D A N C I N G W I T H T H E S TA R S A R I Z O N A 2 0 1 9 benefiting the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona
February 22, 2019 J W M a r r i ot t C a m e l b a c k I n n R e s o rt & S pa Pa r a d i s e Va l l e y, A r i z o n a
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JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 1 JANUARY 2019 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 1
DRESS FOR SUCCESS + 10 QUESTIONS WITH DIANA YAZZIE DEVINE + ONE•N•TEN
NOVEMBER 2017 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 11
FPO TITLE AREA
Rob and Melani Walton Discuss Philanthropy and Partnerships, From Local to Global
Generations Generosity OF
Sharon and Dr. Oliver Harper Carry the Giving Torch NOVEMBER 2017
ARTICLE + ARTICLE NAME + ARTICLE NAMEPLACE HEALTHY EATS NAME + GETTING FIT FOR A CAUSE + BILLYʼS
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D A N C I N G W I T H T H E S TA R S A R I Z O N A 2 0 1 9 benefiting the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona
t onight Mistress of Ceremonies Chelsey Davis
G u i d i n g S ta r Awa r d Nancy Spetzler
Dance Competition 16 Celebrity Star Dancers and Ballroom Professionals
Ballroom Exhibition Featuring tonight’s Ballroom Professionals
Awa r d s C e r e m o n y & Open Dance
Event CHAIR Jamie Andersen
Judges Debbie Avalos Linda Dean Tony Meredith
c e l e b r i t y s ta r & P r o
Mackenzie Darling Berk + Elvin Dioquino Cha Cha – Marc Anthony, “I Need to Know” Laura Bianchi + Kristijan Burazer Samba – Skillz, “Rub a Bum” Dr. Harini Chakkera + Darmir Karaman Cha Cha Bollywood - A. R. Rahman, “Jai Ho”
Gentlemen
Ladies
dancers
Dr. Sheetal Chhaya + Daniele Cavallo Rumba – “Vento di Passione”
Andy Chambers + Sarah Dobbs Cha Cha – Ofenbach vs Nick Waterhouse, “Katchi” Zach Heasley + Anja Imamovic Medley – Pitbull, “Fireball” Ian Schwartz + Briana Santiago Ustymovych Cha Cha Medley – Pete Rodriguez with remix by Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin, “I Like it Like That”
Ali Dugaw + Radomir Pashev Viennese Waltz – “Breathe Easy”
Marcus Seiler + Mariyana Vasileva Hustle Medley – Alan Walker, “The Spectre”
Andrea Tyler Evans + Ivan Dishliev Disco Cha Cha – Gloria Estefan, “Turn the Beat Around”
Jarrod Smith + Gergana Slavova Jive – Etta James, “Somethings Got a Hold of Me”
Kerrie Addante Jacobs + Tudor Alexander Salsa – Ricky Martin, “Livin’ La Vida Loca” Racquel Miller + Nikolay Kralev Samba – Enrique Iglesias featuring Pitbull, “Move to Miami” Dr. Jaya Raj + JC Yeh Samba - Sean Paul and David Guetta, “Mad Love” Dr. Natalee Sansone + Yavor Genev Samba – Sergio Mendes, “Brasileiro” Denise Viner + Elijah Armstead Salsa – El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, “Un Verano en Nueva York”
[2]
WELCOME
W
elcome to the 13th Annual Dancing with the Stars Arizona. I’m am extremely honored to serve as Chairman for this event and overwhelmed by the tremendous support and generosity from our community. Having been to the event six years in a row, participated as a dancer and was part of the 10th Anniversary, I truly believe this is one of Arizona’s must attend events of the calendar year. The celebrity dancers you will watch tonight have spent countless hours rehearsing and fundraising. The support they have received from their families, friends and colleagues is greatly appreciated by us all. The hard work and effort of all the staff at the Kidney Foundation and our professional dancers over the years has made the event what it has become today. It is a yearly effort to put this event together and to them all, we are very thankful. Tonight we honor Mrs. Nancy Spetzler, who has been a keen supporter of the Kidney Foundation for numerous years, as a dancer in the inaugural DWS AZ in 2007, and now tonight is passing the torch to her son-in-law Andy, as a Celebrity Star Dancer. On behalf of the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona and all the guests at the event this evening, we are honored to have you here and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the support that you have shown through the years. Finally, I want to thank my family! My three beautiful boys who bring happiness, joy and light into my life every day and every hour and of course my Husband who is my rock, my support and my everything, he has made my life whole and we continue to enjoy each other more and more as the years go on. Please enjoy the evening and cheer on your favorite dancers!
Jamie Andersen
[3]
g u i d i n g s ta r awa r d nancy spetzler
T
he National Kidney Foundation of Arizona Guiding Star Award honors those few who have shown exemplary leadership and passion in their philanthropic work for the foundation, and whose dedication has made a significant impact on its future. The award recognized those who have not only given their time but their hearts and vision, to the mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona and to the Phoenix non-profit community, at large. As a close friend of former CEO Glenna Shapiro and former DWS AZ Chair Linda Pope, Nancy was one of the original Celebrity Star Dancers at the inaugural Dancing with the Stars Arizona 2007. Returning to the dance floor in 2008, along with her husband, Dr. Robert Spetzler, the couple carried ‘Best in Smooth’ category. Nancy and her family have continued their joint love of ballroom dancing, including her son-in-law, Andy, who is part of the Celebrity Star Dancers’ Class of 2019. Nancy Spetzler’s dedication and energy supporting the local nonprofit community can be felt through her long history of board service and galas chaired. Nancy served as the Chapter President of the ARCS Foundation Phoenix Chapter from 1993-1994 and most recently served as their National Board President from 2014-2016, receiving the ARCS Foundation Phoenix Chapter “ARCS LIGHT” Award. It is an honor for the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona to present Nancy Spetzler with the 2019 Guiding Star Award.
T h e awa r d r e c o g n i z e s t h o s e w h o h av e not on ly g i v e n t h e i r t i m e , b u t t h e i r h e a rt s a n d v i s i o n , t o t h e m i s s i o n o f t h e N at i o n a l K i d n e y F o u n d at i o n o f A r i z o n a a n d t o t h e P h o e n i x n o n - p r o f i t c o m m u n i t y , at l a r g e .
[4]
c e l e b r i t y s ta r
dancers
Mackenzie Darling Berk has called Scottsdale, Arizona home since 2003. Originally from Redmond, Washington, she attended Gonzaga University before relocating to Arizona. She spent her early years in Arizona raising her three children and teaching various exercise modalities, including Pilates, ballet barre and yoga. Now in the field of Medical Aesthetics, she is passionate about providing preventative anti-aging solutions to her clients and offers the most cutting-edge services in the industry. She found her niche in the Aesthetics Industry by bringing a completely mobile med-spa experience into her client’s homes, instead of summoning them to her. Mackenzie and her husband are passionate about giving back to the community and teaching their combined (7) children to be of service to others who are in need. Having attended the Kidney Foundations DWTS gala for several years, in support of different friends as they took the ballroom floor, she was honored to represent her community for this great cause. Mackenzie Darling Berk
Laura Bianchi has called Scottsdale, Arizona home since 2003. She was raised in Illinois and Colorado, received her undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Colorado Boulder, and earned her JD from Vermont Law School. Laura has risen from law clerk to partner at Rose Law Group and, as director of the firm’s cannabis business practice, is regarded as one of the industry’s leading business attorneys and strategic advisors. Laura is honored to support the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona as a dancer for this year’s Dancing with the Stars Arizona gala. She hopes her first ever dance performance will raise awareness of a little known issue facing athletes competing in mixed martial arts, combat sports and wrestling: athletic performance-related kidney disease and kidney failure brought on by dangerous weight cutting and training practices. Laura Bianchi
Dr. Chakkera was born and raised in India and immigrated to the United States after completing medical school. After completing my residency training in Minneapolis, she decided to pursue a career caring for patients with kidney disease and in 2000 started her Nephrology Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco. Subsequently, after completing a Transplant Nephrology Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco, she joined the Mayo Clinic Arizona as a transplant nephrologist in 2005. Over the past 18 years, she has been involved in caring for patients with kidney disease and those who have received a kidney transplant. She has been an active member of the National Kidney Foundation in Arizona contributing to their academic growth; including being the organizing chair of their annual Southwest Kidney Conference over the last couple years. This year she decided to step out of her comfort zone and be a participant in 2019 — Dancing with the Stars Arizona providing her the opportunity to further give back to the community in assisting patients with kidney disease. Dr. Harini Chakkera
Andy Chambers is the husband of Christina Spetzler Chambers, the father of 10-year old Abigail and 8-year old Wilson, and an attorney at the long-time Phoenix law firm, Jennings Strouss & Salmon, PLC. Andy is dancing in honor of his amazing mother-in-law, Nancy Spetzler (he couldn’t say no). He hopes to raise a lot of money for the NKF-AZ (it’s still not too late to contribute), and to not embarrass himself on the dance floor.
Andy Chambers
[5]
c e l e b r i t y s ta r
dancers
Dr. Chhaya is an original Jersey Girl...in the best way possible! She was raised in South Jersey and grew up in a family of academics, physicians and musicians. She attended the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ for Medical School and then completed her Internal Medicine Residency and Chief Residency at Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center. Dr. Chhaya is happily married to Dr. Sandeep Patel, who is also a salsa dancer and they have two beautiful children — Anaiya and Niyam. Dr. Chhaya is an attending in academic Rheumatology at Maricopa Integrated Health Systems, teaching residents and medical students about the amazing field she practices. She is treating patients and educating young doctors about the autoimmune diseases that can be so complex and often involve the most vital organs...and so often, the kidney. That is why she is here; to support this valuable organization that can provide her patients with the best care they so deserve. She is excited to wow you on the dance floor tonight! D r . S h e e ta l Chhaya
For the better part of a decade, chances are if you saw something cool on Arizona television, Ali Dugaw had something to do with it. The Emmy-award winning producer is a veteran of both PBS in Tucson and ABC15 Phoenix, today she is a segment producer for 3TV’s Good Morning Arizona. On any given day, she is showcasing the hottest events, championing local businesses and shining a light on Valley causes that matter. Now her focus is on telling people’s stories - including her own - through the lens of social media. She juggles a personal Instagram account (@producerali), a behind-the-scenes look at Good Morning Arizona (@gmazproducer) and a recently launched foodie account and blog dedicated to gluten-free finds called Gluten Free Travel Girl (www.glutenfreetravelgirl.com) (@glutenfreetravelgirl). She hopes to inspire and offer hope to others like herself, who end up with a diagnosis that forces them to be on a restricted diet. Ali D u g aw
Andrea’s company, Frontdoors Media, is dedicated to celebrating the people and groups who give generously and work to build the future of our community. Frontdoors content is delivered through several platforms, including Frontdoors Magazine, The Knock newsletter, daily posts at FrontdoorsMagazine.com and FrontdoorsTV with Carey Pena. Prior to the acquisition of Frontdoors, Andrea was the Principal of Event Planning for Evans Communications for 14 years.
Andrea Tyler E va n s
She is a proud Arizona State University alumni and a graduate of Valley Leadership Institute Class 24. She volunteers with a number of nonprofit organizations that help women, children and the arts in our community. Andrea is married to Tom Evans and mom to Thomas, Ellie and their rescue kitty, Sally. Andrea is dancing in honor of her Uncle Steve, a recipient of TWO kidney transplants. She’s thrilled that Uncle Steve, her Aunt Melanie and Cousin Cambrea - his second kidney donor - will be attending Dancing with the Stars Arizona to celebrate life! Thank you for joining #TeamAndrea for this incredibly important and personal cause! Zach was born and raised in Marion, Indiana, but has called Ahwatukee home since moving to Arizona in 1996. He has been an athlete most of his life, earning his degree in Exercise Science and playing collegiate-level football. Shortly after college, he pursued a career in the fire service and was hired with the Tempe Fire Medial and Rescue Department in 2013. Within the 5 short years of working as a professional firefighter, he became a Technical Rescue Technician, took his leadership/mentor role with our Cadet program, and continued his education by earning his patch as a Paramedic and serving the citizens of Temple, in any way he can. In April 2019, he and his fiancé, Charlea, will be expecting the newest member of their family, their first baby girl, Cooper Nicole Heasley.
Zach Heasley
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c e l e b r i t y s ta r
dancers
Kerrie was born in Chicago, raised in Scottsdale and settled in the Town of Paradise Valley. She graduated from Chaparral High School and attended Arizona State University as a Pre-Law/Justice Studies major. Growing up with a family headed by a real estate developer kindled her passion for land and deals and led Kerrie to a 20-year career in commercial real estate. Kerrie is the Assistant Vice President of Builder and Commercial Sales for Security Title Agency. She is happily married to her husband of 13 years and is the mother of two beautiful twin girls, Gabby and Josie. Kerrie is an avid workout warrior and completed her first Spartan race and second triathlon this year. In 2019 she will be competing in Ironman 70.3, and although training for a half Ironman is hard, she laughs at how much more difficult it is to dance. Kerrie Addante Jacobs
Originally from Jamaica, Racquel has been living in the U.S. since she was 12 years old. She grew up in South Florida and attended the University of Miami, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Master in Education. After meeting her soulmate, Jamir Miller, in 1994, she moved across the country to Arizona for love. Racquel married Jamir, and together they have three beautiful children. After moving to Arizona, Racquel decided to put her own career on hold to support her husband’s NFL career and raise her children. Racquel & Jamir are true believers in always giving back, so they started their own foundation, The Jamir Miller Foundation, where she served as the President, and helped raise funds to support women and children at risk. She currently serves her community as a real estate advisor at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Over the years, Racquel chaired and supported many fundraising events, and continues to stay involved in our community, through the NFL Alumni Chapter and Off The Field, the NFL wives organization, and volunteers at her son’s school. Racquel Miller
Dr. Raj is a New York City girl who was born in New York, New York and spent her childhood in upstate New York. Although she trained in ballet and performed through high school, she hung up her pointe shoes in college to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. She graduated from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, where she met her husband, Tom Gillespie. She stayed at Columbia to complete her residency in Internal Medicine and then moved to Arizona in 1998, where she and Tom have lived and practiced medicine ever since. Together, they are the proud parents of Maria Claire Gillespie, who is 10 years old. Jaya is a Professor of Medicine at Creighton University School of Medicine and the Program Director of the Creighton University Internal Medicine Residency Program in Phoenix. She currently practices at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center, where she cares for patients with acute and chronic kidney disease, many of whom are uninsured and without resources. Dr. Jaya Raj
Dr. Sansone is a native of Jamaica and immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. The eldest of three children, Natalee spent her early years in Brooklyn. She attended Harvard University where she earned a Bachelor’s in Chemistry, won the Josyln Award for Science, and was a 4-year letter winner in track and field. Standing nearly six feet, Natalee briefly explored a career in modeling after Harvard, finding work in magazines and runways in New York. Natalee began her medical career conducting research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and The Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. Natalee later earned a medical doctorate from MCP Hahnemann School of Medicine, where she was named a National Medical Fellowship Scholar. Currently, Natalee is a board certified gastroenterologist practicing at Banner Del Web and Banner Boswell. D r . N at a l e e Sansone
Natalee was featured in Black Women in Medicine, the first documentary and book to focus on unsung Black Women Doctors. In August of 2017, Natalee relocated to Paradise Valley, AZ with her husband of nearly 17 years, Dwayne and son, Hunter. She is an avid runner, tennis player and loves cooking.
[7]
c e l e b r i t y s ta r
dancers
An Arizona native, born and raised in Mesa, and graduate of Arizona State University, Ian Schwartz is thrilled to be home. After starting his journalism career in Illinois, Ian worked in Albuquerque and later Sacramento. In the field as a reporter, he has covered flash floods, blizzards, tornadoes, wildfires, drought and just about everything the weather can offer. After spending some time reporting, Ian decided to further his education and completed Mississippi State’s broadcast meteorology program. Ian loves everything about Arizona weather from winter storms in the north to the monsoon in the south.
Ian S c h wa rt z
When Ian isn’t giving you the forecast in the morning, you can find him hiking, traveling and exploring everything our great state has to offer.
Marcus Seiler was born and raised in Northern New Jersey and is a first generation American with family roots in Germany and Switzerland. Marcus is a Project Manager and Business Analyst for a major financial institution and when he is not doing that he is a Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket committee member, alumni coordinator for his alma mater James Madison University, loves hiking, golfing, and enjoying time with friends and family. He has Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and is taking many holistic steps to keep the disease at bay. Marcus’s father and aunt had PKD with his father receiving a life-extending transplant about 20 years ago. Marcus firmly believes in the power of science and medical breakthroughs and is optimistic that he will benefit from those advances in the very near future with the support of donations like the ones raised from this event! Marcus Seiler
For over two decades, Jarrod Smith has successfully represented buyers and sellers of real estate, including luxury homes, urban and high-rise condominium properties, and highly successful masterplanned development communities. He specializes in neighborhoods throughout the Paradise Valley, Arcadia and Phoenix areas. While he is passionate about real estate, he is most passionate about his family and supporting causes close to his heart. Being a father of four incredible kids has been his life’s greatest reward. “Twin 15 year olds (Sydnie and Cole) is quite the experience and with watching their younger brother and sister (Liam and Scottlyn) follow in their footsteps is the ultimate gift”.
Jarrod Smith
In addition to the National Kidney Foundation, Jarrod is involved in local charitable organizations including Childhelp, where his wife Ryan was President of the Wings Division and he has been coaching and mentoring kids in both Little League baseball and softball for seven seasons. Jarrod graduated from Northern Arizona University’s W.A. Franke College of Business in International Finance.
Denise Viner is an advocate for humanity, especially children. She hosts dance programs and seminars for low income families, to help keep the kids off the streets. She recently started hosting seminars and created programs to bring awareness and help fight crimes against children. She is married to the love of her life, Darren Viner. He is a Commander with the Phoenix Police Department. They have been married for 20 years. They share 5 children together. “I decided to open my own dance studio and teach dance to bring cultural diversity to the valley. After many years of teaching, I developed another passion: helping the community. Through my dance programs, I started helping women and children restore their lives and self-esteem. I now work with at risk children, abused women and broken families. My goal is to restore one child, one woman and one family at a time”. Denise Viner
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sponsors C r y s ta l
Aspirant Development Rose Law Group Team Andy
O C TA N E
Anonymous Arizona Kidney Disease and Hypertention Center Brian & Alicia Bair Dr. Robert and Nancy Spetzler Mayo Clinic, Arizona Transplant Center Richard & Michelle Felker
GLACIER
Anonymous Bridget O’Brien Creighton School of Medicine Dignity Health; St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center Fennemore Craig Fresenius Kidney Care Scott Meredith Hi Buddy Organics Landmark Title Lawrence Lake Interiors Mayo Clinic, Department of Medicine Southest Valley Gastro Team Andrea Team Jaya Team Laura The Jamir & Racquel Miller Family Foundation Fund UEB Walt Danley, Christie’s International Real Estate MGA Home Healthcare JLL Due to printing deadlines, sponsors listed through 2/5/19. [9]
special
thanks
The National Kidney Foundation of Arizona would like to thank this year’s Event Chair Jamie Andersen for all her hard work, long hours, creativity, text messages and dedication to NKF AZ and this incredible event.
thank you to the
2019 committee Chair Jamie Andersen
Special Thanks AES Erica Baca Capitol Litho Ben Cherry, Strong Creative Vision Benedict’s Catering Clearwing Productions Dance Floors of Las Vegas Linda Dean Evans Communications Frontdoors Media JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa Mousegraphics NKFAZ Staff Prism Schmidt Westergard Jennifer Stewart Dennis Thompson White House Design Studio
Committee Members George Abrams Jackob Andersen Shauna Connelly Dr. Sonal Haerter Bryna Hansen Celina Maas Dr. Judy Wu Mathews Dr. Lopa Misra Jeff Rich Leslie Rich Dr. Sharareh Saadat Kathleen Taddie
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pr ofessional
dancers
A special thank you to our Arizona Ballroom Dance Professionals for your outstanding commitment and contribution to NKF AZ, Dancing with the Stars Arizona and the Celebrity Star Dancers.
Nancy Spetzler’s Pro Partner for Tonight’s Special Presentation:
Nedko Petrov
Nedko Petrov’s, dance background begins at age ten. He joined a ballroom dance club in Burgas, Bulgaria. He started competing at age eleven. His accomplishments are as follows; he consistently won the national and international competitions in the junior and youth age category. He reached the highest dance level in Latin by age sixteen. Nedko consistently was in the top three couples in the Latin divisions for many years and in 1996 he became the national champion for Bulgaria. He also competed in International competitions throughout Europe. He placed multiple times in the final. He placed first in East Germany, sixth in West Berlin, first in Czech Republic, finalist in Poland, Austria, Macedonia, Hungry and many other countries. In 2001 Nedko, was invited to work for Fred Astaire Dance Studios. He continued competing and won several regional competitions. He placed eighth in Smooth at Ohio Star Ball in 2003. Nedko has worked for the FADS Company for a total of fifteen years. He began as a dance instructor. Later, he started working as a manager and dance director. Nedko is currently the Co-Owner of the Phoenix North Fred Astaire Dance Studio with Sarah Petrov.
Tudor Alexander is a professional dancer, author and entrepreneur. He has been dancing for 15 years and works in the greater Phoenix area. Tudor competes professionally as well as with his students, challenging them to be Superstars both on and off the floor with unique programs that are custom tailored to each individual journey. Tudor loves business and personal development, hosting a weekly podcast titled “The Dance of Life” that focuses on strategies for developing Entrepreneurship, Transformation and Gratitude. In his free time he enjoys hanging out with his friends, riding his bike in nature or playing the piano.
Tudor Alexander
Elijah Armstead began his dance journey in college as a creative outlet from his Biological Sciences degree and a hopeful boost with the ladies. He quickly found his passion in dance and joined the competitive team at ASU. By the time he was a senior, he and his partner won the collegiate national championships and his choice for a life in dance was clear. Now Elijah continues to fuel that love through professional competition and teaching his students the discipline and joy that dancing can provide.
Elijah Armstead
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pr ofessional
dancers
My name is Kristijan Burazer, born in Ljubljana, Slovenia. I started ballroom dancing when I was 9 years old. And here I am after 20 years in dance sport still teaching and competing on dance competitions. Dancing is my passion and my life and i couldn’t imagine not being able to dance. In all the 20 years in dancing I have sacrificed a lot, but the reward of being yourself on the dance floor and in life is priceless. On my journey I have achieved a lot of great results, met a lot of great people and found love of my life-my wife. I keep pushing my self and my students to not only become amazing dances but also an amazing people.
Kristijan Burazer
Daniele C ava l l o
Originally from Genova, Italy, Daniele Cavallo discovered his passion for ballroom dance after watching the Blackpool Dance Festival, the most prestigious ballroom competition in the world. At the age of 17, Daniele determined to become a professional dancer. During his dancing career spanning over two decades, Daniele has represented his home country Italy, the United States, and Israel at competitions around the globe. In 2011 he was a finalist at USDC in the RS Latin open to the world championships. Additionally, Daniele has earned many titles of distinction in Latin dance at numerous other competitions, including the California Star Ball, Desert Classic DanceSport Championships, Hollywood DanceSport Championships, and Vegas Open. Daniele continues to compete professionally with his current partner, Leela Fazzuoli. Together they won the RS Rhythm events at California Star Ball and Desert Classic Dancesport Championships, and were RS finalists at Embassy Ball, and Holiday. Classic. Daniele teaches in Phoenix and is enthusiastically training a new generation of competitive dancers. Through his coaching and instruction, Daniele is imparting his exceptional knowledge of Latin dance to a new generation of dancers.
Elvin Dioquino is very excited to be part of Dancing With the Stars for the National Kidney Foundation. Mr. Dioquino is currently the Dance Director of Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Arrowhead. He has been working within the Fred Astaire Dance Studio company for about 7 years. He was the Top Teacher in the Arizona Region in 2014 and 2017. He is also a Gold Certified Dance Instructor. He is currently competing in American Smooth and American Rhythm as a professional with his partner, Bonnie Yuen. Mr. Dioquino grew up in Chandler, AZ and Manila, Philippines. When he was little, he knew that he had passion for the arts. He is a classical flutist, pianist, and vocalist. He studied at Arizona State University for Music Education. He is a professional opera singer who has worked with Arizona Opera and Phoenix Opera. As a music and acting teacher, he has developed many students to lead succesful careers within the industry. His favorite musical memory is singing with the one and only, Lea Salonga. He cannot wait to dance with his partner, Mackenzie! Love you! E lv i n Dioquino
Ivan was born and raised in Bulgaria, Europe. He began his dance career at age 6 and earned numerous titles at a young age including Youth European Latin Champion and Youth Bulgarian 10 Dance Champion. In 2006 he moved to Arizona to teach and compete in all styles of Ballroom Dancing. In 2007, Ivan and his partner Marieta began dancing together and in 2011 their dance partnership grew into a marriage. Together they are Emerald Ball Rising Star Am. Rhythm Champions, Embassy Ball Am. Rhythm Rising Star Champions, Chicago Crystal Ball Rhythm Champions, Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Am. Rhythm Finalists, 2014 World American Rhythm Finalists and more.
I va n Dishliev
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pr ofessional
dancers
From a young age Sarah watched her aunt, Antoinette Benevento, grace the dance floor with Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Sarah was exposed to the world of dance at the age of seven with the FADS company. Seeing her aunt’s success in the ballroom world, she knew this was her dream. Sarah dedicated many of her college hours to learning the art of dance through ballroom, modern, and ballet. Not long after college, she began working for Fred Astaire Dance Studio’s in Scottsdale, AZ. With a diverse dance background, she furthered her training and certification in Ballroom Dance by the FADS Company.She has been competing and showcasing, with her dance partner Nedko Petrov for many years now. Her current titles include: Third Place Regional Mixed Novice Division, two-time Runner-Up in Closed Rhythm Division, two-time First Place winner of the Closed American Smooth Division and two-time 6th place national finalist in the International Latin Division.Sarah is currently a dance instructor and the co-owner of the Phoenix North Fred Astaire Dance Studio with her partner, Nedko Petrov. Sarah Dobb
Yavor Genev, Ballroom and Latin dance instructor, was born in Bulgaria where his dance training started with ballet at age of 8. He started ballroom at age 10. He competed nationally and internationally and became the Bulgarian amateur national champion. After studying at The Thracian University he relocated in Phoenix AZ, where he taught at FADS for 4 years. Right after, he started dancing professionally and became a US Rising Star finalist! Yavor began teaching ballroom at his teacher’s school when he was 19 years old. He worked through college teaching children’s dance. He has experience teaching a variety of age groups — from juniors to seniors, from wedding couples to highly competitive dance students. He became a silver medalist at the USA National Dancesport Championship with one of his students in 2011 and 2012. He is also a member of the US National Dancesport Organization. Yavor loves inspiring people with the art of dance and he would be delighted to help you achieve your dancing goals with a fun and enjoyable way of keeping fit and healthy. Y av o r Genev
My name is Anja Imamovic and I come from Slovenia, I started dancing when I was 7 years old and haven’t stopped since then. I have won 18-national championship titles and I also won “Dancing with the Stars” in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and have been teaching, coaching, and competing for the past 20 years. My husband and I moved to the USA almost 4 years ago. Shortly after moving to USA we have achieved a lot of excellent results. One of our favorite result is becoming United States Rising Star vice champions in Rhythm divison. We are both professional competitors and coaches, helping students and couples achieve not only great results in dancing but also great results in life.
Anja Imamovic
Damir Karaman has been dancing, teaching and coaching for over25 years. He is former 6 time National Champion and his students have won National and World titles as well. With his wife Nina he own EuroRhythm Dance Studio. His biggest award is being fortunate to daily do what he loves, with the team of people that are equally capable, passionate and share same values and willingness to contribute to other human beings.
Damir Karaman
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pr ofessional
dancers
Nikolay Kralev is a professional ballroom dance teacher originally from Bulgaria. He began dancing at the age of 7. After he became a Bulgarian national dance champion, Nikolay come to the United States in 2005 to teach and compete professionally. Since arriving in the States he has become a United States American Smooth Finalist. Nikolay Kralev was born and lived in Bulgaria Europe, and it was at a very early age of 6 that his passion for dance began. In Kindergarten he was asked to make a choice between learning the traditional Bulgarian folk dancing or ballroom dancing. Ballroom dancing was his choice and he has continued to become his choice and passion to date. Dance lessons progressed through age 11. Nikolay had a specified partner, Gergana Slavova, and they danced together through multiple competitions and won most of them. Nik ol ay Kralev
Radomir Pashev started his ballroom training at age 6 in his native country Bulgaria. He moved to the USA 11 years ago to continue and develop his training. Here he quickly fell in love with the dance community and through his hard work and dedication Rado became a well-known and respected dance teacher , choreographer and professional competitor. After competing and winning numerous titles across the country, Rado retired in 2015 from professional competition and now dedicates all of his passion and knowledge to train his students and young professionals.
Radomir Pa s h e v
Gergana Slavova is originally from Bulgaria and moved to Arizona in 2006 in pursuit of better opportunities to further develop her dance skills. She has been dancing for 22 years and was the Bulgarian 10-dance Champion. Gergana was trained by some of the best coaches in Bulgaria. In the United States she competed in the International Standard and American Smooth divisions. Her achievements are many, including the United States Rising Star International Standard Vice Champion and American Smooth finalist. Gergana graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Finance. She has been a part of Dancing with the Stars Arizona for eleven years.
Gergana S l av o va
This is the fourth year that Briana has joined Dancing with the Stars Arizona as a Ballroom Dance Professional. Briana has been dancing for over 20 years and has turned her passion into a career. She is co-owner of a Fred Astaire Franchise Dance Studio along with her husband/dance partner Igor Ustymovych. Together they teach and compete locally.
Briana Santiago Ustymovych
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pr ofessional
dancers
Mariyana is a Bulgarian born ballroom professional dancer. When she was four years old, she began taking ballet lessons, followed by gymnastics, playing piano and violin. In 1996, she and her partner became Amateur Latin Champions and represented the country in many competitions. She has a bachelor degree in Management and Economics. In 2001, her family moved to the United States and she continued to dance and has been a finalist in American Rising Star and Open Smooth. Mariyana likes all aspects of dancing. Besides being a professional dancer, she likes teaching, designs costumes and makes jewelry.
Mariyana Va s i l e va
Mr. Yeh was a student of Arizona State University where he was first introduced to ballroom dancing. After his graduation he joined the Fred Astaire Franchised studio of Phoenix for 10 years. He then started teaching as an independent instructor for the past 15 years, and has been a participant of most major competitions in the United State. He is currently teaching in North Scottsdale area and also actively competing with his students. For more Information please look up Socialdancelessons.com
JC Yeh
A h e a rt f e lt t h a n k y o u I wanted to personally thank each and every one of you who made this event, and the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona, a priority this year. As you all know, Dancing with the Stars Arizona: Fire & Ice will be a fiery time. That’s the way we like it. But while you’re cheering on your favorite dancers, clap a bit for yourself too. Your support allows NKF AZ to do so much for people in Arizona battling kidney disease. Your tickets and votes will help get patients to dialysis, provide medications and supplements, and spread education and prevention throughout the state about the growing problem of kidney disease. JEFFREY NEFF
With your help, it will soon, no longer be the “Silent Killer”. So, sit back. Relax, and enjoy the show. I’ll see you on the dance floor! Jeffrey Neff President & CEO National Kidney Foundation of Arizona
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS chairman Michael Krassner s e c r e ta r y Leonard J. McDonald Treasurer Andrew M. Baer
Board Gina-Marie Barletta, MD Lynne A. Boschee Robert S. Cohen, DO Randy Cooper, MD James Goodnow Keith Killough Karen Martingilio Pradeep Mehra, MD Kenneth Moskow Pamela Paul Savas Petrides, MD Sharareh Saadat, MD Darren Tosetto
MEDIC AL ADVISORY BOARD Chairman Robert S. Cohen, DO
IN MEMORIAM Carol G. Bombeck Erma Bombeck Melvin L. Cohen, MD Kenneth E. Johnson, Sr., MD Daniel J. Potter, MD Glenna Jones Shapiro
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jeffrey D. Neff
[ 19 ]
THANK YOU FOR
SUPPORTING COMMUNITY EDUCATION, PATIENT AID AND ORGAN DONATION!
© 2019 Mayo Clinic
For over fifty years, the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona (NKF AZ) has been committed to providing life-sustaining assistance to Arizona Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients and their families, educating the community about good kidney health, and advocating the organ donation.
E d u c at i o n Kidney disease is increasing worldwide and the need for services continues to grow. An astonishing 26 million American adults, including over 62,000 Arizonans, are estimated to be living with some form of CKD-and only 10% are aware of it. We are working hard to address this major health crisis, through state-wide education, and free public health screenings. The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better the chance of slowing or stopping its progression.
P at i e n t A i d NKF AZ is a source of last resort for patients and provides direct emergency assistance including: life-sustaining medication, emergency transportation to and from dialysis, and critical living expenses to Arizona’s children and adults who are living with kidney failure. In our current environment, patient requests are greater than ever before for the most basic needs like shelter and vital medication. NKF AZ is dedicated to maintaining basic services at the very necessary established levels, easing the burden of kidney disease for thousands of patients each year.
O r g a n D o n at i o n Through the Erma Bombeck Project (www.ermabombeckproject.org), we aim to narrow the gap between the number of individuals desperately waiting for a kidney and the number of kidneys available. Whether registering to be an organ donor, or considering living kidney donation, we salute the heroism of these who donate life to another through the ultimate gift. Special events, like Dancing with the Stars Arizona, offer an exciting venue to build awareness and support for the foundation’s programs. We thank you for your patronage of Dancing with the Stars Arizona and contribution to the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona.
T O G E T H E R W E C A N H E L P S AV E L I V E S . [ 21 ]
[ 23 ]
d a n c i n g w i t h t h e s ta r s a r i z o n a
Through the
Years
D
ancing with the Stars Arizona was established as a fundraiser for the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona in 2007 by Inaugural Chairmen Marguerite & Jack Clifford, Glenna Shapiro and CEO Jeffrey Neff. The event closely follows the structure of the phenomenally successful, Emmy-nominated program “Dancing with the Stars” and ABC. This year Dancing with the Stars Arizona is celebrating 13 years. Since its inception, over $6 million has been raised to support the programs which improve the lives of those with chronic kidney disease in the state of Arizona. We are so grateful to those that have stepped up to make this ongoing tradition such a huge success.
2018
2015
CHAMPIONS:
CO-CHAIRS: Shauna Connelly,
Judges’ Choice, Female – Bryna Hansen Judges’ Choice, Male – John Horn People’s Choice, Female – Dr. Lopa Misra People’s Choice, Male – Dr. Jim Kelly
Senator Catherine Miranda & Liz Shabaker CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Jamie Andersen Judges’ Choice, Male – Todd Belfer People’s Choice, Female – Linda Gosnell People’s Choice, Male – Craig DeMarco
2017 CO-CHAIRS: Dr. Angela DeRosa & Jen Destefano
2014
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Katie Sellers Judges’ Choice, Male – John Bronson People’s Choice, Female – Katie Wilson People’s Choice, Male – Brad Vynalek
CO-CHAIRS: Tom Simplot & Kelly Dalton TITLE SPONSOR:
Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. & Great American Title Agency, Inc.
2016
CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Tiffani Bachus Judges’ Choice, Male – Pat McReynolds People’s Choice, Female – Mandy Purcell People’s Choice, Male – Hugh Hallman
CO-CHAIRS: Kathleen Taddie & Leslie Rich INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Jacqueline Nerguizian Judges’ Choice, Male – Ivan J. Almonte People’s Choice, Female – Kimberlee Slager People’s Choice, Male – Scott Lavinia
2013 CO-CHAIRS: Karrin Taylor Robson, Senator
Robert Meza & Stephanie Nowack
LEGENDS COMPETITION CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Male – Team EnFuego People’s Choice, Female – Team Kidney Bean
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Stephanie Sandor Judges’ Choice, Male – Jim Norton People’s Choice, Female – Nicole Bidwill People’s Choice, Male – Mayor Scott Smith
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice: Georgianna Marie & Robert Young People’s Choice: Mary Alexander & Chris McNichol
[ 24 ]
2012
2009
CHAIR: Eileen Klein
CO-CHAIRS: Libby Cohen, Jan Clayton
& Patricia ‘Patsy’ Livi
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Kim Sabow Judges’ Choice, Male – Brad Goff People’s Choice, Female – Susie Stevens People’s Choice, Male – Senator Robert Meza
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Cheryl Anderson Judges’ Choice, Male – Alan Young Gold Performance, Female – Cheryl Anderson Gold Performance, Male – Vernon Vaughn
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice – Ken & Jeanne Bennett People’s Choice – Lori Singleton & Fred Tillman
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice – Coral Quiet & Robert Kuske Gold Performance – Beth McRae & Bill Dougherty People’s Choice – Lisa and Vernon Parker
2011
2008
CO-CHAIRS: Denise & Tom Shorall,
Susie & Kevin O’Malley
EVENT CHAIR: Linda Pope
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Eileen Klein Judges’ Choice, Male – John Maus People’s Choice, Female – Brittney Shipp People’s Choice, Male – Danny Sharaby
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Jan Clayton Judges’ Choice, Male – Orlando Hudson Gold Performance, Female – Jan Clayton Gold Performance, Male – Jeffrey Hattrick People’s Choice – Melissa Leonesio
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice – Deanna Clarkson & Bob Smith People’s Choice – Karin & Mick McAreavy
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice – Jacquie Dorrance & Alfredo J. Molina People’s Choice – Jacquie Dorrance & Alfredo J. Molina Gold Award – Jacquie Dorrance & Alfredo J. Molina Best in Smooth – Nancy & Robert Spetzler Best in Rhythm – Amy Videan & Dave O. Dodge
2010 CO-CHAIRS: Chrissy & Mark Donnelly,
Vicki & Vernon Vaughn
2007
INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice, Female – Karen Hayenga Judges’ Choice, Male – Mark Tarbell People’s Choice, Female – Sallie Brophy Najafi People’s Choice, Male – Bruce Ward
CO-CHAIRS: Marguerite* & Jack Clifford,
Glenna Jones Shapiro* CHAMPIONS
Judges’ Choice, Female – Linda Pope* Judges’ Choice, Male – Larry Stewart People’s Choice, First Place – Linda Pope* Second Place – Larry Stewart Third Place – Nancy Spetzler
CELEBRITY COUPLE CHAMPIONS:
Judges’ Choice – Paulina & Jason Morris People’s Choice – Anne Robbs & Ken Euge
*In Loving Memory
[ 25 ]
Congratulations to the Star in our family.
Nancy Spetzler 2019 Guiding Star Award Recipient
We love you. Robert, David, Kirsten, Christina, Andy, Olivia, Charlotte, Abbey, Wilson, and Jack.
9
Best of Luck Tonight to Jarrod Smith and the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona
DELICIOUS FOOD AND A
WORTHY CAUSE.
ENJOY!
© 2019 Mayo Clinic
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St. Joseph’s Has the Power to Change Lives Patients choose Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center because they’ve come to trust its 123-year-old healing mission of providing the highest quality, compassionate care to our community. St. Joseph’s is home to Norton Thoracic Institute, offering world-class care for kidney, lung, liver, heart, and esophageal disease, including lifesaving organ transplantation. To learn more, visit us at Dignityhealth.org/Arizona or call 602.406.8452 Nothing is more rewarding than sharing humankindness! Make a lifesaving gift today. SupportStJosephs.org | 602.406.1038
Katie Grannan, far left, was only 10 when doctors detected a rare autoimmune disease that was destroying her kidneys. The disease threatened her life by age 27, but thanks to a kidney donation from a family friend, Ann Sperry (on right), and a successful transplant at St. Joseph’s Norton Thoracic Institute, Katie is working, mountain biking and living her life to the fullest every day. “I am so grateful to have my life back,” says Katie. “I wouldn’t be here without Ann and St. Joseph’s!”
Thank You! To my partner, friend and mentor Jordan Rose, my amazing, talented and unstoppable Rose Law Group Cannabis Department team, Jessica, Clark, Justin, Kayla and Hanna, my incredible Mom, Dad and sister Kitty, and of course my insanely talented pro partner
Kristijan Burazer - thank you for your unending support, encourage ment and patience.
To my friends, clients and colleagues who have supported my campaign with generous donations, moral support and laughter - tonight would not have been possible without you. Thank you ALL from the bottom of my heart!! So much love, Laura Bianchi
we give a standing ovation for the amazing
racquel miller! Bring the heat and light up the night! the jamir & racquel miller family foundation
When I met Jaya 27 years ago she impressed me. When I married her 6 years later, I knew she was an extraordinary woman. She was always generous of her limited time and tremendous talent. She is an amazing mother, wife, physician and educator. She is beautiful, full of life and an amazing dancer. I am so proud of her didication and hard work. I think it takes a lot of bravery to put yourself out there like this. She has put in a tremendous amout of time, thought and energy to perform for us tonight. I am so very proud of her. After 21 years of marriage she still surprises me. Tonight, she is giving you the best of herself, something I see everyday. Good luck my dear wife and best friend. I love you. Please do not break a leg.
Tom
TAN GO, SAL SA , WALTZ...
NOT IN OUR REPERTOIRE! But we’re very proud to partner with Evans Communications to support the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona with graphic design services for the Dancing With the Stars Arizona 2019 invitation and program.
foxnoggin.com
KRISTIJAN & ANJA BURAZER We are a husband and wife team originally
from Europe, Slovenia. Together we have been dancing for over 20 years and won
multiple national and international titles in ballroom dancing. We are currently representing USA as professional
competitors and devote our free time to our
students to not become only best dancers but also improve their lifestyle.
PROFESSIONAL DANCERS, INSTRUCTORS AND COACHES
Through our unique and personalized teaching methods, our students are able to develop study habits and effective learning strategies that last. Our greatest joy is watching students succeed and unlock their own potential.
Contact us and see how our services can benefit you today!
(Available for coaching, shows, demonstrations, private, group and wedding lessons‌)
www.proballroomdancers.com K : 480.307.5193
A : 480.304.1699 professionalballroomdancers@gmail.com
@kristijan_anja_burazer
Kristijan & Anja Burazer
“Thank you to my friends, family, and colleagues at Jennings Strouss for their generous support. It means a lot to have so many friends willing to contribute to this amazing cause. You have my deepest gratitude.� ~Andy
Andy J. Chambers, Attorney achambers@jsslaw.com, 602.262.5846 One East Washington Street, Suite 1900 Phoenix, AZ 85004-2554
Thank You ... to all our dancers, sponsors volunteers, donors and at t e n d e e s f o r a n amazing evening!
DANCING FOR A GREAT CAUSE The Jennings Strouss Foundation is dedicated to the advancement of the arts, education, and community development. We are proud to support Jennings Strouss attorney ANDY CHAMBERS in the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona’s DANCING WITH STARS.
Contact: Keith F. Overholt President, Jennings Strouss Foundation 602.262.5837 koverholt@jsslaw.com One E. Washington Street, Suite 1900 Phoenix, AZ 85004-2554 jsslaw.com/community/foundation