Paradise Valley August 2016 by City Lifestyle

Paradise Valley AUGUST 2016

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Lifestyle Letter

Celebrate Your State! A

s summer in Arizona is in full swing—with the heat at its highest during the day, coupled with those monsoons at night—many of us spend our days dreaming of California’s sandy beaches or Colorado’s breezy mountains; anywhere but here. So now seems like the perfect time to put a little reminder out there of what makes our state so great, even in the summer. What really sets us apart is the wide array of people who have settled here from across the country, taking their talents and passions with them to provide some really incredible handmade goods for us all.

Let’s face it, nothing beats homemade. From mom’s chocolate chip cookies (with an added dash of cinnamon please) to artwork made by your kids to that bespoke little handbag you picked up at a local boutique, there is something undeniably special about handcrafted goods. This dawned on me just the other day as I was helping my dad unpack boxes at his new house. Upon the fireplace mantel, along with all of our family’s pictures and my grandma’s old wooden clock, stood a small green vase looking oddly out of place. I took a closer look. There was a chip at the top, the paint was fading and I could clearly see where I had gone outside of the lines—I was only about eight when I painted it. “Dad, why did you put that vase out there?” I asked. “It’s so old.” He replied, “Because you made it.” Sure, that vase wasn’t as nice or polished as some of our picture frames and other antiques, but it held even more value because it was made with love. In this issue, we celebrate all the wonderful people in Arizona who have followed their passions to create amazing and unique products, like Linda Lee Pratico and her custom pearl jewelry, Jan Kleinman and her bespoke Bootie Bagz and Sue Harris and her all-natural soaps. Until Next Time.

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AUGUST 2016 publisher

Kat McMahon | Kat.McMahon@LifestylePubs.com editor

Danielle Accovelli | Danielle.Accovelli@LifestylePubs.com editorial assistant

Michelle Guerrero contributing writers

Kathleen Blair, Kory Kilmer, Alison Stanton, Teresa K. Traverse contributing photographers

Kay W. Eskridge, Jessica Wells

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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CHIEF SALES OFFICER

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CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

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| Nicole Sylvester

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ON THE COVER Soap Handcrafted in Arizona PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 4

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Paradise Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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August 2016

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Trend Setter

Hot Spot

Sold Properties

Locally Owned

Giving Back

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

12 Handbag Bliss

Booty Bagz make the perfect accents for western wear.

18 Timeless Treasures

These are not your motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pearl necklaces.

22 Natural Beauty

Desert-inspired soaps handcrafted with love.

When a community gets access to clean water, it can change just about everything. It can improve health, increase access to food, grow local economies, and help kids spend more time in school.

W W W. C H A R I T Y WAT E R . O R G

Creating new paths to inspiration. The Terraces of Phoenix thrives on fresh and inspired thinking, based on innovative living. It’s a good-neighbor community with established roots, filled with residents who eagerly embrace all the North Central Valley brings to life. With fewer worries and creative inspiration around every corner – it’s right where you want to be. Residential Living | Assisted Living | Memory Support | Nursing Care | Short-Term Rehab

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Recognized as Arizona’s only Certified Center for Successful Aging. Visit ExperienceTOP.com or call 1-800-461-1607 to find out why.

The Terraces of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona, is managed by ABHOW, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. ABHOW is a nonsectarian corporation, serving seniors through quality retirement housing since 1949.

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Good Times

Ritz-Carlton Residences Homebuying Event

The largest-ever one-day real estate event in Arizona recently took place for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Paradise Valley. During the event, all 91 Ritz-Carlton villas were available and all but two are now spoken for.

Tilted Earth Festival

Thirteen renowned Northern Arizona wineries converged at Riverfront Park in Cottonwood over the two-day event as festival-goers sampled sumptuous wines and enjoyed music by celebrated artists.Â PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MCBETHÂ

Performer Jamie N Commons

Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds 8

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

Performer Taj Mahal

Chandler Lifestyle's Good Times Event

Our sister magazine, Chandler Lifestyle, held a fabulous event at Otaku restaurant, which saw businesses and residents alike socialize and network as they enjoyed delectable food and specialty drinks. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONIA JOHNSTON

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August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Around Town

AROUND TOWN 8TH ANNUAL FITZ’S SUPPER CLUB Larry Fitzgerald might be one of football’s greatest players, but off the field he lands a punchline

BARBARA LOCKWOOD NAMED ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD In her new role as Arizona Science Center Chairman of the Board, Barbara Lockwood hopes to inspire young women and girls to explore a STEM career path with her leadership. Currently vice president of regulation for Arizona Public Service (APS), Lockwood began her career at DuPont in chemical engineering and management roles. She then spent a number of years in environmental consulting before joining APS in 1999. Lockwood says she is excited about the many new programs and exhibits at the Arizona Science Center. For more information, please visit AZScience.org.

SCOTTSDALE PUBLIC ART MEETS MATCHING GRANT

every now and then. Dominick’s

Scottsdale Public Art is very pleased to announce that thanks to

Steakhouse will host the 8th

donations from generous patrons in Scottsdale, and throughout the

Annual

Club,

country, the $100,000 Canal Convergence matching grant from the

Celebrities at YOUR Service

City of Scottsdale has been met. Within days of announcing the need

with performances sure to keep

to close a $5,000 gap, Scottsdale Public Art was overwhelmed with

you laughing all night long. On

an outpouring of support. With the addition of $100,000 from the City

Monday, August 29th guests

of Scottsdale, Scottsdale Public Art will use the $200,000 to bring

are invited to a night of com-

more cutting-edge, contemporary art installations from international,

edy and charity while enjoying

national and local artists, interactive workshops and performances

a four-course dinner served

to the Scottsdale Waterfront for the best Canal Convergence yet. For

by Larry’s Arizona Cardinals

more information, please visit ScottsdalePublicArt.org.

Fitz’s

Supper

teammates and other celebrity friends. Fitz’s Supper Club was dubbed one of the Valley’s hottest social, philanthropic and entertainment events, and this year it brings laughter onto the scene. Last year’s event raised more than half a million dollars to support various worthy organizations through the Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund. For more information, please visit LarryFitzgerald.com.

MIM FALL 2016 VOLUNTEER TRAINING The MIM is seeking passionate lifelong learners to be volunteer museum guides and provide guided tours for scheduled school, youth and adult groups. Museum guides encourage guests to forge their own connections to the museum’s collections and stories. You don’t need a musical background to apply—training covers everything a guide needs to know. The deadline to apply for new volunteer team members is August 29, 2016. A ten-week training is required and takes place Tuesday mornings from 8:30a.m.-12:30p.m. from September 13 until November 15. For more information, please visit MIM.org.

WINK 24 KITCHEN & BAR NOW OPEN When Fernanda Borletti found the perfect location at the Biltmore Fashion Park to open her first restaurant, she knew it was imperative to share her passion for food, drink and community with every bite, sip and, of course, every wink. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, paninis, fresh salads, charcuterie, cheeses and more. In addition, Wink 24 offers premium wines, craft beer and unique cocktails. Both the food and drink menu draws inspiration from Borletti’s Mexican roots and those of her husband, Ruggero, and his love of his native Italy.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

The interior of Wink 24 is brightly designed with splashes of intense

expansion of its event services. Eatable now has a brand new

green, orange and magenta, contrasted with a black wood-burning

location at 1514 W. Lynwood Street in Phoenix to accommodate

pizza oven that serves as the “hearth” of the restaurant. For more

the popular pop-up dinners featuring some of the Valley’s most

information, please visit Wink24.net.

sought-after chefs. Eatable’s dinner events offer an intimate gathering of just 20 guests the rare opportunity to meet and mingle with the featured chef and enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres and a three-course, sit-down meal not found on the chef ’s restaurant menu. Some of the chefs who have participated in a pop-up dinner with Eatable, or who will in the near future, include: Chef Aaron Chamberlain, Chef Stephen Jones, Chef Gio Osso, Chef Mel Mecinas, Chef Cory Oppold and Chef Juan Zamora, Jacob Cutino from Homeboy’s Hot Sauces, Chef Greg Wiener and Chef Doug Robson. For more information, please visit AZFoodieBlog.com.

GELATO HAPPY HOUR AT GRATEFUL SPOON GELATO Make your afternoon a little sweeter with half-off all scoops at Grateful Spoon Gelato. La Grande Orange Grocery has continued to offer “Gelato Happy Hour” Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. with 18 different flavors to choose from, including delicious seasonal offerings like Summer Berry (bountiful fresh fruit vegan gelato),

EATABLE EXPANDS EVENT OFFERINGS Formerly Arizona Foodie Pop-up Dinners, Eatable has been introduced as the company’s new name to encompass the

Whiskey Caramel (bourbon gelato layered with housemade salted caramel) and Corazon (summer “love” – a combination of bright red luscious fruits with a hint of passion fruit). For more information, please visit GratefulSpoon.com.

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August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Trend Setter

COWBOY UP THE SECRET BEHIND JAN KLEINMAN'S BOOTY BAGZ ARTICLE ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA WELLS

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

hen Jan Kleinman was at a golf tournament about 11 years ago, she saw something she would never forget: a young woman carrying a purse that appeared to be constructed from a cowboy boot. “I told my golf friends ‘that looks really fun and cute,’ and the next thing I knew, I started making them,” she says. After figuring out how to create the purses, which she calls Booty Bagz, from gently worn children’s cowboy boots, Kleinman and a friend decided to transform her enjoyable new hobby into a business. “We used to do shows, cocktail parties and art events in Fountain Hills,” she says. Although her friend is no longer a business partner, Kleinman says she still enjoys staying busy creating the purses, which are now sold exclusively at Kiss Me Kate Clothing Boutique. “I work at the store part-time and am there one day a week, so right now I just sell the Booty Bagz,” Kleinman says. In order to find the supplies she needs to create her one-of-akind purses, Kleinman is always on the lookout for pre-owned children’s cowboy boots that are in good shape. “I still get thrilled when I find a pair of boots that I can tear up and re-do into a purse. I look everywhere for them.” Kleinman constructs each purse from her home office in Paradise Valley, which is filled with beads in many colors and sizes, jewels and other accessories that help transform the top portion of the boot into an object of beauty. August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Trend Setter

(CON TI N U ED)

Unlike the cowboy boot bag she first saw at the golf tourney, Kleinman says her unique purses feature a lot more embellishment, with plenty of beads and colors. “I’m always trying all kinds of new things. For example, lately I’ve gotten into painting them, and chalk paint is just incredible,” she says. “I also use sandpaper on them so it helps them to look more worn and different.” If the leather is especially thick, Kleinman hires a shoe repair business to sew the parts together. Otherwise, all of the craftsmanship is done from her home. While the fronts of the Booty Bagz are decorated and colorful, Kleinman leaves the backs of the purses unadorned to be gentle on the wearer’s clothing. She can usually create one of her Booty Bagz in about two to three hours. “It’s so relaxing and so enjoyable, and no two bags are ever the same.” In addition to the Booty Bagz that she creates for Kiss Me Kate, Kleinman is occasionally asked to make a custom 14

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

purse. In one case, a woman whose husband passed away asked if there was anything she could do with his beloved cowboy boots. “I took two pair of his boots and made purses for her, her daughter and nieces, and they were just delighted with them,” she says. Kleinman also enjoys hearing peoples’ reactions when they come into Kiss Me Kate and see the Booty Bagz for the first time. “They are sometimes shocked and ask ‘What, is this a boot?’ or they will ask “You made this?’ So I will show them how they are made and people for the most part are very positive about them.” Looking back, Kleinman is definitely pleased with her decision to turn her artistic hobby into a successful business. “Other than playing golf, I would rather do this. It’s just a lot of fun.” Kiss Me Kate is located in the Camelback Village Center at 5039 N. 44th St. in Phoenix. For more information, visit KissMeKateAZ.com.

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Hot Spot

Inside Scoop SWEET REPUBLIC CHURNS OUT SCRUMPTIOUS SELECTIONS OF HANDCRAFTED ICE CREAM ARTICLE KATHLEEN BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

elen Yung and Jan Wichayanuparp were both international investment bankers when they met in 2001 while in New York for a company training program. It was there that they realized they had a mutual passion, food. Soon, making reservations at different restaurants to try new cuisine became a favorite hobby of theirs. Yung was born and raised in Hong Kong and went to high school in America. As an investment banker, she worked in London and Tokyo, which allowed her to travel and sample food geographically, causing her desire to do something with food to grow. Wichayanuparp was born in Bangkok and also traveled to a variety of countries where she experienced different cultures and cuisines.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

SWEET REPUBLIC

6054 N. 16th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016 602.535.5990 SweetRepublic.com

In 2002, Yung left banking to attend Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Sydney, Australia. The dynamic duo kept in touch the whole time, and eight years ago, with no restaurant experience, they opened their first artisan ice cream shop in Scottsdale. “Why ice cream? Because it is fun to make, it can be made in advance and there’s no waste,” explains Yung. “Everyone leaves with a smile.” ROTATING FLAVORS

All recipes are original and contain locally-sourced products. The 20-plus flavors rotate daily and include favorites like Salted Butter Caramel Swirl, Fleur de Sel Caramel, Almond Buttercrunch, Rocky Road, Honey Lavender and Brownie Swirl. The Peaberry Expresso flavor is made from Peaberry-roasted beans supplied by Café Cortez Coffee Company in Tempe. A different flavor to try is the Sweet

Corn, made with locally-grown corn. Yep, it actually tastes like sweet corn! The vanilla is made using Madagascar vanilla bean, the finest bean grown, with a hint of floral and a pure, creamy texture. The dairy-free sorbets are made with fresh fruit, giving them a wonderful, distinct flavor. Some choices include Coconut, Strawberry, Basil Lime and Peach, which comes from Schnepf Farms. “When you’re tasting us, you’re tasting Arizona,” says Wichayanuparp, a proclaimed ice cream fanatic. FRESH AND HOMEMADE

To try all the stellar homemade toppings, I ordered one of their seven tantalizing sundaes, the Ultimate Sweet R Sundae. It includes four scoops of Madagascar Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate, and is

served on a ¼ lb. Chocolate Chip Walnut Oatmeal Cookie and topped with brownie crumbs, almond toffee brittle, hot fudge, salted caramel sauce, whipped cream and roasted marshmallow. It’s definitely enough for the whole family! There are also five yummy milkshakes to choose from, including the Triple Chocolate Shake, the Classic Vanilla Malt, the Salted Caramel shake, the Java Jolt made with the Peaberry Expresso and the Original Shake, which includes your choice of ice cream. Also available are ice cream sandwiches. Whether you choose a crisp homemade waffle cone or waffle bowl to hold your selection, I ask you this summer to take my Two Scoop Challenge, and on each visit try a new flavor alongside your favorite. You might be surprised to find some new favorites!

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Pearls of Wonder Linda Lee Pratico Creates Wearable Works of Art ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA WELLS

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

or years, pearls have inspired and

“I begin with the pearl or the stone

captivated people from across the

and then think, ‘What else can I do

globe with their beauty and rarity.

with this,’” says Pratico. “I have a lot of

One person in particular caught by

fun creating my one-of-a-kind pieces

their charm was Linda Lee Pratico,

and love being able to offer my cus-

who decided to turn these treasures

tomers options.”

into wearable works of art.

Pratico certainly knows her pearls

“My love of jewelry really started at

too, having earned a certification from

birth,” says Pratico. “I was born into a

the Gemological Institute of America

family with parents who were real lov-

(GIA) in pearl grading to ensure the

ers of fine jewelry and art, so my collec-

quality of her line.

tion really started when I was an infant.”

“I actually travel to China every

As her collection grew, so did her

2-3 months to source my pearls

affinity for other rare stones.

and stones because I want to be

“I’ve always thought that pearls

hands-on,” says Pratico. “I’m my own

were timeless and elegant, but now I

quality control person and I sign and

have the opportunity to do something

number all the pieces with pearls to

that no one has thought of before,

authenticate them.”

which is mixing pearls with other semi-precious stones.”

From her signature every day pieces that pair equally well with a

All of Pratico’s bespoke necklaces

blazer and t-shirt or cocktail dress, to

are hand-made and knotted with the

her one-of-a-kind custom creations

finest of materials and come paired

that are fit for royalty, Pratico fash-

with matching earrings. But what

ions each necklace seamlessly and

really sets her stunning creations

blends the pearl’s classic elegance

apart is their versatility. Pieces can be

with chic, innovative design to create

fashioned several different ways via

truly timeless jewelry.

removable parts and adjustable clasps that allow them to be worn as both a

Linda Lee Pratico’s custom jewelry can be

necklace or bracelet. And it all starts

found at LindaLeePratico.com or Kiss

with a single stone.

Me Kate Boutique KissMeKateAZ.com. CONTINUED >

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

PEARLS OF WONDER (CON TI N U ED)

Keshi Pearls NATURALLY-SHAPED AND EXTREMELY RARE

“A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls.” –Coco Chanel

“ Pearls are always appropriate.” –Jackie Kennedy

mauve Pearls CAN BE FOUND IN BOTH CRISP WHITE AND NATURAL COLORING

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

baroque pearl necklace & a pearl ring

“The Pearl is the queen of gems and the gem of queens.” –Anonymous

“ I favor pearls on screen and in my private life.” –Grace Kelly

custom semi-precious stone creations August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

DESERT CLEANSE

Little Mama Products Offers Skincare Goods that Honor the Southwest ARTICLE ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

atural soaps filled with scrumptious-smelling oils and fragrances. Luxurious body butters designed to soften skin that has been effected by the desert sun. Lip balms and body scrubs in a variety of appealing scents. These are just some of the many skincare products that Sue Harris creates at Little Mama Products. Located in the foothills of the North Phoenix Mountains Desert Preserve, Harris—the creator, owner and sole employee of Little Mama Products—has been busy providing her many happy customers with natural soaps and other products for 15 years. As Harris recalls, her interest in natural products, combined with battling a stubborn skin condition, inspired her to learn to make soap. “I have always been a sort of earthy, make-it-yourself, natural healing kind of person. I also have real sensitive skin, and had been dealing with eczema here and there pretty much my whole life,” she says. When a friend offered to show Harris how to make soap, she jumped at the chance. “After the soapmaking session at her house, I came home and started doing research and formulating my own recipes. It felt so natural to me,” she says. After using nothing but her own soap for a month or so, Harris realized that all of her eczema issues had vanished, which quickly made her decide to turn the hobby into a full-time job. Harris then began to sell her homemade soaps, which are all made from her own formulas and recipes, at a local farmer’s market. Soon, she had her own booth along with an online business featuring over 100 varieties of soap, as well as other products. “They are all formulated to lather nicely, yet not dry you out,” says Harris, adding that she usually uses between 10 and 13 different oils and butters in each soap. “There are soaps scented with essential oils only; soaps with fun, fruity fragrances; soaps with scrubby bits such as ground loofah, ground coffee and shredded organic coconut hull; Southwestern specialties that tie in thematically to our

wonderful state; facial soaps; ‘manly’ scents; goat’s milk soaps and even a nice selection of unscented soaps.” Her three current top sellers for soap are “Wake Up,” which features peppermint and caffeine powder; “Sweet Sunshine,” an unscented goat’s milk soap with extra

helpings of shea butter and almond oil, along with locally grown calendula petals and “Battle Zone,” which was created for people with oily skin that tends to break out. “Right now, I am personally pretty crazy about ‘ELO,’ which is a blend of eucalyptus, CONTINUED >

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

DESERT CLEANSE (CON TI N U ED)

lavender and orange essential oils, in a luxurious soap that incorporates organic kefir instead of goat’s milk,” she says. “I also make body butter, which is extremely popular, and lip balm—because we need it!” And Harris truly loves being able to create nourishing skincare products. “Soapmaking is a thrilling combination of chemistry, math, art, passion and magic. I love every aspect of it,” she says. She is also extremely fond of her customers, many of whom have been with her since Little Mama Products began. “The thing that makes me happiest of all is when someone will come in and tell me how their skin or their child’s skin has become completely happy since they started using my products,” says Harris. “That is my real bottom line.” Little Mama Products can be found nearly yearround at Roadrunner Park Farmer’s Market, 3502 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix. Check the company website, LittleMamaProducts.com for the schedule and/or to place an order.

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Paradise Valley Properties

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

DOM*

BDRMS

BATHS

Paradise Valley

$4,500,000

$4,291,000

206

7.5

Arcadia

$3,495,000

$3,165,000

Paradise Valley

$3,300,000

$2,700,000

162

6.5

Paradise Valley

$2,995,000

$2,800,000

266

5.5

Arcadia

$2,495,000

$2,100,000

132

Paradise Valley

$2,400,000

$1,800,000

320

5.5

Paradise Valley

$2,399,000

$2,285,000

Paradise Valley

$2,275,000

$1,970,000

175

Arcadia

$2,195,000

$2,040,000

4.5

Arcadia

$2,150,000

Arcadia

$2,095,000

$1,900,000

Paradise Valley

$2,000,000

$1,737,500

243

Paradise Valley

$1,990,000

$1,800,000

3.5

Paradise Valley

$1,950,000

$1,760,000

355

5.5

Biltmore

$1,750,000

$1,814,900

3.5

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis from ARMLS for all agents for 06-1-16 through 06-30-16. *DOM=Days on Market.

WAKE UP TO A VIEW LIKE THIS!

JILL BRENENSTUHL

Paradise Valley Specialist

M A K E T H I S H O M E YO U R S ! 602-524-1677 | jillbrenenstuhl@gmail.com | PVLuxuryRealEstate.com

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Locally Owned

That ’s L ’Amore

A PHOENIX EATERY STANDS THE TEST OF TIME ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE

PHOTOGRAPHY KAY W. ESKRIDGE

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

n today’s competitive restaurant world, the ones that stick around for more than a decade are the exception, not the rule, which makes Phoenix’s L’Amore Restaurant’s 15-year run all the more impressive. Located on 32nd Street and Lincoln, it features an outdoor patio overlooking the mountains, a gleaming wooden bar and an intimate dining room. And if you drop by, chances are high you’ll see co-owner Greg Rose. Except for a break in the afternoon, he arrives at the restaurant in the wee hours of the morning and leaves long after the last customer has left. “You gotta be here,” says Rose. “People come and they expect you to be here. They want to see you. They want to let you know that they’re coming in to support you.” Rose certainly knows the ins and outs of the industry well. He’s been in the business for 40 years, working as a dishwasher at an Italian restaurant in New York during the 70s before moving to the Valley in 1989. He previously worked as a bartender before he opened up a sports bar, then bought L’Amore in 2002. The secret to his success?

“I got a great team,” says Rose. “I couldn’t do it without the team that I have back there.” His team consists of 16 people, many who have worked at the restaurant for years, like the bartender, Laura, who has been with the restaurant since its opening. Besides his great staff, Rose also attributes his success to his focus on the customers. “I pay attention to detail. I say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ to everybody when they walk in and when they leave. I appreciate everybody’s businesses. A lot of these folks are family now. They’re not quote ‘customers.’ They’ve become good friends. We’ve been real lucky as far as meeting the clientele we have and have retained,” says Rose. It’s not surprising, then, that the restaurant has gathered prominent fans. Jane Hull, former governor of Arizona, is a regular, but Rose says he gives each and every customer the same amount of respect, whether or not they’re “high profile.” Service and staff aside, no restaurant could truly thrive without quality food, and at L’Amore, they serve simple and fresh cuisine. CONTINUED >

August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

“We don’t try to complicate things,” says Rose. “We just make everything as fresh and as palatable as customers want or need.” Although L’Amore is an Italian restaurant, Rose says he sells more f ish than anything else. He also trains his staff to help guide customers in deciding on what to eat. “I don’t even like to give customers a menu,” says Rose. “I’d rather just sit there and have one of my employees tell them what they would like. What’s fresh. What their palate is calling for today.” When diners come in, Rose understands that they’ve been making decisions all day and truly wants them to feel like they can relax as soon as they walk through the doors. He even prefers to call his customers friends. His approach is evident in the dining room décor, where the walls are filled with family photos that you’d expect to see in his home. “It’s a place where you can come in and let your hair down,” Rose says of L’Amore. “You don’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable here.” LAmoreItalianRestaurant.com 28

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

CÉsar Mazier Landscaping & Consulting

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DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Beischel Family Dental (480) 948-1450 bfdentalaz.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES Kiss Me Kate Boutique (602) 840-6173 kissmekateaz.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Lux Group LLC (480) 284-8579 luxgroupaz.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS Switch Consignment (480) 664-0580 switchconsignment.com The Dump thedump.com

HOME SERVICES Closet Masters (480) 991-4399 closetmasters.net

LANDSCAPING

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PET CARE

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REAL ESTATE

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Giving Back

Flight of Hope FLORENCE CRITTENTON GIVES GIRLS THE CHANCE TO SOAR ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

afety. Hope. Opportunity. These are the core values of Florence Crittenton, an organization dedicated to giving girls who have been through traumatic situations care, education, and most importantly, hope. Young women from all walks of life—including the child welfare system, the juvenile justice system and the behavioral healthcare system—come to Florence Crittenton seeking a place of refuge where they can heal, learn and grow into the unique individuals that they were destined to be. For CEO of Florence Crittenton, Dr. Kellie Warren, it was the organization’s mission that first caught her attention in 2010. Since then, Dr. Warren has been passionately devoted to fulfilling that mission and giving these girls a second chance. “Florence Crittenton has been known for over 120 years in this state for its advocacy and support of these girls, and I found that it just really resonated with my personal philosophy and mission,” says 30

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

Dr. Warren. “Every day that I’m here I feel purpose driven. I’m able to see girls change and become more hopeful and empowered.” Each girl that enters one of Florence Crittenton’s programs is treated as an individual, and each is given the opportunity to share their story to ensure that they get care tailored to their specific needs. “Over the years, as the needs of girls have changed, so have our services,” says Dr. Warren. “We are constantly listening to the girls’ voices and consulting resources so that we can really establish a system of care that continues to meet their needs.” When it comes to establishing programs for the girls, Florence Crittenton really does seem to have it all. The Therapeutic Group Home, located in Phoenix, houses girls ages 10-18 for 4-6 months, focusing on providing education through credit recovery, GED and career exploration; while the Girls Ranch Program centers more on independent living and life-skills. Then there’s the UPLIFT program, which is specifically designed to support young women with mental illness, providing them with a safe place to reside and access to the the services they need. In Scottsdale, the organization’s Girls Ranch gives young mothers the opportunity to have a safe place to raise their children and learn how to be self-sufficient. Florence Crittenton also has the only public all-girls high school in Arizona, Girls Leadership Academy of Arizona, for girls grades 9-12, which focuses on leadership, empowerment and college preparation. “When you look at our mission, it speaks to opportunity. Without an education, it’s very difficult for these girls to reach the dreams that they have; so we try to empower them through education,” says Dr. Warren. However, all these programs do have a cost, and that’s where Heels for Healing comes into play. The event is one of the organization’s major fundraisers and gives them the opportunity to raise community awareness for the girls’ needs. “It’s just nice to see how the whole community comes together for Heels for Healing,” says Dr. Warren. “I don’t think Florence Crittenton would be alive for so long and able to fulfill its mission without the hearts of the community involved.” This year, the event will take place on September 24th, kicking-off at 8 a.m. with the famed Diva Dash, where both men and women compete in a thrilling high-heeled obstacle course, followed by shopping at Flo’s on 7th with 100-percent of the proceeds going back to the girls. “The best part of what I do every day is seeing these girls transform, feel hopeful and good again, and get through some of the tragic situations they have experienced,” says Dr. Warren. In all, the Florence Crittenton experience can be summed up with a simple metaphor: that of the butterfly. These girls come to the organization shrouded in a cocoon of gray, hardened by the harsh realities of life. However, through the care and support they receive at Florence Crittenton, they are able to emerge as vibrant bright individuals ready to share their talents with the world—a true gift to us all. For more information on Florence Crittenton, or to host a donation drive, please contact Jamie Hobbs at jhobbs@flocrit.org or 602.288.4581. August 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

August AUGUST 5, 12, 19 & 26

ner will feature St. Francis Winery & Vineyards of Sonoma, which is

LIVE & LOCAL FRIDAYS

known for its luscious, fruit-driven wines, along with a four-course

SCOTTSDALE

menu by Executive Chef Charles Wiley. HotelValleyHo.com

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ popular Live & Local summer concert series will kick-off August 5 with a performance by The

AUGUST 15

Sugar Thieves, followed by the Robby Roberson Band on August 12,

GUNS N' ROSES TOUR

Jay Allan & The Uncommon Good on August 19 and Inspiracion Fla-

GLENDALE

menca on August 26. ScottsdalePerformingArts.org

The iconic Guns N’ Roses lineup of Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKa-

AUGUST 11 & 25

gen are coming to Arizona to rock University of Phoenix Stadium. The tour will mark the first reunion of the original band members in 23

CANYON CONVERSATIONS & COCKTAILS

years, featuring hits like Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome to the Jungle

PHOENIX

and Paradise City. UniversityOfPhoenixStadium.com

Escape the hot outdoors and head to the cool comfort of one of the Heard Museum’s galleries for this unique event. Take part in engaging conversa-

AUGUST 16

tions with a variety of different speakers on topics such as Arizona History,

CECILE MCLORIN

The Fred Harvey Company and the Harvey Girls. Heard.org

SALVANT CONCERT

AUGUST 11

PHOENIX Grammy Award-win-

CAREER CONNECTORS

ning jazz vocalist Ce-

SCOTTSDALE

cile McLorin Salvant,

Come and discover Career Connectors, a nonprofit organization

who has been called

connecting professionals to high-quality resources and hiring com-

“the finest jazz singer

panies. Each event includes professional career speakers with pre-

to emerge in the last

sentations on relevant job search topics, three to four featured hir-

decade” by The New

ing companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn

York Times, will come to the Musical Instrument Museum to mesmer-

coaches and business portraits. CareerConnectors.org

ize audiences with her soulful sounds. MIM.org

AUGUST 20 SATURDAY STARLIGHT TRAIN RIDES CLARKDALE Departing during the cooler temperatures of late afternoon and traveling through sunset, the Verde Canyon Railroad’s dazzling Starlight Ride serves up a wide range of natural light, color and shadow as the Canyon transforms into a moonlit dreamscape. VerdeCanyonRR.com

AUGUST 15 MONDAY NIGHT CHEF'S TABLE SCOTTSDALE Celebrate delicious food, fine wine and good friends during this monthly dinner at ZuZu inside Hotel Valley Ho. The upcoming din32

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

AUGUST 26 & 27 SEDONA BIKE & BREW FESTIVAL SEDONA Head up to Sedona for this lively festival, held

Hanging with Quality Since 1984

at Sedona Golf Resort. The first of its kind, the 3rd annual event will feature a mountain bike race held on a golf course followed by dinner, music and cold beer at the Resort’s Juniper Bar & Grille. SedonaGolfResort.com

“Our Family Values Bring You The Value You Deserve!”

AUGUST 28 FREE SUMMER SUNDAYS PHOENIX The Heard Museum is the coolest place to be this summer, offering free admission for all each fourth Sunday June-September. This edition of the event features a performance by hoop dancer Derrick Suwaima Davis and an artist basketry demonstration by Lakota Scott, among other activities. Heard.org

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SEPTEMBER 3 - 5 HOTEL VALLEY HO'S LABOR DAY WEEKEND SCOTTSDALE Unwind this Labor Day Weekend at Hotel Valley Ho and enjoy DJs spinning poolside, weekend brunch at ZuZu with its stellar build-you-own Bloody Mary and Mimosa

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Parting Thoughts

Madewith

Love WORDS KORY KILMER

aving, until this last year, spent the entirety of my adult life immersed in the hospitality industry, I have had the opportunity to indulge in some spectacular meals in all sorts of amazing settings. I will be the first to admit that I had been spoiled by being surround by talented chefs who could turn something as mundane as lunchtime into nothing less than an event. On those rare occasions, they would get that twinkle in their eye and ask if I could sample something they were working on for an upcoming menu. I knew I was in for an extra special treat. Being in the hospitality industry also made me aware of what was going on within the restaurant scene; and wherever there was any sort of buzz, rest assured you’d be able to find me waiting in line shortly thereafter. When trips to Las Vegas were scheduled, while others where hitting the hottest clubs, my wife and I would map-out an itinerary 34

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2016

based on every celebrity chef in town. And no four words—none—caught my attention quite like, “James Beard Award Nominee.” With that said, however, few of those experiences are the ones I recall when asked about the best meals I’ve ever had. Sure, I know more than most the dedication and craftsmanship required behind the scenes to make an unforgettable meal possible, but I have also witnessed time and time again that food alone does not make a great dining experience. More often than not, the secret is who you share that experience with. Earlier this summer, while my family was on vacation in California, we took a day and made a spontaneous trip to its central coast. Around noon we found ourselves strolling the streets of Morro Bay, and both my wife and son kept pointing to the overpriced restaurants along the way, which focused more on their claim of having the best ocean views than having the best food in town.

I would have none of it, and after recalling a seafood market on our drive in, I convinced my family to go and secure us a spot on the pier where I would meet them in just a few minutes. Upon my return, I carried a brown bag with a deli container of fresh Dungeness crab meat and another of house made seafood salad. Clanking around the bottom were three cans of ice-cold soda, while sticking out of the top was an over-sized baguette, along with a bag of locally-produced kettle chips. Assembled with my pocket knife and bare hands, the resulting sandwich was anything but photogenic. But being able to pass it around and share it with the two most important people in my life while the wind blew in from the Pacific seemed to calm, and time around us began to slow. Those are ingredients that you cannot put in a recipe or teach in culinary school.

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