United Blood Services winners Lynette Donaldson (front left) and Tina Brown (front right) proudly display the jewelry they selected during their $1,500 Schmitt Jewelers shopping sprees.

Blood recipients, 9-year-old twin brothers Joshua (left) and Jordan (right) cheered them on in appreciation of the 100+ blood donors who have become their heroes.

All of this was made possible by a generous donation by Tom Schmitt and Shelly Sergeant of Schmitt Jewelers in Phoenix (back row.)  

UNITED BLOOD SERVICES & SCHMITT JEWELERS PARTNER TO SAVE LIVES
Blood Donor & Blood Drive Coordinator Dazzled with a $1,500 Shopping Spree!
Oct. 30, 2007 - Scottsdale, AZ - Diamonds, rubies, gold . . . United Blood Services recently dazzled two of its best supporters with a $1,500 treasure in appreciation for saving lives.  All September blood donors were automatically entered to win a shopping spree at Schmitt Jewelers in Phoenix, courtesy of the store¹s owners, brothers Tim and Tom Schmitt.  To make an even greater impact, the Schmitts donated a second $1,500 shopping spree to be raffled among blood drive coordinators who met or exceeded donation goals at their organizations in September.  
 

• Blood donor Tina Brown of Surprise was the lucky winner of United Blood Services September donor appreciation raffle. Her name was drawn from among nearly 15,000 donors who registered to give blood in September.
• Blood drive coordinator Lynette Donaldson of SRP East Valley was rewarded for her hard work on her company blood drive.  Here name was drawn from among more that 300 blood drive organizers who hosted blood drives across the state during September.
   

Blood recipients, 9-year-old twin brothers Joshua and Jordan, were there to cheer on the winners and with good reason. Blood donors save the lives of Joshua and Jordan about every two months.  Both boys have the most severe form of Sickle Cell Disease, a genetic disorder deforms their red blood cells.  So far in their young lives, more than 100 blood donors have become their heroes.

"Because Arizona has been home to Schmitt Jewelers for more than 35 years, we want to make sure that there is an ample blood supply for our friends and neighbors," said Tim Schmitt.  "Our business is based on both our professional and personal relationships, which includes serving our community in every way we can." To make an even greater impact, they donated a second $1,500 shopping spree to be raffled among blood drive coordinators who meet or exceed donation goals at their organizations in September.

According to Audrey Gietzen, Executive Director for United Blood Services/Arizona, it's important for blood donors to know how important they are in the recovery of patients here and just how much they are appreciated. "Thousands of Arizona patients are counting on all of us to provide the gift of life," she said.  "We need more community-minded organizations like Schmitt Jewelers to help us thank the donors who provide lifesaving transfusions for the people who live here," Gietzen added. For more information about donating blood, or to make an appointment, call 1-877-448-GIVE (4483) or visit www.UnitedBloodServicesAZ.org 

About United Blood Services United Blood Services has been Arizona¹s non-profit community blood provider since 1943 and serves patients in 50 Arizona hospitals.  The UBS network is one of the nation¹s oldest and largest non-profit blood service organizations, and is a founding member of America¹s Blood Centers and the American Association of Blood Banks.  For more information on how to ³Be a Hero,² please call 1-877-448-GIVE (4483) toll-free or visit www.UnitedBloodServicesAZ.org 

About Schmitt Jewelers Schmitt Jewelers is a family-owned and operated retail jewelry business that has been serving the Phoenix metropolitan area since 1970.  A full service jewelry operation, Schmitt Jewelers carries fine jewelry from top designers as well as their own award-winning custom designed jewelry. Schmitt Jewelers is a member of the American Gem Society and is located at 539 East Glendale Ave. in Phoenix.  For more information, visit www.schmittjewelers.com 
 

Youngtown and Sedona Residents Win Health & Wealth Raffle Early Bird Prizes
Worth More Than $85,000 Each  (FOR ALL WINNERS SEE Link)
 Do you know where Youngtown Arizona is? The folks at the Health & Wealth Raffle do now, because the winner of the Early Bird Prize Package number one lives there. For everyone that answered the question no, Youngtown is located on the Agua Fria River in the West Valley, South of Grand Ave., and just West of Sun City. Nearby attractions include the Bradshaw Mountains, Lake Pleasant Regional Park and the University of Phoenix Stadium which puts Youngtown within the heartbeat of the Super Bowl.

 In 1954, real estate broker Ben Schleifer and banker Clarence Suggs, formed Youngtown Land and Investment Co, and purchased 320 acres of cotton farmland. Together they built the first master planned adult community exclusively for retirees Youngtown, Arizona (not Youngstown which is in Ohio). In 1960, Youngtown was incorporated and became the first city occupied exclusively by senior citizens. Another first for Youngtown was the formation of AARP Chapter one in 1960. Today the town has grown but still enjoys the tranquil, small town feel while providing residents with five parks, its own police force, a library, clubhouse, a lake, beautiful sunsets and wildlife. Less than ten years ago the age restriction was lifted, allowing all ages to reside in Youngtown, now it is a vibrant mix of young singles, families and retirees that don't like the HOAs of the Sun Cities

 Youngtown resident Pat Warrick, 66 years young, is one of those retirees, and the winner of Early Bird Prize Package number one. This package includes a 2007 BMW 328 Convertible and a nine-night romantic cruise on a luxury barge along the canals and rivers of France, plus $18,000 cash.

 Pat and her husband, Fred, had just returned from a vacation in Cancun when Kathy Rice, Manager of the Health & Wealth Raffle, called them with the good news. “I’m elated. I still can’t believe it,” Pat said. “We’ve entered three or four times in the past and once won a small prize. And, then, when I was in third grade, I won an art contest. But, we’ve never won anything like this, and we feel very fortunate!”

 A native of Southern California and an Arizona resident for 25 years, Pat said she purchased a three-pack of tickets for $250 because of the cause. Though she does not have a personal connection to the hospital. “I appreciated the fact that the Raffle helps fund research projects,” she said. “Besides, I figured if I am going to take a chance at winning a prize, I’d rather see my money go to a good cause than buy new furniture for casinos in Laughlin or Las Vegas.”

Now that Fred has retired from his auto electric business, Pat said they have more time to travel and visit their five children. “We’re still considering what we will do with the trip to France,” she said. “Fred has been there but I have not.” The couple has decided they will not keep the BMW convertible.

 Sedona resident Diane Glatt, 60 years young, won Early Bird Prize Package number two. This package includes a 2008 Mercedes E320 Bluetec and a seven-night Egyptian Splendor trip, plus $15,000 cash. Diane, who entered the Raffle just once before, said she was confident that she was going to win. “Every time I saw the commercials on television, I just had a really good feeling. I knew I had a really good chance of winning a prize, so I purchased a three-pack of tickets for $250,” she said. She also wanted to show her support for St. Joseph’s Hospital. Her primary care physician referred her to the hospital earlier this year for a breast MRI.

 A native of Southern California, she and her husband, Tom, moved to Sedona five years ago. Diane is a semi-retired financial consultant, while her husband continues to serve as CEO of a financial institution in California. Though she had a hunch she was going to win, she said she was still very surprised when Kathy Rice, Raffle Manger, called her with the good news.

 “My cheeks are aching from laughing and smiling,” she said. “It hasn’t settled in yet.  Each time I think about it, I can’t help but start giggling!” A mother of two daughters, Diane said she and her husband are very grateful for their prize package. They do not need a new car, so they are considering their options regarding the Mercedes. However, she has always wanted to see Egypt, so they will most likely keep the vacation portion of their prize.

A portion of this article with photo appeared in the October 24th Sun Cities Independent. Entire Health & Wealth article and photo provided by Sue Kern-Fleischer, Health & Wealth Raffle spokeswoman and independent Public Relations expert. For more information on the Health & Wealth Raffle contact Sue Kern-Fleischer at 602-810-1404 or Megan Reisig, at 602-417-1596. For more information about Youngtown contact Mayor Michael LeVault at 623-933-8286

Cycle World International Motorcycle Show
University of Arizona Stadium Friday, Oct. 26 - Sunday, Oct. 28
Giants of the motorcycle industry have joined forces in the fight against childhood brain tumors by producing a custom bike to benefit medical research. Designer Roland Sands will unveil his latest custom creation, Project ConqueRR, at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show (IMS) in Phoenix this Friday.

Organized in partnership with American Honda, Roland Sands Design, Cycle World Magazine, and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Ride for Kids® program, Project ConqueRR is a custom Honda CBR1000RR that embodies the unquenchable spirit of the courageous children who are battling brain tumors. With support from all around the motorcycle industry, Roland Sands Design turned this bike into ConqueRR, an amazingly detailed custom with an aggressive stance that looks like it’s moving at high speed, even while standing still. This giveaway bike will be unveiled at the Phoenix IMS, and will tour the country as part of the Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows.
For more information about the Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows, visit www.motorcycleshows.com . Visit www.rideforkids.org  for more details about the Ride for Kids® program and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

Phoenix Symphony Performs Tribute to Legendary Leonard Bernstein
Jamie Bernstein Returns to Phoenix to Host Pops
Concerts Featuring her Father's Broadway Hits
Special guest Jamie Bernstein, daughter of legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein, returns to Phoenix to host a program of her father’s blockbuster music from Broadway November 9-11.  Resident Conductor Lawrence Golan leads The Phoenix Symphony in a concert featuring music from Bernstein's hit Broadway musicals such as On the Town and West Side Story. Both Friday and Saturday evening concerts begin at 8 p.m., and a Sunday matinee begins at 2 p.m.  All concerts take place at Symphony Hall in downtown Phoenix.  A special presentation of “Bernstein on Broadway” will also take place at 7:30 p.m. on November 8 at the Maricopa County Events Center in Sun City West. The Phoenix Symphony Pops Series is sponsored by APS.      
Celebrated the world over for his conducting, compositional, and educational skills, Leonard Bernstein is regarded as one of America’s finest musicians.  While he made numerous contributions for the concert hall, he wrote several works for Broadway that garner similar popularity and fame.  The weekend of concerts featuring Bernstein’s music on Broadway begins with the famous Overture to Candide and includes orchestral works such as Dance Episodes from On the Town and the Symphonic Dances from West Side Story.  Gifted vocal performers directly from Broadway perform hit songs from Candide, On the Town, West Side Story, and Wonderful Town.  

Host Jamie Bernstein narrates the concerts sharing memories of her father and his enduring musical legacy.  As a writer, narrator, and broadcaster, Ms. Bernstein has devoted her life to sharing her love of music with others.  Traveling the globe she narrated concerts of her father¹s music as well as the music of Aaron Copland.  She has produced and hosted radio programs in the United States and Great Britain as well as hosted the live national radio broadcasts of the New York Philharmonic.  In addition, Jamie has published articles and poetry that have appeared in magazines such as Symphony and DoubleTake.  

Tickets to hear “Bernstein on Broadway” with special guest Jamie Bernstein are $25, $35, $45, $54, $64, and $74, and can be purchased by calling the Phoenix Symphony Box Office at 602.495.1999 or by visiting the Symphony’s website at www.phoenixsymphony.org .

This weekend of concerts is the second concert in the Pops Series during The Phoenix Symphony’s 2007-08 Season.  Future concerts in this series include “Christmas Pops Celebration” on November 29-December 2, “Marvin Hamlisch” on January 4-6, “The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber” on February 22-24, “The Piano Men: Music of Elton John and Billy Joel” on March 28-30, and “Big Screen Legends Featuring the Music of John Williams” on May 9-10.

About Jamie Bernstein:  Jamie Bernstein is a narrator, writer and broadcaster who has transformed a lifetime of loving music into a career of sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Ms. Bernstein grew up in an atmosphere bursting with music, theatre and literature. Her father, composer-conductor Leonard Bernstein, together with her mother, the pianist and actress Felicia Montealegre, and their legions of friends in the arts, created an ebullient household that turned Jamie into a cultural enthusiast. Replicating her father’s lifelong compulsion to share and teach, Jamie has devised several ways of communicating her own excitement about classical music. In addition to “The Bernstein Beat” a family concert about her father modeled after his own groundbreaking Young People’s Concerts, Jamie has also written and narrated concerts about Mozart and Aaron Copland, among others. She is a frequent speaker on musical topics, including in-depth discussions of her father¹s works.  And in her role as a broadcaster, Jamie has produced and hosted numerous shows for radio stations in the United States and Great Britain. In addition to hosting several seasons of the New York Philharmonic¹s live national radio broadcasts, Jamie has presented several series for New York’s classical station, 96.3 FM WQXR, including annual live broadcasts from Tanglewood. Jamie writes articles and poetry, which have appeared in national publications.

About Resident Conductor Lawrence Golan: Lawrence Golan joined the conducting staff of The Phoenix Symphony as Resident Conductor at the start of the 2006-07 season. In this role, he leads concerts in each of the symphony¹s major series ‹ including Classics, Pops, and Family presentations.  In conjunction with his role as Resident Conductor of The Phoenix Symphony, Mr. Golan leads the Phoenix Youth Symphony, helping to prepare these young musicians for future careers in music. He is also Music Director of Boulder Baroque and the Boulder Bach Festival in Colorado, and of the Portland Ballet Company in Maine. In addition, he continues his work as Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of Denver¹s Lamont School of Music, where he teaches graduate conducting and leads the Lamont Symphony Orchestra and Opera Theatre.  

About The Phoenix Symphony: Celebrating its 60th Anniversary Season, The Phoenix Symphony has been proudly serving the citizens of the Phoenix metropolitan area and Arizona since 1947.  What began as an occasional group of musicians performing a handful of concerts each year (in a city of fewer than 100,000 people) today serves more than 300,000 people annually, with 275 concerts and presentations throughout the greater Phoenix area and beyond.  

Under the artistic leadership of Michael Christie as the Virginia G. Piper Music Director and administrative leadership of President Maryellen H. Gleason, the orchestra is overseen by the non-profit Phoenix Symphony Association under Board Chairman Gerald W. Murphy.

The 76-member Phoenix Symphony presents an annual season from September through the beginning of June, featuring full-length classical and pops concerts at Sym-phony Hall in downtown Phoenix, in Scottsdale, in Prescott, and throughout central Arizona. The Symphony performs for more than 50,000 students and children, helping to introduce music to new generations through a variety of education and youth-engagement programs.

Bluegrass Hits Hard with Cherryholmes
at Webb Center

 Few bluegrass groups have seen the meteoric rise of Cherryholmes.  After their first major label album in 2005, Cherryholmes was named Entertainers of the Year by the International Bluegrass Association.  Their latest album Cherryholmes II: Black and White debuted as #1 on Billboard’s Bluegrass charts.  On Saturday, November 10, Cherryholmes will bring their upbeat style to a 7:30pm concert at Wickenburg’s Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts.

This six-member family band has enjoyed nationwide success since forming in 1999, touring to sold-out venues and releasing five wildly popular albums.  Jere Cherryholmes, the band’s founder and patriarch, has no trouble summing up his philosophy on their authentic bluegrass style:  “People say that bluegrass music has to change or evolve or it will die... I don't really think it needs to be changed. It just needs new life breathed into it. I feel like maybe I'm offering that with my family.”

Jere and his wife Sandy trained their four children on their instruments and the art of making music from a young age.  Molly Kate, the youngest daughter at 14, wows audiences with an aggressive fiddle and beautiful voice.  Skip, age 16, picks his guitar like a master.  B.J., the 19 year-old son, shines on his fiddle and strong vocals.  The oldest daughter, Cia Leigh age 22, was nominated for an IBMA award this year as Banjo Player of the Year.  Sandy Lee (a.k.a. Mom) has a hard-hitting style with her mandolin and sings lead on many of the group’s songs.  Jere (a.k.a. Pop) directs the group from his position as upright bass, as well as leader, manager and emcee.

This performance culminates the daylong Four Corners Bluegrass Festival celebrated throughout the town.  The all-female bluegrass quartet High Hills will open the concert.  Tickets to the 7:30pm performance on Saturday, November 10 are still available through the Webb Center Box Office at $40 for adults and $5 for students 18 and under.  The Webb Center Box Office may be contacted at (928)684-6624 or online at www.delewebbcenter.org .

Giselle, the masterpiece of Romantic ballet that Artistic Director Ib Andersen
Giselle runs November 2 – 4 at Symphony Hall, with music by The Phoenix Symphony

BALLET ARIZONA , in its 22nd season, is an innovative and provocative professional ballet company that creates, performs, and teaches outstanding classical and contemporary ballet. BALLET ARIZONA is under the artistic direction of Ib Andersen, principal dancer with the New York City Ballet for over a decade. An administrative team, community board of directors, and Volunteer Corps support and oversee the company’s activities. BALLET ARIZONA is dedicated to serving the people of central Arizona by offering education and community engagement programs that touch the lives of more than 35,000 children and adults each year.

BALLET ARIZONA is committed to enriching community life through The School of Ballet Arizona, offering a creative, diverse curriculum to dance students of any age, background, or experience. BALLET ARIZONA believes dance is the fullest expression of the human spirit. And we believe in sharing the beauty of that expression with our neighbors, with our children…with you.

 She is an innocent peasant girl who falls in love with a man she does not know is a nobleman betrothed to another. He is the quintessential Romantic hero, in search of something greater than himself. Her heart broken, she dies, and from beyond the grave she saves the life of the man who betrayed her. Through her sacrifice he lives on, transformed and ennobled by the tragedy his actions cause. This is Giselle, the masterpiece of Romantic ballet that Artistic Director Ib Andersen has chosen to raise the curtain on BALLET ARIZONA ’s twenty-second season.

First staged in 1841, Giselle changed everything about ballet, and was representative of the changes sweeping the world. It was the age of revolution in Europe, of Les Miserables, when monarchies were overthrown as emotion rose up against order. Disgusted by an arrogant aristocracy the common people of Europe looked instead to themselves and their past; the folklore of the masses became a source of artistic inspiration, and of Giselle. It is both a love story and a ghost story. Betrayed by the deceitful nobleman Albrecht, Giselle is doomed to remain on earth after her death. German folktales tell of the wilis, spirits of young girls who died before their wedding days. Giselle is condemned to an eternity of mourning, while Albrecht, engaged to royalty, is destined for a life of privilege. Then the frightening secret of the wilis is revealed: Rising from their graves in shimmering wedding gowns, they dance in the moonlight, seducing young men to join them in deadly pas de deux. Albrecht becomes one of their prey, drawn into the dance by the queen of the wilis herself. And here the ballet’s story reflects the mood of its time, for it is Giselle, now a tragic ghost, who intercedes to save the faithless aristocrat. The peasant girl is revealed as true nobility. Albrecht is spared, while Giselle returns to the spirit world, forever separated from the man she still desperately loves. Though tragic, the story ends on a note of hope. Distraught by the consequences of his actions, Albrecht turns from his self-absorbed existence and dedicates himself to making amends. Like Jean Valjean, the hero of Hugo’s classic Les Miserables that would follow in only two tumultuous decades, Albrecht remakes himself into a force for good because of the sins of his past.

This production is much anticipated by Valley ballet lovers, as it will be Ib Andersen’s first Giselle since arriving in Phoenix. His last staging of the work was for Montreal’s Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in 1999, the season before he became artistic director of BALLET ARIZONA . As ballet writer Alexandra Tomalonis recently noted in her article “Giselle — Dancing by the Light of the Moon”: “Ib Andersen danced Albrecht in Copenhagen [as a member of the Royal Danish Ballet]. Andersen is the heir to a great tradition and is a noted stager of classical ballets. Giselle will undoubtedly be happy in her new home.”

Giselle runs November 2 – 4 at Symphony Hall, with music by The Phoenix Symphony. Tickets are available now through the BALLET ARIZONA Box Office (602.381.1096), or through ticketmaster.com. Prices range from $15–115, with discounts available for students, seniors, children, and groups. www.balletaz.org

Natalia Magnicaballi and Ginger Smith

John Davidson & Friend Holiday Show
Maricopa County Events Center - Sun, Dec 16 at 2 PM

 Celebrate the holiday with some old friends! 70’s heartthrob and accomplished performer John Davidson headlines an afternoon of holiday memories and fun Sunday, December 16th at the Maricopa County Events Center.  Tickets will be $52.50, $42.50 and $32.50 and go on sale Tuesday, October 23rd at 10am. 

 John Davidson has hosted some of America’s favorite television shows including The Hollywood Squares, That’s Incredible, The Mike Douglas Show, The Tonight Show (a record 87 times) and the self-titled John Davidson Show.  These days he can be seen performing on Broadway and running his Catalina Island Institute workshop for aspiring performers. 

 Joining Mr. Davidson will be the master of the malapropism, comedian Norm Crosby.  With a long stand-up career opening for Las Vegas style legends, Crosby’s trademark, friendly, blue-color guy-next-door style makes him a perennial crowd favorite. 

 Two Lawrence Welk alumni round out the afternoon: Mary Lou Metzger and JoAnn Castle.  Ms.Castle is most remembered as the bouncy blonde piano-playing dynamo whose honky-tonk piano was a highlight of the show during its heyday.  Ms. Metzger was the “pet” of the entire Lawrence Welk musical family and was Welk’s favorite dancing partner.

 The Dick Parent Band provides a big-band soundtrack to the afternoon with their tribute to Benny Goodman featuring the Goodman Alumni.

42nd Annual
Cowboy Artists of America
Exhibition & Sale Rides Again

The most anticipated Western American fine art event in the country, is the Phoenix Art Museum’s 42nd Annual Cowboy Artists of America Exhibition and Sale. The exhibition will be at the Museum’s Steele Gallery, October 20th, 2007 – November 18th, 2007. The 42nd Annual Cowboy Artists of America Exhibition and Sale presents a depiction of the West only the members of Cowboy Artists of America can capture with such realistic skill and spirit. It is presented each year by the Phoenix Art Museum’s Men’s Arts Council, and the Sale has become one of the Museum’s most successful fundraising events.

 The Sale, the premier event of its kind, will take place on Friday, October 19th, 6-9pm, the evening before the exhibition opens to the public. The exhibition, sponsored by Wells Fargo, is included with the Museum’s general admission; the tickets for the sale are $275 per person, which includes several events throughout the sale weekend. This includes entry into the sale, a Mix and Mingle lunch with the Artists, admission to the Autograph Party on the morning of Saturday, October 20th, and a seat at the Awards Banquet that evening. Sale only tickets are available for $225 per person. Sale tickets can be purchased by calling (602) 307-2007 or online at www.caashow.org . All online purchasers will receive a discount of $15 per ticket. 

 More than 130 new works created in the last year by the 22 active members of Cowboy Artists of America (CAA) will be unveiled for the first time at the sale on October 19th. Included are bronze and stone sculptures, oil paintings, water solubles and drawings that capture the life of a cowboy.  Some of the artists portray the West that is long gone and only visible through art, while others portray contemporary cowboy life, using their own life experiences on the ranch or reservation as their research. 

    The Cowboy Artists of America Exhibition and Sale has a rich and colorful history and continually captures the attention of art fans, young and old. The sale attracts hundreds of collectors from around the world. Rather than a typical art auction, attendees of the sale submit intent-to-purchase slips and the first name drawn has the option to buy the work of art. This method not only proves exciting but offers an equal opportunity for both the first time buyer and the seasoned collector. Many works sell in the six figures and last year’s gross sales topped the $2.2 million mark.

    For more information about Phoenix Art Museum’s Men’s Arts Council, call (602) 307-2060 or visit online at www.mensartscouncil.com . For more information about Phoenix Art Museum, visit its Web site at www.PhxArt.org  , or call the 24-hour information line at (602) 257-1222.

Cave Creek Museum Re-opens For the Season
 Cave Creek Museum re-opened for the season on Wed., Oct, 3rd. located at 6140 Skyline Dr., the Cave Creek Museum features an extensive collection of prehistoric and historic artifacts that describe the lives of Native Americans, miners, ranchers and pioneers. The museum hours are Wed., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fri. from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entrance fees are $3 for adults, and $2 for seniors and students over age 12. Group tours: $2 per person.

 Cave Creek Museum will host several educational programs at the Museum throughout the season. There is no additional charge to attend these programs, but because seating is limited, reservations are suggested. The October program schedule follows:

 Tuesday, October 9, 16, and 23:  “Eggs-travaganza” Craft Workshop 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Total Cost for 3-day workshop, including materials: $75. Seating is limited to 10 per workshop. Please call to reserve a seat. Instructor Fran Hunold will teach participants how to craft the “Arizona Egg,” which has a striking resemblance to the famous Fabergé Eggs.

New Exhibits for 2007-2008 Season According to Evelyn Johnson, Cave Creek Museum’s Executive Director, highlights of the new season include several new exhibits, programs and events. “We’re very excited to announce the addition of three new Johnny Hampton bronze sculptures to the Museum,” Johnson said. “We are very grateful to the Peagler family, long-time Cave Creek merchants and owners of Frontier Town, for donating these rare, original pieces.”

 Hampton’s sculptures “Spooked,” “On the Prod,” and “Throwing the Hooley-Ann” will be on display as part of a larger new exhibit that chronicles the renowned artist’s life. Johnson said the Museum is also pleased to show off its newly renovated Archaeology Wing.

 “Grace Schoonover, our volunteer Archaeological Chair, spearheaded the renovations of the Archaeological Wing,” she said. “It has been a decade since significant changes were made to this section of the Museum. Thanks to a grant from Desert Foothills Women’s Club and the Town of Carefree, Grace and her team of volunteers worked around the clock to create a dynamic presentation on the ancient people who lived in the Desert Foothills before us.”

 In addition, over the summer, several docents worked to create a chronological account of the historic church which dates back to 1948 and was restored to historic status in 1989. From that time to 2003, many couples were married by local minister Don Field, who has since passed. Now the Museum only allows weddings upon special request. The Museum is seeking stories and photos from couples who were married in the historic church. Those interested in sharing their stories and photos for this exhibit should e-mail Evelyn Johnson at cavecreekmuseum@juno.org or call (480) 488-2764. For information about becoming a member, volunteering, or for general information about exhibits and programs, call Cave Creek Museum, call (480) 488-2764. To find out about other programs and special events at the Museum check out www.azphm.com .

 Mark Your Calendar Cave Creek Museum’s new season is packed with educational programs and special events. Throughout the season, the Museum will host free children’s programs and “History Chats.” In addition, the Museum will present several special fund-raisers: This year’s Holiday Gala takes a different twist with the addition of live theater. Chaired by Michele Poetsch, the dinner theater takes place on Friday, November 30 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Carefree Resort & Villas. Guests will be treated to a comical, musical performance of “Coyote Dreams: A VERY Arizona Christmas.” Written by Alexx Stuart and directed by Diedre Kaye of North Scottsdale, the humorous play uses song and parodies to explain how Arizonans celebrate the holiday.

 Ever wonder if items in your attic or garage are worth anything? Find out by attending the Museum’s “Antique Appraisal Fair” on Friday and Saturday, January 25 and 26, 2008.

Appraiser Sean Morton will examine your treasures, discuss their origins, and assess their value. Mr. Morton is a member of the Antiques Appraisal Association of America and has more than 20 years experience in the fine arts and antiques field. Fee: $15 per item – limit of two items per person per session. You may attend more than one session.

 Cave Creek Museum’s “Author’s Month” was so popular last year, that the Museum is once again scheduling local authors to visit the Museum for lectures and book signings this February. Stay tuned for more information regarding some high-profile entertainers who may participate in this event.

 In honor of Archaeology Month, Cave Creek Museum will also host an “Archaeology Hike” on Monday, March 10.

 Another popular event that returns this year: “Homes Through Time Home Tour.” Chaired by Michele Poetsch, this fund-raiser is set for Sunday, March 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the tour is still being planned, Poetsch said it will include the Empie Boulder Home, owned by the Havapai Tribe. This widely-acclaimed Boulder House was designed by Charles E. Johnson around, over and under enormous outcrops of weathered granite and was featured on the cover of Architectural Digest.

Awesome 'God Bless America'

There is a huge rock near a gravel pit on Hwy. 25 in rural Iowa. For generations, kids have painted slogans, names, and obscenities on this rock, changing its character many times. A few months back, the rock received its latest paint job, and since then it has been left completely undisturbed. It's quite an impressive sight.

 The flag looks as if it was draped over the rock, but it's not. It's actually painted on the rock too, by the artist Ray 'Bubba' Sorensen.