AFM caught up with actor Patrick Fischler, known for his TV roles in “Mad Men” and “Californication,” while screening “The Test,” a short film created by and starring Fischler and his wife, Lauren Bowles, at the Phoenix Film Festival. (The film captures the emotions of the vulnerable situation of taking a pregnancy test.) Up next for the actor? A summer-release action flick with Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg.

Meet five Brophy seniors who are gearing up to participate in the Brophy Fashion Show with Saks Fifth Avenue in October.

By: Cadie Carroll

Laura Varker was born April 5, 1990 in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona. Growing up she was always very passionate about music, and her tight-knit community allowed her to explore a wide array of genres, styles and sounds. At the young age of 14, Laura recorded her very first single – and she has yet to look back. Now more than eight years later, she’s recording under the name LV Sharp and has proved to be one of the hottest up-and-coming artists of her generation.

Just this week she released a new single titled “I LUV YOU,” and I’ve got to tell you, this girl can sing. With the perfect mix of pop, soul and a little flare, it’s something that’ll keep you jamming all the way through. You can check out this spicy new track on iTunes or Amazon.

LV is more than just your average triple threat. She’s a singer, songwriter, dancer and true performer. She knows what it takes to make it big, and after talking with her in an exclusive interview there’s no doubt that’s exactly what she’s going to do. We wanted to bring you the down-low straight from the songstress herself, and here’s what LV had to say:

CC: How did you get into the music industry?

LV: Well it’s a long, long road and you know for some people it’s very simple and it comes down to just knowing somebody. But for me I took a lot of wrong turns, hit a lot of dead end paths, and worked with people who promised you this and that and the world and who had bad intentions. I started recording when I was 14 years old, and I really don’t feel like I hit the right path until last October, when I was 22. That’s eight years. It wasn’t really time wasted – I gained a lot of experience and learned a lot of lessons, but I would say once I met my managerwas really when I started to feel like I was on the path to the big times.

CC: Tell us a little bit about how you met your manager:

LV: About two or three years ago, DMC from Run DMC was out here working on a project where they had about 10 rappers working on an all-clean hip-hop/rap project. They had a contest and picked 10 rappers from all over the world, and my manager Eddie Lemons was partners with DMC on the project. He wasn’t really out here in Arizona on any management tip, he was just working with DMC on the project at Saltmine Studios in Mesa. A close friend of mine had worked on putting the funding together for their project, and he kind of put in a good word for me – told them he knew a singer and if they needed backup on vocals I could come in.

I ended up meeting with them and was already really familiar with the Saltmine because I had recorded there many times and was good friends with the owner, Don Salter. I ended up thinking I was going to do maybe one or two tracks and I ended up on like five or six songs and made really great relationships with everyone involved, Eddie being one of them. And it wasn’t until about two years later – you know I kept working really hard, sending Eddie new songs, showing him that I was ready and that I had what it took – and finally he said alright, let’s do it. And from that day on we’ve been rocking together and he’s phenomenal. I’m truly blessed to have a manager like him because he works really hard.

CC: So when you’re not in the studio or writing songs, what’s a typical day like?

LV: When I’m not creating or meeting up with people, or recording or in dance class, I really don’t have that much time. I’m usually running my own personal errands – I still have to take care of my bills and the everyday things in life like cleaning my house, stuff like that. But in my true leisure time when I have time to do things outside of work and outside of my own personal errands I would say just to spend time with my friends and family, I like to eat out and try new restaurants, shop – of course – and spending time with my two cats. I’m super obsessed with my two cats… they’re like my kids.

CC: Who are your musical influences?

LV: Growing up I was into a totally different array of artists that are in different genres and different sounds. I was obsessed with Alanis Morissette when I was younger. I just really idolized her style of music, and even thought that’s not necessarily the style of music that I sing, I still get things from her that inspire me like her ability to just walk on the edge, to take that leap and be bold, bad and edgy. And I love that because I can relate to that – I was always kind of the rebel child testing my limits and my boundaries.

I also listen to artists like Shania Twain, Aaliyah, Christina Aguilera, and Destiny’s Child. And as I got older I really took to more soulful artists like Sade, Kim Burrell, and Brandy. I really love Jazmine Sullivan and of course Mariah Carey, but I would say my all time favorite, hands down is Beyoncé. I’ve looked up to her since day one. She’s my all-around idol, the Queen. Everything about her is on point.

Not only did she bring home gold in the 1996 Olympics, Kerri Strug won American’s heart as a member of the famed Magnificent Seven of the United States Women’s Gymnast Team. Today, the mother remains passionate about fitness and staying active. When she was in town for HERSHEY’S Family Play Day, Tucson-born Strug shared her favorite games and activities for family-friendly playtimes.  

To the Military Assistance Mission, the last thing that those who defend and protect our country should worry about are their family’s financial matters.

Brittney Griner, the 22-year- old basketball superstar, joined the Phoenix Mercury this past May as a first pick for the WNBA draft. She talks with AFM about her move to the Valley from Houston and how she keeps her focus on the game amidst all the publicity.

The rise of social media hasn’t just impacted our personal and professional lives; it has brought awareness to worthy Valley causes. Here are five locals who Tweet on behalf of such noble nonprofits and their thoughts on how social media has impacted the charitable realm.

Are you single and looking to snag one of the most eligible bachelors or bachelorettes in the Valley? Well grab your cash and come out to the second annual Date for a Cause charity date auction, benefiting New Pathways for Youth, on Friday, November 8, 2013 at the newly renovated Mint in Scottsdale. Learn a little more about these bachelors and bachelorettes below.

From the luxury fields of fashion, food, design and more, these 10 local VIPs are at the top of their respective fields. So, how did they get to where they are today? 

Elycia Marie

Stylist and founder of Arcadia Vintage

“Collecting vintage clothing and accessories was a hobby of mine for many years. I call it treasure hunting. I launched Arcadia Vintage online in 2011.

The official 2014 Face of Foothills, Teen Future Face of Foothills and Junior Face of Foothills winners were announced in front of a huge audience at the W Hotel Scottsdale on Nov. 21. 

Laura Willert, 19, came out on top as the Face of Foothills winner, while 16-year-old Samantha Lewter snagged the Teen Future Face of Foothills title and Ellie York, 11, was crowned the Junior Future Face of Foothills. Both Willert and Lewter are represented by the Scottsdale-based FORD Robert Black Agency.  

 “We are thrilled to represent both winners of the Future Face of Foothills, Samantha Lewter and the Face of Foothills, Laura Willert!” said Sheree Hartwell, owner and director of FORD/RBA. Both are such lovely girls and they fully encompass what the FORD brand stands for. We know that they will do a wonderful job representing Arizona Foothills Magazine for 2014!”

Meet the winners below! 

Face of Foothills winner: Laura Willert, 19

Photo by Danny Raustadt - BiggerPictureImages.com

From decadent desserts to island getaways, these four Valley families share how each celebrates the season.

From decadent desserts to island getaways, these five Valley families share how each celebrates the season.

The Artist-in-Residence Dinner Series, presented by The Hermosa Inn, is hosting an evening of fine dining with Cindy Zimmermann, an award-winning author of the book titled A Woman of Interest: A Memoir of Letters. Here, AZFoothills.com asks Zimmermann about her book tour, the upcoming dinner event, and a potential film production.

Talented singer and songwriter Abrina doesn’t let anything or anyone define her. Taking influences from her Latina background, as well as some hip hop and pop elements, the 24-year-old hit the music scene with a fresh, unique sound. Abrina chatted with AFM while driving through the desert on tour to promote her newest single "Actin Up" ft. Eric Bellinger and the release of her debut EP “My Playground”in the fall.

AFM: Other than your tour, what do you plan on doing while you’re in Arizona?

A: I want to eat a lot. Last time I was [here], I did a little escape to Scottsdale, and Scottsdale is super poppin'. I definitely want to hit that again and do some other things that I haven’t done.

AFM: What can people expect when they go to one of your shows, and how do you hope to make them feel?

A: I just like to dance and connect and party. I just want people to be able to feel good and dance to my music. I just want to make their night the best night that they can have…connect with my ladies and just have fun.

AFM: Can you talk a little bit about the inspiration behind your debut EP 

“MyPlayground”?

A: I really have been coming into my artistry lately, and I feel like I’ve grown a lot. My main motto with my music, and me in general, is just being free and doing what I want to do and not listening to other people. It was a reoccurring theme and it just made sense because that is exactly what I’m on and what I’m trying to be is just this woman that is bold and fearless, but makes her own rules and plays the music industry how I want to play it, and I make music that I want to make. That’s why the EP is titled “My Playground”…it’s a whole motto and mentality.

AFM: Can you describe how your Latina background has influenced your music?

A: I just have always been trying to stay tucked into my culture. I want to be that Latina woman that’s doing hip hop music that can also beat and rock out, but still be just that cool fresh Latina on the scene. I feel like I’m Mexican, and I can do that and not too many other people are doing that, and I just want to fill that void in.

AFM: What would you say makes you different than other artists your age or in your genre of music?

A: I song write, so most of my stuff I write. I’m very, very involved in the creative process. I just want to be that fresh new sound that’s dope and just represent for the ladies and deliver great performances. So I just try to keep myself set apart in all of the different things that I do.

AFM: Going back to your childhood, when did your interest in music start?

A: I was the little girl that my parents couldn’t get to stop singing and dancing around the house. For holidays, me and my little cousin would put on these shows for the family. I just always loved it. I started fooling around in recording studios at like 16. It was always a love and passion of mine and it was something I’ve always gravitated towards.

AFM: You won first place at BB King’s Universal City Walk contest in 2008. What was that like?

A: It was dope. It was a pretty hard competition. There’s a lot of really good people I was up against, and it was cool when I won. It was a thing that confirmed music for me and my artistry, so I always define that as a really great moment where it made me make up in my mind, okay I do really need to do this.

AFM: Moving forward, what are some of your career goals?

A: I want to have a few, at least, successful albums. I want to be able to tour the world and to be international. I don’t ever want to be in a box and be limited. I just want to create music people all around the world love and hear. I want to travel and perform as my biggest goal and keep making good music basically, and hopefully it will be successful. If you lend me your ear, I will lend you my heart.

Abrina will announce her next multi-city tour after the drop of her EP, which is set to be released this fall but is available for pre-order now on iTunes.

With effervescent spirit running through her every word and vibrant passion directing her stories, it’s no question whether or not the Valley’s Heather Novak can entertain and amp up a crowd—and there’s proof in dollars for that. Organizations throughout the nation have raised millions of dollars thanks to her.

As Phoenicians, we have a lot to be grateful for: intensely beautiful sunsets. Seventy-degree winters. The best spa and golf experiences on earth. These 11 admirable women. Meet some of the Valley’s most talented and giving women who are at the top of their professional fields and have a goal of making the Valley the very best it can be.

Story by Melissa Larsen Photographed by Jason Black on location at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa 

TINA CURRAN: chairman and co-founder of the Advisory Council of Cardon Children’s Medical Center TWITTER: @TINA_SOTS

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? I am humbled and grateful to be chosen as one of the Women Who Move the Valley. As an Arizona native, I deeply love and care for Arizona. I have had the privilege to experience the beauty of amazing mentors. My desire is to give back. Mentoring and inspiring others, particularly children, to volunteer is most important to me.

WHY IS CHILDREN’S MEDICINE SO NEAR AND DEAR TO YOUR HEART? As a mother of three sons, nothing is more important than the health of our children and the children of the world. As a spouse of a pediatrician, I have

the unique understanding of how innocent children really are—how disease does not discriminate. No one ever asks for cancer, juvenile diabetes or autism. However, together we can raise money for research, support each other during difficult times and never give up on looking for a cure.

WHAT OTHER VALLEY CAUSES ARE MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU? P.A.N.D.A (founding board member); St. Mary’s Food Bank; Elevate Phoenix; Forever Young Foundation/Sophie’s Place.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? Co-founding the Advisory Council of Cardon Children’s Medical Center with my husband, Dr. David Curran. Equally important, creating the signature event, Stars of the Season, that has in its fifth year netted close to $2 million for various programs at Cardon Children’s Medical Center.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? Passion and gratitude. I love what I do! I am very blessed to be surrounded by such incredible family members and friends.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? Time. There are never enough hours in a day.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I would love for Arizona to become the nationwide leader in adopting and implementing integrative medical therapies to both treat and cure childhood diseases.

NAME A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE. Without a doubt, my mom. She leads her life with such grace and wisdom.

TINA’S FAVES

BOOK: “The Little Prince” by Antoine De Saint-Exupery. MOVIE: “Rocky”. GUILTY PLEASURE: Taking a nap. TV SHOW: “Scandal.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: Prado at The Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Stars of the Season. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: Sports! Love the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Coyotes, Phoenix Suns and Arizona State University Sun Devils. 

PEARL CHANG ESAU, president and CEO of Expect More Arizona, a nonprofit striving for world-class education for all K through 12 students in Arizona

TWITTER: @EXPECTMOREAZ; @ESAUPEARL

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It means a lot to be recognized as someone who is having an impact on ensuring that all of Arizona’s students are getting an excellent education. My goal is to encourage everyone to play a role in supporting Arizona’s students. The quality of our education system doesn’t just impact students; it impacts our economy and everyone’s quality of life.

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF EXPECT MORE ARIZONA? Expect More Arizona is building a movement of Arizonans who are committed to ensuring a world-class education for every child. We raise public awareness, engage parents and voters, and foster collaboration across the state to improve education.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? One of my proudest professional moments was when my first class of fifth graders in East Los Angeles walked across the stage at their promotion ceremony, with a commitment in their hearts to succeed in school and go to college.

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR EMPLOYEES WOULD SAY ABOUT YOU? They would probably say that I’m very passionate about our mission of ensuring an excellent education for every child, that I care a lot about working together with each other and the community and that I like to eat!

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? My belief that every child deserves the opportunity to fulfill his or her potential drives me to work hard every day to ensure that their education helps them succeed.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? We are working to create a culture in Arizona where education is a top priority. That means that we need parents and voters to be more engaged in understanding the issues impacting education and taking action to support students.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I hope that, one day, we are able to say with confidence that, in Arizona, a child’s life prospects are not determined by his or her circumstances of birth.

NAME A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE. That would have to be my mother. She and my father immigrated to the United States right before I was born. She has continually made sacrifices big and small throughout my life to support our family, and I am so grateful to have her as an example.

PEARL’S FAVES

MOVIE: Anything in the X-Men series and anything I can watch with my 4-year old daughter. GUILTY PLEASURE: My espresso machine. TV SHOW: “So You Think You Can Dance.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: I love anything that Upward Projects or Sam Fox creates. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Local First Fall Festival and the Chinese New Year Festival. 

TYLER BUTLER director of community outreach for GoDaddy TWITTER: @TYLERJBUTLER

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It means being a connector by serving to elevate others in their aspirations and being an advocate for positive change. I truly believe that by practicing service leadership great things can happen. I pride myself on supporting others in their aspirations and being an innovator in my own career so that I lead in meaningful ways.

WHY IS THIS YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? Upon graduating from college, I had the opportunity to develop a publication. I enjoyed aspects of working with the media and in marketing organizations I believed in. I also had an interest in event planning that then led me to work in nonprofit for several years where I realized that Corporate Social Responsibility was an emerging field of focus for most community-minded companies.

I quickly learned that working in community relations would combine these two areas of expertise and allow me to grow and develop new skills. I have subsequently been completing my master’s degree in Community Development and Social Entrepreneurship and have had the unique opportunity to put my knowledge and experience to good use at a world-class company like GoDaddy.

WE HAVE BEEN TOLD YOU CHANGED GODADDY IN A POSITIVE WAY. HOW SO? I’m responsible for leading GoDaddy’s Corporate Social Responsibility program. As the leader of GoDaddy’s global philanthropic efforts, I have had the opportunity to build on GoDaddy’s rich history of philanthropic works by helping to create new employee engagement programs that reward volunteerism. I work to align GoDaddy’s business visions with causes that make sense and operate in markets where our employees work, live and play. With the support of the amazing team at GoDaddy we have successfully created and launched an employee volunteer program with paid time off for volunteerism. We also have a “dollars for doers” program to empower employees to earn support for their charities of choice, a matching program and cause marketing campaigns. We like to have a healthy schedule of advocacy and engagement campaigns enabling every GoDaddy team member the opportunity to pay it forward.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? I’m extremely proud of the work done through my Valley Leadership class project. Working in conjunction with the Phoenix Center for the Arts, we created and launched Art4All, a mobile arts program that delivers arts programming to youth in underserved communities. GoDaddy was the first sponsor of this project, which was recognized as the winning project for Valley Leadership Class 35.

WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU? Children’s causes seem to be the central theme for my philanthropic efforts. More specifically, I have the pleasure of supporting The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale as a board of governors member. I’m also a member of the board of directors for Phoenix Suns Charities and The Phoenix Center for the Arts.

I also serve the Central Arizona Corporate Volunteer Council as Board Secretary, Valley Leadership as vice chair for the Man & Woman of the Year Awards and Scottsdale Leadership as a member of their advisory council.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I wish to have more balance in my life. I hope to travel more to new and different places and to make more time for my loved ones.

TYLER’S FAVES

MOVIE: “The Royal Tenenbaums.” GUILTY PLEASURE: Chocolate-covered gummy bears. TV SHOW: “Mad Men.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: I often crave the Stetson, a chopped salad from The Gladly and the Chambord margaritas at Salt & Lime Modern Mexican Grill. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Live & Local presented by GoDaddy. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: I love that the Valley can seem like a small town where everyone knows one another. I also enjoy that we can drive an hour to a great lake for summer fun or head up north and find skiing and outdoor fun. 

ANITA VERMA-LALLIAN, director of marketing for Vermaland, LLC

TWITTER: @ANITAVL777

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It is a huge honor! It means a lot to me, since I have grown up in Arizona and have seen Phoenix grown the way it has. It gives me a lot of pleasure to be able to contribute to the growth of Phoenix through our business, while also having the ability to give back to our community. My goal is to see Phoenix grow and thrive as a world-class city. If I can contribute to this in any way, that is a huge accomplishment!

WHY IS MARKETING AND REAL ESTATE YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? I chose marketing as my career path because I have always been interested in analyzing how the market works and how to deliver a successful product to customers. I love having to think outside of the box, keeping up with new trends and solving challenging problems creatively. I also chose real estate since that is the nature of our family business. Our company invests in raw land throughout Phoenix. It has been amazing to buy land that is in the outskirts of the city and ultimately develop that land to the point where people are living on it.

WHY HAS SOLAR ENERGY BECOME A PASSION FOR YOU? I am very passionate about solar energy since it has numerous benefits for Arizona, both environmentally and economically. Solar benefits our environment since it reduces our dependence on foreign oil and provides a sustainable source of clean energy. Arizona has one of the highest solar resources in the world. If we utilized this resource, we can become a world leader in renewable energy, which would bring a tremendous amount of investment capital to our state, and would additionally create new jobs.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? My proudest professional moment has been creating our company’s charity, the Verma Charitable Foundation. It has given us an opportunity to give back to the community, which has been great. My parents were the inspiration behind this. They have always been involved in giving back to the community.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? I joined the business in 2008, at the beginning of the real estate recession in Phoenix. The economy was in a severe recession and real estate was at an absolute standstill. Values plummeted to very low values at this time. We needed to determine alternate ways to generate revenue. Fortunately, we were able to expand our business into the solar energy space. We learned as much as we could about the business and were able to work with numerous solar developers on our land. We even developed our own solar facility on one of our properties.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I wish to see the city of Phoenix and Arizona grow. We have a lot of untapped potential in Arizona. We have great natural resources as well as a talented workforce.

ANITA’S FAVES

BOOK: “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” MOVIE: “Good Will Hunting.” GUILTY PLEASURE: Reality TV. TV SHOW: “The Mindy Project.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: The Herb Box. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Scottsdale Culinary Festival. 

TERRA SCHAAD, executive director of Hunkapi Programs, a wellness program specializing in horse therapy for children and adults with special needs

INSTAGRAM: @TERRASCHAAD; @HUNKAPI PROGRAMS

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? In my mind, I am a girl who loves horses and has a passion to share their healing power with others. To receive this title is so humbling and mind-blowing to me. I am completely honored. My purpose in this life is to help others understand their greatness and to move mindfully into that authenticity. While my method of doing that has historically been done through my work with horses and people, I’m grateful for this opportunity to show up and, in some way, be a living, breathing example of how living mindfully can change your life and inspire others.

HOW DID YOU FIND A PASSION IN EQUINE-HUMAN RELATIONS? Horses have been like a magnet for me from a very young age, and at age 10 I was given the opportunity to own my own horse, Smokey. From that moment, every second I had free was spent with horses. It was an internal passion first to be with them, probably subconsciously because they were healing me from the inside out. Once I was able to cognitively understand how they had affected me, I then knew it was my responsibility and purpose to share that with others. Now, each day I am in the arena, learning with them and watching them move people toward greater balance and health—mind, body and spirit—it further ignites that passion.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? Gratitude, humility and an insatiable desire to be the best. I treat every moment of life, inside and outside of the arena, as an opportunity to learn and grow personally. I experience, I notice, I change, I collaborate and I fully believe in the power of “we.”

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? That every child on this earth feels loved, supported, nurtured and safe. That the words “don’t” and “bad” are taken out of the English language and are replaced by “do” and “brilliant.”

NAME A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE. I can’t mention one without the other; both influenced me at the same time and in the same way, but the combo has created who I am. Dr. Debbie Crews and Dr. Barbara Kerr gave me opportunity to do exactly what I want to do, without limits. They supervised and mentored me, while giving me free rein to make mistakes without judgment. Their only words of advice were “go and I’ll support you.” As a girl and young woman, I was trained to think small, but my sprit was big. They gave me permission to light my mind on fire and that is a powerful, priceless gift.

TERRA’S FAVES

BOOK: “The Alchemist.” MOVIE: “Good Will Hunting.” GUILTY PLEASURE: French fries. TV SHOW: “Dancing with the Stars”—I love the personal transformation. VALLEY RESTAURANT: Andreoli Italian Grocer. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Christmas Day at the Ranch. My program, Hunkapi, has hosted it for the past 11 years. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: I love the diversity of the topography and cultures. 

KAREN PALECEK partner and co-managing member of Palecek & Palecek PLLC

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? What it means to me to be a Woman Who Moves the Valley is a woman who is willing to work hard and contribute her talents to a cause or industry in the Valley that she believes in. We are all blessed with certain talents and passions and to use the talents for what we are passionate about is so important.

WHY IS CONSTRUCTION LAW YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? I chose construction law as my career path because I am passionate about the construction industry. I wanted to be a litigator and specialize in a particular area of the law so that I could use my talents for not only something I am passionate about but be knowledgeable in one area and develop an expertise.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? My proudest professional moment was probably winning my first jury trial in an important construction case.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? The driving force behind my success is my amazing family. My parents first, of course, because they have been there every step of the way and my brother, who is my partner, is such a source of strength as we have not only grown up together, but we share the same values and goals, and I can’t imagine not having such support in both my business and personal life. My children, Kendall, Collin and Jenny, who I love more than I could ever express, are a driving force behind by success because my love and bond with them is so strong that I truly want to do my best for them. My fiancé who had a heart transplant four years ago and recovered from a rejection of that heart that almost took his life is also a source of strength and driving force behind my success. He is so strong and has such a will to live that nothing stops his determination.

WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS THE NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU? The Valley cause that is nearest and dearest to me is the American Subcontractors Association and their choice for charity, whether it is a student at Arizona State University’s school of construction or the Daisy Mountain Fire Department charities. I also support Attitude Dream basketball, which is my fiancé’s nonprofit organization that supports young boys and girls trying to use their talents to achieve success.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? One wish I have for the future is the continued economic strength of the Valley. The Valley is such a wonderful place to work and live that if it continues to get stronger economically then everyone will benefit including some of the wonderful charities we have in the Valley as people will have more to give.

NAME A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE. My mom is the biggest influence in my life because she is my best friend, and she has such strength both emotionally and spiritually that I can’t help but want to emulate each and every aspect of her life.

KAREN’S FAVES

BOOK: All of the James Patterson books, but I especially enjoyed “The Beach House.” MOVIE: “The Express.” GUILTY PLEASURE: Red wine and dark chocolate-sea salt caramels. TV SHOW: “Criminal Minds.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: Nook. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Restaurant Week. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: The ability to be in multiple climates and terrains. You can be in a beautiful desert and the vast ponderosa pine forest all in the same day. 

CHRISSY DONNELLY best-selling author in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It’s an honor to be considered with women in the Valley who are making a difference in others’ lives. One of the things I love about Arizona is its widespread philanthropic spirit. It’s easy to take it for granted, but it’s really extraordinary.

WHY IS BEING AN AUTHOR YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? It started out as a project to interview married couples about the secrets to a great marriage, as my husband and I were newly married at the time. Along the way, I discovered I loved sharing these inspiring stories, as I saw how they encouraged and helped others through tough times. It also made me realize how important it is to find something you love in life and focus on it.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? The letters we’ve received over the years about how a story we shared encouraged someone or changed their life for the better. I take no credit, but hearing about the result is gratifying.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? The grace of God in my life.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? Taking the leap of faith by leaving my stable profession as a CPA with Price Waterhouse to become an author in 1995 when the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series was relatively unknown.

WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU? Where Hope Lives is an amazing program that helps rescue young women who are victims of sex trafficking, primarily here in Arizona. With the help of the groundbreaking Dream Rooms program, Where Hope Lives is creating a safe refuge where these girls can begin to heal and find new purpose for their future. These young women inspire me every day.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? To bring inspiring stories to the big screen. I am a movie fanatic and see way too many violent films with depressing messages. My husband and I are collaborating with some established filmmakers to bring some of our stories to the big screen and make a dent in the glut of hopeless messages out there.

CHRISSY’S FAVES

BOOK: The Bible. MOVIE: “The Shawshank Redemption.” GUILTY PLEASURE: Reality TV shows involving singing and dancing competitions. TV SHOW: Tie between “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Voice.” Love seeing people pursue their dreams! VALLEY RESTAURANT: A quiet dinner with my husband at home. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: The local Dancing with the Stars event. I love watching my friends try new things and raise money for charity. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: Every time I land at Sky Harbor. It doesn’t matter if it’s 115 degrees –I just feel like I’ve come home. 

LISA STARRY, founder and artistic director of Scorpius Dance Theatre, a nonprofit contemporary dance company

TWITTER: @SCORPIUS_DANCE

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It means that I have made an impact on my community, in particular in the area of performing arts. I think that dance can be intimidating for some people, and with Scorpius Dance Theatre, I’m always striving to create shows that are accessible, entertaining and visually stunning. Every year, our audiences grow, which means the arts scene in the Valley is gaining momentum. For the health and well-being of our youth, I also think it’s critical to nurture young artists and serve as a mentor and role model.

WHY IS DANCE/THE ARTS YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? As a young child, I loved to listen to music and perform dance shows for my friends and family. As I grew up, my passion for the art form never subsided. After spending years performing on stage, I was exposed to the world of professional choreography. It didn’t take long for me to realize that creating art and seeing my vision come to life on stage was my true calling. I enjoy entertaining and watching the reaction from the audience.

WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK THE ARTS PLAY IN THE VALLEY? Every major city has a thriving arts scene that helps to define their cultural fabric. As the Valley continues to grow and mature, it’s critical that we cultivate the arts to ensure we have a vibrant, diverse place for people to visit and live. The arts are the most genuine outlet for communication and can affect so many people in so many different ways. They provide an outlet for self-expression, invoke a range of emotions, and offer a healthy, temporary escape from the stress of day-to-day life.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? When I choreographed my first big show, Dreaming in Water, at the Orpheum Theater. It was a huge undertaking producing a show of that size, and it was a ton of stress on myself, my family and my cast and crew. However, the night we performed made it all worthwhile. It was so magical! There were more than 800 people in the audience, and that was even during a night when there was a serious storm warning. At the close of the show, Scorpius Dance Theatre received its first-ever standing ovation.

WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS THE NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU? I’m a huge animal lover, and I’m constantly fostering and finding homes for abandoned dogs and cats. Many of these animals have required extensive medical attention.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I want to see my love for dance and producing shows move to the big screen. Creating a movie based on my show, A Vampire Tale, is on my bucket list.

LISA’S FAVES

BOOK: “Interview with a Vampire” by Anne Rice. MOVIE: “The Lost Boys.” GUILTY PLEASURE: Blasting a good techno song in my car. TV SHOW: “The Walking Dead.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: Postino Winecafe. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Phoenix Comicon. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: Taking walks with my dogs and enjoying our beautiful Central Phoenix neighborhoods while our weather is nice and cool. 

ANITA WALKER, vice president of marketing for Fox Restaurant Concepts

TWITTER: @FOXBIGKITCHEN INSTAGRAM: @FOXRESTAURANTCONCEPTS

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It is incredibly humbling to share space with some of the other fine gals on this list. Really, being a native for 38 years, I am filled with pride. Not necessarily for the work I do, but our community as a whole is really rad. I love being a part of and witnessing the large- and small-scale entrepreneurship and community development that exists in Arizona today. I think we have reached a new level of cool. I am so blessed to have the privilege to learn from a brilliant and generous man, Sam Fox, while using connections to support incredible organizations like Neighborhood Ministries. If I do move the Valley, my hope is that my work brings light to those who are so talented and really making a difference.

WHY IS MARKETING YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? At a young age, I found myself working hard to gain support for things I was passionate about. In third grade, it was elephants; in college, it was equality for women. I learned early on that people don’t buy what you are selling but why you are selling it. I would fail miserably if I had to market something without value to me. That is why I love working for Fox Restaurants—we serve people every day. We help people come together to enjoy each other over an incredible meal while making memories. Making a perfect experience for our communities, friends and neighbors is a passion. Marketing passion is easy.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? When a young girl said she quit her job to come work with me. I didn’t want to let her down and realized I had a responsibility to teach the next generation of marketers.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOUR SUCCESS? Good old-fashion hard work. My parents did me a favor by teaching me hard work at a young age. We had chores every Saturday, had to make A’s and roofed our house—and painted the exterior of my house in third grade. Dig in and get it done right and fast. Thanks, Vern and Dolores Jacobs!

HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A MOM WITH YOUR CAREER? I’m such a better mommy when I work. I dive into the deep end nine hours a day but when I get home with my kids, I’m a focused and full-attention mom. When they go to sleep, I go back to work. So, this question wouldn’t be so positive if asked to my husband about me being a good wife. Actually, on that note, Chuck Walker makes it possible for me to balance being a good mom and have the career I love. Without a supportive partner, it would be nearly impossible.

ANITA’S FAVES

BOOK: “Watership Down” since sixth grade. MOVIE: “Big Lebowski.” The Dude, Walter and Donny. There will never be three more perfect characters together in a film. GUILTY PLEASURE: With three kids and a job...30 minutes by myself. TV SHOW: “The Walking Dead.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: Little Cleo’s. I love everything on the menu! Ask for Casey. He’ll make your experience memorable. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Certified Local Fall Festival. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: Pink sunsets and November weather. I think we live in paradise. 

ACKIE HALLEEN, vice president of retail operations for Goodwill of Central Arizona

TWITTER: @GOODWILLAZ

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? It is truly an honor to be included in this group of amazing women.

WHY IS THIS YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? This wasn’t the path that I chose originally. I was in the fashion business for years before I decided to change careers. I was with a for-profit thrift organization for about nine years, and then joined Goodwill 13 years ago and haven’t looked back. It’s very rewarding to know that what you do every day has an impact in the community. I get to do what I love—retail—while working for a nonprofit that puts people to work. Having fun while giving back? It doesn’t get any better than that!

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? I can’t say that there’s been one defining moment. I feel so proud every day to work with the team that we have at Goodwill and to see how far we’ve come over the last decade. I will say that when we held our first Career Expo at the University of Phoenix Stadium in 2013 and over 6,000 job seekers attended, seeing our organization provide resources and support to so many people was a very proud moment.

WHY IS GO RED FOR WOMEN SO NEAR AND DEAR TO YOU? I was born with a defective heart and have had to adjust my lifestyle accordingly. I really want women to understand that heart disease is the No. 1 killer among us, but it can certainly be prevented. Women need to talk about this issue more and understand the facts about how stress, high blood pressure and diet can lead to heart disease, attacks or strokes, and what can be done to prevent it.

WHAT IS ONE WISH YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE? I believe that our mission here at Goodwill is one of the best-kept secrets in the Valley. Through our retail stores, we are able to provide the funding that enables us to operate Career Centers, hold job fairs, and provide a multitude of services that give people the tools to achieve employment. My wish is for people to understand that Goodwill is not just thrift stores, but a community organization that helps improve the lives of the people who live here.

NAME A WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE. Sue Fish—she was my first director in the thrift industry. I still try to be the leader that she saw in me; she had a big impact on my career.

JACKIE’S FAVES

BOOK: Any book about the monarchy; I am fascinated by kings and queens. MOVIE: “Elf ”—I could watch it all year long. GUILTY PLEASURE: Shopping and drinking wine. TV SHOW: Unfortunately it’s not on anymore, but “The Tudors” is my all-time favorite. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: Our own Evening of Goodwill and the Go Red for Women luncheon. THING ABOUT ARIZONA: The beauty of the desert. There is nothing more spectacular than watching the hot air balloons floating through the morning sky. You can’t see that everywhere!

CHRISTINA SMITH, president of closetcandyboutique.com

INSTAGRAM: @CLOSETCANDYBOUTIQUE TWITTER: @SHOPCCB

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN WHO MOVES THE VALLEY? I’ve always admired the women chosen for their amazing careers and focus on giving back. I think it’s amazing to be in a position to run a successful business and carve out the time and resources to give back to our community.

WHY IS FASHION YOUR CHOSEN CAREER PATH? I’ve always been a bit of a shopaholic and an avid online shopper. When I owned Designer Shades, I started out with a few fun pieces in the lobby. I soon realized I had a gift for buying and styling. I paired this with my background in business and operations and my husband’s background in computer science and Web design and soon we figured out how to get our adorable outfits into people’s closets all over the country.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL MOMENT? It had to be the day we had $1,000,000 in sales, and our company was less than a year old. Being able to do this debt- free was even more meaningful!

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? A few months after we launched our Web site, we hit our first $100,000 month, and my husband was diagnosed with cancer. This meant we were working seven days a week at our regular jobs and Closet Candy Boutique, trying to manage the growth, and taking care of our two little boys all while my husband was undergoing treatment. It was the toughest few months of our lives, but I’m really proud that we got through it together and only grew stronger in our faith.

WHAT VALLEY CAUSE IS NEAREST AND DEAREST TO YOU? Every year, we participate in Family To Family through Christ Church of the Valley (CCV). We are able to make sure that thousands of children who rely on the public schools for their meals don’t go hungry over the two-week Christmas break. This year, our goal is to donate enough food to feed 200 families for an entire week each. CCV as a whole will feed about 7,500 families for two weeks each. We are also fortunate enough to donate all of our slightly defective clothing to The Phoenix Dream Center, another amazing Valley organization.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A MOM WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE? This is a tough one! I’m definitely a workaholic, and my kids make it pretty clear when I’ve been too distracted. Growing a new business takes an immeasurable amount of time and effort, but so does raising children. At the end of the day, I just have to remember that shaping these energetic boys into amazing, responsible, giving men is my most important job.

CHRISTINA’S FAVES

BOOK: I’m definitely a fiction type of girl. I recently finished the “Divergent” series and loved them. MOVIE: I’m not afraid to admit I’ve watched “Pitch Perfect” more times than I can count. GUILTY PLEASURE: Probably watching “The Real Housewives” after everyone goes to bed. TV SHOW: “The League” and “Parenthood.” VALLEY RESTAURANT: Sol Cocina or The Capital Grille are my favorites. ANNUAL LOCAL EVENT: ZooLights with my kids and The Phoenix Open with my husband. 

From on-air personalities you’re sure to recognize to sure- to-be-a-household-name CEOs, meet 22 of the Valley’s most successful, sexiest singles. 

Cory McCloskey has worked for FOX 10 Phoenix for thirteen years as the resident meteorologist. Energetic and entertaining, Cory’s perpetual exuberance impels people to tune in each morning. Before becoming a meteorologist, McCloskey acted, recorded jingles for national commercials, and modeled in New York City – all which helped him define his true passions and acted as stepping-stones for his goofy and loveable brand. He then made his news-casting debut on WGEM-TV in Quincy, Illinois, before he became a household Phoenix name.

 Now, McCloskey isn’t just a local household name, but a national. Last month he was faced with a tricky situation on live TV, which then became an Internet sensation with a viral video attached. The numbers on his self-populated graphic map how’d Arizona temperatures in the thousands. Quick on his feet, Cory rolled with the error and the result was a YouTube video seen throughout the country.

Naturally, this pole-vaulted McCloskey into the public eye, thus leading to an abundance of exposure for this charismatic weatherman. When he’s not reporting, Cory sings in the Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons tribute band, December ’63.  A performer on screen and off, Cory brightens a room when he walks in. The acclaimed weatherman sat down to chat with us about his career as a meteorologist, his band December ’63, and his infamous YouTube video.

AFM: How do you like your job? It seems to all viewers that you just love it.  

Cory: I love it; it’s barely a job. The nice thing about this job is that everybody’s up. Ron, Rick, Kristen, Andrea and me, we know that once we get in here, everyone’s totally ready to go. That’s good because when we all show up, we’re ready to go.

AFM: Why do you like morning news, as opposed to any other type?

Cory: I like it because it’s so freewheeling. It’s loose. It’s, well, at least my portion is unscripted. Most of the show can be that way. It gives off the aroma of something that was assembled at gunpoint. It’s kind of just a rollicking thing. I love the Fox philosophy (coming from National) - whatever you’re good at, they let you do it. If you have skills at something, they just let you alone and it’s one less thing for them to worry about. So that’s what I like about our show is that, it’s got that sort of looseness. Plus, we all love each other.

AFM: Is it very much a family environment just like on TV?

Cory: Absolutely! The six of us, we enjoy each other’s company. When you look at the team, overall, we’ve been together a long time and viewers, they like that. They like knowing that when they tune in it’s the same people. If they like you, then it’s fun for them too. They groove on whatever your vibe is.

AFM: So we definitely want to talk a little bit about your very fun newscast that got a lot of good attention. Do you know what happened to the screen to change the numbers like that? Did you ever figure it out?

Cory: I have no idea! It has not been replicated. I did go back to that map about a half an hour later to see what it looked like and everything was fine, but that map populates itself. All those numbers come up on their own. I don’t ever have to touch it, and it’s never been a problem in thirteen years. So, I was surprised, to say the least. But we don’t know what happened.

AFM: Well, you’re definitely good on your feet. What were you first thinking when you saw the screen; were you surprised?

Cory: I was surprised to see it, but I knew that it would be fine. When the first map came up, which was the one where I said, “Oh, Gila Bend’s at seven-hundred fifty degrees”, I had already pressed the button to move on to the next map, and so inside I was thinking, “Aw, that really would have been fun to play around with, Gila Bend at seven-hundred fifty degrees.” Then the next map showed up, and there they all were. It was like a gold field. I was very excited, because that’s the kind of nonsense and improvisation that is really fun for me. I knew there was nothing that could really be done, and frankly, I didn’t know what was going to be on the next image.” I certainly never expected that it would become what it became but that’s super fun too. It still makes me laugh when I look at it.

AFM: Millions of people have seen this video; it’s gotten a lot of play. Do you find that your fame is more widespread? Do people stop you in the streets and say, “Hey, you’re that guy!”

Cory: I’ve had a lot of that lately. Around here, there are lots of people who kind of look at me and say they don’t know why. Something’s clicking with them because I’m on the show, and have been for such a long time. But now it’s become very concentrated. I was out at the Phoenix Open on Saturday and it was so fun. People were so nice. One person said “hey, are you that temperature guy?” and then somebody heard that and so pretty soon there was a little crowd. They were all very complimentary. I’m not; obviously I’m not embarrassed by it or anything. There are so many things that just take off on the Internet when you know that the subject of the thing is thinking, “if only I could take that back.” I can’t imagine being on the other end of something like that, having done something awful and then all of a sudden fifteen million people, I think that’s about where we are on YouTube and Facebook, are piling on top of you. It would be a downer, to say the least.

AFM: You also are in a band, December ’63. How do you think it differs performing live in front of an audience as opposed to performing here in the studio?

Cory: It’s pretty similar for me because almost everything that I do is live. That’s what I really love about it. It’s kind of the same thing that I enjoy about performing, singing, or acting. I think most of those kinds of performances are scripted in one way or another. You can’t make up your own lyrics or improvise a whole script but that feel you get from the audience, you know every actor says it, is super fun. The other nice thing about this team, the morning show team, is that someone’s almost always in the studio so I’m playing with them, as well as all of those people on the other end of the camera.

AFM: Tell us a little bit about December ‘63

Cory: It is a tribute band to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The name of the group plays off of one of their big hits, “Oh What A Night.” The real title of that song is “December ‘63.” I kind of grew up with a second surge of that band. They were very popular in the early to mid-sixties and then had a bit of a lull, but then came back strong again in the mid seventies, which was when I was a teenager. I knew a lot of their music, and I liked their old stuff too, just because I’m a tenor voice so I always loved hearing Frankie Valli sing those high notes. I’m one of the Four Seasons, so to speak. It’s such a fun group. That music, it’s so recognized. I think what I really like about singing with that band, and I do a lot of performing, but singing with that group, I love looking out in a crowd and seeing all these memories sort of percolating above everyone’s heads because often times the crowd is in their sixties, or older. That’s the music they were listening to in high school, so the memories, I’m sure, are very powerful. It’s fun to be able to evoke that in someone. The sound is pretty true, so it’s a joy to do that music.

AFM: What has been your favorite memory with the band so far?

Cory: I would say that playing at the Sun Bowl was one of our most enjoyable nights. There were like six thousand people out there. They were grooving on that concert so much and the whole front was filed up with people dancing. For me, whether it’s broadcasting or doing this show in the morning, or doing that, I hope that whatever my work legacy is, it’s that it gave people a good feeling. Whatever I’ve been doing, every once in a while someone says, “I was having a crummy day and that really made me feel good,” or “what a fun night that was; I was down before I got to the concert but I walked away singing along.” After the viral video, I wanted to read some of the comments and see what people were saying about it. Especially on my own Facebook page and the Fox 10 Facebook page, there were several people who said things like, “I was having a terrible day, but that just turned me around,” because it was funny, and you could watch it six times and still enjoy it.

Story by Casey Fraser and Christina Tetreault

Lightheartedly laughing with his band members and management team up in a high-rise corner of the renowned Dierk Bentley’s Whiskey Row, 22-year-old Chase Bryant prepares for his post-Super Bowl night show at the renowned Scottsdale hot-spot. The young and passionate artist who’s single “Take it On Back” that has swung him into the public eye takes a calm approach to his career. Allowing his passion for music that has run in his family for more than three generations to drive his career, Bryant still seems to stay humble and focuses on his true passion: the music. We had a moment to touch base with Bryant before his show and exchange a fun and sarcastic banter.

AFM: How do you feel about going on tonight?

Chase: I think it’s going to be fun. Being apart of something this big like the Super Bowl is pretty cool. I wish I could have made the game, but I didn’t so now we get to play for everyone that did. So, I’m excited to play and play at Dierks Bentley’s place. I’m excited to getting to play for this rowdy crowd. I know they’re going to be rowdy and I know they got a lot of liquid courage so it’s going to be fun.

AFM: Are you close with Dierks at all?

Chase: I’ve met Dierk’s a couple of times. I haven’t toured with him or played any dates with him, but I know he’s a really good dude and everyone loves him. People say, "Dierks? How do you not love Dierks?"

AFM: Sounds like you’ve got a busy week, what’s going on? You said you were flying in from Atlanta?

Chase:  Last night was our first night of the 'Take It On Back' tour. Got done playing last night and then got on a bus at 2AM, got to the airport at 5AM, flew out at 7AM, and we've been here ever since. So, it’s been a pretty crazy little weekend.

AFM: It being your first solo tour, what are you really expecting for it?

Chase: It’s hard to know what to expect. We haven’t played a ton of dates on our own yet. So, it’s kind of hard to expect what to have every night as far as people wise, but for me, I’m just really expecting to go out and play my record. Hopefully people will become prone to that and then get excited about that record and my music.

AFM: Where did your passion for music come from?

Chase: My family played. My grandfather played with the classics - Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Waylon Jennings. My uncle was in a band called Ricochet and in 1996 they had a big hit on country radio. Growing up in a family of musicians definitely inspired me to play. I grew up playing Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Bryan Adams everybody like that. Guys like that who I grew up with definitely inspire me.

AFM: On a serious note, tell me a little bit about 'Take It On Back'?

Chase: 'Take It On Back' it’s my first top ten single on country radio. I wrote it probably three or four years ago to my buddy Tommy Lee James and Dylan Altman. They’ve written songs like Barefoot Blue Jean Night and She’s My Kind of Rain. Bunch of hits like that. I’m excited about it - I mean this has given me a career finally. I’ve waited my whole life for this. Hard work pays off and this song is definitely going to pay off for me. I’m excited to just keep working and hopefully keep having success.

AFM: What inspired you guys to write it. Are there any special people behind it?

Chase: Everybody always talks about the first line of the song “She was a South Georgia stunner…” I have no clue what in the world a 'South Georgia stunner' is (laughs)…I don’t know a girl from Georgia.

AFM: Haha, so pretty much every girl in Georgia right now that thinks that song is about her and it’s not.

Chase: It’s about all of them. But, I was a songwriter and producer in town before I was an artist trying to figure myself out and figure out. I was getting a lot of songs cut and put on hold by artists but was never making records and I came in and said, “Man I just want to do something for me and do something I feel is the best replication of who I am and I wrote it.” Now it’s been successful. Thankfully I’ve had a little bit of success and I’m really excited about that.

AFM: What’s that hype been like? I mean, the past years been pretty insane for you in regards to just numbers and people listening and everything like that. I bet it’s been a whirlwind.

Chase: It’s been a big whirlwind. Having a top 10 single, being on the road with Tim McGraw, and headlining a tour…it’s a lot to consume in such a short amount of time so you have to kind of brace yourself for the ride. I really haven’t had the time to stop and look at everything that’s happened and I’ve just been really thankful and honored. My team, my label, my band, and my crew have just been really great at making sure I’m level headed and just enjoying the ride. We’re all having fun and that’s just all that matters to me.

AFM: You’re pretty young still, how do you feel being in this industry? You’re going to be headlining for Tim McGraw, I mean he’s a very big deal, very established.

Chase: Being this young in a business like this. When you first walk into it you kind of have to affirm a lot of people that, “Yes I’m valid at being an artist and have a statement and it’s worth something.” That can be tough. But, being this young should inspire other people that there’s not ever an age limit or a limit on what year you can go after your profession. For me, I always wanted to do it young and thankfully I had the opportunity to.

AFM:  What was your first instrument and when did you start playing?

Chase: Guitar. I started playing when I was about a year and a half old. I picked it up and have never turned back since. I had long hair and wore pullover and the dorkiest clothes you could ever find rocking out on the picnic table. Overalls and boots and long hair and a mullet that’s all that mattered back in 95’.

AFM: Is your family out here with you on this tour, any special people?

Chase: My dad comes out every now and then on the road, my mom will come out and hang out. They live in Texas so it’s hard for them to get anywhere that I’m at but they’re very supportive and my bass player is actually my cousin, so he plays with me. It’s good to have someone in the family out there - someone you love - because I hate everyone else (laughts). I’m just kidding! But, it’s good to have him out there. It’s good to have him and people you care about kind of keeping your head screwed on straight.

AFM: Were you excited to come out to Arizona?

Chase: Absolutely. I was out here in the summer in Phoenix doing some radio visits so I’m excited to be out here playing. And the weather's perfect. We’ve been in snow for the last couple months so I’m excited to be here and I’m going to be here for a couple more days.

AFM: Let’s switch it up, what is your favorite TV show?

Chase: Cops is the best show but the problem is I know every episode so when it comes I’m likes well this is going to happen. So I’m a really fun person to watch it with.

AFM: Other than music what do you like to do with your time?

Chase: Hunting and fishing for sure. I would say that’s probably the biggest thing for me. I’ve got a boat back in Nashville that I take out to ski or fish or tube or whatever. Hunting season in the winter is big for me. That’s about all I do…or buy guitars in my spare time. That’s about it. My mom and dad and everybody else hate me for that. My business manager calls me about once a week saying, “stop buying so many guitars!” I’ve got about 100 of them.

AFM: What do you have to look forward to in the next year other than your tour? What can the public expect to see?

Chase: Hopefully my next record will be out and my next single after ‘Take It On Back’s tour is done. That’s going to be the biggest things for me is just going out and connecting with fans. It’s going to be a big one for me and I’m excited for that.