By Crystal Carson
Photography by Fiona Garden for NOBASURA.com
Makeup: Jennifer Karsten for MAC Cosmetics
Hair: Kevin Anderson for Gstudio
Stylist and Producer: Crystal Carson for Mode Models
Models:
Kyli is a model for sim-agency.com
Levi is a model for sim-agency.com
Horse provided by Linda Leslie of Twin L Performance Horses, twinlperformance.com
Location: Carefree Resort & Villas, carefree-resort.com

The naturally wild textures of fur, suede, and leather bring a western flair to the fashion of fall 2008. The fusion of tradition and trend make this a unique collection of garments.

Man leaning on saguaro and woman standing with horse
KYLI
Gray microknit wrap sweater / BCBG Max Azria / Saks Fifth Avenue / $318
Rosary necklace / Guess / $20

LEVI
Brown ostrich cowboy boot / 1883 by Lucchese / Sheplers / $399.99
Gold aviators / YSL / Saks Fifth Avenue / $295
Toby Keith cowboy hat / Sheplers / $29.99
Dark denim slim boot-cut jeans / Joes / Scottsdale Jean Co. / $178
Dark brown duster jacket / Outback Trading Co. / Sheplers / $99

In Front of Store
LEVI
Brown felt cowboy hat / Scala / Sheplers / $39.99
Brown micro-cord trouser / Michael Kors / Saks Fifth Avenue / $195
Turquoise and brown plaid men’s dress shirt / double S / Sheplers / $35
Leather stitched lapel lambskin blazer / Scully / Sheplers / $299.99
Brown leather cowboy boots / 1883 by Lucchese / Sheplers / $399.99

KYLI
Turquoise scrolled leather belt / Sheplers / $65
Straw cowboy hat with blue detail / Scala / Sheplers / $29.99
Beige with blue yoke and floral embroidery shirt / Scully / Sheplers / $69.99
Brown skinny riding pant / Vince / Saks Fifth Avenue / $210
Light brown suede slouchy cowboy boot / Durango / Sheplers / $279.99

Woman on horse
KYLI
Jimmy Choo black suede fringe boot (bill) / Jimmy Choo / $1,295
Leopard print-trim rouched athletic shirt / Jaquette / Scottsdale Jean Co. / $64
Dark denim skinny capri / Guess / $138
Chinchilla-fringe hooded vest jacket / Adriene Landau / Saks Fifth Avenue / $775
Brown leather wristband / Guess / $24
Silver charm bracelet / Guess / $30.00

Sitting by stream
KYLI
Embellished artisan beige silk dress / Danang / Scottsdale Jean Co. / $150
Beige suede bootie with white belt / Givenchy / Saks Fifth Avenue / $595
Lemon topaz, sardonyx, 18K vermeil dangle chain Y-style necklace / Devon Leigh / $725
Amber quartz in 14K gold-filled wire earrings / Devon Leigh / $375
Crystal belt / waistedfashions.com / $145

LEVI
Brown distressed leather boot / Mark Nason / Scottsdale Jean Co. / $415
Premium distressed denim / Guess / $168
Distressed white long-sleeve T-shirt / John Varvatos / Saks Fifth Avenue / $155
Gray leather jacket / Armani / Saks Fifth Avenue / $1,745

Chuck wagon
LEVI
Sunset relaxed-leg jeans / Guess / $158
Plaid sheer button-up shirt / Jon Havataras / Saks Fifth Avenue / $165
Vest / John Havtos / $224

KYLI
Jerry ultra-skinny / William Rast / Scottsdale Jean Co. / $189
White bustier / Guess / $69
24K gold-wrapped white agate earrings / Devon Leigh / $298
Christie Vest / 100 percent cotton yarn-dye “dotted stripe” / Lily and Jae / Covet / $124

Close-Up
LEVI
White embroidered yoke men’s dress shirt / Scully / Sheplers / $72
Toby Keith cowboy hat / Sheplers / $29.99
Cowboy necktie / Sheplers / $59
Gold aviators / YSL / Saks Fifth Avenue / $295

KYLI
Brown suede vest / Cripple Creek / Sheplers / $139
White jersey bell-arm top / Guess / $59
Amber Y-style necklace / Devon Leigh / $525

By Crystal Carson

Photography
Fiona Garden for NOBASURA.com
Makeup and Hair
Caitlin Callahan for NOBASURA.com
Stylist and Producer
Crystal Carson for Mode Models
Models
Danielle Kremeniuk for triskotalent.com
Woody for richardsmodels.com

We all love to feel beautiful. Nothing makes you glow more than a romantic night with the one you love. This season, wrap yourself in the sexy fabrics and sparkling details, perfect for every special occasion.

SHOT 1
Danielle
Lotus kimono robe/$2,795
Cranberry body sugar/frillylilly.ca/$28
Grapefruit bubble bath/frillylilly.ca/$20

SHOT 2
Danielle
Gold Bouquet baby doll/D&G/$285
Floral Mary Jane pump/Prada shoe/$885
Silver crystal-encrusted heel/Roger Vivian/$1,495
Black Whisper satin blouse (Bettina)/Una Bella Boutique/$455
Black jersey gown with cascade (Miranda)/Una Bella Boutique/$890
Gold dot jersey cocktail dress (Blaire)/Una Bella Boutique/$720
Silk cotton voile pebble-print gown (Samira)/Una Bella Boutique/$980

SHOT 3
Woody
Pajamas/Burberry/$275

SHOT 4
Danielle
Silk cotton voile pebble-printed gown (Samira)/Una Bella Boutique/$980
Diamond necklace/Tiffany’s/$21,500
Diamond drop earrings/Tiffany’s/$7,150

Woody
Martini pinstripe suit/Dolce & Gabanna/$2,195
Twill white dress shirt/Armani/$295

SHOT 5
Danielle
Satin and crystal anklet sandal/Manolo blanik/$1,250
Black sequinned cocktail dress (Madison) /Una Bella Boutique/$1,200

Woody
Tuxedo/Armani/$2,050
Twill white dress shirt/Armani/$295
Black patent leather shoe/Salvatore Feragamo/$520

COVER SHOT
Danielle
Gold dot jersey cocktail dress (Blaire)/Una Bella Boutique/$720 CAD
Shoes: model’s own

Woody
Martini pinstripe suit pant/Dolce & Gabanna/$2,195
Wool vest/Paul Smith/$229
Twill white dress shirt/Armani/$295

By Gerry Calamia
Photos courtesy of the Phoenix Coyotes, Norm Hall/NHLI

When Wayne Gretzky was six years old, his father, Walter, built a rink for him in the backyard of their house in Brantford, Ontario. This was the first step toward the pinnacle of his sport that Gretzky would reach by becoming the greatest team player the NHL and the world had ever seen.

“The Great One” now uses his talents to run the Phoenix Coyotes as their head coach and to champion great causes through his Wayne Gretzky Foundation, which he started in 2002 to help disadvantaged youngsters throughout North America participate in the sport of hockey. Corporate clients such as JVC, Anheuser-Busch, Pepsi-Cola Canada, and McFarlane Toys have eagerly sought and obtained his endorsement.

He holds or shares sixty-one NHL records, was awarded the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP an astounding nine times, was the captain of four Stanley Cup Championship teams with the Edmonton Oilers, and retired as the NHL’s all-time goal scorer, assists, and total-points leader. He helped Team Canada win three Canada Cup Titles, and then in 2002 coached the Canadian Men’s Olympic Team to its first gold medal in fifty years at the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

In 1988, when Gretzky was sent from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings in what is known as The Trade, hockey in America would never be the same. Gretzky’s influence created big changes, which brought the NHL into Western and Southern U.S. markets where it had never been before. In 2000, even Gretzky got involved in the NHL’s expansion by becoming a managing partner of the Phoenix Coyotes. The next step seemed logical: Gretzky became the Phoenix Coyotes’ head coach in 2005.

Gretzky now puts the magic of his storied twenty-year career into his roles as an NHL coach, a father and, through his charitable work with Ronald McDonald House Charities in Canada and Hands that Shape Humanity, a friend to those in need. Maybe we’ll have to start calling him “The Greater One.”

We talked with Gretzky briefly about hockey, his foundation, and his plans for the Coyotes’ future.

North Valley Magazine: Having taken over the coaching ranks of the Phoenix Coyotes since 2005, which would you say has been more challenging: leading a team as its captain or as its coach?

Wayne Gretzky: As a coach. As I player, I felt as if I could affect the outcome. Sometimes, as a coach, I feel helpless.

NVM: What personal changes did you make to prepare yourself for the move from iconic sports athlete to rookie head coach?

WG: Oh, nothing really. I just wanted to do the best job I could do and knew it was going to be a lot of hard work.

NVM: What is your greatest hockey memory as a youth hockey player and as a professional hockey player?

WG: [There are] too many to name, but winning that first Stanley Cup would be tough to beat.

NVM: You have played with some Hall of Famers such as Mark Messier, Jari Kurri, and Grant Fuhr (the current Coyotes goalie coach) during your career. How has this helped you when considering young prospects for the draft selections of the Coyotes?

WG: Players like those come along once in a lifetime. Every player is different, and our great scouting staff leads the way in that regard.

NVM: April 16, 1999 was your final NHL game in Canada at Ottawa, and April 18, 1999 was your last NHL game with the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. What memories stick out as the Canadian and American fans said goodbye and thanked you?

WG: Mostly that I was so happy that they appreciated my love for the game, and I think that is what they were applauding.

NVM: If you had to choose something other than hockey to excel in, what would “The Great One” have chosen?

WG: I really loved baseball a lot when I was growing up. I always loved to play.

NVM: Your foundation recently announced the partnership with Ford Canada to sponsor The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic Golf Tournament, featuring professionals playing with amateurs beginning in 2008. How did the idea for a foundation arise?

WG: The foundation is just a nice way to give back and help people. I am very fortunate to have been blessed in so many ways, and the foundation lets us share our blessings.

NVM: What made you finally decide to coach the Coyotes after having been a managing partner for nearly five years?

WG: It’s as close to the game as you can get without being a player, and I missed being in the game.

NVM: With the Coyotes out of the NHL’s playoff race for 2008, what are the team’s goals as well as your own goals for next season?

WG: Our goal next year and every year is to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs and do a lot of damage when we get there.

NVM: When you do have free time, other than golfing, what can we find Gretzky doing?

WG: Spending time with my family and friends.

NVM: What advice can you offer young players pursuing their hockey dreams?

WG: Work hard and stay passionate about your dream.

Timeline:

January 1, 1967—Wayne Gretzky records his first goal at age six while playing against ten-year-olds.

April 30, 1972—In 82 games, Wayne compiles 378 goals and 139 assists for a 517-point season as an eleven-year-old.

November 30, 1977—With Wayne’s number 9 unavailable on his Soo Greyhounds Junior Hockey Team, he decides on the number 99, and the rest is legend.

October 14, 1978—Wayne plays his first pro game for the Indianapolis Racers of the WHA in a 6–3 loss to the Winnipeg Jets.

October 14, 1979—Wayne scores his first ever NHL goal against the Vancouver Canucks goalie Glen Hanlon.

December 30, 1981—Wayne scores five goals in one game, giving him fifty goals for the season in an unimaginable thirty-nine games.

May 19, 1984—Wayne Gretzky leads the Oilers to their first-ever Stanley Cup by beating the New York Islanders, who had won the previous four consecutive Stanley Cups.

November 22, 1986—Wayne scores his 500th career goal against the Vancouver Canucks, becoming the fastest player to reach this milestone in only his 575th NHL game.

May 26, 1989—The Edmonton Oilers win their fourth Stanley Cup in five years, which would be Wayne’s last Cup in his career.

October 15, 1989—Wayne passes Gordie Howe as the all-time points leader in the history of the NHL.

March 23, 1994—Wayne passes “Mr. Hockey” Gordie Howe with his 802nd goal, becoming the NHL’s greatest goal scorer of all time.

April 16 and 18, 1999—Wayne announces his retirement and plays his final NHL game in Madison Square Garden as a New York Ranger.

April 26, 1999—Seven days after Wayne hangs up the skates, the Hockey Hall of Fame waives the three-year waiting period to induct the Great One.

August 8, 2005—Wayne Gretzky becomes the coach for the Phoenix Coyotes.

For more information on the Phoenix Coyotes, including schedule and ticket information, visit coyotes.nhl.com.

By Shannon Willoby
Photography by Eric Fairchild

If you’re looking to have fun in the Valley of the Sun, but think you’ve seen it all, check out North Valley Magazine’s list of the Top 20 Places to Go for Entertainment. It’s filled with family-friendly spots to take the kids, exciting ways to enjoy Arizona’s nightlife, amusement parks, and even some fun activities you may not have heard of before. So if you’re looking to add a little culture to your life, have a fun-filled day, or enjoy a sophisticated night on the town, read on for some fabulous ideas that will have you out enjoying our beautiful weather and all Arizona has to offer.

Castles N’ Coasters
9445 Metro Pkwy. East
Phoenix, AZ 85051
(602) 997-7575
castlesncoasters.com

No matter what you’re planning—a birthday party, a corporate event, an outing with the kids or even a date—Castles N’ Coasters has something for everyone, regardless of age. With eighteen holes of miniature golf, thrilling rides, 18,000 square feet of arcade with over 300 games, and a special section for little kids, Castles N’ Coasters will keep boredom at bay year-round!

The Brickhouse Theatre
1 E. Jackson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 258-7880
thebrickhouse.tv

Located in one of Phoenix’s oldest buildings, the Brickhouse Theatre is the perfect place to support your local arts. Their ever-changing entertainment schedule often includes concerts by local and national bands, art galleries, and fashion shows. Come hungry so you can grab lunch or dinner at the Brickhouse’s very own restaurant, The Chop Shop!

Canal
7144 E. Stetson Dr.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 949-9000
canalaz.com

Let your inner fashionista out at Scottsdale’s newest high-end restaurant and nightspot. Canal, true to its name, features dining overlooking the canal out on the terrace as well as inside next to a fashion runway. The menu consists of sophisticated small plates and entrees; most evening hours include a live DJ and artistic images projected on a huge high-definition screen.

Heard Museum
2301 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 252-8848
heard.org

Immerse yourself in traditional and contemporary American Indian art at the Heard Museum. Free guided tours are available daily, and the museum has ten exhibition galleries that showcase permanent and temporary exhibits. Stop in at the Heard Museum Shop to purchase handmade jewelry and pottery, and be sure to grab a bite to eat at Arcadia Farms Café at the Heard.

Scottsdale Culinary Festival
Scottsdale League for the Arts
7309 E. Evans
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 945-7193
scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

The Scottsdale Culinary Festival, now heading into its thirtieth year, is one of the biggest outdoor parties Arizona has to offer. From April 8 through the 13, the festival will be filled with food, drink, music and, of course, fun! One of their most popular events, the Great Arizona Picnic, will be held April 12–13; it includes food sampling from over fifty restaurants as well as an Absolut Bistro.

Geisha A Go Go
7150 E. 6th Ave.
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
(480) 699-0055

Tired of the ordinary? Head to Geisha a Go Go, Old Town Scottsdale’s only Asian bistro lounge that features Pachinko—Japanese pinball machines—and a signature pink Hello Kitty cocktail. Geisha a Go Go provides an intimate dining experience, with a fifty-two seat dining room, or you can opt to sit at the bar for times when a cocktail is the only thing you’re after. But the most unique part of Geisha a Go Go just might be their private karaoke rooms that come with a 40-inch flat screen television and your own server for the evening.

Westgate City Center
6770 N. Hockey Way, Suite 220
Glendale, AZ 85305
Phone: (623) 772-4000
westgateaz.com

The innovative creators of Westgate City Center made sure visitors wouldn’t have a single reason to leave their entertainment plaza. While you’re there, you’ll be able to see a sporting event, show, or concert at the Jobing.com Arena or at the University of Phoenix Stadium, watch a movie in the new 4,000 seat AMC theater, go shopping, dine at one of many great restaurants, and much more—all in one convenient location!

Dave and Buster’s
21001 N Tatum Blvd., Ste. 44-1400
Phoenix, AZ 85050
(480) 538-8956
daveandbusters.com

Age isn’t an issue at Dave and Buster’s, where over 200 games draw countless kids and kids at heart each day. Classic and interactive games are offered, from skeeball to a rapid whitewater adventure, with you controlling the paddles. For the 21-and-up crowd, Dave and Buster’s offers two bars; and if hunger strikes, there is no need to leave, as there’s also a fully loaded menu with items both adults and children will enjoy.

Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N. Galvin Pkwy.
Phoenix, AZ 85008
(480) 941-1225
dbg.org

Come explore the beauty of desert plants at the Desert Botanical Garden. With fifty acres of outdoor exhibits, including 139 rare, threatened, and endangered plant species, the Garden provides a unique learning experience for all. Contact the Garden for information on their special events, such as their Spring Butterfly Exhibit and garden tours.

Wildlife World Zoo
16501 W. Northern Ave.
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
(623) 935-WILD (9453)
wildlifeworld.com

For close encounters of the exotic animal kind, head to Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park where you can feed giraffes, take an African Safari, and watch baby tigers at play! Plan on spending a few hours at the zoo to ensure that you have enough time to check out all 2,400 animals, Australian boat ride, petting zoo, skyride, carousel, and much more! Helpful hint: Purchase a carton of Hickman eggs, and you’ll find a buy-one-get-one-free coupon on the bottom for Wildlife World Zoo.

The Tempe Improv
930 E University Dr.
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 921-9877
symfonee.com

If laughter is the best medicine, a dose of The Tempe Improv is in order! Here, you’ll catch undiscovered and well-known comedy acts in an intimate lounge setting. Huge names such as Jerry Seinfeld, Robin Williams, and Tom Hanks have performed at this club in the past, and upcoming acts include Norm MacDonald and Pablo Francisco. Dinner is available, and the club is open to anyone 18 years old and up.

West Wind Scottsdale 6 Drive-In
8101 McKellips Rd,
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
(480) 949-9451

It’s been over thirty years, and the West Wind Scottsdale 6 Drive-In is still a favorite movie-watching spot for Valley residents. With back-to-back movies, a retro-design snack bar, and affordable prices, it’s easy to see why so many people are forgoing regular theaters in favor of a night spent at their local drive-in. Helpful hint: Save even more money by bringing your own snacks and drinks!

Arizona Science Center
600 E. Washington St.
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
(602) 716-2000.
azscience.org

If your little one is tired of hearing “Don’t touch that!”, it’s time you took a family field trip to the Arizona Science Center. With more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a five-story high IMAX Theater, you and your children will discover just how fun interactive learning can be. Be sure to check out Awesome Atoms, where you can purchase fun and educational items to take home; and don’t miss Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition, where real objects from the Titanic are on display.

Altell Ice Den
9375 E. Bell Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 585-RINK
coyotesice.com

Altell Ice Den is a perfect spot to beat the heat—and to have a lot of fun while you’re at it! Altell is a 120,000-square-foot ice skating center that offers public skating, in addition to hosting practices for many NHL teams, including the Coyotes. You’ll also find a Peter Piper Pizza restaurant/game room, Chilly Bean, and full-service pro shop in Alltel Ice Den.

Rattlers
U·S Airways Center
201 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 514-TDTD (8383)
usairwayscenter.com
azrattlers.com

Missing football season? Head to U·S Airways Center and get your fix of arena football! Season and individual tickets are very reasonable, making this a fun and affordable sport for fans. And don’t forget about the Rattlers cheerleaders—the Sidewinders. You’ll find them on the sidelines of every game, cheering on the players.

Fighter Combat International
Phoenix/Mesa Gateway Airport (IWA)
5865 S. Sossaman Rd.
Mesa, Arizona 85212
(480) 279-1881
fightercombat.com

Have you ever wanted to be a Top Gun fighter pilot? Fighter Combat International gives you the chance by letting you take the controls of a high-performance aerobatic airplane equipped with sound, smoke, dual controls, and gunsight. There are various packages to choose from that range from basic to advanced, and you can even get into a midair battle with an adversary—with simulated bullets, of course. That leaves us with just one question: Who will you be for the day—Goose or Maverick?

IMAX Theatre
IMAX Theatre Arizona Mills
5000 Arizona Mills Circle Ste. 667
Tempe, AZ. 85282
(480) 897-IMAX

Watch as sea monsters, dinosaurs, rock stars, whales, and more come to life before your eyes at the IMAX Theatre in Arizona Mills. Movies are between 45 to 60 minutes in length; depending on the film, they will be viewed in either IMAX 2D or 3D. Upcoming movies include Grand Canyon Adventure 3D: River at Risk, Dolphins and Whales 3D, and Shine a Light: The IMAX Experience.

Big Surf-Golfland
1500 N. McClintock
Tempe, Arizona 85281
(480) 947-2477
tempe.golfland.com

If you’re daring, you’ll definitely want to check out the speed rides at Big Surf, including Cyclone, Tahitian Twister, and Avalanche. But if you feel like relaxing in a simulated ocean, check out the wavepool; just don’t forget to rent a raft or inner tube first! Little kids will love Captain Cook’s Landing, where they can splash around in a safe play area with other children. Big Surf also has an arcade, picnic areas, an ice cream parlor, and locker rentals. But don’t grab your swimsuit just yet—Big Surf will be opening to the public on Memorial Day weekend.

Enchanted Island Amusement Park
Encanto Park
1202 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 254-1200
enchantedisland.com

Arizona natives are sure to remember riding the carousel at Encanto Park when they were children, but it may come as a surprise that the park is still home to the beloved 50-year-old carousel. Today, Enchanted Island at Encanto Park is a popular amusement park filled with fun rides and attractions geared to children 2–10 years of age. Rides include the C.P. Huntington Train, pedal boats, canoes, bumper boats, Parachute Tower, Dragon Wagon, and Red Baron airplane.

Orpheum Theatre
203 W. Adams St.
Phoenix, AZ 85003
(602) 534-5600
http://phoenix.gov/STAGES/orpheum.html

Built in 1929 in hopes it would be the most opulent theater Arizona had, the Orpheum Theatre stands today as a beautiful reminder of Arizona’s past. Through the years, the theater has endured many modern renovations, but the architecture was carefully restored to keep its historical value intact. The Orpheum Theatre has 1,364 seats in which one can watch anything from a Broadway play to a classical ballet.

By Cassaundra Brooks
Photography by Erin Gilmore

Whether you intend your wedding to be your city’s event of the year or a simple, quiet affair with your immediate family and friends, it should be a special occasion. It’s a day to celebrate the past, present, and future with your treasured companion for life. In other words, you should be happy! But, regardless of the size of your wedding, there are so many details to consider that the impending day can become a burden. When do you send out invitations? What should you ask prospective DJs? Hair up or down? What’s this about a groom’s cake? Don’t resort to researching Vegas wedding chapels just yet. Put your mother’s and best friend’s flow of advice on pause for a brief moment. We’ve gone to some of Phoenix’s respected wedding professionals with these questions and more, and their answers should make planning your day go a little smoother and, it is hoped, save you some time so you can spend it wisely—relaxing!

INVITATIONS

Budget-Saving Tip: Always, always count the addresses or households you have rather than the number of people you are inviting.

When does a couple need to order invitations, and how early should they send them out?
To allot yourself enough time and to save your wallet from paying any additional rush fees, plan to start your invitation process at least four to five months before your wedding date, especially if you are opting for a custom design suite. Typically, you want to send your invitations out six to eight weeks before your wedding date. However, if you have a large amount of out-of-town guests, you may want to push it back to eight to ten weeks before the date.

Answered by Rikki Hernanskey of The Invitation Lady

MUSIC

What should every bride ask entertainment companies before hiring them?
Making sure you know what you are getting and what’s out there can make all the difference on your special day. Some companies outsource DJs, and others have part-time employees with little to no experience. Price is also a big issue in our industry—you can have pricing from $400 up to $4,000, and it’s all based from experience, attention to detail and, of course, demand.

Some questions to ask are: Who will be my DJ? How much experience does he or she have? Do you have insurance, backup equipment, a written contract? Do you have references that I can call? How much music do you have? And is it radio-edited? What do you wear? What time do you arrive to set up? Are there any additional fees?

Answered by Mike Euper of Creative Touch Entertainment

DÉCOR

Current Trends:
“Green” weddings: You’ll be seeing brides choosing recycled paper products, gowns made of natural fabrics like silk, fair-trade jewelry, and gemstones, and caterers that use organic and locally grown produce.

Black and White, and Bold: In 2008 we’ll be seeing a surge in black and white palettes that have a punch of a single bold color to accent it.

Paper and Packaging: Popularity is on the rise for high-end invitation ensembles, cleverly wrapped favors, and custom wedding logos.

Wardrobe Changes: In 2008, we’ll see more brides making wardrobe changes throughout her wedding day.

Classy and Simple: I am really looking forward to some of my 2008 weddings that are small, intimate affairs with a few high-impact details. There is no limit to the romance and personal experience that you can create for twenty and thirty of your nearest and dearest.

Small plates and heavy hors d’oeuvres: For years, we’ve been seeing high-end events serve heavy hors d’oeuvres and small plates at strategically placed stations. It encourages mingling, conversation, and a great celebratory energy.

Budget-Saving Tip: Watch out for the most costly components. Food and beverage, and the related taxes and fees, should total no more than 40 to 45 percent of your overall budget. Skip the favors. Do it right or not at all. Favors are not required by etiquette and can actually cheapen the experience of your guests if not well chosen and packaged nicely.

What are the two most important things to consider when deciding on décor?
Linens and lighting are the two most crucial areas to consider when designing your atmosphere. With linens, there are hundreds of textures and colors that can customize the look of a space. Lighting, both high-tech and low-tech, can do wonders for décor. Candlelight is always flattering, and today’s technology can infuse tons of atmosphere by pin-spotting centerpieces, color-washing walls, and creating swanky lounge and dance floor areas.

Answered by Aleasha Shelton of A Day to Cherish, LLC.

HAIR AND MAKEUP

HAIR

Current trend: Short, trendy bobs such as those that Katie Holmes and Victoria Beckham have.

Budget-Saving tip: Use a color-support shampoo recommended by your stylist to keep the color fresh and longer lasting.

What should a bride consider when deciding between an updo and having her hair down?
She should consider how formal the wedding is, and the design of her dress. The more formal would usually call for an updo. She would also need to consider how comfortable she would feel in an updo.

MAKEUP

What is a common mistake brides make when it comes to wedding day makeup?
Too often, they have a too-dramatic look. They should keep their makeup soft and pretty.

What are three must-haves to keep handy throughout the wedding day for touch-ups?
Lipstick, powder, and mascara.

Answered by Donna Parr and the design staff at Par Exsalonce.

LOCATION

What are the advantages of having the wedding and the reception at the same place versus having each at a different place?

I think that having the wedding ceremony and reception at the same location starts you in the right direction of having a low-stress day. Your wedding day is a busy day, so having the elements for your celebration at your fingertips is key. No worries about transportation to and from each location—let’s not forget the extra cost for that. It also gives the resort or venue the chance to plan all aspects of the wedding for you, and easy for your guests to arrive for the ceremony and know that they are in one location for all your blessed events.

Answered by KT Thompson of the FireSky Resort & Spa, A Kimpton Hotel, in Scottsdale.

CAKE

Current Trend: I’m starting to see the trend turn back to simplicity. Simple and elegant but stylish cakes are making a real comeback. A few years ago, it wouldn’t have been uncommon to see vibrant colors and edgy designs. Many couples are bringing it back to basics with their own personal styles.

Budget-Saving Tip: Not into the tradition of having a wedding cake? Try cupcakes with your favorite assorted flavors. Who could say no to warm chocolate chip cookies and milk? These ideas are fun, and could be the hit of the celebration and save you some dough in the long run!

What are the benefits of having both a wedding cake and groom’s cake?
Groom cakes are just fun! These cakes give the groom a chance to show his personal side to those attending the couple’s celebration. Whether it’s a passion for golf, music, or travel, a groom’s cake can identify the things that are important to the man of the hour.

Answered by KT Thompson of the FireSky Resort & Spa, A Kimpton Hotel, in Scottsdale.

FLOWERS

Current Trend: Curly willow arches with floral enhancements; draping crystals from raised, tall centerpieces; and hanging floral chandeliers made entirely from florals.

Budget-Saving Tip: Incorporate ceremony designs at reception. Use the bridal party bouquets for the head table’s centerpieces. Add ambience to reception with candles. Rose petals bring in color, and can be filtered throughout the reception.

What should a bride bring for her first floral consultation, and how should she prepare for it?
Bring all the pictures you’ve clipped from the magazines: flowers, bouquets, and centerpieces. Especially, bring along your dreams of what you wish you could have, even though your budget doesn’t go there. Color samples of the bridal party and linens from the reception are extremely helpful in selecting the right flower to use in designs. Don’t worry about how to make it all work out. A professional florist will help you to maximize your budget ,and give you options to choose from.

How do you keep the wedding florals fresh all day?
There is considerable time spent behind the scenes preparing your flowers to ensure that they look beautiful all day. The hydration process is critical in the Southwest, and helps to maintain the freshness. An experienced professional will bring extra blooms just in case any become damaged along the way.

Answered by Dianne Bing of Bing’s Floral.

DRESS

Current Trend: Asymmetrical dropped waistline made famous by Miliani Trump. Form-fitted mermaid-style dresses. Lace is back for that romantic look. Color is also back this year for the bride who wants to put her personality into her weddings, and is also popular for destination and second weddings.

What are the top three things that a bride should consider when purchasing her gown?
The time of day her wedding will take place, the location where the wedding will be held, and her personal style.

How long before the wedding should the gown be purchased and altered?
The wedding gown should be purchased a year before the wedding date. A wedding gown can take up to eight months to arrive after it has been ordered. Alterations should be started about eight weeks before the wedding.

What’s the best way to store my wedding dress before and after the wedding?
The best way to store the gown before the wedding is in a muslin garment bag, which allows the fabric to breathe. After the wedding, the gown should be professionally cleaned and heirloomed so the fabric won’t age.

Answered by Eunice of Brides by Demetrios.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Budget-Saving Tip: Plan your wedding for the summer or the winter on a weekday. Many photographers will be available for discounted rates on off-season or nonpeak days in the year.

Should I pick a traditional or photojournalistic photographer?
Traditional wedding photographers are mostly known for staging moments during the wedding day and focusing most of their attention on the family portraits. Photojournalists by contrast spend the bulk of their time capturing documentary images from the wedding day that tell your story. While still taking time for family pictures, these wedding photographers work to capture candid emotion, from the ceremony to the reception.

Should I receive the film or the digital negatives from my wedding?
Selecting to purchase the digital negatives can be an excellent choice and a worthwhile investment. Having your own copy to post on your wedding Web site or on your desktop can be cool; however, nothing beats a professional print from a pro lab!

Should we do our wedding pictures before the ceremony?
This is an option that everyone should consider. Many brides and grooms are choosing to see each other before the wedding, for several reasons. First, this allows for a smooth and efficient photography session with all the family and attendants. Rounding up family for pictures before the sun sets is a challenge that should be avoided. Second, many couples decide they would rather spend time enjoying their guests during the cocktail hour directly following the ceremony.

Answered by Stuart Thurlkill of Eyes 2 See photography.

By Gerald Calamia
Photography by Eric Fairchild
Location: Barrett-Jackson Showroom in Scottsdale

Forty years ago, Russ Jackson and Tom Barrett developed a vision for a car show fund-raiser to benefit local charities. Today, the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction brings hundreds of thousands of spectators and car collectors to two—soon to be three—states, earning the auction a reputation for delivering rare or top-quality automobiles for auction. Last January, the event had over 1,250 cars up for bidding, and raised $112 million dollars.

Craig Jackson, son of cofounder Russ Jackson, is now chairman and CEO of the auction. North Valley Magazine met up with the dynamic leader to discuss the past, present, and future of the notable event.

North Valley Magazine: The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction started as your mother and father’s business. What inspires you to continue their legacy and make it your own?

Craig Jackson: I grew up in the family business. I was young when it was my time to take over. I definitely had my opinions on what we should be doing and what hadn’t been done before. [I wanted to] change Barrett-Jackson into more than just a car auction, and to bring TV, other forms of media, and the Internet into the mix. In essence, I wanted to make Barrett-Jackson a lifestyle event and bring our great hobby to the masses.

NVM: In 1967, the Barrett-Jackson auction started out as the Fiesta de Los Auto Elegance. What changes have taken place over the years?

CJ: In the early years, Barrett-Jackson was a car show only. Now it is a lifestyle event and a destination all its own. It’s the only auction where people attend from all 50 states and a dozen foreign countries—with over 250,000 people coming through the gate just last year.

NVM: What new things can we expect to see in the January 2008 show?

CJ: We have elevated the experience. When you walk into the main area, you will see double-decker skyboxes, and there will be more interaction with our lifestyle pavilions. The auction itself will be just a little different—we cut down a little on cars, so it won’t go late. What you will see is a true Americana experience. And with the diverse range of cars we are offering this year, people both at and after the auction will be saying, “Only at Barrett-Jackson.”

NVM: You recently brought on a new minority partner, Endeavour Capital. Does this change the “family business” aspect that Barrett-Jackson has had all these years?

CJ: People have approached me for a long time. However, I wanted the expertise of a financial group that is used to family-owned businesses, and that was agreeable to a minority position. It was important to me that they were not coming in to change the culture of the business. They are bringing in expertise to help us grow, quantify what the growth is, and then help to execute a plan for that growth. We will still be a family business, but intend to take it to the next level. Our goals are aligned to make Barrett-Jackson an international brand and not just a car auction. We believe our events are closely approaching the experience one gets at the Masters, Kentucky Derby, and other great events. It is certainly our goal to get there.

NVM: Describe the typical Barrett-Jackson buyer and vendor, and how they hear of you.

CJ: The customers find us partly because of the national attention Barrett-Jackson has been getting. We have an inventory that’s unmatched—over 1,000 cars—offering them at a true no reserve [no minimum price]. This brings an amazing array of buyers. Many of our customers are first-timers buying their dream car. They are not financing it, nor are they are flipping [purchasing to resell] the car. They are literally buying their dream.

We also have a one-stop shopping atmosphere second to none. You can buy your dream on live TV and it creates an experience that is unmatched.

For our sellers, they get to sell their car with 5,000 bidders fighting over them, in one arena, live on TV. They know the last bidder holding their hand up is going to own their car. Most of the cars at our auction are not owned by dealers. A vast majority of cars has been owned for a while and need people selling to upgrade.

Approximately 40 percent of our sales have been to first-time buyers. And approximately 40 percent of our consignors are people selling to upgrade.

NVM: With all the work involved, is the same passion there year after year?

CJ: Yes it is. As you look toward the new venues like Vegas, that’s about as thrilling as it can be. But when an auction gets going and it’s about to happen, the excitement is always there. And for any of your readers who have never been, we encourage them to come out this January. They will have a great time!

NVM: What is a favorite moment from a past auction?

CJ: When I sold my 1948 Delahaye with a body by Figoni and Falaschi for $900,000. It was a car that I personally restored from the ground up. I did all the metalwork, all the restoration. That was pretty hard to give up. Or, when we sold an F88 for $3 million.

NVM: I was at the auction where Sammy Hagar sold some of his cars, and the excitement in the auction tent was boiling over!

CJ: We have had many celebrities sell their cars at our auction. We sold Don Johnson’s Cuda from Miami Vice. Last year, we had an Orange County Chopper.

But last year, the highlight was the CNN Hummer. They had a dream price and we exceeded it. To have a guy like Wolf Blitzer with tears in his eyes—you just don’t beat moments like that. All the proceeds went to the Fisher House. The vehicle is currently on tour, and it was at Mandalay Bay when we made our Vegas announcement.

NVM: How does the Scottsdale auction compare to the Palm Beach auction? How will it compare to the Las Vegas auction?

CJ: The Arizona auction has heritage. It started in Scottsdale, moved to Phoenix, then came back to Scottsdale. But it has grown as far as it can in the current facility.

The Palm Beach auction has really good infrastructure. The facility and the auction itself have an environment that is very comfortable for both me and the auction attendees.

Las Vegas has the most infrastructure, and the demographics, with the casinos, have the most growth potential. There is also a lot of experience. Vegas has become a town that is all about lifestyle, and that is what Barrett-Jackson is about. Vegas has some of the best shopping, restaurants, clubs—and our deal is to work together.

NVM: What is Craig Jackson’s favorite car?

I have a favorite in different categories: Favorite muscle, Hemi Cuda convertible; favorite sports, 427 Cobra; and favorite supercar, Jaguar XJ220.

NVM: What are you doing when you are not preparing to welcome 250,000 people to a weeklong auction and lifestyle event every January in Scottsdale?

CJ: Boating and spending time with my kids and traveling.

NVM: What would be your dream job?

CJ: I think I am doing it! Either that, or [Hugh] Hefner’s job.

By Gerald Calamia
Photography by Eric Fairchild
Location: Frontier Town in Cave Creek

On the campus of Scottsdale Community College is a professor of Southwest Studies whom many consider a living treasure trove of knowledge and experience. His life has entwined a rich blend of story, history, and folklore of Arizona and the Southwestern culture. Whether wearing his cowboy boots and carrying his guitar, or on the podium in a lecture hall, his legacy to Arizona residents is securely in place. His name is Marshall Trimble, and he is Arizona’s official state historian.

North Valley Magazine : Historian, cowboy singer, humorist, storyteller. How did you end up wearing so many different hats?

Marshall Trimble: I like to think I’m eclectic and that I have a lot of interests. I started out as a teacher, and I immediately went into being a folk singer so I could make a little money on the side at night. I have always had a wide interest in things and I pride myself on that. My love is the Old West and all the others have become my mistresses. I wear all these different hats but I enjoy the challenges.

NVM: Both Governor Janet Napolitano and the state of Arizona have given you a number of awards. You received the first Copper Star Award, they named you cochairman of the state’s centennial, and recently presented you with a Lifetime Achievement Award. How have your colorful past and personal experiences brought these awards into your life?

MT: I want to think it’s my knowledge. I learned a long time ago when I wrote my first book that I couldn’t stand up in front of all these people reading from my book. I had been only teaching history to a bunch of high-schoolers, helping them learn about the pride of history and of our country. I did this all in the ’70s, and how I got away with it was that I was a folk singer. I sang songs from Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. I think they thought, “This guy’s okay. He wears America on his sleeve, yet he’ll play a protest song.” I still wear my boots and hat, and carry my guitar. The rest is, as they say, history. I never went looking for these awards. Through persistence and others’ pleadings, the awards came to be.

NVM: You have been labeled a prolific writer, having penned twenty-one books, including your award-winning Arizona: A Cavalcade of History , A Roadside History of Arizona , and Arizona: A Panoramic History of a Frontier State . How did your writing develop into such a vast body of work that includes script writing, short stories, songs, and poems?

MT: My first book I didn’t even intend to write. I didn’t plan to be a writer. I was in my first semester teaching here at Scottsdale Community College. A lady sitting in the first row of my class said, “You should take these stories and write a book.” I thought it was interesting that someone who had been sitting there in my class had the faith to believe in me. The rest of the class chimed in and said, “We love your stories.” I wrote at night on an old clickety-clack typewriter. I would pretend I was presenting to the class, so the words just flowed out. It took me three to four years, since I was working a second job at night and any free time I had was used to finish the book. It initially was turned down because it wasn’t scholarly. Well, in 1976, Doubleday jumped on it after a friend had submitted it for me. After the first try and having found an international publisher, it was like finding a goldmine. The book sold very well for Doubleday for about ten years. After that, I never had to go soliciting again. I eventually got work for Ted Turner’s Portrait of America and then Arizona Highways came to me with their script writing.

NVM: You have a great sense of humor. What would you say had the greatest influence on it?

MT: Probably being Irish. The Irish have had such a tortured history. I think after you have been tortured so much, you have to laugh. My dad was an easy-going guy. I guess I inherited some of that from him. I have two sides to what I do. I love poignancy along with humor.

NVM: Your hometown is Ash Fork, Arizona. How was it for you to adjust to Phoenix after having spent your childhood in a small town?

MT: It took me years to adjust. I was naturally shy, having grown up on a ranch with just my parents and my brothers. I was around kids too much. I had two brothers and I was a middle child. I liked being the middle child because I was sort of left to do my own thing. I left high school in my senior year, and there were thirty kids in the whole school. I came to Phoenix to a high school that had 3,000 [students]. The senior class had more kids and was larger than the population of my whole hometown. It was a real change. I felt light years behind. I don’t think I was, but that feeling stayed with me for several years until I learned to play the guitar. It helped me mix more socially.

NVM: For over thirty years, you have been a banquet-convention speaker. What do you think is the main reason people seek you out for this line of work?

MT: I believe it’s entertainment. The state-historian title helps me a lot of the time. I think most of the time, they want someone to entertain them who has some substance. I sing songs, tell stories, and sometimes read some poems. I think my guests feel that they go away having gotten a sample of Arizona.

NVM: You’ve been an entertainer, having played with Rex Allen, Jerry Lee Lewis, Waylon Jennings, and the Oak Ridge Boys. Going back to your purchase of the $5 Gibson, which you later traded in along with $25 to upgrade to a Martin in 1959, did you know then how much a part of your life music and guitars would become?

MT: Not then. When I first started, I must have been awful. I remember after my first lesson, my teacher sent me home. He wouldn’t even take money. I think that made me more determined. I started playing some Johnny Cash records. I would sing behind him. I played through college. I remember I started teaching and I was going broke fast. I was at a bar and met a folk group. They asked me to get up on stage and play a song. I played a song called “Scotch and Soda.” Luck has always been on my side. That night the band, which was a trio, had lost one of their guys who had been thrown in jail. I wandered into that bar, and a week later I was in the group. When the other guy got out of jail, they told him they didn’t need him anymore and he moved on. Since then, music has been a big part of my life.

NVM: You said that joining the United States Marine Corps in 1957 is one of the most significant things you did in your life. Along with your strong sense of patriotism and ethics, what else did your time in the Marines instill in you?

MT: It instilled in me perseverance and helped me to accomplish things I thought I couldn’t do. The Marines taught me that showing up and not quitting until the job is done is important. Marine boot camp was one of the most important times of my life. [I was told], “You can do anything you set out to do, Trimble.”

NVM: How has teaching helped you to share your experiences?

MT: Teaching is communication. It is really all about communication. I remember a professor at college having taught me that one of the greatest things in life you can learn is to be able to communicate well. Whether with your wife, friends and family, or students. Teaching really trained me to communicate. I don’t know where else I could have gotten such a wonderful experience.

NVM: What goals or events do you have set for yourself in the future?

MT: I want to stay healthy. This is the only body I get. I still work out. I’ve outlived my older brother and my younger brother. I want to be healthy so I can keep doing what I do. If I’m not healthy, I’ll have to retire. I want to be able to work until I go to the long sleep.

NVM: What is the future you see for the state of Arizona?

MT: Obviously, it is going to keep growing. The climate is going to keep people coming to Arizona. The lifestyle is so great here. People will always want to keep coming here. I hope that there will be people like me to teach them to respect the culture of what we have here in Arizona!

NVM: What do you feel is the best way to serve history and continue its influence on others?

MT: Make it interesting. Bring out history’s color and pride. It’s okay to bring out even if it’s negative. No country is perfect. For whatever we did wrong, our country shines among most for its greatness. We are a work in progress, like democracy.

NVM: What book, story, song, joke, or poem best describes your life, and which best describes Arizona?

MT: “The Minstrel Song” by Dean Cook. It is a story of how the gentleman in the song was influenced by stories told by his father and the people all around him. The one I would pick for Arizona would be another song by Dean Cook “Tall Tales and Lost Mines.” We sort of live in Arizona by our myths and images, and of course our legends.

NVM: As a part of Arizona’s great history, what will you be best remembered for?

MT: I want people to say, “He was a teacher.” Performer is good, a writer is good, but I would like best to be remembered as someone who taught people. I don’t mean just a classroom teacher either. I mean a teacher of Arizonan, Western, and American history. That’s what I want my legacy to be.

By Gerald Calami
Photography by Eric Fairchild

North Valley recently had a chance to sit down with the dynamic, sexy, entertainment powerhouse known as Envy. As the current house band at the Barcelona Nightclub in Scottsdale, the band’s high-energy act covers modern and classic hits from artists like OutKast, The Black Eyed Peas, Madonna, Gwen Stefani, and Kool and the Gang.

Envy had to fill the big shoes left behind by the house group Zowie Bowie, who exited Barcelona to move to the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort and Casino over a year ago. The band jumped right in and hasn’t looked back. Instead of becoming the next Zowie Bowie, they have become the first Envy. Their excitement and daily hard work has paid off as the demanding North Scottsdale entertainment clientele have opened their arms to the great show Envy puts on. They have converted the Zowie Bowie regulars, and continue to receive fantastic fan and corporate client feedback.

We used our time with the band to find out more about Envy from their three front vocalists. Founding members Tim Doyle and Ben Harris—Ol’ Green Eyes—joined the band’s newest addition—the talented and beautiful songwriter and pianist Dawn Jameson—for our sit-down session.

North Valley Magazine : What brought Envy together?

Tim Doyle: Woody Jarrett, the band’s manager, formed the current band in the winter of 2006. Woody previously had a lineup that included himself at keyboards and different female vocals up front.

Ben Harris: Woody’s initial idea for the band was to select the best local talent he could find and put it together to form an entertainment bank that could get national—and even international—recognition.

NVM: What are the band’s current goals?

TD: To get better each day. To make each show more exciting and to make each performance more entertaining.

BH: We want to get bigger and bigger. We have created a true local buzz, we have done a number of corporate events, and now we hope to be noticed on a larger national scale.

NVM: Tell us about performing for corporate companies such as Universal Studios, FedEx, and the American Heart Association.

TD: It is fun for us to see people in suits and formal wear getting down to our music, watching CEOs dancing on stage with us. The value of bringing that kind of entertainment to the corporate field is what pushes us to perform our best.

BH: Our music can be performed to groups ranging from T-shirts and flip-flops to others in formalwear. That is what makes our performances so versatile.

NVM: Dawn, you recently appeared on Jay Leno . What was that like?

Dawn Jameson: It was incredible. Jay Leno was very sweet and personable. Even though we recorded for only about two to three minutes, the whole experience was phenomenal.

NVM: How has taking on the job of Barcelona’s house b
and over a year ago been for the band?

TD: We have had a great time. It has been very exciting to be the heart of a fantastic social spot with the ability to perform for such a large number of people day after day.

NVM: How did the change in vocals and keyboards affect the chemistry?

BH: We have improved the talent of the band and increased the range of work [so] that we can now cover more music in our performances. It’s like we are a playoff team who’s been able to add Lebron James to our team. It’s great.

NVM: What changes does the band make to its performance as you play at Barcelona month after month?

TD: We are changing the routine on a weekly basis. Our audience gets the newest, freshest songs that they are just hearing on the radio, and we deliver it to them in our own fusion of pumping hits.

DJ: Starting in the early fall, we will be bringing an ’80s throwback section to our routine, which we are very excited about. We are also currently developing our own original material.

NVM: What kind of performances has Envy done recently for local venues, and to foster local relationships?

BH: We have received a tremendous amount of local support from various retailers. Stash of Mesa and Barbwire [Western Couture] of North Scottsdale have provided us with clothing, jewelry, and accessories that are a huge part of the image of our performances. We are always looking to work with sponsors that can provide us with great products.

TD: We recently were part of the post-Taste party for the Taste 2007 at the Westin Kierland. We performed for over 2,000 people, while nearly 10,000 attended the event.

NVM: Your three lead singers are working on solo material. Will the success of that music help Envy’s publicity or hurt it?

TD: Envy’s continued success will be the catalyst of our solo careers. It has increased our face time and publicity. We are constantly asked at Barcelona for CDs of our individual work.

BH: We have been able to enlarge our network of people from all industries. A rap party that I put together led to Jaime Foxx’s attendance at the event. Having really enjoyed the show, he added me as an extra, a soldier part, in his new film The Kingdom , parts of which were shot locally east of the Valley out on Highway 60.

NVM: What lies ahead for Envy?

BH: Barcelona is our home. We love it here. However, the sky’s the limit. We would love to play in venues for larger audiences. We have even been approached by a concert promoter to be part of a Major City Promotional Tour.

NVM: Where do you see Envy five years from now?

BH: Doing it big!

TD: We hope to be one of the best entertainment acts on an international level!

The band describes North Scottsdale as a mini-Beverly Hills, and the members know that the Barcelona crowd expects their best during each performance. Whether Doyle and Jameson are performing their dinner lounge act or if Harris joins them to perform their electrifying nightclub set, these three know that their entertainment future is, ultimately, up to them.

Doyle, who spent ten years as a personal trainer, knows that the band’s bodies are its instruments. Along with Harris, the band mates have stepped up their workout in order to look their best. The way Harris sells the band to continuous crowds at Barcelona with his versatile vocal styling doesn’t hurt either; he captures everything from Sinatra to Nate Dogg. An ASU graduate, he puts his degree to work when not performing onstage—he is a regular reporter on AZE 360. He says that all the hard work that he put in at ASU to bring his Ol’ Green Eyes routine campuswide has been the impetus to letting loose on the world, and his body of work is proving his statement right. Jameson dreamed of coming to Barcelona as a performer when she was performing as a singer at Eli’s American Grille. This classically trained pianist and songwriter, who started playing at four years old and now memorizes her tunes by playing by ear, has made that dream come true. She told NVM that she recently recorded new solo material written for her by Christina Aguilera’s songwriter. You can stop by her frequently visited MySpace page to hear some of her recordings.

No band would be complete without the help of instrumentalists. Jeremy Vakeles (bass), Tom Daniel (guitar), Aaron Bland (drums), and Andy Margolis (keyboards) complete the band Envy. With various awards to their names and veteran stage experience, they are the finishing polish and sound of this collaboration of talent. Whether you are looking to be support the band as a sponsor or simply be a fully entertained fan, Envy is a shooting star that should not be missed. All of us at North Valley Magazine wish them all the best and hope that all their plans come to fruition.

Clothing, jewelry, and accessories provided by the following:

Andrew Z Fine Diamonds & Jewelry, andrewzdiamonds.com
Barbwire Western Couture, barbwire.com
Stash, stashclothing.com
Studio 15, studio15scottsdale.com
Ivan’s Bedrock Jewelers, (480) 423-1482
Bebe, bebe.com
Diamondback Automotive Group, phxcars.com

By Gerald Calamia

The Phoenix Suns is a team that has always been competitive over the years. However, aside from all their inspired play, there is a key missing point in the franchise’s history: an NBA Championship. This year, after some key additions in seasons past, the Suns seem to be poised in their quest for the NBA Championship. Everyone at the Suns camp is saying, “This is the year!” With a tough physical series underway against the San Antonio Spurs and the Utah Jazz (6–0 at home in the playoffs) waiting for the Suns-Spurs series winner, the road to the NBA Championship is filled with challenges.

While at the Suns team practice facility, we managed to get a few minutes with one of the team’s key additions of years past: current team leader and captain, Steve Nash. Two time NBA MVP and the catalyst of the Phoenix Suns offense since arriving in 2004, Nash has enabled the Suns to become a front-runner as the team ready to capture the NBA Championship. We talked with Nash about the path to the NBA and how his journey has continues to inspire others and to keep hoping for the best.

North Valley Magazine: Hello Steve. It is a pleasure to speak with you today.

Steve Nash: Thank you. Same here.

NVM: You went from St. Michael’s high school in Victoria, British Columbia, to Santa Clara University, to Phoenix, to Dallas and then back to Phoenix again. Talk about your journey.

SN: It’s been circular. It’s been great. The first time in Phoenix, I was behind some Hall of Fame guys and I had a chance to “grow up” somewhere. I loved playing in Dallas and to be able to come back to somewhere else where I loved playing [Phoenix]. It has been great.

NVM: Two NBA MVPs, multiple All-Star, and All NBA selections. So far, what has been the greatest accomplishment in your career?

SN: I would have to say being on winning teams. I take a lot of pride in the success of the team I am on. Looking back in my career and being able to say my teams won most of their games would be the best example of my work as a teammate and player.

NVM: How does it feel to have been selected again to the All NBA team this year?

SN: It is a great honor. To be selected from a group of the greatest players in the world is a tremendous accomplishment. I am very proud and honored by the award.

NVM: Amare Stoudemire [the Phoenix Suns Center] was also selected to the All NBA team. What do you think of his selection?

SN: It is an incredible tribute to him. For him to be out all last season, come back, and have the season he has had is truly remarkable. Under these circumstances, it makes it even that much more phenomenal.

NVM: Aside from natural abilities, what is the ingredient that makes you guys stand out?

SN: I credit the coaching and training staff. We work hard and they give us an opportunity to succeed.

NVM: Everyone is describing this team as a championship team. What is the team’s goal?

SN: Our goal is to win it all. If we don’t, then we will be disappointed. I feel that if we play up to our expectations and abilities, that no one should beat us. The only way I can accept losing is if another team outworked and outplayed us. Otherwise, winning it all is the goal.

NVM: What areas do you think will be key to the Suns winning it all?

SN: I’ve always said energy and discipline will make the difference. In our loss in Game 1 against San Antonio, our energy was down. When both are working, we will be hard to beat. We have to be a lot more constant in these areas. Then the wins will come. We showed that in Game 2 of the series.

NVM: In an interview I had with Cy Young Award Winner Brandon Webb of the Arizona Diamondbacks, he said that coming into the league with Curt Shilling and Randy Johnson as teammates helped lay the foundation for his career. How has coming into the NBA during your first stint with Phoenix, with Jason Kidd, Kevin Johnson and Sam Cassell as teammates in your early years, affected your foundation in the NBA?

SN: It was a tremendous advantage having these guys as teammates. I was able to practice with them, emulate them, watch them every day, and pick their brains.

NVM: Helping people seems to be a passion of yours. You are involved in Gulu Walk that assists war-affected children of Northern Uganda, Central American water protection projects, and visiting sick children in hospitals. What projects, if any, have you recently initiated or participated in?

SN: There are many projects I stay involved with—the ones you have mentioned and many others. I try to make sure I have time to help with these projects.

NVM: The Steve Nash Youth Basketball League has more than 10,000 children currently participating in it. Did you ever see yourself having this kind of effect on children and being able to bring basketball to the forefront in Canada?

SN: I don’t really think about it, at least not in terms of numbers. I am just happy seeing kids that have a place to play and enjoying themselves while playing basketball. It gives them a place to be active, and [for us] to create opportunities for the kids. That’s the most important part to me. The rest is, I guess, all a bonus.

NVM: Well, Steve, you have been and are a great inspiration to a lot of people. I thank you for your time and for answering the questions we had for you today.

SN: Thank you! It was a pleasure.

So as the playoffs continue, Steve Nash and the Suns keep their vision locked on what all championship teams do: winning the big prize. An NBA Championship for the Suns and the city of Phoenix is theirs for the taking. After meeting Steve Nash, I now know one thing for sure—that the Suns could not have a more humble, earnest, dedicated teammate with the heart and integrity of a champion to lead them toward capturing the NBA Championship. We wish all of them good luck.