PERSPECTIVE What It Is Like to Perform at Jacob’S PAGE 26 Pillow, an Iconic Dance Center

Compliments of Paul Sanders

AMERICANTHE MAGAZINE CELEBRATING LIFE IN AMERICA LIFESTYLEISSUE 84

THE PERFORMERS’ PERSPECTIVE What it is like to perform at Jacob’s PAGE 26 Pillow, an iconic dance center

Paul Sanders Private Wealth Advisor Direct: (866) 458-4226

Sanders Wealth Management, LLC 1100 First Avenue Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406

32 sky-high rides and shortcakes 42 above the arkansas river

ISSUE 84 Cover Price $6.99 678

678 84 12345 67890 Front of Tear Out Card 1 magazine

Dear Bill and Judy,

Welcome to American Lifestyle magazine,

American Lifestyle is a celebration of life in the United States. It takes the reader on a journey through the nation’s sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. The magazine features articles on interior design, travel, restaurants, art, and culture. Amazing writing coupled with gorgeous photography make it a must-read for every member of your family.

This publication also gives me the chance to stay in touch with all the friends and clients I’ve been lucky enough to meet over the years. Whether you make recipes with your family or discuss the articles with friends, I hope everyone in your household gets something out of the magazine.

I understand that the work I do is about the future of everyone in your household. I send American Lifestyle as a way to connect with each member of the families I serve. If you know of anyone looking for financial services, please don’t hesitate to send them my way. Paul Sanders Private Wealth Advisor Thank you, Back of Tear Out Card 1 Direct: (866) 458-4226 Paul Sanders Fax: (610) 878-2000 Email: [email protected] www.remindermedia.com

Sanders Wealth Management, LLC 1100 First Avenue Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406

S American Lifestyle magazine IN THIS issue

PUBLISHER Chief Executive Officer Steven Acree [email protected]

EXECUTIVE President Luke Acree Chief Operating Officer Steve Husson

EDITORIAL Lead Editor and Layout Designer Shelley Goldstein Senior Editor Matthew Brady [email protected]

CREATIVE Director Joshua Stike [email protected]

MARKETING DID YOU KNOW? Chief Marketing Officer Jason McKee [email protected]

AMERICAN LIFESTYLE SALES Director Nicholas Bianco IS ON INSTAGRAM! [email protected]

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Director Michael Graziola [email protected]

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Manager Wayne Renbjor [email protected]

ACCOUNTING Controller Laura Hasen If you love all of the amazing recipes, crafts, and [email protected] other features in the magazine, there’s plenty more HUMAN RESOURCES where that came from! Manager Jennifer Guie Follow American Lifestyle magazine on Instagram [email protected] for daily recipes, DIY projects, and much more— including previews of upcoming issues and a look American Lifestyle magazine is published by ReminderMedia. For behind the scenes. more information about American Lifestyle magazine, please visit us at www.remindermedia.com, e-mail us at [email protected], or call us at 866-458-4226. All rights reserved.

NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE BE SURE TO FOLLOW EXPRESSED WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER. AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE! This magazine is for information and entertainment Retail store and showroom purposes only; it is not an attempt to solicit business. 131 Middle Street, Portland, Maine Designed and printed in the USA. @AMERICANLIFESTYLEMAG angelaadams.com | 800 255 9454 HANDCRAFTED MODERN HOME FURNISHINGS After a stint as a graphic designer for lifestyle brand Anthropologie, Audrey Raudabaugh decided to roll up her sleeves and tackle a new role in a new city in the same company— display coordinator. Raudabaugh reveals how her artistic childhood in Texas led to her pursuits as a designer, the challenges she faced during her career transition, and how her go-with-the-flow attitude has helped her succeed.

Where did you grow up, and invitations. We were opening new stores, how did that help shape who and I would create collages with whatever all about audrey you are in your career? Do scraps I could find, like old postcards, anthropologie designer audrey raudabaugh you still feel a connection to envelopes, and stripes. They were abstract landscapes that reflected the vibe and look interview with audrey raudabaugh | written by shelley rose that place? I grew up in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, in of the cities that were launching the a town called Coppell. I was always doing new stores. something somewhat artistic as a kid— always making something, feeling free to be Now you work for Anthropologie creative in any way that I wanted. I would in Tampa, Florida. How did your make home movies, create clay animation, move to Florida come about, and sew, and draw. My mom was an art director what is your new role? with Neiman Marcus, so she’s definitely been I’d been thinking about being a display a creative inspiration to me, and I used to coordinator as a good way to stay with the go on set with her and paint walls or just brand that I love and a style identity I know hang out with the production assistants and so well. But I also wondered how I could stylists—that was always the fun part. In expand my skills. I was really drawn to high school, I took art classes, sang in the being away from the computer and having choir, and danced. fresh projects every day. My then boyfriend (and now husband) Eoin and I had decided You went to the Savannah to move to Florida to be near family and College of Art and Design. What the beach. As we were driving to Tampa, I made you choose that school? received an e-mail notification alerting me to I made a big leap without exactly knowing a job opening as a display coordinator. The where I wanted to go, but I knew I wanted rest is history. to make something or be involved in design. I was open-minded. I didn’t even tour the Are you responsible for school first. I figured, “Let’s try it.” The first conceptualizing the design time I stepped foot on the campus was for the retail store, as well as orientation week, and it all made sense. actually building and filling the displays? How did your internship with The majority of the design is conceptualized Anthropologie after graduation at the home office in Philadelphia. We transition into your full-time then have creative freedom within that position with the company? framework. It’s been a lot of learning by I worked as a graphic designer at the doing with tools I wasn’t familiar with— Anthropologie home office in Philadelphia. saws, hammers, nails, and drills. I’ve built I produced print design, focusing mostly giant facades and fixtures that hold product. on store events, posters, e-mails, and We built a huge fixture that holds stationary

6 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 7 and notebooks and home pieces. We Do you feel like all of your team don’t only work on the artsy, fun, organic members have different traits to installations. There are a lot of displays that help balance out your work? hold product, and they have to be functional Totally. I’m detailed and focused on the little as well. details, and they often see the bigger picture and can discern what’s more important. There must have been a Then we all throw our funky ideas into the steep learning curve—going pot, too, so it’s fun. from graphic design to © Bonnie Raudabaugh physically building and using Who would you say is the tools like that. Do you think biggest influence on your work Anthropologie looks for people right now? with building skills as well as Sheila Hicks. She does these amazing woven design skills? pieces of art. I love when art is a simple I knew I had the craftsmanship and the material but the material really speaks attention to detail from working as a to the final product—like you look at your graphic designer—I was meticulous in rope, and then you’re weaving it, and then it that way. Understanding geometry, specs, makes a meaningful statement. and measurements is key as well. In my experience, I’ve heard all different stories What is your favorite display that from previous display coordinators. Some you’ve ever worked on? Why of them have been illustrators with no does that particular piece stand building experience from the beginning, out to you? and some have been strong builders, so it’s One fall, we made some beautiful flowers, a wide variety. When I was getting more which is kind of cliché. But they were desert information about the position, I was told flowers—red clover, thistle, and dandelions— that graphic designers are desirable because and they were made from twist ties, straws, of their craftsmanship. cupcake liners, and little tags. Everything was dyed or transformed slightly and then BUT WHEN YOU MOVED CLOSER, YOU REALIZED, “OH, IT’S How often do you have to bundled together in large masses and totally MADE OUT OF TWIST TIES THAT HAVE ALL BEEN DYED OR change the displays at the store, transformed. From far away, they looked like COFFEE FILTERS THAT HAVE BEEN TORN.” and what does the process for these great flowers in muted purples and If you weren’t following this setting up the new displays look dusty pinks, greens, and tans—really pretty passion or weren’t working as a like? Do you work with a team? desert colors. But when you moved closer, display coordinator, what do you Spring and fall are our largest seasons, you realized, “Oh, it’s made out of twist ties think you would be doing with and summer and the holidays are when that have all been dyed or coffee filters that Is it difficult for you to see a How do you overcome your time? we usually take the existing displays and have been torn.” So that was a lot of fun. I project that you’ve put so much creative blocks? I do miss being a graphic designer, especially transform them slightly to fit the season. was really satisfied with how it turned out, time and creative energy into When I put all that time and effort in, I want because I had reached a certain level of The visual team chips in occasionally, but I and it was right at the front of the store, get taken down at the end of it to look really good, and that perfectionist competency. It’s empowering to feel like own the projects and do most of the work. so when you walked in, there were forty the season? tendency can slow me down. I’ve learned to an expert at something—like you’re really I’m usually the one with a crazy bun and different big blossoms—four feet high in It can be cathartic to dismantle them pick my battles; I know when to dig in my flexing your muscles. I dream about trying paint splatters on my jeans. I’m scurrying some cases. because they often go to new homes for heels and figure it out, and when I need to my hand at CAD design. It’s the opposite of around, not always as composed as the others to enjoy. A lot of times we donate the figure out a different solution. With creative what I’m doing. It’s getting on the computer associates. I work from six in the morning to displays to nonprofits, like schools, to put blocks, it can help to relax and be open to and making 3-D objects come to life. There’s three in the afternoon to take advantage of up in their library or auditorium or art room. a different approach. I’ve got a great team something about the technical challenge that an empty store in the early hours. Sometimes it is sad, though, and I think of all that I can bounce ideas off of, and they come makes me wonder, “Could I be good at that?”

the hard work I put into it, but I’m ready to up with awesome ideas, so it’s really a lot For more info, visit audreyraudabaugh.com move on to the next challenge. of fun.

8 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 9 Charred Eggplant (Baba Ghanoush) Risotto

In this recipe, a large eggplant is charred and roasted, then puréed to make baba ghanoush, a Middle Eastern spread that adds a mildly smoky, creamy character to the risotto.

FOR THE BABA GHANOUSH 1. Make the baba ghanoush: Prick the eggplant all over with a fork. Place over a gas 1 large eggplant (1 to 11/4 pounds) burner, over a fire in a charcoal or gas grill, or under the broiler and char the skin 1/4 cup tahini (roasted sesame paste) evenly, turning the eggplant as needed. 3/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (or continue to use the grill). Place the charred eggplant 2 cloves garlic, smashed on a rimmed sheet pan and roast in the oven (or using indirect heat on the grill) until 1/4 teaspoon ground chile powder completely soft and slightly shriveled, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven 11/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil and let cool to the touch, then split the eggplant lengthwise and scrape out the pulp. 1/4 cup packed fresh Italian parsley or cilantro leaves Transfer the pulp to a food processor, add the tahini, coarse salt, lemon juice, garlic, chile powder, oil, and parsley, and process until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and FOR THE RISOTTO taste for seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to 4 cups vegetable stock develop. Bring 1 cup baba ghanoush to room temperature for the risotto and save the 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil remaining baba ghanoush for another use. It will keep in an airtight container in the 1/2 cup finely grated yellow onion, with juices refrigerator for up to 5 days. 1/2 cup Carnaroli or Arborio rice 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 3. Make and serve the risotto: In a large saucepan, heat the stock just until it reaches 1/4 cup dry unoaked white wine a simmer, then keep it warm. In a second large saucepan, heat the oil over medium 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded, and sliced heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the rice and fine 2 cups packed arugula, coarsely chopped salt and lightly toast the grains, stirring every 30 seconds or so, for 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese the wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine has been fully absorbed. Add 1 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice cup of the warm stock and cook, stirring constantly, until nearly all the liquid has been absorbed. Continue to add the stock, 1/2 cup at a time, cooking and stirring the rice summer sophisticationrecipes by dominic orsini | photography by ed anderson, sara sanger, damion hamilton until nearly all the liquid has been absorbed before pouring in the next addition, until the stock is used up, about 20 minutes. At this point, the rice grains should be tender but still intact.

4. Add the 1 cup baba ghanoush, the bell pepper, arugula, pecorino, and lemon juice to the risotto and stir to combine and heat through. Taste for seasoning and add more fine salt if desired. Spoon into individual serving bowls and serve immediately.

© Silver Oak Cookbook: Life in a Cabernet Kitchen by Dominic Orsini. Rizzoli New York, 2016. Images from Silver Oak Cookbook: Life in a Cabernet Kitchen © Ed Anderson, Sara Sanger, Damion Hamilton. SERVES 4–6

10 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 11 Grilled Summer Vegetables with Romesco Sauce

My family lives off grilled vegetables during the summer, when grilling is an easy and convenient way to cook. Romesco is a red pesto- style Catalonian sauce made from a combination of roasted red peppers, nuts, and bread crumbs. It’s a delicious base for a platter of charcoal-grilled vegetables. It also tastes great paired with grilled fish, shellfish, or chicken.

FOR THE ROMESCO SAUCE 1. Make the romesco sauce: Prepare a hot charcoal fire or preheat a gas grill to high 2 large red bell peppers for direct cooking. Grill the bell peppers until they are blackened all over, turning as ¹⁄₄ cup raw hazelnuts, toasted and skins removed needed. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap; let steam for 15 minutes. ¹⁄₄ cup dried bread crumbs Peel away the skin and remove the seeds and membranes, capturing as much pepper 1 clove garlic, chopped juice as possible. 1 large egg yolk 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar 2. In a food processor, combine the flesh of the peppers and their juices, the 2 teaspoons smoked paprika hazelnuts, bread crumbs, garlic, egg yolk, vinegar, paprika, and salt and process until ¹⁄₂ teaspoon fine sea salt ¹⁄₂ cup grapeseed oil very finely chopped, about 2 minutes. With the motor running, add the grapeseed oil in a slow, steady stream, processing until emulsified. Transfer to a bowl. (The sauce FOR THE VEGETABLES can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.) 1 pound eggplant 1 pound assorted summer squashes 3. Grill the vegetables: If the grill is not already hot, prepare it for direct cooking over 1 bunch red kale high heat. Cut the eggplant and squashes into 1/2-inch-thick slices and place in a large 8 ounces shishito peppers or small sweet peppers bowl. Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and add the leaves to the bowl. 8 ounces pole or romano beans, stems Add the shishito peppers and the beans. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the and strings removed vegetables and season with salt. Toss to coat the vegetables. ¹⁄₄ cup extra-virgin olive oil ¹⁄₄ cup fresh lemon juice Fine sea salt 4. Grill the vegetables over direct heat, turning as needed, for 8 to 10 minutes for the Chopped toasted and skinned hazelnuts, eggplant, 4 to 6 minutes for the peppers, beans, and squash, and 1 to 2 minutes for for garnish the kale. As the vegetables are ready, transfer them to a sheet pan.

5. To serve: Spread the romesco sauce on a serving platter. Arrange the vegetables over the sauce. Garnish with the hazelnuts.

SERVES 6

12 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 13 Dirty Porterhouse Steaks with Heirloom Cherry Tomato Panzanella Salad and Chimichurri Sauce

The porterhouse cut of beef combines the New York strip and filet mignon, connected by a T-shaped bone. It is undoubtedly the king of all steaks. The Italians call it bistecca alla fiorentina and grill the meat on a grate that rests directly on top of a thick bed of red-hot coals. The steak sears to a crispy blackened crust with a blood-red center. In this recipe, I’ve eliminated the grate and thrown the steak directly into the bed of hot coals. This technique has several names, such as dirty steak, caveman steak, and even Eisenhower steak, as the late president was known to entertain his guests by preparing a steak this way.

FOR THE PANZANELLA SALAD 1. Make the panzanella salad: Combine the onion and vinegar in a small bowl and stir ¹⁄₂ cup thinly sliced red onion to submerge the onion. Let stand for at least 2 hours or refrigerate up to overnight. ¹⁄₂ cup seasoned rice vinegar 1 (1-pound) loaf day-old ciabatta bread 2. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Tear or cut the ciabatta into bite-size pieces and 2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved spread on a rimmed sheet pan. Toast until golden, about 12 minutes. Remove 1 cucumber, peeled, halved, seeded, and cut into and let cool, then transfer to a large bowl. Drain the onion and add to the ¹⁄₄-inch-thick half-moons 12 fresh basil leaves, torn in half bowl. Add the tomatoes, cucumber, basil, oil, lemon juice, fine sea salt, and ³⁄₄ cup extra-virgin olive oil pepper. Toss the salad to combine thoroughly and taste for seasoning. Juice of 1 lemon 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 3. Grill the steaks: Build a very large charcoal or wood fire with the final diameter of ¹⁄₂ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper the coal bed wide enough to fit both steaks. Rake the coals into an even layer. When the coals glow orange-red, fan them with a newspaper to blow off any loose ash. 2 porterhouse steaks, each 1 to 1¹⁄₄ pounds and 1¹⁄₂ to 2 inches thick 4. Generously season the steaks on both sides with the coarse salt and press the Coarse sea salt salt into the flesh of the steaks to adhere. Place the steaks directly on the hot coals, 1 cup chimichurri sauce spacing them about 2 inches apart. Grill, turning with tongs, until cooked to your desired doneness, about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Lift the steaks off the coal bed and shake each one to dislodge any clinging embers.

5. Use a basting brush to sweep off any loose ash, then transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes. Carve each steak off the bone and cut the steaks against the grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Throw the bones back on the fire and char them on each side for 3 to 4 minutes.

6. To serve: Place the charred bones on a serving platter and reassemble the steaks around the bones. Accompany with the salad and the chimichurri sauce.

SERVES 6

14 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 15 Lobster and Melon Summer Rolls with Nuóc Châm Dipping Sauce

Nuóc châm is the Vietnamese term for a family of fish sauce–based table condiments used for dipping. Although fish sauce may sound too strongly flavored, it melds beautifully with the other ingredients used here, providing the crucial salty-umami backdrop that makes the sauce the perfect dip for these summery rolls. Crabmeat or shrimp can be substituted for the lobster.

1 pound cooked lobster meat, diced 1. Make the filling: Combine the lobster, melon, ginger, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and 2 cups diced melon (such as honeydew, pepper in a small bowl and stir to mix well. cantaloupe, or watermelon), in ¹⁄₄-inch dice 2 teaspoons minced pickled ginger 2. Assemble the rolls: Select a shallow bowl wide enough to accommodate a rice Finely grated zest of 1 lime paper wrapper and fill the bowl with lukewarm water. Lay a damp kitchen towel on 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice the work surface. Dip a rice paper round into the water just until it is relatively wet ¹⁄₂ teaspoon fine sea salt ¹⁄₄ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Do not leave it in the water too long or it will collapse on itself and 12 (8-inch) round rice paper wrappers be impossible to handle. Remove the wrapper from the water, spread it flat on the 24 large fresh basil leaves kitchen towel, and leave it undisturbed for a bit until it softens fully and is pliable. 2 ounces vermicelli rice noodles, rehydrated in Lay 2 basil leaves end to end in the center of the bottom one-third of the rice paper hot salted water round. Layer a pinch of the rice noodles on top. Place a generous tablespoon of the 2 ripe but firm Hass avocados, halved, pitted, lobster filling on top of the rice noodles, and top with 2 avocado slices, placing them peeled, and cut lengthwise into 24 slices end to end.

FOR THE NUÓC CHÂM SAUCE ¹⁄₄ cup warm water 3. Bring the edge of the wrapper closest to you up over the filling. Fold both sides of 2 tablespoons light brown sugar the rice paper toward the center, overlapping them by about 1 inch and covering the 1 clove garlic, minced filling. Slowly start to roll away from you toward the top, keeping the roll snug as you 1 tablespoon thinly sliced green onion, work to form a tight cylinder. Transfer the roll to a tray or plate and repeat with the white part only remaining ingredients. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro hour or up to 6 hours. ¹⁄₄ cup fresh lime juice ¹⁄₄ cup fish sauce 4. Make the nuóc châm sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the warm water and 1 small serrano or Thai chile, thinly sliced brown sugar until the sugar has dissolved. Add the garlic, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, fish sauce, and chile and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.

5. To serve: Cut each roll in half and arrange the halves on a serving plate with one half resting on its side and the other half standing up and resting against the horizontal half. Serve with the sauce for dipping.

MAKES 12 ROLLS

16 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 17 urban realism james randle interview with james randle written by shelley rose

What was it like growing up in Salt Lake City? Oil painter James Randle grew up around other artists, including his own father. My father is an artist who paints very The Utah-born artist is heavily influenced by the places he travels, thoughtfully traditional pastoral landscapes. As a young boy, I would go to the studio with him in digesting each city and transforming those experiences into paintings that downtown Salt Lake. I was always around capture that emotion. other artists growing up. The seed was planted in me early, but I played a lot of sports like soccer, and I didn’t really take painting seriously until I got to college, where I met other artists, all of whom are still painting or sculpting or creating

18 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 19 art in some respect. Being around other Did you ever doubt if you were interesting artists inspired me and pushed on the right career path, being me. Salt Lake City has a vibrant art scene, an artist? despite its conservative reputation. There I didn’t doubt that I wanted to be an artist, is a rich history of talented painters in Salt but I worried about making enough money Lake City. to support myself and have the lifestyle I wanted. It’s the first thing they tell you in Did you specifically go to college college—don’t expect to be rich from this for art? and maybe don’t even expect to be able to Yes. I went to the University of Utah and do it for a career. received a degree in painting and drawing. What is your state of mind while What does your father think you’re painting? Do you sort of about you being an artist and disappear into a focused place? your art? Can he appreciate What does it feel like? something different? Sometimes I can lose myself in a painting He’s so excited about everything I do. I don’t and twelve hours go by. Other times it’s hard think he cared that I went against the grain to manage thirty minutes of good painting as long as I took pride in what I was creating. by the end of the day. The easiest time for That’s the most important thing to him—that me to get in the zone is when I have a body I work hard at my art and constantly grow of work and the first three or four paintings and progress. are done. Then I start to sense where the work is going. Some artists will say the most What did the path to being a exciting time is starting a new body of work. full-time artist look like? For me, it’s the worst because I’m constantly It took a couple years. When you step out questioning if I’m painting what I want to of college, it’s not easy to start selling your paint. Once I get halfway through a painting, work. After college, I lived in Nigeria for a it’s like I’m playing soccer against a really few months doing construction. I also took tough team and I’m up two goals. I’m feeling a job in Sitka, Alaska, where I worked on a confident and I start playing better. That’s fishing boat. I wanted to test my stamina, when I can really lose myself in the painting, and I knew that job would involve extremely get focused, and make bold moves. long hours and repetitive duties. I wanted to prove to myself I could do it and not quit. I I’ve noticed gas stations and knew I wasn’t going to be in construction my airstreams are two major whole life, and I certainly knew after being in themes. What do they represent Alaska that I didn’t want to be a fisherman. for you? I think my work is so heavily influenced by After Alaska and Nigeria, I went full time where I live and places I’ve had experiences. into art. I had an opportunity to sell artwork Airstreams represent travel and moving in Scottsdale, and I had some success down around in between those places. They’re also there and picked up a few galleries. I did fun to paint because they create a dynamic some shows in Phoenix during the winters landscape where you see everything in front and eventually moved here full time several of you, above you, behind you, and in the years ago.

20 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 21 “

One of my more popular paintings is called 2 Guns. It’s really monochromatic, and you can feel the sky. There’s hardly anything in the painting, but you can really feel the depth and the loneliness of the place.

reflection. The gas stations are something can feel the sky. There’s hardly anything in could get tangled up if the conductor were that I see in the Southwest when I’m on the the painting, but you can really feel the depth to not let go of it. I purposely put those road. I travel a lot in my van going to art and the loneliness of the place. words in your face and in the middle of the shows between Phoenix and Santa Fe on composition. The best feedback to hear is Route 66—it takes me through a piece of How do you define your style? from people who look at my paintings and history to see all these abandoned places I consider myself to be a realist painter ask, “How can you paint something that and airstreams in various settings. but not a hyporealist or a photorealist. The I would never have considered wanting word urban works as a description of the to look at and make it so beautiful and When I look at the gas station man-made element in my paintings. When engaging?” Hopefully, when people look at paintings, I feel a lot of emotion you look through my work, you don’t see just my work, they see the value in looking closer in them. Are there certain a pastoral landscape. There’s always some at their surroundings and taking notice of themes that you’re continually sort of industrial or man-made or urban everything around them. Everyone thinks processing or working out in element in the work. that sunsets or a ripple in the tree is the your paintings? most beautiful thing. There can be beauty in I think I have a lot of empathy for places I noticed in one of your a pile of trash if it’s painted with empathy or I’m painting; I think these places that other paintings, it says “Let Go” on the photographed in a certain light. people have abandoned are really beautiful. street. Was that creative license, I have to understand and feel the place to or does it really say that? What medium are you using? paint it; otherwise, it doesn’t feel like me. It really says that. Cable cars in San I’ve always been an oil painter. It’s what I’m One of my more popular paintings is called Francisco are actually like an upside down most comfortable with. Oil paint to me is a 2 Guns. It’s really monochromatic, and you ski lift, and when they intersect, the cable lot more malleable. It allows me to rework

22 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 23 and cover things up and blend and soften, I’m a firm believer that nothing comes and I can eliminate or add things. out of a void. It’s all inherited from somewhere else.

I read that you use photographs and sketches as starting How would friends points. Are you interested in describe you? photography or only to the point I tend to focus on people with a more that it’s a reference point for negative opinion of me, so I can either work “ your paintings? on those challenging traits or figure out how I am a huge fan of photographers and to channel them. I think people would say I’m their work, and I get so many ideas for eccentric and honest. I’m the kind of person composition. I do use photographs as a who does things and then reflects later. First and foremost, I gain tools by practicing my painting. I also reference for my paintings. Some artists Sometimes I can be a little abrasive and rub think it’s very important to surround yourself with other artists insist a painting can only be as good as your people the wrong way, but it’s really allowed and talk to them so you can evolve and create effectively. reference. I’m the opposite. If I have a really me to find out who my friends are. good reference, I get too attached to it, like I’m taking a piece of art and trying to turn Where are you when you’re it into another piece of art. I prefer to have not painting? a looser reference with vague information. I am hiking. I run a lot, and I play soccer. I we have extra money, we love buying What career are you neglecting I can figure out the rest, and it leaves me like food and talking to friends. I spend a lot original artwork. right now by being a painter? room for creativity so I’m not just copying of time alone when I’m painting, so it is nice I would have been one of three things: an a photograph. to socialize at other times. Why do you choose to invest architect, an engineer, or probably in artwork? a contractor. How do you feel about the What is the atmosphere of Buying artwork can be just as gratifying word creativity? your studio? Do you have as selling or painting. It is fun to meet the Have you figured out the I think creativity is the ability to parlay music playing? people who buy your paintings. It’s fun to be meaning of life for yourself? your awareness of an experience into I love all forms of art, and music is definitely on the other side of it and see how artists I have a philosophy for who I am and what I self-expression. I don’t think you can teach something I’ve always been passionate react when you buy their work. It’s like want my life to be, and it’s pretty simple—to creativity. I went to college to learn how to about. I’ve collected music since I was quite looking in a mirror, I suppose. I love filling be satisfied and happy with what I do but paint. I didn’t need anyone to tell me how young, and I have a huge music library. our house with art; I aspire to be a collector to keep pushing myself. My biggest career to be creative. I wanted the tools to Sometimes music can be a little distracting as well. goal is to reach as large of an audience as self-expression. because I have to think about what I want possible and for people to see my work; to listen to too much. Radio and podcasts Are you ever bothered by I want people to like my work and enjoy How do you gain more tools can be very nice; I like to be informed about someone who buys your it. It would be validating to show in some now that you’ve graduated? world news. painting for the wrong reason? high-profile galleries and to be part of that First and foremost, I gain tools by practicing Yes! Most artists would agree we always conversation. My goal in life and my career is my painting. I also think it’s very important Do you collect vinyl? want our most beautiful paintings to be to continually grow as a person and as to surround yourself with other artists and I wish I did! When I was younger, before in places where people can see them and an artist. talk to them so you can evolve and create vinyl got popular again, I spent all my money appreciate them. It’s not my favorite thing effectively. Look at other people’s art, go to on CDs. I have hundreds and hundreds of to hear clients are purchasing a painting to Will you do this for the rest of events, and read books. I hear a lot of friends CDs. I told my girlfriend when we bought a match their couch, but I hope the painting is your life? say they don’t want to go to a museum or house five years ago that I wanted a record enjoyed just as much as the color scheme. As of right this second—for sure. look at other artists’ work because it will player. She vetoed that idea because she And, for the most part, I have so many For more info, visit jamesrandleart.com hinder their creativity and vision. I think it’s knows I’m a collector. I would have probably awesome collectors that have bought so important to take ideas from everywhere spent $20,000 on vinyl by now. Instead, much artwork. and integrate them somehow into my work. we’ve started collecting artwork. Whenever

24 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 25 opposite page The Ted Shawn Theatre is lit up at night.

far left Ted Shawn’s Men Dancers performed choreography inspired by themes like American folk material, work, war, and sports.

left Ted Shawn, founder of Jacob’s Pillow, jacob’s bought the farm as a retreat. pillow © John Lindquist © Harvard Theatre Collection © John Lindquist © Harvard Theatre Collection the performers’ perspective Choreographers and dancers How would you describe your grow and challenge myself. It’s a city filled Michael Jackson, and I started dancing. Jaime Shannon and Kevin Clark hometown? And what motivated with people who want to push themselves My parents took a video, and it’s very interview with jaime shannon and kevin clark written by shelley rose wax poetic on their experiences you to move to New York City, and grow and find new ways of connecting. embarrassing. That’s my first dance memory. where you both currently reside? I should have known then, but I didn’t. of performing at Jacob’s Pillow, a Jaime: My hometown is Milford, Connecticut. What are your earliest world-renowned dance center that I spent most of my childhood there. I didn’t dance memories? How did your dance training hosts a summer festival in Becket, leave until I went to college. When I think J: My family was vacationing in the Bahamas evolve after that first memory? Massachussetts in the Berkshires. about the town I grew up in, I remember together, and one night my parents decided J: My dance studio, the Lee Lund Studio of a lovely little Connecticut town. Very nice we were all going to go listen to the hotel Dance, became a second home from the energy, nice people, and a nice environment. band and we were going to dance. It didn’t ages of five to eighteen. The emphasis was I always knew I wanted to come to New sound fun to my four-year-old brain, and I on modern dance and theater jazz. After I York. The arts world is great. Dance was the was being really stubborn and bratty. They graduated high school, I was a dance major main incentive, but my personality in general took me onto the dance floor, and I started at Hofstra University, where I studied a lot likes to be places like the city, where there is moving; it was like a switch had been of modern dance and ballet. I then moved always activity. flipped. It felt amazing. It felt like joy. It felt to the city to further pursue concert dance like home. I refused to get off the dance floor styles, like modern and contemporary, Kevin: I’m from Albuquerque, New Mexico, all night. I knew in that moment nothing and began working with a lot of different and I love it there—the spaciousness and made more sense to me than spending the choreographers and small companies. Six nature. Albuquerque is all about the desert rest of my life trying to feel that good. My years ago, one of my best friends from and the mountains, both of which are so parents signed me up for dance classes college got involved in swing dancing. engrained in Mexican and Native American that fall. She was classically trained like me, and culture. There’s this really lovely sense of she stumbled on a flyer for swing dancer time, or rather no sense of it. The philosophy K: There’s a yearly festival in my hometown auditions. She made the team having no is to do it tomorrow—take it easy and relax. called the Albuquerque International Balloon knowledge of swing dancing, but she was This is really great, except it doesn’t push Fiesta. It’s a huge event with over five a great dancer and they trained her. One people toward ambition. Toward the end hundred hot air balloons. I was there with day, she called me up and told me she had of my time there, I felt like I wasn’t getting my family when I was about six, and there to go back to Florida to work at Disney for © Christopher Duggan much done. New York City is a great place to was a stage and a band. They were playing a while, and she asked if I would consider

26 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 27 How did you and Jaime meet? K: Jaime and I met at a party. The hostess put on some music and encouraged me to below Jaime Shannon and Tony Fraser swing dance with Jaime, who I had never perform on the Inside/Out stage at met. When we realized we both knew swing Jacob’s Pillow. dance and modern dance, we knew we were destined to work together.

How did the first opportunity (in 2014) with Jacob’s Pillow come about? Did they approach you? Did you know about this festival for many years? J: I’ve known about this festival for years. It’s world famous for modern and contemporary dance. My dance partner, Tony, sent somebody an e-mail along with videos of us performing and said, “Hey, we do this. What do you think? Can we be in your festival?” which is not the process you’re supposed to follow. But Tony doesn’t pay much attention to proper protocol. It was already late in the selection process, but they asked if they could do a phone interview with us. I told them about my ideas of fusing swing dancing into a structure that fits concert dance, and they agreed to give us a shot. They put us in the festival, and we were a big hit. They reached out to us the next year and asked if we were interested in applying again, and we were accepted for year two. I found out it’s quite rare to be invited back

© Jamie Kraus | Jacob’s Pillow Dance for the Inside/Out Series because they like to refresh the series and show something new every year for their audience. So, in year three, I decided to go through the traditional meeting her dance partner, who now needed doing a swing piece. She asked if I would choreographed by a student who has since application process, knowing it was someone to work with. “You’re light and help her work on some of the moves they become a mentor to me. The modernist unrealistic to be asked back a third time but bouncy. You’ll be good at this,” she said to were learning. I eventually caved and began piece was raw and physical and visceral wanting them to know I had an interest. We me. I went to a shag dancing class at Dance learning to swing dance. And then I really and so exciting. I signed up for the class and were ecstatic to be accepted in year three. Manhattan and met Tony Fraser. After the fell in love with the dance—I traveled and was hooked. I got my degree in dance from class, we talked for hours, and he asked competed a lot. the University of New Mexico, with a minor What is the Inside/Out series? if I wanted to be his new dance partner. I in chemistry. I did some work around New J: Jacob’s Pillow has several performance couldn’t pass up the opportunity to train How did you discover Mexico and established a teaching company THERE ARE SOME THEATERS THAT HOST INDOOR series. They have a few different venues— with this wonderful teacher and competitor. modern dance? called The Rhythm Project, which was very PERFORMANCES AND THEN THERE’S A BIG, BEAUTIFUL there are some theaters that host indoor K: I was invited to attend a modern successful considering it’s in Albuquerque. OUTDOOR STAGE, WHICH IS WHERE THE INSIDE/OUT performances and then there’s a big, K: I was dating a girl named Cathy at the dance rehearsal at the University of New I then realized it was time to head to New SERIES HAPPENS. beautiful outdoor stage, which is where time who was in show choir, and they were Mexico, and I watched a piece that was York City. © Jamie Kraus | Jacob’s Pillow Dance the Inside/Out Series happens. You see the

28 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 29 below below The Ted Shawn Theatre in the 1950s. The Ted Shawn Theatre in the 2000s. seen as something historical. You go out, his passion and his drive, and because he you do a demonstration, you show people was so set on moving to New York that he it looks cute, you make people happy, and was already making connections. I hadn’t then that’s it. To me, what I always loved even really seen him dance, but I told him about concert dance and contemporary that night I would be casting him. The fact dance was the artistry, the motion, and that he was both a contemporary dancer the depth that you can incorporate. When and a swing dancer was solid gold. He’s a people kept asking me for swing, I wondered great performer and a very close friend, how I could take the structure, the emotion, and I’ll always work with him if he’s always

the inspiration, and the depth that I have in available to do my work. modern and contemporary dance and put it

into swing because, why not? It’s something K: Now I’m flattered. that people aren’t doing, and it’s something “ that I think is important because the whole When you are seventy years © Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival Archives © Christopher Duggan reason this music and this dance came about old and you look back on this was purely human emotion. It was out of experience, what will you a time of depression and war and so much remember about performing at Knowing the history of it and knowing what it created and how the entire going on in the country. I want to bring Jacob’s Pillow? modern and contemporary dance movement emerged from this festival—it’s some of that raw emotion back into it. I feel J: I may not remember what dance I did very humbling to be on these grounds. like it’s my job to take the stuff I learned in or what song it was, but I’m always going © Cherylynn Tsushima concert dance and the happy swing dancing to remember how I felt when I was there, stuff that people are asking me for and just standing on that stage and becoming part trees, the mountains, and the landscape in What does it feel like to be a troupe. In their downtime, they built many of During the Q and A at Jacob’s mix it together and hope it makes sense. of the scenery, and giving something back the background. Every Wednesday through part of this festival, where there the structures that are still in use at Jacob’s Pillow, you spoke about the to an environment that created so much Saturday, the Inside/Out series presents are so many kindred spirits Pillow. To raise money, they would host importance of weaving dance Kevin, what qualities does Jaime for the dance world. That comfort, joy, and half-hour pre-performances that are open all together? tea parties, with the dancers serving high styles. Do you still choreograph possess that make her such a exhilaration of being a part of that legacy— to the public on the outdoor stage. It’s a J: It feels amazing just to step foot on that tea outdoors to audience members, who only contemporary, or is your special choreographer? it’s something that will never be erased from one-time performance for us. We drive up property. It’s a National Historic Landmark would pay seventy-five cents for a cup. The focus really now on fusing K: I think there are three things that I would my memory. to the Berkshire Hills, do our tech rehearsal by law because that farm has been around audience would then be treated to a lecture- swing and contemporary? pick. First, because the work she’s doing and run-throughs, and then perform around forever. It was a stop on the Underground demonstration. It’s a testament to all the J: I like choreographing both, but right now, is kind of new, she doesn’t have the worry K: I will remember standing on the stage six o’clock at night. We do a Q and A with the Railroad way before it was ever a training ways in which these artists had to struggle most performance opportunities that have or fear that some of the other groups have and looking up at the sky in this institution audience after the performance, and then ground for dancing. Knowing the history to make ends meet. There is so much landed in my lap have been because people of fitting in with current trends. Even if for dance, knowing I was there performing we drive home. of it and knowing what it created and how energy and electricity in the air. You can feel are requesting swing. So I’ve been focusing more people were doing this, one of Jamie’s among people who genuinely care about the entire modern and contemporary dance the history. a lot on swing-based shows. Like you said, I strengths is her fearlessness to do honest the art. There’s an overwhelming sense Do students come to the festival movement emerged from this festival—it’s like to weave the styles. I don’t want to show work, even if it goes against acceptable of rightness. to take classes? very humbling to be on these grounds. Where is your jumping-off point a traditional dance step from 1945 and have trends of the moment. Second, she has a For more info, visit jacobspillow.org J: They do have a school, and it’s a major for choreography? it look identical. I want to put some of the mind-set that everything is going to work part of the festival. Students from all over K: There’s an unspoken knowledge that you J: For me, it always starts with the emotion and structure of concert dance into out—so let’s just get to the art making. the world apply and audition to get into are with your family. It’s hard to overstate movement, not specifically with the dancers. it. I’m always working to blend them and The third quality is her ability to approach the school. There are different three-week the emotional and historical significance I’ll have an idea in my head, whether it’s observe how they work together. choreography using a very descriptive . sessions, like ballet, contemporary, and of Jacob’s Pillow. Modern dance was inspired by an emotion, an event, or a piece language to help dancers comprehend and jazz. Students take class all day, probably popularized by Ted Shawn and his wife Ruth of music that I just heard. Then I figure out Do you think this niche you fill, portray their roles. six to eight hours a day, before the evening St. Denis when they formed the Denishawn the movement quality and more specific of swing dancing infused with performances. The performances are not Company and bought a retreat in the form choreography. I always have dancers in mind concert dance, is part of the Jaime, what made you choose just for the students, though; they’re of a farm called Jacob’s Pillow. After he and that I want to use. Once I have the cast set, I reason you keep getting invited Kevin, and why do you continue also open to the community and the Ruth split personally and professionally, he mold the movement even more to fit the skill back to Jacob’s Pillow? to enjoy working with him? general public. began pursuing a new dream that began sets of my dancers. J: I think so. A lot of times, something like J: When I met him at that party, I knew with a group of men he trained into a dance swing dancing is only seen as a novelty. It’s he was going to be good. I could tell by

30 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 31 Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved going to amusement parks. Like many kids, I enjoyed the spectacle of it all: the colors, the flashing lights, the food, and the fun. As a teenager, I got more daring with my ride choices, frequenting ones that whipped thrill-seekers like me around at dizzying speeds. I had my limits, though: roller coasters were still mostly off limits, as were free-falling rides. sky-high rides

I continued going to amusement parks as an adult. Later, when my soon-to-be wife, and shortcakes Sandra, and I went to Disney World, our knoebels amusement resort favorite ride was an indoor roller coaster. written by matthew brady | photography by knoebels amusement resort Maybe I was getting less fearful as I got older. Maybe I just wanted to impress her.

My kids have followed in my footsteps— and, in my son Jeff’s case, even beyond them. His first ever amusement park ride was a roller coaster. He was five years old. Of course, he went on with his mother, while our one-year-old daughter, Laura, and I watched from below.

These are the sort of memories that flooded my mind as I drove to our latest amusement park adventure: Knoebels Amusement Resort, a family-owned park and campgrounds located in a small central Pennsylvania town called Elysburg, which is about a seventy-mile trek north of Harrisburg, the state capital.

Over the years, we’d heard a lot about Knoebels, and what we’d repeatedly heard were rave reviews. Our friends told us stories about how it’s unlike any other amusement park. Now that we were pulling onto Knoebels Road, we were about to find out for ourselves.

I immediately noticed how much ground there is, even before we got near the park. It made sense because, when John Salter first purchased the land all the way back in 1775, it included 292 acres. In 1828,

32 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 33 the Reverend Henry Hartman Knoebel almost a perfect day, around 75 degrees The park also dealt with flooding in 1975, brought it into his family when he bought and sunny with a blue sky, and it somehow 1977, 1996, 2004, and 2011, rebuilding and the plot for $931, and the reverend’s seemed sunnier here with the tree-lined recovering each time. Perhaps the biggest grandson, Henry, led it in the direction of mountains surrounding the park. In addition challenge was in 2006, when 90 percent of amusements—which we would soon to the Ferris wheel, we were seated near the park was submerged in upwards of ten be enjoying. a blue-and-yellow roller coaster that feet of water after heavy rains. Remarkably, featured what looked to be a 90-degree within three days (and over 11,000 man As we followed the line of traffic, the drop (immediately prompting a “no” on my hours) the park reopened on a limited basis. expanse of the parking area unfolded mental checklist), a kids balloon-themed As you wander through the park today, you before us. Sandra let out a “Wow” when ride, and a sky ride taking patrons on a can see signs marking the various water she saw the number of vehicles; there had slow trek up the mountain slope to observe levels of the floods—and reminding you of to have been thousands. We were led to the entire park. Also noteworthy were the the park’s resilience. a grassy area to park—without paying, as dogs—several people had their pooch pals it turns out; Knoebels doesn’t charge for with them in the park—as well as the sheer After our water adventure, Jeff wanted to parking. Laura said, “I know I’m going to amount of trees inside the park, which I try the nearby PowerSurge ride. As he and “ like this already,” and we got out to start figured would provide ample shade on this I made our way to the front of the line, we our adventure. warm day. took note of a prominent sign that warned us that the park wasn’t responsible for any After walking for a few minutes, we entered My family quickly finished their food, which personal items that fell from the ride. I Our first ride came with a legacy: handcrafted in the park area—which was easy because meant it was time for rides. knew this one would be fun. 1913, Knoebels purchased this carousel a mere ten there’s no admission charge, so there is days before the start of World War II. no waiting in long lines at ticket booths We walked through an entry to the next And fun it certainly was. We each strapped or going through turnstiles—and were section adorned by a wooden Knoebels sign ourselves into a tight over-the-shoulder immediately greeted by pavilions with and saw the Grand Carousel. Our first ride harness, and off we went. This particular several covered bench areas for birthday came with a legacy: handcrafted in 1913, ride spins you and whips you every which parties. This immediately gave the park the Knoebels purchased this carousel a mere way: one second, you’re looking straight feel of a local attraction. ten days before the start of World War up at the blue sky and the next your entire II. History notwithstanding, Laura loves body is facing straight down while falling As it was around one o’clock, we decided to carousels, so she and I got in line for the from fifty feet in the air. Within a minute, eat first. We quickly found an eatery called ride. We soon handed over our tickets and Jeff managed to say, “I’m never going on Alamo Front Counter. There we stood in chose horses; her selection turned out to be this again,” and I smiled. a short line, and my wife and son decided a good one, since brass rings are dropped on burgers and my daughter a chicken down a chute at one point in the ride, so if Next on the agenda was a swing ride with sandwich. While we were waiting to order, you’re on the outside, you can try to grab Laura (which resulted in her shouting, a friendly face at the next counter (the ice them for fun every time you pass by. “This is awesome!”), and then my wife and cream counter, it turned out) yelled out, “Is daughter made a moment by going on anyone only ordering a pickle on a stick?” After the carousel, we made a watery a family roller coaster, Kosmo’s Kurves, That was exactly what Laura was waiting pit stop. We passed by the park’s large together. Though reportedly terrified the to hear: her primary reason for wanting to swimming pool and its four water slides, entire time, Laura was happy to have go here wasn’t the rides or the games . . . as well as one of the park’s two log flumes, tried it. it was to eat a pickle on a stick. So I darted Sklooosh. The kids and I ran to the latter’s into the next line and bought one, and observation deck to get soaked by the ride’s We then split up, as the girls went to shop Laura was in pickle paradise. tidal wave. at the Christmas Cottage (which includes, I later found out, a North Pole in front made As my family devoured their food, I went As it turns out, though, water hasn’t always out of real ice) and played games while Jeff to a nearby ticket booth to buy ride tickets. been Knoebels’s friend. Tropical Storm and I got in line for the Flying Turns wooden I got thirty dollars’ worth of tickets, and Agnes flooded the park in 1972 by causing roller coaster. This was the only long line of then I took in our surroundings. It was its creeks to rise six feet above their banks. the day, and we entered at the “45 minutes

34 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 35 from this point” marker. There are signs which served their purpose when Sandra To end our visit, we made our way to the thoughtfully placed throughout the line to commented to me about what life must Pioneer Train to tour the grounds. To get keep guests occupied, including revealing have been like for the miners doing that job. there, we crossed yet another bucolic the history of this coaster. As it turns out, bridge, passed the bumper cars (whose the ride is legendary: opened in 2014, it’s This led us to the back of the building, sign said were voted Best in America by a rebuilt classic coaster from the 1920s. which houses the Knoebels Museum. USA Weekend), and got in one final log But one sign in particular immediately Want to learn more about the centuries- flume dousing. The train is a popular ride, caught my eye: the one declaring that old Knoebels story? You’ll find it here in so the line was long (and included some everyone would be weighed (as there was a massive wall-length timeline, from that more chitchat with strangers); however, we a 400-pound maximum per car) and that first land exchange in 1775 to the resort’s were quickly aboard. Along the the mile- everyone had to hand over anything that opening in 1926 to the various rides and and-a-half ride around the park, we went could fly off, such as hats and glasses. attractions that have opened since then. under the popular Twister wooden roller You’ll also be entertained, as we were, coaster, through the resort’s wooded areas, The ride was exactly as billed: the world’s by the exhibits of old-fashioned carnival and past its various campgrounds. And, only wooden bobsled roller coaster. It starts games, rides, and even a jukebox from of course, when another train passed by, off like a typical wooden roller coaster, Knoebels’ past, and smile at the endless everyone waved to us, and we waved back. with the slow, ominous, uphill clanking of array of antique photos throughout It’s that kind of place. the gears over the wood planks. But then it the museum. whips you into a bobsled area, where you’re It’s family friendly. Kid friendly. Budget literally off the tracks—there’s nothing After Laura went on a nearby ride, we then friendly. Even pet friendly. It’s just but the winding curves and your car. You entered another museum, the Carousel amazingly, unassumingly friendly. The then repeat this experience a second, more Museum, which features over fifty antique Knoebels family has gone to great lengths prolonged time before the ride ends. As one carousel figures and other memorabilia to create a genuinely pleasant, nostalgia- of the signs aptly says, it makes you feel dating back to the late 1800s and early inducing amusement park experience—with like you’re flying. 1900s. If you’re a fan of carousels, this is a really fun rides, games, and attractions must-stop. to boot. With that adventure over, it was time to eat again (or, in my case, eat for the first Afterwards, the girls played a few As we walked back to our vehicle and time). We walked to the far end of the nearby games (for as little as a quarter commenced our two-hour-plus drive, we park, past several games and shops, to the each), and we found our way toward the realized we wanted more. We hadn’t golfed International Food Court, which offers a Americana section of the park, which at the miniature golf course, played laser host of food options. My family got in the meat delicious and ample, all packed in the food being amazing. But the staff is at the panning river and deliberated features handcraftsmanship and wares tag, gone to either of the arcades (a miracle American food line, where Jeff ordered a fresh tortilla. Sandra eyed the burrito also incredibly nice, and even the fellow whether to pan for some raw materials. of yesteryear, including a recreated wood in itself), experienced the 4-D theater or another burger and Laura opted for chicken enviously, so I let her have a bite. When we customers, caught up in the ambience, For time’s sake, we passed and instead shingle mill from the 1800s. You can haunted house, spent time in the pool, or nuggets. Sandra, not very hungry, got returned to this same spot later for dinner, are super friendly as well, with at least a entered the museum. One actually starts watch artisans ply their trade; if you’d seen the bald eagle exhibit; as far as rides, some fries and gave in to the temptation of she got a burrito, plus another strawberry handful starting up mini conversations with by going through the gift shop, which like a custom-made wood sign or perhaps among the ones we didn’t go on were strawberry shortcake. Her succinct review shortcake for the family to share. The me while waiting in lines. That cheerfulness boasts a plethora of mining-related items handcrafted iron, you can observe them the two pirate ships, the Scenic Skyway of the dessert? “This is so good!” dishes were that good. was a microcosm of the overall experience. to buy, including real rocks and gemstones, being made. Visit the Lost Logger to chairlift ride above the park, and other gemstone-themed jewelry (one of which purchase an incredible handcrafted wood roller coasters. That’s one thing that certainly stood out Something else stood out at this food We then began the (mostly) nonride portion Laura bought), kids’ mining hats, and product, such as a wood basket, wood about Knoebels: the food is much better court, though—Knoebels employees of our trip, and these unique offerings other toys. pumpkin, wood snowman, or life-size wood This was all right, though, because we were than usual amusement park fare. For write messages on the food trays. Ours certainly help to set apart Knoebels from animal. (I wasn’t sure how I’d get the wood already planning next year’s visit to this example, I had a difficult choice in the said, “There are 2 things you’ll always other amusement parks. Across from the With an amethyst necklace in tow, we bear home, so I passed.) As impressed as I hidden gem tucked away in the mountains Mexican food line. Tacos, an enchilada, or find at the food court. Smiling faces and food court is the dual Anthracite Mining went into the mining museum. It features was by the skills I witnessed, I was equally of central Pennsylvania. a burrito? I opted for the shredded beef amazing food.” As I was bussing the tray, Museum/Knoebels History Museum, which a collection of various antique mining impressed by the section of 220-year-old For more info, visit knoebels.com burrito and was quite happy with my I quickly concluded that this was 100 offered us a lot of opportunity for learning. tools and artifacts, as well as black-and- oak displayed prominently on a mining car decision. The veggies were fresh and the percent accurate. I can’t say enough about Before we entered the museum, we gazed white photos and life-size exhibits, all of in the middle of the area.

36 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 37 PHOTOGRAPHYBIRD’S-EYE OF REAL ESTATE MASTERWORK VIEW SERIES written by l.j. ramos | photography by air views

Newport Center/Fashion Island © Fred Emmert Air Views Newport Center/Fashion Island © Fred Emmert Air Views Newport Center/Fashion Island © Fred Emmert Air Views July 1967 July 1970 December 1979

A common “What if?” scenario that we’ve For that reason alone, photos play an and photography, became the first person the photos didn’t survive because of Wilbur Wright—who took meticulous photos all been asked is: if your home were on fire extremely important part in our lives, to use himself as his own subject in 1839. chemical reactions within the balloon. of his and his brother’s attempt to be the and you could only grab one item (assuming as they have for centuries. Before the James Wallace Black snapped the oldest first humans to fly—teamed with L. P. family and pets were safe), what would it nineteenth century, however, likenesses But photography reached new heights— known aerial photo still in existence two Bonvillain in France to take the first aerial be? Some people might say a treasured were mostly captured through the literally and figuratively—in the mid-1800s years later in Boston. Other subsequent photographs from a plane in 1908; Wright heirloom. Others would say their phone painstaking process of posing for paintings. with the advent of aerial photography. The means to get such images include attaching piloted the plane while Bonvillain took the or their laptop. Many others would say a That all changed when Frenchman Joseph first known attempt at capturing a bird’s- cameras to homing pigeons and kites. photos. Soon after, aerial photography was scrapbook, a photo album, or a flash drive. Nicéphore Niépce took the first photograph eye view occurred in 1858, when a French used as a tactical tool in both World War I The common thread? Wanting to preserve in 1826, a snapshot of his back yard. The photographer named Nadar hopped into a Since that time, aerial photography and World War II, as US planes documented something important or special—especially first selfie? A Philadelphian named Robert hot-air balloon with his camera to take an has been a vital tool across the globe— enemy locations. In addition, in the 1920s when it comes to people, places, or events. Cornelius, who enjoyed tinkering in science aerial view of French sewers; unfortunately, especially once planes were invented. and 1930s, photography pioneers in the

38 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 39 business also started using it for surveying “ and mapping purposes. In a very real sense, these photographers were chronicling history—only from thousands of feet in the air. Fred Emmert and Richard Frost dub such photos “masterworks” in their new book series, Real

One industry that has truly taken advantage Estate Masterwork Series Half Century Aerial of this tool is real estate, particularly real Photography Retrospective, which celebrates estate developers. Think of your favorite the art of real estate development through mall, entertainment complex, or business historical aerial photography. black-and-white and color photos—from complex. There’s a good chance its the bare land of 1953 to the construction development was documented with aerial commencing in the mid-1960s to the photography. It’s the first step of a process buildings being added to the spectacular that leads to what can be a years-long shots through 2015 (including a shot that Newport Center/Fashion Island © Fred Emmert Air Views project, and it can also help to chronicle the December 2014 Frost says is “one of the most beautiful evolution of the complex over the years. pictures of Newport Center/Fashion Island I have ever seen!”)—is like watching history As such, these pioneers were also come alive. creating a unique type of photographic art. Fred Emmert and Richard Frost dub That’s why, in a world that’s becoming such photos “masterworks” in their new accustomed to GoPro videos, virtual book series, Real Estate Masterwork reality, and drone footage, such aerial Series Half Century Aerial Photography photography is to be cherished, as Fred Retrospective, which celebrates the art Emmert and Richard Frost are doing with of real estate development through their collection. These aerial photographs of historical aerial photography. Newport Center/Fashion Island immortalize the achievements of the past, giving us One such example of these iconic complexes a visual pushpin of each advancement is the massive Newport Center/Fashion along the way and allowing us to see how Island development, the first masterwork innovation and daring to dream take flight. For more info, visit realestatemasterworkphotos.com featured in the Real Estate Masterwork Newport Center/Fashion Island © Fred Emmert Air Views © Fred Emmert Air Views Series. Set on ninety-three acres and Newport Center/Fashion Island August 2016 December 2006 located right off the Pacific Coast Highway in beautiful Newport Beach, California, this business, entertainment, and shopping Boy Scout Jamboree. After the success the largest Christmas tree in America.) complex features an upscale open-air of that event (featuring over 50,000 Since then, both Newport Center and shopping center that includes high- scouts and Vice President Richard Nixon), Fashion Island have transformed, with the end department stores and over thirty planning of Newport Center/Fashion Island former adding several businesses, including restaurants in the heart of the complex— began. The Irvine Company commenced The Irvine Company headquarters; and all with a spectacular view of the with design studies in 1956, and it started the latter having gone through several Pacific Ocean. planning and designing Newport Center in renovations—including a three-year, $100 1961. By 1966, ground was being broken million facelift starting in 2009. And it all began with the Boy Scouts. on Fashion Island (first known as Newport Town Center), which opened a year later, in All of this progress was documented from The plot of land that would become September of 1967, with four department the very beginning, thanks to over a half- Newport Center/Fashion Island was part stores as its cornerstones. (As it grew in century of aerial photographs, which the of the 93,000-acre Irvine Ranch, first popularity, it grew in grandeur: for decades authors call a “chronological time machine © Fred Emmert Air Views developed in 1953 to host the International the complex was also renowned for having of an untold story.” Seeing the mixture of Newport Center/Fashion Island October 2016

40 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 41 “Bridges become frames for looking at the world around us.” — Bruce Jackson

Everybody loves a road trip. In fact, every year, Americans travel well over 250 billion vehicle miles per month during summer. And wherever you may roam, you’ll likely come across a bridge that will help get you to your destination. These structures are what tie our travels together, allowing us to drive from sea to shining sea. Bridges have been an essential part of America’s infrastructure since the country was founded—and they number over 600,000 today.

One of the most magnificent examples of these monuments of engineering can be found out west. If you’re traveling through Colorado and want a truly unique adventure, then take Route 50 through Cañon City to County Road 3A, where you’ll discover the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park attraction. Situated about an hour south of Colorado City and a little over two hours south of Denver, the Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in North America. Standing at almost 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, it encapsulates all that’s great about the American spirit, ABOVE THE serving as an example of ingenuity, perseverance, and adventure.

THE BEGINNING “The Royal Gorge was a popular tourist ARKANSAS attraction even before the bridge was built in 1929,” says Peggy Gair, human resources and public relations manager for Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Indeed, the Arkansas River, the sixth longest river RIVER in the country, started (very gradually) creating the Royal Gorge millions of years ROYAL GORGE BRIDGE ago; today, the granite-encased gorge is almost 1,000 feet deep and ten miles long, written by matthew brady | photography by eve nagode yet it’s only approximately fifty feet wide at its base. Because of its location and its propensity for silver and lead, discovered in the mid-to-late 1800s, it became a booming

42 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 43 region and even caused a two-year railroad “The 5,000-acre Royal Gorge Park was war over the rights to take passengers given to Cañon City in 1906 by the US through the gorge. Department of the Interior,” Gair adds. “In order to build the bridge, the Cañon City The popularity of the gorge (also dubbed Council had to approve it, which they did. “the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River”) Piper hired engineer George Cole, a fellow as a tourist attraction led to even grander Texan, who had previously built toll bridges plans—namely, constructing a bridge for him, to be the chief engineer and across the chasm. “Even though it wasn’t general superintendent for this project.” a new idea to build a bridge to connect With both funding and expertise in place, the 1,000-foot walls of the Royal Gorge, construction of the bridge started on money and know-how were always an issue June 5, 1929. Remarkably, it took under until the 1920s,” notes Gair. “San Antonio seven months for about eighty men to businessman Lon Piper came to visit in complete the massive structure; even 1928, and he was instantly interested in more remarkably, there were no deaths or building a bridge across the Royal Gorge. even serious injuries from the venture— Having built a successful toll bridge across something that Piper and Cole took great the Rio Grande, Piper thought he could also pride in. The grand opening was December erect one here. 8, 1929, and, as Gair notes, “It was popular from that very first day.”

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS At the time it was built in 1929, the RISING FROM THE ASHES Royal Gorge Bridge stood as the highest Such a unique structure does come with suspension bridge in the world, a unique challenges, though. According to distinction it held until 2003. Its bridge Gair, the bridge is inspected several times deck stands 956 feet high, which, to put it a year, and the maintenance is usually to in perspective, is higher than three Statues replace some of the bridge’s wood planks. of Liberty. The bridge is 1,260 feet (about The bridge was also refurbished in the a quarter mile) long, and it is eighteen feet early 1980s: abutments were replaced and wide. In addition, the Royal Gorge’s main strengthened, the bridge was repainted, span is 880 feet, and its towers are 150 and a new wind cable was added. feet high. The biggest challenge by far, however, A bridge of this size also needs to was a wildfire that threatened the very be fortified for safety and strength. existence of Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. According to Gair, there are 2,100 strands On June 11, 2013, stoked by dry conditions, of galvanized wire in each cable, and the the fire started west of the park, jumped weight of the cables themselves is 300 the Royal Gorge, destroying both sides tons; in addition, there are another 1,000 of the park, and blazed toward town— tons of steel in the floor of the bridge. With getting perilously close to Cañon City. In all that said, the bridge will support in all, it burned over 3,100 acres’ worth of excess of two million pounds. park, Bureau of Land Management land, and private land—including forty-eight of Speaking of millions, the cost to build the fifty-two attractions and buildings at the bridge in 1929 was $350,000. The Royal Gorge Park. Thankfully, all 1,200-plus replacement cost for the bridge today? At visitors and employees, as well as sixty least $20 million. animals, were safely evacuated.

44 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 45 After the fire, the Royal Gorge Bridge new Visitor Center taking place on January the weather, wait twenty minutes, and it the bridge,” Gair continues. “Like most extremely popular adrenaline thrill ride. where guests can sit by the fireplace and stood defiantly above the rubble, with only 30, 2014, and the entire park reopening will change.’” people, most dogs love it, while some don’t. Imagine being placed in a harness, being take in the awesome views of the gorge about 100 of its 1,292 boards charred and just in time for Labor Day weekend—a One dog was so scared, the owners put him drawn up to a 100-foot tower, and then and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You burned on the south side of the bridge; mere fourteen months after the fire. What If you’re daring enough to walk across the in their baby stroller with their child and swinging out, free-fall-style, over the Royal can enjoy some quality food, like burgers, these were immediately replaced. The park visitors experience now is an even more Royal Gorge Bridge, prepare accordingly. threw a blanket over his head.” Gorge at 50 miles per hour. The sensation sandwiches, and salads, at Café 1230—while didn’t fare so well. With over 90 percent exciting Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Gair says that, depending on how quickly of diving into a 1,000-foot-deep chasm is a enjoying a view from 1,230 feet over the of the park razed, the only attractions left you walk and whether you stop to enjoy The bridge may be at the center of the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Arkansas River. History is incorporated into standing were the Royal Rush Skycoaster THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE TODAY the gorgeous views of the gorge, it should park (literally and figuratively), but there’s the Visitor Center as well: as a reminder and the Plaza Theater and Historical Expo. The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is more take twenty minutes or less to walk the also something for everyone at the new You can also experience more down-to- of its rebirth, the front of the Visitor Center Major attractions such as the Aerial Tram, popular than ever. On average, the park span of the bridge. And what do you do and improved Royal Gorge Park. After earth fun at the park. The Plaza Theater and has the original milled burned bridge the Incline Railway, the vintage carousel, gets over 340,000 visitors per year and has if you’re suddenly spooked by the sheer the fire of 2013, the park recreated some Historical Expo offers a seventeen-minute planks from the fire of 2013 as part of its the petting zoo, the Mountain Man Town, welcomed over twenty-six million visitors altitude? “People can get a little freaked old attractions—but also added some film examining the history of the area, exterior wall. the Western Wapiti Wildlife Park, and the since its opening. It is open 365 days a out, especially those who suffer from very exciting new ones. One of the more including the building of the bridge and the Visitor Center were all lost. These losses year, weather permitting, and it’s busiest vertigo,” Gair admits. “They tend to walk popular new rides is the Aerial Gondolas, reconstruction after the fire. You can also The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park impacted the park and its employees, of during the summer months. Regardless down the middle of the bridge and won’t go six eight-seat enclosed Poma cabins that see artifacts and photos from the original certainly has come a long way as an course, but it went far beyond that, also of the time of year, though, Gair says the look over the side. We’ve had a few guests allow you to bask in the breathtaking views construction of the bridge displayed at the unforgettable travel experience—from impacting the economies of Cañon City and weather almost always cooperates: “This get out on the bridge and freeze up—they of the scenery all around you while the cars Expo. Then take the kids to Tommy Knocker its historic beginnings, through trials by all of southern Colorado. So having a quick, area experiences an average of 300 days or don’t want to go forward or backward! Our gently carry you across the Royal Gorge. Children’s Playland, which features gigantic fire, to its modern-day attractions for safe rebuild was imperative to not only the more of sunshine, so it’s generally beautiful park rangers are great, though, and they For more adventurous types, the Royal two-story climbing structures, crawling thrill-seekers. As such, North America’s park but also the entire region. weather, even in the winter. The wind does will offer them a ride back across the bridge Gorge Cloudscraper by ZipRider is for you. mounds, a fantasy-style carousel, and a highest suspension bridge stands as an blow quite often, which makes the bridge in their golf cart.” This extremely popular ride is actually splash pad. American landmark that not only bridges With that in mind, demolition began within sway a little bit (which can add some the highest zip line in America, taking its a 1,200-foot-wide natural chasm, but also a couple of weeks of the disaster. As it thrills), and there is always a breeze at the You can even make the trek across the riders across the gorge about 1,200 feet The Visitor Center, which sits on the edge past and present. had when the bridge was originally built, center of the bridge. The park rarely closes, bridge with your favorite pooch. “This park over the river. The Royal Rush Skycoaster, of the Royal Gorge, is practically brand new For more info, visit royalgorgebridge.com this project took only seven months to usually for a snowstorm. But even then, we is dog friendly, so it’s not unusual to see built in 2003 (and one of the two rides as well. While there, you can shop at the complete, with groundbreaking for the have a saying in Colorado: ‘If you don’t like dogs on leashes with their humans crossing that survived the 2013 fire), is another gift shop or walk out on a massive deck

46 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE americanlifestylemag.com | 47 Personalized, There are several Front of Tear Out Card 2 areas within American Lifestyle magazine STAND-OUT that you can customize to connect with your clients and MARKETING sphere of influence.

1 Front Cover Multiple front cover options to choose from. Customized with your branding, photo, and contact information.

2 Front Inside Cover Include a personal letter tailored Back of Tear Out Card 2 specifically to your clients or prospects to help strengthen relationships.

3 Content 48 pages of engaging content make this the perfect conversation starter.

4 Back Covers Includes two back covers that provide flexible ad space to promote your business.

5 Tear Out Cards Includes two tear out cards with your contact information that are easy to share, making it simple for clients to give you referrals. Presorted Standard Paul Sanders U.S. Postage Sanders Wealth Management, LLC PAID 1100 First Avenue Harrisburg, PA Permit No. 478 Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406

Bill and Judy Smith 123 Main Street King of Prussia, PA 19406

Paul Sanders PERFECT TIME TO Private Wealth Advisor Cell: (610) 878-5000 Office: (866) 458-4226 E-mail: [email protected] www.remindermedia.com

Sanders Wealth Management, LLC 1100 First Avenue Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406 WHEN MONEY TALKS...

Securities and advisory services offered through your future listens. Sanders Wealth Management, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor. MAKE YOUR STATEMENT ...make sure it’s a conversation you want to hear. Say Hello. This is a conversation you Use the Back Inside Cover and Back Cover as a way to brand your will want to be a part of. business. Choose from timely ad options designed to take advantage of S the current issue’s content, use one of our pre-made template ads, or Have a completely create your own ad to make the most of this prime space. Buzz-Worthy experIence?

1 Communicate information. Inform your clients about an upcoming seminar that may interest them, or Spread the word. about a change of address they’ll need to be aware of. Maybe you’ve earned a

new designation, or launched a new website. Make them aware of all news that As a satisfied customer to my business,

please feel free to pass along your favorable adds value to your service. experiences to family and friends. It would be

my pleasure to assist their needs with the same

Generating positive buzz about my high quality service I deliver to all my clients. services is greatly appreciated! It's been great working with you, and I look

forward to new opportunities to serve. 2 Say thanks. Receive referrals. Show that you appreciate their business. A simple thank you goes a long way. Paul Sanders Private Wealth Advisor Use the space to remind them of their value to your business, or as a save-the- Cell: (610) 878-5000 Office: (866) 458-4226 S E-mail: [email protected] www.remindermedia.com Sanders Wealth Management, LLC date to your annual client appreciation dinner. 1100 First Avenue Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406 Securities and advisory services offered through Sanders Wealth Management, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.

3 Educate recipients about financial topics and trends. Position yourself as an educator. Share information that will help them better Advice understand a piece of their financial life. This heightened knowledge sparks Personalized My Mission: Money Solutions & questions —creating a need and appreciation for you, their trusted advisor. Aligning Smart

4 Introduce your team. The Personalized Advice: • Investment Advisory Services My Culture and Process: • Estate & Protection Planning Strategies

I believe my collaborative approach • Education & Goal Funding enables on-going engagements, proactive You know your teams’ value—share it. Your clients know you well, but do they Our Philosophy & Mission: • Retirement Income Strategies communication, an interactive financial NOT A DESIGNER?I believe focusing on what is important to THAT’S OK. • Charitable Giving & Wealth planning process and investment strategies clients will enhance their motivation to Transfer Planning with tailored recommendations. I also know who else you have working on their behalf? Showing them the others living the plan. My philosophy is to deliver provide access to a responsive team, the • Tax Planning Strategies Our expert customizedcreative solutions and help team clients plan can help you turn your ideas intellectual capital of the practice as well as • Workplace Education to provide protection and growth to build a broad menu of solutions to help who support their financial counsel and what their credentials are will increase their wealth. into something you can feelmeet proudclients’ needs. to send your clients. Paul Sanders your overall value. Private Wealth Advisor Visit creative.remindermedia.com. Cell: (610) 878-5000 Office: (866) 458-4226 [email protected] www.remindermedia.com

SANDERS WEALTH S MANAGEMENT, LLC