By Cassaundra Brooks

Let’s tackle that unruly or bland backyard and transform it into a lively, user-friendly place for you and your family—or the next family who’ll reward your efforts by meeting or exceeding your asking price! Creating a luxury yard that maximizes space and functionality and maintains balance doesn’t always require a huge budget—just knowledge of the needs and general interests of families. You’d be surprised at the versatility your yard possesses. With a little planning and work, it could be that extra room for your house that you’ve always wanted!

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Before shot

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A spa is a luxurious, space-efficient way to relax with family or friends year-round. The six-seater Gulf Coast Spa LX 8000 (approximately $10,200) fits well into the average-sized backyard. The Better Homes and Gardens Westhaven canopy ($148 at WalMart) provides the much-needed shade and protection from the hot Arizona sun.

The bistro table with chairs benefits from the canopy’s shade ($100), and are well-positioned for viewing children playing in the pool or chatting with your spa-loving companions. A synthetic lawn is a great way to get the look of grass and conserve water during the blistering heat of the Arizona summer ($8 per square foot at Echelon).

This custom-made pool by DreamScapes Custom Pools and Spas fits this smaller yard like a glove and is suitable for a relaxing dip, a splashfest with your kids, swimming laps, or entertaining a small group of friends. Its streamlined rectangular shape maximizes available space. It’s gas-heated, uses an in-floor cleaning system and saltwater chlorination, and sports a pebble-sheen interior and hand-painted tiles from Italy. This size pool starts in the high $20,000s; the tiles cost anywhere from $16 to $20 apiece. A basketball sleeve and volleyball sleeves make even better use of the space and make for fun athletic activities regardless of season.

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These wok-pot fountains are aesthetically pleasing and ecologically conservative as they circulate the water already in use. The columns are made with real stacked stone. The fountain and columns run about $1,100 each. They are available through DreamScapes. River rocks add the final touch.

Rather than spending a fortune and a headache on planting full-grown trees to create a natural privacy screen from the two-storey neighbors, invest in the baby version, like these Italian Cypress trees from Home Depot.

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A combo of faux Saltillo tile and acrylic lace was custom created by DreamScapes to match the existing patio. These river rocks, available at Home Depot, are relatively inexpensive and not only provide an aesthetic finishing touch but solve the problem of cracks between the newly laid and existing patios.

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A Baja step is ideal for small children and for enjoying the refreshing water without submerging oneself under water. The umbrellas, available at JC Penny, are a solid investment at $170 each, providing shade and protecting your skin from the sun.

A convenient way to find fitting furniture is to check out amazon.com, which is where these Strathwood chaise lounges ($189.99 each) and Strathwood Talbot hardwood double sun lounger ($540) were located. The eggshell Strathwood Talbot double sun lounger cushion is $280; the single chaise lounge cushions by Delahey are from WalMart ($49.99 each). Striped chaise lounge towel covers are $25 apiece, protecting the cushions from fading and providing useful pockets for storing sunscreen and poolside snacks. Fun, striped cushions from Kohl’s complete the look and the comfort.

What backyard would be complete without a barbecue? This three-burner gas grill by Uniflame is a complete yet compact necessity for entertaining friends and family with a proper backyard barbecue feast. $399 at WalMart

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This fun, attractive putting green, ideal for all members of the family, utilizes the “dead” space at the side of the house. A custom putting green from Echelon runs $11 per square foot.

Echelon Synthetic Lawns and Putting Greens: (602) 615-0328 or echelongreens.com

DreamScapes Custom Pools and Spas: (623) 587-7665 or dreamscapecustompools.com

Home Depot: homedepot.com

WalMart: walmart.com

Kohls: kohls.com

Gulf Coast Spas: gulfcoastspas.com

JC Penny: jcpenny.com

By Cassaundra Brooks

Carbon Concept. With contemporary designs for men, this line combines sterling silver, black diamonds, and carbon fiber to create pieces inspired by Mr. Hollander’s hobby—racing motorcycles and high-performance cars. Prices vary by piece. (480) 423-5000 or CornelisHollander.com

Dine at Lon’s. Lon’s at the historic Hermosa Inn offers Father’s Day brunch and dinner, serving up a variety of delicious dishes in a ruggedly elegant atmosphere filled with vintage Western artifacts and artwork by original owner Lee Megargee. $65 per person and $15 for children three to twelve. (602) 955-7878 or lons.com

Interactive Cooking Class and Golf. Celebrate a little late with JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa’s Golf, Brew and Grilling package. Enjoy a lesson with a golf pro, a round of golf at Wildfire Golf Club, and a savory dinner with wine at the Meritage Steakhouse on the first day. Then, after breakfast on Day Two, join an interactive barbecue and grilling class with Chef de Cuisine Marc Hennessy, who will demonstrate the use of marinades and spice rubs as well as how to make sausages and smoking meats. Participants will then experience an all-American barbecue paired with local beers. Package starts at $639, including two night’s accommodations. (480) 293-5000 or jwdesertridgeresort.com

Tandem Paragliding. The Basic tandem flight consists of a short briefing followed by a five-to ten-minute flight, depending on weather and wind conditions. During the flight, the pilot will explain what he is doing, and allow you some hands-on control of the glider. A paragliding tandem flight is best for the person seeking an exciting one-time experience. No experience needed. Just a couple of steps and you will be flying. $215. (877) 839-2483 or excitations.com

Formula Race Car Driving. No more sitting on the sidelines! Experience the adrenaline rush of racing with an intense driving adventure. Here’s your chance to suit up, strap in, and see if you have what it takes to drive a Formula 2000 race car. This half-day, pulse-pounding course features instruction, demonstrations, and practice. Then, it’s off to the races! Half day $545. (877) 839-2483 or excitations.com

Strategy and Play Golf with a Pro. Improve your game while playing one of the top private courses in Phoenix with mental game coach and professional golfer Jared Tendler. Most golfers agree that golf is a mental game, but few know how to improve that area of the game. This 9-hole or 18-hole playing lesson can change your game forever. Save strokes with a playing strategy that maximizes your ability. Learn ten ways to think like a pro and make the game easy. $485. (877) 839-2483 or excitations.com

By Cassaundra Brooks

PAR EXSALONCE GIFT CARD
With an assortment of spa packages to choose from, Par Exsalonce is the perfect retreat for the mom who enjoys being pampered. Prices vary. (480) 860-0717 or parexsalonceaz.com

PANDORA BRACELET
Available in Sterling silver, solid gold, or two-tone, this is more than a charm bracelet. Over 300 different beads and charms help you personalize your gift for your mother. Coordinating earrings and rings are an option. Basic bracelets start at $43, and beads begin at $20. (623) 551-6892 or andrewzdiamonds.com

PEARLS
Your mother may have pearls, but she doesn’t have these! The 18K yellow gold and diamond Chocolate 11mm South Sea cultured pearl pendant necklace and earrings from Ganem Jewelers make for a sophisticated, classy look. $3,100 and $5,300 respectively. (480) 706-1850 or ganemjewelers.com

AFTERNOON TEA
A trip to England may be out of your budget or schedule, but an afternoon at the English Rose Tea Room isn’t! With delectable English dishes—both the food and the china!—and a quaint, Victorian atmosphere, the tearoom is the perfect setting for a delightful afternoon. (480) 488-4812 or carefreetea.com

HOT AIR BALLOONING
Take relaxing to new heights with a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful Sonoran desert. The breathtaking views will have your mom on cloud nine. (480) 502-6999 or hotairexpeditions.com

DANCE LESSONS
With studios across Arizona and in other states, a dance package at Fred Astaire Dance Studios is the perfect gift for your mother, wherever she happens to live! Your mom can enjoy learning ballroom, Latin, swing, or country dances at her own pace with private instructors, in group classes, and at dance parties. Prices vary. fredastair.com

By Cassaundra Brooks

In a country overpopulated with divorce lawyers, fraught with broken marriages, and suffering under a marital “quick fix or quick escape” mentality, some couples still manage to hold on to that golden key of togetherness and marital bliss. Life is often difficult, and marriages are a part of that life, but instead of believing the grass is greener on the other side or simply giving up, these couples believe that their union is worth fighting for. What is that golden key they’ve managed to get their hands on? Just as the locks on each of our homes require different keys, these couples often use different ways to unlock the doors to success in marriage. Or, perhaps getting married in the fall or winter is simply lucky. The stories of these happy couples will tell you why.

Roderick and Melody Logan: A Union with a Firm Foundation

Three words that keep the Logans together through troubles and trials that do arise from marriage are “No way out,” underscored by their commitment to “live life with a shared purpose and intention.” This is one of the lessons Roderick and Melody Logan say they have learned in their twenty-eight years of marriage. The couple was married August 4, 1979. Crediting intimacy as the major key to a successful marriage, they connect how they feel that it is achieved: by conflict resolution through effective communication, which comes from stability, which in turn is achieved by being rooted in Jesus Christ. The couple considers their parents to be excellent role models for life and for marriage and seems to have passed this on, considering that all three of their children (Derrick, Jerrod, and daughter Tori) are all happily married as well. Roderick is the associate pastor of Personal Ministry at Christ’s Church of the Valley and is presently working on a doctorate in biblical counseling. Melody is the church’s director of early-childhood ministries. They have one granddaughter and another grandchild on the way.

Josh and Laura Rogers: An Exercise in Mutual Support

Josh Rogers had just moved to South Carolina to play quarterback for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. Laura was a varsity cheerleader. Love at first sight? Yes, in fact. But their story cannot be summed up in a stereotype. The two young people, now proud parents of a 19-month-old son, Rhett, and expecting a second child, became engaged roughly three years after their first date and married on December 7, 2003. Having fallen in love with Arizona and having Josh’s family nearby, they moved to Anthem where they keep busy with their successful gym but always make time for date nights, family time, and vacations. Citing their parents’ success in marriage, their common interests, and their mutual attraction as ingredients in their marital success, they say that the key is to find someone who makes you a better person and brings out the best in you. “Spontaneity, selfless love, and challenging each other to reach our full potential are all ingredients to our success,” says Laura. “We admire each other and we are proud of each other.” It is work, but Laura says their love only deepens with time as they commit themselves to listening to each other’s needs and infusing fun and family time into their busy lives.

Bob and Iris Maxwell: Guiding Light Along the Path

Bob and Iris Maxwell wed on August 9, 1952. The former U.S. Navy man and the bank teller were both raised on Nebraskan farms but married in San Diego, where Bob became a police officer before spending sixteen years in banking and yet another sixteen in hospital administration. They have a daughter, Lisa, a son, Gregg, and six grandchildren as result of their fifty-five years of marital bliss, but there is much more that has gone into their success. “I believe our marriage has been the long, happy journey that we have enjoyed because our values are similar and we worked together to raise our children with high values and integrity,” Iris says. The couple enjoys volunteering at their church together, and says that their faith has been a large component in their marriage. “Marriage is a three-way experience,” Bob says, “a man, his wife, and our Lord and Savior. We thank Him every day for leading and directing us.”

Don and Sue Wilson: A Labor of Love

Don and Sue met and fell in love during their first week of college, and married after their sophomore year on August 9, 1968. Thirty-nine years later, Pastor Don Wilson of Christ’s Church of the Valley and his wife Sue, a writer, boast three grown children and eleven grandchildren. Enjoying activities such as traveling, playing cards with friends, going to the movies, and spending time with family have helped cultivate a healthy marriage, but the Wilsons credit much more for their marital success. The couple, who never considered divorce as an option, attribute the strong family values they learned growing up—the importance of keeping vows, working through differences, and honoring commitments—as a driving force behind their marriage. They went into marriage with the common goal of sharing their faith with others as opportunities arose. “We understand that marriage is something we must recommit to every day and that we must be willing to work at every day,” Sue says. “A relationship cannot survive if it is ignored.”

Willard and Beulah DeMars: Dance Your Way into My Heart

On September 2, 1937, just four months after George DeMars introduced his brother to a nice girl who was a terrific ballroom dancer at the Lake Street Ballroom, Willard DeMars and Beulah Wigen exchanged vows at St. John’s Catholic Church in Dayton, Minnesota. Willard served with the Seabees during World War II, and Beulah managed to graduate valedictorian of her class despite having taken on motherly responsibilities for her siblings at age 9. Her dream of attending college fell through because of financial circumstances; but her other dream, that of being a mother to her own children, came true with the births of the couple’s two daughters, Pat and Joanne. Just last fall, the couple celebrated their seventieth wedding anniversary by renewing their vows at The Woodmark in Sun City. And, true to their initial meeting, they still love to dance—especially square dance, but seem to prefer the slow ones, where they can hold each other close.

There’s No Place like Home—Especially if You Design It Yourself

By Cassaundra Brooks

Perhaps you marvel at their structures, but never know their names. Or maybe you admire their works with some understanding of their individual styles. Regardless, we sometimes take the arts of architecture and design for granted, not considering the work that goes into that nicely decorated office building or that striking-looking theater, museum, library, or gym. Balancing durability with style, modern motifs with practicality, and individuality with complementary aestheticism is no easy job.

If individual style and creativity distinguish one architect from another, how does the average person extract these marks of personality from each architect’s work? One way would be to view the collections of two particular architects and note the contrasts in design and style. To help you start, we have taken the liberty of going straight to the source. What better way to get to know an architect’s style than to look at his or her own home?

Gnosis, Ltd., a nonprofit organization, annually grants the public viewing access to a number of architects’ and designers’ homes each fall through their Architects and Designers’ Own Homes Tours. Suzanne D. Johnson, executive director of Gnosis, Ltd., says that the tours are intended to illustrate the fact that good design is both attainable and affordable. The featured homes fall under the term modern. Everyone has undoubtedly heard that word before, but what does it mean with regard to architecture?

Johnson quotes Mark Wigley on Le Corbusier’s Toward an Architecture: “The goal is momentum. Modern architecture is simply that: architecture, which allows itself to be carried forward. More precisely, architecture is the movement forward. It is not a matter of replacing an older architecture with a newer one…Only by moving forward can architecture be seen or produced.”

With delightful deviations on traditional structure and design—disappearing walls, shocking uses of metal, unexpected finishes, and creative use of light—these homes are pieces of art. Yet they are not treated like “look but don’t touch” museums. They are functional, practical, kid- and pet-tested, and thoroughly enjoyed. Introduced on these pages are four of the designers featured in last fall’s special tour.

BUILDING FROM THE GROUND UP

JOHN KANE

Name: John Kane AIA, LEED AP (architect principal)

Company: Architekton

Typical Style: Contemporary; functional; warm; indoor, outdoor, climate, and context-responsive

Inspiration for Home: Derived from functional and site responsiveness.

Intention for Design:
Photos Kane Residence 2 and Kane Residence Interior
Great room able to open completely on two sides, actually connecting to the outdoors. Large screen panels transform the room into a traditional “Arizona room.”

Previous Projects: Include Tempe Center for the Arts, Phoenix/Tempe/Mesa light-rail stations, Chandler/Gilbert Community College Student Center, Scottsdale Community College Fitness Center, Jewelry by Gautier, Farmer Studios, and Tempe Police Substation.

Photo1
Simple courtyard concept with garage/kitchen and master bedroom “bar” sliding through house and cantilevering toward the adjacent lake.

Photo 2
Great room designed to open completely on two sides, actually connecting to the outdoors. Large screen panels transform the room into a traditional “Arizona room.”

464 S Farmer Ave, Suite 101, Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 894-4637
jfkane@architekton.com
architekton.com

MATTHEW TRZEBIATOWSKI

Name: Matthew G Trzebiatowski, AIA (principal and design architect)

Name of Company: blank studio, inc. (please mind the lower case letters in the name)

Typical Style: In a word: contemporary. But it’s so much more. blank studio was created to challenge, inspire and elevate design awareness in an environment that is directed toward increasingly simplistic and synthetic solutions. The design process centers upon investigation and synthesis, the experiential use of space, and engagement of the senses.

Inspiration for Home: As a reminder that all design solutions should be in a direct response to the environment in which the project exists, Trzebiatowski calls the home Xeros, a description in Greek of the condition of land in relation to nearby water. The building includes an opaque face situated toward the intense western afternoon sun, with the other faces exposed to the south and east, shielded by an external layer of woven metal shade mesh. Its unique shape, along with its height, allows the maximum amount of site to be retained for low-water-use vegetation. The site itself was “recycled,” in that new life was injected into a neglected plot in an equally neglected 1950s-era Phoenix neighborhood.

Intention for Design:

The building includes a two-story lower-level design studio that descends into the earth, accessible from the courtyard by a tall, steel-framed glass door. To access the residence, one must ascend an exterior steel staircase to an upper-level balcony before entering the common room (sitting, dining, and kitchen). A central gallery leads to the cantilevered master suite/media room. This space is completely glazed on the north façade for enjoyment of the mountain-preserve views. To complete the cycle of movement, a cantilevered yellow glass-framed “Romeo and Juliet balcony” allows views of the city and across the long axis of the building. A stainless-steel water feature leads you down the steps and terminates at a reflecting pool.

The primary building material is exposed steel that is allowed to weather naturally and meld with the color of the surrounding hills.

History: Matthew G Trzebiatowski, AIA (Wisconsin, 1972) earned a master’s degree in architecture from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP) in 1997. Trzebiatowski is a registered architect in Arizona and Wisconsin, and is currently a faculty member at Collins College of Design and Technology. Trzebiatowski established blank studio in 2001 with his wife, Lisa, while working with an internationally recognized architectural studio in Phoenix. As an emerging concern in our natural and constructed environments, explorations into sustainable technology and practices inform much of the current work of blank studio. Besides its educational component, the studio participates in various local and international design competitions.

1441 E. Sunnyside Drive, Phoenix, Arizona 85020
(602) 331-3310
blankspaces.net

ALTERING EXISTING HOMES

BRIAN & MELISSA FARLING

Names: Brian and Melissa Farling

Company: Home Company: Studio Twenty46 Inc.
Full time employer: Jones Studio, Inc.

Typical Style: We practice architecture of this time—call it modern.

Inspiration for Home: We are transforming a 1950s modest ranch into our long-term, permanent home. Our focus is capturing blue sky and green landscape to make modest-size spaces feel larger, comfortable, and uplifting.

History and Previous Projects: Melissa has most recently joined Jones Studio, but before that, she worked on the Maricopa County Downtown Court Tower while at Gould Evans. She is also studying the effects of views of nature on stress as a Research Associate for the Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture and the Academy of Architecture for Justice. Brian has worked with Jones Studio, Inc. for the past nine years, most recently leading the design and construction team for the new expansion to the University of Arizona’s College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture.

Photo 1
Butt glazing and pocket doors help create an almost seamless connection from the master bedroom out into the west garden.

Photo 2
Looking east from the ramada-covered west garden patio into the master bedroom. Salvaged, translucent polycarbonate panels clad the lower-level exterior walls and sliding doors. This wall system produces a glowing interior wall surface during the day and a soft glow outside at night.

Photo 3
Interior view of remodeled 1959 ranch. Original restored concrete floors, naturally finished materials and furnishings, and a thin sliver of Arizona sun help create a warm, comfortable living area.

2046 S. College Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282
studio2046@earthlink.net
Melissa@jonesstudioinc.com
brian@jonesstudioinc.com
Jones Studio: (602) 264-2941

MCCOY & SIMON

Architects & Owners
McCoy and Simon Architects: Ron McCoy, FAIA and Janet Simon (602) 808-9899

Landscape Architect
Ten Eyck Landscape Architects: Christine Ten Eyck (602) 468-0505

Cabinetry
Kenyon Studios: Krista Kenyon (623) 936-8077

General Contractor
Studio: Stonecreek Building Company (480) 832-0905

Kitchen and Residence
RJ Bromley Construction (480) 557-9217

Typical Style: McCoy and Simon’s work is contemporary, in the tradition of modern architecture and with an emphasis on craft and the intimacy of materials and details. This is a version of modern architecture that emphasizes space and carefully considered response to program, context, and landscape.

Inspiration for Home: This home is a careful integration of the life and work of the family. The design is inspired by the site that is dominated by a spectacular setting in the shadow of Camelback Mountain and by the native landscape that surrounds the home. The specific qualities of light from all directions are used to shape the design.

History and Previous Projects: Janet Simon graduated from Sci Arc and worked with architects Richard Meier and Barton Meyers. Ron McCoy graduated from Princeton and worked under Michael Graves and Robert Venturi. Their office works on all scales of design, from hardware to urban. They have designed numerous homes, schools, and commercial projects in Phoenix and Los Angeles, and have completed several projects for institutions such as the Getty Museum. Ron McCoy is a professor at ASU and serves as the University Architect.

Photo 1
The Eastern exposure is a wall of glass that opens up to a deep-covered entry porch. The deep overhang to the south protects the interior from the sun in the summer, but allows the sun to enter the building in the winter months. There are dramatic views to the south of Camelback Mountain, which can be seen from almost anywhere inside the studio.

Photo 2
While the studio workroom is open, airy, and inviting, the conference room is a quieter, more inward-looking space with low ceilings and an intimate walled garden. The ceiling and some walls are lined with sanded Homasote—acoustic paneling made of recycled paper—which serves the dual purpose of being used as a pinup surface for presentations and to help keep the space quiet by absorbing sound.

Visit gnosisltd.org for information on Gnosis, Ltd. and its annual tours.

By Mark Susan
Photography by Mark Susan

Romeo’s Euro Café

Romeo Taus emigrated from Romania as a strapping young teenager and soon found himself washing dishes in a small East Coast restaurant. Years later, Romeo was inspired by Greek restaurateur Nick Ligidakis, who taught that food should be “an extension of who we are and what we do. After tasting the fare at his Euro Café, we would certainly agree!

The Euro Café is casual and inviting, with old-world sensibilities like robust coffee and selected wines to match the food. We began with Romeo’s choice skins and the feta dill fritters. The skins were carved from fresh potatoes and stuffed with sausage, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and melted provolone. The deep-fried fritters were made from tasty gyro meat, complemented by feta cheese, fresh dill, spinach, and pine nuts. Both appetizers were served with a tangy, delicious yogurt dipping sauce.

Next we enjoyed the Delemeno Seafood Salad, where the flavors of grilled jumbo shrimp, fresh calamari rings, and tender sea scallops were accented with kalamata olives and whole roasted garlic cloves, and then served over crisp romaine with lemon and tomatoes—a beautiful thing, indeed!

For entrees, we were treated to Romeo’s proclaimed love of fine artisan-style sausage represented in the Andalusian baked eggplant. Succulent fennel sausage was blended with roasted red peppers, pine nuts, spinach, onions, and plenty of fresh garlic. The mouth-watering mixture was sautéed, laid over thick slices of eggplant, and finished in the oven with melted feta cheese.

We also had the balsamic shrimp de Modena. Visualize enormous, juicy, plump shrimp with both hearts of artichoke and palm. Add oven-roasted garlic and red peppers, asparagus and capers, and serve it with freshly grated Romano and a sweet, viscous drizzle of balsamic reduction. Delicious!

Lastly, Romeo’s wife, Janice, prepared dessert—slices of Dangerous Dilemma and Fantasy Cake. We found room! The Dilemma’s blend of rich dark chocolate cake with a white chocolate-crème layer would be decadent even without its raspberry liquor sauce, and the Fantasy was a triple-layered threat of creamy cheesecake, chocolate mousse, and devil’s food cake.

Visit the jovial Romeo and experience his eclectic, tasty cuisine!

Romeo’s Euro Café is located at Heritage Court in Gilbert.
207 North Gilbert Road, Gilbert
(480) 962-4224

Persian Room

Ascend a sweeping staircase to the cocktail lounge or sit in the main dining room for Persian Room owner Nasser Nikkhahmanesh’s vision for his food: healthy and authentic, with light sautéing instead of deep-frying, and a strong emphasis on serving on quality.

We began with a traditional Persian drink called doug (rhymes with new), a salty yogurt concoction. For appetizers, we ordered the chicken eggplant borani and the tah dig. The borani arrived in a small white baking crock filled with sautéed chicken breast and eggplant mixed with tomato and lemon juice, and topped with lightly fried onions—rich, hearty, and a savory prelude to what came next.

Tah dig is a dish of the people. The Persian Room has taken this authentic “farmer’s food” and created a tasty dish of the crispy browned rice topped with their two famous stews: gheimeh—sautéed beef, onions, split peas, and dried limes, simmered in tomato sauce; or ghormeh—stewed beef and kidney beans, with sautéed parsley and green onions, all simmered with dried limes and the house special sauce.

For entrees, we ordered the fessenjan and the Persian Room Special: their combination kebab platter. The fessenjan was a sweet yet tart blend of sautéed chicken and ground walnuts simmered in a pomegranate sauce. We loved the sweet-and-sour effect and enjoyed how the accompanying sweet and tender basmati rice went so well with all the hearty stews.

The Persian Room Special was an impressive combination of filet mignon, chicken breast, and koobideh—a traditional blend of ground beef, minced onions, and Persian seasonings.

We finished off the experience with a strong and rich Turkish coffee, after which a server named Sarah stopped by and offered us a personal reading based on the leftover grounds.

Get off the beaten track and try The Persian Room!

The Persian Room is located on the northwest corner of Frank Lloyd Wright and Scottsdale Road.
17040 N. Scottsdale Road
(480) 614-1414

Cowboy Ciao

In 1979, Peter Kasperski brought his vision for progressive world-class dining to Scottsdale from Chicago. His portfolio of fabulous restaurants now includes Kazimierz World Wine Bar and Sea Saw; however, the founding concept of his single-block dining triumvirate was Cowboy Ciao, and we were honored to be their guests!

We began with their infamous Stetson chopped salad: colorful, meticulously laid out rows of smoked salmon, arugula, bruschetta tomatoes, sweet dried corn, pearl couscous, and their house trail mix made from asiago, roasted pepitas, and black currants, all tossed with a pesto buttermilk dressing. We now understand the popularity of this original sumptuous dish!

Next arrived the buffalo carpaccio—a gorgeous presentation of cumin espresso-rubbed buffalo cheese, gently seared on the outside and then sliced razor thin. The accompanying chevre and red onion honey marmalade completed the dish perfectly. Definitely recommended!

The exotic mushroom pan fry was a sensory overload of majestic mushroom madness: cremini, button, oyster, cepe, lobster, black trumpet, shiitake, morel, and yellow foot. The delicious fungi were served in ancho cream over double-cooked polenta, and topped with grilled portabellini, avocado, tomato, and cotija cheese. A true mushroom lover’s delight!

The Pig ‘n Puddin’ finished off our wonderful meal. While not unusual in appearance, this dish is exotic in flavor and texture. Our gracious host, Mari Markogianis, thankfully recommended this smoky, succulent pulled barbecue pork served over creamy polenta and topped with pepitas, dried cranberries, and fresh cotija cheese. Bravo!

Whether you’re a seasoned Cowboy Ciao veteran or a first-time diner, push the limits of your palate’s comfort zone and experience the wonderful menu designed by Chef Bernie Kantak.

Cowboy Ciao is located on Stetson Drive in Old Town Scottsdale, near the new Waterfront district.
7133 East Stetson Drive, Scottsdale
(480) WINE-111

Medizona

What do you get when you combine two long-time restaurant aficionados, a Mediterranean-inspired chef, and the Valley of the Sun? You get Medizona, an award-winning eclectic dining experience created by partners James Ridgeway, Douglas Patriquin, and Chef Konstantin Meshcheryakov.

As Ridgeway chatted with us about Medizona’s history and other things, a rustic wooden box arrived filled with ciabatta, kalamata olive bread, and Asiago green chili bread. Chef Konstantin described the accompanying spreads as an ancho hommos and a house baba ganoush. All of it was nothing less than delicious!

For our entrees, we perused the dramatic menu and decided on the eggplant tacos—yes, eggplant!—made with lamb, arugula, and kasseri cheese. They arrived as a beautifully presented trio with a cucumber-radish relish and a tasty roasted tomato-garlic sauce. The thinly sliced eggplant was in a U-shape and used as the taco shell. As impressive as that was, the flavors were even better!

Finally, we experienced the rabbit, fig, and pepitas baklava. We found the quail egg and pomegranate sauce to be the perfect accent of tart sweetness to this delicate dish. The roasted and peeled pumpkin seeds—pepitas in Spanish—added a subtle nutty crunch to the soft layers of delicate baklava.

If your tastes run to exotic fusion cuisine, make a reservation at Medizona, where the Mediterranean meets the American Southwest.

Medizona is located on 4th Avenue in Old Town Scottsdale, near Gilligan’s.
7217 East 4th Avenue, Scottsdale
(480) 947-9500

Thank you to all who voted in our Second Annual Reader’s Choice Restaurant Awards! The ballots came flowing in, and now North Valley Magazine can recognize the Valley’s most deserving dining dominates in thirty-seven delicious categories. From the long-established to the up-and-coming; the familiar to the unknown; and with chefs, restaurateurs, chains, and cuisine influences from all around the world combined with a splash of local flavor, the list of winners has something for everyone. The Valley’s restaurants have been weighed and measured, but it is you readers who will be found wanting—wanting their food!

AFTER HOURS: AZ/88 Bar & Restaurant

7353 Scottsdale Mall
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 994-5576
az88.com

Inspired by the good food, drink, conversation, and warmth of family gatherings at the home of his mother, Karl Kopp set out to create a bar and restaurant that would be distinctive enough in quality and style to become a Scottsdale landmark.

AMERICAN: (tie required)

White Chocolate Grill
7000 E. Mayo Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85054
(480) 563-3377
whitechocolategrill.com

The White Chocolate Grill has a limited menu of classic American fare made from scratch, using only the highest-quality ingredients. A selection of house-made white chocolate and other desserts complement the dinner menu. The rich wood, real stone, leather booths, and spectacular bar combine in a classic yet sophisticated setting.

Arrowhead Country Club
19888 N. 73rd Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85308
(623) 561-9625
arrowheadccaz.com

The team of culinary experts at the Club offers an array of eclectic menu selections for your dining pleasure as well as for special events, from casual get-togethers to elegant black-tie dinners.

APPETIZERS: Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion*

Desert Ridge
5350 East Marriott Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85054
(480) 419-7697
roysrestaurant.com

The first Roy’s opened in Honolulu in 1988. Chef Yamaguchi invented what he refers to as Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine—a tempting combination of exotic flavors and spices mixed with the freshest of local ingredients, always with an emphasis on seafood.

BARBECUE: El Paso Grill & Bar-B-Que*

4303 W. Peoria
Glendale, AZ
(623) 931-2438
elpasobbq.com

With nine locations and growing, El Paso Bar-B-Que has come a long way from its original entry into the barbecue casual dining segment of the restaurant industry in 1995.

BREAKFAST: The Good Egg*

14046 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 483-1090

Bet you never knew there were so many ways to eat eggs. Omelets, frittatas, crepes—there’s an incredible list of combinations and possibilities. Sandwiches, salads, and other breakfast offerings are provided for those who aren’t “ova-ly enamored.”

BREWERY: Gordon Biersch*

6915 N. 95th Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85305
(623) 877-4305
gordonbiersch.com

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant in Glendale features an eclectic beer garden, an impressive bar area equipped with TVs and speaker system, and spacious patio seating. The upscale casual restaurant offers a haven for fresh microbrew beers and delicious made-from-scratch menu items.

BURGERS: Yard House*

21001 N. Tatum Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85050
(480) 563-9273
yardhouse.com

The Yard House is an upscale casual eatery known for the world’s largest selection of draft beer, from classic lagers to more obscure ales and stouts. Each location features a transparent keg room containing more than 600 barrels, some 1,000 gallons of beer, and an endless fleet of tap handles. And the menu of American cuisine includes an impressive selection of dinner items to accompany the beer.

CHINESE: Flo’s

15027 N. Thompson Peak Parkway
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 661-8883
flosrestaurants.com

Flo’s presents modern innovative Chinese dishes, gives special attention to service, and sports a contemporary Asian atmosphere—all with reasonable prices and a tip of the hat to the Southwest.

COFFEE SHOP: Jolta Java

14418 N. Scottsdale Rd. Ste. 185
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 607-7771
joltajava.com

Jolta Java is a neighborhood-style coffeehouse and café that offers great specialty coffee and espresso; fresh-baked breakfast and pastry items; gourmet sandwiches, salads and soups; ice creams and desserts, and everything else that creates a great café experience that is not the “ordinary grind.”

COMFORT FOOD: Chompie’s*

Mercado Del Rancho Center
9301 E. Shea Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 860-0475
chompies.com

The Borensteins came to the Valley from Queens, New York in 1979 with a dream—to give the entire Valley the ultimate East Coast delicatessen tradition. That dream materialized into a reality in Chompie’s, an exciting New York-style deli-restaurant and bakery featuring freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries and, of course, world-famous bagels and bialys in 35 “hot” varieties.

CONTINENTAL: Binkley’s in Cave Creek

6920 E. Cave Creek Rd.
Cave Creek, AZ
(480) 437-1072
binkleysrestaurant.com

Binkley’s specializes in creating classically influenced contemporary American cuisine, revised daily to feature the freshest seasonal ingredients, using local and organic foods whenever they are available. Everything from appetizer to dessert (except the bread) is made in the Binkley kitchen, prepared to order and with special dietary needs accommodated.

DELI: Dilly’s Deli

14202 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 596-3354
dillysdeli.com

Dilly’s Deli (est. 1993) was created with the simple goal of offering great food, great service, and great value. Dilly’s commitment to great food is evident in the aroma of homemade breads, bread bowls, cookies, and brownies freshly baked onsite, right in front of you.

DESSERT: (tie)

Fleming’s DC Ranch*
20753 N. Pima Rd. Bldg. R
North Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 538-8000
flemingssteakhouse.com

Stylish, contemporary dining is the hallmark of Fleming’s, featuring the finest in prime beef and a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders and indulgent desserts. The celebrated wine list, known as the Fleming’s 100, boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass.

The Boulders
34631 N. Tom Darlington Dr.
Carefree, AZ 85377
(866) 397-6520
theboulders.com

The colorful restaurants at The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa serve up Southwestern flair as vibrant as their Sonoran Desert setting. Enjoy spectacular desert views and an elegant atmosphere at Latilla.

ECLECTIC: Cowboy Ciao

7133 E. Stetson Dr.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 946-3111
cowboyciao.com

Discover a restaurant with inventive fare and a fanciful bent. Cowboy Ciao features Modern American food with global influences. Bold flavors are balanced to pair with their 2,200 (and counting) wine selections offered by the glass, bottle, and tasting flight, all presented in a lively, colorful, and dramatically lit space.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Horny Toad

6738 E. Cave Creek Rd.
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
(480) 488-9542
thehornytoad.com

The Horny Toad offers a reasonably priced menu full of Western staples, from barbecue ribs to jalapeno peppers to cowboy beans and coleslaw. Visit their Web site for a clever history of the horny toad.

FRENCH: Le Sans Souci

7030 E. Bella Vista Dr.
Cave Creek, AZ 85331-8606
(480) 488-2856

With an expansive menu full of delicious and authentic French cuisine, Le Sans Souci also boasts restaurateur Louis Germain, who is nationally famous for his Grand Marniér soufflé.

GREEK: My Big Fat Greek Restaurant*

4218 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ
(480) 949-8900
mybigfatgreekrestaurant.net

Enjoy warm Greek hospitality along with your dining experience. Greek food is one of the healthiest cuisines, and has a Mediterranean flair of cooking created by the gods. Virgin olive oil, fresh ingredients, selected herbs, and just the right amount of spice are the cooking secrets cherished and kept for thousands of years, and are now yours to enjoy.

INDIAN: Taste of India

1609 E. Bell Rd. B4
Phoenix, AZ 85022-2898
(602) 788-3190

The polite and friendly owners and staff serve up an array of Indian cuisine made of fresh produce and ingredients. You will find all your authentic East Indian favorites at Taste of India.

ITALIAN: Arrivederci

7101 E. Thunderbird Rd. #103
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 922-8225

Arrivederci is a small, friendly place with exquisite Italian fare. With a romantic ambience, marvelous sauces, and food all made from scratch, you can enjoy some of the best of Italy.

JAPANESE: RA Sushi*

RA North Scottsdale
7012 E. Greenway Parkway
Scottsdale, AZ
(480) 951-5888

There’s never a dull moment in the RA. The music is pumping, the mood is upbeat, and the atmosphere is as stimulating as a big bite of wasabi. They know you like to have fun—they do, too.

MEXICAN: Old Town Tortilla Factory

6910 E. Main St.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 945-4567

Built from a historic 75-year old Scottsdale adobe home, this restaurant captures timeless charm and distinct atmosphere that exemplifies the essence of the Southwest. The food draws from the Native American and Sonoran influences, combining a simple nature of only the freshest ingredients and modern cooking techniques.

BEST PATIO DINING: The Spotted Donkey Cantina

34505 N. Scottsdale Rd. Ste. G2
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
(480) 488-3358
spotteddonkeycantina.com

Here, Southwestern and Western flavors merge. Owners Cliff Skoglund and Robert Hall have succeeded in bringing great food and relaxing atmosphere at an affordable price. The atmosphere creates a fabulous backdrop for their Southwest Western-influenced creations.

PIZZERIA: Patsy Grimaldi’s DC Ranch*

DC Ranch
20715 N. Pima Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 515-5588
patsygrimalis.com

Grimaldi’s pizzas are made with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, and fresh-daily dough. The toppings are the best and freshest available, from the finest sweet Italian sausage to the most flavorful red peppers masterfully roasted in Grimaldi’s coal-brick ovens.

RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW: Different Pointe of View

11111 N. 7th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85020
(602) 866-6350
dpovdev.bluesqstudios.com

Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the dramatic panoramas of the Valley’s desert landscape, the city’s twinkling lights, and Arizona’s breathtaking sunsets. It’s like dining on top of the world. The inventive menu at Different Pointe of View is not easily categorized, as Executive Chef Ivan Flowers draws his recipes from flavors from all over the world.

ROMANTIC: Barcelona*

15440 Greenway-Hayden Loop
Scottsdale, AZ
(480) 603-0370
barcelonadining.com

Barcelona Restaurant is an eclectic dining and entertainment experience. With seating for 787 in an intimate private dining venue, Barcelona Restaurant has old-world cuisine with new-world flavors, paired with world-class entertainment.

SEAFOOD: Ocean Club*

15045 N. Kierland Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ
(480) 443-8555
mastrosoceanclub.com

This ultra high-end coastal version of the steak house offers the best in upscale seafood while dining in a clubby, avant-garde atmosphere that features live entertainment nightly in the O Bar.

SPORTS BAR: Gallagher’s*

751 E. Union Hills Dr.
Phoenix, AZ 85024
(602) 867-3222

The best service, reasonable prices, and a laid-back décor with paneled walls and neon beer signs welcome comfortably dressed sports fans. Arrive early for specials like Happy Hour!

SOUTHWESTERN: Buffalo Chip

6811 E. Cave Creek Rd.
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
(480) 488-9118
buffalochipsaloon.com

This is a real Western saloon and restaurant that serves authentic cowboy food and offers country-western entertainment. Horses welcome!

STEAK HOUSE: (tie)

Mastro’s Steakhouse*
8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd.
(480) 585-9500
mastrossteakhouse.com

Mastro’s, the steak house with personality, offers an unparalleled dining experience featuring a cutting-edge menu of the finest in prime steaks and fresh seafood, accompanied by live music and dancing seven nights a week in the piano bar.

Fleming’s DC Ranch*
20753 N. Pima Rd., Bldg. R
North Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 538-8000

Stylish, contemporary dining is the hallmark of Fleming’s, featuring the finest in prime beef and a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders, and indulgent desserts. The celebrated wine list, known as the Fleming’s 100, boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass.

THAI: Pink Pepper

245 E. Bell Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85022
(602) 548-1333

Good prices and good food, including a great lunch buffet, are two of the draws for the Pink Pepper. If you’re craving something spicy, Pink Pepper can certainly accommodate your needs, but the staff is happy to please the more sensitive taste buds as well.

VEGETARIAN: Mandala Tea Room

7027 E. 5th Ave.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 423-3411
madalatearoom.com

Mandala practices the art of being truly organic. Food is prepared daily with love and the freshest seasonal, organic, genetically unmodified vegetarian ingredients. Their philosophy is to provide healthy environmentally friendly plant-based foods that are fun to eat, exciting and stimulating to all tastes and senses. All dishes are completely vegan: dairy-, egg-, and animal-free.

WINE BAR: Tapino Wine Bar

7000 E. Shea Blvd. #1010
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 991-6887
tapino.com

Tapino is a place where friends can enjoy a casual adventure in global-inspired dining. Enjoy the world’s great foods and fine wines, without pretension or apprehension. Build your own delightfully unique dining experience intended for sharing, and lively conversation in a relaxed atmosphere.

BUSINESS MEETING:

Fleming’s DC Ranch*
20753 N. Pima Rd., Bldg. R
North Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 538-8000

Stylish, contemporary dining is the hallmark of Fleming’s, featuring the finest in prime beef and a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders and indulgent desserts. The celebrated wine list, known as the Fleming’s 100, boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass.

CELEBRATION: Mastro’s Steakhouse

Mastro’s Steakhouse*
8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd.
(480) 585-9500
mastrossteakhouse.com

Mastro’s, the steak house with personality, offers an unparalleled dining experience featuring a cutting-edge menu of the finest in prime steaks and fresh seafood, accompanied by live music and dancing seven nights a week in the piano bar.

HAPPY HOUR: (tie)

Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille*
20715 N. Pima Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 538-8468
eddiev.com

Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille was inspired through Larry and Guy’s admiration for the great classic seafood restaurants of New Orleans, San Francisco, and Boston. They have great respect for the freshness, flavors, and techniques of these regions. Eddie V’s provides the freshest seafood available, along with prime-grade steaks, in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Sapporo
14344 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 607-1114

Experience the distinct flavors and energetic appeal of Sapporo. Excite your senses with teppan yaki, sushi, or Pacific Rim cuisine for an upbeat dining experience in a unique and dynamic atmosphere. Indulge in exquisite cocktails and small plates at the bar.

LADIES’ LUNCH: English Rose Tea Room

201 Easy St. #103
Carefree, AZ 85377
(480) 488-4812
carefreetea.com

Observing the English tradition of afternoon tea is this teahouse’s trademark. Choose from an extensive menu of authentic English foods served with loose-leaf teas. From a simple scone with Devonshire cream to the Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, there is something for every discerning tea lover’s palate.

SUNDAY BRUNCH: The Phoenician Scottsdale

6000 E. Camelback Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 941-8200
thephoenician.com

The pleasures of dining at The Phoenician—diverse award-winning cuisine, breathtaking views, and impeccable service—are enhanced and personalized in the beautiful private rooms of our celebrated restaurants.

* plus other Valley locations

By Cassaundra Brooks

Something called Little Yellow Jacket may not sound too intimidating; but if you ever were to come face to face with this famous bucking bull, you might change your mind. For professional bull riders, an encounter with this retired four-legged athlete meant a chance at a record high score—or some broken bones.

The rodeo has thrilled countless folks for generations; but in 1992, twenty accomplished bull-riding athletes each took a big risk—and a thousand dollars—and formed The Professional Bull Riders, Inc., more commonly known as the PBR. “It was a big risk, and we were told it would never survive,” says Cody Custer, the 1992 Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) World Champion and one of the twenty founders. “Well, they were wrong.”

Indeed they were. Fifteen years later, the PBR has turned bull riding into a well-organized mainstream ultracompetitive sport chock full of thrills, fans, and dedicated cowboys.

A pair of Wranglers and some worn-out chaps often are all that separate a bull rider from his “opponent,” and a thick, smooth rope is a rider’s only aid in staying on. Eight seconds does not seem long, but when strapped to the back of a 2,000-pound wild animal by just one hand, it is an eternity. A computer decides which riders and which bulls will face each other. One hundred points are possible—if you last the full eight seconds—but only half the points are determined by the rider, who is judged by his ability to match the moves of the bull and maintain a good body position throughout the ride. The other fifty points, as described on the official PBR Web site, depend on the bull’s “speed, power, drop in the front end, kick in the back end, directions changed, and body rolls.” Time starts when the first part of the bull exits the bucking chute, and ends when the rider loses his rope or hits the ground—on his most padded body part, it is hoped. Then, the judging begins.

And who best to judge but those who best know the sport? The PBR Board of Directors selects a pool of about sixty judges based on an expansive list of strict qualifications. Custer, director of the judging program, is personally responsible for hiring and training these judges, and does some judging himself. Three to four judges officiate at each event, and may make decisions about infractions, or rerides if the bull’s performance is substandard.

As you can see, this dangerous sport “ain’t no bull,” but if there ain’t no bull, there ain’t no sport. This is what makes stock contractors so valuable. Contrary to popular belief, not every bull is born with an inherent hatred for humans and a propensity for bucking. The search for good bucking bulls has led to the conclusion that bucking is, in fact, a hereditary quality. For this reason and others, the price for one of these animals ranges from $5,000 all the way to $100,000. Flank straps are cinched around their flanks—not too tightly—and spurs with rounded edges are used to enhance the bucking. Even with all the trappings, the true measure of a bull’s PBR worth is its natural bucking abilities. And for all the animal lovers out there concerned for the welfare of these animal athletes, worry no more. The bulls are well fed, watered, sheltered, acclimated to their surroundings, and pampered. And because the average career length for a bull is five years, the bulls spend the majority of their lives with lasting glory and nothing more to do than smell the roses and possibly eat them.

The riders, bulls, judges, shareholders, and stock contractors are all vital components of the PBR, but we must not forget another group beside the fans whose presence at competitions is mandatory. You may know them as rodeo clowns, but they are now most fittingly referred to as cowboy lifesavers or cowboy protectors.

“That’s their primary job,” says Custer. “They are there to protect the cowboy at all costs.” Custer describes the lifesavers’ job as daring and dangerous, but necessary for the safety of the bull riders. The bulls don’t stop competing simply because their rider has dismounted, either willingly or forcefully.

The danger of bull riding is evident in its very nature, and the PBR Web site specifies these dangers in its injury statuses section. Shoulder and knee injuries are the most common ones, Custer says. But more severe injuries are not uncommon, and badly hurt bull riders sometimes go through extensive surgeries and rehab. Death itself is a tragic but occasional risk. However, certain measures are taken to ensure the cowboys are as safe as possible, from protective vests made of bulletproof material to the fashionable cowboy hat, which helps protect the head. Some victims of serious head and facial injuries opt to wear helmets or face masks, but many choose to forego the extra protection in favor of unrestricted vision and unhindered balance. Similarly, not a single bull rider wears an athletic cup; they’re too uncomfortable.

If the sport is so dangerous, why do it? Cody Custer, who rode professionally for an impressive twenty-two years, cannot remember a time he did not want to be a bull rider. “For as long as I can remember, rodeo has been a part of my life,” he says. Since his grandfather first set his boots in the rodeo ring, the sport has been a part of his family. Custer says that most rookies try it for the thrill, but the few who remain to continue are the ones who have talent and true love of the sport. Though the pay steadily increases with the popularity of the sport, the money is considerably less than most other mainstream sports. And unlike many sports, if you don’t win, you don’t get paid. Therefore, these cowboys are true examples of athletes who play “for the love of the game.” Despite multiple injuries including dislocated shoulders, knee injuries, a loose ankle tendon, and a broken jaw, Custer qualified for the National Finals Rodeo eight times in addition to his 1992 win, and qualified for the PBR World Finals nine times. Pain is a formidable obstacle, but as Custer has proven, it can be overcome.

The love for bull riding may provide the motivation for a cowboy to get back on that bull, but for a number of cowboys, God provides the strength. Bull riders often turn a familiar phrase to say that there are no atheists in a bucking chute. Custer himself is cofounder of an organization called Pro Bull Riding Outreach, which began as a simple Bible study for bull riders before each competition and has grown into an outreach tool for Christian bull riders. “My faith is everything to me,” says Custer. “It goes far beyond me being a bull rider.”

Family, friend, and fan support also keep a bull rider in the game. Stacey Custer is Cody’s wife and the mother of their three children. All the Custer kids already compete at junior levels in the rodeo circuit, and so Stacey knows what it takes.

“It’s not easy, but it’s doable,” she says. “You have to be 100 percent committed to what your husband does.” In spite of all the self-reliance and alone time, the sacrifice has paid off for her and Cody.

How does one become a PBR bull rider? Turning 18 is the primary qualification, but attending a reputable bull-riding school should be the first priority, says Custer, who has seen many aspiring cowboys head straight for the practice pen and fail to learn proper riding techniques. Lyle Sankey Rodeo Schools, Bret Leffew Bull Riding Schools, and Lancaster’s Schools are just a few of the facilities available for instruction. Above all, Custer repeats, you must fall in love with the sport.

The Custers, who just relocated to Oklahoma for ministry purposes after twenty-eight years of living in Wickenburg, Arizona, will travel to Las Vegas at the end of October to witness the 2007 PBR World Finals. Some will try to break the record 96.5 PBR high score. Others will simply concentrate on lasting eight seconds. But with the group of forty-five top money winners from all the year’s previous PBR competitions, the eight-round two-weekend event cannot fail to bring a great deal of excitement. It is the final competition in the prestigious Built Ford Tough Series (BFTS), a string of competitions held throughout the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and Australia. The BFTS is the most prominent of several PBR series, such as the U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company Challenger Tour, the Enterprise Rent-a-Car Tour, and the Discovery Tour.

Will three-time PBR World Champion Brazilian Adriano Moraes nab the title again this year? Perhaps current 2007 BFTS leader Justin McBride or current top finals qualifier J.B. Mauney will ride his way to a victory. But if bulls like Big Bucks or Dr. Proctor take part in the upcoming showdown, you know it’s going to be a long eight seconds for the final 45—and a magical eight seconds you won’t want to miss.

For more information on the 2007 BFTS World Finals or the PBR in general, visit pbrnow.com.

By Cassaundra Brooks
Photos courtesy of subjects

Brave, Courageous, and Bold: The Arizona Gunfighters

You’ve heard the names of Old West gunfighters: “Wild Bill” Hickok, “Doc” Holliday, Wyatt Earp. You’ve watched Hollywood’s versions of their lives. Now, relive and celebrate their experiences in person with the Arizona Gunfighters.

When Bob and Dale Charnes moved to Arizona in 1992, they searched in vain for an Old West reenactment group similar to the one they had helped create in California. Instead of settling for one of the many good comedy groups in the area, they joined forces with the late “Corky” Corkran in 1993 to form the Arizona Gunfighters. With an active cast of at least sixty reenactors who play different characters with every show, the group travels around the state—mostly in the greater Phoenix area—with a complete Old West town in tow to recreate familiar historical periods. The group transports guests to James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok’s time in Abilene, Kansas in 1871 or John Henry “Doc” Holliday’s era in Las Vegas, New Mexico in 1879. Their most popular show, however, holds special meaning for Arizonans. It is the famous—or shall we say infamous—gunfight in Tombstone.

The town they set up is not a movie set of false building fronts—except for the Mercantile, which hides the sound equipment (shh!)—but rather is comprised of complete buildings. It takes three and a half to five hours to assemble, and breaks down into pieces small enough for their trailer. It comes complete with jail wagons, stagecoaches, a saloon, a hotel, and much more.

The Arizona Gunfighters are committed to portraying these familiar events as accurately as possible, clearing up some faulty but common notions—all except for one: it is far less exciting to say that the Tombstone showdown took place in a vacant lot near Fremont Street than saying it happened in the OK Corral. (Well, it did take place near the OK Corral.)

This group, which sometimes performs in Vegas and even performed at Super Bowl XXX, also provides a five-hour “Wild West Experience,” in which they shuttle a group of people out to ranches or Western towns for a full-out Old West food and entertainment experience. Every March, they take part in the National Festival of the West at Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass. On November 3, Arizona Gunfighters will host a gunfighter rendezvous at the Pioneer Living History Museum. With a direct descendent of Wyatt Earp in the group, the Arizona Gunfighters are definitely a piece of living history.

For booking and schedule information, visit arizonagunfighters.com. If you wish to join the Charneses and the rest of the Old West enthusiasts, call Bob Charnes at (480) 986-1800.

Riding the Happy Trails with Gary Sprague

For the past fifteen years, Arizona resident Gary Sprague has been known as The Singing Cowboy. It’s a title he is proud of, and his job is a lifelong dream fulfilled. Most guys in their forties can now afford to revert back to 25 and do those things they never had a chance to do, Sprague says. Sprague himself is 56, and says he instead chose to revisit his childhood and explore being 6 again. As a young boy, he revered the great men of the old TV westerns like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. “The point of old movies was relationships, not gunfights,” Sprague reminisces, “and they were really fun to watch.” Cowboys were a big deal to the small screen and the silver screen in the 1950s, and Sprague was captivated. He wanted to do what these old cowboys did.

He began playing the guitar and singing in the sixties, but what began as hobbies have now morphed into a career—and a way of life. Accompanied by his trusty horse Dusty (preceded by Steele, who is now retired but still does the occasional show), Sprague rides into the spotlight singing songs from the Rogers and Autry era, recounting humorous cowboy poetry and stories, and even doing a little gun twirling. Dusty is a friend and entertainment partner and not a prop, and also does some tricks. But whatever the activity, everything is light and humorous. For Sprague and his personality, there could be no other way.

Sprague and Dusty travel throughout Arizona and neighboring states like California, New Mexico, and Colorado, as well as other parts of the country, during which time Sprague occasionally allows his horse some R&R. Dusty won’t settle for anything less than a first-class seat, but nobody will pay for it, Sprague jokes.

Sprague also takes pleasure in bringing back the old time cowboys for future generations, educating and entertaining children through appearances at elementary schools, libraries, and birthday parties. Most of his shows are performed for private audiences, but starting the first week of November and extending through the winter, Sprague will be in Old Town Scottsdale on Saturday afternoons.

Living out his dream is not optional for Sprague. His job is therapeutic for him. He says his wife once told him that she would never ask him to stop doing music because it is who he is and what makes him happy. Perhaps, then, Gary Sprague can inspire more than the preservation of Old West cowboy history.

For booking and schedule information, contact Gary at (480) 488-8281 or gary@thesingingcowboy.com. More information at thesingingcowboy.com.

Dancing Ambassadors: The Yellow Bird Indian Dancers

Cowboys may comprise a large part of Arizona history and culture, but Native Americans make up an equally vital component of the Old West—and our continent today. The Yellow Bird Indian Dancers is a family dance troupe formed by Ken Duncan Sr., a full-blooded Apache Indian from the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona, and his wife Doreen, a Plains Indian from North Dakota. The troupe includes the enthusiasm and singing and dancing talents of their seven sons, one daughter, and two granddaughters. The ages of these young people span from little 3-year-old Nalani to 27-year-old Ken Jr.

Duncan says he and his wife “caught the performing bug” when they were asked in college to perform for presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter. Although they began performing only in the Valley and soon thereafter in surrounding states, an invite in the nineties to share their native culture with Austrians in historic Vienna sparked a life of international adventures. From Ireland, to Italy, to Scandinavia, and to Eastern Europe, the Duncans have traveled extensively throughout the world, even performing for royalty. While in Denmark, Queen Margrethe requested a private encore for her grandchildren at her summer palace, and the queen of Tonga asked to see them during her visit to the Valley. Traveling with goats and sheep on airplanes is one of their more zany experiences.

Duncan expressed a sense of honor and joy as he spoke of their opportunities to represent not only Apache and other Native American cultures, but all of America. In fact, the State Department has used the Yellow Bird Indian Dancers as goodwill ambassadors on many occasions. Before their July visit to Central America on one such mission, they were granted rare and privileged access to several closed Asian countries—including Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan—where the presidents requested a taste of America but only permitted Native Americans to visit. While there, the Duncans visited schools and museums in the capital cities, performing and handing out U.S. flag pins. There is hope that improving relations with such countries will in turn improve relations with their neighbors, which include Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan. In fact, Duncan says, while in Turkmenistan, Iranian musicians took part in as many photographs as possible with the family for the media.

The troupe’s shows incorporate storytelling, singing, powwow dancing from Doreen’s culture, and Southwest dances like the Eagle Dance and the Hoop Dance. One son, Tony, is a four-time world champion Hoop Dancer, and has just submitted the latest of his four albums for Grammy consideration. His group, Estunbah (meaning “music for the women”), also uses native flutes traditionally used for love songs in their promotion of respect for both culture and women.

As proud citizens of Arizona and America, goodwill ambassadors of the State Department, and recipients of the governor’s Arizona Culture Keepers award (awarded them by Governor Napolitano), the Yellow Bird Indian Dancers work hard to create a positive image for Indians and other Americans. They look forward to a trip to Bahrain early next year, and the pending opportunity to be a part of the opening ceremonies at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.

To book the Yellow Bird Indian Dancers visit their Web site at yellowbirdproductions.com. Schools may also book them through the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which help with funding.

Photography by Eric Fairchild

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