The Entertainer! - June 2018 by Times Media Group

PHX METRO » JUNE 2018

COOL PLACES

THE

BLACK MOODS ‘Bella Donna’ revives melodic rock

YOUR roll OR MINE? International Sushi Day is coming!

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The Ballroom

The Showroom

Happy Together Tour

Donny & Marie

Christopher Cross

The Ballroom

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Friday, July 6

Friday, July 20

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

CONTENTS 12 ROLL WITH IT

Celebrate International Sushi Day with these restaurants

ON THE COVER

A DOSE OF ROCK

The Black Moods medicate fans with power rock

COOL IT DOWN

Pack up and head North

on the cover: The Black Moods photo Courtesy Jim Louvau

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

Times Media Group 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282 Phone 480.348.0343 Fax 480.348.2109 entertainermag.com

publisher

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Niki D’Andrea

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editor

WARPED WANES The musical summer

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

christina@timespublications.com

art director Erin Loukili

erin@entertainermag.com

camp comes to a close

designer

CONTENTS THE METROPOLITAN

56 ‘A SECOND

Top 25 • Sushi • The Black Moods • Fahrenheit Festival

HOME’

THE EXTRAORDINAIRE 21

ASU alum Deven Marrero brings the bat back to the Valley

World of Dance • Blue October • Ray LaMontagne

THE DOWNTOWNER

DTPHX Ambassadors • Top 10 • Annie • Thomas Rhett

THE TOURIST

Jaclyn Threadgill

production manager Courtney Oldham

production@timespublications.com

circulation director Aaron Kolodny

aaron@entertainermag.com

contributing writers

Joseph J. Airdo, Alison Bailin Batz, Brian Benesch, Lynette Carrington, Connor Dziawura, Daisy Finch, Samantha Fuoco, Catherine Hathaway, Mckayla Hull, Laura Latzko, Megan Marples, Carson Mlnarik, Randy Montgomery, M.V. Moorhead, Allison Neri, Eric Newman, Madison Rutherford, L. Kent Wolgamott

Tour du Jour • Strawberry Inn • Cool Places

THE ARTIST

ONE COPY PER READER

Lois Zozobrado • Arts Calendar

THE CRITIC

Coming Attractions • Ask Our Experts! • The Report Card • Film Facts • Soundbite Spotlight

THE DINER

Best Food Events in June • Happy Hour Guide • Sky Harbor Eats

THE CRAFTMASTER

PLANE FOOD

Beer Over Here • The Lumberyard • BeerFinder Directory

Sky Harbor lands slew of local eateries

THE HIGHROLLER

Casino Entertainment Calendar • Eddie Money • Kathleen Madigan

THE GLADIATOR

Adam Rippon • Best Sports Events in June • Deven Marrero • Scottsdale Boxing Club

THE YOUNGSTER

Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer Clubs • Best Family Events in June

THE SHOWMAN CO-OP • Live Music Calendar • Mighty Mighty Bosstones • Warped Tour

THE NIGHTOWL

Best Nightlife Events for June

THE THINKER

The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2018 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe. For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets. DISTRIBUTION SERVICES PROVIDED BY:

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THE METROPOLITAN

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE

The Black Moods 16 Sapporo Know Sushi 12 Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival 18

TOP25 Carson Mlnarik » The Entertainer!

Movie Night in the Park

JUNE 2 If you can’t beat the weather, join it… at least after the sun goes down. Goodyear’s monthly movie nights in the park are truly a family affair, with a kid’s dance party, food trucks, balloon twister, character meet and greets and shopping. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so grab a blanket or lawn chair and save room for some popcorn! Goodyear Community Park, 3151 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, 623.882.7525, bit.ly/2IG5Amj, 5 p.m., free.

POC It to Me

JUNE 2 Anyone older than 18 is welcome at this open mic night spotlighting people of color in the community. As part of Palabras Bookstore’s goal to promote representation and diversity through language, the evening will showcase poetry, live art, storytelling, music and comedy. Admission is free and donations for participating artists will be accepted. Palabras Bilingual Bookstore, 1738 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 602.595.9600, bit.ly/2Lmk2ld, 6:30 p.m., free.

Golden Zensday Yoga

JUNE 6 Bring your own mat for this weekly yoga event led by Patrick DeNicola. Stop by for a yoga lesson Wednesdays at Shady Park before sunset and kick back as the night finishes with acoustic music and golden hour vibes. Shady Park, 26 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.474.4222, shadyparktempe.com, 5 p.m., donations only.

and learn about her process and influences. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.874.4666, smoca.org, free.

Aly & AJ

The Adventures of Kesha and Macklemore JUNE 6 An unapologetic pop queen joins forces with one of rap music’s most unique voices for an adventure across the country. Kesha and Macklemore kick off their joint tour in Phoenix, so be prepared for plenty of surprises alongside hits like “Tik Tok,” “We R Who We R,” “Thrift Shop,” and their new duet, “Good Old Days.” Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, livenation.com, 7 p.m., $30.50$137.50.

JUNE 6 This blonde sister duo ruled Disney Channel at one time with their candid lyrics and catchy choruses. Years later, the two have matured and maneuvered toward a more synth-pop sound. Expect a mix of it all as they play songs old and new, including cuts from their latest EP, Ten Years. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com, 8 p.m., $20$150.

Artist Talk: Lydia Okumura

JUNE 7 As the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art prepares to unveil its newest exhibitions, get the behind-the-scenes scoop from the artist herself in a free discussion between Lydia Okumura and Rachel Adams, senior curator of exhibitions at UB Art Galleries. Get a sneak peek of Okumura’s exhibit, Situations,

Christopher Titus

JUNE 7 TO JUNE 10 It’s Amerigeddon when Christopher Titus brings his newest stand-up show to Tempe for four nights. Known for his seven comedy albums and six Comedy Central specials, Titus calls his act “hard funny.” Leaving no stone unturned from family to his personal life, be prepared for the ab workout of a lifetime when this guy takes the stage. Tempe Improv, 930 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.921.9877, tempeimprov.com, times vary, $25. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

The Place To Be + Open Mic

JUNE 9 Your favorite late-night Mill Avenue pizza spot hosts a party of its own on Saturdays with a concert and open mic night. Weekly performers include DaviPhresh, CityLife, Dyligent and KingDom, as well as a fresh local crowd of singersongwriters, storytellers and poets. Grab a slice, grab a drink and grab some culture. Spinelli’s Pizzeria, 420 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 101, Tempe, 602.800.5300, spinellispizzeriatempe.com, 8 p.m., free.

Comedy Kids in America

JUNE 8 The youngest and funniest comics in Arizona band together as part of Tempe’s Comedy Concert Series. The Comedy Kids in America show, featuring Kristen Mick, Matt Diaz, Alden Moody and special guests, is sure to tickle your funny bone, no matter what age you are. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, tempecenterforthearts.com, 7:30 p.m., $10-$25.

want to move your feet to nab your seat quick. The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 623.935.3811, bit.ly/2LnoPCN, times vary, $31.99-$175.

Spark! After Dark: Epik Summer Get Down

Desert Night Cinema: Grease

JUNE 14 Summer lovin’, had me a blast! Everyone’s in love with this John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John musical, so enjoy it under the summer sky at Desert Botanical Garden’s monthly movie series. Seating is first-come, first-serve. Arrive early for entertainment by JesterZ Improv Comedy and bites from food trucks like Short Leash Hot Dogs, Hummus Express Mediterranean and Cactus Corn Kettle Corn. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 480.941.1225, dbg.org, 6:30 p.m., $10-$16.

Peter Pan

JUNE 14 TO JUNE 24 Take a trip to Neverland with this adaptation of the beloved children’s story about the boy who never grew up. Featuring new original music and your favorite classic characters – from the villainous Captain Hook to the brave Princess Tiger Lily – this musical is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, times vary, $11-$15.

The Cosmonauts Sketch Comedy Show

Prowl and Play – Superheroes

JUNE 9 Superheroes unite for an epic day of character meet and greets, live music, games and water slides at the Phoenix Zoo. Help the zoo celebrate World Oceans Day with your best superhero gear as well as a kids’ superhero training academy, extended animal experience hours and stingray autograph signings. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 602.286.3800, phoenixzoo.org, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., $8-$10.

Phoenix Bachata Festival

JUNE 14 TO JUNE 18 This first-of-its-kind festival is dedicated to dance. From bachata to salsa to kizomba, attendees will have access to workshops, pool parties, performances and social dances. With DJ nights and concerts by Henry Santos & Toby Love Jr. and Melvin War, you’ll

JUNE 15 AND JUNE 16 This local comedy troupe favorite is back with a special summer show. With guaranteed laughs, twisted hilarity and original sketches that are “definitely R-rated,” you won’t want to miss it when this group of 12 jokesters takes the stage. The SIC Sense Theatre, 1902 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 773.733.9427, thesicsense.com, 7:30 p.m., $12.

Nellie McKay

JUNE 16 No modern-day singer has the storytelling skill and jazz sensibility that Nellie McKay does. With stints on and Off-Broadway, as well as roles in films like P.S. I Love You, not to mention seven albums, McKay

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has a bevy of work to choose from in crafting what’s sure to be an entrancing set. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim.org, 7:30 p.m., $30.50-$38.50.

JUNE 16 Every third Saturday of the month, a new artist takes over Mesa Arts Center and programs an evening of art, music and grub. This month’s evening is dedicated to beats to get down to, with street and aerial dance, a youth cypher battle, live graffiti art, barbecue and brews. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com/ sparkafterdark, 8 p.m., free.

Lives Well Lived

JUNE 17 Sky Bergman’s documentary Lives Well Lived explores the wit, wisdom and experiences of adults ages 75 to 100, as these men and women share their past secrets and insights into living a meaningful life. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, but you’ll mostly be inspired. A virtual Q&A with the director will take place after this one-time screening. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 1 p.m., $14.

Post Malone and 21 Savage

JUNE 19 Two of the freshest voices in rap music join forces for a party at Rawhide. Whether you fall apart for the 22-year-old New York native behind hits like “Rockstar,” or you’ve been with 21 Savage since his “Bank Account” days, you won’t want to miss out on this legendary partnership. Buy your tickets online and receive a copy of Post Malone’s new album, Beerbongs & Bentleys. Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 480.502.5600, rawhide.com, 6 p.m., $52.50-$250.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

play their instruments live! ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com, times vary, $20-$225.

C(her)ish

New Found Glory

JUNE 19 Did you know this pop punk band was originally called “A New Found Glory?” After dropping a letter and helping pioneer the genre, the band returns to Tempe with tracks from its newest album, Makes Me Sick. Bayside, The Movielife and William Ryan Key from Yellowcard are set to open the show. Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 7 p.m., $25$40.

School of Rock

JUNE 19 TO JUNE 24 Former rock band guitarist Dewey Finn tries his hand at substitute teaching fourth grade and finds his new bandmates in the process. What ensues after is pure rock ‘n’ roll magic. This heartwarming musical based on the Jack Black movie features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber – plus, the talented child actors in the show actually

JUNE 21 TO JUNE 22 This dance show seeks to inspire young women with a performance that explores poverty, abuse and sickness across the world, exploring the strength and potential of the next generation. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 7 p.m., $15-$25.

Miscast Cabaret

JUNE 22 Arizona Regional Theatre opens with a miscast cabaret performance at the Phoenix Center for the Arts. With free admission – and free champagne – guests will learn about the new theater company’s upcoming season, as well as enjoy performances by talented local actors, who will take on musical numbers for which they’re not suited. The Third Street Theatre, 1202 N. Third Street, Phoenix, 602.698.8668, arizonaregionaltheatre.org, 7:30 p.m., free.

Music in the Garden Concerts: AZ Dueling Pianos JUNE 22 Two is better than one, especially when it comes to AZ Dueling Pianos. With Wes Ringel and Scott Dunlap behind the keys, there’s no telling what the night holds. The two performers take requests—and can play them all, ranging from Taylor Swift to Sinatra to The Beatles. Between sets, audience members can step outside and enjoy the evening air or grab a drink or Sonoran dog from the garden’s restaurant. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 480.941.1225, dbg.org, 7:30 p.m., $25-$30.

Vans Warped Tour

JUNE 28 It’s an emo evening to end them all as the Vans Warped Tour rolls cross-country for the last time. This year’s lineup guarantees fans are going out with a bang, as groups like 3OH!3, Black Veil Brides, The Maine, Simple Plan and The Used rock on throughout the day. Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, vanswarpedtour.com/dates/ phoenix, 11 a.m., $23-$46.

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Tough as Nails

JUNE 29 AND JUNE 30 This dance show explores the real-life struggles of Phil and Stacy Bacigalupi, whose strength as a couple was tested when Phil was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Through stunning choreography, the show explores their trials, tribulations and emotions as the two embrace the unknown while trying to start a family. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, 7:30 p.m., $26-$43.

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SAPPORO KNOWS

SUSHI!

What goes better with sushi than Japanese beer? Allison Neri » The Entertainer!

Don't know sukiyaki from teppanyaki or sushi from sashimi? Fear not. We’re here to school you on the “raw” truth. In honor of International Sushi Day on Monday, June 18, The Entertainer! takes you on a tour of some of the Valley’s most celebrated sushi destinations, as well as a few lesser-known pearls. What we present to you here, in alphabetical order, are some fantastic Japanese cuisine options to explore, most with full menus of cooked and raw foods so anyone can find what they like. Sapporo beer is the No. 1 Asian brand sold in America and is served at almost all sushi restaurants, as well as countless places throughout town that know good beer. As a stand-alone brew with a crisp, clean taste, it complements Asian food, but most of these featured restaurants also serve it with sake, creating some of the best happy hours around. No matter where you get your sushi, or your Sapporo, they do pair up quite well. So, give it a try. Kanpai! (Cheers!)

Ah-So

1919 S. Gilbert Road, Mesa 480.497.1114, ahsomesa.com Ah-So’s sushi is “ah, so good!” with tempura, special, baked and fresh rolls on the menu. For those who want a little flair with their meals, teppanyaki is available, too. Ah-So doesn’t have a happy hour, but Sapporo beer is free flowing.

Got Sushi?

6744 E. McDowell Road, Suite 102, Mesa, 480.807.8500, gotsushis.com Providing more than your typical sushi, Got Sushi? offers Korean barbecue. With a hope to leave every customer satisfied, the Northeast Mesa restaurant

offers a wide variety of food items on its menu. Those with a daring palate can try prime beef tongue and squid salad. Happy hour is 2 to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, with special appetizers starting at $3.25, sushi rolls at $4, and Japanese beer at $4.95.

Hiro Sushi

9393 N. 90th Street, Scottsdale 480.314.4215, hirosushiaz.com Serving traditional sushi for lunch and dinner, this cozy spot is tucked away just east of Loop 101 on Via Linda in Scottsdale. Rave reviews and a stunning presentation highlight Hiro Sushi. Sake and wine are served, along with Sapporo beer.

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Kabuki Japanese Restaurant

6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard, Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale, 623.772.9832 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe Marketplace, Tempe 480.350.9160, kabukirestaurants.com Kabuki showcases traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine, creative cocktails and contemporary interior designs. When the Kabuki menu is in your hand, prepare for tough decisions. Items include an array of small plates, vegetable and seafood salads, sushi, sashimi, rolls, specialty rolls, teriyaki, sukiyaki, tempura, combinations, Wagyu beef, noodles and rice dishes. Kabuki’s happy hour menu (available 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday; 9 to 10:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday) features a lineup of small plates, salads, sushi and rolls, plus cocktails, sake, wine and our favorite beer, Sapporo! Try an ice-cold Sapporo beer by the mug ($5.50 regular, $4.50 happy hour), pitcher ($25.95 regular, $21.50 happy hour) or “KI Bomb” ($8.95 regular, $7.50 happy hour).

Kona Grill

5310 E. High Street, Suite 101, Phoenix, 480.289.5707 3111 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 480.792.1771 2224 E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert, 480.289.4500 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, 480.429.1100, konagrill.com Kona Grill is an Arizona staple, serving guests freshly prepared food and personalized service, all within a contemporary RAINBOW ROLL, KONA GRILL

setting. Besides the standard pizzas, sandwiches and salads, Kona Grill offers a wide selection of award-winning sushi, including sashimi, traditional favorites and several proprietary dishes. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, and all day Sunday. Reverse happy hour is 9 to 11 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and all day Sunday.

OZZY ROLL, SAPPORO RESTAURANT

Nori

10115 E. Bell Road, Suite 48, Scottsdale, 480.513.6488 Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Suite 48, Phoenix, 480.515.9771, noriaz.com Local sushi genius Hyunwook Lee founded Nori Sushi, which offers premium dishes from land and sea. Along with a cutting-edge organic cocktail program, Nori has succeeded by offering something for everyone. Lee supports a fusion of classic sushi cuisine with jaw-dropping modern twists. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Ohya Sushi, Korean Kitchen & Bar

4920 W. Thunderbird Road, Suite 117, Glendale, 602.298.0110 7000 E. Mayo Boulevard, Suite 1090, Phoenix, 480.473.1114, goohya.com Founded 12 years ago as Chuhgajib Korean Barbecue, Ohya Sushi, Korean Kitchen & Bar up the ante on fun. They have two karaoke rooms for private parties, a small room for up to eight people, and a larger facility for 20. The locations also boast sushi bars, yakitori and teppan grill bars, as well as libations like Sapporo beer. Happy hour is all day.

Otaku

2430 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 5, Chandler, 480.821.3908, otakusushi.com Otaku offers artfully prepared, traditional Asian cuisine. Fresh maki (rolls), sushi, sashimi, noodle dishes and Omakase are just the beginning of this incredible dining experience. The eatery serves a wide variety of sake and specialty drinks, including Sapporo beer. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and all day Sunday.

Pure Sushi Colony

5538 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix 602.730.3566, puresushicolony.com Founded in 2016, the owners of Pure Sushi Colony have a key focus on providing the freshest fish possible and a menu suited for everyone. Happy hour is every day from 3 to 6 p.m., offering prices like $6 Sapporo and $8 sake bombers to help wind down. Sushi prices start at $3 to poke at $7.

RA Sushi

4921 E. Ray Rd., Phoenix, 480.940.1111 13802 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 176, Scottsdale, 480.951.5888 71652 S. Val Vista Drive, Suite 101, Mesa, 480.632.9500 3815 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.990.9256 411 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe 480.303.9800 La Encantada, 2905 E. Skyline Drive, Tucson, 520.615.3970, rasushi.com Locals know RA means party! There’s a reason they have six Arizona locations: The food is excellent and the drink

variety is crazy good. Sushi includes maki, sashimi, nigiri, hand rolls, specialty rolls and samplers. Non-sushi mongers will enjoy katsu, teriyaki, chicken yakisoba, black pepper steak and other dishes, along with a variety of desserts. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and again 10 p.m. to close. Sundays you can get happy 3 p.m. to close.

Sakana Sushi

5061 E. Elliot Road, Phoenix 480.598.0506 20250 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale 623.566.3595 6989 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale 480.609.3850 1853 S. Power Road, Mesa 480.218.1023, sakanasushiandgrill.com Sakana has been serving outstanding sushi and Japanese cuisine in the Valley since 1994. It has a simple lunch or dinner menu that features fresh fish flown in regularly from around the world. Sushi varieties come in nigiri and maki styles and a complete menu of cooked items (entrees, noodles, teriyaki, tempura, salads, soups) is available, too, many with gluten-free options.

Sapporo

14344 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.607.1114, sapporoscottsdale.com Sapporo of Scottsdale has long been a popular destination, not just for excellent food, but for a great bar experience. Sapporo is in a word, popular, thanks to its full slate of teppanyaki meals, extensive sushi offerings and expert bartenders mixing up exotic libations. Pricing is downright reasonable, and its

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happy hour is from 3 to 7 p.m. seven days a week, with reverse happy hour 10 p.m. to close, Thursday through Saturday in the bar. A variety of libations, including Sapporo beer, is priced to keep you engaged and having a great time. Between the sushi, teppan and wide selection of dinner items, there is something for everyone at Sapporo.

serves up a wide variety of drinks, so diners can get not only their Sapporo beer and sake, but tequila and margaritas. The social hour is 2 to 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday, and a late-night happy hour in the bar only is from 9 to 11 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 10 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.

Shimogamo

920 E. University Drive, Suite D-101, Tempe, 480.317.0101, sushi101tempe.com Sushi 101 has been schooling Valley residents for more than 15 years. Founded by siblings with true talent for entrepreneurship and a passion for sushi, Sushi 101 has taken great strides to ensure only the best quality ingredients are used by expertly trained chefs. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. daily, with reverse happy hour from 9 p.m. to close, so you can sip on different beers, like Sapporo beer.

2051 W. Warner Road, Chandler 480.899.7191, shimogamoaz.com Shimogamo specializes in small plates, but it scores big points with hearty entrees like its ribeye, salmon, black snapper and teriyaki spare ribs. Happy hour is easy to remember: every day from 5 to 7 p.m. A large Sapporo beer is only $4.50 and sake bombs are only $7. Sushi is discounted as low as $2.50 and rolls at $4.

Squid Ink

9947 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix, 623.561.7747 CityScape, 2 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.258.0510, squidinksushi.com Late-night sushi-cravers rejoice. Here’s a place to get sushi as late as 2 a.m. Squid Ink is a fusion concept with items ranging from pot stickers, ramen and chicken wings to coconut curry shrimp. The sushi menu serves up just about every crowd-pleasing sushi, roll and sashimi one could want, including many house specialty rolls. Happy hour is daily from 3 to 7 p.m. Sapporo beer is on the menu.

SumoMaya

6560 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.397.9520, sumomaya.com At SumoMaya Mexican-Asian Kitchen, tasty tapas-style small plates meet the big, bold ﬂavors of Latin America and the Far East. The modern restaurant

Sushi 101

Sushi Ko

9301 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale 480.860.2960, sushikoscottsdale.com Serving up tasty sushi since 1995, Sushi Ko has a full menu of appetizers, as well as soups and salads. Tempura, teriyaki, noodle and Katsu dishes as well as a list of house specialty seafood dishes are recommended. Got kiddos? Bring them here for a child’s menu and a wide variety of simple desserts. Sapporo beer and sake are served, along with other adult beverages. Prices are reasonable at Sushi Ko, which is tucked away next to Chompie’s.

SAPPORO ROLL, SAPPORO RESTAURANT

selection is overwhelming—as is the purveyor’s sense of humor. With names (and pictures!) like Shrimp Killer, Booty Booty, Godzilla Roll, Tootsie Roll, Second Climax and Viva Las Vegas Roll, you can’t help but be curious about all of them. Specialty cocktails like the Naughty Ninja and Sinful Geisha continue the fun. Salads, tempura, teriyaki, appetizers and even a kid’s menu cover all family members. Happy hour virtually never ends with 2 to 8 p.m. for standard happy hour and reverse happy hour from 8 p.m. to close.

Yoshi Bento

7000 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix 480.747.8057 The chefs at Yoshi Bento not only fill bento boxes with teriyakis, tempuras and salads. They roll sushi creations and simmer pots of Japanese noodle soups. Specialty rolls include the Las Vegas roll laden with fried salmon, crabmeat and eel, and the Scottsdale roll dusted with crunchy powder and a crown of spicy mayo. Sapporo is on the drink list, in addition to wine, sake and green tea.

Sushi Station

Desert Ridge Marketplace, 20910 N. Tatum Boulevard, Suite 150, Phoenix, 480.513.8699, sushistation88.com The Kaiten Sushi, also known as “conveyor belt sushi,” concept comes to the Valley from Japan, making dining an adventure. The menu isn’t limited to raw fish, though. Various fully cooked rolls, dumplings, hand-battered tempura and other dishes are served. Happy hour is 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, during which time sushi starts at $1.50 and drinks like Sapporo beer are discounted.

Sushiholic PICASSO ROLL, KONA GRILL

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

The Black Moods return with infectious ‘Bella Donna’ Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

empe-based rockers The Black Moods were hesitant when Grammy Award-winning producer Johnny Karkazis walked into their small, makeshift studio for the first time. For five hours, the trio and the Chicago-based knob-turner lugged the equipment Karkazis shipped to Arizona to The Black Moods’ home base. “I didn’t know if this was going to work,” singer Josh Kennedy says. “All of our cables are makeshift. It set the mood for sure. I figured this could fall apart at any moment. When everything started working, I said, ‘Oh my God, hold on.’” The sessions produced by Karkazis—whose resume includes work with Shinedown, Adelitas Way, Megadeth and Plain White T’s— spawned a series of singles, including “Bella Donna.” The relentlessly addictive, Doors-influenced song hit streaming services June 1. “We were working on the EP and our producer, Johnny K, was in town,” Kennedy says. “But my granddad passed away. I had to go back to Missouri. When I was leaving, he was trying to bring out a Doors-esque style groove, ‘Love Me Two Times.’” “When I went back to Missouri, I was sitting by myself in my grandparents’ house. Nobody was there, and it was the first time I had been there alone. I was playing the acoustic. When I returned, we talked about what we were working on.” He played for drummer Chico Diaz and bassist Jordan Hoffman what he was working on. “We lit into it and everything started falling into place,” Kennedy says. “A case of beer later and 3 a.m. came around and we were doing back-up vocals. I was nervous. I didn’t know if Johnny would like it or hate it. He said, ‘This is great.’” The Black Moods and folks associated with them played “Bella Donna” for Gene Simmons, Robby Krieger and Alice Cooper, all of whom loved the song, Kennedy says. “It’s always great to hear someone plug a guitar into an amp, and turn it up,” Simmons says. “Here is a prime example of fresh, new rock.”

Soon, the song will be paired with Bella Donna wine, created by Scottsdale's Desert Rocking Winery. “It’s a deadly flower and a drug from the ’60s that Robby Krieger told us about,” Kennedy says with a laugh. “It’s good for you and bad for you at the same time.”

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Kennedy was bred in the most unlikely of spots for a rock singer—Wheaton, Missouri, in the Ozarks, where his head was filled with Southern rock and country music. Wheaton has a population of only 700. He found his calling when his dad summoned him to the living room to see a band that he liked. “They didn’t have MTV,” he says. “This one day I was in my room playing and my dad says, ‘Hey Bub—he calls me Bub—come check out this band.’ It was the Gin Blossoms playing ‘Hey Jealousy’ on an awards show.” Kennedy’s dad told him he could write music like that because it wasn’t virtuosic. “I decided when I was 13 that I was going to play guitar for the Gin Blossoms,” he says. “On my 21st birthday, I was on tour with the Gin Blossoms. They invited me onstage and I got to play guitar.” Flashback to when he was a teen, when he met the Gin Blossoms’ Robin Wilson, after a show with his side project Gas Giants. “I was a super fan,” Kennedy says with a laugh. “I talked to him after the show. His advice? Go to college. He was playing 200-seaters to 50 people. Of course, I didn’t listen. I came out here. I found him playing Long Wong’s and I hit him up for a job. I worked at his studio.” The Gin Blossoms have proven to be a huge influence on Kennedy’s songs like “Someone to Save Us” from The Black Moods’ 2016 album Medicine. “‘Someone to Save Us’ is an example of a song that has the Gin Blossoms kind of feel,” he says. “It also has a harder rock sound than those guys have. “We take elements of stuff I grew up on—Bad Company, Led Zeppelin. I listen to them just as much as I did the Gin Blossoms.” Now he has the jangly alterna-pop musicians’ phone numbers on speed dial.

“The 13-year-old me would be freaking out,” he muses. Kennedy is impressed by the business acumen of local rocker Roger Clyne, who has hosted The Black Moods at his shows in Rocky Point. The Black Moods return to Mexico on Friday, June 8, for a handful of shows with Clyne. “He brought us to Mexico and made us part of what he’s created, which we are super grateful for,” Kennedy says. “Initially, I went down by myself when he heard my record. He invited me to sing a song with him, me and the Peacemakers. Then, he invited us as direct support and we gained many fans from that.” Music is all the trio does. When they return from touring, they get right back into their Tempe studio. “Bella Donna” was recorded during the sessions for a possible forthcoming EP. The band is torn between releasing singles and an EP or full-length album. Kennedy says he has learned a lot about himself while working with Karkazis, to whom he was introduced by Adelitas Way’s Rick DeJesus. “He’s definitely pushed us,” Kennedy says. “He called us names and stuff. He’s turned into a member of the family. It’s shocking when you meet him. He’s a big-time producer who has all these hits. It’s a little intimidating.” At one point, Karkazis was so unhappy with The Black Moods that he asked the musicians to head home and write additional tracks, Diaz says. “You always want to play your song for someone who’s successful like that,” Kennedy adds. “The songs you think are great, though, are anything but. He’d tell me to change stuff. He’d rip me apart in front of everyone. He’s ruthless.” Diaz, who grew up in Tolleson and Phoenix, says Karkazis brought the music out of them. “He pulled the pieces out of each one of us,” Diaz says. “He turns over every stone. We get it and it pays off.” “Nothing’s pedestrian,” Kennedy adds. “He doesn’t let things slide by. If it’s not cool, he’s not doing it.” The Black Moods are tracking with boutique, vintage equipment. “(Stuff) you can’t crank up on stage and hear because it’s 1950s and 1960s stuff,” Kennedy says. His go-to guitar is a Fender

Stratocaster that has an interesting backstory. “We were on tour, and the opening band had a guitar they were insistent on me playing,” Kennedy says. “I kept saying no, but after a couple more beers, I said, ‘Give me the thing.’” He strummed the guitars and said, “What is this?” He bought it from them for $200. “We have this elite guitar tech. He grabs our guitars, but I won’t let him touch that one. I tell him if he cleans the (crap) off of it, it won’t play the same.” Hoffman is the newest member of The Black Moods. Raised in Toledo, Ohio, Hoffman was living in Los Angeles working as a musician and server when he auditioned for The Black Moods. He joined September 25, 2017. “It’s nice because we collaborate with the songwriting,” Hoffman says. “That’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I didn’t want to just play for somebody. I wanted to play with somebody.” Hoffman also lends background vocals to the songs, something that’s new to The Black Moods. Karkazis calls this version of The Black Moods the best. “They’re so talented and dedicated—all the good stuff you can say about a band,” Karkazis says. “It’s a really special band. It makes you wonder why they’re not hugely successful. They’re well known in their hometown, but I don’t know how well known they are outside of there. Maybe they just haven’t been in the right situation. They would meet any challenge I threw at them. They’re the kind of band a producer would love to be working with. “It’s encouraging to see a band so hungry and so talented. We seem to have a good rapport with each other. It all seemed to fall in place. We don’t know what the future holds, but I love the songs we’ve recorded.”

The Black Moods

Mile in the Sky Balloon Fest, Prescott Mile High Middle School, 300 S. Granite Street, Prescott, prescottevents.net, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 16, $30-$50. The Black Moods go on at 9 p.m. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

TURN IT UP! Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival celebrates everything hot Laura Latzko » The Entertainer!

ost Phoenicians bemoan hot temperatures, not celebrate them, in mid-June. A new festival in Scottsdale pays tribute to the heat in different ways. The three-part Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival is Saturday, June 16, at WestWorld of Scottsdale. The Scottsdale Beat the Heat walk/run, the Travis Bagent NAL National Championships arm wrestling competition and the Arizona Ales and Cocktails Festival comprise the event. The festival will also offer a fastpitch competition, fire performances, hot rod and firetruck displays, music from DJ Peabody and Whiskey’s Quicker, live charcoal drawing and a jalapeno-eating contest. The first 500 children through the gate will receive free Hot Tamales. Kids—and adults—can cool off on a five-story inflatable waterslide. Founder Jason Rose, president of Rose + Moser + Allyn Public and Online Relations, says the event is meant to showcase Scottsdale as a destination for the arts, golfing, resort stays, pool parties, nightlife and dining during the summer months. “We want to make a statement that the summer is that special. It’s a different time to come,” he says. “Not unlike seeing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia in the winter, come and

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experience the desert in the summer.” The tribute started five years ago, with the inaugural Scottsdale Beat the Heat run/walk. “I thought if we could do something extraordinary and prove that you could do something significant in the heat, it could convince people around the United States and around the world that you can come here and have a good time,” Rose says. Beat the Heat challenges runners to endure hot temperatures and run or walk a 5K or 10.22K race. The race pays tribute to June 26, 1990, when temperatures in Phoenix reached 122 degrees. The race starts at 2:47 p.m., the exact time when temperatures rose to 122 degrees on that scorching day. The first race attracted 1,300 people from 28 states and six countries. The winner was an Ethiopian Olympic runner. This year’s walks/runs will start and end at WestWorld of Scottsdale’s North

Hall and take participants on and off the property. All runners and walkers will receive commemorative T-shirts and medals. The top runners will win a combined $10,000 in prize money. The beer and cocktail festival will have specialty drinks from local mixologists and locally made craft beer from O.H.S.O. Brewery and Distillery, Grand Canyon Brewing Company and Huss Brewing Company. For $16, patrons receive five beer samples. As for the arm wrestling competition, folks can qualify by placing in the top three in their weight classes during one of the more than 80 contests around the country. Qualifying contestants are traveling from around the globe, including Romania, Turkey, Australia and Canada. The top arm wrestlers in each class will win prize money and advance to the world championships later this year. Members of the public will have a chance to learn techniques and show off their skills during arm wrestling clinics and feats of strength contests. Top arm wrestler Travis “The Beast” Bagent, the reigning right- and left-handed

world champion, will compete in the super heavyweight division. He won his first national championship at age 20 and for the next two decades has stayed on top. Growing up in West Virginia, Bagent learned to arm wrestle while working at his dad’s bar. During his teenage years, he figured out how to use leverage, timing and angles to his advantage. “That experience molded me into an athlete who could win, even if he wasn’t as strong as his opponent,” Bagent says. Bagent describes himself as an “outside top roller,” but he says his approach varies by match. “It’s a combat sport,” he describes. “There are two people controlling the movement, not just you. If a guy wants to pull a certain way, sometimes you have no choice but to pull that way.” As a competitor, Bagent hypes himself up before a match to help him compete to his best ability. He also wants to make the sport more interesting. “Confidence is the key to being aggressive and having good timing. That is the way that I approach it, and because of that, when I lose, it’s a big deal. People are very stunned or very happy,” Bagent says.

Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival

Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center, WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, scottsdalefahrenheitfestival. com, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 16, $5-$10, free for children 12 and under, $62.60 to run 10.22K race and $51 to run 5K, $16 for beer samples.

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE EXTRAORDINAIRE

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

dancers compete within their division, but in the world final, the winner from each division will compete against each other for the $1 million prize.

ELEKTRO ELITE

COME DANCING ELEKTRO BOTZ

Jennifer Lopez’s ‘World’ hones in on the Valley Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

veteran robotics trio, teenage girls and a performing duo—all from the Valley—are in line for a $1 million grand prize on NBC’s World of Dance. The robotics trio Elektro Botz, the all-girl Elektro Elite and Avery & Marcus started dancing across the TV screen in late May on the Jennifer Lopez-helmed show. “The show is wild,” says dancer Phoenix Banuelos of Gilbert, who’s onethird of Elektro Botz. “There is a crazy level of talent and it has some of the craziest combinations of dancers anywhere.” Elektro Botz, who previously competed as the Outlawz on season 11 of America’s Got Talent, is looking to tackle World of Dance’s upper division. Banuelos is joined by Red Mountain High School graduate Max Thompson, and Dominic LaRovere of Chandler. World of Dance gives dancers the platform to showcase their talents and compete in front of a judging team

of dance superstars, including Lopez, Derek Hough, NE-YO and host/mentor Jenna Dewan. It airs Tuesday evenings. “We set out to make World of Dance a competition series of the highest caliber — every act that hits the stage gives their all and challenges themselves against the most elite athletes in the world,” Lopez says. “As an executive producer and judge, I’m constantly reminded of the heart and determination it takes to rise to the challenge and become the best of the best. I can’t wait to see the talent that comes across our stage for season three.” The first season, the French hip-hop duo Les Twins were crowned champions. During the series, solo dancers compete against duos and crews in an unlimited range of dance, including hiphop, popping, locking, tap, ballet, break dancing, ballroom and stomping. Handpicked from qualifying events around the nation and thousands of online submissions, competitors are divided into junior and upper divisions. The competition consists of five rounds: qualifiers, duels, the cut, divisional final and world final. In the first four rounds,

The three Valley girls began their dance training in ballet, contemporary and jazz, but a few years ago discovered hiphop. After their mentors won America’s Best Dance Crew season seven with Elektrolytes, the girls are aspiring to follow in their footsteps. They’re participating in the junior division. “It’s a little nerve wracking to be on TV, but it’s mainly fun,” says 14-yearold Alyssa Suarez of Chandler. “It was such a great experience meeting new people. I’ve wanted to dance since I was a kid. I love to perform on stage in front of people. I use my body to express myself. It’s like acting.” She will attend Hamilton High School in the fall, after graduating from Elite Performance Academy on the CTA Humphrey campus. When 16-year-old Gilbert resident Tayla Rodriguez started dancing as a youngster, the Basha High School student never expected to come so far so quickly. “You never hear about people making it right away,” she says. “It’s a dream. You expect it to happen to you way later in life. For it to happen at 16 is insane.” Ironically, Rodriguez wasn’t interested in dance. But when she saw the moves of her sister, Alexsys, she joined in. “I was super shy, but I fell in love with it,” she says. “You have to have a certain mentality to go in front of a lot of people.” Mesa resident Aspyn Morrell, who attends Elite Performance Academy, strives to “aspire to inspire before we

ELEKTRO ELITE

expire.” She was inspired by her mother, Jolene, who doubles as her dance teacher. “She’s probably the person I look up to the most,” the 13-year-old girl says. “She’s taught me everything I know.”

AVERY & MARCUS Competing in the junior division, Avery Gay of Scottsdale and Marcus Sarjeant of San Clemente, California, came together thanks to their coach, balletRED’s artistic director Josie Walsh. They’ve only been working together for about 18 months, but Gay, 13, and Sarjeant, 17, have developed a love of contemporary and ballet styles. They call themselves “daredevils.” “I train really, really hard and I believe to be the best, you have to work the hardest,” she says. “To be the best in the class, you have to work even harder. That’s my method. Of course, I have to give up a lot, but it’s worth it in the end. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Set to attend State University of New York at Purchase this fall, Sarjeant explains the duo works well together, by melding the home-schooled teen’s ballet moves with his athleticism. “There is a lot that goes into dancing,” Gay adds. “We have to do side training. We have to eat a certain diet. My friends are ordering hamburgers, and I’m sitting there eating a chicken salad. It’s a lifestyle. It’s not a diet. There’s a lot that goes into it. It’s not easy.”

ELEKTRO BOTZ The long-time robotics trio has been popping its way through the competitive dance scene for years. “Like everyone else, we’re doing the best we possibly can,” says Banuelos, who is preparing to move from Gilbert to Los Angeles to pursue a dance career. It’ll be his second relocation, as he came to the Grand Canyon State to follow in his family’s dancing footsteps. “I had older cousins who were dancing as well as teaching,” he says. “I wanted to come here to train. Then I met the other guys and we all just fell in love with dancing. All of the Botz are passionate. We do really creative work, with dancing and music and mixing. We are addicted to creating something from scratch and seeing it come to life. We’re doing a bunch of robot moves and sounds that didn’t exist before.” For more information, visit nbc.com. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

HE’S

HAPPY NOW

Blue October’s Justin Furstenfeld finds peace telling other people’s stories Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

ustin Furstenfeld is in a happy place. He answers the phone for an interview using an echo effect on his voice that stretches the name of his band, Blue October. “If you need any other effects during the interview, don’t hesitate to ask,” the singer says joyously. Conversations didn’t always go easily with journalists, Furstenfeld says, as he has battled demons like suicidal thoughts and addiction. Now, he spends time putting deeply personal thoughts on social media, and touring with Blue October, which continues to reign pop charts. Five years ago, he turned his life around. “I was going to journalists who I had screwed over or going to radio stations to apologize for past behavior,” Furstenfeld says. “I’m so grateful everyone’s giving me another shot.”

One thing he never swayed from was music. Blue October will release I Hope You’re Happy on August 17. The band will preview songs during its Friday, June 8, show at The Van Buren in Phoenix. “The cool thing about this album is it’s not about ‘Justin,’” Furstenfeld says. “I’m writing about other people’s lives; people I’ve encountered over the last two to four years. It’s about what they’re going through from the outside looking in. “It’s really nice to be able to write about dark things again, like relationship struggles and me wanting to help friends, instead of, ‘Oh poor Justin.’ It’s a universal-themed plot, I guess you could say.” Furstenfeld explains it was rewarding to step outside of himself. “It was more rewarding to sit down with the person I’m writing the song about and interview them,” he says. “The information just comes to me. I put it to a melody and to poetry.” I Hope You’re Happy is the only

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album for which he collaborated on every song. “I told the band, ‘If there’s anything you’re working on, just send it to me,’” he recalls. “Co-writing is new to me. I wanted to get out of self and do everything as a collaborative effort. This is also the first album I produced by myself. I’m super excited.” I Hope You’re Happy is going to surprise fans, but Furstenfeld is sure listeners will love it. It just may take some time. “People are going to go, ‘What the hell?’” he says. “They’re going to listen to it and say, ‘I don’t get this.’ Two weeks later, they’ll say, ‘OK. I see. I wanted to make an album like that. “It’s like the first time I heard Radiohead’s OK Computer. I said, ‘What the hell is this?’ Then after a couple weeks, I thought it was brilliant.” Besides other folks, the album touches on the societal problems that are damaging the world and its citizens’ morale.

“There are a lot of things going on in the world that are really troubling me,” he says. “I can’t do anything about it. Everybody is struggling, and they just want to be happy. I just want everyone to be happy.” That includes himself. He acknowledges Blue October’s early success didn’t bode well for him. “Ego is a huge thing,” he says. “When you sell a couple million albums, the ego gets you. Mix that with alcohol and drugs and it’s a bad combination. Suddenly, your second album after that didn’t do well, bro, and you wonder, ‘Where did I go wrong?’ “The definition of success for me isn’t that anymore. It’s having a roof over my kids’ heads, having them smile and being honest with my wife—and do music for a living.” He says this as he’s perusing Dick’s Classic Car Museum in San Marcos, Texas, with his family. “What can get better than that?” he whispers. “My kids are in private school. It’s not expensive. It’s a private art school in the middle of the woods with other cool, inspirational kids.” “I’m here at a car museum with my wife who loves me. Life is so good. Although, I saw my dream 1957 old truck. I asked her if I could have it, and my wife said, ‘No.’”

Blue October w/special guests

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, thevanburenphx.com, 8 p.m. Friday, June 8, $28.

SHEDDING LITTLE ‘LIGHT’

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

The very private Ray LaMontagne finds touring hard

Mckayla Hull » The Entertainer!

ay LaMontagne doesn’t find interviews an easy part of his job. He responds to questions after a long pause and a deep sigh. He’s barely audible on the phone, but his personality belies the

powerful vocals found live and on his album Part of the Light. LaMontagne will share the songs on his tour that comes to Comerica Theatre on Tuesday, June 5, but he didn’t want to offer too much. Part of the Light has nine songs and is “some kind of subconscious reaction to the ugliness of our culture at the

moment,” LaMontagne says. The album was produced and recorded by LaMontagne in his home studio. “I think for me, in my experience, it’s led to making the process more difficult than it needs to be,” LaMontagne says. “I know exactly what I want, so this time I felt I just wanted to go directly

to the source and not have any filter between me and the music.” The 44-year-old singer-songwriter began writing songs more than 20 years ago, but doesn’t feel he’s quite “made it,” despite hits like “Trouble” and a Grammy win. His music has also been featured on various television shows, such as One Tree Hill and Bones, thus solidifying a mainstream presence. Each tour gets bigger, and “it seems like more tickets are sold every couple years when I go out,” he says. “This tour is going to be visually beautiful.” LaMontagne controls all aspects of his shows, from choosing the crew to designing the set and hiring the band. “(However) I’m a very private person, so going out there is in some ways the hardest thing for me,” he says.

Ray LaMontagne w/Neko Case

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, tickets start at $39.50.

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THE DOWNTOWNER

HIP » AMBASSADORS » MUSEUMS » PRO SPORTS » HIGHRISES

PICTURE PERFECT Lisa Banish brings diverse hobbies to DTPHX Ambassadors job

Laura Latzko » The Entertainer!

Downtown Phoenix Ambassador for a year, Lisa Banish brings a range of hobbies and areas of expertise to the position. She draws from her experiences with gardening, raising chickens, painting, photography and managing restaurants. As an ambassador, Banish dons an orange shirt with an “Ask Me” logo on the back. She and her colleagues are ready to answer questions about restaurants, things to see and do, homeless services and directions. She also provides “What’s Happening” newsletters, directories and maps. “This job is great for me because I can’t stand being inside,” Banish says with a smile. “I’m definitely not a desk person.” Headquartered in CityScape, the ambassadors can be found seven days a week, 365 days a year in different

parts of downtown from Third Avenue to Seventh Street and from Fillmore Street to the railroads tracks near Jackson Street. Her job is always interesting because every person has different questions. “That’s what I love about my job. It’s never the same day twice,” Banish says. A former Maricopa County Animal Care and Control volunteer, Banish is a vegan, who uses those experiences to direct those with dietary preferences to appropriate area restaurants. The ambassador often uses her photography talents for her job. She snaps pictures of buildings for the organization’s social media platforms, and refers visitors to places with the best street art. “I love when people ask me where’s a good place to go to take shots, being able to point out stuff that’s not obvious,” Banish says. She counts the Orpheum Theatre, Valley Bar and Melinda’s Alley as her favorite hidden gems. Each ambassador has her/his favorite hotspots.

“We’re definitely a diverse group of people, and we’re all connected through our headsets,” Banish says. “So, if we can’t answer questions, we usually go to each other first before we resort to Googling something.” The ambassadors aren’t just about the Q&A. They offer hydration stations during major events, walking escort services, history and arts and entertainment tours, battery jumps and tire changes and updates on road closures and light rail closures. Banish explains she assists the most people around the courts on busy juror days. “I think people are pleasantly surprised somebody is there to help them, versus just leaving them stranded,” she says. “Usually once somebody sees you answering somebody else’s question, then people will come over. Sometimes, you’ll have a line of people wanting to know where’s a good restaurant at lunchtime or where’s a good place to go

where they’re not going to have to wait.” The job is a continual learning experience. Recently, she and other ambassadors toured Central Arizona Shelter Services to learn more about it. Originally from Niles, Michigan, Banish moved to Phoenix in 2000. Working in local restaurants, she became familiar with the ambassadors. After traveling for a year, she took a job with the ambassadors to return to the downtown she loved. “I really missed being downtown. I really loved watching everything unfold,” Banish says. “It’s nice when people know that they can count on you to have answers.”

To reach the ambassadors, call 602.495.1500 or email ambassadors@dtphx.org. More information is available at dtphx.org/about/field-services. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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years. They bring their intimate folk sensibility to the Orpheum. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, 877.840.0457, phoenixconventioncenter.com/ orpheum-theatre, 8 p.m., $32.50$42.50.

Carson Mlnarik » The Entertainer!

Diamondbacks Star Wars Night

JUNE 2 Arizona’s resident baseball team celebrates in Star Wars style as fans trade baseball gloves for lightsabers and come decked out in their galactic best. May the force be with the Diamondbacks as they take on the Miami Marlins in the second of three home games. Get your Death Star there early for a special Paul Solo bobblehead, given to the first 20,000 fans to enter. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, 602.514.8400, mlb.com/ dbacks, 7:10 p.m., $19-$210.

The Diary of Anne Frank JUNE 2 AND JUNE 3 Based on the powerful real-life diary of Anne Frank, this play brings audiences one step closer to the claustrophobic reality Anne and her family faced hiding in a concealed attic from the Nazis in Amsterdam. Incorporating Anne’s writings and the stories of survivors, the emotional play centers on one of the 15-year-old’s wisest sentiments: faith in the good of people is what keeps the world in balance. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater.org, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday, $25-$75.

Kenny Chesney

Be Me.” Special guest Neko Case, of The New Pornographers fame, will open the show. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 7:30 p.m., $39.50-$192.50.

Chicago Sky v. Phoenix Mercury

JUNE 8 It’s always a good time when the fierce women of the Phoenix Mercury are in town. Their game against the Chicago Sky will be no exception, especially after Phoenix beat Chicago 86-78 when the two teams last squared off. Snag your tickets and cheer them on as they go for another victory for Arizona basketball. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, 602.379.2000, mercury.wnba.com, 7 p.m., $9$229.

Mo’Nique

Har Mar Superstar Sings Sam Cooke

Gillian Welch

JUNE 13 What started as a one-man show in 1999 has grown into a full band musical revue for Sean Tillmann, an R&B and soul performer from Minnesota. In his live show, he channels the spirit of his favorite singer, Sam Cooke, with a set of the legendary pop master’s love songs, as well as a set of Har Mar Superstars’ music in the same vein. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com, 8 p.m., $15-$18.

JUNE 22 TO JUNE 23 What hasn’t comedian Mo’Nique done? From HBO and BET comedy specials to winning an Oscar for her role in Precious, this powerhouse has proved she’s a force to be reckoned with in entertainment. Expect Mo’Nique to touch on motherhood, society and her past with plenty of “real talk” during her sets at Stand Up Live. Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, 480.719.6100, phoenix. standuplive.com, times vary, $40.

JUNE 22 You might recognize the classic country folk stylings of Gillian Welch from the soundtrack for 2000’s O Brother, Where Art Thou? Welch and her musical partner, guitarist David Rawlings, have been performing together for nearly 30

JUNE 23 When Kenny Chesney comes to town, it’s an all-day affair. The country rock star behind beachvibe tracks like “Summertime,” “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem” and “Never Wanted Nothing More” puts on one of the best stadium shows in music. Chesney will bring along a who’s who of rising country artists like Thomas Rhett, Old Dominion and Brandon Lay to warm up the crowd. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, 602.514.8400, kennychesney.com, 5 p.m., $18-$400.

Brit Floyd

JUNE 30 Teachers, leave those tribute bands alone! Brit Floyd, one of the most ambitious Pink Floyd tribute acts in the world, returns to the stage to celebrate 40 years of one of Pink Floyd’s most influential albums, The Wall. With careful attention to detail, stunning lights and theatrics, there’s a reason why critics have described Brit Floyd’s shows as the closest fans can get to the real thing. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 8 p.m. $35-$155.

KENNY CHESNEY JUNE 23

Ray LaMontagne

JUNE 5 There’s something so undeniably infectious about this folk-rock singer-songwriter. With seven albums under his belt, LaMontagne is a seasoned pro and his live shows prove that as he moves from piano to guitar to harmonica on hits like “You Are the Best Thing” and “Let It WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

JUNE 15 TO JULY 1 It’s impossible to not crack a smile during this Tony Award-winning musical about little orphan Annie, who spreads charm and cheer in 1930s New York City. Featuring a lovable mutt, the villainous Miss Hannigan, dazzling dances and Daddy Warbucks, you won’t want to miss this feel-good family story that’ll have you belting out “Tomorrow” for days to come. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater.org, times vary, $20.50-$39.50.

KIMBERLY CARRILLO

Annie

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

Bobb Cooper directs and stars in his lifelong favorite, ‘Annie’ Lynette Carrington » The Entertainer!

MAYBE REAL NEARBY…

remarkable to him. “I walked out of the theater and ran right into Andrea McArdle, the original Annie, who was an adult by that time,” Cooper says. “Then, one night, I was out at a restaurant and I ran into Reid Shelton, who was the original Daddy Warbucks.” As fate would have it, some years later when Cooper moved to California,

nnie is an important musical to Valley Youth Theatre’s producing artistic director Bobb Cooper. This is Cooper’s 22nd year with the theater company and, for him, the June 15 to July 1 performances of Annie at The Herberger Theater Center are fitting ways to celebrate the milestone. It was the first production the company performed on its current home stage of the Herberger on October 31, 1997. “I’m not just a director and artistic director doing a production,” Cooper says. “Annie was the first musical I saw in legitimate theater in about 1977. “I remember I bought the soundtrack and, as a latchkey kid, I would sit in my room, put the album on and conduct the entire overture. I would sing all the songs and relate it to the story. I really wish Daddy Warbucks would have adopted me.” He has become an expert on the musical, as he has read nearly every book about the production. One TLR046_ENTERTAINER_AD_9.25x1.5_FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 performance of Annie was especially

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he had the same barber as Shelton. “We met in the barber shop and we became fast friends,” Cooper says. “I was friends with him until the day he died. He was a mentor to me as an actor in Los Angeles and he was a good friend.” Along the way, Cooper has met other cast members from Annie and the production is special to him. He conveys the fun stories to the children he acts with and directs at Valley Youth Theatre, including alumna Emma Stone. Cooper will reprise his role of Daddy Warbucks in this month’s production, while his wife, Carol, will play Miss Hannigan. “It is an absolute honor to be onstage with these kids,” Cooper says. “It also means so much to the children. It’s a learning experience for them because Carol and I are professionals. How we conduct ourselves is different than being a director, a leader and mentor. Now I’m side-by-side with them and there is a trust factor that happens each and every performance where we count on each other.” Finding the right actress to play the adorable title character brought forth worthy talent. “We had 130 girls audition for the

show,” Cooper says. “Of those 130, a good majority were little girls who probably had their heart set on being Annie.” Mia McFarland will join the cast as Annie, with more than 40 other actors and 20 orchestra musicians. “Our biggest challenge has been with casting the guys,” he says. “We cast all of the girls, but we had to put out several extra calls to get guys.” The story of Annie is universal, he says, which is why it’s become a hit. “It’s a story of hope, love and overcoming adversity,” Cooper says. “Daddy Warbucks is a hard, staunch business man who cared about money and power. Then suddenly a girl who has nothing comes into his life and shows him there is so much more. She softens his heart and teaches him to care about something more than money.”

Annie

Herberger Theater Center, Center Stage, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, herbergertheater.org, vyt. com, various times Friday, June 15, to Sunday, July 1, $20.50-$39.50.

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A HAPPY MAN Country singer Thomas Rhett finds his own way

L. Kent Wolgamott » The Entertainer!

sk Thomas Rhett how he learned about music, songwriting or performing and there is one answer— from his dad. That would be his dad and namesake, Thomas Rhett Akins, a veteran country singer and songwriter who has written hits for Luke Bryan, Brooks and Dunn, Locash, Lee Brice and a kid whose real name is Thomas Rhett Akins Jr. But the influence of Akins starts far earlier than when father and son started writing songs together. “If it wasn’t for him, all I would have listened to when I was a kid would have been ‘N Sync, Justin Timberlake and Garth Brooks,” Rhett says. “He introduced me to The Beatles and southern rock, even Tupac. That’s why my music is so diverse today. I call him a songwriting chameleon. Even though he’s a hardcore country artist, he could write anything. I think that rubbed off on me in quite a few ways.” The same influence holds true for Rhett’s performance. An engaging entertainer, Rhett picked that up around the house as well. “I keep talking about my dad,” WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Rhett says. “My dad is the best impersonator, the best storyteller I’ve been around. He’s always been the life-of-theparty guy. Getting to watch him, that rubbed off on me, too. Getting up in front of people and performing came naturally to me. “Anytime my dad had a camera, I wanted to get in front of it and do something, does that make any sense?” he says. “It was a really cool way to grow up. Getting to be around Reba (McEntire) and Tim McGraw as a little kid might seem weird to some people. But they were his running buddies. You learn stuff from them you didn’t even know you were getting when you were 10 or 11.” Rhett now gets to show off his performing skills headlining shows in venues like Chase Field, where he will open for Kenny Chesney on Saturday, June 23. But it took a while for him to get there. Dropping out of college to pursue a music career at 20, Rhett wrote songs for the likes of Jason Aldean (“I Ain’t Ready to Quit” and “1984”), Florida Georgia Line (“Round Here”) and Lee Brice (“Parking Lot Party”). By September 2013, the Billboard magazine country airplay chart had five songs in the top 10 written by Rhett and/or Akins, including “It Goes Like

This,” the title cut of Rhett’s debut album and his first No. 1 hit. That success put Rhett on the road, playing clubs and jumping on bigger tours as a supporting act. While his songs were on the radio, both by him and other artists, he was plugging away, building his career. “It’s the slow climb,” Rhett says. “The more artists I talk to, like Dierks (Bentley), Aldean and (Kenny) Chesney, they had moments where they jumped up. But they were doing it year after year after year. There’s something that might be nice about overnight success. But there’s something rewarding about doing it the way we’ve done it.” For Rhett, the jump came with Tangled Up, his 2015 album, and its song “Die a Happy Man,” which spent two months on top of the country charts starting in December 2015. “Before we released ‘Die a Happy Man’ as a single, we were playing pretty consistently to 2,000 to 3,000 people a night,” he says. “My management went, ‘We should try the headlining thing, see how many people would come see Thomas Rhett in an arena?’ “Last fall, we filled the Yum Center in Louisville. “How do you go from 2,000 people to 16,000 people in a year? It’s really amazing what a hit song

can do for you.” “Die a Happy Man” changed more than Rhett’s career. It, he says, made him a better, more honest songwriter. “After ‘Die a Happy Man,” people want to hear the real stuff,’ he said. “That’s freeing. There’s no more getting into a room trying to write a generic hit. If you can have a hit that really touches people, that’s the greatest feeling in the world.” The success of “Die a Happy Man” and “Tangled Up” put the pressure on Rhett for its follow up, as he was constantly touring. So, how did he come up with the songs that became Life Changes, the chart-topping album he released last year? “I wrote this entire record on the road,” Rhett says. “Every single song was written on the bus. When I started having kids, the last thing I wanted to do was to go into town to write and leave them at home. Fortunately, my co-writers will come out with me on a two to three day run. We’ll wake up at 10, write two songs a day. I can come home from a run and have six, seven songs written and one of them will make the record. Some of my biggest hits have come from writing, coming back to the bus. “We’ll sit in the bus, drink coffee and talk, talk about song titles, melodies whatever. The next thing you know you’ve written three songs in two days.” To capture those songs, Rhett has a ProTools recording rig in his dressing room at each show and a second one on the bus. “If we feel like laying a track down, we can just do it,” he says. The process is working. Life Changes has so far produced three No. 1 Country Airplay singles – “Craving You,” “Unforgettable” and “Marry Me.” Rhett’s home life is flourishing as well. He and his wife, and childhood sweetheart, Lauren, now have two little girls, 2-year-old Willa and Ada, who was born in August. So, he understandably likes to be home spending time with his family. The good news is he’ll have some breaks in his schedule this summer. “I’m doing the Kenny Chesney dates in the summer,” he says. “But he only plays on Saturday. The whole summer I’m going to be leaving on Thursday and getting back home on Sunday. I’ll be home from Monday through Thursday. That’s going to be a first in my career.”

Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Old Dominion and Brandon Lay

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 800.745.3000, ticketmaster.com, 5 p.m. Saturday, June 23, tickets start at $25.

! E RE

FEST June 16, 10 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 pm June 17, 10 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 pm The Mall at Sierra Vista

2200 El Mercado Loop, Sierra Vista, AZ Just a short drive on I-10 to Hwy 90 (exit 302), then 30 minutes south! This two-day megaregion festival showcases art, culture, music, and food of Sonora, and emphasizes the positive and interdependent relationship between Southeast Arizona and Sonora, Mexico. Now in its second year, SonoraFest brings two days of live music and dance, authentic Mexican food and flavor-packed American favorites, plus 60 artisans and businesses from the State of Sonora to the heart of Southeast Arizona. Experience south-of-border fun while learning that united we achieve more.

AZSonoraFest.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE TOURIST

VACATION » SIGHTS » DAY TRIPS » ADVENTURE » EXPLORE » TRAVEL

TOUR DU JOUR Welcome to “The Tourist,” a section for the more than 40 million visitors to our state, as well as the locals. But we’re not stopping at the border. Whether it be nightlife, natural wonders, golf, resort diversions, amazing cuisine or one-ofa-kind attractions, let us point out the best of the mileposts. Enjoy!

Dillon’s KC BBQ Bayou CrackerJax Family Fun and Sports Park The entire family will be entertained at CrackerJax! Experience a variety of attractions including go-karts, 18hole miniature golf course, 300-yard golf driving range with two levels and 66 bays, bumper boats, batting cages, the Bungee Dome, Alien Invasion Laser Tag, volleyball courts, Water Wars arcade, restaurant and more. Ideal for birthday parties and corporate events of all sizes. Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and 10 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Driving range is open at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. 1601 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.998.2800, CrackerJax.com

Dillon’s KC BBQ Bayou is ready to serve its great food to diners in its new location—13 miles closer than its previous spot. Spend the day, choose a camp site or dine with us at this wonderfully huge venue that only Dillon’s Bayou and its award-winning barbecue can offer. Check out the general store, where you’re sure to find something necessary or unique. Our guests and employees are our greatest asset and we’re grateful for their loyalty. Visit one of our destination locations: Dillon’s Bayou at Pleasant Harbor and Dillon’s at The Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium. Four Valley locations, dillonsrestaurant.com

O.K. Corral Visit the actual site of Tombstone, Arizona’s legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and see Wyatt Earp and “Doc” Holliday in daily reenactments. There are life-sized animatronic figures of the eight gun fighters, too. Experience the Corral as it was in the 1880s, with working blacksmiths, antique cowboy gear, Western buggies and four museum displays. Ticket includes admission to multimedia Tombstone history show and a copy of the October 26, 1881, Tombstone Epitaph newspaper with original reports of the gunfight. 326 E. Allen Street, Tombstone, 520.457.3456, okcorral.com

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SWEET SPOT

The Strawberry Inn is a Pinterest-ready destination Catherine Hathaway » The Entertainer!

trawberry is dreamy. From the towering pine trees, brisk air and quaint living, it’s hard to believe this travel destination is just two hours north of the Valley. The drive is simply stunning as you watch the mountains go from jagged and covered with cacti to lush, green and chilly. With a relaxing pace of life to delicious food and cozy accommodations, Strawberry is a perfect spot for small families and couples who look to relax. The Strawberry Inn is a self-hosted, eight-bedroom hotel. The stylish, luxury lodge is stunning, but holds the same genuine charm and quaint feel of the town. The navy and vibrant red exterior features a clock tower, deck with porch swings and rocking chairs, and a windmill. This place oozes charm and was made for Instagram pictures.

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The interior is farmhouse chic with shiplap, woodsy inspiration from the inn’s surroundings and comfortable amenities. The room features seating, a plush bed, a coffee bar and a clean, white bathroom. Everything about this inn, inside and out, is crazy photogenic. But it wasn’t always that way. Carson and Amber Eilers rolled up their sleeves and fixed up the once-rustic and rundown inn. “We could tell it was a really charming property,” Amber says. “It has the windmill and the doors and the railings which were so pretty. We thought we could fix this up. We could bring life back to this.” The Eilers live in Scottsdale with their two little girls and work in real estate full time, as the Eilers Real Estate Team, in Paradise Valley. Through their work, they stumbled upon a business listing for the inn. “It was pretty run down,” Carson says. “It needed a lot of work, and I kind

of talked myself out of it. Then I showed her and there was no way I was going back on it because she fell in love with it.” The inn opened in November 2016, but the couple says it took a lot of work to get it to where they wanted it to be. Nevertheless, they fell in love with the town and the property, like many of their guests. “It was beyond just style,” Amber says. “It was deferred maintenance. Things that we didn’t even think about that had to be done.” With family in nearby Pine, Amber Eilers wanted the Strawberry Inn opening to be a community event. That it was. The grand opening attracted nearly 200 neighbors. “When we were here, remodeling it, it was super visible,” Amber recalls. “The town was really invested and wanted to see what was going on. We included people in that. The community has been really supportive in kind of embracing us.” Just down the street from The Strawberry Inn is The Strawberry Schoolhouse. The perfect spot for kids to run around, Arizona’s oldest-standing schoolhouse is open May to October. A popular destination for dinner is Old County Inn one town over in Pine, Arizona. Opt to sit out on the deck and curl up with a blanket and heaters for a prime view of the elk moseying across the street. The atmosphere is enchanting. The food is beyond compare with a menu of delicious wood fired pizzas, craft beer-infused green Chile beer cheese and their popular cast iron cookie for dessert, all for a moderate price point. Another delicious stop is just down the street from Old County Inn called

The Randall House. They serve coffees, teas, hot chocolate, treats and a hearty breakfast. The restaurant is packed with trinkets for sale and a very homey vibe. On your way out of town, be sure to stop by Pine Creek Fudge Ice Cream and Espresso for a treat. Their fudge is the talk of the town, but you can also find coffee and ice cream treats. Bringing friends back a half pound of fudge might be the best way to gloat about your blissful weekend. Not far south of Strawberry is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. The view driving down to the park is incredibly scenic, but the road is steep and curvy. Make sure you take a reliable, strong vehicle. Entrance to the park is $7 per adult. Strawberry and its surrounding community is such a relaxing treat for a weekend getaway. The peaceful vibe of the towering trees, friendly community and private accommodations will leave you feeling a little wistful as you drive back to the heat and desert of the Valley.

The Strawberry Inn

5073 AZ-87, Strawberry, 928.202.7790, thestrawberryinn.com. Rooms average $85 Sunday to Thursday, and $150$175 weekends and holidays. Rooms are best suited for adults, but there are rooms with single-size sofa sleepers for kids.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

COOL RUNNINGS

Get out of the heat and chill out at these Arizona locales FOSSIL CREEK

Niki D’Andrea » The Entertainer! and the Arizona Department of Tourism

eah, yeah, yeah – it’s hot in Phoenix in the summer. Unusually, uniquely, don’t-have-aheat-stroke hot. But there are some cool places elsewhere in the Grand Canyon State, and they’re just as unusual and unique as the Valley heat. In Arizona, the aquatic is exotic: an 80-foot-long, nature-made Slip ‘N Slide; water skiing under the London Bridge; fishing on forest-framed lakes. Even on dry land, Phoenicians can chill out in caves carved by ancient lava flows, a renowned observatory on a mountaintop, and artistic ‘burgs that have cool temperatures to match cool cultures. Here’s a handful of places in which to make a splash with your hot butt this summer.

SLIDE ROCK STATE PARK Cool off just two hours north of Phoenix in the Sonoran-red landscape of Sedona. Spend the afternoon swimming in Oak Creek or take a slippery ride down the famous 80-foot-long natural slide. If you’re looking to take a hike, summer mornings are an ideal time to explore this stunning wonderland by foot. Slide Rock’s summer hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily with entrance fees of $20 per vehicle on weekdays and $30 on weekends.

LAKE HAVASU STATE PARK Water activities are plentiful at Lake Havasu State Park. More than 400 miles of shoreline make this park the water-sports capitol of the state. But boating and water skiing are just part of the fun at Lake Havasu. The park is also convenient to golf courses, hiking trails, restaurants and the famous London Bridge.

KITT PEAK

to relax and kick back with friends and family. Activities abound at this Arizona oasis, including canoeing, hiking, rock climbing and camping.

FOSSIL CREEK Fossil Creek is an Arizona oasis known for its crystal-clear waters, waterfalls and trails. A two-hour scenic drive northeast from Phoenix will get travelers to this stunning getaway. Make time for the one-mile waterfall trail before heading to nearby Payson for a cool treat at Scoops Ice Cream & Espresso. Permits go on sale one month in advance and are required to park a vehicle within the Fossil Creek area April 1 through October 1.

LAVA RIVER CAVE BISBEE Arizona’s small towns are some of the state’s best-kept secrets. Situated in the mountains at an elevation of 5,500 feet, Bisbee is home to cool temps and a quirky arts-and-culture scene. Head to the Copper Queen Mine to explore Bisbee’s mining past or stroll the town’s shop-filled streets. Enjoy wine tastings, pub crawls and even a ghost tour.

WATSON LAKE Watson Lake’s rocky landscape and location within the Prescott National Forest make it a picturesque place to cool down and unplug. Just four miles from downtown Prescott, Watson Lake is a quiet place with all the amenities

LAVA RIVER CAVE

About 700,000 years ago lava flowed through northern Arizona’s Coconino National Forest, forming a mile-long lava tube. Adventurers flock to this Flagstaff cave, open for exploring May through October each year with $5 day passes. The cave is dark, and the temperature remains a constant 42 degrees, so pack warmer clothes and a flashlight.

LAKE POWELL Lake Powell in northern Arizona, near Page, is home to sweeping views and unreal landscapes. Watercraft and houseboat rentals allow you to explore the lake’s cliff-walled coves, and it’s just a short drive to a pair of other iconic Arizona destinations: Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley.

WATSON LAKE

LAKE HAVASU

JEROME Can’t get enough of Arizona’s small towns? The old mining town of Jerome is filled with history, art studios and restaurants. Perched in Arizona’s Black Hills, this mile-high town offers a cool respite from the summer heat. Enjoy panoramic views of the Verde Valley, spooky ghost tours and charming lodging options.

KITT PEAK Tucson’s Kitt Peak National Observatory houses one of the largest collections of optical and radio telescopes in the world. Become awe-struck by Arizona’s breathtaking night skies with stargazing tours, educational programs and overnight outings. Make an evening of it with dinner beforehand in Tucson, the first UNESCO World City of Gastronomy in the United States.

RESERVATION LAKE This beautiful lake in the White Mountains, an hour south of Greer, is a playground for fishing, swimming and hiking. Spend the night under the stars at Reservation Lake Campground, gawk at some of the tallest mountains in Arizona, and don’t be surprised if you spot an elk or two.

JEROME

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JUNE CONCERTS AT THE MIM MUSIC THEATER RAMSEY LEWIS AND HIS ELECTRIC BAND

NELLIE MCKAY Saturday, June 16 | 7:30 p.m. “A renegade songwriter with an ultra-flexible Great American Songbook sensibility” —Rolling Stone

Thursday, June 7 | 6 & 8 p.m. Iconic leader in the contemporary jazz movement for over fifty years, which has allowed him to cross over to the pop and R&B charts

ANA POPOVIC Sunday, June 10 & 11 | 7 p.m. “Ana Popovic is one helluva guitar-player.” —Bruce Springsteen

DAVE HOLLAND, ZAKIR HUSSAIN, AND CHRIS POTTER Sunday, June 17 | 7 p.m. Three masters team up for a night of unforgettable virtuosity.

MONTY ALEXANDER IVAN LINS Tuesday, June 12 | 7 p.m. Lins is a master of Brazilian jazz and pop who has written some of the mostrecorded music in history.

PAULA COLE Thursday, June 14 | 7:30 p.m. In her twenty-plus-year career, she has never sounded more beautiful.

MARY FAHL: FORMER LEAD SINGER OF OCTOBER PROJECT Friday, June 15 | 7:30 p.m. “Mary Fahl has a voice for the gods.” —Boston Globe

Thursday, June 21 | 7:30 p.m. “Alexander splits his work between vivacious jazz-reggae and the kind of canny trio-jazz that suggests a Sinatra lookalike is about to set a bourbon on the piano and start crooning.” —Guardian

TOM PAXTON AND THE DON JUANS Saturday, June 23 | 7:30 p.m. A Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner and folk icon, teams up with the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter duo the Don Juans.

TAKE 6 Thursday, June 28 | 6 & 8 p.m. “Take 6 stays faithful to its creamy vocal blends and gleaming gospel harmonies.” —New York Times

FOR TICKETS AND LINEUP, CALL 480.478.6000 OR VISIT MIM.ORG.

2018 Concert Series sponsored by

MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE ARTIST

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

THE PEOPLE SHE KNEW Lois Zozobrado tells stories that belie her age Mckayla Hull » The Entertainer!

ois Zozobrado is far from the typical teen who just graduated high school. The former Perry High School student, who will study at ASU this fall, has already released two albums, including her sophomore effort, People I Knew, which was released in May. Raised in Chandler, Zozobrado suffered from nodules on her vocal cords, a common problem among performers. People I Knew strays a bit from experiences like those. “This was about people who I actually knew, versus my first album,

Sunshine Boulevard, which was about stories in my head and pulling from my own experiences,” Zozobrado says. The heartfelt album shows an unplugged side of Zozobrado’s music. Her powerful, soulful voice is the attention grabber. The track list includes original songs like “People I Knew” and “Heart & Arrow,” and covers of classic songs like “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” “I always like when sound is raw, like acoustic and live,” she says. Flamenco dancers in a Spanish hotel lobby on a family trip inspired Zozobrado to pen “Flamenco Wave,” while “Red Red Robin” is about the struggle of two of her friends. It touches on the vocal surgery as well. Both

situations were heartbreaking. Zozobrado may be only 18, but her lyrics and voice point to an old soul. She had a bit of help on People I Knew, including Grammy-winning pianist Michael Broening, as well as bassist Andy Gonzales and producer Cindy Standage. The album was recorded at Three Leaf Recording in Phoenix, with engineer Sean Cooney. “Lois has very mature thoughts for someone as young as she is,” Standage says. Zozobrado adds Standage gave her musical freedom in the studio. “Cindy would give her opinion, but she would let me fix (the issues) if I wanted to,” she says. Zozobrado showcased her new

album on May 11 to a packed crowd of her family and friends like Chandler Vice Mayor Nora Ellen at SoZo Coffeehouse in Chandler. “It was really exciting to have support of friends, family, city council members and local friends of mine,” Zozobrado says. Lori Morgan, co-owner of SoZo Coffeehouse and community liaison, has known Zozobrado for several years and is impressed by her. “She needs very little coaching,” Morgan says. “She has wonderful momentum for a young musician.” Standage says from the moment she met Zozobrado, she thought “this girl, she’s got what it takes to do it. “She’s willing to put in the effort. She’s willing to stay up at night and to get up early in the morning to work on something, to make sure it’s right,” Standage says. Standage knows the music business well, as she has opened for Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood. She enjoys mentoring young acts like Zozobrado. “I don’t just mentor someone because they like to sing,” Standage says. “They have to have a real desire and a real talent.” When she and Zozobrado met, Standage could see “the fire in her eyes.” “Lois’ greatest strength is her writing,” Standage says. The teen isn’t just an aspiring performer. She is interested in the behindthe-scenes work that goes into music, like booking artists for performances at My Tea in Phoenix. To garner more experience, she hopes to intern at a radio station or booking/management agency. Zozobrado’s goal is to work in the music industry, such as, public relations, marketing, business, touring or doing her own music as an artist. “I think if you’re going to be successful in music, you have to be passionate about it,” says Zozobrado. “It shines through in performances and when you talk to people about music.”

Lois Zozobrado

Salon Rock, 8109 E. Roosevelt Street, Scottsdale, 480.941.0111, salonrockaz.com, noon to 2 p.m., free. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

ARTS

CALENDAR Randy Montgomery » The Entertainer!

Little Shop of Horrors

To Be 13

TO JUNE 10 Phoenix Theatre presents the cult classic that everyone loves! This scifi musical stars Seymour, a nerdy floral clerk who discovers a peculiar new plant. With a foul-mouth and a unique voice that sings R&B, this odd turn in his life may be his ticket to fame and the girl he loves. Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre.com, times vary, $36-$91.

TO OCTOBER 14 Six years ago, photographer Betsy Schneider traveled around the United States and chronicled the lives of 250 13-year-old children. Through still photos and video, she explores the complexity and intensity of life at this age. The exhibition features 20 large photographs and a continuously running 60-minute documentary. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.257.1880, phxart.org, times vary, free-$18.

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS TO JUNE 10

REG MADISON PHOTOGRAPHY

TO BE 13 TO OCTOBER 14

Awa Tsireh: Pueblo Painter and Metalsmith TO JULY 1 This exhibit at the Heard Museum showcases the paintings and metalwork of Awa Tsireh, the artist born in 1898. His painting career began in 1917, with national exhibitions beginning a few years later. While known for his paintings, he spent a fair amount of time working with silver and copper. Pieces on display come from a variety of collections. Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.252.8840, heard.org, times vary, free-$18.

Mary Poppins JUNE 1 TO JUNE 30 Celebrate Arizona Broadway Theatre’s 100th production with everyone’s favorite nanny—Mary Poppins. With Mary in their lives, the Banks family will embark on zany adventures. Featuring the music from Disney’s legendary Sherman Brothers, Mary Poppins offers a “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” good time. Arizona Broadway will also bring this production to the Herberger Theater Center in July. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, 623.776.8400, azbroadway.org, times vary, $66.50-$98.

Meeting of the Muses

JUNE 8 TO JUNE 10 EXPERIENCE THE MEDITERRANEAN JUNE 9 TO JUNE 10

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JUNE 4 TO 14 School may be out, but the workweek continues for the grown-ups. Enjoy a short performance on your lunch break with Herberger’s Lunchtime Theater (and be back to the office before the boss starts wondering where you are). In this production, two storytellers present a show about inspiration and creativity, inviting audiences into the mysterious relationship between artist and muse. Herberger Theater Center, The Kax Stage, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater.org, times vary, $7.

AWA TSIREH: PUEBLO PAINTER AND METALSMITH TO JULY 1

School of Rock: The Musical, The Next Generation JUNE 8 TO JUNE 10 Detour Company Theatre’s mission is to make the arts accessible for all by featuring actors with an array of disabilities. Detour’s latest production is the popular story of a wannabe rock star who tries to earn extra money by posing as a teacher at prep school. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, times vary, free.

Experience the Mediterranean JUNE 9 TO JUNE 10 Skip the flight and drive to the MIM to experience the music, cultures and food of the Mediterranean. The weekend features hands-on activities, performances and tours. Get up close and personal with instruments from the region and enjoy the rest of the museum later. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, themim.org, 9 a.m., free-$20.

Annie The Musical JUNE 15 TO JULY 1 Annie is everyone’s favorite orphan. The lovable little redhead was abandoned on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage and her days are spent working for the evil Miss Hannigan. Her life changes when she is adopted by the billionaire Oliver Warbucks. The sun will come out tomorrow, and the production starts on the 15th. Presented by Valley Youth Theatre, Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater. org, times vary, $17.50-$35.50.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

We Need to Talk, Too

BALLET FOLKLORICO QUETZALLI JUNE 16

JUNE 18 TO JUNE 28 These short plays take a sometimes funny, sometimes serious look at the situations people with disabilities face. This installment of Lunchtime Theater is presented by Theatre360. Can’t make the lunch performance? An evening preview performance is available. Herberger Theater Center, The Kax Stage, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater.org, times vary, $7.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

SPARK AFTER DARK JUNE 16

Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli

JUNE 16 Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli is an Arizona-based group who celebrates the colorful tradition of Mexican folkloric dance. To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli will take fans on a voyage through Mexico with dance and music. The group will be accompanied by Mariachi Sonido de Mexico for this special occasion. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 6 p.m., $15.

Spark After Dark JUNE 16 When the sun goes down, the music turns up. The Mesa Arts Center campus comes alive with a guest artist and a unique theme. Each event is different, but attendees can expect live art, music, creative food and adult beverages. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, 8 p.m., free.

REGINA BELLE JUNE 17

JUNE 22 TO JUNE 30 Grab the family and enjoy a live production of the popular Disney musical with Belle, the Beast, Lumiere and Cogsworth. As always, “the tale that’s old as time” is one of love, friendship and magic. Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, 22149 E. Ocotillo Road, 480.987.5964 qcpac.com, times vary, $13-15.

Regina Belle

JUNE 17 Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress Regina Belle headlines an evening of R&B, gospel, contemporary jazz, soul and funk music. Belle’s career has spanned decades featuring almost a dozen albums, and is known for working with artists such as Peabo Bryson. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 7 p.m., $38-58.

TAIKO EXTRAVAGANZA 2018: THE TREE OF LIFE JUNE 23

Taiko Extravaganza 2018: The Tree of Life JUNE 23 Japanese taiko drumming, ancient rhythms and modern music come together, thanks to Phoenix-based Ken Koshio. Themed The Tree of Life, the evening will feature a diverse mix of musicians and artistic groups. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 7 p.m., $20-50.

Lives Well Lived JUNE 17 With age comes experience and wisdom. In this feature-length documentary film, director Sky Bergman celebrates the life of 40 adults aged 75 to 100. Their secrets and insights to life are shared, along with their family histories, personal triumphs and tragedies. The screening is presented in partnership with No Festival Required. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 1 p.m., $14. LIVES WELL LIVED JUNE 17

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COMING ATTRACTIONS

Action Point

Johnny Knoxville plays the owner of a low-rent, out-of-control amusement park where the rides are designed with minimum safety for maximum fun. When a corporate mega-park opens nearby and jeopardizes the future of his business, he risks everything to pull out all the stops—and the stunts. Opens June 1.

Adrift

Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin play a young couple who sets out to journey across the ocean only to sail directly into one of the most catastrophic hurricanes. With one of them badly injured and their boat in ruins, they must find the strength and determination to survive. Opens June 1.

Upgrade

Logan Marshall Green plays a man who, left paralyzed during a brutal mugging that also left his wife dead, undergoes an experimental cure that gives him physical abilities beyond anything experienced. He then uses his “upgraded” body to relentlessly claim vengeance against those who murdered his wife and left him for dead. Opens June 1.

Filmmaker Morgan Neville explores the life, the lessons and the legacy of iconic children’s television host Fred Rogers. Moving beyond his cardigans and the land of make-believe, the documentary journeys into the heart of a creative genius who inspired generations of children with compassion and limitless imagination. Opens June 8.

Tag

Jeremy Renner, Isla Fisher, Ed Helms, Jake Johnson and Jon Hamm play friends who are in the midst of an annual no-holds-barred game of tag they’ve been playing since the first grade. When the game coincides with the wedding of their only undefeated player, they risk their necks, their jobs and their relationships to be the last man standing. Opens June 15.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Ocean’s 8

Sandra Bullock plays the estranged sister of a legendary conman who puts together a team of unstoppable crooks to steal a $150 million necklace from New York City’s annual Met Gala. Cate Blanchett, Olivia Munn, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter, Mindy Kaling and Rihanna also star. Opens June 8.

Email film writer Joseph J. Airdo at joseph.airdo@gmail.com. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Won’t You Be My Neighbor

The Incredibles 2

Craig T. Nelson voices a superhero who struggles with his stay-athome-dad duties as his wife returns to work, saving the world. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the family is called into action and must find a way to work together as a superhero squad once again. Opens June 15.

Bryce Dallas Howard reprises her role of a theme park owner who returns to the now-abandoned amusement park with one of her former employees (Chris Pratt) to rescue its dinosaurs when the island’s dormant volcano begins roaring to life. Their expedition uncovers a conspiracy that could return the entire planet to a perilous order not seen since prehistoric times. Opens June 22.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE CRITIC

LIGHTS » CAMERA » ACTION » SCREEN » ENCHANT » TRANSPORT

What movie should you see this month?

The Report Card

Our film writers grade what’s in theaters Movie

Ask our experts! JOSEPH’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:

The Week Of

Adam Sandler’s reteaming with his Hotel Transylvania and You Don’t Mess with the Zohan scribe Robert Smigel for the new Netflix comedy The Week Of has resulted in one of the usually over-the-top comedian’s better efforts. Granted, there are still several gags that go too far and generate more groans than laughs, but Smigel—who is best known for his TV Funhouse cartoon shorts on Saturday Night Live—draws enough emotional epiphanies out of the material to make his directorial debut a worthwhile watch. Chris Rock, Steve Buscemi and Rachel Dratch also elevate the enjoyment in supporting roles. RANDY’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:

The Rider

A young man living in the hills of South Dakota is an up-and-coming rodeo star. His dreams come crashing to a halt when a life-changing accident stops him from doing the only thing he knows. This deliberately slowpaced drama is at times gut-wrenchingly emotional. The performances from the unknown cast are superb. Director Chloé Zhao perfectly captures the American heartland, while focusing on the meaning of one’s life, fully utilizing the natural talent of these real-life people starring in their own docudrama.

Joseph

Acrimony

Randy

M.V.

Avengers: Infinity War

Book Club

Breaking In

Life of the Party

Measure of a Man

Overboard

Show Dogs

Super Troopers 2

Tully

C F B C

FILM FACTS SOUNDBITE SPOTLIGHT

M.V.’S MOVIE OF THE MONTH:

Anything

Devastated after the death of his wife, fifty-something Early Landry (John Carroll Lynch) moves from smalltown Mississippi to L.A. at the insistence of his rich, fretful younger sister (Maura Tierney). He ends up taking a small apartment in Hollywood and develops a bond with Frida (Matt Bomer) the beautiful street hustler next door. Written and directed by Timothy McNeil, the movie is no great shakes, but it’s about time somebody gave a juicy star part to the excellent Lynch. He underplays Early with estimable discipline, and Bomer’s wary, intelligent Frida stares at him, startled at his capacity for love.

ABOUT THE FILM WRITERS JOSEPH J. AIRDO has written news and entertainment content for several print and digital publications, appeared in a big-screen commercial for National CineMedia, and spent nearly five years producing and co-hosting an entertainment-themed talk radio show. He resides in New River with his pet duck named Frozen who is as opinionated about movies as he is. Email him at joseph.airdo@gmail.com.

In addition to setting new records for the highest-grossing opening weekend at the domestic and worldwide box offices with $257.6 million and $640.5 million (respectively), Avengers: Infinity War also holds the records for the highest single Saturday and Sunday grosses. Moreover, the superhero movie crossed the $1 billion mark globally in a record-breaking 11 days.

RANDY MONTGOMERY is a Los Angeles-based film critic who lived in, and still loves, Arizona. Living within walking distance of multiple major studios is a dream come true for this long-time movie buff. While not sitting in the dark and munching on popcorn with extra butter, you can find him riding roller coasters and enjoying the arts. Email him at randymwriter@yahoo.com.

“Why did we make a sequel? As few as six years ago, if someone asked you about a Deadpool sequel, you would’ve looked at them like a dog looks at grapes. Back then, no one was asking for a Deadpool sequel, or prequel to the sequel, or even Doritos Tacos Locos for that matter. But here we are, millions of tickets and billions of tacos later. And people do love sequels.” – Deadpool, Deadpool 2

M.V. MOORHEAD has won five first-place Arizona Press Club awards for criticism. His reviews and other writings appear in Wrangler News (wranglernews.com), Phoenix Magazine and on his own blog, Less Hat, Moorhead (mvmoorhead.blogspot.com). A native of Pennsylvania, he lives in Phoenix with his wife, kid and three Chihuahuas with five eyeballs between them. Email him at mvmoorhead@cox.net. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE DINER JUNE FOOD EVENTS Megan Marples » The Entertainer!

Pets in Need, Wine Indeed

JUNE 2 Visit Uncorked Wine Lounge & Eatery to indulge in food and wine while raising money for the Arizona Pet Project. Each ticket includes appetizers and two glasses of wine. There will also be a silent auction and a raffle. Uncorked Wine Lounge & Eatery, 17025 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, https://bit. ly/2IIdP4J, 3 to 6 p.m., $20.

Match Restaurant & Lounge

JUNE 2 Learn how to cook global foods from Chef Alex Stratta. This month’s theme is curry and spice and will feature dishes like Pudla, which is spiced chickpea pancakes, and Karahi Gosht, described as Pakistani spicy lamb curry. Match Restaurant & Lounge, 1100 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.875.8080, matchphx.com, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $50.

Blush: International Rosé Festival

JUNE 2 Celebrate National Rosé Day by sampling dozens of wines at the Clayton House in Scottsdale. Each ticket includes unlimited wine tastings along with brunch, tapas or carved meats, depending on the session. The Clayton House, 3719 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale, 480.666.5545, blushinternationalrosefestival.

com, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., $60 to $105.

Bikes & Bites

JUNE 6 Cyclists build up an appetite as they ride, so why not pair a workout with a visit to a restaurant? After spinning at Cycle Ave., participants can head over to Postino and receive a complimentary round of appetizers and $5 wine specials. Postino Wine Cafe, 302 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, 480.632.6363, https://bit.ly/2rPqNmz, 6 p.m., free with code: BIKESNBITES

12-Hour Day and Healthy

JUNE 7 Can’t cook after a 12-hour work day? In this workshop, participants will learn how to meal-prep through a cooking demonstration, tasting and workshop. Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, 2150 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, https://bit.ly/2L6rwc3, 6:30 to 8 p.m., $35.

Lunch & Learn

JUNE 8 Watch an Italian cooking demonstration and then sample the dishes for lunch. On the menu is rigatoni carbonara with pancetta and romano cheese served with turkey sausage-stuffed portobellos and almond cake with raspberry sauce. Sweet Basil Cooking School, 10749 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 101, Scottsdale, 480.596.5628, sweetbasilgourmet.com, noon to 1 p.m., $28.

Grown-Ups Table

JUNE 13 Beckett’s Table Restaurant hosts a special evening just for grown-ups. Adults will dine on a menu designed by Chef Justin Beckett exclusively for the event. The price includes three courses of food and beverage pairings. Beckett’s Table, 3717 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, brownpapertickets.com, 6 to 8 p.m., $48.

Truchard Vineyards Wine Pairing Dinner

JUNE 14 Sample a variety of modern dishes made by Chef Richie from Flourish, in partnership with Truchard Vineyards. Tony and Jo Ann Truchard have been making wine for almost 40 years in the Carneros area of Napa Valley. Flourish at CopperWynd Resort, 13225 N. Eagle Ridge Drive, Scottsdale, 480.333.1880, flourishaz.com, 6 p.m., prices vary.

Bourbon Jacks Four-Course Whiskey Dinner

JUNE 20 The bourbons haven’t been announced yet, but the menu has been revealed: yellow chili shrimp with fried rock shrimp, aji amarillo, cilantro bibb lettuce, house-made pickled jalapenos; roasted beet and goat cheese salad with roasted heirloom beets, blood orange supremes, cherry tomatoes, Fossil Creek goat cheese, spring greens, white balsamic agave dressing,

bourbon-glazed pepitas; whiskeybrined duck breast with seared duck breast, sweet corn yellow chile gastrique, roasted root vegetables and watercress; and blackberry and bourbon skillet with fresh blackberries, brown sugar crumble and mint. Bourbon Jacks Bar and Grill, 11 W. Boston Street, Suite 1, Chandler, 480.664.1738, bourbonjacksaz. com, 6:30 to 8 p.m., $60.

Brunch Crawl

JUNE 23 Stroll around Tempe tasting brunch food from the most popular downtown restaurants. There will be exclusive offerings from Americana Burgers & Beer, Blasted Barley Beer Company, Pedal Haus and Morning Squeeze. Downtown Tempe, 350 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, https://bit. ly/2L9DaD0, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., $10.

Cool, Easy Dinner Salads

JUNE 26 Sweet Basil Cooking School will teach students to make refreshing salads that are perfect for summer. The menu includes rum-glazed shrimp salad with greens and chilimint salsa, and a Mediterranean chopped salad. Sweet Basil Cooking School, 10749 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 101, Scottsdale, 480.596.5628, sweetbasilgourmet.com, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., $65.

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HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Brat Haus

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this Euro-inspired eatery and beer garden just launched its happy hour program from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday. Food and drink specials include $1 off all draft beers, $5 glasses of wine, $7 Haus cocktails, $4 fried pickles, $6 brat burgers, $15 giant pretzels, and a free brat for dogs. For late-night visitors, reverse happy hour is 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, when there is $2 off all draft beers, $5 glasses of wine, and $5 well drinks. As a new twist on “Sunday Funday,” guests can enjoy Stein Sundays with bottomless steins and mimosas for $20 from noon to 3 p.m. 3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.4006, brauthausaz.com.

Buck & Rider

Happy hour is through 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, when patrons can enjoy $6 signature cocktails, house pours and featured glasses of wine and draft beer. Reverse happy hour is from 9:30 p.m. to close Thursday to Saturday. 4225 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.346.0110, buckandrider.com.

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers lives up to its name, but offers more that. Check out the menu and see. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, and includes domestic pints for $3, domestic alum bottles and Four Peaks pints for $4, and premium wells and house wines at $5. Valleywide locations, coldbeers.com.

Copper Blues

At Copper Blues, headliners don’t just occupy the stage, they surround it in the form of tap handles and inviting service. Happy hour is offered from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday. 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.5005, copperblueslive.com.

Craft 64

Craft 64 specializes in local craft beer and artisan woodfired pizza. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. daily, when there is $1 off all local beers, five wines for $6, and small plates for $8. 6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.946.0542, craft64.com.

CRUjiente Tacos

CRUjiente Tacos offers taco therapy with deals on globally influenced tacos and cocktails. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and the modern taqueria recently launched reverse happy hour from 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Specials include $3 for the Korean fried chicken, $3 short rib tacos, $3 pork belly tacos, $7 Tex-Mex-style queso, $7 chips and salsa, $5 on any of the tacos CRUjientes (beef, pork or lamb), $5 Premier CRU margaritas, $1 off all draft and bottled beer and $2 off wine by the glass. 3961 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.687.7777, crutacos.com.

Dirty Dogg Saloon

Dirty Dogg Saloon has built a reputation as a local watering hole. Happy hour is 3 to 8 p.m., with live music on Thursdays. Daily drink specials are also offered. 10409 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.368.8095, dirtydoggsaloon.com.

El Chorro

Paradise Valley’s historic El Chorro offers an authentic Arizona dining experience with stunning views of the Valley’s most prominent landmark, Camelback Mountain. Happy Hour is 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays. 5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, 480.948.5170, elchorro.com.

EVO

EVO features recipes true to the Central and Northern regions of Italy, including risotto, alfredo, ragu and carbonara, Chef Steven Fowler strives to perfect a balance of simple yet robust flavors. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. daily. 4175 N. Goldwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480.265.9814, evoscottsdale.com.

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Freezer’s Ice House

Freezer’s Ice House is the valley’s premiere Billiard Sports Bar establishment with 24 icy cold beers on draught. Come see us! Happy Hour is Monday through Friday 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. ASU students (with Student ID) play pool free Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. $2 Tuesday’s (open to close): $2 Domestic Drafts, $2 Tacos, $2 per hour person pool time. ASU Night Thursdays (6 p.m. to close): free pool for the ladies and $2 drink specials. UFC Fight Night Saturdays: UFC pay per view is offered as scheduled with only a $5 cover charge to attend. $10 Pool Pass Sundays: Play pool all day for only $10. 83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 “At the corner of Mill & Broadway”

Gallagher’s Sports Grill

Gallagher’s Sports Grill loves sports as much as it loves food, so it brings the two together. There are dozens of TVs and inspired dishes. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 9 p.m. to close Friday and Saturday. Valleywide locations, visit gallaghersaz.com.

Hard Rock Café

Take a break from the heat and stroll into the musical oasis that is Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix. With the Flying V over the door, the Hard Rock Café features a fully loaded bar, food, memorabilia and music. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. 3 S. Second Street, Suite 117, Phoenix, 602.261.7625, hardrock.com.

Hungry Monk

Chandler’s The Hungry Monk pours 27 craft beers, with daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Food specials run from 3 to 7 p.m. 1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 480.963.8000, hungrymonkaz.com.

Lucky Strike Bowling

Happy hour is offered from 3 to 7 p.m. daily, and includes $5 food specials, $2 domestic drafts, $3 craft/import drafts and well drinks, $4 premium cocktails and select wine. 50 W. Jefferson Street, suite 240, Phoenix, 602.732.5490, bowlluckystrike.com.

Luxe Lounge

Experience UltraStar’s 21-and-older sports bar, restaurant and lounge that boasts 14 HD flat-screen TVs, four pool tables, Golden Tee Golf, soft tip darts and foosball. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays, and all day Sundays. Specials include $3 well drinks, $3 house wines and $3 domestic draft beers. Appetizers are $3 to $6, including cheese crisp, fried pickles, cheese curds, spicy Cajun fries, hoagie bread, cheese pizza and garlic cheese bread. 16000 N. Maricopa Road, Maricopa, 520.233.2426, ultrastarakchin.com.

Pedal Haus Brewery

Mill Avenue’s resident brewpub and beer garden, Pedal Haus Brewery offers beer enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday. It features $2 off Pedal Haus beers and, spirits and $5 select wines while receiving $2 off all appetizers on the menu. “Sunday Funday” specials run all day and include $3 Pedal Haus beers, $3 mimosas, $4 Bloody Marys and $5 margaritas. 730 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.314.2337, pedalhausbrewery.com.

Philly’s Sports Grill

Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. daily, and 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday to Thursday and specials include appetizer discounts. 1826 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe; 1402 S. Priest Drive Tempe; 4855 E. Warner Road, Phoenix, phillyssportsgrill.com.

Pig & Pickle

Pig & Pickle handcrafts cocktails, bakes its own bread, makes its own aioli and grows its own herbs. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. daily. 2922 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.990.1407, pigandpickle.com.

Rack Scottsdale | Old Town Scottsdale

Rack Scottsdale offers fine spirits in a laid-back environment. Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and features half-priced appetizers, such as mozzarella sticks and bacon cheese fries, $1 off beer and $2 off cocktails. It’s more than drinks, though. Pool is half price ($5) for the table. 3636 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.476.1035, rackscottsdale.com.

Rehab Burger Therapy

Rehab Burger Therapy was founded on the idea that everyone deserves a break from the daily grind. Happy hour is offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and 11 a.m. to close Thursdays. This includes $1 off “party starters,” wines by the glass and “rapid relief.” 7210 E. Second Street, Scottsdale; 480.621.5358, rehabburgertherapy.com.

Social Tap Eatery | Downtown Scottsdale

Downtown Scottsdale’s Social Tap Eatery offers happy hour specials from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday that include $4 Social Tap drafts, $5 select wines and discounted fan favorites like the double royale with cheese ($9), pulled pork sliders ($6) and social hour taco of choice ($3). Guests can enjoy an alfresco dining experience on the patio that overlooks Drinkwater Boulevard and Brown Avenue, or sit inside and watch the game or music videos on Social Tap’s two 90-inch TVs and 27 65-inch TVs in the restaurant and bar. 4312 N. Brown Avenue, Scottsdale, 602.432.6719, socialtapscottsdale.com.

The Stockyards

In 1947, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, opened its doors with a menu focused on its historical past: beef. Staying true to its heritage, The Stockyards’ menu continues to feature only the finest corn-fed, aged steaks and prime rib. Happy hour is 4 tto 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, when house wine, draft beer, saloon snacks, domestic beer and well drinks are discounted. Complimentary tenderloin sliders are also offered. 5009 E. Washington Street, suite 115, Phoenix, 602.273.7378, stockyardssteakhouse.com.

SunUp Brewing Co.

SunUp offers beer brewed on site, with happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. 322 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.279.8909, sunup.beer.

TapHouse Kitchen

TapHouse Kitchen of Scottsdale offers a menu by Chef Patrick Karvis centered around modern American cuisine, in addition to a respectable selection of craft beers. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. Special are plenty, with $2 off all draft beer, spirits and wine on tap, and $2 off all beer flights. Hilton Village, 6137 N. Scottsdale Road, suite 108, 480.656.0012, taphousekitchen.com.

Tutti Santi

Tutti Santi’s menu offers Nina’s original recipes for Italian classics, from antipasti freddi to mozzarella caprese. Happy hour is 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays. The late-night specials include live music. 6339 E. Greenway Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale, 480.951.3775, tuttisantiristorante.com.

Uncle Bear’s Grill & Tap

Uncle Bear’s Grill & Tap’s extensive menu includes favorites like garlic parm fries, fried mozzarella, beer cheese soup, Cajun-spiced chicken salad, black and bleu burger, guacamole and prime rib. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 p.m. to close Sunday to Thursday. The kitchen closes at midnight Friday and Saturday at midnight, and at 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday. 9053 E. Baseline Road, Mesa; 2115 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek; 4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix, unclebearsbarandgrill.com.

Wasted Grain

Happy Hour is offered 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday and 4 to 9 p.m. Friday. 7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.970.0500, wastedgrainscottsdale.com.

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AIRPORT EATS Travelers get a taste of Arizona at Sky Harbor

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Nicole Hehl » The Entertainer!

magine an airport experience that feels like a night on the town. Where the TSA-recommended two-hour preflight arrival time flies by as you dine at some of the best local restaurants, and flight delays invite you to leisurely sip unique tequilas, wines and local craft beers. What you’re imagining is Terminal 4 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, where national restaurant chains and fast-food spots have been replaced with more than 20 local favorites that reflect the Arizona culinary experience. Terminal 3 travelers will, too, delight in local dining options with more than a dozen homegrown restaurants opening over the next few years. Local restaurateurs are excited to represent Phoenix and introduce their concepts to the more than 40 million travelers flying through Sky Harbor each year. Among the new arrivals to Terminal 3 are Joyride Taco House and Postino WineCafé from Phoenix-based hospitality group Upward Projects. “Like any traveler, we love visiting new places and experiencing a taste of local culture,” says Lauren Bailey, Upward Projects CEO and co-founder. “We’re proud to support Sky Harbor’s efforts to add more local flavor and give both visitors and locals a true taste of Phoenix’s amazing food scene.” With full-service restaurants and bars, fast-service counter dining and fresh pre-packaged options, you’ll have the chance to enjoy these popular local

dining spots even if you’re running for a flight. There also are several pre-security options, perfect for meeting friends passing through on a short layover. While your options run the gastronomic gamut from burgers and barbecue to Mexican and French cuisine, the common theme among the local spots is fresh, scratch-made menu items with often locally sourced ingredients. Plus, many offer a special perk for travelers that can’t be found at the original locations: breakfast.

TERMINAL 4

If you’re planning a departure from Terminal 4, build extra time into your travel itinerary for some delish local fare at these spots:

Barrio Café (D1) Experience the funky vibe, vibrant artwork and tantalizing take on Mexican

street food at this nationally renowned spot. Pair signature dishes like tableside guacamole or Cochinita Pibil (slowroasted pork) with one of nearly a dozen margaritas or slip into the intimate tequila tasting room to take the edge off your travels.

Blanco Tacos & Tequila (A5) Watch the planes arrive and depart while sipping a sangria at this award-winning Sam Fox spot. The Mexican-inspired specialties include street tacos, fajitas and cheese crisps, plus breakfast options like huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos for morning travelers. Cowboy Ciao (B22) This local favorite offers a uniquely Southwestern American menu with a global twist served up overlooking the tarmac. Eat your way through the day

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

WINGS!

Because you’ve been such an angel.

artisan cheese selection, or choose from the eclectic menu of salads, burgers, sandwiches and “haute dawgs.”

Four Peaks Brewery Company (A20)

With Four Peaks’ award-winning brews on tap at this airport pub, you’ll be hoping for a flight delay. The beer-inspired menu includes Kilt Lifter fish and chips, Brewery burgers, beer bread sandwiches and a variety of soups and salads.

with choices ranging from chocolate chip pancakes and the chicken and waffle sandwich to filet mignon and the exotic mushroom pan fry.

Delux (A22) Get your burger fix with one of the best burgers in Phoenix. The Camelbackborn eatery serves Niman Ranch, all-natural, vegetarian-fed beef with no antibiotics or hormones. Stop by from breakfast to late night for a hearty burger, delicious hotdogs, savory sweet potato fries and more.

Humble Pie (A20, C3) Pick up a 10-inch specialty pie like the famous SOP topped with Humble Pie’s signature sausage, caramelized onion, roasted red pepper, mozzarella and ricotta. Other tasty options at this quick-serve location include breakfast wraps, burgers and salads. Joe’s Real BBQ (pre-security) If you haven’t made it to the original Joe’s in Gilbert, you no longer have to miss out on what is considered some of the best barbecue in the United States. Dig into meal plates, sandwiches and other specialties featuring your choice of meats slow-cooked over pecan wood.

Chelsea’s Kitchen (pre-security) Delight in a taste of this local favorite serving American and Southwestern dishes, including gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options. Keep it light with deviled eggs (yes, add the bacon) and a Brussels sprouts salad or indulge with the green chile burger finished off with a scoop or two of Grateful Spoon Gelato.

La Grande Orange (D1) Grab a seat at this counter-service café for tasty salads, sourdough pizza, sandwiches, soups and baked goods, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Try the California burger with guacamole and Havarti cheese on a famous LGO English muffin or the signature LGO tuna Niçoise. Complete your meal with a decadent scoop of Grateful Spoon Gelato.

Cheuvront Restaurant & Wine Bar (pre-security) Cheese and wine? Yes, please! Relax with a glass of wine from an extensive collection paired with an award-winning

Lola Coffee (pre-security) This central Phoenix-born spot has your preflight pick-me-up covered with artisan roasted coffees, breakfast pastries and sandwiches.

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crispy duck confit, or the Zinc omelet stuffed with French ham and Gruyere. Or stop by the grab-and-go location for gourmet baguette sandwiches, crepes and melty French onion soup. Other grab-and-go locations for fast sandwiches and salads include Dilly’s Deli (A17, A7) and Focaccia Fiorentina (B7). For a sweet indulgence, stop by Sweet Republic (B5) for all-natural, artisan ice cream or enjoy cakes, cookies and baked treats from acclaimed bakery Tammie Coe Cakes (A25).

TERMINAL 3

Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles (pre-security)

Phoenix earns its soul food credentials with this popular combo of juicy, flavorful fried chicken and fluffy, meltin-your-mouth waffles.

Los Taquitos (C3) This sibling-run taco shop serves up its award-winning family recipes with tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas and more. Get there early for a carne asada breakfast torta topped with eggs, avocado and beans. Matt’s Big Breakfast (B5) Anytime is a good time for breakfast, and Matt’s serves it up all day with thick-cut peppered bacon, cage-free eggs, Niman Ranch ground chuck butter burgers and hand-cut home fries. Wash it down with a fresh-squeezed orange juice or lemonade. Modern Burger (A2) This quick-service burger counter offers a simple menu of juicy burgers, hot dogs and salads. Top your burger with bacon and a fried egg, or save room to wash it down with a milkshake. (Or do both; we don’t judge.) Nocawich (C2, C3) Dine in or grab and go with a menu of gourmet breakfast and brunch dishes, salads and sandwiches. Enjoy comfort classics with a gourmet makeover like the CB&J with cashew butter and blackberry jam and the popular fried chicken sando with slaw, pickles and honey hot sauce.

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Olive & Ivy (A3) Enjoy a preflight meal of light, Mediterranean classics such as paninis, salads, soups and more, plus smoothies and breakfast favorites. And energize your travels with a white mocha or other espresso drink.

pizza (gluten-free crust is available) or go for specialty pies like the portobello and artichoke or chicken Caesar and parmesan. Other options include bruschetta, soup, pasta, paninis and chopped salads, as well as a kids menu.

Pita Jungle (B3) This is a Valley favorite for globally inspired healthy fare showcasing lean proteins, veggies, grains and legumes. Dip into a plate of jalapeno cilantro hummus, sample the popular Mediterranean roasted chicken pita or choose from wraps, salads, soups and sides.

Wildflower (pre-security, A9) This hometown favorite is a fast and friendly spot with a passion for great food and outstanding service. The award-winning bakery is open 24 hours a day with an array of breakfast, lunch and dinner options from fresh artisan breads and pastries to hearty sandwiches and healthy salads.

Sauce (pre-security) This quick-service Italian spot brings the casual feel of its street-side locations to Sky Harbor. Create your own gourmet

Zinc Brasserie (A1 (Grab and Go), C11) Slip into a rich leather booth and transport your taste buds to France with classics like warm dungeness crab crepes,

The new Terminal 3 dining options are slated to open late this year to early 2019 in the new south concourse with more coming to the north concourse in 2020. Here’s what you have to look forward to: • Ajo Al’s Mexican Café • Crave Grounds • Christopher’s Crush • Joy Ride Taco House • Leoni’s Focaccia • Mustache Pretzels • Original ChopShop • Phoenix Ale Brewery Central Kitchen • Postino • The Parlor • The Tavern • Tru Burger Co. • Überrito Fresh Mex

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

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Beer Over Here

Drink up at any of these Valley beer events this month Samantha Fuoco » The Entertainer!

Party in the Pines

JUNE 2 Party with local breweries and restaurants while raising funds for a great cause—the Prescott Unified School District Education Foundation. Enjoy live music, local beer and food trucks at this event. Prescott Mile High Middle School Football Field, 300 S. Granite Street, Prescott, 928.717.3241, partyinthepinesprescott.com, 5 to 10 p.m., $30.

Brews, Blues and BBQ

THURSDAYS IN JUNE Every Thursday night enjoy live music from the Arizona Blues Project, unlimited barbecue specials and $1 off select pints.

Harold’s Cave Creek Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 480.488.1906, haroldscorral.com, 4 to 11 p.m, $19.99.

Flagstaff Blues and Brews Music Festival

JUNE 9 Sip on brews in the cool climes of northern Arizona. Blues bands will provide the soundtrack to this allages event. Continental Driving Range, 5200 E. Old Walnut Canyon Road, Flagstaff, 928.606.5601, flagstaffblues.com, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., $35.

Pints for Purrs

JUNE 9 Help raise funds for 501(c)(3) Cat Cavorting by drinking beer with friends. For every pint sold, Helton Brewing Company will donate $1 to Cat Cavorting, a nonprofit focused on helping communities and individuals manage outdoor cat colonies with TNR (trap, neuter,

return) and rescuing adoptable cats off the streets.

Helton Brewing Company, 2144 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.730.2739, heltonbrewing. com, noon to 5 p.m., free.

Made in the Shade Beer Tasting Festival 2018 JUNE 9 Sample local beer in Flagstaff and help raise funds for Sun Sounds of Arizona. Beer, games and food are all part of the afternoon. Coconino County Fairgrounds (Pepsi Amphitheater), 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, 928.421.4970, azbeer.com/ flagstaff.htm, 1 to 5 p.m., $45.

Uncle Bear’s Tap Takeover & Pints for Paws

enjoy while drinking craft beer. The proceeds from the event will go to the Zoo Project Fund, which helps the zoo improve and build projects and animal habitats. Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, Tucson, 520.791.3204, reidparkzoo. org, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., $45.

High Mountain Beer & Music Festival

JUNE 23 The beer will be flowing while burgers are grilling at p.l.a.c.&s. This event is hosted by the PinetopLakeside Chamber of Commerce. Hang out and watch local bands, too. p.l.a.c.&s., 5475 Buck Springs Road, Pinetop, 928.367.4290, pinetoplakesidechamber.com, 1 to 8 p.m., $30.

Pints and Poses

JUNE 24 Relax with yoga and then enjoy a pint of beer from Pueblo Vida Beer. Anyone 21 and over can join this yoga class and event, even if you’ve never done yoga before. Pueblo Vida Brewing Company, 115 E. Broadway Boulevard, Tucson, 520.623.7168, tucson. carpediem.cd, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $5.

Give a Pint, Get a Pint

JUNE 30 TO JULY 8 Donate a pint of blood at one of six United Blood Services locations between June 30 and July 8 and receive a voucher for a free pint of beer, courtesy of the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild. Dozens of local breweries are participating, including O.H.S.O., 8-Bit Aleworks, Huss Brewing, Phoenix Ale Brewery and Uncle Bear’s Brewery. arizonahero.com/azcraftbrew/

JUNE 13 Down a few brews and support the Humane Society of Southern Arizona during Pints for Paws. Uncle Bear’s will donate $1 for every pint sold. Saguaro Corners, 3750 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, 85730, 520.321.3704, facebook.com, 5 to 8:30 p.m., free.

The Scottsdale Fahrenheit Festival

JUNE 16 Workout those arms, legs and kegs at the Scottdale Fahrenheit Festival. There’s beer, of course, but also arm wrestling, water slides and the “hottest race on Earth.”

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.312.6802, scottsdalefahrenheitfestival. com, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., $5.

Brew at the Zoo 2018

JUNE 16 This fundraising event for Reid Park Zoo will have local breweries and games for adults and kids to WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

BeerFinder DIRECTORY Where to find the best craft beer bars in town

Craft 64

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale Craft 64 is proud to offer 36 local Arizona beers on tap in the heart of Scottsdale. Arizona beers only!

Mellow Mushroom Pizza

2490 W. Happy Valley Road, 5350 E. High Street, 740 S. Mill Avenue Locations throughout the Valley Incredible Pizza and amazing beer make Mellow the place to go for a craft beer experience.

Papago Brewing Company

7107 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale The granddaddy of Arizona beer bars, there is something for every beer lover at Papago.

Boulders on Broadway

530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe Boulders has the appeal of a neighborhood bar with a beer list that’ll make your eyes pop.

Hungry Monk

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler Whether you want great wings or great beer, Hungry Monk’s selection is tough to beat.

Harvey American Public House

1524 E. Williamsfield Road, Gilbert First class food and first class beer, all set away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Goldwater Brewing Co.

3608 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale This new brewery is already making waves with their desert inspired brews--and names. Check out their Scotch’Dale Scottish style ale.

Spokes on Southern

1470 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe A comfortable bike-themed grill with 24 draft handles and food made from scratch.

Culinary Dropout

5640 N. Seventh Street, 7135 E. Camelback Road Locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale Located at The Yard, Culinary Dropout has everything you look for in a great restaurant experience, especially great beer.

Scottsdale Beer Company

8608 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale Quality craft beer made right here in Scottsdale. Happy hour from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday with $1 off all Scottsdale Beer Company beers, well drinks, wines by the glass and all small bites and starters!

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row

Phoenix Public Market Café

4420 N. Saddlebag Trail Scottsdale Dierks Bentley has been known to kick back with a craft beer or two, and so can you at his digs.

Freezer’s Ice House

83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe (At the corner of Mill & Broadway) Freezer’s Ice House is the valley’s premiere Billiard Sports Bar establishment with 24 icy cold beers on draught. Come see us! Happy Hour is Monday through Friday 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. ASU students (with Student ID) play pool free Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Specials throughout the week including: $2 Tuesday’s, ASU Night Thursdays, UFC Fight Night Saturdays, Pool Pass Sundays.

The Casual Pint Central Phoenix

14 E. Pierce Street Phoenix The Phoenix Public Market Café is a casual urban hangout offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and great beer.

Main Ingredient Ale House 2337 N. Seventh Street Phoenix A charming old home is the location for this Coronado neighborhood hangout spot.

Pig & Pickle

2922 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale A restaurant that focuses on balance and quality, Pig & Pickle doesn’t skimp when it comes to their craft beer selection, either.

House of Brews Sports Bar

4626 N. 16th Street, Unit 102, Phoenix The Casual Pint Central Phoenix is a fun spot with an upscale yet casual atmosphere. Our expert “beertenders” can serve up craft beer by the pint from our tap wall, but the can or by the bottle to enjoy in our store.

Copper Blues/Stand Up Live

50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix Have a beer and a meal at Copper Blues before the stand-up show. You won’t even worry if it’s sold out.

Brat Haus

3622 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale The name says it all--brats, pretzels, Belgian fries and plenty of craft “bier” to make everyone happy.

Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers 4222 N. Scottsdale Road, 20831 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale Do we need to say more? The name spells out everything you need to know.

Philly’s Sports Grill

1826 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, 1402 S. Priest Dr., Tempe, 4855 E. Warner Rd., Phoenix Over 20 beers on draft, 15 craft beers on tap plus more selection in cans/bottles. Happy Hour: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Daily and Reverse 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sun-Thurs (excludes UFC, Boxing, ASU events).

Flanny’s Bar and Grill

1805 E. Elliot Road Tempe Home of the Third Thursday Tap Takevoer. The rest of the month is pretty good, too.

825 S. Cooper Road Gilbert Is it a sports bar or a craft beer bar? It’s both!

The PERCH Pub & Brewery

232 S. Wall Street, Chandler Located in historic Downtown Chandler, this brewery and pub not only has delicious craft brews, but is also home to a collection of beautiful, brightly colored rescue birds!

TapHouse Kitchen

Hilton Village, 6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale Taphouse kitchen has 20 handles of the most sought after craft beers, mostly local brew and 2 THK selection rotating handles that change with the season and taste of what we are craving at the time.

Ground Control

4860 N. Litchfield Road Litchfield Park Fresh roasted coffee and an ever-changing selection of good beer, including a fantastic import selection, make this one of the top spots in the West Valley.

The Brass Tap

1033 N. Dobson Road, Suite 104 Mesa Over 60 Taps of great craft beers and over 300 total craft beers from around the globe available! Casually upscale atmosphere, open-air patio that is cigar-friendly, nice menu, daily specials and knowledgeable staff. What more could you ask for!

Uncle Bear’s Brewery

4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix Stop by to enjoy some local craft beer including Uncle Bear’s and other guest taps as well as delicious bites and a great happy hour!

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BEER TENDERS Bartenders who really know their beer

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

Alison Bailin Batz » The Entertainer!

revor Stratmeyer, head bartender and floor manager at Lumberyard Brewery in Flagstaff, moved to northern Arizona from California in his early 20s. It wasn’t long before the beer industry came calling.

How did you get your start in craft beer? When I got here, I fell in love with the area and the craft beer scene. I still remember vividly being 22 and trying my first Arizona craft beers, one from Lumberyard and one from Four Peaks. I worked at a local small restaurant while in school, eventually graduating from Northern Arizona University with a degree in hotel and restauarnt management. I set my sights on working at Lumberyard as soon as it opened in 2010, and by 2012, I earned a position. I haven’t looked back since. What do you think makes craft beer special? It makes my job fun for sure! Because there are so many craft beers, so much variety, I love to research everything out there, especially our stuff, so I can fit my customers – and friends – to the beer best for them. Not everyone is into IPAs

or ales, so they assume they hate craft beer. But there are so many options out there from stouts and porters to lagers and pale ales. I love opening people’s eyes to it all.

Tell us about some of the Arizona breweries, besides you all, doing it right? In Northern Arizona, we have a brewery down the street from us – Historic Brewing Company – that I just love. In Phoenix, I am really into Huss Brewing Company, especially their That’ll Do IPA. What is your favorite part about beer culture in Northern Arizona? Up here in Northern Arizona, we are a tight-knit group. Flagstaff is home to seven craft breweries supporting key economic development sectors with a commitment to their craft, providing world-class brews locally and throughout the world. The Flagstaff-Grand Canyon region is the craft beer hub of the Southwest with award-winning ales receiving recognition and honors from the world beer championship and Great American Beer Festival. In fact, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey recently even joined in the love for us up here, formally proclaiming Flagstaff as a

leading craft beer city with a commendation back in February.

Tell us about the beer program at Lumberyard? In 2010, Winnie and Evan Hanseth – the successful owners of Beaver Street Brewery in Flagstgaff – decided to expand, opening Lumberyard. The space, which has a bar, patio and full restaurant, is massive – and our fullscale brewery is visable to our guests via a glass panel at all times. We have 10 different offerings right now, and then often have seasonal options as well. From time to time, we also bring in

guest beers from our local and regional friends. And, we do have cider for those who are gluten free.

What are your favorite beers at the moment? I love Historic’s Piehole Porter, Mother Road Brewing Company’s Tower Station IPA and Stone Brewing’s Tangerine Express IPA.

Lumberyard Brewing

5 S. San Francisco Street, Flagstaff, 928.779.2739, lumberyardbrewingcompany.com.

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4626 N 16th St. Unit 102, Phoenix, Arizona 85016 | (623) 398-3636 @theCasualPintCentralPhoenix WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR DANE COOK JUNE 1

JUNE 15

JUNE 22

Kathleen Madigan

Fan Halen

Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

JUNE 23

The Ultimate Stones

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

The Long Run

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

JUNE 16

The Long Run

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Carnage

The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

JUNE 29

The Ultimate Stones

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Kathleen Madigan

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JUNE 30 Eddie Money

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Kansas

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JUNE 9 Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE HIGHROLLER

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

OPINIONATED

LADY

Eric Newman » The Entertainer!

PLAYING FOR KEEPS Eddie Money wouldn’t trade anything for his career, except comedy Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

egendary rock singer Eddie Money knows how to get a conversation started. “Are you a D-backs fan?” he asks. “I’m a Dodgers fan, so we don’t like you.” He’s quickly reminded about the Dodgers allegedly urinating in the Chase Field pool in September 2013 after the team clinched the NL West. “Boys will be boys,” he says matter of factly. Money quickly changes his tune, so to speak, and starts singing and telling jokes. He’s always pleasant and happy to talk about his AXS TV reality show, Real Money. It showcases the lives of Money, his wife of more than 30 years, Laurie, and their five children, Zach, Joe, Jesse, Dez and Julian. Born Edward Joseph Mahoney in 1949 in Brooklyn, Money strived to become a musician, but detoured for a bit into police work, in honor of his father. In 1968, after serving as a New York City police officer for two years, Money put his law enforcement career on hold to pursue music. He moved to Berkeley, California, and began performing at local clubs. It was there he met legendary promoter Bill Graham, who served as a mentor. In 1977, he released his self-titled debut, which spawned hits like “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise.” Hits like “Think I’m in Love” and “Shakin’” followed. He saw

a resurgence in 1986 when he released Can’t Hold Back, featuring the Grammynominated duet with Ronnie Spector, “Take Me Home Tonight.” Money calls Detroit his second home, as for two decades he has opened the season at Michigan’s DTE Energy Music Theatre (formerly Pine Knob). Money and his family will perform at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino on Saturday, June 30. “I have a lot of fun out there,” he says about gigging. “I wish the TV show was shot 10 years ago, when I was 10 pounds thinner. I used to be cute. What happened to me? I got more lines on my face.” Seriously, he enjoys playing casinos, like Wild Horse Pass. He’s familiar with Arizona as his grandparents lived in Sun City. “I love playing casinos,” he says. “They give me big rooms to stay in. I feel like Frank Sinatra. There’s a television in the bathroom. It’s crazy. “I have the greatest job in the world, though. I quit smoking cigarettes. I was performing once and this gorgeous girl was right below my feet. She was crying. Her eye makeup was running down her cheeks. I asked her if she was OK and she said, ‘You’re standing on my fingers.’”

or 29 years, comedian Kathleen Madigan has been touring the United States and internationally, performing her world-renowned standup routines nearly 250 nights each year. Although she has worked on and appeared in several TV shows and movies, Madigan has focused on standup, which has resulted in five specials, including three on Netflix. “If I got a scratch-off ticket and won $5 million, I might not go as many nights, but for us road comics these tours are just kind of what we love,” she says. Madigan’s jaunt, Boxed Wine and Bigfoot Tour, will come to Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale on Friday, June 15, and Saturday, June 16. Her latest hour-long special, Bothering Jesus, is streaming on Netflix and it is named after her 2018 album. It marks the highest-selling comedy album debut since 2014, and, among other honors, has remained atop iTunes and other streaming services since its February release. An industry veteran, Madigan knows her audience and bases her popularity on her authenticity. Her jokes convey herself, not a character. With an eclectic mix of intelligent

Comedian Kathleen Madigan displays authenticity

and simply ridiculous material, Madigan can offer political commentary on the ages of the U.S.’ top political officials and follow it up with a hilarious story about getting too drunk in a small town in Georgia. “I’ve been described by (comedian) Lewis Black as the ‘lady at the bar with a lot of opinions and very little information,’ which definitely could be true. I’m just fun, and people think they want to hang out with me,” she says. “Every single comedian who has a following has a group of people who attach themselves because of more than the jokes, it’s what the jokes are really saying. I have always been who I am offstage and on.” Madigan is still surprised by aspects of her career. From the stories she hears from people after shows, to the utter surprise at the success of a recent joke about a form of cat fishing with one’s hands called “noodling,” it is clear her career keeps her engaged. “I truly only talked about it (noodling) because I thought it was funny myself, and I really didn’t think it would become a thing that people are interested in,” Madigan says. “I didn’t think it would catch fire like that, and usually I know which ones are going to stand out like that, so it was kind of fun. I like when that kind of thing happens.”

Kathleen Madigan

Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com, 8 p.m. Friday, June 15, and Saturday, June 16, tickets start at $30.

Eddie Money

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, wingilariver. com, 8 p.m. Saturday, June 30, $27-$67. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

OLYMPIC HERO

Adam Rippon says the games were about more than the medal Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

lympic skater Adam Rippon arrives at AZ Ice Peoria and the whispering begins. Young female skaters giggle, and their parents gush over the Dancing with the Stars mirror ball trophy he is gripping tightly. He doesn’t attempt to conceal his

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identity. Instead, he happily poses with his young fans, who aspire to be like him—on the podium, with an Olympic medal around their necks. It’s no wonder he’s been dubbed “America’s Best Friend.” Rippon was visiting AZ Ice Peoria to star in Wish Upon a Star on May 27. He agreed to the appearance because a friend’s daughter was a performer. “I have a lot of friends here,” Rippon says sitting in a chilly,

cordoned-off rinkside room. He’s wearing thin, USA-blue workout gear, and two shiny gold bracelets. “I just love to come out here any chance I can get, to help my friends and visit.” It’s been a whirlwind year for Rippon, who won a bronze medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. In late May, he was crowned the winner of Dancing with the Stars: Athletes with his professional partner Jenna Johnson. “Can you believe this? It’s not even June yet,” Rippon says, his eyes wide. “It’s even more of a whirlwind coming up,” he adds, teasing a “big project.” Rippon returns to the Valley for the Phoenix Mercury’s Coors Lightsponsored Pride Night at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 16, during the team’s game against the Connecticut Sun at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Rippon will participate in a halftime Q&A at center court for fans. A champion for gay rights, Rippon was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2018. Rippon says he was pleased with his bronze medal finish. However, he wanted the public to learn about him as a person, not just as the athlete or Olympic star. “It was really exciting because people had the chance to get to know me as more than an athlete,” Rippon says. “I’ll always be an athlete and an Olympian, but my takeaway was the chance for me to show off the rest of who I am. “I think some people stand on the Olympic podium and think, ‘I’ve been waiting for this my entire life.’

Mine was the interviews and the interaction with people. That was my a-ha moment. Everything I’ve ever done led to that moment.” Viewers, he hoped, recognized his sense of humor. He enjoys making people laugh and shares his story with anyone who will listen. “I love hearing other people’s stories as well,” Rippon adds. “I’m from a really small town in middle-of-nowhere Pennsylvania. If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything, no matter which track the people crossed or walked before you. “I was the oldest first-time Olympian figure skater since the 1920s. I definitely march to the beat of my own drum.” Rippon, 28, tried to make the Olympic skating team twice, but didn’t make the cut. “I learned a lot about myself, especially my shortcomings,” he says. “I didn’t make the team twice. I used to think those were failures. You only fail if you don’t try. I think I found what you can perceive as a setback is an opportunity for something else. When you live that way, you never feel lost.” The same goes for stepping out of his comfort zone. Rippon was under the gun during Dancing with the Stars: Athletes. The special edition of the ABC hit TV show was only four weeks, significantly shorter than the proper shows. There really wasn’t time to conquer a learning curve. He and Johnson had to “bring it” every week. “As an athlete, you work your entire life for those moments (like the Olympics),” Rippon explains. “For the dancing competition, I wanted to be excellent and professional at it, but you have four weeks and it’s crazy. “It was one of the most fun things I’ve ever done. I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I definitely made a new friend (in Johnson). She’s just so fantastic. I really love her so much.” Rippon has been busy since the Olympics. He flew from New York to Los Angeles, and then from Los Angeles to Phoenix on May 26, performed in Peoria on May 27, and left the morning of May 28. He didn’t look tired in the least. “It’s just creams,” he says with a laugh. “Underneath here, it’s a different story.”

Phoenix Mercury Pride Night

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.252.9622, talkingstickresortarena.com, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 16, tickets start at $9.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE GLADIATOR

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

JUNE’S BEST

SPORTS EVENTS

Brian Benesch » The Entertainer!

soccer matches are fun for all ages. With affordable tickets and cheap beverages, this just may be the best entertainment value in town. Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc.com, 7:30p.m., $17$103.

biggest regular season games of the year. Fans can only hope this meeting simply offers a preview of a possible WNBA Finals matchup! Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, mercury.wnba. com, 7 p.m., $9-$275.

Scottsdale Beat the Heat 10K and 5K Race

Free Boxing Class

JUNE 9 Join the Scottsdale Boxing Club, SBC, for a special opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade to become a world champion boxer. Scottsdale Boxing Club is hosting a free 60-minute boxing class. This introductory boxing class will be given by Olympic gold medalist Vassiliy Jirov. Scottsdale Boxing Club, 10810 N. 71st Place, Scottsdale, 480.483.2898, scottsdaleboxingclub.com,10 to 11 a.m., free.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Miami Marlins

JUNE 1 TO JUNE 3 The Diamondbacks gear up to host the Marlins. The team hopes to extend its hot start into the month of June. It’s a special weekend for the D-backs. On June 1 there are fireworks after the game, while June 2 is “Paul Solo” bobblehead day. Native American Recognition Day is June 3. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, mlb.com/dbacks, 6:40 p.m. June 1, 7:10 p.m. June 2, 1:10 p.m. June 3, $13-$155.

Phoenix Mercury vs. Las Vegas Aces

JUNE 10 The Aces visit the Valley for the first time this season. Don’t miss the action as the Mercury hopes to send them back to sin city with a loss. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602379-2000, mercury.wnba.com, 3 p.m., $9-$237.

Phoenix Rising FC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

JUNE 13 The Rising host the Lights in Scottsdale during $1 beer night. No beer? No problem. These

JUNE 16 Combat the blistering sun with some outdoor fun. As Phoenix approaches the 28th anniversary of its hottest day on record, runners from all over the Valley will compete for $8,000 in prize money. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd, Scottsdale, 480.312.6815, westworldaz.com, 2:47p.m., entry fees are $51$62.60.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. New York Mets

JUNE 14 TO JUNE 17 The D-backs take on the Mets during this midweek four-game series. On Sunday, June 17, head to Chase Field for a Father’s Day afternoon filled with family fun. Select fans will have a chance to play catch on the field before the Diamondbacks face the Mets. Then sit back and relax as the pros go to work on the diamond. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, mlb.com/dbacks, 6:40 p.m. June 14 and June 15, 7:10 p.m. June 16, 1:10 p.m. June 17, $22-$235.

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx

JUNE 22 The Mercury welcomes the Minnesota Lynx, defending league Champions, on a Friday night. Come cheer on the team for one of the

Phoenix Rising FC vs. Orange County SC

JUNE 29 We’re here for the beer—and soccer. Come enjoy the second $1 beer night of the month while watching some high-flying Rising action. The increasingly popular soccer team will be sure to give the crowd a night to remember. Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc.com, 7:30 p.m., $17$103.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants

JUNE 29 TO JULY 1 Paul Goldschmidt and the D-backs host National League rival San Francisco. This matchup will feature all-stars on both sides. Come watch as Arizona tries to end June on a winning note. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, mlb.com/dbacks, 6:40 p.m. June 29, 7:10 p.m. June 30, and 1:10 p.m. July 1, $19-$190.

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SUN DEVIL FOR LIFE D-backs infielder Deven Marrero recalls the lessons he learned at ASU Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

ormer ASU Sun Devil Deven Marrero considers the Valley his second home. The 27-year-old Floridaborn Marrero was traded this year from the Boston Red Sox to the Arizona Diamondbacks, bringing him back to the Grand Canyon State. “This is where I grew up and became a man,” Marrero says as Florida Georgia Line blares over speakers in the D-backs’ clubhouse. “I was 18 when I entered college and I was 21 when I left. It’s where I grew up. I learned a lot about myself.” It was at ASU that he figured out how to prioritize. He juggled 5:30 a.m. workouts, showering in the locker room, going to class all day, heading to WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

the field for practice and then studying. “It was tough, and it makes you grow up fast,” the infielder says. “It taught me how to organize my life.” Marrero certainly showed growth on the field while at ASU. In his three years with the Sun Devils, he put up huge numbers at the plate, highlighted by an impressive .397 batting average during his freshman season. The infielder continued to progress at the collegiate level, totaling a .325 career average, with twelve homers and 95 RBIs. The 6-foot-1 Marrero was an allaround star with the ASU baseball program. In addition to his prowess at the plate, he was celebrated for his work in the field. In 2011, he was awarded a Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year honor; becoming only the second Sun Devil to receive that recognition.

His efforts at the dish and on the diamond resulted in massive hype surrounding his junior year. The Red Sox thought enough of Marrero to make him a first-round selection in 2012. His journey in pro ball started in Boston, but eventually sent him back to his second home. He hopes to make it his home for good this time around. And unlike other newbies to the D-backs, Marrero had insider knowledge about the snakes. Manager Torey Lovullo is the former Boston Red Sox bench coach, while D-backs GM Mike Hazen served in the same capacity with BoSox. “They brought the same culture from Boston to here,” Marrero says. “Torey and Hazen expect us to win. That’s all they ask for. We’re going to go to the World Series. That’s the mentality they put into us in Boston, too. It shows. We’re in a great place this year. “To have these guys take me in and help me feel comfortable is pretty special. There are great guys in the clubhouse. It’s fun and exciting.” The friendship between him and outfielder Jarrod Dyson, who also came

to the D-backs this year, is palpable. The two goof around in the clubhouse and have a friendly rivalry. Marrero pointed his index finger toward Dyson after a hit at a recent game, indicating he oneupped him. “We like to have fun,” Marrero says with a smile. “We play hard and we have a little handshake going. It’s been great to get to know him.” When he’s not playing baseball, he stays in touch with his mother and sisters, with whom he is close. “I don’t see them too much,” Marrero says. “It’s important to me. They keep me sane. They don’t know too much about baseball, so we talk about life.” Other times, he’s using his iPad to study the pitchers he’s going to face, or talking baseball with his teammates. “It’s important to talk about the game,” he says. “We have so much big-league experience to share with the younger guys. We’re also getting feedback from the young guys. It’s something pretty special. It’s a great group. Everyone has their individual goals, but the common thread is this team is about winning.”

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

WORLD

CLASS

Scottsdale Boxing Club’s Olympic medal winner hosts clinic Eric Newman » The Entertainer!

lympic boxer Vassiliy Jirov has competed— and succeeded—against some of the world’s toughest fighters. Now he’s going to share his knowledge during a free introductory boxing clinic on Saturday, June 9, at the Scottsdale Boxing Club. “He grew up in Kazakhstan, and he’s been boxing his whole life,” says SBC owner Paul Pelletier. “He has things to teach that just about nobody else in the world has seen.” Jirov has worked with the club since its inception in September 2017. The clinic’s goal is to introduce the public to Pelletier’s high-level coaching staff like Jirov and increase the Valley’s

interest in boxing. The 44-year-old Jirov calls Scottsdale home, as the desert reminds him of his birthplace, Balkhash. He is not yet a decade removed from his boxing career, which saw him take home an Olympic gold medal in 1996, an IBF cruiserweight world championship title and countless other boxing honors. “When I was a young kid, I wanted to change my life, and I wanted to be different from other people,” he says. “It took me a lot of encouragement from coaches to push myself, and get to the level I made it to. “I know if I had the right person next to me, it would have been a lot easier to get to the next level, and I know how hard it is to find the right person to tell you exactly what to do. All the knowledge I have now, I want to

give it to other people.” There are no level restrictions to the clinic, and aspiring fighters ages 7 and older are welcome to try. Boxing is difficult and coaching can be trying, but Jirov is understanding and rarely gets frustrated with his fighters. He knows winning fighters must be level headed. “If you want to learn, ask,” Jirov says. “If I see something, I will tell you, but you have to listen.” Pelletier, who also founded Scottsdale’s Edge Fitness, says boxing is rare in that it tests mental and physical strength. He is astonished at the increased confidence and life skills he has seen from his returning students, some of whom previously struggled in school or working. “You see people transform from

when they walked in here,” he says. “They have their head down, just like any other thing you’re not used to doing. You see them leave, they’re smiling, a little sweaty, and you can instantly see their confidence growing each time.” With the upcoming clinic, and further training moving forward, Pelletier, Jirov and the rest of the SBC staff hope to change even more lives and keep garnering enthusiasm in boxing around the area.

Scottsdale Boxing Club

10810 N. 71st Place, Scottsdale, 480.483.2898, scottsdaleboxingclub.com, 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 9, free.

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STUDENTS OF THE GAME

Phoenix Rising partners with Scottsdale Soccer to boost local talent Eric Newman » The Entertainer!

wo soccer organizations are giving kids the first direct path from youth to professional soccer. Phoenix Rising FC announced a joint nonprofit venture with Scottsdale Soccer Blackhawks in early May to create Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer Clubs. Scottsdale Soccer, one of the state’s largest and most successful independent soccer clubs, has focused on developing young athletes to play soccer at the collegiate or professional level since its inception in 1981. Club members will have access to Phoenix Rising FC coaches, players, resources and international experience. “We have two great organizations,” says Chris Brown, Scottsdale Soccer executive director. “Obviously, Phoenix Rising is the highest level of competitive soccer in Arizona, and I think the Blackhawks is the leading youth soccer club in Arizona, so it fit WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

quite naturally. “Both of us have aspirations for our players to develop and excel, there’s just a lot of parallels with both teams.” More than just the resources, Phoenix Rising FC governor Berke Bakay says the top individuals on his club, like world-renowned striker and part-owner Didier Drogba and coach Patrice Carteron, could inspire young players to work hard and fine-tune their skills. The joint venture could play a role in recruiting players for the Blackhawks, Scottsdale Soccer’s competitive teams, but Brown says a priority is developing the loyal players and coaches already established within the club. “I don’t really think it’s about that (recruiting) actually, it’s about developing the people we do have,” Brown says. “We have aspirations that every player in our program should develop to go to college and play at that level, or if they want to bypass that and try to play professionally, that’s what we’re hoping to provide.”

Scottsdale Soccer is also the only Arizona club to employ a full-time college development counselor, according to Brown. Though Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer Clubs wants to improve the development of youth athletes, Bakay admits the partnership could prove financially beneficial to Phoenix Rising FC as well. Hoping to enhance interest and participation in the sport in the state, as well as further advertise the relatively new team, Phoenix Rising will

spread its brand not just in Scottsdale, but throughout the state, including in Scottsdale Soccer’s four locations: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Prescott and Desert Foothills. “We have around 8,000 kids playing for our soccer clubs around the state,” Bakay says. “They’re all putting the jersey on of our club. So, when you’re trying to develop a brand and a connection, giving that opportunity to relate to the club and feel part of it is very valuable.”

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE YOUNGSTER

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

THE BEST FAMILY EVENTS IN JUNE Chandler Children’s Choir

Daisy Finch » The Entertainer!

Payson Summer Concert Series SATURDAYS IN JUNE Families can rock out to music from local artists and bands, ranging from rock to Celtic, in Payson this summer. All ages are encouraged to attend the events, as no smoking or alcohol will be permitted. Food will be available for purchase from local vendors. Information on specific musicians can be found online. Green Valley Park, 1000 W. Country Club Drive, Payson, 928.472.5110, paysonrimcountry. com, 7 p.m., free admission.

Kids Cooking Camp

VARIOUS DATES IN JUNE Scottsdale Community College is cooking up fun this summer at its Culinary Kids Camp. Organized by the college’s culinary arts program, the camp teaches children basic cooking tips. Students will learn techniques for all three daily meals plus dessert and get to take home a chef’s hat, apron and printed handouts to help with their cooking at home. Scottsdale Community College, 9000 E. Chaparral Road, Scottsdale, 480.423.6100, scottsdalecc.edu, times vary, $225.

Annie Jr. Auditions

JUNE 4 The sun is coming out this summer at the Musical Theatre of Anthem, as it is holding auditions for Annie Jr. Youth ages 6 to 18 are welcome to audition for the production. Auditions will be held at 9 a.m. June 4, followed directly by rehearsal with production to follow in late June. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem, 480.730.0205, musicaltheatreofanthem.org, 9 a.m., $325; 10% sibling discount.

and it’s up to magical nanny Mary Poppins to help the family find the magic within. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, 623.776.8400, azbroadway.org, times vary, $74-$99.

Prowl and Play: Superhero Unite!

JUNE 9 Join the ranks of the superhero elite at the Phoenix Zoo where kids can encounter characters and animals. Planned activities include mask making, lawn water slides and a meeting with Susan Stoltz, who wrote Edie Goes the Wrong Way. The Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 602.286.3800, phoenixzoo.org, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., $8-10, free for ages 2 and younger.

Flagstaff Movies on the Square SATURDAYS IN JUNE Watch a movie in the heart of downtown Flagstaff and enjoy food vendors and live entertainment, too. June movies include The Incredibles, Jumanji, Lego Batman and Captain Underpants. Heritage Square, 111 W. Birch Avenue, Flagstaff, 928.275.2655, flagdba.com, 4 to 8 p.m., free admission.

JUNE 11 TO JUNE 15 It’s showtime, and “A Million Dreams” await camp-goers on this five-day musical adventure. Ages 6 to 18 are invited to create a music video for one of The Greatest Showman’s most popular songs, even at off-site shooting locations like Butterfly Wonderland. Compass Christian Church, 1825 S. Alma School Road, Chandler, 928.853.4292, chandlerchildrenschoir.org, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $225.

Prescott Frontier Days & World’s Oldest Rodeo

JUNE 28 TO JULY 4 Join in on a 131-year tradition at this historic rodeo. Everyone in the family can find an event catered to them, including eight rodeo performances and parades. Prescott Rodeo Grounds, 848 Rodeo Drive, Prescott, 866.407.6336, worldsoldestrodeo.com, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on select days, prices vary.

Family Brain Boost

SATURDAYS IN JUNE Boost your brain with educational activities each Saturday, thanks to the Children’s Museum of Tucson’s education team. From blocks to bubbles, these interactive activities will promote educational growth. Children’s Museum of Tucson, 1200 S. Sixth Avenue, Tucson, 520.792.9985, childrensmuseumtucson.org, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., free with $9 admission to the museum.

Summer Splash

THURSDAYS THROUGH JULY Tempe Marketplace offers a summertime oasis with Summer Splash. Meet lovable princesses and daring superheroes, like Moana and Batman. With free entertainment, photos, prizes and dancing, kids of all ages will enjoy this cool event. Tempe Marketplace, 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 480.730.0205, tempemarketplace.com, 6 to 7:30 p.m., free admission.

To Be Thirteen

Mary Poppins TO JUNE 30 Mary Poppins and her magical umbrella are flying to a theater near you, as Arizona Broadway Theatre offers its 100th Main Stage production. Something is brewing within the Banks family,

TO OCTOBER 14 To Be Thirteen gives museum patrons a glimpse into the lives of 250 young Americans through portraits and videos, all created by artist Betsy Schneider. Experience the turn of the century through kids’ eyes and open your perspective. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.257.1880, phxart.org, various hours, $9-$18; free for ages 5 and younger. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE SHOWMAN

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

CO-OP WANTS IT ‘N.O.W.’ Dash Cooper’s band puts modern spin on classic rock

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

rowing up in the shadow of his father, Alice Cooper, Dash Cooper knows a thing or two about classic rock. It doesn’t necessarily need to be music that is dated or tired. It can be refreshed with touches of metal and good, old rock ‘n’ roll. That’s what Dash Cooper and his band CO-OP focused on while recording their self-titled debut full-length album, which is due in stores June 15 on the EMP Label Group. Cooper’s vocals take timeless classic rock undertones and mix them with the grit of modern hard rock and melodic hooks over a bottom-heavy foundation. “I’ve always been into classic rock with my dad and listening to all the classic rock bands,” says Cooper, during an interview at his father’s home. “As I progressed in my musical career, I started to really like that harder rock, that more modern sound. I still hold really tight to that classic rock sound, so we blended those together.” CO-OP will celebrate the album’s release with a party at Club Red in Mesa on Saturday, June 16.

“Fans can expect a dirty, gritty rock show,” Cooper says. “We call ourselves ‘desert hard rock,’ it’s a modern feel with a classic rock edge.” No strangers to performance, CO-OP—which also features guitarist Jeremy Tabor, bassist Justin Swartzentruber and drummer Nick Spann—quickly amassed a following in the Valley. Within a few years, the band shared the stage with Motley Crue, The Hollywood Vampires (featuring Alice Cooper, Aerosmith’s Joe Perry and Johnny Depp) and Kiss. Some of those musicians make guest appearances on the collection. Alice Cooper lends his vocals to “Old Scratch,” while Perry provided guitarist on “Howl.” “N.O.W.,” one of the first singles, landed on Mediabase’s national classic rock chart. “I was talking to my dad’s guitar player and said Joe was really big into the song,” Cooper says about “Howl,” which was scheduled to hit radio the first week of June. “He wanted the song early, so he could prewrite something. I thought that was really cool. I thought he’d come in and wing it, but he wanted to listen to it for a day or two. “Plus, since he’s been in the Vampires, we’ve been pretty close. He’s

been interested in CO-OP, so I said I had a great song for him. He said, ‘Absolutely.’ I didn’t know it was going to be that easy.”

QUICK ASCENSION CO-OP’s music has grabbed the attention of others in the industry as well. Thom Hazaert and Valley resident/Megadeth bassist David Ellefson heard it and signed CO-OP to EMP Label Group. They released their debut EP in 2017. “Alice Cooper took Megadeth out on our first big tour, and we’ve always had a great relationship,” Ellefson says. “Alice wrote the foreword to my book, My Life with Deth. So, it’s been really exciting to be able to bring that relationship full circle and work with Dash and CO-OP, who have grown into an incredible rock band.” CO-OP’s lineup has changed throughout the year, but everybody’s contributions were taken seriously for the album. “It’s a conglomeration of everybody’s thoughts and feelings,” Cooper says. “I’m already working on the follow-up album.” That collaborative spirit will continue between Cooper, Spann, Tabor and Swartzentruber. The Ohio-born Tabor brings a blues background to CO-OP, having played with Robert Johnson’s stepson in Cleveland.

‘I had been playing bass maybe two months—and I was 14,” he says with a laugh. “We immediately clicked and I did that for a few months. Then, I started branching out into the heavy metal community. “I moved here when I was 20 and switched over to guitar and made that my focus.” He joined The Sammus Theory and toured with it for eight years, playing festivals like Uproar, and then Buried as Thieves. “I learned what works and what doesn’t work,” Tabor says. “It gave me a chance to make connections. “Once I heard last summer that CO-OP was looking for a new guitarist, I jumped on it and the rest is history.” Swartzentruber began his career in his mid-teens, playing in church. Soon, he met like-minded musicians and performed with a handful of bands before moving to Arizona from Springfield, Missouri. He was working at Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Center when one of the kids there told him about his friend’s band needing a bassist. Swartzentruber called and Cooper gave him three songs to learn. Swartzentruber didn’t expect the music to be “so cool.” Outside of band pursuits, CO-OP has often put its skills to work helping raise funds for Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Center, which has often brought with it opportunities to perform as a back-up band along with other philanthropic volunteers such as Alex Lifeson (Rush), Danny Seraphine (Chicago), Don Felder (Eagles) and Tommy Thayer of Kiss. Cooper’s father has been a big influence in his life, but CO-OP is going about its career on its own terms. There’s just one piece of advice the musicians take to heart. “I always tell people the best advice he ever gave me was to be polished and rehearsed all the time; be the best version of yourself on stage,” Cooper says. “As always, our music is just powerful and it’s really heavy. It’s classic rock with a modern feel. It’s music people haven’t heard in a long time. Listeners have been receptive to it.”

CO-OP w/Shinshrift, Paranova, Riot/Gear, Underwater Time Machine

Club Red, 1306 W. University Drive, Mesa, clubredrocks.com, 6 p.m. Saturday, June 16, $10-$13. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Uli Jon Roth

Club Red, 7 p.m., $23-$25

Karen Holloway

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR

Connor Dziawura » The Entertainer!

JUNE 1 Aaron Howard and Sarah Price

The Listening Room, 7 p.m., $20-$25

All Our Exes Live in Texas

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $25-$35

Authority Zero

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $20-$35

Bluesmen w/George Bowman and Diva Missy Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8

Brian Chartrand

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 5 p.m., free

Calexico w/Julia Jacklin

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$40

Mega 104.3 Summer Jam

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $30.50-$57.50

The Monkees present the Mike & Micky Show Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $48-$88

Michael Jackson Tribute Concert

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$150

The Atlas Moth

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Kesha w/Macklemore

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $30.50-$299

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 6:30 p.m., free

Transviolet

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15-$17

North

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

JUNE 3

JUNE 7

Brian Chartrand

Collie Buddz

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 5 p.m., free

Headwinds

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Kansas

Salt River Grand Ballroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $30-$266.50

Mario Aguilar

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $49-$89

Michael Jackson Tribute Nina Curri & Friends

JUNE 4

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $25-$27

J. Forte

Club Red, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Cozz

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

Legends of Guitar featuring Anthony Mazzella

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., tickets TBA WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

JUNE 5 Joe Purdy

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $30-$35

Ray LaMontagne w/Neko Case

Justin Townes Earle w/Lydia Loveless

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $37-$42

T.S.O.L.

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

JUNE 8 Alan Parsons Live Project Amy LaVere

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $28

Emery w/’68

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $20

Enanitos Verdes w/Hombres G Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $69.50$350

Genesis Company w/Lo’ There The Nile, 6 p.m., $10-$12

Sick of It All w/Murphy’s Law

Michael Franti & Spearhead

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Insomnium

Musical Instrument Museum, 6 and 8 p.m., $35-$60

Lago

Speedy Ortiz

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17-$20

Ramsey Lewis and His Electric Band

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $39.50-$292.50 Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $17

Griffin House

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $44.75-$195.98

Blue October

Ellen Cherry

Keeira Lyn Ford

Maroon 5

Matthew Thornton

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12

Cold Shott & The Hurricane Horns

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, 9 p.m., $9-$11

Larry & His Flask w/Acousta Noir

Aaron Church

Club Red, 6 p.m., $20-$55

Power Trip

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $10-$15

JUNE 9

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 6:30 p.m., free

The Hourglass Cats

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

JUNE 2

Eminence Ensemble

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 6 p.m., free

A Place to Bury Strangers

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $22-$50

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $43.01-$97.31

Marquee Theatre, 6:15 p.m., $20-$35

Obadiah Parker

Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8

Charley Crockett

D.O.A. w/MDC

Club Red, 7 p.m., $13-$15

Petrification

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $28-$58

The Lunchbox, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $15-$65

UFOMAMMUT

Shoreline Mafia

Rhythm Room, 3 p.m., $10

Salon Rock, noon, free

191 Toole, 9 p.m., $20-$22

Salon Rock, noon, free

Sundressed Wand

Aly & AJ

The Sword

Minus the Bear

The Pressroom, 7 p.m., $20-$50

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10-$12

JUNE 6

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $30-$50

Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, 8 p.m., $22-$53

Night Riots w/courtship.

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Robert Randolph & The Family Band

Club Red, 6 p.m., $10-$13 Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $39.50-$50.50

The Paladins

Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $16-$20

Sleep w/Bell Witch JUNE 9

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25 Revered doom/stoner metal titans Sleep have returned with their long-awaited new album. Released on Jack White’s Third Man Records, The Sciences is Sleep’s first new full-length album since Dopesmoker, which was recorded in the ’90s and released in a number of different incarnations over the years. Now, the California trio is touring across the country – and stopping at downtown Phoenix’s The Van Buren along the way.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

Maps & Atlases

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$17

The Punk Rock All Stars

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $8-$10

Rockin Blues Fest

191 Toole, 7 p.m., $5-$8

JUNE 10 Jay Allan

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 5 p.m., free

Ana Popovic

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $30-$35

Devastation on the Nation Club Red, 4 p.m., $22-$25

Reina Del Cid

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $12-$15

I’m Still Weak

Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $10-$12

The Yardbirds

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $34.50-$99.50

JUNE 11 Ana Popovic

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $30-$35

Chad Valley

JUNE 13 Brewfish

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Har Mar Superstar sings Sam Cooke

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15-$18

John Butler Trio w/Mama Kin Spender Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, 8 p.m., $33-$38

JUNE 14 Brownout

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

John Butler Trio

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $32-$47

Lance Lopez Band w/Nick Schnebelen Band Rhythm Room, 7:30 p.m., $12

Neon

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Paula Cole

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $37-$42

Post Animal

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12-$14

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12-$15

JUNE 15

Nick Moss Band

Bruno Major

Shy Boys

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10 The Lunchbox, 8:30 p.m., $8-$10

Wonder

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12-$15

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $35

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

House of Stairs

JUNE 12

The Iron Maidens

Buckethead

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 6 p.m., free Marquee Theatre, 6:15 p.m., $16-$31

Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, 8 p.m., $25-$30

Nonpoint w/Butcher Babies

Hailshot w/Kamikaze Zombie

Rival Coast w/Baseline

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., $10

Ivan Lins

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $40-$50

Joel Maze

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Onward, Etc.

Club Red, 5:30 p.m., $22

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $12-$15

The Sea and Cake

191 Toole, 8 p.m., $16-$20

Weezus: An Irreverent Tribute to Weezer Orpheum Theater – Flagstaff, 9 p.m., $8.50

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10-$12

JUNE 16

Sunflower Bean

The Atomic Punks w/Moving Pictures, Pyrosteria

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12

Too Slim & The Taildraggers

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $20-$23

The Waters

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Blue Water Highway Hammerfall

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $25-$70

A Hawk and a Hacksaw

Kenny Chesney JUNE 23

Chase Field, 5 p.m., $18.50-$499 Eight-time Entertainer of the Year Kenny Chesney returns to Chase Field, where he’ll debut tracks from his forthcoming album Songs for Saints. Recorded over the last several months, Songs for Saints was inspired by Hurricane Irma’s effect on the Virgin Islands, where Chesney resided. Opening the Chase Field show are Thomas Rhett, Old Dominion and Brandon Lay.

Dan Lovelock

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 6:30 p.m., free

JUNE 19 Deca

Phoebe Marlowe

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Rowdy Rebels

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Yellow Claw

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Salon Rock, noon, free Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25-$50 The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, noon, $20

JUNE 17 Ana Tijoux

The Lucky Eejits Men I Trust

New Found Glory

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $25-$45

Small Leaks Sink Ships Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $7-$10

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $25-$28

JUNE 20

Cash’d Out

Bent Knee

Chicago w/REO Speedwagon

The Chamanas

Dave Holland, Zakir Hussain and Chris Potter

Spectral Voice w/Superstition

Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $15 Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $29.50-$375

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $45-$60

Dave Vito & The Volunteers Yucca Tap Room, 6 p.m., free

Nora En Pure

Maya Day + Nightclub, noon, $10

Regina Belle

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $38-$58

Sydney Sprague

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 5 p.m., free

JUNE 18 The Get Up Kids

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $23-$27

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12 Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $12-$15 Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., $12

The Waters

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Ziggy Marley

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $36-$60

JUNE 21 The B Sharps

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Niki J. Crawford

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $12

Neon

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Shakey Graves

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25

The Lunchbox, 8 p.m., $10-$12 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Slightly Stoopid

Mesa Amphitheatre, 5:30 p.m., $35$152.77

Stars

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $21$38.50

JUNE 22 Elevate Music Festival 2018 Grand Canyon University Arena, 6:30 p.m., $22.50-$129

Puddle of Mudd

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $25-$55

Shwayze w/Cisco

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $25-$30

The Sugar Thieves

Hockey Dad

The Rocksteady 7

Katchafire

U.S. Bombs

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

JUNE 29

Tom Paxton and the Don Juans

Karen Holloway

Black Milk

Rebel Lounge, 6:30 p.m., $13-$15 Marquee Theatre, 5:15 p.m., $22-$47 Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $35-$40

Who’s Bad: Tribute to Michael Jackson The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $20

Lois Zozobrado

Salon Rock, noon, free

JUNE 24 Jay Allan

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 5 p.m., free

Trixie Mattel

Chris Brown

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $37-$52

Who’s Bad – The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $25-$495

Elevate Music Festival 2018

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Grand Canyon University Arena, 4 p.m., $22.50-$129

JUNE 23

JUNE 25

Elevate Music Festival 2018

The Regrettes

Grand Canyon University Arena, 5:30 p.m., $22.50-$129

Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12

Errra

JUNE 26

Headbang for the Highway Battle for Summer Slaughter 2018

Extreme Acoustic Guitar featuring Bill Dutcher, Jay Poole and Mike Gallaher

The Nile, 6:30 p.m., $13-$15

Club Red, 5 p.m., $13-$15

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., ticket prices TBA

IMPRESSIONABLE CAREER Dicky Barrett says kids can learn from his work ethic

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

hen Dicky Barrett heard the mixes for The Mighty Mighty Bosstones’ forthcoming album, While We’re at It, he knew exactly which song would kick it off— the upbeat “Green Bay, Wisconsin.”

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

JUNE 27 Cold Cave

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Combichrist

Club Red, 6 p.m., $22-$25

Fantastic Negrito

Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $13

Quintron and Miss Pussycat 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $10-$12

Street Dogs

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

The Waters

Vans Warped Tour

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 11 a.m., $46

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $15-$18

Long Live Lavish

The Nile, 7:30 p.m., $10

Ocean Alley

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12-$13

The Quakes

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12

Snow tha Product

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $23-$90

JUNE 30 Animus Complex

Club Red – West, 6 p.m., $10-$12

Brit Floyd

Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $35-$155

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Dave Clark

JUNE 28

Danielle Nicole Band

Beres Hammond

Rialto Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $35-$70

Farruko

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $35-$65

J. Forte

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa’s Center Stage Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Salon Rock, noon, free Rhythm Room, 8:30 p.m., $10-$12

Häxan

Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $5

Passafire

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $17-$20

Quiet Slang

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $13-$15

Particle

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $15-$18

The track—about a Midwestern ska girl who trades her supermarket job for the Viva Lake Geneva Scooter Rally—enthusiastically kicks opens the album’s door. “The thing about that song is it’s an unapologetic, full-bore ska song,” says the Bosstones’ frontman, who also serves as the announcer on Jimmy Kimmel Live! “We’re even stealing and borrowing ska references on top of it. It has product placement in it, too. “We hold ska in such high regard. It’s a holy thing to us. We wanted to open our 10th album with the most ska song we could come up with. Once I heard the complete version, I said this is how it’s going to start and everything else after it is icing on this ska cake.” The Bosstones are known for mixing elements of ska with punk and hardcore on hits like “The Impression That I Get” and “The Rascal King.” They continue that sound on While We’re at It. “Whenever we need ska music, it’s like you hit the ska signal and it returns,” Barrett says. “There are a handful of great ska records coming out this year. The Interrupters have an album coming out, which I’ve heard and

it’s exceptional. The Mad Caddies have a record coming out about the same time. It’s a great-sounding record as well.” Barrett’s love of ska isn’t the sole inspiration. He loves writing and needs to do it. “I enjoy writing and I enjoy blacksmithing words together,” he says. “I’m already in the process of writing the next album. I come up with an idea or thought and write it down. The guys get the music together and I’ll try to see what I have that fits.” If it doesn’t fit, Barrett simply tosses it aside. “If it’s too hard for me, I just walk away from it. Let that be a lesson for the kids,” Barrett says laughing. “I don’t write under any kind of a deadline. That’s a luxury.” Barrett finds time to write songs around his Jimmy Kimmel day job. However, he’s still obsessed with anything from his hometown of Boston. “The Red Sox have given me a great deal of joy since 2004,” Barrett says. “I love the way they took this year. They came out of the gate on fire. I really love anything Boston, including the Boston Strangler.”

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

WARPED’S LAST LAP

The traveling festival says farewell after 23 years of music and memories Madison Rutherford » The Entertainer!

rom the mohawks and mosh pits of early ’90s punk to the crowd-surfing, tight pants and studded belts that stemmed from subgenres like emo, poppunk and post-hardcore, Warped Tour has been a calling card for contemporary culture since 1995. The tour, which is the longest continuous traveling music festival in North America, stops in cities across the country every summer from June to August. It comes to Ak-Chin Pavilion on June 28. But it won’t be coming back next summer. The tour’s founder, Kevin Lyman, is ready to move on to the next chapter. “I think we have done

everything we can in the format that it is in and on a personal level, I am looking for new challenges,” Lyman says. It is certainly not a lull in success or a lack of passion that caused Lyman to call it a wrap on Warped. “I have always looked at Warped as a lifestyle event driven by music. It has been a platform to prove yourself or reconfirm yourself,” Lyman says. “From bands to nonprofits, to brands to being a crew person, it has been a place to cut your teeth or come back and show you still have it.” When he started, he says he depended on people who trusted his concept and creative process, so he asked bands who were friends and all-stars of the ’90s alternative scene, like Sublime, No Doubt, Pennywise and NOFX, to be

part of the first few lineups. Now, he gets more than 2,000 submissions every year. The tour has also helped bolster the careers of some of the most successful independent and alternative acts on the scene. “It has been an honor to see so many people who got their start in those parking lots go on to do amazing things,” Lyman says. Among those acts are Mayday Parade and Arizona’s The Maine and Doll Skin, the latter of which is making its Warped debut this summer. “We’ve been wanting to do Warped since we found out what it was,” says 18-year-old singer Sydney Dolezal. “I couldn’t be more excited about it.” The scene has changed a lot since the beginning of Warped — the sound, the style of dress and even the definitions of what genres like “punk” and “rock” mean. One thing that has remained, however, is the unwavering sense of comradery that made Warped Tour a runaway success in the first place, and it’s what continues to set it apart. “I think the culture of Warped Tour, of having a community of people that feel like they all belong there… is what really makes it such a special tour,” says Pat Kirch, who plays drums in Tempe-based band The Maine. According to Kirch, Warped Tour played a huge role in helping the band achieve commercial success. This year will be the band’s sixth time playing the tour. “Going out there and playing shows and asking people to buy our

albums, it was a very big part of what got us going,” he says. “We were able to reach so many people and there are not really that many other opportunities to reach that many people in a single day.” Warped Tour provides a unique platform for bands to connect with their fans. He says their first few years of the tour were marked by tons of bands promoting their music via direct interaction with fans, but that has faded over time. “People just play their set and hang out on the bus and that’s about it,” he says. The lineups have evolved over the years as well. Kirch recalls the “DriveThru Records era,” when bands like Dashboard Confessional, The Early November and Senses Fail were at the peak of their careers. Now, people might only come to see one or two bands and are less likely to stay the whole day to discover new ones. “You were almost excited about every band that was there,” he recalls. “It was Taking Back Sunday and Underoath, but you’d be excited to see New Found Glory and Rx Bandits… Now, people might only be into a handful of bands.” In addition to giving bands an opportunity to do what they love and reach as many people as possible, Kirch says Warped Tour is a rare place where people can enjoy a sense of solidarity through music. “Warped Tour is a place where you can feel like you’re a part of something. Everybody’s there for the same purpose,” he says. “I think if you go to a place like Warped Tour, you see that we’re all not that different. It’s just a place to have a good time and enjoy music and see new bands.” Kirch says the “spirit of Warped Tour” will live on and Lyman insists that though this is the final tour, it may “manifest in different ways” in the future. He hints at plans for the tour’s 25th anniversary, which will be announced soon. “We’re sad to see it go, but we’re grateful to be a part of the last one,” Lenzo adds.

Vans Warped Tour

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, vanswarpedtour.com, 11 a.m. Thursday, June 28, tickets start at $23. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

THE NIGHTOWL

SIP » UNLEASH » MIX » MINGLE » PULSE » SHAKE

THE BEST NIGHTLIFE EVENTS FOR JUNE Flatbush ZOMBiES

Connor Dziawura » The Entertainer!

JUNE 12

Ghastly Matt Lange JUNE 1

Matt Lange doesn’t create any old dance music. Signed to deadmau5’ label, mau5trap, Lange produces a dark brand of electronic music that makes perfect sense when you read his backstory. Inspired by Nine Inch Nails and Aphex Twin, the Los Angeles-based musician will bring his ear for dark, textured beats and strong vocal melodies to Bar Smith at the top of June. This event is 21 and older. Bar Smith, 130 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.456.1991, relentlessbeats.com, 9 p.m., $10.

JUNE 1

In May, the popular masked DJ and producer UZ – who at long last revealed his secret identity last year – dropped his new ninetrack project, The Rebirth. But even before making a switch to full-length projects, UZ garnered a name for himself via a popular song series, which saw the secretive artist drop a slew of bangers over a several-year span. Though that series has ended, UZ is continuing his legacy through his new albums. He will likely bring his trademark bangers to Maya Day + Nightclub this June. This event is 21 and older. Maya Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, mayaclubaz.com, 10 p.m., $10.

JUNE 1 AND JUNE 2

The Mystifying Oracle 2018 Tour, named after Los Angeles-based – and Buckeye-bred – DJ and producer Ghastly’s debut studio album, is making two stops in his home state. The first will be at the Rialto Theatre, while just a day later, Ghastly will pass through The Van Buren in downtown Phoenix. With kooky tracks like “Fake U Out” and plenty of other danceable tunes stocking the tracklist of The Mystifying Oracle, the floors at Rialto Theatre and The Van Buren are sure to get moving this June. The Van Buren event is 18 and older. Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress Street, Tucson, 520.740.1000, rialtotheatre.com, 8 p.m. June 1, $30-$42. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, 480.659.1641, thevanburenphx.com, 8 p.m. June 2, $27-$42.

Brooklyn-based rap group Flatbush ZOMBiES burst onto the hip-hop scene in 2012 with its debut mixtape, D.R.U.G.S., and an appearance on A$AP Mob’s Lord$ Never Worry standout “Bath Salts.” Over the next few years, the group increased its status in the industry with a follow-up mixtape titled BetterOffDEAD, a collaborative EP with The Underachievers titled Clockwork Indigo, and its 2016 debut studio album, 3001: A Laced Odyssey. Now, the Beast Coastaffiliated trio consisting of Meechy Darko, Zombie Juice and Erick the Architect is hot on the heels of its second studio album, Vacation in Hell. To support the project, the group’s three members are taking their animated flows and wild energy on the road with their See You in Hell Tour.

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 8 p.m., $26-$99.

Dillon Nathaniel JUNE 15

More house and techno! There’s not much to say at this point, except that you won’t want to miss this one. Get down to Bar Smith in the middle of June for more rumbling dance floor anthems, bouncy rhythms and deep bass courtesy of Dillon Nathaniel. This event is 21 and older. Bar Smith, 130 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.456.1991, relentlessbeats.com, 9 p.m., $10.

Post Malone and 21 Savage w/ SOB X RBE, Paris JUNE 19

Likely one of the biggest tours of the summer comes from Post Malone and 21 Savage. Post Malone released his sophomore album, Beerbongs & Bentleys, in April. 21 Savage, on the other hand, had two smashes last year with Issa Album and his Offset and Metro Boomin collaborative project, Without Warning. The “Rockstar” hitmakers will also bring Black Panther soundtrack contributors and Bay Area upand-comers SOB X RBE, along with Los Angeles rapper Paris, on select dates, including this Rawhide performance. To seal the deal, every pair of tickets purchased includes a CD copy of Beerbongs & Bentleys. Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 480.502.5600, rawhide.com, 6 to 11 p.m., $52.50-$250.

Peking Duk

Kill Frenzy

JUNE 23

JUNE 9

Born in Belgium but based in Berlin, the singularly monikered Sébastien, who is perhaps better known as Kill Frenzy, will soon make a trek and experience the heat of the Valley. Fans of the house and techno artist will soon get to hear his dance floor rhythms and deep baselines at Shady Park. This event is 21 and older. Shady Park, 26 E. University Drive, Tempe, relentlessbeats. com, 9 p.m., $15.

Nightmares on Wax brings a set to downtown Phoenix’s Crescent Ballroom. This event is 21 and older. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com, 8 p.m., $20.

Nightmares on Wax JUNE 12

Warp’s own Nightmares on Wax returned earlier this year with a new album called Shape the Future and a tour to boot. Over the course of the UK producer and DJ’s lengthy, 25-plus year career, the worlds of trip-hop and downtempo have been melded with soul music, dub and hip-hop across a growing discography. That eclecticism will likely be apparent on June 12 when

“Peking Duk not only tastes good, but it sounds even better,” the Australian duo consisting of Reuben Styles and Adam Hyde say on their Facebook page. Well, Phoenix concertgoers are soon going to get a taste of what Styles and Hyde have to dish up when the duo bring their upbeat good vibes to Valley Bar in downtown Phoenix. This event is 18 and older. Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.368.3121, relentlessbeats.com, 7:30 p.m., $22-$27. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

YOU’RE NOT GONNA BELIEVE THIS

Bizarro facts that will stretch your noggin

Daisy Finch » The Entertainer!

The average American Huevos rancheros eats about 274 eggs a was Arizona’s year, and that doesn’t favorite egg dish include eggs in baked in 2017, goods or pasta. according

Isn’t that

EGG-

cessive?

A hen named Harriet laid a 9.1 inch egg in 2010.

JUNE 3

is National Egg Day, and for its 10th anniversary, Over Easy is offering $5 breakfast and $1 eggs.

to Yelp.

“Omelet King” Howard Helmer ate 427 two-egg omelets in 30 minutes.

The “Easter Egg Chicken” (a.k.a. the Araucana chicken) lays blue, green, pink and brown eggs.

A hen lays 300 to 325 eggs each year. Let’s play “Spin the Egg!” If an egg spins easily, it’s hard boiled, but if it wobbles, it’s raw. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

A hen will turn her eggs 50 times a day to keep the yolk from sticking to the side of the shell.

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