Catalina Foothills, AZ March 2026

Your Local Escape, Every Day of the Week

Ventana Canyon is a peaceful desert sanctuary where there is something for everyone: captivating scenery, invigorating outdoor activities and plenty of space to truly relax and unwind. At our member-owned club, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere that blends world-class golf, tennis, pickleball, and spacious guest suites, with the spirit of the Southwest. Enjoy fine dining, lively social events and unforgettable moments with friends and family in a place that feels like home. Discover why Ventana Canyon isn’t just a destination, it’s where you truly belong.

ventanacanyonclub.com

In today’s fast-paced world, harmony often feels out of reach. Between work stress & family demands, it’s easy to forget an area that can restore balance—our oral health. We believe that harmonious living begins with a confident smile and a healthy body. Dentistry isn’t just about fixing teeth—it’s about building a foundation for total wellness, both physically and emotionally. Here’s how making your oral health a priority:

1. A Healthy Mouth Is a Healthy Mind

There’s a deep connection between oral health and mental well-being. When your mouth feels good, you feel good. Chronic pain, dental infections, or even untreated gum disease can weigh heavily on your daily mood and energy. Regular dental visits help prevent these issues before they start, letting you focus on what matters most: enjoying your life with peace of mind.

2. Confidence That Radiates

Harmonious living includes feeling good in your own skin. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, it can hold you back from connecting with others, pursuing opportunities, or even just laughing freely. At E Dental Solutions, we offer cosmetic and restorative dentistry that enhances your smile so you can show it off with pride—and align your outer confidence with your inner peace.

3. Prevention Is a Form of

Self-Love

Living in harmony means taking care of yourself—body, mind, and spirit. Preventive dentistry is one of the simplest and most powerful acts of self-care. Cleanings, exams, and checkups don’t just protect your teeth—they can also catch signs of stress-related issues like TMJ, or health concerns like oral cancer, early on.

4. Holistic Care, Personalized for You

Our approach to dentistry is patient-centered and calming. We know dental visits can be intimidating, so we’ve designed our office environment to be warm, welcoming, and stress-free. From soothing communication to gentle treatments, we’re here to help you feel balanced—not just during your visit, but long after you leave.

Join Us on the Path to Harmonious Living

Let your dental care be the beginning of a more harmonious life. Whether you’re looking for routine care, cosmetic enhancement, or simply a team that treats you like family, E Dental Solutions is here for you. Let us help you align your oral health with your lifestyle goals. Call to schedule your appointment today: 520-745-5496.

Because A Harmonious Life Starts With The Confidence To Smile Through It.

Letter from the Editor

When we think about home, we don’t just think about a house or an address. We think about a feeling. A place that grounds you. A place that feels familiar in the very best way.

For us, that place is the Catalina Foothills.

This community is our home in every sense of the word. It’s the desert views we never get tired of, the roads we know by heart, and the people who make this area feel welcoming and connected. It’s the small businesses we love to support, the neighbors who turn into friends, and the shared pride we all feel in living somewhere truly special. In our Home Issue, we’re celebrating what it means to live here — not just the beautiful spaces, but the stories, traditions, and people that bring them to life. These pages reflect the heart of our community and the many ways “home” shows up in our everyday lives.

At Catalina Foothills  magazine, this place is home to us, too — and we’re so grateful to share it with you. We love it here, and we hope this issue reminds you why you do, too.

Sincerely,

MEGAN EWING, EDITOR @CATALINAFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE

March 2026

PUBLISHER

Jeff Herr | jeff.herr@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Megan Ewing | megan.ewing@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Peck, Shannon Roberts, Skyler French, Sybil Velarde

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amanda Proudfit, Dan Jenkins, Tim Fuller

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Proverbs 3:5-6

At Piper Accounting Solutions, we understand that taxes can be daunting. That’s why we strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable discussing their tax concerns. The owner, Felisha Leffler, is a knowledgeable professional and is not only an expert in tax law and regulations but also adept at explaining complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner. Whether you are a first-time filer or a seasoned business owner, we are here to guide you through the process with patience and compassion. Team Piper is your go to for a down to earth, honest, and caring tax and accounting firm.

BECOME A MEMBER

Opportunity That Grows Through a Classical Education

At Leman Academy of Excellence, we believe that a quality, classical education expands the opportunities for each young person and is vital to the success of the entire community. A classical education turns to history to help a child gain a greater understanding of the world around them.

We believe that there is no greater way for your child to achieve success than to gain knowledge, build character and develop strong values. These core beliefs guide our course of study in our grade K-8 programs as well as in our preschool classrooms.

Now Enrolling for the 2025-2026 School Year

A hometown favorite.

Voted Best Debit Card.

Hughes shares your passion for the community. It’s why we created a suite of exclusive, locally-inspired debit card designs. Choose your favorite and pair it with a free checking account that earns dividends with no monthly fees, no minimum balance, and convenient 24/7 online and mobile banking.

Hughes Federal Credit Union is a local, not-for-profit and gives back to its members and the community. We are where you need us, with seven convenient branch locations where you can get your card issued instantly, or open an account online at HughesFCU.org/Debit

We take you further.

Views

for Miles at 6286 N. Ventana View Place

Perched on the Ridge in a gated, highly sought-after Catalina Foothills community, this exceptional home showcases breathtaking views of the Catalina Mountains and Ventana Canyon Golf Course that captivate from every angle. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the spectacular scenery and fill the home with abundant natural light, seamlessly bringing the beauty of the outdoors in while creating an atmosphere of tranquility and connection to the stunning desert landscape.

Thoughtful, serene architecture is highlighted throughout by elegant travertine flooring, custom paint selections, and an open, inviting floor plan that flows effortlessly from space to space. The layout has been designed with both comfortable daily living and sophisticated entertaining in mind, offering flexible spaces that adapt beautifully to your lifestyle needs.

A dedicated dining room sets the stage for elegant gatherings and memorable dinner parties, providing the perfect backdrop for hosting family and friends in style. The classic, efficient kitchen features rich maple cabinetry, polished granite countertops, quality appliances that make meal preparation a pleasure, and a casual eat-in area ideal for morning coffee or quick family meals.

The spacious primary suite serves as a true private sanctuary, offering stunning picture windows that frame those magnificent mountain views, allowing you to wake up to inspiring vistas each morning. The ensuite bathroom provides a spa-like experience with a separate soaking tub for relaxing evening baths and a generous shower, creating a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and recharge after a long day.

A well-separated guest suite ensures privacy and comfort for visitors, featuring its own ensuite bath that provides convenience and luxury for overnight guests. An additional powder room offers further convenience for entertaining, ensuring guests always have access to proper facilities.

Step outside to discover an entertainer’s paradise. The covered patio provides welcome shade during warm desert days while offering an ideal vantage point to soak in the truly endless views that stretch across the valley. A built-in BBQ makes outdoor cooking effortless, perfect for casual family dinners or sophisticated gatherings under the stars. This outdoor living space creates an ideal setting for both quiet evenings spent watching spectacular sunsets and lively entertaining in one of the Foothills’ most desirable and prestigious locations.

This rare offering combines the perfect blend of location, views, thoughtful design, and premium finishes in a community known for its exclusivity and natural beauty. It’s an opportunity to embrace the very best of Catalina Foothills living.

U 520.465.9300 s paula@paulajwilliams.com q paulajwilliams.com

DON'T MISS THIS MONTH'S Sculpture Festival

MORE THAN 8,000 SCULPTURE FANS ENJOYED THE EVENT LAST YEAR

Sculpture Tucson’s annual Festival & Sale is right around the corner and will kick off with a preview evening on Friday, March 27, followed by two days featuring hundreds of sculptures from around the country.

This Festival, the largest of its kind in Arizona, came into being after Sculpture Tucson’s founders – Jeff Timan, Barbara Grygutis, and Steve Kimble – traveled to the well-established annual Sculpture in the Park in Loveland, Colorado, on a fact-finding mission. The trio wanted to see if a similar program could be developed in Tucson to further the mission of Sculpture Tucson. Organizers in Loveland graciously shared their tested and successful organizing process, from calls to artists, juror selection, how to handle sales, advertising, and the logistics of moving a ton of artwork into an outdoor space for a short time.

Modifying the Loveland model to fit Tucson, the first Sculpture Festival Show & Sale in March 2018 took place in the hay barn at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park on River Road. Organized with the skill and talents of Grygutis’ studio staffer, Katie McCann; volunteers Denise Grusin and Robin Kessler; and advisory board members, artists Moira Geoffrion, Steve Derks, and Terrol Dew Johnson, a call for interest went out to sculptors nationwide. Juror Elaine King, an East Coast arts critic, selected artists and works from the responders. Artists were required to be present with their work for the duration of the show. Not knowing

what the community response would be, they were delighted when more than 5,000 visitors came to the two-day free event. Artworks were sold, with 30% of sales supporting Sculpture Tucson programs. Even better, word spread among sculptors and collectors about this new and fantastic opportunity in Tucson.

The modified model worked well, and the Tucson event proved to be diverse, with large and small works of high quality. Jurors, hired for their expertise and recognized in their field, would change from year to year, but a keystone principle was established: all work shown through Sculpture Tucson would be curated by professionals. Some past Festival jurors include Kim Boganey from the Scottsdale Public Art program and Moira Geoffrion, former head of the UA Art Department. Recruiting new artists became a priority, and returning artists would be asked to present new works not seen in previous festivals. In its second year, the 2019 Sculpture

Last year’s Festival drew more than 8,000 people, and Sculpture Tucson organizers look forward to even more people turning out to see the diverse work of 60+ sculptors.

Festival featured 60 artists. That spring, the festival moved onto Brandi Fenton Memorial Park proper, on a large grassy plot with room for open tents for shade and convenient parking.

Last year’s Festival drew more than 8,000 people, and Sculpture Tucson organizers look forward to even more people turning out to see the diverse work of 60+ sculptors. This year’s show was curated by Kim Boganey, director of Scottsdale Arts. The daylong event on Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, takes place on the west side of the Brandi Fenton Memorial Park at River Road and Alvernon Way. The public is invited to wander around the beautiful park and enjoy the show. There is a charge for the preview night, which also features food, music, and drink, and further information is available by visiting the Sculpture Tucson website at www. sculpturetucson.org or contacting Sculpture Tucson at 520-334-5871.

After the two preview dates in late March, the show continues for free, Tuesdays through Saturdays, until May 26th.

Preserve Your Mind Protect Your Future

Preventive Neurological Care at Vita Medica Institute

At Vita Medica Institute, internationally recognized neurologist Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik leads with a singular, passionate focus: helping individuals protect and preserve their brain health—today, tomorrow, and well into their golden years.

The Power of Prevention

Cognitive decline is not inevitable. Through prevention and proactive care, we can preserve brain function and quality of life well into advanced age.

Too often, cognitive care begins only after noticeable decline. At Vita Medica Institute, prevention is at the forefront. Dr. de Leonni Stanonik works closely with patients to develop personalized strategies to support brain health and longevity, which may include:

• Comprehensive neurological screenings and early detection tools

• Vascular health evaluations and interventions

• Lifestyle modifications to promote cognitive resilience

• Nutritional and metabolic optimization for brain health

• Evidence-based therapies informed by the latest neuroscience

These proactive measures are designed to keep patients mentally sharp, active, and independent while preserving their ability to live life fully and joyfully.

Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik

• World-renowned vascular neurologist

• Leader in cognitive/ behavioral neurology

• Passionate about preserving brain health

ARTICLE BY SKYLER FRENCH

THE DESERT MADE IN

In Southern Arizona, filmmaking is rarely a solo effort. It is shaped by long, hot days on set, tight-knit communities, and a strong willingness to bring stories to life with limited resources. For Tucson-based filmmaker and actress Elizabeth von Isser, that collective effort became the foundation of a multi-year journey that transformed an initial screenplay into a fully realized film. Written over several years and brought to life with the help

“IT FELT LIKE STARTING A BRAND-NEW JOB WHERE YOU DON’T REALLY KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING AT FIRST — EVERY DAY BROUGHT A NEW CHALLENGE AND A NEW LESSON.”

of local actors, crew members, and the surrounding community, the finished project reflects both the intensity of independent filmmaking and the unique role Tucson plays in fostering creativity.

For von Isser, the path to filmmaking was anything but traditional. Before transitioning into film, she spent many years working full-time as an aerospace engineer. Her career choice was shaped largely by family expectations and partly by her strong aptitude for math. Throughout that time, she remained deeply connected to her creative side, which included painting, jewelry-making, and community theater. In the mid-2000s, however, she made the decision — as she put it — to leave her job and “go do fun stuff,” a shift that allowed her to pursue her creative passions more fully and eventually led her to filmmaking.

The film, Kate Hugo: Murder After Mayhem , unfolded over several years, beginning with a screenplay von Isser started writing in the summer of 2022. After an extended period of pre-production, filming took place over 16 days in April and May of 2024, followed by months of post-production, which are still ongoing. Throughout the process, she wore many hats, serving as the writer, executive producer, and lead actress. She worked closely with director Rich Goldstein during production, collaborating on both creative direction and on-set problem-solving. She described the experience as a constant learning curve, saying it felt “like starting a brand-new job where you don’t really know what you’re doing at first,” with each day bringing new challenges and lessons.

Day-to-day life on set was defined by long hours and constant coordination. A typical filming day stretched to 12 consecutive hours, which became physically and mentally demanding over the course of the shoot. With roughly a dozen actors and 30 crew members involved, the work required careful organization, particularly as creative differences emerged and exhaustion set in. Despite the challenges, the experience pushed von Isser to grow as a leader and collaborator.

Working with a large team of creatives meant navigating different communication styles and personalities — something she admitted did not come naturally to her. Self-described as non-confrontational, she found herself learning how to speak up, problem-solve, and resolve disagreements as they arose. With more than a dozen actors and dozens of crew members working closely together under tight schedules, moments of tension were inevitable.

One of the most demanding aspects of production came after von Isser and her team decided to work with union actors through the Screen Actors Guild, a choice that significantly expanded the scope and cost of the film. The team wanted to support and collaborate with local talent, but bringing union actors on board required adhering to strict standards for compensation and working conditions. Filming across multiple locations in Tucson and Arivaca added another layer of complexity. “There are no hotels in Arivaca,” she said, explaining that the production “rented every Airbnb, an RV, and every place we could find to house the cast and crew,” while also providing three meals a day during long shoots in the unforgiving desert heat. Filming in April and May meant working through rising temperatures, making hydration, shade, and rest a top priority to keep the crew safe throughout the process.

Despite the challenges, filming in Southern Arizona offered a level of community support that would have been difficult to replicate in larger cities. Residents and businesses donated locations, stepped in as background extras, or lent equipment. Their collective willingness to help eased the logistical burden of the project and reinforced the collaborative spirit that defines Tucson’s filmmaking scene. That sense of connection is further strengthened by Tucson’s broader film community, which von Isser described as unusually accessible and supportive. Film Tucson’s monthly mixers create opportunities for actors, crew members, and creatives to network, collaborate, and gain experience together. Rather than competing for limited opportunities, filmmakers often share resources and knowledge, creating an environment where independent projects can take shape. For von Isser, that tight-knit network made the challenges of transforming a script into a film feel more manageable and underscored the value of producing the film locally.

At its core, Kate Hugo: Murder After Mayhem is rooted in themes of connection and healing — ideas von Isser hopes will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. The film was originally titled Reconciliation , shaped by the belief that even in moments of conflict, understanding and empathy can emerge. “Even in the toughest situations, people can come together to help heal each other and reconcile their differences,” she said. In a time marked by division and uncertainty, the film offers a reminder of the power of collaboration, both on screen and behind the scenes.

“WE RENTED EVERY AIRBNB, AN RV, AND EVERY PLACE WE COULD FIND TO HOUSE THE CAST AND CREW.”

HOW FELIX COPPER & WOOD TRANSFORMS HOUSES INTO HOMES

BUILT

FOR LIVING

“A LOT OF OUR PIECES ARE INSPIRED BY PETROGLYPHS FROM THE ARIZONA–UTAH BORDER.”

For Ana Leyva, home has never been just a place. It’s a feeling — one rooted in refuge, tranquility, and love, surrounded by objects that carry meaning.

“I like to think of a home as a place of peace,” Leyva says. “A place of love. And being surrounded by beautiful things that have meaning to you.”

That philosophy is at the heart of Felix Copper & Wood, the Tucsonbased custom furniture and cabinetry studio where Leyva serves as furniture and kitchen designer. Every piece that leaves the workshop is designed not only to function within a space, but to tell a story — one meant to be lived with, passed down, and remembered.

Designing With Stories In Mind

Unlike mass-produced furniture, Felix specializes in fully custom, heirloom-quality pieces, crafted by hand and designed in close collaboration with each client.

“The entire premise of our business is to custom-make furniture,” Leyva explains. “We delve deep into the customer’s taste — their surroundings, their travels, their favorite places. It’s not just about function. It’s about what the piece will mean to them in the future.”

Before a single tool touches wood, the process begins with conversation. Clients are invited into the showroom, where Leyva sketches

“WE DELVE DEEP INTO THE CUSTOMER’S TASTE — THEIR SURROUNDINGS, THEIR TRAVELS, THEIR FAVORITE PLACES. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT FUNCTION. IT’S ABOUT WHAT THE PIECE WILL MEAN TO THEM IN THE FUTURE.”

alongside them, asking questions about how they live and what they need.

“We always start with function first,” she says. “If it doesn’t work for your life, then it doesn’t matter how beautiful it is.”

From there, design takes shape — literally. Leyva creates architectural drawings from her initial sketches, allowing clients to visualize scale, proportion, and detail before production begins. Each piece typically takes eight to ten weeks to complete, depending on complexity.

“It’s important for people to feel confident and secure,” she says. “We update them throughout the process so they feel part of it from beginning to end.”

Inspired by the Desert

While every Felix piece is one of a kind, many share a common visual language inspired by the Sonoran Desert and the Southwest.

Leyva, who grew up in Mexico City and has spent most of her life in southern Arizona, draws heavily from regional landscapes and cultural motifs. Petroglyphs, chevrons, stair-step patterns,

and organic geometry appear throughout her work, echoing the natural and historical textures of the region.

“A lot of our pieces are inspired by petroglyphs from the Arizona–Utah border,” she says. “They tell a story. We use colors from the desert — purples, fuchsias, blues, earth tones, copper tones — all the warm colors you find here.”

One of her favorite designs was inspired by a trip to Sedona, where she sketched the trapezoidal shape of the Chapel of the Holy Cross directly into a furniture concept.

“I was sitting on a rock sketching shapes, and suddenly there it was — the shape of an armoire,” she says. “It was very literal. Just sitting in front of it and drawing.”

Materials That Live

Two materials define Felix’s aesthetic: wood and copper.

Wood, Leyva explains, is essential not just visually, but structurally. Felix uses a traditional joinery method called mortise and tenon, which relies on interlocking joints instead of screws or nails.

“It’s a male and female joint,” she says. “When the wood expands and contracts, it does so together. That’s why our furniture remains stable and true over time.”

The technique dates back thousands of years — ancient Egyptian furniture was built the same way.

“Your furniture might get scratched or dented,” Leyva says, “but the structural integrity will never be compromised.”

Copper, on the other hand, adds warmth, texture, and emotional resonance.

“We’re the Copper State,” she says. “And copper and wood just work beautifully together, especially in southern Arizona architecture.”

Together, the materials create pieces that feel alive — evolving naturally with time rather than deteriorating.

A Quiet Rebellion Against Fast Furniture

In an era dominated by flat-pack furniture and fleeting trends, Felix stands firmly in opposition to disposability.

“People are tired of being wasteful,” Leyva says. “It’s frustrating to replace furniture every three to five years because it’s not holding up. You realize you’re wasting money and harming the environment.”

Instead, she encourages clients to invest in fewer, better pieces — furniture designed to move with them through different homes and life stages.

“These are meant to be taken with you when you move,” she says. “Think about how you’ll use it when you’re older, not just right now.”

“WE USE COLORS FROM THE DESERT — PURPLES, FUCHSIAS, BLUES, EARTH TONES, COPPER TONES — ALL THE WARM COLORS YOU FIND HERE.”

“YOU HAVE TO FUTURE-PROOF YOUR PIECES. TECHNOLOGY CHANGES. TRENDS CHANGE. BUT NATURE DOESN’T.”

That mindset extends into design philosophy as well. Rather than chasing trends, Leyva leans into natural proportions, materials, and colors.

“Nature is wise,” she says. “If you follow nature’s suggestions, it’s very hard to fail.”

She points to pastel-painted Southwest furniture from the early 2000s as an example of how trend-driven design can quickly feel dated. Natural woods, metals, and earth tones, she believes, stand the test of time.

“You have to future-proof your pieces,” she says. “Technology changes. Trends change. But nature doesn’t.”

Craft, Culture, and Community

For Leyva, supporting local artisans isn’t just good business — it’s essential to preserving cultural identity.

“Artistry is getting lost,” she says. “Whether it’s furniture makers, tailors, seamstresses, or artists — these people are what make a community.”

Tucson, she says, thrives because of its creative culture.

“Without artists and makers, we lose what makes this place unique.”

Felix works primarily with local vendors and employs artisans who are passionate about working with their hands — even as fewer young people pursue traditional trades.

“It’s hard work,” Leyva says. “But it’s meaningful work. And it deserves to be valued.”

More Than Furniture

Ultimately, what Felix offers isn’t just custom cabinetry or handcrafted tables — it’s a different way of thinking about home.

When a piece is finally delivered and installed, Leyva hopes clients feel pride — not just in the object itself, but in the experience of creating it.

“I want them to see it and think, ‘I helped design that,’” she says. “And remember it as something special. Something they would do all over again.”

Because at Felix, furniture isn’t meant to simply fill space. It’s meant to hold stories, anchor memories, and turn houses into homes.

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FLAVORS OF HOME

Signature Southern Arizona Recipes

From garden dreams to savory reality served on a plate, Tucson’s food scene tells a story centuries in the making. Shaped by more than 4,000 years of Indigenous agricultural traditions and layered with Mexican and Spanish influences, the city’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the Sonoran Desert and its remarkable native ingredients. Chiles, corn, beans, squash, mesquite, and prickly pear form

the foundation of a culinary culture that values sustainability, seasonality, and community. From time-honored family recipes to modern interpretations served in kitchens across the region, Tucson’s approach to food is both soulful and celebratory—earning it international recognition as the first U.S. city designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE, ATSYBILSKITCHEN.COM

PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA CHEESE CRISP

Serves One

This refreshing cocktail blends tequila, citrus, and vibrant prickly pear for a perfectly balanced sweet-tart sip.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 ounces tequila

• 1/2 ounce triple sec

• 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice

• 1/4 ounce grenadine

• 3/4 ounce prickly pear juice

• 1 1/2 ounces sweet-and-sour mix

• Ice

• Fresh lime wedge, for garnish

• Tajín, for the rim

Directions:

Rim a specialty glass with Tajín and set aside. Combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, grenadine, prickly pear juice, and sweetand-sour mix in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled, then strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Serves One

A beloved local classic, the cheese crisp is a large flour tortilla baked until crisp, topped with melted cheese, and meant to be torn and shared—or sliced like pizza.

Ingredients:

• 1 (18-inch) flour tortilla

• 16 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded

• Salsa

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the tortilla directly on the oven rack and bake for 5 minutes until lightly crisp. Remove from the oven and transfer to a pizza pan. Spread the cheese evenly over the tortilla and return to the oven. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and completely melted, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately on a pizza tray or round platter, with salsa spooned over each bite if desired.

Serves 12

Grilled corn on the cob is coated in lime butter, rolled in cheese, and finished with a smoky chile rub for a bold Southwestern take on street corn.

Ingredients:

• 12 ears fresh corn, unshucked

• 1/2 pound unsalted butter, at room temperature

• Zest of 2 limes, finely grated

• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped

• Salt and pepper

• 1/2 pound queso fresco, finely grated

• 1/4 cup ancho chile rub

For the Ancho Chile Rub

• 3 ancho chiles, seeded and torn into pieces

• 1/4 cup chili powder

• 2 tablespoons ground coriander

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Soak the corn in a large container of water for 1 hour. Prepare a grill for medium heat. Place the soaked corn on the grill and cook, turning frequently, for 30–40 minutes, until the kernels are tender when pressed.

While the corn grills, mix the butter, lime zest, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Spread the butter mixture onto a large plate and place the queso fresco on a second plate. Remove the corn from the grill and carefully peel back the husks. Remove the silk and tie the husks into a knot to create a handle. Roll each ear in the lime butter, then in the queso fresco, and finish with a sprinkle of ancho chile rub. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

FRY BREAD

Yields 20

Native American heritage on a plate, this fry bread is puffy, golden, and slightly chewy— perfect served warm with sugar, cinnamon, or honey.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup water

• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• Sugar and cinnamon, for dusting

• Honey, for serving

Directions:

Heat the water and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until boiling. Boil uncovered for 2 minutes, then cool slightly and stir in the egg.

In a bowl, cut the butter into the flour, baking powder, and salt until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in the egg mixture to form a dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead until elastic, about 5 minutes. Shape into a 20-inch roll, cover, and let rest for 1 hour.

Heat 1 inch of oil in a pan to 365°F. Cut the dough into 1-inch slices and roll each into a 5-inch circle. Fry, turning once, until golden brown, about 2 minutes total. Drain on paper towels and dust with sugar and cinnamon, or drizzle with honey before serving.

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ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”

Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

MATERIALS:

Santa and Cole Tekió Light, Vintage Rainer Draumiller Chairs, American Leather custom couch in Bison Butterscotch, Flos Bellhop lamp, BZippy Vase, Plush Moroccan rug

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

In large rooms, architectural details like niches, built-ins, or material changes can create visual rhythm while giving meaningful objects a true home.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

MATERIALS:

Particular Tile in Satin Terracotta and Vanilla Bean, Arté Wallcovering Shards in Brick Red, Red travertine sink, Rachel Donath chunky mirror, Playful art work by Olivia Fields

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

Small spaces are ideal for experimentation. Mix patterns, finishes, and textures within a tight color family to create depth without overwhelm.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.

Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.

MATERIALS:

Virginia Sin pendant light, In Common With sconce, Arté Oblong wall covering in Ochre, Particular Tile in Vapor, Custom sage velvet sofa, Plush Vintage Moroccan rug

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

When a room serves many purposes, let texture and tone create cohesion. A restrained palette with varied finishes keeps the space flexible and serene.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

MATERIALS:

Luca split stone pavers, Vintage Turkish rug, Plants, Virginia Sin Wall hook

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

An entryway doesn’t need to be loud to be memorable. Combine tactile materials with one or two meaningful elements to create an instant emotional connection.

At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

PROJECT CREDITS

Builder - Buildwell

Designer - Kate Manz

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 1ST

Desert Voices

Temple of Music and Art -- 330 S. Scott Ave. | 2:00 PM

Ballet Tucson continues its longtime partnership with the Tucson Desert Song Festival and Tucson Guitar Society with the highly anticipated return of Chieko Imada's Himiko. This audience favorite work offers a beautiful blend of ballet and traditional Japanese dance as a tribute to the human spirit, honor, and resilience.

MARCH 1ST

Making a Life in Photography: Rollie McKenna

Center for Creative Photography | 10:00 AM

This exhibition is the first survey of the prolific career of American photographer Rosalie (Rollie) Thorne McKenna (1918–2003). After graduating from Vassar College in 1940, McKenna worked independently as a sought-after architectural and portrait photographer, making unique yet underrecognized contributions to American modernism and documentary photography. The gallery is open Wednesdays-Saturdays, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, through May 16th.

MARCH 1ST

Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca: Rodolfo Morales, Francisco Toledo, and Others

Pima Community College -- 2202 W. Anklam Rd. | 10:00 AM

Come see the inspiring works from some of the great artes gráficas from Oaxaca, Mexico. Their works, along with those by other gráfica artists, are steeped in the rich heritage of artists from the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Gallery is open Mondays through Fridays from 10:00 AM until 5 PM (until 3 PM on Fridays), through May 13.

MARCH 5TH

Tohono O'odham Utilitarian Vessel

Pottery Workshop

Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum -- 196 N. Court Ave. | 10:00 AM

Join Tohono O’odham potter Kathleen Vance as she teaches how to make traditional utilitarian vessels. Using all-natural white clay that she personally digs and prepares, Kathleen will guide participants through the paddle-and-anvil method to shape the vessel’s walls with hand-rolled coils. Each participant will be provided with enough clay to create their own clay pot.  Session ends at noon.

MARCH 7TH

Banff Mountain Film Festival on Tour

Fox Tucson Theatre -- 17 W. Congress St. | 7:00 PM

This year marks 50 years of adventure with the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival, and the Banff World Tour is bringing the celebration to you! Get ready for adrenaline-fueled action, breathtaking landscapes, and stories that stir the soul. From first ascents and whitewater thrills to personal triumphs and impossible journeys. Also running Sunday, March 7, at 7:00 PM

MARCH 8TH

Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival

Leo Rich Theater - 260 S. Church Ave. | 3:00 PM

The Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival, one of the finest chamber music festivals in the world, is celebrated for both its exceptional artistry and thoughtfully curated repertoire. Peter Rejto and Bernadette Harvey return for their second year as Artistic Co-Directors, guiding the Festival into its 33rd season. Performances also on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:30 PM through March 15.

Would

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APRIL

Proscenium

Implant Dentistry

From single tooth to full mouth smiles

Sedation Dentistry

Be comfortable during your dental visits

Cosmetic Dentistry

Botox, Juvederm, Clear braces

General and Emergency Care

Receive the best dental care every day

Integrative Dentistry Whole

MARCH 13TH

Danú

Fox Theatre Tucson - 17 W. Congress St. | 7:30 PM

Hailing from historic County Waterford, Danú is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. The group’s standing-room-only concerts throughout Ireland are true events, featuring high-energy performances and a glorious mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire. Danú takes its audiences on a musical journey to their native Ireland, offering a moving and memorable concert experience.

MARCH 14TH

Tucson Festival of Books

University of Arizona Mall | 9:30 AM

The Tucson Festival of Books arrives in March, when the sun is beaming, desert wildflowers are blooming and University of Arizona students are on spring break.  Come enjoy book panels and special events where literacy-lovers can come together, meet their favorite authors, and discover new publishing companies and resources. Also Sunday from 9:30 PM until 5:30 PM

MARCH 21ST

Tucson Japanese Festival

Tucson Chinese Cultural Center - 1288 W. River Road | 10:00 AM

The Tucson Japanese Festival returns once again at the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center.  Featured activities include taiko drumming, martial arts, traditional folk dancing, mochi pounding, games, origami for children, anime, and delicious Japanese food for purchase. Only $5 adults (cash preferred), free for children 5 years and under. Until 4:00 PM.

MARCH 26TH

Clint Black: Back on The Blacktop Tour

Linda Ronstadt Music Hall - 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:00 PM

One of country music's most iconic singer-songwriters returns to the stage with a hit-filled night spanning decades of chart-topping classics. With his signature storytelling, smooth vocals, and timeless sound, Clint Black delivers an unforgettable evening of country music that longtime fans and new listeners alike will enjoy.

MARCH 26TH

Spanish Heritage Sourdough Bread Workshop

Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum - 196 N. Court Ave. | 10:00 AM

Learn the process of creating delicious, healthy sourdough bread from scratch from baker Marea Jenness. This hands-on event will teach attendees how to use sourdough starter and the heritage White Sonora Wheat that the Spanish brought to this area around 1640. Participants will learn how to make the dough and how to bake a perfect loaf. Ends at noon.

APRIL 3RD

Whitney Gardner: Silent Reverence

Mark Sublette Medicine Man Art Gallery - 6872 E. Sunrise Dr. Suite #130

Whitney Gardner paints in and about the Mojave Desert, where she lives and works. Her hyper-realistic works are achingly detailed, capturing the shifts of heat and wind, clouds and dust.  And with a stunning palette of rich desert tones, shapes emerge and recede. Through April 17th.