Anthem 4 Africa
"We walk, we sleep, we pray"
A non-profit organization has been started in Anthem to help provide information and find solutions to the many problems faced in Africa in the areas of business, health, education and refugee children. They are partnering with local organizations such as Hope 4 Kids International, based in Glendale , which conducts missions of aid to children in over 90 countries, and the Sunrise House Orphanage in Uganda , which has received support from the Rotary Club of Anthem through the efforts of Sam Crump, and the Fellowship Church .
A very touching film was recently shown at the Fellowship Church called "Invisible Children" about the tragic plight of children who are being hunted down by the Lord's Resistance Army and forced to become soldiers. To escape being kidnapped by the rebels, these children march from their rural homes to the cities each night to seek shelter and protection of the Ugandan Army. The film was a project by three students who traveled to Uganda and brought back the dramatic story of children who crowd together to sleep on the wet ground of a hospital's basement floor. Several told harrowing stories of their brothers or friends being forced to learn to kill. "I have headache if I don't see blood," was one memorable quote of lost innocence from a victim forced to kill.
Many North Valley students were moved by this story and joined in a global "night commute" on April 29 th to help spread awareness of these Ugandan children who have no choice but to make their night commute every night. Students and parents from Anthem, Tramonto, Desert Hills and other North Valley neighborhoods walked to the Anthem Community Center to spend the night. It was quite a moving sight to see these back-packed groups of two and three as they walked in solidarity for these unfortunate children of Uganda . It is estimated that over 1,000 kids did the march and between 500 and 700 spent the night at the Community Center. The hungry crowd was fed lots of hot dogs by Rotary Club volunteers, Sam Crump, Larry and Willine Evans, Juereta Smith, and Brazilian exchange student Roberta Cunya. Scott Foreman, a pastor at the Fellowship Church , was one of the speakers and told the crowd that: "...this is simply about helping people and spreading awareness of such injustice around the world. Awareness is a seed you plant now."
To help, purchase "The "Invisible Children" DVD, which is available at the Fellowship Church book store in Anthem. Also available for purchase at the Fellowship Church and from Sam Crump of the Rotary is a 12-oz. Bag of Thanksgiving Coffee, grown in Uganda , proceeds of which will help the 50 children of the Sunrise House Orphanage in Uganda .
INFO> Anthem 4 Africa: Carla Crain, littigcrain@aol.com. Sunrise House: Sam Crump, 623-551-5457, samcrump@qwest.net, www.sunrisehouseuganda.org. Hope 4 Kids International: Tom Eggum, 623-979-5516, tom@hope4kidsinternational.org, www.hope4kidsinternational.org.
New Fire Station Opens in Tramonto
There will be an Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, May 20, 2006 for a very welcome addition to the Tramonto neighborhood - the new Phoenix Fire Department Fire Station #56. The new fire station couldn't have come at a better time. With all the tremendous growth being experienced in the North Valley , Station 56 was needed to decrease response times for fire and emergency service to the area.
The station is located at 3210 W. Canotia Place , off the North Valley Parkway . The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony takes place at 12:00 pm, attended by Arizona Senator Jon Kyl, Phoenix City Councilwoman Peggy Neely and Phoenix fire officials. The Open House will run from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and lots of fun is in store for all who visit. Take a tour of the new facilities, partake of refreshments, pick up safety information and have your children have their pictures taken in front of Station 56's fire engine.
INFO> Division Chief Chris Ketterer, 602-201-9716; Captain Lynn Smith (for Spanish-speaking individuals), 602-673-5335.
Rotary Club Awards Grants to Schools
Among the many wonderful things the Rotary Club of Anthem does is the support they give to seven local schools with $500 grants and three youth-oriented organizations with $250 to $500 grants; for a total of $4,750. The schools and organizations that received this year's grants will put the money to use in various ways:
New River will use the grant toward the $900 program known as Nine Essential Skills for the Love and Logic Classroom. The program is structured to increase test scores, decrease discipline referrals, and create positive communication among teachers, students and staff.
Diamond Canyon students will receive daily planners that highlight the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.
Gavilan Peak students in the upper grades who have achieved higher-than-grade reading levels will have access to new library books to challenge them.
Desert Academy personnel will put the money toward a $600 computerized library cataloguing system for the school.
Cross of Christ Christian students will have new physical education items with which to build active bodies, along with inquiring minds.
Boulder Creek students who are at-risk readers because of blindness or dyslexia will benefit from equipment that will enable them to hear Books on CDs.
Sandra Day-O'Connor High School admits eight to ten new students each month. To help make the transition to a new school easier for those students, each will receive a package that will include a school tee-shirt, pendant, and other school imprinted memorabilia.
A portable sound system for indoor/outdoor use is needed by the Desert Mountain Neighborhood Girl Scouts, which has troops in New River , Anthem and Desert Hills. The number of troops has increased from 23 to 32, adding 125 new Scouts and 50 adults to the rolls.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 432 will go to Camp Emerald Bay , Catalina Island this summer. Not all the boys can afford to pay the full cost. "Camperships" are needed to offset the fees. The boys do take part in fundraising to pay some of the costs.
The Pillar Pride Rewards program at Gavilan Peak School is set up to reward positive character behavior by the students. A student earns "Firebird Bucks" to exchange for school-related items such as pens, pencils, erasers and bookmarks. The PTA needs enough goods for two months' worth of prizes. The PTA has held fundraisers to stock the "Firebird Store" for the rest of the year.
Rotary Club of Anthem gives away all of the profits from fundraisers conducted by club members at such events as: Rotary Roundup in the fall; a Golf Tournament in May; and the various hotdog cart sales at Anthem Days, Fourth of July and the ProMusica outdoor concerts at the Anthem Community Park . None of the money raised goes to support the club; members pay yearly dues to cover those costs.
INFO> Jan Samar, 623-551-8072
Anthem Couple's Business Protects Other Small Businesses
Michael and Pam Dunphy of Anthem own a DataPreserve franchise, which is a national provider of remote data backup solutions for small and medium sized businesses. To better serve the northwest valley, the Dunphy's recently announced their partnership with NeTech Global, an independent, locally-based information technology (IT) firm. NeTech Global offers network and computer solutions, as well as on-site support to small and medium sized businesses in Arizona .
Business owners are naturally concerned about protecting their data against computer mishaps. DataPreserve provides a secure and automatic alternative to backing up data on tapes or CDs that could be lost or stolen for as little as $15 a month-giving small and medium sized businesses a secure, affordable solution.
"We are extremely pleased to partner with NeTech Global," said Michael Dunphy. "Not only are they true professionals who provide a great service, this partnership will allow us to bring our services to the small business community in this growing part of Maricopa County."
INFO> 602-235-0394; pdunphy@DataPreserve.com; www.DataPreserve.com.
Seafood Restaurant Coming to Anthem
It's official! Anthem is getting its first seafood restaurant! The Long Island Fish Company is scheduled to open at the new shopping center anchored by Fry's supermarket on the corner of Daisy Mountain Drive and Gavilan Peak Parkway by November of 2006.
The restaurant will feature a wide variety of broiled, grilled, steamed and fried seafood in addition to steaks, pastas, chicken and sumptuous desserts. "We take our guests on a virtual tour recreating those sights, smells and tastes of a wonderful holiday spent on the coast," says founder Gerry Shaps. Executive Chef Joseph Kelliher graduated from Johnson and Wales of Rhode Island and worked summers on Nantucket . Co-founder John Wunder says, "Having someone of Joe's caliber join our team is an exciting opportunity for all of us.
With seating for over 80, the new restaurant will feature the company's coastal restaurant motif of naturally aged woods, hanging steel lights, galvanized steel and nautical memorabilia. The new restaurant will boast an open kitchen and an outdoor patio. Shaps promises that only the best and freshest seafood available will be served. The company is also planning on opening additional units in Gilbert and Arrowhead within the next two years.
INFO> Gerry Shaps: 623 606 5545; John Wunder: 602 515 3638
Local Executive Receives Accreditation
Local businessman Robert Frisina has been accredited by the Institute for Independent Business (IIB). Bob's recent accreditation will expand access to the Institute's network of Associates in Maricopa and surrounding counties. "We are delighted to have an executive of Robert Frisina's caliber become accredited. For years he has been working as a senior executive at some of the world's most successful Public and Private companies," said Eric Leaman, Managing Director, IIB Business Support Americas. Bob Frisina added, "The Institute's accreditation means a lot to my clients". "Besides the prestige, my relationship with the IIB enables me to provide my clients with a depth of resources that other business advisors simply cannot offer. I am now part of a worldwide network of senior executives from every type of business imaginable. With resources like that I can assist my clients with any issue or challenge they may be facing." INFO> Bob Frisina, 602-292-3750; bobfrisina@iib.ws
ACNV Community Cultural Inventory Completed
The Arts Council of the North Valley (ACNV) announces the completion of the Community Cultural Inventory (CCI) by consultant Nancy Lutz from the Arizona Commission on the Arts. The CCI provides feedback to better understand activities residents would like to see and what they are likely to support. The results are in and by far the most often mentioned need was for a multipurpose arts facility that would provide a venue for visual, musical, theatrical, dance and touring groups.
Commissioned by the Arts Council of the North Valley and made possible through a grant by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the CCI provides North Valley communities with a planning tool for the development of its cultural resources. "With the current and expected growth in the area, we are developing a strategic plan that will identify the appropriate structure, programs and facilities to meet community needs," says Donna Kublin, ACNV President. "The CCI provides us with valuable insight for this process."
Survey responses totaled 570 with 40% between age 16 and 54, 38% between 55 and 65 and 22% over age 65. A resounding 99% of all respondents said they would attend more art-related events if there were a multipurpose arts center in the North Valley . An executive summary of the CCI is available on the acnv.org web site and a full report can be requested by contacting ACNV.
INFO> 623-680-5815, http://www.acnv.org
Cowboy Artist Joe Beeler Dies
Well-known cowboy artist Joe Beeler, who was featured in this magazine last July, 2005 in an article about Sedona's artists, has passed away. Fittingly, this artist who was really also a cowboy, literally died in the saddle as he was working on a ranch helping friends with the branding of calves. He slumped forward and died of a heart attack as he rode his horse. You just know that this would be the way he would have wanted to leave this world.
This very charming man was one of the original founders of the Cowboy Artists of America, founded back in 1965. Their meetings are still held at the Cowboy Club restaurant in Sedona. The group holds an annual show and sale at the Phoenix Art Museum , usually in October or November.
Joe's last sculpture, "Geronimo," was awaiting his final touches in the Bronzesmith Foundry in Prescott Valley when he passed away. We asked Joe last year how he felt about the fame that had come his way. His reply: "No different than I felt before. I just go along with it. Of course, I eat a bit more regularly."
Auditions for Phoenix Boys Choir
Since 1948, The Grammy Award-winning Phoenix Boys Choir's 200 talented boys from across the Phoenix metropolitan area have entertained audiences around the world, earning international acclaim, recognition and awards. Auditions are now being scheduled for boys, seven to twelve years old, who are interested in singing with the Phoenix Boys Choir. To be eligible for the Training Choirs, boys must turn seven years old by September 1, 2006.
Auditions will be held during May at the Phoenix Boys Choir building at 1131 E. Missouri Ave. The audition process is easy and takes about 15 minutes. Eligible boys should possess an unchanged, clear and pleasant singing voice and a good "ear" for music. Previous choir experience is not required and there is no need to prepare audition material. A fee of $10 is required at the time of the audition. Boys selected to join the choirs participate in rehearsals and concerts from September through May. Scholarships for assistance with tuition and other costs are available.
INFO> 602- 264-5328, x21 or visit www.boyschoir.org Alphorn Anyone?
Aren't you glad your music lessons as a child didn't include a musical instrument as big as an alphorn? These gigantic horns emit a deep mournful sound and were on display at ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra's "Cowboys, Country and Copland" concerts on March 31 and April 1 and at the Cave Creek/Carefree Fiesta Days Parade on April 8, where ProMusica members Jackie Flood, Harvey Mickelson and Mike Burt rode atop a flatbed truck playing these unusual instruments.
An alphorn is a curved wooden horn, sometimes as long as 20 feet, used by herders in the Swiss Alps to call cows to pasture. It is one of those instruments, like the double-bell euphonium, that non-aficionados have trouble taking seriously. Yet the alphorn has been around for nearly 500 years: first as a means of communications in the high Alps , and later as a musical instrument that has been featured in works by composers like Brahms and Leopold Mozart.
INFO> 623-551-8327; www.promusicaaz.org
Rotary Friendship Exchange
This past month five young people from Brazil were hosted by the Rotary Club of Anthem as part of their Rotary Friendship Exchange. The program provides the participants the opportunity to experience other cultures by staying in the homes of Rotarians in those countries. The club has already hosted young adults from Mexico and Russia and will entertain a group from India this coming July.
The young Brazilians received a warm welcome from the participating Rotarians who had them stay in their homes and then took them on tours of the Pioneer Living History Museum , the Anthem Visitor's Center, the Boulder Creek High School and the Maricopa County Regional Library in order to get a better understanding of Arizona , its history and the Anthem community. The visitors hopefully come away with experiences and ideas that they can take back to their countries.
INFO> Larry Evans, 623-551-3764
Looking for Eligible Bachelors!
The American Liver Foundation is looking for eligible bachelors to assist in the first Bid for Bachelors Benefit Auction in August. Bid for Bachelors will include 15 eligible bachelors and their date packages for women to bid on. The festivities begin with the bachelors and women mingling during an hors d'oeuvres reception. Then on to the main event where the bachelors will appear on stage before they are auctioned off to the winning bidder. All proceeds of the event benefit the American Liver Foundation.
Each bachelor must create his own date package, either through donations or sponsoring the date themselves. Date packages can range from dinner and a limo ride to a shopping trip. Bachelors can be creative and come up with the most original date! "Bid for Bachelors" is an easy way to give back to the community," said committee co-chairman Amy Glenn. "We hope that eligible bachelors will come forward to help with this important cause." The deadline to submit Bachelor Applications is Friday, May 5, 2006. Visit www.liverfoundation.org/arizona or call 602-953-1800 to get a Bachelor Application and start making a difference today.
INFO> Amy Glenn, 602-206-2513
New Meeting Place for Heritage Christian Church
Pastor Toby Ray has announced that the Heritage Christian Church will be meeting on Saturday evenings at 7:00 pm at the Diamond Canyon Elementary School in Anthem. Welcome to the Anthem community.
INFO> 602-635-3722. toby@heritageca.org
Anthem Rotary Hosts Sonoran Arts League President
Sonoran Arts League President Carole Perry met recently with the Anthem Rotary, citing the numerous ways the League contributes to the community. Promoting the visual arts, artists and art education, the SAL has over 400 professional artists, Sunday painters, and art boosters on their roster and is the premiere visual arts organization in the Desert Foothills.
In addition to student scholarships, SAL artists are actively involved with educating students through mentoring programs. The Hidden in the Hills studio tour in November provides an opportunity to visit artists in their working studios, the Empty Bowls project helps the food bank through the creation of artistic bowls that are used to serve soup at the annual community fundraising event in October, and t he Umbrella Project to help Tsunami victims, involves artists creating umbrella works of art for sale to raise money. The SAL also provides public education and awareness and assists on efforts to preserve Native American culture. Originally formed in the early '70s, the SAL recently joined the Arts Council of the North Valley whose mission includes literary, musical, theatrical, dance as well as visual arts.
INFO> Call Willine Evans at 623-551-3764 for additional info on the ACNV / SAL.
NORTH VALLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY CALENDAR
CHILDREN
Toddler Time - May 15, 22; June 5, 12 (Monday) 10am. April 18, 25 (Tuesday) 10am. Ages 18-36 months. Stories, finger-plays, action rhymes.
Positively Pre-Schoolers - May 17, 24, 31; June 7, 14 (Wedne sday) 10am. Ages 3-5. Stories, finger-plays, and other activities.
Baby Time - May 18, 25; June 1, 8, 15 (Thursday) 10am. Ages Birth-18 months. Introduce books to your baby.
Extreme Readers - June 1 (Thursday) 4pm. Grades 4-6. Read final two chapters of Flyboy by Bill Harley, the new online novel available on the Maricopa County Library District Web Site. Play games, win prizes, and talk about the chapters.
Young Explorers: Mexico - May 17 (Wednesday) 4pm. Grades 4-7. Explore the history, culture, and people of Mexico - all through fun activities and games.
Mother Goose Story Time - June 5 (Monday) 10am. All ages. Jan Sandwich, as Mother Goose, uses magic, rhymes and puppets and brings lots of love, fun and learning.
Papercraft with Susan Corl - June 6 (Tuesday) 2pm. Ages 8-11. Learn how to make a book. Practice bookmaking craft with artist Susan Corl.
Animal Tales - June 7, 14 (Wednesday) 10am. All ages. A half-hour program of stories, songs and fun for the whole family. Children 3 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Bunny Tales for Babies - June 8, 15 (Thursday) 10am. Birth-2 years. Beginning with 20 minutes of songs, baby games and stories and ending with time to play and look at board books. Each child must be accompanied by a caregiver.
Flags Across America - June 14 (Wednesday) 1:30pm. Ages 5-11. A Flag Day discussion of the history, etiquette and meaning of our country's flag. Flags will be provided to all participants.
Young Explorers - Australia - June 14 (Wednesday) 4pm. Grades 4-7. Go "down under" to explore the people, geography and fascinating wildlife of the only country in the world to occupy a complete continent - all through fun activities and games.
ALL AGES
Used Book Sale - June 1 (Thursday) 10am. Choose from hundreds of quality children and adult used books for sale, as well as CDs, DVDs, audio books and more. Open to the public. Proceeds from the book sale benefit the Friends of the North Valley Regional Library.
Summer Reading Kickoff - June 1 (Thursday) 12 noon. Children ages 0-12 can register in "Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales." Teens ages 12-18 can take part in "Creature Feature" and adults 18+ can participate in "Adults Are Wild About Reading."
Phoenix Zoo Animal Kingdom - June 1 (Thursday) 2pm & 3pm. Experience the wide variety of the animal kingdom with the Phoenix Zoo. Sponsored by the GFWC Anthem Women's Club. Seating is limited. Held at Boulder Creek High School mini-auditorium.
George and Martha Puppet Show - June 13 (Tuesday) 10am & 11am. See a puppet show based on James Marshall's books about two good friends who just happen to be hippos.
TEENS
Teen Summer Volunteers - May 16 (Tuesday) 7pm; May 20 (Saturday) 1pm. Teens 12-18. Help at Library's summer reading program a few hours a week. Make new friends and earn community service hours. Fill out an application and attend a volunteer orientation meeting.
Anime-Manga Club - May 17 (Wednesday) 4pm. Ages 12-18. Discussion of various Anima and Manga- related topics. Plan future events like watching Anime and drawing Manga.
Teen Festival of Bookmaking - June 6 (Tuesday) 4pm. Ages 12-18. Instructed by folk artist Susan Corl, you will create a book in a choice of different forms.
ADULTS
Friends of the North Valley - May 18 (Thursday) 7pm. Join in the monthly meeting of the Friends of the North Valley Regional Library and help promote the recreational, educational and cultural resources the Library brings to the community.
People and Places Book Discussion - May 19 (Friday) 1pm. Discuss nonfiction books set in different cultures, places and times. May's book will be 1776 by David McCullough.
North Valley Film Club - May 23 (Tuesday) 6pm. Watch a good movie and then participate in a brief, informal discussion. Due to mature themes, members must be over 18.
Understanding Your Dreams - May 24 (Wednesday) 6:30 pm. Bob Hoss, world-renowned investigator of dreams, will explain the process of dreaming based on some of the latest research, as well as the personal meaning we can derive from dreams.
Adult Summer Reading - June 1-July 31. Join in the fun with your own summer reading program - "Adults Are Wild About Reading." The more you read, the more chances you have of winning weekly fun prizes.
North Valley Journaling Group - June 7 (Wednesday) 1pm. Learn about personal journaling techniques. We practice journaling, we discuss what we learn and have refreshments together.
Living with Arizona Wildlife - June 12 (Monday) 7pm. Kevin Hansen, Educational Director for Southwest Wildlife Rehabilitation and Educational Foundation, will provide a 45-minute slide presentation on wildlife native to our desert and what to do if you encounter a wild animal.
Friends of the North Valley Regional Library - June 15 (Thursday) 7pm. Participate in the monthly meeting of the Friends of the NVRL and help promote the recreational, educational and cultural resources the Library brings to the community.
INFO> Maricopa County Library District's North Valley Regional Library, 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway , Anthem. 602-525-1126 or 602-525-1127. http://mcld.maricopa.gov
AROUND THE CORNER
5/18, 19, 20 Lend Me a Tenor
Be sure to attend Starlight Community Theater's production of the comedy, "Lend Me a Tenor" on May 18, 19 or 20, 2006 at the Boulder Creek Performing Arts Center in Anthem if you want to enjoy a laugh-filled evening of a live theater performance. "Lend Me a Tenor" is a farce about the world of opera. Like many farces, the humor is derived from action that is frantic, lots of slammed doors and mistaken identities. The cast members who all live locally are: Tito: Kevin McCaw, Julia: Pat Drapac, Saunders: Dan Meiller, Maria: Maria Grimmelmann, Max: Eric Swanson, Maggie: Cassie Ellis, Diana: Betsy Lowry, Bellhop: Tyler Wilson. The director is Paul Towne and the producer is Betty Towne. Tickets are $12 and all performances are at 7:30 pm. Include dinner at Franco's Ristorante in your theater plans. Buy a ticket for $20 and select any pasta or chicken (entree only) at no extra charge. Customers need to make their own dinner reservation for 6:00 pm on their show night. For details call Betty Towne.
INFO> Betty Towne, 623-594-3832, bettymt@cox.net
5/19, 5/20, 5/25
Music in May The Daisy Mountains are alive again with music, now that the free concerts are being held again in May at the Anthem Community Park . On Friday, May 19 the sounds of country rock from the Tumbleweed Junction will set your heels a'tappin. On Saturday, May 20 sway to the music of the jazz trio Pete Pancrazi Trio as they perform a blend of jazz originals and standards. On Thursday, May 25 be sure to hear the entire ProMusicaAZ Chorale as well as the a cappella group as they perform Americana selections prior to the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra's presentation of "Red, White and Sousa." The PSO will be under the direction of guest conductor Keith Brion, affectionately known as "Mr. Sousa."
INFO> For tickets, please visit the Anthem Community Center or call 623-879-3011; www.promusicaaz.org
5/20
Team WISH Annual Golf Classic
Team W.I.S.H. (Walking In Spirit and Hope) will be holding its Second Annual Golf Classic and Silent Auction on Saturday, May 20, at the Ironwood Course at Anthem Country Club. This is an opportunity to play golf, enjoy lunch, and bid on silent auction items and help Team W.I.S.H. continue its commitment to find a cure for breast cancer and raise awareness for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.
The festivities will begin with an 8:00 am shotgun start for the scramble format event. There will be prizes for the winning team, closest to the pin contest for men and ladies and more. The cost is $125.00 per person with a breakfast snack and buffet lunch included. Women and men singles, twosomes and foursomes are encouraged to register. The Silent Auction will be open to the general public from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm when the bids will be closed. You do not need to be present to win.
INFO> Linda Kacmarsky, 623-640-8749, kramsky2@qwest.net
5/21, 5/23, 5/24
The Music Man Auditions
The next production for the Starlight Community Theater will be "The Music Man" to be held on July 28 and 29 and August 4 and 5, 2006. Both children and adults are needed to fill the roles in this great family musical. So, if you have any experience on the stage or even if you've only toyed with the idea of being on stage, now is your chance. Auditions will be held at the Community Center in Anthem on May 21 from 1:00 to 3:30 pm for students and 5:30 to 7:00 pm for all ages. Additional auditions will be held on May 23 and 24 from 7:00 to 10:00 pm.
INFO> Betty Towne, 623-594-3832, bettymt@cox.net
5/30 - 7/28
Fieldtrip Fun Summer Program
The Early Start Learning Center in Anthem has just the antidote to your children's summer boredom blues - its Fieldtrip Fun Summer Program. During the two-week sessions your school-age children will go on a field trip to some fun places every day. Air-conditioned charter buses will take them to destinations such as IMAX, Game Works, television news stations, Cerreta's Candy Factory, Ringling Bros., Barnum & Bailey Circus, Luke Air Force Base and many, many more. Loads of fun activities are planned. The two-week sessions run from May 30 through July 28, 2006, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday. The cost of each two-week session is $500, with a one-time $95 registration fee. Family discounts of 10% are offered. The cost includes admission to all planned events, two bottles of water and two healthy snacks every day.
INFO> 623-362-8700, earlystartlearningcenters@cox.net
6/3 Model Search The Outlets at Anthem will host a "Model Search" on Saturday, June 3. Anthem's premier shopping center is looking for young girls/women of ages 5 to 19 to model back-to-school fashions for the Outlets' full-color newspaper ad in July. All four winners will receive head to toe makeovers, courtesy of Outlets at Anthem. "This event is great for those ages 5 to 19 who are trying to break into the modeling field," said Jess Irwin, Marketing Director of Outlets at Anthem. "Last year's grand prize winner, Taylor Jackson, has been appearing in fashion shows throughout the Valley." The Outlets at Anthem is located just 10 minutes north of the Loop 101 off I-17. Take Exit #229 to Anthem Way .
INFO> 623-465-9500; www.outletsanthem.com
6/3
Go Garage "Saling"
Lots of fun is in store for those of you who love to go "saling" at flea markets and garage sales. On Saturday, June 3 rd from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm. The Arizona Hills Community Church is hosting a multiple-homes garage sale as a fundraiser for their upcoming mission trip to Latvia . The mission group of 28 students and adults will travel to Latvia from June 28 through July 18. Maps and refreshments will be provided at the starting point at 2224 W. Hidden Treasure Way (an appropriate name for this event) in Anthem Parkside. They are also looking for donations, so please call Dena if you have items that you no longer use and wish to give them to the church for this event. INFO> Dena, 623-551-7088.
June
Pathways Christian Bookstore
A Christian book store will be opening in June, 2006 at 4215 W. Anthem Way, Suite 112 (SE corner of Anthem Way and Summit Walk Court). Pathways Christian Bookstore will be an old fashioned, community-based, independent Christian bookstore offering a wide variety of Christian books, music, apparel, cards, gifts and jewelry for all ages. Owned and
managed by long-time Anthem resident, Diane Estes-Comp, Pathways will provide a convenient, comfortable corner of the world where ideas, conversation, reading, learning and just enjoying life can go on everyday. A portion of the store will be set aside to provide an opportunity for local artists to display their talents for sale on consignment. Events are planned for people of all ages from story time for the little ones to book club discussions for our more seasoned readers.
INFO> Diane Estes-Comp, 623-551-1004, pathwayscbs@cox.net
AROUND THE VALLEY Visual Arts
Now through 8/25
Arizona's Ancient Ocean Mesa Southwest Museum's exhibit looks at Arizona 300 million years ago when a warm shallow ocean covered half to two-thirds of the state. Paleontologists call this body of water the Naco Ocean ; it covered one-half to two-thirds of what is now Arizona . Fossils from this sea are found in many parts of Arizona , but the exhibit focuses on the fossils found east of Payson. The museum is located at 53 N. MacDonald Street in Mesa and is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
INFO> 480-644-2230; www.mesasouthwestmuseum.org
Now through 9/19
Descanse en Paz Spanish for "Rest in Peace," "The Art of Handmade Grave Markers in the Southwest" seems like an unusual exhibition for Mesa Southwest Museum to have - and it is. But macabre it is not. Photographer Dick George takes us on a visual exploration of the grave marker as folk art. George's exhibit invites the viewer to witness a disappearing tradition, which goes back 150 years and examines how the Southwest culture has changed over time. The museum is located at 53 N. MacDonald Street in Mesa and is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
INFO> 480-644-2230; www.mesasouthwestmuseum.org
6/23 - 6/25
Best of the West Art Exhibition & Sale Original works from some of the country's top western artists will be on display and for sale during the 4th annual "Best of the West" art exhibition in Arizona 's cool White Mountains . Proceeds from the event benefit Ronald McDonald House of Phoenix, a "home-away-from-home" where families can stay to be close to their seriously ill children who are receiving medical treatment at local hospitals. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and visit with the artists. The three-day event also includes a Chef's Cook-Off in which some of the White Mountains ' finest chefs will prepare culinary specialties for guests in attendance. Also included are a Quick Draw Auction, a Wine and Hors d'oevres Reception and entertainment by 16 top Western artists. It's at the Hon-Dah Resort Casino, 777 Highway 270 in Pinetop. Hours for the exhibition and sale are 10:00 am to 9:00 pm on 6/23 and 6/24 and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on 6/25. The Chef's Cook-Off and Quick Draw Auction will be held on Friday, 6/23 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Cost: Art Exhibition only- $15 per person / $25 per couple; Chef's Cook-Off only- $60 per person; Art Exhibition & Chef's Cook-Off Package- $70 per person / $135 per couple.
INFO> 800- 573-4031 or (602) 798-5092, or visit www.rmhcphoenix.com
Performing Arts
5/18 - 5/20
Beethoven's Ninth The Phoenix Symphony orchestra and soloists present Beethoven's Ninth, one of the greatest musical works ever written. Conducted by Michael Christie. Times: Thursday, 7:30 pm; Friday and Saturday, 8:00 pm. Cost: $24-69. At Symphony Hall, 225 E. Adams Street in Phoenix .
INFO> 602-495-1999; www.phoenixsymphony.org
Now - 6/4
H.M.S Pinafore Head out to the Arizona Broadway Theatre in Peoria to see their production of H.M.S. Pinafore before it ends on June 4 th . Heralded as William S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan's first major success, H.M.S. PINAFORE is celebrated worldwide for its silly satire and infectious tunes such as We sail the Ocean Blue and I'm Called Little Buttercup. The Arizona Broadway Theatre is located at 7701 W. Paradise Lane in Peoria . Dinner is served one hour and forty-five minutes prior to curtain. Show times are: Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., Saturday Matinee at 2:00 p.m., Sunday Matinee at 1 p.m., and Sunday Twilight, shows at 7 p. m. Ticket Prices are $39.00 - $49.00 (price includes dinner, show and tax).
INFO> 623-776-8400; www.azbroadwaytheatre.com
6/6 - 6/11
The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Andrew Lloyd Webber's beautiful music added to the humorous lyrics of Tim Rice highlight this musical, which is based on the biblical story of Jacob's son Joseph and his eleven brothers. This production will be shown at ASU Gammage, located on the campus of Arizona State University in Tempe ( 1200 S. Forest Avenue . Times: Tuesday through Friday, 7:30 pm; Saturday, 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm; Sunday, 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
INFO> 480-965-3434; www.asugammage.com
6/8 - 7/23
Big River The Arizona Broadway Theatre presents Big River , Mark Twain's timeless classic about Huck Finn and how he helps his friend Jim, a slave, escape to freedom down the mighty Mississippi . Enjoy the award-winning score from Roger Miller, which includes songs like Muddy Water, River in the Rain and Worlds Apart . The Arizona Broadway Theatre is located at 7701 W. Paradise Lane in Peoria . Dinner is served one hour and forty-five minutes prior to curtain. Show times are: Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., Saturday Matinee at 2:00 p.m., Sunday Matinee at 1 p.m., and Sunday Twilight, shows at 7 p. m. Ticket Prices are $39.00 - $49.00 (price includes dinner, show and tax).
INFO> 623-776-8400; www.azbroadwaytheatre.com
6/9 - 6/25
Bye Bye Birdie Join the frenzy as the nation bids farewell to dreamy rocker Conrad Birdie, whose last publicity stunt before shipping off to the army sets the town of Sweet Apple, Ohio on its ear. Sound like a page out of American Idol ? It's not. Set in the late 1950's , Bye Bye Birdie tells the story of a big-time star and the mayhem that erupts when a small-town girl wins his last kiss on national TV. Presented by the Valley Youth Theatre, Bye Bye Birdie opens to the public, Thursday, June 9 and runs through June 25, 2006 at the Herberger Theater Center , 222 E Monroe , Phoenix . Thursday and Fridays at 7:30pm; Saturdays at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm; and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Tickets from $16.00 to $20.00 per person.
INFO> 602-252-8497; www.vyt.com
Special Events 5/19 - 5/21
Jerome Home & Historic Building Tour Roam through historic homes and buildings and get a glimpse into the Wild West. Homes on this tour range from Victorian homes on Company Hill to renovated miners' shacks. Also featured is an exhibition by Jerome artists and a photographic display from the Jerome Historical Society Archives. Times: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Cost: $6 - 12.
INFO> 928-634-2900; www.jeromechamber.com
5/20 & 5/21
Sedona Art & Architecture Home Tour Get decorating ideas on a tour of eight spectacular architecturally designed homes in Sedona. Also on hand are celebrity chefs, well-known artists displaying their works, feng shui demonstrations and an "Art of the West" show at the Legacy Ranch. Tickets are $35 per person and are available at Basha's and Safeway in Sedona or by calling the reservation line below. Proceeds from the home tour will benefit the Arizona Opera League of Northern Arizona.
INFO> 928-284-3588; azopera@esedona.net
Children
5/17 - 6/4
Peter Pan The Great Arizona Puppet Theater presents Peter Pan. Marvel at these creative puppeteers take you on a journey to Neverland with Wendy, John and Michael. Times: Wednesday to Friday, 10:00 am; Saturday, 10:00 am and 2:00 pm; Sunday, 2:00 pm. Cost: adults, $8; children, $6. Located at 302 W. Latham Street in Phoenix .
INFO> 602-262-2050; www.azpuppets.org
Now through 9/17
Visions The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) presents Visions - an art program for teens, which encourages creative self-expression and civic engagement. This exhibition features artwork created by 43 teens from the New School for the Arts and Central, Coronado, McClintock and Horizon high schools.
INFO> 480-994-ARTS (2787); www.smoca.org
6/12-6/15
Hohokam Experience Summer Camp Musical instruments and music were and still are a big part of the culture of the Hohokam people and other southwestern tribes. Participants at this camp hosted by the Pueblo Grande Museum will learn to make various native instruments the traditional way and see them demonstrated by the artists. Among the instruments you can make are the flute, drum, gourd rattle, gourd water drum, rasp and more. Children 11-14. Limit of 25 children. Times: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm. Cost: $55/non-member; $40/each additional non-member child; $45/member; $30/each additional member child. The Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park is located at 4619 E. Washington in Phoenix .
INFO> 602-495-0901; www.ci.phoenix.az.us/PARKS/pueblo.html
BRAVO! GFWC's Volunteer of the Year Awards
Each year the GFWC Anthem Women's Club presents their Volunteer of the Year award to "extraordinary community volunteers who have helped improve or promote the general welfare of the North Valley communities." Judges look at the activity, need, leadership, initiative and innovation of the nominees.
GFWC Anthem Women's Club is pleased to announce that two local community leaders have been chosen to receive the Volunteer of the Year award for 2006 - Juereta Smith and Eric Kilstrom. The co-winners have contributed hundreds of hours of their time over the past year to such organizations as We Care in Anthem, Rotary Club of Anthem, Chamber of Commerce at Anthem, Arts Council of the North Valley , Anthem Community Council, the Anthem Country Club Finance and Policy Committees. "These are two exceptional community leaders," says Heidi Banning, Anthem Women's Club President. "Each has contributed to the well being of our community so much so we chose to award both of them this year."
Juereta Smith is a charter member of the Rotary, Arts Council of the North Valley , Anthem Community Council and Anthem Country Club Finance Committees. She relinquished her position on the Anthem Country Club Finance Committee in 2005 to sit on the Anthem Country Club Policy Committee. She is also currently a member of ProMusica Arizona and involved with the USAA Golden Eagles organization. Smith has lived in Anthem since September 2001.
Eric Kilstrom founded the Chamber of Commerce at Anthem and We Care in Anthem in the summer of 2001. He serves as the current President of the Chamber and Executive Director of We Care. We Care has helped raise money for many area families and organizations in times of need and sorrow over the past couple years. When not volunteering, he enjoys coaching youth basketball and soccer, and playing basketball. Kilstrom has lived in Anthem for five years and the North Valley for 30 years.
Juereta and Eric will be given a check for $250 made out to the charity(s) of their choice. Their awards will be presented to them at the Phoenix Symphony's performance on May 25, 2006 in the Anthem Community Park .
INFO> Robin Chowaniec, 623-551-9810; www.gfwcanthem.org
WE CARE
ImagesAZ magazine wishes to express our heartfelt sympathies to all those of our neighbors who were affected recently by the series of terrible events that happened in our close community. It was heartwarming, however, to witness how well this community pulls together in times of tragedy and misfortune. Neighbors comforted neighbors, donated money and rolled up their sleeves to help out wherever they could. Xtreme Computer Center
Of all the businesses burglarized in Anthem, Xtreme Computer Center was especially hard-hit. Owners Maggie and Ryan Berndt were devastated when they saw the damage that was done to their youth computer business. Not only were many computers stolen, but the thief (or thieves) methodically went about destroying the furnishings and equipment, and spraying foam from the fire extinguishers. "I went around in a fog for over a week," said Maggie. That fog was quickly lifted, however, by all the people from the community who came forward to help.
Many people pitched in to clean up all the debris. Steve and Stacy Cahow of NeTech Global came in immediately to protect the server data before the corrosive effects of the extinguisher foam could do its damage. They were able to save all the children's account information. Ken and Dawn Hamm of Jalopy Jacuzzi, along with their son Dylan, vacuumed and got down on their knees to scrub the carpeting. Gutowski Cabinet Works created their columns in two days, despite their own 12-14-week backlog of orders. Bryan Potter of Horizon Landscape Supply brought in drinks for the crew, trash bags for the cleanup effort, and then spent hours cleaning. Joe Gittleson, the full-time facilities manager at the Fellowship Church, was given flexible hours by the church so that he could help with the restoration and rebuild the tables to fit the new computers that were ordered. Don Peterson of Nationwide Insurance and his team stepped in and helped expedite the insurance claim, even though Xtreme was insured with another company.
Additional help was also provided by the following people and businesses: Kumon, ImagesAZ, Excel North Valley Rayne, Charlie Kupper, Eric Kilstrom of Great Southwest Mortgage, and Mark Kramer of Hot Realty, the Chamber of Commerce at Anthem, Print Station, and the Xtreme Computer staff. "The outpouring of community support was overwhelming," said Maggie. "Ryan and I want to thank everyone for their kindness and hard work to get us back on our feet again. You are what make Anthem a great place to live and work." Xtreme Computer Center hopes to be open for business by Tuesday, May 23.
INFO> www.xtremecc.net
Car Wash for the Posse
Upset by all the recent burglaries in Anthem, a group of kids decided they should do something to help. What better way than to do something for the Anthem Posse, that group of volunteers who assist the Maricopa County Sheriff's Department with their crime-fighting and protection efforts. On Saturday, May 27, from 8:00 am to Noon, they will hold a car wash in the lot in front of Xtreme Computer Center, 42302 N. Vision Way in Anthem. Support a worthy cause and rid your car of its coat of desert dust at the same time.
INFO> Katherine Sarbacker, 623-551-9217
THANK YOU
From the Simpkins Family Dear Anthem Community,
How does one even begin to thank such a truly caring and kind community for their heart? Our precious niece Emma Addison Simpkins recently passed away on 26 March 2006 in a tragic accident on her street involving her dear father. Our entire family was completely overwhelmed with grief. We gathered in the wonderful community of Anthem from all parts of the country to say our final "goodbyes" to our loving niece, daughter, granddaughter and friend, Emma, and to comfort her father Bill, mother Abby and brothers Tyler, Isaac and Wyatt. We worried before our arrival about how this family in such pain would cope after the relatives departed.
Each day that our out-of-state families were in Anthem, we witnessed the community come together for Emma's family in a way never seen before by any of us. One could say this is too good to be true, but believe it when we say "Anthem Cares."
Additionally, we have special heartfelt thanks for the "We Care in Anthem" organization, Desert Hills Fellowship Church of the Nazarene, their congregation and Pastor Jimmy Farley.
Anthem community, please accept our sincerest gratitude for helping your Anthem neighbors, the Simpkins family, get through the loss of their daughter. We ask and beg that you continue to pray for healing and continue to think of this family in the coming days and months, as they will continue to need the Anthem community to get through the grief of this loss.
Sincerely, Rogelio & Annie San Martin & Family, Palm Beach County , Florida
From Distinction 2006 Fabulous, Energetic, Fantastic, Tremendous, Amazing, Excellent, Great, Super - these are just a few of the words that attendees used to describe Distinction 2006! My favorite comment "Take this event and clone it!" Needless-to-say, it was a Fabulous, Energetic, Fantastic, Tremendous Amazing, Excellent, Great, Super day of learning and connecting!
On behalf of Eric Kilstrom, Shelly Langston and the entire planning committee, I would like to thank The Chamber of Commerce at Anthem and Wells Fargo for bringing an idea to reality. I would also like to thank Ted Baird and the amazing staff at Fellowship for making such a huge contribution of time and effort to host the event. From logistics to the band your team was amazing!
To the hundreds of those who attended this year's creative business conference, we thank you. Your commitment to growing your business was evident and we look forward to hearing more of your success stories as you take the information shared and apply it to your business. Few things are greater than watching an organization close the gap between good and great!
Distinction 2006 was most definitely a success but like you, we too will reach even higher in 2007. Taking your suggestions, we will reduce the number of speakers in order facilitate your request to conduct a Q and A session during a luncheon at noon.
In closing, allow me to again thank you for your commitment and contribution. If there is anything we can do for you as you go further in your journey to reaching full potential, please do not hesitate in letting us know.
Sincerely, Michael Crain, Chief Creative Officer, Performance Architects Volunteer Corner
Help Needed to Sell Phoenix Symphony Tickets
Attention all Leaders/Associates of organizations such as: ACNV, GFWC, Rotary Club of Anthem, ProMusica Arizona, AZDance Group, Ballet Sanctus, Anthem Golden Go-Getters, Anthem's Sheriff's Posse, Dance Team/Boulder Creek, VFW and others:
Steve Boyle, Special Events Coordinator at Anthem Community Center, would like to extend an invitation to all North Valley community-based organizations to help sell Phoenix Symphony tickets and promote the upcoming concert event. The concert will be held on Thursday, May 25th, 2006; gates open at 6:00 pm, ProMusica Arizona Chorale begins at 6:30; Phoenix Symphony at 7:30 pm.
Organizations would receive 90 general seating tickets to sell at $18.00 and 10 reserved seating tickets for $25.00. Each organization would have the purchaser write the check out to " Anthem Community Center ." The center would then cut a check to that organization for $2.00 for each ticket sold (for your extraordinary efforts!). Any unsold tickets would be returned to Anthem Community Center by May 23rd.
INFO> Steve Boyle, steve.boyle@delwebb.com |
