Executive Consultants: TRISHA ANTHONY | SUZANNE EDER | HEATHER MORRISON
Art Direction: STEPHANIE SWEET, SWEET DESIGNS
Fashion Photographers: SCOTT FOUST | JOHN HALL
Senior Society Editors: SALLY AND PETER KRZYKOS
Director of Social Media: MCKENNA WESLEY
Trends Makeup and Hair Stylist: LAURA FLAGLER | KAREN HALL | MARY BETH YORK
Epicurean: BOB STEARNES
Entertaining and Interior Design Editors: BARBARA KAPLAN | JAMIE LENDRUM PATSY LOWRY | SUSAN MAYER
Fashion Editor: SAMANTHA DEROSE
Fine Art Editor: PALMER SAYLOR III
Health and Wellness Editors: MICHELLE MCINTYRE | JOHN SPEAD | JODI STERN
Protocol Editor: HEATHER WAGENHALS
Society Editors: CAROL BENNETT | GEORGE BENNETT | J.J. BREWER
GRACE CARPENTER | VERONICA COOK | JACCI DIXON
KIRK JARRETT | GAIL LITTLETON | MICHELLE ROONEY
KATHY SCHEIB | FRANK SCHMUCK | NICHOLE STEARNES CONNIE SUNDAY
Certified Public Accountants: THOMAS S. HOLLY, CPA, PLLC Printing: INTERACTIVE PRINT SOLUTIONS
Music Production: CHRIS BECKLEY/THE PRODUCTION GROUP
Fashion Coordinator: MARGARET MERRITT
Trends Charitable Fund Board members are Marilyn Alexander, Nikki Balich, Charlene Berge-Blum, Lee Courtney, Harriet Friedland and Penny Gunning
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By Bill Dougherty Online social calendar: www.trendspublishing.com/social-calendar
The Ides of March reared its ugly head yet again this social season. You guessed correctly. Little in the social world happens in January, February and April. Instead, organizations decide to cram as much as they can into March. I have said this for decades now, all you’re doing is hurting each other.
There once was a time when ladies and gentlemen from various organizations would check in with each other to make sure their events didn’t dog pile on top of one another. The last weekend in March brought us five events on the same night! There are only 10 major fundraisers in April. All are spaced out correctly so great attendance is guaranteed. When will people learn?
Our Take the Pledge full page advertisement has gained a lot of attention. The bill passed by animal rights advocate Debra Nolan makes it legal to break into a hot car should an animal’s life be in danger. The Pledge is now attracting a lot of attention thanks to the monthly advertisement. We are so delighted that so many people
want to sign up for this great lifesav ing hot car awareness campaign. Who knows who’s next on the list, maybe even you!
GOTCHA ...
One of the most adored socialites and community philanthropists is honored at a breathtaking gala. Two of the three organizations she supports, purchased several expensive and close to the stage tables. They all wanted to support this great lady. She receives a standing ovation. However, an organization that is near and dear to the ladies’ heart couldn’t be bothered. Countless calls and emails were ignored by the organization and its members. You should all be so proud of yourselves. How sad and selfish.
Samantha’s Favorite Finds
Spring 2025 Trend Edition
By Samantha DeRose
The must-have accessory of the year? A silk scarf or bandana. Effortlessly chic and endlessly versatile, it’s the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
You can shop this FRAME x Ritz Paris silk scarf at N eiman Marcus located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.
Looking for something bold and unforgettable to add to your jewelry collection? This striking piece is equal parts fierce and sophisticated, making it a true conversation starter.
You can shop this 18k diamond skeleton panther ring at The Estate Watch & Jewelry Co. located at 7121 E. 5th Ave.
In the world of high-end fashion, the diamond collar necklace is a staple. It’s the ultimate way to turn heads and add a radiant sparkle to any look.
You can shop this 18k marquise-cut diamond collar necklace at E.D. Marshall Jewelers located at 10261 N. Scottsdale Rd.
While east-west bags are the go-to for evening outings, a structured tote is the perfect companion for daytime errands or brunch dates.
You can shop this coveted Louis Vuitton “On the Go” handbag at Mo Money Pawn Shop located at 1152 E Indian School Rd.
If you’re searching for the quintessential print of the season, look no further. The classic pattern, paired with a soft powder pink – a color that’s making waves this season – makes for an effortlessly stylish look.
You can shop this Loewe plaid dress at Neiman Marcus located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.
The Art of Conversation
By Patsy Lowry
“Words do two major things: They provide food for the mind and create light for understanding and awareness.”
– Jim Rohn
“HI. How are you? Fine. You? Great. That’s good.”
Or
...
Imagine having a gathering that turns out to be a banquet of joy, a feast of friendships and a nourishing time of unforgettable memories. Instead of having your guests visiting with the person sitting next to them, why not have a group discussion? State ”This gathering is an intimate opportunity where we can get to know each other in new and memorable ways. I am going to be the Discussion Leader and ask questions of each one of you.” (If you don’t feel comfortable as a Discussion Leader, ask one of your guests to do so (in advance) and have them arrive with prepared questions. No questions about politics or religion.
If you want to be a great conversationalist, here are a few practical tips: Show a genuine interest in what the speaker is saying. Engage in active listening. Look at that person In the eye with kindness and interest. This can be very profound. Interesting questions and answers can move the conversation to a deeper level. Act interested and enthusiastic.
“Hello. It’s so nice to see you. You look fantastic. What have you been up to?
Wow! I just heard that you just won a Pickle Ball Tournament. Congratulations! Tell me about it.”
Sincere compliments are very effective. Smile often. Be present with positive energy for everyone there. The art of good conversation is going beyond and standing out in a special way. It moves form simply communicating to celebrating human interconnectedness, to expressing the inexpressible. Asking great questions shows your curiosity and intelligence, connecting speech and heart.
QUESTIONS TO ASK:
1. Ideally, how would you like to spend your birthday?
2. If you were famous, what would you like to be famous for?
3. Please tell us something about yourself that we would never know?
4. What is one thing that can instantly make your day better?
5. What was your favorite age growing up? Why?
6. What is the first thing that you would do if you won the lottery?
7. Who are you going to wow in your next conversation?
Home Is the Foundation of Our Emotional Lives –It is a Real Healing Environment
By Barbara Kaplan, IFDA, Allied ASID
We are living in interesting times, having fluctuated between staying at home during Covid and then feeling excited to get back out and travel. We have returned to activities such as going to the gym, restaurants and mingling with friends and family.
Now that we do not have to stay at home, I find many people are enjoying staying at home, having parties, watching movies on their large screen TV’s, and learning a more meditative lifestyle. Nesting has become not only a comfortable act but also a necessary healing one. People feel a stronger connection to their homes. The effects of the past few years have stayed with us, and I have no doubt will continue to affect our future design decisions.
The feeling of being “at home” has become more precious and we have made changes that reflect that fact. This relationship is a love affair that shapes us, just as we shape it. We spend a great deal of time and money decorating our homes. We express our creativity and needs in the desire to receive connection, comfort, and pleasure.
We worry how our home looks, however, how it makes us feel – emotionally and physically- is what it is all about. The arrangement of the furniture in our rooms can matter as much as when we look to our living spaces to nourish us or buffer us from stress. What is important, is that it provides opportunities for both privacy and for socializing with family and friends. It is a place that is always there for us, and we know we can always go back to it.
The individual person’s touch is key. Look around your home and notice if every room has something that touches your heart. It could be a picture in a special frame, a souvenir from a trip or an heirloom from a relative or gift from a friend. These personal memories, being near things, nurture and influence our comfort and belonging.
What could you do to make your home more soothing? Simply put bath oils and candles by your bathtub, or piles of soft pillows on your bed. Some studies suggest that the desire for a special haven is a deep physical need. We need a secure base which lowers our levels of stress hormones.
Our moods can change by letting the sunshine in. We can suffer from mood or sleep problems related to inadequate light. Open your window treatments and benefit from views of the backyard. Nature is healing.
www.BarbaraKaplan.com
Homes can be a “healing environment” and our homes are considered just that. Our bodies relax and rejuvenate when we are calm and at peace.
Keeping that personal connection with your home is the core of your foundation and is shaken when that connection is broken. It certainly is understandable when we hear people say, “There’s no place like home.” Always keep your home in your heart even when you are not there.
Barbara Kaplan, creator of the Bajaro Method for personalized Interior Design, offers consultations to provide guidance, ideas, and solutions to make your home truly yours. Contact her at Barbara@BarbaraKaplan.com
Rooms Have No Feelings, YOU Do!
The History and Purpose of Public Art
By Palmer Saylor, III
Public art has been woven into the fabric of human culture for millennia, reflecting our values, shaping our surroundings, and evolving alongside architecture and societal norms. From ancient sculptures and carved reliefs to the vibrant murals found in today’s American cities, public art tells the story of our shared journey – capturing shifts in aesthetics and collective thought, while revealing the deeper threads that unite cultures across time.
Public art arguably dates back to prehistoric cave paintings, as a form of storytelling and professing identity among people and tribes. In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, sculptures and detailed frescoes decorated temples, public squares, and government buildings, honoring gods, leaders, and the most important achievements of their time.
By the 20th century, public art edged into a more interactive and socially conscious role. The 1930s saw a rise in political murals, especially where artists like Diego Rivera used their work to highlight the struggles of everyday people, then later promoting Communism and his personal politics. More recently, street art and graffiti movements gave a voice to marginalized communities, turning city walls into powerful statements and territorial markings. The subject matter and message ranged from fun, beautiful, and whimsical to antiestablishment and selfpromotional.
Whether it’s a commissioned sculpture, a publicly funded installation, or a piece of graffiti scrawled across a bridge or train, public spaces have long served as a canvas for competing voices. They reveal the ongoing tension over commercial advertising and who truly holds the right to shape and redefine the environments we all share. This is the very core, quintessential point of public art, according to famed street artist Banksy.
On a more harmonious note, public art also plays a vital role in urban design and the local economy – transforming everyday spaces into cultural landmarks that enrich community life and invite engagement. For example, Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s large-scale installations attract visitors, boost tourism, and contribute to the economy.
The Desert Southwest has embraced public art in ways that honor its unique landscape, history, and cultural influences. Cities like Santa Fe, Phoenix, and Albuquerque feature vibrant murals, sculptures, and installations that celebrate Indigenous, Hispanic, and Western heritage. Massive land art projects, such as James Turrell’s Roden Crater, use the desert itself as both canvas and inspiration, while Ed Mell’s Jackknife invites us to simply enjoy a stylized version of our
Old West culture in Old Town Scottsdale. Murals in Tucson and El Paso tell stories of migration, resilience, and tradition, keeping the region’s history alive through visual events. The Southwest’s ability to blend past and present in attractive, meaningful ways is told through public art – albeit, sometimes bad art.
Public art can build unity, identity, and make art accessible. However, it can also enrage, polarize, and divide communities. The power of art and music is an enormous catalyst to connect – and sometimes control – the masses as a tool for activism, both good and bad. It indisputably challenges norms, addresses social and environmental issues, and encourages people to think differently.
As cities grow and change, public art remains a powerful way to foster creativity, inclusivity, influence thinking, and boost the economy. Since tastes are more subjective than art itself, we will continue to be polarized by public art as long as there are public spaces.
(Located at the Kiva Center just west of Scottsdale Road on 5th Avenue)
Rolex-tiquette: Honoring the Horology
By Heather Wagenhals
Rolex, where time is not just told but showcased in a symphony of craftsmanship and legacy. Acquiring this timeless style begins with timeless manners. Here’s what to sidestep – and how to secure that coveted crown with class.
What to Avoid:
ACTING ENTITLED
Waltzing into an authorized dealer and demanding a Daytona “because you have the cash” won’t fast-track your wishlist – it will fast-track your reputation to the blacklist.
NAME-DROPPING AND BRAGGING
Sales associates have heard every flex under the sun. Rolex is about quiet confidence, not Instagram followers or offshore accounts.
PUSHING THE WAITLIST
Yes, you’re waiting. Yes, it’s frustrating. No, repeatedly calling won’t help. Remember, patience is the price of prestige.
GOING GREY WITHOUT CLARITY
The secondary market may be tempting, but buying from an unauthorized seller without vetting the source risks authenticity –and your wallet.
IGNORING THE PAPER TRAIL
No papers? No warranty? No deal. That box of “extras” isn’t optional; They’re the provenance of your piece.
What to Do Instead:
LEARN BEFORE YOU YEARN
Study models, movements, and history. Know why the Sky-Dweller rotates and what makes the Milgauss collector frenzy tick. Respecting the craft earns you respect in return.
BUILD A REAL RELATIONSHIP
Treat your dealer like a trusted advisor, not a vending machine. Visit quarterly, ask questions, and show sincere interest. Friendly banter can sometimes do what mere money cannot – even if it’s not an immediate sale.
START SMART
If you’re new, consider beginning with a more accessible model. Establishing a purchase history helps you graduate to more coveted grail watches.
BE DISCREET, NOT DESPERATE
Speak softly, dress stylish and appropriate showing respect for the brand. The Rolex world favors understatement over spectacle.
CELEBRATE THE JOURNEY
A Rolex isn’t just bought – it’s earned. Savor the process whether you score your dream watch tomorrow or next year. Happy collecting!
DIVERSIFIED PARTNERS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
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Scottsdale has a New Show in Town.
The Global Champions Arabian Tour made it’s inaugural start here in Scottsdale Arizona on February 18 and the finals debuted on February 20th. Featuring some of the finest Arabian horses in the world guests enjoyed two days at the show. Vendors included fine jewelry, Native American art and local equestrian artists. The show had complimentary general admission and VIP tables where guests dined on filet and lobster. The overwhelming feeling was this show will be here to stay. The next stop is Miami beach on April 17-19. For more information visit gcarabianstour.com.
CASA BRAZIL CARNAVAL 2025
The brainchild of Micheline Etkin and a friend more than 20 years ago, Casa Brazil has a lot to celebrate. Originally founded as a luncheon at Vincent on Camelback, the organization now raises additional funding from their prestigious and very festive Brazilian Carnaval night. This year, Riot House in Old Town Scottsdale generously gave the
organization their establishment for the sold-out evening. Casa Brazil is non-profit organization which raises much-needed funds for underprivileged children in a remote part of Northeastern Brazil. Today they feed more than 500 children daily and help to strengthen their educational paths. It was a brilliant night!
Caroline McLain and Cindi Schtiermann
Robert Defibaugh and Leilani Scott
Helena Benchimol with Vera Goltzer and Carmen Lykos
Charles, Isabela, Lauren, and Arthur Martinet with Andrew Bellino and Pauline Carpinteria
Walter Luckeneder and Alvaro Gomez
Monica and Pauline Carpentieri
Micheline Etkin, Elizabeth Casaus, Nadia Saad and Erika Dickey
Coverage courtesy of Veronica Cook and Kathy Scheib
DANCING WITH THE STARS ARIZONA 2025
Destination Paradise set the stage for one of the most anticipated competitions of the social season. Dancing With the Stars Arizona has grown so much in the two decades it’s been held that it has had to move to The Phoenician Resort. The demure and highly stylized evening was chaired by Alyssa Bair and Melissa Scarcelli. The ballroom was heart-stopping! Emcee Weezy brought down the house with humor and a festive atmosphere. Dance competition winners included: Bob Ward, Christina Ferraro, Ayan Sen, and Semone Rochlin. The
night raised a great amount for the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona. Dancers, including Emily Ward, Margaret Gabriel, Jenna Brocious, and Mike Merrion, all helped to elevate the funds needed for the gala’s success. All this should please Ashleigh Schufeldt tremendously. She has done such a magnificent job since joining the organization years ago. The event has stayed true to the original concept started by Marguerite and Jack Clifford and Glenna and Larry Shapiro. They all smile upon you from Heaven.
Michelle and Charles Peworski
Bernie and Sharon Gburek
Marissa Desmarais and Gabe Victor Sharyn and Tom Meehan
Thomas Williams and Sian Proctor
Jeff and Leslie Rich Tamie Moreland with Nicole Herr and Ayan Sen
Tonya and Dave Voepel with Krysten Dobson
Tracey Ingalls, Dustin Christner, Dominique Barrett and Joe Souvignier
Susan and Harlan Schufeldt
Coverage courtesy of Veronica Cook and Kathy Scheib
5TH ANNUAL
APRIL 4, 2025
With Special Thanks
From puppies on the putting green to doggies on the driving range, Home in One is the cutest golf tournament in town!
All proceeds benefit the more than 22,000 sick, injured and abused pets the Arizona Humane Society will care for this year. This lifesaving event isn’t possible without the dedication of Event Chairwoman, Jamie Middleton. Thank you for making the future bright for pets!
Committee Members
Bryan Albue
Art Alfred
Lauren Hewitt
Justine Hurry
Suzanne Juneau
Doug Ledger
Kat May
Stephanie Royden
Event Chairwoman
Jamie Middleton
“Designed in the Desert”
At Oliver Smith Jeweler, we design and craft our own luxury jewelry collections right here in the Valley, ensuring the highest quality without the in ated markups found elsewhere in the industry. We are transparent about our craftsmanship, materials, and pricing, delivering exceptional pieces with integrity and purpose. For over 40 years, our designs have been inspired by the beauty of Arizona and the clients we proudly serve. Discover why generations have trusted us with their most meaningful purchases. Rest assured— you are buying from a trusted, family-owned business.
Meet Dr. Yamoah
Dr. Yamoah, a professor of Translational Neurosciences, is a distinguished research scientist whose work explores the biological mechanisms of hearing and age-related hearing loss. His research has been dedicated to understanding the genetic and cellular mechanisms of hearing loss.
The primary goal of his laboratory has been the continuous pursuit of innovative science to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the exquisite technical qualities of inner ear sensory cells.
Why did you come to the U of A College of Medicine –Phoenix?
Nipavan Chiamvimonvat, MD, and I were invited to the college for a scientific seminar. During our visit, Chris Glembotski, PhD, and Dean Fred Wondisford, MD, MS, MBA, presented a clear rationale for joining the college’s flexible yet nimble group of high-caliber scientists. It was evident that a scientific oasis was in the making, and we felt we could join in the effort, contributing to and benefiting from a common goal of scientific innovation. What is the process of how we hear sounds?
Sound passes through the external ear, the ear drum and the ear ossicles in the middle ear, amplified through the passage. Energy is lost in the inner ear, which is filled with fluid (a form of saline). The sound’s mechanical energy sets the fluid in motion. There are sensory cells in the inner ear, called hair cells, not like the ones on our skin, but they are cells with stereocilia (antenna). They are perhaps one of the most sensitive cells in the body, detecting movements in the fluid that are like the diameter of a copper atom. The “antenna” displacement triggers the activation of a protein machinery that eventually allows the auditory nerve to transmit sound components to the brain for interpretation and response. What early signs of hearing loss should people be aware of, and when should they seek medical advice?
Depending on the etiology, symptoms of hearing loss may appear in different forms. A common one is the “cocktail party” effect, which occurs when we have difficulty listening to conversation in a noisy background or, at times, ringing in the ear.
How have advancements in technology impacted the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss?
One significant discovery made a few decades ago is the concept that because the inner ear has exquisite sensitivity, hair cell movement can generate sound. With that momentous breakthrough, we can use sensitive devices to listen to newborn babies’ hair cells generating this sound to assess their hearing even before they can speak. It has a fancy name called Otoacoustic emissions.
What
inspired you to pursue this line of research?
Early in my career, I listened to brilliant scientists give a seminar on hair cells in the inner ear and listened to several Nobel laureates at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Mass. It inspired me to want to work on hair cells; to make observations that perhaps most people have seen but also make predictions that few have thought of. In doing so, we could one day determine the underlying features of the physical qualities of hearing.
How do you see the future of hearing health evolving in terms of prevention and treatment options?
The cochlear implant has been a significant advancement, but it can be improved. Others are making strides in replacing lost hair cells, and we are working on the potential replacement of lost auditory neurons. These multiple approaches are likely to yield a productive outcome in the future. Prevention begins with childhood exposure to infections, the antibiotics we are given, loud sounds, and, at times, the side effects of legitimate drugs we take when we are sick. What is the most important discovery you hope to make through your work?
Hearing is perhaps the last frontier in the sensory system, and we have been unable to identify the protein apparatus that senses mechanical signals and transduces them into electrical energy. Others have made major advancements in the search; we are working toward this significant feat. In my wildest dreams, I wish our name would be mentioned when the “holy grail” is found. Along the way, however, we will work toward the day when age-related hearing loss will be a thing of the past.
For more information, contact Julie Bowe, Director of Development, The University of Arizona College of Medicine –Phoenix at 602-469-3041 or email Bowej@arizona.edu.
HONORHEALTH THE HONOR BALL 2025
The Camelback Inn pulled out all the stops for the much-anticipated Honor Ball, on behalf of HonorHealth Foundation. This year, the ball was chaired by Catherine Tuton and Christina Reuss. They did a smashing job! The disco themed night featured lots of mirrored everything. A lovely cocktail reception on the terrace dazzled just as the winter sunset fell behind Camelback Mountain. After that, guests moved to the ballroom for disco dancing and dinner. Laurie and
Budd Florkiewicz, one of the Valley’s favorite couples, took home top honors for their constant commitment to the health care giant. Shelly Kirane, Andrea Robertson, Barbara Buric, Tran Appell, and Jill Krigsten looked like a million bucks. It was the perfect evening, and the ball raised a great deal for HonorHealth and their magnificent medical team. Bravo!
Glenn and Tran Appell
David and Christine Watson
Catherine Tuton and Christina Reuss
Amy and Paul Axberg
Pam and Jim Risoleo
Missie and Victor Valliere
Kris Florkiewicz and Laurie Swetonic
John and Barbara Buric
Joe and Helene Presutti with Beth and John Godbout
Laurie and Budd Florkiewicz
Lynne Love and Charlene Berge
Jason Lupin and Katie Baccus
Jill Krigsten
Linda Cohen and Donald Waldman
Patrick and Nicole Keon Nancy and Ron Eriksson with Brad and Andrea Robertson
Shelly and Ryan Kirane
Sandy and Mike Hecomovich
Todd and Kelly LaPorte
Rick McGinley and Shawna Smith
“The Fairy Godmother of Fashion”
You deserve to look great! Our extensive collection of beautiful fabrics and trims are perfect for dressing you in suits, tuxedos, formals, MoB, MoG, Bridal, Bridesmaids gowns and casual wear made specifically for you and your style.
–Owner and Designer Scylvia-Elvira Danese
Scylvia-Elvira Danese
'The Fairy Godmother of Fashion' and 'The Boob Whisperer'
9 out of 10 women are wearing the WRONG size bra.
8 out of 10 don’t know how to put it on.
• This creates pain in your neck muscles
• Puts pressure on your organs
• Makes your back hurt
• Gives you bad posture
• makes your clothes not fit properly
• and the worst part as if that isn’t enough … IT MAKES YOU LOOK FAT!!!!
I do a FREE BRA FITTING, and in 5 minutes I make you look as if you lost 10 pounds.
I’ll show you how to put it on, how to wear it, and if we don’t have your size we order it.
We don’t give you “the sister size” as they call it.
If you are tired of having your boobs everywhere except where they should be on your body, call the ‘The Boob Whisperer’.
MEN, we are NOT afraid of your suit alterations!
We do it ALL and do it BEST!
From Tuscan to Timeless Elegance
By Jamie Lendrum, ASID – Studio L
A home is more than just a structure – it’s a sanctuary of warmth, love, and memories that shape a family’s life. For one family, a catastrophic fire reduced their beloved Napa home to ashes, forcing them to start over, which they decided to do in the Valley. My journey with them began with a call asking how quickly could I remodel a dated Tuscan-style house.
We moved swiftly, focusing on transforming the somewhat dated design into a more refined, classic look without gutting the entire space. We dry walled over small arched windows above doorways, whitewashed brick, filled in wall niches, and dark wood ceilings were brightened with light tones.
The project wasn’t just about remodeling; it was about rebuilding a life. We furnished the home from scratch, providing everything from towels to soap, as the family had lost it all –including a cherished grand piano. Custom pieces, like a large rectangular dining table paired with Holly Hunt dining chairs, brought elegance to the space. We also worked efficiently with showrooms to source in-stock products, ensuring a quick turnaround.
Design is sometimes a journey of emotional healing as much as physical restoration. As the final touches were added, this house became more than just a shelter – it became a renewed sanctuary.
Photos courtesy of Jamie Lendrum
MAKE-A-WISH ARIZONA WISH BALL 2025
The organization’s president, Fran Mallace, must have been quite pleased with the slew of very grand people that turned out for the Wish Ball this year. Everywhere you looked on the terrace at the Camelback Inn you saw stunning ladies and gentlemen, and they were all gathered to raise a lot of needed funds for Make-A-Wish. That night they changed the lives of so many young children and granted wishes to critical and often terminal young ones. Together, Chrissy Butz, Keli
Nicholas, Teri Pierce and Dana Zell made this special night happen. Renee and Bob Parsons were honored for their strong and long commitment to the organization.
Belle of the ball: Melanie Lindsley in a rakish shade of green. Audrey and Charlie Alfano were both close runners-up, but then again, they are always beautifully dressed too. You should have been there!
David Peterson and Taylor Washburn
Bill and Dayna Standen
Autumn Rawlins
Allison Contris and Karen Hayenga
Irina and Jameson VanHouten
Charlie and Audrey Alfano
Eric and Amy Selter
Dena Zell
Fran Mallace with Renee and Bob Parsons
Joanne Balintona and Molly Stockley
Brian Nocera and Tania Barrera
Fran and Michael Mallace
Rebecca Dresser and Jamie Sherman
Mike Horrell and Amy Hair
Hazel Renpenning with Cecilia and Jessica Machado Mark and Jamie Hopwood Freeman and Tiffany Carney with Robyn and Jerry Bien-Willner
Richard Sanderson and Lisa Pagle
Michael and Melanie Lindsley
Jorge Yescas and Vanessa Figueros Ignacio and Reyna Velasco
GATEWAY FOR CANCER RESEARCH VINO CON STELLE 2025
Gateway for Cancer Research hosted its seventh annual Vino con Stelle fundraiser on March 22, 2025, with 100% of all donations from the event going directly to support Phase I and Phase II clinical cancer trials. Global philanthropists Dr. Stacie J. and Mr. Richard J Stephenson, Gateway’s Founders and Vice Chairman and Chairman, served as the evening’s hosts and sponsors, while international entertainer and pop-icon from *NSYNC Joey Fatone emceed the event. Vino con Stelle also featured musical direction by 16-time GRAMMY®
Award winner David Foster, and star-studded entertainment including Katharine McPhee, the Village People, and Sofronio Vasquez III – the most recent winner of The Voice. The prestigious Gateway for Cancer Research Luminary Award was presented to Martha and Larry Day for their unwavering commitment in the fight against cancer. The award recognizes exceptional individuals who shine a light on causes that matter and encourage others to make a difference.
Larry and Martha Day with Stacie J. and Richard J Stephenson
Char Hubble with Jonathon and Christine Avanti-Fischer
Letitia Frye
Sofronio Vasquez
David Foster and Katharine McPhee
Village People
SCOTTSDALE FERRARI ART WEEK
More than 10,000 people headed to WestWorld a few weeks ago for the first ever Scottdale Ferrari Art Week. More than 100 galleries and artists from around the globe regaled attendees with world-class art. This turned out to be one of the most magical events of the social season. The brainchild of Jason Rose brought out art collectors and patrons. ASU Art Museum served as a benefactor. At Opening Night, a breathtaking Indigenous fashion show created by Phoenix Fashion
Week left the crowd speechless. A fine opera performance graced the night, along with an impressive Native American spiritual dance. Guests mixed and mingled, while champagne flowed and heavy hors d’ oeuvres were served. It was perhaps one of the greatest collections of art imaginable. Melissa Cody and Janis Lyon were honored for their lifetime commitment to art. It was one of the most impressive events yet! Stay tuned for details on 2026.
Aimee and Elizabeth Smith
Amy and Chad Morgan Katie Delnero and Ruby Farias
Lorraine Tallman and Micheline Etkin
Jennifer and John Condas
Tracey and Larry Lytle
Nancy and Steven Campo with Linda Herold
Coverage by Bill Dougherty and Heather Wagenhals
Christian and Tracy Serena with Shannon and Evan Koplan
Beth McRae and Janis Lyon Dionne Najafi and Alison Lewis
Cary Flanders and Rececca Fowler Missy Harrington and Diane O’Malley Blaise Najafi with Craig Krumwiede and Francis Najafi
Ken and Joanne Osborne
Lisa Morre and Carey Pena
Susie Wesley, Orin Anderson and McKenna Wesley
FRESH START GALA 2025
An opulent group of ladies and gentlemen gathered just as spring had sprung at The Phoenician Resort. Fresh Start Women’s Foundation presented their always anticipated 2025 spring gala. This year, Jan Lewis and Steven Zylstra chaired the bash, and they did a fantastic job! Guests gathered for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the lawn in anticipation of the Carolina Herrera Neiman Marcus fashions, presented by the line’s creative director, Wes Gordon. Together with style and fashion show czar Margaret Merritt, the two put on a heart-
stopping happening. Everyone swooned! Beautiful Carole Moreno stole the evening in pale blue. The gown matched her sparkling eyes. Jeff Porter was the most handsome man there and perhaps the dapperest too. The event raises funds to rehabilitate women, who come from difficult circumstances, back into society. Katie Mueller was bestowed the prestigious Founders’ Award. This alone should have made the foundation’s co-founder, Pat Petznick Wick, very pleased. What a brilliant affair.
Allison David and Jeff Porter
Catherine Jacobson and Patti Lau Bernadette Dwyer and Mary Upchurch
James and Sharla Fisher
Jacquie Dorrance and Hillary Sher
Runway
Coverage courtesy of Sally and Peter Krzykos
John and Armity Simon
Tim Braun, Aimee Josette, Pat Watts and Lauren Winegardener
Greg and Ann Denk
Kate Groves and Coarole Moreno
Sandy Magruder and Susan Palmer Hunter
Mike Wick and Pat Petznick Wick
Katie and Mike Mueller
Jessica Grateman and Gena Bonsell
Jan Lewis and Steve Zylstra
Photos courtesy of Peter Krzykos
Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Thermage Skin Tightening
Have loose, wrinkled, or sagging skin? Want to avoid plastic surgery? We have a solution that could be right for your needs and goals. Whether it’s a sagging jawline, turkey neck, or wrinkled skin on your belly, Thermage skin tightening in Scottsdale can lift and tighten your skin for long-term results without surgery, needles, or downtime. Learn more about this treatment available at Ultra Smooth Skin below.
Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Thermage skin tightening is a popular choice for adult men and women. Whether you are just beginning to notice the symptoms of aging on your skin or have dealt with years of wrinkles and sagging skin, Thermage may be your solution. It uses radiofrequency waves to work deep within your skin, remodeling the collagen beneath the surface to create smoother skin. Thermage can be used in numerous places throughout the body, from the eyes to the thighs and knees. You will find that it is gentle yet effective even with only one treatment.
The Thermage Procedure
Treatment time varies depending on the treatment area. The larger the area, the longer your treatment will take. Before starting your Thermage skin tightening treatment, you will be asked to remove your makeup if you are receiving a facial treatment. The aesthetic provider will then place a grounding patch on your body, typically on the abdomen. The nurse holds a small device over the treatment area. First, the device cools your skin prior to heating it. Following the heat, your skin will again be cooled. This process is repeated until the entire area has been treated.
This year our
We are so thrilled to add her to our show
Our
Photos by Scott Foust Studios
Natalie Gaylord would like to introduce Edyta P a Purebred Arabian 6 year old mare.
She is a 2-time National Champion and 4 time Reserve National Champion in Reining and Ranch Riding
talented mare will be shown by our daughter Natalie Jane and trainer Colby Powell in Reining, Ranch Rail and Pleasure.
string.
thanks to Colby Powell Performance Horses. Owned by Natalie Arabians.
“Magdelina of Gemini is a Belgian imported Friesian mare loved by the Courtney family. We purchased her two years ago and have shown her and now looks forward to breeding her this spring. Maggie has a huge heart and loves to go on trail rides too.”
– Lee Courtney
Photos by Scott Foust Studios
Photos by Scott Foust Studios
“Royal Baheem is an Arabian Gelding dressage show horse. He has a very confident attitude with a sweet loving soul. Baheem is seven years old.”
– Charlene Berge Blum
“Houdini, a 13-year-old KWPN warmblood gelding, is one of my most cherished horses. What truly sets him apart is his extraordinary bravery and composure in the ring. We share an incredible partnership, and my heart’s desire is for my daughter, Lilly, to have the opportunity to show him in the future.”
– Rachel Loftin
Photos by Scott Foust Studios
Vincent on Camelback
By Bob Stearnes, Epicurean
I live for all things French. The manners, the history, the fashion, the smells, the art and of course the food. I was engaged in Paris so the country as a whole holds a special place in my heart. To quote the famous American artist Edward Hopper, “I do not believe there is another city on Earth so beautiful as Paris nor another people with such an appreciation of the beautiful as the French.” Julia Child famously said, “In France, cooking is a serious art form and a national sport.” I have worked my way through hundreds of restaurants throughout France, so to walk into a restaurant a few short miles away and be transported five thousand miles away, to say the very least, “Je suis a la maison” I am home…welcome to Vincent on Camelback.
Chef Vincent has been a fixture of the Phoenix culinary scene for nearly 40 years. His unprecedented attention to detail, and his passion for French cuisine is unmatched. We were seated and with great expectation
were informed that Chef would be indulging us in a tasting menu. Our delightful server brought us a magical salmon quesadilla accompanied by a velvety mushroom soup. My wife doesn’t care for mushrooms, a texture thing not an allergy. She didn’t leave a drop. Conversion complete. Next was a duck confit and foie gras turnover with a cauliflower soup, more like a mousse, with shaved truffles. I was hovering above my body looking down on the meal that was unfolding. On the lighter side a watercress and jicama salad with grapefruit arrived next, as well as frisee with bacon lardon. Our next delectable dish was tender baked mussels in a creamy poblano sauce and a perfectly seared scallop atop a delightful potato puree. After an exquisite palate cleansing pear intermisso, our entrees arrived in spectacular fashion. An incredibly tender, fall apart veal in a rich chanterelle cream sauce. Elk filet in a cranberry red wine reduction finished out the gastronomic fare. I’ve currently lost count of the amount of courses that we’ve had so of course, no pun intended, the desserts arrived next. Creme anglese isle flotante with a spun sugar nest was not only delicious but breathtaking to admire. It was almost a shame to eat it ... almost.
Chef Vincent’s accolades and awards could be an article in itself. I could list but I would soon run out of space. Just know that they are many and they are international. The fact that we have a chef in our humble little town that brings the best of France and the best of himself is reason enough to make your way to his esteemed restaurant. His attention to detail and his humble approach to his craft will take you not only to one
of the finest meals in town and maybe the country, but his cuisine and ambiance will transport you to another country and another level of cuisine. Si vous n’etes pas a la maison, vous serez bientot.
Vincent on Camelback 3930 E Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018 (602) 224-0225
The Woman Who Knew Everyone
By Meryl Gordan
Once upon a time in Washington, D.C., bipartisan gatherings and discussions actually existed. This in turn was thanks to Michigan born Oklahoma City socialite Perle Mesta. From the 1940s to the late 1960s, Mrs. Mesta was the toast of the town. Her lavish parties attracted politicians, artists and even celebrities. She was an advocate of equal rights and did not believe in racial barriers. President Truman would install her as one of the first U.S female ambassadors. Irving Berlin penned the lyrics to the smash hit Broadway musical Call Me Madame, starring Ethel Merman as the hostess. Shirley Booth would portray the great lady in the television play The Hostess with the Mostes’. In the 1959 novel Advise and Consent, author Allen Drury based his character Dolly Harrison off of Perle Mesta. Finally, the famed cocktail the Black Russian was created especially for her. Today, a posh Oklahoma City restaurant bears her name, and she is an inductee into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
This book is full of twists, turns and incredible research on behalf of author Meryl Gordan. Largely forgotten by future generations after her death, this vivid recreation of Perle Mesta is fascinating. She was the life of the party and believed in inclusion rather than exclusion. Even today, Perle Mesta remains iconic. An excellent read.
VACATION & STUDY SPANISH IN CUERNAVACA
Generations of Arizona students and community members that include lawyers, educators, doctors and business people have studied in this now famous Spanish Immersion Program in la Universidad Internacional in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Families with children are also welcome to study. Students are not only taught by Mexican professors but also live with Mexican families in a SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
The 2025 Study Program is June 20th – July5th. Alternative dates can be arranged.
For more information, contact Virginia Foster at vrfvrf@gmail.com or call 602.549.4327.
Jane Jozoff, Nicole Stanton, Mac Perlich, Jenny Holsman Tetreault, and DeeDee Vecchione
Western Spirit Museum 2025 Western Spirit Award
Kevin Costner
Savor the Symphony
Ollie and Sharon Harper with Chris Collins
The
Change of Command and Promotion
Rose, Linda, Lieutenant Colonel Rodney with Sasha, and Ruth Glassman
The Lady in Red Party on behalf of Rosie’s House
Darlene Richert and Nichole Stearnes
National Quarterback Club
Joann Waters, Tina Huber, Lisa Henry Holmes, and Coleen McDowell
WEDDING BELLS
COUPLE
Brady Wheeler and Bella Valenzuela
MEET THE PARENTS
Deborah Vernasco and Jim Valenzuela
Frankie and Byron Wheeler
WEDDING RINGS
Shane Co.
INVITATIONS
Write Ons, etc.
WEDDING CEREMONY/ RECEPTION
Penha Longa Ritz Carlton Resort
WEDDING PLANNER
Danielle Shaw (Phoenix), and Fashion Moments by Joana Frade (Lisbon)
MUSIC
Deluxe Eventos
DÉCOR
Fashion Moments by Joana Frade
PHOTOGRAPHER
It’s All About
WEDDING GOWN
Schaffer’s Bridal
GROOM’S TUXEDO
Ike Behar
HONEYMOON
Amsterdam and Berlin
SOMETHING DIFFERENT
• The bride had her mother’s wedding dress shortened so that she could wear it to her welcome party
• The couple hosted a Welcome Dinner at a scenic Portuguese villa in the mountains of Sintra, where guests enjoyed regional food and drinks, including Caipirinha, a Brazilian cocktail consisting of muddled limes, sugar and cachaça.
• The couple was wed in a traditional Catholic mass held at Penha Longa Ritz Carlton Resort Monastery, built in 1543 by King João III.
• The couple met while attending Brophy College Preparatory and Xavier College Preparatory, their respective high schools.
• The groom’s family owns and operates Dos Cabezas winery in Sonoita, AZ.
