1883 Cordes Ranch

Sept 19
Bob and I met at his home in Black Canyon City and went up to Cordes Junction to interview a very interesting fella name Bob Rains. Bob had been with SDOT for 18 years and was about to retire. He is also an accomplished leatherworker.
We had breakfast at the CJ Diner hidden back behind the gas station. What a nice clean and economical place this is hidden back where most people might not find it or even know it is there.
Later we went to interview Cathy Cordes at the 1883 Cordes Ranch 3 miles west of I-17 off Bloody Basin Road which quickly becomes the Crown King Road. What a treat that adventure turned out to be! She manages the original stage stop/general store built in 1883 but burned down in 1910 and rebuilt on the same spot at the junction of the Crown King Road and Antelope Creek Road – the original Black Canyon Highway – the old stage route between Black Canyon City and Mayer. Her great granddad ran the saloon, store and stage stop from 1883. He acquired it after the former owner was stabbed to death by a drunk customer.
Cathy is opening the store on weekends and has an incredible collection of artifacts and antiques. Every vehicle her grandfather owned is in that back yard! And the views and beauty of the landscape is overwhelmingly beautiful. It rained while we were there and the frequent rain this summer has left the hills green and filled with wild flowers. The cattle roam free and have their head to the ground all the time enjoying great grazing.
Cathy’s mom still runs the cattle ranch on the same 160 acres her granddad bought back in 1883.
It’s about 17 miles up the Old Black Canyon Highway from Black Canyon City and I’m told it is good road all the way – graded but dirt. We took the road from Cordes Ranch (called Antelope Creek Road on maps now) to Mayer about 8 miles and it was smooth sailing. It dumps out about where the Dollar Store is on the Highway 69.
In Prescott Valley I had the opportunity to interview Dixie Northcutt author of Trekking Home and a rancher from the Arizona Strip in some of the loneliest land in the northern most part of the state along the north side of the Grand Canyon. It’s almost more a part of Utah than Arizona being separated by that huge canyon. The nearest large town was Kanab Utah. She had interesting stories of ranch life in tough country. Her stories will make a series of articles in the Wild West Gazette.

Arizona SideCar Adventures

Sept 18
Mom’s birthday and she had a doctor’s appointment first thing in the morning. Everything looked good from all of her tests. That is good news to get on your 78th birthday!
TJ and artist Roger Merritt met me in Cave Creek Recreational Area to shoot video of the Arizona SideCar Adventures sidecars driving through desert. He had to pay a fee to shoot up there and later we went to Pinnacle Peak where I think we got even better video in the Pinnacle Peak Patio Parking lot! I know I ended up with a sunburn even with sunblock on.
It was Thursday so that meant Thursday with Bog Marv and once again we documented Pinnacle Peak Patio history by scanning documents of history. Marv’s brother Herman showed up and we were able to get many questions answered by Herman. He is also the world’s leading authority on the artist Lon Megargee and A1 Brewing. Herman and his wife had just returned from a raft trip down the Colorado and both say never again! It was much more strenuous and intense than they had been led to believe. Once begun there is no turning back or early exit from the ride.

I showed Herman an old issue of the Valley National Bank Eagle employee newspaper for which I had been the staff photographer from 1976-1982. One issue had an article about the Lon Megarge art the bank had purchased under the direction of former bank president Walter Bimson. About 17 pieces were in the bank’s collection and most hung at 56th Street and Camelback Road. Of course, the bank has changed hands a couple of times since and Herman had heard they had auctions all of the art off at extraordinarily low prices because no one knew about the auction.

Cave Creek After Dark

Sept 17
I met with the folks from Rim Country Gazette about consulting for their publication. The success of Wild West Gazette has become legendary!

Cave Creek After Dark had about 100 people show up for the Cave Creek Visitor Center ribbon cutting. The Mayor and the Peaglers cut the ribbon of the newly decorated Marshall’s Office. It looks great! TJ Wooten gave people rides in his Arizona SideCar Adventure Sidecars around the block. What great fun! Sue Kern-Fletcher was there and we shared introductions to many people we know.

Carefree Corridor Business Group

Sept 16
The usual Carefree Corridor Business Group meeting at Pioneer Restaurant. Jim Tuemler made a nice presentation of his real estate business and the photography for the virtual tours he has online for his properties. He has a very nice website at www.desertlifestyles.info

Glendale Photography Club

Sept 15
The Mighty Cup & Spoon Coffee Shop hosts the Out of Box Photography Club to about a dozen very interesting photographers. Mike Moore conducted the meeting and has much of his photography hanging in the coffee shop. He had recently returned form a shoot in Jerome and found the Gold King Mine and Don Robertson as photogenic and filled with opportunities as Bob and I had a few weeks ago. It is definitely worth the trip and time to explore. Mike especially liked the old cars. I was amazed at the condition of some in garages there. Between the buildings, tools, animals and views it’s a photographer’s dream location.

The Apache Trail in Arizona

The Apache Trail in Arizona was originally a stagecoach trail that ran through the Superstition Mountains. It was named the Apache Trail after the Apache Indians who had used this trail to move through the Superstition Mountains for thousands of years.
The current Apache Trail links Apache Junction at the edge of the Greater Phoenix area with Theodore Roosevelt Lake, through the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest.

Today, much of the Apache Trail is paved, and the section east of Apache Junction is known officially as State Route 88. It is also the main traffic corridor through Apache Junction, turning into Main Street as the road passes into Mesa, and regains the Apache name by becoming Apache Boulevard in Tempe, ending at Mill Avenue. Prior to the completion of the Superstition Freeway in 1992, the Apache Junction portion of the Apache Trail was part of US Highway 60, which was rerouted to the Superstition once it was completed.

The Trail winds steeply through 47 miles of rugged desert mountains, past deep reservoir lakes like Canyon Lake and Apache Lake. The narrow, winding road is unpaved from just east of the town of Tortilla Flat to Roosevelt Dam; there are steep cliff drops. The trail requires caution when driving and it is not recommended for large RVs, or SUVs. Some RV rental companies in the US do not allow their vehicles to be taken on this route.

We begin in Apache Junction. The Apache Trail follows the course of the Salt River which ancient peoples known as the Hohokam would travel along the shoreline through the Mazatzal Mountains for thousands of years.

In the late 1800's settlers found the are attractive for farming but the Salt River was unpredictable and prone to flooding. In 1902 President Roosevelt signed the National Reclamation Act and Roosevelt Dam was begun, completing construction in 1911. To bring supplies to the dam site a road was built following the ancient trail.

A stretch of the road through the Goldfield Mountains was referred to as the "Little Alps". President Roosevelt was quoted as saying, "The Apache Trail combines the grandeur of the Alps, the glory of the Rockies and the magnificence of the Grand Canyon, then adds an indefinable something that none of the others has. To me it is the most awe-inspiring and most sublimely beautiful panorama nature has ever created."

The drive from Tortilla Flats to Roosevelt Dam takes about 2.5 hours with an average speed of about 25mph.

The entire adventure ride features spectacular scenery to rival any in the state. The twenty mile graded dirt section of the trail provides magnificent views of twisted igneous mountains with dense forests of saguaro and cactus with several deep blue lakes along the way. Fish Creek Canyon is perhaps the most awe-inspiring section. The road hangs on the side of this high-walled canyon and winds its way along tremendous precipices that sink sheer for hundreds of feet below.

Sites along the way: Goldfield Ghost Town a rich gold strike that led to the establishment of Goldfield Mining District in 1892, and old buildings still line the dirt road. The famous Mammoth Saloon, Goldfield Livery, Lost Dutchman Museum, Coffee Cantina and Bakery, Rock Shop, Live Rattlesnake Exhibit, and Gold Mine Tours.

Superstition Mountains, 160,000-acre mountain range has a history of legends, mystery and lost gold mines. The most famous story associated with the area is the Legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine. Lost Dutchman State Park, is where numerous hiking trails led into the mysterious Superstitions.

Tonto National Forest

Canyon Lake was formed in 1925 when the Mormon Flat Dam was completed. The beautiful lake provides a refreshing retreat from the desert sun, has a marina, restaurant and the well-known "Dolly," which provides steamboat cruises on the lake.


Tortilla Flat, an old stage stop which was built in 1904 as a rest area on the way to the construction site of the Roosevelt Dam. During its boom era, the tiny town had 125 residents, a school, church, post office, hotel, livery, general store, saloon and a restaurant. In 1942, a devastating flood swept through Tortilla Flat, destroying many of the homes and most of the town. Today, when you drive into Tortilla Flat, you enter another era -- a remnant of the past. Since the big 1942 flood, a small portion of the settlement has been rebuilt or refurbished, and six residents live there year-round to greet tourist who venture down the Apache Trail.

This is a trip of a lifetime and not to be missed!
Take an Arizona SideCar Adventure trip to many areas of Arizona viewed a a slower pace and up close. It's an "E" ticket ride! Call 602-565-5785 for more information.

Barrett

Sept 11
My daughter’s best friend Karrie had a healthy baby boy Barrett at well over 8 pounds.

Grants

Sept 10-12
University of Phoenix hosted a Grant Institute class with about a dozen students from all over the state and one Californian. Our instructor was from Houston TX by way of Washington DC. We had 3 days of intensive writing and drills for grant writing and ended up earning our certification certificates. It was a good educational experience hearing how others will use their skills to fund projects. I was surprised how many small and large government entities are forced into finding funding through grants for things that are of major safety concern for the general public good.

Sept 12
Bob and I met for dinner at Bill Johnson’s and once again found the Wild West Gazette box empty! The manager Karen says they go really fast and everyone really enjoys our publication. We usually have dinner there every Friday night so we try to keep it full. We doubled up the number this time to see if they last.

Spirit of the West Alive Marshall Trimble Nov 5

Sept 9
Meeting with Mike Savarino at Bison Western Museum regarding the schedule for “Spirit of the West Alive” lecture series. The time slot open all through there calendar is Wednesday nights. He suggested “Hump Day at the Bison” as a slogan.
He will have Gary Martinson call on Marshall Trimble for the first night November 5th.

Spirit of the Old West Alive

Introduction
As much as we love the
"American Old West"
the very things we love about it are disappearing every day.
That's why capturing the stories of the old west,
straight from the
"People Who Have Kept
the Spirit of the Old West Alive"
is an important project.

“Spirit of the Old West Alive” is a project
co-sponsored by the Bison Museum in Scottsdale.


We will be moderating a series of lectures on “People Who Keep the Spirit of the West Alive” to be audience viewed and video taped oral histories. The edited videos will be played online and around the country in museums promoting the history of the west. They will go into archives for future historians. This all starts in October 2008 and the series of lectures should run through at least 2012, Arizona’s Centennial.

As I think of the people who keep the “Spirit of the Old West Alive” I thought of you. You know someone whose efforts keep the time honored spirit of the west. Or you know a company that would want to sponsor these lectures. Or you know a charitable organization that would like to share these evenings to spread their message and raise funds. If you are interested please contact me so we can begin planning and scheduling a time for your participation in any of the three opportunities mentioned above.

Join us as we interview and record oral histories before they fade away...

I would also appreciate your spreading the word to your friends about
“People Who Keep the Spirit of the Old West Alive!”


Thank you for your kind consideration of participation in this worthy project.
LeeAnn Sharpe, Spirit of the Old West Alive
602-565-5785 cell
PO Box 6536
Glendale, AZ 85312-6536

Castle Hot Springs - Hieroglyphic Mountains & Bradshaw Mountains

Castle Hot Springs - Hieroglyphic Mountains & Bradshaw Mountains
Travel the winding dirt mountain roads leading up to one of the richest mined mountain ranges in world history. Dozens of mining towns filled these mountains, all long gone. Their wealth is said to have build the splendor of San Francisco. All that is left in the Bradshaws are mysterious roads leading you through beautiful hidden valleys and unique little oasis of green tucked into a desert.

Castle Hot Springs was a famous luxurious resort that saw the likes of John Kennedy, Clark Gable and Teddy Roosevelt.

You come out on Hwy 74 next to Lake Pleasant which is a beautiful desert lake with a marina and visitor center well worth the cost of admission.

Arizona SideCar Adventures will be your host to a customized trip to meet your time and travel requirements. Call us today to book your tour.

602-639-6303

HISTORY: In 1865 Yavapai County Arizona Territory, Col. Charles Craig, commander of troops at Prescott's Fort Whipple, pursued a group of Indians who had just raided nearby mining camps. This pursuit ended when the troops defeated the Indians and stopped to rest at what is now known as Salvation Peak. The surrounding peaks resembled castles and a creek at the bottom prompted the men to name the area Castle Creek. After finding the elusive "magic waters", or hot springs, of the Apaches, they named the area Castle Hot Springs. Apaches attributed healing powers to the hot, clear water that poured out from the canyon rock.
Frank Murphy obtained the land in the1880's with plans of building a secluded resort hotel. Frank Murphy's brother, Nathan Oakes Murphy, became the general manager of the development and hired other professionals to aid in the project. Civil Engineer, Andrew Barry, surveyed the roads and the site while a landscape gardener named Smith laid out the grounds. Toohey and Webster were also hired as contractors. In 1896 the first "hot springs resort" opened with additions between 1900 and 1905. In 1895, the construction of the north-south railroad, also commissioned by Murphy, allowed the Santa Fe Railway to take guests from all over the country to Morristown, formerly called Hot Springs Junction along what is now Hwy 60, near the junction with Hwy 74 . Guests would take a four-hour stagecoach ride almost 24 miles to the resort. The resort employing a full-time resident physician, masseur, and a masseuse.

Advertising pamphlets were sent eastward to potential clients boasting the “Oasis in the Mountains” as a beautiful and luxurious resort. The pamphlets also described the healing springs as a curative for rheumatism, blood disorders, insomnia, kidney disease, anemia, and other ills. Murphy believed the hot springs to have the perfect combination of healing water and hot dry air of the desert.

In its early years, Castle Hot Springs functioned as the first territorial winter capital of Arizona, as well as the local jail. Hangings were said to have been carried out on the administration building's balcony.

During this time the resort installed the first telephone in Arizona and its number was "1". In 1901, the resort became the first in Arizona to be electrified with the construction of an “electric light” plant and an ice plant.

On June 23, 1917, Frank Murphy died and left the Castle Hot Springs Hotel Company to his attorney, T. G. Norris. Norris maintained the resort and improved the integrity of the structures, replacing the wooden steps, platforms, and stone retaining walls with concrete. The property was sold on March 14, 1925 to Walter H. Rounsevel with the financial support of Thomas Fortune Ryan. The resort continued to blossom until the Great Depression following the market crash in 1929. On August 8, 1930, Natt Head Group bought the property but it was soon returned to the Castle Hot Springs Hotel Company due to a foreclosure agreement

In the 1920's and 30's the Wrigleys, Vanderbilts, Weinberg's, Rockefellers and even Zane Grey stayed in bungalows at the Castle Hot Springs resort.

Closed during World War II because of rationing and food shortages, the site was leased by the military for the recuperation of pilots. In 1945, a young naval officer named John F. Kennedy spent three months at the property recovering from combat injuries. This distinction earned Castle Hot Springs a special dispensation, allowing the American flag to be flown 24 hours a day on nearby Salvation Peak. Today the flag is maintained by the Boy Scouts of America.

The resort was then sold to Oasis Hotel Corporation.

Over the next 30 years the resort continued to operate until the famous "Palm House" burned down in a devastating fire in 1976. After the fire destroyed the main building, the property and its remaining cottages were donated to Arizona State University, by Mrs. Mae Talley, the owner of the resort, which used it as a conference center. ASU sold it in 1987 for $3 million to the Trainer brothers, who visited the property when they were children in the 1950s. Charles and Steve Trainer, two heirs to the Schlitz Brewing Co. fortune, and their partner, Scottsdale developer Fred Unger sold the property to Garrett Hotel Group of Burlington, Vt., whose owner David Garrett envisions a 50-room luxury hotel and spa . When Garrett bought the property, it had 167 acres. He later bought another 40 acres to the west.

The 207-acre property with year-round natural hot springs is about seven miles northwest of Lake Pleasant and 55 miles from downtown Phoenix. Due to the historical significance of the surrounding 405 acres, 16 buildings, and 8 structures, Castle Hot Springs was added to the National Historic Register in 1991.

Now only a caretaker remains and the resort has changed hands many times. Much remains including the main house, the employee house, the movie theatre, swimming pool (supposedly the largest free form pool in the world), golf course and more.

The hot springs are fed by an enormous cistern created by the displacement of tertiary volcanic rock, tens of thousands of years ago. Each day, this underground reservoir produces 400,000 gallons of water at 122 degrees Fahrenheit—the hottest temperature known for a spring which is not volcanically active. The waterfall emerges from a crack in the rock wall, supplying Castle Creek and its three deep pools with water that is quite pure, odorless, and crystal clear. Its superb quality indicates a source depth of 7,000 to 10,000 feet.
Notes on Castle Hot Springs: Castle Hot Springs Road off Hwy 60 on to Hwy 74 east near Wickenburg will take you through the Bradshaw Mountains to Lake Pleasant Road off of Hwy 74

The first two miles off Hwy 60 is asphalt through a neighborhood of luxury homes. As the neighborhood ends, the blacktop becomes a graded, red dirt road in various states depending on recent weather conditions. Some areas are barely wide enough to handle a hummer. Often the road and river bed are one in the same with a small stream at road edge for miles.

The road goes through the White Picacho mining district overseen by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the valley of the Buckhorn and Hieroglyphic Mountain foothills (which actually have no hieroglyphics but do abound with Indian petroglyphs) with the Bradshaw Mountains ahead.

The road goes just north of the rugged Hells Canyon Wilderness. California fan palm trees 45- to 60-foot-tall trees line the property of JL Bar, a retired cattle ranch built in the late 1800s.

Flanked by bougainvillea and emerald lawns, Castle Hot Springs Resort is now closed, a “private” sign and caretaker protecting it's secrets. Perhaps one day the sprawling estate will be reopened to societies elite once again.

Take an Arizona SideCar Adventure trip to many areas of Arizona viewed a a slower pace and up close. It's an "E" ticket ride! Call 602-565-5785 for more information.

Pinnacle Peak Patio Thursdays with Big Marv

Sept 4
Pinnacle Peak Patio Thursdays with Big Marv. Once again (Week 6) we spent the evening with Big Marv and scanned in history and photos from the last 50 years. The databases are getting huge and we find we have to stop after about 6 hours as the computers get over heated from scanning and printing. Bob (Arizona Duuude) designed some really great little wooden blocks to set under the computers to raise them off the vinyl tablecloth so they stay a little cooler longer. We have gone through about 3 ink cartridges so far printing documents. The little Neat Receipts scanner does a great job on anything flat and smaller than 8.5”x11” that can run through it’s feed mechanism. But I also brought an HP All in One Scanner, Copier and Printer for things we need to lay onto a flat bed for scanning. Many large items need to be scanned in sections I will piece together later. Of special interest tonight was Marv’s brand book. He has so many brands and ranch documentation 3 inches thick. He also has a general cowboy collections book of interesting art and books he has seen.

Mental Health

Sept 3

It was a new experience for me today as I was called to court to testify as to the mental state of an acquaintance. The state will take control of an individual for a period of time if he is considered a threat to himself or others as this person was at the time.

The level of pressure such a situation was unknown to me until tossed into the middle of the circumstances I had no desire to be a part of, yet had no control once so involved. You question rights of an individual to control their own life and how much you relinquish when mental illness comes into play. Of course the compassionate thing to do is to be there to help the person with professional support, therapy and medication. So if that person has gone through all society has to offer and still wants to end his life, do we have the right to intercede. As Christians we are taught to protect and preserve life. This opens so many questions about quality of life and responsibility. It makes my head and heart hurt. One thing I do know now is society needs to find more compassion for the mentally ill.

All Roads to Lead to Yuma

Sept 2, 2008

Today we had another wonderful meeting with Patricia A. Etter, M.L.S., Emeritus College, Arizona State University at the University Club. Ms. Etter has been keeping us updated on the historic trails symposium being planned by the Oregon-California Trails Association (OCTA) for January of 2009.

Billed as “All Roads to Lead to Yuma,” the symposium will feature speakers and tours covering several of the pioneer and early routes that converged on the historic crossing point of the Colorado River, from the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in the 1770s to the Gold Rush era of the 1840s and 1850s to the stage routes of the late 19th Century. The dates set for the Yuma event are January 16 – 18.

Ms. Etter is on the steering committee along with John Krizek. Registration information through OCTA will be available in the summer at OCTA’s Web site www.octa-trails.org

Yuma’s unique history as the crossroads of the Southwest was recognized by the United States Congress in 2000 with the official designation of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area — the first entity west of the Mississippi River to be so recognized, according to city historian Tina Clark. Ms. Clark is assisting the committee with suggestions for tours and site visit locations. The Yuma Visitors Bureau also is helping
to facilitate arrangements for the Yuma symposium. “For 250 years, all roads in the southwestern U.S. have led to Yuma,” reports Krizek. “What better time of year than January to explore this historic corner of the country.”

Wild West Gazette is planning to attend the conference and report our findings in the March 2009 issue. We strongly encourage those interested in southwest history to consider attending and supporting this worthwhile endeavor.

After getting more familiar with Ms. Etter’s knowledge and experience of southwest history I have added her name to my list of “People Who Keep the Spirit of the West Alive”.

La Piazza Al Forno Gourmet Brick Oven Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen

Dining Review
By LeeAnn Sharpe

La Piazza Al Forno Gourmet Brick Oven Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen, 5803 W. Glendale Ave., in Historic Downtown Glendale. 623-847-3301 Hours Mon-Thur Lunch 11am-3pm Dinner 5pm-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm Select Sundays. Website: www.lapiazzaalforno.blogspot.com

Their menu states, “Our passion is crafting delicious Italian meals using simple time honored recipes… Just like the original Pizzerias and Trattorias of Italy, La Piazza is a place for friends and family to gather for good food.”

It was just by chance that my friends and I ended up at La Piazza. But what a fortuitous chance that was. Just south of Murphy Park at 58th Ave & Glendale, it’s tucked away in an almost hidden store front. The food was excellent and the people very friendly. And the prices were very moderate with generous portions.

We all started off with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cheese and cucumbers with a nice Italian dressing, $3. A basket of Italian Bread was $1.50. They offer a short beer and wine list. We had a nice house red wine $5.25 glass. They also offer Calamari $7, Shrimp $7, and Bruschette $3 for Appetizers and a good variety of salads as well.

My favorite has always been Chicken Marsala and its one dish I always compare at any new Italian restaurant. The Chicken Marsala is a grilled chicken breast topped with mushrooms in a Marsala Wine Sauce with a side of pasta $10. It was delicious and large enough serving to make two meals. It made a great lunch the next day!

Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce $7 or with Meatballs or Italian Sausage $9, both were tasty and filling. My friend is sensitive to too spicy foods, but enjoyed the meatballs saying they were just right. Just like Momma used to make! Another had the Italian Sausage and was very pleased with the taste and texture. Some places are too greasy, but these were perfect and flavorful.

The menu offers Ravioli $8, Parmigiano $8, Scampi $12, Linguine $10, Rigatoni $10, Lasagna $9, and Fettuccine Alfredo $8, as you would expect from any respectable Italian restaurant. They offer a selection of sandwiches including Meatball $6, Sausage & Peppers $6 and The Godfather $6.

But saving the best for last, you have to try their pizza! The wood fueled brick oven pizza brings you back to the classic pizza of years past. The crust has texture, volume and flavor to it and is crispy and tasty. Fresh ingredients like mozzarella, ricotta, basil and garlic generously top a pie you can pick up in your hand and feel some weight. They offer a nice menu of “Specialty Pizzas” with a wide selection of traditional (not designer) toppings for only $11 for the 14” to $17 for the 16”. If you want a pizza with real taste, check this one out. It’s a real treat after too many plastic and cardboard tasting pizzas the chains serve up. Now that I’m spoiled for good pizza, it will have to be La Piazza’a!

A family operation, La Piazza Al Forno owned by the Piazzas, (Justin, Rachel, Dennis, Anita and the kids), will make you enjoy family dinners out without breaking the bank and in an atmosphere you will feel comfortable. And the food will make you smile as much as the company!
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"Mamma Mia!" Movie Review

"Mamma Mia!"

By LeeAnn Sharpe

"Mamma Mia!" is great fun! The audience sang along, clapped, giggled and ahhhed as the songs ran the gamut of emotions. Mamma Mia flies on the wings of the golden oldies of ABBA and the crazy musical romps where the entire cast joins in wonderfully joyful choreographed dance routines. Every minute of this flick will refresh your spirit with beautiful views of the Greek island and blues of the ocean, along with classic music.

Meryl Streep is so well loved that even though this musical part of this role may have been a stretch for her, she made it work. Her voice actually sounded good. But Pierce Brosnan, who played her old flame Sam, should stick to acting. His voice was like the guy at the office singing karaoke and everyone tries to ignore the pain of it all. Still he is well cast as the great love of her life. Colin Firth who actually learned to play guitar for this role and took some singing lessons sounded pretty decent. Not that he will have a new music career, but he can carry a tune. Julie Walters and Christine Baranski took their comedic acting skills to a new level with their over the top musical performances. Stellan Skarsgård as Bill, one of three possible fathers of Donna’s daughter, had the audience rooting for him all the way.

ABBA, the Swedish pop act who has sold more than 400 million records to date and continues to sell well, has created timeless universally popular music. There is a strong camp appeal to the music that’s reminiscent of a kinder, gentler place in time. So it’s no surprise when the audience sings along and actually knows all of the words. Those who don’t sing along are looking superior, above all that, but they are still smiling behind the sneers. A magic in the music places a spell on all who hear it, a fan or not.

The story goes twenty-year-old Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), raised in Greece, invites three men to her wedding, one of whom she is sure must be her father. As the wedding guests arrive the bride-to-be with her two best girlfriends and her Mom and her two girlfriends vamp down memory lane with various musical numbers. Then the three would-be dads meet and bond and sing and try to figure out why they've been summoned to sunny Greece, where each enjoyed a lovely tryst with Donna years ago .

"Mamma Mia" will be your "Waterloo," as you enjoy a musical film like no other. "Super Trouper", "Dancing Queen", "Knowing Me, Knowing You", "Thank You for the Music", "Money, Money, Money", "The Winner Takes It All", "Voulez Vous", "I Have a Dream" and "SOS". It’s pure feel good fun from beginning to end. So let yourself go and enjoy! Warning you will have ABBA in your head for weeks to come!

MAMMA MIA! is a Universal Pictures release directed by Phyllida Lloyd from a script by Catherine Johnson. Running time: 108 minutes. Rated PG-13 for some sex-related comments.
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“Pistol Packin’ Paula” Benefit

“Pistol Packin’ Paula” Benefit
Buffalo Chip Saloon in Cave Creek was recently (Jun 29th ) the site of a very special benefit for Phoenix Arizona’s own World Champion Lady Six Gun Spinner, Bull Whip Artist and All-Around Wild West Performer, Paula Saletnik, who, for over 12 years entertained Tens of Thousands of Guests at the World Famous Rawhide Theme Park in Scottsdale, performed for Hundreds of Corporate Events and Fund Raisers, and performed at the World Famous Ponderosa Ranch {Home of TV’s Bonanza}.

Paula Saletnik, aka “Pistol Packin’ Paula”, was recently involved in an automobile accident, from which she sustained very serious bodily injury. During the evening of Thursday, January 10, Paula struck a deer while driving on a county highway near her home in Boerne, Texas. As she swerved to miss the animal, her truck rolled countless times and was thrown from the vehicle through the driver side window. When she regained consciousness, she was lying in the nearby grass, with the wheels upturned on her vehicle. As she realized she needed to call for help, her cellular phone was missing from it’s holder. Unable to move, she was encouraged when Pepper, her beloved dog, ran nearly a mile to a nearby farmhouse to get help. It was at this exact time that Paula’s landlord called her. Fortunately, she was able to reach the cell phone located near her knee, truly a Godsend. An ambulance arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, and she was transported to a nearby “Flight for Life” location. She was then airlifted by helicopter to the University Hospital in San Antonio, TX.

Paula’s diagnosed injuries included a broken sternum and pelvis {both sides, front & back}, cracked ribs and fractures to three vertebrae. A surgical procedure was performed on Tuesday, January 15, with several permanent pins implanted. Her doctors expect a full recovery, however, this will take several months or years of therapy and determination. Paula’s tough Cowgirl Spirit is intact and she WILL twirl her guns and ride her horse again! After her hospital stay, Paula has left the hospital and is staying with friends for the next several months, who will assist her in her therapy and recovery.

Dr Buck Montgomery, of Dr Buck Productions {Producer of the Annual Wild Western Festival in Phoenix AZ Sept 26-28 at CJS Film Studios www.wildwesternfestivals.com}, a personal friend of over 15 years and a fellow entertainer has contributed to and created a Trust Fund for Paula, {Donations can be made at Any “Bank of America” Branch, to the “ THE PAULA SALETNIK MEDICAL FUND”}

The Paula Benefit on Sunday, June 29th, 2008, from 2pm to 6pm, was hosted by Barbara & Larry Wendt at their Historic Buffalo Chip Saloon & Steakhouse, located at: 6811 East Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, Arizona 85331. Despite the 110 degree heat a good number of people attended keeping close to shade and misters and sipping cool beverages. The event featured World Class “Best of the West” Entertainers, Live Music, Games, Activities, Raffles, a great Silent & Live Auction. TC Thorstenson also a long time friend of Paula’s, previously working together in his Champions of the West Wild West Shows, performed for the audience with his World Famous Buffalo Harvey Wallbanger. Although Harvey didn’t want to lie down in the hot sand, he pulled through like the great performer he is and even jumped through a ring of fire with TC on his back. Gary West Magician entertained the group with his old west style magic show. Casino tables from Arizona Nights kept guest cool inside with blackjack and roulette. Chris Putman did his strolling magic, Tumbleweed Junction played their cowboy music, Justus Harrison entertained the crowds, Arizona Duuude shook hands and welcomed guests and Gary Kotula artist drew caricatures all to benefit their friend Paula.
For further information on how you can help Paula, contact Tammy Youngs at {480} 703-6702 or email:TLYoungs@cox.net or Dr Buck at {623} 521-3856 Fax: {623} 882-9428 or email:DRBuc@cox.net DR BUCK PRODUCTIONS, PO Box 7123, Goodyear, AZ 85338.


Johnny Ringo of Carefree Adventures bought the “One for Each of You” Buck Taylor print of Doc Holliday at the OK Corral (Val Kilmer in the movie Tombstone) beautifully framed by local artist Gary Graham Double G Frames.

Sharlot Herself: Selected Writings of Sharlot Hall

Book Review
By LeeAnn Sharpe

Sharlot Herself: Selected Writings of Sharlot Hall Edited by Nancy Kirkpatrick Wright with an introduction by Margaret F. Maxwell Illustrations by Carlos Parra Copyright 1992 by Sharlot Hall Museum 415 W. Gurley Street Prescott, AZ 86301
ISBN 0-927579-04-9 Sharlot Hall books can be ordered at phone: 928.445.3122.


Recently my friend Bob Roloff, the Arizona Duuude, introduced me to the writings of Sharlot Hall. First I read her biography by Margaret F. Maxwell, “A Passion For Freedom: The Life of Sharlot Hall”, “Cactus and Pine” and then the Arizona Strip book. Finally I have completed the series with the “Sharlot Herself: Selected Writings of Sharlot Hall”, Edited by Nancy Kirkpatrick Wright.

With each book I have come to love Sharlot Hall more. Her dedication to the state of Arizona and love of early history runs parallel to the course I have set for my own life. Sharlot’s way of turning a phrase using the jargon of the western cowboy and Arizona pioneer makes her stories especially interesting.

It is almost beyond belief that a woman of her era was able to travel so extensively and participate in so many daring and adventurous activities generally associated with men. As a young girl she rode her pony with her pioneering family from Kansas to Lonesome Valley Arizona outside Prescott. That in itself led to many adventures and strengthened her spirit.

Her chauvinistic, self-centered, brute of a father probably did her a favor in setting her mind against marriage at an early age. Seeing how her mother was merely his property and slave, worked to death without the affection due as reward for her commitment, Sharlot vowed never to be yoked by any man.

Perhaps once or twice she felt genuine affection for men in her life, but they didn’t see her as wifely material, not that she was interested. Rather she was almost an intellectual equal or student to sit at their feet and learn, take advice and fawn over their ideas.

Samuel Putnam, a proponent of the Free Thought Movement who lectured in Prescott in 1895 caught her eye and she became an ardent follower until his death just a year later. Her poems reflected her deep love for him and regret that he was gone from her life forever. At the same time she seemed almost angry with him that he was gone or maybe more that she had fallen for him so deeply. It must have hurt her knowing he was traveling with a young woman much like herself. But then the woman has died in the same gas accident as Putnam.

Her life was filled with exciting men of history including the renowned publisher Charles F. Lummis, the last Arizona territorial governor Richard E. Sloan, first state governor George W.P. Hunt, President Calvin Coolidge and artist Maynard Dixon.

Sharlot Herself: Selected Writings of Sharlot Hall presents many of Sharlot’s previously unpublished bits and pieces of prose and letters into the context of her life at that time. It helps to flesh out the character of this rugged individualist with a unique talent for throwing a lariat to lasso up just the right words to express her feelings and experiences. When she went north to the Arizona Strip she went through territory few people had traveled. Her descriptions of nature; flora, fauna and geology aroused the interests of many businessmen looking at the area for mining and lumbering potential.

Each of the books mentioned above would be of interest to anyone with a love for early Arizona history. Reading about a brave adventurous woman like Sharlot Hall is inspirational.

SHARLOT HALL ON THE ARIZONA STRIP

Book Review
By LeeAnn Sharpe

SHARLOT HALL ON THE ARIZONA STRIP: A Diary of a Journey Through Northern Arizona in 1911 by Sharlot M. Hall, edited by C. Gregory Crampton, foreword by Valeen Tippetts Avery published by Sharlot Hall Museum 415 W. Gurley Street Prescott, AZ 86301. Revised edition, © 1999 112 pp., photograph, map ISBN: 0-927579-08-1
$14.95, paperback. This book has just gone out of print. Other Sharlot Hall books can be ordered at phone: 928.445.3122.

You think you know everything about your home state until you read the words of a traveler who walked the state step-by-step discovering intimate details known no other way. Some of the way was in a buckboard, but she enjoyed walking ahead, even running on occasion to enjoy the freedom of being one with nature alone in the wilderness.

Sharlot Hall and Al Doyle walked every inch of the trails in the Arizona Strip, the area north of the Grand Canyon. It was in a time, 1910, when trails were few, rugged and treacherous at best. It was in a time when women seldom left the comforts of home, unless absolutely necessary. But Sharlot Hall of her own free will and desire took on the role of historian and adventurer to document the area before Arizona was even a state.

When my friend Bob Roloff, the Arizona Duuude, wrote of his love for the writing of Sharlot Hall it made me curious. First I read her biography by Margaret F. Maxwell, “A Passion For Freedom: The Life of Sharlot Hall”, and her book of poems “Cactus and Pine”. Then I had to read “Sharlot Hall: the Arizona Strip” by Sharlot Hall.

I’d always thought of myself as a fairly brave and adventurous spirit, raised as tom boy, the son my father never had. I’ve hiked, hunted, fished and camped all of my life. Arizona has been a wonderful playground in which to explore and learn about nature and history, especially back in the 1950’s and 1960’s when much of the state was still barely inhabited.

But what it must have been for Sharlot Hall and Al Doyle to travel from Prescott to Kingman, Flagstaff, to Tuba City and up to Lee’s Ferry. They went across the Colorado River to the Arizona Strip and the Painted Desert, the Kaibab Plateau, Fredonia and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Her descriptions of the flowers and trees, the mountains and trails and every living creature they encountered were fascinating. Thrilling were her descriptions of wagons swallowed whole in raging rivers and strong oxen teams washed downstream never to be seen again. The incredible muscle and will it took to move equipment and supplies to remote mines and construction projects at a snails pace make it hard to imagine getting anything accomplished. But they did and we reap the benefits today.

Sharlot may not have known at the time, but while she traveled the state as the official Arizona Territorial Historian, appointed by Governor Richard Sloan, the October 1910 Constitutional Convention was meeting in Phoenix to plan the preliminary document that would lead to Arizona’s statehood. As a direct result of Hall’s appointment which had generated criticism at the time, a provision to deny suffrage to women, and another stating only qualified voters could hold public office were insert into the state constitution. Thus when Sharlot returned her position was in question and her termination came when Governor George W.P. Hunt was sworn in as the first Arizona state governor. Still she remains the only woman to serve public office in the Arizona Territory.

She may have been born a woman but she was not going to let the dictates of a male dominated society tell her what she could and could not do with her own life. She continued to take risks, write about all she saw, run a ranch until her father’s death, and took a dilapidated territorial governors mansion and restored it into what is now one of the foremost historical museums in the state today.

Sharlot Hall once said, "There is something better than making a living--making a life." And so she lived her life.

Satisfied Frog Restaurant Dining Review

Dining Review Satisfied Frog Restaurant

by Cowgirl Connoisseur

Satisfied Frog at Frontier Town
6245 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, AZ 85331
http://www.satisfiedfrog.biz/ (480) 488-3317

I’ve been going to the Satisfied Frog in Cave Creek for years. And yes, I heard all about the change in ownership when the previous owner didn’t pay his bills. Sad that it happens, but when he didn’t have the bucks to pay the staff or maintain the property, its best he left and let someone who can take care of it take over. I would hate to lose the Satisfied Frog because it is such a landmark in Cave Creek. So hurray and good luck to the new management!

Some people say it’s the atmosphere. Others say it was the waitresses legs. I always liked the popcorn machine at the door. But more than anything it has always been the food. When you sit down to eat you want a good quality delicious meal and that’s what has impressed me the most at the Satisfied Frog. It’s always good food.

Lunch time I enjoy the Taco Salad $8.99, the Chicken Quesadilla $8.99, the Pulled Pork $9.99, a Burger $8.99 or Brisket Sandwiches $9.99. And there is soup that is to die for! The Southwestern Corn Chowder is world famous! The Soup/Salad Bar ($9.99 or $2.99 added to any entrée) is great with the best Vegetable Beef Soup you can find anywhere!

For dinner the Steaks and Prime Rib (market price) are great but my favorite is the ribs! Of course they come with all the extras of your choice of potato, vegetables and salad. They also have this Ultimate Chow Wagon, sort of a sampler platter if you can’t make up your mind. It’s Beef Ribs, Brisket and Smoked Chicken ($15.99) all on one plate with Coleslaw, Beans and Bread. You can upgrade to Pork Ribs for $3 additional. They have a special smoker bbq out back that makes the best bbq around.

My daughter and her friends make the Satisfied Frog their destination for every special occasion. They get the giant margarita to share and always have a great time. You can’t beat the atmosphere for a fun gathering.

Frontier Town, where Satisfied Frog is located, has two bars, a bunch of novelty stores, a wedding chapel and the restaurant. The entire complex is built around a Western theme with rugged pine interiors and splashes of modern-day neon and quirky art and signs. It keeps the dining experience interesting as diners catch a humorous quote on one of the signs and their entire table gets a light hearted giggle. A blend of road-tripping families, tourists, locals who know where to get a good meal and newlyweds make up the clientele. Special events bring in big crowds and the crew at the Satisfied Frog are always up to the challenge.
4th of July Fireworks, NASCAR Sundays, "Chicago Cubs" Headquarters for the ball games on TV, the Annual Fiesta Days Rodeo & Parade in April and the Annual Wild West Days in November are a few of the annual events you can find the place hopping.
After lunch or dinner take a stroll through all of the little shops like Glory Bee for great southwest apparel at fabulous prices. And Suzanne’s Hot Stuff for some spicy treats to take home. Jewelry, leather, souvenirs and more are available in the many shops. There’s even a barber shop and beauty salon. So next time you are looking for an adventure and a good meal, check out the Satisfied Frog at Frontier Town. The do weddings and banquets there too!

The Black Bear Diner Dining Review

The Black Bear Diner
By Cowgirl Connoisseur Dining Review

There once was a time when you went to a diner for a meal and found good solid nutritious food in hearty portions and as delicious as Mom’s cooking. Not many of those places survive in the modern fast paced world.

If you yearn for a diner of yesteryear, mosey into The Black Bear Diner. They have two locations in north Glendale at 6039 W. Bell Rd., Glendale, AZ 85306, (602) 843-1921 and in Phoenix, at 2410 W. Bell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85023, (602) 298-2671. The franchise, out of Mt. Shasta, California, says they have 35 Diners and are still growing! Other Arizona locations include Bullhead City, Goodyear, and Lake Havasu City.
Their menu is an old-time newspaper with stories about local events in the past. On my last visit I enjoyed the California Scramble $7.69 for breakfast. It’s scrambled eggs with avocado, spinach, tomato, onion, and jack cheese. It came with potatoes (your choice of hash browns or diced) and bread (your choice of toast or biscuit). The waitress asked about how you liked everything cooked – regular or crispy. The biscuit was the biggest fluffiest most delicious I’ve ever eaten. And the eggs were fabulous!
Others in my party had the Ham and Eggs $7.69 with pancakes, Hungry Man Steak and Eggs $9.99 and another had the Pancakes Mama Bear stack $4.69. Everyone had too much to eat and couldn’t finish their plates. Servings are extra generous and delicious.
The menus for lunch and dinner are both so extensive and economically priced, you are sure to find what you like. Lunch menu sandwiches are generally about $7.99 and dinner averages about $11.99. A large Senior Menu is mostly about $7.99 for dinners.
Their menu notes they have been trans fat free at all locations fo the last 3 years. Their menu says good old fashioned comfort food. And everything on the menu looks very comforting to me!
The décor includes extra large deep booths and tables where you won’t feel cramped even if your hubby is a double X. And there are stuffed bears everywhere to compliment the pine and rough wood trim. Two giant sleeping bears in the reception area are said to wake up and hug patrons on occasion. It’s a family friendly very comfortable place. Jason and his staff did a good job to make us all feel welcome and happy to return.
They have a website at www.blackbeardiner.com with a gift shop.

Longhorn Saloon and Grill

What were you doing on Friday night May 30th? If you were not at the Longhorn Saloon and Grill, then whatever you were doing you were doing it in the wrong place. The Longhorn Saloon and Grill is the new "In" place in the West Valley. It is family owned and operated withfive star roots that reach into some of the best New York restaurants. Maybe even one or two highlighted in the long running television series and just released movie.

Chef Charles Steppe and his brother Chris opened their restaurant the first part of this year but on the 30th they held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their becoming members of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce one of the fasts growing chambers in the West Valley. Chris and Charles and their mother Nancy Tuatagaloa welcomed David Lewis President/CEO of the Surprise Chamber along with a large number of Chamber members, and Youngtown Mayor Michael LeVault and Councilmember Dorena Mello and several other Councilmembers to the Longhorn. Three generations of the family Chris, Nancy and Shay (the chef's daughter) took part in the ribbon cutting. Charles was busy in the kitchen preparing the feast for their guests. Included in this were hamburger and pulled pork sliders, fried mushrooms, chicken croquettes, pigs-in-a-blank, stuffed pasta and fruit, all in large quantities, no one left hungry. If you missed the events of the 30th including Emil Flaim the pianist/singer who entertained everyone throughout the evening, you can enjoy the Longhorn for lunch and dinner throughout the week in their sports bar, lounge or dinning room.

The Longhorn Saloon and Grill is located at 13232 N. 111th Ave., just South of Grand in Youngtown. For all who have no idea of where Youngtown is, the town of just over 6,000 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. Youngtown 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. The town is a vibrant mix of young singles, families, professionals, blue collar and retirees, and is close to all the great shopping, entertainment, art and work locations in the West Valley. The next time your looking for a great meal in a relaxed atmosphere just head over to the Longhorn Saloon and Grill, it's worth the gas. If you would like information on their live entertainment, specials or just need directions call 623-933-6023.

Photo:
On the left in the cowboy hat is the well known Arizona Dude who partook in the celebration at the invitation of Panorama Hills Monthly. On the right in the suite is David Lewis President/CEO of the Surprise Chamber. And in the center cutting the ribbon is Nancy with her son Chris and her granddaughter Shay.

Women Against MS Luncheon

By LeeAnn Sharpe
An invitation to attend the Women Against MS luncheon at the Arizona Biltmore on Wednesday, April 23, 2008, filled an otherwise dull day with an opportunity to learn about Multiple Sclerosis and what progress has been made toward a cure or treatment. Even though I have a sister-in-law in California with this disease, I really knew very little about MS.

The brochure said, “An afternoon of inspiration, motivation and empowerment as we move towards a world free of MS.” Can the world be free of MS?

The first thing I learned about MS is that two thirds of it’s victims are women. And most look like the picture of health. Very few used canes or walkers or wheelchairs. But the terrible affects of the disease are still there and often make life very difficult.

Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body and stops people from moving. Featured keynote speaker Kristie Salerno Kent spoke of her experiences and how it’s hard for people to understand she has MS because she looks outwardly unaffected. She often hears, “You have MS? But you look so good.” Yet, it’s difficult to walk, she suffers pain, vision problems, and physical exhaustion is a constant problem.

A few years after Kristie received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Syracuse University, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She woke up one day unable to move her legs. It was a terrifying experience and with medication and therapy she can now walk. She decided that she was not going to give up her dreams of performing just because of her MS diagnosis. Kristie took on the role of an MS Lifelines Ambassador and travels the country speaking and singing for others who are affected by the disease. Now her performances are for a purpose and not just entertainment.

As a songwriter, Kristie writes from her own experiences and many of her songs were created from pages of her personal journal. Kristie's debut solo CD, "Believe" is a heartfelt testimony of her determination to succeed despite adversity. Her powerful and richly textured voice combined with her honest lyrics and memorable melodies make you BELIEVE that anything is possible.

You can watch "The Show Must Go On", a short video created by Kristie about her experience with MS. This video was one of six nationwide to be featured in the National MS Society Moving Forward Film Festival. It is available on You Tube.

At my luncheon table, Sandra Behlkea, a nurse, has a son-in-law with MS. She wrote a cookbook to help non-profits raise funds though its sale. Her son-in-law is now symptom free, the result of medication, diet and exercise. This is a common thread I hear over and over again. Still there is no cure for MS.

Dr. Dean Wingerchuk, MD an Associate Professor of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine spoke to the group of several hundred women gathered this beautiful day. He made the point almost everyone knows someone with MS, even though they may not realize it. In the research of MS, two key areas of focus are the genetic aspect, which has identified two key genes linked to the disease. This is a big step forward toward learning why people get MS. Another is the environmental factors that contribute to MS. He felt the next ten years of research will lead to greater understanding. Right now the medications for treatment of MS have progressed tremendously in the last fifteen years. Research in MS is progressing at a remarkable rate, with more potential therapies in the pipeline than at any other time in history. This is all the result of research funded by the National MS Society.

Every hour in the United States, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.5 million worldwide.

Last year the Women Against MS luncheon raised nearly $70,000 to provide programs for people living with MS and fund research towards the cure and treatment of this chronic disease of the central nervous system. This year they certainly surpassed that figure… reports yet to come. There is no cure. Maybe someday.

Women Against MS Luncheon
An afternoon of inspiration, motivation and empowerment as we move towards a world free of MS Wednesday, April 23, 2008 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa
Event Chair: Terry Ashoff Johnson
About the Luncheon
The National MS Society, Arizona Chapter and other outstanding women for an afternoon of inspiration, motivation and empowerment move towards a world free of MS. They share the joys of a fine lunch while watching an inspirational program emceed by Tara Hitchcock of "Good Morning Arizona" and with featured keynote speaker Kristie Salerno Kent. Guests also bought tickets for a live raffle held during the program for a wide variety of exciting prizes.


Clip of Kristie singing You Tube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3V9H3Oj7gG0

Get Involved Your involvement can make all the difference. Please join us for an upcoming event.

MS 2008: Maximizing Care Strategies A multidisciplinary continuing medical education conference Saturday, May 3, 2008 Hyatt Regency Phoenix http://nationalMSsociety.org/MS2008

Corks and Chords 2008 An evening of wine and music to end MS Saturday, September 13, 2008 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Mayo Clinic Scottsdale http://nationalMSsociety.org/corks2008

WalkMS: Prescott Walk on the Wild Side Saturday, October 18, 2008 7 :00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m Heritage Park Zoo in Prescott
http://walkaza.nationalMSsociety.org

WalkMS: Phoenix Walk on the Wild Side Saturday, November 8, 2008 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.SRP's Headquarters in Phoenix http://walkaza.nationalMSsociety.org

Bike MS: Round Up Ride 2009 March 28 & 29, 2009 Heritage Park in Florence, Arizona http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org

For more information about the National MS Society, Arizona Chapter, please vIsit www.aza.nationalMSsociety.org or call us at 1-800-344-4867


See http://www.azphm.com/wams.htm for photos of the event

Lori Piestewa Honored in Tree Dedication in PA

Lori Piestewa, the first female American-Indian soldier to be killed as a result of injuries suffered during combat in Iraq will be honored in the naming of a very special oak tree in Solebury, Pennsylvania.

The white oak sapling was sprouted from the acorn of an ancient, 516 year old legendary oak tree that had succumbed to disease and a lightening strike in May 1999.The much loved tree with it’s broad near perfect shape and huge size had been a gathering place for schoolchildren who would form a circle around the trunk and couples who would marry in its shade.

While colonial settlers felled thousands of acres of trees in Bucks County to clear land for farms, this particular oak survived. According to legend, the Lenni Lenape Indians held gatherings beneath its boughs. By the end of the 20th century, the Columbus Oak, as it was known, stood like a solitary sentinel in a field off Aquetong Road. It had grown to 68 feet in height, 29 feet in circumference and more than 140 feet from side to side.

Only a rotting stump now remains a silent sentinel marking the location of so much history. Now, an acorn from the fallen tree that was nurtured into a young oak that will be planted in the roots of the mother. The Solebury Township Historical Society will also dedicate a plaque at the site of the Columbus Oak below Bowman's Tower and across the street from the Thompson Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Piestewa, a Hopi from Arizona, was chosen to represent the tree because of the ideals she represented as an American Indian, says Crooks, as well as the significance of what the tree meant to the early Indian tribes. The Native American Society also will participate in the celebration.

Glendale Carvers Steak & Chops Dining Review

Glendale Carvers Steak & Chops,
8172 W. Bell Road, Glendale, 623-412-0787
www.paragonsteak.com
By LA Sharpe

When the occasion calls for an extra special dinner, such as Mother’s or Father’s Day, I would suggest Glendale Carvers Steak & Chops, 8172 W. Bell Road, (in front of Best Buy) Glendale, 623-412-0787. Prime rib is the house specialty but they have an extensive and impressive menu. Prices range from $20-$30.

Carvers is opening an hour early at 11 a.m. for Mother's Day. You can order off the menu or from the chef's Mother's Day menu that will offer a fish, steak or combo special. Reservations are encouraged.

The ambiance is relaxed upscale with plenty of private rooms for those special intimate parties.

To start we nibbled on the Calamari Fritti, lightly fried with sweet red peppers and onion drizzled with ancho chili mayonnaise $9.95. Yummy. Just the right taste to set the appetite on fire. A companion had the French Onion Soup au Gratin $5.00 which I sampled and enjoyed the deep rich flavor without being salty as many onion soups can be.

I especially enjoyed the Filet Mignon Carver’s Cut $26, their most tender cut, with Sherried Mushrooms $5.00. The Filet is served with salad and potato. From the wide range of choices I selected the spinach salad with honey mustard dressing that was to die for delicious. You have your choice of garlic, au gratin, baked or French fries for the potato. I took the backed loaded and it was perfection. They also offer rice pilaf or vegetables.

My friend had the Prime Rib Carver’s Cut $29. They say it is award winning finest Midwestern beef with a herb crusted slow roasted overnight to ensure the most tender prime rib available. It is wonderful, tender and juicy as it should be.

Dessert was the Chocolate Oblivion $6.00 which I hope left me oblivious to the calories. It was enough to share with my dining partner leaving us both satisfied. Coffee to keep me awake after this delicious meal.

I should mention we finished off three bottles of wine between the four of us. A nice list to choose from and our waiter was very good at making recommendations. Their list allows by the glass or bottle and plenty of general wine information. You can view the list online prior to your visit to expedite selections.

They also offer chicken and seafood which I may try on another visit… haw.. the steaks are too good! I would highly recommend Carver’s in Glendale to anyone looking for a fine dining experience. The service was exceptional and the food perfection.

Carvers is part of the Paragon chain. From its modest beginning with the Jolly Ox Restaurant in San Diego in 1967, Paragon Steakhouse Restaurants, Inc., has grown into one of the country's leading steakhouse operators. Paragon prides itself in a commitment to hospitality, quality, service, and of course, steaks and prime rib. While Paragon's brands range from the upscale, classic American steakhouse to the more accessible sit-down dinner house, the company is best known for serving quality, award-winning choice steaks and prime ribs. The group also included the Hungry Hunter, The Whaling Company and Mountain Jack restaurants.

Wonderful Tonight George Harrison, Eric Clapton and Me by Pattie Boyd with Penny Junor Published by Harmony Books 2007

Book Review
By LeeAnn Sharpe

Wonderful Tonight George Harrison, Eric Clapton and Me by Pattie Boyd with Penny Junor Published by Harmony Books 2007

Pattie Boyd has had an incredible life. Even before marrying a Beatle and the guitar God of the 60’s, she had been raised in Kenya and had a modeling career in mod London. Her face epitomized the swinging London scene. How terrific can one life get! And it seems like she has had several very exciting experiences at all stages of her life. It’s easy to see how she became a muse to two of the most addictive and promiscuous musical geniuses in the history of rock and roll.

Born in England on St. Patrick’s Day, thus the name, she was moved to Kenya at the age of four to be with her maternal grandparents. Her mother’s remarrying kept them separated for a time, so she was raised by the grands in this strange and exciting world. Once Mum and the new hubby were settled she was back in England attending convent schools from the age of 10. By 17 she was working at Elizabeth Arden on Bond Street and eventually professional modeling.

In the early 1960’s there was nothing making more news than the Beatles. Pattie seemed somewhat oblivious of them until she was sent on an acting job at Paddington Station to play a schoolgirl in a film they were making called “A Hard Day’s Night” in 1964. She caught the eye of George Harrison, he proposed ten days later and her life changed again into the world of rock and roll.

The girlfriend and then wife of a Beatle was about as center of the universe for most young girls as you could get. She traveled the world of rock and roll legends in the making, becoming acquainted with every major star of the era. Mick Jagger & Marianne Faithfull, Mick Fleetwood, Donovan, Dylan and anyone else in the scene were part of her life. All of the major Beatle events we heard about in the news were personal experiences for her and she tells the intimate behind the scenes details that flesh out the stories in from the inside.

Even day to day life was filled with history. She talks about George sitting at the kitchen table writing “My Sweet Lord”. He also wrote “Something” which was his most successful songwriting experience and Pattie had been his inspiration.

Their lives were filled with travel. Travel to exotic places like India to see the Maharishi opened her eyes to a whole new world. Although exciting and fun, it was often difficult and uncomfortable as it was happening. She talks about the experiences of sea sickness, unbearable hot humid weather, rushing to make trains or planes and the strange foods they were served.

In the public eye she even got her own fan mail. She was pursued by one man in particular for over a decade. Eric Clapton wrote her passionate love letters and even songs including “Layla” about his terrible love for her, the wife of one of his best friends. Years later when George and Pattie split, Clapton came in a swooped her up. But once he had her in his life, he lost interest and never found it necessary to be true to his “true love”. Part of the problem is his obsession had always been through a drug and alcohol haze. Once he went through rehad their relationship changed. And rehad didn’t stick.

Pattie always seemed to maintain a fairly level head through all of the highs and lows dealing with drugs and alcohol, infidelity, abuse and neglect. She regrets that her marriage to George ended. “Marriage is forever”, she wrote. And she loved him till the day he died and mourned his death alone on top of a mountain in Peru.

Her marriage to Eric was so passionate she felt incapable of resisting. Eventually the alcohol and drugs made the situation intolerable. Her leaving sent Eric into rehab again and he finally cleaned up. She thinks if she had stayed he would have drunk himself to death. And she would have never found her own identity. Having always been the wife of a famous man she was overshadowed and never seen for herself. Now as a writer and photographer, her own work is recognized.

Inspiration for George Harrison’s song “Something” and Eric Clapton’s “Layla” and “Wonderful Tonight” and who knows how many other songs, the world is a better place for the muse Pattie Boyd. And she shares her exciting life openly in her book “Wonderful Tonight”. It’s a very enjoyable read to anyone who lived through the early years of rock and roll, a wonderful trip down memory lane. She shares lots of great pictures from her personal collection too.
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The Satisfied Frog

New Owners of The Satisfied Frog are Committed to Providing Exceptional Food and Service to Patrons Ownership change on February 15th prompts re-birth of a new era for The Satisfied Frog

Long-time patrons of The Satisfied Frog at Frontier Town in Cave Creek can rest assured that it is "business as usual" at the western-themed restaurant and the recent change of ownership is already bringing about positive response from employees and customers. On Friday, February 15, The Satisfied Frog Restaurant operations were temporarily suspended for some 30 minutes during a transition to new operators, and despite rumors, the restaurant did not close its doors.

"Not only were we open this past weekend, we had a wedding on Saturday and an incredible turnout for our Nascar Party on Sunday," said Marc Peagler, who is operating the restaurant. Marc added that "we're not going anywhere," noting that The Satisfied Frog has been one of Arizona's most popular dining and entertainment destinations for more than 25 years and locals and tourists have been visiting Frontier Town for more than 38 years.

A New Era and Special Events
Juli Forsyth, The Satisfied Frog's Operations and General Manager, said she views this transition as a re-birth of a new era for the restaurant. "The history of The Frog will carry on. Our menu will remain mostly the same, though we may look at how to make it even better," Forsyth said. "We're also excited to announce that The Satisfied Frog is the official Spring Training headquarters for the Chicago Cubs. In addition, we are teaming up with Nascar to host big screen TV parties in our Beer Garden on race days. We're in the midst of planning these promotions, so check back with us soon for more details." Juli also credits her staff of 65 for their dedication and hard work. "Our staff has been incredible. We are very grateful to them and to our loyal customers for their support," she said.

Constance Wood, The Satisfied Frog's Director of Special Events, has been employed by the restaurant for 14 years and in her current position for four years. She said she is confident the new change will bring about positive results. "I am 100 percent behind this and want to reassure our customers, especially our brides and grooms who are planning a wedding here, that we will continue to provide exceptional food and service," Constance stated.

The Satisfied Frog Restaurant is located at 6245 E. Cave Creek Road in Frontier Town in Cave Creek. The western-themed restaurant offers a wide selection of delicious appetizers, entrées and deserts, including a full bar. Frontier Town is a western-themed, family-friendly town that pays tribute to the miners, ranchers and cattlemen who settled in Cave Creek in the late 1800s. Located in the heart of Cave Creek, Frontier Town is just minutes from North Scottsdale. Patrons visiting Frontier Town not only can dine at The Satisfied Frog, they can stroll through a myriad of gift shops and view authentic artifacts from the Old West, including covered wagons, and a 13 step hanging gallows. Patrons can relax in the outdoor beer garden and even have their hair cut in the old western barber/beauty shop. Parking and admission is free.

For information or to make dining reservations at The Satisfied Frog, call (480) 488-3317 or visit www.satisfiedfrog.biz . For banquets and weddings, call (602) 359-3300 or visit www.icanaffordthiswedding.biz .

“Clapton - The Autobiography of Eric Clapton”

Book Review
By LeeAnn Sharpe

“Clapton - The Autobiography of Eric Clapton” (Broadway Books 2007), takes you along for an incredible journey through the history of rock and roll and the blues from the early 1960’s to present day.

Early childhood trauma of being raised by his grandparents, who he thought were actually his parents, only to learn who he thought was his sister was his mother, left him with some deep and obviously painful wounds. Clapton's experiences with alcohol, drugs and women all attest to his emotional fragility that was only addressed well into his 50’s.

That’s all very interesting background, but what is more is how he managed to survive it all (drugs including heroin, cocaine, alcohol, and groupies) and still create incredible music. The fact that he is alive after all the abuse he put himself through is mind boggling.

Clapton goes into great detail about the music, expounding on who he liked and admired and how he felt he had to play true to his heart. The pop rock world kept pulling at him with commercial success, but his heart wanted to be a blues purist. Clapton modeled himself after blues players Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, B.B. King, and Robert Johnson. Clapton’s first success was with the 1965 single “For Your Love” by The Yardbirds. He felt that it was too pop and before it peaked at #6 in the US, Clapton had left the band. He wrote, "I felt it was a dreadful waste of what had potentially been a good rock blues band."

Already his fame as a rock guitarist was known. “Clapton is God” was painted on a tube station wall just outside London and spread to walls throughout the city.

Covering such a long career, it seems he jumped from band to band. Just as they reached some level of success Clapton would bail on to a new adventure. It was often because he felt he was selling out on his goal of playing the blues. Or the opportunity to play with other musicians he admired was too great a lure.

John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers provided the direction Clapton wanted building his reputation as a great guitar player. Then he helped form Cream, a blues trio that in 1968 broke into the US Top 10 with the gold single “Sunshine Of Your Love”. Over their brief three year career, Cream produced four gold albums including the post-breakup sets Goodbye and Best Of Cream, including a cover of Robert Johnson’s “Cross Road Blues” which would be the first single to feature Eric Clapton on vocals.

Personalities were often the cause of Clapton moving on. The artistic directions often clashed and he moved on to new horizon’s always seeking his own voice and learning from each group as he moved on. After Cream’s demise, Clapton formed a new blues-rock band called Blind Faith that produced a gold album and a tour before parting ways. A tour and live album with Delaney & Bonnie was his next stop. Then he went solo on his self-titled album in 1970. Eric Clapton produced the hit “After Midnight” and reached #13 on the charts. Before the album had even been released, Clapton had formed yet another band, Derek & The Dominos, which featured Eric on both guitar and vocals.

It was a turbulent time in his love life and the song Layla spoke of Eric’s passion for Pattie Boyd, wife of his good friend George Harrison. Derek & The Dominos made one studio album, 1970’s Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs. Upon release, Layla was panned by critics and fans alike. However, the record got a major boost with the release of the title track, which featured the recently deceased Duane Allman on slide guitar. “Layla” became a Top 10 US hit and the album went gold. Today, Layla is considered one of the greatest albums of all time.

About this time Clapton began using heroin, which appealed to him because it was steeped in the blues. It connected him to junkie musicians like Charlie Parker, Robert Johnson and Ray Charles. For more than two years, he fell firmly in the drug's grip.

Clapton experiences with Derek & The Dominos ended fairly quickly, but even in later years impacted his musical direction greatly. Learning he was better off recording solo and joining with friends without long term commitments he recorded 1974’s 461 Ocean Boulevard, producing the cover of Bob Marley’s “I Shot The Sheriff”, as well as a minor hit in “Willie & The Hand Jive”. After a couple of less successful albums he returned in 1977 with Slowhand, which became Clapton’s first platinum album. It also yielded his second solo gold single, “Lay Down Sally”.

Pattie Boyd was the great love of his life and once he won her, (married in Tucson 1977)the thrill seemed to fade. Clapton was unfaithful on the road and sexually unresponsive at home. The alcohol and cocaine, now the drug of choice, were more important than anything. Clapton entered the Hazelden Clinic in 1983 to dry out. He wrote, "My fear of loss of identity was phenomenal. This could have been born out of the 'Clapton is God' thing, which had put so much of my self-worth onto my musical career. When the focus shifted toward my well-being . . . and to the realization that I was an alcoholic and suffering from the same disease everybody else was, I went into meltdown."

The early 80’s were not as productive for Clapton as the 70’s. Journeyman, released in late 1989 went double platinum in less than two years, making it Clapton’s career first record to move over 2 million units. In 1991 the soundtrack Rush included “Tears In Heaven”, a touching number dealing with the accidental death of his young son Conor, reached #2 on the US charts in January of 1992. Tragically he had just started bonding with Conor when the boy died. His personal life turbulent and his attempts at maintaining sobriety amid the drug and alcohol world of rock and roll were challenging. A numb, grieving Clapton was determined to stay sober. "At that moment I realized there was no better way of honoring the memory of my son." About this time he learns about another child he fathered, Ruth, and brings her into his life.

The box set Crossroads and Time Pieces both receiving accolades leading to an iconic appearance on MTV’s “Unplugged”, playing acoustic re-workings of some of his best known singles and blues classic. Unplugged, was a massive success, breathing new life into the classic “Layla”, which became a hit for the second time in its life. Clapton followed with 1994’s From The Cradle, a full album of electric blues covers that also reached #1 on the charts.1998’s Pilgrim, with “Change The World”.

With 20 years of sobriety Clapton has reached such a level of success his career is now a mix of old material and the desire to try new things. Reptile, Me & Mr. Johnson, an album of Robert Johnson covers and Back Home solo albums have done well. He’s also recorded two collaboration albums, 2000’s double platinum Riding With The King with blues legend B.B. King and 2006’s gold The Road To Escondido with famed songwriter J.J. Cale. His old stuff continues to sell well, like “Wonderful Tonight” the ode to Pattie written as he waited for her to get dressed for a party, being certified gold in 2005, nearly 30 years after its release.

With his personal life settled into the family life with four daughters and a young wife Melia, he worked on his autobiography while touring Asia. He released a double disc compilation, Complete Clapton featuring songs from his entire forty year career.

Clapton wrote, "For me, the most trustworthy vehicle for spirituality has always proven to be music."

The only thing I missed was more about his life with ex-wife Pattie Boyd. She published an autobiography that included excerpts from the unbelievably passionate letters Clapton sent her while she was still George Harrison's wife. His desperation in her book is apparent with threats of doing himself in if he can’t have her. His songs about her made getting over her difficult, as they would be played in every concert being among his top hits. He’s so open in his own book about everything else, but Pattie is absent in the index, although smattered throughout his book. Perhaps he lets the music speak of that love.

You come away after reading this easily flowing chronological tale understanding that “Clapton is God” was too much to put on the head of a 20 year old rock musician. His life struggles into the heart of rock and roll decadence and his eventual maturing into a musician at the top of his art are amazing to read. It’s as if you were having a pint and hearing the words straight from his lips. I found it very enjoyable and I highly recommend both the music and the book.
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Skeptical Chymist Dining Review

Skeptical Chymist

by the Cowgirl Connoisseur
Skeptical Chymist, is located on the east side of the Sonoran Village at Frank Lloyd Wright backing to the Pima 101 access road. It's hidden back in a corner of the shopping area and well worth the search once found! Entering you are taken to a turn of the century (early 1900's) Irish pub/apothecary. Dark woods and dim light embrace you; a welcome relief from the summer sun and heat. Cabinets filled with hundreds of little drawers,glassed shelves of antique apothecary jars and interesting artifacts that you can imagine would be found in a chymists shoppe in county Cork Ireland, as many were purchased in Ireland. In times gone by, often a pharmacy or grocery would double as a pub. Customers would tend to take a Guinness or whiskey to relieve their flagging spirits as they came to purchase their provisions. Your apothecarists or "chymists" would fix you up quick as a wink and customers left feeling fine.
The name, Skeptical Chymist, came from a book written by Robert Boyle, The Sceptical Chymist, published in 1661. Boyle was born at Lismore Castle, Munster, Ireland, the 14th child of the Earl of Cork. He was committed to the "New Philosophy", which valued observation and experiment at least as much as logical thinking in formulating accurate scientific understanding and played a key role in founding the Royal Society to nurture this new view of science. That's pretty much science as we know it today.
So much for the name. Skeptical Chymist claims to be Arizona's first Irish owned and managed, traditional Irish pub. Owners have operated Fibber Magees in Chandler (Phoenix New Times "Best Irish Pub" 2003, 2004, 2005), for years. Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's as well as an impressive list of Irish whiskeys are on hand.
As far as filling your belly. Try the "Harp Beer Battered Fish and Chips" our waitress says is their most popular item. It's a 10 oz filet of northern Pacific Cod in homemade Harp batter, served with thick cut chips and mushy peas. Tarter sauce, mild vinegar and ketchup served on the side. $12.95 at lunch or dinner. Delicious and filling. The thick cut chips add up to a whole large potato! The mushy peas had a good flavor and consistency and I was surprised to enjoy. A crisp Pear Guinness was delightful and light to wash it all down!
My companion tried the Peppercorn crusted 10 oz filet mignon served with a jameson, three peppercorn sauce or cashel blue and horse radish sauce, caramelized onions and mushrooms, served with champ or whiskey scalloped potatoes and fresh vegetables at $21.95. He says it was as good a filet as he has ever had, and I can tell you he's had a lot! All was served hot and timely. Our server was there when needed and very efficient and delightful. Colcannon Cakes are an Irish favorite. Pan fried served with savoury sour cream and tomato compote. Guinness Beef Stew of top sirloin and root vegetable braised Guinness gravy while great on a cold winter day didn't seem appealing while the temps are still triple digit. Neither did the Shephard's Pie (not the traditional lamb of a true Shephard's Pie) of lean minced beef and diced vegetables in a savoury gravy topped with champ and melted cheese. We shall to try these on return once the temps leave us needing a warming up meal.

Also on the menu Guinness mustard encrusted pork tenderloin stuffed with spinach and Irish bacon rashers, drizzled in Strongbow apple cider reduction for $15.95, Curry brushed grilled Lamb chops, served with an apricot, honey and tarragon sauce $19.95, Grilled Salmon over saiteed spinach, covered with their own Guinness hollandaise sauce $14.95, and Char grilled Tuna steak accompanied by a roast spring onion and tomato relish $18.95 or Seafood pasta medley of cockles, mussels, shrimp and cod simmered in a white wine garlic broth with tomato, served over bow tie pasta $17.95. So many choices to look forward to in a return trip.
Their website http://www.skepticalchymist.com/ will keep you updated as to the live entertainment onstage and events. So you need only go as far as Scottsdale for a glimpse of old Ireland! Sample the delights of Irish cuisine and sip on many fine Irish beverages. 15688 N. Pima Road Suite #C6 , Scottsdale, AZ. 85260. (480) 609 8677. Cowgirl Connoisseur may be reached at azphm@earthlink.net , P.O. Box 11105 Phoenix AZ 85061.

Alberto's Italian Restaurant

Alberto's Italian Restaurant


by Cowgirl Connoisseur

Alberto's Italian Restaurant located at 7171 E Cave Creek Road, in Carefree. This quaint little spot is about to take off to fresh heights with a new wine bar to complement the rich traditional award winning Italian cuisine of Chef/partner Alberto Liani.

Check out the walls on the way to the immaculate restrooms and you will find a collection of wonderful reviews, that only a lifetime of great cooking can accomplish. And this review might as well join all the others because it contains only glowing words of flattery for Alberto's recipes created with only the finest of fresh ingredients. The food was excellent, the service as good as it gets, and the ambiance was warm and inviting and the people especially gracious.

Salvatore greeted us as we arrived and made recommendations from the menu and took our orders. A plate of homemade crusty bread and a dish of fresh olive oil with herbs appeared with an excellent Merlot wine.

Caprese $10.95 for an appetizer satiated our hunger as we awaited spinach ravioli and spaghetti with sausage. The mozzarella was delightfully smokey and fresh, sliced equally to the large vine ripe tomato that seems impossible to find in the produce section these days. Fresh basil must have come from somewhere other than Arizona because mine from the garden has been too bitter when in the hot sun, and this basil was just perfect. And the balsamic had a gentle bite and yummy flavor. The bread, that large holed yeast bread with a hard crust, was delicious too. The menu offers a full array of traditional Italian fare. The Pasta a Fagioli soup $6.95 at the next table looked hearty and the gentleman sipping it says it was delicious.

A special brick oven brought from Italy bakes at super hot temperatures to make a crisp crust and melt the cheeses to bubbling perfection. Over a dozen pizza combinations with an average price of $14.90 makes me wonder why we would ever order a pizza from anywhere else. Fresh hand tossed, created with the magic only a master chef with over 40 years of experience can attain, means each pizza is a masterpiece.

Pasta is all fresh homemade. "Nothing frozen!" says Liani. "That's what makes it taste so good." Simple traditional recipes from Rome where he still maintains a home. "I try to get back to Rome for a little time every year." The Spinach Ravioli (pre-spinach problems) was delicate and flavorful, and only $15.95. For $19.95 the Spaghetti with sausage had a mild spicy flavor and very filling

A wine list with over 200 wines on hand was impressive. Many are imported from Italy but they also carry many fine domestic wines as well.

It would take many trips to this marvelous restaurant to try everything on their varied menu. You could tell many patrons are regular customers, which always bodes well for the quality of the food.

The new wine bar will open this month, and will add yet another dimension to enjoying the ambiance and companionship at Alberto's Italian Restaurant. The restaurant is open 4pm-9pm Tuesday - Sunday, give them a call today at 480-488-5800. Go see Alberto and Sal and say the Cowgirl Connoisseur from Panorama Hills Monthly sent you!