paradise valley...infiniti qx60 premium 1 and premium 2 packages $399 mo $4,360 due at signing plus...

PVLifestylePubs.com

L I F E S T Y L E ™

Paradise ValleyFEBRUARY 2017

biltmore arcadia

Perfection

BEAUTIFUL EMBELLISHED ENSEMBLESTHOUGHT-PROVOKING OIL PAINTINGS

THE BASICS OF MAKING BARESTRINGS

Handcrafted

Come in for a test drive and receive dinner for two at North Italia restaurant (value $50)

$0.25 per mile for mileage over 10,000 miles per year. Lessee is responsible for maintenance and repairs. Payments exclude tax. Amount due at signing includes title and license. No security deposit. Disposition fee due at termination of lease. Retailer participation

required. Must take delivery by 2/28/17. Subject to credit approval and lease through Nissan-INFINITI LT, see dealer for details.

We are your neighborhood INFINITI dealer.Come see us for all your sales, service or body shop needs.

Lease a New 2017

INFINITI QX60Premium 1 and Premium 2 Packages

$399mo$4,360 DUE at SIGNING

plus tax, title and license. 2 available at this price. 39 month lease. #17162, 17164. MSRP $49,010.

Camelback

▲

N

51

12th St

Scottsdale Rd

INFINITION CAMELBACK

1250 East Camelback RoadPhoenix, AZ 85014602-680-2135InfinitiOnCamelback.com

Lease a New 2017

INFINITI QX80with Drivers Assistance Package

$649mo$5,899 DUE at SIGNING

plus tax, title and license. 2 available at this price.39 month lease. #17120, 17153. MSRP $68,785.

N O W AC C E P T I N G 2 017 B O O K I N G S | M O U N TA I N S H A D O W S . C O M5 4 4 5 E A S T L I N C O L N D R I V E , PA R A D I S E VA L L E Y, A Z 8 5 2 5 3

Photo ©2016

, Dave

Sansom

A T T H E

I N T E R S E C T I O N O F L I G H T

& S H A D O W

Experience timeless comfort and distinctive design at Mountain Shadows. Sitting below Camelback Mountain, the breathtaking backdrop, stylish guestrooms and stunning views create a bold, unique energy. Dine on inspired cuisine at Hearth ’61, play a relaxed round at The Short Course or take a refreshing dip at The Citizens Club pool. Close to the best local restaurants, entertainment and trails for hiking and biking, Mountain Shadows offers both a lively ambiance and serene retreat.

RESERVE YOUR STAY | 888.795.3496

I’ve always loved to read, and as far back as I can remember, my mother had always read to me at night before going to bed. As I

got older, I continued this tradition, staying up to the first break of daylight on weekends devouring book after book. After finishing up a good novel, my thoughts would spin everywhere and I often found myself starting my own stories in my head based on what I had read—an intro or a new ending or plot twist.

However, I never thought to put those thoughts on paper until I took my first creative writing class in high school. That’s when the magic happened. I can still recall the feeling of pure bliss and excitement I had after finishing my first short story—a mystery/

romance piece. There was just something so beautiful about the way the words flowed together on paper and how I could manipulate them to change the whole feel of the story if I wanted to. It was a moment that ignited a spark of passion in me that has yet to fade. Every time I write something, whether it be a magazine article or story, I am still in awe of how truly fulfilling creating something all my own is.

It is that passion for creation that I was fortunate enough to experience throughout the month meeting some of the talented artists, sculptors, designers and jewelry makers featured in our magazine. Every time I would sit down and chat with one of them and learn about how they came to their craft, I could see that same spark of passion I felt when I discovered writing light up in their eyes as well. It was as if we shared a secret kinship in our collective passions.

I was also able to view first-hand many of the wonderful, expertly-crafted works these artists have devoted their lives to making, and the experience was truly enlightening. So, for our “Locally Made” issue I want to shine the spotlight on some of our talented residents and their works, like Thora Barker of Barestrings necklaces, Christiane Barbato of Blue Door Ceramics, Ruby Farias of Ruby Farias Designs and many more. Thank you for making our community so vibrant!

Until next month,

JOIN US TALK TO US

PUBLISHER

Kat McMahon | [email protected]

EDITOR

Danielle Accovelli | [email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Michelle Guerrero

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Talsma Everson, Michelle Guerrero, Teresa K. Traverse

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

William Dooning, Tonia Johnston

Proverbs 3:5-6

Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Paradise Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

PVLifestylePubs.com P.O. Box 12608Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

Made With Love

Lifestyle Letter

FEBRUARY 2017

by Community ™

biltmore arcadia

Danielle Accovelli, Editor

CORPORATE TEAMCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER | Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER | DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING | Brad Broockerd

ART DIRECTOR | Sara Minor

EDITORIAL MANAGERS | Nicole Sylvester, Nicolette Martin

OPERATIONS MANAGER | Janeane Thompson

AD COORDINATORS | Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour, Chad Jensen

LAYOUT DESIGNERS | Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph

DESIGN SPECIALIST | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT | Melanie Carlisle

EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT | Randa Makeen

APPLICATION ARCHITECT | Michael O’Connell

WEB DEVELOPERS | Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne

Correction: In the January 2017 Issue of Paradise Valley Lifestyle, the Good Times feature titled "St. Jude's 'A Night to Remember' Soiree" (Page 9) included the incorrect spelling of a name in the photo captions. Please note that the incor-rect spelling of the name Dushyant Gandi should be correctly spelled as Dushyant Gandhi.

4 Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

Home featured in the Forbes Magazine

w w w. n o r d o n m a n o r . c o m

6263 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 140 Scottsdale, AZ 85250

The Mackey Martin Group480-688-2747

[email protected]

N O R D O N M A N O R E S TAT E S - A R C A D I A

MOST EXPENSIVE HOME SOLD IN PHOENIX IN 2016. FEATURE ARTICLE IN FORBES.

Home Sites located in Arcadia on Exeter Blvd{Rubicon & Exeter Boulevard}

Call agent with questions regarding Nordon Manor Estates and other lot/building opportunities.

Lot #1 - Available for custom build, lot size 39,102.Lot #2 - Construction to start shortly, lot size is 39,998.

Lot #3 - Original federalist farmhouse redefined by architect C. P. Drewett of Drewett Works to a western farmhouse. This 3-story home currently under construction, lot size is 50,740.

Good Times

57th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball The exquisite black-tie event, hosted by the Phoenician, saw over 750 guests enjoy cocktails, live entertainment and a sumptuous meal in the whimsically-decorated ballroom decked with pink and silver to match this year’s theme. PHOTOGRAPHY KAY ESKRIDGE

William & Paula Wichterman

Carolyn Jackson, Kristine Thompson & Susie Wesley

Sylvia Shoen & Jennifer Carmer

Joel & Shannon Barthelemy and Kim & Rod Cullum

Table Decor

C.A. & Nan Howlett

Holiday Prelude XXXI Luncheon & Fashion Show Kicking off the holiday season, this haute event held at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn featured a festive array of

boutiques, charming center pieces, an elegant lunch menu and fabulous fashions. PHOTOGRAPHY ELENA THORNTON

Emcee, Krystle Henderson

Billie Jo Herberger, Linda Herold

Linda Herold, Kate Van Driel, Debbie Gaby, Carol Poore, Deborah Carstens, Sally Macksey, Billie Jo Herberger

Tochia Levine, Judith Pearson

Fashion Show

Deborah Carstens, Debbie Gaby


©2016 Closet Factory. All rights reserved. ROC#175443

www.facebook.com/closetfactory follow us: www.twitter.com/closetfactory

480-998-2070 www.closetfactory.com

Hotel Valley Ho's Confetti Ball Partygoers from across the Valley rang in the New Year at Hotel Valley Ho’s lavish gala, which included a four-hour reception,

savory hors d’oeuvres, a midnight Champagne toast and whimsical confetti drop. PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN CRAMER

February 2017 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle 9

2017 GIRL SCOUT COOKIE DESSERT CHALLENGE

For the fourth year in a row, chefs from more than two dozen restaurants across the Valley and Flagstaff will go head-to-head to create a winning dessert using one of the Girl Scout cookie fla-vors. The new creations will be sold in their restaurants through-out February, with a portion of sales directly benefitting local girl scouting. This year, Northeast Valley restaurants taking on the challenge include The Crepe Club, Chompies, Proof Canteen at the Four Seasons Scottsdale, Churn, Twisted Grove, Olive + Ivy, The Henry, Flower Child, The Thumb,

Rusconi’s American Kitchen, Drexyl Modern American, Chr Kitchen + Bar, Coup des Tartes, Sorso Wine Room, The MARKET by Jennifer’s Restaurant + Bar, Rhythm & Wine, and Jalapeno Inferno. For more information, please visit GirlScoutsAZ.org.

ARIZONA COCKTAIL WEEKArizona Cocktail Week, the Southwest’s premier event for hospi-

tality professionals and cocktail enthusiasts, will host its 6th Annual showcase February 17-24. This week-long celebration of the craft of the cocktail includes everything from parties, spirit tastings and edu-cational seminars, to cocktail competitions, drinks specials and din-ners. The vast majority of the main events take place at Hotel Valley Ho, and in the general vicinity of the hotel. Events are also planned at various locations in downtown Phoenix and Tucson. Arizona Cocktail Week’s opening event, The Cocktail Carnival, is on Friday, February 17. For more information, please visit ArizonaCocktailWeek.com.

ANDAZ SCOTTSDALE RESORT & SPA GRAND OPENING

The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa is officially open for business, marking the Andaz brand’s introduction to Scottsdale, and its 14th property globally. Located on 23 acres in Paradise Valley, less than two miles north of Old Town Scottsdale, the mid-century inspired resort features 201 bungalow-style guestrooms and suites situated among majestic 50-foot pine trees with giant saguaros and desert wildflowers. A true oasis setting with incomparable views of nearby Camelback Mountain, the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa offers guests a place to inhabit, explore and create. For more information, please visit Scottsdale.Andaz.Hyatt.com.

HOTEL VALLEY HO WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF

The iconic Hotel Valley Ho in Downtown Scottsdale welcomes Russell LaCasce as its new executive chef. He joins the team after serving as executive sous chef at the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, and began his new role at Hotel Valley Ho in January, 2017. As the executive chef of Hotel Valley Ho, Russell will oversee the culinary aspects of the hotel’s signature restaurant, ZuZu, as well as in-room dining, the OH Pool and OHasis Pool, ban-quets and catering. ZuZu is known for its seasonal American fare, locally sourced ingredients and classic cocktails. For more informa-tion, please visit HotelValleyHo.com.

INTRODUCING THE SCOTT RESORT & SPAClassic Hotels & Resorts, a leading hospitality development and

management company based in Phoenix, has announced plans to rebrand and rename Firesky Resort & Spa, a boutique property the company acquired in April 2016. The 204-room resort, located in Old Town Scottsdale, is being renamed as The Scott Resort & Spa. The reinvention will consist of all guest rooms, suites and public spaces, two pools, lobby bar and restaurant. The redesign will at once cel-ebrate the historic building’s iconic architecture, while introducing a new look, feel and elevated guest service culture, creating a new personality for the prized resort, alongside an all-new restaurant con-cept. For more information, please visit TheScottResort.com.

Around Town

AROUND TOWN


VALENTINE’S DAY WEEKEND ON THE SCOTTSDALE WINE TRAIL

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, hop on the Scottsdale Wine Trail and enjoy delectable wine and chocolate pairings at five different downtown Scottsdale wine tasting rooms. The cost is only $5 per tasting room, and includes three tastes of wine paired with chocolate. To partake in this delicious adventure, simply arrive at one of the wine tasting rooms during the allotted dates and times—and enjoy! Participating wineries include, LDV Winery, Carlson Creek Vineyard, Aridus Wine Company, Su Vino Winery and Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room. For more information, please visit ScottsdaleWineTrail.com.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER PHOENIX PRESENTS HIGHEST AWARD

More than 150 guests were present as the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix presented its highest award, the Medal of Honor, to Joel Kramer during its Donor Appreciation and Award Brunch. Longtime friend and business partner, Len Miller, presented the award. For more information, please visit JewishPhoenix.org.

JDRF ANNOUNCES NEW ROCK & RUN 5KJDRF’s Desert Southwest Chapter has announced their newest

fundraising event, the JDRF Rock & Run 5K, a local nighttime run driven to support a great cause while enjoying entertainment, gourmet food trucks and fun. Thousands of advocates will join for this inaugural run to raise funds and awareness for type 1 diabetes (T1D). Registration is now open for the event, which will take place in Mesa at Sloan Park on Saturday, April 29, 2017. For more information, please visit JDRF.org.

SHEMER ART CENTER’S TECHKIDS WORKSHOP

Over the past 12 weeks, 22 students ages 9-13 attending Title 1 schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District had the opportunity to attend a TechKids Workshop provided by the Shemer Art Center in partnership with Arizona State University and STAX3D. The workshop provided edu-cation and training about art and 3D printing, allowing each child in atten-dance one of the four-week sessions to design and print their own 3D item. For more information, please visit ShemerArtCenter.org.

480-219-9580WWW.JKKITCHENCABINETS2YOU.COM

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS COUNTER TOPS - FLOORING - TILE

Ask about our Custom Home and Contractor Programs.

Call today to get started with our in-home consultation. (Evening and Saturday appointment available)

HOURS OF OPERATIONMon-Thurs 10-5 | Sat 10-2

Extended night & Saturday appointments available


HYPOXI is the smart way to target stubborn fat and cellulite – naturally.

hypoxibody.com/free-trial

My 2017 Resolution:Lose weight...in the right places.

HYPOXI Biltmore 2502 E Camelback Rd, Ste 165

Phoenix, AZ 602-957-2888

HYPOXI Scottsdale 7001 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 138

Scottsdale, AZ 480-794-1776

Franchises Available

*Introductory $99 offer includes three HYPOXI-Training sessions. One-time use and available to new customers only.

Low-impact Exercise

Patented Technology

Healthy Nutrition

SPECIAL 3 FOR $99* ($375 value)

A PLACE TO ESCAPE AND ENJOYIt’s time you discovered the quality, exceptional hospitality and unparalleled atmosphere that have

made Eddie Merlot’s one of America’s great steakhouses. Visit us to experience the best in fine dining.

23207 N. Scottsdale Road at the corner of Pinnacle Peak | (480) 699-0480 | eddiemerlots.com

ExperiencesExceptional

2017EM_Escape_Ad_HLFPG_ParadiseValleyLifestyle.indd 1 12/20/16 9:05 PM


Plates of Perfection HOW CHRISTIANE BARBATO FOLLOWED HER PASSION TO CREATE BLUE DOOR CERAMICS

ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE

Renovate & Refine

CONTINUED >


When I arrive at Christiane Barbato’s

studio she greets me with two cheek kisses and has a big, bright smile that seems to grow even more as she begins to tell the story of how she came to create her now-famous line of signature works.

At 40, Barbato knew she needed a change. To combat what she calls her “mid-life crisis,” she left her corporate job in her native Brazil and returned to what she loved: Arizona and ceramics, having discovered the medium as an exchange student at Chaparral High School.

“Ceramics are fascinating. You can mold it into anything,” says Barbato.

She typically molds clay into custom plates and dishes. And restaurants across the country have taken note, with most of them discovering her creations via her company’s Instagram account. Here in the Valley, Binkley’s, Roka Akor and Bourbon Steak at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess all stock her plates. Why does she think chefs like her work?

“I love to cook. Every ceramics artist that makes plates should know how to cook. It’s kind of a complementary art,” she says. “I also love to see pictures of the beautiful presentations the chefs make on my plates. Just a plate like this, it’s just a plate. It’s just food. If you see the plate with the food on top, it looks amazing.”

However, Barbato didn’t originally set out to create Instagram-ready dishware. When she moved to Arizona in 2006, her plan was to sell imported tiles from Brazil. When that didn’t take off due to the economic downturn, she decided to make plates because she felt her

own dishes were boring. One day a neighbor asked her to make

them a set, then another did, then another. Seeing how her passion could

also be a viable business, she launched an online store in 2009 and started to work on

Blue Door Ceramics full time in 2013.Barbato’s work is influenced by both nature and her

Brazilian roots. As the seasons shift, so do the colors she uses to decorate her plates. The fall and winter months mean darker colors, while the summertime sees lighter colored dishes in her kiln. Also expect to find beautiful turquoise plates in honor of Arizona’s state gem, cappuccino colored ones that she says look like the desert’s sands, and aquamarine and emeralds in honor of her home country, Brazil—one of the countries where the stones are mined.

“I love organic shapes too,” she says. “I know how to throw on the potter’s wheel, but my style is more organic.”

Barbato describes her works as happy, “with energy, con-nected to God and connected to nature” and the studio behind her Phoenix home as a “sanctuary” with good vibes and good thoughts. She hopes others who encounter her work sense her cheerful disposition in them.

”Everyone that buys my plates, they always have something good to say,” says Barbato. “I think about how many lives I’m going to touch with my work.”

See more of Barbato’s works at BlueDoorCeramics.com or email her at

[email protected].

Renovate & Refine (CONTINUED)


Barestrings TH O R A B AR K ER C R E ATE S ST U N N I N G WO R K S O F WE AR ABL E ART

ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI | PHOTOGRAPHY TONIA JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Paradise Valley is a quaint home unique for its magnificent greenery, vine-covered

wrought-iron fence and vintage cars parked in the driveway. Step inside and be transported to the interior of a traditional New England-style home, complete with a grand library, a cozy breakfast nook and exquisite antiques scattered throughout. It is here you will find Connecticut native and passionate jewelry maker Thora Barker pouring over a bevy of satin strings as she creates her magnificent, one-of-a-kind Barestrings necklaces.

The strings come in multiple hues of almost every color on the spectrum—from vivid violets, blues and reds to subtler ivories, greens and grays—and all necklaces are custom-tailored to each individual client’s combination preference.

“My love of color goes back to my first box of Crayola crayons, which eventually led me to an Art History Major at Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York; and it just grew from there,” says Thora.

She also has an affinity for knowing her precious metals. Her grandfather, who immigrated to the United States from Sheffield,

Beautiful


Barestrings England, worked for the International Silver Company in Meriden Connecticut for 50 years and passed along his love for silver to his granddaughter.

“The Barestrings are really an inspiration from all of these things—my love of color and merging that with beautiful ster-ling silver pieces,” says Thora.

However, on a practical note, the concept for the necklaces themselves actually came from something Thora had read in Nora Ephron’s novel I Feel Bad About my Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman.

“Ephron talked about her friends in Manhattan, who wore turtlenecks on hot, humid days in the summer to hide their necks. That’s when I thought to myself ‘there has got to be a better way to do this,’ and came up with the concept of Barestrings,” says Thora. “They’re perfect because they’re light, airy, hand-washable and travel well.”

Further distinguishing Thora’s jewelry is the fact that all the elements of her Barestrings are 100-percent made in the United States.

“The strings are made out of natural fibers and the sterling silver I use for the clasps is made here locally by an incredible man who casts and does all the silver work for me,” says Thora. “That’s really important to me.”

CONTINUED >


BEAUTIFUL BARESTRINGS (CONTINUED)


ARIZONA FLORIDA KENTUCKY MICHIGAN NEVADA OHIO TENNESSEE TEXAS WASHINGTON DC TORONTO | DICKINSONWRIGHT.COM

DickinsonWrightpllc

Your home. Your children. Your job. Your nancial security. You have a lot at stake in a divorce. Be con dent in your choice of a Family Law

attorney. Our Family Law team is one of the largest domestic relations teams in the State of Arizona, offering proven experience and

award-winning talent to our clients in all aspects of Family Law. Our team of nationally-recognized attorneys prides itself on tailoring our

services to meet the unique needs of each individual client, offering real solutions solutions to the real nancial, legal and emotional challenges they and their loved ones face during a very difficult time. In addition, because our local Family Law team is part of a well-respected national rm, we also have the unique ability to provide clients with additional legal support from highly experienced attorneys in a wide variety of other areas, including tax, estate planning and business law if needed in a particular case. For more information, schedule a consultation today

with a member of our with a member of our team.

Asset & Business Valuation in High Net-Worth Cases | Spousal Maintenance | Division of Marital Assets | Custody Issues, Including Parenting Time & Legal Decision-Making | Child Support | Paternity

Prenuptial, Postnuptial & Cohabitation Agreements

Contact our Family Law group in Phoenix at:1850 North Central Avenue, Suite 1400 | Phoenix, AZ 85004

T 602.285.5000 | F 844.670.6009

Marlene Pontrelli, Michelle Khazai, Leonce Richard, Marki Stewart, Ian NesterukSteven Wolfson, Dana Levy, Robert Schwartz

ARIZONA FAMILY LAWThe Experienced Solution in

PERFECT PAIRINGS

Thora customizes each necklace to her clients’ personal color preference, creat-ing lasting statements that will perfectly complement any outfit.

“There’s a certain grace and style to the Barestrings with how soft and feminine they are; and the way they contour to your body and enhance the natural glow of your skin,” says Thora. “They have panache.”

Barestrings also pair well with your favorite pieces of jewelry.

“I even like to use my own jewelry and layer it with the Barestrings because they really enhance everything,” says Thora.

She’s extending her creations to younger generations as well, and plans to introduce a Barestrings children’s line soon.

“I have two granddaughters and they both love their necklaces because they are colorful, light and pretty,” says Thora. “I can really make them for any-one of any age.”

GLOBAL ELEGANCE

At the end of the day, what truly makes Thora’s passion so fulfilling is the people she has met and shared her necklaces with along the way.

“I love that I can custom-make the necklaces for clients from all over, using email for color combinations,” says Thora. “I’ve met so many creative and wonderful people from places like Switzerland, Australia and Hawaii, and it’s just been so rewarding.”

With the brand’s increasing global reach, new expansion and ever-evolving concept, the future certainly looks bright for Thora Barker and her Barestrings.

For more information, please visit BareStrings.com

or email Thora at [email protected].


Bela Fidel Shares Her Vibrant Art With the World

ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

A Colorful Life20 Paradise Valley Lifestyle | February 2017

For someone who has built such a successful following in the local art scene, it’s hard to believe that Bela Fidel originally didn’t

plan on being an artist, having had dreams of becoming a writer before she discovered painting in oils.

“Early on in the sixties, on a whim, I started playing with oils and continued ‘playing’ for a couple of years until I decided to take formal classes. In Brazil, I studied diligently for five or more years while painting non-stop, never thinking that painting would become a lifelong passion,” she explains. “After 10 years of painting regularly, I realized that this was what I wanted to do, this was what I needed, and that this was an integral part of who I was. I have never looked back.”

In truth, Fidel has not had much time to look back.“I’m always busy looking ahead, trying different mediums, aim-

ing higher and higher, demanding more and more of myself. My curiosity seems to have no end and it cannot be lassoed in: it eggs me on and on, relentlessly.”

Born in Brazil, Fidel studied in Jerusalem and in the U.S. Her education and background are multifaceted: she has a B.A. in English and Spanish Languages and Literatures from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and also studied makeup artistry in Los Angeles. She’s worked as a translator in many languages, a secretary, a makeup artist, and is now a full-time artist and art teacher out of her studio in North Scottsdale.

“At the risk of using a cliché, my studio is my retreat, my sanctuary, my battlefield—depending on the day,” she says. “It is where I face my angels and demons, where I get to know myself. It is where I get hurt and where I heal; where I learn humility, patience, persistence, as well as despondency, despair and many other existential challenges. I believe, though, that it is this emotional rollercoaster that enables me to deepen my work, bring meaning to it and touch other people’s hearts.”

In recent years, Fidel has earned several accolades for her work, including Honorary Mentions from the Holocaust Museum and the West Valley Arts Council; a first prize in Mixed Media from the Arizona Art Alliance; and a third prize from the Arizona Art Alliance at an exhibit that took place at Vision Gallery last April.

Fidel is known best for her work with oils and mixed media. She also uses and teaches the encaustic technique, which involves using hot wax and a heat source with a variety of artistic mediums.

CONTINUED >

“I’m always busy looking ahead, trying different

mediums, aiming higher and

higher, demanding more and

more of myself.”


Where lovers meet, friends reminisce

& the food is legendary.

Book your reservations for Valentine’s Day

today

3225 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix(602) 956-0836

“My work with encaustic encompasses paint-ings, wall sculptures, monotypes on paper and fabric and, lately, as one of the elements in my mixed media practice,” she explains.

“I am planning to continue to develop my mixed media work by using larger panels, learning about different, additional materi-als that can be incorporated into the works, all while still making sure I remain true to my ‘Zen’ aesthetics,” Fidel says.

When asked about her advice to novice artists, she notes, “I can only mention that stubborn-ness, persistence, hard work [and] diligence are a few of the elements that have kept me going throughout the years. I must not forget, as well, that learning about myself through my practice has been invaluable in my continuing efforts toward becoming a better artist.”To learn more, visit BelaFidel.com.

A COLORFUL LIFE (CONTINUED)


Stress or Sports Injury? Enjoy a Healing & Therapeutic Massage

in the Comfort of Your Home.

RELAX. REJUVENATE. RESTORE.

CALL TODAY 480.788.5644

www.ddhhc.com

Anya Fletcher Bowman, Licensed Massage Therapist with over 20 years experience in the healing arts.

HOLISTICTRUSTED & ESTABLISHED


Ruby Farias Creates Embellished, Hand-Painted Clothing and Accessories

ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO | PHOTOGRAPHY TONIA JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Scottsdale artist and designer Ruby Farias can take anyone’s little black dress and pair of high heeled shoes and paint them with an elegant gold trim to refashion a modest outfit into a chic, one-of-

a-kind ensemble. She can breathe life into a plain pair of sneakers with the fabric paint she creates herself, or transform a wall flower into a sassy diva who stands out in the crowd with her unique embellished gowns.

Farias’s designs attract attention from all over with their excep-tional style and flair. Even something simple like her black, high heeled ankle boots— hand-painted with red fringe along the top and delicate swirls along the toe— are a statement piece.

“Once you wear one of my designs and see the attention that you get, it builds you up, makes you feel good and builds confidence,” she says.

Farias works with clients individually to create the perfect item for them, and even though she creates high fashion pieces, you don’t have to be a fashionista to wear her designs. She bedazzles and bedecks jeans, jackets, suits, purses and shoes for every day occasions too.

A CREATIVE ROAD

“I understand who the person is before I begin,” says Farias. “I create just for you.”

Her clients may come to her with a color scheme in mind or an event they want to dress for, but she prefers to sit in the driver’s seat when it comes to design.

“Clients will go through my portfolio to give themselves ideas, and for me to get a better understanding of their likes. Then I will move on the vibe I get from the client to create something new for them,” says Farias.

Her clients typically meet with Farias in her home. Some bring their own garment or accessory for her to work with, while others want assistance.

“I have my own little space where I work and can fit someone into something I have. I’ve done shopping for clients and have gone shopping with clients if they want something specific,” says Farias.

To Dame P L A I N J A N E


A MOTHER’S GIFT

Farias is from a large family and is no stranger to hand-me-downs, but as a child remembers watching her mother make special dresses just for her. As she got older, she started following in her mother’s footsteps. When she was in seventh grade, she designed her first pair of bell-bottoms. They were complete with a hand-embroidered smiley face at the bottom of the pant leg, foretelling her work today.

Farias modeled and was very much interested in the fashion indus-try when she was in her late teens and early twenties, but eventually traded the starving artist lifestyle for a more dependable career in the banking industry. She was in that industry for 28 years before having her artistic breakthrough.

When the economy took a dive in 2001, there was an acquisi-tion of banks and everyone, including Farias, lost their jobs and had to re-apply.

“My daughter was two-and-a-half. I was very much a career woman,” says Farias. “With my daughter at home, I was trying to figure out something fun to do. I went to the store and bought some paints, brushes and canvas – ‘Mommy’s going to teach you how to paint,’ I said. Painting again reignited my passion and made me feel alive. It was at that time I wondered how I could have ever put that brush down.”

Farias left her corporate job to stay home with her daughter and follow her passion. By 2014 she was painting on clothing, merging her two favorite things: fashion and art.

Today, she has a deep love for giving back and donates her work to a variety of fundraising events. She also enjoys sharing art with chil-dren by donating paints, brushes and canvases to worthy programs.

“I don’t consider it work,” says Farias. It’s a way of life; her passion come to fruition.

Learn what’s current with Ruby Farias Designs at RubyFariasDesigns.com.

CONTINUED >


Residential Living | Assisted Living | Memory Support | Nursing Care | Short-Term Rehab

Recognized as Arizona’s only Certified Center for Successful Aging. Visit ExperienceTOP.com or call 1-800-461-1607 to find out why.7550 N. 16th Street | Phoenix, AZ 85020

The Terraces of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona, is managed by ABHOW, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. ABHOW is a nonsectarian corporation, serving seniors through quality retirement housing since 1949.

The Terraces of Phoenix is your kind of neighborhood, filled with

residents who eagerly embrace all the North Central Valley brings to

life. It’s a good-neighbor community with established roots. The trees

are mature and still growing, like you. With fewer worries and more

time to branch out and explore – it’s right where you want to be.

Rooted in local culture and creativity.

Painted sneakers and three dimensional fashion are popular on the runway now.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS

TO JAZZ UP YOUR WARDROBE:

1. The internet is full of fabulous ideas. Search for inspiration.

2. Plan your design on paper first.3. Use an acrylic pencil or permanent

marker to trace out your plan on the item before applying paint, gems, shells or other embellishments.

4. Make sure the paint or glue is compat-ible with the material or fabric being used.

5. Hand-stitch trimmings like flowers if you are hard on clothing.

6. Take climate into consideration. Hot glue guns work great for securing flourishes, but be cognizant when in the Arizona heat.

7. Fabric paint adheres best to canvas shoes and works well on suede.

8. Have a variety of brushes and use the proper tools: fine line brushes for fine lines and large brushes for wide lines.

PLAIN JANE TO GLITTERY DAME (CONTINUED)


Paradise Valley READERSPresent this coupon for

10% off your entire purchase. Special offer good through 2.28.17. Not to be combined with

other offers. Some restrictions apply. See associate for details.

Interior and Exterior Plants Containers & Ceramics

FountainsBest quality BBQ’s

We are a full-scale wholesale and retail plant nursery.

Delivery Available

4139 E. Bell Road Phoenix, AZ 85032Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:00pm

Saturday & Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm

(602) 971-8110 or (800) 428-4612Visit our website for more information GreenGoddess.com

Connect with us!

Our Professional Landscape Designer can come to your home or office to help design and install. We can also provide interior plant maintenance.

CÉsar Mazier

WWW.CMAZIER.COMROC 181958-C, 181959-R

Landscaping & Consulting

Landscape Design Installation

Maintenance Hardscape

16 years as Former Director of Horticulture of Desert Botanical

Garden

602.265.0920


CROWN JEWEL T. COOK’S SERVES UP A MEDLEY OF MEDITERRANEAN MARVELS

ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI

Hot Spot

Not simply your typical resort restaurant, dining at T. Cook’s at The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is an entire Mediterranean-

inspired evening experience of its own. The journey begins as you step through the outdoor entranceway, past a brilliant courtyard with a cascading fountain, and find yourself at the iconic T. Cook’s.

The ambience of the restaurant immediately invites warmth and intimacy with its glowing candles, rustic brick walls and wooden accents throughout the dining area. There’s also a roaring fireplace surrounded by comfortable leather seating in the adjacent room.

“We have some really nice, composed entrees here in the dining room, as well as some great shared plates in the Fireplace Bar for tapas too, if you just want to come and share a bottle of wine and small bites with some friends,” says Executive Chef Todd Allison.

Hailing from California, Allison began his culinary career working for a chef in San Diego before heading to culinary school in Arizona. While working at Mary Elaine’s at The Phoenician, the position for executive chef at T. Cook’s became available and the rest was history. Since then, Allison has been taking the restaurant back to its Mediterranean roots with flavor-driven seasonal menus highlighting fresh ingredients.

“The way I like to cook is to keep it simple and recognizable,” says Allison. “I want people to be able to enjoy all the flavors.”

Although Allison likes to keep his dishes simple, it doesn’t mean they lack creativity in the very least.

“I’m constantly testing myself to find those really authentic Mediterranean recipes; the ones that I find interesting or have never tried myself before. Then I bring them here for our customers to experience,” says Allison.

Some stand-out menu items at T. Cook’s include the Lamb Osso Bucco with melt-in-your-mouth meat pulled right off the bone and served with ricotta gnocchi, San Marzano tomatoes and Calabrian chili; or the wonderfully tender Roasted Spanish Octopus for starters. Then there’s tantalizing entrees like the Grilled Venison Loin served with Brussel sprouts, roasted yams and drizzled with a pomegranate gastrique; or the famous Pan Roasted Branzino, perfectly cooked, sitting atop a bed of Shishito peppers, fingerling potatoes and stewed tomatoes. Also not to be overlooked are the restaurant’s signature side dishes. Chef Allison prepares a spectacular Vadouvan Spiced Oven Roasted Brussel Sprouts with a beautifully smoky yet smooth flavor that can stand on it’s own as a small dish.

Pair all with one of the exquisite wines from the restaurant’s extensive list to complete the experience and truly savor the flavors of the Mediterranean. For at T. Cook’s, every bite takes you on a new culinary journey.

For more information and to make reservations, please visit RoyalPalmsHotel.com

or call 602.808.0766.


Ernest L. Blumenschein, The Chief Speaks, 1917, oil on canvas; Private Collection, photo courtesy Gerald Peters Gallery, Santa Fe, N.M.

3830 N. Marshall Way Downtown Scottsdale480-686-9539 scottsdalemuseumwest.org

The Taos Society of ArtistsThrough April 30, 2017

Discover the 19 groundbreaking artists who made Taos, New Mexico a world-famous center of art and culture

Sponsored by

$1 FROMEVERY DRINKDONATED TO

ARIZONA

$1 PROVIDES , ON AVERAGE,7 LBS OF NUTRITIOUS FOOD

Visit any of our 18

valleylocations!

17-0037A


dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, folk and tradition-al dances, musical performances, Chinese culture and history booths, a children’s pavilion and much more. PhoenixChineseWeek.org

FEBRUARY 9CONSERVE THE PRESERVES LUNCHEON PHOENIX The Desert Botanical Garden brings renowned scientist and wild-na-ture advocate Dr. Wallace “J.” Nichols to this though-provoking event to spark conversation about the greatest love story ever told: our con-nection to the natural world and all its beauty, wonder and inspiration here in the Sonoran Desert. DBG.org

FEBRUARY 9BESPOKE: A CELEBRATION OF BEAUTYPHOENIX Celebrate the new Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Grand Gallery and the opening of the inaugural exhibition, Beauty Speaks for Us, featuring masterworks from the Heard Museum’s permanent collec-tion and private Phoenix collection. Heard.org

FEBRUARY 9 - 12BALLET ARIZONA'S ROMEO & JULIET PHOENIXPrepare to feel the sweeping ro-mance and profound tragedy of Shakespeare’s beloved tale during this spectacular perfor-mance. Choreographed by re-nowned Artistic Director Ib An-dersen, the ballet is a feast for the eyes and ears with sweepingly regal ballroom scenes, vivacious swordplay and a dramatic score. BalletAZ.org

FEBRUARY 11NIGHT OF BEATLE-MANIA GALA SCOTTSDALE Step into a world of Beatles music and entertainment for this fabu-lous fundraiser at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia benefitting a New Leaf’s homeless and domestic violence shelter programs. Also featured are live and silent auctions, dancing and a delicious dinner. TurnANewLeaf.org

FEBRUARY 1 - 5WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN SCOTTSDALE Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” this legendary golf tourna-ment sports the largest crowds on the PGA Tour in a stadium large enough to hold 15,000 fans. Unlike any other golf tournament, the fun lasts well into the evening here with entertainment at the Coors Light Birds Nest. WMPhoenixOpen.com

FEBRUARY 1 - 4BIRDS NEST CONCERT SERIESSCOTTSDALE For four nights every year, the legendary Birds Nest night club moves to a large tent in North Scottsdale for the Waste Management Phoe-nix Open. This year’s line up includes performances by Jake Owen with Chase Rice, Toby Keith with The Band Perry, Kaskade and Flo Rida, and Blink 182 and Steve Aoki. WMPhoenixOpen.com

FEBRUARY 3 - 5ARIZONA OPERA PRESENTS MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOENIX Performed at Symphony Hall with a bevy of tender duets and the most breathtaking arias of all time, the production encompasses a lifetime of hope and anticipation, betrayal and despair as an innocent Japanese geisha’s love for an American naval officer leads to the ulti-mate heartbreak and tragedy. AZOpera.org

FEBRUARY 6 - 12PHOENIX CHINESE WEEK PHOENIXThe 27th annual festival in honor of Chinese New Year, “The Year of the Rooster,” will feature an array of thrilling live entertainment, including

FebruaryLifestyle Calendar


FEBRUARY 12SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC CONCERT SCOTTSDALE Arizona’s Premiere Philharmonic will be hosting a melodious evening of tunes at the Scottsdale Bible Church, featuring Wagner’s Overture to Tannhauser, Mozart’s Symphony 40 G minor and Respighi’s Pines of Rome. ScottsdalePhilharmonic.com

FEBRUARY 14TAOS TUESDAYS SCOTTSDALE Collectors played an important role in the pro-motion and support of the Taos Society of art-ists. Here, leading American art dealers Brad Richardson and Jack A. Morris Jr. examine this connection and cultivation of a new generation of collectors. ScottsdaleMuseumWest.org

FEBRUARY 23 - 26CANAL CONVERGENCE: WATER + ART + LIGHT SCOTTSDALE Scottsdale Public Art returns to Scottsdale Waterfront for its fifth year presenting this cut-ting-edge, interactive art event. Experience four days of eight large-scale, contemporary public art installations positioned in the Arizona Canal, along its banks and soaring in the skies above, along with artist talks, workshops and live music. ScottsdalePublicArt.org

MARCH 1GRAND OPERA CINEMA SERIES: LA BOHEME SCOTTSDALE Head to the Scottsdale Center for the Per-forming Arts to experience a beautiful ren-dition of Puccini’s most beloved opera. Screened in glorious HD, the world-re-nowned San Francisco Opera performs the heartwarming story of starving artists fall-ing in and out of love in 19th-century Paris. ScottsdalePerformingArts.org


ART & PHOTOGRAPHYScottsdale Museum of the West(480) 686-9539scottsdalemuseumwest.org AUTOMOTIVEScottsdale RV(480) 946-0707scottsdalerv.com ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATIONArabian Horse Association of Arizona(480) 515-1500scottsdaleshow.com Top Notch Transportation(602) 505-5158topnotchtransportation.com FOOD & BEVERAGEDutch Bros Coffee(541) 941-1152dutchbros.com HEALTH & WELLNESSDesert Dragonfly Holistic Healthcare & Mobile Massage(480) 427-7985Ddhhc.com

Hypoxi (480) 794-1776HypoxiBody.com HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGSSwitch Consignment(480) 664-0580switchconsignment.com The Dump(757) 552-1598thedump.com HOME SERVICESBenjamin Moore & Hunter Douglas/Arizona Paint Supply(480) 757-2000azpaintsupply.com Griffin Estate Sales, LLC(480) 261-2020Griffinestatesales.com INTERIOR DESIGNCloset Factory(480) 998-2070closetfactory.com KITCHEN & BATHJK Cabinets(480) 219-9580jkkitchencabinets2you.com

LANDSCAPINGCesar Mazier Landscaping & Consulting(602) 265-0920cmazier.com LEGALDickinson Wright PLLC(313) 223-3132 LUXURY AUTOMOTIVEInfiniti on Camelback(602) 776-9800infinitioncamelback.com PHOTOGRAPHYTonia Johnston(480) 677-5622toniajohnstonphotography.com REAL ESTATEBrenenstuhl PV Luxury Real Estate(602) 524-1677pvluxuryrealestate.com Mackey Martin Group/Realty Executives(602) 930-6661arcadialuxuryproperties.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGEEddie Merlot's - Scottsdale(480) 699-0480eddiemerlots.com Tomaso's...When in Rome(480) 699-3481 SALONS & SPASAmazing Lash Studio Paradise Valley(602) 529-4366amazinglashstudio.com SENIOR LIVING & SERVICESThe Terraces of Phoenix(602) 906-4024TheTerracesPhoenix.com SPECIALTY SHOPSThe Green Goddess(602) 971-8110greengoddess.com TRAVEL & LEISUREMountain Shadows(480) 624-5400mountainshadows.com

business directory

For the discerning.• We Can Handle Every Detail!• Large, Private List of Buyers • Represent Prominent Estates • Ethical, Professional, Compassionate—People trust us! • Stress-Free and Fun Sales • Swift Process with Immediate Payment—No Waiting for Auction Dates or Payment• On-Sight Sales with Minimal Shrinkage and Removal Costs• Correct Pricing to Bring Maximum Value • Final Clean-Out Assistance and Arrangement

GRIFFINESTATE SALES

For a complimentary evaluation of your estate, please contact Judi Scanlon!

CALL 480-261-2020 GriffinEstateSales.com

E-mail: [email protected]


Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Paradise Valley Properties

NEIGHBORHOOD LIST PRICE SOLD PRICE %SOLD/LIST DOM* BDRMS BATHS

Paradise Valley $6,500,000 $5,100,000 78% 343 5 8

Paradise Valley $5,900,000 $4,750,000 81% 186 6 10

Paradise Valley $4,250,000 $4,250,000 100% 2 5 6.5

Paradise Valley $3,795,000 $4,545,000 120% 14 4 4.5

Paradise Valley $3,500,000 $3,200,000 91% 736 5 6

Paradise Valley $3,000,000 $3,000,000 100% 92 4 4.5

Arcadia $2,895,000 $2,650,000 92% 130 5 5.5

Arcadia $2,800,000 $2,350,000 84% 300 5 4.5

Paradise Valley $2,250,000 $1,950,000 87% 177 5 5

Paradise Valley $2,250,000 $1,825,000 81% 193 5 4.5

Paradise Valley $2,230,000 $2,050,000 92% 208 5 5.5

Paradise Valley $1,999,000 $1,500,000 75% 452 3 4

Arcadia $1,850,000 $1,768,000 96% 28 4 4.5

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis from ARMLS for all agents for 12-1-16 through 12-31-16. *DOM=Days on Market.

JILL BRENENSTUHLParadise Valley Specialist 602-524-1677 | [email protected] | PVLuxuryRealEstate.com

CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE!


Portraits to Last a Lifetime

Local’s Choice

JANET NAPOLITANO, OIL, 26 X 38“This is a casual portrait of a former

Governor of Arizona, a woman who loves to go to the opera when she's not running the University of California system or, as in her prior role, trying to keep the homeland safe,” says Saper. “I've painted several portraits of Janet, and I particularly like this one because she showed me a side of her that the pubic rarely sees. Before I met her, I expected to find a for-mal, rather aloof woman, and instead found a warm, incredibly funny and smart woman who is absolutely passionate about opera.”

Janet Napolitano

East Light

Burton Silverman, American Artist

Denise Resnik, First Place & SAARC

BURTON SILVERMAN, OIL 28 X 28Burton Silverman is an iconic New York

City artist, as well as Saper’s friend and men-tor. “Burt is truly a living legend in the portrait world,” she says. “He is one of four portraits I've done in a series of paintings to recognize and thank artists who have helped me or inspired me in some way along this journey.”

DENISE RESNIK, OIL, 36 X 24Resnik is one of three founders of

SARRC, a national model for the research and treatment of people with autism. She has also spearheaded First Place, a compre-hensive residential and training community for adults with autism. “The Napolitano, Resnik and Silverman projects inspired me because I think they are each people who have spent their lives in the service of a fair and just society,” says Saper.

EAST LIGHT,OIL 36 X 24This is a portrait of Saper’s daughter,

Alexandra, when she was about 15. “I love that age, where both child and woman are simultaneously visible,” she says. Saper has been painting her daughter since she was 18 months old. Alexandra’s now a 25–year-old attorney. “She's been a willing model, con-structive participant/critic and an all around old soul, who happens to be my muse.”

SELECTIONS FROM CHRIS SAPER OF CHRIS SAPER

HEIRLOOM & CORPORATE PORTRAITURE

ChrisSaper.com

ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE


ATLANTA • CHICAGO • DALLAS • HOUSTON • PHOENIX • PHILADELPHIA • VIRGINIA www.thedump.com | FRIDAY 10-9 SATURDAY 10-9 SUNDAY 11-7

Take away their LABELS. Take away their CATALOGS. Take away their OVERHEAD. Take away their MARKUP.

TAKE 50-75% OFF THEIR PRICESthe same furniture. the same makers.

Solid Reclaimed Wood Platform BedHandmade in Queen Size

High Design. Not High Markup.

at The Dump

$795AT THE DISTRICT

SELLS FOR

$4000 IN THEIR CATALOG

paradise valley...infiniti qx60 premium 1 and premium 2 packages $399 mo $4,360 due at signing plus...

Documents