What Do You Invest In?
What do you invest in? Family? Your career? Your home? The stock market? Your health?
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result.
We can invest in a lot of things with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local busi nesses, schools, and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meet long-term financial goals, and secure our retirement.
On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives who mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but also to the people closest to us.
While the choices we make are individual to each of us and our priorities, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways to invest.
In our cover feature, meet Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Corbin Burnes, who wanted to invest in his family. Also in this issue, we check in on your health, explore where to invest in clothes and accessories, explore travel, and more.
For me, I’m writing this late at night, so I’m off to invest in some sleep!
I hope all your investments yield great returns.
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @SCOTTSDALECITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Alicia Haygood | alicia.haygood@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Bailin Batz, Alison Stanton, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Georgann Yara
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Danielle Muccillo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Lisa Pagel, Justine Hurry, and Juliet Burgess at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 2: Sarah Suggs, Sue Carter, Pat Watts, Caroline Conner, and Denise Voss at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 3: Vicki Vaughn and Bijen Dyrek at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 4: Victoria Granberry and Linda Saunders at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 5: Fashion took center stage at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 6: Christine and David Gustafson at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff. 7: Lisa Jaffe, Joy Johnson, and Allie Brenner at the 66th Phoenix Heart Ball Kickoff.
The Americano's New Lavish Brunch Series
The Americano, the upscale Italianinspired steakhouse helmed by celebrated chefs Beau MacMillan and Peter McQuaid, is giving Sundays a glow-up with the launch of a decadent brunch program, with new dishes and expertly crafted cocktails exclusively available once a month. Upcoming dates and themes for the events, which are designed to elevate the traditional weekend brunch, include an elegant Easter experience (April 20) and a sophisticated Mother’s Day celebration (May TheAmericanoRestaurant.com
A Beloved Classic Brand Reopens at Scottsdale Fashion Square
Scottsdale Fashion Square welcomed a familiar friend with the reopening of a Gap retail store. The shopping center was previously home to a Gap store years ago. The newly reopened store, which longtime shoppers will recognize as the brand’s former home at Scottsdale Fashion Square, is located on the south wing’s second floor. Find men’s, women’s, and kids' clothing and activewear, as well as maternity clothing. FashionSquare.com
Kohler Bathroom Design
New Investment Office Opens
William (Bill) Stevens, executive vice president of Agency Distribution and Growth, recently opened a new office in Scottsdale. After five successful years in the Valley, Stevens is excited to continue serving the community’s investment needs from this expanded, convenient space off the 101 Raintree exit, at 9336 E. Raintree Drive, Ste. 110. He can be reached directly WestPacWealth.com/ team/william-stevens
Sexy Roman to Debut at W Scottsdale
The W Scottsdale is debuting a new restaurant and centerpiece. Sexy Roman is "bold, buzzing, and built for unforgettable moments." Led by James Beard–nominated chef Jason Franey and the LA-based restaurant team behind Baltaire Steakhouse and Flint by Baltaire in Phoenix, Sexy Roman will serve upscale twists on the authentic recipes of Italy and the Mediterranean and have tableside drink service with a signature, custom-made martini cart, all in a setting that is abundantly lavish. SexyRoman.com
letter from the PUBLISHER
I believe that a thriving community is built on shared values, collaboration, and investment in our future. As Scottsdale continues to grow, it’s crucial that we all contribute to the well-being and success of our city, whether through time, resources, or support.
Investment isn’t just financial—it’s about dedicating ourselves to what matters most. Supporting local businesses, fostering education, and maintaining the beauty of our public spaces all play vital roles in creating a community where everyone can thrive. Every effort, no matter how small, makes a meaningful impact.
We’re proud to witness so many individuals and organizations in Scottsdale making a difference every day. From new businesses opening their doors to community programs that bring us together, the investments being made are shaping a vibrant, connected city. These efforts are the backbone of a stronger, more resilient Scottsdale.
Our city’s future depends on how we invest today— whether in sustainable development, quality education, or creating spaces where future generations can grow and flourish. The choices we make now will define Scottsdale for years to come.
As members of this community, we each have a role to play. Whether you’re supporting a local nonprofit, shopping at a neighborhood business, or attending city events, your involvement makes a difference. Let’s continue to invest in each other, ensuring Scottsdale remains a place where everyone can succeed.
Alicia Haygood Owner/Publisher
OC R BINBURNES FINDSHIS H O M E
THE ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS PITCHER ON CHOOSING ARIZONA FOR HIS FAMILY
ARTICLE BY
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELSEY GRANT/ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
“I love pitching because of the art of getting guys out.”
Major League Baseball player Corbin Burnes made headlines when he signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Previously with the Milwaukee Brewers and Baltimore Orioles, for Burnes, it was a move that was well-thought-out. A free agent, his agent reached out to the D-backs to say he was interested. The interest was mutual and a deal was soon reached—and the rest is history.
The team was not only a great fit for Burnes, but it was also the best scenario for his family.
Here, he talks about his career, the Diamondbacks, living in Scottsdale, one thing most people don’t know about him, and more.
YOU’VE HAD AN AMAZING CAREER. WHAT DREW YOU TO BASEBALL TO BEGIN WITH?
Growing up, I played all kinds of sports and I just had more of a fascination with
team sports. So when I got older, I stuck to baseball and golf, and then when it became time to make a decision, I had to go with the team sport in baseball over golf and I’m glad I did—look where I am now.
FAVORITE PART OF THE GAME?
The favorite part of the game for me is kind of the mind games behind baseball—the pitcher and hitter matchups. I’ve learned to love it. It’s one of those things I do a lot of homework for on the back end— how to get guys out and how to get guys out multiple times.
So for me, kind of the joy in the game is facing guys multiple times, finding different ways to get guys out. It’s more the mental side of it than anything.
YOU LOVE PITCHING BECAUSE … I love pitching because of the art of getting guys out. It’s easy if you go out there and throw 105 to just to throw a fastball
“We are pretty big foodies so we definitely hit a lot of restaurants around here.”
over and over again, so for me, being a guy who doesn’t throw quite as hard and has to mix up pitches, for me it’s fun to see how pitches work off each other and mix things up and get guys out in different avenues.
FAMILY IS IMPORTANT TO YOU, WHICH IS WHY IT’S BEEN SAID THAT YOU WERE INTERESTED IN BEING A D-BACK. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THAT?
So now, having three kids—three kids under 3, actually—you know, for me, family is everything. The last couple of years, moving around a lot between Milwaukee and Baltimore, the family kinda went places a little bit, but spent a lot of time here in Arizona. So, for me, once we had our twins—had kids two and three—it became even more important for me to make sure I was with them, to help my wife Brooke out, and to just be around the kids and help them grow up and kind of shape them into the people that we want them to be.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING A DAD?
Gosh, just the little things. When I wake up and come to work every day, my son tells me, ‘Hey, Dad, drive safe. See you at home. When you get back from the baseball field, let’s play later.’ Just the small things that they want to include you in things.
Obviously, my girls are still a little small being 8 months old. They’re a few months away from speaking and being able to crawl around and do some stuff.
Just them wanting to include me in everything is fun.
YOU MOVED HERE BEFORE YOU WERE PART OF THE TEAM. WHAT DREW YOU AND YOUR WIFE TO THE VALLEY?
Yes, we both grew up in Bakersfield, California, so we’re kinda used to the heat and the hot summers, but just being out here and being close to baseball. Once I was drafted with Milwaukee our Spring Training was here, as well. It just made sense to be out here, to train out here.
The winter times, the offseasons out here are beautiful. You don’t have to worry about too much cold and the snow. So for us, being out here made sense.
We’ve lived all over the Valley now. We lived on the west side when we first came out here and now we’re up in Scottsdale on the east side, so we’ve kind of seen it all but just love being out here and how the offseasons are.
ANY FAVORITE PLACES AROUND SCOTTSDALE?
We are pretty big foodies so we definitely hit a lot of restaurants around here. Some of our favorites are probably Buck & Rider, and there’s a new one that just opened up near the house called The Belmont [Kitchen & Cocktails].
I’m a big golfer, so I love a lot of the golf courses in that area. I obviously play TPC a lot, but just some of the smaller ones—the Grayhawks, The Boulders, some of those.
And I’m a big fisherman, as well, so being on the east side of town, we’ve got pretty close access to Lake Bartlett and Saguaro, as well. So I’m kind of all over the east side of the Valley now.
CONTINUED >
IT’S ONLY BEEN A SHORT TIME, BUT HOW HAS IT BEEN ADJUSTING TO THE TEAM AND LIVING FULL TIME IN THE VALLEY?
It’s been good. I’ve been fortunate to have most of my spring trainings out here in Arizona, so as far as Spring Training goes, it’s been pretty similar. We’ll really see the differences once the season starts.
But it’s a great group of guys. I saw that from across the field the last couple of years, just how good this young group of players was, and being able to join them and hopefully get back to the World Series is the main goal. Living here year-round, not having to move around places, being with the family more, there’s a lot of pluses of being here.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING A D-BACK NOW?
I’m still getting to know a lot of the guys. Being a part of a rotation with Zack Zac and Merrill, and some of the young guys that we have coming up, we’ve got some exciting young players with Corbin Carroll, [Geraldo] Perdomo, who just signed an extension to be here for a long time. Just the young, exciting players, and the veteran guys around the team, just getting to know them and being around this group is special.
WE KNOW THE ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO WIN THE WORLD SERIES. DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER GOALS, WHETHER PERSONAL OR PROFESSIONAL?
I would say team, personal, professional, everything—the one goal I have now is to get to the World Series and win the World Series.
I’ve been fortunate enough in my career to have had a lot of success. I’ve been to the All-Star Game many times. I won a Cy Young, and I’ve led the league in strikeouts. I’ve done a lot of cool things on the personal side of it. So the personal goal I have is also the team goal, which is to get to the World Series and win the World Series.
ONE THING WE’D BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?
I think I shared a little bit ago but the most surprising thing is that a lot of the guys don’t know I like to fish. A lot of guys know I like to golf and I’m pretty decent at golf, but for me, if I could pick anything, it would be going out to fish. Just getting out on the boat, where it’s quiet, you’re by yourself, it’s peaceful—four or five hours out on the boat just flying around the lake trying to catch a fish, for me is pretty fun and something I don’t think a lot of people know.
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THE THREE R’S OF WARDROBE INVESTMENT
Built on the Reuse-Recycle-Repurpose Model, High Society Resale Makes Luxury Attainable for All
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO
Being a successful business owner wasn’t new for public relations entrepreneur Beth McRae. But helming the shop she adored as a faithful customer for years was an unexpected first.
“You have to be careful when having these casual conversations with the owner of a boutique because you may end up owning it,” McRae says with a hearty chuckle.
“Because you’re paying a lower amount of money and they sell slightly below market, they can appreciate almost right away.”
What started out as a laid-back chat evolved into serious business that resulted in McRae’s purchase of High Society Resale in 2022.
“It was a place I loved, a place I knew,” McRae says. “I’ve always been a big resale shopper. I believe in the model and the quality of things you can find in a good treasure hunt.”
High Society originally opened in 1984 and had undergone two ownerships by the time the previous owner told McRae about her intention to sell everything in the shop and close it down when the lease ended.
When McRae asked her to reconsider, she told McRae that she didn’t know of anyone who could take it over.
“That’s when the universe drops something into your lap,” McRae says. “It’s like running a candy store if you have a sweet tooth.”
McRae gave the 4,300-square-foot space a makeover. This included building an office adjacent to the boutique where she runs her public relations firm, The McRae Agency.
She also organized clothing by size, color, and—for high-profile houses—designer to make searching for the perfect piece easier on customers.
In addition to clothing, McRae carries shoes, accessories, and much-coveted handbags. Shoppers can find $25 items, as well as Chanel items in the five-figures range. Lululemon activewear and blue jeans flaunt their style next to formal ball gowns and Prada pumps.
Whether they are previously loved or bear their original store tags, McRae makes sure every item is of excellent quality and meets the standards of her discerning clientele.
“We cater to anything a woman could possibly want to wear,” McRae says.
The boutique allows McRae to be part of a resale industry with a model she embraces—not only for the sustainability aspect but also how it fuels savvy shoppers seeking to invest in their wardrobes with quality clothing and accessories that are better crafted and therefore built to last longer than mainstream department store bargains.
And if the time comes to sell, a profit can be made.
“Because you’re paying a lower amount of money and they sell slightly below market, they can appreciate almost right away,” McRae says. “This happens especially with designer bags and higher-end and unique hard-to-find pieces.”
And at the end of every day, the goal is to offer luxury for less so that everyone who walks out of her doors feels good because they look good.
“What I love about it is that we are part of the sustainability trend and we are promoting reuse, recycle, repurpose,” McRae says. “We want luxury to be available to everyone.”
Donating items that do not sell after a while to one of McRae’s charitable partners allows her boutique to also invest in the community.
“We are supporting very incredible nonprofits and providing them with things that serve the needs of their clientele,” McRae says. “It’s come full circle.”
Everyone needs support at times, and when those moments come, Solari is here to respond Our compassionate and trained specialists offer free and confidential services through our 988 crisis line
“My wife was in a dark place so I called in and spoke with someone who was very helpful. She kept my wife from doing something drastic I’m really grateful ”
-Crisis Line Caller
As a nonprofit organization, Solari relies on the generous support of individuals and organizations to help us continue to provide our critical services.
Scan the QR Code to make a donation today
The Good Life
Geraldine and Marty Belafsky Live Their Hollywood Love Story in Phoenix
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO
There was a time not too long ago when, if you wanted to succeed in the TV or film business, you had to live in Los Angeles. But things have changed in recent years, and many industry insiders have chosen to move away from the City of Angels and settle down in towns that offer more space and a more relaxed pace.
Such was the case for Geraldine and Marty Belafsky. The young couple have successful careers in the entertainment industry—Geraldine is a twotime Emmy-nominated reality TV producer, and Marty is an actor-turned-data analyst for a large Hollywood studio—but the daily grind was stressful.
CONTINUED >
With Arsenio Hall from Celebrity Apprentice
Photo provided
Conducting an interview on set. Photo provided
“Living in LA was really expensive, and we felt as though we were always hustling and working around the clock just to make ends meet,” Geraldine says. “We wanted to slow things down a bit. Then COVID hit and gave us the opportunity, a window in which we could finally go and work remote.”
It was a serendipitous moment for a couple whose own story feels as if it could be pulled straight from a Hollywood rom-com.
Born and raised in Miami, Geraldine was bit by the showbiz bug in college. She began volunteering at one of her university’s TV stations and worked her way up to director of the evening news.
“After I graduated, I moved to Los Angeles because I knew I wanted to work in television,” she says. “Live TV was my real passion.”
Her first job was as a production assistant covering the red carpet for awards shows, including the Grammys, Oscars, and Golden Globes. Within a couple years, she was working as a producer on such popular reality shows as Undercover Boss , Hell’s Kitchen, Dancing With the Stars, and the Food Network’s multiple Baking Championship series. In 2022, she received her first Emmy nomination for her work on the Kids Baking
Championship, and she’s currently up for a second one for the show.
Native Angeleno Marty, on the other hand, started his acting career at 13, with commercials and small guest spots in TV shows like The Wonder Years His big break came when he was cast as Crutchy in the 1992 cult classic musical Newsies
He says of the experience, “I got that when I was 15, and it was absolutely amazing. I had the most wonderful time shooting it.”
Marty continued acting on and off into the early 2000s, with roles in movies such as Pearl Harbor, Evolution, and A Mighty Wind and TV shows, including Sabrina the Teenage Witch , Six Feet Under, and Boston Legal He also began performing stand-up comedy, honing his craft at such renowned venues as The Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, and Hollywood Improv. He even opened for Rodney Dangerfield in Las Vegas.
“It was fun, but it was a lot more challenging for me in my 20s than it was when I was a kid,” he recalls. “As much as I enjoyed performing, I was ready for more stability and to have a family.”
As fate would have it, his role as Crutchy had one more surprise in store for him.
CONTINUED >
At the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards in 2022—her first nomination. Photo provided
“Newsies was one of my favorite movies,” Geraldine says. “One day, I was talking to a friend, and I mentioned that to her. She said, ‘Oh my gosh, you have to meet Marty Belafsky.’ Of course I knew who he was. I was so excited that I texted all my friends and said, ‘I’m going on a date with a Newsie!’
“We met up, and like they say in the movies, the rest is history. I think we both say this all the time: It was very different from every other first date either of us ever had. We just clicked instantly.”
The couple celebrates their 10th anniversary in May. It will be their fourth since moving to Arizona.
“We were able to find a nice little community that really fit our family,” Geraldine says. “There are lots of young kids in the neighborhood and a new elementary school, which was really appealing.”
The couple have two daughters, ages 6 and 8.
The family now fills their days with school activities, traveling to cheer competitions, relaxing in their community’s many parks, and exploring all that the Valley has to offer.
“We love to go out to eat at places that have great patios,” Geraldine says. “Isabella’s Kitchen is a favorite because it has that big open field where the kids can play. We’re also getting to know other parts of the state. We went to Sedona for the first time last summer, and we’re dying to go back. Arizona has been so wonderful and welcoming. We’ve made some great friends and created our own little village.”
“We still go to LA quite a bit for work and to see family,” she adds. “But we love coming back to Phoenix. This is our quiet, happy place.”
With their daughters Isla and Romi on the set of Kids Baking Championship. Photo provided
With Rodney Dangerfield, during his comedy days. Photo provided
Working on set of Battle of the Network Stars with Lance Bass and Joey Fatone. Photo provided
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HEALTH CHECK-IN
When the first of the year rolls around, making resolutions tend to come easily—especially the ones targeting health and fitness.
But two or three months later, how many resolution-makers are still finding exercising regularly and avoiding fast food and cocktails easy?
While you may not have kept every single new year objective, there are steps to help ensure that you stay on the healthy track yearround. Amid all the exercise trends, fasting strategies, and latest and greatest from medical science, it’s important to adopt a routine that is tailored to your lifestyle and health, explains C.B. Daniel, M.D., partner at Cenegenics Phoenix.
“Some of these work for some people but is it going to work for you?” Daniel says, suggesting that a full medical history, bloodwork, and physical will establish a baseline for this.
Sure, there are pricey gadgets, equipment, and personal trainers, but investing in your health doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
Daniel advises starting an exercise program. Doing something you enjoy—walking, yoga, or playing golf, for example—goes a long way in helping you stick to it. Even “exercise snacks” consisting of climbing stairs or standing and sitting down at your desk during the workday counts.
“It doesn’t matter how much time you have. Don’t have an hour? What about 10 minutes?”
Daniel says.
Maintaining a good diet while eating and drinking in moderation are other inexpensive ways to stay in shape. Perhaps the most impactful is getting a good night’s sleep, yet the lack of quality shut-eye is often cited as a problem area for most, often because of stress.
“Sleep is important because it affects the production of key hormones, estrogen, testosterone, and the thyroid,” Daniel says.
If you are getting up several times or checking your phone during the night, your REM sleep is being interrupted. Daniel recommends speaking with a physician to determine the cause and natural solutions to address the issue rather than prescription medicines.
The key is incorporating an overall health routine that keeps you in it for the long haul.
“Look at what habits you can establish that can be permanent,” Daniel says. “It’s simple and comes down to nutrition, sleep, stress management, and consistency in an exercise program.”
Cenegenics.com/phoenix
Photo courtesy Cenegenics Phoenix
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The experts at the Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer Center at City of Hope Phoenix treat all gastrointestinal-related cancers, including colorectal, liver, pancreatic and stomach cancers, as well as neuroendocrine tumors. Our GI Cancer Center team is dedicated to treating patients with new and innovative cancer treatment options for diagnostic and surgical needs, using evidence-informed supportive care services to address gastrointestinal cancer symptoms and treatment side e ects — all under one roof.
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Evergreen Escape
There are myriad investments in life that have nothing to do with money or security. There is the investment in our health and the investment of time in our friends and family.
But investing in travel?
While not cheap, travel is a worthy investment in one’s soul. It feeds all senses while breaking us outside of our everyday bubble.
Seeking advice on where to invest this spring?
Seattle, just a three-hour flight from the Valley but a world away from the desert, is a sensationally safe bet.
The heartbeat of the city is Pike Place Market, a 9-acre epicurean outpost that sprawls across Puget Sound. It comes alive every morning with flying fish, produce, flower shops, an arcade, dozens of eateries, vintage clothing, sweets, wines, and collectibles.
Home to more than 500 vendors, it can be tough to determine how much time to budget to this bucket-list foodie destination, so planning is key. Eat Seattle Tours is a great option for those to do it in style with a local in the know.
The outfitter has a delightful walking tour, as well as a coffee-themed expedition and several custom private tours from which to choose.
Pike Place Market is a short walk from several of the city’s other musts in the Great Seattle Wheel, Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, and Chihuly Garden and Glass, so it is easy to plan a day to knock out these attractions together.
ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISIT SEATTLE
ENJOY AN ESCAPE TO SEATTLE
Chihuly Exhibit Persian ceiling.
The Great Seattle Wheel is a 175-foot Ferris wheel with plush enclosed glass gondolas that offer panoramic views of the city skyline, Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. The Space Needle is a 605-foot-tall landmark originally constructed to symbolize humanity’s Space Age aspirations for the 1962 World’s Fair. You can book tickets to simply visit the Space Needle or pair it with admission to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit next door. This series of galleries highlights artist Dale Chihuly’s work with color, form, and light using glass blowing and larger-than-life art installations. The Space Needle and Chihuly are also walking distance from the Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP. This dreamy space features radical exhibits on myths, magic, horror, rock’n’roll, science fiction, gaming, and locally grown musicians, including Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. It even has a sound lab where visitors can record music.
There is also a slew of lesser-known adventures across the city.
If seeking to get on the water, book a Lake Union Hot Tub Boat. These mobile hot tubs (pack a swimsuit) allow you to cruise Lake Union with an easy-to-navigate electric motor. Each hot tub has Bluetooth and ample cooler space for guests to bring their own food or drink.
Should wellness be a focus, Fyre Sauna is, well, fire (as the kids say). This Nordicstyle spa experience offers a slew of Scandinavian-style dry saunas and cold plunges in the middle of a blooming orchard just outside of downtown.
And after dark? It is all about spirits and spirits thanks to Nightly Spirits Ghost Tour. A combination pub crawl and haunted tour, each experience explores the spookier side of Seattle, with a drink or two along the way.
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If seeking to get on the water, book a Lake Union Hot Tub Boat. These mobile hot tubs (pack a swimsuit) allow you to cruise Lake Union with an easy-to-navigate electric motor.
Seattle also happens to be among the pre-eminent food cities in America, offering a wide variety of locally sourced Pacific Northwest fare, as well as an impressive array of globally influenced drinks and dishes.
Seattle also happens to be among the pre-eminent food cities in America, offering a wide variety of locally sourced Pacific Northwest fare, as well as an impressive array of globally influenced drinks and dishes. Among the best bets for dining are James Beard darling Canlis, artful Atrium, seafood sensation Shuckers, and soulful Communion. For libations, seek out the iconic Von’s 1000 Spirits, British pub Elephant & Castle, speakeasy-style Needle & Thread, wine-focused Sparkman Cellars, handmade spirit house Copperworks Distilling, and bubbly McQueen Champagne Bar.
And finally, where to stay.
The 100-year-old Fairmont Olympic Hotel is considered by many to be the top hotel in the area. The wooded, romantic lobby looks like something out of a movie and even has a secret Founder’s Lounge speakeasy experience hidden in plain sight. The rooms are bright, airy, and spacious with charging ports and access to streaming services. There is a second-floor pool and solarium, as well as an award-winning restaurant in The George, and an epic spa with traditional and innovative treatments alike.
For more information, visit VisitSeattle.org
The George
SOLARI CRISIS & HUMAN SERVICES HAS AN EMPLOYEE-FIRST WORK CULTURE
Investing in People Pays Positive Dividends
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE JOHNSON
“... having a workplace with an employee-forward work culture is a game-changer.”
Solari Crisis & Human Services, a (501c3) nonprofit that provides community-based crisis intervention services and a wide range of mental health services, opened its doors in 2007 with one key mission in mind: Inspiring hope.
As Manager of Marketing Laboraex Abeita notes, the East Valley nonprofit, which also answers all calls made in Arizona to 988, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, as well as to the statewide crisis line, is equally devoted to achieving this goal both externally and internally.
“This means that we want every member of our team to feel valued and inspired in the work they do, especially because our programs are designed to help those in need,” Abeita says, adding that Solari’s trained and caring crisis specialists, who are available 24/7/365, responded to more than 500,000 calls in 2024.
To help ensure that the health and well-being of its entire team of employees is a priority, Solari has embraced an “employee-first” work culture.
“The work that is done here at Solari is around the clock, and that means employees can become burnt out if not given the support and flexibility needed to enjoy their lives,” Abeita says.
For example, he notes, employees who are on-site can take a break whenever they feel the need and decompress in one of the many “compassion rooms” located throughout the office space.
“For employees who are working remotely, there are employee wellness programs that provide 24/7 mental health support, as well as life coaching and mental wellness resources,” Abeita says.
“In addition, the paid time off and hybrid work opportunities allow employees to truly enjoy a great work-life balance. These are only a few of the many
incredible employee benefits and support systems that Solari provides to our team.”
Solari’s investment in its work culture and commitment to the well-being of its employees has paid off in a variety of positive ways.
“We have seen the benefits of our work culture through the powerful and inspiring actions of our employees. Our employees have published books, speak publicly, lead trainings, and so much more for our community,” Abeita says.
Solari has also received a number of awards for its positive work culture. The nonprofit received the “Top Workplaces” recognition from The Arizona Republic in 2023 and 2024, and was named one of the “Top 10 Remote Workplaces in the United States” by Energage in 2024.
“We’ve also been recognized as a ‘Best Place to Work’ by the Phoenix Business Journal in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022! In addition, we have also received many other recognitions that can be viewed on our website,” Abeita says.
Abeita says he and everyone at Solari are proud of their supportive work culture, and the way it benefits everyone at the nonprofit.
“From the perspective of the employee, having a workplace with an employee-forward work culture is a game-changer. Prioritizing the health and well-being of employees has been shown to increase productivity, company loyalty, and overall success of company goals,” he says.
“From the perspective of the employer, Solari knows that the success of our organization doesn’t happen without the amazing individuals that make up our employee base.”
Solari-Inc.org
OFF-ROAD REFINEMENT
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
LIKE ITS NAMESAKE, THE LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 SEDONA EDITION AWAKENS FEELINGS OF EXCITEMENT AND A DESIRE TO EXPLORE WHAT LIES AHEAD
Sedona has long been known as a place of luxury, beauty, and adventure. These characteristics also can define the Land Rover Defender. Now, the legendary off-roader known for its go-anywhere capability adds an extra touch of refinement with the limited-edition Defender 110 Sedona Edition.
This new 110 showcases the natural deep red hue of the Arizona town’s iron-rich rock formations. The exclusive finish is complemented by black trim, a black front grille, and 22-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels, creating a look that’s both elegant and rugged.
Powering the vehicle is Land Rover’s 3.0-liter inline 6 engine that connects to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Terrain Response, which automatically adjusts settings for traction, handling, and steering in different driving conditions, and Hill Descent Control, which controls speed and safety when descending steep, uneven slopes, come standard, as does the 3D Surround Camera that provides 360-degree overhead views, as well as ground views. The optional Air Suspension Pack adds air springs to raise or lower the vehicle for improved stability and a smoother ride.
Inside, the 2025 model strikes a great union of utility and comfort. Material quality takes a nice jump with a mix of soft Windsor leather and Kvadrat, a wool blend. But the biggest upgrade is in the 110’s technology. The infotainment system gets a boost with a large 11.4-inch touch screen, and Land Rover’s PIVI Pro software offers intuitive navigation, seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a thumping surround sound system.
The limited-edition Sedona 110 has an mpg of 18 around town and 20 on the highway. The MSRP is $83,8000. As tested, the retail price was $86,725.
CONTINUED
APRIL 25TH-27TH
Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
WestWorld of Scottsdale
Get ready to rummage, revel, and rediscover your love for all things vintage and handmade. The iconic Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market transforms more than 120,000 square feet into a treasure hunter’s dream, filled with vintage gems, artisanal creations, and handcrafted finds from more than 160 talented vendors nationwide. Enjoy live music and food, too. JunkInThe TrunkVintageMarket.com
APRIL 25TH-MAY 4TH
Scottsdale Fair & Festival
WestWorld of Scottsdale
Thrill rides, fair food, games, attractions, and more make for fun for the entire family. ScottsdaleFair.com
APRIL 26TH
Scottsdale Jazz Festival
Scottsdale Civic Center | 2:30 PM
The Scottsdale Jazz Festival, now in its 14th year, aligns with UNESCO’s International Jazz Day, this time paying a special tribute to legendary musician and producer Quincy Jones. The event features celebrated artists such as Richard Elliot and Rick Braun, who will perform together as the electrifying duo RnR; Dan Pinson; Carlos Rivas Y Mex-sal, and more. ScottsdaleJazzFest.org
“Our competitive edge is having one company handle
all our HR-related services.”
Successfully managing 50 Jimmy John’s locations and more than 700 employees requires going above and beyond expectations. That became a challenge when we used three different companies to handle payroll, healthcare, and HR services. Switching to Trion, one of the country’s most trusted Professional Employer Organizations, to handle all three has made life much easier. Trion’s PEO offerings help us go the extra mile for our team members and customers. And that’s why we rely on Trion. Visit RelyonTrion.com
– Tomey Group LLC
