M AS T E R S of M I XO L O GY The spirited stars behind the Valley’s best bars
IN-PERSON EVENTS RETURN FALL GETAWAYS
WWW.SOSCOTTSDALE.COM | RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP | SEPTEMBER 2021
2021 REAL ESTATE SUPERSTARS
new LISTING DORADO AT TROON VILLAGE 11584 E La Junta Road, Scottsdale 3 Bed + Office | 2.5 Bath | 3021 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage $965,000
TROON RIDGE ESTATES II 11491 E Whispering Wind Drive, Scottsdale 4 Bed + Den | 3 Bath | 3,873 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage $1,399,000
sold JUST
CANDLEWOOD AT TROON NORTH 10914 E Quarry Trail, Scottsdale 3 Bed + Den | 3.5 Bath | 4,109 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage $1,500,000
602.320.8415 | Lucky@RussLyon.com View our luxury listings at LisaLucky.com
backdrop
T R O O N M O U N TA I N
Lisa, Matt & Laura Lucky
WINDY WALK ESTATES AT TROON VILLAGE 10630 E Ranch Gate Road, Scottsdale 4 Bed + Den | 4.5 Bath | 4,186 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage $1,695,000
When it comes to the North Scottsdale lifestyle and area real estate, The Luckys are proud to be the eminent source for their clients. With 100s of millions of dollars in sales under their belts, The Luckys are honored to be reputed as the most proficient and skilled in the industry.
TOP 1% OF RUSS LYON | SOTHEBY’S AGENTS Since 2006 BEST SMALL TEAM AWARD BY SALES VOLUME & NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS America’s Best REAL Trends | 2021 HONORED AS A "TOP 250 AGENT" IN THE NATION Wall Street Journal | 2018 TOP WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE Women’s Council of Realtors | 2015 - Present
DESERT HACIENDAS AT DC RANCH 17581 N 95th Street, Scottsdale 3 Bed + Work Station | 2.5 Bath | 3,136 SQ FT | 3-Car Garage $1,500,000
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
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Luxury Listings from The Agency Arizona REAL ESTATE AT THEAGENCYRE.COM
Redefining Real Estate PENDING
COMING SOON
4129 E . S A NDY MOUN TA IN RD | PA R A DISE VA L L E Y | $ 5,995,0 0 0
9324 N. 58TH STREET | PARADISE VALLEY | $2,650,000
4 BEDS | 4.5 B AT HS | 5,832 SQ . F T. | 50,147 SQ . F T. L OT
4 BEDS | 6.5 B AT HS | 4,079 SQ . F T. | 49,560 SQ . F T. L OT
W ENDY WA L K ER FINE PROPER T IE S 602.888. 4162
W ENDY WA L K ER FINE PROPER T IE S 602.888. 4162 COMING SOON
7120 E. KIERL AND BLVD. #705 | SCOT TSDALE | $925,000
12811 W. MISSOURI AV E. | L ITCHFIEL D PA RK | $ 880,0 0 0
2 BEDS | 2 B AT HS | 1, 258 SQ . F T.
5 BEDS | 4 B AT HS | 3,138 SQ . F T. | 32,50 0 SQ . F T. L OT
M A RILYN C AVA N AUGH A ND JIM CAVANAUGH 602.859.5999
PAT RICIA GIL L E SPIE 4 80.510.8 476
COMING SOON
COMING SOON
730 0 E. E A RL L DRIV E #2012 | SC OT T SDA L E | $ 700,0 0 0
8219 E. CRE S T WO OD WAY | SC OT T SDA L E | $ 675,0 0 0
2 BEDS | 2.5 BAT HS | 1,623 SQ . F T.
3 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 1,926 SQ . F T. | 7,633 SQ . F T. LOT
LYNSIE OL SEN 4 80.739.5068
W ENDY WA L K ER FINE PROPER T IE S 602.888. 4162
7001 N. SCOT TSDALE ROAD, SUITE 1040 SCOT TSDALE, AZ 85253
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CALL US NOW 602.957.9810 2200 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 221, Phoenix, AZ 85016 www.combslawgroup.com
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ACTIVE
ACTIVE
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$5,995,000 TATUM CANYON
4551 E DESERT PARK PL, PARADISE VALLEY, AZ 85253 This Paradise Valley Mediterranean-inspired estate is situated at the top of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and has the most breathtaking views of the valley. The 10,330 sqft of living space is nothing short of luxury and perfect for entertaining. Featuring a heated indoor pool, wine cellar, elevator, 5 beds, 5 baths + an office, this home is exceptionally designed with no detail missed Michelle Macklin: 480.226.4633
$1,495,000
$2,599,000 MARAVILLA TWO
17422 N 60TH PL, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85254 One of a kind custom remodel in desirable Kierland area of North Scottsdale. This 4,415 sq ft basement home located in a non-HOA pride of ownership community in Scottsdale’s coveted magic zip code 85254. This home was taken down to the studs and rebuilt as a complete custom home with fine appointments throughout. One of 8 oversized lots in Maravilla 2, this home impresses with an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, large turf area, and amazing pool & waterfall. Inside you’ll find custom cabinetry, slab surfaces, herringbone wood floors, 3 masonry fireplaces, two master suites, an elevator, a movie theater, and a full appointing of Wolf & Sub Zero appliances in both the kitchen, and butler’s kitchen. Ryan and Patrick Bailey: 480.201.0633
DESERT MOUNTAIN
37200 N CAVE CREEK RD 1123, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85262 Discover the lifestyle you deserve at The Retreat at Seven - Desert Mountain The newest of 7 golf courses in a World Class Resort setting provides each Seven resident a multitude of choices – Desert-style top notch Golf Courses, 10 Lavish Private Restaurants, Tennis, Spa ,Fitness and private Hiking and Biking trails all nestled in the foothills of the Continental Mountains at an elevation where the air is clearer, the days and nights cooler, and the stars brighter. Family Development has created Bespoke, Award-winning turnkey homes ranging in size from 2414sf to 2716sf, rewarding each resident with curated luxury finishes and materials. Craig Young and Nathan Ottosen: 480.773.2183
live who you are ACTIVE
$1,150,000 TRILOGY AT WICKENBURG RANCH
3725 GOLD RIDGE RD, WICKENBURG, AZ 85390
Golf Course Retreat just minutes from Historic Downtown Wickenburg. Desired Orion Model in the exclusive Wickenburg Ranch Community providing a luxurious & active life-style! Open concept at it’s finest with the most gorgeous views and 12ft tall ceilings with custom beams! At your first step you are drawn in to the open kitchen and living area surrounded by windows taking advantage of the incredible mountain views from every angle. Home is situated on lot perfectly for optimal privacy being set back further from the neighboring homes. Upon arrival you are greeted with a covered wrap around front porch and beautiful water feature. No expense spared with exquisite stone work and exterior ambiance lighting.
Sammie Hone: 928.231.7657
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
$1,799,999
$1,590,000
ARISSONA AT ROCKAWAY VALLEY
PASQUALETTI MOUNTAIN RANCH
6030 E CIELO RUN N, CAVE CREEK, AZ 85331 The Grandon Group presents a one of a kind, move in ready horse property in beautiful cave creek! 3 bedroom 3 bath plus a den, pool, attached and detached garage, 5 stall mare motel with tile roof, fans, large stalls, big arena and a round pen! This property backs to state ground so you have trails out your back door. This is one of the most amazing properties in cave creek. Rnjoy a lifestyle like none other. Stacey and Jason Grandon: 602.312.5610
3923 N 197TH AVE, BUCKEYE, AZ 85396
This is the Ultimate property! 4 bed, 3 bath, Custom Home with Formal Dining, Great Room, neutral paint, and tons of natural light. Kitchen features extended cabinetry, granite counters, breakfast bar, pantry and breakfast nook. Owners Suite has private exit to patio, large walk-in closet, and lavish bath with separate jetted tub. Backyard is complete w/travertine patios, Ramada with BBQ, Heated Pool, Hot Tub, Greenhouse & Gardens, surrounded by Palms, Fruit trees and a privacy wall. Gated wrap around drive takes you to the (36’ x 48’) RV Garage which is climate controlled with epoxy floors, cabinets & Casita.
Sheri Spirek: 480.316.0016
CorcoranPlatinumLiving.com 480.794.1694
WHAT’S WORKING NOW MARKETING MASTER CLASS Put your real estate business on the fast track to success! Learn the marketing secrets and tips that are working now, allowing top agents to generate business and dominate the market year after year!
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Venue 8600 Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors® 8600 E Anderson Drive Scottsdale, AZ, 85255
Melanie Sanders Team Leader
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Tickets and Details Below: MarketingMasterClass.EventBrite.com
Eat. Shop. Play. Amazon Books Apple Store Bonobos Cheeky Chic Baby & Kids Culinary Dropout DKNY Sport Dominick’s Steakhouse Drybar Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Fabletics Free People Gap gorjana Intermix lululemon athletica PAIGE Parachute Paris Optique Restoration Hardware Sephora Skin Laundry Sorso Wine Room State & Liberty True Food Kitchen urbAna Vince Warby Parker
SHOP THE QUARTER
Among 80 stores and restaurants, many exclusive to Scottsdale! ScottsdaleQuarter.com NE Corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Greenway Pkwy.
IT’S A THREE-PEAT Avery Lane Named Best Consignment Store 3 Years in a Row by
Darlene Richert, Proprietor
A
t cocktail parties, on the tee box and amongst the ladies who lunch, there’s a subtle whisper about an unusual design mecca — Consignment. The valley’s most savvy shoppers and discerning designers are regulars at Avery Lane Fine Consignments and they are rewarded with great deals on one-of-a-kind home décor. Avery Lane’s design style is “Paris Apartment” which is a curated aesthetic of items collected from a lifetime of international travels, inherited from generations or salvaged when the flat upstairs was vacated. And, the 30,000 sq. ft. of inventory is like a Parisian merry-go-round — constantly changing and revolving. Come check it out … sit for a spell … we’ll pour the champagne. Discover more at AveryLaneHome.com
10% OFF ANY SINGLE ITEM * Not to be combined with other in-store promotions, expires October 31, 2021
Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm • Closed Sunday 15613 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop 480.991.0700 FONT: Edwardian Script and Charlemagne
Now Accepting Fine Furniture, Antique and Art Consignments
@ SCOTTSDALE QUARTER FALL CONCERT SERIES SEPT & OCT | IN THE QUAD A NIGHTS 5–7PM AY SATURDAY Our highly-anticipated FREE Fall Concert Series is back! Bring your chairs and dance moves to Scottsdale Quarter to listen to some of your favorite local bands perform live in The Quad. SEPT 11
CHAD FREEMAN & REDLINE
SEPT 18
DESERT DIXIE
SEPT 25
SUGAHBEAT A AT
OCT 02
KENYON FRANCE & THE VERY CHERRY BAND
OCT 09
VINYL STA STATION TAT TA ATION
OCT 16
SHALLOW WAT WATER A ER AT
OCT 23
ROCK LOBSTER
FOR F OR M MORE ORE IN IINFO N FO V VISIT ISIT S SCOTTSDALEQUARTER.COM COTTS DAL ALE EQ UART ARTE ER.CO M |
Contents 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 spring!
For an appointment, please call 480.639.2000, or visit www.rodneygentry.com for more information.
ON THE COVER: Christiaan Röllich, photo by Claudia Johnstone.
Features 40 MASTERS OF MIXOLOGY The spirited stars behind the Valley’s best bars
color and care for fine hair
How to
Fine hair has plenty of benefits. It’s quick to dry and style, doesn’t shed as much as thicker hair and looks stunning when bobbed. However, fine hair is also more prone to breakage. That’s why Rodney Gentry at Sachi Studios advises paying particular attention to your hair care routine when you have fine hair. “With fine hair, the strands have a smaller diameter, which means they are more vulnerable to damage. As such, it’s important to care for your hair the right way. Avoid any unnecessary heat treatments and go easy on the amount of product you use, as you’ll simply weight the hair down.” There are plenty of ways in which those with fine hair can add volume. Dry shampoo can work wonders, as can volumizing powder. Curling the hair without heat – by using a curling donut, for example – can also deliver impressive results. It’s important to use shampoos, conditioners and hair masques designed specifically for fine hair, according to Rodney Gentry. “Using products that have been made with fine hair in mind should maximize protection for your hair while also not weighing it down. This becomes even more important when coloring the hair, as coloring can make the hair dryer and thus more prone to breakage.” Rodney Gentry advises using heat protector spray religiously before blow-drying or curling, while also minimizing washing to preserve the intensity of the color for as long as possible. Dry shampoo is a double win in this respect, as it keeps roots from becoming too oily between washes while also adding volume. Fine hair can look incredible when colored and styled professionally. Why not book an appointment Rodney Gentry to find out for yourself? 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.
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 81 HOT TICKET Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
82 LOWDOWN News to know
84 DO Great upcoming events
86 OUT Extra extravaganza
88 EVENT Night of Hope Gala
90 CULTURE Artist Mimi O Chun
Pulse 29 UP CLOSE Jenny Strebe is pioneering holistic hair care
32 BEAT Nikki Gersten McAvity hops into the fashion business
34 BEAT Summiting obstacles with Jeff Gottfurcht
36 HIS STYLE Meet Nayan Ranchhod
38 HER STYLE Meet Sara Peterson
18
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Pawsitive Vacation Pet Sitting
Contents Style
Exceeding Expectations
93 MUST-HAVE Red haute handbag
94 ALLURE
Scottsdale Paradise Valley La Jolla
Clean beauty
96 DWELL All that jazz
98 SHOP Bucket hats
100 SHOP Parisian-inspired styles
102 FASHION Fall flair
Luxe 111 INDULGE Chic glassware
112 WHEELS 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible
114 WANT Magic at Nemacolin
116 HAUTE PROPERTY Hillside haven
We Redefine Petsitting
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RoseLawGroup.com 480.505.3936 | 7144 E Stetson Drive, Suite 300, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | info@roselawgroup.com Administrative Law • Cannabis • Corporate • Cyberbullying • DUI • Elections • Employment • Equine • Family / Parenting Rights • Government Relations / Lobbying • Homeowners Associations • Immigration • Internet fraud • Land Use • Litigation • Medical Cannabis • Online Defamation / Cyber-Reputation Management • Real Estate Transactions • Real Property Appeals • Renewable Energy • Sports Law • Tax/Tax Liens • Water / Environmental • Zoning
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Contents
Taste 118 DRINK Wonderful wines
119 DISH Lobster & eggs Benedict at STK Steakhouse
120 CHEERS Cook & Craft’s Spanish Tonic
121 CUISINE In the kitchen with Deavynne Millward of Hotel Valley Ho
122 FOOD FILES San Diego’s surf and turf paradise
124 DINING GUIDE Restaurants to know
Dr. Stevens, Dr. Keding , Dr. Reckell, Dr. MCCutcheon
SCOTTSDALE 8752 E. Shea (101 & Shea) 480-991-6432 MESA 555 N. Gilbert, Suite 101 (Gilbert & University) 480-827-9184
The Rest 24 TELL Editor’s note
130 NEW IN TOWN Bam Kazam
Walk This Way...
To Our New Store at The Biltmore!
Now Open For Shopping and Consigning! Mon - Sat 9AM - 6PM, Sun 12 - 5PM mysisterscloset.com
Contents It may not feel like it, but September (the 22nd of the month, to be exact) marks the start of fall. While the leaves might not be changing, the idea of fall will begin to sneak up, in the form of pumpkin spice everything and the urge to wear plaid and warmer clothing, despite the fact that it’s still shorts and T-shirt weather outside. One thing that rings true to Scottsdale’s “fall” each year is that the event calendar really starts to fill up and, after last year, it’s exciting to say that it’s currently happening. This month will bring the return of many popular in-person events, including philanthropic gatherings and strictly social get-togethers (pages 81 and 84). Those looking to throw their own bashes filled with over-the-top “extras,” can find party boosters on page 86. With more going on in the city and school back in session, another thing that’s currently filling up: reservations. If interested in what’s on the cocktail menu, check out seven masters of mixology – shout out to Christiaan Röllich, who can be seen on our cover this month, from Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa – behind the Valley’s best bars (page 40). And, for an at-home happy hour, we’ve rounded up wonderful, lesser-known wines from distinguished brands (page 118). While summer vacation has come to an end, that doesn’t mean the trips have to stop. Consider planning a foodie trip by the sea (page 122), or a family-friendly trip to Pennsylvania complete with a playground of activities (page 114). Additional exciting happenings this month include the opening of a new adventure complex (page 130), a fall concert series at Scottsdale Quarter (page 82), and the launch of a new exhibit at SMoCA (page 90). We hope you start this next season off on a good note, whether that means taking one last trip, enjoying a cocktail by a spirited superstar or hitting the town to mix and mingle again.
All my best, Gabby Leighton Editor-in-Chief gabby@richmanmediagroup.com Connect with us! Facebook: @soscottsdalemagazine Instagram: @so_scottsdale_magazine
24
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Sally Cashman 602.339.2680
Kathleen Prokopow 623.363.6342
Tonja Howard 480.371.0607
SO FAR THIS YEAR… Nearly $50 Million Sold in the Valley. $12 Million Referred to our Sotheby’s Colleagues Across the Country. Helping our Clients wherever they need us! Our Network is Invaluable.
cashmanpartners.com
38741 West 14th Avenue LISTING SOLD $875K
20496 North 98th Street LISTING SOLD $1.11M
11714 East Charter Oak Drive LISTING SOLD $1.825M
Desert Hills New Construction
Rosewood at DC Ranch
Ancala Country Club
10232 East Cinder Cone Trail SOLD AT $4.2M
12801 East Gold Dust Ave LISTING SOLD $1.675M
Talus at Troon North
Shea Corridor
9440 East Mariposa Grande SOLD AT $3.025M
North Scottsdale 5 Acres @cashmanpartnersaz
www.cashmanpartners.com
@cashmanpartners
INTRODUCING Publisher Bill Richman
One Machine, 3 Treatments, Amazing Results!
Vice President of Operations
Visible after just one session.
Creative Director
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Editor-in-Chief Gabby Leighton
Lalo Reyes
Editorial Staff Adrienne Kalehuawehe
Contributing Writers Alison Bailin Batz, Megan Demko, Mandy Holmes, Kaylor Jones, Elizabeth Liberatore, Neyda Melina, Jim Prueter
Photographers Claudia Johnstone, Mark Morgan, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos
Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com
Contact Us Free Treatment with Purchase
Editorial gabby@richmanmediagroup.com
Advertising bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122
Online www.soscottsdale.com
602.373.8145 10505 N. 69th St., Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85253 jen@laseroptionsbyjen.com ipl-laserhairremoval.com
P: 480.229.3122 10632 N. Scottsdale Road Suite B-215 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 © 2021, RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
26
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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RE/MAX FINE PROPERTIES
6.4% 6.0%
SILVERLEAF REALTY REALTY EXECUTIVES
5.5% 5.0%
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2.7%
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WE ARE | THE VOICE OF ARIZONA REAL ESTATE russlyon.com // 480.502.3500 ARMLS data compiled through BrokerMetrics®.Active Listings by Broker ($800K and up). Scottsdale: 08/01/2021
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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
BY KAYLOR JONES / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
A BREATH OF FRESH AIIR
Jenny Strebe is pioneering holistic hair care with the use of pulverized crystals and natural botanicals
Jenny Strebe, founder and CEO of the first crystal-infused hair care line, never takes “no” for an answer. A lifelong lover of all things hairstyling, Strebe’s passion began in childhood, when her mom would get her glammed up before tap dance performances. “In high school, I was that kid who was always doing her
friends’ hair for prom,” Strebe says. “I just enjoyed making people feel empowered and beautiful.” A native of Walla Walla, Washington, Strebe knew that many people didn’t consider hairstyling a serious career choice, but it only pushed her forge ahead in search of success.
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
29
Pulse UP CLOSE ideas while working at a different salon, but no one was interested – so she decided to go for it on her own. In 2012, Strebe launched Confessions of a Hairstylist (www. theconfessionsofahairstylist.com) to share with her clients and fellow professionals all the tips and tricks she’s picked up throughout her career. What started as a blog has since snowballed into a national platform – Strebe has almost half a million followers on Instagram alone (@theconfessionsofahairstylist). “I was hustling all the time, creating blog posts and content for YouTube and Instagram, going to hair shows and doing interviews,” says Strebe, who also welcomed her second child in 2013. “There wasn’t a lot of balance in my life, so I started doing hot yoga and implementing more self-care. I needed that more than I ever knew. I’m a go-getter, so it took me a lot of time to learn how to be in a relaxed state – it took me seven years to even be able to close my eyes in yoga!” Strebe also received support from her mother-in-law, a jeweler and gemologist. “She’d give me a piece of amethyst to put in my pocket before a big hair show. If I was feeling anxious, I’d put my hand on my pocket, take a deep breath and know that it was there.”
Beautifully Balanced
Shortly after turning 18, Strebe moved to Portland, Oregon, to enroll in cosmetology school, working part time at a grocery store to pay her tuition and entering every competition she could. Her talent soon attracted the attention of a recruiter who encouraged her to come work at a notable salon chain. After graduation, Strebe went knocking on her then-dream salon’s door – but they didn’t hire her. “It was always a big goal of mine to work for them, so I was really bummed out,” she says. “But there were six of these chains in Arizona at the time, and I knew I’d have a better chance of getting hired if I lived there. I was getting tired of the rain and cold anyway, so I decided to just go for it.” Strebe’s gut instinct was right – thanks to her tenacity, she ended up working for the salon for seven years, being promoted to educational director before taking her skills to Europe. “It really showed me that the sky is the limit. It wasn’t easy getting into these salons, but I took the leap and hoped for the best. The whole experience taught me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”
Blog or Bust After years abroad, Strebe returned to the Valley on the hunt for more ways to share everything she’d learned. She pitched some
30
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Ever the educator, Strebe knew if she needed to learn how to practice self-care, others likely felt the same. Inspired by the benefits of crystals, she embarked on a quest to develop products that encourage people to think beyond outer beauty. After five years of rigorous product testing, Strebe debuted AIIR Professional (www.aiirprofessional.com), an innovative line of hair care products that incorporate pulverized crystals and natural botanicals to promote a centered life and healthy hair. Though the multimillion-dollar company is now in over 900 stores, not everyone had faith in its success from day one. Before launching in late 2019, Strebe pitched her idea to investors, and all of them turned her down. It was a humbling experience, but one that pushed Strebe to remember her maxim – that she can do anything she sets her mind to. “I kind of had a pity party for a bit, and then woke up one day and told my husband, ‘I’m going to do something crazy!’” Five days before Christmas, Strebe decided to fully invest in herself, paying the last of the bills before draining their savings to get AIIR off the ground. “We had $68 left in our account, and I never looked back. It was my calling, and I knew in my heart that it was going to work out, I was just unsure about how. But if you don’t take the risk, you lose the chance.” Today, Strebe is often asked about her tips for balancing a busy life, but she believes people already have the answer inside of them. “If you feel you aren’t spending enough time with your children or husband, you’re not, so step away from work and focus on that. Don’t feel guilty – work’s always going to be there. Life is never going to be perfectly balanced, but you’ve got to listen to your gut.”
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a leading and preventable cause of death in the U.S.
IF YOU… YES NO
Have difficulty walking without taking a break due to leg pain.
YES NO
Have pain, numbness, or cramping in your legs or feet.
YES NO
Have been treated for neuropathy and are still experiencing symptoms…
You may have Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)—a life threatening condition. However, if caught in time, PAD can be treated without the need for invasive surgery or general anesthesia. While September is PAD Awareness Month, you should be aware of the often subtle signs and symptoms of PAD year round. Contact our office today to set up a consultation with one of our providers, your family, friends and loved ones will thank you for it. Most insurance and Medicare accepted.
pad101.org
Phone:
ciccenters.com
(602) 954-0777
JOEL RAINWATER, MD • MICHAEL SWITZER, MD • HASSAN MAKKI, DO • KERRY ZANG, DPM • SHAHRAM ASKARI, DPM DANIEL SCHULMAN, DPM • KIMBERLY LEACH, DPM • BARRY KAPLAN, DPM • JEFFREY WEISS, DPM
Pulse BEAT
HOPPING INTO FASHION
Nikki Gersten McAvity’s brand shifts gears from masks to clothing and accessories
BY MEGAN DEMKO / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
Just as the phoenix arises from the ashes and starts anew, craft makers have begun to flourish after struggling with the pandemic. This development resonates deeply with Scottsdale designer Nikki Gersten McAvity, whose small business of making masks has transformed into a fashion hot spot for people in search of stylish accessories and clothes. Gersten McAvity has always been interested in the fashion industry. While growing up in New York City, Gersten McAvity was inspired by her chic surroundings and the hubbub of city life and visited grand art museums in the city, which in helped shape her joy of art, design and entrepreneurship. As an adult, Gersten McAvity moved to Scottsdale, started a family with her husband and opened a small company on Etsy named Robot Bunnies (www.robotbunnies.com) – originated from her son’s love of bunnies. During the pandemic, the designer’s brand primarily sold personalized masks and provided masks to frontline workers in the her hometown of New York. “Literally on my block where I grew up, Lenox Hill Hospital had a morgue truck in front of it and then they were opening a makeshift hospital in Central Park where I played as a kid,” Gersten McAvity says. “I felt that my heart was in New York.” Her offerings started with surgical masks and “I Heart New York” masks before transitioning to support feminist moms. Today, she now also sells sun hats, clothing and accessories. “My passion is in the fabrics and the patterns and the designs and working with the artists,” Gersten McAvity says. “I’ve gotten to know the artists that create the patterns that I work with.” Part of what makes Robot Bunnies unique from other companies lies within Gersten McAvity’s ability to make items to order rather than creating the generic sizes that are usually seen in retail stores. Her items are specially made for each individual and are custom designed by her. Additional offerings include bucket hats, wrap skirts, and whimsical pillows.
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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Pulse BEAT
SUMMITING OBSTACLES
Entrepreneur and Mount Everest summiter Jeff Gottfurcht refuses to quit when things get tough
BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE / PHOTO BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
Bad news can often stop people dead in their tracks, but not for Jeff Gottfurcht. It fuels him forward. At age 27, while in the middle of his 14-year career on Wall Street, the California native was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that mainly attacks the joints. Gottfurcht’s doctors warned him that he would be in a wheelchair by age 40. Instead, Gottfurcht summited Mount Everest. “I had no time to celebrate at the top because I knew my journey was only halfway complete. The celebration took place when I was back home safe with my family,” he says. Before this, Gottfurcht had successfully climbed a majority of the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each of the seven continents, and other mountains around the globe. However, Mount Everest was always the goal. Once Gottfurcht achieved it, he decided to shift his focus. “As I reflect, I realize I was not climbing mountains so people could see me, but so I could see the world and change it,” he says. Thus began his philanthropic work and advocacy. Gottfurcht now travels the world to speak about rheumatoid arthritis, inspiring those diagnosed with autoimmune diseases to achieve their dreams no matter what. “I enjoy being an example for those who are told they cannot do something when they can,” says Gottfurcht, whose philanthropic efforts earned him the title of Man of the Year by the United Nations and its International School in 2010. His desire to change the world continued. In 2019, Gottfurcht created Cyber Dive, a social media monitoring platform that allows parents the to gain insight into their children’s online experiences. The entrepreneur was inspired to create Cyber Dive (www.cyberdive.co) after following the story of a young girl who was sexually assaulted. Photos of the assault were posted all over social media, making the young girl a victim to relentless online bullying. Gottfurcht, a concerned dad of three, said “enough.” “I knew something needed to be done to protect children from this type of online abuse and wanted to give parents peace of mind when allowing their children to explore social media,” he says.
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
THE SECOND FIRST IMPRESSION
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Pulse HIS STYLE
SUITING UP
Nayan Ranchhod adds personalized flair to every outfit
BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY
Whether in suits or sweats, Nayan Ranchhod always keeps his look sleek and fun while adding personalized touches to stand out. At night, the financial advisor prefers to sport casual looks but during the day, you’ll find him rocking everything from tailored designer suits and personalized cuff links to simple white T-shirts and quirky socks. “My socks keep me from taking myself too seriously and every set of cuff links [I own] tells a story,” he says. Inspired by people around the world, Ranchhod embraces his life as the son of immigrants, with parents from India and Zimbabwe, shaped by his Oklahoma roots. “I think about how people’s clothes make me feel and then when I get dressed I try to think about what message I am conveying about myself while keeping it timeless and approachable,” Ranchhod says. Some of this favorite more casual brands include Allen Edmonds for classic, American-made pieces and Lululemon for perfectly fitted polos. Ranchhod’s No. 1 piece of style advice? “Just be you, don’t try to be someone else. If you are confident, then people around you will be confident.”
What is your most prized possession? The first suit I came to Phoenix with. It is a Jones New York black pinstripe that my mom and dad bought for me and I still have it. How do you transition your look from day to night? My kids help with this, they are usually pretty active so I have to transition pretty quickly so as to not get gummies, paint, or whatever they want to do all over me. I have definitely played outside in my suit inside the bounce house once or twice. What would someone say if they looked at your closet? That it is completely organized and color-coded. Depending on if I knew you personally or professionally first, you would get a kick out of what is opposite of the way you know me.
36
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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Pulse HER STYLE
DAZZLING IN DENIM
Fashion entrepreneur Sara Peterson adds a pop of glam to jeans and beyond
BY MANDY HOLMES / PHOTO BY BEVERLY SHUMWAY
Sara Peterson has lived on both sides of the country – and it shows in her wardrobe. Her style has an East Coast feel, thanks to her upbringing, with an edgy Arizona vibe. While she loves to incorporate a little glam in every outfit, Peterson can almost always be found sporting some form of denim whether it’s a jacket, bag, or accessories from her custom embellished denim company, Gorgeous Things. “I dress for my mood, and typically there is a theme of that day that I am trying to express,” she says. In addition to her signature denim items, Peterson gravitates toward black ensembles which she often accents with a pop of red, big hoop earrings, or animal print accessories. “I know animal prints have been trending, but I have been wearing them since my teens,” she says. For fun and flirty fashions, the designer turns to Alice + Olivia for wild prints, classic cuts and unexpected styles. For jeans and denim jumpsuits, she favors Pistola Denim. One thing you will never catch the busy mom of four wearing: flat shoes. “I’m only 5 feet, 5 inches tall and have always felt sexier and more confident with a great pair of heels,” she says.
What is your most prized possession? My wedding dress and vintage Bulgarian lace veil. I had a very special relationship with my mother-in-law, and she gifted her veil to me. What will we see you in on weekends versus workdays? On workdays I am in my “she shed” mostly, so I am wearing something lightweight. On weekends, I love to dress up, typically in a black dress or jumpsuit with leopard or red shoes and a Chanel or Louis Vuitton bag. How does your career influence your style? They are totally intertwined! Although my customs are a reflection of the person that they are created for, and their story, I always like to put my design stamp on them.
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Carmen Rayis, Physician Assistant, Master Injector
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d ars behin t s d e it ir The sp est bars Valley’s b
the
Crafting the perfect drink is truly an art form, from selecting the right spirits and balancing the remaining flavors, to picking the right embellishments and making something as beautiful visually as it is delicious. Out to make both your drinks and your experiences special are the oft-unsung heroes – or shall we say artists – who sling the spirits, garnish the glasses and elicit those intoxicating aromatics for your sipping pleasure: the bar team. Join us in shining a light on these thoughtful, skilled kings and queens of the local cocktail scene.
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Christiaan
Röllich
Bar chef, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa
What do a clown, body double and psych ward housekeeper all have in common? Each is a job that Christiaan Röllich held while on the road to becoming Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa’s bar chef. Röllich’s story begins in his native Netherlands. During his teen years, he worked at a tavern and spent summers cleaning a mental institution, albeit one his parents owned. His dreams, however, involved neither hospitality nor housekeeping. “I wanted to be an actor, so I moved to Los Angeles in 1997,” says Röllich, who worked a host of odd jobs, including one as Brad Pitt’s body double in Ocean’s Eleven and as a clown on Melrose Avenue. His favorite non-acting gig was behind the bar at James Beard Award-winning restaurant Lucques, known for using sustainable, seasonal ingredients. “I wanted our cocktails to be just as fresh,” says Röllich, who started handmaking bitters, liqueurs, vermouths and more, leading the program to be lauded as among California’s best. The recipes Röllich innovated, both at Lucques and its sister concept A.O.C., became that of legend. “It was clear my true path was in cocktail research and innovation,” says Röllich, who developed recipes there for over 15 years before publishing Bar Chef: Handcrafted Cocktails in 2019. His book was honored at the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Spirited Awards in 2020. During COVID-19, Röllich and Arizona native wife, Melissa, decided to make the move to the Valley, which led to a meeting with Sanctuary executive chef Beau McMillan. “He wanted to reignite the resort’s cocktail program and invested in my vision – from harissa-infused syrups to truffle oil washes – to make it a reality,” says Röllich, who joined Sanctuary in late 2020 and has an authentically autumnal menu coming out this month. He is also launching his own cocktail brand, Golden Eagle Spirits, by year’s end. So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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Ciara
Klabunde
Bartender, Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town
Ciara Klabunde has had a laundry list of jobs outside what one might consider traditional. “It has been a wild road for sure, but one that led me here, for which I am grateful,” Klabunde says. While an Arizona native, Klabunde grew up in Las Vegas. Given the proximity to the entertainment industry on the Las Vegas Strip, between the ages of 18 and 28 she worked as a swim instructor, beach club lifeguard, hookah lounge host, timeshare tour guide, spa assistant and even mechanical bull operator. “Yes, I was the person who decided if you got an easy ride or if you fell fast and hard in front of all of your friends on the bull,” Klabunde says. Her interest in cocktail research and development started when she became the assistant manager of Tacotarian and Tacos & Beer simultaneously in 2017. “By late 2018, I knew I wanted to make the move to bartending,” Klabunde says. “I also knew I wanted to move to Arizona to be with my sister, who lived here.” In January 2019, Klabunde packed her truck and drove to Phoenix, out to build a new life and embark on the new career. Within a week, she earned positions at both The Scott Resort & Spa and Postino WineCafe. “I put my head down and soaked up every ounce of knowledge about spirits, flavor profiles, garnish, and glasses that I could,” Klabunde says. “By mid-2020, I was ready for a bigger stage – or three.” The first stage came in the form of Outrider Rooftop Lounge at Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town, where she earned a bartending position in October 2020. “I also contributed three cocktails to our Cobre Kitchen + Cocktails, which will reopen this month,” Klabunde says. Finally, Klabunde was chosen by Hensley Beverage Company to compete in its Cutwater Spirits Mixology Competition, where her recipe development skills are up against the best in the business from across Arizona through month’s end.
42
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Nicholas
Padua
Beverage director and head sommelier, The Americano
Hawaii native Nicholas Padua had two aha! moments early in his career, both involving wine. “In Hawaii, we all work in hospitality at some point,” says Padua, who started as a busser and worked his way up at local haunts to a manager position by his early 20s. Padua applied for his first fine dining job – as a server at Spago by Wolfgang Puck at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea – at 24. “The interview was going fantastic, until they asked me the difference between pinot grigio and chardonnay," he says." I had no idea. So, despite my experience, I was only offered a busser position." Padua took the job and threw himself into the study of wine. He became a server in just two months. “That next aha! moment came one night after work, when the dining room manager called me over to where he was eating,” Padua says. “He offered me foie gras with pineapple chutney.” The dining room manager told him to sip a bit of Sauternes wine with his final bite. “You know in cartoons when a character’s head literally explodes? That was me, metaphorically,” Padua says. “I decided then to devote my life to giving others similarly mind-blowing moments.” Over the next 15 years, Padua worked a host of positions at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Tarbell’s Tavern, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale and Bourbon Steak Miami. “My work in wine took me down the path to cocktail development,” says Padua, noting his first menu debuted at Four Seasons in 2014. In 2019, Padua joined The Americano, first as a sommelier and then in 2020 as beverage director. Unfortunately, COVID-19 hit. “I was on my own about a year, but we’ve now welcomed back our full team, notably rock star Christopher Cuestas,” Padua says. “Together, we are pulling out all the stops – from combining amaretto and strawberry essence to debuting glowin-the-dark recipes – to get back to blowing minds.” So Scottsdale! September ‘21
43
Kyla
Hein
Beverage director and co-owner, Pigtails Cocktail Concepts
Kyla’s Hein’s first bartending job was a bust. Actually, it was a burst. Hein, a Washington native, moved to the Valley on a break from college after visiting family here in 2012. “At the time, I’d studied both fashion merchandising and teaching, but still hadn’t found my niche,” she says. “I made the move to regroup.” Hein took a job at Rosati’s Pizza, despite having no experience. When asked to make a martini, she didn’t even know the shaker required a top. “I started shaking it, and the contents burst into the air, and then all over me,” say Hein, thankful at the time almost all orders were for beer. Hein would continue pouring mostly beer at Arena Sports Grill, K O’Donnell’s and Four Peaks before taking a job at Market Street Kitchen in 2016. “Bar manager Garrit Guthrie took me under his wing and educated me on craft cocktails. I was hooked,” Hein says. “Together we earned the 2017 Foodist Award for best beverage program.” When Guthrie departed, Hein was named bar manager despite being eight months pregnant with her first child. She stayed with the brand several years, notably through its conversion to Liberty Station, before departing in 2019 to tend bar at Pigtails Desert Ridge. “In line with taking on big jobs at the same time as big life events, I was promoted to Pigtails’ bar manager a few weeks before getting married that same year,” Hein says. “I also won the Arizona Tiki Oasis Bartender Battle in 2019 with a cocktail called the Desert Dame, earning the nickname ‘Desert Dame of Dram’ as a result.” Today, Hein is the co-owner and beverge director of Pigtails, while still innovating behind the bar. She also helped open sister concept Rough Rider in Phoenix. “Of course, I did it while pregnant with my second,” says Hein, who returned from maternity leave in August and is currently planning two new concepts, both set for 2022 debuts.
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Anthony
Escalante
Bar manager, Wrigley Mansion
To say someone was born to work in a bar sounds odd, yet such is the case with Anthony Escalante. “My grandmother owned The Overflow bar in San Francisco, where I grew up,” Escalante says. “Try as I might at other things, including a stint as a mechanic, bars and hospitality are in my blood.” In 2009, Escalante moved from San Francisco to Los Angeles, earning a concierge job at the famed Chateau Marmont. The only thing he liked more than the constant celebrity shenanigans – none of which he can talk about in great detail thanks to a confidentiality agreement – was the bartending team. “I learned what I could from them in my spare time, eventually deciding to make cocktails my full-time career,” says Escalante, who relocated to Phoenix in 2012 and got his first formal position in bartending at Bar Smith. When it came to dreaming up bold recipes of his own, Escalante’s star rose quickly. He moved on to Melinda’s Alley, Dust Cutter at Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel and even served on the opening team for Little Rituals before being recruited by Quench Fine Wines, a locally based wholesaler of fine wine and craft spirits, in 2019 to help develop recipes for several brands. “I got close to the Wrigley Mansion team while working with them through Quench, so much so that they offered me the bar manager position in 2020, with my primary goal to develop signature cocktail menus for the reopening of both Geordie’s and Geordie’s Bar as well as for Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion,” Escalante says. His mixology mission with each menu is threefold in that he wants to showcase an eclectic mix of lesser-known spirits, pay homage to the history of Wrigley and innovate offerings that will usher in a whole new generation to the Valley landmark. “I think grandma, who recently passed, would be proud,” Escalante says. So Scottsdale! September ‘21
45
Jordan
Romano
Mixologist, North Italia at Kierland Commons
While a Scottsdale native, Jordan Romano’s family roots are firmly planted in Italy. “With a last name like Romano, you better believe we were all about food, cheese and otherwise,” says Romano, who spent her early life learning about Mediterranean cooking and even Italian wines (but not drinking them yet!) in her family kitchen and at the dinner table. When she was 17, while a senior at Pinnacle High School, Romano got a job as a food runner and busser at North Italia in Kierland Commons. “It felt like an extension of my home, and I especially loved the seasonable ingredients,” Romano says. After graduating from Pinnacle in 2012, Romano began her college career at Arizona State University, but stayed on staff at North as well, earning a role as a bartender at 22. “I found myself drawn to the biology of the perfect cocktail, which to me is the combination of a balanced flavor profile, sustainable ingredients and doing as much as possible – from bitters to juices – by hand,” Romano says. Romano got so enthralled with her work that she took a break from school to focus on it full time. “I returned to ASU in 2017, while still working behind the bar at North, to study biology with a focus on conservation and ecology, eager to connect the science of my profession to an actual field of science in the classroom,” says Romano, who graduated in May with her degree and recently celebrated 11 years with North. On the heels of earning her degree, Romano helped develop the “Summer Sips” menu for North’s Kierland location, with one cocktail – aptly named Fig-Et About It for its use of figs and in a nod to her ItalianAmerican heritage – being so popular that several locations across the country added it to their menus as well. It is available through September, alongside more fall offerings that Romano and the team hope to debut for guests by October’s end.
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
Frank
Soldano
Lead cocktail curator, Francine
Though he got his start behind the bar, it took time in the kitchen to turn Frank Soldano into a true mixologist. The California native – who grew up in Kansas – moved to the Valley in 2009 as a senior in high school. While attending Pinnacle High School, he got a job as a bar back at what was then O'Donoghue's in Scottsdale. “Jasper’s Peak Bistro, whose bar program was headed by Eddie Garcia, was next door. I spent hours watching Eddie do his thing, enamored with his technique and creativity,” Soldano says. While he befriended Garcia, Soldano did not approach him about a job – not yet, anyways. Instead, after high school he moved to Alaska and got a job in the kitchen at the world-renowned Alyeska Resort. “I fell in love with ingredients and teamwork there,” says Soldano, who worked his way up to chef before moving back to the Valley in 2012, promptly earning a chef position at SumoMaya. Soldano got reacquainted with Garcia, who, at the time, served as the bar manager at jade bar. This time, Soldano approached him about transitioning from cooking to cocktails. “He encouraged me to pour – pun intended – myself into the history of mixology,” Soldano says. “Eddie saw my niche as telling a story to customers verbally, aromatically and visually before even serving them my drinks. He was right.” Soldano moved on to lead Barrio Queen’s bar program and serve in guest bartending roles at Zinc Bistro, Tonto Verde and more over the next several years. In mid-2020, a friend encouraged him to visit Francine to check out the talent behind the bar. “They were telling the story – and colorful history – of the French Riviera through cocktails while complementing each dish. It married everything I loved," he says. He started as a bartender a month later and today oversees the brand’s cocktail program, including its soon-to-be released fall menu boasting papaya, sumac, plum and even Fresno chili shrub. So Scottsdale! September ‘21
47
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The Griffin Porter Homes team goes above and beyond It’s rare to meet someone who has witnessed the valley’s transformation from a sleepy desert town to the 5th largest city in the country. Kelly Griffin Porter, owner of Griffin Porter Homes with RE/MAX Fine Properties, was born and raised in Scottsdale where she watched the city’s growth with her own eyes while following the fluctuating real estate market for most of her adult life. Being from Phoenix comes with advantages others don’t have: that of long-term relationships and a vast network of connections that includes landscapers, roofers, contractors, lenders and agents. Kelly has insider knowledge of the market that only comes from time and provides clients with a unique concierge service. Before pursuing a career in real estate, Kelly was in marketing and sales where she did everything from radio advertising sales to publisher of Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine and then owning a video production company. Her marketing expertise enables her to create a unique, creative strategy for helping her clients buy and sell homes that has proven to be a massive success, just ask all her happy past clients. Great communication skills keep clients engaged and in the loop throughout the process and no question goes unanswered. For Kelly, creating trust is imperative especially when handling the biggest purchase her clients will ever make. The Griffin Porter Homes team motto is to do ‘whatever it takes’ for their clients. Whether that is finding them the home of their dreams or helping them move, they deliver. The backbone of the Griffin Porter Homes team is constant communication, transparency, going above and beyond and utilizing the knowledge and experience of the team. “I encourage potential clients to shop around and interview other real estate agents, knowing confidently that no other agents match the knowledge and “can do” attitude that we bring,” Kelly says. It was the loss of her dear friend and mentor Del Rounds in 2021 that shaped the positive outlook she brings to everything she does. “He inspired me and taught me how to create real estate magic and his optimistic attitude resonates with me daily,” Kelly shares. Looking ahead, Kelly and her team’s goal is to be the best in the Scottsdale market by providing top notch service. Continually surprising and delighting clients in the ever-changing real estate landscape is what her and the team do best! To contact Kelly Griffin Porter call 480.712.7980 or visit www.kellygriffinporter.com or www.griffinporterhomes.com
GENUINE CARE, GENUINE RESULTS Jeffrey Serpa with Serpa Certified and Russ Lyon Sotheby’s
Jeffrey Serpa is more than just an incredibly talented and experienced Real Estate agent – he’s also a genuine and caring person. With a diverse background in sales and various clientcentric positions, Jeffrey truly makes the process of selling or purchasing property a great experience. In his own words, “If you think the home buying/selling process feels like a roller coaster, I will make it the most fun you’ve ever had on a roller coaster!” He recently started his own brand, SerpaCertified, which aims to provide both accurate Real Estate updates and market trends, as well as information regarding the luxury lifestyle in Arizona including residential resale or new build construction like the gorgeous Camelot Homes abode he is pictured in front of. Jeffrey plans on launching the website in the near future, and states that he’s incredibly excited for the upcoming launch. He says, “Watch for my “coming soon” teasers…I think you are going to love it!” This enthusiastic, positive, client-centered approach to his career has helped to elevate Jeffrey above his competitors and always keeping his clients at the front of his mind is what sets him apart. “If you ask any of my existing clients, they would tell you the first things they noticed about me is my genuine care for their wellbeing. There will never be a deal worth more than my clients bet interest,” he says. “Treating every client as if they are my only client has catapulted my business and found lifelong friends who will still be there if/when I ever hand up my license.” Jeffrey aims to help each client meet their individual needs and goals – not just limited to the property itself, but also in finding a great location, community, school district, and so on. Jeffrey isn’t just a great salesman – he truly cares about people and his community. For him, Arizona is the place he calls home and he feels fortunate to live in a state that offers so much beauty and imaginative lifestyle options. This is evident from his involvement is various community and charity groups, including working with Habitat for Humanity, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and – as of 2021 – volunteering at various animal shelters across the valley to help give furry friends a second chance. When choosing Jeffrey as a real estate agent, you aren’t just picking someone who will help with paperwork – you’re picking someone who will truly care about the whole process just as much as you do. To contact Jeffrey, call 480.689.8901 or visit www.serpacertified.com *COMING SOON*
UNPARALLELED DEDICATION, UNPARALLELED RESULTS
Lisa Roberts with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Lisa Roberts is honest, passionate and dedicated to real estate. A long-time Arizonan, Lisa graduated from ASU in a mere three years while working full-time, demonstrating just how hard of a worker she was even at a young age. She now has over 11 years working in the industry. All of her hard work has paid off, as she has earned numerous awards in her career, including being listed as one of the Top 10 Individual Realtors for Volume and Units sold in Arizona. In addition to these awards, her career path speaks for itself – Lisa has been able to offer her clients unparalled results while being present for them every step of the way. “I treat you like you’re the only client I have. Being a superstar is helping the buyer or seller as if they are the only person that exists, despite all the chaos that may be going on in the day-to-day grind,” she says. The keys to Lisa’s success are communication, relationships, and organization. “My network and being one step ahead of the client and everyone involved in the transaction is of the upmost value, coupled with social and print media, video marketing and International exposure,” Lisa says. By working with Lisa and Sotheby’s International Realty, clients are offered more services than any other brokerage. “The branding alone, coupled with the services that I provide, is a perfect match for anyone wanting to buy or sell a home in Arizona,” she shares. Lisa’s high level of work ethic as well as her focus on the client truly sets her apart from other agents. Besides being a salesperson, a buyer’s advocate, a market analyst, a business manager, a consultant, a negotiator, and a marketer, Lisa is the tour director of the Scottsdale Luxury Home Tour. In addition to continuing to build her brand and reputation, Lisa also explains that her full-time assistant has the same standards of high-quality service as her, making them a truly dynamic duo. Lisa’s designations as a Certified Luxury Home Designation specialist and Certified Residential Specialist are the two highest Realtor education titles to hold. Her online reviews from past clients show exactly how she exceeds expectations. And whether its 5 minutes after closing or 5 years down the road, Lisa’s level of response and communication never fades. If you’re looking for an agent who will always answer their phone, be a bulldog, and always represent your best interest, then consider Lisa Roberts. To contact Lisa call 480.232.3291 or visit www.lisaroberts.com
A FAMILY AFFAIR
Lisa, Matt, and Laura Lucky of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Despite what their name may suggest, Lisa, Matt, and Laura Lucky didn’t get this far in real estate thanks to luck. The mother, father, and daughter team at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s owe their 20+ years of success to their dedication, hard work, and diverse talents. Lisa Lucky worked in Xerox sales before transitioning to real estate. Her husband Matt Lucky worked in mechanical and software engineering. He is an expert in digital map-building, an invaluable skill when it comes to land sales. Laura studied at the W.P Carey School of Business at ASU, and drives the family firm’s marketing. The Lucky’s credit their diverse training as what gives them an edge in a highly competitive market. “We have a dynamic team that brings different strengths to the table,” says Laura. The Luckys describe their business as “client centric” thanks to the team’s detail-oriented organization skills. They consistently give their clients the exposure they need to sell their homes for the highest prices by utilizing Laura’s expertise in robust marketing. As a family business, the Luckys want to help other families in their community and that often means putting in extra hours to ensure that everything is done right. Friends and clients are the backbones of their business. The Wall Street Journal has recognized Lisa Lucky as one of the top 250 agents in the United States (multiple times). She also ranks among the top 1% of agents in Arizona. But Lisa is much more excited for upcoming milestones within her own family. Laura is set to get married in 2022, and she and Matt are excited to have a new son-in-law. In the meantime, the team is always looking to improve themselves and support their local community. Laura listens to an inspirational podcast every morning before work and spends her free time reading. “Reading is a great way to add perspective and allows you to think outside the box,” she shares. Based in North Scottsdale, the Luckys show other local and family-owned businesses the same support they have received. After all, their favorite part of working in real estate is meeting new people. They also cite the Bible verse Romans 12:4-5 as a great motivator. The verse reads, “we’re better together than we are alone.” To contact The Luckys call Lisa 602.320.8415, Matt 480.390.0445, Laura 480.390.5044 or visit www.LisaLucky.com
LIKE FATHER LIKE SON
Raul Siqueiros and Niko Siqueiros with Jack and Raul “A Real Estate Group” Raul Siqueiros and Niko Siqueiros are a father and son duo who are taking Arizona luxury Real Estate by storm. Raul, the elder Siqueiros, has been a licensed agent for over 17 years and specializes in selling luxury homes in Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. Niko, brings a talented new perspective to their team and primarily works with first time home buyers alongside his dad. Raul is a founding partner at Jack and Raul- A Real Estate Group, and has recently welcomed his only son to the company. Niko has grown up in the industry and is now hoping to follow in his father’s footsteps and further develop their family’s legacy. By combining family values, experience, hard work, and fresh ideas, these two are truly making their mark. “Our strong meaningful community and Broker connections coupled with our exclusive sales strategy and unique way of telling the story of a home in order to procure a buyer is what we are known for,” Niko shares. The duo’s love for each other and emphasis on family is evident– when asked what Raul loves most about working in Real Estate he responds: “It’s such a privilege to work together in an industry we both love. We love helping first time buyers realize their dreams of home ownership.” He goes on to explain what motivates and inspires him, explaining, “We motivate and inspire each other we are family and both have seen peaks and valleys in our careers and at the end of the day we are all we have. Friends will come and go but family is forever.” This source of motivation serves them well, as the team has achieved numerous impressive awards and recognition. They were ranked #3 in the world by Realty Executives International, and have worked with many top developers in Arizona, including on some of the largest residential high rises. They are also members of the Realm, an invitation only exclusive membership organization. When asked what’s on the horizon for their group, Raul explains that the future is bright. They are looking forward to strategic growth – focusing on quality over quantity – and furthering their modern approach to helping clients buy and sell their homes. Raul states that he and Jack remain the driving force behind Jack and Raul, and that welcoming newer agents such as Niko to the group will help to provide a fresh viewpoint. To Contact Raul or Niko call 480.560.1744 or visit www.jackandraul.com
MOVING WITH MARNIE
Marnie Rosenthal – a Leading Real Estate Industry Expert. Buyers and sellers alike, throughout the valley have Moved with Marnie Rosenthal. Why? Marnie of Team Marnie Luxury Real Estate brings her unrivaled product knowledge, time-tested market experience, and her resilience through the roller coaster of market values to her highly successful business. Her top-notch expertise and success from her past and present Clients, truly make her a “Real Estate Superstar”. Marnie specializes in a creative marketing approach through social media and high-quality videography to best highlight her Clients’ properties along with the utilization of unique QR codes for each of her listings. Marnie’s listings are made more accessible to a larger audience through her application of cutting-edge technology. The personal touch and caring attitude Marnie exudes is present in all she does for her Clients. She strives to maintain a finger on the pulse, researching new businesses or developments and how they will impact real estate. Marnie and her team work to stay abreast of the ever-changing market by attending seminars and obtaining necessary designations to maintain expertise in the evolving market. She is then able to convey this knowledge to her clients to educate them on the current market. Marnie loves to give back to the community by donating her time and resources to charities, shelters and food banks that help families in need. She is currently serving on the SAAR Leadership Academy and the DC Ranch Gives Committee & Leadership Academy. She has two office locations in North Scottsdale and Scottsdale Waterfront to help Clients. Marnie has also created a series highlighting home finishes & how home needs have changed due to Covid 19 and the market. For more than 15 years, Marnie has excelled in the Real Estate industry, working to provide superior service. “Perseverance, hard work & determination are the keys for setting my business apart from the rest,” states Marnie, “to take care of my client’s needs to the best of my ability.” Marnie prides herself in providing personal attention to every Client, making them feel that they are her top priority. Her business has a huge referral base for which she is truly grateful. Move with Marnie today! To Contact Marnie Rosenthal call 480.298.2971 or visit www.TeamMarnie.com
THE HENBEST TEAM Holly Henbest, Team Leader
A Realtor for 15 years, Holly Henbest established The Henbest Team with Realty One Group and is known for her results and reputation. She credits her background in hospitality, sales, and management to her success in real estate, making her an expert when it comes to customer service and business negotiations, leaving both buyers and sellers who work with her raving. “Our experience in handling so many different types of situations and challenges and always rising to the occasion to solve and create solutions sets our team apart. We have a very “let’s make it happen” attitude and we love to create an experience for our clients that leaves them in awe,” she says. To Holly, every transaction is unique, but she has a tried-andtrue formula that her team customizes to each client and the results speak for themselves. Even during this unprecedented year, Holly and her Team have helped sellers achieve unimaginable earnings and buyers pitch winning offers. Even those who came to her feeling hopeless about their prospects were amazed at the results the Henbest Team achieved. The Henbest Team has received plenty of recognition in the Real Estate industry – but the award that means the most is their client testimonials and hugs when they hand over the keys. “I recently cleaned out my garage and had boxes of framed awards and statues and realized it wasn’t the award that brought me happiness, it was the journey of creating the results that generated the awards,” she shares. Even with over a decade of experience in Real Estate, Holly is always looking for ways to improve her business. Her best advertising has been word of mouth and satisfied clients who are eager to recommend the Team to their peers. But not one to rest on their laurels, she and her team are always brainstorming and experimenting with new ideas to continually improve their clients’ results. Holly understands the importance of social media marketing in leading a successful business, and they have received recognition for their accounts. “Our social media showcases things to do in town, our favorite local businesses, and AZ fun facts because where you live isn’t just your house, but also your “home town” and we want to help people discover all the reasons to love it here as much as we do!” Holly says. Contact Holly Henbest at 480.266.8785 or visit www.henbest.com
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
Christine Espinoza with RE/MAX Fine Properties Christine Espinoza grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. After graduating from the University of Arizona, she began her career in real estate working alongside her dad. With nearly 24 years of experience, Christine works with buyers from in and out of state, some of whom purchase properties sight unseen based on her recommendations. She works with sellers to creatively market their properties in order to secure top dollar for them. When asked about her career path, she explains she was fortunate to have her father as a guiding figure in her early career. “He was my real estate mentor and we were partners for several years before I ventured out on my own”. In 2016 Christine partnered with Helene Cass, the top agent in her neighborhood. “As Helene approaches retirement, I will continue the legacy she began by delivering excellent service, with the utmost integrity to insure we remain the #1 Team in McDowell Mountain Ranch.” Christine’s focus is to help people, not just find houses, but a home. “I work at being connected in the community as a way to serve others, not just in real estate, but also to serve those in need. I believe the more I’m involved by networking and staying current on topics impacting our community, the more I can help my clients with referrals and area information,” she says. With the use of social media, Christine stays in touch with past clients and offers potential clients a glimpse into what she has to offer via her unique marketing style and skills. “They can see the type of properties I sell, watch my videos featuring local businesses, Doctors, Teachers, Schools etc. and get a behind the scenes glimpse of my life and family,” she says. It’s no surprise with her core values and extraordinary drive, Christine was voted one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Business and has been the recipient of annual RE/MAX awards for her production, technology and innovation, including the 2020 RE/MAX Titan award. Christine’s top priorities are her sons Dominic and Brody. Additionally, year after year, her dedication to her community and her connection to people is evident. “I build life-long relationships with my clients. I’m a connector in the community and I pride myself in running my business as a professional with integrity, always acting in the best interests of my clients, who so often remain in my life as friends.” To contact Christine call 602.989.7492 or visit www.ChristineSellsScottsdale.com
YOUR VALLEY EXPERT
Chris Usher makes dreams come true If there’s ever been a realtor that knows the housing industry it’s Chris Usher. As a daughter of a perfectionist home-builder, she was practically born and raised on construction sites. Her passion for Real Estate and problem solving began early, and now she does it all: including building, renovating, and selling. Chris first began building and remodeling houses with her husband in 1981 when they moved to Scottsdale where they have built and modernized several homes. “When I walk into a home that needs work, my mind starts remodeling it the second I enter. I understand homes from the ground up,” she says. Chris is truly dedicated to making her clients happy. “I love working with people and helping them accomplish their goals,” she shares. “Sellers need to sell and get the best price for their home, and buyers need to find their dream home. When I make that happen for my clients, it is extremely gratifying.” Her passion and perseverance does not go unnoticed by her clients—she’s got all 5-star reviews on Zillow, Facebook, and Realtor.com. Chris has been in the game long enough to understand and predict price trends and tell you the best time to buy or sell your home. She’ll work patiently with you every step of the way until you’re ready to make the decision- it’s no wonder she’s in the top 1% of all Arizona real estate agents. As a top agent, Chris uses her negotiating expertise which is paramount to achieving the right price on your home and ensuring a smooth transition through the escrow process. She utilizes her extensive network of interior designers, contractors, and vendors who can help you get your home ready to sell and collaborate with other agents to get your home seen. Buyers are able to take advantage of her extensive network when they buy a home that needs work. Chris has earned numerous awards including RE/MAX International Chairman’s and Platinum awards, but that is not her focus. Giving back to the community is important to Chris and she supports Foothills Animal Rescue by highlighting a dog or cat every week on her Facebook posts called “Foster Friday.” An avid animal lover all her life she says this is the best part of her week and she feels blessed to be able to work with this amazing organization! To contact Chris Usher, please call 480.861.6624 or visit www.usherhomes.com
CASHMAN PARTNERS… NOTHING COMPARES
Sally Cashman, Kathleen Prokopow, and Tonja Howard Each of these dynamic women brings her own personality, history and expertise to Cashman Partners, the partnership that has consistently shown Top 1% results since 2012 and continues to thrive within Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Sally’s vision for Cashman Partners has evolved over the years, with dedication to the perfect client experience. After graduating from ASU, Sally embarked on a 30-year sales career starting at Xerox, then owned and managed a successful local food marketing firm. A shift in priorities brought her to real estate where she says she is truly at home. “Having perspectives from both corporate and private enterprise has given me the best of both worlds. It’s a perfect formula,” Sally shared. Kathleen’s expertise from 17 years in real estate coupled with her leadership roles in the industry brings strength and confidence to the team. Her commitment to clients and solid reputation among her colleagues is evident in all she does. “What we do every day is of such importance. People need advocates, and we are here for them from start to finish,” says Kathleen. Tonja has brought to Cashman Partners contagious positive energy, compassion and an entrepreneurial skill set from her years of business ownership and investing. “I truly believe our clients need more than just ‘closing the deal’. So much more goes into this process,” Tonja says. “We all share the same values. Long term relationships and valuable connections both locally and globally are cornerstones of this business. We believe in careful consultation with our clients and collaboration with our trade partners. Nobody is a solitary success,” says Sally. This top performing team has closed nearly $50M in transactions so far this year, along with an additional $12M in Sotheby’s referrals across the country. Sally, Kathleen & Tonja are deeply invested. From the first client visit to closing, their commitment to helping people through life transitions is reflected in every transaction. These three genuinely enjoy their time together. Serving their communities and charitable efforts beyond real estate, dog-loving Cashman Partners is thrilled to announce the return of Paws at the Park which Sally spearheaded in 2019. This event brings people with their pups together to benefit several canine rescues and nonprofits. They are starting the planning already for February 2022. To contact Cashman Partners call 602.339.2680 or visit www.cashmanpartners.com
THE POWER OF 4
You can count on Bee Francis, Karen Baldwin and Kathleen Benoit The Power of 4 Team at Desert Mountain’s Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty possesses the experience, market insight and tireless work ethic to provide white-glove concierge service to their clients. As Desert Mountain residents, club members, and full-time agents, they credit their collaborative approach and joy of service for much of their success. Their accolades consistently include Local, State-wide and National top rankings. Drawing from each other’s strengths gives The Power of 4 an edge over the competition. Bee, a native of Sweden, comes from an Economics and Marketing background and has embraced Scottsdale Sales since 1997. Karen served as SR Vice President of an International Motivational and Goal Setting firm and, armed with an extensive marketing foundation, began Scottsdale Sales in 1992. Kathleen draws from her experience as a SR Real Estate Executive in Marketing & Development, with a focus since 1990 in Luxury Sales that spans Dallas, Chicago, San Francisco and Scottsdale. “Hard work, keeping up-to-date with our market and working with wonderful clients is how we got to where we are today,” Bee shares. “Working closely with Lyle Anderson, Developer of Desert Mountain and Desert Highlands, coupled with our love of what we do has been incredibly beneficial for our clients!” Karen says. The relationships that the Power of 4 is known for creating last long after the transaction is closed. “It’s a joy to meet people from different parts of the country and find experiences and friends in common - as well as introduce newcomers and help them forge friendships in a new community,” shares Kathleen, “Our networking, day-to-day dedication, love of North Scottsdale and our industry is what make the Power of 4 stand out. We’ve watched Desert Mountain grow to become the world-class community that it is today!” Karen shares. And the team’s drive to provide incomparable service is apparent. They were recently recognized in the Thousand Rankings in Wall Street Journal for being in the top 1% of Realtors in the US by sales volume in 2019 and 2020, #2 in Arizona for small team sales by volume in REALtrends America’s best for 2020 and “Top Real Estate Teams” in Phoenix Business Journal for 2020. To contact The Power of 4 call 602.708.7300 or visit DesertMountainExperts.com
AN AGENT WITH HORSE POWER
Josie Pakula, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Known as the horse property expert throughout Arizona, Josie Pakula understands and appreciates the unique nature of equestrian properties in Scottsdale and beyond. Originally from Chicago, Josie graduated from the University of Illinois with a Master of Science in Nursing and an MBA followed by 11 years of serving in the Army on Active Duty and then the Reserves. “Studies show that Nurses make the best Real Estate agents because they care about their clients and truly want the best for them!” she says. Since 2010, Josie delivers only the highest caliber of professional service and personal attention. She understands that an investment in equine real estate will likely be one of the most significant financial decisions you will make in your lifetime – thus she strives to enhance every step of the process with the utmost care and dedication. With listings in the White Mountains, Kirkland, and Skull Valley, Josie uses imaginative property promotions that focus on marketing to specific buyers. “I’ve always been innovative in understanding the power of target broadcasting the right message to the right audience,” she shares. Josie’s listings continuously garner a lot of attention and being connected to numerous exclusive equestrian groups gives Josie an advantage over others. She understands the needs and current market trends when it comes to luxury equestrian properties. Whether buyers are looking to breed, board or train horses, or just desire a small mare motel, Josie can find the perfect property to suit their needs. Josie’s hard work ethic is apparent with every transaction. She was in the top .01% in the State of Arizona (2020) and recognized as a “Top Women in Real Estate” by the Women’s Council of Realtors for 4 consecutive years along with numerous other awards and distinctions for her leadership and sales production. As someone who is devoted to client satisfaction, Josie tailors a customized concierge service for her clients from the beginning stages of the transaction through closing and especially beyond. “My goal is to exceed expectations and, in the process, establish a lifelong relationship,” she says. Real estate is her business, but horses are Josie’s passion. Her horses, DeAndre, Kyler, and Budda reflect her love of the Arizona Cardinals as well! To contact Josie call 480.223.3633 or visit www.josiepakula.com
SUCCESS FROM AK TO AZ
Peggy Young knows experience makes a difference! Peggy Young is driven, detail oriented, and has over 25 years of experience, bringing a vast amount of knowledge as well as a positive, client-focused attitude to the table. Her track record speaks for itself, as Peggy has been a top producer since the beginning of her career when she won a “Rookie of the Year” Award in 1996. An active member of her community, Peggy moved to Arizona in 2008 and is a top producer at RE/MAX Fine Properties. Peggy gained several years of experience working as a Realtor in Alaska prior to her move to the Phoenix area in 2008. She explains that she arrived in Arizona in the midst of the real estate market crash during a time when “There were foreclosures and short sales everywhere and I didn’t know my way around. But I did what I knew best, and love to do... and that was selling houses,” she says. Just over a decade later, Peggy is both established and successful thanks to her persistence, ethics, customer service, listening skills, and ability to put her clients first. “I have the ability to work with all kinds of people at all levels and make them feel comfortable,” she shares. In 2020 she ranked #7 in Individual Sales at her brokerage of approximately 380 Realtors and at the end of the first and second quarters of 2021, Peggy ranked in the top 1% of all the Realtors in the Arizona Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS). In addition to her expertise in Real Estate, Peggy is bilingual in Spanish and English, enabling her to help a larger group of clients find their dream properties. So, what set’s Peggy apart from the competition? Perhaps it was best said by her client Darlene Greene “Peggy is smart, responsive, knowledgeable, trustworthy, kind, and dedicated to her clients. I could not recommend her more strongly. I’ve worked with her over two decades.” Peggy understands all parts of a Real Estate transaction including the importance of relationships, effective marketing, and the ability to effectively negotiate. Her hands on approach allows clients to feel comfortable, confident and supported in every step of their property purchase. “I believe that the more you help people and the more you give, the more you get back. I have an abundance mindset, I am very optimistic and I love what I do!” Peggy shares. Contact Peggy Young at 480.241.1040 or visit www.peggyyoung.com
DRIVEN AND DISCIPLINED
Brandon Trowbridge has a system for success Brandon Trowbridge, PPLC Associate Broker at Realty ONE Group, didn’t expect to become a Real Estate Superstar when he left Spokane to join the Air Force, but he has more than lived up to the challenges life has thrown at him. After earning his degrees at ASU, Trowbridge received his Real Estate license followed by years of helping grow his wife’s dental practice. Upon entering Real Estate full time, he applied his business and marketing background with his military training to develop his own systems and processes. In addition to his successful residential resale business, Trowbridge has led over twenty clients through the new home building process with over a dozen builders. “If you’re thinking about building a new home, make sure you find an experienced Real Estate Broker to accompany you on your VERY FIRST VISIT that has great familiarity with that process, connections and relationships with the production builder sales people, and a specific set of processes unique to the new build transaction,” he advises. The rigorous systems he applies to his work have saved his clients hundreds of thousands of dollars. Besides regularly attending meetings and making step by step checklists for clients, he is a master in the art of remote transactions, so that clients can relocate or buy second homes in Scottsdale without flying in. As a former serviceman and Special Forces trained Pararescue, Trowbridge’s discipline, sharp eye for detail, and open communication are the secrets to his success. His motto is “a luxury real estate broker is not defined by a price tag or sales, it is a level of service, integrity, and trust.” He believes not only in customer service, but a truly memorable “customer experience.” Clients admire Trowbridge’s integrity and can always count on him to pick up the phone to answer any questions. When looking for a Real Estate Broker to list your home for sale, Trowbridge suggests interviewing a few. “Remember, it’s not what price you “list” your home for, it’s what a buyer is willing to pay and ultimately what price your home “sells” for that matters,” he shares. In his free time, Trowbridge volunteers as an adoption counselor with Puppy-Luv Animal Rescue and helps rescue, rehabilitate and release wounded predatory birds at Wild at Heart. His time as a volunteer reflects his greatest goal in real estate: Helping others. To contact Brandon Trowbridge call 480.216.1241 or visit www.phoenixhousingsearch.com
THE ARTISTIC INVESTOR
Wendy MacKenzie, Real Estate Professional with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Clients come to the multitalented Wendy MacKenzie for residential, commercial, and investment properties and Wendy wows them every time with her versatility. The realtor has years of experience in real estate development, management, investments, and even design. Before real estate, fashion was her passion while she studied at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in British Columbia. Her affinity for style and real estate merged in 1999 when she worked as a real estate manager for Lululemon. Following her college graduation, Wendy bought and sold several properties in Canada. She eventually moved to the investment side of real estate where she has designed several homes in Arizona and Canada. Throughout her international career, Wendy has developed an extensive network of agents on both sides of the Atlantic. She only trusts the best of the best to work with her clients. Well known for her enthusiasm, approachability, and patience, Wendy handles residential, commercial, and investment properties for her clients. “My client’s needs are always at the forefront of my business” she shares. Whether the client is a firsttime homebuyer or experienced investor, she understands that they each have their own unique needs and desires and she takes pride in fulfilling her client’s dreams while making the process seamless. At the forefront of Wendy’s business is providing clients with the most responsive personalized service attainable. Her business finesse and dedication to her clients have garnered her a reputation for excellence not only in the United States and Canada, but even the United Kingdom. Despite spending over two decades working in real estate, Wendy isn’t sure she’d call her career work. “In over 20 years it has never felt like “work”. Real estate is not a “job”, it is a passion for creating dreams for people, and how wonderful is that! It is a blessing to serve my clients and their needs year after year,” says Wendy. Her dedication to others doesn’t end with the workday. Wendy is passionate about breast cancer awareness and volunteers as a fundraiser for Honor Health Breast Cancer Awareness throughout the year. In addition to real estate, Wendy and her husband enjoy golf, traveling, and frequenting the Arizona restaurant scene. To contact Wendy call 602.617.3280 or visit www.wendymackenzierealtor.com
THE CLIENT IS ALWAYS RIGHT
Jan Kabbani goes above and beyond to deliver white glove service Long before COVID was part of our vocabulary, Jan Kabbani was already preparing for the way homes are marketed today. As the owner of Jan Kabbani Luxury Homes, Jan made the commitment to focus on online and virtual marketing thanks to her entrepreneurial background and marketing experience. “I was prepared for the change and adapted seamlessly by utilizing walk-through tours, video, and exceptional photography to partner with Sotheby’s International Realty’s network for broader exposure of my client’s properties,” she shares. Armed with a deep knowledge of the local market, strong negotiation skills, keen attention to the details, turning creative ideas into marketing action, and excellent sources of data and research, Jan knows exactly what each neighborhood can offer to match and find the perfect homes and lifestyle for her long list of satisfied clients. “I’m very grateful to have achieved success, and it seems the harder I work, the luckier I am. My clients are the “stars,” she shares. Built on word-of-mouth recommendations, Jan’s clients know that when they call, she is the one picking up the phone. “I’m personally accessible and the point of contact throughout the process and communicate with my Sellers and Buyers regularly,” she says. Most of her clients become her friends, resulting in repeat referrals to other friends. Now more than ever, Jan understands the power of relationships and is able to harness her ability to connect and “read” her clients to ensure together they can achieve their goals and lifestyle transitions. “There are challenges in every transaction but being prepared and solving the challenges is an enormous responsibility I’m ready to take on,” she says. “And my clients and I always manage to have some fun along the way!” In fact, it’s Jan’s clients that inspire her every day. She understands that they are often going through life transitions and she feels honored to help them achieve their goals at every stage of life. It is this mindset that has earned Jan numerous recognitions including Top 1% - Valley wide - 2020 - Russ Lyon’s Elite – 2020, America’s Best, Top Ranked Agent – 2021, Arizona’s Best Real Estate Professionals - #35 - Individual by Total Sales Volume, America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents – 2019 and Top 10 AZ Residential Real Estate Women. To contact Jan Kabbani call 602.739.5050 or visit www.jankabbanluxuryhomes.com or www.jankabbani.com
COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Janelle Flaherty prides herself on relationships and resources Janelle Flaherty with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is a third generation Arizona Native, hailing from Paradise Valley. After graduating from ASU with a bachelor’s degree in marketing followed by obtaining her real estate license, Janelle has been practicing real estate since 2006. With her husband as a NRHA Professional Reining horse trainer, Janelle has enjoyed finding her niche assisting clients in the equestrian community with their real estate needs including but not limited to horse property throughout the whole state. “From the first time home buyer to the seasoned investor, I am here to make the real estate process as seamless as possible and provide fabled service as a trusted real estate advisor, hopefully for a lifetime,” she says. Dedicated to excellent communication, personal attention, and focusing on relationships rather than transactions, Janelle continues to build a network of people who can support her clients after a transaction while maintaining a personal relationship with each client. “My goal is to provide a service experience so stellar, there is no question who they will use and tell friends to use for future real estate needs,” she shares. Being the wife of a horse trainer and showing horses all of her life, Janelle is acutely aware of what people need in an equestrian property. Being an Arizona Native, and having lived throughout the state, she has a working knowledge of locations and markets both in and out of the Phoenix metropolitan area. This past year, Janelle doubled her best yearly sales and is on track to double her 2020 numbers by the end of 2021. She was also a 2021 40 under 40 award recipient from the Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS and was selected to be a part of Class 24 Leadership Academy. “I consider it a gift to serve friends, family and those in my community by sharing the knowledge and experience I have gained in the industry, these past 15 years.,” she says. No matter how small or large the sale is, Janelle gives 100%. “With my husband as an entrepreneur as well, and our businesses working hand in hand, it is truly all about balance: working hard, but also taking the time to enjoy the things we love. We are blessed to be able to show our kids that when you put your heart and mind to something: great things can be accomplished!” Janelle says. To contact Janelle call 602.615.3251 or visit www.janelleflaherty.com
EXPERIENCED AND PASSIONATE
Jean Ransdell and Danielle Anderson at Arizona Luxury Realty Group Jean Ransdell and Danielle Anderson put their clients first, even before themselves. “We work 24/7 if necessary,” Jean says. “We work and work some more until we have successfully accomplished what our clients hired us to do.” Although the mother/daughter led team does specialize in selling expensive luxury homes, they’ve sold plenty of mid-range homes and rental properties too. “No real estate transaction is too small or too large,” Danielle says. She sees the value in helping clients with any needs, no matter the price: “After all, clients that rent will eventually become buyers and then sellers as they go through their life events,” she says. “When clients know we are doing our best to accomplish their goals, they then refer us to family, business contacts, friends, and neighbors.” Jean graduated with her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware in 1981, and has been working in Real Estate and property management since 1983. Her non-stop hard work and perseverance has brought her the success she has today, along with her vast marketing expertise. This year, she and her team have sold a $4 million house in Silverleaf, a close to $3 million lot in Paradise Valley, and several properties in Desert Mountain with values ranging in the millions. Danielle graduated from ASU in 2005 and after several years of traveling with her husband, they settled back in AZ with their 1-year-old daughter before she joined forces with her mom in Real Estate. Besides selling homes, the dynamic duo handle rentals, staging, marketing, lender assistance, and anything else that should come up throughout a transaction. This team is proud to be associated with the # 1 brokerage in the nation, Coldwell Banker Realty, with the resources to help their clients with all their real estate needs, they are here for you! Arizona Luxury Realty Group has received multiple accolades for their outstanding service and efforts to keep up with the current market demand. “We only take on as many clients at a time that we feel we can personally give our attention and service to,” Danielle shares. “Our clients are not passed on to assistants, they get our personal service 100% of the time!” “I love meeting and making new friends with all my clients. In fact, I do not think of it as a job or even work. I truly love what I do and look forward to every single day of getting up and continuing to do what I love,” Jean states. To contact Arizona Luxury Realty Group, please call 480.294.3257 or visit arizonaluxuryrealty.com
SHE SELLS SCOTTSDALE
Pamela Torgrimson aims to be the best Pamela Torgrimson believes working together to reach her client’s goals and it’s simple to be nice and professional at the same time. Not only is Pamela an Associate Broker of She Sells Scottsdale with Realty ONE Group with over 13 years in the industry, she also has experience in running her own business as well as flipping homes. Pamela’s familiarity of new construction as well as remodeling expertise enables her to offer a valuable knowledge base to her clients. “I pride myself on knowing the contractor side of homes and have an extensive vendor list already built here in AZ,” she shares. Although Pamela came from a family that worked in Real Estate in Minnesota, she did not follow in their footsteps initially. She owned and operated 2 successful salons for 20 years before deciding to add Real Estate to the mix. “I finally decided to get my Real Estate license and moving to AZ was a huge dream/goal of mine. I bit the bullet in 2015 and have never looked back. I love warm weather and I love sunshine!” she shares. Pamela founded She Sells Scottsdale by building relationships both with her clients and local businesses. Her quality of work is evident from the glowing client reviews, who Pamela states are one of her favorite parts of her career. “I know everyone thinks their clients are the best, but I have a tendency to make great friendships with my clients and I really care about every single one of them,” she says. In addition to building sincere, quality connections, Pamela also acknowledges the importance of building a brand, implementing unique marketing strategies, and changing with the times, explaining that one of the keys to her success is, “staying on top of the market and adapting to the changes every week,” she says. “My listings always have professional photos, some will be put in magazines, some will have drone shots and I understand that every property is unique and that needs to be seen to sell the home!” A huge dog lover, Pamela has been known to feature her client’s pets in marketing campaign and her unique mix of personal and professional experience combined with her genuine and adaptable approach to business make working with her a truly delightful experience. To contact Pamela Torgrimson call 602.803.6904 or visit www.shesellsscottsdale.com
ANCHOR TO AGENT
Connie Colla opens doors in Arizona Residents of Scottsdale may know Connie Colla from her TV days, if they don’t already know her for her real estate prowess. In her first career, Connie was an Emmy Award winning news anchor for NBC, The Comcast Network, and various local stations in Phoenix, Philadelphia, and San Diego. She was the show host and managing editor of “Your Morning” on the Comcast Network in Philadelphia, broadcasting to 16 east coast states and 30 million homes. Following the September 11th terrorist attacks, Connie found herself in need of something else to occupy her mind after spending day in and day out delivering heartbreaking news stories. “I started buying old stone colonials on the Main Line outside Philadelphia and restoring them to their original grandeur. It was cathartic to take something that was falling apart and put it back together, giving it new life,” she says. That started her passion for the real estate business. She’s now the successful owner of The Connie Colla Group at Launch Real Estate, and among the leading realtors in Scottsdale. Connie and her team work to ensure a white glove service for their clients: They handle everything, from home prep, luxury marketing, lenders, venders, contracts and negotiations. Connie’s tenacity as a strong negotiator when both buying and selling has proven to be a powerful tool for her clients. “Recently, we netted our clients well over a million dollars above what they paid for their home only two years ago!” Connie says. “That takes tremendous strategy, ad money, beautiful marketing, and work behind the scenes from my whole team as we build value in what we’re selling.” So what’s next? Connie plans on adding more agents to her team soon. She’s quick to point out her success is a team victory. “The days of single agents trying to do it all are over. There is simply too much to do if you want to do your job exceptionally well,” she says. This year, the Connie Colla Group won a multimedia award honoring excellence in marketing and Connie herself has been recognized as one of the Valley’s Top Agents. “There is no substitute for a local, experienced Realtor, who knows your neighborhood, understands you and your goals, and knows how to make your home even more valuable and distinguishable from the rest of the pack!” To contact Connie Colla, please call 480.599.5058 or visit ConnieCollaGroup.com.
EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY & SERVICE Francesca Hamilton of 50 STATES Realty Hamilton Luxury Group
Francesca Hamilton grew up in sunny San Diego where she began her career in sales and marketing followed by a move to Arizona to work in property management. “This gave me the chance to meet so many people who were transitioning to the valley from out of state. I realized how much I enjoyed helping people find their home and settling in,” she says about the career change. Francesca began her Real Estate career in 2014, and hasn’t looked back. Today she continues to specialize in helping clients who are relocating to Arizona and those that are selecting homes for their investment portfolio, including short term rentals like AirBNB/VRBO or longer-term rentals. Francesca and her team are able to help with nearly any real estate service by representing a wide variety of properties, from small family starter homes to multi-million-dollar mansions, as well as investment properties. “I sincerely care about each of my clients’ transactions regardless of the dollar amount,” she says. And focusing on her client’s needs and goals every step of the way is the key to her success. Even if you’re not buying or selling, she is always willing to help with general industry questions and vendor referrals. “Service above self-interest” is what Francesca has built her business on. “If everything you do in your business is completely focused around your client’s best interest, it will always be a win for your client and you will gain their repeat business or referral,” she says. It’s rare to find a coveted realtor who’s the opposite of pushy. “I’m not afraid to remind my client that it’s okay if they decide to cancel a sale, or need to wait a year to buy,” she says. Her solutions based no-pressure approach is a breath of fresh air for her clients. “I find a way to make unique scenarios work for my clients no matter what I am presented with while staying positive.” So far in 2021, Francesca has created a new AirBNB concept home for her investment portfolio. She has also added a variety of new digital services for her clients. “Staying in tune with the newest technology available is always a priority,” she says. Francesca is on the Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors 40 Under 40 list of 2021, and has a multitude of 5-star reviews on Facebook and Zillow. To contact Francesca Hamilton, please call 480.382.8514 or visit hamiltonluxurygroup.com
TRUE GRIT
Jen Wehner of The Wehner Group with eXp Realty & The Fast Track Network at eXp Realty. A trailblazer in real estate marketing, Jen Wehner is results driven. While Jen was pricing out business opportunities during her Business School days in California, she kept a close eye on the Phoenix real estate market. Realizing the cost of living was much more affordable, she moved to the desert and started flipping houses. “I worked with investors, buyers,and sellers to acquire single-family and multi-family homes as well as luxury development,” she says. Since that day in 2003, Jen has remained faithful to real estate and now operates her own successful team, The Wehner Group. So, how does she do it all? “I don’t quit,” she says. “I may fall down, but I always find a way to get back up. I look at each challenge as a way to get better and persevere past those challenges to become the master of an industry where 72% of agents don’t renew their license after the first 2 years.” This tenacity has led to numerous recognitions and awards for Jen and her team, including the #7 Mega-Team by Transaction (2021), #5 Mega-Team by Volume (2021), Team of the Year award (2019), and the Woman of Strength award. The Wehner Group distinguishes itself by offering top-of-theline cutting edge marketing techniques that back up their #1 core value of “think big and stay curious.” Jen stays on top of the market to seek out the best opportunities for her clients whom are often looking for luxury properties and investment and development prospects. The team also offers weekly information to clients including market updates, home valuation tools, off-market homes, new inventory, and investing webinars. Jen knows that the people she surrounds herself with are the heart of her business. “By finding your tribe and delegating your time wisely, you are absolutely capable of achieving anything you set your mind to,” she says. Jen and The Wehner Group are focused on more than selling houses. In January they launched an intensive 30-day real estate agent training course, called “The Fast Track Intensive” that involves various training assignments as well as accountability and culture, all designed to get the agent into the ‘muscle memory’ of everything it takes to be a productive agent,” Jen says. “The stories of gratitude from our students have been some of the most heartwarming yet, and I know we are having an impact on the futures of our organization.” To contact Jen Wehner, please call 480.405.5330 or visit wehnergroup.com
A REALTOR WITH HEART
Heather Oldham with The Noble Agency Ranked in the top 3% of realtors in the valley, Heather Oldham is a hard-working, optimistic agent who sets herself apart with both her positive attitude and exceptional work ethic. Heather’s passion for helping people find a home that they can grow into with their family, and at the same time build wealth for their future in a new area, was inspired by her personal experiences. She explains that she grew up moving every few years, so being able to help people acclimate to a new city or place isn’t just part of her job – it’s something she’s truly passionate about. With a background in sales and marketing, Heather has been in the industry for more than 5 years and has personal experience with investments, making her a pro to guide those who are looking to grow their income in real estate. In addition to welcoming a new baby girl, Heather had her best year to date in sales- proving how truly hardworking and talented she is when it comes to organization and multi-tasking. “I take great pride in going above and beyond for my clients,” she shares. “I try to put myself in their shoes as they go through what can be a stressful time. It can be an emotional journey and I try to make it a positive experience. Even after the transaction closes, I’m there for my clients for anything they might need and we often become friends.” When asked about what the secret to her success is, Heather explains, “Having a great attitude and finding the good in every situation so that it will help me be more knowledgeable in the next transaction. Putting my best foot forward every day is all I need to be happy and successful. Knowing that I did my best each and every day for my clients is what gives me gratitude.” Heather also credits successful business women with helping to inspire her. She says, “Tracy Fitzgerald and Nicole Humphrey, both with The Noble Agency, always inspired me. As a young agent, I would follow them on social media and really admired how hard they worked, their class, good attitude and kindness they showed to everyone around them.” Now, Heather is among the very woman she once looked up to in terms of being a hard-working mother and rising star in valley real estate. As one of Heather’s favorite actor Rebel Wilson says, “I look back now at that girl and I am so proud of what she’s become and achieved.” To contact Heather call 480.433.2723, HeatherOldhamHomes@gmail.com
YOUR LUXURY REAL ESTATE CONCIERGE Delaney Rotta of My Home Group
Delaney Rotta of My Home Group (MHG) provides a concierge Real Estate service by going above and beyond for clients, even the ones that are unable to physically be in Scottsdale. In addition to managing the transaction from start to finish and beyond, Delaney is happy to take care of the little things like checking the thermostat, bringing in the mail, and arranging your ride from the airport. “I provide an elevated level of service throughout the buying and selling process,” she says. Even in the midst of the Covid19 Pandemic, Delaney’s firm, MHG closed on over $7 billion worth of Real Estate in 2020. In 2021, she looks forward to shattering even more records. “My career is filled with constant growth, learning, competition, and excitement” Delaney says. But just as you would expect from someone who provides such tremendous help to her clients, money isn’t what makes the job satisfying for her. “I love winning deals for my clients,” she raves. And her clients know that their best interests are her first concern. A Fashion Design and Business Management graduate, Delaney revels in the creativity her job requires. She works with only the best lenders, trades, and marketing team to implement new sales techniques that edge out the competition in addition to working closely with her Transaction Coordinator who doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to details. If she looks familiar, you may recognize her from HGTV, where she hosted the pilot episode of Phoenix Flipped, a show featuring Delaney and her sister renovating and selling homes throughout Phoenix. For her, a career in Real Estate was a natural fit. “My dad is a successful home builder in Canada, my mom is a wildly talented artist/decorator and my husband is a custom home builder. I feel I have always been surrounded by the business in some aspect,” she shares. And no one inspires her more than her husband, who balances running a business with raising two young daughters alongside Delaney. Delaney is as dedicated to her business as she is to her clients and she’ll drop everything at a moment’s notice to attend a showing, negotiate a contract, or answer a client’s call. If there’s a problem, don’t worry, Delaney will be there to solve it. As she insists, “there’s ALWAYS a way!” Contact Delaney Rotta at 480.435.5232 or visit www.delaneyrotta.com
CARE, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY Michelle Noma brings an authentic, genuine, and honest approach to real estate
Focused on residential real estate and working with buyers and sellers to make their American dreams come true, Michelle Noma will go the extra mile for her clients to get the deal done. As the owner of Michelle Noma Real Estate with Keller Williams Arizona Realty, Michelle has always had a passion for sharing knowledge. “I find that my background in education is a huge part of my success as a real estate agent,” she says. The key to her success is always making sure she’s better than she was yesterday — whether that means studying up on the market and new trends, or earning designations such as Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE), First Time Home Buyer Consultant (FTHBC), Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource Certification (SFR) and Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE). “This industry moves fast, so being a quick learner and eager student of the business has served me well,” she says. In these fluctuating markets, it takes top notch customer service and hard work to find the right home investment or obtain the highest sale. As a top agent with over 12 years of experience, Michelle is abundantly prepared to help you list and sell for top dollar or work with investors to bring multiple cash offers for a faster close. “What makes my business unique is that I am the one running it,” she shares. “I believe everyday interactions are what make the experience, which is why I’ll never pass you off to someone else.” At the heart of her business, is a focus on responding to her client’s needs. “I’m a believer that the process can be fun if you choose the right person to be by your side,” she reveals. “I always sit down with my clients and come up with a game plan to best meet their goals and regardless of the situation, I’ll work to provide an option for the best-case scenario.” And Michelle’s passion for real estate and her community is evident. This past year, she has been featured in Homeowner Magazine’s Scottsdale 40 Under 40 and Voyage Magazine. She’s a mentor for the Challenge Foundation and active in supporting Homeward Bound with toy and backpack drives. “I want to be a role model for my five-year-old triplets and show them that you can be a single mom, contributing community member, and successful business woman at the same time!” To contact Michelle, call 480.639.8502 or visit www.DesertRidgeLiving.com
LONG-TIME ARIZONAN, FRESH IDEAS Judy Casiano with Launch Real Estate
Judy Casiano is innovative, hard-working, and determined. An Arizona native, Judy’s family has lived in the state for several generations and she has worked in Luxury Real Estate in the valley for the past 14 years. This heritage is part of what motivates her – she strives to keep the area she loves a wonderful place for others to live as well. Specializing in selling Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek, Carefree, Fountain Hills and North Phoenix, Judy isn’t afraid to think outside of the box to help her clients achieve the results they want and need. She explains that adaptability and fresh thinking has been key to her success in the industry. “You need to constantly adapt to our growing and developing market. Success in Arizona often means being on the forefront of change and many times, I have found that applying unconventional strategies produce the highest value and results for my clients,” she says. This approach has served her well, as her career continues to expand. New for Judy in 2021 is the launch of her own Real Estate brand in South Florida. She explains that it will be specializing in the Florida Keys. When asked what makes her a Real Estate Superstar in Arizona, her answer is both humble and genuine. “It’s hard for me to accept such a great compliment. I feel as though I am lucky to have the trust my clients give me and blessed to be doing what I love,” Judy shares. “Full transparency with my clients builds a foundation of respect. Sharing my knowledge through good communication is important when dealing with a client’s investment.” Not only has she been motivated by her family’s long time residence in the area, but her relatives themselves also play an important role in her day to day motivation. She credits both her late father, as well as her husband for inspiring her with their intelligence and hard-working dispositions, as well as her two daughters for motivating her to be the best she can be. Outside of work, Judy works with and supports numerous charities, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital, UMOM, and Sheriff’s Memorial Fund. Judy is far from your average Real Estate agent – she is a creative, forward thinking family woman who truly cares about helping others. To contact Judy Casiano call 602.376.4844 or visit www.Judycasiano.com
SCOTTSDALE BORN & RAISED A NATIVE
Debra Savittieri of Savittieri & CO with Remax Excalibur Debra Savittieri was born and raised in Scottsdale and fell in love with the real estate industry as a teen while working alongside her father –a renowned interior decorator.” He would send me out on appointments and I would talk to the clients about changing the esthetics of their home,” she says. “I met many people who eventually moved from home to home throughout the years and call on me again for help.” This early exposure to helping others decorate their homes set her on a lifelong career path. Debra not only helps buyers and sellers, but she herself has invested in real estate in Scottsdale for 35 years. Debra’s integrity, commitment, honesty, & knowledge of the metropolitan area is just part of what makes her a superstar agent. Understanding the history and living here for decades while connecting with so many residents of Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Phoenix sets her apart from other agents. Debra can help a homebuyer pick the best property that is best suited for them based on their lifestyle, but also guides her clients into making the right investment in their purchase. “I have never wanted to be a part of a team or grow a team myself,” says Debra. “I believe in working directly with my clients during the entire process.” The woman behind Savittieri & CO believes the only way you can honestly help someone sell or buy residential real estate is by being 110% fully committed to the growth between her clients and herself. “I provide my clients with almost everything they want—from temporary housing, to staging, decorating, to even managing their properties,” she says. “The backbone of my company is my stellar reputation, and devoting my attention to my clients every single day,” Debra says. Decades of perseverance and measurable success in the field have proven her abilities without a doubt. Debra success has satisfied her many clients and led to her receiving several awards including ones through Russ Lyon Realty and RE/MAX Fine Properties throughout the past 23 years. She is a member of Scottsdale Association of Realtors, Luxury Home & Golf Community Specialist, Luxury Home Tour Member, Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce Member, and Listed in Sanford’s Who’s Who’ & a certified Negotiation Expert. To contact Debra Savittieri, please call 602.570.9007 or email Showhome2u@cox.net
COMMERCIAL BROKER EXTRAORDINAIRE
Market knowledge is key to Bob Lundstedt’s success As a long time, Arizona resident and seasoned commercial real estate professional, Bob Lundstedt is experienced, talented, and an expert in the North Phoenix commercial real estate market. While he grew up in Chicago, Bob explains that his love for Arizona started at an early age. His older brother played for the Chicago Cubs and was in SCOTTSDALE during the spring for spring training. Bob and his family would take annual road trips to see him for Easter. Bob describes the lasting impact these trips had on him, stating, “At 12 years old, I had a paper route, and I was always checking the Arizona weather while rolling my papers, in anticipation of our trip. Upon our first arrival, I planted in my head; palm trees & mountains, I’m moving there someday.” Bob’s childhood dream became reality, and he has now been a valuable member of the community for several decades. Bob has been in the commercial real estate business since 1981 where he has focused his efforts exclusively in the I-17 Corridor and has represented tenants, users, investors, and landlords for Land, Office, and Industrial properties. He’s spent that time building an immensely successful career. He explains, “I have specialized in the I-17/ Deer Valley submarket for 40 years, completing land sales, building sales and leases for multiple product types varying from office, flex, industrial, storage & multi-family.” His experience in the Deer Valley market is one-of-a-kind, making his services even more valuable to clients as Deer Valley properties skyrocket in demand. Bob explains that with the number 1 busiest general aviation airport and several Fortune 500 companies in the area, Deer Valley has long been a desirable location. With the recent news that TSMC, the world’s largest computer chip manufacturer, has purchased over 1000 acres of land in the area and plan to build a multi-billion-dollar manufacturing plant, demand has gone up even more. Because of this, Bob has a straightforward, confident answer when asked what makes him a Man to Watch in Arizona. He states, “If you want to be in Deer Valley, you will be calling me. I have sold over 200 land sites with transactions in excess of $3 billion. It’s a very tight market, so my client relationships and market knowledge will be of great value.” Contact at Robert.Lundstedt@daumcommercial.com or 602.363.7238, 1702 E. Highland Ave., Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ 85016
A COMMUNITY FOCUSED TEAM
The Kristin Graziano Group delivers exceptional service No one will work harder for your real estate needs than the Kristin Graziano Group with HomeSmart Elite. Led by Kristin Graziano, the team guides clients through their real estate journey by building relationships, not just managing transactions. Kristin loves helping people and inherited her passion for real estate from her grandparents, who were prominent Realtors in Scottsdale when she was young. A Realtor for 18 years, Kristin formed the team in 2015 that has grown to include Aaron Bils, Susan Carvell, Ryann Haenel, and Kim Winter. Aaron is diligent and detailed, and one of the top 5% of agents in the Phoenix area. With a background in real estate photography, Ryann brings new vision as an agent in Scottsdale. In the industry for many years, Susan keeps the team running like a well-oiled machine. Kim manages marketing and Client Care with incredible creative vision that propels the team’s success. But Kristin says the key to the team’s achievements is that they share a commitment to their craft, their clients, and their community: “With years of experience and knowledge, our clients have a competitive edge when working with us. But it’s not all about the business; we treat our clients like family and create relationships that last a lifetime. From cheering on the high-school sports teams, to hosting donation drives and gingerbread house contests, we have an open door for neighbors. We literally adopted the main drag in the community through the City of Scottsdale Adopt-ARoad program! Our deep roots in the community fuel our passion to positively enhance our community. Four of us grew up here in Scottsdale and attended Saguaro High School.” The team values their relationships with others long after they are clients. “We like to see people succeed in their lives beyond real estate. We support their goals and dreams, and celebrate their milestones.” Aaron shares. Susan adds “We genuinely want to see others succeed. We believe in building people up, both our community connections and our real estate colleagues.” Knowing their clients is what helps this team provide the best possible service. Kristin and her team go beyond traditional residential transactions. They have great success seeking out rentals and investment properties, finding off-market opportunities, expertly managing out-of-state clients, exchanges, and more. To reach the Kristin Graziano Group, call 480.229.6569, or visit us at www.kggsellsaz.com
HANDS ON CARE
Kelly Hennessy with Corcoran Platinum Living Kelly Hennessy is an experienced, reliable, and genuinely caring agent. She developed her professional career over the course of 18 years after discovering her passion for the industry at a young age. Her passion for the field was born out of time spent working with her father in his real estate career. She established herself with Pulte Homes after receiving her license. Kelly’s career took root in her 8 years with Pulte Homes and has since flourished after transitioning into resale, where she now works with Corcoran Platinum Living. One of Kelly’s favorite parts of her career is building interpersonal relationships with her clients. “My main objective when working with clients is to establish a relationship where they trust and understand that I will be there for them every step of the way,” she says. “The purchase or sale of a home is the largest single investment a person makes in their lifetime. My goal is to guide them successfully and easily through the contractual, investment, and emotional decisions involved in the Real Estate process.” Her actions, track record and personal experiences with clients prove that these aren’t just empty words. She notes that much of the growth and expansion of her career has come from referrals from past clients, demonstrating the great relationships, friendships and results she has built. Kelly’s person-focused approach and native Arizona roots makes her an especially smart choice for newcomers to the area as well as first time home buyers. Her approach has also earned her several awards. In her 3 years with Corcoran, she has received both the Platinum circle award, and the Circle of Excellence award. Kelly’s caring nature extends past work as well. She is involved in several charities in Arizona, believing that giving back is an important part of life. She explains that she and her daughter make bags containing food, water, blankets, and so on, and hand them out during the holidays – this further demonstrates both her dedication to help others and how hands-on she is. Working with Kelly is all about forming a connection with someone who truly cares about you and your goals. “I believe if you absolutely love what you do, it’s not a job...it’s your passion! I believe my clients know that when they are working with me!” she says. To contact Kelly call 602.318.6661 or visit Kellyhennessyhomes.com
Find Yourself.
4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale AZ 85251 www. CornelisHollander.com 480-423-5000 800-677-6821 PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A. CUSTOM DESIGNS AVAILABLE
Now
L O W D O W N / D O / O U T / E V E N T / C U LT U R E
BY GABBY LEIGHTON / PHOTO BY SEAN GODFREY
Enjoy a shopping experience like no other with the return of Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market. Taking place Sept. 17 through 19 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, the semi-annual event, with community engagement at its core, will celebrate 10 years of business. Patrons can peruse items from over 130 vintage curators and handmade artisans from both Arizona and nationwide. Drawing people from across the Southwest, attendees will find truly unique and one-of-a-kind items, such as jewelry, clothing, home decor, and party design accents. In addition to what seems like endless stalls of vendors, the market will also feature games, food trucks and live music. Tickets are available online and at the door. Times and prices vary, with general admission starting at $8. Parking, $10 per vehicle. www.junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com. So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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Now LOWDOWN
BOOKS & BREWS
NOTES OF FALL
Embrace the impending cooler temperatures with Scottsdale Quarter’s Fall Concert Series. The free event, which takes place in The Quad, will kick off Sept. 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. with a performance by international touring country band Chad Freeman & Redline. The series will run every Saturday at the same time through Oct. 23. The remaining lineup includes rock bands, country rock bands, high-energy dance bands and more. In addition to live music, attendees can also peruse work by local artists. www.scottsdalequarter.com.
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Mountain Shadows is celebrating National Read A Book Day (Sept. 6) with the launch of its new Library Coffee Cart. The pop-up experience, featuring design-focused books and creative coffee drinks, will be offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hotel guests and locals alike can head to The Living Room, where they will find the cart, along with books from TASCHEN’s beautiful Bibliotheca Universalis series, with design, art, and fashion titles. Drinks offered include the iced Design Nut, with two
TAKING FLIGHT
shots of espresso, cola, turbinado syrup, black walnut bitters, and whole-milk foam; and the Coconut Matcha Latte, which is made with coconut milk, matcha, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon, available hot or iced. www. mountainshadows.com.
Renata’s Hearth, one of the new concepts launched with Arizona Biltmore’s recent renovations, is a dinner-only destination serving up modern Latin cuisine. The restaurant recently unveiled a lineup of spirit and cocktail flights, hand-selected by Renata Hearth’s “flight attendant.” Options include tequila, vermouth and cocktail flights, all designed to pair with signature menu items such as Kumiai oysters, wagyu New York steak and roasted Chilean sea bass. Diners can choose from four tequila and mezcal flights (each featuring four tastes), one vermouth flight (featuring four tastes), and two cocktail flights (featuring three tastes) showcasing mixed liquors. The restaurant is also offering to-go cocktails, which serve six people. www. renatashearth.com.
SIPS FOR ALL
IT’S ELECTRIC!
Known for its luxury electric vehicles, Lucid Motors launched its first Arizona retail location at Scottsdale Fashion Square last month. While at the Lucid Studio, visitors can experience the Lucid Air and learn more about the brand’s full lineup, with plans for a separate Lucid service center to open later this year. The company, which has a manufacturing plant in Casa Grande, Arizona, sells high-performance electric vehicles offering 500-plus miles of projected range on a single charge and quarter mile times as low as 9.9 seconds. Models start at $77,400. www.lucidmotors.com.
Maple & Ash’s brunch is already the talk of the town and the hot spot is giving diners another reason to spread the word: large format drinks. Available during the day, these new shareable sippers – which join the restaurant’s tableside mimosa service – serve two to four (or more!) people. Options ($65-$125) include tequila-based B.A.E. (Big Agave Energy), rum-based Boujee & Boozy, and vodka-based Spill the Tea. Those visiting the surf-and-turf destination for dinner should keep an eye out for the whiskey and mezcal flights, which are also a new menu addition. www. mapleandash.com.
GRAPE EXPEDITIONS
The Wine Wagon recently launched, allowing Scottsdale residents and visitors alike a seamless way to travel to and from Arizona’s popular wine region. Hop on the luxe bus and enjoy a full day of exploring the Verde Valley’s wine country. Seats to Cornville must be booked in advance and guests will meet the bus at a North Scottsdale location, where they will travel to three wineries before heading back home. Wineries are dependent on occupancy at each location but may include: Oak Creek Vineyard and Winery, DA Ranch, Javalina Leap or Page Springs Cellars. Individual tickets are available ($99) and The Wine Wagon can also be rented out entirely ($2,500) for groups. Wine tastings and lunch not included in ticket price www.azwinewagon.com.
So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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Now DO
GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE
Picnic for a Purpose Sept. 11, The Farm at South Mountain September is an optimal time to picnic in the Valley, as summer temperatures begin to transition to fall. Enjoy cooler climates this month with the Gentry Foundation for Autism at its fourth annual fundraiser — this year's theme is Picnic for a Purpose. Gourmet picnic baskets, live and silent auctions, an open bar and a craft beer truck, live music by Rock Lobster, and more are on the evening’s agenda. All event proceeds will help further the organization’s mission to decrease the average age of autism diagnosis for families in financial need so that their children can access early intervention services. 5:30-10 p.m. Individual baskets, $250; Couples baskets, $450. www.thegentryfoundation.org. Women Against MS Luncheon Sept. 17, Arizona Biltmore Women Against MS (WAMS), a nationwide education fundraising campaign that creates an empowering environment for women living with multiple sclerosis (MS), cordially invites you to the Women Against MS Luncheon. Learn more about MS and celebrate the strength of those living with it. There will be a delicious lunch, an auction, an opportunity to learn more about WAMS’ impactful work, and a keynote address by international artist, cancer survivor, and spokeswoman for the MS Society Lydia Emily. Event proceeds will benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Phoenix. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $100. e.givesmart.com/events/mJg. Limitless Potential Brunch Sept. 18, Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia Girls on the Run (GOTR) is creating a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to pursue her dreams. The Limitless Potential Brunch, hosted by the GOTR Maricopa and Pinal Counties Council, will allow attendees to support the organization’s empowering mission and vision. The event will feature a delicious brunch, cocktails, a keynote speech given by The New York Times bestselling author Kate Parker, a silent auction, goodie bags, and more. Olivia Fierro, 3TV Good Morning Arizona anchor, will emcee the event. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (Registration opens at 10:30 a.m.). $150. www.gotrmc.org. Evening to Paws Sept. 25, Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia Over the past 50 years, Arizona Animal Welfare and League (AAWL), the state’s oldest and largest no-kill shelter, has saved the lives of more than 100,000 animals. For its golden anniversary, AAWL invites you to the Evening to Paws Annual Gala, a critical fundraiser that continues to support the shelter’s mission. Dress to impress in black and gold cocktail attire and enjoy a live and silent auction, craft cocktails, dinner, live entertainment, and more. Here’s to 50 more years of giving animals a second chance to find a loving home. 6-9 p.m. $250. www.eveningtopaws.org. Arizona Smiles Oct. 1, Downtown Phoenix Nonprofit Smiles and Beyond provides the gift of a new smile to survivors of domestic violence and former incarceration based entirely on donations and volunteer dentists and labs. The organization’s annual fundraiser, themed Arizona sunset happy hour this year, supports all things local and the nonprofit's mission. Join Arizona Smiles for a sunset happy hour at 360 E. Coronado Road, Phoenix. There will be live music, food, drinks and plenty of fun! In keeping with the local theme, attendees are encouraged to stay downtown and enjoy First Fridays on Roosevelt Row. 5:30 p.m. $45. www.smilesandbeyond.org. Connections of Hope Gala Oct. 1, Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia Don your best cocktail chic attire to celebrate the Valley’s youth at Connections of Hope Gala, Teen Lifeline’s largest fundraiser. Attendees will enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, an award ceremony, and entertainment by local youth. President and CEO of Mercy Care Lorry Bottrill will be the evening’s honoree. The memorable evening supports the lifesaving work of Teen Lifeline, a nonprofit that prevents teen suicide in Arizona through several programs, including a peer-to-peer hotline that offers connections of hope to troubled teens daily. 6 p.m. $300. www.teenlifeline.org.
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YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE PAIN Experience Life to the Fullest Again!
Double board-certified, fellowship-trained anesthesiologist and interventional pain specialist
At Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness (ISPW), Dr. Goyle delivers effective, non-narcotic health solutions that alleviate the pain and suffering that is prohibiting you from living your best life.
SPINE PAIN • LOWER EXTREMITY PAIN • UPPER EXTREMITY PAIN PRP (platelet Rich Plasma)
Regenerative Medicine
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes platelets taken from the patient’s own blood to rebuild damaged tendons or cartilage, resulting in the healing of damaged tissue.
Regenerative therapies are a spectrum of cutting edge therapeutic techniques used to naturally treat and heal the cause of a painful condition rather than masking the symptom. Regenerative medicine stimulates and accelerates your own body’s natural ability to heal itself, repairing tissues that are too damaged to heal on their own.
• Back & Neck Pain • Golfer’s Elbow • Osteoarthritis of the Knee, Hip & Shoulder
• Tennis Elbow • Joint Injuries • Ligament, Cartilage, & Tendon Injuries
480.660.8823 • ISPWSCOTTSDALE.COM 7425 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 102., Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Now OUT
EXTRA EXTRAVAGANZA Special additions for an above and beyond bash
Regardless of age, one thing always rings true: There is no better way to celebrate a birthday or special occasion than by throwing a memorable fete. Revel in style with these outrageous (and a little bit “extra”) creative ideas that will make you the host or hostess with the mostess.
BY MANDY HOLMES
Balloons There’s something magical about balloons at any age. They bring color to any room, transforming it into a vibrant masterpiece and provide party guests with a picture-perfect experience that will last well beyond the party. Create & Inflate’s motto is to create pretty things, and that is exactly what the company does. From dazzling backdrop installations to over-the-top balloon creations and event design, the sister duo behind the brand brings dreams to life with their memorable works of balloon art ranging from geometric arches and whimsical columns to cascading garlands and creative centerpieces to fit any theme. Instagram: @createandinflateevents. Living Tables Imagine entertaining guests with a moving table, serving treats or drinks. Storybook Entertainment’s living tables are the perfect way to welcome guests with a signature drink, pass out hors d’oeuvres, or share a sweet treat at the end of the night. The crowd pleasing personalized service, which doubles as entertainment, can be themed and dressed to match any event decor or style. The surreal yet functional tables have actual costumes built around the tables which move with the performers. www.storybookentertainmentaz.com. Marquee Letters Add a little pizzazz to any event with personalized 4-foot tall marquee letters and numbers from SpellLIT. These custom lights, which ignite both fun vibes and the room, create a stunning focal point to wow guests. Every letter and number is hand built in the SpellLIT workshop and can be customized to spell out the guest of honor’s name or age, a proposal if popping the question, or any phrase of the host’s choice. www.spelllit.com. Cookie Dough Cart Edible cookie dough is all the rage and Scoopwell’s vintage-inspired, interactive Dough Cart is the perfect complement to make any party just a little bit sweeter. In addition to standard flavors, the local company allows hosts to create custom cookie dough flavors. Crafted with high-quality, wholesome ingredients, this nostalgic dessert option gives party attendees the delicious flavors of a childhood favorite. www.scoopwells.com. Photo Booth The glamorous black-and-white photos, made popular by parties hosted by the Kardashians and famous celebrities alike, are brought to any local bash thanks to Flashbulb Memories. The luxury photo experience company utilizes a nontraditional Glam Booth equipped with a “magic filter” that eliminates skin imperfections and makes every guest look like a model on film. The booth showcases a modern design and high-end equipment, while guests are guided on poses and instructions from the company’s attendants, leaving partygoers with memories to take home and display. www. flashbulbphotobooth.com.
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480.223.3633 josiepakula@gmail.com
JOSIE PAKULA
EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY SPECIALIST
www.JosiePakula.com
Incredible Opportunity to Own a Part of American History! 341 acres with 60 acres of grass pastures and multiple wells, running creek, barn, workshop, vet room, miles of trails. $4,600,000 / 3 HOMES ON PROPERTY
Stunning Luxury Estate in Premier Cactus Corridor Dream property offering everything a horse lover would want! 2.3 acres, 20 12x12 box stalls, 50x90 ring, 60ft pen. $3,200,000 / 4852 SQ FT / GUEST HOUSE
Wide Open Spaces Rare in the Vallley, Bring the Horses Too!
On the Banks of the South Fork, Little Colorado River
Classic North Central AZ Horse & Cattle Ranch
Rio Verde Foothills beauty on 1.198 acres, majestic views, 4 car garage, four stall, mare motel, arena, pen, plus no HOA!
37 acres in the cool White Mountains, 6 homes/cabins, well-fed trout pond, horse corrals/turnouts, huge workshop.
Skull Creek Ranch. 161 acres, meadows & pastures, fully fenced, remodeled main house + guest house + ranch manager house.
$750,000 / 2360 SQ FT / 4 BR / 3 BA
$3,500,000 / 6 CABINS / INVESTMENT OPP
$3,700,000 / 3 HOMES ON PROPERTY
Now EVENT
A NIGHT OF HOPE
Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels’ annual fundraiser supports Valley youth and their families fighting childhood cancer
BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE
IF YOU GO… What: Night of Hope Gala When: Sept. 18, 6 p.m. Where: Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch, 7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale Tickets: Starting at $250 Information: www. amandahope.org/gala
Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels (AHRA) had to quickly adjust plans last year to safely host its annual fundraiser, Night of Hope Gala, during the pandemic. It took a village, but the event took place and raised $430,000 for children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Things are slightly back to normal for the nonprofit as this year’s event offers both in-person and virtual attendance options. Founder and CEO Lorraine Tallman created AHRA in honor of her daughter, Amanda Hope, who passed away in 2012 after a valiant, three-year fight with leukemia and a nine-month battle with a brain tumor. Throughout her painful journey of chemotherapy and radiation,
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Amanda Hope’s spirits never waned. She dreamed of one day creating a playful and comfortable clothing line for kids to wear during chemotherapy treatments. Tallman sees her daughter’s dream through with ComfyCozy’s for Chemo apparel and AHRA, a nonprofit that provides emotional and financial support as well as education to families with children battling life-threatening illnesses. “I’m sure Amanda is doing a happy dance right now,” Tallman says of AHRA’s efforts. This year’s Night of Hope Gala will take place at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch. Everything will be dedicated to all things old
Hollywood glamour, including the dress code. Guests are encouraged to don their best tailored suits, cocktail dresses, costume jewelry, and – of course – a red lip. Attendees will enjoy an evening of gourmet food, entertainment, dancing, auctions, and the opportunity to learn more about AHRA’s impactful work and meet the people who make it all possible. “Our families will share how we have been by their side for this horrific journey,” Tallman says. “I see the impact every day, but our supporters see and feel the difference they make firsthand. Night of Hope isn’t just another gala, it is moving the needle on best practices for childhood cancer.”
CELEBRATING THE OPENING OF OUR NEW NORTH SCOTTSDALE LOCATION!
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Ask about our anti-aging memberships that include everyting you could ever want!
It’s Never To Late For A Fresh Start HERE’S WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING!
Grand Opening! OPEN HOUSE
from 2pm - 7pm Saturday, September 25th
“Mari is very knowledgeable. She doesn’t push you to do other services. She keeps you natural looking instead of fake and plasticy.” —SANDI O.
Champagne and Hors d’oeuvres served
“The service was very friendly and my face looks beautiful. Thank you for everything! I would highly recommend others giving them a visit!” —KENZIE N.
Prices, giveaways, live demonstrations, music, fun and more!
“Mari is amazing, as a provider myself I highly recommend Mari. She is professional, knowledgeable, personable and makes me look amazing every time I see her!!!” —SUMMER M.
23207 N. Scottsdale Rd. B101 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Call 602.717.0226
BOOK NOW & MENTION THIS AD FOR A SPECIAL DEAL! 602.717.0226 21001 N. Tatum Blvd. #18-1070, 130 . Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 23207 N. Scottsdale Rd. B101. Scottsdale, AZ 85255
FRESHSTARTAESTHETICS.COM
Now CULTURE
ART IMITATING LIFE Mimi O Chun debut’s her playful yet impactful sculptures at SMoCA
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
New York-based artist and designer Mimi O Chun will debut her first solo exhibition at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) this month. Chun’s collection, titled It’s all cake, will be on display from Sept. 4, 2021 through Jan. 23, 2022. “I’m incredibly excited to see the work come together into a focused exhibit, and I’m even more grateful for the opportunity to show it within a museum context intended for the general public,” Chun says. The exhibit will showcase Chun’s signature playful work of sculptures made from soft fabrics. “I’ve always been a big proponent of humor as a means of engaging an audience, and this is particularly true when the work is critical in nature. There’s nothing like an oversized plush object to draw in and disarm the viewer so that they might be more receptive to its intended commentary,” she says. “On a practical level, the possibilities enabled by fabric are so limitless — it’s available in a variety of colors, it’s nontoxic, and lightweight. It’s magical when you’re able to transform a flat piece of fabric into something structural and three dimensional, or when a pigeon you’ve sewn from small scraps of fabric seems imbued with life force.” Like all of Chun’s work, It's all cake aims to capture moments that reflect today’s modern world. This specific exhibit is meant to depict the new reality that people faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s all cake speaks to the absurdities of who we are and what we want to consume when left to — and with — our own devices,” says Chun, a first-generation Korean American whose work provides elements of socio-political commentary. “It’s my hope that the work intuitively resonates with the viewer’s own reflections on the past year and a half. Despite the fact that so many of us were socially distanced from one another, I can’t help but feel as if, on some level, we actually shared a collective experience: a pivotal period of time shaped by a pandemic, political upheaval, and the beginnings of a racial reckoning,” In addition to a good-humored take at the events that unfolded over the past year and a half – look out for the hard pants re-imagined as an illusion cake – Chun also focuses on the deeper meaning of all that is happening in the world. “For those of us who are nonessential workers, our worlds both shrank and slowed, and we found ourselves leaning into consumption as a coping mechanism,” she says. “We put away our jeans and opted for leggings. We reflexively scrolled social media and scanned headlines. We made some pretty random purchases via Amazon Prime — I know I did. My hope is that the work feels familiar, and that people recognize it as both accurate and absurd.” Learn more at www.mimiochun.com or www.smoca.org.
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Why Laura Ingram? When hiring a real estate agent in the Arizona market today it is imperative that you have an agent that is not only interested in selling you a home but a lifestyle! Market knowledge is what drives our industry today regardless of if you are buying or selling a home. One misconstrued idea in this market is most homes are being purchased with all cash. You do not need all cash to purchase a home, you need to work a creative agent and fantastic lender. It is possible! This brings me to my exciting news, I have aligned myself with “THE TEAM”, at Retsy. Our team has over 60+ years of collaborative
experience in the industry with nearly 1 billion dollars in residential sales. We understand the complexity of each and every real estate transaction. It is vital in this market that we understand the most recent comparables, off market inventory, market trends and lending trends. Why hire one agent when you can have a Team. With the real estate trends leaning more and more on technology and social media I could not be more proud to have aligned myself with not only an incredibly knowledgeable and respected “TEAM” but with a broker that is unbelievably advanced in the technical aspect of real estate. We at Retsy get the deal done!
Contact Laura Ingram at 480.205.4855 or lauraingram@restsy.com
Carve out some fun every night this fall. Join us at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess with friends and family as the resort transforms for its second annual Spooktacular event, Pumpkin Nights #AtThePrincess!
Fe stive Fun, Tricks & Treats
Featuring Seasonal Experiences
Jack O’Lantern Lawn & Lane
Rides, Thrills and Chills
Pumpkin Patch
Featuring The Giant Pumpkin, Gifts and S’mores
The Spookeasy
Fall Bites and Boo-verages at The Plaza Bar
Cider Orchard | Mystic Passage | & More!
For festival admission information and rooms packages, please visit: SCOTTSDALEPRINCESS.COM | 480.585.4848
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
Achieve a sweet yet sophisticated look with the VSling San Gallo Eyelet Leather Top Handle Bag by Valentino Garavani. The rouge red color embraces the hues of fall, while the floral design gives a nod to the sunny Scottsdale weather. The leather satchel is adorned with intricate eyelet embroidery for a feminine and romantic flair, while the wrapped VLOGO hardware adds modern elegance. Versatile in season and in carrying style, the handbag features a top handle as well as a removeable, adjustable shoulder strap. Made in Italy, the structured silhouette features a flat base and protective metal feet, and a magnetic-snap flap closure makes for seamless access to belongings inside. $3,650 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.
So Scottsdale! December ‘20
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Style ALLURE
BY NEYDA MELINA
CLEAN BEAUTY
Nourishing skin care packed with plant-based essentials
Firming serum, Caudalie, $79 at Sephora, www. sephora.com. Hydrating essence, Biophile, $78 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www. saksfifthavenue.com. Exfoliating cleanser, Tata Harper, $86 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Gel-oil body wash, Nécessaire, $25 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Hydrating ointment, Bloomeffects, $65 at Saks Fifth Avenue. Brightening face oil, Agent Nateur, $122 at Citrine, www. citrinenaturalskin.com.
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Permanent Make-up
& BEYOND Microblading
BEYOND MICROBLADING As a permanent make up technician and trainer for nearly 30 years I’ve seen many trends come and go. These days one of the first things I hear from people inquiring about services is “I don’t want tattooed eyebrows. I want the soft powdery look that you did for my friend.” This is when I educate the public on the truth about permanent make up and the truth is it’s all tattoo. Years ago when permanent make up was just a fledgling industry in this country many of us worked in the offices of plastic surgeons. We called the procedure micro pigment implantation. Then different techniques were marketed using trade words like soft tap, and recently microblading has been all the rage. Known as the “queen of conservative” My specialty is custom blending colors for each person. Shape, color, technique and science are what create the artistry for beautifully natural eyebrows. Eyelash enhancements. Due to the lockdown most people have lost their eyelash extensions. This is the perfect time to touch up permanent eyeliner before reapplying lashes. I love to create a rich smokey looking lash line rather than a harsh eyeliner look. Safety first. Due to the intimate nature of these procedures safety has always been at the very top of the list. Hospital grade disinfectants are used on surfaces between clients and most importantly all instruments are new, sterile and disposable. Yea! With your safety in mind I will be wearing a mask through your procedure and if you like I will happily provide you with one as well. Because my studio is completely private you need not worry about ever encountering a crowded salon environment.
Contact Rachell Hall at 480.368.9239 8075 E. Morgan Trail, Suite 2 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (Off Hayden, between Mountain View and Shea)
Visit her websites: RachellHall.com BeautyBeyondBreastCancer.com
Style DWELL
BY NEYDA MELINA
ALL THAT JAZZ Decor that turns up the volume
Jazz covers book, Taschen Books, $60 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Vinyl entertainment system, Crosley, $250 at West Elm, www.westelm.com. Leather swivel armchair with brass base, $1,499 at Pottery Barn, www. potterybarn.com. Black cabinet with brass accents, $1,495 at Jonathan Adler, www. jonathanadler.com. Miles Davis framed photo, Sonic Editions, $249-$349 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com. Purple goblets, Devonia Antiques, $1,950 (set of 12) at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarucs.com.
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Arizona’s Leader in Luxury Real Estate
LOS DIAMANTES STUNNER A beautiful remodel-Under Contract, full price in just 2 weeks 9261 N 129th Pl Scottsdale AZ 85259 5+ bed, 5.5 bath 5,800 qft Offered at $4.2M
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Call Today! 480-999-4173 www.BvoLuxuryGroup.com ANDREW BLOOM Senior Partner REALTOR®
AUSTIN BLOOM Team Leader REALTOR®
Style SHOP
BY NEYDA MELINA
BUCKET HATS, BABY! Cap off summer in this season’s hottest throwback accessory
Black-and-white polka dot wide brim, Brixton, $59 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com. Pink terry cloth, Lack of Color, $99 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com. Multicolor satin and navy linen reversible, Eugenia Kim, $195 at Neiman Marcus, www. niemanmarcus.com. Gray padded, $17.99 at H&M, www. hm.com. Embroidered leopard, $49.50 at J.Crew, www.jcrew. com. Tie-dye short brim, $32 at Madewell, www.madewell.com.
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NOW OPEN!
MONDAY - SATURDAY 10AM - 4PM 4 8 0.6 5 9.2 9 6 4
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*Private Shopping Appointments & Curbside Pick-Up Available Call us at (480) 659-2964
Style SHOP
BY NEYDA MELINA
C’EST MAGNIFIQUE Say “oui” to Parisian-inspired styles
Black-and-white striped T-shirt, $36.50 at J.Crew, www.jcrew.com. Black bow beret, Burberry, $240 at Saks Fifth Avenue, www.saksfifthavenue. com. Tan maxi skirt, L’Agence, $265 at Saks Fifth Avenue. Red suede ballet flats, Aquazzura, $695 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. Beige plain and patterned scarves, $12.99 (set of two) at H&M, www.hm.com. Tan shoulder bag, Saint Laurent, $2,900 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.
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F A L L
F L A I R
PHOTOS BY MARK MORGAN / STYLING BY STACEY RICHMAN / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY HALEY IRENE STANT AND KELII LESLIE AIRSTREAM PROVIDED BY WE ARE AIRSTREAM, WWW.WEAREAIRSTREAM.COM
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LEFT: JACKET: Army green with sequin patches, Gorgeous Things, $195. DRESS: Multicolor printed maxi, Sue Wong, $79.95. HANDBAG: Silver happy face clutch, Anya Hindmarch, $69.95. All from My Sister’s Closet, www. mysisterscloset.com RIGHT: SHIRT: Black-and-white button-down, Neil Barrett, $158. PANTS: Metallic, Alexander McQueen, $295. Both from Well Suited, www.shopwellsuited.com.
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JACKET: Black parachute, ALYX, $595. SWEATSHIRT: Gray and green hoodie, Ben Taverniti Unravel Project, $222. PANTS: Red with zipper sides, Heron Preston, $445. BAG: Black backpack, Tumi, $175. SHOES: Gray sneakers, Adidas, $39.95. All from Well Suited, www.shopwellsuited.com.
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LEFT: SWEATER: Gray and white printed, Johnny Was, $245. SHIRT: Blue cotton and cashmere, Paul & Shark, $59.95. PANTS: Yellow jeans, AG Jeans, $31.95. SHOES: Brown boots, Steve Madden, $27.95. All from Well Suited, www.shopwellsuited.com. RIGHT: HAT: Blue and tan striped, Four Buttons, $59.95. TOP: Multicolor button-down, IRO, $125. SHORTS: Denim, Rag & Bone, $34.95. HANDBAG: Multicolor woven bucket, La Ligne x Cesta, $79. SHOES: Cream suede boots, M.Gemi, $71. All from My Sister’s Closet, www.mysisterscloset. com
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LEFT: SWEATER: Green and yellow knit, Martine Rose, $455. SHIRT: Multicolor button-down, Bugatchi, $34.95. PANTS: Royal blue jeans, Paige, $27.95. All from Well Suited, www.shopwellsuited. com. RIGHT: JACKET: Tan embellished bomber, Zara, $49.95. TOP: Orange button-down, Ralph Lauren, $85. SKIRT: Floral pleated, Burberry, $156. SHOES: Orange rain boots, Hunter, $89.95. All from My Sister’s Closet, www. mysisterscloset.com
JACKET: Fringed hoodie, Johnny Was, $395. TOP: Gray cropped sweatshirt, BIYA, $125. SHORTS: Denim, Rag & Bone, $34.95. SHOES: Brown booties, Steve Madden, $34.95. All from My Sister’s Closet, www. mysisterscloset.com
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TOP: White geometric long-sleeve, Gareth Pugh, $89.95. HANDBAG: Yellow belt bag, Rebecca Minkoff, $39.95. PANTS: White geometric leggings, Gareth Pugh, $69.95. JACKET: Green parka with faux fur-trimmed hood, NSF, $145. SHOES: Brown tall boots, Freebird, $145. All from My Sister’s Closet, www.mysisterscloset.com
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JACKET: Tan suede, Bally, $495. SHIRT: Check button-down, Tommy Bahama, $138. PANTS: Nylon with flaps, D.Gnak, $113. All from Well Suited, www.shopwellsuited.com.
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Luxe H AU T E P R O P E R T Y / W H E E L S / WA N T
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
Add a splash of color to any dinner table with the Elsa Peretti Thumbprint Tumblers from Tiffany & Co. The late Peretti was an Italian jewelry designer, philanthropist and model who began designing acclaimed creations at Tiffany & Co. in 1974. These handmade, mouth-blown cobalt blue Venetian glass tumblers feature the designer’s tactile Thumbprint design, created to show the relationship between objects and human touch. They hold 10 ounces of liquid and can be used on display as a showpiece or as a vessel to enjoy a refreshing beverage. $90 per glass at Tiffany & Co., www.tiffany.com.
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Luxe WHEELS
2021 LEXUS LC 500 CONVERTIBLE Escaping in open-air luxury BY JIM PRUETER
VITAL STATS 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible
When first introduced in 2018, almost everything about Lexus’ new flagship coupes screamed “irresistible.” Inspired by the 2012 LF-LC concept car, the LC 500 and the LC 500h hybrid have presence and savoir-faire that are nearly off the charts. For Lexus’ 2021 lineup, the brand introduced the LC two-plus-two (a coupe with two front seats and two “sort of” seats in the back) convertible, a well-rounded, tasteful, luxurious automobile – and it is thrilling. At a tested price of $113,000, the LC competes with the likes of Jaguar F-Type, BMW 8-Series, Porsche Boxster and others. The car boasts a 5.0-liter, 471-horsepower V-8 engine with 398 pound-feet of torque and a 10-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode, double-joint multilink front and rear suspension. The LC weighs in at a portly 4,540 pounds and goes from zero to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 168 mph. There are drive modes with a noticeable difference
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when venturing into Sport mode. On the road, the LC 500 roars deliciously with off-throttle overruns burbling with a throaty yet melliferous acoustic harmony. The top is controlled by a switchgear, taking just 15 seconds to open, and can be operated while the LC is moving up to speeds of 30 mph. The temperature inside the cabin is set automatically, whether the top is open or closed. Drivers can upgrade their experience with the Touring package ($5,290), which features semi-aniline leather seats, embossed headrests, a 13-speaker 950-watt Mark Levinson Superior sound system, and climate-controlled upper body heating features. The console-mounted Lexus trackpad interface is also included. While the interior is cozy, passengers should be weary as the backseat is mainly geared for a few packages, much like the trunk space. Beyond that, it’s a magnificent way to pack some fun into life, radiates luxury and, with the top down, brings the world around inside.
Base price: $101,100 Price as tested: $113,320 Engine: 5.0-L V-8 Horsepower: 471 Fuel economy: 16/25 mpg city/ highway Seating: 4 Fab features: Top-down luxury touring Posh, comfortable interior Magnificent 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
PENNSYLVANIA PERFECTION Nemacolin is creating real life magic for guests of all ages BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
This past spring, millions of viewers watched Matt James search for love on ABC’s The Bachelor. And while James was certainly a catch, many viewers fell head over heels for someone – technically something – else during the show’s run: the season’s filming location, Nemacolin. Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, Nemacolin is a year-round playground nestled within 2,000 acres of lush forest and rolling hills in the Allegheny Mountains. There are five distinct stand-alone lodging options across the property, including sprawling opulent estates and residences as well as The Chateau, which is the largest hotel on property and feels like stepping into a grand European castle complete with crystal chandeliers, two-story windows, white-glove butler service; Falling Rock, a nature-inspired boutique hotel that honors the design style of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famed Fallingwater house located 10 miles away; and The Lodge, which was the original hotel on property and is the most woodsy and whimsical in design and decor. Outside of its ample accommodations, Nemacolin also offers showstopping dining and lounges, many of which were featured on the show, including
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the Forbes five-star and AAA Five Diamond Lautrec; a casino; two Pete Dye-designed golf courses; an award-winning spa and wellness escape; and Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing. It also boasts The Peak, which just launched in July and features a luxurious pool complex, dining, a performance stage for large-scale concerts, fire pits, ax-throwing, paintball, ropes courses, off-roading adventures, canopy tours, a climbing wall, bike rentals and even a carousel. Guests can also enjoy the recently expanded Nemacolin Golf Academy, which provides private instruction, custom club fitting, clinics, boot camps and mental game improvement programs. Given Nemacolin’s extensive size, carving out five to seven days to explore every nook and cranny is recommended. Nemacolin promises the experience of Real Life Magic, a customized package where every element of one’s stay is curated from morning until night. This includes the development of itineraries with activities, reservations and guidance on which lodging option is best suited for a guest’s needs. The package – which can be made via phone and varies in cost based on group size, length of stay, and preferred activities – includes the ability to request anything from horse-drawn carriages and hot air balloon rides to skydiving experiences and intimate candlelit dinners. Beyond this all-encompassing package, through the end of the year, the resort is also offering the Nemacolin Experience Package which includes overnight accommodations in one of the guest rooms, suites, private estates or homes as well as a resort credit of up to $500 to use toward dining, activities and amenities. There’s also the Spa & Wellness Package, which includes a $300 daily spa credit per room or suite as well as complimentary breakfast for two and a bonus credit for use in the spa retail shop. Learn more at www.nemacolin.com.
30
+
years
L I V I N G H E A LT H Y I N T H E VA L L E Y
For over 30 years, the Village has focused on helping the community live better and healthy lives with access to premier fitness facilities, dynamic programming, quality instructors and caring staff. Our clubs are all about building relationships with our members. We offer many social activities throughout the year that are included with a membership. Socializing is part of what makes the Village different and creates a community feel at our clubs.
Get your complimentary
VIP
trial membership today
VILLAGECLUBS.COM © 2021 Village Health Clubs & Spas
Luxe HAUTE PROPERTY
SPOTLIGHT: HILLSIDE HAVEN BY GABBY LEIGHTON
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Perched on a secluded, private lot within guard-gated Clearwater Hills, this 5,832-square-foot home has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. The pristine, contemporary glass style is designed to take in every sunrise and sunset from the Valley below, with unparalleled mountain views visible from every room. The home has been extensively renovated with fine finishes, dual master suites and an air-conditioned garage. The garage, located below the living quarters, contains an elevator to take residents and guests alike to the main floor. The main entrance is located via modern outdoor stairs. Upon waking through an oversized glass door, guests will be greeted by a gourmet kitchen and dining area. The space is truly an entertainer’s paradise, featuring a Cristallo Extreme Quartzite waterfall island and countertops, elegant cabinetry, a Bertazzoni range, a Miele coffee center and a glass wine cellar. There is island seating and room for a large table. The open-concept living area showcases floor-to-ceiling glass and a dramatic waterfall feature that cascades beyond the living room sliders, creating a dramatic backdrop from the mountain behind. An additional highlight is the fireplace, which serves as a modern focal point in the room. There is an additional informal living area, equipped with built-ins. The primary master suite features a stunning, spacious walk-in closet, with access to the master bath which is akin to a spa retreat. The secondary master suite is equally as impressive, with an attached office or gym that is completely surrounded by glass (and views) on all three sides. The outdoor area can be accessed through glass walls, which open to an expansive yard. Highlights include a covered patio and a negative edge pool along with a crystal fire pit. The home also has stair access to a trail. 4129 E. Sandy Mountain Road, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253. Listed for $5,995,000 with Wendy Walker and Amanda Malcolm, both of Wendy Walker Fine Properties through The Agency. Wendy: 602.888.4162, wendy@wwfineproperties.com; Amanda: 480.296.9678, amanda@wwfineproperties.com.
ASK THE MORTGAGE MAN Robert Schreyer is Arizona’s leading Mortgage Expert WHAT SETS ARIZONA HOME LOAN APART FROM THE COMPETITION? The personalized, white glove service given to our valued clients on each loan that we do. Arizona Home Loan takes the time to personalize and plan each mortgage based on the client’s needs. There is no “one loan” that fits everyone and even the “all American” 30-year fixed loan can be customized by strategically structuring the interest rate and down payment.
WHAT ARE A FEW THINGS THAT POTENTIAL CLIENTS SHOULD ASK WHEN LOOKING FOR A LENDER?
It seems as though most consumers focus on rates and fees when shopping for a lender, and although rates and fees are important, it does not always provide the whole story on how that lender will perform or how the experience will be during the loan process. It is perfectly acceptable to interview the lender on what their process is, how often communication will be given to you and your real estate agent, and even asking for three past clients that you can reach out to and see how their experience was. It’s important to do your homework to find the best lender for your situation.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF WORKING WITH A BOUTIQUE LENDER?
Clients will get one on one custom mortgage planning and personal service from the beginning of their loan to the very end when we fund. We are experts in the Luxury, Jumbo market, offering experience and loan products suited for affluent clientele who have unique financial situations from being selfemployed or other non-traditional qualifications. We have many different loan products to serve our valued clients which mainstream banks may not be able to serve. We value the people and the opportunity to serve them in one of the biggest decisions of their lives, so it is important to treat every client like an individual and not just a number.
WHAT IS THE BACKBONE OF ARIZONA HOME LOAN?
Arizona Home Loan was created to serve the community with the upmost respect and integrity, and to deliver the right loan products customized to their needs, with competitive rates and fees. At the end of the day all we have is our name and how we treated the last customer. People will only refer people to you if they felt loved and respected.
Robert@ArizonaHomeLoan.com 480-695-LOAN (5626) ArizonaHomeLoan.com NMLS #502337 MB #1007400
Taste DRINK
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
HIDDEN GEMS
Lesser-known loveable wines from distinguished brands
Oftentimes, a wine label becomes well-known for a particular bottle, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the brand’s offerings aren’t just as good – if not better. Update your palate at home with a new-to-you wine from a brand you already know and love. These bottles are worth a try.
Justin 2020 Rosé Justin’s Bordeaux-style reds are that of legend in the United States but the brand’s foray into rosé is just as iconic. Bright and crisp with delicate herbal notes, this apple-forward, pale pink crowd-pleaser will cool you down on even the most dogged days of summer. $20. www.justinwine.com. Jackson Estate Kelsey Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2020 Kendall Jackson boasts the No. 1 bestselling chardonnay in the country, a designation it has had since 1982. However, chardonnay is not the only white wine in the label’s portfolio. Among its other worthy whites is this light libation, which showcases notes of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle and white peach. $30. www.kj.com. 2018 Rombauer Zinfandel Like Kendall Jackson, Rombauer is known worldwide for its chardonnay. A lovely contrast to the chardonnay’s toasty oak flavor profile, this red is a celebration of juicy, dark fruits, most strikingly blackberries and boysenberries, followed by a finish of chocolate and spice. $35. www.rombauer.com. Penfolds 2019 Bin 51 Riesling The Australian winemaker that put shiraz on the map proves it knows riesling as well. Slightly sweet but not overly so, this perfect summer pour opens with both Mandarin orange and orange blossom as well as lychee on the nose followed by sweetened lemon, aromatic jasmine and Tahitian lime to the taste. $40. www.penfolds.com. 2018 The Prisoner Cabernet Sauvignon You would be hard-pressed to find a local restaurant that does
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not have The Prisoner Red Blend, which is primarily a zinfandel, on the menu. However, the brand has a dozen other varietals as well, including this nuanced cabernet sauvignon. It dazzles sippers with flavorful notes of black cherry, plum and baking spices. $55. www. theprisonerwinecompany.com. J Vineyards 2016 Foggy Bend Vineyard Pinot Noir It may surprise some, but the popular and lauded sparkling winemaker also boasts a line of award-winning pinot noirs. Among the best is this offering, which marries dark cherry, pomegranate and tart blueberry with a hint of nutmeg, a touch of pine and the perfect level of acidity. $70. www. jwine.com. 2017 Beringer Bancroft Ranch Napa Valley Merlot Both this brand’s cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay have been honored as the No. 1 Wine in the World by Wine Spectator. This merlot, perfected on Napa’s Howell Mountain over the past 30 years, is arguably even better with its full-bodied richness, black cherry notes and spiced vanilla finish. $90. www.beringer.com. 2017 Robert Mondavi Winery Reserve To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Robert Mondavi is the most recognized name in American wine. To Kalon is both the name of the vineyard where Mondavi’s flagship estate sits and a tier of coveted wines. Each bottle of this cabernet sauvignon is a celebration of dark plum and cedar on the nose, followed by sweet oak, vanilla bean and toasted almond on the palate. $175. www.robertmondaviwinery. com.
Taste
DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
Indulge in a decadent weekend brunch at STK Steakhouse. Among the restaurant’s most lavish offerings is the Lobster & Eggs Benedict ($35). It features North Atlantic cold water lobster claw meat that has been cooked in a butter- and herb-infused lobster stock. The dish also showcases sauteed heirloom spinach, two poached eggs and an imported English muffin that has been toasted and buttered. Once golden, the buttered English muffin is topped with the eggs, spinach and lobster before being glazed with a homemade bearnaise sauce that has been accented with a touch of Tabasco and Worcestershire sauces for acidity. The bearnaise sauce is finished with paddle fish caviar and then garnished with baby herbs. STK Steakhouse, 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale; 480.581.5171; www.stksteakhouse.com.
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Taste CHEERS
INDIGO GIRL
The Spanish Tonic at Cook & Craft is a glowing take on the classic gin-based cocktail
Cook & Craft offers a sophisticated modern American menu in a warm, chic farmhouse space dotted with wood tabletops, handwritten chalkboards, polished concrete floors, and glass accents sprinkled throughout. “Our cocktail menu features a similar classic yet contemporary vibe, especially when it comes to seamlessly marrying elements such as CBD-infused ingredients, kombucha and fresh herbs into what many consider traditional recipes,” says Brandon Juniper, Cook & Craft owner and cocktail director. Among the most popular twists on a conventional cocktail is Cook & Craft’s Spanish Tonic ($13). “First developed in Spain, as the name suggests, this type of gin and tonic is far more aromatic thanks to the combination of the glass, the build and the herbs,” Juniper says. The cocktail is built in a large wine goblet and starts with ice and Fever-Tree Tonic. “We then sprinkle full sprigs of both rosemary and thyme as well as a handful of whole juniper berries and a slice of grapefruit into the glass and allow time for each bouquet to open,” Juniper says. Vibrantly colored Empress 1908 Gin is then layered slowly into the goblet in such a way that it creates the illusion that a hypnotic indigo haze is floating through the glass. “The gin is the result of collaboration between a Canadian distiller and the Fairmont Empress Hotel in British Columbia,” Juniper says. “In addition to traditional botanicals – notably bold notes of citrus, juniper and coriander – used to make the gin, it also contains the hotel’s signature black tea served and butterfly pea blossom.” Together, all of the ingredients combine to offer bold aromatics, an herbal earthiness and, of course, the rich color. Cook & Craft, 7306 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; www.cookandcraftaz.com; 480.207.1541.
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BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
Taste
CUISINE
CHEF CONVERSATIONS In the kitchen with Deavynne Millward of Hotel Valley Ho
Deavynne Millward is the pastry chef at Hotel Valley Ho, where she dreams up the resort’s iconic “Show Stopper” shakes as well as all the sweet treats for ZuZu, specialty dining, in-room dining, private events and banquets.
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY DEBBY WOLVOS
What drew you to sweets? My mom used to bribe me with sweets to put my dishes in the sink and clean my room. Once, in middle school, we learned how to make Rice Krispies treats in home economics class, so I joke my sweet tooth palate expanded beyond just candy at that point. But initially you planned to be a chef? I took and loved a vocational cooking program in high school. It inspired me to study to be a chef in my native New Jersey. During year two of my studies, they had us in a bakery making desserts for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. I was in love! I moved to Arizona, where my sister lived, in 2015 to attend Le Cordon Bleu for pastry, graduating in 2017. Tell us about your professional journey. I got my start while in culinary school in 2015 at Arizona Biltmore, making everything from liquid nitrogen ice cream sandwiches to breakfast muffins. In 2016, I moved to Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa to work in fine dining, then in 2018 to Tonto Bar & Grill, where I led the dessert program. In June, I took on my biggest position yet, joining the team at Hotel Valley Ho. What is your career highlight to this point? Last year, amid COVID-19, I traveled to Los Angeles and competed on Food Network’s Candy Land hosted by Kristin Chenoweth. And, our team won! What has been your wildest creation? We did a lot of wild stuff on Candy Land, but as a team. On my own during my Chocolate 202 class in pastry school, we had to create a chocolate sculpture. I really went for it, making a 4-foot-tall art piece using white, milk and dark chocolates. The only problem: The heat melted it while being judged! What would readers be surprised to know about you? This might be sacrilege for someone with a sweet tooth, but I happen to hate peanut butter and chocolate together. Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main St.; 480.421.7997; www.hotelvalleyho.com.
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Taste FOOD FILES
SEASIDE SCRUMPTIOUSNESS Take a fabulous foodcation to San Diego’s beachy surf and turf paradise
PHOTO BY LUCIANNA MCINTOSH
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Morning Glory
Featuring a picturesque interior design (pink lovers, rejoice!) along with a menu catering to trend seekers and brunch purists alike, Morning Glory is a 4,000-square-foot, second-story cartoon come to life. Menu standouts include souffle pancakes; avocado toast dubbed “Millennial Tears;” khachapuri; shakshuka; and Morning Glory’s signature fried rice, tossed with pork belly, cheese, peas, scallions, and fried eggs. Alongside brunch options, Morning Glory offers nearly 30 eclectic cocktails as well as mocktails and coffee drinks. Beyond brunch, the restaurant also boasts an impressive afternoon tea service. www.morningglorybreakfast.com.
Garibaldi
Named in honor of both California’s bright orange state fish (Garibaldi) and Italian revolutionary hero Giuseppe Garibaldi, who the fish was named after, this speak-easy-style restaurant can be accessed through a hidden entry within InterContinental San Diego. The menu is an homage to the hero’s Italian roots, with an array of isle-inspired Italian fare from his native Sardinia. In addition to antipasti and pastas, the restaurant also offers some sensational vegetarian options, notably the roasted rainbow carrots in Marsala and agrilled Suncoast Farms artichoke with pecorino-infused cream sauce. www.catchgaribaldi.com.
Born and Raised
Recognized as one of California’s best culinary cities, San Diego’s diversity, talent and access to fresh ingredients recently earned it a top 10 spot on multiple lists alongside some of the most lauded culinary capitols across the nation. Here are a few of the restaurants that helped the beachy destination earn the acclaim.
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Upon entering this posh steakhouse, diners will see exceptionally stunning green marble, posh brass accents, servers in tuxedos and converse, and framed portraits of iconic rappers Eazy-E of N.W.A and Ol’ Dirty Bastard of Wu-Tang Clan. The copious juxtapositions are hints that this isn’t your average steakhouse. Expect a menu of dry-aged steak as well as oldschool tableside preparations of several dishes, but also more modern offerings like American and Japanese wagyu. Insider tip: Do not miss the caviar service (which comes with a $75 per ounce price tag). www.bornandraisedsteak. com.
Juniper & Ivy
In his appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef in 2008 and Top Chef: All Stars in 2010, Richard Blais captured the hearts, minds and taste buds of America. In the 11 years since, in addition to becoming a celebrity judge on the show that made him a star, Blais has blazed a trail through the United States with a series of popular eateries. In 2014, he served as opening chef of Juniper & Ivy, developing a menu he described as “Left Coast edge.” Though Blais moved on, the Michelin Bib Gourmand-honored restaurant’s culinary team is still all systems go
toast as well as a curated sake experience with small lot producers from across Asia and beyond. www.animaesd.com.
PHOTO BY ZACK BENSON
Lola 55
with this mentality, showcasing traditional fare (New York strip or duck, for example) using cutting-edge techniques and artful plating to transform each dish into a new experience. www.juniperandivy.com.
This self-proclaimed “fine-casual” eatery opened in 2018, and founder Frank Vizcarra – a Tijuana native and former professional soccer player who named the restaurant after his mother and his 1955 birth year – is already being credited with re-imagining the region’s taco culture. Many of the restaurant’s regionally sourced fillings and proteins are cooked on a wood-fired grill and the eatery offers non-GMO, Oaxaca-inspired corn tortillas. On the menu, there are a handful of authentic Mexican sides such as elote as well as tacos, including mesquite grilled rib-eye carne asada and squash blossom relleno varieties. Diners can expect specials each day, with all offerings having a progressive twist, whether including crispy leeks, cilantro pistachio salsa or almond cream cheese. www.lola55.com.
Barbusa Modern Sicilian
Joe Busalacchi and his family are iconic in the Southern California food scene, having helped build what has become Little Italy in San Diego. Over the past 30 years, the family has owned and operated nine restaurants in the area and still owns three, including this gem. Each of their eateries has been a hit thanks to their combination of authenticity and flavor, which keeps folks coming back again and again. Barbusa’s star shines brightest at making food for the entire table, Italian style, notably via the crudo bar offerings and fresh pastas. Don’t sleep on the singular entrees, especially the salmon with pistachio crust and the Tucsanstyle short rib. www.barbusa.com.
Herb & Wood
This culinary hot spot is also connected to a Top Chef: All Stars competitor: Brian Malarkey. In addition to placing as a finalist on multiple seasons of the show, Malarkey is the mind behind more than 20 popular restaurant concepts nationwide. His focus here is on rustic, wood-fired dishes with Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability. The space is open and airy by design, allowing guests and passersby to enjoy the aromatics wafting from the kitchen. Particularly winning dishes include grilled iberico pork with apple mostarda, curry crusted celery root with mint, and gnocchi with oxtail and roasted garlic. www.herbandwood.com.
Animae
While we wouldn’t normally feature two restaurants from the same chef, the hype surrounding Malarkey’s most recent concept, art deco and over-the-top Asian-influenced Animae, was deafening. To have it not only deliver, but exceed expectations is quite a feat. The lavish interior looks like a scene out of The Great Gatsby with vivid fabrics, old-school booths and ceilings that feel as if they go on forever. Menu options consist of A5 Japanese wagyu, black garlic udon noodles with lobster and caviar
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Taste DINING GUIDE
LIBERTY STATION AMERICAN TAVERN & SMOKEHOUSE Serving up smoked meats, comfort food, vintage cocktails and craft beer, Liberty Station has it all. The menu offers an abundance of shareable plates including brisket loaded fries, tacos and green chile pork stew, as well as soups, burgers, sandwiches, seafood entrees and barbecue meat platters featuring brisket, ribs and pork. Daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Weekend brunch served 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Two locations: Terravita and DC Ranch; www.libertystationtavern.com; $$
COMPILED BY ADRIENNE KALEHUAWEHE
American
AZ88 Known for its upbeat ambiance and swanky martinis, AZ88 is a Scottsdale institution. The food menu consists of refined pub fare such as burgers and chicken sandwiches next to shrimp ceviche and bacon-wrapped water chestnuts. The kitchen is open late and the cocktails are guest favorites. 7353 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale; 480.994.5576; www.az88.com; $$ ALL AMERICAN MODERN SPORTS GRILL Arizona’s All American Modern Sports Grill is where bar classic meets modern. Not to be missed is the one-of-a-kind cozy bourbon bar – Cask 53 – with a selection of over 90 whiskeys from around the globe.
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Sweets & Treats is this Old Town Scottsdale must-try eatery. Diners can enjoy a range of breakfast items, salads, sandwiches, homemade ice creams, and coffee from local roastery Peixoto. The market side carries an assortment of home decor, gourmet jarred food items and novelty gifts. 7120 E. 6th Ave., Scottsdale; 602.736.2383; www. newwavemarket.com; $ RAVEN GASTROPUB Raven Gastropub focuses on fresh ingredients and comfort food. Top sellers include the Reuben sandwich, packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a Russian aioli on toasted marble rye; and the Raven burger, topped with a housemade bourbon glaze, fried pickles and candied bacon. Vegetarian menu items include a housemade veggie burger, a roasted vegetable pita, and a variety of fresh salads including quinoa and kale salad and spinach and pear salad. The restaurant offers signature cocktails and a selection of beer, wine and champagne. 8900 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale; 480.219.9334; www.ravengp.com; $$ REHAB BURGER THERAPY Need a break from the daily grind? Check into Rehab Burger Therapy for some relaxing beach vibes and crazy burger concoctions. The spicy mac ‘n cheese burger is topped with a generous portion of cheesy mac spiked with poblano peppers, jalapenos and green chiles. Or, send your taste buds into overdrive with the combination of peanut butter, grape jelly, bacon and Sriracha sauce on a burger. The restaurant also offers a variety of sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Happy hour from open until 6 p.m. daily and all day on Thursday. 7210 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale; 480.621.5358; www.rehabburgertherapy.com; $$
A relaxing open-air patio and cigar lounge is located just steps away from the bourbon bar. The kitchen also offers innovative dishes including hoisin-Sriracha sauce wings and a Moroccan salmon entree. Happy hour offered Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 20751 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale; 480.868.2702; www.allamericanmodernsportsgrill.com; $$ BENJAMIN’S UPSTAIRS Headed by chef Ben Graham of the award-winning Citizen Public House, reservations are highly recommended at this one-of-a-kind speakeasy. This hidden spot comes to life with a long list of natural wine and extremely creative dishes The portions are large, so leftovers are guaranteed. 7111 E 5th Ave. E, Scottsdale; 480.398.4208; www.benjaminsaz.com; $$-$$$
FAMOUS 48 Craving some all-American classics? Famous 48 serves a diverse menu, including a variety of drumettes, tacos, burgers, sliders, pizza and sandwiches, prepared with the highest quality and freshest ingredients available, as well as craft cocktails, and a wide selection of beer and wine. Alongside the daily specials, guests can enjoy a game on one of the 36 flat-screen TVs indoors or on the patio. Happy hour takes place Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and weekend brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At The Shops at Gainey Village, 8989 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.361.4933; www.famous48.com; $$ NEW WAVE MARKET From the owners of – and even sharing a space with – Super Chunk
Barbeque
ARIZONA BBQ SHACK The meats here are dry-rubbed with a special house blend of spices then smoked up to 10 hours. A wide selection of barbecue meats – such as pulled pork, brisket and smoked bratwurst – pair well with three choices of housemade barbecue sauce and many Southern side dishes. Don’t forget to stop by on Saturday for the brisket burnt ends special. Closed Sunday. 8471 E. McDonald Drive, Scottsdale; 480.948.4227; www. azbbqshackscottsdale.com; $$ BOOTLEGGERS This casual tavern and smokehouse features craft barbecue and housemade moonshine cocktails. Starters include boot dumplings
with pork belly, shrimp and a mango chipotle sauce; smoked chicken wings; and a bacon board. The menu also features burgers, sandwiches, smokehouse tacos, smoked prime rib, and a barbecue sampler for two or four people. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with mimosa specials and its famous bloody Mary with a cheeseburger slider on top. 7217 E. 1st St., Scottsdale; 480.404.9984; www. bootleggerssmokehouse.com; $$ BRYAN’S BLACK MOUNTAIN BARBECUE Awarded to have the best ribs in America by Food Network, Bryan’s offers a variety of barbecue meats available as sandwiches, plates or combos with sides including baked potato salad and its famous olive coleslaw. Meats are also available by the pound. USA Today notes the ribs, pulled pork, vegetarian pulled spaghetti squash, brisket chili and homemade ice cream sandwiches as reasons to visit Bryan’s. 6130 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.575.7155; www. bryansbarbecue.com; $$ HANDLEBAR J Known as “Scottsdale’s Original Rib House,” Handlebar J is a one-of-akind saloon that first opened in 1966 and has been owned and operated by the Herndon family since 1975. This Western-themed establishment is famous for its slow-cooked pork ribs glazed with homemade smoky chipotle barbecue sauce. Check out the monthly calendar for live music by The Herndon Brothers and other national acts. Don’t miss the line dancing classes when available. 7116 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale; 480.948.0110; www. handlebarj.com; $$ STARLITE BBQ & WHISKEY BAR This cozy 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. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 7620 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale; 480.553.9330; www.starlitebbq.com; $$ THE THUMB The Thumb is a combination gas station and barbecue joint. Guests can stop by for gas, get a car wash, and meander around the kitschy gift shop before popping over for some tasty barbecue. Try the hardwoodsmoked pulled pork with spicy house barbecue sauce or the famous break-
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fast brisket stack that was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Breakfast served all day. 9393 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale; 480.513.8186; www.thethumb.com; $$
Breakfast
ALO CAFÉ This Euro-style breakfast and lunch eatery (which now serves dinner on select nights) in Old Town Scottsdale offers dishes inspired by the international travels and Estonian heritage of owner Steve Martinez. Popular menu items include the waffle cristo, the signature cornflake-crusted French toast, and the Chi-town heat omelet smothered in New Mexico-style green chile sauce. Hot sauce lovers can rejoice with the selection of more than two dozen bottles of hot sauces from around the world. 6960 E. 1st St., Scottsdale; 480.878.4712; www. alocafeaz.com; $$ BREAKFAST KITCHEN BAR Breakfast Kitchen Bar’s extensive menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch favorites like omelets, pancakes, burgers and sandwiches and specialty items like avocado fries and a chicken and waffles sandwich. The restaurant offers many healthy, keto and gluten-free options, as well as breakfast cocktails, coffee drinks, beer and wine. Two locations: Desert Ridge and Scottsdale Quarter. www. breakfastkitchenbar.com; $$ 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. The restaurant also offers fresh juices made daily with all-natural ingredients. Several locations throughout Scottsdale; www.firstwatch.com; $$ SCRAMBLE Scramble serves a healthy take on breakfast and lunch using local Arizona farmers and ingredients. The Santa Fe eggs Benedict is one of the most popular entrees and the brizzas, or breakfast pizzas, are big enough to share. This fast-casual breakfast joint also has a dog-friendly patio. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly. 6590 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.404.7264; www.azscramble. com; $$ SNOOZE This vibrant diner dishes out an eclectic menu that includes dessert-
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style pancakes, several variations of eggs Benedict, fun French toast options and plant-based dishes, as well as specialty cocktails. Several Valley locations including Kierland Commons, 15054 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.664.3133; www.snoozeeatery.com; $$ THE BOOZY BREAKFAST The only restaurant at High Street serving up breakfast, The Boozy Breakfast menu features brunch classics such as waffles, French toast and creplettes, plus a smattering of lunch items like paninis, salads and bowls. Don’t miss the millennium toast with avocado, marinated tomatoes, fresh basil and red onion. The lengthy drink list offers a bevy of bloody marys, mimosas and one-of-a-kind cocktails to kick the day off right. 5450 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.590.4278; www. theboozybreakfastaz.com; $ U.S. EGG Locally family-owned and -operated, U.S. Egg has been one the Valley’s favorite breakfast and lunch establishments since 1986. It is home to the Original Protein Pancake, which you can pair with a half-order of one of the Idaho hot skillets topped with melted cheese and two eggs. Along with a selection of omelets and classic breakfast entrees, the lunch menu has Angus burgers, classic American sandwiches and gourmet salads. Gluten-free menu available. Two Scottsdale locations: North Scottsdale and Old Town Scottsdale; www.useggrestaurant.com; $$
Dessert
BUTTA CAKES What started out as a challenge to create a dessert for a dinner party has turned into a sweet dream for Butta Cakes owner Perry Hilton. He’s created over 25 flavors of his butter cakes, including banana pudding, cake batter, Key lime and orangesicle varieties, all using all natural, premium ingredients. These little morsels of butter cake are available as a single, half dozen or a sampler dozen and are perfect for party favors, gift-giving or a sweet treat pick-me-up. 20801 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 85255; www.buttacakes.com; $ FATTY DADDY’S This local gourmet ice cream shop has made a name for itself with its almost famous Fatty Daddy’s cookie cup. The frozen confection is made with layers of ice cream, topped with a locally baked macaron and a freshly toasted marshmallow. The rotating menu includes flavors like Fruity Pebble and whisky Irish cream as well as a wide selection of nondairy fruit
sorbets. Stay for a coffee and pastry, too. Open late nightly for all who crave sweets at night.1608 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale; 480.634.6460; www.fattydaddys.com; $ RUZE CAKE HOUSE The mother-daughter baking team has taken Scottsdale and social media by storm with their fresh, artistic designs. Beautifully decorated macarons, cactus-shaped cookies and delicate cupcakes are lined up along the pristine counter. The Ruze Boba is their signature drink featuring fresh prickly pear puree, housemade rose syrup, prickly pear tea and milk. They offer a large selection of vegan cakes and baked goods as well as glutenfree options. Perfect for special occasions, weddings and custom desserts. 7033 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.438.8692; www.ruzecakehouse. com; $-$$ SMALLCAKES CUPCAKERY AND CREAMERY Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery brings larger than life flavor to the taste buds. Founder Jeff Martin has appeared on Food Network and The View, but if that’s not impressive enough, USA Today listed Smallcakes as one of the top 10 cupcake places to try in the country. Each morning, 18 signature flavors are baked from scratch, including pink vanilla, lemon drop, peanut butter cup, wedding cake and hot fudge sundae. If there is room for seconds, the blue munster cookie ice cream is a fan favorite. 9699 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; www.smallcakescupcakery.com; $ SODA JERK CO The Soda Jerk Co. is a modern soda fountain with a retro-inspired design, but it’s also much more than that. The location also serves as a secret (Shh!) entrance to The Nemesis Club, an elevated escape room interactive experience. Guests with a taste for fun and adventure can charge up that sweet tooth at this fully functioning frozen dessert counter, serving craft milkshakes and floats themed to match the games found inside The Nemesis Club. Expect treats with flavors such as cookies and cream, peanut butter with chocolate, and orange vanilla cream. At High Street. 5350 E. High Street, Suite 109, Phoenix; www.sodajerkco.com; $ UNBAKED At Unbaked, guests can enjoy both housemade ice cream and edible cookie dough by the scoop. Whether in a cup or a freshly made waffle cone, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with cookie dough choices like brownie batter, funfetti birthday
cake or s’mores and finish them with a variety of toppings. There are also gluten-free and vegan options and, along with milkshakes, floats, new boozy shakes, ice cream sandwiches, and fully baked cookies. 3712 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.421.8089; www.getunbaked. com; $
French
CHEZ VOUS The menu here offers more than two dozen types of savory and sweet crepes. For a sweet citrus tang, the Grand Marnier crepe features homemade orange syrup, sugar and a hint of the namesake liqueur. The Forestiere crepe is a filling, savory option with ham, melted Swiss cheese, mushrooms and creamy bechamel sauce. Additionally, there is a wide selection of quiches, sandwiches, salads and omelets. At The Shops Gainey Village, 8787 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.443.2575; www. chezvous.restaurant; $$ LE SANS SOUSI Since 1995, guests have enjoyed outstanding French cuisine at Le Sans Souci in Cave Creek. Familiar French fare like trout meuniere, coq au vin and tableside desserts are a few of the guest favorites. A threecourse early bird special is available from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Closed Monday. 7030 E. Bella Vista Drive, Cave Creek; 480.488.2856; www.lesanssoucirestaurant.com; $$$ THE MICK BRASSERIE In need of a vacation? Consider Mick Brasserie as a one-way ticket to France. This modern interpretation of a true French brasserie, with friendly service and a beautiful patio, can be found in the heart of Scottsdale. Options are meant to be shared and include a variety of meat, seafood, vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., wine tastings on Tuesday, and weekend brunch available. 9719 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.210.1102; www.themickaz.com; $$-$$$ VOILA FRENCH BISTRO Chef Jean-Christophe brings more than 30 years of restaurant experience to Voila, which opened in 2015. The menu includes traditional French cuisine including mussels, escargot, quiche, sole meuniere and foie gras. Succumb to temptation and order a classic French dessert like creme brulee or profiteroles with vanilla bean ice cream and chocolate sauce. 10135 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480.614.5600; www.voilafrenchbistro. com; $$
ZINQUÉ A cafe, bistro and wine bar all in one, French-inspired Zinqué opened its first Arizona location at Scottsdale Fashion Square’s luxury wing in 2019. Breakfast items include frittatas, options with fresh fruit and sweets like croissants. Lunch and dinner serve up steak frites, quiche and savory tartines. Zinqué also has an extensive selection of wine, cocktails and bubbles. 4712 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 623.745.9616; www. lezinque.com; $$
Health Food
D’LITE HEALTHY ON THE GO D’lite is a health-conscious kitchen and coffee house that features a convenient drive-thru for those who want a nutritious fast-food alternative. The ‘man’ salad is especially proteinpacked, featuring a housemade tuna stuffed avocado served on a bed of spring mix greens with chicken and bacon. The California club is a delicious signature breakfast sandwich with eggs, bacon, smoked turkey, tomato, avocado, pepper jack, cream cheese and pesto that cannot be missed. The coffee is fair trade, all natural and locally roasted. D’lite offers a simple and healthy kids menu and guests can even purchase daily turkey and rice leftovers for their dogs. Two Scottsdale locations; www. dlitehealthyonthego.com; $-$$ FARM & CRAFT Farm & Craft offers healthy and sustainable food with gluten-free and organic options for brunch, lunch and dinner. Diners can choose from a variety of signature bowls, flatbreads and salads, or order a few of the veggiepacked side dishes to enjoy as a meal. Dinner entrees include flat iron steak, herb-crusted salmon and lasagna Bolognese. Enjoy the indoor-outdoor bar with a cold-pressed cocktail and eclectic kombucha drinks. Happy hour food and drink deals offered weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. 4302 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.568.8980; www. ilovefarmandcraft.com; $$ KALE & CLOVER This mindful kitchen focuses on healthy cold-pressed juices, appetizers, salads and entrees with seasonal ingredients. Menu offerings include rolls, bowls, salads and handhelds from a portobello mushroom burger to a Sicilian chicken panini. The menu includes many vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Whether on the beautiful patio or seated in the naturally designed interior, guests can enjoy glass of wine or craft beer with their meal. 20511 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.568.8707; www.kaleandclover.com; $$
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MIXT The California chain focused on fresh seasonal ingredients opened its first Arizona location in 2020. The menu includes salads, grain bowls, sandwiches and market plates with a choice of protein, sides and sauce including herb roasted chicken breast, steelhead salmon, tofu skewers, and sesame rainbow quinoa. Vegetarian and vegan options available. At Scottsdale Quarter, 15125 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www. mixt.com; $$ MODERN MARKET Modern Market is focused on made from scratch, clean and sustainable food from curry salmon and sesame glazed tofu bowls to Thai coconut salad and a variety of pizzas including mushroom, margherita and street corn. Two Scottsdale locations; www. modernmarket.com; $$ 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 with seasonal ingredients guided by Weil’s antiinflammatory food pyramid model. The charred cauliflower, edamame dumplings and herb hummus are all great shareable starters for the table. The ancient grains bowl and seasonal shrimp 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; $$-$$$
Latin/Mexican
AGAVE DEL SCOTTSDALE At Agave del Scottsdale, dishes are made using authentic blends of spices and ingredients from various regions of Mexico. The wide-ranging menu features mole, ceviche, enchiladas, seafood and steak options, and small plates. The restaurant also has a great selection of mezcal and signature cocktails to accompany any meal. Vegetarian options available. At Mercado on Hayden, 8390 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale; 480.248.6901; www.agavedelscottsdale.com; $$ BLANCO TACOS & TEQUILA Blanco serves Mexican dishes and cocktails in a bright, modern setting. Try the street-style carne asada tacos or the award-winning barbecue pork tacos with fresh sweet corn tomato salsa. The food pairs well with any of the ice-cold Mexican beers or the restaurant’s collection of rare tequilas.
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Happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. At The Borgata, 6166 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.305.6692; www.foxrc.com; $$ FRANK & LUPE’S For over 25 years, Frank & Lupe’s has been sharing family recipes with guests, from spicy pork carne adobada to poblano cream cheese enchiladas. The menu is 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 homegrown in Socorro, New Mexico. 4121 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale; 480.990.9844; www.frankandlupes. com; $$ LA HACIENDA A favorite with locals and visitors alike, La Hacienda does Mexican cuisine the way only Fairmont Scottsdale Princess can. Upscale yet approachable, the restaurant’s dynamic, modern cuisine is complemented by the unparalleled tequila bar. Fine details are everywhere from the decor to the freshly prepared dishes. Menu favorites include the tableside guacamole and the carnitas hacienda. The famous flaming coffee is not to be missed. At Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale; 480.585.4848; www.scottsdaleprincess.com; $$$ TALAVERA Here, diners can expect a high-end Latin steakhouse with beautiful decor, stunning views and an exceptional patio. The menu includes tapas; charcuteria; paella, including a vegetarian option; fresh vegetables; seafood; and steak. At Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, 10600 E. Crescent Moon Drive, Scottsdale; 480.513.5085; www.talaverarestaurant.com; $$$$ TOCA MADERA In October 2019, Toca Madera opened at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The beautiful restaurant features an open floor plan and an expansive dining room with views of the kitchen. The menu includes ceviche, tacos served on housemade tortillas, shared plates, and the opportunity for guests to experience a custom tasting menu based on the regional cuisine of Mexico. Toca Madera has a lively bar with expert mixologists creating farm-to-glass cocktails. Happy hour daily until 6 p.m. 4736 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.930.4357; www.tocamadera.com; $$$ TOCAYA ORGANICA Tocaya Organica offers modern Mexican cuisine with bold flavors
and healthy, fresh options to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free in a casual, bright setting. Diners have a choice of salads, tacos, bowls and burritos with a selection of proteins like turkey picante, adobo tofu, shrimp and carne asada, and cheeses including chipotle jack, cotija and vegan mozzarella. There are watermelon, strawberry basil and cucumber mint agua frescas as well as a variety of margaritas including prickly pear, tamarind and passion fruit. Two Scottsdale locations: Scottsdale Fashion Square and Kierland Commons; www.tocayaorganica.com; $$
Mediterranean
BOWL OF GREENS Offering fresh, healthy gourmet food with a Mediterranean flair, Bowl of Greens allows guests to choose from over 30 toppings, 15 dressings and five different proteins to customize their salads. You can also find anything from sandwiches, mediterreanean platters, pasta, wraps, breakfast items and smoothies. The spinach avocado salad with strawberries and a raspberry dressing is vibrant and refreshing. Closed Sunday. At the Promenade, 16447 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.991.9100; www.bowlofgreens.co; $-$$ KOVO The family-owned restaurant offers a variety of traditional cuisines from the Mediterranean region. Chef selections include a dip trio with hummus, tzatziki and feta cheese; the carved meat platter with lamb, beef, chicken gyro meat and homemade Greek sausages; and the lamb burger. Weekend brunch includes shakshuka, a Mediterranean frittata, spanakopita Benedict and cocktails including a bloody mary flight. Happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. At Paradise Village Gateway, 10625 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix; 602.237.5872; www.kovomedi.com; $$ MUNICH GYROS Serving tasty and affordable Greek fare in the Fountain Hills neighborhood is Munich Gyros specializes in the gyro – tender slices of a beeflamb combination served with lettuce, tomato, onion and tzatziki wrapped in warm pita bread. Other menu items include hummus, Greek salad, falafel and delicious baklava for a sweet finish. 16948 E. Shea Blvd., Fountain Hills; 480.816.3647; $ PERSIAN ROOM The Persian Room, a fine dining restaurant with an elegant atmo-
sphere and flavorful dishes, has been a North Scottsdale staple since opening in 1985. Enjoy meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes with exotic flavors like turmeric, cardamom and saffron from kebabs to stews.17040 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.614.1414; www.persianroom. com; $$ PITA JUNGLE Pita Jungle has been in the Valley for more than 25 years and has more than 20 locations. The casual restaurant celebrates the art of healthy eating with something for every taste from a delectable variety of hummus and dips to fish, gyros, wraps and wood-fired lavash pizzas with a fresh Mediterranean flair. A wide variety of vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree dishes are available. Multiple Scottsdale locations; www.pitajungle. com; $$ SHISH KABOBS AND GYROS Although the majority of this eatery’s menu is Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, guests will probably be surprised to know that Shish Kabobs and Gyros has a little section of Vietnamese and American food options on its menu as well. Next to pitas and falafel, customers can order gyro spring rolls, pho or a Chicagostyle hot dog. Vegetarian friendly. Closed on Saturday and Sunday. 9619 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.634.7118; www.kabobsandgyros. com; $-$$
Pizza
CRAFT 64 Craft 64 makes mozzarella in house daily and specializes in artisan, wood-fired pizza. Guests can choose from an extensive wine and craft beer selection including Craft 64’s own brews. Pizza options include the white smokehouse pizza with house-smoked sausage and onions, the honey bee with pepperoni, jalapeno and honey, and a vegan pizza. 6922 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.946.0542; www.craft64.com; $$ CRISP PREMIUM PIZZA This local pizzeria is serving trays of square – yes, square – pizza in Old Town Scottsdale. Pizza chef Adrian Langu has his craft down to an art, from Crisp’s housemade dough to the handcrushed tomato sauce. His crisp and airy pizzas can be ordered by the slice or as small or large pies. Get creative with the long list of toppings, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional mozzarella, pecorino, tomato sauce, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. Closed Sunday through Tuesday. 7111 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.874.2747; www.crisp-pizza.com; $$
CRUST BROTHERS This locally owned, family-run pizzeria is a casual and welcoming spot offering pizza, salads and subs including meatball and baked chicken varieties. Pizza specialties include barbecue, pesto and buffalo chicken. Diners can choose from a variety of toppings to create their own pizza, with a gluten-free option available. 7342 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.525.5949; $$ IL BOSCO PIZZA Once you step inside Il Bosco, your senses will be immediately awakened by the aroma of crusty handmade artisanal pizza cooking in the 900-degree, hand-tiled, woodfired oven. To complete your dining experience, share a plate of roasted seasonal vegetables with burrata cheese and a glass of wine or draft beer. Gluten-free crust available. 7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale; 480.335.8680; www.ilboscopizza. com; $$ GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA In addition to its delicious coal brickoven pizzas, calzones, fresh salads and appetizers like bruschetta and antipasto, Brooklyn-based Grimaldi’s is known for its cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips for dessert. Three Scottsdale locations: Old Town, Market Street at DC Ranch and Scottsdale Quarter; www.grimaldispizzeria.com; $$ HUMBLE PIE Humble Pie has earned its reputation as a neighborhood favorite for its artisan pizzas, sandwiches, hamburgers, pastas, salads and dessert in an upbeat atmosphere. The express lunch menu is great for if you’re looking to get in and out within an hour and brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the daily specials or “social sixes” menu, which is a selection of drinks and shareables for $6 until 6 p.m. 6149 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.556.9900; www. humblepieusa.com; $$
Seafood
COCONUT’S FISH CAFÉ Famous for its fish tacos, locally based Coconut’s Fish Cafe is a Hawaiian-based eatery. Home of the Zagat-rated perfect fish taco, the fast-casual restaurant uses grilled ono and mahi mahi tossed with organic tomato salsa, housemade coleslaw, and mango salsa on a white corn tortilla. Guests can choose between a variety of grilling seasonings as well. Coconut shrimp and the grilled fish sandwich on a freshly baked challah bun are other
popular favorites. Two Scottsdale locations; www.coconutsaz.com; $$ KOIBITO POKE Fans of Koi rave about the fresh “boat to bowl” fish and eight unique sauces used to customize poke bowls here. Meals can be as simple as desired or as decadent as adding lobster and Champagne butter as toppings. There’s also a wide selection of beer, sake and wine to add on to any meal. Pick up a bottle of local Rad Juice or try the Hawaiian snow ice for a sweet treat. Two Scottsdale locations: Gainey Village and Scottsdale Waterfront. www.koipoke.com; $$ MODERN OYSTERBAR CHOPHOUSE Modern Oysterbar Chophouse offers an open kitchen and a full-size seafood bar with fresh oysters and seafood brought in daily. The chilled seafood tower is a perfect starter for the table followed by meat cooked to order or a fresh fish dish. End the meal with bacon French toast bread pudding, salted caramel creme brulee or a dessert cocktail. Closed Sunday and Monday. 10050 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.531.1400; www.modernoysterbarchophouse. com; $$$
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OCEAN 44 Ocean 44 is the latest seafood creation by the Mastro brothers occupying 12,000 square feet near Scottsdale Fashion Square. The restaurant offers an array of upscale seafood dishes as well as premium steaks like its sister restaurants Steak 44 and Dominick’s Steakhouse. Look for the Maine lobster escargot and the chive- and cream cheesestuffed hash brown, and don’t miss out on the wood-roasted shellfish. 4748 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.867.0044; www.ocean44.com; $$$ THE SALT CELLAR Down the wooden stairwell lies Arizona’s only underground, fullservice restaurant. This landmark establishment has been serving some of the best seafood in the Valley since 1971. A variety of seasonal seafood is sourced from all over the world, but The Salt Cellar is known for always having an excellent selection of whole Maine lobsters at the ready. Look for creative specialty dishes such as shrimp San Remo with parpadelle pasta and appetizers including the skewered calamari strips. Happy hour daily at the bar from 4 to 7 p.m. and again from 10 p.m. to midnight. 550 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.1963; www.saltcellarrestaurant.com; $$$-$$$$
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
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End NEW IN TOWN
GAME TIME
Take a virtual voyage filled with movie-style mystery and intrigue at Bam Kazam
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
In July, Salt River Talking Stick Entertainment District welcomed its newest attraction: Bam Kazam. The 20,000-squarefoot adventure complex marks the 13th major entertainment entity to open at the ever-growing district since its inception, notably joining Topgolf at Riverwalk, Octane Raceway, OdySea Aquarium, iFly, Mavrix, Butterfly Wonderland, Medieval Times and more. The interactive attraction, developed by Escape the Room founder Victor Blake, feels like an escape room meets American Ninja Warrior meets Meow Wolf. Or, maybe even more accurately, it is as if you are inside an old-school arcade game. Within the complex, there are 18 rooms, each with themed interactive games and puzzles meant to put players’ physical and mental skills to the ultimate test. Each room has lighting, sound and visual effects to match individual themes, helping guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience. “Players are free to run wild around
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So Scottsdale! September ‘21
the complex and discover what new adventure awaits behind each door,” Blake says. “If you’ve ever wanted to be on a game show, you can do that. If you’ve ever wanted to explore a haunted mansion, you can do that, too. Every adventure is unique.” To help paint the picture, in one room players assume the identity of a ledge-climbing cat burglar keen to boost a priceless painting. In another, players must scale a precarious two-story fuselage of a tropical plane crash to save the day. To develop the games and puzzles, Blake partnered with scene designers, theme park engineers, artists, and even composers. “The result of everyone’s hard work is a space where each room is another blockbuster movie, and you and your team get to be the hero – or sometimes the nefarious villain – in each story. If you’ve ever dreamed about exploring an ancient temple teaming with booby traps a la Indiana Jones, then you are going to love this place,” Blake says. Prices for play start at $31 per person for a two-hour session, and the rooms are best enjoyed in teams of three to five. Teams larger than five are able to play at the same time but need to divide into multiple teams. One ticket allows entry into all 18 rooms, which feature visual effects and require physical activity. While open to all ages, players must be 14 or older in order to play without an adult. “The best part: After 18 months online and in our homes, this is completely hands-on. There are no avatars, zoom backgrounds or controllers. Just you and your friends or family working together and having blast,” Blake says. Bam Kazam is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. It is closed Monday and Tuesday, with plans for expanded hours in coming months. Bam Kazam, 8999 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale; www.bamkazam.com; 480.378.3640.
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