DOCKET SET FOR BARRETT-JACKSON'S
GREATEST COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION EVER SCOTTSDALE Soon Barrett-Jackson Auction Company will kick off their 37th Annual Collector Car Event with the finest selection of vehicles in their legendary history. Shelbys and Stingrays, Rolls Royces and Road Runners, 'Cudas and Caddies and Bel Airs and Benzes will join comeback classics. Concepts from Italy, customs from Barris and cars from the stars will all be sold at no reserve on Jan. 12th-20th, 2008, in Scottsdale. Hailed as "The World's Greatest Collector Car Events™," the Scottsdale auction will feature over 1000 of the world's top collector vehicles and lavish lifestyle events. SPEED will broadcast live during all six auction days.

 "With the consignment process completed, we're beginning the home stretch toward our most diverse, star-studded auction in the thirty-seven year history of Barrett-Jackson," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "While some rely on certain niches to attract a specific group of bidders, we pride ourselves on covering every segment in the growing collector car world. Muscle cars, pre-war gems, resto-mods, entry level cars and outrageous custom machines from across the globe will all be well-represented at our Scottsdale event. Anyone who thought we couldn't top last year's excitement is in for a wild ride."  

First in Line  For the world's top automotive companies, Barrett-Jackson's Scottsdale event has become the ultimate stage to display, promote and even sell their newest products. That concept will reach a new level when the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 badge No. 1 (Lot #1331) and a special one-of-one 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR (Lot #1300) are sold at no reserve. In addition, the Challenger's winning bid will benefit Not My Kid, Inc., while the Shelby GT500KR's proceeds will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

 "Two of the most sought after vehicles from America's unforgettable muscle car era are back and available only at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale," noted Jackson. "Thanks to our partners at Ford and Chrysler, we'll give the KR and the Challenger the ultimate welcome back party and raise money for two worthy charities."

 The Classics  Returning to Scottsdale will be another unprecedented stable of muscle cars, led by a vintage Shelby Mustang from each year that performance legend Carroll Shelby produced his street-ripping 1960's classics. The highlight of the crop will be Mr. Shelby's personal 1969 GT500 convertible (Lot #1287), followed by a pristine 1967 GT500 (Lot #1318) originally gifted by Carroll to his son, Mike Shelby.

Bidders with MOPAR muscle on their lists will want to be near the Barrett-Jackson block for Lot #1274, a rare burnt tan metallic 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda 2-door hardtop, and Lot #1270.1, a dark green metallic 1969 Dodge Hemi Charger 500 2-door hardtop with less than 1,500 original miles.

One-off concept cars from the '50s and '60s are an intriguing segment that is once again poised to turn heads. Barrett-Jackson snagged prime examples of these rare classics in the 1963 Pininfarina-bodied Chevrolet Corvette "Rondine" (Lot #1304) and the 1963 Ford Thunderbird "Italien" (Lot #1306). These cars managed to escape the "crusher" that destroyed most concepts and demonstrate a beautiful mixture of American tradition and Italian panache.

 Barrett-Jackson has also attracted a world-class collection of pre-war beauties that will parade across the auction block. Underscoring this segment is an immaculate 1933 Duesenberg Dual Cowl Phaeton (Lot #1311), a rare 1935 Rolls Royce Phantom II sport coupe (Lot #1312) and a 1929 Ruxton Prototype Muller front drive roadster (Lot #1313).

 "Muscle cars and pre-war classics represent two of the most important eras in automotive history," added Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. "Likewise, they attract collectors from opposite ends of the hobby. Our ability to draw these unique and diverse personalities to our events creates an atmosphere than can't be matched. Rare, numbers-matching muscle cars and top-notch pre-war automobiles will always demand high prices. Only at Barrett-Jackson will you witness the excitement and diversity that these vehicles represent."

 Big, Bad and In Control The consignment team has also secured some of the most outrageous and innovative machines available on the planet. For collectors in the market for a fire-breathing, car crunching robot, Barrett-Jackson will auction the world famous Robosaurus (Lot #1307). Joining the 31-ton mechanical dinosaur will be the Blastolene B-702 (Lot #1310), a massive custom roadster built by the Blastolene Brothers. Measuring 19.5 feet long, 8 feet wide and housing an enormous 702cid V12 engine, the B-702 is a rolling sculpture that blends America's passion for high-powered engines with refined

 European design cues. For the first time in Barrett-Jackson history, a 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood Presidential Series Limo (Lot #1328) will cross the block. One of only three armored Presidential Series parade cars and weighing a whopping 12,000 pounds, the limo has only 500 original miles and is equipped with a 454cid engine custom built by Jack Roush, level B6 armor and blast proof standards, an on-board oxygen system, a fire suppression system and run flat tire inserts. Additional amenities include custom power footrests, fender-mounted flag standards and a halo lighting system to aid nighttime visibility inside the limo. It is the only one of the three limos in private hands, as the other two are owned by the U.S. Government.

 "Every great collection needs a special vehicle that stands out from the rest," noted Davis. "From bomb-proof limos to a flame-throwing dinosaur on wheels, we've gathered some of the most unique machines ever built to satisfy the ever-growing desire to own something spectacular."

 Lights, Camera, Action! An area that Barrett-Jackson has dominated over the past few years is the popular celebrity car segment. Cars from the big screen include the 1966 Ford Thunderbird from the 1991 Oscar-winning film "Thelma & Louise" (Lot #1285), "Mojo," the 2006 custom Marine Technology Inc. 39RP catamaran (Lot #1309) with a matching Hummer and trailer (Lot #s 1309.1 and 1309.2) from the 2006 movie "Miami Vice," and a 1995 Harley Davidson motorcycle custom painted and owned by William Shatner (Lot #1297.1).

 After failing to find a new owner in a recent Internet auction, John Schneider's 1969 Dodge Charger Coupe, a.k.a. "General Lee" (Lot #1321), will be sold at the auction. A 2004 Panoz Esperante with wings (Lot #1264), aka "The Flying Car" from the "Monster Garage" of Jesse James, will be sold along with over 40 more cars from the hit TV show. Hot rodders, TV lovers and rock-n-rollers will take notice when the iconic "Monkeemobile" (Lot #1297) takes center stage. Based on a 1966 Pontiac GTO and modified by hot rod legend George Barris, the "Monkeemobile" was featured in the hit TV series, "The Monkees." Famous rocker and avid collector Alice Cooper will return to Scottsdale in 2008 to auction his smooth 1955 Mercedes Benz 300 SL Gullwing custom re-creation. "Celebrity cars are drawn to Barrett-Jackson by the bright lights, high-octane atmosphere and savvy pool of bidders who want a car with star power," said Davis. "At Barrett-Jackson, the cars are the stars and their true values are established in an open, honest, one-of-a-kind arena." 

EXCLUSIVE 2008 BARRETT-JACKSON SHELBY GT UNVEILED IN ARIZONA
 Three American automotive icons, Ford Motor Company, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and Shelby Automobiles, have collaborated to create collector car history with a limited edition 2008 Mustang Shelby GT. The companies unveiled the 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT based on the Ford Mustang at the Arizona International Auto Show.

 With an MSRP beginning at $38,980.00, a total of 100 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs, in both coupe and convertible body styles, will be sold through Arizona Region Ford dealers. The purchase price of each car will include a $250 donation to the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

 "The Arizona and Las Vegas Ford dealers have been strong supporters of mine over the years, which is why Shelby Automobiles joined with Barrett-Jackson and Ford Motor Company to create a limited edition car just for their customers," said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. "And I'm pleased that a portion of the sales will benefit an endowment we're building at the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation. This is a rare chance for enthusiasts to enjoy a very special car and support a great cause."

 Ford is a strong supporter of Barrett-Jackson and has sponsored its Family Value Day that kicks off the automotive lifestyle week in Scottsdale. Family Value Day was designed to attract a new generation of car enthusiasts by offering discounted tickets for adults and admitting children under the age of 12 for free.

 "Barrett-Jackson's unrivaled lifestyle events celebrate America's love of the automobile," said Ford Motor Company Phoenix Regional Sales Manager, Tim Stoehr. "Their passion for the automobile has resulted in a unique venue to share our vehicles with the public. This limited edition car symbolizes our high octane relationship and gives a few lucky people the chance to own a piece of the Barrett-Jackson experience."

 Over the past 37 years, Barrett-Jackson has evolved from an auction primarily attended by dedicated collectors and dealers into a retail automotive lifestyle event that is broadcast live worldwide. Shelby Cobras, GT350s and GT500s have been among the most popular cars to cross the auction block. "We have a long tradition of selling the best Shelbys in the world because they are among the most desirable cars ever built," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "Over the past several years, we've worked with Ford Motor Company to raise almost a million and a half dollars for Carroll's Foundation by offering new Shelby cars for sale. It was natural to celebrate our connection to these cars with a very limited edition Shelby."

 From the black 18-inch wheels to the Shelby Cobra roadster hood scoop, the car is mean. The engine is upgraded with a Ford Racing package to pump out 319 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque through a high-flow exhaust system with X-pipe crossover. The Shelby GT comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission featuring a Hurst short-throw shifter; a five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The package includes a Ford Racing Handling Pack with special-tuned dampers, unique sway bars and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly. Overall ride height was dropped and a front strut-tower brace added.

"The Shelby GT was designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience," said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. "In addition to the 'go faster goodies,' each will receive special badges and equipment, as well as a photo of one of these cars signed by Carroll."

Unique features of the Barrett-Jackson edition will include:

•                 Black exterior with "Barrett-Jackson Red" LeMans Hood and Side Stripes

•                 Barrett Jackson Edition Door Sill Plates

•                 Black interior with the Shelby GT serial number plate

•                 Special Gas Cap Insert

•                 Autographed photo of Carroll Shelby, Craig Jackson, Amy Boylan and Steve Davis

 "As someone who has been personally involved with Shelby cars for the past three decades, I'm very proud to be part of this limited edition car," noted Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. "Rarity and documentation are two of the keys to collectability, which is why only 100 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs are scheduled to be built. Each car will come with complete documentation and be included in the factory authorized registry."

Bad to the Bone Bus
This is a one-of-a-kind, award-winning, steel body 1932 Anniversary bus which looks bad to the bone but drives like a dream. It features a 454 big block with a 871 Blower Show blower, two 750cfm Edelbrock carbs, 4-bolt main block, comp roller cam and rockers, steel crank. It also features Speed Pro pistons, Air Lift Air Ride with extra air compressors and digital control, Sanderson and Flowmaster exhaust, March Serpentine system, Dynamat insulation, power steering, brakes, windows and doors, 14" Wilwood brakes front 20x16 and rear 18x4.5, Mickey Thompson wheels with 33x22 R20LT Mickey Thompson rear tires and 26x6.00 R18LT Mickey Thompson front tires. SmartPark review cameras are mounted in the license plate and cameras mounted in matching side turn signal housings are used for mirrors. All the cameras are connected to two monitors above the dash over head, stereo system consists of custom auto sound hidden system with 10 CD changer and kicker speaker with subs.

 The chassis is original with numerous modifications from full boxing to custom 4-bars, custom IFS front end, aluminum 20 gallon fuel tank, stainless fuel and brake lines, powdercoated black and 9" Ford rear end housing with 370 posi-traction in a nodular case with Moser Engineering axles. Custom interior consisting of two bucket back bench seats and three bucket seats upholstered in Amond and Hot Sauce ultra-leather with Ford 75th Anniversary logo embroidery. Custom dome lights, custom Billet aluminum spears, power windows on all seven windows with both doors power with remote control, working power cowl vent. PPG Black Honda and Orange Glow Vibrance paint color on the outside of the bus with custom graphics on the back door and flames in Burnt Orange on the front and sides. The bus was the 2007 NSRA Louisville Nationals PPG Award winner for Outstanding Use of Color.

• CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• 37TH ANNUAL COLLECTOR CAR EVENT

• WESTWORLD • SCOTTSDALE, AZ

•  

• Saturday, January 12^th - ChildHelp Gala (by invitation only)

• 6:00pm – 7:00pm               Reception

• 7:00pm – 11:00pm             Dinner, Live Auction & Entertainment

•  

• Sunday, January 13th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 8:00am – 5:00pm               Family Value Day Presented by the Association of Phoenix Ford

• 10am – 5:00pm                  The Garage Patio Hours

• 2:00pm and 4:00pm            Kid’s Fashion Shows

• *Presented by Urban Kidz and The Garage Boutique

•  

• Monday, January 14th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 8:00am – 3:00pm               Cox Charities’ Day (Preview Day) *Open to General Public

• 10am – 3:00pm                  The Garage Patio Hours

• 7:30pm – 10:30pm             Opening Night Gala

•  

• Tuesday, January 15th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• 11:00am – 2:00pm             Automobilia Auction

• 2:00pm – Auction Close     Collector Car Auction

• After 5:00pm                      Happy Auction Hours

• 7:00pm – 9:30pm               Designer Fashion Shows

•                                     *Saks Fifth Avenue 7:00pm; Tommy Bahama 8:30pm; Fleur’t 9:30pm

• 5:00pm – 10:00pm             Broadcast on SPEED

•  

• Wednesday, January 16th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 9:00am – 10:00am Automobilia Auction

• 10:00am                             Collector Car Auction

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• After 5:00pm                      Happy Auction Hours

• 5:00pm – 10:00pm             Broadcast on SPEED

•  

• Thursday, January 17th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 9:00am – 10:00am Automobilia Auction

• 10:00am                             Collector Car Auction

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• After 5:00pm                      Happy Auction Hours

• 6:00pm – Auction Close     The Garage Evening Entertainment

•                                     *Featuring Shirley’s Temple and a DJ

• 5:00pm – 10:00pm Broadcast on SPEED

•  

• Friday, January 18th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 9:00am – 10:00am Automobilia Auction

• 10:00am                             Collector Car Auction

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• After 5:00pm                      Happy Auction Hours

• 6:00pm – Auction Close     The Garage Evening Entertainment

•                                     *Featuring The Chadwicks and a DJ

• 12:00pm – 10:00pm           Broadcast on SPEED

•  

• Saturday, January 19th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 9:00am – 10:00am Automobilia Auction

• 10:00am                             Collector Car Auction

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• After 5:00pm                      Happy Auction Hours

• 6:00pm – Auction Close     The Garage Evening Entertainment

•                                     *Featuring Metalhead and a DJ

• 12:00pm – 10:00pm           Broadcast on SPEED

•  

• Sunday, January 20th

• 8:00am                               Gates Open

• 9:00am – 10:00am Automobilia Auction

• 10:00am                             Collector Car Auction

• 10am – Auction Close        The Garage Patio Hours

• 12:00pm – 4:00pm Broadcast on SPEED

Russo and Steele Offers Rare Tasting of Jack Daniels Single Barrel For Bidders
 Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions has partnered with Brown Forman to share some special whiskey made by Jack Daniels in a VIP Lounge called the “Single Barrel Lounge” during their 8th annual Scottsdale event. The single barrel is considered to be a “full-bodied” Tennessee Whiskey that is hand crafted from a single barrel and individually selected by Jack Daniels Master Distiller, Jimmy Bedford. Each bottle’s neck is hand labeled with the barrel number, date of bottling and the Rick number.

 This particular type of whiskey exhibits advanced maturation notes in robust manner, notably wood effects and a strong confectionary presence. The intense flavors come from a high degree of spiciness and fruit notes. However, the taste will vary from barrel to barrel since no two barrels are alike!

Russo and Steele is offering a rare opportunity to join Jack Daniels and have a tasting of their single barrel whiskey; they will also be featuring the full family of Jack Daniels cocktails for tasting. The rare opportunity is not just about getting a chance to taste the unique single barrel whiskey, but also the opportunity to buy your very own barrel of Jack Daniel’s.

 The Russo and Steele “Sports and Muscle in Scottsdale” event will be held January 16th-20th, 2008 and will showcase more than five hundred cars. The festivities will kick off on Wednesday, January 16th with Russo and Steele’s Motown Charity Gala benefiting the Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Emily Center, and will continue Thursday through Sunday as the cars drive across the auction block. The vehicle preview will be held Wednesday through Sunday with gates opening at 10 AM every morning and the auction is starting at noon each day.

Menopause The Musical Returns by Popular Demand to Scottsdale's Theater 4301

The international hit show Menopause The Musical®, The Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change®, is returning by popular demand for a limited run at the Theater 4301 at the Galleria Corporate Centre on January 10.

The ensemble production features four women at a department store's lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra and hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, chocolate binges, not enough sex, too much sex, and more. A joyful parody of 25 re-lyricized classic baby boomer hits, the 90-minute show features chart-toppers including "I Heard It Thru the Grapevine You No Longer See 39," "Puff, My God I¹m Draggin,'' "and the disco favorite "Stayin' Awake! Stayin' Awake!"

The Scottsdale cast includes several popular, local actresses including Oregena Rose as Professional Woman; Patty Davis as Soap Star; and Katherine Todd as Understudy. The cast is rounded out with P.J. Jenkinson as Earth Mother and Jeannette Manor as Iowa Housewife. Menopause The Musical® is directed by Kathryn Conte and choreographed by Patty Bender with musical direction by Alan Plado.

Tickets for Menopause The Musical® are $42.50 and can be purchased at the Box Office or by calling (480) 994-ARTS (2787). Group discounts are available by calling 888-MTM-TKTS, #11 (888-686-8587). Theater 4301 at the Galleria Corporate Centre is located at 5th Ave. and Drinkwater Blvd. in downtown Scottsdale. Show times are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Since its first show in a tiny, 76-seat perfume-shop-converted theatre in the former Church Street Exchange on March 28, 2001, Menopause The Musical® has launched a women¹s movement that has superseded entertainment and become a must-see event. It is estimated that nearly 9 million women have attended a performance since the show¹s opening in Orlando, Fla., in 2001. Inspired by a hot flash and a bottle of wine, writer/producer Jeanie Linders, an Orlando, Fla. resident, created the show as a celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived The Change. Since its first performance, the show has evolved as a "grassroots" movement of women who deal with life after 40 and all the challenges that result from the mental, physical, and spiritual freedom of the post-WWII baby boomer generation.

"Most women know intuitively that every other woman is experiencing hot flashes or night sweats,"says Linders. "There is always a close friend or two who can sympathize or identify with her, but when they are sitting in a theatre with 420 other women, all laughing and shouting’ 'That's me! That¹s me on stage!' they know what they are experiencing is normal. They aren¹t alone or crazy. It becomes a sisterhood."

Menopause The Musical® has entertained audiences across the country in more than 100 cities including Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Danville (KY), Detroit, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, New Haven (CT), New York, Orlando, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Syracuse (NY), Tampa, Upland (CA), and West Palm Beach, as well as internationally in 12 countries including Australia, Canada, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, United Kingdom, South Africa, and South Korea. Each week nearly 35,000 women of all ages and stages find their spirits lifted by the show¹s light-hearted look at menopause. It is estimated that nearly 9 million women have attended a performance since the show¹s opening in Orlando, Fla., in 2001.

 

Arts Council of the North Valley Kicks off 2008 with Fine Artists and Music at 4th Annual Festival of Fine Art at Anthem – Jan. 12 & 13

Indoor Festival Features Elegant, Vibrant Visual Arts in Gallery Setting at the Outlets at Anthem
– Kent Camerata Opens Festival with Special Concert on Fri., Jan. 11

 The Arts Council of the North Valley (ACNV) is kicking off the New Year by hosting the
4th Annual Festival of Fine Art at Anthem from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on
Saturday and Sunday, January 12 & 13 in a gallery setting at the Outlets of Anthem, located one-quarter mile west of Exit 229 off of I-17. The Festival features a juried art show and sale, showcasing 40 award-winning and emerging Arizona artists with over 1,000 works of art. General admission is $3 and free for children age 12 and under.  

A special Kent Camerata Opening Night Concert will take place on Friday, January 11 at the Fellowship Church, 39905 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway in Anthem. This world-acclaimed vocal and instrumental group performs solo and ensemble music by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Schumann, Brahms, Loeffler, and Ravel.  Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with coffee bar available and performance at 8 p.m.  Ticket prices range from $5 to $15 and are available at www.ACNV.org, at (623) 516-2268, or at the door. 

According to Willine Evans, ACNV festival chair, the Festival of Fine Art at Anthem will once again feature a dynamic combination of fine artists and live music. Fine artists include watercolorist and 2006 winner of Best in Show, Steve Stento; nationally recognized animal artist, Linda Budge; nationally-known glass artist Terry Armstrong Hamra; internationally published photographer, Joel Wolfson; and award-winning fine metal artist Kathy Bechamp. The show features original painting, sculpture, jewelry, gourds, ceramics, photography, glass, wood, and fine metal.
 
"We encourage people to come early, to visit with the artists who are on hand and eager to discuss their work," Evans says. "It is a great opportunity to find out what inspires your favorite artist, why they chose their medium, and how they've honed their techniques over the years to translate their inspiration into their art."
 
"The beautiful space and relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect way to view and buy art and the Outlets at Anthem, a recognized destination with many amenities, has much to offer," she continues.

Live Music In addition to the Kent Camerata Opening Night Concert on Friday, January 11, the Festival will feature live musical performances throughout the weekend by the Pete Pancrazi Trio and Meadowlark at the courtyard adjacent suite 410. No ticket is required.  

Pancrazi was voted "Jazz Guitar Player of the Year" in AZ Jazz Magazine’s 2000 Readers’ Poll. He and his trio perform on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.  

Meadowlark has created music that is as magical and enchanting as it is unsuited to any conventional definition. Guitarist Rick Cyge and flutist Lynn Trombetta have a signature sound all their own, deriving its unique personality from a plethora of sources. The duo will perform on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 
 
Fun for the Whole Family 
 
When creating this year's Festival of Fine Art at Anthem, three things were paramount – locating diverse visual art talents and artwork to fit a range of collections and budgets, keeping it real for younger budding artists, and providing a means to give back to the community. The Arts Council of the North Valley, over 100 volunteers, and numerous local organizations, has addressed all three.
 
Budding artists are showcased in the 2nd annual ACNV Regional Teen Art Competition which features top artwork from students at Boulder Creek, Sandra Day O'Connor, Barry Goldwater, Cactus Shadows, and Mountain Ridge High Schools.  An award presentation will take place on Sunday afternoon. 
 
Carnaval des Arts Black-Tie Gala and Charity Auction on Saturday, January 26
 
"Carnaval des Arts, Black Tie Gala and Charity Auction is a wonderful evening of art, music, entertainment and elegant dining, benefiting the arts in the North Valley," says gala organizer, Dee Wright.
 
"The Gala is being held on Saturday, January 26, in the beautiful Anthem Golf & Country Club Ironwood ballroom in Anthem. Guests will enjoy exciting entertainment including T.A. Burrows, entertainer and emcee, dance by AZDance Group, fine dining, a premium live and silent auction, awarding of scholarships, and dancing to the music of the Messinger Band," Wright continues.

 For Gala ticket information check the web site www.ACNV.org or contact 623-687-4086.
 
Festival and Gala Provides Year Round Benefits
 
Organized by the ACNV, the Fine Arts Festival and Regional Teen Art Competition builds on the success of last year's events. "Our vision was to promote increased access to the arts and to contribute to the development of an appreciation of the aesthetic aspects of community life in the North Valley. Last year's events were a spectacular success and served as a catalyst for people to become more involved in volunteer efforts to help advance the arts," says Donna Kublin, ACNV president. 
 
Kublin continues: "With funding from last year's auctions, we were able to work in collaboration with an area high school to present a dance master class and lecture with Nikolais Dance Theatre as performed by Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company that is on a national tour, to present a musician master class, and to expand our scholarship program." 
 

Festival of Fine Art at Anthem Location 
 
The Outlets at Anthem is located one-quarter mile west of Exit 229, I-17.  Anthem is located in North Phoenix, 10 minutes from the Loop 101, 35 minutes north of downtown Phoenix and 70 miles south of Sedona.  The artists are located in the northwest corner of the Outlets at Anthem in Suites 300 and 410.  Daily admission to the Festival is $3 with children 12 and under free.  A variety of food and beverages is available at the Food Court. For more information and detailed directions, check the website www.ACNV.org , or call 623-516-2268, extension 2.
  

The Arts Council of the North Valley’s mission is to provide leadership in support of artistic excellence, understanding and education of the arts, and to nurture the cultural life and vitality of our community. The ACNV is a donation funded, volunteer-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that would not exist without the generosity of their donors and public support they receive thorough matching grants from the Arizona Commission on the Arts.

Russo and Steele - Celebrity Memorabilia Will be Offered Daily!

Kevin Martin is one of, if not the most respected autograph and memorabilia dealer in the field of entertainment in the world today. With over 20 years experience authenticating and selling only entertainment memorabilia he has published more than 400 articles on the subject in publications like the Robb Report, USA Today, Ebay magazine, Autograph Collecting, Big Reel, Antiques, and more as well as regular columns.

 As the CEO of the company Piece of the Past Inc. the largest he brings to auctions like Russo and Steele the finest one of a kind authentic historical and entertainment memorabilia. Every item Russo and Steele sells comes with the signed certificate of authenticity from Piece of the Past Inc with a Lifetime Guarantee of Authenticity for the item. As a case consultant for the Smithsonian and National Archives and wholesaler to such chains as Hard Rock Cafe, Planet Hollywood and Field of Dreams like Russo and Steele is pleased to have represented at this auction over 60 items sold at no reserve each day before the cars begin from this giant in the field. Memorabilia Schedule of Events January 17th, 18th 19th and 20th the sale begins at 12pm.

 These items and more than 70 other pieces will be auctioned.

• 1. Smith and Wesson rare signed item from 1850's.

• 2. Clement Studebaker rare handwritten letter over 100 years ago.

• 3. George S Patton signed piece.

• 4. MGM Poster signed by 50 stars.40 that are now deceased!

• 5. Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey signed ensemble. One of a kind.

• 6. Moonwalkers set of all TEN astronauts to step on the moon.

• 7. James Brown signed Fender Stratocaster guitar.

• 8. Batman ensemble of signed images of every actor to play Batman.

• 9. James bond ensemble of signed images of every actor to play James Bond.

• 10. Harry Houdini escape key used in his act!

• 11. Norman Rockwell letter!

• 12. Johnny Cash stage used cusom guitar pick with provenance from family.

• 13. John Wayne extremely rare set of Nudies custom made boots worn in 1948 western film.

• 14. Crosby Stills Nash and Young one of a kind signed 16x20 image on stage.

• 15. Goodfella's Cast signed piece.

• 16. Marilyn Monroe owned and used pin.

• 17. Al Capone owned illegal dice from gambling den.

• 18. Dillinger rare FBI wanted poster.

• 19. Bonnie and Clyde rare FBI Wanted poster.

• 20. Clint Eastwood signed early western image.

• 21. John Wayne signed item.

• 22. Five Presidents ensemble with Reagan, Bush, Ford, Nixon and Carter.

• 23. Easy Rider Cast signed item.

• 24. Sylvester Stallone signed Everlast boxing gloves.

• 25. Wizard of Oz cast signed ensemble by all the main actors and actresses.

• 26. BB King signed Epihone guitar on the body.

• 27. Willie Nelson signed guitar.

• 28. Tim McGraw and Faith Hill signed guitar.

• 29. Moody Blues signed guitar by entire band.

• 30. Seinfeld Cast signed image by all four main cast members.

• 31. Johnny Depp Pirates Cast signed ensemble with props from film.

• 32. Ransom E Olds signed item.

• 33. Albert Einstein signed item.

• 34. Orvile Wright signed item.

• 35. Enola Gay piece signed by original crew who dropped H Bomb on Nagasaki!

• 36. Rolling Stones signed Telecaster on the body.

• 37. The Who signed Fender Stratocaster Guitar.

• 38. Gone with the Wind item signed Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh.

• 39. Johnny Carson early original Tonight Show contract signed.

• 40. Jackson Five guitar signed by Michael and all his brothers.

• 41. Jimmy Buffett signed ensemble.

• 42. Desperate Housewives Cast photograph signed.

• 43. Sex in the City Cast photograph signed.

• 44. Nicolas Cage Gone in Sixty Seconds large image signed with Mustang Eleanor.

• 45. Blues Brothers piece signed b John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.

• 46. Caddyshack rare soundtrack signed by entire original cast.

• 47. Dale Earnhardt SR rare signed and certified photograph.

• 48. Al Pacino Scarface nice signed item.

• 49. Layla Lyrics signed by Eric Clapton.

• 50. Johnny B Goode lyrics signed by Chuck Berry.

1929 RUXTON "ALLIGATOR" PROTOTYPE TO BE SOLD AT BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION IN SCOTTSDALE SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - December 20, 2007 - The only 1929 Muller Front Drive Ruxton Engineer Prototype Roadster ever built, which later became known as the "Alligator", will be sold at No Reserve during the 37th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on Jan. 12-20, 2008, in Scottsdale, Ariz. The "sporty little roadster" (Lot #1313) will cross the block during SPEED's live primetime coverage on Saturday evening. Hailed as "The World's Greatest Collector Car Events™," the Scottsdale auction will feature over 1100 of the world's finest collector vehicles and lavish lifestyle events. As always, SPEED will broadcast live-coverage of all six auction days.

"Barrett-Jackson began 37 years ago by offering some of the most important collectible pre-war classics in the world," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "Today, demand is still strong for crown jewel cars like this incredible Ruxton 'Alligator' that have proven provenance and represent important milestones. This car has a fascinating history and showcases some of the advanced technology that could have revolutionized the auto industry if the great depression had not created so much turmoil. It's a car that symbolizes what might have been."

Sometimes overlooked, Ruxtons were trailblazers in automotive design. One of the biggest achievements of this marque was the use of front-wheel-drive technology. The car was created by a brilliant engineer, William Muller, for the New Era Motor Company. He had been charged by CEO Archie Andrews with developing a high-end sedan for mainstream production. While building the prototype sedan, Muller secretly began working on a "little sporty supercharged Ruxton roadster for fellows… who really enjoyed fast road cars".

Muller's creative genius resulted in a one-off front-drive automobile that incorporated all of the important Ruxton features, while having a unique look. His prototype roadster had the same Continental 4.4 liter side-valve, straight-eight cylinder engine capable of producing 100 horsepower, transmission and frame as the sedan, but the body and frame were chopped nine inches. He also supercharged the engine with a unit similar to the ones installed in the Stutz to bump up the horsepower. The supercharger is not in the car's present restored configuration.

The Great Depression was a difficult time for many, primarily manufacturers of high-priced, luxury goods. After producing less than 200 cars, Ruxton closed its doors and ceased production in 1930. Today, only a handful of the original cars are known to exist.

"This is a terrific car that has been thoroughly researched and recently restored to very high standards," noted Tim Whited, co-owner of the Ruxton "Alligator". "The story of Bill Muller and this car is incredible and of considerable interest within the collector car community. A file drawer full of notes, letters and articles accompanied the purchase of the car. The 'Alligator' will make a stellar centerpiece for a serious collector who appreciates world-class engineering and the exclusivity of owning a one-off prototype that wowed the public in 1929."

According to one of those letters, Muller described the body as "All steel made of Dodge Roadster stampings at the Budd Plant in Philadelphia. Doors were standard. Cowl was cut in two and widened so seat was comfortable for three people. Rear quarter panels were reworked for proper wheel clearance for fenders. Deck center section was hand made. Fenders were made in temporary dies. Spare wheel was carried in rear compartment…". He even made a special "MULLER FRONT DRIVE" badge and installed it on the radiator shell; it is still on the car today.

"Muller was a serious racing enthusiast and you can see his passion for motorsports in every aspect of this fantastic car," added Steve Davis, President of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "For instance, the vehicle sat lower than most cars of the era so it would be very stable at speed. Bill let a number of drivers, including Ralph DePalma, Cannonball Baker and Ralph Harroun, take it around the track at Indy for some timed laps after the race in May 1930. Someone saw it running around the track and said it looked like an alligator. Somehow that name stuck."

The Ruxton is in stellar condition following a restoration completed in late 2006 by Cole's Classics. Their craftsmen used a number of original parts that accompanied the Ruxton when it was purchased.

"The 'Alligator' was in a neglected condition when we purchased it and we felt strongly that it should be restored as close as possible to its condition when Bill Muller drove it throughout the U.S. to demonstrate the front-drive technology," added Whited. "Our focus was absolute detailed accuracy. The photos and documentation we received with the car were invaluable and this amazing wealth of documentation will pass on to the new owner."

About Barrett-Jackson

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the "World's Greatest Classic Car Event" in Scottsdale, AZ, and has expanded to other venues, including Palm Beach, FL and in 2008, Las Vegas, NV. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce Celebrating The Past, Present and Future
As one of the leaders in our community, we would like to invite you to participate in the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Copper Sun Awards Banquet being held on Friday, January 11th, 2008.

 The Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce has seen many changes since it’s inception in 1963. With over 700 business Members, representing 3500 professionals, we now have a proud heritage of 45 years behind us, and a very bright future ahead. Representing the communities of El Mirage, Surprise, Sun City, Sun City West, and Youngtown, the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce is already one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in the Valley of the Sun. The Chamber is poised to lead the way as we build a premier regional representative organization that serves the needs of the business communities in all five of these great communities.

 This year’s celebration will be “The Past, Present and Future of the Northwest Valley!”This is a special event to honor our peers! This celebration will be held at the Union Hills Country Club, located at 9860 W. Lindgren Avenue Sun City, it will start at 6:00 p.m. and will wrap up at 11:00. We look forward to your participation in this memorable celebration as we recognize movers and shakers, and the leaders, who make the Northwest Valley such a vibrant and outstanding community.

 There are a wide variety of sponsorship opportunities for you to consider. We will share with the community the good news about your support, so please come join us!

 The mission of the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce is to promote and expand our members’ economic growth to enhance the Northwest Valley, and this celebration is just one of many events and programs which do just that.  Through monthly networking functions, newsletters, an enhanced website, special events, and advertising opportunities, we provide the tools for our members to be successful. As a Chamber, we also work hard to create a vibrant local economy, assist the local business community through pro-business public policy, and to promote local business growth. In addition, we assist residents from the five communities we represent with information on area hotels, real estate, RV resorts, weather, tourist information, transportation, arts and entertainment, along with special attractions and sporting events. We also offer relocation information on churches, education, healthcare, employment, and helpful phone numbers, along with information on each of our communities.   

For sponsorship forms for the Copper Sun Awards Banquet please contact the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce at 623-583-0692 Fax: 623-583-0694 or on-line at www.northwestvalley.com . Please fill in the forms and return them to the Chamber.

 Come and join us in Celebration of the Past, Present and Future of our Communities!

Thank You,David Lewis!President/CEO

•  Copper Sun Sponsor $8,000

• (only one Sponsorship Available)

• • 2 Complimentary tables of 8 in special sponsorship section

• • Special Sponsorship Trophy displayed and presented to you during banquet

• • Opportunity to present Business of the Year Award during banquet

• • Copper Sun Past – Present – Future Time line of company

• • Article with photo in Northwest Valley Chamber Newsletter

• • Your name or logo in all news media advertising before and after the banquet

• • Your name or logo in event collateral and nomination forms

• • Significant recognition at all Chamber functions prior to banquet

• • Your logo displayed in the Official Program

• • Two month banner display in Surprise Visitor’s Center (300+ visitors per month)

• • Link on Copper Sun Awards Banquet web page

•  

• Platinum Sponsors $6,000

• (only two Sponsorships Available)

• • Complimentary table of 8 in special sponsorship section

• • Copper Sun Past – Present – Future Time line of company

• • Your name or logo in all news media advertising before and after the banquet

• • Your name or logo in event collateral and nomination forms

• • Significant recognition at all Chamber functions prior to banquet

• • Your logo displayed in the Official Program

• • Two month banner display in Surprise Visitor’s Center (300+ visitors per month)

• • Link on Copper Sun Awards Banquet web page

•  

• Gold Sponsors $3,000

• • Complimentary table of 8

• • Copper Sun Past – Present – Future Time line of company

• • Your name or logo in all news media advertising before and after the banquet

• • Your name or logo in event collateral and nomination forms

• • Significant recognition at all Chamber functions prior to banquet

• • Your logo displayed in the Official Program

• • Link on Copper Sun Awards Banquet web page

•  

• Silver Sponsors $1,500

• • 8 Complimentary tickets

• • Copper Sun Past – Present – Future Time line of company

• • Your name or logo in all news media advertising before and after the banquet

• • Significant recognition at all Chamber functions prior to banquet

• • Your logo displayed in the Official Program

• • Link on Copper Sun Awards Banquet web page

•  

• Bronze Sponsors $1,000

• • 8 Complimentary tickets

• • Copper Sun Past – Present – Future Time line of company

• • Your logo displayed in the Official Program

• • Link on Copper Sun Awards Banquet web page

•  

• Table Sponsors $550

• • 8 Complimentary tickets

• • Company name in the Official Program

•  

• Participating Sponsors $175

• • 2 Complimentary tickets

• • Company name in the Official Program

•  

• Individual Tickets $55 Per Person

• Make your reservations today Call 623-583-0692 or Fax: 623-583-0694

• Business of the Year Awards

• Award Sponsorship $150

• Small Business of the Year Award

• Business that has 1 – 10 employees

• Award Sponsorship $150

• Mid-Size Business of the Year Award

• Business that has 11 – 20 employees

• Award Sponsorship $150

• Large Business of the Year Award

• Business that has 21 or more employees

• Award Sponsorship $150

• • Wayne Farnsworth Award

• Sponsored by APS

•  

• Business Awards

• Award Sponsorship $75

• • Act of Kindness Award

• • Communication Award

• • Entrepreneur Award

• • Home-Based Business Award

• • Mentorship Award

• • New Member Award

• • Member of the Year Award

• • Non-Profit Award

• • Volunteer of the Year Award

• • Civic Pride Award

•  

• Committee Chair Awards

• Award Sponsorship $50

• • Ambassadors Award

• • Casino Night Award

• • Copper Sun Award

• • Golf Tournament Award

• • Membership Award

• • Network/Business Mixer Award

• • Power Conference Award

• • Safety Award

• • Spring Auction Award

• Chamber Staff

• President/CEO: David Lewis

• Operations Manager: Deidra Gossett

• Tourism & Accounts Payable: Kathy Russo

• Business Development: Theresa Farris

• Membership Service Coordinator: Open

• Copper Sun Awards Banquet

• Past - Present - Future Committee

• Member                                                 Company

• Karen Wellert                                       Adultcare Assistance Homecare

• Chuck Strange                                      Adultcare Assistance Homecare

• Jeanne Blackman                                  APS

• Leatha Martin                                       Cimmaron Day Spa

• Penny Burns                                         Daily News Sun

• Cheryl Street                                         Hampton Inn Suites – Surprise

• Kate Cox                                                Heard Museum West

• David Lewis                                          Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

• Deidra Gossett                                      Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

• Carolyn Shaw                                       Sun Health

• Jerry Ankiewicz                                    Westside Sign*A*Rama

• Lisa Platt                                                West Valley Women

• Please Choose Method of Payment

• • Checks Payable to Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

• • American Express • MasterCard • Visa          

•  

• Only one Sponsorship Per Award

• Award Sponsors Please Call the Chamber

• 623-583-0692 Fax: 623-583-0694

• www.northwestvalley.com

Spike's Super Crew works with Angels
Spike's Super Crew of volunteers is bringing holiday cheer to deserving children throughout the Valley.  
On Wednesday, December 19, the Super Crew will team up with the Salvation Army to sort and distribute gifts received through the Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree program. 300 Super Crew volunteers will sort new clothes and toys collected through the program and distribute the gifts to families with children who normally might not receive gifts during the holidays.
The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program receives gifts from various contributors.  Numerous Christmas trees placed in high-traffic areas throughout the Valley are decorated with numbered tags with the first name, age and gender of a child who will receive the gift. Contributors take one or more tags from the tree and purchase gifts for the child described on the tag.  Super Crew members will help with the final step of the giving process by making sure the gifts reach the children by Christmas morning.  Salvation Army Christmas Angel Trees can be found in malls throughout the Valley, including Arizona Mills, Arrowhead Towne Center, Chandler Fashion Center, Desert Sky Mall, Metrocenter, Paradise Valley Mall, Prescott Gateway Mall, Scottsdale Fashion Square, and Superstition Springs.  The trees will be in the malls until Saturday, December 22.
Spike's Super Crew presented by Pulte Homes and 3TV is taking this opportunity give back to the community during the holiday season while also sharing excitement about Arizona's Super Bowl.  This will be the final monthly volunteer event for Spike¹s Super Crew before the week of Super Bowl XLII.   
Spike's Super Crew members are volunteers with the Arizona Super Bowl XLII Host Committee (AZSBHC).  Each month, the Super Crew tackles a community project leading up to Super Bowl XLII.  Past Super Crew events have included cleaning up Tempe Town Lake's Indian Bend Wash Habitat, preparing care packages for troops stationed overseas, rejuvenating the St. Vincent de Paul charity in Phoenix, raising awareness about water safety at Phoenix Children¹s Hospital, packaging food at St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance, helping with Boys & Girls Clubs National Day for Kids, painting homes for low-income elderly and disabled homeowners in Glendale, participating in the Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure, and helping with the VA Veteran¹s Day parade.  
Who: Spike's Super Crew presented by Pulte Homes and sponsored by 3TV
What: Salvation Army Christmas Angel Program
When: Wednesday, December 19 from 8am-4pm
Where: The Salvation Army, 2707 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85008
About the Salvation Army Christmas Angels Program
The Christmas Angel Tree Program along with KTVK 3TV, WB6 and 61, azfamily.com, 101.5 the Zone, 94.5 Kool FM and KMLE Country 108 provides new clothes and toys to children throughout the Valley who would normally wake up on Christmas morning with little or nothing under the tree (if they have a tree at all). Through this and the Adopt-A-Family programs, the Salvation Army touches the lives of over 50,000 children and their families each holiday season, bringing Christmas joy and love to those who need it most.
About the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee
The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee is a private, non-profit Arizona corporation that serves as a liaison with the National Football League in organizing local efforts and preparations leading up to the Super Bowl. It has the responsibility to implement Arizona¹s action plan for Super Bowl XLII, which culminates with the game on February 3, 2008 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale. ­ azsuperbowl.com ­

IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR FOR COYOTE DREAMS: A VERY ARIZONA CHRISTMAS
Darknight Productions opened their season at The Encore Room at Arizona Broadway Theatre this year and the husband and wife team of playwright Alexx Stuart and director Diedre Kaye are pleased to have received 100% positive comments on the surveys the customers turn in at the end of the show.  “People love Alexx’s writing and we have a very talented troupe of actors,” says co-producer Kaye.  “They especially love to see that many of these talented people are their neighbors.”

 In December, the company will relaunch their successful holiday show, Coyote Dreams: A VERY Arizona Christmas.  Alexx and Diedre are both from Minnesota, so Alexx wrote a fun story about a Norwegian couple who contemplate a move from Minnesota to Arizona.  He’s written 20 song parodies of popular carols to tell stories about unique aspects of Arizona.  Audiences have come to expect and appreciate Stuart’s humorous manner.  “We’re already getting calls from Minnesotans who have heard about the show, and a number of people who saw the show last year are returning with their friends.  It’s becoming a holiday tradition,” says Kaye.  “We also love the fact that the owners of ABT, the Klaphake’s, are from Minnesota.”

There is more “family” involved in Darknight Productions.  Mike and Bill DeBusk are both members of the acting troupe.  Mike plays Dingo Irons in The Woes of Kilimanjaro…Country Club, the musical golf parody playing in November and February, and he plays multiple young male characters in Coyote Dreams.  Mike’s older brother, Bill, is playing Carl Johnson in Coyote Dreams.  Bill was first cast with the company and then recommended his brother.  “When you find someone as talented as Bill, you can only hope that he has a brother.  In this case, we found Bill comes from a whole family of talented performers,” said Kaye. 

Older brother Bill recalls when his parents took their six children and spouses on a cruise.  While waiting in line to embark, brother Jim, director of the Washington High School Choir, saw a notice about a talent show on the last night of the cruise.  He started teaching the family a four-part harmony of "In the Still of the Night" he'd done with his choir. “As we walked on stage the night of the show,” said Bill, “the cruise director said, ‘You're all in the same family?  Who are you, the von Trapps?’” 

Mike and Bill both graduated from Sunnyslope High School and were very involved in the performing arts, but they never performed together.  Coyote Dreams will be their first time in a play together.  Mike loves building these kinds of memories.  “Whether it’s beating Bill at horseshoes or playing golf and trying to find our golf balls in the cool pines, we always have a lot of fun.”   Bill adds that there has always been support for their pursuit of theater from the family.  “My mother was a classical ballet dancer with the Phoenix Light Opera and a soprano in the Voices of Phoenix College.  Mike and I are two of six children in a family that includes singers, dancers, instrumentalists and actors.” 

Audiences can enjoy these men and the other cast members of Coyote Dreams  East - Grimaldi's in Old Town  4000 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale doors open at 6:30 PM December 8th, 22nd,23rd & 27th West-Encore Room at Arizona Broadway Theatre at 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria  December 2^nd, 9^th and 30^th  For details, visit www.darknightproductions.us or call 480-595-7346.  Tickets for dinner, show and gratuity are $41.25 plus tax.  Reservations are required. 

NEW RIVER / DESERT HILLS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION ANNUAL HOLIDAY SOCIAL & DESSERT POTLUCK WITH SPECIAL GUEST, COUNTY SUPERVISOR ANDY KUNASEK
 Please join the New River/Desert Hills Community Association (NR/DHCA) at the Annual Holiday Social & Dessert Potluck with special guest, Dist. 3 County Supervisor Andy Kunasek on Tuesday, December 11 starting at 7:00 PM.  This special meeting will be held at Crossroads Christian Fellowship at 42425 N. New River Road.

 Supervisor Kunasek will be giving us an informal update on the County’s 2007 highlights and a sneak peak at 2008.  This is also the evening of the special Annual Holiday Social and Dessert Potluck.  Deli trays, beverages and tableware will be provided by the NR/DHCA.  We ask that everyone attending bring a dessert or sweet treat to share.  The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.

 Also, don’t forget to mark your calendars for our quarterly litter pick-up on Saturday, December 15 at 8:00 AM.  Volunteers are urgently needed!  All we ask is for a couple of hours of your time helping to clean up our adopted stretch of 7^th Street.  In return, you will be providing an important service and we can all enjoy a nicer community over the holiday season!  Meet up with litter pick-up Chair, Ed Grant at the NE corner of 7^th Street & Carefree Highway.  Please bring your own water, gloves, and sunscreen - Ed will provide the rest. Call 623-742-0150 or visit www.nrdhca.org for more information.

JAZZ SAXOPHONIST BRANFORD MARSALIS
TO PERFORM WITH HIS QUARTET

An Evening with Branford Marsalis ,  January 4, 2008, Friday @ 8 p.m.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present An Evening with Branford Marsalis on January 4, 2008, at 8 p.m. The performance is part of the Journeys in Jazz series sponsored by Infiniti. Single tickets are available for $65 from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Web site at www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or the box office at (480) 994-ARTS (2787).

Known for his impeccable technique and interpretive insight, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis is at the forefront of both jazz and classical music. He brings to the stage a mastery of craft, a comprehensive knowledge of music past and present and a refusal to acknowledge artificial boundaries. Marsalis will perform with his celebrated Branford Marsalis Quartet, which includes Joey Calderazzo on piano, Eric Revis on bass and Jeff 'Tain' Watts on drums.

BRANFORD MARSALIS

Branford Marsalis has always been a man of numerous musical interests. The three-time Grammy winner has continued to exercise and expand his skills as an instrumentalist, a composer and the head of Marsalis Music, the label he founded in 2002 that has allowed him to produce both his own projects and those of the jazz world's most promising new and established artists.

A New Orleans native, Marsalis was born in 1960 into one of the city's most distinguished musical families, which includes patriarch/pianist/educator Ellis and Branford's siblings Wynton, Delfeayo and Jason. Branford gained initial acclaim through his work with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and his brother Wynton's quintet in the early 1980s before forming his own ensemble. He has also performed and recorded with a who's who of jazz giants including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock and Sonny Rollins.

Known for his innovative spirit and broad musical scope, Marsalis is equally at home on the stages of the world's greatest clubs and concert halls, where he has performed jazz with his quartet, one of the leading small ensembles of the past two decades; classical music as a guest soloist with numerous chamber and symphony orchestras; and his own unique musical approach to contemporary popular music with his band Buckshot LeFonque. His nearly two dozen recordings in these various styles have received numerous accolades, with his most recent CD, the Grammy-nominated Braggtown, acknowledged as his quartet's greatest recorded achievement to date. Marsalis' previous disc, Eternal, also received a Grammy nomination as well as virtually universal inclusion in lists and polls for the best jazz recording of 2004. Marsalis' playing on the DVD Coltrane's 'A Love Supreme' Live in Amsterdam also received a Grammy nomination for best instrumental jazz solo, while the disc received awards for music and video excellence from the DVD Association.

Marsalis is also dedicated to changing the future of jazz in the classroom. He has shared his knowledge at such universities as Michigan State, San Francisco State, Stanford and North Carolina Central, with his full quartet participating in an innovative extended residency at the latter campus. Beyond these efforts, he is also bringing a new approach to jazz education to jazz students and jazz listeners in colleges and high schools through Marsalis Jams, an interactive program in which leading jazz ensembles present concert/jam sessions in mini-residencies that have visited campuses in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast and Southwest.

Marsalis' diverse interests are also reflected in his other activities. He spent two years touring and recording with Sting and was the musical director of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno for two years in the 1990s. He has collaborated with the Grateful Dead and Bruce Hornsby, acted in films including Throw Mama from the Train and School Daze, provided music for Mo' Better Blues and other films and hosted National Public Radio's syndicated program Jazz Set.

Among the most socially conscious voices in the arts, Marsalis quickly immersed himself in relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. He is the honorary chair of the New Orleans Habitat for Humanity effort to rebuild the city, and together with his friend Harry Connick, Jr. conceived the Habitat Musicians' Village currently under construction in the city's historic Ninth Ward.

Whether on the stage, in the recording studio, in the classroom or in the community, Branford Marsalis represents a commitment to musical excellence and a determination to keep music at the forefront.

LOCATION AND PARKING

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is located at 7380 East Second Street in downtown Scottsdale, four blocks south of Indian School Road and three blocks east of Scottsdale Road The amphitheater is located on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall at 75th Street and Main Street. Free parking is available in the public parking garage located to the west of Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and directly behind Los Olivos restaurant on Wells Fargo Avenue. Additional free parking is available at the Old Town Parking Corral at East Second Street and Brown Avenue and at the Civic Center Library parking garage located on Drinkwater Boulevard at East Second Street. Theater 4301 is located in the Galleria Corporate Centre at 4301 Scottsdale Road on the corner of Drinkwater Boulevard and Fifth Avenue in downtown Scottsdale, one block east of Scottsdale Road Free parking is available in the Galleria Corporate Centre parking garage.

ACCESSIBILITY

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts offers performance accommodations to enhance our audience members' experience, including: American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation or live audio description with two weeks advance notice. Assisted listening devices and wheelchair seating are always available. Visit our Web site www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or contact the box office at (480) 994-ARTS [TDD: (480) 874-4694] for further details. Please inquire about services when ordering tickets.

GROUP DISCOUNTS

A $3 discount per ticket is available for groups of 15 or more (subject to restriction and limitation). Call (480) 874-4657 for more information.

STUDENT DISCOUNTS

Students with valid student identification may purchase half-price tickets (subject to availability; limit one per student) 72 hours before any performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts box office. Tickets must be purchased in-person; phone orders are not accepted. Photo credit: Palma Kolansky

Infinity Consulting Executives present 1st annual Down Dirty Golf Tournament
Monday, December 10 at Starfire Golf Course, Scottsdale
Infinity Consulting Executives (ICE) 1st Annual Down and Dirty Golf Tournament:  ICE presents the first ever golf tournament to bring together those in the hospitality, restaurant and entertainment industries for a
social gathering that has become the most anticipated event of the year. On Monday, December 10 restaurateurs, club managers and hotel staff alike will begin with a day of play at Starfire Golf Course at noon, followed by a BBQ and Awards Ceremony.   

 Golfers will have the opportunity to win prizes for their golf skills, take part in a 50/50 raffle, walk away with great gift bags and be a part of other surprise contests!  While raising money for a good cause, participants will be indulging with their peers  and showing off their skills with contests such as longest drive, longest putt, closest to the pin and hole in one. The best part of it all: the "DIRTY" part of the day will benefit a good cause, The City
of Hope. For more information or to purchase tickets call 480-329-1106 or visit  www.icearizona.com 
WHERE: Starfire Golf Course, 11500 N. Hayden, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
WHEN: Monday, December 10  Noon
TICKETS: Individual Player:  $125  Team: $500 Corporate Hole Sponsor:  $1000 (includes 4 some and hole sponsorship) For team and corporate rates contact Randy Feldman at 480-363-2790 or Tom Cerino at  602-380-6669. Email us at randy@icearizona.com or tom@icearizona.com.

Big Pete Pearson An Arizona Blues Legend and  AZ Blues Hall of Fame Inductee
and the Big Pete Singers
Sunday, December 9, 2007 at 2 pm Two hour concert Adults $10  |  Teens $5  |  Kids $3
Tickets can be purchased in advance by phone 623-972-0635, the Museum Store or at the door
Big Pete Pearson Arizona's King of the Blues
Big Pete Pearson is Arizona's King of the Blues. He has ruled the Phoenix blues bars since the late 1950's. His physical stature and overwhelmingly strong voice command attention. Off stage, Pete can be found with a snifter of Christian Brothers brandy in hand as he joyously greets his many fans.
He is a father figure to many local bluesmen and blueswomen who have cut their teeth playing in his band. Though highly regarded locally, Big Pete's greatness is still one of Arizona's best kept secrets.
Today, you'll find Big Pete backed by four of the nation's finest young blues entertainers. Each is a master blues musician.
Big Pete's Earlier Days
Born in Jamaica on October 4, 1936, Big Pete landed in Phoenix by way of Austin, Texas. He was raised by his grandparents in St. John's, a Baptist community just outside Austin. His grandfather was a minister and his grandmother ran a local mission. "I kinda got on my own at an early age and I was into music full force. I've always loved music," Pete says.
His grandparents arranged for piano lessons. "I despised the piano, but I took lessons anyway because it was music and I didn't care." He eventually learned how to play guitar and bass.  "My grandma was the one who taught me to use my voice," Pete says. She would sit me down and teach me how I should express my words. She told me, "When you hit a high note, you turn it loose...you bring it from here'"..he rubs his ample belly.
He was known as L.P. Pearson in Austin and played his first gig at age 9 at the Triple J, a local beer joint. His grandparents thought he was playing guitar and singing with a spiritual group at the church.
Big Pete was a regular at the juke joints on the east side of Austin such as The Victory Grill, Charlie's Playhouse, Big Mary's Bar & Grille, Ernie's Chicken Shack and Sam's Showcase. "Playing in the jukes was dangerous, dangerous, man, real dangerous," says Pete. "But I played them anyway and those were my up days."  Pete played the three string bass with the Jets, fronted by Blues Boy Hubbard, and frequently sat in with T.D. Bell and the Cadillacs.
Big Pete lands in Phoenix, Arizona
Big Pete first came to Phoenix in the late 1950's and settled in the mid 60's. The late Duke Draper gave Big Pete his first gig in the desert. Big Pete went on to join and record with Jimmy Knight and the Knights of Rhythm. These vintage sides though never issued should see the light of day on a Phoenix R&B anthology that is forthcoming on the German Bear Family label.
From the 1970's on, Big Pete fronted a number of bands with a variety of names: Driving Wheel, The Detroit Blues Band and the Blues Sevilles. His bands not only maintained Pete's high blues stature but would be both a camp for experienced veterans and a training ground for up and comers.
Band alumni include saxophonists Bernard Williams (of Dyke And The Blazers fame), Bob Tate, Fred Robinson and Emerson Carruthers, guitarist T.D. Bell, Lucius Parr, Scotty Spenner and Tommy Dukes, harmonicist, Bob Corritore, keyboardist Dr. Fish and drummers Elmer Scott and Delmar Stewart, to name a few.
Big Pete has worked with blue legends Ray Charles, BB King, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker and others.
Big Pete's cousin is the famous W.C Clark.
Pearson goes big with CD Feb. 11, 2007 12:00 AM  Arizona Republic  - Larry Rodgers
Phoenix blues favorite "Big" Pete Pearson has sung for more than five decades in shows around the globe, but until now he has never recorded a widely released CD.
I'm Here Baby, produced by local blues impresario Bob Corritore, hits stores Tuesday, and Pearson couldn't be happier.
"It finally came home, a long time coming," Pearson, 70, said with a chuckle.
The album pairs Pearson with some of his closest musical pals, including guitarists Ike Turner and Kid Ramos, singer W.C. Clark and three Valley blues standouts, organist Joey DeFrancesco, harmonica player Corritore and late drummer Chico Chism.  "I have known these guys for years," Pearson said. "It was just like having a homecoming, and it was great inspiration."
www.bigpetepearson.net 
The Big Pete Singers  - This youth group is full of energy and ready to conquer any musical destination
The Big Pete Singers
The Big Pete Singers consists of some 14 teen singers from Wigwam Creek Middle School Choir in Litchfield Elementary School District that were mentored by both Kelly Beechler, their Choir Director and Big Pete Pearson.  They will be singing with legendary blues singer, Big Pete Pearson in order to raise money for the Big Pete Pearson Music Outreach Program.  The non-for-profit organization will benefit kids in music!  To kick off the organization the Choir and Pete have cut a CD that will be released for their concert at the Museum.  This youth group is full of energy and ready to conquer any musical destination.  Big Pete¹s Harley like voice kick starts the group and their fusion fuels a musical journey that runs like a well tuned engine out on a country road where each turn is a surprise.
Wigwam Creek Middle School Choir
Big Pete Pearson, Kelly Beechler, Choir Director and the Wigwam Creek Middle School Choir
West Valley Art Museum 17420 North Avenue of the Arts - Surprise, AZ 85374
Call 623-972-0635 or visit  www.wvam.org  

Significant Increase in 2007 Thanksgiving Meal
Arizona Dinner for 10 is $51.14
As Arizonans sit down at the Thanksgiving table to dig into the traditional feast this year, the turkey dinner with all the trimmings will cost $51.14 for an Arizona family of 10, or $5.11 per person. This is an $11.92 increase or 30% more than the 2006 Arizona Thanksgiving meal ($39.22), and $8.88 above this year¹s national average. The American Farm Bureau¹s survey results show a cost of $42.26 for a family of 10.

The cost of a 16-pound turkey purchased in Arizona was $23.04, or $1.44 cents per pound, which reflects a 45% increase in the cost of a turkey over last year. Compared to last year¹s survey, prices are higher this year for every item except green peas. Turkeys increased 46-cents per pound.

According to Sharla Flake, Farm Bureau member and past county chair of the Women¹s Leadership Committee in Snowflake, Ariz., "The cost of food is where you can work the family budget.  In other words, I think of ways I can modify my shopping list to save money"  *Buy store brand items;  Wait until sales begin before Thanksgiving;  Ask other family members to bring various side-dishes; and  Use coupons.

The 2007 Arizona Thanksgiving meal cost estimate is the result of the Arizona Farm Bureau¹s annual informal Thanksgiving Dinner Price Survey of the prices of basic food items found on the Thanksgiving dinner table.  The Arizona Farm Bureau survey-shopping list includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a relish tray including carrots and celery, pumpkin pie with whipped cream plus coffee and milk, all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10. To make a proper comparison, these items are the same food items used in the national Farm Bureau survey.

Since the close of Young's Farm, Arizona does not have a large-scale, commercial turkey producer in the state, thus transportation and inventory costs must be factored in. "The inventory of birds in cold storage is relatively small this year. This has helped drive up the average retail turkey price," said Jim Sartwelle, an American Farm Bureau economist. "The tremendous increase in energy costs for transportation and processing over the past year also is a key factor behind higher retail prices at the grocery store."

"All of the dairy products included in the 2007 survey increased significantly in price over the past year due to skyrocketing world demand," Sartwelle said.

Arizona farmers and ranchers produce most of the ingredients in the traditional Thanksgiving meal including dressing (bread, onions and celery), peas, pumpkin and pecans for pies, and several others. Even roses, sometimes used for holiday centerpieces, are grown in Arizona.

"Farm and ranch families in Arizona and across the nation take great pride in providing the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the world," said Arizona Farm Bureau President Kevin Rogers. "As we sit down this Thanksgiving to savor the food bounty, it is appropriate to remember that it all starts on America¹s farms and ranches. Arizona agriculture is a $9.2 billion industry, employing 70,000 workers and is a major component of the state¹s strong economy."

" I am a bit surprised the Arizona meal cost is up by 30% but I can tell you my fuel costs for this year are up more than 30% on my farm. Based on this year's average meal cost, Arizona residents can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal for just over $5.00 per person. That's worthy of many thanks," Rogers added.

The average price of the remainder of the menu includes: three pounds of sweet potatoes, $4.47; a 16-ounce package of frozen green peas, $2.04; one gallon of whole milk, $3.21; a half-pint carton of whipping cream, $1.99; a package of two nine-inch pie shells, $2.12; a 12-ounce package of fresh cranberries, $2.99; a 14-ounce package of cubed stuffing, $2.80; a 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix, $2.47; miscellaneous items like eggs, sugar, flour and coffee, $3.03; one-half pound each of carrots and celery for a relish tray, $.99; and a 12-ounce package of brown-and-serve rolls, $1.99.

Prices of past national surveys include: 1986 - $28.74; 1987 - $24.51; 1988 - $26.61; 1989 - $24.70; 1990 - $28.85; 1991 - $25.95; 1992 - $26.39; 1993 - $27.49; 1994 - $28.40; 1995 - $29.64; 1996 - $31.66; 1997 - $31.75; 1998 - $33.09; 1999 - $33.83; 2000 - $32.37; 2001 - $35.04; 2002 - $34.56; 2003 - $36.28; 2004 - $36.04; 2005 - $37.69 and 2006 - $39.22.

The Farm Bureau Thanksgiving Dinner Price Survey is unscientific, but serves as a gauge of actual price trends across the state.  This survey is based on shelf price and does not reflect special prices and promotional gimmicks. Shoppers involved in this year's survey were asked to identify the best in-store price, excluding promotional coupons and special deals. Farm Bureau's survey menu has remained unchanged since 1986 to allow for consistent price comparisons.

Alice Cooper

by LeeAnn Sharpe

 Alice Cooper’s classic image is one of horror and outrageous antics, the macabre perversion beyond anyone else. In fact, next to Halloween masks of Frankenstein, you can find the Alice Cooper mask resplendent with the trademark black eyeliner and wild black hair. None of it would have built a rock and roll dynasty lasting 40 years if there wasn’t a solid base of really good music. Alice Cooper’s music stands the test of time as rock classics as viable to today’s audiences as they were in 1969 when he started out.

 At his recent Arizona State Fair Halloween concert a mother and daughter came out to enjoy the night together. “Alice Cooper was the first concert I went to when I was a teenager and now I’m taking my 15-year old daughter to her first concert to see him too,” says Betty excitedly. The crowd was heavily populated with older Alice Cooper fans, many with families in tow.

 Alice Cooper’s portfolio of work is pretty remarkable with some 45 albums. The “Poison” video on YouTube has been viewed 836,992 times!  “School’s Out” is still an anthem for every kid in the world on the last day of school. “Only Women Bleed”, “Welcome to my Nightmare”, “Love’s a Loaded Gun”, and “Eighteen,” are favorites the audience mentioned. 

 On stage Alice Cooper is more than just a rock singer. He becomes a total performer using stage props and characters telling a story through the music. His long legs and lean form carry him in costumes as varied as a white tuxedo or a black lycra jumpsuit cut to expose his front down to the nether lands. His most frequent costume in the past has been a red devil jumpsuit. This night he dons black pants decorated with a skeleton theme, trademark black top hat and a walking stick which he throws to the crowds several times to hysterical cheers.   

The emotion and torment he performs are themes the audience can relate to and contribute to the cult like following his fans maintain through decades. His voice can be pretty and melodic when necessary, but more often it is jagged and cutting punctuated with screams and howls.

 So how does this rocker take his show mainstream? Alice is in commercials for the Arizona Department of Transportation reminding Arizonans to renew their vehicle registration.  More humorous was his Staples commercial where he’s buying school supplies for a petulant little girl who says, “I thought you said school’s out forever.” He responds, “No, the song says School’s out for summer”. Or there’s the Marriott commercial where he tells a guy mowing his lawn to take a vacation with his family so they won’t grow up to be weirdos. Hilarious! Calloway has a commercial where Cooper is a machinist. Of course golf is one of Cooper’s favorite pastimes.  

You’ve become an American icon when you appear on the Muppets singing “Schools Out” with the Muppet characters in his trademark red devil jump suit.

 A frequent participant in charity golf tournaments, Alice has lent his name to a number of charity projects. The biggest commitment is The Rock, a Christian youth center at the Grand Canyon University campus in west Phoenix. Chuck Savale, Executive Director of the Solid Rock Foundation says, “To date he has helped raise $2.5million.” They are working towards a goal of $7.25M. The 29,450-square- foot center would include sports facilities, a concert hall, recording studios and sound room, coffeehouse, computer lab, a rock-climbing wall, game room, dancing space, skateboard area and other amenities. They believe it can be the model for teen centers across the U.S.

 He’s often said Alice is a character he plays as far removed from himself as he can get. That separation has allowed him to maintain a stable personal life. Married faithfully for 30 years and raising three kids his life seems pretty grounded. A tour takes him to the UK, Russia, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden in the coming weeks. But he will be home in time for the December 15th Alice Cooper's Christmas Pudding, a night of comedy and music to raise money for The Rock Teen Center.  

Alice Cooper has taken a path he started at 16-years old, followed the curves and turns, climbed the hills and grown in the process. He allowed his music and audiences to mature right along with him as he approaches 60. His humor and outrageousness along with compassion and brains have kept his fans and built a new younger base who pull out mom and dads vinyl and say, “Can I get this on MP3?”

 For more photos and extended story visit www.azphm.com/alice.htm  

Author: LeeAnn Sharpe is freelance writer/photographer in Glendale Arizona and can be reached at www.leeannsharpe.com or lasharpe@cox.net.   

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Jordin Sparks Glendale Glitters
American Idol Jordin Sparks reads the Night Before Christmas, sings two songs and flips the switch to light 1.5million lights at her hometown Glendale Glitters Nov 24, 2007 in downtown Glendale AZ. Olivia Fiero of Channel 3TV emcees and Mayor Elaine Scruggs, and councilmen Steve Frate, Manny Martinez, Yvonne Knacck and David Goulett join Jordin onstage. Just give this girl a mic and see how beautiful her voice is without music and her incredible talent shines! Capacity crowds showed Jordin plenty of love and promised to buy her new CD on sale now.

AZDance Group Brings Christmas to Anthem
The professional contemporary ballet, jazz and modern dance company, AZDance Group, is leaping and swirling into the lives of everyday people. And the Christmas season will be even richer with AZDance Group’s quality and inspirational production, the 4^th Annual Christmas Dance Concert, which will grace the Boulder Creek High School Performing Art Center’s stage Saturday, December 8^th at 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 9^th at 3:00 p.m.

 The Christmas Dance Concert will feature the company’s professional dancers who are from throughout Arizona, Boston and Texas and will highlight their Movement E-Motion participants. Their other educational divisions, the Children’s Christmas Company and the Junior/Trainee Company, are also integrated into the concert.  This three-act concert includes their “nutty-fun” “Mix’d Nuts”, set to Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite; “The Story”, a moving piece that reminds us of what Christmas is about; and “Christmas Time”, inspirational movement and dance set to inspirational music. 

 Tickets are available at Deer Valley Credit Union, Anthem Community Center and Our Kitchen to Yours, company members and at the door 1 hour prior to curtain. Tickets are $5.00-$20.00 cash or check and if a used cell phone or mp3/IPod is brought in, there is a $5.00 discount off one adult or senior/student ticket. One discount per family, please.

 “This company continuously reaches a higher bar each performance and touches thousands of lives in various ways.  One should not miss this company, under the direction of the creativity and spunk of Scottsdale native, Kenda Newbury.”  AZDance Group / Movement E-Motion was nominated as Best Arts Organization of the Year by the Arts and Business Council of Greater Phoenix and has been one of The Arizona Republic’s “Hot Pick” choices since Christmas 2006.  Also look for AZDance Group and their Movement E-Motion performers on “Good Morning Arizona” (Channel 3) on Friday, December 7^th! Attend AZDance Group’s Christmas Dance Concert; you will not be disappointed but rather delighted and entertained by their diversity of movement, dance, music and style. It is a great way in which to get the entire family into the Christmas Spirit. To contact AZDance Group please visit their website at www.azdance.org, azdancegroup@yahoo.com or 480.215.1916.

• Tickets:    Cash or Check

•                 Deer Valley Credit Union / Anthem

•                 Our Kitchen to Yours / Anthem

•                 Anthem Community Center / Anthem

•                 Company Members

•                 At the door 1 hour prior to curtain

Where:     Boulder Creek High School Performing Art Center,  40404 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway,  Anthem, AZ 85086 Tele:        480.215.1916  Fax:  623.551.6494

TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S LEGENDARY MUSICAL EVITA IS COMING TO THE MARICOPA COUNTY EVENTS CENTER BEGINNING DECEMBER 14
Winner of seven Tony Awards, EVITA  brings to life the dynamic, larger-than-life persona of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator, Juan Peron. Eva Peron, blessed with charisma, captivated a nation by championing the working class. The epic story of the rise and fall of Eva Peron is told in a sweeping pop opera, featuring one of the Broadway stage’s most dynamic and lush melodies, “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina.”

 From her illegitimate birth into poverty, to her status as a world player and South America’s most important woman, EVITA is a story of glamour, power and greed.

 Beginning its life as a concept album in 1976, EVITA instantly became a global phenomenon. It was the first mega musical when it opened at the Broadway Theatre on September 25, 1979, setting records for the largest box office advance. It went on to sweep all theatre awards in 1979, winning seven Tonys including Best Musical, Score, Book and Director. It played 1,568 performances, closing June 25, 1983.

 EVITA became the first Broadway show to be reproduced successfully in every major city in the world, including the Philippines, where it had been banned under the Marcos regime because of the uncomfortable parallels to Imelda Marcos.

 EVITA also became the first musical since the Rodgers & Hammerstein era to burst on to the world’s pop charts. Four of the show’s song’s including the break out hit “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina,” were recorded globally. The Broadway cast album won a Grammy in 1981.

A new generation was introduced to EVITA in December 1996 when Alan Parker’s critically acclaimed film version opened starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas. The film received five Oscar nominations, winning for Best Song, and won three Golden Globes including Best Picture.

 Tim Rice (Lyricist) won Tony Awards for Best Book and Best Score for EVITA. He also wrote the stage musicals Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, Chess, King David, and The Lion King. He received Oscars for EVITA’s, “You Must Love Me”, and “A Whole New World” from Aladdin.

 Andrew Lloyd Webber (Composer) won a Tony Award for Best Score for EVITA. He is the composer of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, By Jeeves, Song & Dance, Cats, Starlight Express, The Phantom of the Opera, Aspects of Love, Sunset Boulevard and Whistle Down the Wind. He has won six Tony’s, three Grammy’s and an Oscar in 1997 for EVITA’s “You Must Love Me”.

 EVITA will be at the Maricopa County Events Center, 19403 RH Johnson Blvd, Sun City, for three performances, Friday December 14 at 8:00 pm and Saturday December 15 at 2:00 and 8:00 pm.  Tickets are $30, $40 and $50 and are available by calling 480-784-4444, on-line at www.ticketmaster.com  and at all Ticketmaster outlets.  Tickets are also available at the Maricopa County Events Center Box Office, Tue.- Sat. 10 am – 4 pm.  For group sales, call 480.218.9332  T The 2007/08 Broadway on the Boulevard Series is sponsored by

CREATORS OF JEWTOPIA HIT COMEDY TO PERFORM LATEST STAGE SHOW
World of Jewtopia December 27 - 30, 2007 Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present the outrageously funny World of Jewtopia from December 27 - 30, 2007. Single tickets are available for $38 - $42 from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Web site at  www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or the box office at (480) 994-ARTS (2787).  

World of Jewtopia is an all-new, laugh-out-loud multimedia extravaganza starring Bryan Fogel and Sam Wolfson, the creators of the Off-Broadway smash and best-selling book Jewtopia. This 90-minute, interactive show is filled with scenes from their hit play, stand-up comedy and plenty of audience participation, including a candid Q-&-A session with the audience.

PERFORMANCE TIMES & TICKET PRICES

• December 27, Thursday @ 7:30 p.m. ($38)

• December 28 - 29, Friday - Saturday @ 8 p.m. ($42)

• December 29, Saturday @ 3 p.m. ($42)

• December 30, Sunday @ 3 p.m. ($38)

BACKGROUND Before creating Jewtopia in 2003, Bryan Fogel and Sam Wolfson were unemployed actors and writers, working odd jobs and just trying to catch a break. Finally taking matters into their own hands, they wrote Jewtopia, racked their credit cards with debt and mounted the production themselves. Centered around two single guys looking for love, Jewtopia opened in Los Angeles on May 8, 2003, and 17 months later had become the longest-running original comedy in the history of Los Angeles theater. Jewtopia opened in New York Off-Broadway on September 21, 2004, to sold-out houses and ended its astounding run on April 29, 2007, after two-and-a-half years and more than 1,200 performances. Jewtopia has also enjoyed long runs in Chicago and Florida. The New York Times declared that Jewtopia was one of the three most successful Off-Broadway productions of the last decade. 

In addition to their stage show, Fogel and Wolfson authored a best-selling book, Jewtopia: The Chosen Book for the Chosen People, which led to their appearance on ABC's The View.

During the past year, Fogel and Wolfson created their latest production, World of Jewtopia, which premiered in Los Angeles in May 2007 and is currently touring the country. In 2008, they will begin production of a film adaptation of Jewtopia titled O'Connell and Lipschitz Lose Their Religion. The film will star Henry Winkler, Carrie Fisher and Larry Miller alongside Fogel and Wolfson. 

LOCATION AND PARKING Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is located at 7380 East Second Street in downtown Scottsdale, four blocks south of Indian School Road and three blocks east of Scottsdale Road. The amphitheater is located on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall at 75th Street and Main Street. Free parking is available in the public parking garage located to the west of Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and directly behind Los Olivos restaurant on Wells Fargo Avenue. Additional free parking is available at the Old Town Parking Corral at East Second Street and Brown Avenue and at the Civic Center Library parking garage located on Drinkwater Boulevard at East Second Street. Theater 4301 is located in the Galleria Corporate Centre at 4301 Scottsdale Road on the corner of Drinkwater Boulevard and Fifth Avenue in downtown Scottsdale, one block east of Scottsdale Road. Free parking is available in the Galleria Corporate Centre parking garage.

ACCESSIBILITY Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts offers performance accommodations to enhance our audience members' experience, including: American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation or live audio description with two weeks advance notice. Assisted listening devices and wheelchair seating are always available. Visit our Web site www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org  or contact the box office at (480) 994-ARTS [TDD: (480) 874-4694] for further details. Please inquire about services when ordering tickets.

GROUP DISCOUNTS A $3 discount per ticket is available for groups of 15 or more (subject to restriction and limitation). Call (480) 874-4657 for more information.

STUDENT DISCOUNTS Students with valid student identification may purchase half-price tickets (subject to availability; limit one per student) 72 hours before any performance at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts box office. Tickets must be purchased in-person; phone orders are not accepted.

SCOTTSDALE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Opened in 1975, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts presents exceptional and culturally diverse performances of contemporary dance, jazz, classical and world music, theater and satire. More than 1,000 performances, educational programs, festivals and other events are showcased annually serving more than 300,000 people. Performances take place in the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' 838-seat Virginia G. Piper Theater and 136-seat Stage 2, the 2,200-seat amphitheater on the grounds of the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall and the 326-seat Theater 4301 @ Galleria Corporate Centre. In 2007-08, the City of Scottsdale will begin a major renovation of the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, part of the Scottsdale Civic Center complex designed by Arizona architect Bennie Gonzales. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' educational programs reach more than 43,000 school children each year, and its free programs are available to the entire public. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts also produces the popular Scottsdale Arts Festival every March; Sunday A'Fair, a series of free outdoor music festivals held on Sunday afternoons from January to April; and Native Trails, a collaboration with the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and the Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau that features free demonstrations of Native American arts and culture from January to April. Open daily and during performances, The Store @ Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts offers hand-crafted jewelry, accessories for the home, toys for imaginative young minds, recordings, books, greeting cards and more. 

The Scottsdale Cultural Council, a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is contracted by the City of Scottsdale, Arizona, to administer certain City arts and cultural projects and to manage the City-owned Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Scottsdale Public Art Program. The programs of the Scottsdale Cultural Council are made possible, in part, by the support of members and donors and grants received from the Arizona Commission on the Arts through appropriations from the Arizona State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.

HOW TO REACH US Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Box Office: (480) 994-ARTS (2787) TDD: (480) 874-4694 Web: www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Operation Noah and Hospitalized Children to Benefit November 30 through December 23
Youngsters attending Valley Youth Theatre's 12th anniversary production of A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail are being asked to bring a new stuffed animal with them to donate to kids who won't be able to be up and around this holiday season.

For a third year, Valley Youth Theatre is working with Operation Noah to collect new stuffed animals which will eventually find a friend in a local pediatric ward. Operation Noah, a 501(c)3 non-profit, was founded by Chandler teen Dennis Fries in 2004 who, after undergoing medical testing, became aware of the need for providing something to comfort children during their hospital stay. "A soft, cuddly stuffed animal can be a great source of comfort to a child" said Fries, "So I started Operation Noah and have distributed 22,000 stuffed animals to 65 hospitals across the country so far," Fries continued. Valley Youth Theatre hopes to exceed last year's collection of nearly 2000 stuffed animals.

"A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail is the classic tale of friendship, thoughtfulness and holiday spirit." says Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper. "We are proud to offer this opportunity for young people to put these virtues into practice by working with Operation Noah again this season."

Based on the beloved stories by A.A. Milne, with music and lyrics by James W. Rodgers, A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail has become a holiday tradition for families in the twelve years Valley Youth Theatre has been producing it.

Performance times are as follows:
Fridays, November 30th, December 7th and 14th at 7:30pm; Friday, December 21st at 10:30am and 1:00pm; Saturdays, December 1st and 8th at 11:00am, 1:30pm; Saturday, December 15th and 22nd at 11:00am, 1:30pm, and 4:00pm; Sundays at 12:30pm and 3:00pm. Tickets are $18 per person, adults and children two and up, and can be ordered through Valley Youth Theatre's box office at 602-253-8188, ext. 2.  For more information about Valley Youth Theatre visit www.vyt.com  . For more information on "Operation Noah," contact operationnoah@cox.net.

About Valley Youth Theatre
Named by the Arizona Republic as one of the "Top Ten Places to Become a Future Star", Valley Youth Theatre is a nationally recognized non-profit organization that targets young people age 7 - 19 for participation in and attendance at quality live theatre productions. VYT's mission is to inspire young people to be the best that they can be by providing them with lifelong lessons through a wide range of performing arts opportunities. VYT is an award-winning theatre company whose Alum include American Idol, Jordin Sparks and Broadway Star, Max Crumm. Valley Youth Theatre is supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts with funding from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts. Partial funding also is provided by the Phoenix Arts Commission through appropriations from the Phoenix City Council.
 

A Car in the Living Room: Drew Alcazar of Russo and Steele Auctions really, really loves his Boss Mustang  by Sue Elliott
 When I heard Drew Alcazar, president of Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions, has a muscle car permanently parked in his living room, I couldn't help but ask a few questions.

 Q. Why do you have a car in your living room?

A. The better question is, "How did I get my wife to let me have a car in the living room?"

 People come up to me and say, "You're cool for having a car in the house." But I tell them, "No, I'm cool for having a wife that lets me bring the car in the house." First you get the girl, then you get the car.

 Q. Can you tell us a little bit about the car?

A. It is a 1969 Boss 429 Mustang, unrestored and original.Original paint, even the tires are the original ones born on the car. The original owner drove it for only one year and then stored it. She is a Phoenix native, having been sold new at Canyon Ford off Grand Ave. I have owned the car almost 20 years. That one will never go away. Don't ever sell what you can't get back.

 Q. So, why does this particular car occupy such a place of honor?

A. The 1969 Ford Mustang fastback body style is my ultimate artistic vision of a car. The long nose, four headlights, "duck-tail" spoiler on the short trunk, for me, [create] the definitive automobile "line."

 Take this to the ultimate incarnation, beyond merely a Mach 1 or even a 428 Cobra Jet motor, and the absolute King Kong of them all is the 429 cubic inches of hemispherical power-plant in a limited-production, built-by-hand automobile.

 Basically, the Boss 429 was like using a 10-pound sledgehammer to put in a wall tack. Or maybe it's just plain testosterone overload, like Dirty Harry having to use a ".44 Magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world, [that] would blow your head clean off...."

 So, as Harry would ask, do I feel lucky? Hell, yes! I have a Boss 429 parked in my living room!

 Q. Is this the only car you would ever consider having in your living room?

A. No, my wife, Josephine, wants to put up our 1960 Ferrari 250 Cabriolet also, once I get the restoration done.

 Q. Have you considered displaying cars in other rooms, say, the bedroom?

A. There would be a car in each room of the house if it were left up to me. Then again, if it were, we would probably live in the garage. 

Q. How did you get the car into and out of the house?

A. I never tell how we got it in the house. If anyone knew how I got it in, they would know how to get it out! If it is ever stolen, I will just have to kill everyone that knows and let God find out who did it. 

Q. Do you ever drive it?

A. No. We call it the "flower pot," since you just get to look at it. 

 Q. How many cars do you own, total?

A. We have about 25 cars in what we call the Permanent Collection. These are cars with special significance and/or importance that we will never sell.

 We've got several Jaguars, a couple of Lamborghinis. I think we've got five Ferraris now in the stable. We've got a Shelby Cobra and a GT350, a GT500. I've got a really bad kinky Pontiac streak, which means I've got a couple Trans Ams. We've got a Saleen Mustang. My other bad kinky streak is AMC products. I've got a Mark Donohue Javelin. We've got a couple of vintage Mercedes.

Cars for me have always been sort of like stray cats. They just kind of find you. I've got some cars in the collection that people say, "What the heck is this one doing here? This one doesn't belong with the others." But they all have names. They all have stories.

 Of course, the very first Ferrari that Josephine and I bought together will always be in the collection. It's name is Farina. And I bought Josephine a Jaguar for our very first Valentine's Day after we were married, an XJ RS.

 I have a 4-door Galaxie.... It's like my grandfather's car, the car my parents gave me when they took my 1970 Mach 1 away from me.... That's one of the ones that people go, "And what the hell is this car?"

 People wonder what would ever possess me to restore a Lamborghini Countach, but I did. After watching the Alpine commercials a million times, I had to have one.

 Some of them are what I call 1:1 scale models, 'cause they're like your Matchbox cars when you were a little kid. They're just life-size.

 Q. Do you consider them investments?

A. Absolutely not. Anybody playing with collector cars from an investment standpoint is either stoned or deluded.

 The market has been very kind to some of my cars. I've wanted an Aston Martin for my whole life, and the values in the Astons have doubled since we were able to get ours. So the DB6 is a good example.

 But do I consider them an investment? No, they're just about the love of the hobby. I've spent more on them than they ever possibly would be worth, so the thought of selling them at a loss after restoring them is not appealing.... More often than not, if you're able to have a car that pays for the gas and insurance and you can drive it and enjoy it, and then you're able to roll out of it and cover those expenses, you're doing okay.

 These cars are strictly a hobby. I say this to people all the time: Don't ever buy a car that you don't want to own, 'cause you might just end up owning it. If it's sitting in your garage and you can't sell it, you'd better want to own it.

 If it puts the same grin on your face when you drive it to the cruise night whether it's worth a million bucks or whether it's worth five bucks, then you're doing it right.

 Sue Elliott is the editorial director of CollectorCarNet. She has been an automotive editor and writer for two decades now and lives in the Napa Valley.

World-Class Entertainers Perform At The Arizona Fine Art EXPO
Thunderbird Artists, producer of the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, hosts nationally-recognized and popular musical entertainers to perform in the Sculpture Garden this weekend.

Drew Bennett, Grammy® Nominated for Best New Artist, can be seen Saturday Jan 26th from 2-4pm.   Drew was also Grammy® Nominated for Best Contemporary World Music Album for his release, 'Flamenco Salsa'.  Drew was the Grammy nominee for Flamenco Guitarists on behalf of his original compositions that reveal a Spanish-Andalusia style with hints of Mediterranean, Brazilian Salsa, Jazz Fusion, Cuban, and Rumba influences with Romantic Jazz ballads.  Drew's original compositions have been compared to Jesse Cook, Craig Chaquico, Peter White and Ottmar Liebert.  

Melanie Murphy and Van Johnson return to the EXPO with a little bit of country ­ both popular and classic.  They can be found playing the guitar and singing out in the magnificent sculpture garden, Sunday beginning at 2pm.

The Arizona Fine Art EXPO has moved to a new location - 26540 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255. We are located at the Southwest corner of Scottsdale and Jomax Roads (just 5 miles south of Carefree & 5 miles North of Loop 101 on Scottsdale Road). Come out and join us in the handsome 2-acre Sculpture Garden at the Arizona Fine Art EXPO!  Indoors, visit 110 award-winning artists and watch them passionately create the finest artwork in the valley all nestled under 44,000 square feet of festive white tents.  They will be busy painting, working with pastels, sketching in pen & ink, sculpting clay, jewelry designing, metal welding, stone sculpting and more.

Russo and Steele - Celebrity Memorabilia Will be Offered Daily!
Kevin Martin is one of, if not the most respected autograph and memorabilia dealer in the field of entertainment in the world today. With over 20 years experience authenticating and selling only entertainment memorabilia he has published more than 400 articles on the subject in publications like the Robb Report, USA Today, Ebay magazine, Autograph Collecting, Big Reel, Antiques, and more as well as regular columns.

 As the CEO of the company Piece of the Past Inc. the largest he brings to auctions like Russo and Steele the finest one of a kind authentic historical and entertainment memorabilia. Every item Russo and Steele sells comes with the signed certificate of authenticity from Piece of the Past Inc with a Lifetime Guarantee of Authenticity for the item. As a case consultant for the Smithsonian and National Archives and wholesaler to such chains as Hard Rock Cafe, Planet Hollywood and Field of Dreams like Russo and Steele is pleased to have represented at this auction over 60 items sold at no reserve each day before the cars begin from this giant in the field. Memorabilia Schedule of Events January 17th, 18th 19th and 20th the sale begins at 12pm. Story Continues

A Car in the Living Room: Drew Alcazar of Russo and Steele Auctions really, really loves his Boss Mustang  by Sue Elliott
 When I heard Drew Alcazar, president of Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions, has a muscle car permanently parked in his living room, I couldn't help but ask a few questions.

 Q. Why do you have a car in your living room?

A. The better question is, "How did I get my wife to let me have a car in the living room?"

 People come up to me and say, "You're cool for having a car in the house." But I tell them, "No, I'm cool for having a wife that lets me bring the car in the house." First you get the girl, then you get the car.

 Q. Can you tell us a little bit about the car?

A. It is a 1969 Boss 429 Mustang, unrestored and original. Original paint, even the tires are the original ones born on the car. The original owner drove it for only one year and then stored it. She is a Phoenix native, having been sold new at Canyon Ford off Grand Ave. I have owned the car almost 20 years. That one will never go away. Don't ever sell what you can't get back.

Story Continues

NEW RIVER / DESERT HILLS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION TO HOST INFORMATIONAL SESSION ON LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ISSUES
The New River/Desert Hills Community Association (NR/DHCA) will host an informational session on local law enforcement issues with Capt. Barry Roska, from Maricopa County Sheriff’s Dist. 4 Office.  This will be an open community discussion on local concerns and law enforcement issues facing our area.  Questions for the Captain to research may be submitted in advance by emailing elkheart@gmail.com. 

Due to the recent rash of home break-ins and burglaries, everyone is encouraged to attend this timely and important community meeting of the NR/DHCA on Tuesday, January 8 at 7:30 PM at Crossroads Christian Fellowship at 42425 N. New River Road. Please contact NR/DHCA Vice President, Terry Marron at 623-587-7039 or visit our website at www.nrdhca.org for more info.

Jewish Family and Children’s Service Honoring Eight Visionary Women and Spotlighting Eight Vital Programs
 Jewish Family and Children’s Service has announced the theme for it’s annual fundraising event: Reach for the Stars. The event will take place on March 30, 2008 at the Heard Museum.  JFCS will inaugurate its annual awards theme – the JFCS Star, by presenting it to eight women who have been significant and dedicated leaders of JFCS throughout its history. The women are Corrine Ehrlich (in memoriam), Marcia Goodman, Aileen Osofsky, Ruth Pearson, Maxine Saulson (in memoriam), Lenore Schupak, Carol Seidberg, and Edna Sitelman. Story Continues

Arts Council of the North Valley Kicks off 2008 with Fine Artists and Music at 4th Annual Festival of Fine Art at Anthem – Jan. 12 & 13

Indoor Festival Features Elegant, Vibrant Visual Arts in Gallery Setting at the Outlets at Anthem
– Kent Camerata Opens Festival with Special Concert on
Fri., Jan. 11

 The Arts Council of the North Valley (ACNV) is kicking off the New Year by hosting the 4th Annual Festival of Fine Art at Anthem from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, January 12 & 13 in a gallery setting at the Outlets of Anthem, located one-quarter mile west of Exit 229 off of I-17. The Festival features a juried art show and sale, showcasing 40 award-winning and emerging Arizona artists with over 1,000 works of art. General admission is $3 and free for children age 12 and under.  Story Continues

The Oldest Profession Review Opening Night Jan 5, 2008

By LeeAnn Sharpe

The Algonquin Theater Company presents “The Oldest Profession”, Paula Vogel’s pert and passionate play, directed by Robert Harper at Phoenix Theatre’s Little Theatre, January 4-20, 2008, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday matinees.

 First, I must be honest and qualify myself as a lifetime fan of Ms.Gaston. So know I will be biased about anything she does. But from what I hear and see, I’m not the only one. A lifetime of acting, directing and teaching reveal a professional performance, second only to her charisma and beauty, now more pronounced than ever.

 Pulitzer Prize winning Playwright Vogel describes “The Oldest Profession” as her only pattern play. She is successful in the overlay of painful experiences with humor.  Five acts set in a New York City park in the early 1980’s follows the lives of five over-the-hill hookers sitting on a bench near the Broadway and 72nd Street subway station. Their enterprise not only continues to lose customers, but its own members. And so, the five "blackbirds" become four, then three, then two until only one is left, and the park bench scenes end with a song from the last departed, reminiscent of their New Orleans bordello days long past. Costumes slip back to cinched up bordello bustiers and sexy stockings, a wardrobe that took guts for these actresses to wear, especially in such and intimate theatre setting.    

 The award winning cast of five thoroughly professional actresses, who manage to be funny and emerge as real people who tug at our heartstrings, include Mae (Sharon Collar), Edna (Jacqueline Gaston), Ursula (Barbara McGrath), Lillian (Judy Rollings), Vera (Jo Ann Yeoman) and Piano Man (Toby Yatso).  Director is Robert Kolby Harper. Story Continues

ARGENTINE PIANIST INGRID FLITER TO PERFORM RECITAL

2007 - 08 Virginia G. Piper Concert Series

Ingrid Fliter

February 10, 2008, Sunday @ 7:30 p.m.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present a recital by acclaimed Argentine pianist Ingrid Fliter on February 10, 2008, at 7:30 p.m. as part of the 2007 - 08 Virginia G. Piper Concert Series, curated by Dayton Fowler Grafman. The performance is presented by The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust with support from Suzanne T. and Irving D. Karpas Jr.

Single tickets are available for $24 from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Web site at www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or the box office at (480) 994-ARTS (2787). Story Continues 

DAME EDNA RETURNS BY POPULAR DEMAND ... POSSUMS REJOICE!

Dame Edna: Live and Intimate!

February 5 - 10, 2008

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

 Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present Dame Edna: Live and Intimate! from February 5 - 10, 2008. The performance is presented with support from Linda and Sherman Saperstein.

Single tickets are available for $70 from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Web site at www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or the box office at (480) 994-ARTS (2787).

Following the unprecedented glamour and success of her previous Tony-attracting shows, Australia's Dame Edna Everage, the international housewife, therapist, gigastar, guru and celebrity confidant, is back by popular demand! She will dazzle and charm her adoring U.S. Possums with another unforgettable stage show - Live and Intimate!

Story Continues 

DAILY SHOW CORRESPONDENT ROB RIGGLE TO PERFORM

Rob Riggle

January 26, 2008, Saturday @ 8 p.m.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present comedian Rob Riggle on January 26, 2008, at 8 p.m. The performance is part of the Satirical Edge series sponsored in laughing memory of Steve Simon by his family.

Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns Voted the Valley’s “Best Blues Band” in 2000

SUNDAY A’FAIR FESTIVAL BEGINS 19TH SEASON
OF FREE CONCERTS ON JANUARY 6

• Sunday A’Fair

• January 6, 13 and 20, 2008

• February 10, 17 and 24, 2008

• March 2, 23 and 30, 2008

• April 6, 2008

• Sundays, noon – 4:30 p.m.

• Scottsdale Civic Center Mall

• Free admission

 Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will open the 19th season of Sunday A’Fair on January 6, 2008. The free afternoon festival features a variety of arts and entertainment on the beautiful grounds of the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, adjacent to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Sunday A’Fair is presented by APS, Nationwide Foundation and Scottsdale Insurance Company.

 “We’ve planned another exciting season of entertainment for Sunday A’Fair, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of this wonderful event,” remarked Kathy Hotchner, vice president and director of the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. “It’s our way of thanking the community for its generous support over the years.”

 Sunday A’Fair features concerts and performances by the Valley’s top entertainers, a diverse selection of arts and crafts available for sale, hands-on activities for children and families and free, docent-guided tours of the sculptures on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall. Seating is available on the lawn, and portable chairs and picnic baskets are welcome. Food and refreshments are also available for purchase. Story Continues

Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce Celebrating The Past, Present and Future
As one of the leaders in our community, we would like to invite you to participate in the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Copper Sun Awards Banquet being held on Friday, January 11th, 2008.

 The Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce has seen many changes since it’s inception in 1963. With over 700 business Members, representing 3500 professionals, we now have a proud heritage of 45 years behind us, and a very bright future ahead. Representing the communities of El Mirage, Surprise, Sun City, Sun City West, and Youngtown, the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce is already one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in the Valley of the Sun. The Chamber is poised to lead the way as we build a premier regional representative organization that serves the needs of the business communities in all five of these great communities. Story Continues

'Idol' Jordin Sparks to sing National Anthem at Super Bowl XLII

Walk with us February 17, 2008 - click below for more info
The Heart to Heart Pet-a-Rama is a 2-mile fundraising walk in the park

   Voluntary Toy Recall Info

Click for detailed information

SCHUBERT SHADOWS, A Musical Portrait Starring RICHARD MOLL  
Featuring Harry Clark on Cello & Sanda Schuldmann on Piano
DATE:   Friday, January 4, 2008
TIMES:  8:00 p.m.
TICKET $20/$19 Reserved / $16 General
PRICES: (Other Fees May Apply)
WHERE:  ASU Kerr Cultural Center - 6110 N. Scottsdale Rd
(Between Lincoln & McDonald Off Rose Lane, Directly South of The Borgata of Scottsdale)
TICKETS AVAILABLE
THROUGH: ASU Kerr Cultural Center, ASU Gammage, and all Ticketmaster Outlets
CALL: (480) 596-2660 or visit us on line at www.asukerr.com  or www.cmpsouthwest.org 
Story Continues

Described as one of the "foremost Native American abstract painters" by the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, Mario Martínez joins the roster of distinguished mid-career artists represented by Hernández Contemporary Fine Art in Scottsdale. Martínez’s acclaimed abstract paintings will be featured in an upcoming exhibit entitled "Origins of Renewal" on display at 4200 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ from December 18, 2007 thru January 20, 2008 with a preview starting December 6th. Story Continues

JAZZ SAXOPHONIST BRANFORD MARSALIS
TO PERFORM WITH HIS QUARTET

An Evening with Branford Marsalis ,  January 4, 2008, Friday @ 8 p.m.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia G. Piper Theater

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will present An Evening with Branford Marsalis on January 4, 2008, at 8 p.m. The performance is part of the Journeys in Jazz series sponsored by Infiniti. Single tickets are available for $65 from the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Web site at www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org or the box office at (480) 994-ARTS (2787). Story Continues 

click for larger view

 CONNIE STEVENS & GARY MULE DEER
JOIN A CAVALCADE OF STARS AT MCEC – JANUARY 26TH
Television personality Connie Stevens has joined the CAVALCADE OF STARS at the Maricopa County Events Center on Saturday, January 26th at 7:30pm.  Comedian Gary Mule Deer is also joining the line-up.   Rounding out the evening is vocalist Gogi Grant (The Wayward Wind, Bippity Boppity Boo), The Original Riders of the Purple Sage (Ghost Riders in the Sky, Cool, Clear Water), legendary singer Tony Martin (There’s No Tomorrow, I Get Ideas) and vocalist Kay Starr (Wheel of Fortune). The artistry of The Famous Horace Heidt Orchestra provides the backdrop for the evening.  Story Continues

Gift Idea for the Athlete on Your List...
Let the Healing Begin: Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment available at BodyNew MedSpa
 No longer are Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments reserved for A-list celebrities and professional athletes.
BodyNew MedSpa has recently added a Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Room to their brand new facility.  
It is the ultimate gift to boost sports training!     

 Hyperbaric oxygen treatment has been evolving since the 1940's, invented as a cure for "The Bends". More recently it was used to accelerate skin rejuvenation.  Hyperbaric oxygen is simply high-pressure oxygen. With this therapy, oxygen is pushed into the body and is infused into plasma, red blood cells, bone cells, bones, urine, muscles, the lymph system, spinal fluids and the brain Body Sculpting Center recommend patients experience a series of pre and post treatments in conjunction to MedSpa services and cosmetic surgeries to dramatically reduce the overall recuperation time. It is highly recommended for those patients undergoing face lifts, skin resurfacing with laser or chemical peels, tummy tucks or breast reduction and enlargement surgery.  The treatment is a natural way to alter the inflammatory process to help wounds and muscles heal. It cuts down pain and swelling, inflammation in tissues, and it has an anti- bacterial effect. Story Continues