Independent Woman Lunch

Phoenix Art Museum

Charlotte Moss (Featured Speaker), Ellen Katz (Chair)

The Independent Woman Luncheon at Phoenix Art Museum featured Charlotte Moss and was sponsored by My Sister’s Closet. Chairmen for the event were Jane Jozoff, Ellen Katz, Sharron Lewis and Kathryn Petsas. Ellen Katz introduced the guest speaker saying, Charlotte is a Contributing Editor for Architectural Digest and the Wall Street Journal Magazine, has received numerous awards for her work, including Elle Décor’s Vision Award, the Design and Business Award from the Edith Wharton Restoration Foundation, and the Timeless Design Award, presented by the Royal Oak Foundation in recognition of her work in design, historical preservation, and philanthropy. She has written seven books, her latest Charlotte Moss Decorates: The Art of Creating Inspired Rooms. Charlotte has designed collections of china, fabric, carpet, decorative accessories, and home fragrance.” The Honorary Chairmen for the elegant event were Jacquie Dorrance, Jeanne Herberger, Diane Halle, Nancy White, Miriam Sukhman and Susan Drescher-Mulzet.

Photos by: Ron Nachtwey

Jane Jozoff (Chair), Ron Miller (Chief Development Officer, Phoenix Art Museum)	Erin Gogolak, Sharron Lewis (Chair)
Ann Siner (Luncheon Sponsor), Kathryn Petsas (Chair)	Adrienne Schiffner (Benefactor), Betty McRae (Benefactor), standing Linda M. Herold, Joan Payne (Benefactor), Billie Jo Herberger Benefactor)
Jeanne Herberger (Honorary Chair & Benefactor), Diane Halle (Honorary Chair & Benefactor)	Doris Ong (Benefactor), Robyn Sussman

Pat Petznick (Benefactor), Nancy Hanley (Benefactor), Nancy Walker, Sandy Magruder, Mac Perlich

Margo Knight (Benefactor), Sally Lehmann (Benefactor)	Gail Adams (Benefactor & Designer), Jan Herwick (Designer)
Stevie Eller, Dennita Sewell (Curator, Fashion Design, Phoenix Art Museum)	Debra May Himes (Designer), Jim Ballinger (Director, Phoenix Art Museum)
Shelley Duane (Benefactor), Pam Del Duca	Angela Karp, Jamee Rose
Christine Augustine, me, Carlyn Mumm, seated: Eleanor Fitzgerald, Patricia Gordon	Jennifer Wright (Designer), Dianne Egizii (Designer)
Renee Walker, Nancy Wilson	Diane LeSatz, Barbara Young, Karen Clements, Lois LeMarr

Local designers created unique centerpieces with a “moss” theme, Kim Barnum and Teresa Nelson were co-chairmen for the designer committee.

Gail Adams Interiors, LLC	The French Bee
E’lan Interiors, Inc.	Fannin Interiors, Inc.

Dennita Sewell (Curator, Fashion Design, Phoenix Art Museum),
Charlotte Moss (Featured Speaker),

The Sea – Ellman Fashion Design Gallery

Phoenix Art Museum

Photos by: Ron Nachtwey

The Sea – March 3 – July 15, 2012 – Since ancient time, man’s epic journeys on the vast and powerful seas have inspired stories of distant lands and adventure. Sea legends of mermaids and undersea odysseys from Neptune to Captain Nemo merge reality and myth. By the mid 19th century, the British naval and merchant marine force was the largest in the world and sailors in crisp navy and white uniforms were heroic icons of masculinity. Historical seaside dress and contemporary resort wear often featured motifs that drew upon nautical themes, forming a timeless trend of romantic fashions reminiscent of another time and place.

This exhibition explores the far-reaching influence of the romance of the sea on fashion design. Featuring ensembles from the 19th century to the current collections, the designs included are drawn from the Museum’s extensive permanent collection, private collections and international fashion houses including Emilio Pucci, Emanuel Ungaro and Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel.

Link: www.phxart.org

John Harrington Jr. Named CEO

John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital

Long-time Valley hospital executive John Harrington Jr. begins service as CEO of John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital Monday, May 14. Harrington started his career in health care administration 33 years ago as the assistant vice president of operations at the hospital’s former parent facility, then known as Phoenix General. Bruce Pearson, currently CEO of both Deer Valley and North Mountain Hospitals, will focus his time as CEO of North Mountain Hospital. John C. Lincoln Health Network is returning to a previous organizational model that includes a CEO for each hospital.

John Harrington Jr.

Harrington comes to John C. Lincoln from Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City, where he was CEO. His previous leadership experience includes serving as the CEO at Banner Heart Hospital, Paradise Valley Hospital and the Arizona Heart Hospital.  In March, Harrington was one of four hospital executives in the United States named to serve a three-year term on the Board of Governors of the 46,000-member American College of Healthcare Executives. He also spent 10 years on the board of directors of the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association, including service as chairman of the board. “John brings a wealth of knowledge and experience – both locally and nationally – to Deer Valley.  He is well known as a dynamic and compassionate leader,” said Rhonda Forsyth, president and CEO of the John C. Lincoln Health Network. “I am confident that John is the right fit for our organization – our mission, culture and vision.”

Link: www.JCL.com.

New VP General Manager

Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks Fifth Avenue, Phoenix, announced the appointment of Robert Arnold-Kraft as Vice President General Manager. Most recently he served as Assistant General Manager of Merchandise in the company’s Flagship San Francisco store and was part of the Executive Management team there for the past eight years. His family shares his enthusiasm about getting to know the Phoenix community where his two young children will be attending school. “I had the distinct pleasure of working first-hand with Robert Arnold-Kraft prior to my retirement. His experience with Saks in San Francisco and his excitement about coming to Phoenix will serve him well.

Robert Arnold-Kraf

Robert clearly understands and embraces the importance of the relationship of Saks to the community. I look forward to hearing all about it.” said Larry Buchanan. Recently Saks Fifth Avenue, Phoenix, partnered with the following charities from February 1 to 29, 2012 and as a result of the month long initiative over $80,000 was awarded to these local non-profits:  Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, Valle del Sol, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), The ASU Foundation for A New American University, The American Heart Association’s Heart Ball. Saks.com also supported the program, with 5% of online purchases made using a registered Saks credit card, being donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. With the success of the February Charity Program, Saks Fifth Avenue is bringing its charitable initiatives under one banner for the first time this spring. A new Saks Gives logo will recognize Saks Fifth Avenue’s dedication to charity. Saks Gives will brand the charitable service through philanthropic giving and active outreach both locally and nationally.

Link: www.saks.com/phx

New Executive Director

Homeward Bound

Homeward Bound announced that the Board of Directors hired Barbara Ralston to serve as Executive Director to oversee staff and operations. Prior to accepting the Executive Director position at Homeward Bound, Barbara Ralston served as the President and CEO of Fresh Start Women’s Foundation. She has also served on a number of boards including Great Hearts Preparatory Academies, The Helios Education Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Teach for America. Ralston began her career in banking.

Barbara Ralston

Some of her most reputable work includes her roles as Phoenix Area President for First Interstate Bank, Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer for Chase Bank of Arizona and President of Continental Service Corporation. Her most recent banking endeavor before stepping into the non-profit world was as the founder of Camelback Community Bank. “Homeward Bound will greatly benefit from Barbara Ralston’s leadership and experience in both corporate and non-profit arenas,” said Homeward Bound Board Chair, R. Patrick McGinley. “She is passionate about empowering women and serving her community. I am pleased that Barbara will be on board to guide the agency in its next phase of success.” Ralston will use her extensive experience and varied skills to guide Homeward Bound in serving families fleeing domestic violence and homelessness. Homeward Bound is a 12-to-24-month transitional housing program providing comprehensive social services to families with children working to achieve long-term economic independence and break the cycles of homelessness and domestic violence. Homeward Bound is a nationally recognized model designed for families willing to work toward repairing their lives and becoming self-sufficient. Link: www.homewardboundaz.org

10th Annual Teaming Up for Kids Luncheon

Florence Crittenton

Nancy Spetzler & Dr. Robert Spetzler (Hope Award), Marjorie Baxley

Missy & Lyle Anderson (Visionary Award)

Florence Crittenton held its 10th Annual Teaming Up For Kids Luncheon at the Arizona Biltmore Resort. The event generates support for its mission of providing safety, hope and opportunity to at-risk girls and young women. Amy and Derrick Hall and Cathy and Mo Stein served as co-chairs. Arizona Diamondback Luis Gonzalez, Major League Baseball superstar with a 19-year major league career, was the keynote speaker. The 2012 Hope Award recipient, Dr. Robert F. Spetzler, is the Director of Barrow Neurological Institute, noted author and award-winning neurosurgeon. He also has played a prominent role in the partnership between Florence Crittenton and St. Joseph’s Hospital, the medical care provider for girls served by the agency.  The Visionary Award was presented to Missy and Lyle Anderson. For over 20 years the couple has provided leadership, resources and support for Florence Crittenton. Guests enjoyed a lively reception, silent auction and raffle for “Dream Bag” goodies organized by Jill Krigsten and Mari Lederman.

Link: www.flocrit.org

Derrick Hall (Co-Chair), Anne Robbs (Fan), Luis Gonzalez (Keynote Speaker)	Mo & Cathy Stein (Co-Chairs)
Larry & Tracey Lytle	Jan Lewis, Craig Thatcher, Ina Manaster
Cheryl Hintzen-Gaines, Rebecca Ailes-Fine, Martha Melman	Joyce Allred, Leslie Budinger, Sue Clark-Johnson
Phyllis Stern, Oonagh Boppart, Erica Black	Andrea Whitsett, Theresa Dwyer-Federhar, Melissa Baffert

Mari Lederman, Jill Krigsten, Ruth Ritz, Shannon Mishkin, Lisa Geyser

Carlyn Mumm, Lisa Pagel, Tim Braun, Kitty Broderick

Will Donovan, Dawn & Michael Olsen	Addison Brown, Tara Hitchcock
Dr. Kellie Warren (Chief Operations Officer), Deb Budnick (Chief Financial Officer)	Volunteers

AAHA! An Auction of Heirlooms and Art

Hospice of the Valley

Martini, anyone? Guests celebrated the 1960’s style at AAHA! An Auction of Herlooms and Art given by Hospice of the Valley. The Mad Men-themed event was held at Arizona Biltmore Resort. The art gallery setting was perfect for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, created for the outstanding silent auction. Dinner was elegant as was auctioneer Letitia Frye. Painter and performance artist Randall Hedden created three paintings, live on stage, of classic Rat Pack legends Dean, Frank and Sammy, for the live auction. Of particular interest was the Ed Mell painting Golden Cast 1. Susan Levine, executive director of Hospice of the Valley since 1994, thanked guests for contributing to end-of-life care at HOV, providing comfort and dignity to patients and their families. Levine is among the selected honorees for the Arizona Centennial Legacy Project: Arizona’s 48 Most Intriguing Women. Sister Adele O’Sullivan, a physician and founder of Circle the City, was thrilled with the “Fund A Need” donations supporting a partnership to provide a safe haven for the homeless who are sick. Sponsors for the event included OnePoint Patient Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Wells Fargo, Ricki Dee and John Jennings, Michele and Rick Hamada. The evening had a wonderful energy, beautifully attired ladies and gentlemen, and live auction Lot 11 – A Mad Men VIP set tour for two during season six, complete with accommodations at Chateau Marmont in Hollywood, priceless!

Link: www.hov.org/about.aspx

Bill & Susan Levine, Nancy & Gerald Wissink

Cathy & Doug Oleson, Guests, Gwen & Durrell Hillis

Rich & Maryglenn Boals	Nancy & Nick Meyer, Sharron Lewis
Carol Poore, Rob Leslie	Jack & Vicki McDonald
Marc Reid, Doreen Picerne, Robert Black	Letitia Frye
Linda & Jim Ballinger	Anne & Jim Wellington

19th Annual Beach Ball, St. Barts

Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Beach Ball Chairs: Maja Langbein, Stacey Boltz, Jennifer Moser

The 19th Annual Beach Ball was held at The Phoenician to benefit the expansion of the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center and Emergency Department. “Your support will have a direct impact on the future of valley children,” said Jennifer Moser, Beach Ball Chair. “By giving once again you are allowing PCH’s emergency and trauma doctors to serve a rapidly growing number of patients and doing what they do best, saving the lives of Valley kids.” Apollo Group/University of Phoenix, demonstrated their support again this year as the presenting sponsor of the event. Phoenix Children’s Hospital, ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Children’s Hospitals, is Arizona’s only licensed children’s hospital, providing world-class care in more than 40 pediatric specialties to children from throughout the state and region.

Courtesy of: Jennifer Parks

Link: www.phoenixchildrens.com

Dr.  Richard Towbin & Janet Towbin, Tom & Donna Diederich

Guest couple, Lisa & Jeff Geyser

Oscar Night® America

84th Annual Academy Awards®

Arthritis Foundation

Red Carpet Chic at Oscar Night® America

Oscar Night® America is the premiere gala benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, Arizona. The event, held at the Arizona Biltmore, is the only official Academy Awards® viewing party in the Phoenix area. Guests walked the red carpet, smiled for the paparazzi, enjoyed a cocktail reception, entertainment, a multi-course dinner, a swag bag, the official Academy Awards® program book, and an exciting Academy Awards telecast live on huge screens courtesy of ABC15, the Phoenix affiliate of the ABC Television Network. Dr. Marc Rosen of Phoenix Orthopedic Consultants, served as Chair for the event. Committee members included Jimmy and Bettina Chow, Ideationnation’s Dave Dodge, JoAnn Holland, Community Affairs Manager, Wells Fargo and 2013 Oscar Night America Chair, Nancy Keane with Safeway, Rolf’s Salon very own Rolf Lohse, and Joyce Santis the COO of Sonora Quest Laboratories.

Photos by: Ron Nachtwey

Link: www.arthritis.org/greater-southwest

JoAnn & Tim Holland

Joyce Santis

Rolf Lohse, Francis Tesmer

“Stars” (Rolf Models)

22nd Annual Brandeis National Committee

BNC Phoenix Chapter

Book and Author Event

The 22nd Annual Brandeis National Book and Author Event was held at J. W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. Proceeds benefit Sustaining the Mind: Scientific Research and Scholarships in Neurodegenerative Diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, at Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts.

Event Chair Merrill Kalman said, “We hope you enjoy the day. Our BNC chapter takes pride in the volunteerism that has presents this event to the Phoenix community. “ Susie Joffe and Lori Roth served as the silent auction co-chairs. Brandeis University President Frederick M. Lawrence gave the keynote address. This year’s authors were: Lisa Niemi Swayze, Worth Fighting For: Love, Loss, and Moving Forward; Thrity Umrigar, The World We Found; Jeffrey Zaslow, The Magic Room: A Story About the Love We Wish for Our Daughters; Dyan Cannon, Dear Cary: My Life with Cary Grant; Robert Dugoni, Murder One.

Link: www.brandeisphoenix.com

Merrill Kalman (Event Chair), Dyan Cannon (Author)	Sean McLaughlin (Moderator, KPHO Chanel 5 News Anchor), Carol Kern
Frederick M. Lawrence (President, Brandeis University), Guest	Sue Karp, Thrity Umrigar (Author)
Lisa Niemi Swayze (Author)	Robert Dugoni (Author)

Anniversary Celebration

Rosie’s House: A Music Academy for Children

By: Marcia Fine

Supporters of Rosie’s House gathered at Scottsdale Artists’ School for an anniversary celebration and to honor Phoenix Symphony’s Michael Christie, jazz pianist and arts advocate Charles Lewis and Rosie’s House piano faculty member Erin Crawford. The evening included a performances by Alice Tatum, Charles Lewis and award-winning students of Rosie’s House. Executive Director Becky Bell stated, “Rosie’s House: A Music Academy for Children was founded in 1996 to give children from low-income families the chance to experience the beauty of music in their lives. The academy provides free music instruction and loaned instruments to underserved Phoenix-area students. Rosie’s House believes music education is a catalyst for changing the life of a child. Through music we inspire social change and help our students develop a commitment to personal and academic achievement.”

Link: www.rosieshouse.org

Photos courtesy of Marcia Fine

Becky Bell (Executive Director)	Honoree Michael Christie (Phoenix Symphony)
Virginia & Dick Nosky	Honorees Erin Crawford, Charles Lewis
Bobette Gorden, Dr. Bob Cialdini	Susan & Barry Brooks
Dr. Ara Feinstein, Iris Bishram	Marcia Fine

The Magic of Motown, Dancing with the Stars 2012

National Kidney Foundation of Arizona

It was quite a night for Chair Eileen Klein and the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona presented The Magic of Motown, Dancing with the Stars 2012. Master of ceremonies Tara Hitchcock rocked with the Motown performance by Voices of the Supremes Tribute Band. The Camelback Inn was the setting for celebrity star dancers and their partners. In the couples category Lori Singleton and Fred Tillman took the People’s Choice, Jeanne Bennett and Hon. Ken Bennett were the Judges’ Choice. Brad Goff was Judges’ Choice and Robert Meza the People’s Choice for Celebrity Star Gentlemen recognition. Debbie Gaby was honored for Showmanship, Excellence in Execution went to Georgianna Marie and Stephanie Nowack took the Gold Standard award.

Link: www.azkidney.org

Photos by: Ron Nachtwey

Fresh Start Fashion Gala 2012

Fresh Start Women’s Foundation

The Fresh Start Women’s Foundation Fashion Gala 2012 was a terrific party. Kim McWaters and Melinda Petznick served as co-chairs and Joelle Hadley was the guest emcee. The black tie optional event was held at Arizona Biltmore Resort, an elegant all white decor was the perfect setting for Sakes Fifth Avenue to present Spring 2012 Ralph Lauren Collection and Black Label. Pamela Overton Risoleo was presented with the Founder’s Award. Retired President and CEO Barbara Ralston was recognized for her service and dedication to Fresh Start. Founders Pet Petznick and Beverly Stewart have made our community better and impacted women’s lives to truly make a difference. This gala is always one of the best of the season. President and CEO Susan Berman said, “I hope you know that you are helping to connect women and change lives through the mission of Fresh Start Women’s Foundation.” The after party at Club Jewell provided comfy sofas for viewing the packed dance-floor, a cool way to celebrate the successful gala.

Link: www.wehelpwomen.com

Pamela Overton Risoleo , Jamie Lendrum

Pat Petznick, Dennita Sewell, Ellen Katz

Jenny Weaver, Karen Pratte, Patricia Klahr, Joelle Hadley, Barbara Hadley, Tracy Bame

Tim & JoAnn Holland, John Graham , Chevy Humphrey, Matthew Treasure

Mary Ellen McKee, Amy Videan (Saks Fifth Avenue)	Kate Seastone & Paige Heavey
Rae Mitchell, Deborah Bateman	Stephanie & Jonathan Poure
Lisa Pagel, Rich Rechter & Robyn Lee	Ed White, Murray Manaster
Jordan & Jason Rose	Laurie Ralston, Barbara Ralston, Mark Ralston

Mardi Gras Gala

Epilepsy Foundation of Arizona

The Venue Scottsdale

Photo Courtesy of Annie Cooper Photography

By: Heather King

The Epilepsy Foundation of Arizona (EFAZ) held its annual black tie, Mardi Gras Gala at The Venue Scottsdale. Revelers came dressed to impress in masques and gowns fit for a Carnival Ball in New Orleans. Hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies, Kristin Anderson of Fox 10, more than 250 guests tested their luck in the Big Easy Casino, had their tarot cards read by Madame Ann, were dazzled by burlesque performances from the Burlescapades and Provocatease, were mystified by magic by Jacob Spinney, amazed by fire performances and stilt walking by Mourning Fyre, bid on the treasures of the silent auction, indulged in Cajun cuisine, and cheered as the King of Mardi Gras was crowned.  CEO of Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Larry Volkmar, was crowned “King of Mardi Gras” for his work and dedication to the epilepsy community, as well as his generous spirit. Two-year-old Lexi Starr Johnson stole the evening and the hearts of all when she crowned the King. Lexi’s mother Becky spoke about her daughter’s bravery when experiencing her first seizure at 5 months old. Sadly, even after a brain surgery in which her right frontal lobe was removed, little Lexi continues to take 3 medications daily, and will likely take them for the rest of her life. King’s Court sponsors included Banner Health Systems; Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center; Mayo Clinic; and SDB Contracting Services. French Quarter Tables featured Banner Health Systems; Heinfeld, Meech & Co; Jones, Skelton, & Hochuli; Pfizer; Phoenix Children’s Hospital; Steptoe & Johnson; and Wells Fargo Advisors. EFAZ has a rich history of providing award-winning and innovative programming such as Camp Candlelight, Operation Outreach for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, Managing Students with Seizures for schools, and our first responder continue education curriculum.

Link: www.epilepsyfoundation.org/arizona

Photos courtesy of: Blacktie Arizona

Becky & Lexi Johnson, Larry Lolkmar (King of Mardi Gras)

Katherine Noe, MD (Board Chair, EFAZ), Elsie Piatt (Event Chair), Kristin Anderson (Mistress of Ceremonies, FOX 10), Mark Valentino (CEO, EFAZ)

Galaxy Gala 2012

Arizona Science Center

Courtesy of Beth McRae

The Arizona Science Center’s Galaxy Gala 2012 exceeded expectations with a sold-out event which raised over $500,000 for Arizona Science Center. It also featured the North American debut of Van Gogh Alive – The Exhibition, a multi-media interpretation of Van Gogh’s artwork showcasing the intersection of science and art in a whole new way. The exhibition immerses visitors in audio-video technology that includes light, sound, movement and color to showcase more than 3,000 Van Gogh images. The Galaxy Gala included a raffle (the Grand Prize was a 2012 Mercedes Benz C-Class Coupe courtesy of Phoenix Motor Company), cocktail reception, dinner and entertainment featuring Michael Kaeshammer. Chairman Dionne Najafi oversaw the transformation of the Arizona Science Center’s lobby into an amazing “Starry, Starry Night” environment.  The theme was inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s famous “Starry Night” painting and Flora Bella provided the décor with Michael’s providing the catering. Proceeds from the annual Galaxy Gala benefited the Center’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) educational programs, including providing access for Valley-area Title I schools to attend free of charge, giving students the opportunity to visit Arizona Science Center, which offers a hands-on learning experience to enhance students critical thinking skills and prepare the state’s current and future workforce.

Link: www.azscience.org

Dionne Najafi

Chevy Humphrey, Doug Young

Hon. Greg Stanton & Nicole Stanton, Nancy & LeRoy Gaintner

Howard & Ellen Katz, Jacquie & Bennett Dorrance

Richard & Robin Milne

Robert Sussman