18 DECEMBER 2023 By Mark Hays A local group of kids is straying from the typical after school activities, grabbing their fishing poles, and heading to the water with a brand new club at Veritas Prep: The Anglers. The club, which started in October, has grown rapidly since its inception, welcoming students of all levels. “Right now, we have twelve students ranging from sixth to 11th grade, some with almost no experience and others with a wealth of it,” Club Founder Jeff Dick said. “I have set a limit for enrollment to 20 – if we get there, that’s great. With the nature of fishing and visiting fisheries, it is often the case that ‘less is more.’ I would like to see it become an established tradition eventually.” Jeff is the Master Teacher of Fine Arts and Instructor of Studio Art at Veritas. He and his son have been into fishing for the last three years and thought it could be beneficial to share the hobby with interested students. “The Anglers was officially started around the first of October, but I’d been toying with the idea since last year,” he said. “I was approached by some upperclassmen who are also into the sport, and basically, I just realized that now was the time to finally get something established.” The members have found it to be a fantastic way to enjoy fishing in a community setting. “I love fishing, but it’s hard to make the time for it on my own, so being in the club makes it a commitment,” junior Ariane Cawley said. “I also like the idea of being part of a community of students with a shared interest. The first meeting was fun, calming, and a definite escape from the normal routine.” Seventh-grader Max Gaedtke agreed, noting how much fun he had at a recent gathering: “It was great – I caught nine largemouth bass! My favorite moment in the club so far was when we were all fishing for carp – they’re fun to target because they are aggressive but tricky to catch. You have to work with each other for best strategies.” The Anglers Club sets up shop at local spots, like Camelback Lake and Papago Ponds, but Jeff says they hope to hit some locations in the Rim Country and White Mountains eventually. The club fishes for largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and carp. This month, they’ll start fishing for trout as local ponds are stocking up. “I have been really impressed by the interactions among members out in the field,” Dick said. “For one thing, I think just being outside together casually focused on the ritual of angling is a joy. But the fact that there is such a range of students, both boys and girls, experienced and novice, all in communion with each other, helping each other, sharing stories, techniques – it’s just got a great vibe.” This school club blends fun, education…and fish! Brock Tolson Emerson Bassi Matthew Torrez Max Gaedtke Happy Holidays ‘ T I S T H E S E A S O N — F R O M O U R F A M I LY T O Y O U R S — If you are currently working with an agent, please disregard. Paul Nicoletti + Nathan Anderson 480.888.5800 | nateandpaul.com — Happy Holidays Happy Holidays

SCOTTSDAZZLE STROLL Scottsdale Waterfront Canal Bank Saturday, Dec 2, 9, 16 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM With live music leading your step, grab a sweet treat and stroll along the canal gazing in awe at the live entertainment and capturing memories in front of the new 2023 holiday lights. HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT THE CHEF’S TABLE Marcellino Ristorante · 7114 E Stetson Dr Tuesday, Dec 5 | 6:00 PM Join Chef Marcellino and Sommelier Dario Soldan for perfectly paired Italian wines and cuisine at the beautiful Chef’s Table. GOLD PALETTE ARTWALK Art Galleries along Main St & Marshall Way Thursday, Dec 7 | 6:30 – 9:00 PM Join for a special holiday-themed ArtWalk with strolling carolers and live entertainment. SUGAR PLUM TEA PARTY Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Saturday, Dec 9 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM & 1:00 – 2:00 PM Receive the royal treatment at a magical tea party with live entertainment and treats on the Scottsdale Waterfront. ULTIMATE FAMILY PLAY DATE Scottsdale Civic Center · 3939 N Drinkwater Blvd Saturday, Dec 9 | 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM With activities for early learners, school-aged children and tweens/teens join for a morning of art, science, sports and building activities followed by a family-friendly concert at noon. HOLIDAY TRIVIA AT THE NORTH POLE Porters Western Saloon · 3944 N Brown Ave Sunday, Dec 10, 17 | 3:00 – 5:00 PM Enjoy Christmas themed trivia located above Porters Western Saloon. Includes one cocktail off the North Pole Cocktail Menu. HOLLY-JOLLY PAINTING PARTY Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 10 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Create your own “Festive Saguaro” in this step-by-step acrylic painting class hosted outdoors in the heart of the holiday magic. ICE IT UP COOKIE DECORATING Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 10 | 3:30 – 4:45 PM With techniques and tips from a Pastry Chef, decorate cookies to wow family and friends this holiday season. MERRY CENTERPIECE MAKING Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 10 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM Join a festive design workshop and learn how to create your own Christmas décor using a fresh, miniature tree, berries, and florals. SPARKLE & SPIN SCAVENGER HUNTS Various Locations Sunday, Dec 10, 17 | 9:00 – 11:00 AM Discover hot spots and historical markers as you spin your way through Old Town solving riddles and brain teasers. N O W – D E C 3 1 Enjoy a month-long holiday extravaganza featuring stunning décor, the best in dining and shopping, and more than 45 incredible events! oldtownscottsdale • #SCOTTSDAZZLE Check out the dazzling event lineup SCOTTSDAZZLE.COM