Arizona, a trip that would change his life.

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“Everyone had large format cameras,” Bill recalls. “I showed up with a small 35 mm camera and no work to be reviewed.”

Despite the fact that he was the amateur in the group, the trip ignited Bill’s interest to learn more about photography. He enrolled in classes at Scottsdale Community College, converted a room in the house into a dark room and enlisted the help

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of his instructor and mentor, Rod Klukas.

He continued to work as an endodontist and concentrated on his photography on weekends and during vacations.

With the onset of the digital revolution, Bill embraced the change — carefully at first.

“I would travel with both cameras to take photos digitally and with film,” he says.

Today, he works 100 percent in digital photography.

“It rivals film, and I have more control of the images,” he says. “I do what I did in the dark room in less time, there are less chemicals and it’s easier to travel.”

Ellen and Bill each have a son from a previous marriage, and the couple jokes that when

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each one got old enough to move out, Bill would take over another part of the house.

With the change to digital, Bill sold all of his film cameras and gifted his dark room to a young student. Now he works with a Phase One medium format camera, Credo 50 megapixel digital back and Epson large format printer. He also does all of his matting and framing in his studio.

Bill left his practice of 35 years to take a role as endodontist co-director of the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, leaving weekends and vacations for photography.

Ellen continues to paint full time in her studio and on plein air trips.

The couple plans all of their vacations and travel around painting and photography, both in the United States and abroad.

The farthest they ever traveled was to New Zealand, and they once did a helicopter painting and photography trip with painter Robert Genn that was filmed for the reality television show “Passport and Palette.” Unfortunately, their trip never aired, but it still made for a great experience.

“I like to travel with painters rather than photographers because they stay put and allow me to get more detailed,” Bill says.

Having Ellen’s “good eye” also helps.

“People will sometimes ask me why I took a particular photo, and I’ll explain that Ellen told me to take it,” Bill laughs.

The couple will showcase new work at this year’s Hidden in the Hills tour, from recent trips to Yellowstone National Park, Ireland and Grand Teton National Park.

Both artists emphasize that their art is affordable to new collectors.

“My prices vary for original paintings, but I will also sell small paintings at Hidden in the Hills for $50,” Ellen says.

“Bill’s prices for his photography range from $125 to $600 with framing.”

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But the sales aren’t what motivates them to participate in the tour.

“We’ve developed a following over the years, and there’s nothing better than having someone tell us they’ve admired our work for years or that they can’t get a photo or painting out of their mind,” Bill says.

The 20th annual Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour and Sale takes place during the last two weekends of November (November 18-20 and 25-27). A signature event of the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, Hidden in the Hills features 188 artists in 47 studio locations throughout the scenic Desert Foothills communities of Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale.

480-575-6624 hiddeninthehills.org

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FRESH TASTES BETTER

A TRIP TO THE FARMERS MARKET Writer Grace Hill

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Living in the city doesn’t mean local farm fare is beyond your reach, or that you have to travel outside the city to get it. In fact, with multiple farmers markets around the Valley, it is easier than ever to get the fresh and seasonal produce you desire. And with fall here, now is the perfect time to head outside for a backto-basics shopping experience.

What makes a trip to the farmers market a rather unique experience is the opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation with those who lovingly grew the food — not an opportunity you often get at the grocery store. You truly know where and how your food was grown.

Beyond the beautiful displays of vegetables and fruit, you can expect to find an assortment of other local goods. While what you find varies from one market to the next (making each trip to the market one full of surprises and delights), you can expect to come across delicious products like jams, jellies, sauces and salsas. Your nose might also lead you to the heavenly smelling homemade breads, while your eyes set their sights on tasty sweets.

Or you can leave with some herbs and flowers for the kitchen. So much goodness abounds!

Going to the market gets you out into the crisp fall weather, walking among your community, supporting your local farms and finding out that fresh does taste a whole lot better. So grab a basket or bag and head on out.

Listed next are the farmers markets located in the north/northeast part of the Valley.

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FARMERS MARKET BUY FRESH

BUY LOCAL

Anthem Farmers Market

The Camelback Market

arizonafarmersmarkets.com Oct. 30 through May 28 Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem

vincentsoncamelback.com Late October to early May Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Parking lot of Vincent on Camelback, 3930 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix

Carefree Farmers Market

Desert Ridge Farmers Market Cashman Park

carefree.org Oct. 7 through May 26 Fridays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Under the Carefree Sundial in the Desert Gardens, 101 Easy St., Carefree

azfarmersmarkets.us October through March Third Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

22066 N. 44th St., Phoenix

Roadrunner Park Farmers Market arizonafarmersmarkets.com October through May Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3502 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix

Troon North Farmers Market (hosted by 360 Wealth Management) troonnorthfarmersmarket.com First and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

New location: 10037 E. Dynamite Rd. (between Pima Road and North Alma School Parkway in the Chase Bank parking lot) 10 percent of proceeds are donated to Victory Place, a local veteran's organization.

Photo by Brenna Zumbro

Cave Creek Farmers Market azfarmersmarkets.us October through April Second Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Parking lot of Good Shepherd of the Hills Church, 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek

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Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market arizonafarmersmarkets.com Oct. 15 through May 27 Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3806 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale

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Grand Opening BRYNNE SMITH MEMORIAL CAMPUS

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In the fall of 2014, the Smith family contacted Foothills Animal Rescue. They wanted to create a safe haven for dogs and cats that would honor the memory of their daughter, Brynne, and represent her lifelong love of animals.

The Smiths and Foothills spent the next year collaborating on the building’s design, hiring architects and identifying the perfect piece of land. They needed someplace that was available, affordable and in the middle of the community.

“We wanted to be where the people are versus the people having to come to us,” says Victoria Cowper, Foothills Animal Rescue’s executive director. “Instead of building bigger, we’re building a welcome place people want to be. It’s part of the community.” She stresses the importance of having the shelter in a local shopping center.

In April 2016, Foothills Animal Rescue broke ground on the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus. And at 9 a.m. on December 3, the doors to the campus will officially open.

The 4,200-square-foot facility, located on East Bell Road in Scottsdale, will be the second Foothills Animal Rescue campus in Arizona.

In 1995, Foothills Animal Rescue began as a small foster-

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Writer Katherine Braden

based shelter in Cave Creek, focused on spaying, neutering and adoption for homeless animals. Since then, the shelter has found homes for more than 2,800 animals. A nonprofit organization staffed mainly by volunteers, Foothills Animal Rescue houses more than 80 animals and saves around 650 lives each year.

Victoria hopes that with the opening of the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus, Foothills will be able to double their intake and save even more lives, as well as honor the memory of an amazing young woman.

For the shelter design, Foothills and the Smith family chose Douglas Fredrikson Architects and landscape architect Collaborative V Design Studio.

“Both are local and have extensive experience in design and sustainability,” Victoria says. “They both were close friends of the Smith Family and knew Brynne on a personal level.”

“The design concept for the Foothills Animal Rescue/Brynne Smith Memorial Campus was to create a subtle beacon in the desert that would bring recognition to the purpose of a sanctuary for the animals and a memorial to a lost friend and family member,” says chief architect, Douglas Fredrikson. His

goal? “An elegant, simple and artistic representation of desert modern architecture that would endure the test of time and evoke a long, loving memory.”

Paul Vecchia of Collaborative V Design Studio agrees.

“The landscape design is intended to create a peaceful safe haven for residents and visitors alike,” Paul says. “Native Sonoran Desert [trees] ground the structure and provide strong roots to the mission at hand of caring, compassion and the belief that every life matters, which embodies the heart and soul of what Brynne Smith so passionately stood for. The [surrounding] vegetation creates a timeless feel and an aura that represents the eternal spirit and a deep love for animals.”

“It was important to [strike] a balance of tribute [to Brynne] and function from an animal welfare perspective,” says Victoria. With a lobby boasting polished concrete floors and soaring 18-foot ceilings, you can bet this isn’t any ordinary shelter. Featured in the lobby: a painting of Brynne and her dog, as well as a custom metal plate etched with messages from her family and friends.

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architects and construction professionals to ensure the best possible housing scenarios for the animals.

“We’ve come a long way in how we house animals,” Victoria says. “We’ve learned a lot, from airing to flooring to disease protocols.” The most exciting part for her, she tells me, “was to have the opportunity to be part of the design team from the ground up. We were actively involved, from the location to the color of the wall.”

As you walk through the shelter, you’ll be able to peek through large windows to see kittens, puppies and small dogs at play.

If you’re a potential adopter, you can head to a meet and greet room to spend time with new pets and adoption counselors.

The dog suites will boast floor-to-glass frontage, porcelain wall tiles and a music system for stress reduction.

There will be small rooms for cats who prefer to be less social, as well as a room for sick cats and a large community cat room. Each will include scratching pads, comfortable beds and four-inch walls to offer concealment and spine support.

The rooms will also feature equipment designed to encourage climbing, jumping, resting, hiding and perching aloft.

Outside, a 1,500-square-foot shaded courtyard will be utilized for events such as dog training and children’s camps. Adjacent to the courtyard, large dogs will frolic in a play area while smaller dogs can burn energy in dog runs next to the shelter’s entrance.

Animal lover? There’s plenty you can do to help before and after the shelter opens.

“There are still major naming opportunities that provide the funding to maintain the shelter,” says Victoria. With a donation, you can name a dog suite, play area or park bench.

You can also sign up to volunteer, attend fundraising events like Whiskers and Wine, donate or provide auction items.

Plus, you’re invited to the grand opening of the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus, which will include a public ceremony, an honor guard and ribbon cutting. You’ll be able to greet the shelters new four-legged residents, as well as honor the memory of a girl whose love lives on.

And if you find your new furry best friend? That’s exactly what Brynne would have wanted. foothillsanimal.org

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Now Open!

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Mom’ s F Mean Business

For some, it’s skydiving. For others, a Grand Canyon hike.

But for Diane Meyer, a more business-minded adventure sat at the top of her bucket list: a children’s gift shop.

“It was always a dream of mine,” explains Diane, aka Grandma Di. “After selling wholesale to brick-and-mortar boutiques throughout the United States for several years, I decided it was time to open a retail anchor store here in my hometown of Scottsdale, where I could show off our complete line of Goochie Goo Garbs and utilize all of our wonderful local resources.”

With the grand opening of Cuddles, her new baby and child boutique located in the La Mirada Shopping Center, this wish is officially crossed off her list.

The store features products made by mompreneurs and grandmapreneurs, including her line of pretty yet practical, luxuriously soft keepsake children’s blankets, Goochie Goo Garbs.

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Writer Lara Piu Photographer Pogue Photography

“I love designing our blankets and am always looking for our next new product to make,” says Diane.

Having a new retail location meant she could add graphic T-shirts for tots through teens and made-to-order blankets to the Goochie Goo Garbs line.

“We can now offer custom-designed blankets, capes and pillows for our customers,” says Diane. “Customers can come into Cuddles and see, touch and feel the vast array of fabrics we have available.”

As a mother of four and grandma of 12, Grandma Di is a true children’s clothing shopping expert, which she says helped her curate the best products available. Local and national mompreneur and grandmapreneur businesses are featured in her store, such as Pogue Photography, which offers special sessions for customers; a local mom who does all of the store’s embroidery to personalize gift purchases; and several other mompreneur

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brands well-known for their quality.

Her goal is to introduce unique mompreneur and grandmapreneur products in a retail setting.

“Many of the moms I’ve met work right from their homes and sell their products online, as the mompreneur trend has been increasingly popular with the help of the internet and social media,” says Diane. “Call me oldfashioned, but I still like to be able to touch and feel products when I shop, so I’m hoping Cuddles will provide consumers the best of both worlds.”

Today, she enjoys the fruits of her dream.

“I love the people I work with, I love my vendors and I love meeting all the people who come into Cuddles, and helping them find that perfect gift,” Diane says. It also doesn’t hurt to be located next to Starbucks, she jokes.

Finally, she loves the store’s charitable platform. A Super Garbs collection of blankets and capes supports charities such as the MaxLove Project and the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, as well as children’s cancer research at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

“As a childhood cancer survivor myself, children’s cancer research is a cause near and dear to my heart,” says Diane. “I think I am most proud of our philanthropic line, Super Garbs, and all the wonderful charities we work with that help make our world a better place. We love the concept of paying it forward.”

What’s next on Grandma Di’s list?

Keep your eyes peeled for a Grandma Shower for expecting grandparents at Cuddles this spring, and a whole lot more. goochiegoo.com

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Here are just a few of the mompreneur lines featured at Cuddles.

Infanteenie Beenies: Missy from Georgia makes baby beanies that announce the gender of your new bundle of joy in style. Her award-winning beanies are the only four-seam round, medicalgrade newborn hospital hats on the market. “My daughter is the true inspiration behind my creations,” says Missy. “She was the model who eagerly and unknowingly wore my creations during many photo sessions!”

Nursery Prints: Carrie from Michigan’s products are an expression of her intense love of drawing. “I started with the wish to fill their nurseries with whimsical decor,” says Carrie. “I wanted to create whimsical art for children, so I created a shop full of my whimsical imaginings. Bringing my art to life on fabric really enables me to be more creative and flexible with what I can make. I am living my dream.”

LittleFruitTreeShop: Kate from California creates hand-sewn nursery pillows that bring a special touch to your space. Kate and her husband created the product out of a love for stories and a heart to celebrate childhood. “Together we work, play, love and laugh on this crazy adventure of life,” says Kate. “Every piece we make is a celebration of sweet, magical childhood. We create our products by hand with love to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your home! I love working with people and making beautiful pieces that suit their personality and life.”

Fish Kiss: Anne from Colorado’s lifestyle brand is full of fun and whimsical printed items inspired by the people and places she loves. “The name came from the goofy fish face kisses I would give my nieces and nephews,” says Anne. “If you look closely at the fish lips, you’ll see a small cross in the center. We aspire to keep the Lord in the center of the business — good quality and service to our customers while appreciating all those who make Fish Kiss possible.”

GeorgeHats: Kristen from Southern California designs handmade hats inspired by her son, George, and his love of the outdoors. “I always keep his face protected from the sun and the elements, but also want him to be comfortable and trendy,” says Kristen. “Each hat is handmade with love.”

Jolie and June, Modern Organic Children's Apparel: Janell from California was inspired by the idea of one little person so small that he or she doesn't even exist yet. “He or she has already generated ideas, dreams, hopes and fantasies,” says Janell. “So when that small little person finally decides to stick and bloom, it will be our treasured moon baby.”

Made by

Mom

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Piano Virtuoso

Chang-Yong Shin Writer Rebecca Zaner

T

The Living Music Performance Series at Christ the Lord Lutheran Church (CTL) in Carefree returns with another concert featuring world-class young talent.

Opening the fourth annual series is virtuoso pianist, Chang-Yong Shin, who will perform at CTL on November 12 at 4 p.m.

Chang-Yong is a recent graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music and is now pursuing a master’s degree in piano performance at the Juilliard School.

He is young, but has many credits to his name and has given recitals at Salle Cortot and the Louvre in Paris.

Later this year, Chang-Yong will perform at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall and then with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. He will also be recording a CD under the Steinway & Sons label.

The CTL concert features music by Korean composer, Unsuk Chin, as well as Bach, Beethoven and Prokofiev.

“I thought it would be very challenging for me to present a variety of musical styles, from the Baroque period to a more contemporary style in one concert, and to show the audiences the unique colors of each time period,” Chang-Yong shares.

Chang-Yong followed in his older brother’s musical footsteps and began playing the piano at 5 years old.

He was also studying violin at the time, but realized the strings were not for him. He discontinued his violin studies, but loved the piano and remained in practice throughout his childhood years.

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“I’ve always enjoyed listening to classical music, especially piano music,” Chang-Yong says. “My mother told me that I always asked to listen to the classical radio station in the car as a child.”

At age 8, Chang-Yong decided he wanted to continue piano as a serious life study. Of course, he still enjoyed his average childhood activities, including roller skating and playing with friends.

“I would say the time I spent away from the piano was also valuable time,” Chang-Yong says.

“Sometimes I wish I could go back to that time and enjoy those moments again. Since I started piano as a major, I mostly spend my time practicing.”

Chang-Yong has participated in numerous national competitions since age 9, most recently placing first in the 2016 Hilton Head International Piano Competition. In his early years, he graduated from an art middle school in Korea prior to his acceptance at Seoul Arts High School, which he graduated from at the top of his class.

Chang-Yong then attended the famed Curtis Institute of Music for five years, which he feels was the “best school for studying and growing as a real artist.”

“I learned how to play better musically and technically, and also to communicate and share my expression with others through music,” ChangYong says. “Curtis also made me feel at home. I felt mentally and emotionally stable and could focus more in depth on my music. My last five years are the most valuable and precious time in my life.”

Chang-Yong will bring his years of practice and studies to CTL this month to share his love for music. It is a wonderfully professional event that should not be missed.

“Piano allows me to express my feelings that cannot be explained in words,” he says. “When I find beautiful melodies or harmonic progressions, I become even more deeply inspired. I want to one day be a performer who can also teach my own students.

My goal is to share my music with those who wish to listen. I have never been to Arizona and I am excited to go there. I am looking forward to performing and meeting new audiences in the beautiful church.” ctlcarefree.org/living-music November 2016 IMAGESAZ .C OM

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t started with a vision for Chef Doug Smith, who pictured a friendly and intimate neighborhood tavern where people could relax while enjoying delicious, chef-inspired meals. With his culinary talents and an eye for accuracy, Smith has successfully brought this concept to life with his Scottsdale restaurant, The Bourbon Cellar.

As a true farm-to-table restaurant, Smith visits local markets each morning and selects the freshest produce he can find for his signature dishes.

Additionally, he handpicks and trims all of the USDA, natural grass-fed beef that he purchases, which means he personally approves of each piece of meat served. He offers a wide variety of wild game as well. The Bourbon Cellar also boasts of having fresh, line-caught fish flown in every two days and sourced through the fisherman themselves, a detail that speaks volumes of Smith’s desire to serve only the most natural and freshest of foods.

To complement the meals, The Bourbon Cellar offers a wide variety of high-quality drinks.

Diners can choose from locally-crafted beers, handcrafted cocktails, fine wines and more than 200 selections of the finest bourbon. While happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m., diners can find happy hour specials all day, every day.

The Bourbon Cellar celebrated its one-year anniversary this past October, the first of many years as the local spot for fresh food, signature dishes — for the price of casual dining fare — and an environment that encourages guests to feel at home.

The Bourbon Cellar is open Sunday through Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m., and Friday through Saturday from 3 to 10 p.m. Only 24-hour callahead reservations will be accepted.

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The Bourbon Cellar 32409 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 107 Scottsdale, 85266 480-595-5868 thebourboncellar.com

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Whether planning for the holidays or a weeknight dinner, baked gnocchi is a great go-to meal. The soft, pillowy dumplings are tossed with luscious tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baked until the top is golden and caramelized. This comforting dinner is easy to assemble and a welcome addition to any table.

Baked Gnocchi Yield: 4-6 servings Baked Gnocchi Ingredients: 16-ounce package potato gnocchi 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup onions, chopped 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano) 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning pinch of sugar pinch of red pepper flakes 6 ounces baby spinach 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed ½-inch thick grated Parmesan cheese to taste salt and pepper to taste

Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

Directions: Preheat the oven to 425 F. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onions and sautĂŠ until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar and red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Partially cover the pan with a lid and simmer for about 20 minutes over low heat.

In the meantime, bring a large pot of water to a boil with a generous pinch of salt. Boil the gnocchi according to the package directions, about 3-5 minutes

or until they float to the top.

Drain the gnocchi and add to the tomato sauce. Stir in the baby spinach.

Once the spinach is just wilted, stir in the mozzarella cheese and transfer the mixture to a large baking dish (or four individual baking dishes). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is slightly golden brown.

Remove from the heat and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately.

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As an alternative to pie this Thanksgiving, turn instead to homemade Pumpkin Swirl Brownies. These rich, fudgy bars are layered with a creamy, pumpkin swirl for a special holiday touch that’s bound to please both adults and children alike.

Yield: 9 servings Pumpkin Swirl Brownies Ingredients: For the pumpkin swirl: 5 ounces cream cheese, softened ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin filling) ¼ cup granulated sugar ¼ teaspoon pumpkin spice 1 egg, beaten For the brownies: 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon cocoa powder ¼ teaspoon salt 5 ounces unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup granulated sugar ¼ cup brown sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish. Optional: For easy removal, line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving two of the sides long enough to hang over the edges.

Prepare the pumpkin mixture: Whisk together the cream cheese, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, pumpkin spice and beaten egg until well combined. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder and salt. Set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar with an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time and mix on medium speed for about one minute. Add the vanilla and melted chocolate and continue mixing until combined. Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix). Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and, using a rubber spatula, smooth the top to form an even layer.

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

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Place spoonfuls of the pumpkin mixture on top (you may not need the entire mixture). Using a clean butter knife or chopstick, swirl the pumpkin mixture into the brownie mixture.

Bake the brownies at 350 F for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

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P. 480-488-2400

$569,000 Scottsdale charming townhouse, immaculate, beautifully upgraded w/wood floor, travertine, granite countertops, highly desired, spacious floor plan in gated community. Nicely landscaped w/tranquil water feature, ramada and built in BBQ.

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For over 25 years, Saiedeh has combined her firsthand experience of orchestrating hundreds of transactions with continuing education. Currently, she is a licensed Associate Broker and has successfully completed the requisite training for Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI). Not just an alphabet soup of credentials, but peace of mind for her clients.

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