Scottsdale, AZ February 2025 by City Lifestyle

COUPLE GOALS:

COOKING SENSATION CHANCE COZBY

GOLF PHENOM MATT MCCARTY

KIRA BROWN AND SCOTTY JOHNSON

ANDRE

W BL OO M, HOUS ING EX P ER T

ANDRE W BL OO M, HOUS ING EX P ER T

O AN D CO-FOUNDE R OF BV O LUXUR Y GROU P

O D CO-FOUNDE R OF BV O LUXUR Y GROU P

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Keller WIlliams Northeast Realty, Luxury Division

WIlliams Northeast Realty, Luxury Division

Voted #1 Scottsdale Real Estate Team 2018, 2019, 2020, & 2021

#1 Scottsdale Real Estate Team 2018, 2019

Andrew Bloom is the CEO and co-Founder of BVO LUXURY GROUP at Keller Williams NortheastRealty.CollectivelyKellerWilliamsLuxuryhassoldover$98billionin 2021andYeartodateKellerWilliamsLuxuryhasrepresentedover48,000buyer’s and seller’s over $1M. KW continues to expand globally and remains the number one estate company in the world as ranked by Realtrends. BVO Luxury Group is now in its 3rd generation, Maricopa County’s #1 Real Estate Team of the year in 2018, 2019, and 2020, and 2021. The team has grown significantly to make 2022 the best year ever headquartered right here in Scottsdale.

Andrew Bloom is the CEO and co-Founder of BVO LUXURY GROUP at Keller Williams NortheastRealty.CollectivelyKellerWilliamsLuxuryhassoldover$98billionin 2021andYeartodateKellerWilliamsLuxuryhasrepresentedover48,000buyer’s and seller’s over $1M. KW continues to expand globally and remains the number estate company in the world as ranked by Realtrends. BVO Luxury now in its 3rd generation, 2019, and 2020, and 2021. The team has grown significantly to make year ever headquartered right here in Scottsdale.

Andrew Bloom is the CEO and co-Founder of BVO LUXURY GROUP at Keller Williams NortheastRealty.CollectivelyKellerWilliamsLuxuryhassoldover$98billionin 2021andYeartodateKellerWilliamsLuxuryhasrepresentedover48,000buyer’s and seller’s over $1M. KW continues to expand globally and remains the number one ranked Realtrends. BVO Group is now in its 3rd generation, Maricopa County’s #1 Real Estate Team of the year in 2018, 2019, and 2020, and 2021. The team has grown significantly to make 2022 the best

The Most Unexpected Real Estate Trend to Come Out of 2022

5 Reasons the Housing Market is Reversing

The market flipped! Nobody expected the bottom to fall out, but like a good upside-down cake, there is opportunity for everyone. will continue to see the shift in the market throughout 2023 with home sales about 20% below the 6.1 million home sales of 2021 and 4.8 million home sales in 2022.

The market flipped! Nobody expected the bottom to fall out, but like a good upside-down cake, there is opportunity for everyone. market with 2021 and 4.8 million home sales in 2022.

For buyer’s the pro’s are long and the con’s are short.

For the pro’s are short.

For buyer’s the pro’s are long and the con’s are short.

Keller WIlliams Northeast Realty, Luxury Division , 2020, & 2021 and the pro’s.

Pro’s:

that froze in hasn’t decrease home significant proportion of those with mortgages — enjoy rates below 6%, with a lucky 62% relishing rates under 4%. As mortgage rates climb, these homeowners are opting to hold onto their properties, rather than sell and risk locking in a higher mortgage rate.Consequently, this shift in homeowner behavior has reduced the volume of home sales. This is corroborated by a recent study, revealing that approximately 27% of homeowners would be motivated to sell if rates descend to 5% or lower. Furthermore, nearly half of the homeowners surveyed would consider listing their properties if rates were to plunge to 4%. Despite only a drop. manager a leaving 2% to be

In 2023, the housing market experienced an unexpected phenomenon — rising interest rates that basically froze housing values. The rise in mortgage rates, surprisingly, hasn’t instigated a significant decrease in home prices. This perplexing trend can be attributed to a complex interplay of economic, demographic, and market determinants. Today, a significant proportion of homeowners — 92% of those with mortgages — enjoy rates below 6%, with a lucky 62% relishing rates under 4%. As mortgage rates climb, these homeowners are opting to hold onto their properties, rather than sell and risk locking in a higher mortgage rate.Consequently, this shift in homeowner behavior has reduced the volume of home sales. This is corroborated by a recent study, revealing that approximately 27% of homeowners would be motivated to sell if rates descend to 5% or lower. Furthermore, nearly half of the homeowners surveyed would consider listing their properties if rates were to plunge to 4%. Despite these evolving dynamics, home prices have seen only a nominal drop. The manager of the S&P Case Shiller Index predicted a peak-to-trough decline of around 5%, leaving 2% yet to be recuperated.

•More inventory

For Seller’s the pro’s and con’s are flipped but let’s focus on the pro’s.

•Move up to a larger home with recent equity gains

Arizona market has experienced future real

•Downsize to a smaller home with cash

•Move up to a larger home with recent equity gains

•Price negotiations

•Move up to a larger home with recent equity gains a •Sell

•No need to waive inspections

•No need to waive appraisals

The Arizona housing market has experienced fluctuations in 2023, and many are eager to know what the future holds for this dynamic real estate landscape. Various data sources, such as Zillow and housing market forecasts, provide insights into the current state and potential developments. Let’s explore the forecast for the Arizona housing market in the coming months. According to Zillow, the average home value in Arizona stands at a decrease of 6.5% over the past year. This information is crucial for potential homebuyers and sellers, as it provides a snapshot of the current market conditions. Additionally, it’s noteworthy that homes in Arizona go to pending status within a median of 21 days, indicating a relatively active market. The 6.5% decline in home values over the past year suggests a shift in the market dynamics. The market is showing some resilience, with 18.9% of sales happening over the list price and 56.2% occurring under the list price. These figures indicate the importance of strategic pricing and negotiation in the current market environment.

Various sources, housing market forecasts, provide insights into the current state and potential developments. Let’s explore the forecast for the Arizona housing market in the coming months. According to Zillow, the value in at 6.5% past year. information crucial for of noteworthy homes pending 6.5% in over year suggests shift in the market dynamics. The market is showing some resilience, with 18.9% of sales happening over the list price and 56.2% occurring under the list price. These figures indicate the importance of strategic pricing and negotiation in the current market environment.

•No bidding wars

•Move in at close of escrow

•Sell NOW and capitalize on equity gains while sitting on the sidelines. You never lose money taking chips off the table.

Help Buyers Emotionally Connect

Connect

Help Buyers Emotionally Connect

Several economists believe the housing market will remain relatively flat in 2024, but not crash. As the mortgage rates are stabilizing now, more buyers feel confident to enter the housing market. Let’s look at why most experts believe that the housing market in Arizona is not going to crash. 5 Reasons Why the Housing Market is Unlikely to Crash

economists believe relatively feel look at why most experts believe that the housing market in Arizona is not going to crash. 5 Reasons Why the Housing Market is Unlikely to Crash

•Time to think

•Seller paid closing costs

•Seller repairs

Con’s:

•Time to think of

Conclusion:

1. Low Months of Supply: Only 2.6 months’ supply is available. This scarcity of inventory explains why many buyers need to bid over the listing price for the most desirable properties. According to the law of supply-demand, it is predicted that home prices will remain stable for now.

ow Months of Supply: Only 2.6 months’ supply is available. This scarcity of inventory explains why many buyers need to bid over the listing price for the most desirable properties. it for

Staging is about showcasing an engaging, move-in ready home the

2. Low Newly Constructed Housing Supply: The supply of newly constructed houses has yet to return to pre-2007 levels. Also, there’s no way for homebuyers to buy land, get regulatory approval, and increase the supply quickly.

3. New Buyers Entering the Market: There’s a strong demand for homes across various demographics. Millennials are in their prime buying years. As a result, there’s still a limited amount of inventory available.

Staging is about showcasing an engaging, move-in ready home that creates an emotional connection with the buyer. Updating décor with on-trend, inviting style—particularly in living rooms, primary bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms—can make a memorable impression.

•Higher interest rates that are still reflective of 30 year averages

primary bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms—can make a memorable impression.

4. Strict Lending Standards: There were several cases of liar loans in 2007 where anyone could get a mortgage without a credit check. Today, mortgage lenders in Arizona place high stan dards on borrowers, and most home buyers are required to have an excellent credit score.

4. Strict Lending Standards: of in where a a check. place dards on borrowers, and most home buyers are required to have an excellent credit score.

5. Fewer Foreclosures: A majority of homeowners own significant equity in their homes. The personal balance sheets of homeowners are much stronger today than they were 15 years ago. As a result, the threat of rising foreclosures in Arizona is low.

Foreclosures: A majority of homeowners own significant equity in their homes. The personal balance sheets of homeowners are much stronger today than they were 15 years ago. As a result, the threat of rising foreclosures in Arizona is low.

Buyer’s can now marry the house they love and date the rate.

Conclusion: marry the house love

Conclusion: With stable home prices and reprieve of interest rates 2024 is a good time to make a move! Call us today for a private and confidential conversation.

“Anyone

Conclusion: With stable home prices and reprieve of interest rates 2024 is a good time to make a move! Call us today for a private and confidential conversation.

If you are thinking of selling your home, now more than ever your home must be in TOP condition. At BVO Luxury we offer and

If you are thinking of selling your home, now more than ever your home must be in TOP condition. At BVO Luxury we offer FREE home improvement and staging consultations.

“Anyone who dreams of an uncommon life eventually discovers there is no choice but to seek an uncommon approach to living it.” - Gary Keller, The ONE Thing

“Anyone who dreams of an uncommon life eventually discovers there is no choice but to seek an uncommon approach to living it.” - Gary Keller, The ONE Thing CALL US NOW! (480) 999-1921 www.BVOLuxury.com

who dreams of an uncommon life eventually discovers there is no choice but to seek an uncommon approach to living it.” - Gary Keller, The ONE Thing CALL US NOW! (480) 999-1921

M o m e n t s

Love What's Near

I don’t know about you, but this time of year I am always torn—I find myself caught between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday (OK yes, deep down I do love it though!) and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season.

To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between.

We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we highlight what’s to love in your local community.

In this issue, we speak with several people who make up the unique fabric of our community, from iconic sports journalist Michael Wilbon to golf phenom Matt McCarty and musicians Kira Brown and Scotty Johnson (they’re a couple both on and off the stage!) to Chance Cozby, who turned a pandemic hobby into a social media presence. We also talk about restaurants (hope you’re hungry!). These people and businesses are just a few of the reasons why Scottsdale is so great.

“Love local” means your local businesses and those in your community—but it also means loving what is nearby. Those under your own roof included. So grab a coffee at your favorite local spot (I love Press!) and head home for a game night with the family. Or snag a bottle of wine from one of the Arizona tasting rooms in Old Town and some cheese and indulge on a movie night in.

We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told on these pages month after month.

Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like.

Our hope is that we inspire you to love it—as well as our local community—just a bit more than you did before.

Happy February!

Yours,

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR

February 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, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Georgann Yara

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kim Brundage, Danielle Muccillo

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

THE MOST IMPORTANT RELATIONSHIP YOU’LL EVER HAVE... IS WITH YOUR HEALTH.

This February, Love Yourself Enough

to End the Pain

and

Reclaim Your Life.

You’ve done everything right — the exercise, the healthy eating, the endless doctor visits — yet here you are. Waking up stiff. Avoiding the hobbies you love. Feeling stuck in a body that just won’t cooperate. You tell yourself it’s normal. That pain is just part of getting older. But deep down, you know this isn’t how life is supposed to feel.

This February, stop settling for “good enough” health. At Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness, we believe that loving yourself means investing in the future you — the one who’s pain-free, vibrant, and unstoppable.

INTRODUCING: THE CONCIERGE WELLNESS EXPERIENCE

A 12-month, physician-led journey designed to eliminate pain at the source, restore your vitality, and protect your health for years to come.

WHAT YOU GET:

• Direct Access to Dr. Ashu Goyle – No waiting, no red tape. You get priority appointments, same-day responses, and personalized care when you need it most.

• Cutting-Edge Regenerative Therapies – We go beyond traditional medicine with PRP therapy, and advanced pain treatments designed to heal, not mask.

• Comprehensive Health Optimization – From nutrition plans to anti-inflammatory food prep, IV infusions, and mindset coaching — we build your health from the inside out.

• A Personalized Roadmap – Tailored treatments and long-term strategies to keep you out of pain and performing at your peak.

• Preventative Care – Don’t wait for pain to knock you down. Our focus is on proactive wellness, keeping you ahead of injuries and health setbacks.

Apply to Join Our Concierge Program.

Limited Spots are Available for 2025. Scan the QR Code to Apply Now. Stop Waiting for the Pain to Go Away. BE PROACTIVE. BE PREVENTATIVE. BE UNSTOPPABLE.

DR. ASHU GOYLE HOLISTIC PAIN DOC

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Scottsdale City Lifestyle held its holiday party with Cirrus Aircraft at Scottsdale Airport. It was a luxurious evening of celebration with great people, cars, aircraft, raffles, food, and drink. Photography by Kim Brundage

8-14: Scottsdale City Lifestyle held its holiday party with Cirrus Aircraft at Scottsdale Airport. It was a luxurious evening of celebration with great people, cars, aircraft, raffles, food, and drink. Photography by Kim Brundage

15: Enjoying the grand opening celebration of Febal Casa. 16: Holiday Prelude benefited the Phoenix Theatre Company Guild and Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestras. 17: Stunning fashions were shown on the runway at Holiday Prelude XXXVII. 18: Italian home design leader Febal Casa’s grand opening celebration. 19: Guests explored Febal Casa’s showroom at its new Scottsdale location. 20: Sara Snyder, Sabrina Norris, Tara Zika, and Amy Chung at Ryan House’s White Christmas Gala. 21: Ryan House co-founders Jonathan and Holly Cottor at Ryan House’s signature White Christmas Gala.

ELENA THORNTON

LEE MEDIA

22: Catrina Kahler and Linda Herold at Holiday Prelude XXXVII. 23: Gift shopping at the Holiday Prelude Boutiques is a tradition. 24: Guests at The Saguaros’ 2024 Niteflite Gala. A golf tournament took place the day prior. 25: It was a fun time at The Saguaros’ 2024 Niteflite Gala fundraiser, held at the W Scottsdale. 26: Lin Sue and Tom Flood at Ryan House’s signature White Christmas Gala. 27: Showing off saguaros at The Saguaros’ 2024 Niteflite Gala. 28: The Saguaros philanthropic organization raised over $1 million at the 2024 Niteflite Golf Tournament and Gala.

LEE MEDIA

ELENA THORNTON

Spain's Telefèric Barcelona to Open at Scottsdale Fashion Square

Telefèric Barcelona, a family-owned restaurant group out of Spain that's known for its tapas, paellas, and cocktails, will open at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The restaurant operates two locations in Spain, five in California, and one in Seattle. A few others around the country are under construction. This locale will offer coastal cuisine with a California twist, embracing local produce and offering authentic tapas and paellas. There will also be a selection of Spanish wines and sangrias. TelefericBarcelona.com

The Belmont Kitchen & Cocktails Arrives in North Scottsdale

The Belmont, which was slated to open early this year in North Scottsdale at Pinnacle Peak and Pima roads, features craft cocktails, fresh seasonal cuisine made with locally sourced premium ingredients, and a casually sophisticated atmosphere. It's open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as brunch on the weekends. The concept was created by Phillip Lewkowicz, acting CFO of esteemed locales Café Monarch and Reserve Scottsdale, and his longtime friend and business partner Neal Thompson. TheBelmontRestaurant.com

Kohler

Bathroom Design

Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.

Raise a Glass at Pinard Wine Bar

Pinard Wine Bar, which opened in North Scottsdale, offers a European-style dining and wine-drinking experience. The menu features classic European-inspired dishes like beef bourguignon and ratatouille, and shareables such as cheese plates and foie gras. Entree options include a veal chop and several cuts of prime steaks. Pinard offers a casual bar environment, a vibey dining area, and a private wine room with exclusive access for members of Pinard’s Wine Club. PinardWineBar.com

letter from the PUBLISHER

As February settles in, Scottsdale reveals a side of itself that feels like an oasis amid winter’s chill. While much of the country battles snow and slush, Scottsdale offers a vibrant escape with its stunning desert landscapes, luxurious resorts, and perfect, sun-filled days. It’s a season when the Sonoran Desert is in full bloom, and the city’s renowned arts scene and cultural offerings come alive—really making us fall locally in love with our home city.

February also means the return of some of Scottsdale’s most celebrated events, such as the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and the WM Phoenix Open. These bring a unique blend of elegance, history, and excitement, attracting visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re admiring the graceful Arabian steeds or hoping to catch a hole-in-one on the famous 16th, the city’s lively events make it impossible to feel bored.

Scottsdale in February is our time to shine—it’s a season that rejuvenates the spirit, offers a pause from the everyday, and leaves us in awe of nature’s beauty and human creativity. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a chance to indulge in luxury, or simply to relax and recharge, February in Scottsdale offers the best of what the desert has to offer.

Here’s to enjoying Scottsdale’s season by loving locally.

See you around town!

Alicia Haygood Owner/Publisher

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION … but We’re Here to Ask a Few Questions

A CONVERSATION WITH ICONIC SPORTS JOURNALIST AND ESPN CO-HOST AND ANALYST MICHAEL WILBON

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

You may have seen Michael Wilbon around town because the iconic sports journalist and decorated sportswriter lives in Scottsdale part time.

His illustrious career includes 31 years at The Washington Post , current co-host of ESPN’s Pardon the Interruption , and analyst on ESPN and ABC’s NBA Countdown. He’s also now a co-owner of the drink brand Coco5. We caught up with him to talk sports, memories, Scottsdale, and more.

YOU’VE HAD QUITE AN ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER. WHAT DREW YOU TO SPORTS AS YOUR CAREER FOCUS?

It was easy—I was terrible at math and science, but I was really good at English and sports. From a young age, I loved anything you could play or compete in. Sports were just a natural part of my life. At the same time, I loved storytelling. I’ve always wanted to find a way to marry those two passions together, and that’s exactly what I ended up doing.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW THIS WAS YOUR PATH?

I knew I loved English and storytelling from as far back as third grade. Reading, writing—those were my strengths, and I enjoyed them. As a teenager, I started to realize that my dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player probably wasn’t going to happen, but I also saw that my skills with language could take me in another direction, and that’s really when I realized: Hey, I could write about sports as a career.

I began writing for my high school paper during my junior year, and when I got to Northwestern, I joined The

Daily Northwestern and applied to the Medill School of Journalism—the best journalism school in the world. I got in and things really took off from there.

YOU’VE CO-HOSTED PARDON THE INTERRUPTION ( PTI ) SINCE 2001, BUT YOU BEGAN AS A WRITER. HOW DID YOU KNOW TELEVISION WAS FOR YOU?

I didn’t know TV was for me—it just kind of fell out of the sky. My career was always centered around writing, and honestly, television wasn’t something I thought about much growing up. Even now, if someone asks what I do, I say, “I’m a sportswriter,” even though I don’t do much writing these days.

TV came into the picture while I was at The Washington Post People started asking me to come on and talk about the sports news I was reporting on. I spent 13 years doing that with WRC-TV Channel 4 in Washington, and I was also contributing to ESPN in the late ’80s and ’90s. But even with all that TV experience, it was always from the perspective of a writer or a columnist.

When PTI started, it was a big transition, but my foundation as a writer helped shape how I approached it. Writing is always what I aspired to do—it’s where I feel most accomplished.

FAVORITE SPORTS MOMENT THAT YOU’VE REPORTED ON?

There are way too many to settle on a moment. Many of them were at the Olympics and the special sporting events that take place there that perhaps people don’t even know about. One that stands out is watching Cathy Freeman win the 400-meter sprint at the Sydney Olympics. Seeing her

win in her native Australia as an Aboriginal athlete was an incredible cultural and sporting moment, not just for her but for Australia, the Aboriginal community, and the world.

Of course, any event involving my favorite Chicago team, the Cubs, I love being a part of. And covering Michael Jordan’s six championships in the ’90s. I was there for all of them, writing for The Washington Post I’ve covered 20 Super Bowls, 25 Final Fours, 30 NBA championships—but the ones that stay with me are often the ones that touched me personally.

FAVORITE SPORTS MOMENT AS A FAN?

Watching the Cubs win in 2016 was a big one for me. Sitting in Cleveland at Game 7 seeing them do something they had not yet done and win the World Series finally for the first time as a franchise in 108 years would be my favorite moment as a fan.

Watching Michael Jordan win all six championships as a fan was a huge highlight, too. Another one I’d throw in is Northwestern making the Rose Bowl in 1996. Even though we didn’t win, being there as an alum on New Year’s Day was a big deal.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

I love that the work I do is different, it’s unfolding every day. Boredom has always been my enemy, and there’s no way when you’re dealing with storytelling that there should be boredom, particularly in the world of sports and news! I don’t cover sports the way newer generation reporters approach sports now where it’s highlights and catchphrases. That’s great, but for me, it’s always been about news—what’s

happening and why it matters. I love the spontaneity of it and the chance to connect with the audience every day. One thing I do worry about is that we’re losing that connection with the audience in today’s reporting styles.

IS THERE A SPORTS DEBATE THAT YOU’RE PASSIONATELY ON ONE SIDE OF (I.E., JORDAN VS. LEBRON)?

That’s a tough one, any time you get into these debates, it almost requires you to say something negative about the other person to defend your position. I’m passionate about Michael Jordan being the greatest of all time—I mean, I was courtside for his entire career. But how do you discount someone like Bill Russell, who has won more championships than anyone, or LeBron James, who’s not only an incredible athlete but also a cultural and entertainment icon, and just a damn nice person.

I will admit I do think I’m better equipped than most people to have these discussions because I’ve witnessed these athlete’s careers firsthand. I watched Michael, LeBron, Kobe, Magic, Larry Bird, and even much of Kareem’s career unfold in real time. I’m not basing my opinion on highlight reels or hot takes—I lived it. That’s the beauty of what I do. I value history and my ability to call on it and talk about it as someone who has been there, not someone pushing an agenda.

IN ADDITION TO SPORTS, YOU ARE A CO-OWNER OF COCO5. WHAT DREW YOU TO THE VENTURE?

It started with Jim Reynolds, the majority owner, talking to me about getting involved. Right away, it was attractive—the people behind it, the fact that it started

in Chicago and the connections I had with people like Devin Booker, Charles Barkley, and Jim himself. These are people I’ve known for years and care about on a personal level. And, of course, the product itself. The passion fruit is excellent. I can’t leave that out.

THERE ARE MANY OF YOU WHO ARE INVOLVED. CAN YOU SHARE WHO AND HOW THAT CAME TO BE?

Coco5 was founded by the Chicago Blackhawks’ head trainer Mike Gapski. Recognizing that the players needed a beverage for rapid rehydration, he created an all-natural sports hydration drink fueled by coconut water, without all the added sugar, additives, and artificial ingredients found in most sports drinks. Since then, it’s gained a cult following and become the drink of choice of everyday athletes, and our leadership team now includes all-star athletes, including Devin Booker, D’Angelo Russell, Charles Barkley, and Derrick Rose, who were actually fans of the brand before they came on board.

COCO5 HAS LOTS OF TROPICAL FLAVORS—ORANGE, CHERRY, LIMÓN, PINEAPPLE, COCONUT, AND PASSION FRUIT. WHICH IS YOUR FAVORITE?

The passion fruit is my favorite; I could hoard them. Not that I’m against the pineapple or cherry—I keep a lot of those in the fridge, too!

WHY A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN COCO5 AND THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, AND HOW ARE THE FUNDS HELPING?

This summer, we announced a huge partnership with the American Cancer Society and Coaches vs. Cancer that will run for three years and specifically look to help communities gain access to lifesaving resources. Together, we’re working to raise awareness, increase funding, and address disparities in cancer screening and access to care, recognizing that everyone deserves an equal chance to live a healthy life. From Coco5’s inception, CONTINUED >

we’ve aimed to be different, to focus on the things that matter, and to create real impact. This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

WHERE CAN WE FIND COCO5?

In Fry’s, Sprouts, Safeway, Albertsons, Target, and CVS—and always on Coco5.com.

YOU LIVE HERE IN SCOTTSDALE PART TIME. WHAT DREW YOU TO THE AREA?

I’m a Midwestern kid and there are so many of us here—the Valley is full of Midwesterners. You’ve got Chicagoans, Cheeseheads from Wisconsin, Minnesotans, and Iowans. The East Coasters have Florida, but we come here to escape the cold. Even back in the day, the railroad was built by the McCormicks and it carried people away from the winter weather and respiratory issues by the trainload to Arizona.

I love the sun, the mountains, the dry heat—no humidity for me. I don’t need beaches—that’s why God made Chicago and Lake Michigan. I still have a property there downtown on the lake. But Arizona? It’s my adopted home. I love the restaurants, I love the golf, I love Sedona, I love making the drive to the Grand Canyon. When the time comes, and they’re sprinkling my ashes somewhere, maybe over Wrigley Field, I’m pretty sure they’ll be collecting me from Arizona.

YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS AROUND TOWN ARE … Golf courses—Scottsdale National, Desert Mountain. Elements restaurant is top of the list, too. Going to Kierland and walking around on a sunny, winter day when it’s 70 degrees. I love the area and all that it has to offer and the people here who bring it the Midwestern feel that it has.

ONE THING WE’D BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU IS …

I was a musician earlier in life. I got to be an 8.2 index on the golf course but I’m terrible now. I care about clothes. If I wasn’t a sports writer, I would have liked to write about fashion!

A GOLF PHENOM

ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES

DANIELLE MUCCILLO

When Matt McCarty hits the fairway these days, folks take notice—and not just because of his sunny persona. At 6 feet tall with sandy blond hair, the young athlete exudes a natural boynext-door charm, politely chatting with passers-by and patiently waiting while other players take their shots. Still, it’s his expert command of the ball and clubs that draws attention.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Scottsdale Native and Golf Ace Matt McCarty Takes Aim at PGA Success

“To be out there playing ... in an event that I grew up with ... it’s going to be pretty crazy!”

The 27-year-old left-hander makes winning look easy. One of only 13 golfers ever to receive a three-victory promotion from the Korn Ferry Tour to the PGA Tour in a single season, McCarty recently won his first PGA event in the same year, taking the Black Desert Championship in Ivins, Utah, and securing spots in the PGA Championship and the Masters.

“It’s pretty crazy. It’s the pinnacle of the sport, so it’s a surreal thing. Watching it on TV, and now it’s a possibility as opposed to a dream,” he says.

McCarty is now the 49th top-ranked player in the world. Not bad for a self-described “late bloomer.”

Growing up in Scottsdale, the young athlete played a variety of sports: baseball, football, basketball. Golf was just a fun summer activity that he would share with his dad and grandfather.

It wasn’t until he hit high school—McCarty graduated from Desert Mountain High School in 2016—that he started to find success in the game, winning junior championships and eventually leading the school’s

team to a No. 1 ranking. A golf scholarship took him to California, where he studied finance and got a master’s degree in marketing from Santa Clara University.

McCarty turned pro after graduating in 2021. A year later, he earned Korn Ferry Tour status (golf’s equivalent to baseball’s minor leagues). And this month, he’ll be making his debut in the WM Phoenix Open, which takes place Feb. 3-9 at the TPC Scottsdale.

We sat down with the young phenom to learn more about his love for the sport and his hometown.

WHY DO YOU LOVE GOLF?

Honestly, I like being outside and walking around and the camaraderie of playing with other people. But at the same time, it’s a very solitary game. You spend much of the time by yourself working on something. You’re not only playing against everybody else but also always yourself. You’re playing against what you’ve done in the past and always challenging yourself to do better.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE VALLEY COURSES?

I grew up playing Junior Golf, Arizona Golf Association stuff all over the Valley. There’s a lot of good places. There are so many good private courses in North Scottsdale, but there’s also great public places like Papago (Golf Club in Phoenix), Southern Dunes (Golf Club in Maricopa) and We-Ko-Pa (Golf Club in Fort McDowell). But I think my favorite course is Troon Country Club. It’s fun, it’s tight, and they used to have the Arizona Open out there.

DO YOU HAVE ANY GOLF ICONS?

My grandpa played football at ASU, and my mom went to ASU, so I grew up in a big Sun Devils family. So Phil (Mickelson), obviously, because we’re both lefties and we went to school there. And then there’s Tiger (Woods). Just growing up in that age of Phil and Tiger—they were kind of the two best players. But there’s also a lot of guys who aren’t that much older than me, as well. I really like watching (Jordan) Spieth a lot. His games are really fun to watch. He seems like a pretty good guy but also not super serious. But I’m just trying to soak up as much information from everybody as possible. That’s something going into 2025 that I’m definitely excited about—being around all the other people who are Top 50 players in the world and seeing what they’re doing and just observing. It will be very beneficial.

“You’re not only playing against everybody else but also always yourself. You’re playing against what you’ve done in the past and always challenging yourself to do better.”

ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO PLAYING IN YOUR FIRST WM PHOENIX OPEN?

I’m very excited for that week. We did standard bearing as kids, so I’ve been out there inside the 16th while the tournament’s been going on. [Standard bearers are young volunteers who carry signs that indicate a golfer’s score and pairing for each hole.] But to be out there playing in it, in an event that I grew up with, with lots of family and friends supporting me—it’s going to be pretty crazy!

WHEN YOU’RE NOT ON THE ROAD, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO?

This past year, I spent 29 weeks—more than half the year—traveling. So it’s nice to take a break. When I’m home, I usually take it pretty easy and like to chill and spend time on the couch. My girlfriend and I like to hang out and go to restaurants around the Camelback and Arcadia areas. We also like to hike. We’ve hiked Camelback a ton and a bunch of places up north. And, of course, ASU football games. Scottsdale will always be home for me.

Photographed at Camelback Golf Club, 7847 N. Mockingbird Lane, Scottsdale

ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO

FOR MUSICIANS KIRA BROWN AND SCOTTY JOHNSON, LOVE RUNS DEEPER THAN ART

COUPLE GOALS

Popular music has a long history of couples blurring the lines between personal relationships and the creative process. From Johnny and June to Garth and Trisha, Elvis and Diana to Faith and Tim, collaborations between real-life romantic partners have resulted in timeless tracks and heartfelt duets that have inspired generations to come.

“ON

well as Til I Hear It From You from the cult classic film Empire Records

As their relationship blossomed, so did Brown’s dream of songwriting and singing.

“I’m a very late bloomer when it comes to music. I was much too shy to ever do anything on my own until I met Scotty,” Brown explains. “His encouragement and, of course, his talents as a musician

OUR FIRST DATE, HE TOLD ME HE WAS IN THE GIN BLOSSOMS.”

Some artists fall in love while working together. Others share their lives before sharing the mic.

For Kira Brown and Scotty Johnson of local band Honeygirl, however, performing together wasn’t even a consideration when they first crossed paths.

The couple met 14 years ago at The VIG Arcadia. A mutual friend introduced them. Brown, who grew up in Queen Creek and went to Arizona State University, was a marketing and communications consultant. Johnson had already found musical stardom as the lead guitarist of ’90s alternative rock band the Gin Blossoms.

According to Brown, the connection was immediate.

“We met on a popular Sunday Funday, and it was love at first sight,” she recalls. “On our first date, he told me he was in the Gin Blossoms, and I didn’t believe him.”

Hailing from Tempe, the Gin Blossoms rose to international prominence with hit singles such as Hey, Jealousy and Found Out About You, as

have been inspirational and instrumental for me to start performing.”

About 10 years ago, the couple formed Honeygirl. The name is a riff on Johnson’s nickname, Honeyboy. The pair first performed as an acoustic duo, playing at open mic events in the Valley.

“I was so scared that my teeth would chatter,” Brown says.

These days, she’s backed by a full band.

“I am so blessed to have Scotty and everyone else to play with,” she says. “They’re great friends, absolutely hilarious, and amazingly talented. They make everything fun and make me sound great.”

Brown describes the band’s sound as “a lot of country and a little bit of rock ’n’ roll.” She writes the lyrics, and Johnson writes the music.

“Songwriting is organic for me. I just hear a song in my head, most often,” she explains. “I can sit down and write, as well, but typically, I’m driving or doing mindless stuff and a song will come to me, and then I need to run to a piece of paper to write it down.

CONTINUED >

“Of course, not all the songs are about Scotty,” she adds with a laugh. “But you should see his face when he first hears something from me about himself. But he never judges or edits me or the song. He’s a pro.”

While Brown credits Johnson’s musical contributions, the guitarist is quick to return the praise.

“Kira is Honeygirl,” Johnson says. “I’m super proud. I’ve seen Kira grow as a songwriter and as a performer. It’s been a fun journey. Her level of confidence has grown with each show.”

Honeygirl performs regularly at venues throughout Scottsdale. They can be seen every third Friday of the month at Old Town Tavern, and they frequently play at Handlebar J.

“We play original music shows and high-energy club shows that mix my original music with cover songs by everyone from Alan Jackson, Morgan Wallen, Dolly Parton, and Miranda Lambert to Fleetwood Mac, Pat Benatar, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more,” Brown says.

The couple also spends a lot of time in the recording studio. In 2024, Honeygirl released two new singles, including I’ll Drink to This or That, which can be found on the band’s website.

“We also just released Hey Cowboy, a full version of a song that Scotty and I put out as an acoustic version years ago,” Brown says. “Our longtime friend and co-lead guitarist of Honeygirl, Chris Orf, layered this amazing riff over it, and I was like, ‘Wow, that’s how it should sound!’”

Brown teases that more songs will be coming in 2025.

“I’ve got some new music coming in 2025 that I really love,” she says. “I’ve been really inspired over the last six months and have written so many new songs that I’m excited to record and share.”

When not on the road or in the studio, Brown and Johnson spend their time in the Valley, where they’re raising their son, Weston. In mid-November, the couple tied the knot.

“Arizona is an amazing place to live and raise children,” Brown says. “We travel a lot, but we always come home.”

HoneygirlMusic.com

Good Eats

CHANCE COZBY’S PANDEMIC HOBBY MADE HIM A SOCIAL MEDIA STAR

Some took up pickleball. Many perfected a sourdough recipe.

But Chance Cozby’s prowess in the kitchen was his pandemic hobby that made him a social media sensation.

By day, Cozby is the executive director of The Thunderbirds. In his free time, he shows more than 1.5 million of his TikTok and Instagram followers how fun and easy cooking can be.

“I try to present good food in a really easy presentation and format that people can follow and feel like they can make it themselves,” Cozby says.

In 2021, Cozby’s son Catcher, then 14, had the idea to film his dad making the family breakfast, lunch, and dinner and put it on TikTok. He created the account and Cozby chose to name it 3 Pieces of Pecan, a nod to his late father who was an avid griller and smoker who regulated the fire with three pieces of pecan wood.

They started filming and posting.

“We didn’t know what we were doing. Not that we do now,” Cozby says with a chuckle. “Everyone was on their phones at the time, and we got a big following pretty quick.”

Within eight weeks, 3 Pieces of Pecan garnered 125,000 TikTok followers. Seven months later, Cozby started an Instagram account. After a few months, he gained a huge following there, too.

ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO

“For me, food and golf have always gone together. A lot of deals are done at the dinner table and on the golf course.” —Chance Cozby

Cozby’s videos are primarily a minute long and composed of oneto two-second clips of what he’s making. His signature sign-off is him taking a bite, repeating the name of the dish he just made, and saying, “Damn good.”

Hailing from Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Cozby grew up in a golfing family. His father, Jerry, was the head golf pro for decades at the Hillcrest Country Club in their hometown and was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame.

Cozby followed in the family business, golfing since he was a kid and playing for the University of Oklahoma.

But he had another interest. And that started around the age of 8, when he began helping his mother Karole—who he says was a phenomenal cook—prepare the family meals. Making omelets together is among his earliest memories.

“I just liked food,” Cozby says. “I grew up in a golf and food family. It’s a very fortunate way to grow up.”

After college, in 1999, Cozby took a job with Ping Golf, which brought him to Arizona. He stayed with Ping for 20 years. He was the vice president of sports marketing when he left to take on the executive director post for The Thunderbirds.

Cozby cites a statistic stating that 56 percent of golfers enjoy food and drink when they’re on the course. While it may not seem like golf and cooking have much in common, Cozby sees what they do share.

“For me, food and golf have always gone together,” he says. “A lot of deals are done at the dinner table and on the golf course.”

Because of Cozby’s booming social media presence, he’s often asked to cater weddings, bachelor parties at private homes, and company holiday parties. Even the Oklahoma City Thunder organization asked him to cater an event in his home state.

He appreciates the requests but has turned every one down.

“It’s nice to be asked but it’s a pretty quick conversation,” he says. “I’m not a caterer. I’m not a chef. I’m just a home cook who cares about food.”

Cozby’s videos are mostly created indoors to accommodate what most viewers have at home. But once in a while, he’ll mix it up with a recipe on his smother or pellet grill.

The best advice he received from his cooking-enthusiast parents? Cook with love. This means always buttering and toasting the hamburger bun and thoughtfully dressing the burgers, for example.

“You can see when something was made with love or rushed,” he says.

And the thousands of positive messages and comments Cozby receives from his posts show that his philosophy is being embraced.

“The rewards are getting messages saying, ‘I found your page and you’ve inspired me to cook for my family and now, because of your page, inspiration, and recipes, I cook for my family twice a week,’” Cozby says. “I think that’s pretty cool.”

Instagram.com/3piecesofpecan TikTok.com/3piecesofpecan

“I grew up in a golf and food family. It’s a very fortunate way to grow up.”

—Chance Cozby

CONCEPT Kings

THE EPICUREAN ENTREPRENEURS ELEVATING THE FINE DINING AND CASUAL CULINARY SCENES

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The team behind The Collins

Last year, award-winning local restaurateur Sam Fox opened the doors to The Global Ambassador, a culinary-focused hotel boasting five separate eateries, each inspired by the Arizona native’s extensive travels. But he is not the only local restaurateur making headlines. Fox is joined by a growing number of innovative, veteran entrepreneurs focused on changing the way Arizonans sip and savor.

All the way back in 1998, Wally Collins founded Wally’s Pub ‘n’ Grill. Still in operation and owned by his son Matthew, the restaurateur also birthed a concept mastermind in his son, Christopher Collins. The talented chef launched Common Ground Culinary in 2011, which owns and operates Grassroots Kitchen & Tap, Collins Brothers Public House, The Collins, The Macintosh, Sweet Provisions, The Neighborly, Arcadia Catering Company, and most recently, Saint Urban. Opened in late 2024 in Scottsdale, it celebrates West Coast–inspired shareable cuisine and eclectic wines.

Another gem: In 2001, a hip indoor-outdoor wine bar called Postino—named with the Italian word for postman because the venue was located in a one-time post office—opened in Arcadia and changed the landscape of an entire neighborhood. While no longer a post office, the small-but-mighty location delivered night after night, growing a faithful following. Its success led to the creation of Upward Projects by Lauren Bailey and Crag DeMarco in 2008 and a vision to take vacant or historically relevant buildings in town and reinvent them into restaurants and bars. In the years since, Postino has grown to more than 35 locations nationwide. Upward is also behind Windsor, Churn, Federal Pizza, and Joyride Taco House.

Lauren Bailey of Upward Projects

Dan Chaon of Sneakybird

In the early 2000s, two other food-focused fellows came to town: Michael Nelson and Dan Chaon.

Nelson was a franchise guy, at first focused on Carl’s Jr. with his brother before helping grow Subway restaurants of Arizona to one of the state’s leading food businesses as president of the locally owned development group. He would then take on Wingstop, helping put it in on the map, before founding Craveable Brands in the early 2020s, focused on opening Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop, with an eye to take them nationwide. Chaon also got his Arizona start with a big brand in Chili’s. During his tenure, he helped grow the brand to more than 150 locations across the Southwest before he moved on to the Native New Yorker to help the locally-owned brand transition to Native Grill & Wings. And now? Like Nelson, he has launched his own vision in Sneakybird, a fast-casual concept that uses custom-made ovens and a mouthwatering combination of ingredients to make “Never Ever Fried” chicken sandwiches, wraps, tenders, and wings. Though he only opened his first location in Scottsdale in December 2022, he has already grown it to include sister locations across the Southeast and West areas of Metro Phoenix, and he recently opened shop in the heart of Arcadia.

Beyond these enterprising entrepreneurs of all things edible, there are also Genuine Concepts, Square One Concepts, and the unstoppable Sheila Bryson.

Genuine Concepts was founded by Tucker Woodbury and Jim Riley in 2006 and started with The VIG, a neighborhood-defining hangout in Arcadia that has grown to six locations Valleywide. The duo are also the brains behind The Womack, The Little Woody, The Genuine, Campo Italian, and a soon-to-launch concept in Flagstaff.

In more recent years, Sheila Bryson has expanded her portfolio, also opening Pescada and Little Snitch Brunch & Cocktails in Scottsdale.

S. Barrett Rinzler and Square One Concepts are to thank for Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, which was founded in North Scottsdale in 2011 and has grown to 18 delicious locales in Arizona. The success led Rinzler to continue innovating.

Square One Concepts also owns and operates Bourbon & Bones Chophouse, Wasted Grain and Old Town Ski Lodge, Famous 48, and also Nook Kitchen with Blue Print Hospitality.

And Sheila Bryson? This enterprising chef has long been associated with quality-first concepts thanks to the success of Soul Café, Vic & Ola’s, and ALMA, all in Scottsdale. In more recent years, she has expanded her portfolio, also opening Pescada and Little Snitch Brunch & Cocktails in Scottsdale.

ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Redesigned 2025 Sport Touring SUV Brings Comfort and Luxury to Arizona’s Highways

Buick’s flagship SUV, the Enclave, has been redesigned for 2025. The four-door, three-row family crossover has been a staple of the American-made marque since it was introduced in 2008. Now, with the integration of GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driver-assistance technology, an impressive 30-inch ultra-wide display and a turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain, this latest generation offers a premium experience on the road.

The Sport Touring’s sleek profile showcases standard 20-inch black wheels, black roof rails, a black grille, black exterior trim, and LED headlights. Inside boasts updated styling and a larger, more spacious cabin. Buick has equipped the 2025 Enclave with an extensive suite of standard features, including leather seating, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless phone charging and plenty of USB ports, a premium Bose 12-speaker sound system, and seven camera views for comprehensive safety.

Elevating the experience is the curved 30-inch touchscreen display that incorporates the instrument panel and infotainment screen. Built-in Google Maps functionality provides easy navigation, while Google Assist responds to vocal requests.

Under the hood, the robust 2.5-liter turbocharged engine takes the Enclave from 0 to 60 in 6.5 seconds. Combined with the eight-speed automatic transmission, the SUV has a highway fuel-economy rating of 24 mpg and 19 mpg in the city.

suenosglobaltequila.com @tequilasuenos

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FEBRUARY 13TH-16TH

Ballet Arizona presents the U.S. pre a powerful retelling of artist Frida Kahlo’s life story and her poignant, painful, and magical world, stunningly choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa. The show’s score, featuring a variety of Mexican instruments, comes from British composer Peter Salem, best known for his work in film and theater. BalletAZ.org

11th Annual Concours

Fountain Park, Fountain Hills | 10:00 AM

The "Greatest Car Show on Grass" showcases everything from contemporary and classic race cars to exotic high-performance cars, muscle cars, sports cars, hot rods, military vehicles, helicopters, and motorcycles. Get up close and personal with rare and exotic cars, all for a good cause—the event benefits Phoenix Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, as well as the Cardiothoracic Surgery Support PhoenixChildrensFoundation. org/signature/concours

FEBRUARY 21ST-23RD

3rd Annual Scottsdale Navajo Rug & Jewelry Show & Sale

The Holland Center

This unique event features 300 traditional hand-woven Navajo rugs, jewelry, crafts, weaving demonstrations, cultural teachings, and much more. The show supports the Adopt-A-Native-Elder Program, an organization dedicated to providing humanitarian aid to Navajo Elders in need. Friday evening features a VIP Preview & Sale with Native music, weaver talks, hors d’oeuvres, and a rug raffle. There's free admission on SaturHollandCenter.org

Want to be featured?

GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ SCOTTSDALE