So Scottsdale January 2024 by Richman Media Group

S TA R T Y O U R E N G I N E S Rev up for the annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction

THE GREATER GOOD

Local philanthropic leaders

MEET THE PEOPLE TO WATCH IN 2024 WWW.SOSCOTTSDALE.COM | RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP | JANUARY 2024

PE R T Y

offered at

$2,250,000

P RO

This eco-friendly, non-HOA North Scottsdale haven is secluded on a nearly one-acre lot designed to capture the dynamic mountain views.

Timeless Elegance NON-HOA 25555 N Wrangler Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 4,252 SQ FT | 5+ Car Garage

602.320.8415 | LUCKY@RUSSLYON.COM | VIEW OUR LUXURY LISTINGS AT LISALUCKY.COM

offered at

$2,100,000

LISA, MATT & LAURA LUCKY

Watch Property Video at LisaLucky.com

PINNACLE PEAK ESTATES III

24690 N 80th Place, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 3 Bed + Office | 4 Bath | 3,520 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage | 1.304 Acres

offered at

$3,350,000

BOULDER RANCH

26727 N Boulder Ln, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 3 Bed + Office | 4 Bath | 4,309 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

offered at

$1,650,000

Watch Property Video at LisaLucky.com

TONTO HILLS

11420 E Blue Wash Road, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 4 Bed | 3 Bath | 4,279 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage

LASTING RELATIONSHIPS. LUXURY LIFESTYLES. LOCAL EXPERTS. When it comes to the North Scottsdale lifestyle and area real estate, these words represent The Luckys' commitment to excellence. $1 BILLION IN SALES VOLUME TOP 1% OF RUSS LYON | SOTHEBY’S AGENTS Since 2006 RANKED #7 - SMALL TEAMS BY TRANSACTIONS America’s Best REAL Trends | 2023

offered at

$899,000

RANKED #44 - SMALL TEAMS BY SIDES America’s Best REAL Trends | 2023 HONORED AS A "TOP 250 AGENT" IN THE NATION Wall Street Journal | 2018

Watch Property Video at LisaLucky.com

TOP WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE Women’s Council of Realtors | 2015 - Present

QUAIL RIDGE AT TROON VILLAGE 11165 E Turnberry Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,128 SQ FT | 2-Car Garage

LISA LUCKY 602.320.8415 Lisa.Lucky@RussLyon.com

MATT LUCKY 480.390.0445 Matt.Lucky@RussLyon.com

LAURA LUCKY 480.390.5044 Laura.Lucky@RussLyon.com

SCOTTSDALE

CHANDLER

ARROWHEAD

SCOTTSDALE

CHANDLER

ARROWHEAD

SCOTTSDALE

CHANDLER

ARROWHEAD

SCOTTSDALE

CHANDLER

ARROWHEAD

2018 BUGATTI CHIRON // NO RESERVE Features full exposed carbon ﬁber option. Powered by an 8.0-liter 16-cylinder engine with four turbochargers, making 1,500hp with 1,180 ft/lbs of torque, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 0 to 60 mph in 2.3 seconds.

FOR THE CURRENT DOCKET AND BIDDER REGISTRATION, VISIT BARRETT-JACKSON.COM Experience the Barrett-Jackson Auctions live exclusively on A+E Networks’ FYI and HISTORY channels.

ALL THE CARS, ALL THE TIME. Streamed live on Barrett-Jackson.com

JANUARY 20-28 | WESTWORLD OF SCOTTSDALE | TICKETS ON SALE NOW

2019 FORD GT // NO RESERVE Powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine backed by a 7-speed Getrag dual-clutch automatic transmission. Finished in Shadow Black over a Re-Entry interior. Optional equipment includes exterior matte carbon ﬁber. 35 actual miles.

Grammy Award-Winning Rock Band Foreigner and opening act Night Ranger will Rock the Block on January 19! Presented by Arizona Lottery, this Concert Kicks Off Nine Days of Special Attractions and Over 1,900 Vehicles Selling With No Reserve.

PURCHASE TICKETS TODAY!

ASK CHRIS

Is there a difference between a “title company” and an “escrow company”?

We are in escrow to close the sale of our Scottsdale home. Our real estate agent sometimes talks about our “title company” and sometimes talks about our “escrow company.” Both are at the same office address. Is there a difference between a “title company” and an “escrow company”? Yes. Although the terms are used interchangeably in the real estate industry, an “escrow company” and a “title company” are completely different. An escrow company processes the paperwork, e.g., the purchase contract and loan documents, for the real estate transaction. There are more than 200 licensed escrow companies in Arizona. On the other hand, a “title company” is the title insurance company that insures the transfer of the title of a home to the buyer. There are more than ten national title insurance companies in the United States such as First American Title and Fidelity Title. Note: Even more confusing, First American Title and Fidelity Title are not only national title insurance companies, they are also licensed Arizona escrow companies.

To Submit your question to Christopher, please email debbie@combslawgroup.com

Experts at Solving your Real Estate Issues. Residential and Commercial Disputes Real Estate Contracts and Transactions Landlord-Tenant Disputes Disclosure, Easements, and Title Issues H.O.A. Law Realtors with Ethics/Commission Disputes Commercial and Residential Leases

CHRISTOPHER COMBS, PRESIDENT • University of Arizona Law Review • Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, JAG ( 100+ Court Martials) • President of the Maricopa County Bar Association • 20+ years Real Estate Broker and State Bar Certified Real Estate Specialist

CALL US NOW 602.957.9810 2200 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 221, Phoenix, AZ 85016 www.combslawgroup.com

Contents

ON THE COVER: Car provided by Barrett-Jackson. Photo by Augusto Herrera.

Escape the real-world hustle by booking an appointment with your favorite Scottsdale color expert and master stylist, Rodney Gentry. Kick back and relax in Rodney’s private salon suite while he works magic on your hair, taking the utmost care with your beauty and your health. Look gorgeous and feel fabulous this holiday season!

Features 40 THE GREATER GOOD Six local philanthropists

44 START YOUR ENGINES Rev up for Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction

98 FASHION Steering in style

FOR AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL 480.639.2000, OR VISIT WWW.RODNEYGENTRY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Need A Change In Your Life? Let the Hair Color Expert, Rodney Gentry, give you the makeover you deserve! Is it time for a change? Let’s see...

9 Signs That You Need a Hair Color Change... 1. Everyone’s hair seems nicer than yours 2. You’ve wanted to try something for a really long time 3. You’re dying for a change 4. You’re looking for a way to mask grays 5. Your hair color is becoming a burden 6. You’re paying attention to other hair colors 7. You’ve had the same color for ages 8. Your hair is in bad condition 9. You have a big event coming up Specializing in hair coloring, corrective color, dimensional hair color, highlights, lowlights, and smoothing hair treatment services. BOOK TO EXPERIENCE HIS SERVICES TO UNDERSTAND WHY HE IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE TOP HAIR COLORING EXPERTS IN SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA! Full-service designer and hair color specialist Rodney Gentry can be reached at Sachi Studios in Scottsdale, AZ. Call 480.639.2000 to make an appointment or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information.

Contents Now 75 HOT TICKET Concours d’Elegance

76 LOWDOWN News to know

78 DO Great upcoming events

80 CALENDAR Noteworthy happenings

84 OUT Skin soothers

85 OUT New year, new view

86 EVENT Concours in the Hills

87 EVENT

Pulse 25 UP CLOSE

Your Life Arizona’s Darrell Cunningham

28 BEAT Gennaro Garcia’s global artistry

30 BEAT Shantelle Girard of Rancher Hat Bar

32 HIS STYLE Meet Gustavo Tabares

34 HER STYLE Meet Kristina Remon

36 NOTICED Women on the scene

14 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Celebration of Fine Art

88 CULTURE Beth Hyatt

Contents Luxe 107 INDULGE Smart home gym

108 WHEELS 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X 4XE

110 WANT Lodge at Blue Sky

112 HAUTE PROPERTY Desert Wing

114 PLACES Telluride, Colorado

Style 91 MUST-HAVE Gucci sneakers

92 ALLURE Gym bag beauty

94 DWELL Haute herringbone

96 SHOP Lots of dots

97 SHOP Bold blazers

16 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

How divorce treats you can come down to whether you have a most innovative law firm on your side. Started by one woman 22 years ago. It has grown to 57 team members today. Google us. We know you will like what you see. And the difference we make. Especially when it comes to our Family Law Department headed by Kaine Fisher.

RoseLawGroup.com

480.505.3936 | 7144 E. Stetson Drive. Suite 300. Scottsdale. AZ 85251 | info@roselawgroup.com Administrative Law • Cannabis • Corporate • Cyberbullying • Decentralized Autonomous Organizations • Digital Asset Protection • Elections • Employment • Equine • Estate Planning • Family / Parenting Rights • Government Relations / Lobbying • Homeowners Associations • Immigration • Internet fraud • Land Use • Litigation • Medical Cannabis • Metaverse • NFT’s • Online Defamation / Cyber-Reputation Management • Real Estate Transactions • Real Property Appeals • Renewable Energy • Sports Law • Tax / Tax Liens • Water / Environmental • Web3 • Zoning

Contents The Rest 20 TELL Editor’s note

126 SEEN Who went where and what happened

138 NEW IN TOWN Bar Cena

Taste 116 DRINK Warming wonders

117 DISH Tuna Thai Jewel at Kembara

118 CHEERS Breakfast Kitchen Bar’s Flower Flight of Mimosas

119 CUISINE In the kitchen with Daniel Davis

120 FOOD FILES Gluten-free finds

122 DINING GUIDE Where to eat

18 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Change the Chanel

Earn up to 70% commissions on designer bags and fine jewelry More info at mysisterscloset.com

Contents Welcome, 2024! It truly feels like 2023 came and went in the blink of an eye. Around the world, January signals a time to start fresh, and embark on a new chapter. In Scottsdale, however, it indicates some time-honored favorite events and happenings. It wouldn’t be the beginning of a new year in Scottsdale without auto auction week and the famed Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction. Auto enthusiasts everywhere will soon flock to the Valley to check out some of the most impressive vehicles in the world. We’re talking all things Barrett-Jackson, including auto event highlights, on page 44. Still in the need for speed? Check out the Concours d’Elegance (page 75) and Concours in the Hills (page 86), both also happening this month. Next, appreciate some stellar artwork at a few upcoming annual events: Celebration of Fine Art (page 87), Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival (page 78), and Arizona Fine Art Expo (page 80). If looking for some inspiration to lend a helping hand to those who need it most, turn to page 40 and meet six local individuals heavily involved in the philanthropic world. Those working on their physical fitness and overall health resolutions this month are also in luck. Highlights include: stylish sneakers for workouts and beyond (page 91), an at-home all-in-one smart gym (page 107), gym bag beauty and body products (page 92), and some of the best gluten-free dishes (page 120) around town. If looking to get in the winter spirit before temps spike again, take advantage of two out of town snowy adventures (pages 110 and 114) and hot cocktails (page 116). Enjoy all the excitement that this month brings. We wish you good luck on starting this next chapter on the right foot.

All my best, Gabby Leighton Editor-in-Chief gabby@richmanmediagroup.com Connect with us! Facebook: @soscottsdalemagazine Instagram: @so_scottsdale_magazine

20 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

CONSIGN OR REGISTER TO BID

THE EXPERIENCE BEGINS AT MECUM.COM SCAN FOR MORE INFO

AZ License 500024960

For complete auction consignment or bidding information, visit Mecum.com or call 262-275-5050

In your corner & around the corner.

Publisher Bill Richman

Vice President of Operations Stacey Richman

Editor-in-Chief Gabby Leighton

Creative Director Lalo Reyes

Contributing Writers Becky Antioco, Alison Bailin Batz, Melissa Hirschl, Mandy Holmes, Elizabeth Liberatore, Afi Maita, Jim Prueter

Photographers David Apeji, Claudia Johnstone, Augusto Herrera, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos

Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com

Contact Us Jeremy Mueller Ins Agcy Inc 3 locations to serve you: Scottsdale Rd/101 602-388-8382 Pinnacle Peak/Pima 480-515-5223

Editorial gabby@richmanmediagroup.com

Advertising bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122

Online www.soscottsdale.com

Carefree 480-488-2800 www.jeremymueller.com

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® Availability and amount of discounts and savings vary by state. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm Fire and Casualty Company State Farm General Insurance Company Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas State Farm Lloyds Richardson, TX State Farm Florida Insurance Company Winter Haven, FL

22 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE PAIN

DR. ASHU GOYLE Double board-certified, fellowship-trained Anesthesiologist and interventional pain specialist

• SPINE PAIN • LOWER EXTREMITY PAIN • UPPER EXTREMITY PAIN

Effective, non-narcotic health solutions that alleviate the pain and suffering that is prohibiting you from living your best life.

PRP & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE FOR RELIEF OF: • Back & Neck Pain

• Tennis Elbow

• Golfers Elbow

• Joint injuries

• Osteoarthritis of the Knee, Hip & Shoulder

• Ligament, Cartilage & Tendon Injuries

CALL US NOW! 480.660.8823 7425 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 102., Scottsdale, AZ 85260 ISPWSCOTTSDALE.COM

Pulse

U P C L O S E / B E AT / H I S S T Y L E / H E R S T Y L E / N O T I C E D

BY MELISSA HIRSCHL / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

ON-AIR ARTISTRY

Channel 3’s Darrell Cunningham brings storytelling to new heights Darrell Cunningham thrives on storytelling as the charismatic co-host of Your Life Arizona, 3TV’s highly-rated lifestyle and entertainment show. Airing from 10 to 11 a.m., Monday through Friday, Cunningham and his co-host, Suzanne Bissett, provide a daily dose of exciting and diverse people, places, destinations, and events around the state.

An East Coast transplant, Cunningham has called Arizona his home for the past three years, working at 3TV as a producer for his first year and as a lifestyle co-host for following two years. “Accepting the producer job brought me to Arizona,” he says. “My goal is to provide stories that matter to everyone. I’m big on momand-pop segments, nonprofits, and small businesses. People can So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Pulse UP CLOSE feel it when you are interested in their story, and I want to put passion, love and dedication into each story I tell.”

On-air Achievements The words “lifestyle show” typically conjure food and fashion; Cunningham is determined to alter that mindset by showcasing mental and physical health shows and even the search to find ourselves. Cunningham’s enthusiasm for his job is palpable. “I love to provide our audience a new glimpse of Arizona life they may never have been exposed to.” As one example of this, to highlight unique culinary experiences, Cunningham interviewed Patience Titcombe, the Nigeriannative owner of the Lasgidi Cafe, a mobile food company. “We are afforded such an amazing opportunity to get out and try different cuisines from local businesses,” Cunningham says. “I strongly believe in getting out of our comfort zones and trying new things.” Cunningham also had the opportunity to interview actress Lily Gladstone, who stars in the hit movie Killers of the Flower Moon alongside Leonardo DiCaprio. Gladstone, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, portrays the character Mollie Burkhart, who is part of the Osage Nation in the film. When it comes to taking risks, Cunningham walks the walk. His segment, Can Cunningham Cut It? is enlightening and often humorous, allowing him to “make the cut” by having judges rate his performance in nonprofit jobs. His challenges have included being a flag runner for the Arizona Cardinals and even singing for the Arizona Opera, where he performed Figaro/Largo al Factotum by Rossini. Dramatically dressed in a cape, his impressive attempt won over every judge. Cunningham has tested his physical prowess while playing flag football with the 2023 Arizona Interscholastic Association, (AIA) 5A Flag Football State Champions Campo Verde High School in Gilbert, where he also succeeded. “I played hockey too, which was insanely fun,” he says.

An Upward Trajectory Cunningham’s prolific career results from his persistence and unwavering belief in himself. Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Cunningham began with his Associate of Arts degree from Tallahassee Community College. He then transferred to Florida State University (FSU), where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science and communications. While at FSU, Cunningham had the opportunity to be on-air at the school’s WFSU television station, an affiliate of PBS. “I had to find stories every week and record them, in addition to taking writing and spelling tests,” he says. “The experience led me to do due diligence and research. After graduation, I thought the world would call me, but that wasn’t the case. I worked at Federal Express briefly before attending Full Sail University in Orlando, where I received a Masters in new media journalism.” There, he learned invaluable information, such as how to apply the traditional journalistic methods to interactive media, how current technologies can enhance narrative structure

26 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

and visual storytelling, among a full spectrum of other subjects. Soon after, he cemented his education with a second Masters at the Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications, majoring in broadcast and digital journalism. Unbeknownst to him, it was a seminal moment. Not long after, Cunningham struck career gold. Media company Meredith Corporation wanted to hire him as a producer. In his new role, Cunningham was responsible for six stations scattered across the United States. During that time, he gleaned helpful information about the dynamics of production, which set the stage for his next career ascent. When Gray TV bought the station in 2021, he was offered the job of on-air co-host. “It changed my life,” he says. “I felt like God had opened a door. Suzanne and I are from two different walks of life; she’s married with kids, and I’m single. However, it’s amazing how we mesh and are now good friends, continually learning from each other.” In August of 2023, the television host was nominated for two Rocky Mountain Emmy Awards, a National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences division founded in 1959. “Although I didn’t win the statuette that night, it was still a dream come true,” he says. “It’s one of those moments you have to ask yourself ‘wow, is this really happening?’ and then live in that moment fully.” “I love learning and never want to stop,” says Cunningham, noting his two inspirations throughout life have been Oprah Winfrey and his mother. “My future goals are to have my own talk show and spend some time working in New York City. My basic philosophy is to never give up on your dreams, finding yourself and helping people.” When not working, the co-host spends time with his great dane, Thanos, who he quips he is joined at the hip with. He also watches TV and movies, plays video games, volunteers and spends time with family and friends.

Pulse BEAT

A GLOBAL GALLERY

Celebrated artist Gennaro Garcia seamlessly merges his passion for art with the culinary world

BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

Ever since kindergarten, Gennaro Garcia knew he was born to create. His family encouraged and celebrated his creativity, prompting him to pursue art professionally. In his early 20s, he migrated to Arizona from his hometown of Río Colorado, Sonora, Mexico, to make a name for himself in the Valley’s art scene. Garcia’s artistic expression, as he shares, “Says what I cannot say with words.” He works in many mediums, including oils, acrylics, spray paint, and wood. Over the past six years, he’s been working on mastering talavera, a ceramics style that originates from Puebla, Mexico. “Talavera has been my obsession and the most gratifying style for me,” he says. Garcia’s work is an exploration of colors, cultures and people. He proudly showcases his creations at esteemed venues like Royse Contemporary in Scottsdale, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, and even in his studio, which he calls his “artelier,” in Downtown Phoenix. Garcia also has studios in San Diego and Mexico. With numerous awards under his belt, including being named Signature Artist at the Heard Museum’s El Mercado de las Artes in 2015, Garcia has found that the best recognition comes from his loved ones. “Being a father is my most gratifying award. The other awards van y vienen (translating to “come and go”),” he says. His creativity extends to the culinary world, too. Having grown up in his family’s restaurants, blending art and culinary felt like a no-brainer. To date, he has collaborated with over 20 restaurants in the U.S. and Mexico. In 2018, he launched Taco Chelo restaurant (www.tacochelo.com) in Downtown Phoenix with chefs Suny Santana and Aaron Chamberlin. The restaurant is his love letter to Mexico’s rich art, design and traditions. He designed the space to make patrons feel like they are walking into one of his paintings. Later this month, Taco Chelo will open a second location near Arizona State University in Tempe. Beyond his professional pursuits, Garcia finds joy in ordinary moments. “I have painted on the back of framed art in hotel rooms ever since my daughter was born,” he says. “My hope is that when she’s older and starts traveling, she’ll find the art I painted for her all over the world.” Learn more at www.artegennaro.com.

28 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

IGNITE YOUR TRANSFORMATION… Discover the keys to unlocking your inner power and manifesting a life of wholeness, abundance, success and FLOW with the guidance of 50+ luminaries!

Christy Whitman

Multiple New York Times Bestselling Author, Master Certified Law Of Attraction Coach For Over Two Decades, And Messenger Of The Quantum Council Of Light.

PRACTICAL TOOLS TO SHIFT INTO WELL-BEING IS ONLINE AND FREE FROM JANUARY 29 – FEBRUARY 4, 2024 WWW.CHRISTYWHITMAN.COM/SS-BEYOND

We all experience contrast in various aspects of our lives... Anything that we do not want or that does not feel good to us is contrast. It can manifest in physical discomfort, health issues, financial challenges, career obstacles, relationship issues, and even in our mindset and emotions. While contrast is a natural part of life, you have the choice to resist or embrace it. It’s important to understand that everything is energy and carries a vibration. By shifting our energy, we can shift the contrast we experience into physical, mental and emotional wellness. Mastering our energy becomes the key to our overall well-being. Learn how to transcend contrast and enter into a state of ALIGNMENT, FLOW and FULFILLMENT! This unforgettable event will show you how to navigate any contrasting experience, empowering you to live the life you love – even when faced with unwanted circumstances! Remember: You have the power to heal your life!

Move BEYOND THE CONTRAST as we explore: • Contrast as a Catalyst for Personal Mastery • Mastering Perspective & Mindset • Unplugging Emotional Reactivity • Tools for Cultivating Allowance, Receptivity & Flow • Receiving Intuition & Inner Guidance • Embracing Change & Uncertainty (in your relationships, career, physical health) • Practices for Moving Up the Vibrational Scale Our intention for this summit is to provide you with transformative experiences, practical tools, thought-provoking questions, and actionable steps that you can apply immediately. This summit goes beyond just interviews: It features a library of the best personal development coaches who will guide you in applying these action steps to all areas of your life. We invite you to discover the power of inner alignment and embark on a journey of personal growth, abundance and fulfillment. This incredible lineup of speakers will show you how to leverage contrast as the catalyst for positive change!

OUR TOP EXPERTS!

Jack Canfield

Multiple New York Times bestselling author of The Success Principles and co creator of Chicken Soup for The Soul series

Elisabeth Rohm Actress, producer and director-seen in Law in Order, Joy and American Hustle

JJ Virgin

Multiple New York Times bestselling author and celebrity health and fitness expert

Marie Diamond Feng Shui Master and Featured teacher in The Secret

John Assaraf

Featured teacher in The Secret and New York Times bestselling author

Pulse BEAT

HATS OFF

Shantelle Girard’s custom hat store encourages shoppers to express their creativity

BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO BY SELENA DE LA TORRE

Often times, the best ideas stem from passion projects. That’s the case with Shantelle Girard’s Rancher Hat Bar (www.rancherhatbar.com), which opened an Old Town Scottsdale location in September 2023. Girard was making her own hats when she had the idea to turn an old camper trailer into a traveling custom hat bar. As it turns out, she struck gold. “We went viral on social media, sold out at every pop-up, had two- to three-hour lines for our events and that’s when we knew we had something special and it was time to expand into a brick-and-mortar store,” the founder and CEO says, noting guests can add ribbons, feathers, charms, branded designs, chains, and more to customize their creations. The hat bar’s first location is in Folsom, California, where Girard was living at the time. For the second location, Scottsdale native Girard turned to her roots. “I knew I wanted to bring this home,” she says. “The significance of having a location on Scottsdale Road is so cool because my grandma owns an Iconic Arizona skateshop down the road on Thomas (Road), we are just a few miles down from each other.” Girard and her husband – who makes hats when needed, helps behind the scenes, works events, and is the leader of their Supportive Husbands Social Club – moved back to Scottsdale this month near Old Town to be closer to the booming store, her family and the Arizona weather. “From watching the Parada Del Sol on my family’s store rooftop, running around Fashion Square Mall, and spending every night I could at Cracker Jax or at the drive-ins, I love my hometown so much and it’s cool to watch it grow,” she says. Patrons may catch Girard from time to time in the store, but with its growth, she has recently shifted her focus to operations and managing her teams at both stores – with plans for a new location this spring. When she’s not working, Girard spends her time hiking with her family, dining at her favorite restaurants and recharging at the spa. “Being a business owner, especially those with many locations or many businesses can relate, it’s 24/7 and it’s impossible to unwind,” she says. “A spa day is mandatory, even though I’m putting out fires while in the sauna, it helps.” For those heading into Rancher Hat Bar, Girard provided a few tips: Arrive early, check out the store’s Instagram (@rancherhatbar) for inspiration and, most importantly, have fun.

30 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

THE SECOND FIRST IMPRESSION

9377 E. Bell Road, Suite 367 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 245-6380 scottsdaleplastics.com

Model

Pulse HIS STYLE

SUAVE STYLIST

Gustavo Tabares keeps things chic while advising his clients

BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO BY AUGUSTO HERRERA

Those looking for fashion advice should consider booking an appointment with Gustavo Tabares. Tabares is a stylist at the Fifth Avenue Club, Saks Fifth Avenue’s personal shopping and styling department within the Phoenix store. He describes his own style as “chic, classic and elegant,” wearing a suit daily while helping others achieve the perfect look. “I enjoy meeting people and making them feel and look beautiful,” Tabares says. Tabares’ love for style started at a young age. He was raised by his mother and he has seven sisters, so, as one can imagine, fashion was all around him while growing up. The risk-taker doesn’t follow any of the traditional fashion “rules,” and always advises his clients to try new things. When off the clock, Tabares tends to keep things more casual, but he always makes it a point to stay chic. In terms of color, he gravitates toward the blue hues, and counts a pair of Dolce & Gabbana jeans as one of his favorite items in his closet. His most-loved brands include Alexander McQueen, Thom Brown and Givenchy.

What winter trends are you loving right now? Anything leather. Who is your fashion icon? Ollie McNamara was my first boss. I learned so much from her, she was the best. What is one item that completes any look? Great accessories – earrings, bracelets, and never go without a handbag.

32 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Top Notch Auto Mobile Detailer It’s not a Detail unless it’s a

HOME OFFICE ANYWHERE

Top Notch Auto Detailing!

FULL WASH & DETAIL HAND WAX CARPET CLEANING PAINT CORRECTIONS CERAMIC COATINGS

@TopNotchAutoDetailing1 @TopNotchAutoDetailingGuy

Pulse HER STYLE

HANDBAGS AND HIGH RISES Kristina Remon isn’t afraid to stand out in bold styles and colors

BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

In the world of commercial real estate, where tailored suits and neutral tones often dominate, Kristina Remon, a seasoned professional at Colliers International, stands out for her distinctive sense of style. A first-generation Cuban-American and lifelong resident of Phoenix, Remon effortlessly weaves her cultural background into her wardrobe, creating a style that is both feminine and empowering. “My signature look involves a lot of dresses, a strategic choice that sets me apart in a sea of suits,” she says. Over the years, Remon's style has evolved from casual jeans and cute tops to a more refined and intentional wardrobe. She has moved away from denim, finding comfort in avoiding trends and embracing timeless pieces. By seamlessly blending femininity with professionalism and expressing herself through bright colors and patterns, Remon’s style mantra revolves around wearing what she finds pretty, regardless of whether it follows the latest fashion trends. A self-proclaimed lover of designer handbags, Remon's most prized possession in her closet is a limited-edition Chanel SO Black Lambskin Leather Quilted Classic Double Flap Jumbo Bag. This exclusive piece holds sentimental value for her, as only a limited number were produced.

What are your favorite brands? I’m obsessed with ASTR the Label and For Love & Lemons. These brands resonate due to their quality, fit, and ability to offer a diverse range of stylish options. What will we see you wearing on weekends? On workdays, dresses take center stage. On weekends, I opt for more athletic wear, especially when running errands, all while maintaining my love for designer handbags. What is your favorite store? Revolve (online) because it sells all the best brands and has fast shipping. The free returns are a life saver!

34 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Pulse NOTICED

WHITE CHRISTMAS GALA Ryan House’s signature holiday fundraiser took place at Arizona Biltmore

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Candy Marsh and Michelle Moltz

Kimberlyn Mizera

Alix Stegen and Marie Stegen

Yuki Sammons

Megan Peacock

Melanie Thompson

36 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

RECORD-BREAKING SALES! DELIVERING THE RESULTS YOU DESERVE.

Desert Mountain recordbreaking price of $1911 per square foot

Address

Sq. Ft.

Beds / Baths

Buyer / Seller

Sales Price

Record-Breaking Sale!

18,575

7 / 10

Buyer

$23,500,000

42412 N. 105th St., Scottsdale, AZ

6,280

4/7

Seller

$12,000,000

11360 E. Apache Vistas Dr., Scottsdale, AZ

5,150

4/6

Buyer

$7,100,000

41296 N. 96th St., Scottsdale, AZ

9,712

5/7

Seller

$6,650,000

10224 E. Filaree Ln., Scottsdale, AZ

4,780

3 / 3.5

Seller

$4,850,000

37200 N. Cave Creek Rd., Scottsdale, AZ

2,851

3 / 3.5

Buyer

$2,825,000

5636 E. Mockingbird Ln., Paradise Valley, AZ

Sandra Allan & Rebecca Murphy are experts in golf and lifestyle communities, representing both buyers and sellers. If you are interested in buying or selling a luxury property with a customized marketing program, please reach out for a consultation.

Rebecca Murphy | 480.277.8376 | CIPS, REALTOR ©

Luxury Specialist, Relocation Specialist Rebecca.Murphy@bhhsaz.com

Sandra Allan | 480.707.7576 | Associate Broker

GRI, CIPS, CLHMS, Luxury Specialist, Associate Broker Sandra.Allan@bhhsaz.com

If your home is currently listed with a licensed broker, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing. © 2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc. ® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Pulse NOTICED

ACI HOLIDAY LUNCHEON

Phoenix Art Museum and Arizona Costume Institute’s annual fundraiser featured designer Jonathan Simkhai as the keynote speaker BY DAVID APEJI

Lea Werner and Amy Ross

Jennifer Schuitemaker and DeeDee Vecchione

Candice Mathis and Lauren Davies

Cynthia Maughan

Theresa Gregory and Jordan Rose

Zoya Pedenko and Katie Sellers

38 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Capturing Elegance, Creating Legacy Franklin Photography Studios crafts visual narratives that transcend time

ounded on the principle of crafting unique and meaningful experiences, Franklin Photography Studios transforms moments into legacy photos that transcend time and capture the essence of her clients. At the core of Franklin Photography Studios is a deep-seated passion for empowering women. The founder, Shelley Franklin whose dedication echoes through every frame, believes in helping women obtain photos they can proudly gift or showcase in their homes. The studio's unique "50/50 Project" celebrates the strength, beauty, and wisdom of women aged 50 and over, capturing the essence of milestones, recovery, and self-celebration. Franklin Photography Studios' success lies in prioritizing and enhancing the customer experience. Clear communication, understanding each client's unique vision and style, and tailoring the entire photoshoot experience ensure that clients feel valued and heard. By taking a hands-on, personalized approach that begins with an in-person consultation a week or two before each photoshoot, Shelley engages clients in discussions about hair, makeup, and the vision they have. The studio offers professional hair and makeup services, adding an extra layer of pampering to the experience. The guiding principles that shape Franklin Photography Studios are rooted in attention to detail and a relentless pursuit

of personalization. “Attention to detail and an eye for the smallest nuance with lighting and styling, ensures every shot I show my clients is as perfect as possible,” Shelley shares. “My personalized approach definitely sets me apart.” In a world where visual aesthetics hold immense power, luxury photography becomes a pivotal element in elevating branding and marketing efforts. Shelley recognizes the impact of high-quality visuals in setting brands apart from the competition. By offering top-of-the-line products such as handmade display boxes and albums from Italy, along with custom-crafted museum-quality framed canvases, her studio provides clients with unparalleled, visually striking materials that enhance their brand image. “In 2024 we will begin offering "Empower Her" Photoshoots!,” Shelley shares. “These are personal branding and business branding photoshoots for female entrepreneurs and business owners of all ages, with special packages geared toward setting their business up for visual success. The studio space itself reflects the founder's dedication to client comfort. Designed and built with meticulous care, it exudes the ambiance of a French apartment, beauty salon, and photography studio all in one. Franklin Photography Studios is not just a studio; it is a curator of stories, a creator of legacies, and a sanctuary where individuals rediscover their beauty and strength.

TO CONTACT SHELLEY CALL 480.221.2851 OR VISIT WWW.FRANKLINPHOTOGRAPHYAZ.COM

START...

ENGINES BY KAYLOR JONES

Rev up for the annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction

This month marks the 53rd year of the Valley’s top automotive lifestyle event. Taking place from Jan. 20 to 28 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, the 2024 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction will see nearly 2,000 cars, trucks and SUVs cross the auction block. The docket features some of the most exciting collector cars in recent memory, from classic American muscle cars to contemporary European supercars and everything in between. According to BarrettJackson Chairman and CEO Craig Jackson, the standard has never been higher.

40 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

YOUR...

“The salon this year is going to be packed with million-dollar car after million-dollar car,” Jackson says. For him, one can’t-miss collection is that of Frank Tiegs, a longtime customer and friend of the auction with a passion for the golden era of American muscle. “He’d always buy our feature cars, primetime Saturday, the best of the best, and he’s putting 28 of those in the auction – you name a muscle car, he’s selling it.” Other standouts include seven cars from the personal collection of Don Williams – a founding member of BarrettJackson who passed away last year – including a 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster and a 1938 Packard 12 Torpedo-Cabriolet previously in the collection of the late George “Geordie” Hormell II, owner of Wrigley Mansion with his wife Jamie. After over half a century of BarrettJackson, one of the keys to its success,

Jackson says, has been its atmosphere of inclusivity. “From every walk of life, everyone here shares a passion for cars. That’s the camaraderie,” he says. “For a lot of people, Barrett-Jackson is one of those bucket-list items. People come from all around the world, and they know that if they’re the last person with their hand in the air, they can go home with a vehicle.”

THE GIFT OF GIVING Having started in 1967 as a charity car show, Barrett-Jackson continues to carry its philanthropic vision forward. And with a lifetime total of nearly $155 million raised for charity, there’s no sign of slowing down the impact made in the community. This spirit of generosity is just as evident in the auction’s fanbase. In 2018, Jackson and his wife Carolyn – BarrettJackson’s chief philanthropy officer – sold a 1988 Chevrolet Corvette 35th Anniversary Edition as part of the company’s first

year-long charity initiative, Driven Hearts, with 100% of the hammer price going to the American Heart Association. The Corvette had been gifted to the Jacksons by Dave Ressler, who later died of a sudden heart attack. “The person who bought it, her husband had also died of a sudden heart attack,” Jackson says. “She donated it back, and we sold it again. The gentleman who bought it sold it again at Palm Beach, after which that person donated it back. It did all four auctions and raised a million dollars – for a $35,000 Corvette.” This month’s auction hopes to see more acts of kindness, in addition to plenty of showstopping collector cars and hours of unforgettable memories. “We had almost 6,000 registered bidders last year, almost $2 billion in lines of credit. No one else has that kind of buying power,” Jackson says. “We set 200 records last year in Scottsdale alone, and we’re going to set records time and time again. It’s an atmosphere that’s second to none – we sell memories, we sell art. We’re a reality TV show with drama on the block every two minutes.” Learn more information and buy tickets at www.barrett-jackson.com. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

AUCTION BLOCK STANDOUTS 1963 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 SPLITWINDOW COUPE Lot #1363 The recipient of a professional body-off restoration to factory specs, this Sebring Silver matching-numbers Z06 – one of only 199 units produced – features a fuel-injected RPO L84 engine capable of 360 horsepower.

1965 SHELBY GT350 Lot #1365 Dubbed the “Triple Nickel,” this recently-refurbished Shelby, one of the final eight of 562 units produced during its model year, stands out for its distinctive “555” serial number – and was once owned by Shelby historian and the co-founder of the Shelby American Automobile Club, Austin Craig.

1970 PLYMOUTH HEMI ‘CUDA Lot #1400 Previously in the collection of award-winning actor Nicolas Cage, this eye-catching pony car boasts a 4-speed manual transmission and a 426/425-horsepower HEMI engine. The icing on the cake is its sleek all-black design, fit for any movie star.

2018 MCLAREN 570S MSO-X EDITION Lot #1312.1 One of only 10 units ever produced, this aerodynamically-enhanced sports car has a top speed of 204 miles per hour thanks to its 562-horsepower, 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8. Heavily modified from the original 570S by McLaren’s Special Operations division, the aggressive styling is capped off with sleek red and carbon fiber accents guaranteed to turn heads on both the road and the track.

42 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

WHILE YOU’RE THERE ROCK THE BLOCK CONCERT, JAN. 19 There’s no better way to usher in a week in gearhead paradise than with this inaugural opening night concert from rock legends Night Ranger and Foreigner, the latter of which started on their farewell tour last summer. Tickets start at $59. To purchase, visit www.barrett-jackson.com.

FAMILY DAY, JAN. 20 Kids ages 12 and under receive free admission with a ticketed adult on opening Saturday. Don’t miss the accompanying STEM Fest, complete with interactive STEM exhibits and a celebration of the winning projects from the Gearing Towards the Future contests, which aim to inspire the next generation of automotive engineers and technicians.

FUTURE COLLECTOR CAR SHOW, JAN. 21 The second year of this unique, concourse-style event celebrates the future of the collector car hobby, featuring well-loved cars from the 1980s to today that will soon become the collectibles of tomorrow.

HOT LAPS, THRILL RIDES & OFF-ROAD EXPERIENCES Hop into the passenger seat with a professional driver and take a spin around the Performance Track in recent models from Dodge, Ford and Toyota. For the adrenaline junkies, a spin around the off-road track in the Ram TRX or Toyota TRD Tacoma, Tundra or Sequoia is definitely in order.

EXHIBITOR MARKETPLACE It wouldn’t be Barrett-Jackson without a host of luxury shopping opportunities. Browse automotive-inspired art, clothing, jewelry, and home furnishings from hundreds of unique vendors before stopping by one of the live music stages or food trucks. Need to recharge from all the excitement? Try putting your feet up by an outdoor fire pit or popping inside the cigar lounge.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

THE GREATER GOOD Meet six local philanthropic leaders

The spirit of the Valley is rooted in philanthropy. There are countless local organizations that exist to make a difference in the lives of those in the local community and beyond. In the spirit of a new year bringing feelings of hope and change, meet six members of the community, a mix of philanthropists and nonprofit leaders, who are on a collective mission to lend a helping hand.

44 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

In 1943, Steven J. Hilton’s family was captured by Nazis in Poland during World War II. Their crime: being Jewish. “My father, just a teen, and grandfather spent the next two years surviving the atrocities of concentration camps across Europe; my grandmother and aunt were taken and never to be seen again,” says Hilton. “In 1945, my father was liberated, but sadly he was the only member of his family to survive.” Hilton’s dad would spend the next couple years in a British orphanage before immigrating to the United States in 1947. There, he created a life for himself and became a father to two children, including Hilton. The family relocated to Scottsdale in 1973. A Chaparral High School and University of Arizona alum, Hilton has dedicated his life to helping others find their forever homes, while advocating for the Jewish community, fighting bigotry, advancing medical breakthroughs, and championing care for vulnerable populations. Hilton co-founded Monterey Homes in 1985, which after going public in 1996 was renamed Meritage Homes Corporation. Today, the business is among the five largest homebuilders in the nation. Beyond business endeavors, Hilton is a tireless philanthropist. He served as chairman of the Banner Health Foundation board and also sits on the TGen Foundation board and the National Pancreatic Cancer Advisory Council. Previously, he served as director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix, held multiple leadership roles with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale and helped drive efforts to develop the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus, among other community leadership. In addition, Hilton recently announced a major gift to the Arizona Jewish Historical Society to support the development of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center in Phoenix. “Once completed, the center will include a permanent gallery dedicated to teaching middle and high school kids the lessons of Holocaust, which is egregiously lacking in schools today, and traveling exhibits educating visitors about genocides worldwide,” Hilton says. “It will inspire visitors to learn from the Holocaust and to work toward a world without hatred and bigotry.” Learn more at www.azjhs.org.

STEVEN J. HILTON Executive chairman and co-founder, Meritage Homes Corporation

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

There are friends, there is family, and then there are friends that become family. For George Papamatheakis and Roni Warda, who met at a networking event in 2004, their friendship not only turned them into family, but into changemakers in Arizona and beyond. After an immediate connection, the duo become inseparable, especially as they spread their entrepreneurial wings. “While I originally studied to be a cardiothoracic surgeon, when I decided to change course to finance, George cheered me on, fully supporting any decision I made,” says Warda, who worked in finance upon graduating from Arizona State University while investing in several other businesses, including MedRoyal, a joint partnership with Papamatheakis, in 2017. A family of clinics that treat personal injury patients with pain management and chiropractic care, MedRoyal made a splash upon its debut. “Set in our careers, we found ourselves scrolling Instagram while hanging out and happened on a series of posts about devastation around the world, especially as it relates to children,” says Papamatheakis, who in addition to MedRoyal also owns Collision Chiropractic. “We were finally in a place where we could do something to help, and we wanted to do it together.” Papamatheakis and Warda initially used their own funds to support frontline work to fight human trafficking as well as to support individuals trying to break the cycle of abuse. “By 2022, we were ready to take it to the next level, forming the CARE Organization, which stands for Children's Aid and Relief Efforts,” says Warda. “Our mission is to help vulnerable youth in any way that we can.” Efforts to date include work to support organizations through fundraising clothing and toy drives as well as to work one-on-one with human trafficking survivors to provide everything from furnished housing to therapy dogs. “What started as a spark has caught fire within both of us,” Papamatheakis says. “Since launching, we’ve raised nearly $400,000 in support and have plans to take everything to the next level in 2024.” Learn more at www.thecareorg.com.

GEORGE PAPAMATHEAKIS AND RONI WARDA Founders, The CARE Organization

46 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

In 2018, Jeri Royce was named the first female president and CEO of Advance Community (then known as Esperanca), an organization that brings health resources to under resourced communities. By providing healthy meals, improving access to safer drinking water and teaching sustainable agricultural practices, Advance’s mission is to ensure health equity for all. During her first two years in the role, Royce worked with The Visionaries, an educational organization dedicated to sharing stories that inspire individuals and communities to take action for social change. Hosted by Law & Order’s Sam Waterston, the show airs on PBS stations across the country and featured the organization’s global healthcare work. Ecuador was added as a new partner country and the organization was one of the founding nonprofits that established the Arizona Global Development Network (AGDN) to support, inspire and provide resources for those who work in international development and humanitarian efforts. Believing strongly in the advancement of women in the workplace, she ensured other women had opportunities to take on leadership roles and focused on the diversification of the board of directors. Then the pandemic hit. “2020 was our 50th anniversary. We had plans in place to commemorate this milestone throughout the year. COVID-19 created a seismic shift across the entire organization,” says Royce, a 2023 Athena Award winner, who led the organization with a steady hand despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Never losing focus on its vision of providing health equity for everyone, the organization not only survived but thrived, leading Royce and her team to embrace a new mission in the past year: rebranding the 53-year-old nonprofit to better reflect its work today. “We have come a long way since our founding in 1970, so in 2023 we reintroduced ourselves as Advance, a new name and mission statement that clearly states who we are and what we do today – providing hope for under-resourced communities while advancing them through tangible, sustainable progress toward optimal health,” she says. Learn more at www.advancecommunity.org.

JERI ROYCE President and CEO, Advance Community

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

For many, starting as an office intern means getting coffee orders and handling administrative tasks. Meghan Fable’s first years in business, initially as an intern and then as an account coordinator at a local public relations agency, helped plant the seeds of philanthropy that would blossom in ways that she never imagined. “At our office, junior team members were given the chance to work on nonprofit accounts, which for me included Valley Youth Theater, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and others,” Fable says. “Their fundraising campaigns, expansion plans, and large-scale events made a lasting impact on me.” Fable quickly found success, both in the firm’s nonprofit arena as well as with clients including Arizona Mills Mall, Circle K, and DC Ranch. After having her first daughter in 2001, she continued her work in marketing communications in a consulting capacity while getting further invested in the giving community. In 2004, she joined PANDA, the Phoenix Women’s Board for the Steele Children’s Research Center, and she currently sits on its advisory board. In addition, Fable served as a Girl Scout troop leader, is the founder of the Fore Noah Charity Golf Tournament for Neuroblastoma and is a longtime member of the Desert Foundation Auxiliary, recently co-chairing its December 2023 Desert Ball. Beyond all of this, in 2013 Fable moved from marketing consultant to full-time nonprofit leader when she accepted the role of director of development with Ability360. “Ability360 is Arizona’s largest Center for Independent Living (CIL) empowering people with disabilities,” she says. “And the Sports & Fitness Center is Ability360’s 45,000-square foot, fully accessible facility offering state-ofthe-art amenities to help individuals with disabilities as well as their families and friends to achieve their health goals.” As the company’s vice president of community relations and development, Fable has grown the organization’s donor base to more than 2,700 people over the past decade, helped the organization navigate the challenges of the pandemic, and helped onboard its new executive director, Chris Rodriguez, after longtime leader Phil Pangrazio retired in 2021. Learn more at www.ability360.org.

MEGHAN FABLE Vice president of community relations and development, Ability360

48 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

During the recent Child Crisis Arizona Lunch for Love – which raised more than $850,000 for the organization in just one hour – business leader Trevor Wilde addressed the crowd of more than 400 guests at the Arizona Biltmore, sharing his personal adoption story and how it transformed his life. “In the winter of 1977, a 15-year-old girl found herself homeless, without a support system, and pregnant. At the same time, a young couple was in search of a fresh start, and a way to start their family,” Wilde says. As fate would have it, their paths connected thanks to an organization much like Child Crisis Arizona. “The child was me, the oldest of four kids, three of whom are adopted,” Wilde says. “I would not be where I am today – a husband to my amazing wife, Meghan, and father to four wonderful daughters – without organizations like Child Crisis Arizona.” Wilde has been a member of the organization’s board of directors since 2019. He most recently worked on the $25 million Fostering Bright Futures Campaign to support the construction of the statewide Child Crisis Arizona Center for Child & Family Wellness. “This 38,000-square-foot campus set to open this year will offer a broad spectrum of programs and services, including counseling, parenting classes, and child enrichment activities, all designed to create a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where children and families like mine can thrive,” Wilde says. Beyond Child Crisis Arizona, Wilde leads the award-winning Wilde Wealth Management Group, which offers comprehensive retirement, investment, real estate, insurance, legal, and tax services all under one roof. He also sits on the Junior Achievement of Arizona board and chairs Wilde for Arizona. “We created Wilde for Arizona to sponsor local youth programs, organize fundraising events for nonprofits, provide volunteer opportunities for our staff, and to give us a formal means to financially support causes near and dear to our staffs’ hearts,” says Wilde, noting they even support a scholarship program for Notre Dame Preparatory through the community giving umbrella. Learn more at www.wildewealth.com.

TREVOR WILDE Founder and CEO, Wilde Wealth Management Group

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

The Best... The Freshest... Homemade...

ree Gluten f w menu noe! availabl

NICK’S Great Italian Food! ESTABLISHED IN 1996 23417 N. Pima Rd. 480-515-0096 13910 FrankLloyd Wright 480-314-9445 www.nicks-italian.com Pasta, Pizza, Ravioli, Lasagna, Osso Buco, Fresh Seafood and Much More! Patio Seating Available

There’s no doubt Valley businesses are booming and that the people behind them are innovative, intelligent and, above all, influential. As we delve into 2024, we’re eagerly looking ahead to those who are advancing their fields, growing local commerce, and forging the path to success – across all types of vocations. From what they’re doing now to the plans they have for the remainder of the year, take note on the people to watch this year.

Setting the Standard

The Luckys' are dedicated to real estate excellence

he success narrative of The Luckys is a testament to unwavering dedication and resilience. Lisa Lucky collaborates with her husband, Matt, and their daughter, Laura, with a primary focus on the North Scottsdale real estate market. While the name Lucky might suggest a fortuitous path to success, the reality is that the team diligently toiled to reach their current success and achievements through sheer hard work and determination. In the ever-evolving landscape of the real estate market, staying ahead of the curve is not just a strategy but a necessity for The Luckys. One key aspect Laura highlights is the integration of video into their property listings. Recognizing the potential, The Luckys have been diligent in implementing video content for all their listings. Astonishingly, less than 1% of homes in the MLS feature videos, and the impact is substantial. Laura notes that homes with videos capture four times more views. This strategic move not only

enhances the marketing efforts but also positions their listings in the best light across various price points. In a market where competition is fierce, Lisa attributes the success and differentiation of their business to its depth, strength, and longevity. Surpassing the impressive milestone of $1 billion in sales volume, the team stands out in the crowd. While some agents exit the market due to increasing challenges, The Lucky’s business continues to flourish. The key lies in their experience and their proven track record in the North Scottsdale market. Looking ahead, Lisa reveals exciting developments on the horizon. As a host for the Emmy-nominated TV show, American Dream T.V., she is contributing to a platform that explores real estate, lifestyle, and local culture. The show features Scottsdale favorites, offering a unique blend of entertainment and information for viewers. In addition, the Luckys are revamping their website which will launch in the

First Quarter of 2024. The focus is on creating a cleaner, more user-friendly experience. Enhancements will be made to the accessibility of statistical search features, and the incorporation of video content will play a pivotal role in enriching user engagement. The interactive platform aims to elevate the overall user experience, aligning with the modern era while maintaining the map-driven website that has become a daily go-to for real estate activity and trends in Scottsdale. The Luckys' unwavering work ethic, commitment, and dedication to their clients has earned them numerous accolades and acknowledgments. These include being recognized as Top Real Estate Agents in the Phoenix Business Journal Book of Lists, securing a spot on the Wall Street Journal Book of Lists Top 250 Agents, and consistently ranking in the Top 1% of Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty every year since 2006. To Contact The Luckys call 602.320.8415 or visit www.lisalucky.com.

Paradise Found

Michael Banovac crafts dreams in luxury real estate

ith a decade-long commitment to excellence, Michael Banovac, the Managing Partner of RMB Luxury has earned a reputation for turning dreams into reality. His business is built on a foundation of trust, discretion, and an unwavering dedication to fulfilling the dreams of those seeking the pinnacle of real estate excellence. The core essence of RMB Luxury lies in the ability to build, remodel, design, buy, or sell luxury homes. Michael Banovac asserts that if you need someone to navigate the intricate world of high-end real estate, he's the person to turn to. Over the years, his team has been instrumental in creating awe-inspiring properties that capture the essence of luxury living. What makes Michael a person to watch in 2024? It's the portfolio of exceptional properties he's bringing to market. From an $8 million showstopper hillside estate in Paradise Valley to three exquisite homes in the Biltmore Corridor, each in the $2.5 million range, and a stunning fourplex for rent on

16th St. & Glendale, Michael is set to make waves in the luxury real estate scene. RMB Luxury goes beyond the traditional real estate services by offering a comprehensive package, including home building, remodeling, designing, buying, and selling. Michael's commitment is to provide clients with not just a home but a masterpiece, ensuring instant equity the day they move in. “There's a noticeable surge in luxury demand, especially in areas like Paradise Valley, Arcadia, and the Camelback Corridor,” he says. “This trend is expected to intensify if the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates in 2024, causing home values to soar.” To stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate market, Michael emphasizes creating homes with a compelling value proposition. “The focus is on delivering the best quality, attention to detail, and instant equity, keeping clients satisfied and the business adaptable to changing trends,” he shares. Michael understands that clients seek excellent customer service, a transparent process, and a

desired outcome. His team strives to deliver all of this with kindness and transparency. For Michael, customer experience is paramount. The key is to listen and adapt continually, understanding the needs of clients and subcontractors. From showcasing exclusive properties to orchestrating seamless transactions, Michael and his team are the trusted guides offering not just homes but bespoke lifestyles. Beyond business, Michael is actively engaged in the community. As a board member of the Paradise Valley Luxury Home Tour and a provider of educational resources in the real estate industry, he emphasizes giving back and helping others succeed. Michael's motivation is clear – helping people. The satisfaction of building or helping clients acquire their dream homes creates lasting bonds and friendships that extend well beyond the move-in day. For more information, contact Michael Banovac at 602.571.4888 or visit www.rmbluxury.com.

Beyond Hormones

CarolAnn Tutera prioritizes wellness of the body, brain, mind, and spirit

passion for health. Compassion for patients. Visionary medicine. These guiding principles have propelled CarolAnn Tutera, CEO and President of SottoPelle®/Tutera Medical®, to the forefront of the hormone pellet industry. As the first woman entrepreneur in this field, CarolAnn has dedicated over three decades to positioning SottoPelle® as the gold standard for pellet therapy, setting a precedent for practices nationwide. CarolAnn's journey is marked by innovation and resilience. Co-founding SottoPelle® with her late husband, Dr. Gino Tutera, they pioneered a proprietary dosing system for pellet therapy, earning multiple patents. Celebrating 30 years for SottoPelle® and 20 years for Tutera Medical®, CarolAnn reflects on their legacy as industry pioneers. "We set the industry gold standard for how to do pellets the correct way," she emphasizes. Beyond business success, CarolAnn is on a mission to educate the medical community about the crucial role hormones

play in brain function. Dr. Tutera's groundbreaking work in bioidentical hormone pellet therapy (BHRT) has demonstrated significant results in treating neurodegenerative conditions. SottoPelle® has been a trailblazer, connecting hormones, brain function, and mental health, offering solutions to those suffering from cognitive and mental impairment. A core part of CarolAnn's mission is dispelling myths surrounding hormone therapy. Tutera Medical® aims to educate the medical community, media, and the public about the difference between synthetic hormones (HRT) and natural bioidentical ones (BHRT). This understanding is critical for preventing disease, mental disorders, and cognitive decline. Tutera Medical® provides bioidentical hormone replacement pellet therapy for men and women, positioning itself as a leader in wellness and regenerative medicine. Innovative treatments such as Contour Light Fat Loss, Semaglutide, Peptide Therapy, and ThermiSmooth® underscore

their commitment to holistic health. For CarolAnn, the most rewarding aspect is continuing the work she and her husband started—helping patients and improving their quality of life. Their philosophy revolves around the premise that good health is an "inside job," emphasizing hormonal balance as the body's control panel. CarolAnn perceives a shift in the industry toward recognizing the link between hormonal imbalances and aging. Collaborating with researchers and emphasizing the difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones is crucial for preventing diseases and cognitive decline. Driven by a self-motivated spirit, CarolAnn finds inspiration in the millions who need safe, natural approaches for healthier aging. Her passion is to prevent unnecessary illnesses and help people enjoy their life with dignity, vitality, and grace. To Contact Tutera Medical call 480.874.1515 or visit, www.tuteramedical.com or www.sottopelletherapy.com.

Beyond Beauty

Charles Small is transforming beauty and wellness

s the Owner of Glo Medpsa, Charles Small has carved a niche for himself and created a thriving hub for advanced facial injectables, body contouring, facials, and various beauty services. Charles has become a sought-after aesthetic injector in Arizona, with clients willing to wait up to six months for his expertise. His meticulous approach and dedication have elevated him to the pinnacle of the industry. By priding himself on setting trends not only in Arizona but also staying attuned to emerging global trends, Charles’ commitment to innovation has positioned him as a trendsetter, influencing the aesthetic landscape both locally and internationally. The most rewarding aspect of Charles's career is achieving national recognition. Beyond personal success, he finds fulfillment in mentoring peers and new injectors, sharing advanced techniques and staying on the cutting edge of industry trends. “We are always ahead

of the curve and watch for new trends overseas to predict what new procedures and techniques are emerging,” says Small. “We take more of a natural approach to achieving it so that you still look like yourself, but just more refreshed.” Glo Medspa stands out for its comprehensive range of services, including advanced facial injectables, body contouring, facials, dermaplaning, microneedling, and other beauty essentials. “What distinguishes us is our commitment to high standards, competitive pricing, and monthly specials, making beauty accessible to all,” Charles shares. To stay ahead in a dynamic market, Charles emphasizes Glo Medspa's ability to evolve rapidly in response to changing demands. In 2024, he predicts a shift toward a more natural look, departing from the overfilled face and exaggerated lips. Glo Medspa is poised to lead this trend, focusing on enhancing natural beauty and individual features. Prioritizing the customer experience

is at the core of Glo Medspa's philosophy and Charles ensures that every service is approved by clients before they leave, guaranteeing satisfaction and fostering lasting relationships. Glo Medspa distinguishes itself by choosing a more personal approach to social responsibility. Rather than donating to large charity organizations, the business directly supports individuals in the local community. Charles's dedication to holistic wellbeing has led him to venture beyond beauty. In addition to Glo Medspa, he has opened a wellness and healing center featuring hyperbaric therapy, reflecting a commitment to helping people not only look good but also feel their best. The newest concept is a “holistic healing center” of sorts, and includes hyperbaric chambers, PEMF therapy, and other treatments designed to promote health and wellness naturally. To contact Charles Small call 480.245.6881 or visit www.glomedspas.com.

Local Excellence, Global Impact Jeremy Mueller is committed to community and growth

eremy Mueller, the owner of Jeremy Mueller State Farm, attributes resilience and dedication of his team as emerging key factors in the success of his insurance agency. With three locations strategically placed in Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak, and Carefree, Mueller's agency stands out as a local example of professionalism, knowledge, and community engagement. One of the standout features of Jeremy Mueller State Farm is its dedication to the local community. Mueller emphasizes the significance of having multiple locations, including the recently opened Carefree office. This expansion is a testament to the agency's commitment to providing accessible and professional insurance services amidst the unprecedented growth in the marketplace. In an era where businesses are going global, Mueller's agency remains rooted in the idea that customers can walk in, stop by, and be served locally with the utmost courtesy and knowledge.

Offering a wide array of insurance products and financial services, Jeremy has positioned himself as a one-stop resource for all insurance needs. From auto and home insurance to renters, condo, flood, and life insurance, his agency ensures that its customers have a comprehensive range of options to protect their assets and loved ones. Reflecting on the most rewarding aspects of his career, Mueller highlights the professional journey and the incredible support from the community. Having established a significant footprint in the Scottsdale area over the past 20 years, he expresses gratitude for the growth experienced so far and looks forward to expanding further. Personally, Mueller finds fulfillment in witnessing team members grow and develop, as well as making a positive impact on customers' daily lives. In preparation for 2024, Mueller's approach involves continuous improvement, embracing new technology, and

investing in both offices and teams. Acknowledging the challenges in the insurance market, he emphasizes State Farm's strong positioning, attributing the agency's success to a competitive price point, knowledge, and exceptional service. Post-COVID, Jeremy and his team are increasing their focus on community engagement and volunteering efforts. Whether supporting foster care initiatives, volunteering at United Way, or organizing toy drives at each office, the agency is committed to giving back to the community it serves. As a third-generation State Farm agent, Jeremy draws motivation from the opportunity to build and impact the community he lives in. With the State Farm iconic red logo and a commitment to being "like a good neighbor," Jeremy Mueller has built a reputation for reliability, trust, and customer-centric service. To contact Jeremy Mueller call 480.515.5223 or visit www.jeremymueller.com.

PHOTO BY BOB AND DAWN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN

Transforming Lives and Futures

Dr. Stacie Stephenson and Richard J Stephenson are visionary leaders

r. Stacie Stephenson, Founder and CEO of VibrantDoc and Vice Chair of Gateway for Cancer Research, and Richard J Stephenson, Founder and Chairman of Gateway for Cancer Research, are cutting through the noise and advocating for personalized care. VibrantDoc serves as a beacon of truth about our heath by dispelling myths and empowering individuals to embrace self-care. Dr. Stephenson believes we all have the power to transform our well-being through informed choices in nutrition, exercise, stress management, and relationship building, which she expands on in newest bestselling book, GLOW: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life From Within. What’s more, she has used her expertise to bring integrative medicine practices to Gateway for Cancer Research. “My work is centered around debunking health myths and show that self-care is essential for thriving in a busy world in which we are often expected to

do it all,” Dr. Stephenson shares. With over 18 million people diagnosed with cancer annually, the Stephensons emphasize the need for a united global response to create a world where cancer is no longer feared. Gateway’s focus on finding, funding, and furthering innovative, early-phase clinical research is critical in this mission. “Gateway is accelerating practicechanging discoveries in cancer care by harnessing the unrelenting passion of the research community and empowering patients to triumph over their disease,” Mr. Stephenson says. “Gateway’s work is ALWAYS and ONLY about the patient.” The Stephensons both underscore the importance of integrity in their work. Dr. Stephenson's focus on foundational truths about our health distinguishes VibrantDoc from profit-driven trends. Mr. Stephenson’s servant leadership style stems from his adherence to the moral code: When you see someone who is less well off than yourself, and you are in

a unique position to do something about their plight, without harm to self, family or Lord, you simply step into the opportunity and do it. The Stephensons also highlight Gateway’s signature fundraising events that play a pivotal role in the organization’s work, like Vino con Stelle and Gateway Celebrity Fight Night in Phoenix and the Cures Gala in Chicago, as 100% of funds raised directly fund research. Social responsibility is the core element of The Stephensons’ work. In addition to the creation and ongoing leadership of Gateway for Cancer Research, the Stephensons actively support organizations such as ChildHelp and the American Heart Association. In a world where health and philanthropy intersect, the couple stands as a light of inspiration, driving positive change and empowering individuals to take control of their well-being. To learn more visit www.drstaciestephenson.com or www.gatewaycr.org.

Building a Vision

Dr. Alan H. Bryce's Commitment to Comprehensive Cancer Care in Arizona

n the realm of cancer care and research, Dr. Alan H. Bryce stands as a beacon of hope and innovation. Serving as the Chief Clinical Officer at City of Hope Cancer Center Phoenix and holding esteemed positions as a Professor of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research in addition to Professor of Molecular Medicine at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Dr. Alan H. Bryce is at the forefront of advancing cancer care in Arizona. Dr. Bryce's pivotal role on the leadership team is centered around his vision of building a coordinated cancer care program accessible to all Arizonans. With a steadfast commitment to patient-centered care, his focus extends beyond providing cutting-edge treatments to enhancing health equity by improving patients' access to top-quality care. Dr. Bryce's appointment at TGen underscores the integration of scientific discoveries into daily practice at City of Hope. "We're accelerating the translation

of lab findings into new options for patients and linking our strengths in genomics and patient care to develop comprehensive early-detection, prevention, and treatment programs," Dr. Bryce emphasizes. He oversees care across all City of Hope locations in Arizona. This includes the cancer hospital in Goodyear and Cancer Care locations in Gilbert, North Phoenix, and Tatum Ridge. His expansive role positions him as a key figure in shaping the direction of cancer care across Arizona. Board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology, Dr. Bryce specializes in treating prostate cancer with a focus on individualized medicine. His research is dedicated to developing new therapies and exploring genetic approaches for prostate cancer. Reflecting on the dynamic nature of oncology, Dr. Bryce expresses hope in the continuous evolution of cancer care. "One of the encouraging aspects of modern cancer care is the fact that we have to

reinvent ourselves every five years or so as new discoveries are made," he notes. The rapid pace of change in the field fuels his optimism for finding cures and reducing the suffering associated with cancer. City of Hope distinguishes itself through a patient-centered approach, recognizing the uniqueness of each cancer patient and their specific needs. The organization's 100+ years of history are marked by significant advances in modern medicine, including the development of the first synthetic human insulin, human growth hormone and the technology behind the widely used cancer-fighting drugs Herceptin, Rituxan and Avastin. At City of Hope, prioritizing and enhancing the patient experience is integral to their approach. A multidisciplinary care team is assigned to each patient, offering expert treatment, advanced technology, and personalized care. To contact City of Hope, call 855.408.2998 or visit www.cancercenter.com.

City of Hope Cancer Care

Comprehensive Oncology Services Tailored to Your Needs

n the challenging journey of cancer, having a team of experienced and compassionate physicians can make all the difference. At City of Hope Cancer Center, our dedicated team of experts, provide personalized, integrative care across multiple locations throughout Phoenix including North Phoenix, Tatum Ridge and Gilbert as an extension of our comprehensive cancer hospital in the West Valley. Dr. Mazen Khattab – Medical Oncologist (North Phoenix): Dr. Khattab, is a triple-board-certified expert in internal medicine, hematology, and medical oncology. With a decade of service in the Phoenix community, he specializes in treating various cancers, focusing on breast cancer, lung cancer, and gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Shana Wingo – Gynecologic Oncologist (North Phoenix): Dr. Wingo, with 13 years of experience, is a boardcertified specialist in obstetrics, gynecology, and gynecologic oncology. She offers comprehensive care for

gynecologic malignancies, utilizing advanced surgical techniques and emerging immunotherapies. Dr. Snehal Bhoola – Gynecologic Oncologist (Gilbert): Dr. Bhoola has over two decades of experience, with expertise in treating ovarian, cervical, uterine, vulvar, and endometrial cancers. He is a pioneer in minimally invasive procedures, having performed over 3,500 robotic-assisted surgeries. Dr. Tania Cortas – Medical Oncologist (Tatum Ridge): Dr. Cortas is triple boardcertified in internal medicine, hematology, and clinical oncology. Her extensive experience encompasses a broad range of malignancies, with a specific focus on breast, thoracic, and gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Amber Flaherty – Medical Oncologist (Tatum Ridge): Dr. Flaherty holds triple board certifications in internal medicine, hematology, and oncology. Specializing in genitourinary cancers, including those of the prostate, kidney, bladder, and testes, she provides comprehensive care to her patients.

Dr. Nnamdi Gwacham – Gynecologic Oncologist (Tatum Ridge): Originally from Nigeria, Dr. Gwacham specializes in gynecologic cancers and rare malignancies. He is trained in minimally invasive robotic surgeries and radical cytoreductive surgeries, offering advanced care to women with complex conditions. Onsite Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Surgery facilities provide comprehensive consultations and treatment options, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Through the telehealth program, City of Hope offers advanced genomic testing, genetic testing, and counseling. As part of the City of Hope national system, the Cancer Care locations have access to extensive resources, information, experts, and clinical trials allowing the team to offer cutting-edge treatments and personalized care plans, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcomes. To contact City of Hope Cancer Center, call 855.408.2998 or visit www.cancercenter.com.

Beyond Ink

Heather Moore is redefining the art of cosmetic tattooing

s the founder of Desert Valley Cosmetic and Medical Tattoo, Heather Moore has cultivated a business that not only excels in technical expertise but also demonstrates a commitment to personalized care, community engagement, and innovation. At the heart of Desert Valley Cosmetic and Medical Tattoo is a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Heather's commitment to exceptional expertise is reflected in her team's proficiency in cosmetic and medical tattooing techniques. The hallmark of their service lies in the ability to achieve natural-looking results, whether it's microblading for eyebrows or scar camouflage for medical purposes. The team's artistic eye, combined with technical prowess, ensures that clients receive services of the highest quality. From intricately detailed eyebrow microblading to 3D nipple areola tattoos, Desert Valley's technicians bring forth a level of artistry that enhances features

without compromising authenticity. Clients can trust that they are in the hands of experts who stay abreast of industry advancements, guaranteeing cutting-edge treatments that exceed expectations. Heather understands that every client is unique, with distinct needs and goals. At Desert Valley, the emphasis on a personalized approach is evident in every interaction. The team takes the time to actively listen, gaining a deep understanding of each client's preferences and desired outcomes. This commitment to personalized care ensures that treatments are tailored to the individual, resulting in outcomes that align seamlessly with the client's vision. The personalized approach extends beyond the studio, as Heather and her team actively engage in supporting breast cancer survivors through collaboration with the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign. This commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of

those affected by breast cancer exemplifies Desert Valley's dedication to holistic well-being. Heather’s foresight in identifying emerging trends and technologies within the industry sets her apart as an industry leader. As a testament to her visionary leadership, Heather plans to offer paramedical and permanent makeup training classes at the state-of-the-art Desert Valley facility. These classes will teach the skills to provide specialized services such as eyebrows, lips, 3D areola tattoos, scar camouflage, and stretch-mark revision. With a focus on exceptional expertise, personalized care, community engagement, and visionary leadership, Desert Valley is poised to continue making significant strides in the world of cosmetic and medical tattooing in 2024 and beyond. To contact Heather Moore call 480.572.0081 or visit www.desertvalleycosmetictattoo.com.

Wunderkind

Elevating the Retail Experience in Scottsdale

n the heart of Scottsdale, a retail gem has emerged, challenging the norms and redefining the shopping experience. Meet Philip Manghisi, the visionary owner of Wunderkind, a boutique that has quickly become a guiding light of style and sophistication since its inception in January two years ago. Philip emphasizes that Wunderkind is not just a store; it's an experience. What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to exceptional service. Unlike larger retailers where customer interactions can be impersonal, Wunderkind thrives on creating a welcoming atmosphere where clients can take their time, engage with knowledgeable stylists, and enjoy the process of building the perfect wardrobe. For Philip, the most rewarding aspect of his career is hearing customers express their satisfaction with their purchases and interactions with his dedicated staff. At Wunderkind, every item is handpicked by Philip himself during his travels

to fashion hubs like New York, Paris, Milan, and Los Angeles. This meticulous curation ensures a collection that is both unique and high-quality. The emphasis on a carefully selected assortment of designer clothing, accessories, footwear, fine jewelry, eyewear, and home accessories distinguishes Wunderkind from its competitors. Philip takes pride in offering items exclusive to his store in the entire state of Arizona, providing customers with a taste of global fashion trends. In an era dominated by corporate giants, Philip encourages shoppers to support local businesses like Wunderkind. He believes in the power of shopping small, emphasizing that the intimate nature of his store allows for a more personalized experience. Beyond business, Wunderkind actively engages with the community through philanthropy, contributing to local causes and aspiring to nurture a community of fashion enthusiasts in Arizona. As Wunderkind approaches its

second anniversary, Philip looks ahead to a vibrant future. The focus for 2024 is on ramping up the events calendar, making the store not just a retail space but a dynamic hub for the Scottsdale community. With an emphasis on unique in-store events, personalization, and lively parties, Wunderkind aims to be the go-to destination for those seeking more than just a shopping spree. Philip anticipates that the year 2024 will bring a surge in in-store events with personalization aspects, aligning with the growing demand for unique and memorable retail experiences that go beyond traditional shopping. In a world where retail can often feel impersonal, Wunderkind stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a curated, intimate, and community-focused shopping experience. To contact Wunderkind call 480.386.6591 or visit www.shopwunderkind.com or @shop_wunderkind.

Patient-Driven Excellence

Dr. Jennifer Geoghegan is crafting beauty with care

ith a dedication to delivering the best patient experience, Jennifer Geoghegan MD, FACS excels in natural breast enhancements and tummy tucks as Gawley Plastic Surgery’s breast & body expert. Board-certified surgeon Dr. Geoghegan takes pride in educating her patients about the unparalleled surgical expertise offered by their team of boardcertified surgeons. She emphasizes the importance of building personal connections with patients, understanding them on a deeper level to deliver personalized care and achieve surgical goals. Her commitment to intellectual challenges and staying abreast of current surgical techniques and technologies ensures that patients receive the most advanced and safest treatments available at Gawley Plastic Surgery. Dr. Geoghegan’s approach is rooted in a comprehensive spectrum of surgical options, blending precision, innovation, and patient-centric care. The practice's commitment to natural and proportional results

aligns with current industry trends, where patients seek aesthetic enhancements that complement their unique features. “I believe more people are interested in natural results, more proportional results,” she says. “Women still want breast augmentations but are requesting smaller implants that are a great fit for their frame. Same with BBL or Brazilian butt lifts, instead of exaggerated or stand out results, patients are seeking a healthy look, an athletic look.” The team at Gawley Plastic Surgery prioritizes and enhances the customer experience through personalized care, clear communication, and the expertise of its surgeons and staff. By prioritizing trustbuilding and comprehensive support, Dr. Geoghegan ensures patients feel guided and cared for at every step. Continuous refinement based on patient feedback and an empathetic approach contribute to a seamless, comforting, and satisfying experience. “Intellectual challenge is great part of our job as surgeons and this means always staying abreast on current

surgical techniques, new and upcoming technologies and being able to quickly adopt anything that makes the experience for patients safer or easier,” she shares. Dr. Geoghegan draws motivation from her patients and family, driving her to continually improve and learn. This personal connection to the work fuels the commitment to delivering the best patient experience, setting a standard for excellence within the practice. Beyond the operating room, Dr. Jennifer Geoghegan enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. She is extremely passionate about spending time outdoors and incorporating an active lifestyle, demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility through Unicorn Philanthropy. The practice supports non-profit organizations like Check for a Lump, offering assistance to breast cancer patients and to Elevate Phoenix to building a better future for the youth. To contact Gawley Plastic Surgery call 480.860.2173 or visit www.gawleyplasticsurgery.com.

Elevating Aesthetic Excellence

Dr. Bryan Gawley is redefining beauty with expert precision

r. Bryan Gawley excels in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, leading Gawley Plastic Surgery with a commitment to exceptional patient experiences and outstanding results. As the founder and head surgeon at Gawley Plastic Surgery, Dr. Gawley, MD, FACS, brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for innovation to the field of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Gawley Plastic Surgery prides itself on being a premier plastic surgery practice in Scottsdale, specializing in natural facial rejuvenation, breast enhancements, and tummy tucks. Dr. Gawley and his team aim to educate the audience about their surgeons, emphasizing the board-certified expertise and comprehensive range of services they provide. Gawley Plastic Surgery distinguishes itself by offering a diverse array of surgical options, including breast augmentation, liposuction, facelifts, and comprehensive mommy makeovers. The practice's elevated experience within the industry is

underscored by its commitment to precision, innovation, and patient-centric care. What sets Dr. Gawley apart is the Gawley Approach—a seamless blend of advanced technology, premier surgical methods, and heartfelt empathy. This approach is designed to achieve aesthetic aspirations while prioritizing patient comfort throughout the entire process. It's not just about achieving results; it's about creating a positive and supportive experience for every patient. “It’s such a privilege to be a part of such a personal journey that our clients go through,” he shares. “Relationships are everything.” The guiding principles that have shaped Gawley Plastic Surgery's growth revolve around exceeding expectations and giving more in value to their guests. “Our focus on continued cutting edge education combined with our mission to overdeliver to our guests keeps us on the nimble,” Dr. Gawley says. His commitment to continuous education, a growth mindset, and a focus on delivering exceptional patient experiences ensures that

the practice remains adaptable and innovative in a rapidly evolving industry. Gawley Plastic Surgery is deeply committed to social responsibility through its non-profit, Unicorn Philanthropy. Dr. Gawley’s involvement with Check for a Lump and Elevate Phoenix exemplifies his dedication to supporting breast cancer patients and fostering transformation among urban students. As part of his growth mindset, Dr. Gawley is expanding MDSkin locations and planning to open a larger practice and surgery center soon. “It’s such an exciting business as its always changing and offering more opportunities to safely and effectively achieve the goal of looking as good as you feel,” Dr. Gawley reveals. “Younger people are realizing the power of prevention and taking care of their skin health. Fat grafting, platelet rich plasma and autologous tissue options for rejuvenation are becoming the norm.” To contact Gawley Plastic Surgery call 480.860.2173 or visit www.gawleyplasticsurgery.com.

Dr. Kourtney Zamora, D.AC.

Lasting pain relief with traditional Chinese acupuncture

f you’ve been suffering with a pain disorder or nerve condition for far too long, there’s hope for relief at Zamora Acupuncture in North Scottsdale. Dr. Kourtney Zamora, a doctor of acupuncture, specializes in addressing complex conditions, including nerve disorders with pain that goes into the arms, legs, and spine that often manifests as sensations like numbness, tingling, stabbing pain, and more. The most fulfilling aspect of Dr. Zamora’s career lies in restoring hope to those who felt resigned to a life of pain. Traditional acupuncture coupled with her expertise, has allowed patients to regain mobility, improve daily activities, and experience an overall sense of well-being. She has been providing pain relieving treatments for over 9 years to those who thought they had no other options. Her approach combines traditional Chinese acupuncture with FDA-cleared technology and ESTIM (stimulation enhancing acupuncture effects). This method ensures

her patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. Many patients ask Dr. Zamora, what brought her to acupuncture, as it is a unique field of medicine to pursue. Her journey started as a nursing assistant at just 16 years old. Her dedication led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in public health and health promotion. Driven by a natural inclination towards holistic healing, she discovered acupuncture and decided to make it her life’s work. Embracing traditional Chinese acupuncture despite its unconventional nature, Dr. Zamora excelled academically in her studies, eventually becoming the class president. Her commitment to providing the best care also led her to pursue a doctoral degree, ensuring she remained at the forefront of acupuncture techniques and research. Drawing from her early experiences, she noticed a recurring pattern where individuals suffering from nerve disorders felt they had exhausted all conventional treatment options. Her mission became clear

after helping hundreds of patients with similar pain conditions – to offer an alternative through acupuncture. “Nerve pain can be complex to treat, but with the proper techniques and knowledge it is possible for patients living with nerve pain to lessen the severity or even eliminate some types of nerve pain with the treatments that I provide,” she shares. Dr. Zamora’s clinical philosophy mirrors her personal values – the golden rule of treating others how you want to be treated. Her clinic is a welcoming space that blends professionalism with kindness and compassion, setting a high standard for both herself and for the care of her patients. Her passion shines through in every treatment she provides. Beyond her thriving practice, Dr. Zamora finds motivation in her family’s happiness and her love for Scottsdale. She engages in the community through activities like cub scouts, soccer, and local hiking. To contact Zamora Acupuncture call 480.300.5767 or visit www.AZacu.com.

Sculpting Success

Dr. William J Hall is redefining liposuction excellence

r. William J Hall stands out as a true innovator in the world of liposuction and fat transfer procedures. As the Owner of Infini Phoenix Liposuction, Dr. Hall provides modern tumescent liposuction and Infini Body Sculpture™ techniques to patients who are seeking to re-contour their bodies without spending significant time under the knife or waiting to heal after the procedure. Through hard work and determination, Dr. Hall has not only carved a niche for himself but has also transformed countless lives over his impressive 20-year career. Dr. Hall’s dedication to mastering body sculpting techniques has positioned him as a go-to expert in the Southwest. Unlike many cosmetic doctors who offer a broad spectrum of services, Dr. Hall's focused approach ensures that every patient receives the highest level of expertise and precision in their chosen procedure. “If a surgeon can truly deliver an improved figure, then just imagine the

emotional enhancements that go along with it,” he says. “How you feel about yourself when you wake up in the morning and look in the mirror can greatly affect your overall mood and all the interpersonal relationships with those around you." In the competitive landscape of cosmetic procedures, Dr. Hall's track record speaks for itself. He proudly shares that Infini Cosmetics performs more liposuction and fat transfer procedures than any other practice in the region. This statistical achievement underscores the trust patients place in Dr. Hall and his team, solidifying Infini's reputation as a leader in the field. Dr. Hall's commitment to excellence is further underscored by his extensive experience in gentle micro liposuction. His unwavering dedication to delivering natural, aesthetically pleasing results has earned him a reputation as a trusted and sought-after surgeon in the realm of liposuction. With over two decades of practice in this specialized technique, he

has refined his skills to provide patients with the most comfortable and effective procedures available. As a person to watch in 2024, Dr. Hall is committed to continued innovation and staying abreast of the latest technologies. By prioritizing the patient experience by offering personalized consultations, Dr. Hall and his team take the time to understand each patient's unique concerns, fostering a sense of trust and ensuring that individuals are well-informed before making any decisions when it comes to having their bodies sculpted or re proportioned. He places a strong emphasis on education within his practice, from initial phone calls to post-procedure follow-ups. When he's not helping people improve their lives, Dr. Hall stays involved in many charities, including, Make a Wish and the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. To contact Dr. Hall call 480.946.7100 or visit www.phoenixliposuction.com.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL FRANCO

Beyond Body Sculpting…

Jaini Doffing and her team offer the premium experience at Sculp

n the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Sculp aims to offer more than just body sculpting services—it creates a premium experience that transcends physical transformation and has become a beacon of authenticity in embodying an elevated lifestyle. Founded by Jaini Doffing, Sculp encourages clients to commit to live a disciplined lifestyle, therefore, experiencing the highest form of fulfillment; love, confidence, and a Physique Defined. Jaini emphasizes the importance of authenticity at Sculp, making it clear that the premium experience goes beyond the services provided. From the moment you step into Sculp, the genuine relationships with clients-turned-friends are palpable. Jaini takes pride in her bespoke approach to each individual client, ensuring that every detail contributes to an authentic and lasting experience. The Sculp modalities include cellulite reduction therapy, skin tightening, inch loss, and full body rejuvenation. These treatments are designed to be integrated into a holistic

wellness journey. Jaini believes in the transformative power of these modalities, inviting individuals to invest in their well-being. When you walk into Sculp, you're greeted with kindness, compassion, and a charming space. From the carefully designed aesthetic to the personalized services, the dedication to being Scottsdale's Favorite Beauty Oasis shines through. Jaini wants clients to not only see but also feel the commitment to health, wellness, beauty, and aesthetics that Sculp embodies. Jaini introduces a philosophy captured through seven daily practices. This philosophy serves as the foundation for upgrading one's internal operating system, fostering a consciously connected mindset. By empowering individuals to be their best selves, Sculp aims to create extraordinary human connections built on love and trust. According to Jaini, Sculp is at the forefront of a significant shift in the health and wellness industry. With a strategic focus on detail and a commitment to bespoke wellness plans, Sculp anticipates

the industry's continued growth and has positioned to be a leader at the forefront. What sets Sculp apart, is their authenticity and attention to detail. The team at Sculp prioritizes building genuine relationships with clients, asking specific questions, and listens to be a guide. Being a native of Old Town Scottsdale, Jaini has built strong relationships over the years, garnering unmatched support from the community. Sculp actively seeks ways to give back and collaborates with synergistic businesses, recognizing the importance of social responsibility in their business model. Jaini's motivation stems from her family—the love of her life and her two "bonus" daughters. Additionally, the relationships with clients and friends inspire her to continue pushing Sculp forward. Sculp is not just a body sculpting boutique; it's a haven for those seeking genuine connections, authentic experiences, and a unique path to feeling their best! To contact Sculp, call 480.310.8281 or visit www.sculpaz.com.

Scottsdale Dental Excellence

Dr. Jeffrey D. Clark is Transforming Smiles and Wellness

t Scottsdale Dental Excellence, the first thing that sets Dr. Jeffrey D. Clark's practice apart is its unwavering commitment to delivering beautiful, life-changing smiles. As a leading cosmetic dentist in Scottsdale, Dr. Clark and his team specialize in a comprehensive lineup of services including general dentistry, smile makeovers, and full-mouth reconstruction. Beyond cosmetic dentistry, Scottsdale Dental Excellence distinguishes itself by being a comprehensive dental provider with a holistic approach to oral and general wellness. He places significant emphasis on the oral microbiome and its relationship to other body’s systems and diseases such as Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Autoimmune. Dr. Clark's commitment to holistic health extends to specialized treatments addressing airway flow and sleep quality. Through dental treatments such as appliance therapy, the practice provides

targeted solutions to enhance the quality of sleep and, consequently, the overall quality of life for their patients. For Dr. Clark, the most rewarding aspects of his career are the lives he has touched. From identifying oral cancer and saving lives to restoring broken smiles after accidents, the human connection is what fuels his passion for dentistry. Meeting incredible people throughout the past 30 years, whom he now considers friends, is a testament to the genuine care and personalized attention each patient receives. To keep the practice adaptable and innovative, Dr. Clark invests over 100 hours in continuing education annually. Recently achieving Diplomate Certification from the American Sleep and Breathing Academy, he remains at the forefront of the latest advancements in the field. The addition of Dr. Wendy Penn, a naturopathic doctor specializing in cosmetic aesthetic care, lip augmentation, gum tissue fillers, migraine, trigger point TMJ/TMD Botox injections and PRP/PRF

treatments brings a new dimension to the practice. Furthermore, the exploration of a cutting-edge technology to enhance airflow and breathing capabilities through laser therapy showcases the practice's commitment to staying ahead of the curve. With an oral surgeon, Dr. Joe Santoro, on board to handle extractions, implants, bone grafts, biopsies, salivary analysis, Scottsdale Dental Excellence ensures a comprehensive lineup of services, offering patients a convenient onestop destination for their dental needs. Beyond dentistry, Scottsdale Dental Excellence takes its social responsibility seriously. Engaged with Child Fund for over 15 years, the practice provides assistance to a child and family in Africa on a monthly basis. Additionally, they support Smile Train, a charity transforming the lives of children worldwide with cleft lip and palate surgeries. To contact Dr. Clark call 480.588.2306 or visit www.scottsdaledentalexcellence.com.

Ultra Smooth Skin

Lisa Williams is defying age with passion, knowledge, and artistry

n the world of aesthetics, where the pursuit of timeless beauty meets advanced technologies, Lisa Williams is an example of expertise and innovation. As the Owner of Ultra Smooth Skin, Lisa is a Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Bachelor's degree in Nursing and Business, triple degreed, and holds a Master's degree in Nursing, At Ultra Smooth Skin, the emphasis is on passion, knowledge, and artistry – three pillars that define Lisa and her team's approach to helping clients defy age and look and feel their best. The passion for their work is evident in their commitment to making people look younger with a healthy appearance that lasts for years. For Lisa and her team, every client is a unique canvas, and the practice of facial and body aesthetics is akin to performing art. “We love what we are doing, becoming hyper focused and bringing joy to our clients,” she says. “Helping other is a big part of our lives.” The extensive list of services

provided by Ultra Smooth Skin reflects their dedication to comprehensive care. From Botox and Dysport to advanced treatments like Microneedling Pixel RF and Coolsculpting, the clinic offers a range of options designed to address individual needs. As a mentor, trainer, and national trainer in laser medicine, Lisa has shaped the growth of her clinic establishing Ultra Smooth Skin as an authorized training school certified by the Arizona Department of Health. The dynamic nature of the aesthetic industry is not lost on Lisa. She recognizes the growing trend of people seeking aesthetic services, making it more commonplace than ever. To stay adaptable and innovative, Lisa invests in new devices proven to be safe and effective, such as the IQ fast laser hair removal machine. What sets Ultra Smooth Skin apart from competitors is the team's years of training and experience, enabling them

to provide effective, compassionate, and safe care. Their dedication to learning and staying informed is reflected in their ability to offer natural-looking facial rejuvenation. Ultra Smooth Skin continues to innovate with the introduction of Juvederm Skinvive injections, a solution that safely diminishes the effects of aging under the eye area. Additionally, the clinic offers procedures to slim the masseters, addressing both aesthetic concerns and providing relief for those who clench and grind their teeth. When asked about her motivation, Lisa attributes her drive to a strong work ethic and a genuine desire to help others. This commitment to making a positive impact is further emphasized by Ultra Smooth Skin's recognition as a "Black Diamond" BOTOX® Cosmetic and Juvéderm Provider, ranking in the top 1% nationwide. To contact Lisa Williams at Ultra Smooth Skin call 480.991.3038 or visit ultrasmoothskin.com.

Pilates and Progress

Jodi Melton is transforming lives at The Firm Body

odi Melton, the Owner and CEO of The Firm Body Pilates Training Center, is not just a businesswoman; she's a Pilates visionary, a community builder, and a dedicated instructor trainer. At The Firm Body Pilates Training Center, Jodi offers a diverse range of services, including 1-on-1 Privates, 2-on-1 Duets, 3-on-1 or 4-on-1 Semi-Privates, and Group Classes. The studio even hosts special events like family classes and bachelorette Pilates classes, catering to diverse client needs. Jodi's commitment to adaptability extends beyond services; she introduced FitSprings, a novel Pilates apparatus, making her studio the first and only one in Arizona to offer this unique experience. While opening a studio amid a pandemic is undoubtedly a remarkable accomplishment, Jodi finds the most rewarding aspect of her career in her clients' successes. It's not just about physical fitness; it's about transforming lives. Jodi recounts stories of clients overcoming pain, improving their golf game,

and even progressing from osteoporosis to osteopenia. Jodi attributes her business's adaptability and innovation to two key elements: her team of instructors and her management style. The studio prioritizes hiring knowledgeable, adaptable, and innovative instructors, investing in their continuous education through workshops conducted by master instructors. The guiding principle at The Firm Body Pilates Training Center is simple yet profound: teach the body in front of you. Jodi emphasizes the importance of understanding each client's unique needs, limitations, and background. “Clients are not just names; they are individuals with stories, histories, and goals,” she says. What distinguishes The Firm Body Pilates Training Center from competitors? According to Jodi, it's the unwavering commitment to education, personalization, and progression. The studio invests in instructors' continued education, keeps class sizes small for personalized attention,

and focuses on the progression of each client. Community engagement and social responsibility are integral as well. The studio actively supports clients in their community endeavors and contributes to various charities and non-profit organizations. “In addition to my role in training clients, I hold certification as a Pilates Instructor Trainer through the esteemed PhysicalMind Institute,” Jodi shares. “Our commitment extends beyond client training, as we strive to certify more instructors, imparting in-depth knowledge of Pilates principles, foundational movements, and anatomy to enhance their teaching capabilities.” Looking ahead, Jodi is leading her studio through a second expansion at The Citadel, slated for completion in January 2024. Additionally, an online video library of classes is in the works, allowing the studio to reach clients beyond Scottsdale. To contact Jodi Melton call 623.632.9119 or visit www.thefirmbodypilates.com.

Tania Kvakic

Tania Kvakic is dedicated to helping athletes achieve their goals

t’s like a dream come true for a young athlete when they receive an actual opportunity to go pro, but managing their sports performance is only half the battle. Many have little or no experience managing finances before they found themselves making a substantial paycheck and, with their mind focused on playing the game, it’s difficult to manage their money and build wealth simultaneously. That’s where Tania Kvakic comes in. She is the Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor, Head of RBC Sports Professionals Leadership Council, Senior Consulting Group, International at RBC Wealth Management “I help athletes and their families achieve their goals, understand their finances and define their legacies,” says Kvakic. “I’m part of a team that helps over 1,100 current and retired professional athletes define their own success through planning, education and preparation.” Kvakic notes that a significant shift in taking place across the industry. The

so-called old boys club both in finance and sports has been disrupted significantly in the past five years. “The older generation is slowly moving on, paving the way for fresh new perspectives. There are some amazing women getting an opportunity to shine and I want to keep breaking down doors for those coming up,” she shares. Kvakic’s family office approach involves four pillars, including financial literacy, post-career planning, strategic philanthropy and mental health. Through education and professional guidance, it is Kvakic’s goal to ensure an athlete is able to create a strong foundation for lasting wealth while they’re still making the big bucks, as one never knows when an aspiring athlete’s career could abruptly end from injury, age, or other extenuating circumstances. “Education is our key differentiator in earning the right to manage our clients and making sure they are setting goals for life, not just during their playing careers,” says Kvakic. It’s this focus on growth, both personal and

professional, that sets Kvakic and RBC Wealth Management apart from the crowd. And what would Kvakic be if she didn’t practice what she preached? “I’m motivated by self-mastery. I love to develop and grow,” she says. “I get to do that with my clients and I’m part of their family as an extension. It’s an honor.” It’s her financial acumen, unwavering dedication to her clients, and her excellent people skills that make Kvakic so successful in helping athletes develop the tools for lifelong financial success. “The key to having a personal touch with all my clients is getting to know them and what they want before we can decide on the best path for them,” she says. “Whether they’re signing a playing contract, moving in with a significant other or starting a new venture, their business is their life and we’re there every step of the way.” To contact Tania Kvakic visit www.rbcwmfa.com/tania.kvakic or call 602.381.5308.

Innovation and Integrity

The success of Derma Health under Trish Gulbranson's leadership

n the world of aesthetics, where science meets beauty, Trish Gulbranson is at the helm of Derma Health. With a rich tapestry of Aesthetics experience spanning 19 years, Trish has not only transformed her vision into reality but has also created a haven for those seeking to enhance their natural beauty. At Derma Health, Trish and her team provide a range of services at her 4 clinics in the Valley, Chandler, Gilbert, North Phoenix and her new clinic in Scottsdale, from laser and injectable facial aesthetics to body treatments, all designed to enhance skin tone, texture, and firmness. Their commitment extends beyond the face, catering to the neck, chest, and body. Through carefully curated skincare products and advanced treatments, Derma Health strives to instill confidence and radiance in every individual. Trish's journey is a testament to resilience and determination. 20 years ago, before these services became mainstream, she faced skepticism from big banks

regarding her vision for a business centered around Botox and laser treatments. Despite initial struggles, Derma Health has thrived, welcoming over 60,000 clients and earning a place among the top 1% providers of Botox in the U.S. The most rewarding aspect for Trish is the loyalty of her clientele, some of whom have been with the clinic for nearly 2 decades. Staying ahead in the dynamic field of aesthetics requires constant innovation. Trish actively seeks outside influences, participating in CEO roundtables, investing in a business coach, and engaging with consultants to provide her team with top-notch training and fresh perspectives. Derma Health's commitment to strategic planning, process improvement, and embracing technology ensures a competitive edge in the industry. Derma Health's success is grounded in honesty and genuineness. This down-toearth approach has not only contributed to the clinic's growth but has also earned the trust of its clients.

With 19 years of experience, Derma Health distinguishes itself by combining the seriousness of a medical office with the relaxing ambiance of a spa. Trish emphasizes the importance of client education and satisfaction as key elements that set Derma Health apart from competitors. Putting the customer first is a core principle at Derma Health. The clinic focuses on continuous staff training to ensure top-notch service and strives to create an experience rather than just providing treatments. Trish's motivation stems from a genuine passion for her work and the people she collaborates with. She is driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference every day. Outside of work, she enjoys riding her Indian Motorcycle, golfing, and spending time with friends and family. Trish is also a proud supporter of ASU and higher education. To contact Derma Health call 480.470.5747 or visit www.dermahealthinstitute.com.

Shayne R. Neuwirth

Shayne R. Neuwirth knows what your business needs to run smoothly

hat do you picture when you imagine an accountant? Are you envisioning a stuffy poindexter, glasses falling off his nose, feverishly fixing his gaze on his computer monitor and calculator? CPAs certainly have a strong stereotype, but Shayne R. Neuwirth is redefining the profession and has been since 2011 when she opened her own womanowned and operated firm in Scottsdale. “A lot of women didn’t feel comfortable asking questions or reaching out to their CPA. They were often excluded from the conversation or overlooked,” says Neuwirth. “I wanted to provide accounting services for women while being savvy, attentive, and approachable.” What truly sets Neuwirth and her team apart from other, more traditionaltype firms in the Scottsdale area, is that she marries technical chops with a woman’s touch. “I am a strong technical CPA…strive to keep up-to-date with industry regulations, software, and technology to ensure accuracy and quality of

work,” she says. “I also have empathy and emotional intelligence. I am able to understand and relate to others’ perspectives and feelings and can help create positive relationships.” Today, Shayne R. Neuwirth CPA PLLC is thriving, having earned a #1 ranking by Ranking Arizona for CPA firms of 3 CPAs or less for the fifth year in a row. Every day, through excellence, she’s dispelling the antiquated poindexter stereotype and reinventing what it means to look like and perform like a top-tier CPA in the accounting and finance industries. “The accounting and finance industries have been male-dominated. Being a female business owner and CPA drives me to push myself and achieve success and be a source of motivation for other women,” says Neuwirth. “My CPA firm is committed to empowering women by providing them with opportunities for growth and leadership.” Shayne understands that as her client’s business grows, the accounting

needs evolve as well. She and her team are on top of the changes and will proactively guide her clients through the growth process. In 2023, Neuwirth expanded her team to continue providing exceptional support to nearly 1800 tax clients. Her staff now includes a third CPA to assist with business and personal taxes and an accounting manager to work with business clients on their monthly accounting needs “Shayne R. Neuwirth CPA PLLC was included in the Sun Devil 100 for fasting growing companies run by Arizona State University Alumni [in 2021,2022 and 2023]...I have also been recognized as one of the five most influential accountants…by the Arizona Business Leaders annual publication,” says Neuwirth. “In the next 5 years, I envision our firm becoming a trailblazer in the industry, known for its innovative solutions, exceptional customer service, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.” To contact Shayne R. Neuwirth visit www.SRNCPA.com or call 480.393.0755.

A Fresh Start

Dr. Mari Contreras is revitalizing beauty with radiant transformations.

hen it comes to pursuing a career in the beauty and wellness industry, the driving force behind Dr. Mari Contrera’s Fresh Start Aesthetics Med Spa is a deep-rooted passion for helping individuals. For numerous years, Fresh Start Aesthetics Med Spa has been dedicated to serving the Valley’s most discerning clientele. At the forefront of cutting-edge skincare advancements and the latest technologies is Dr Mari Contreras PhD, PA-C, MMS. Dr. Mari specializes in a range of transformative procedures and is committed to helping both men and women reverse the effects of time, promoting a healthier and more youthful appearance. Services including Botox, Fillers, noninvasive surgical facelift neck lifts, body fat reduction, and state-of-the-art laser services like Morpheus8 are combined with Dr. Mari’s extensive background, including a Doctoral Degree in Medical Science and over two decades of experience as a Physician’s Assistant.

Dr. Mari and her team work closely with each client to understand their unique objectives and crafts a personalized plan to help them achieve their desired results. By tailoring their services to cater to individual goals, Fresh Start Aesthetics ensures that clients’ needs are at the forefront of every procedure. Driven by a passion for wellness and beauty, Dr. Mari possesses advanced knowledge in stem cells, Botox, and Filler treatments, enabling her to provide tailored solutions for her clients. Her journey began in the Orthopedic field, where she initially utilized Botox treatments to aid orthopedic patients. Over time, her practice has expanded to encompass three convenient locations across the Valley, including N. Scottsdale (Silverstone), Desert Ridge Marketplace, and Biltmore. Amidst a sea of health and beauty service providers, Dr. Mari has set herself apart through her unwavering dedication to helping individuals not only look rejuvenated but also feel their best during the significant

changes that accompany the aging process, refusing to let menopause control their lives. It’s no surprise that client satisfaction lies at the core of Fresh Start Aesthetics’ philosophy. To ensure that every individual’s unique needs are met, Dr. Mari and her team focus on fostering an environment where clients can truly feel good about themselves. By offering a range of personalized services, Fresh Start Aesthetics aims to help clients recover the radiant glow of their youth and enhance their natural beauty. Furthermore, Fresh Start Aesthetics is excited to announce the launch of a new division focused on Women’s Female Health and Bladder Control, further expanding their scope of personalized treatments. Each procedure is carefully tailored to yield results that enhance patients’ natural beauty, leaving them with a radiant and refreshed appearance. To contact Dr. Mari and Fresh Start Aesthetics call 602.717.0226 or visit www.freshstartaesthetics.com.

www.CornelisHollander.com

4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale AZ 85251 480-423-5000 800-677-6821 C u s to m D e s i g n | Ma d e i n S cot t s d a l e

F i n ds e l f r u o Y

Now

L O W D O W N / D O / C A L E N D A R / E V E N T / O U T / C U LT U R E

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

A curated and judged exhibition of the world’s finest collector cars will take over Scottsdale Civic Center for the sixth annual Concours d’Elegance. On Jan. 21, over 100 select rare and exotic automobiles from across the United States, Europe, South America, and Canada will be on display in a luxury, stylish garden party atmosphere as they are considered for judging and exhibition, with the best among them earning class awards and the coveted best-of-show. Guests of the event, which is a nonprofit gathering benefiting the arts and local artists, will have the opportunity to view rarely seen dream cars and highly valued collector vehicles, ranging from antiques from the dawn of motoring through pre-war classics, sports and competition cars, and modern-day exotics. General admission (9 a.m.), $100; early admission (7 a.m.) with admittance to the Saturday lecture series, $125. www.arizonaconcours.com. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Now LOWDOWN

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

MOVING MOVIES

Ballet Arizona will celebrate cinematic classics with its brand-new production of Moving Movies. Taking place Feb. 15 through 18 at Symphony Hall, the event will honor film icons in Old Hollywoodthemed ballet as Ballet Arizona dancers travel back in time to the 1950s and 1960, taking ballet from the stage to the big screen. Moving Movies was written and choregraphed by resident choreographer Nayon Iovino, and is a full-length story ballet about a director of a famous movie studio who gets abducted by an opportunistic villain. The ballet will showcase celebrated music scores, all performed live by The Phoenix Symphony. www.balletaz.org.

76 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Find inner balance in the new year at Mountain Shadows’ retreat, taking place Jan. 5 through 7. Led by herbalist and sound therapist Serenity Risvik, the Inner Balance Weekend will be a blend of soul coaching, mindful activities, meditation, light yoga, community connection, and healing opportunities. Curated as a journey of self-discovery, participants will enjoy experiences Friday night through Sunday night. Retreat cost includes a stay at the resort as well as yoga, journaling, group breakfast, snacks, giveaways, and more. Space is limited to 30 people. www.mountainshadows.com.

MUSIC + MORE

On Jan. 20, Phoenix Art Museum will host its annual PhxArt Amplified Vol. 3. The all-day, all-ages art and music festival will take place at the museum from noon to 10 p.m. The third annual event will be co-headlined by folk artist June McDoom and Mexico City-based Latin-indie band Little Jesus. Additional event features include an extensive lineup of musical, visual and performance artists from across the state, in addition to food trucks and specialty beverages. www.phxart.org.

GIDDY UP!

THAT’S AMORE

It’s time to round up in celebration of the city of Scottsdale’s Annual Western Week. Taking place Jan. 27 through Feb. 4, the event honors the city’s Western roots and Native American heritage through a series of historical events, educational engagements, family-friendly activities, and entertainment. The week will kick off with live Western music at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market. Other highlights throughout the week include the 66th Annual Hashknife Pony Express Arrival (Feb. 2) and the Arizona Indian Festival (Feb. 3-4), among many other events. www.scottsdalewesternweek.com.

Last month, local restaurant team The Maggiore Group opened its newest concept, The Rosticceria. The 5,372-squarefoot indoor-outdoor restaurant, located off of Cactus Road and Tatum Boulevard, serves up Abruzzo-style cooking, with a menu of wood-fired meats with an Italian twist. Highlights include Arizona’s only Neapolitan fried pizza, rotisserie chicken and porchetta. Diners can also expect both sweet and savory Italian staples, as well as takes on Italian cocktails. In true Maggiore Group fashion, there will also be an overthe-top build-your-own soft-serve gelato shake bar with over 40 toppings to choose from. www.therosticceria.com.

WESTERN WONDER

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West recently announced it will break ground to add nearly 12,000 square feet to the space. This will include the construction of two entirely new galleries, to be named the Louis Sands IV Center (an homage to Louis “Buzz” Sands IV, who donated the funds to make the expansion possible). The galleries are set to house a diverse collection of artworks, artifacts and stories to further illuminate the American West’s past and influence on the future. Construction will begin this month, with completion scheduled within two years of breaking ground. www.scottsdalemuseumwest.org. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Now DO

GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE

Kickin’ It For The Kids Jan. 20, Chaparral Park Valley of the Sun Active 20-30 Club extends an invitation to kick for a cause at this sixth annual kickball fundraiser. Attendees will experience a day of spirited kickball tournaments, live entertainment, delectable bites, refreshing beverages, and enticing raffle prizes. The festivities will continue into the evening with an afterparty featuring live music, dancing, and crafted cocktails. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Valley Kids Foundation, supporting children's charities across Arizona, including HopeKids, Girls on the Run, Children's Cancer Network, and Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Individual ticket, $25; Kickball team (15 players per co-ed team), $1,200. www.vos2030.com. M.I.K.I.D’s Annual Winter Benefit Concert Jan. 20, Ballet Arizona’s Dorance Theatre The mission of Arizona-based nonprofit M.I.K.I.D. (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress) is to improve the behavioral health and wellness of children and youth through a family-centered approach. The organization, which is in eight locations throughout the state and has expanded to Colorado, will host its biggest fundraiser of the year this month. The evening will kick off with music and inspiration composed by world-renowned pianist and speaker Eric Genuis. Proceeds from the evening will go to helping families and children with mental health challenges. M.I.K.I.D. is the largest family run organization in the Valley, and served 4,000 children and their families last year alone. 6 p.m. $25 in advance; $30 at the door. www.mikid.org. A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival Jan. 27, Centerfield Plaza at Salt River Fields Embark on a gastronomic adventure set against majestic McDowell Mountains and overlooking the baseball stadium. In its inaugural year, this event will celebrate the diverse flavors of the Grand Canyon State. Attendees can indulge their appetite with unlimited food samples from more than 25 of the Valley’s top restaurants and chefs, complemented by 15 drink samples — all included with each ticket. Dive into the exceptional craftsmanship of Arizona’s beverage industry while also enjoying live music, interactive cooking demos, and much more. 2:30-6 p.m. $79. www.atasteofaz.com. Doggie Street Festival & Adopt-A-Thon January 27, Steele Indian School Park There’s no better way to start 2024 than surrounded by and advocating for furry friends! This must-attend family-friendly event promises a day outdoors with playful dogs, insights into safe pet products, tasty treats (for animals and their humans), vet-approved tips, and more. There will also be rescue community and pet professional speakers, contests and auctions. As the West Coast’s largest adoption event, attendees have the chance to give a four-legged companion their forever home and help end pet homelessness. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. www.doggiestreetfestival.org. Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival Feb. 2-4, Old Town Scottsdale Hosted by award-winning festival producers Thunderbird Artists, attendees of this 13th annual event will enjoy a weekend ambling the scenic banks of Scottsdale Waterfront while admiring a wide selection of fine art. This year’s featured artist is Santa Fe-based Deborah Klezmer, an incredibly talented jeweler who marries steampunk fashion with recycled metals to make one-of-a-kind, sustainable pieces. For an additional charge, festivalgoers (ages 21) can sample wine, microbrews, and spirits in a take-home souvenir glass. There will also be live music, delectable chocolates and more. General admission, $5; wine tasting ticket, $15 (cash only). 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.thunderbirdartists.com. Parada Del Sol Feb. 3, Old Town Scottsdale Hosted by The Scottsdale Charros, this is one of the Valley’s longest-running, time-honored community events. Now in its 70th year, the parade, aptly themed “70 Years and Still Groovin,” will showcase more than 150 colorful floats, school marching bands, horse-drawn carriages, wagons, and stagecoaches representing and celebrating an array of cultures. Spectators are invited to the 1970s-style block party, the Trail’s End Festival, immediately following the parade’s route through Old Town Scottsdale. The festival will feature a kids zone, food trucks, arts and crafts, live music and performances, and more. 10 a.m. Free. www.scottsdaleparade.com.

78 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Coolpeel Tetra Coolpeel CO2 is a one-of-a-kind laser that will completely rejuvenate your skin without the downtime of traditional CO2 lasers, offering fully customizable skin resurfacing treatments to improve signs of aging like wrinkles, sunspots, and uneven texture.

VIRTUE RF PRECISION MICRONEEDLING with Radio Frequency SmartRF & DeepRF To Treat all Areas on Face & Body / IMPROVE COLOR, TONE & TEXTURE / STIMULATE COLLAGEN PRODUCTION / DIMINISH FINE LINES & WRINKLES / MINIMIZE UNWANTED SCARRING & STRETCH MARKS / TIGHTEN & LIFT LAX SKIN / FAT & CELLULITE REDUCTION / REDUCE ENLARGED PORES & ACNE

NO SOCIAL DOWNTIME IMMEDIATE RESULTS!

IT’S HERE!

PAIN FREE LASER TREATMENTS FOR MORE SKIN TYPES. HAIR REMOVAL Eliminate the need to shave, tweeze or wax. The most powerful wavelength for hair reduction.

PIGMENTED LESION REDUCTION Reduce lesions on face, hands, chest and back. Also treats dark spots & sun damage.

SKIN REVITALIZATION Restore youthful glow, minimize pore size with collagen revitalization that targets aging skin.

VASCULAR LESION REDUCTION

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 20% OFF!

Diminish facial redness and flushing targeting unwanted vascular lesions.

602.373.8145 10505 N. 69th St., Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85253 jen@laseroptionsbyjen.com www.laseroptionsbyjen.glossgenius.com

Now CALENDAR cooler, entry to contests, a cigar, raffle tickets and two mulligans. Registration, 9:00 a.m.; shotgun start, 11 a.m. Single golfer, $500; VIP add-on, $50. www.futureforkids.org.

FESTIVIN

Jan. 11-14, Wrigley Mansion Luxe chef’s table dinners, cooking demonstrations, exclusive wine tasting events, and sommelier competitions – it’s all part of the highly-anticipated four-day wine festival celebrating food and wine education. Explore the horticulture and science of winemaking, take part in immersive tastings of wine of different varietals and regions, or have a seat at a decadent chef’s table. Festivin will begin with Unplugged & Uncorked (Jan. 11), a six-course dinner and pairing menu that includes live acoustic music. It will conclude with the Grand Tasting (Jan. 14), held indoors and outdoors and featuring 20 wineries from around the world and tasty bites. The event includes entertainment and benefits Almost There: A Mom & Pups Rescue, which will have adoptable puppies on property. Event times and prices vary. www.wrigleymansion.com.

BY BECKY ANITOCO

Jazzbird Nights Jan. 5-26, The Ravenscroft Popular and up-and-coming local musicians will take the stage every Friday evening this month in The Ravenscroft’s modern lounge, which showcases an urban New York City jazz club theme. Guests can enjoy wine, local craft beer and catered meals during the performances. Performers include Delphine Cortez with Joel Robin & Friends (Jan. 5), Mary Petrich OpenHand Quartet (Jan. 12), John Stowell Trio (Jan. 19), and Civil Disobedience (Jan. 26). Doors open, 6 p.m.; showtime, 7 p.m. $16-$28. www.theravenscroft.com. Blue Zones Project Scottsdale Kickoff Event Jan. 13, Scottsdale Civic Center Join the movement to make Scottsdale a happier place to live, learn, work and play. Blue Zone communities have populations with greater well-being, improved health, and increased civic pride. Blue Zones Project works to optimize neighborhoods so that it’s easy to make healthy choices. Check out the yoga, line dancing, lawn games, scavenger hunt, a drumming session with AZ Musicfest, DJ, food demonstrations and vendors, and giveaways. Noon-3 p.m. Free. www.bluezoneprojectscottsdale.com.

Cooking with the Calamari Sisters Through Jan. 28, Herberger Theater Center Making its Phoenix debut during this limited engagement, Cooking with the Calamari Sisters is a live performance unlike any other. Two over-the-top, larger-than-life Italian sisters from Brooklyn will take audiences on a tour-de-force of show tunes, dancing, saucy humor, and, of course, cooking as they star in their very own fictional cable television show, Mangia Italiano. Delphine and Carmela Calamari serve up botched Italian cooking, food fights, off-color jokes, and ad-lib banter with audience members that will keep the laughter going until curtain call. Performances every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Times vary. $45-$75. www.herbergertheater.org.

80 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Art on the Avenue Through April 30, Avenue of the Fountains Art on the Avenue, which started in November 2023, was established to provide Valley artists with the opportunity to share and promote their one-of-a-kind pieces at the Avenue of the Fountains, an equally unique outdoor gallery. Pottery, furniture, wall art, fiber, and jewelry are just some of the works that are available. The morning hours of the event coincide with the weekly farmers market with more than 50 food, health, and wellness vendors from all over the Valley, food trucks, and two live music stations. The market also includes farmers, fishermen and ranchers; bakers and chefs selling fresh and frozen products with ethnic, gluten-free, vegan, and

vegetarian options; fresh flowers; homemade soaps; and wellness tinctures.10 a.m.-4 p.m. (farmers market ends at 2 p.m.) Free. www. experiencefountainhills.org. Future for Kids 22nd Annual Golf Classic Jan. 5, Whirlwind Golf Club Future for Kids provides mentor-driven, out-of-school-time programs and camps that focus on academics, athletics, and ethics to improve the lives of youth facing adversity. Before the tourney, buy some raffle tickets, bid on silent auction items, enjoy complimentary hot dogs and bloody marys, and practice on the driving range or putting green. On-course activities and contests, and a buffet dinner are included. VIP registration includes a pre-stocked

Experience China January 13-14, Musical Instrument Museum Take a musical journey through China during MIM’s signature event weekend. Celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year, the Year of the Dragon, with daily activities, talks and performances. Activities include pellet drum making and learning to fold a paper lantern. Eddie Chia-Hao Hsu, MIM’s curator for Asia and Oceana, will delve deeper into the stories behind the instruments in the new China: Ancient Traditions exhibit. Performances include a traditional Chinese dragon dance, folk music, bamboo flutes, and more. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Included with museum admission ($20); members, free. www.mim.org. Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Jan. 13-14, Tempe Celebrate the 20th edition of the famed race that takes participants through Tempe, Scottsdale and Phoenix. While running, enjoy

Unique Vintage-Inspired Clothing From Around the World

private parties available

DERBY HATS FASCINATORS ACCESSORIES SHOES dress sizes o to 16 shoe sizes 5 to 11

QUARTER PAST DRESS 13802 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 119 480-748-4788 | www.quarterpastdress.com

Now CALENDAR GiGi’s Ranch 10th Annual Gala Jan. 20, Omni Scottsdale Montelucia Resort Dust off the old boots and pair them with a ballgown to support GiGi’s Playhouse’s educational and therapeutic programs that serve more than 1,000 individuals with Down syndrome. Nestled within the natural landscape at the base of Camelback Mountain, the event will help provide a lifetime of free programs for participants and their families. The event will also feature a silent auction. 5:30 p.m. $500. www.gigisplayhouse.org.

ARIZONA FINE ART EXPO

PHOTO BY KATHY Q. PARKS

Jan. 12-March 24, Intersection of Jomax & Scottsdale roads This high-end, immersive tent show features 10 weeks of passion, creativity and inspiration as more than 75 renowned artists from across the globe create original, one-of-a-kind pieces for sale in 124 studios filled with beautiful art. Patrons will have a chance to meet the artists, watch them in action and learn about their inspiration and techniques. Stroll through one of the Valley’s largest sculpture gardens, which includes a koi pond with a waterfall surrounded by natural desert. Other highlights include a cafe, wine tastings, garden parties, book signings, live music on the weekend, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $12 for a season pass. www.arizonafineartexpo.com.

rocking out to live bands, DJs, and entertainment along the musical miles and scenic routes. The road tour ends at Tempe Beach Park and the Finish Line Festival. Start times vary. $69 (5K), $119 (10K), $129 (half-marathon). www.runrockroll.com/arizona. JAAM Classic360 Golf Tournament Jan. 19, TPC Scottsdale Avid golfers and supporters of Ability360’s mission to support youth adaptive sports programs are invited to join the tournament at TPC Scottsdale. The event will benefit youth sports programming and Ability 360’s JAAM Youth Athletic Equipment Grant. Lunch is provided on the course, and there will be a post-golf reception. Registration and breakfast, 9:30

82 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

a.m.; shotgun start, 11 a.m. Half foursome, $2,500; foursome, $5,000. www.ability360.org. 31st Annual Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival Jan. 19-21, Downtown Carefree A diverse range of artistic styles and mediums from more than 155 juried fine artists who showcase their talents will be on display at this popular annaul festival. Oil and watercolor paintings, small and large sculptures, hand-blown glass, jewelry, and photography will all be represented at the festival, capturing the attention of a range of art enthusiasts from all over the state. The event’s featured artist will be Chris Dellorco, one of the country’s foremost illustrators. The festival will take place at the corner of Easy and Ho Hum

streets. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 (cash only). www.thunderbirdartists.com. Music in the Garden Jan. 19 & 26, Feb. 2, Desert Botanical Garden Get your groove on in the garden during this Friday night muscial series. It’s a 35-year-old tradition that sets a variety of local music against the stunning desert backdrop of the botanical garden. To kick off the series, which will run through May, start with The Sugar Thieves and their blues roots (Jan. 19), the synth-pop sounds of MRCH (Jan. 26), and the R&B, jazz, and Motown stylings of Sandra Bassett (Feb. 2). All guests must be at least 21 years old to attend. Doors open at 6 p.m.; concerts take place from 7 to 9 p.m. General admission, $36.95; members, $32.95. www.dbg.org.

Zoo Move & Groove 5k Run Jan. 20, Phoenix Zoo Run to save the animals, stay to enjoy ZooLights. This 5K supports the Arizona Center for Nature Conservation/Phoenix Zoo’s local conservation efforts and helps care for the thousands of animals who call the zoo home. Registered racers will receive a commemorative shirt, admission into an exclusive ZooLights night following the race, kettle corn and cocoa, a glow necklace, and a raffle entry for a road trip to the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park. 5:30 p.m. $50; ZooLights admission for spectators, $20. www.phoenixzoo.org. Phoenix Cancer Support Network 6th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Jan. 21, Legacy Golf Club Phoenix Cancer Support Network has been providing resources, advocacy, and compassion to individuals and families facing cancer since 2016. Golfers will have the opportunity to play fun games on sponsored holes. Bet on yourself to get a hole in one, and receive $10,000, and Dixon Golf will match it with a $10,000 donation to the cause. Other highlights include a silent auction, happy hour, and prizes. Noon shotgun start. Individual golfers, $250; foursome, $800. www.pcsnetwork.org. Pedis & Paws Jan. 27, Pampr’d Soul Nail Salon Bring your dog for a day of pampering at the nail salon, while supporting Oakley’s Oath, a local nonprofit that educates homeowners and contractors about the importance of keeping pets and children safe during home repairs. There will be a dog nail trimming station, a pet photo station, a dog treat sampling station, a live DJ, food and drinks, great raffle items, and a pet adoption area. All manicure and pedicure services booked on the day of the event will be 10% off. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $10. www.oakleysoath.com.

Now OUT

SKIN SOOTHERS

Fabulous facials to renew and refresh for the new year

Looking to reverse the effects that all of the holiday revelry had on the skin? Indulge in a curative facial to get fresh faced for 2024.

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

LA CURE FACIAL Sisley Spa Paris The international luxury beauty brand, which is located in the Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, is the benchmark in phyto-cosmetology, sourcing the best plant-based ingredients from around the world. This hydrating 90-minute treatment revives the complexion by using a proprietary variety of these plant extracts in combination with both an energizing massage and an anti-aging facial stimulation. $380. www.scottsdaleprincess.com. AMETHYST CUSTOMIZED FACIAL Amethyst Spa at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort An aromatic 60-minute offering inspired by the healing properties of the crystalline quartz gemstone, this facial uses natural ingredients to leave the skin luminous, toned, and revitalized. After a deep cleansing treatment and exfoliation, hydrating products are applied to the skin and a combination of hot towels and ice globes are used to provide deeper penetration. The treatment is finished with an amethyst-infused masque and massage using gua sha stones. $170. www.wekopacasinoresort.com. PHOENICIAN’S FINEST FACIAL The Phoenician Spa Every product used in this customized 50- or 80-minute facial is formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients derived from natural or fragrance-free biotechnological compounds. It features Biologique Recherche, a French line sold only at select spas around the world, to increase firmness and density of the skin and activate epidermal regeneration. The aesthetician will also use cold methodology to maintain the active ingredients that will calm the skin while draining, decongesting, and firming. $310-$410. www.thephoenician.com. OXYGENEO FACIAL Palo Verde Spa and Apothecary The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows’ intimate spa is using Geneo DNA to produce CO2 bubbles that burst on the skin in this treatment, each of which works to send oxygen-rich blood to the area, increasing capillary flow and skin metabolism. As a result, the 60-minute experience tightens skin while reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration. The regeneration serum for cell renewal also helps to plump and hydrate the skin while preventing maturity spots and features exfoliation. $250. www.andazscottsdale.com. VITA D BRIGHTENING FACIAL WITH NUFACE The Sanctuary Spa This 60-minute treatment at the spa within Sanctuary Camelback Mountain starts with a glycolic exfoliation, which is followed by an infusion of topical vitamin D and proteins that work together to promote new cell production, provide a moisture barrier, and protect against sun damage. A marine-based mask is applied next. Guests can add NuFACE to the session, a micro-current treatment that stimulates and tightens the muscles. $250 ($290 with NuFACE). www.gurneysresorts.com/scottsdale.

84 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Now

NEW YEAR, NEW VIEW

Dining destinations that serve up special sights There are some great views in Scottsdale and its surrounding areas. See the city from a different perspective at some of these must-visit viewpoints, that also happen to deliver delicious dishes.

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

OUT

El Chorro Enjoy the majestic views of Camelback Mountain from one of Paradise Valley’s most iconic destinations. Walk through the arched outdoor entrance and past a beautiful fountain to El Chorro’s patio, which is large but still feels intimate thanks to the lush desert foliage. The space is quintessential indoor-outdoor desert dining, whether there for dinner, the famed Sunday brunch or even just to grab a drink and snack on the restaurant’s famous sticky buns. www.elchorro.com. Isabella’s Kitchen Get the experience of being on the green without the actual golf. Designed after a hip country roadhouse, Isabella’s Kithchen overlooks the McDowell Mountains and Grayhawk’s Talon Course. Expect a menu of pizza, bruschetta, salads, sandwiches, fish, steaks and fresh pastas. The casual charm and outdoor seating wraps around the building, encouraging guests to leisurely relax and enjoy time with family and friends. The large garage-style doors that roll up to bring the outdoors in allow diners to take in the sunset from the oft-crowded bar in the evenings. www.grayhawkgolf.com. Olive & Ivy Restaurant + Marketplace Inspired by the French Riviera, it’s only natural that Olive & Ivy showcases a water view. The famed spacious patio allows for people watching galore along the Scottsdale Waterfront. Take in the view while dining for brunch, lunch or dinner. Enjoy a leisurely meal with shareables such as bruschettas, small plates and flatbreads, washed down with a glass from the restaurant’s extensive, impressive wine list. www.oliveandivyrestaurant.com. Elements Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa, is known for its exquisite views of Paradise Valley, especially from its sleek, modern eatery, perfect for any special occasion. Helmed by newly announced executive chef Gregory James, the restaurant is also beloved for its contemporary, farm-fresh American dishes featuring Asian and other global accents. The jade bar, right next to the restaurant, is another alternative to take in the stunning views. Enjoy craft cocktails and light bites. www.gurneysresorts.com/scottsdale. Orange Sky Located at Talking Stick Resort, this fine dining restaurant truly has unmatched views of the Valley’s desert vistas. At Orange Sky, the focus is on the four elements – earth, water, air, and fire – through its culinary journey of inspired dishes and curated cocktails. Enjoy the 360-degree views while savoring meats, seafood, wild game and unique accompaniments. www.talkingstickresort.com.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Now EVENT

AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE Beloved car event Concours in the Hills, benefitting Phoenix Children’s, celebrates a decade

BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE

IF YOU GO… What: Concours in the Hills When: Feb. 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Scottsdale Tickets: Free Information: www. phoenixchildrensfoundation.org.

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Fountain Park, Concours in the Hills has become synonymous with automotive excellence, rightfully earning its moniker as “The Greatest Car Show on Grass.” Now in its 10th year, the event, captivating car enthusiasts and novices alike, promises to be bigger and better than before, all in support of Phoenix Children’s Foundation. “Without giving too much away, and to appropriately celebrate a decade of enormous growth in the car community, there will be new vehicles, sponsors, and vendors, adding exciting elements that our spectators will love and have come

86 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

to expect,” says Peter Volny, founder of Concours in the Hills. This year, the event will feature an impressive array of car categories, including domestics, imports, race cars, limited-edition exotics, off-road, and motorcycles. On-site, spectators can anticipate luxury car brands like Lamborghini, Porsche, Lotus, and Ferrari, and more. However, the exhibition will extend beyond land vehicles. Helicopters, including military choppers, will have a designated section to shine. Concours in the Hills is the only event of its kind in the Southwest, of magnificent scale and completely free, that tremendously

supports Phoenix Children’s. As a childhood cancer survivor, Volny’s dedication to this cause is deeply personal, making the event not just a showcase of extraordinary vehicles but a celebration of strength and generosity. In 2023, the giving community of Concours raised more than $480,000 for Phoenix Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Volny, who passed the event’s reins over to PCH 50, an auxiliary group that directly supports and fundraises for Phoenix Children’s, hopes to surpass that number in 2024 to make an even grander impact in honor of the event’s 10th consecutive year.

Now

EVENT

ART EXTRAVAGANZA

Celebration of Fine Art, Scottsdale’s longest-running art show and working artists’ studio, returns to the big white tents for its 34th year Every year, big white tents pop up on Hayden Road just off Loop 101 in Scottsdale. For those wondering what lies within, it’s the Celebration of Fine Art, an art extravaganza spanning 40,000 square feet, housing the working studios of revered and emerging artists from across the country. The interactive, highly immersive experience invites art lovers to engage with the artists and see the process that goes into creating their work. “We have 100 fine art artists from around the world, so there’s something for everyone here, whether it’s contemporary art, jewelry, Western art, sculpture, glass, wood or copper,” says Susan Morrow Potje, show director. “We also have a beautiful sculpture garden set against the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains. It’s a beautiful environment to sit and take in art and the natural beauty of the surrounding desert.” Every Friday at 4 p.m. throughout the 10 weeks, there will be an installment of the Art Discovery Series, which are hour-long, themed discussions with artists during which guests learn about their process and can ask questions, all while enjoying wine and light bites. The interactive aspect of the event is what keeps guests — and artists — returning year after year. Two of the artists showing this year have been with the show since the beginning. “There’s a real spirit of connection here as artists and art lovers share stories, learn from each other, or simply admire the creativity flowing through the tent,” Potje says. “Many of the artists say the Celebration of Fine Art is part master class in art and a summer camp. They are inspired by and learn a tremendous amount from one another as they share processes, tools and resources.” Admission is sold in the form of an allevent pass, which is good for admittance the entire duration of the show. Because it is a working studio as well as an art show,

BY BECKY ANTIOCO

patrons can watch artists’ works in progress and even find new pieces every week. “It’s truly a magical place that has to be experienced,” says Potje, encouraging guests to give themselves more time than they would think to explore all the stalls. “From the spirit of connection to the creative energy flowing through the tents, you can’t help but feel inspired and uplifted as you journey through.” More than 30,000 people are expected to visit the event over the 10-week run. Many come for the first time and return with family and friends to share the experience. There are longtime collectors who make attending the show an annual tradition and those who are just discovering the artists and their work. All of these elements combine to create the sense of connection and camaraderie that permeates the show.

IF YOU GO… What: Celebration of Fine Art When: Jan. 13-March 24, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Where: Hayden Road and the Loop 101, Scottsdale Price: Adults, $10; seniors and military, $8 Information: www. celebrateart.com.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Now CULTURE

FUTURISTIC FLAIR Painter Beth Hyatt creates magic with artificial intelligence

BY MELISSA HIRSCHL

88 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Anthem-based fine art painter Beth Hyatt is always up for a challenge. Her latest boundary-pushing genre is the realm of surrealism and fantasy, which she will showcase while painting at the Arizona Fine Art Expo from January 12 through March 24. Her pieces portray captivating female faces enhanced with striking futuristic head designs. Flowers, leaves, collars, and dreadlocks all add to the magical, surrealistic vibe. “Artists always tell me to stay with one style of art, but I can’t do it,” she says. “I have to keep evolving and stretching myself.” Hyatt’s large pieces reflect her fascination with technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). “My son got me a program for my last birthday, and I’ve been having a ball exploring the world of fantasy and surrealism. It’s another tool in my toolbox. Instead of capturing things with my camera, I use AI for inspiration as a reference and paint from what it produces.” Hyatt achieves her novel paintings by combining a variety of attributes found in the AI program Midjourney. She mixes and matches heads, necks, bodies, and backgrounds to produce pieces that are uniquely hers. Born in Jacksonville, Illinois, Hyatt moved alone to Chicago at age 18 to attend a finishing school, never envisioning the illustrious career that awaited her. She became a model for Chicago’s top fashion photographer, Victor Skrebneski. Soon, she was in a whirlwind of publicity; she was featured in many national magazines, including the iconic James Bond Playboy cover. In her 40s, Hyatt joined forces with model Diane Pryde and started the Model Image Center, where the duo worked with agencies in developing models. “We soon became photographers and decided to do everything ourselves,” she says. “We knew how to direct a model and get the best photograph of her.” The frigid Chicago weather influenced Hyatt’s move to Arizona in 2002, proving a fortuitous decision. While in Phoenix, a friend advised Hyatt to take a drawing class, and she promptly signed up at the Valley of The Sun JCC. The class rekindled the love of drawing she had as a child. In 2004, Hyatt segued to painting, beginning with acrylics and expanding to water-soluble oils. Her talent and curiosity took her to new heights, and soon she was painting whimsical fashion pieces, animal faces, African faces, and more. Never one to linger too long on one genre, she reversed course and returned to fashion. “I change all the time,” she says. Hyatt has been featured in articles, received awards, and has been interviewed by various media outlets. She is a juried Sonoran Arts League and Arizona Art Alliance member. When not working, she enjoys life with her grandchildren and partner, Sam Thiewes, a painter showing at the Expo. Learn more at www.bethhyattart.com.

Scottsdale’s Most Distinguished Dental Practice CEREC ONE-HOUR PORCELAIN CROWNS No Temporaries, Get Your Crowns the Same Day! Implants • Root Canals • Surgery • Veneers

BEFORE

AFTER

WE MAKE COSMETIC DENTISTRY LOOK NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL Now accepting new patients for cosmetic and general dentistry.

480.585.4244 19120 N. Pima Rd., Suite 110, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 | www.drrickdentistry.com

Pawsitive Vacation Pet Sitting There’s No Place Like Home Scottsdale • Paradise Valley • La Jolla Official Pet Sitter for The Hermosa Inn

We Redefine Petsitting

602.829.8402 Bonded and Insured 90 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

www.pawsitivevacationpetsitting.com

Style

A L L U R E / D W E L L / S H O P / FA S H I O N

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Start 2024 off on the right foot with the Run Mixed Media Sneakers by Gucci. Whether actually running on the pavement or treadmill, or just running an errand or to lunch with friends, these stylish sneakers will have heads turning. Certainly a statement piece with any athletic or athleisure outfit, they have interlocking-G logos embroidered onto the sidewall and pair a mesh and leather upper. They are crafted from lilac suede with light pink suede trim and blue mesh, and are enriched with a bi-color rubber stole. The sneakers, made in Italy, are accented with patterned laces. $1,100 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Style ALLURE

BY AFI MAITA

GYM BAG BEAUTY Essentials for a post-workout glow

Smoothing deodorant, $18 at Ursa Major, www. ursamajorvt.com. Hyaluronic acid body serum, Necessaire, $45 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Foaming facial cleanser, La Mer, $95 at Nordstrom. Travel-size push-up lashes mascara, $15 at Charlotte Tilbury, www. charlottetilbury.com. Body scrub, 9.99 at H&M, www.hm.com. Hydrating body balm, Agent Nateur, $98 at Citrine, www. citrinenaturalskin.com.

92 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Rachell Hall’s

CLASSIC BEAUTY / PERMANENT MAKEUP

Rachell Hall, AGE 64 PERMANENT MAKEUP

Creating wash and wear Beauty for over 30 years With Rachell Hall’s signature permanent make-up techniques, she creates classic eyebrows and eyeliner with custom colors blended just for you. A soft powdered backdrop of shading to create the illusion of perfect natural brows that are the envy of every woman. Whether you are challenged with short, sparse, or thinning eyebrows, Rachell Hall’s thirty years of expertise in make up artistry, custom color blending, art and science will be your perfect solution.

1. EYEBROWS Eyebrows frame the face like a beautiful frame brings a painted canvass to life. Make your eyebrows all they were meant to be. Because I custom blend my colors for each person even blonds can have permanent eyebrows that look soft and natural.

“Classic Beauty Nothing Trending. Remember that we can always add more.” —RACHELL HALL

Experience Rachell Hall’s expertise, NO pain, NO hassle, NO worries, just CLASSIC BEAUTY. As a thirty year expert in the field of permanent makeup, known as the master in the art of custom color blending, Rachell Hall now explains the reality, the myths and the magic of permanent makeup Imagine never having to touch up your makeup. Never having to worry about your eyeliner running after a dip in the pool or watching a tear-jerker on TV. Never sweating your eyebrows off at the gym. Looking your best even when you’ve just rolled out of bed. It isn’t a fantasy: it’s the reality that Rachell Hall brings to her clients every day. Renowned as the foremost expert in permanent makeup by an international

2. EYELINER With permanent eyeliner, you wake up with lovely eyes enhanced by your wash and wear eyeliner. It is easy to be ready to go at a moments notice.

3. WASH & WEAR BEAUTY Save time, save money, save make-up At the pool, in the shower, or enjoying the hot tub, with permanent makeup you are ready to go anywhere, any time of the day.

clientele, Hall’s artistry provides a naturally gorgeous look. Lash lines are lush, sexy, and subtly smoky. Brows are delicately arched to perfectly frame the eye. Lips are lusciously enhanced with a just-bitten blush. “My basic philosophy is classic beauty,” states Hall. “Nothing trendy: this is your go-to, doanything look.” Permanent cosmetics are the ideal solution for any woman who wants to look pretty and pulled together under every circumstance – without the hassle of applying and re-applying makeup. It can greatly simplify and take tons of time off of your daily routine. Hall’s specialty is custom-blending her

Contact Rachell Hall at 480.368.9239 8075 E. Morgan Trail, Suite 2 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (Off Hayden, between Mountain View and Shea)

own pigments to flatter any skin tone and eye color. She takes into account unique personalities and lifestyles, and works with clients to create an effortlessly beautiful look tailored just for them. Permanent makeup doesn’t run, smudge, or bleed into fine lines: it stays as fresh and polished as if it had just been applied. Again, Hall emphasizes natural beauty, nothing trendy. “I never want my clients to wake up Wednesday morning with their Saturday night makeup on,” she says. “Remember, you can always add more by using traditional cosmetics to enhance your daily look for evening and special occasions.”

Visit her websites: RachellHall.com BeautyBeyondBreastCancer.com

Style DWELL

BY AFI MAITA

HAUTE HERRINGBONE The timeless pattern is subtle yet striking for every room in the house

Floor Runner, Chilewich, $600 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Wall Covering, G P& J Baker, $141 at Daniel House Club, www.danielhouse. club. Metal lamp set, Contract Grade, $289 at Pottery Barn, www. potterybarn.com. Tea towels, $25 (set of four) at Nordstrom. Swivel armchair, Contract Grade, $2,449 at Pottery Barn. Peach woven throw, Sferra, $350 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.

94 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Arizona’s Leader in Luxury Real Estate DESIGN • BUILD • REMODEL • SELL • TRADE ntain

stom

le Cu

Mou

sert De

nda Gle

9743 E Madera Drive Scottsdale AZ 85262 7 Bed | 8.5 Bath | 11,625 Sqft | Desert Mountain Offered at $10,900,000 rk ndma

ium

omin

Cond

6308 W Parkside Lane Glendale AZ 85310 4 Bed | 5 Bath | 4,296 Sqft | Custom Offered at $2,895,000

Just

15802 N 71Street Street 602 Scottsdale AZ 85254 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 3,045 Sqft | Landmark Condominium Offered at $2,125,000

Just

10406 E Cortez Drive Scottsdale AZ 85259 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 4,736 Sqft | Bella Montagna SOLD FOR $1,800,000

er Und

8096 E Windwood Lane Scottsdale AZ 85255 3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,167 Sqft | Grayhawk SOLD FOR $1,250,000

ract

Cont

8228 E Mohawk Lane Scottsdale AZ 85255 63 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,306 Sqft | Grayhawk - The Retreat Offered at $1,095,000

CALL US NOW… Find out what your home is worth TODAY (480) 999-4173 INSTANT HOME www.BVOLuxury.com VALUE, SCAN HERE

ANDREW BLOOM Senior Partner | REALTOR®

Keller Williams Northeast Realty 7702 E Doubletree Rd Suite 300 Scottsdale AZ 85258 Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Style SHOP

BY AFI MAITA

LOTS OF DOTS

The playful 1950s-inspired pattern is trending in modern times

Wide belt, Carolina Herrera, $790 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Satin wrap dress, $37.99 at H&M, www. hm.com. Strapless tulle jumpsuit, Fuzzi, $745 at Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus. com. Jacquard cardigan, The Great., $350 at Nordstrom. Slingback pumps, Marni, $995 at Shopbop, www. shopbop.com Star patch crossbody, Golden Goose, $595 at Shopbop.

96 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

BY AFI MAITA

Style

SHOP

BOLD BLAZERS

Push the boundaries with daring styles in and out of the office

Wool-and-linenblend herringbone, Theory, $495 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Clippings print one-button closure, Alice & Olivia, $795 at Nordstrom. Green silk-blend velvet, $698 at Polo Ralph Lauren, www. ralphlauren.com. Shimery singlebreasted, $99 at H&M, www.hm.com. Leopard jacquard print, $1,795 at St. John, www.stjohnknits. com. Pink shrunkenfit wool, $348 at J.Crew, www.jcrew. com.

So Scottsdale! December ‘20

PHOTOS BY AUGUSTO HERRERA / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY MAYA MARTINEZ (480.217.0409) AND CALVIN WRIGHT (480.244.0050) MODEL: THE AGENCY ARIZONA / STYLING: STACEY RICHMAN / ALL VEHICLES PROVIDED BY BARRETT-JACKSON, WWW.BARRETT-JACKSON.COM.

DRESS: White pleated cocktail, Jack Bryan, $325. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1370, 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Convertible.

98 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

DRESS: Denim patchwork embellished halter maxi, With Love Melody, $1,850. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1323,1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

PANTS SUIT: Coral printed with skirt overlay, Alfred Shaeen, $525. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1310, 1970 Ford Mach 1 Twister Special.

100 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

DRESS: Blue leopard print short-sleeve, Dolce & Gabbana, $675. CAR: Lot #1386, 2017 Ferrari F12 TDF.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

101

DRESS: Multicolor long-sleeve, Pucci, $575. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1390, 1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird.

102 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

DRESS: Multicolor floral one-shoulder, Jackie Morgan $375. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1363, 1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327-360 Z06 Split-Window Coupe.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

103

DRESS: Multicolor sequined sleeveless, Hong Kong, $475. CAR: Lot #1367, 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Custom Convertible.

104 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

DRESS: Navy and pink one-shoulder ruched gown, Scassi, $1,250. From Fashion by Robert Black www.fashionbyrobertblack.com. CAR: Lot #1371, 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

105

Bringing viruses to the frontlines of cancer treatment

s the saying goes, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” And it turns out that may also be said about one field of cancer research that may seem counterintuitive. Like cancer, viruses are typically viewed as an enemy to eradicate. But scientists are learning to use some of them as allies in cancer’s treatment. They not only have a talent for killing cancer cells, but also an ability to improve the body’s immune system response to the disease. Since the late 1800s, doctors have observed that some cancer patients with viral infections go into remission, if only temporarily. Yet while some viruses seemed able to kill tumor cells, researchers couldn’t turn these observations into discovery and treatments until recently. Now, advances in genetic engineering have made it possible to manipulate the genomes of certain viruses, turning them into cancer-killers while priming patients’ immune systems to attack certain cancer cells. Those engineering changes are also designed to neutralize the disease-causing nature of such viruses, rendering them harmless. Many researchers are hailing these genetically engineered viruses, or oncolytic viruses, as an innovative form of immunotherapy—a type of cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system to fight cancer.

Which types of cancer can viruses attack? This past spring, City of Hope’s Brain Tumor Program received a $12 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) to assess a stem cell-based platform for delivering adenovirus to glioblastoma tumor cells. Glioblastomas are highly invasive brain tumors that are notoriously difficult to treat. Glioblastomas lack clear boundaries and most chemotherapies have a hard time

reaching cancer cells in the brain due to the blood-brain barrier—the natural barrier that protects the brain. In addition, brain tumors are heterogenous, which means they’re made up of different types of cells and not susceptible to therapies that only target one specific mutation. Oncolytic viruses, on the other hand, can target all malignant cells without harming normal brain tissue. But how do you protect the virus from the body’s immune system, which is programmed to attack viruses, so it may seek out and kill cancer cells? To overcome this obstacle, the City of Hope team decided to package the adenovirus within neural stem cells (the nervous system’s stem cells). This effectively shields the virus from the immune system, allowing it to seek out and invade tumor cells—and then alert the body’s immune defenses to cancer’s presence. In 2018, researchers at Duke University presented findings from a different clinical trial involving an oncolytic virus and glioblastoma. In this trial, investigators showed that using a genetically engineered form of polio virus significantly improved long-term survival rates in patients with recurrent glioblastoma, or glioblastoma that’s returned. To date, most oncolytic virus therapies have been tested in patients with melanoma or brain tumors, but clinical trials on other types of cancer are emerging. For example, last year, City of Hope launched a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of VAXINIA, a genetically altered smallpox virus, in patients with advanced solid tumors. The oncolytic virus had been shown to shrink colon, lung, breast, ovarian and pancreatic cancer tumors in previous animal studies.

Combining therapies to fight cancer Still, the true promise of oncolytic virus

therapy may be in its ability to jump-start the immune system. Indeed, researchers have found that these engineered viruses may be helpful when delivered in combination with other treatments—especially alongside checkpoint inhibitor drugs like nivolumab (Opdivo®), ipilimumab (Yervoy®) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda®)—in shrinking solid tumors. Checkpoint inhibitors are monoclonal antibodies that work by targeting and neutralizing immune checkpoints like CTLA-4 and PD-1, which are pathways tumors use to evade the immune system. Obstructing these checkpoints helps turn on the immune system response against cancer. Researchers believe that injecting certain patients with an oncolytic virus before delivering a checkpoint inhibitor may enhance the drug’s effect, by improving the immune system’s ability to recognize the cancer cells. So far, pairing an oncolytic virus with checkpoint inhibitor therapy for colorectal cancer has shown encouraging results in studies. So has pairing an oncolytic virus with a checkpoint inhibitor drug for ovarian cancer. And a recent study demonstrated that the immune-activating effects of T-VEC increased response rates for triple-negative breast cancer tumors when coupled with chemotherapy before surgery. Oncolytic virus therapy may still be in its infancy, but its impacts are far-reaching. From the accidental discovery of viruses’ cancer-killing abilities to the advances in genetic engineering that led to its combination-therapy potential, oncolytic viruses are an encouraging step forward in the future of cancer treatment. For more information visit cancercenter.com. Call 602.883.1463 today to schedule a screening.

Luxe

W H E E L S / WA N T / H AU T E P R O P E R T Y / P L A C E S

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

Work smarter, not harder, with Speediance’s Gym Monster, an all-in-one smart home gym. The state-of-the-art machine combines cardio and strength training to achieve a full-body workout without leaving the house. Speediance’s dual direct-drive motors provide adaptive digital resistance from 1 to 220 pounds, along with smart accessories and two adjustable pulleys. The Gym Monster is a standing design, with no assembly required out of the box, and is easy to control with the tap of a button. Users have access to over 150 workouts, and it comes with a variety of accessories: a tricep rope, an adjustable barbell, ankle straps, a bench, a Bluetooth ring, handles, a yoga mat, and a barbell pad. There are models that also include additional accessories, such as a rowing bench and an adjustable bench, for an extra cost. Starting at $2,899 at Speediance, www.speediance.com. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

107

Luxe WHEELS

2024 JEEP WRANGLER RUBICON X 4XE The quintessential model launches a plug-in hybrid option BY JIM PRUETER

VITAL STATS: 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X 4xe

It has been over 20 years since the iconic Jeep Wrangler launched the Rubicon edition on what is essentially a factory-built off-road specialty vehicle. It’s named after the 22-mile extreme Rubicon Trail, where visitors are required to have a spark arrestor installed, a first aid kit and 33-inch tires. Also, it’s common for vehicles to get damaged or stuck. With that knowledge, the Rubicon-ready Wrangler, regarded as the most capable factory off-roader ever built, is also surprisingly incredibly civil, serving as a daily commuter on paved roads in urban and suburban settings. For the first time, the Rubicon is offered as a respectable plug-in-hybrid in 4xe (pronounced “four by E”) that pairs with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine and a 14.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack electric motor for a combined output of 375 horsepower. Plug in to charge, and the 4xe will travel a trifling 22-mile electric range only before switching over to the gas-powered combustion engine and a not so pleasing combined fuel economy. On this weeklong test, driving returned a dismal 16.9 mpg combined.

108 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Still, it was surprising to learn the 4xe, with no direct competitors, is the bestselling plug-in hybrid vehicle in the United States, with nearly four out of 10 Wrangler buyers choosing the hybrid. The Wrangler, a joy to drive, has additional drawbacks, including an extremely noisy cabin, minimum driver and passenger room, an odd brake feel, vague steering, unimpressive crash test ratings, and no bargain on the window sticker. But Jeep enthusiasts will quickly look past these shortcomings. Seats are leather upholstered with 12-way adjustment. There’s new updates for 2024, including Warn Winch, new tech featuring Uconnect 5 navigation with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, integrated off-road cameras, a power retracting top, an Alpine premium audio system, and unlimited off-road upgrades. Overall, this is the perfect vehicle for those who want the looks and off-road capability with the quiet driving experience of an electric vehicle (albeit short) and all the attributes of a Jeep.

Base Price: $60,585 Price as Tested: $76,935 Engine: 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4, paired with an electric-hybrid motor Horsepower: 375 Fuel Economy: 49 mpge city/highway; 20 mpg city/highway gasoline Seating: 6 Fab features: Superb off-road capability Only electric-type Jeep Eye-candy good looks

SCOTTSDALE’S PREMIERE TESTOSTERONE center for MEN CONFIDENCE • SEX DRIVE • ENERGY • WEIGHT LOSS • MUSCLE MASS • MOTIVATION

What Makes Us Elite?

Meet Carlos Suescun M.D. THE most INTERESTING DOCTOR in SCOTTSDALE Physician & Triathlete

Every single visit is with Dr. Suescun. At most hormone replacement centers, you will NEVER see a doctor. You also have direct access to Dr. Suescun via cell, text & email. There are no weekly visits required as with most hormone replacement centers. All medication is taken at home. We schedule your visits at your convenience including evenings and weekends. Membership with Elite includes body composition monitoring to achieve your individual goals. We follow your progress by analyzing & tracking your body fat percentage, muscle mass, weight etc. to track tangible results. All plans are completely individualized and doses of medication carefully adjusted for patients to meet their specific goals based on hormone levels and biochemical markers. We stress the importance of nutrition in reaching the ultimate level of fitness, strength, and health and therefore provide our clients with personalized nutritional advice along with exercise and fitness counseling. Our goal is to help you stay in the best shape of your life and to achieve optimum health.

STAY SEXY, my friends 480.626.1314

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE 11000 N. SCOTTSDALE ROAD. SUITE 130 | SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85254 www.elitetestosteronereplacement.com

Luxe WANT

WIDE OPEN SPACES

Enjoy the ultimate alpine oasis at the Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

With a blanket of snow enveloping Utah’s majestic Wasatch Mountains, there is no better time than the present to visit the region’s Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, a 3,500-acre ranch and Forbes Five-Star Travel Award winner that blends modern luxury with rustic exploration. Just a 30-minute drive from Park City and boasting three accommodation options – rooms built directly into the hillside, adults-only free-standing creekside cabins, and expansive suites with dramatic views – guests who book a trip now through April 2024 are able to reserve any room type as part of the resort’s Winter All Inclusive Package, one of the best ways to make the most out of everything the area has to offer. The package includes all on-site meals, including dinner at the award-winning Yuta restaurant, all nonalcoholic beverages, round-trip transportation to and from Salt Lake City Airport, and one privately guided half-day winter activity from a curated selection of adventures each day. The list of adventures includes heli-skiing and helicopter excursions, Nordic skiing, a fat bike riding adventure across the snow, dogsledding, snowmobiling, trekking through Blue Sky on a snowshoe

110 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

adventure through back country terrain, a combination skiing-trout fishing winter expedition, and a winter sporting clay course. All guests also gain exclusive access to Blue Sky’s private slopeside ski lounge, which is situated at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, the home of the 2002 Winter Olympics. There, enjoy complimentary shuttles to and from the lounge for exhilarating ski experiences with nearly no lines. The Lodge at Blue Sky also offers a host of shorter adventures, notably ax-throwing in a private yurt; horseback riding; guided medication; and breathwork, yoga, and art workshops. Additionally, there are fabric-dyeing, salve-making, and herbal tea-making classes. Guests can also book a tour of the renowned High West Distillery and Refectory restaurant, which neighbors The Lodge at Blue Sky, where visitors can learn about the history of whiskey and the distilling process or simply drop in to enjoy a delicious spirit-paired dinner or Sunday brunch. Another activity option is to tour Gracie’s Farm, the Lodge at Blue Sky’s 1.5acre organic farm and garden. And then, of course, there is the Edge Spa. Named because it is perched off a dramatic cliff overlooking Alexander Creek, the 7,400-square-foot Edge Spa features six treatment rooms as well as a sauna, a steam room, creekside cold plunge baths, a movement studio, a heated pool, a relaxation lounge, cacao ceremonies, and a private tented sanctuary for energetic and vibrational healing. Treatments run the gamut from traditional massage and CBD offerings to whiskey-infused rubdowns and both phytonutrients and oxygen facials. The all-inclusive package is based on double occupancy and requires a two-night minimum. Package pricing varies and is based on room type, length of stay, number of guests, and optional enhancements. Travel must take place by April 7, 2024. Learn more at www.aubergeresorts. com/bluesky.

NEW YEAR GIVE YOURSELF A GIFT.

Level up your fitness goals this New Year! Join the Village Health Clubs today and discover personalized training programs designed to make you stronger, fitter, and more motivated. Get ready to unleash your potential and embrace the NEW YOU!

OCOTILLO VILLAGE 480.656.0045

DC RANCH VILLAGE 480.502.8844

GAINEY VILLAGE 480.609.6979

CAMELBACK VILLAGE 602.840.6412

Luxe HAUTE PROPERTY

SPOTLIGHT: DESERT WING BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTOS BY PHILIP JOHNSON AT PROVISUALS MEDIA

112 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Located in the prestigious gated golf community of Desert Mountain, this architectural gem is truly a work of art, known for its serenity, style, location, and luxury. The dwelling was designed by internationally published architect Brent Kendle, and built by world-renowned Construction Zone. It has since been featured in over 200 local and international publications for its architecture and design. The home was named “desert wing” as it looks like a wing in the desert, taking flight over the Valley. The organic, minimalist, modern design showcases angles and style that compliment its panorama, as well as secure privacy. The property opens to a serene courtyard complete with a reflecting pool and firepit that leads to the front door. Once inside, find an open floor plan that contains the living room, formal dining room and kitchen. The area is outfitted with terrazzo concrete floors, a fireplace and a wall of windows that slides completely open to showcase the views and reveal an outoor living space. The kitchen showcases a large island, custom cabinetry, a wine closet, and casual seating areas with a fireplace and views. Also on this level is the primary bedroom suite, which has its own private wing. The large bedroom is complimented by a spa-like bathroom, complete with custom closets and a sauna. Guests have their own self-contained, open-plan suite featuring a living room, a kitchen, a game room and two bedroom suites. A home office with custom cabinetry completes the level. The lower level contains a home theater, two bedroom suites and a fitness room. Outside, dwellers will find a covered patio, a dramatic negative-edge pool, a spa, a cooking area, a dining space, a relaxation area, and seating around a fireplace. The property can be purchased fully furnished and a golf membership is also available. Listed for 9,950,000 with Kathleen Benoit (kathleen.benoit@russlyon. com; 480.544.5565) and Bee Francis (602.679.3193; bee.francis@russlyon.com) of Power+ Team with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty.

PARADISE VALLEY HILLTOP ESTATE

Unmatched city and mountain views from this spectacular single level home, approximately 1.6 acres on a private cul-de-sac lot, amazed heigh ceilings and walls of glass. No detail was over-looked in this custom- built contemporary residence.

6044 N 44th Place / Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 / 4 beds / 7 baths 10,656 SF / $14,900,000

WELCOME TO HAPPY VALLEY RANCH!

A long sweeping driveway leads you to this classic Arizona home, large 1.6-acre lot with beautiful native desert landscaping. chef’s kitchen with updated appliances, quartz like counters breakfast area and bar.

25014 N Ranch Gate Road / Scottsdale, AZ 85255 / 4 beds / 4 baths 4,702 SF / $1,850,000

LUXURY LIVING AT IT’S BEST IN WINDGATE RANCH

Highly customized and expanded Solaria model, chef’s kitchen equipped with Wolf appliances, substantial quartz center island and countertops, upgraded cabinetry, split primary suite, 2 closets, formal dining, great room with fabulous bar area, other features include: 2x6 construction, 12’ ceilings, lovely backyard, BBQ station, custom awning, fire pit.

18542 N 99th Street / Scottsdale, AZ 85255 / 3 beds / 3.5 baths 3,048 SF / $1,895,000

GOLF COURSE LUXURY LIVING

Perfectly situated on the GOLF COURSE in Gainey Ranch Greens featuring a remodeled and meticulous home overlooking the 5th fairway of the Dunes Golf Course. This home features 3 bedrooms, one as an office and 3 baths, living and family room with fireplace and newer wet bar. The flagstone back patio offers lush vegetation and mountain views

7525 E Gainey Ranch Rd, 144 / Scottsdale, AZ 85258 / 3 beds / 3 baths 2,408 SF / $1,498,000

Sue Shapiro

Specializing in: Paradise Valley • Scottsdale • Phoenix

Top Producer for 38 years. For Excellent Service Give Me a Call. 602.809.9242 sue.shapiro@russlyon.com SueShapiro.com

Luxe PLACES

MAGIC MOUNTAIN

Telluride offers a five-star alpine adventure with modern Victorian flair

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOS BYAUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION

While Telluride was ranked the No. 1 ski resort in North America by Condé Nast Traveler, the snow-kissed southwestern Colorado gem still manages to have authentic small-town charm, making it the perfect destination for winter revelry, outdoor adventure and intimate escape. The town itself, nestled in a box canyon that is surrounded by glorious towering mountains in every direction, is just eight blocks wide and 12 blocks long, though it does get some added size from Mountain Village. Perched above the valley floor at 9,500 feet, Telluride’s sister community is easily accessible via the Telluride Gondola. The “G” – a free 13-minute, pet-friendly sky ride open to all ages – links the Victorian-inspired Telluride and the European-style Mountain Village with ease, making travel between the two a breeze.

Telluride A National Historic Landmark District, once upon a time in the 1870s, Telluride was a raucous mining town called Columbi complete with saloons, brothels and gambling halls. The town changed its name to Telluride in 1881 after residents tired of the U.S. Postal Service confusing it with a California mining town of the same name. Though it derived its name from tellurium, a rare ore much like gold, residents still gleefully share the story of how the name came according to local lore. As the story goes, when someone made their way to the mining camp, people would shout “to hell you ride,” and the name stuck. No matter the story, the mythical “hell you ride” became heaven on earth in the 1970s when it was developed into a skier’s paradise. Initially just a few chairlifts and a lodge, today Telluride provides access to more than 2,000 acres of lily-white powder with terrain for all levels of skill, but especially those who are more advanced given the steep alpine setting and many heli-skiing outfitters. In total, there are 19 lifts and nearly 150 runs from which to choose, as well as ample backcountry skiing and Nordic skiing space. Not a skier? No problem. Idarado Sled Dog Adventures offers husky-led dog sled tours through the surrounding forest daily at 8 a.m. There are also ample outfitters who offer fat bike tours and rentals, allowing guests to explore the valley floor. Additionally, there are several places to sled and snowshoe as well as horseback riding adventures and beginner lessons for riders courtesy of Telluride Horseback Adventures. Seeking romance? Make a reservation with Telluride Sleighs and Wagons at the nearby historic Aldasoro Family Ranch, which is now open for evening sleigh rides followed by a gorgeous candlelit dinner.

114 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Telluride is a premier destination for ice climbing, including a guided adventure up Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall in Bridal Veil Falls. There are many experienced guides in the area who can create custom climbing itineraries and provide all necessary gear/guidance should this be on the bucket list, including in Mountain Trip, Telluride Mountain Guides, San Juan Outdoor Adventures, and Telluride Adventures. And if adventure is preferred closer to the ground, snowmobiling is a must. The region boasts an extensive network of groomed trails just outside of Telluride and Mountain Village designed specifically for snowmobiles, and both Telluride Outfitters and Telluride Outside offer state-of-the-art machines for every experience level. Those seeking a quieter stay are also in luck, as there are preserved historic buildings nestled throughout the quaint town as well as grand Victorian architecture to take in along with independent art galleries and boutiques.

Mountain Village Setting aside time to explore Mountain Village while in Telluride is also a must. At 9,500 feet, the pedestrian-friendly Mountain Village boasts 360-degree views unlike anywhere else in the world. Live music abounds, and there are several communal spaces to enjoy. If a foodie, this is ground-zero for the best the area has to offer. Of note are Alpino Vino, the highest elevation restaurant in North America at 11,966 feet; Communion Wine Bar, the perfect spot to sample Champagne, wines and high-end spirits; The View, offering an upscale Mediterranean and Latin-influenced menu; Allred’s, boating rustic elegance at 10,500 feet; and Tomboy Tavern, a traditional watering hole with good food and drinks after a day on the slopes. Mountain Village is also home to Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, Telluride’s only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Resort in Telluride. Surrounded on three sides by the dramatic 14,000-foot peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Madeline Hotel & Residences is located at 9,545 feet, offering 83 rooms and 71 alpine retreats. It boasts an indoor-outdoor modern chalet and luxe restaurant in Timber Room – considered among the top apres ski hotspots and dining destinations in the region – as well as casual dining option Black Iron Kitchen + Bar. There is also a full-scale ice rink, a year-round outdoor heated pool, two outdoor hot tubs, and a Recovery Ski Lounge designed in collaboration with Olympian Gus Kenworthy that offers a range of advanced post-workout therapies. Beyond all this, Madeline’s new Great Room, part of an epic 2021 re-imagining of the property, offers endless ways to indulge in life’s simple pleasures with classic board games such as backgammon and mancala, along with a brand-new hydration station. Here, a rotating mix of hydration options will not only quench thirst, but also help acclimate guests to Telluride’s high altitude. The resort also offers one-of-a-kind experiences for guests, inviting travelers to bring home stories of unforgettable luxury adventures in the Rocky Mountains. Learn more at www.telluride.com. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

115

Taste DRINK

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

WARMING WONDERS Toasty cocktails to warm the body and soul this winter

The nights are longer and chillier this time of year. That means it’s time to turn up the heat, even when it comes to happy hour. Here are some sensational hot cocktails to warm the body, soul and tastebuds this winter.

Peppermint Party Hot Chocolate JoJo’s ShakeBAR Enjoy the rich decadence of classic hot chocolate paired with gooey toasted marshmallow fluff and guest’s choice of Jameson Whiskey or Bailey’s Irish Cream. Bonus: It is grandly garnished with a chocolate-covered peppermint pretzel, peppermint-infused s’mores, and a homemade peppermint snowflake marshmallow. $16. www.jojosshakebar.com. Coffee Old Fashion The Stir Coffee Bar Freshly brewed espresso and Templeton Maple Finished Rye Cask Series 1, a whiskey finished in maple syrup barrels in collaboration with the famed Wood’s Vermont Syrup Company, come together in perfect hot harmony here, getting an extra kick of flavor from chocolate bitters and demerara syrup. $9. www.thestircoffeebar.com. Captain David’s Winter Wine Hula’s Captain’s Cabin Heard of Gluhwein? It is a German mulled wine, and the inspiration for Hula’s seasonal hot offering. It starts with pinot noir and Disaronno Originale, which is an amaretto with beautiful notes of almond. The base spirits are combined on low heat with oranges, cloves, anise, cinnamon, and demerara sugar for several hours until there is a perfect layer of flavors. $16. www.hulasmoderntiki. com/captainscabin. Salted Caramel Hash Kitchen Prepare for a coffee cocktail with some punch! Here, regular or decaffeinated coffee is combined with vanilla vodka and caramel. Then, additional coffee is whipped until frothy and added on top, getting a garnishment of sea salt and caramel drizzle for good measure. $14. www.hashkitchen.com.

116 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

“A” Mountain Merlot Skysill Rooftop Lounge This sweet wine concoction is a nod to the iconic Valley landmark, “A” Mountain. Blending MurphyGoode Merlot, brandy, a five-spice blend, star anise, turmeric root, clove, cardamom, and cinnamon, and finished with a dash of brown sugar, it warms via its temperature as well as from all of the beautiful winter spices in each sip. $15. www.skysillrooftop.com. Lon’s Irish Coffee Lon’s Last Drop at The Hermosa Inn Sticking to tradition with this classic fireside sipper, the Lon’s Irish Coffee stars Limavady Irish Whisky, which is made with 100% malted Irish barley and beloved for its notes of dried fruit, spice, and toasted vanilla. The whisky is paired with coffee and topped with a generous portion of homemade whiskey-vanilla whipped cream. $16. www.hermosainn.com. Café En Fuego La Hacienda at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Made tableside and set on fire before serving, this bold beauty starts with the guest’s choice of tequila. Next, the guest chooses Bailey’s Irish Cream, Frangelico, and/ or 1921 Tequila Blanco, a cream liqueur with notes of cinnamon and vanilla. It is finished with coffee, cinnamon, sugar, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. Starting at $16. www.scottsdaleprincess.com. Passionfruit Caramel Latte Provision The local coffee roaster offers a bevy of hot cocktails, with this among its most impressive. It features freshly brewed espresso and scratch-made caramel syrup infused with both passionfruit and bourbon. It is finished with creamy steamed milk and an orange twist. $8. www.provisioncoffee.com.

Taste

DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Celebrity chef Angelo Sosa recently opened Kembara at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. His second Arizona concept, joining Tia Carmen at the same resort, is inspired by Asian street food flavors, and every plate looks like a work of art. Among the early standouts is the Tuna Thai Jewel ($23). The base of the dish is sashimi-grade tuna, paired with turmeric-infused jicama melon balls. They are delicately placed in a bowl filled with a creamy white broth made from coconut milk, coconut water, grapeseed oil, ginger, shallots, lemongrass, salt, and lime juice, and drizzles of an aromatic green herb oil made with mint, cilantro, Thai basil, and Thai chilies. Garnished with violas, mini marigolds, nasturtium flower petals and almost too pretty to eat, each bite is equal parts meaty, herbaceous, spicey, and refreshing. Kembara, 5350 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix; 480.293.5000; www.kembaradesertridge.com. So Scottsdale! January ‘24

117

Taste CHEERS

BUBBLES AND BLOSSOMS Breakfast Kitchen Bar unveils the Flower Flight of Mimosas

Breakfast Kitchen Bar has long served a variety of mimosas, including one with raspberry sorbet. Now, it also offers a trio of mimosas to taste together, but with a twist. Available at both Breakfast Kitchen Bar locations, the Flower Flight of Mimosas ($25) features a Lavender Lemon Mimosa, a Rose Petal Mimosa, and an Elderflower Grapefruit Mimosa, each offering the beautiful bouquet of a different flowering plant. “While creating a flower-themed flight may sound out of left field, it is an homage to the original mimosa that inspired the cocktail’s name,” says Sam Ashek, co-owner of Breakfast Kitchen Bar. “The acacia dealbata, commonly known as the mimosa, is a plant prized for its beautiful and delicate golden yellow flowers. And though there are several origin stories for the invention of the mimosa drink, all agree its name was given due to its near-identical color to those petals.” To make the Lavendar Lemon Mimosa, Giffard Crème de Violette and Monin Lavender syrup are combined in a Champagne flute with a dash of Dash Scrappy’s Black Lemon Bitters. After a quick stir, the flute is topped with Zonin Prosecco and a dried lemon wheel. For the Rose Pela Mimosa, ultra-aromatic Monin Rose Syrup and Monin Cane Sugar syrup are combined with Zonin Prosecco in a Champagne flute, stirred, and then garnished with a dried rosebud. Finally, the Elderflower Grapefruit Mimosa is a combination of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and Zonin Prosecco. It’s garnished with an earthy sage leaf. “Each mimosa is refreshing and fragrant, with the rose petal offering the sweetest flavor profile, the elderflower certainly the most herbaceous, and the lavender the most citrus-forward of the three,” Ashek says. Breakfast Kitchen Bar, two locations; www.breakfastkitchenbar.com.

118 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Taste

CUISINE

CHEF CONVERSATIONS In the kitchen with Daniel Davis of 18 Degrees

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS

Daniel Davis is the chef and kitchen manager of 18 Degrees, a modern American bar and restaurant located in the Ice Den. The menu features elevated takes on comfort classics, and subtle nods to the leadership’s Italian roots.

What inspired you to cook? While both my grandmothers were spectacular cooks in their own right, and I cooked with them often, I did not think of it as a possible profession until I took a home economics class in high school. Every Friday, our teacher let the upperclassmen bring in ingredients from home and explore our culinary creativity, and it sparked something in me. Tell us about your culinary journey. I graduated high school on the East Coast in 2017 and after a quick stop to live with friends in California, I drove to Arizona to see my brother (who lived here) in 2018. I decided to stay, and he got me a job as a dishwasher at 18 Degrees, and the rest is history. I worked my way up from cleaning dishes to cooking them, earning the lead position in 2023. What are some menu standouts? While primarily modern American in concept, our general manager is Italian. As a result, we kiss the menu with some of his authentic family recipes, including his grandmother’s marinara, which we use on pasta as well as on our brick oven pizzas. Also, do not miss our nachos. We candy our jalapenos and have the sneaky best queso in town as well as my special recipe for pico de gallo. Are there any ingredients you dislike? This is going to sound wild given I am the meatball-maker in the kitchen, churning out hundreds a week, but I abhor touching raw meat of any kind. Obviously, I push through! In addition, while I will cook it, the smell of cauliflower makes me a little queasy. What would readers be surprised to know about you? My mom worked for the State Department, so I lived in India, Sweden, Nigeria, Sierra Leon, and the United Arab Emirates in addition to the East Coast of the United States by 19. As a result, I loved being part of Model United Nations all through school. 18 Degrees, 9375 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale; 480.344.2653; www.18-degrees.com.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

119

Taste FOOD FILES

GLUTEN-FREE FINDS Delicious dishes made for those with different dietary needs

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

The Millionaire

Jewel’s Bakery and Café This 100% gluten-free restaurant and bakery was founded after the owner’s own daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease at just 9 years old. True decadence, this dish combines several of the eatery’s most popular items on one plate. It features a gluten-free Belgian waffle that is topped with two cinnamon-sugar doughnut holes, Jewel’s signature popcorn chicken, thick-cut candied ghost pepper bacon, and maple glaze. $20. www.jewelsbakeryandcafe.com.

Country Terrine

Sapiens Paleo Kitchen Both 100% gluten-free and 100% paleo, Sapiens puts gut health and wellness at the forefront in everything it does. The sublime terrine in this European delicacy is made with natural pork and chicken livers using a recipe that dates back to Louis XIV. It is placed atop paleo toast with Dijon mustard and cornichons, which are much like pickles but bumpier. $13. www.sapienskitchen.com.

General Ling’s Chicken

Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill With a menu that is 75% gluten-free, there are many dishes here from which to choose. A guest favorite is this crispy wok’d chicken that is made using tempura batter and paired with green onions, red bell peppers, carrots, Thai basil, and a sweet and spicy soy sauce. Served over a bed of rice, the dish perfectly balances crispy, sweet, spicy, and savory flavor profiles. $17. www.lingandlouies.com.

Smoked Brisket Enchiladas Coloradas

One of the easiest ways to reset one’s diet after the holidays is by lowering gluten consumption. Smart restaurants are making the move to create dishes sans gluten for those with an allergy or sensitivity to these grain proteins as well as for those looking to jumpstart a new health regime. Here are some great options.

Lovecraft Smoky meets spicy with out-of-this-world results in this dish, which starts with prime brisket that has been slow smoked for 14 hours. Once fork tender, the meat is heaped into corn tortillas and topped with melty cheese and onions. Before being served at the table to guests, the entire dish is smothered in New Mexican red chile enchilada sauce and garnished with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes. $19. www.lovecraftphx.com.

Mama’s Meat-Za Balls

Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen While most meatballs are made with glutinous breadcrumbs, the scratch-made meatballs at Picazzo’s include lean, clean and organic Diestel turkey, pomodoro sauce, basil, herbed Parmesan cheese, herb ricotta, and gluten-free breadcrumbs. They are served with toasted gluten-free focaccia bread. $16. www.picazzos.com.

120 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

The OMG

32 Shea Satisfying gluten-free sandwiches? OMG is right! 32 Shea partners with Gluten-Free Creations Bakery in Scottsdale to source craveable, freshly baked gluten-free bread daily, pairing it here with salty prosciutto, sweet fig jam, and creamy mascarpone cheese. The sandwich comes with potato chips, which are naturally gluten-free, or the chips may be substituted with a salad or soup. $13.50. www.32shea.com.

Cuttlefish Ink Mellow Rice

Talavera at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale At Troon North A signature dish from chef Emmanuel Urban, who just joined the restaurant in recent months, every ingredient and flavor are inspired by Europe and Spain in particular. It starts with arborio rice, which is native to Italy and prized for its firm, creamy and chewy texture. Once the firm grains become creamy, they are spooned onto a plate and topped with tender yet crispy octopus. The fish is finished with on-the-vine confit tomatoes as well as lemon-garlic aioli. $45. www.fourseasonsscottsdale.com.

Gluten-Free Almond Chocolate Cake Sweet Dreams Pizza

The Spot at Arcadia This Italian dish starts with a gluten-free cauliflower crust, which is topped with homemade marinara sauce and pepperoni as well as gooey mozzarella, tart goat, and savory Parmesan cheeses. Cooked until crispy, golden on the bottom and melty on top, the pizza is finished with chili flakes and a drizzle of agave. $16. www.thespotarcadia.com.

Federal American Grill This gluten-free, fudgy dream starts with almond flour, made entirely from finely ground, blanched almonds. The flour is paired with oil, eggs, and ample dark chocolate before being baked until moist. Once plated, it is coated with additional dark chocolate and topped with vanilla ice cream. $12. www.thefederalgrill.com.

Spaghetti Squash Bowl

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar Spaghetti squash stands tall as one of the ultimate alternatives to pasta for those looking to reduce or eliminate gluten consumption. Here, it is roasted and then sauteed with broccoli florets, Campari tomatoes, cippolini onions, mushrooms, garlic, and sweet corn. Before being plated, the pan is deglazed with lemon-Parmesan broth. Once simmered, the contents are poured into a bowl and garnished with basil, gremolata, Grana Padano cheese, and Aleppo chilies. $26. www.tommybahama.com.

Matcha Waffles

The Coffee Builders A dish as beautiful as it is delicious, these pastel green goddesses on a plate are made by combining matcha – green tea powder packed with antioxidants – with waffle batter made from buttermilk, gluten-free flour, eggs, and vanilla. Cooked until fluffy and lightly crisp on the outside, they are plated with whipped butter, bourbon maple syrup, and the choice of matcha-infused or traditional whipped cream. $10. www.thecoffeebuilders.com.

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

121

Taste DINING GUIDE

THE ELEANOR

The Eleanor is a welcoming neighborhood breakfast joint that serves high-quality, tasty breakfast items and savory sandwiches for dine-in or grab-and-go. Breakfast sandwiches and burritos; eggs prepared any way – in scrambles, omelets, chilaquiles, or hash; varieties of pancakes and French toast; quick bites like toasts and bowls; and freshly prepared handhelds like the stacked BLT and beef po’ boy, will make this site of the former Scottsdale Dry Cleaners a regular morning routine. When dining in, explore the creative and fresh cocktail menu or sidle up to the coffee bar. 3027 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.685.2525; www.theelanoraz.com; $-$$

BY BECKY ANTIOCO

Saturday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. At Scottsdale Seville, 7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.483.7000; www.sushisenaz.com; $$ UMAMI BBQ & SUSHI The word umami comes from the Japanese word for “deliciousness,” and describes a savory, brothy flavor that is different from the basic sweet, salty and sour tastes. The extensive menu of this fusion restaurant includes a variety of dishes that reflect its name. The Japanese barbecue offerings include “kushiyaki,” skewers of meat and vegetables. In addition, you’ll find tempura, sushi, and inventive Japanese bar tapas like elote caliente, cheesy Takoyaki, and Korean hot wings. 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix; 480.504.4557; www. umamibbqsushi.com; $$ YASU-O SUSHI & TAPAS With its extensive menu, Yasu-O has something for every sushi lover. The signature roll has spicy tuna and cucumber inside, with tuna, yellowtail, and avocado outside, topped with a mango pico de gallo, cilantro, and soy mustard dressing. Diners will find traditional, baked, deep-fried, and baked rolls. Combos include sushi, tempura, soup, and salad for two to four people. Happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 9 p.m. 8300 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.7020916; www.yasuoshushiaz.com; $

Barbecue

Asian

MALEE’S THAI BISTRO Malee’s has been an Old Town mainstay since 1987. Classic Thai dishes include spicy drunken dragon noodles (pad key mao), slow-cooked short rib mussamon curry, and a few Vietnamese and Chinese-inspired originals. The chefs treat their dishes as an art form, selecting the freshest ingredients to create the highest quality entrees in a symphony of flavors. Malee’s is vegetarian-friendly and offers in-house cooking classes each month. 7131 E.

122 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Main St., Scottsdale; 480.947.6042; www.maleesonmain.com; $$

Scottsdale, 480.355.0999; www. puresushibar.com; $$

PURE SUSHI BAR & DINING Pure Sushi Bar & Dining offers an upscale atmosphere, tasty cocktails, and an extensive sushi and sashimi menu. Bento boxes are available for lunch. The dinner menu includes Korean barbecue grilled pork ribs, coconut tiger shrimp, confit duck steam buns, a poke tower, sashimi platter, and Chilean sea bass. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 20567 N. Hayden Road,

SUSHI SEN Sushi Sen is an intimate, casual Japanese restaurant offering traditional hot and cold noodle dishes, bento boxes, sushi rolls, and sashimi, as well as a selection of sake and shochu drinks to complement your dining experience. In addition to sushi, you’ll find various curry dishes, tasty and creative ramen, hot pots, and rice bowls. Sushi roll specials are changed daily. Happy hour Monday through

ARIZONA BBQ SHACK The meats here are dry-rubbed with a special house blend of spices and then smoked for up to 14 hours, a process that gives each meat style and character. The prime beef brisket and pulled pork are standouts and can be ordered by the pound with beef tri-tip, pulled chicken, bratwurst, and hot-link sausage. Baby back and beef ribs are also available and can be topped with house-made barbecue sauces in Roadrunner Sweet & Mild, Coyote House Bold Bourbon, and Javelina Spicy Habanero flavors. Sandwiches, hearty Southern sides, burgers, and even some vegetarian options round out the menu. 8471 E. McDonald Drive, Scottsdale; 480.948.4227; www.azbbqshackscottsdale.com; $$ HANDLEBAR J BBQ RESTAURANT & BAR Known as “Scottsdale’s Original Rib House,” Handlebar J is a one-of-akind saloon that first opened in 1966 and has been owned and operated by the Herndon family since 1975. This Western-themed establishment is

famous for its slow-cooked pork ribs glazed with homemade smoky chipotle barbecue sauce. Check out the monthly calendar for live music by The Herndon Brothers and other national acts. Don’t miss the line dancing classes on Tuesday evenings. 7116 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale; 480.948.0110; www. handlebarj.com; $$ STARLIGHT BBQ & WHISKEY BAR This casual neighborhood restaurant offers delicious barbecue smoked with Arizona pecan and mesquite woods. Appetizers include porky fries, crispy rock shrimp, and mesquite grilled cauliflower. The wide selection of barbecue includes beef ribs, pork, brisket, and meatloaf. Starlite supports local businesses, using Arizona beef, produce from McClendon’s Farm, and fresh bread from Arizona Bread. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. Happy hour daily from 4 to 6 p.m. 7620 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale; 480.553.9330; www.starlitebbq.com; $$

Breakfast

FIRST WATCH “Yeah, it’s fresh” is First Watch’s motto. First Watch is a daytime cafe serving dependable breakfast and lunch fare with a rotating seasonal menu. Guests will find the usual omelets, pancakes, salads, and sandwiches, along with several original creations. For healthier options, First Watch offers low-carb entrees with fresh fruit on the side and protein-packed bowls. Fresh juices like Morning Meditation, Kale Tonic, and Purple Haze are made daily using allnatural ingredients and can be boosted with a wellness shot of antioxidant-rich vitamins. Three Scottsdale locations. www.firstwatch.com; $$ SCRAMBLE Whether you’re craving a healthy breakfast or hearty comfort food, Scramble is the breakfast place for you. The Santa Fe eggs Benedict is one of the most popular entrees, and the brizzas (breakfast pizzas), are big enough to share. Not a breakfast person? Gourmet sammies—including the Hickman’s Burger with a fried egg or a tasty Cuban on a toasted hoagie—salads, and wraps are served all day as well. This fast-casual breakfast joint also has a dog-friendly patio. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly. 6590 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.404.7264; www.azscramble. com; $$

European

BRAT HAUS Brat Haus is Scottsdale’s premier beer garden and is widely known for

its house made bratwursts and craft beer selection. Guests can order a la carte or take on a flight of gourmet brats and beer if they want to sample a little of everything. Don’t pass up on the soft pretzel and warm beer cheese fondue or the thick-cut Belgian fries. Inside or on the dogfriendly open-air patio, enjoy fromscratch cuisine inspired by European food craftsmen. Prost! N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.4006; www.brathausaz.com; $$ CORNISH PASTY CO. These hearty hand pies called pasties have taken the Valley by storm since Cornwall native Dean Thomas founded the original Tempe Cornish Pasty Co. in 2005. The restaurant serves pasties with dozens of filling and flavor combinations, like the spicy asiago chicken and the Oggie, a traditional pasty with steak, potatoes, onions, and rutabaga. Pasties can also be ordered partially baked to take home and cook at your leisure. Vegetarian friendly. 3800 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.945.1220; www.cornishpastyco.com; $$ THE CREPE CLUB The Crepe Club brings the French tradition of crepes to sophisticated palates across the Valley. Their menu is designed for guests to enjoy crepes for any and every meal with both savory and sweet options. Try the delightfully refreshing strawberry “ShortCrepe” filled with fresh strawberries, whipped cream and crumbled Biscoff cookies. Or fill up on the carved turkey crepe wrap with avocado, basil mayo, mixed greens and tomatoes. Do you have an event? Have the crepes come to you with their catering service. At Scottsdale Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale; 602.956.0087; www.thecrepeclub.com; $-$$ VOILA FRENCH BISTRO At Voila French Bistro, Chef JeanChristophe serves traditional French cuisine with a modern elegance. On the menu, guests will find classic French fare like escargot, sole meuniere, and duck foie gras. Succumb to temptation and order any of the timeless French desserts like creme brulee or souffle. 10135 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480.614.5600; www.voilafrenchbistro.com; $$

Dessert

LUNA GELATERIA This vibrant gelateria is attached to the popular Pomo Pizzeria in Scottsdale. Guests can find traditional gelato flavors like Sicilian pistachio

and stracciatella, all of which use milk from local Danzeisen Dairy. They also offer dairy-free sorbetto in many rich fruit flavors. Additionally, there are focaccias, pizzas, salads, paninis, and soups for those who want a full meal. At The Shops at Gainey Village, 8977 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.907.5202; www.lunagelateria. com; $-$$ PARIS RENDEZ-VOUS An authentic creperie, patisserie, and gelato shop offers French specialties including macarons, berries and fruit pie, framboisine, cannele de Bordeaux, croissants, and more. The cases showcase more than two dozen mainstay flavors of macarons as well as seasonal flavors. Crepes are made to order and come in sweety and savory varieties. Gluten-free options are available. 10320 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.404.6378; www.paris-rendezvous.com; $$ PUSSYCAT GELATO Pussycat Gelato opened their first location in Bisbee, in an area that was a brothel in the early 1900s. The cozy artisan gelato shop’s second location is in Old Town Scottsdale. Their “true gelato” has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and sorbets are vegan and gluten-free. The atmosphere is as vibrant as their smallbatch gelatos, with checkered floors, a movie screen playing Josie and the Pussycats cartoons, and posters featuring Westerns and movie icons like Raquel Welch, Brigitte Bardot, and others. Need an extra kick? Order the afternoon delight – espresso poured over butter pecan gelato. 7134 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.203.8676; www. pussycatgelato.com; $ SWEET PROVISIONS Sweet Provisions is a charmingly colorful ice creamery and sweets shop that will put a smile on all who walk through its doors. They serve ice cream made fresh daily using only local Arizona dairy as well as housebaked goods such as pies, cookies, bars, and brownies. Explore the collection of classic candies throughout the shop and take home a bag or two. 8120 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.275.2676; www.sweetprovisionsaz.com; $ SWEET REPUBLIC This award-winning small-batch ice creamery highlights local ingredients and offers a selection that changes regularly with unique flavors like strawberry buttermilk, matcha green tea, and sweet corn. The sorbets use ripe whole fruit prepared in-house.

All toppings, sauces, cookies, and waffle cones are also made from scratch with no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or hydrogenated oils. Vegan sorbet in coconut, chocolate, strawberry, and lemon are available. Guests can also enjoy sundaes, floats, homemade cookies, and milkshakes. 9160 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.248.6979; www.sweetrepublic. com; $

Health Food

FLOWER CHILD Part of Fox Restaurant Concepts, Flower Child’s menu offers the opportunity to try a variety of fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins offered as salads, bowls, and wraps with several vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Dishes like Crushed Avocado Toast, hummus, and a daily soup round out the fresh, healthy menu. Wash it all down with an always-refreshing seasonal lemonade. 10460 N. 90th St., Scottsdale and at Desert Ridge; www.iamaflowerchild.com; $$ NEKTER JUICE BAR This healthy, fast-casual juice bar serves made-to-order cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and bowls. Quick, healthy bowls and smoothies for onthe-go meals are their specialty. While you’re in, try a wellness shot loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Everything is made fresh, or you can pick up a grab-n-go bottle or juice cleanse to kickstart your healthy eating habits. Six Scottsdale locations and one in Cave Creek. www.nekterjuicebar.com; $ SAPIENS PALEO KITCHEN Developed in 2019 by Chef Aurore de Beauduy and restaurateur Roman Yasinsky, this BYOB restaurant concept combines the elegance and sophistication of French cuisine with paleo diet nutrition principles. Diners can feast on specialties like the paleo bread platter, beet tartar, and rabbit stew. The kitchen is entirely glutenfree, and substitutions can be made to accommodate other dietary and lifestyle needs. A ready-to-eat meal program is also available in paleo or keto options, either by subscription or a la carte. 10411 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Road, Scottsdale; 480.7715123; www.sapienskitchen. com; $-$$ TRUE FOOD KITCHEN In collaboration with integrated medicine guru Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D., True Food Kitchen is a leader in healthy farm-to-table full-service dining. The food and beverage menus are created

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

123

Taste DINING GUIDE

SNOOZE

This diner with vibrant retro styling and a party vibe dishes out an eclectic menu that includes dessert-style pancakes, seven variations on eggs Benedict, fun French toast options, and plant-based dishes, as well as specialty cocktails. Come back often to try the seasonal cocktails, main courses, and pancake of the week, which could be a sweet treat like apple crisp, cranberry orange, or chocolate cookie dough. For a sampling of favorites, try the signature pancake flight of pineapple upside down, blueberry Danish, and sweet potato. Several Valley locations including Kierland Commons, 15054 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.664.3133; www.snoozeeatery.com; $$

with seasonal ingredients guided by Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid model. The farmers’ market crudites are a bouquet of chilled raw vegetables served with tzatziki and Kalamata olive dip that is a great starter for the table. The ancient grains bowl and grass-fed steak tacos are also fan favorites. True Food Kitchen happily caters to a variety of food preferences, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15191 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.265.4500; www.truefoodkitchen.com; $$-$$$

Indian

AL HAMRA Al Hamra is a white tablecloth IndianPakistani restaurant in Pinnacle Peak. The menu offers traditional Indian and Pakistani entrees such as curries, biryanis, and tandoori oven-roasted meats. With a full bar, guests can pair any of their eight signature cocktails with the bold flavors from the kitchen. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Located in the La Mirada Shopping Center, 8900 E. Pinnacle Peak Road E1, Scottsdale; 480.538.9200; www. alhamraaz.com; $$ MARIGOLD MAISON One of the Valley’s most popular Indian restaurants, Marigold Masion uses the traditional Tandoori oven in preparing many of the menu’s dishes, including several varieties of naan. Menu favorites include classics like chicken tikka masala, lamb vindaloo, samosas and pakora. 4720 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix; 602.795.0020; www. marigoldmaison.com; $$ TAJ MAHAL Taj Mahal is an adventure in fine Indian dining. The authentic, madeto-order dishes are gluten-free and always tasty. All menu items can be spiced to suit your palate, whether you prefer it extra hot, mild, or with no spice at all. The menu is extensive, featuring favorites like chicken tikka masala, goat curry, taj biryanis, and both vegan and vegetarian options. The bar features an exotic cocktail menu, Indian lager, wine, and daily drink specials. 14225 N. Craftsman Court, Scottsdale; 480.257.1791; www.aztajmahal.com; $$ TIKKA SHACK Tikka Shack offers fast-casual Indian cuisine, from street food starters to bold curries and a variety of Indian staples and side dishes. House favorites include chicken tikka masala, the original house curry with chicken, and the chicken tikka wrap, served in handmade naan. Guests can also

124 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

craft their own curry and visit the beer wall to self-serve their own drink to wash it all down. Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly. At Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, 602.354.8800; www.tikkashack.com; $$

Italian

MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY Originally founded in Chicago in 1991, Maggiano’s Little Italy is a nationwide chain with a popular location in North Scottsdale. They specialize in Southern Italian cuisine served family style. Feed the family with a selection of Italian classics like the four-cheese ravioli, baked ziti, and chicken parmesan. At Scottsdale Promenade, 16405 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.333.4100; www.maggianos.com; $$ PARMA ITALIAN ROOTS Parma combines coastal California cuisine with fresh Italian food with menu items like cioppino, pan-seared salmon, butternut squash-filled agnolotti, grilled Spanish octopus with red pepper romesco sauce, and charcuterie and cheese board with chef-selected options. The craft cocktail selection includes the Primrose with tequila, grapefruit juice, and cinnamon, Mellow Cello with vodka and limoncello, and the Bellini Float with bourbon, prosecco, and raspberry sorbet. Happy hour daily from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. 20831 N. Scottsdale Road; Scottsdale; 480.292.9900; www.parmaitalianaz.com; $$-$$$ PASTA BRIONI For 25 years, Pasta Brioni has been a favorite neighborhood Italian restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale. All pastas are made from scratch, meatballs are handrolled, and rolls are baked fresh each morning. The menu features a lobster and a vegetarian mushroom version of its daily homemade ravioli stuffed with creamy mascarpone. 4416 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale; 480.994.0028; www. pastabrioni.com; $$ PICCOLO VIRTÚ Chef Gio Osso has had hits with Virtú Honest Craft and Pizzeria Virtú. And now comes Piccolo Virtú, a middle ground between the upscale Virtú Honest Craft and the casual pizzeria. Diners will find a variety of crudo dishes and antipasto, as well as an impressive 55-ounce Niman Ranch porterhouse steak and an entire suckling pig (which must be ordered 48 hours in advance). Handmade pastas are available, with the standout option being the New York-style vodka sauce. Craft cocktails and a boutique wine list

curated with international examples round out the experience. 7240 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.663.3296; www.piccolovirtu.com; $$$-$$$$$ S&V URBAN ITALIAN This contemporary Italian restaurant offers wood-fired brick oven pizza and classic pasta dishes. S&V is great for groups as many of their items can be shared, and they have dozens of wines by the glass and bottle. The meatballs, bruschetta, and panini are all excellent options for lunch or dinner or try a specialty pizza like Sophia’s — with homemade mozzarella and meatballs, topped with arugula, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese — or the prosciutto and fig variety. A gluten-free menu is available. Happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. daily. 9343 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.451.1850; www.sandvurbanitalian. com; $$ TOMMY V’S URBAN KITCHEN & BAR Tommy V’s Urban Kitchen and Bar is in the heart of downtown Scottsdale offering modern Italian fare in a sleek atmosphere with a relaxing patio. Pasta options include spaghetti puttanesca salmon, fettuccini carbonara and three-meat lasagna. Other Italian favorites include pork Osso Bucco and chicken Milanese. Gluten-free pasta and vegetarian options are available. Stop in for one of the monthly wine dinners. 7303 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale; 480.427.2264; www.tommyvscottsdale.com; $$-$$$

Latin/Mexican

CALL HER MARTINA This Old Town Scottsdale hot spot’s menu features classic Mexican dishes, but diner swill also encounter a few surprises. Examples include the El Jefe Burro with a garlic aioli spread; the grilled octopus in adobo sauce; and the Gordibuena Burger with chile verde, piloncillo, carmelized onion, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. The menu is familiar yet new, with a fusion of flavors and options that put a unique spin on old favorites. The extensive wine and creative cocktail menus nicely complement the food offerings. 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale; 480.687.8592; www. callhermartina.com; $$ DOS FAMILIAS Fresh ingredients, authentic dishes, and flavorful seasoning are at the heart of the menu at Dos Familias. The menu features traditional tacos, fajitas, and guacamole, but don’t hesitate to branch out from the basics to sample the delicious pozole; carne adobada; chile relleno with shrimp or chicken,;and the fan-favorite stacked

chicken enchiladas with spicy tomatillo/jalapeno green sauce, topped with cheese and a fried egg. Street corn, shrimp ceviche, and green chile queso are great to share – or keep all to yourself. Happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m. 10885 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.314.0550; www.dosfamiliasmexican.com; $$ FRANK & LUPE’S For over 25 years, Frank & Lupe’s have been sharing their family recipes with their guests, from spicy pork carne adobada to poblano cream cheese enchiladas. The menu is a blend of Mexican and New Mexican foods with familiar items like enchiladas, tacos, chili relleno, and chimichangas. Fun fact: The red and green chiles are home-grown in Socorro, New Mexico. 4121 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale; 480.990.9844; www. frankandlupes.com; $$ GORDO’S TACOS Taco Tuesday will never be the same after sampling the variety of tacos available from chef Albert Hernandez’s restaurant. Inspired by his mother’s culinary creativity, Hernandez brings a variety of traditional and specialty tacos to Gordo’s. Classics like chicken tinga, the exceptional quesa birria, and breakfast tacos share the menu with a Nashville crispy chicken taco and the 1950 Gringo. Burritos, bowls, and other Mexican dishes like enchiladas and nachos are available. 9015 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480-398-8132; www.tacosgordos.com; $$-$$$ MODERN MARGARITA Modern Margarita offers a large selection of margaritas and cocktails alongside delicious dips, tacos, and tostadas served in a lively atmosphere with a spacious patio. If you can’t decide, bring some friends, and order the taco flight with three each of chicken, pork, fried fish, carne asada, and veggie tacos. Try the Hangover menu, featuring breakfast burritos, and bowls, as well as unlimited Bloody Marys or mimosas. Happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. and all day Sunday. At High Street, 5410 E. High St., Phoenix; 602.795.8111; www. modernmargarita.com; $$ TAPAS PAPA FRITA A gem in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Tapas Papa Frita is the real deal in Spanish and Latin cuisine, ideal for a celebration with flamenco flare. Order some tapas to share with friends and family, and don’t miss the hearty De Bogavante paella, a San Sebastian favorite full of lobster and shrimp. Enjoy live music and a flamenco show every Friday and

Saturday night. 7114 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale; 480.699.5004; www. tapaspapafrita.com; $$$

dessert. 17040 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.614.1414; www.persianroom.com; $$

Mediterranean

Pizza

AZ KABOB HOUSE Treat your taste buds to fine Persian cuisine at AZ Kabob. This fast-casual restaurant is helmed by Chef Aref Alina, a native Iranian who has studied culinary traditions from various regions of the Middle East and Mediterranean to bring authentic flavors to AZ Kabob’s menu. Try the chicken kabob with saffron rice, one of the most popular menu items. There are also freshly made pastries and traditional desserts like saffron ice cream and slow-brewed Persian tea. 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix; 480.502.4500; www.azkabob.com; $$ HUMMUS REPUBLIC Guests can build their own wrap, pita, or bowl at Hummus Republic, with choice of organic hummus or spread, sustainable protein, unlimited toppings, and 100%vegan sauces. Choose a base of couscous, warm garbanzo beans, kale, spinach, or greens. To top it off, select up to three spreads that include hummus varieties, feta, and tzatziki. Pick a protein then load up with tasty toppings like pickled red cabbage, tabbouleh, fried eggplant, tomatoes, and more. Other menu items included a vegan falafel burger and sweet potato fries. Wash it all down with a creatively flavored lemonade, or a tahini shake. 16211 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.550-5995; www.thehummusrepublic.com; $$ MUNICH GYROS Munich Gyros serves tasty and affordable Greek fare Fountain Hills, specializing in the gyro –tender slices of a beef-lamb combination served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki wrapped in warm pita bread. Other menu items include hummus, Greek salad, falafel, and delicious baklava for a sweet finish. 16948 E. Shea Blvd., Fountain Hills; 480.816.3647; $ PERSIAN ROOM The Persian Room, a fine dining restaurant with an elegant atmosphere and flavorful dishes, has been a North Scottsdale staple since opening in 1985. Persian meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes are flavorful and aromatic without being spicy, prepared with an expert blending of fresh ingredients such as turmeric, cardamom, pomegranate, basil, mint, and more. Enjoy the unmatched flavors of Persian stews and flavorful entrees accompanied by fresh clay-oven-baked bread and saffron-scented basmati rice. Finish your meal with a traditional

LOU MALNATI’S PIZZERIA A Chicago favorite, this famous spot is known for its deep-dish pizza and flaky butter crust. Try the Lou with spinach and mushrooms, the Malnati Chicago Classic with sausage and extra cheese, or create your own deep-dish delight. The menu also offers crispy thin-crust pizza, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and lunch specials. 17787 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.681.3400; www. loumalnatis.com; $$ OREGANO’S A trip to Oregano’s will require an empty stomach and several people in your party. The infamously large portions at Oregano’s make this place ideal for bringing the family or a big group. They serve a mix of old-world classic Italian-American dishes and several of their own modernized recipes. Pizzas are Chicago-style and can be made thin, pan, or stuffed. They have a variety of pastas, salads, sandwiches, and wings. Don’t forget to order The Original Pizza Cookie for dessert! Several locations throughout the Valley, including Scottsdale Road and Shea Boulevard, Old Town Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley; www.oreganos.com; $$ SPINATO’S PIZZERIA The Spinato family opened their first pizzeria after moving from Chicago to Phoenix in 1974. Now, with five locations, including one in North Scottsdale, guests are treated like family, and the focus is on fresh ingredients. Specialty pizza options range from Mamma’s signature spinach pizza to the Chicago with Italian sausage, red onion, and bell peppers. Don’t miss the baked spaghetti calzone. 9210 E. Via de Ventura., Scottsdale; 480.527.2450; www.spinatospizzeria.com; $$ YO PAULY’S NEW YORK PIZZA CO. Home of the 24-inch New York Giant, Yo Pauly’s is a New York-style pizza shop that features specialty pies and dinners. Grab a slice or feed the whole family with favorites like Da Midtown Meltdown (extra pepperoni and extra cheese), the Hawaiian Vacation, 5 Boroughs BBQ Chicken, or the Madison Square Garden veggie pizza. Big salads, sandwiches, San Gennaro’s feast dinners, calzone, and stromboli finish out the menu. Don’t forget an order of cannoli for dessert! 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480.451.4400; www.yopaulysnypizza.com; $$

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

125

Seen EVENTS

FTK HOLIDAY PARTY

Fore The Kids hosted its annual festive soiree at the Otto Car Club & Storage Showroom. Guests enjoyed food, cocktails, games, a silent auction, music and more. Proceeds went to designated kids charities.

Kelli Martin and Ashley Walton

BY DAVID APEJI

Brenna Testa and Ashley Baumgartner

Maddy Cook and Isabella Glass

Anya Houlihan and Lauren Kenney

Grace Cypher and Ashlyn Farris

Logan Crum and Tatum Bentlet

Griffen Timmons and Melissa Kase

Taylor Ott and Guinevere De Brunier

Scott Carnahan and Tammy Carnahan

Samantha Kerr and Frankie Devorgilio

126 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Russell Martin and Elisabeth Chicoine

Tim Brick and Jessica Fratantoni

Eric Hunter and Miranda Padilla

Sam Worth and Lizzy Vega

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

127

Seen EVENTS

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF TREES

The 25th annual event, benefitting Arizona Burn Foundation, brought guests together for a festive celebration, including a delectable dinner and dancing. The evening also featured the event’s signature Christmas tree live auction.

Tatum Sorrelman and Nicole Kalucki

BY DAVID APEJI

Melanie Jones and Brittany Holm

Joy Haugen and Julie Eklund

Christine Wiggs and Monica Steiner

Caitlin Treat

Anna Aja

Isabella McCune and Maria Pierre

Dr Ruth Rimmer

Andrea Glass

Alexis Allen

128 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Nazarene Cooper and Bakhtaver Sales

Brooklyn Hartman and Tamara Chmielewski

Judy Cunningham and Therese Skelly

Sue Albright and Vivian Albright

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

129

Seen

EVENTS

UNDER THE SONORAN SKY The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s first-ever gala was held at Taliesin West. Guests enjoyed an evening under the stars, featuring a cocktail hour and exploration around select campus rooms, followed be a three-course dinner and dancing. BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Erik and Kimberly Peterson

Anthony and Jan Bracamonte

Pro artists directly to your door; Anytime, anywhere. 520.727.3085 azglamondemand.com 130 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Taylor and JT Wang

BOTOX/

Veronica and Jack Kelly

FILLER/

SKIN/

Mark Vinciguerra and Carrie Martz

MIRANDA BELLER AESTHETIC NURSE INJECTOR Katharine and Michael Klouda

Shannon and Tom LaPorte

Expertise in filler injections, facial balancing, facials, chemical peels, neurotoxins, and microneedling

RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR FIRST SERVICE!

Matthew and Katy Chiarello

Mary Anne and Richard Erickson

Welcome to the ultimate destination for radiant, youthful skin in Scottsdale, AZ!

Kevin and Sharon Webb

Olivia Fierro and Tony Boyle

BOOK ONLINE BEVELANDESSEX.ME 7316 E Stetson Dr. unit 11 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 @bevel.and.essex

Seen EVENTS

GROUND FLOOR LAUNCH

Luxury interior design firm and general contractor Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe celebrated the launch of new furniture brand, Ground Floor. Guests browsed the pieces of the brand’s first capsule collection, titled 100 Blueprint, as well as enjoyed light refreshments, music and hors d’oeuvres.

Landon Mondragon and Rachel McCloskey

BY DAVID APEJI

Daniela Macias and James Sweeney

Timo and Jordan McGeehon

Caitlin Doran and Madison Decker

Dustin Alexander and Lexi Curtisi

Cheryl Netto and Micah Kanehailua

Ryan Kemmet and Kari Collins

Lauren and Justin Hayes

Tyler and Chelsea Rodgers

Brandon Monahan and Brianna McNulty

132 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

SCOTTSDALE’S BEST AIRBRUSH TANNING

Look your best for the New Year!

Concetta Bondi and Alfonso Verduzco

NO STREAKS NO ORANGE NO STICKY FEELING NO ODOR Vegan, Paraben and Cruelty Free.

Gift Cards Available By appointment only In-Studio, Mobile, Special Events

602.315.3902 | @blushingglowairbrushtan 7190 E. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale 85254 Jonathon Spinner and Robyn Rose

Pampered and Petite Pet Spa Specializing in dogs under 40lbs.

Personalized One on One Session in a Private Salon Suite Designed with your Pet's Ultimate Comfort in Mind.

Shane and JJ Orlando

• Ultimate Comfort in Mind • Comfy Chairs • Fluffy Beds • Quiet & Warm Equipment • Soft Surfaces • Anti-Fatigue Mats

YOUR STYLIST TIFFANY HAS 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Let us give your pet the experience they deserve!

480.528.7159 Located inside The Fur District 4613 E. Cactus Rd. Suite 106 . Phoenix, AZ 85032 www.pamperedandpetitegrooming.com Scott Lorsh and Casille Kristol

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

133

Seen EVENTS

COURTSIDE CLASSIC

Phoenix Suns Charities hosted a start-studded event at Steak 44, furthering the organization’s mission of improving the lives of families and children in need across Arizona. The evening featured select Suns and Mercury players and alumni.

Kevin Durant

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Monique and Zealious Mason

Lilla and Steve Nash

Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor

Tom Chambers and Carissa Gould

Andrea and Tom Evans

Jen Moser and Oliver Badgio

Linda and Jim Pitman

Frank Vogel

Gina Marie Scarpa and Ralph Marchetta

134 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Sophie Cunningham

Jusuf Nurkic

Steve and Regan Schwartz

Visit soscottsdale.com for our latest issue. Yuta Watanabe

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

135

Seen EVENTS

SIT. STAY. BRUNCH.

This annual holiday event raises funds needed to support Lost Our Home Pet Rescue’s services and programs to continue to provide for pets and people in the local community. This year’s brunch, hosted at Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas, celebrated the nonprofit’s 15-year anniversary, commemorating milestones, memories and more with a live auction and awards ceremony.

Tammy Davis and Rich Lyons

BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY

Joe and Caitlyn Salloum

Bri Romero and Melody Hernandez

Kris and Michelle Rigsby

Markanne Benich and Adam Chambers

Mina Aghareza and Alicia Anolick

Marco and Sandra Carnevale

Mladan Milovic and Lauren Snyder

Jeff and Vicki Bell

Richard and Debbie Taggesell

136 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

Sara and Rob Reimer

Dawn and Bryon Matesi

Jim and Gina Donnelly

Visit soscottsdale.com for our latest issue. Janelle Lever and Nitza Newcomb

So Scottsdale! January ‘24

137

End NEW IN TOWN

SUMPTUOUS SUPPER SPOT New craft kitchen and cocktail lounge Bar Cena debuts in Scottsdale

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Designed to evoke the look, feel and tastes one might experience walking along the streets of France, Italy, or Spain, Bar Cena – which is Spanish for “supper” – is the latest eatery from the mind of hospitality veteran (and military veteran) Dom Ruggiero and his Cast Iron Concepts. Known for Hush Public Kitchen and Fire at Will, both in Scottsdale, Bar Cena is housed in a 2,500-square-foot space next door to Hush, with its layout broken down into three distinct sections. First, the dimly lit lounge – perfect for cocktails after work or a pre-dinner aperitif – features sofas, plush chairs, and coffee tables. Adjacent is the formal dining area with custom-built banquettes and butcher block dining tables. Finally, the bar features rolled steel and is accented by floral wallpaper. All modern yet comfortable, the distinct looks are pulled together with dark green and tan hues, natural wood, and industrial accessories. The whole of the space also boasts custom artwork by famed international muralist Diego Rivera, greenery from live plants, and candlelight.

138 So Scottsdale! January ‘24

A project of passion with many of the Hush staff doing double duty to make it a success, Hush chef de cuisine Zack Myers is heading up the food menu, which features a variety of small plates. Global in its flavors, expect items like Baked Camembert with candied pecan, quince and puff pastry; Muffuletta Croquettes with provolone, sesame seed and fennel olive salad; Crispy Potato Pave with duck fat, chive and rouille; Popovers with cacio e pepe-infused butter; and Prime Filet Tartare with beef fat aioli. Two Hand’s Consulting, the duo behind celebrated cocktail hotspot Highball in Downtown Phoenix, created Bar Cena’s drink menu with the mission of presenting avant-garde and house-infused spirits in an approachable, elegant way that thoughtfully complements the myriad small bites on the menu. By way of example, Endless Summer brings together Zubrowka Bison Grass Polish Vodka with the flavors of mandarin, yuzu, and watermelon; Ace High shines a light on Iwai Japanese Whiskey, blended scotch, and cream sherry along with lemon, apricot and bitters; and Late Bloomer showcases fig-infused Yellowstone Bourbon with apple brandy, Italian amaro, lemon, ginger, and maple. There is also a four-person tableside absinthe fountain available for guests looking to walk on the wild side, in addition to copious wines by the glass and bottle, domestic and imported beers, and several mocktails. Bar Cena is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight. Power Hour, the restaurant’s version of happy hour, is offered daily from 5 to 6 p.m. In the coming months, there are plans to open for daytime service during which guests may order food from neighbor and friend Nelson’s Meat and Fish while enjoying drinks from Bar Cena. Bar Cena, 14202 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.barcenascottsdale.com; 480.597.6526.

uil

st. on rC e d Un

. nst Co r de Un

r de

nst

List Your Home With Mike

Get Top Dollar - On Your Terms Proven Results - Mike Domer ranked as Scottsdale #1 producing agent (2021) and top five multiple years. Mike’s sales have reached $200M in a single year. Large advertising & marketing budget to draw buyers to your property. Huge international and national database of buyers to pull from. Skilled negotiation and creative contract structuring in your best interest. 30,000 Compass agents in 72 top U.S. markets drive buyers to your property.

FREE - Call or Scan the QR Code 480.861.8883 MIKE@MIKEDOMER.COM MIKEDOMER.COM

PREFERRED PLASTIC SURGERY

Where Safety & Results Matter Most. 20 Years of Experience BREAST Augmentation Complex Revisions Mastopexy ‘Internal Lift’ BODY Tummy Tuck Contouring FACE Rhinoplasty Facial Rejuvenation

8994 E. Desert Cove Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

MarcMalekMD.com

Schedule Your Consultation Now At 480.551.2040