Images Arizona: Carefree/Cave Creek July 2016 Issue by Images Arizona Magazine Carefee/Cave Creek Edition

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Alex Bauwens Bow, Barn and Brush JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

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CONTENTS PUBLISHER Shelly Spence

EDITOR/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenn Korducki Krenn

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donna Kublin Amanda Christmann Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Rebecca Zaner Stephanie Maher Palenque Paula Theotocatos Lauren Strait Peni Long Shannon Severson Nigel Spence Suzanne Wright Lara Piu Grace Hill

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Mike Harvey Karen Hamilton Monica Longenbaker Brandon Tigrett

ART DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER'S ASSISTANT Jennifer Satterlee

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 Â© 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.

Alex Bauwen: Bow, Barn and Bush Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black P. 46

Local First A R I Z O NA 4

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

Is the

latest thing

really the greatest thing?

Learn about the difference between fad diets and lifestyle changes. There’s a reason they say “ask your doctor.” Contact your HonorHealth doctor to answer your questions or call 623-580-5800 to find a doctor who can.

HonorHealth.com/healthyaz

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

WELCOME

Summer is here and with it comes the hot, hot, hot temperatures. As I write this month’s editorial, we have been advised of an excessive heat warning reaching anywhere from 115 to 120 degrees over the weekend. It goes without saying that if anyone needs to find me and my family, we’ll be in a pool or under misters somewhere — I hope our readers can say the same! Though Arizona summer is often seen as the equivalent of winter everywhere else — a time to hibernate indoors, albeit next to the air conditioning

An Ode to Whiskey P. 28

instead of a warm fire — there is still plenty of activity to look forward to across the Valley this time of year. From summer camps to summer concerts, ArtWalks to Freedom Fests, there is no shortage of ways for kids and adults to stay cool (and busy) in the shade. Whether you’re sticking around through monsoon

The Athlete's Home P. 38

The Next Stage P. 56

season or have already booked your getaway to cooler climes, we hope you enjoy every ounce of sunshine in the sizzling months ahead. After all, the days only get shorter from here! Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221

Chilled Corn Chowder P. 66

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JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

LOCAL ARTIST

Black Ribbon collection: a collaborative sculpture with Michael Anderson.

Sculpting Space: Elizabeth Rosensteel Writer Shannon Severson

esourcefulness and reinvention is in Elizabeth

“I don’t think my grandparents even had running water

Rosensteel’s DNA. Her interior design firm, Rosensteel

until 1972,” says Rosensteel. “My mother said to me as I

Design Studio, is the culmination of many years — and

was growing up, ‘If you go into any form of the arts, I’m

careers — that have molded who she is today: an

going to break both your arms and legs.’ It was serious.

artist, furniture designer, sculptor, art director, inventor.

And now, I sing with the Phoenix Symphony and own a

Even further back, Rosensteel recalls stories of her

design studio, so I guess I didn’t listen too well, but I love

maternal grandfather, an artist and organic gardener

what I do. My parents finally came around.”

(before sustainability was a “thing”), and her industrious grandmother, who supported the family by weaving,

After studying visual communications in her native Boston

making lace and working as a furrier — anything to keep

and then at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Rosensteel and

her family afloat on the sparse income of an artist.

her husband, Barry, moved to the Valley in 1978, seeking a change of scenery and a dose of adventure — she’d

This combination of hard work and creative talent lives

never been west of the Mississippi. What brought the

on in Rosensteel, but did draw concern from her mother,

Rosensteels to their Gerry Jones-designed Carefree home,

who feared her daughter would encounter the same

where they have lived since 2013 (having previously lived

hardships she had as a girl.

in Paradise Valley), is a story full of twists, turns, hard work and, of course, reinvention.

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

DESIGNING 10

When she arrived in Phoenix as

doing, but didn’t have a format

on a one-night event,” says

a freelance artist, Rosensteel

or a way to implement it,” says

Rosensteel. “We would spend nine

landed a position with Broadway

Rosensteel. “I was designing closet

months designing and building it,

Department Stores as a store

systems for children when I was a

bringing in the set on huge trucks

planner and connected with a

kid, but my parents thought it was

for a one-night event, and we’d

mentor who encouraged her

just silly stuff.”

tear it down the next day. That

to take on bigger challenges.

mentality has helped me in my

Learning on the spot, she pored

Next on her journey was corporate

business. In the corporate staging

over blueprints, essentially

staging and set design. Rosensteel

world, you’ve got to be ready,

teaching herself architectural

recalls designing and building

come hell or high water. You can’t

skills and drafting. Broadway

massive, yet intricate environments

miss a deadline. Those doors open

paid for architecture classes at

for product fairs (such as Mattel’s

and everyone has to think it’s

Arizona State University as long

Toy Fair in both New York City

the best thing in the world. It was

as she maintained a B average

and Germany), product launches

great preparation for what I do

or higher, and she was soon

and spectacular one-night affairs.

now.”

overseeing store remodels and

For one such event, she and her

large-scale design projects.

team recreated New Orleans’

It was time for another reinvention

French Quarter in great detail. It

— and this one was a far cry from

From graphic designer to interior

was an exciting, hard-charging time

the build-quickly-and-tear-down-

architect — her first reinvention.

in her career.

faster staging job. She launched

“It was one of those things that in

“That was in the day when

learned that operating both the

my upbringing, I’d constantly been

companies would spend $3 million

business and design sides wasn’t

her own design firm, but soon

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

her forte, and she sought other opportunities. In 1995, Rosensteel became the first elected female principal and director of the interior environmental design department at Taliesin Architects in Scottsdale. There, her follow-through, deadline-oriented background melded with her talent for interior design and architecture served her well, and propelled her to the next stage in her career. “I was very honored to work with some of the world’s most incredible minds,” says Rosensteel. “I had the chance to learn by doing, even getting the chance to build the walls of one of the buildings there in the original manner of Taliesin. It was a wonderful time, but, like anything, I had to leave to preserve my own abilities to continue to grow.” Another reinvention. This one brought her back to owning her own firm again. Rosensteel took everything she had learned about how to run a business (and how not to) and founded Elizabeth A. Rosensteel Design Studio in November of 1999. The concepts of site-specific, organic design continue to influence her work today. “Owning your own business is like going on a job interview every single day of your life,” says Rosensteel. “I got smarter about it. Every decade, you go through a process of learning who you are. There are certain jobs I won’t take because I know who I am and what I’m happy doing.” Just as Wright designed furniture and accents for specific spaces, Rosensteel’s talent for sculpting a space led to designing furniture for each of her projects — pieces that are both beautiful and functional for the environments she creates. She considers both the interior and exterior elements of a home, as well as the personalities and needs of her clients. Nothing is cookie-cutter. “I love the process,” says Rosensteel. “I love the whole idea of pulling together all these things and showing a client something they’ve never thought of. That’s why you hire a professional. My industry JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

changes every six months and I love

piece is individually commissioned and

phenomenal jobs … these other lives.

being able to create and show people

no two ribbons are alike.

They’ve left that part of their lives and

you can have really well-designed and defined spaces.”

they’ve reinvented themselves. Most This new venture with Anderson,

of us need to be constantly mentally

who is essentially her neighbor, is

challenged by something. People really

This functional beauty is embodied

just one example of why Rosensteel

appreciate good design and quality,

in all of her projects, and is newly

loves Carefree; her away-from-it-

but they’re done proving anything to

evidenced in her new Black Ribbon

all community has brought her

their neighbors.”

collection, a collaboration with sculptor

friendships with neighbors of all ages

Michael Anderson. What began as the

who share barbecues and a love

Rosensteel is currently working on

need to create a table to complement

of their environment. The beauty

close to 40 projects and continues

an unusually long sofa became a

of the landscape is both solace

to envision new creative avenues and

drawing, which led to Rosensteel’s

and inspiration, and she has taken

solutions, many focused around how

decision that powder-coated steel

to posting a sunset photo on her

communities can be more connected

would be the best material for the

Facebook page almost every night.

and how the elderly can continue to

job. Her client had a difficult time

live in their own homes for as long

envisioning the finished product,

“I feel like, no matter what I’ve

as possible. It’s safe to say she won’t

and that’s when Rosensteel’s fellow

gone through, I get to a certain

soon relinquish her penchant for

Carefree resident, Anderson, came to

place on Tom Darlington and it’s

reinvention.

mind. He helped create a “maquette,”

like ‘Brigadoon’ — the stresses and

a small-scale model of the piece. A

concerns of the day fall away,” says

602-522-0989

partnership was born, and the pair

Rosensteel. “It’s a very interesting

rosensteeldesign.com

has gone on to conceive a full line of

place. There are fascinating people

tables, consoles and hardware. Each

who come out here and have had

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

Consign With Us Our consignment team continually uncovers estates and collectibles that attract a strong and regular following. This one-of-a-kind sword, to be auctioned July 28, 2016, is one of our special finds that will bring out the best bidders worldwide representing over 60 countries. J. Levineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top tier bidders ensure that when you consign with us we provide both an active audience and a convenient turnkey solution for a single item or an entire estate.

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Grace Hill

JULY 3

CAVE CREEK FREEDOM TREASURE FEST Artist and vendor booths will showcase an eclectic collection of boutique apparel, jewelry and accessories, repurposed home decor, original art, Native American crafts, holidaythemed goods and gourmet packaged edibles. The event will coincide with Cave Creekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Throughout the show, Roadhouse will serve adult beverages and a full menu of classic American fare. There will also be live music and entertainment featuring local bands. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Roadhouse, 6900 E. Cave Creek Rd., 480-488-3300, magicbirdfestivals.com.

JULY 7

SCOTTSDALEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INTERNATIONAL ARTWALK In celebration of the many fine artworks represented in Scottsdale galleries from artists and images around the world, ArtWalk will host a series of small presentations and lectures on a variety of topics from a global perspective. Located in the galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way in downtown Scottsdale, come enjoy film, music and guest speakers. To cool off on the ArtWalk line, cool treats will be served, from Asian shaved ice to Italian gelato. Free. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Scottsdale Gallery Association, 480-421-1818, scottsdalegalleries.com

*Cave Creek Freedom Treasure Fest featuring Mercy & Grace Designs. pictured IMA GDebbie E S A Z . CLebsock, O M J ULY 2 0 1 6 with some of her one-of-a-kind handbags.

JULY 8-AUG. 7

DESERT STAGES THEATRE PRESENTS INTO THE WOODS Will a baker and his wife break a witch’s spell so they can finally start a family, or will fairytale characters get in the way? Find out in Desert Stages’ production of “Into the Woods.” See website for prices and show times. Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-483-1664, desertstages.org.

JULY 9, 10

MIM’S 5TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF FRANCE Experience French culture and music through live musical performances, hands-on activities and a French-inspired menu at Café Allegro. Activities and performances are included with paid museum admission. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., 480-478-6000, mim.org.

JULY 23

LUNCH AND LEARN AT SANCTUARY ON CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN Sanctuary’s award-winning culinary series returns for its 15th season with a new lineup featuring some of the country’s top chefs and culinary experts. This interactive event features an informative discussion from Chef Allen Susser, a James Beard awardwinning chef who is famous for his New World cuisine culinary style. Attendees will be given interactive cooking demonstrations, Q-and-A opportunities, take-home recipes and behind-the-scenes insights. $75 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, 5700 E. McDonald Dr., 480-948-2100, sanctuaryoncamelback.com.

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JULY 1-SEPT. 5 ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER EXHIBIT: THE WORLD OF GIANT INSECTS Get ready to creep and crawl with giant insects at the Arizona Science Center. Each animated, gigantic insect has its own unique sequence of movement and sound, made possible with the latest robotic technology. See website for prices and times. Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., azscience.org.

JULY 11-16, 18-30 CAMP RISING STAR

JULY 23

DESERT FOOTHILLS FAMILY YMCA COMMUNITY EVENT Come learn more about membership benefits and backto-school programs at the Desert Foothills Family YMCA. This open house will include demonstrations, a nutrition education station, face painting, crafts, a rock wall, healthy snacks and more! On July 23 only, those who become members of the YMCA will have their joining fee waived. Free. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Desert Foothills Family YMCA, 34250 N. 60th St., 480-596-9622, valleyymca.org/desert-foothills.

Starlight Community Theater’s 2016 Camp Rising Star has two more summer sessions for youth wanting to explore theater. Session 2, held July 11-16, is for teens ages 1318, while Session 3, held July 18-30, is for youth and teens ages 7-18. Check website for details. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., 623-252-6815, starlightcommunitytheater.com.

JULY 17

ENGLISH ROSE TEA ROOM’S 2ND ANNUAL TEDDY BEAR TEA Bears — the stuffed variety — and friends are invited to tea and treats at English Rose Tea Room’s second annual Teddy Bear Tea in Carefree. Adults, $25; children, $15; bears, free (if properly attired). Call for reservations. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy St., Ste. 103, 480-488-4812, carefreetea.com.

Youth Scene

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

JULY 25-29, AUG. 1-5

SUPERHEROES OF THE BIBLE SUMMER CAMP Children entering grades 1-6 will explore superheroes of the Bible with acting, singing, comic book art and much more! Sign up for one or both weeks. $60 per week. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Desert Mission United Methodist Church, 7373 N. Dixileta Dr., 480-595-1814, desertmissionumc.org.

JULY 30, 31, AUG. 1, 6, 7, 8

NVSO’S YOUTH ORCHESTRA MEMBER AUDITIONS Come audition to join the 2016-17 season of North Valley Symphony Orchestra’s Youth Orchestra. Advanced string players are encouraged to audition if they can attend weekly rehearsals and commit to the necessary practice. 623-980-4628, northvalleysymphony.org.

*NVSO Youth Orchestra pictured. JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

COMMUNITY ANNOUCEMENTS

NOTRE DAME PREP ANNOUNCES NEW CROSS-COUNTRY COACH Congratulations to Lisa Rawlings, theology teacher and current Notre Dame Preparatory assistant cross-country coach, on being named head coach of NDP’s country-country team for the 2016-17 season. Rawlings is a veteran cross-country coach, heading up the team at her previous Catholic high school, St. John Paul II High School in Huntsville, Alabama, prior to coming to NDP in 2015. She

HIDDEN IN THE HILLS CHOOSES COVER ARTIST Scottsdale artist Linda Korstad’s “Wishing and Hoping” was selected as the featured art piece for the 20th Annual Hidden in the Hills artist directory cover. Korstad is a mixed

season, visit pmaz.org.

Notre Dame Preparatory assistant principal Jerry Zander has been named interim principal of NDP for

PROMUSICA ARIZONA SUPPORTERS RAISE $20,000 ProMusica Arizona Chorale and

than $21,000 in total donations for the

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

information on PMAZ and the 2016-17

information, visit sonoranartsleague.org.

of raising $20,000 in 20 days with more 20/20 Perfect Vision Campaign. The support makes it possible for ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra to continue to bring beautiful music to the community. This fall, ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra will

and entertain audiences. For more

that are whimsical and quirky. For more

runner, having completed

ndpsaints.org.

experiences that promise to engage

clay and found objects to create pieces

Orchestra supporters topped their goal

For more information, visit

eclectic mix of music and multi-sensory

NOTRE DAME PREP ANNOUNCES INTERIM PRINCIPAL

media sculptor who loves working with

is also a seasoned distance 17 marathons in 17 states.

begin its 14th season, consisting of an

the 2016-17 school year. The search for a permanent principal will begin next fall. Beginning July 1, current NDP principal Jim Gmelich will serve as the school’s first president. Bishop Thomas Olmsted modified the future leadership structure at the school to include both a president and a principal. For more information, visit ndpsaints.org.

WINK 24 OPENS IN BILTMORE FASHION PARK Wink 24, a new Mexican- and Italianinspired restaurant located in the Biltmore Fashion Park, is now open for business. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, paninis, fresh salads, charcuterie, cheeses, premium wines, craft beer, unique cocktails and more. Though the menu is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine and co-owner Ruggero Borletti, fellow co-owner and Ruggero's wife, Fernanda Borletti, draws inspiration from her Mexican roots, as well. For more information, call 602954-5278 or visit wink24.net.

NOTRE DAME PREP SOPHOMORE WINS BEST HIGH SCHOOL VOCALIST AWARD Congratulations to Notre Dame Preparatory sophomore Anna Sera, who earned the Best High School Vocalist Award on May 21 at the Arizona State University Gammage High School Musical Theater Awards. Sera won the award for her role as Sandra Bloom in NDP’s production of “Big Fish.” For more information, visit ndpsaints.org.

THE ORCHARD PHX COMPLETES SECOND PHASE The Orchard PHX, a new restaurant and retail complex in central Phoenix, now has all of its pieces in place with the opening of Luci’s at the Orchard and Splurge. Luci’s is a healthy marketplace selling sandwiches, coffee, juice, bread and ready-to-go items, with a dog-friendly patio and full bar. Call-in orders may be picked up at the drive-thru. Retail items such as gifts and kitchen gadgets are also sold. At Splurge, look for gelato topped with your choice of 18 ingredients. Gelato pops, gelato-infused drinks, sorbet and candy are also available. The new venues join Pomelo, a full-service restaurant at The Orchard PHX. For more information, visit facebook.com/ theorchardphx.

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JULY 15

RASCAL FLATTS AT AK-CHIN PAVILION With seven platinum albums to their credit (five of which are multi-platinum), Rascal Flatts have sent 12 singles to the top of Billboard’s country chart, from 2002’s “These Days” to 2012’s “Banjo.” The Rhythm & Roots Tour also features an opening set by Kelsea Ballerini. $30.75-$60.50. 7:30 p.m. AkChin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., 602-254-7200, ak-chinpavilion.com.

JULY 19

GOO GOO DOLLS AT COMERICA THEATRE the premier ‘90s contemporary

DIXIE CHICKS AT AK-CHIN PAVILION

pop/rock acts. The Goo Goo

The multi-platinum, Grammy-

Dolls recently released a new

winning country music

album, “Boxes,” the band’s

superstars with hit songs like

first album as a duo featuring

“Landslide” and “Wide Open

Johnny Rzeznik and Robby

Spaces” are making their big

Takac, following the departure

return after being relatively

of drummer Mike Malinin.

out of the public spotlight for

$48.50-$89.50. 7 p.m. Comerica

several years. $42-$146. 7 p.m.

Theatre, 400 W. Washington St.,

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd

602-379-2800,

Ave., 602-254-7200,

comericatheatre.com.

ak-chinpavilion.com.

Relive the sounds from one of

JULY 17

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

JULY 23

PHILLIP PHILLIPS AT COMERICA THEATRE “American Idol” winner Phillip Phillips co-headlines in this national tour alongside Matt Nathanson, whose work is a blend of folk and rock music. $39.50-$49.50. 7 p.m. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., 602-379-2800, comericatheatre.com.

JULY 28

MARTINA MCBRIDE AT CELEBRITY THEATRE Powerhouse country music singer-songwriter-producer Martina McBride is on the road in support of her 13th studio album, “Reckless.” Seating at this historic venue is in the round. $60-95. 8 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m. Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com.

HOT

Summer Nights JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

DRIVE BY BLESSINGS HELPING VETS, FINDING HOPE

Sometimes, the best remedy for a broken heart is reaching

Writer Shannon Severson Photograher Loralei Lazurek

They suggested we find a veterans’ shelter.”

out to help others. Less than a year ago, Karynda and Brandon Kearns’ family was experiencing the hardest time

The Kearnses found MANA (Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force)

of their lives. Their youngest sons, Owen and Aiden, were

House, a Catholic Charities transitional living shelter for

suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after enduring

male veterans who are homeless or at immediate risk

severe emotional trauma. Karynda struggled to keep a

of homelessness. The 49 veterans at MANA House are

brave face for her children, but felt they were all stuck in

screened for health and criminal backgrounds and commit

an endless cycle of painful thoughts.

to working with fellow veterans on staff to implement a plan of action for their future. Many suffer from PTSD and

“About three weeks after that trauma, I decided we

are working for a fresh start. When they’re ready, they

needed to do something to get our minds off of our own

receive employment and housing resources to eventually

difficulties,” says Karynda. “I went to the kids for ideas

live on their own.

and they suggested we create ‘blessing bags’ to hand out to the homeless as we drove by.”

“There was just something about the place,” says Karynda. “Anywhere else we went, my boys had anxiety, but there

The boys designed a logo themselves, filled plastic zip

was a level of comfort and safety they felt immediately.”

bags with water, basic toiletries and snacks — and Drive By Blessings was born.

Soon, those mountains of blessing bags became mountains of food. Karynda and her boys signed up to

“When we focused on making the bags, we began to heal

prepare and serve one meal per month and learned that

from what happened to us,” says Karynda. “By mid-July,

even though they’d prepared too much food for the 51

we were sitting on hundreds of bags and needed a place

residents, leftovers were a good thing. MANA House feeds

to donate them, so I went to the boys again for ideas.

its residents and staff on just $1,200 per month and only

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

Writer Tom Scanlon

New Hours MON-SUN..............3-9pm Make a reservation by calling or visiting our website.

Happy Hour EVERY DAY! .........3-6pm MON & TUES .....................

Happy Hour All Night, 1/2 off all appetizers, select bottle beers $2.50, select draft beers 4$ and 3$ off wine (at the bar and our Mezz Bar and Lounge upstairs)

Events THURSDAY NIGHTS.....7-9pm Rhythm and Wine Nights. Call for details. Limited seating, make your reservation now!

SUNDAY

Buy one entrée, get the 2nd 1/2 off!

In Stagecoach Village

In Stagecoach Village on Cave Creek Rd. just west of Tom Darlington Dr.

7100 E. Cave Creek Road • Suite 151

480.488.2187 • cavecreekcrow.com

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

one meal is served on Sundays, leaving the men on

he would send his family after Christmas. Watching

their own for the rest of the day. Hearing this inspired

Karynda, Aiden and Owen helping others as a means

the Kearns’ next mission: serve homemade food,

to deal with their own trauma inspired him, first to

prepared with love, on as many Sundays as possible.

become the home’s cook and, after moving out, to continue his involvement in helping other veterans

“I wanted to get more kids down there — to get entire

through Drive By Blessings.

families involved,” says Karynda. “We serve the food

as if they were guests in our homes. You can see on

“I saw this family,” says Wilson, “and while the details

their faces that many have been beaten up by life. We

of my struggle and theirs are miles apart, the battle

spend time sitting down and engaging in conversation

is the same. This family gets it. To see them —

to make them feel like part of our family. If we can get

specifically the boys — fighting through it and coming

volunteers down to MANA House, they will be touched

out on the right side of things. … I was in a place

to serve again or serve in a bigger capacity. The kids

where I had no hope. They showed up at the right time

and the vets love it. We are told time and time again

and I thought, ‘If these guys can do it and be happy,

how the presence of kids really boosts morale.”

there’s hope.’”

Brian Wilson, a veteran of both the Army and Navy,

Drive By Blessings now serves three to four meals per

is one who has benefited from Drive By Blessings and

month and even took over serving Christmas dinner,

now works as a meal volunteer coordinator. He came

after Luke Air Force Base was unable to do so any

to MANA House after leaving an abusive relationship

longer. Community donations came flooding in, and

with nothing but the clothes on his back, deeply

every resident received gifts. Karynda notes that the

depressed and out of options. He was to the point of

event was really the pinnacle of her own family’s

of planning his own demise, even composing the letter

recovery from the difficult year they had experienced.

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

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For Wilson, it cemented his decision to keep going. It was during this time that Karynda visited Ronnie, a former MANA House resident who wanted to give back by helping Drive By Blessings. The pride he took in having his own place was clear, but Karynda noticed that his furnishings consisted of a single camp chair and a pile of blankets in place of a bed — the lone resource in Phoenix for vets in need of household items simply couldn’t keep up with demand. Inspiration hit again: Drive By Blessings’ next mission was to furnish Ronnie’s apartment, which then grew into full-blown efforts to move veterans, and sometimes their families, into apartments fully furnished with high-quality items. Everything from beds and couches to pots and pans, cleaning supplies and the first load of groceries is provided by a volunteer army assembled by Karynda and her boys. An after-care coordinator checks in on the vets, even driving some to chemotherapy appointments and including them in family barbecues and church events. “These guys work so hard to recover and then move into an empty apartment,” says Karynda. “We can remove that stress and fill that need, welcoming them into their new homes.” Drive By Blessings has now helped move and furnish the apartments of 14 veterans, with many more to come. The Kearns’ three-car garage is overflowing with donations, and Drive By Blessings now awaits IRS approval to become an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Currently, the charity’s biggest need is additional storage. Writer Amanda Christmann

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

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Like Wilson, many volunteers are former MANA House

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residents, and Karynda endeavors to further employ veterans to help run the foundation. “We instill the power of serving into our vets,” says Karynda. “It can help to give them purpose and keep them from feeling isolated and depressed. It’s confirmation that what we are doing is working, and it really matters.”

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Karynda insists that helping veterans has ultimately benefited her family more than they could have imagined. “We are stronger, better and wiser for what we have gone through,” says Karynda. “We have found purpose from it.” drivebyblessingsaz.org facebook.com/drivebyblessingsaz

How to help: Currently, Drive By Blessings’ biggest needs are a moving truck, storage location or a corporate sponsor to help out financially. Additional needs are as follows: •Shelving to organize current donation supply •Groups to serve meals at MANA House

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players (a luxury, but many veterans are housebound with no financial ability to pay for cable). drivebyblessingsaz.org

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Ode to Whiskey Writer Amanda Christmann Photographer Brandon TIgrett

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Lance Carver leans back in his chair, happily worn from a good day’s work. Pausing for a moment, he raises a tulip-shaped glass to his nose and takes a hearty whiff. “The first thing is the scent,” he explains, then holds the amber liquid under his nose once again, taking a calm, deep breath. “That first sniff clears your nostrils. It’s the second and third sniffs that give you some of the true flavors of a good whiskey.” With that, he takes a small sip and rolls it around his tongue, then swallows and smiles. Whiskey is a drink that has personality and distinction of its own. It defines its enthusiasts as much as they define it, and Carver seems to fit the image. By day, the longtime Arizona resident can be found outdoors, hiking, biking and enjoying all that the desert foothills have to offer. As hard as he plays, he works even harder. By evening, he manages Cartwright’s Sonoran Ranch House, one of the busiest restaurants in the North Valley. And by nighttime, he is ready for some downtime. He sits back, relaxes and appreciates the very best that a good glass of Irish whiskey has to offer. JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

“My favorites are ones that have more of a smoked

Though he has his style, don’t confuse Carver or his

flavor to them,” he says. “I’m a pretty hearty eater, so I

whiskey for the gentleman type. What cognac and gin

like smooth, smoky whiskeys.”

are to the suit-clad business types, whiskey is to guys like Lance.

On nights like these, with a cool breeze tempering the

desert heat, he prefers them neat — straight out of the

“I’d say whiskey drinkers are hardworking, steak-

bottle, poured into a glencairn to release the subtle

eating, down-to-earth Americans,” he says with a wry

vanilla or caramel aromas. On hot days, he uses a

smile. “Me, I like mountain biking, taking my truck out

solid cube of ice — specifically “The Rock,” as they call

and going fishing. Whiskey suits my lifestyle.”

the large, round, single cube at Cartwright’s, so that

And the crowd who comes to Cartwright’s, where

the bold flavor does not become watered down.

whiskey has its own shelf and even its own page on

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the liquor menu, seems to support that. So who is the average whiskey drinker? According to Hospitality magazine, the average whiskey drinker today is 25-34 years old and male, a significant change from 2003 trends that showed whiskey drinkers were 65 years old and up. There is also a growing number of women who have taken up the toddy. In the United States, it is the Southeast, home of famed distilleries based in Kentucky and Tennessee, where whiskey is most popular, and sales of whiskey worldwide have been growing at a rate of about 5 percent annually in recent years, says the U.S. International Trade Commission. For Carver, whose passion brewed as he grew up in the restaurant business, it’s not about statistics; rather, it’s about simple appreciation. “Kicking back having a nice glass of whiskey at the end of the day is my style,” he says matter-of-factly. “It’s an acquired taste.” Slowly sipping a glass of Elijah Craig, he kicked off his shoes and explained a few things while making the wince at the end of his sip look like a deep drag from a smooth cigar. “First off,” he says, a grin forming in his eyes, “there’s the issue of the ‘e.’” He went on to explain that in Scotland, Canada and Japan, JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

the liquor is spelled “whisky” — without the “–ey.” Here in the United States and in Ireland, where whiskey is said to have been invented so that the Irish wouldn’t take over the world, it is spelled with the “e” that we all know and love. Whiskey is made from grain. This is what distinguishes it from other distilled beverages. Whiskey is simply distilled beer. Like beer, grains are the source of the sugars necessary for fermentation. The grain is steeped in hot water to release sugars, and the remaining sweet liquid, called “wort,” is brought to room temperature. Yeast is added to convert the sugars to alcohol in an anaerobic process, basically creating the foundation for beer. The only difference is that beer brewers add hops to balance the sweetness and as a preservative, but whiskey flavors are balanced by aging them in oak barrels. The types of grain used, the distillation method and the particular casks used to age the whiskey are what make each flavor of whiskey a little different. “A solid whiskey is aged for at least three years,” Carver explains. “It is a requirement for Irish whiskeys to age at least three years, which is probably a big part of why they are my favorite. The smooth and bold, smoky flavors I like are fermented at least that long.”

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The nature of whiskey is that it is meant to be sipped in small quantities, not chugged by the glass like wine or beer.

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Malt whiskey is made from malted barley, while grain whiskey is made from different types of grains, typically rye, corn or wheat. Grain whiskey (Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniels, for example) is enormously different from, say, Johnnie Walker Black, Yamazaki from Japan, Amrut

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from India or any malt whisky from Scotland. True whiskey aficionados insist that the word “scotch” is a better choice to refer to those

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brewed exclusively in Scotland. The nature of whiskey is that it is meant to be sipped in small quantities, not chugged by the glass like wine or beer. For people like Carver, whose days demand

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a respite as the sun goes down, it creates a perfect, contemplative buzz and comforting warmth up and down the gullet. And for those, like Carver, whose discriminating taste is less about swagger and more about satisfaction and savoring the good, natural things in life, whiskey is just one element in taking each day one moment at a time and enjoying each moment to its fullest. Like his whiskey, men like Carver will never go out of style. His quick wit and earthy charm go perfectly with his choice of bold at the end of the day. Whether you love whiskey or not, that’s a pairing that’s worth appreciating.

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THE ATHLETE’S HOME Writer Lara Piu Photography The Athlete’s Home

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Healthy living communities have been popular over the last 15 years, with homeowners now enjoying miles of walking, hiking and biking paths throughout communities like DC Ranch and Anthem, in addition to fitness centers and classes, pools, golf, medical complexes and more. Now in other cities, the trend has made its way inside the home, with new home builders marketing wellness properties. Canyon Ranch in Tucson, for example, offers new homes designed to mimic its iconic destination spa. And in Chicago, new homes by Evolutionary Home Builders monitor and evaluate health and track stamina and performance. In search of their own health and lifestyle-centric home, local architect, general contractor and real estate broker John Landry and his wife, Kim, took matters into their own hands. Not wanting to move out of the neighborhood they loved, they took their existing home down to the slab and started from scratch, all to create a new home catered to their lifestyle as triathletes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Necessity is the mother of invention,â&#x20AC;? says John, who recalls the first order of business for the new home was to address a challenge most can relate to: car storage.

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“We needed to store Kim’s fully restored ‘66

triathlon bikes like art, just off the front door in

Mustang Shelby GT-H, along with a half dozen

the main living room so they can grab their bikes

bikes,” he says, “and we needed room for bike

and go. There’s also what they call a pain cave: an

repair and training. But the slab only had enough

indoor computerized bicycle trainer that increases

room for a two-car garage.”

and decreases load so they can train conveniently at home.

His solution was to design the garage roof tall enough to fit a four-post, 9,000-pound car lift, which

Already thinking bigger and better, the couple

he says worked out better than they imagined.

is selling their current home with plans to build another one with even more amenities. They also

“The kids can’t scratch the car, which turned out

refocused their business on helping other families

to be a perk, and once we started customizing, we

with similar needs.

realized the potential,” he says. “We really get lifestyle living,” says John. “We Both Ironman competitors, John and Kim run, swim

thought it just made sense for us to focus on the

and bike frequently. They also have two sons and,

people and community we know and the lifestyle

naturally, juggling it all is tricky. Familiar with athletic

we understand.”

amenities, they had installed a lap pool in a prior house, but with a blank slate in front of them, they

John says a home could be built to suit any kind

designed everything to be squarely centered on

of athlete, including around non-competitive fitness

their needs. The new home was completed in April;

activities such as yoga or dance. Other amenity

it took a little more than eight months, but it was

possibilities include a recovery room with a steam

worth the wait.

room and recovery compression boots; a treadpool, which gives the experience of a treadmill and is

“My nest is important, so even though we had

placed in a smaller pool; an indoor climbing wall;

to adjust temporarily, it was absolutely worth it

batting cage; volleyball court; putting green and an

because the end product is really quite nice,”

endless list of other possibilities. Even a workout,

says Kim, “especially since it’s designed around

yoga or dance room have special architectural

our lifestyle. For us, it wasn’t as if money was

considerations, such as flooring and ventilation.

no object, so we had to find a way to make our dreams feasible and affordable.”

“It might not even be athletic,” John adds. “It’s about making our homes fit our lifestyles and

The new home includes a fully-equipped bike

thinking more openly about it.”

workshop in the garage, with creature comforts such as air conditioning, television and internet.

The couple created a website designed to match

There’s ample space to store their eight mountain,

athletic-minded home buyers with an athletic-

road and kid bikes, thanks to a pulley system.

minded home. It is also a resource for ideas

Another two spots hang Kim and John’s favorite

on how to improve any home to make it more conducive for athletes.

“We really get lifestyle living,” says John.

“People want more than just being close to work or

“We thought it just made sense for us to

a good school,” says John. “It’s really about a home

focus on the people and community we

that fits all aspects of your life. For me and Kim, it

know and the lifestyle we understand.”

also allows us to be in the community that we love and, at the same time, help others.” theathleteshome.com JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

FIELD OF

BIG DREAMS

MIRACLE LEAGUE OF ARIZONA

Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Lacy Kruger

Baseball is the ultimate American game. The national

in North Scottsdale and their motto: “Every child deserves

pastime, mom and apple pie all rolled into one glorious

the chance to play baseball.”

notion that blends the seemingly incongruous images of perfectly manicured fields and empty dirt lots, and calls

MLAZ offers children, teens and adults with disabilities or

to mind the skilled, sinewy power hitters wielding Louisville

special needs the opportunity to experience the joy of

Sluggers in palatial stadiums in almost equal measure to

playing baseball in either a non-competitive or competitive

dusty little kids swinging sticks on neighborhood streets.

format, removing barriers and providing one-on-one

In essence, it’s a game that can be enjoyed and played

assistance, often hands-on, by a crew of community

by just about anyone.

ambassador buddies. The turf is rubberized and the bases are flat for easy maneuverability by those who use

But for children with disabilities, there are barriers in the

wheelchairs or other devices to get around, or struggle

traditional version of baseball that prevent them from

with an uneven gait.

playing and enjoying the Grand Old Game with their typical peers. Enter the Miracle League of Arizona (MLAZ)

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“The Miracle League stadium is the only stadium in the

world that is totally accessible to athletes with disabilities,” says MLAZ board president Al Maag. “Our new field and seating, restrooms and playground — everything has been thoughtfully planned out to accommodate our athletes and families.” The brainchild of Dan Haren Sr. whose son, Danny Haren, played for the Arizona Diamondbacks; baseball legend Harmon Killebrew; Lee Klein; thenboard president Frank Udvare and his brother, Gene, the organization received an initial grant of $380,000 from the team in 2008 and secured land via a donated lease from the Scottsdale Unified School District. An initial major capital campaign raised $1.83 million for the construction of the state-of-the art facility, which also boasts flat dugout areas, a scoreboard and sound system. Continued grants from the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority and Thunderbirds Charities followed in 2013, allowing the addition of picnic areas, an adaptive playground, barbecues and the first and only Miracle League batting cage facility in the country for athletes to hone their skills before games. Families are never charged a fee to play; support comes from community fundraisers to help cover the annual operating costs, and the board is always looking to expand. “We want to make the Miracle League in Scottsdale the best experience for special needs families,” says Maag. “We want more athletes, more volunteers and always more donors and corporations who want to associate their brand with our significant and vital activities for special needs kids. Many want to help because they have an affected family member or good friend, or they wish that a loved one could have played ball in the past, so they get involved now to help this next generation be able to play. We hope for more Miracle Leagues to pop up across Phoenix and would like to help mentor, advise and be a model for other fields throughout the United States.” Executive director Cassandra Switalski oversees the program that has grown to nearly 200 athletes on 10 teams, ranging in ages from 4 to adult. There is a personal connection for Switalski, as her two brothers with special needs have been playing on the MLAZ field since day one. “I played sports all through high school and college and my family was always there supporting me,” says Switalski. “Now, I get to turn the tables and support my brothers and their friends, cheering them on. That is what it’s all about.” It’s that family support that brought Doña and Nick Engelmeier to MLAZ. Their 10-year-old son, Adrian, was diagnosed with autism at age 3, just a few years before his older brother, Danny, was diagnosed with, and eventually passed away from, acute lymphoblastic leukemia. JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

LEFT TO RIGHT: JACKSON ENSMINGER AND ADRIAN ENGELMEIER

“I was completely blindsided by Adrian’s autism diagnosis,”

“Choosing Miracle League for baseball was a huge

says Doña. “He was non-verbal, had no emotional

step,” says Engelmeier. “When he first transitioned to the

recognition and had so many needs, appointments and

competitive league, he was the smallest and youngest, but

services. I had to learn to be his advocate, but I see that

the older kids accepted him right away. It has made such a

Adrian prepared me for his brother’s illness. My boys helped

difference in his self-esteem. When your child has something

me learn how to take care of them.”

he loves so much, you make the time and dedicate to it.”

Years of early intervention therapies in their native Minnesota

And it’s not just Adrian on the field. His older sister, Domini,

helped him make huge strides, and today he is a child who

takes time out of her busy jiu-jitsu training schedule to be

loves to chat everyone up and make jokes. When the family,

a buddy to Adrian and the kids on his team. The family

who lives in Gilbert, heard about MLAZ from family friends

makes the trek to Scottsdale an average of three times per

who also had a son with autism, they decided that despite

week and feels fortunate to get to know the other MLAZ

the distance and having no baseball experience, it was

families.

something Adrian should try. He took to it immediately and

now his favorite position is catcher because, he says, “You

“Adrian has a teammate who is partially blind, but bats it

don’t have to stand around the whole time.”

out of the park,” says Doña. “He has it figured out!”

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Four-year-old Jackson Ensminger was born with myelomeningocele spina bifida, which affects the nervous system, bones, muscles and organs. He uses a wheelchair to get around, as he has no movement in his lower extremities. His parents, Amy and Ryan, first heard about MLAZ from their physical therapist. “I was enthralled when I heard about it,” says Amy. “I was so impressed when we met Cassandra, the coaches and staff. They are so great with him. Jackson is outgoing and silly and can be shy about new things, but he has really opened up and progressed. He loves playing baseball.” In fact, when Jackson first began, the loud crowd noises were distressing, so the game announcer would ask the crowd to cheer only by waving their hands, not clapping or yelling. After a few weeks, he became so comfortable that he now enjoys the cheers and clapping. Jackson opts to use a special standing wheelchair that allows him to be secured in a brace so he can be upright in the batter’s box. The smooth field surface allows him to freely hit, catch and throw the ball — which he says is his favorite part. Since children with his condition can be prone to obesity, Jackson’s family is grateful for a physically active outlet, and overcoming the challenge of trying baseball has now prompted him to try equine therapy. Amy believes that taking a chance on baseball has opened up Jackson’s world to trying and doing more than he ever would have before. His world has expanded through the power of his adventurous spirit … and a little help from the game of baseball. It’s stories like these that keep Maag coming back to the stadium week after week. “Prior to Miracle League, I had no real experience with people who have special needs, and I’ve come to a whole different realization of the world,” says Maag. “I go to at least one game every Saturday and I always leave with a smile and a good feeling about life. If our kids can show that they can overcome obstacles, so can anyone.” mlaz.org JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

Alex Bauwens Bow, Barn and Brush Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black

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There’s never been a time when art and horses haven’t been defining elements in the life of Alex Bauwens. An accomplished professional artist, the 27-year-old has found her true home in Arizona, a place where she can paint and pursue her passion for horses, mounted archery and competitive reining — and be part of a thriving community of creatives. Bauwens is constantly on the move, yet nothing she does centers on immediate gratification. It’s antithetical to today’s fast-paced, wait-for-nothing mentality. Each accomplishment has been carefully prepared for, studied, shaped and earned. “I started riding and drawing when I was 3 or 4,” says Bauwens. “My mom is an artist and she rode horses. Riding was my reward. If I could sit at the barn and draw while she was riding, I would get to ride after she was finished.” In fact, there wasn’t much young Alex wouldn’t do to get the chance to be on a horse. She pulled weeds, mucked stalls, awoke early every day to complete barn chores and, as a young adult, commuted for hours to train horses.

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

“It teaches work ethic,” says Bauwens. “I never slept

Northbrook, Illinois always centered around the

in as a child. I was always up early taking care of

balance between riding and creating art. She became

the horses and did chores. Even getting the horse

seriously involved in competitive reining through

ready for a ride was left to me. … When you do

high school and into adulthood. During that time,

the work and earn it, you appreciate it more. It also

she honed her artistic talent and would often sell

bonds you to the horse when you understand the

her pencil drawings — and sometimes homemade

work that goes into it.”

horse treats — at her competitions. It was early confirmation that her art had value and prompted her

In her mother’s footsteps, Bauwens began

to pursue art as a career.

competitive jumping and vaulting, then switched

from thoroughbreds to quarter horses and competed

When she was accepted at the American Academy

across the country in all-around, English, Western

of Art, her intention was to begin as an illustrator

pleasure and horsemanship. Her childhood in

and then move into fine art, but after a summer

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

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internship as an illustrator, she found the technology that now dominates the industry wasn’t where her heart was. A four-week course with Vitruvian Fine Art Studio, under the tutelage of David Jamieson and Melinda Whitmore, changed everything. “I learned more in four weeks than I had in an entire year of art school,” says Bauwens. “It was a lightbulb

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moment that something needed to change. What

and figures and then we added in color.”

if I could design my own curriculum with them? What would that look like? It might put me ahead

Soon, another opportunity arose to apprentice

in terms of breaking into the fine art world.”

with renowned painter Scott Tallman Powers, who had also made the leap from illustrator to fine

She worked with Jamieson and Whitmore to

artist. It began another three years of learning,

design her own intensive study program. Over the

with a different approach and a lot of plein air

course of the next three years, she spent more

painting. Powers remains one of her mentors and

than 60 hours per week painstakingly perfecting

closest friends. Today, she uses the techniques of

her technique. Her first six months centered solely

both experiences to produce her own style.

on painting balls, cubes and cylinders in black and white grisaille.

Bauwens works in pencil, charcoal and oil paintings, creating both commissioned and

“We didn’t move on until we had perfected each

original pieces of art. She often paints children

form,” says Bauwens. “It’s basic, but they were

and explores the concepts of innocence and

perfectionists. Then we painted grisaille still lives

darkness, city and country, drawing inspiration

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

from memories, film, literature, nature and time. Horses, of course, make frequent appearances in her work, as does cardboard, a material that appeals to children’s creativity but ultimately isn’t sturdy enough to withstand much pressure. “When I was a child, I created a lot of my own worlds with animals and me,” says Bauwens. “As a kid, you feel invincible, so in charge of your own destiny, but then you grow up. I’m inspired by the juxtaposition of how you thought life would be and how it really is now. What is the same? And what is different?” The walls of her studio are a collage of color studies, sketches, abstract paintings and 3-D figures that she paints from life. It’s an ongoing color journal where she records ideas and formulas for mixing certain color values of oil paints — including reminders of what doesn’t work. “I start with a feeling at the beginning of each paining,” says Bauwens, “and I mostly go based on the feeling. As the painting develops, so does the story. What I want is for my paintings to leave something up to the eye of the beholder. I don’t want to reveal all. I want people to draw their own conclusions.” Looking back to her years in Chicago, when she used to commute hours out of the city for precious time at the barn, horses have always been a necessary break from painting, allowing her to step away JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

Clockwise from top left: "The Secret Truth of the Universe", "Downtown Harrison", "Between a Memory and a Dream" - Portrait of Olivia, "Captured", and "The Unihibited"

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

and return with new eyes. “It’s a separate part of your brain to ride horses,” says Bauwens. “Now when I’m in the studio, I’m more focused, and it’s a better use of my time. When I’m only doing art, I think about it 24/7. When I am focusing on the archery or training horses, it gives me a break from the tunnel vision of painting. When your obsessive mind can’t get a break, it isn’t helpful.” Horses are truly what brought her to Arizona — and mounted archery — in the first place. In 2009, her trainers, Dan and Wendy Huss of Huss Performance Horses, moved their operation to Rio Verde. Bauwens visited four to six times per year to train and fell in love with the sport of mounted archery, as well as the area. “Horseback archery is an adrenaline rush,” says Bauwens. “It’s so cathartic. If I’m frustrated, I can go do that and it’s a release. In Japan, it’s called ‘yabusame.’ It’s a spiritual activity. You’re taking a prayer from the sky and releasing it through your heart line. It’s a meditative act. It’s like painting. You get into a zone and must be absolutely present with both.” Treasuring her visits to Arizona each year, she knew her future would eventually bring her to the desert permanently.

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

“Since the first time I came to Arizona, I loved it,”

love the location and being able to look out at the

says Bauwens. “I knew right away that I would live

mountains. I’ve met so many great, friendly people.”

here someday. I was 20 years old. It was strange because I’d come here to visit and then on the flight

One of those people is Eric Watson of Watson’s Hat

home, I’d start to feel homesick. I was in Chicago

Shop, who first made a cowboy hat for Bauwens and

feeling homesick for a place I’d never lived.”

most recently designed a custom hat to accommodate her anchor point for archery. It’s been an example for

Her chance came in 2014 and she permanently

Bauwens that she is in the right place with the right

moved her studio to Cave Creek’s Spanish Village.

people: a community of artisans who are eager to

It was an easy transition after spending so much

collaborate and support one another.

time here over the years. It’s close to the barn and she enjoys the community of fellow artists, show

“There are so many diverse art forms here,” says

trainers, archery trainers and friends. She spends

Bauwens. “With creative people, it doesn’t matter

at least three days each week training at Hamilton

what you’re doing. You’re expressing a story or

Ranch in Rio Verde.

connecting with something. Living a creative life means expressing yourself.”

“I’m not really a city person,” says Bauwens. “With art, I can live anywhere. There was no quiet in Chicago. Coming out to Cave Creek, it’s so quiet. I

IMA G E S A Z . C O M J ULY 2 0 1 6

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THE NEXT STAGE Desert Stages Theatre

Writer Rebecca Zaner

For more than 20 years, Desert Stages Theatre

Gerry was a classically trained musician holding a

has called Scottsdale home. In 1995, auditions for

master’s degree in fine arts from the Mason Gross

its first production, “The Ugly Duckling,” were held

School of Fine Arts. His career included jobs as an

in the parking lot of Scottsdale Fashion Square.

actor, director, playwright, lyricist and musician. Sadly,

Gerry and Laurie Cullity, co-founders and executive

Gerry passed away a few years ago, leaving Laurie

directors, auditioned 13 young hopefuls, all of whom

to continue the success of the theater alone. Laurie

were cast in the first of what would become more

holds a bachelor’s degree in dance from Rutgers

than 250 productions.

University and spent the majority of her life owning and operating dance schools.

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“Gerry was a humble actor when we met in New Jersey,” Laurie shares of their beginning. “I was passionate for dance and musical theater. After a few years together, we decided we wanted to expand our art. Gerry had a wonderful plan for a theater, so we moved to Arizona with his mother and thus began our adventure.” Desert Stages is a unique title. Most believe it to be stages, as in the physical platforms actors perform on; however, the stages in the name are meant to represent the stages or phases of a performers’ life. Desert Stages became a nonprofit organization as it continued to grow in popularity. In 2004, the theater moved to its current location in downtown Scottsdale. This is where they host their Children’s and Mainstage Theatres, the Academy, as well as The Actor’s Cafe, an intimate setting that showcases long-running productions. The mainstage theater consists of 136 seats in the round, which means they circle the stage rather than face only one direction toward the stage — not your typical theater arrangement. “Theater in the round is much more intimate for our audience,” says Laurie. “I absolutely love the concept.” Alongside musical productions, Desert Stages also dedicates their priorities to education through their Academy of Theatrical Arts. This program provides young actors with the skills necessary for stage performance. “It’s wonderful because children will start with us at age 3 and continue well into their teens,” Laurie says. “Performance at our theater has become multigenerational. We are all family.” Desert Stages has come a long way since “The Ugly Duckling” in 1995. From 13 actors to more than 300 young performers, the organization has certainly grown and continues to share music with the community. “When it was just Gerry and me, we did it all — the musical directing, stage directing, choreographing, marketing, etc.,” says Laurie. “When he passed away in 2005, I felt empty. I have since hired others to help me staff and run the theater and I am so grateful for them all. The theater has not felt empty again since.” After every show and every bow, Desert Stages stays true to Gerry and Laurie’s dream of sharing the love of performing with the community. “We just have a special love and passion for performing and sharing joy,” Laurie said. “I always tell my students that we are giving the audience a gift JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

and in turn, that gives us joy. I like to think we

Next Stage Campaign is focused on promoting the

invite the world and see what happens.” She hopes

future of Desert Stages Theatre to gain support

to see new and returning faces in the audience at

during this large venture. The purchase includes

every show.

many renovation projects that are needed to convert the former movie theater into a functional

Because of Desert Stages Theatre’s enormous

performing arts theater. Laurie hopes to incorporate

growth, the time has come to find a new location

the “theater in the round” concept, complete with a

to put down roots. Recently, the former Harkins

second level of seating. She hopes to also include

Theatres at Scottsdale Fashion Square closed, and

two separate theaters, classrooms, dance and green

the venue was put up for sale. Laurie saw this as a

rooms for rehearsal and teaching space. They plan

perfect opportunity to grow their theater company

to relocate in the fall.

and immediately started their current fundraiser, the Next Stage Campaign, which she hopes will help

“We are delighted to be moving into such a

raise the funds necessary to purchase this new

prominent location within Scottsdale Fashion

theater of their dreams.

Square,” says Laurie. “Our beautiful new space will be more modern and much larger, featuring 12,500

“It is a huge undertaking for us, but we feel this is

square feet compared to our current 6,500. We are

the right decision and the right time,” Laurie explains.

looking forward to the wonderful experiences this

“Harkins left it to us in perfect condition and they

will offer both our audiences and our actors.”

even donated all of their theater chairs! We are so grateful and excited to begin this next chapter.”

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There are many ways to support this endeavor.

JULY 2016 IM AGE S A Z.C OM

Some fundraisers within the campaign are the Future 500 ($500) and Look Into Your Heart ($100) donations, which give supporters an opportunity to purchase a plaque in their name with full proceeds going toward the campaign. Supporters can also purchase seats in the theater — one seat for $600 or two seats for $1,000. Naming opportunities are available for large donations of certain spaces within the venue. Online and phone donations can be made directly through the theater. Those who may not be able to donate but are still interested in supporting the theater can volunteer for many available positions, including ushering, promoting, stage hands and more. “This is an opportunity to give our audience a better theatrical experience, and we know that our walk-in interest will increase with our new location in the mall,” Laurie shares. “I am mostly excited for the new space and the idea that we will continue to bring great theater to the Valley and enable the community visiting Scottsdale Fashion Square to have a choice with the performing arts — a viable option in the place they shop. We hope to see a thriving new business and share our gift with many more people within the community.” desertstages.org

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“Harkins left it to us in perfect condition and they even donated all of their theater chairs! We are so grateful and excited to begin this next chapter.”