Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography by Nate Decker [dropcap]T[/dropcap]his Sept. 11 marks the 20th anniversary of one of the most horrific events in United States’ history. “Many of us swore an oath on that day we would never forget what was done to our nation; but more importantly, we would never forget those who gave their…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography Courtesy of Patricia Brusha [dropcap]F[/dropcap]or the past two years, Patricia Brusha has been honoring the memory of her late daughter, Courtney Michaels, by championing her vision to express compassion for and uplift the many men and women who are taking the daunting-yet-crucial steps to overcome addiction and alcoholism. What began as…
Writer Shannon SeversonPhotography Courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography and VGroup Photography [dropcap]R[/dropcap]ock bands are synonymous with free-wheeling, adventurous attitudes and a healthy dose of mischief — and maybe even a rebellious streak. The four Phoenix natives who comprise Promise To Myself, an alternative pop-rock band, are all of those things, but they also have a…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography Courtesy of Tender Little Hearts [dropcap]I[/dropcap]t is nearly impossible for McDowell Sonoran Conservancy steward Terry Holmes-Stecyk to travel very far along the McDowell Sonoran Preserve’s trails with her miniature horses — much less exit a library elevator — without being bombarded by questions and cameras. After all, as if her pint-sized…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography by Gerry Groeber [dropcap]I[/dropcap]ndependence Day may have come and gone but we are smack-dab in the middle of the real fireworks display. In 2008, National Weather Service officials decided that Arizona’s monsoon season would begin on June 15 and end on Sept. 30. Of course, the thunderstorms that bring rainfall may…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography by Carl Schultz [dropcap]N[/dropcap]ew River resident Arouna Diarra was destined to bring traditional music into the modern-day — further developing it while maintaining its cultural roots. Originally from West Africa, Arouna performs folk songs that reflect topics from war to love for one another, aspiring to instill joy, harmony and connection…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography by Carl Schultz [dropcap]L[/dropcap]ike so many musicians, North Scottsdale resident Gary Spaniola’s start was a result of seeing the Beatles perform on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” “It solidified my dream,” says Spaniola, who was born and grew up in Detroit. “I was just mesmerized by them.” Little did he know back…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography by Carl Schultz [dropcap]F[/dropcap]or the past four decades, Les Conklin has been fighting to preserve North Scottsdale’s heritage and have a positive impact on future development in the area. The 83-year-old resident has founded, been appointed to and become involved with a number of organizations, associations and commissions that exist solely…
Writer Joseph J. AirdoPhotography Courtesy of Fever [dropcap]I[/dropcap]magine arriving at a restaurant, hotel venue or catering space with a family member, friend or significant other and being invited into a candle-lit dining room. After being seated, you and your guest are provided with blindfolds, which you wrap around your heads to completely seal off your…
Writer Shannon Severson [dropcap]S[/dropcap]ometimes the most wonderful dining discoveries are those you’ve likely driven past a dozen times and failed to notice. There’s something especially satisfying about stumbling upon a gastronomic gem, either on your own or on the good advice of a friend. The Cave Creek/Carefree area is home to some absolutely incredible restaurants….